STRASBOURG FRANCE

Located in the Alsace region of eastern France just across the Rhine River from Germany, and a short distance from Switzerland, Strasbourg is decidedly French, yet its architecture, language, food and culture contain distinct influences from its German and Swiss neighborhoods. The city is traversed by the Ill River, which divides and surrounds the Grand Ile (Big Island) on which the picturesque old town and most of the city's famous buildings are located. Be sure to visit the spectacular Cathedral of Notre Dame with its sculpture-laden façade, stained-glass windows and multiple architectural styles. The entire island is a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering ample opportunities for exploration.