The Palais Rohan: three museums in a princely setting
Just a stone’s throw from the cathedral, the Palais Rohan is one of Strasbourg’s major cultural landmarks. This majestic building is home to several major museums: the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of Decorative Arts and the Archaeological Museum.
The Museum of Fine Arts takes visitors on a journey through several centuries of European painting. It’s an ideal visit for lovers of the great masters, but also for those wishing to discover a museum on a human scale, which is easy to fit into a day out. Opening times may vary depending on the day and season: the official website of the Strasbourg museums publishes up-to-date practical information.
The Museum of Decorative Arts, for its part, immerses visitors in the world of princely apartments, furniture, ceramics and works of art. Here, one can truly sense the refinement of a bygone era. As for the Archaeological Museum, it traces the history of Alsace from prehistory to the early Middle Ages. Please note, however, that temporary closures for renovation work may be announced at certain times of the year.
The Historical Museum: understanding Strasbourg in a single visit
To grasp Strasbourg’s identity, the History Museum is an excellent starting point. Housed in the former Grande Boucherie, it traces the city’s development, its strategic role on the Rhine, its political history and its unique destiny, shaped by both French and Germanic influences.
This is the museum to prioritise if you’re visiting Strasbourg for the first time. It provides useful insights before you set off to explore the Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the Petite France district. The tour also helps you better understand why Strasbourg holds such a special place in European history.
The MAMCS: Strasbourg’s modern and contemporary art scene
The Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, often known as the MAMCS, offers a more contemporary experience. Situated near the Vauban Dam, it showcases collections of modern art, contemporary art, photography and design.
It’s a great option for a change of pace after visiting the heritage museums in the old town. The bright and spacious building appeals to art lovers and curious visitors alike. It can also easily be incorporated into a stroll towards the quays, Petite France or the covered bridges.
The Tomi Ungerer Museum: Strasbourg’s biting wit
It’s impossible to talk about Strasbourg’s museums without mentioning the Tomi Ungerer Museum – International Centre for Illustration. Born in Strasbourg, Tomi Ungerer is one of the great names in illustration, known for his children’s books, his satirical drawings and his often irreverent view of the world.
The museum, housed in a villa near the city centre, showcases a wide range of his work: original drawings, posters, sketches, books, advertising work and more politically engaged pieces. This museum was dedicated to him during his lifetime in 2007 – a fact rare enough to be worth noting.
It makes for a particularly interesting visit with teenagers, graphic design enthusiasts or anyone who enjoys less conventional museums. Here, Strasbourg reveals a creative, humorous, sometimes biting, yet always deeply vibrant side.
The Zoological Museum: a family outing not to be missed
Renovated and reopened to the public, the Zoological Museum is a firm favourite with families. It showcases biodiversity, the animal kingdom and the natural sciences in an accessible way. The exhibition “BiodiverCité. City Animals” is scheduled to run at the Zoological Museum from 19 September 2025 to 31 December 2026.
For a holiday with children, this is one of the easiest museums to fit into your itinerary. It makes a great addition to a day spent exploring the city’s heritage around the cathedral and the Palais Rohan.
The Musée Alsacien: worth checking before you go
The Musée Alsacien is one of the key places for understanding regional traditions, housing, traditional dress and everyday objects in Alsace. However, it has been closed since 7 July 2025 for major renovation work, with reopening scheduled for 2028.
Before you set off, always check whether the museums are open. This is particularly important for a short stay, where every moment counts.
Some practical tips for organising your visits
To make the most of Strasbourg’s museums, it’s best to group your visits by neighbourhood.
- The Palais Rohan, Strasbourg Cathedral, the Historical Museum and the Musée de l’Œuvre Notre-Dame are all very easy to visit within the same area.
- The MAMCS can be combined with a visit to Petite France and the covered bridges.
- The Tomi Ungerer Museum, meanwhile, pairs well with a stroll towards the Neustadt or the area around the Parc de l’Orangerie.
Don’t forget to check the official calendar: Strasbourg’s museums regularly host temporary exhibitions, events, talks and family activities.
Strasbourg, the perfect destination for a cultural weekend
Strasbourg’s museums have a major advantage: they tell the story of the city just as much as they showcase their collections. Here, you can discover Alsace, Europe, art, illustration, the natural sciences and urban history, whilst still enjoying a leisurely stroll.
To plan your getaway, book your flight to Strasbourg-Entzheim. Once there, let your interests guide you: a bit of history, a touch of modern art, a detour to see Tomi Ungerer… and, between museums, why not treat yourself to a well-deserved tarte flambée?
See also:
The most beautiful views of Strasbourg: Top 5 panoramas
Visiting Strasbourg: 5 must-see
sites Cruises from Strasbourg: Itineraries & tips
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