For your next stay in the Alsatian capital, you want to identify the neighborhoods to avoid in Strasbourg in order to choose one of the best places to stay.
It might seem surprising to talk about insecurity in Strasbourg because it's not a major city like Paris , London , or Rome . But even if Strasbourg isn't a dangerous city, it's not 100% safe either.
This is what I discovered when I planned my first weekend in Strasbourg . As I usually do, I researched the different neighborhoods to avoid booking a hotel in a rough area of Strasbourg.
I share with you below the most relevant information that I have synthesized as well as the map of Strasbourg's districts.
The information below is factual and in no way reflects judgments. My sources are diverse: local press, media, rankings and statistics.
Strasbourg a dangerous city?
Strasbourg is not considered a dangerous city.
Indeed, unlike Lille, Lyon , Marseille , Montpellier , or Paris , Strasbourg is not among the most dangerous cities in France according to the ville-data.com ranking. In fact, this website ranked the 20 French cities with the highest crime rates. And Strasbourg is not on that list!
And, if we want to compare at the European level, we can consult Numbeo's ranking of the most crime-ridden cities in Europe . With a crime index of 41.90 , Strasbourg is much less dangerous than Berlin , Stockholm , or Dublin.
Strasbourg safe city for tourists?
Yes, apart from the terrorist risk, tourists can surely visit this beautiful city with its Christmas markets but provided they exercise caution.
Indeed, we cannot say that there is no insecurity at all in Strasbourg. But the acts of violence are not directed towards tourists. The majority of crimes are related to drug trafficking and settling of scores between rival gangs.
In addition, the majority of violent crimes are committed in certain dangerous areas of Strasbourg which are not generally frequented by tourists. As a result, apart from these few areas to avoid in Strasbourg, the city is not dangerous for tourists.
What are the areas and neighborhoods to avoid in Strasbourg?
As in all European cities , Strasbourg also has areas that are less safe than others, particularly on the outskirts. Here are the three neighborhoods classified as priority security zones that are the most dangerous in Strasbourg:
- Neighborhood Hautepierre
- Neighborhood Elsau
- Neuhof
Without being neighborhoods as dangerous as those mentioned above, there are areas to avoid for a tourist stay because they are too far from tourist sites or poorly frequented. Here are the places in Strasbourg not recommended for tourists to choose accommodation:
Red light district in Strasbourg
Because in Strasbourg, there are unfortunately red-light districts, here are the streets and areas to avoid:
- Around the Citadel Park
- Station District
- Black Forest Avenue
Best neighborhoods in Strasbourg
Whether you are a student, traveling or traveling, you are looking for accommodation in one of the best areas of Strasbourg. Yes, but the best district of Strasbourg will not be the same for a tourist stay as for a trip to the European Parliament.
Here are the best districts of Strasbourg according to the type of stay.
Best Strasbourg district for business trips
To be as close as possible to the European Parliament, the Council of Europe, the European Court of Human Rights, or the Palais de l'Europe, the European Quarter is the best area in Strasbourg. See the map at: strasbourg-europe.eu.
This area in the North East of Strasbourg includes in particular the districts of Orangerie , Robertsau and Wacken.
Best area to stay in Strasbourg for students
Krutenau is a historic district of Strasbourg that has become a hub for student life. It's appealing to students and interns, as well as tourists. Located a 25-minute walk from the train station, this attractive neighborhood is also close to the Palais Rohan and several museums. It's a trendy area that is becoming increasingly popular and expensive. The selection of hotels and excellent restaurants is plentiful and of high quality.
Best area for a romantic stay in Strasbourg
For those looking for the postcard image, La Petite France is the most picturesque district of Strasbourg.
In the heart of old Strasbourg with its pretty half-timbered houses, this district has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is the ideal district for a romantic getaway.
Here is one of the most beautiful hotels in Strasbourg, ideally located in the heart of the lovely Petite France district: Pavillon REGENT PETITE FRANCE
Best neighborhood to visit Strasbourg
The Grande Île and the area around Place Kléber are located in Strasbourg's historic district. This very touristy area is the most central for exploring Strasbourg on foot. See my 1-day walking tour of Strasbourg.
If you are looking for a hotel ideally located in this area, I recommend the LIFE RENAISSANCE which is located on Place Kléber.