Things to Do in Strasbourg in April

April weather, activities, events & insider tips

April Weather in Strasbourg

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Is April Right for You?

Advantages

Spring awakening transforms the city - cherry blossoms bloom along Ill River banks and Parc de l'Orangerie comes alive with 15°C (59°F) perfect weather for 3-4 hour walking tours
Easter markets and spring festivals create authentic local atmosphere without summer tourist crowds - accommodation prices drop 25-30% compared to peak summer rates
Ideal weather for exploring both indoor attractions during morning showers and outdoor activities during sunny 18°C (64°F) afternoons - perfect for cathedral climbing and river cruises
Local wine bars open terraces and Alsatian restaurants serve spring specialties like asparagus dishes and new wine releases unavailable other months

Considerations

Unpredictable weather requires flexible planning - 40% chance of rain means indoor backup plans essential, and temperatures can swing 12°C (22°F) between morning and afternoon
Some outdoor attractions like Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg may have limited hours or weather closures, particularly on the 10 rainy days typical in April
Peak Easter week (typically mid-April) brings French school holiday crowds and higher accommodation rates despite being shoulder season

Best Activities in April

Strasbourg Cathedral and Historic Center Walking Tours

April's mild 15°C (59°F) afternoons are perfect for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage old town. Morning showers clear by 11am, leaving crisp air ideal for the 332-step cathedral tower climb. Spring light creates stunning photography conditions in Petite France quarter, and outdoor café terraces reopen with perfect weather for 2-3 hour guided walks.

Booking Tip: Book morning tours starting after 10am to avoid early rain showers. Self-guided options cost €15-25, guided tours €35-50. Cathedral tower access requires advance booking during Easter week. Check current availability in booking options below.

Rhine River Valley Wine Tours

April marks spring wine season in nearby Alsace vineyards, just 20 km (12.4 miles) from city center. Cool 12°C (54°F) mornings are perfect for cellar visits, while 16°C (61°F) afternoons allow terrace tastings. Vintners open new releases and spring wine festivals occur throughout the region. Rain rarely disrupts indoor tastings.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically €65-85, full-day €120-160 including transport and 4-5 tastings. Book 7-10 days ahead as local operators offer smaller groups in shoulder season. Transportation included essential due to rural locations.

Ill River and Canal Boat Cruises

April weather perfectly suits 1-hour covered boat tours through historic waterways. Variable spring weather doesn't affect enclosed boats, and fewer crowds mean better photo opportunities of timber-framed houses reflected in calm water. Cherry blossoms along riverbanks peak in mid-April creating unique seasonal scenery.

Booking Tip: Standard 1-hour cruises €12-16, 2-hour options €20-28. Boats run hourly 10am-6pm weather permitting. Glass-covered boats operate in light rain. Book day-of unless Easter weekend when advance booking recommended.

European Parliament and EU Institution Tours

Indoor institutional tours are perfect for April's rainy days. The European Parliament offers free guided tours showcasing the hemicycle and multilingual sessions. April sessions are particularly active with spring legislative calendar. Modern climate-controlled buildings provide comfortable refuge during unpredictable weather.

Booking Tip: Free tours must be booked 2-4 weeks ahead through official parliament website. Bring passport for security screening. Tours run Monday-Thursday, 90 minutes duration. Alternative indoor museums available same-day during unexpected weather.

Alsatian Cooking Classes and Food Tours

April features seasonal Alsatian specialties like white asparagus and spring herbs unavailable other months. Indoor cooking classes provide perfect rainy day activities, while outdoor market tours work during dry morning hours. Local chefs feature Easter specialties and spring wine pairings unique to this season.

Booking Tip: Half-day classes typically €75-95, market-to-table experiences €85-120. Small group experiences book quickly in shoulder season. Indoor venues essential - confirm weather contingency plans. Book 10-14 days ahead for weekend slots.

Vosges Mountains Day Trips

April hiking weather in Vosges Mountains 50 km (31 miles) west offers 10°C (50°F) crisp mountain air and wildflower blooms. Medieval castle ruins like Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg reopen full hours after winter closures. Pack layers for 8°C (14°F) temperature differences between valley and peaks at 500m (1,640 ft) elevation.

Booking Tip: Day trips €55-75 including transport and guide. Mountain weather more unpredictable - waterproof jacket essential. Tours may cancel in heavy rain so book flexible cancellation options. Check mountain road conditions in booking section.

April Events & Festivals

Early to Mid April

Strasbourg Easter Markets

Traditional Easter markets fill Place de la Cathédrale and surrounding squares with local artisans selling hand-painted eggs, spring flowers, and Alsatian specialties. Unlike Christmas markets, Easter markets feature outdoor activities and spring crafts unique to the season.

Mid April

Musica Festival Contemporary Music

International contemporary music festival featuring avant-garde performances in historic venues throughout the city. April edition focuses on spring premieres with both indoor concert halls and outdoor performances when weather permits.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof jacket with hood - April brings 10 rainy days with sudden 20-minute downpours that can start without warning

Layered clothing system including light sweater - temperatures range 12°C (22°F) between 5.6°C (42°F) mornings and 16.7°C (62°F) afternoons

Comfortable waterproof walking shoes - cobblestone streets in Petite France become slippery when wet, and you'll walk 5-8 km (3.1-5 miles) daily

Compact umbrella that fits in day bag - sudden showers end quickly but can soak you during 15-20 minute cathedral or museum waits

Light scarf or neck warmer - morning river walks along Ill River feel 3-4°C (5-7°F) cooler due to water temperature and wind

Moisture-wicking base layers - 70% humidity combined with walking tours creates dampness even in cool weather

Sunglasses and SPF 30 sunscreen - UV index of 4 intensifies with reflection off wet cobblestones and river surfaces

Small day pack with waterproof compartment - protect camera and phone during unexpected showers while exploring outdoor markets

Cash in small bills - Easter markets and small cafés often don't accept cards, and public restrooms cost €0.50-1

Portable phone charger - cold weather drains battery faster, and you'll use GPS frequently navigating winding medieval streets

Insider Knowledge

Visit major attractions between 11am-3pm when weather is most stable and rain least likely - locals schedule outdoor activities during this 'April window' when temperatures peak at 16-18°C (61-64°F)

Book accommodation north of Petite France area to avoid Easter weekend crowds but stay within 1 km (0.6 miles) of tram lines for easy cathedral access during rain

Many restaurants close Monday-Tuesday in April shoulder season - confirm reservations and have backup options, especially in residential areas outside tourist center

European Parliament sessions create downtown traffic and hotel demand mid-week - prices spike Tuesday-Thursday but weekends offer better deals and easier parking