Place d'Austerlitz | Strasbourg, France

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the spirit of Strasbourg, there’s no better place to start than the captivating Place d'Austerlitz. Tucked at the southern edge of the city’s storied Grande Île, this bustling square blends echoes of French history and vibrant modern life. For fans of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and quirky urban atmospheres, Place d’Austerlitz serves as an irresistible invitation to step back—and forward—in time. So, whether you’re a history buff, a people-watcher, or an adventurer using self-guided tours, prepare to fall in love with one of eastern France’s underrated tourist attractions.

The Place Where History Marches In

Place d'Austerlitz isn’t just a square—it’s an open-air chronicle of France itself. Its roots date back to 1771, when it was known as “Place Dauphine.” Over the years, the square was renamed “Place d’Austerlitz” to commemorate the thunderous French victory over Russian and Austrian forces at the Battle of Austerlitz in 1805—a pivotal moment in European history. Legend has it that Napoleon himself strode through the area before heading to the famed battlefield and returned in triumph months later, changing the course of the continent.

Fast forward through history’s many pages—by 1871, it was called “Metzgerplatz” or “Butchers’ Square,” before once more embracing its Napoleonic heritage in 1918. The ever-shifting identity of Place d’Austerlitz tells a story of resilience, making it one of the city’s most compelling heritage sites.

A Square for the Ages—and the People

Within Strasbourg’s Bourse district, Place d’Austerlitz used to serve a rather unglamorous purpose as a tour bus drop-off. That changed dramatically after a major revitalization project completed in 2012, transforming the square into a pedestrian-friendly oasis. Now, it’s a bright, open plaza, hemmed by classic facades and shaded by elegant plane trees.

If you’re planning a city exploration, getting here couldn’t be easier. Public transport abounds: the Porte de l'Hôpital tram stop (lines A and D) and the eponymous bus stop (lines 14 and 24) are about 200 meters west of the square, while the Corbeau bus stop (line 10 and night buses N1 and N3) sits just to the north. Place d’Austerlitz is perfect for self-guided tours, letting you soak in the ambiance at your own pace without worrying about traffic or crowds.

The Art and Soul of the Square

Place d’Austerlitz isn’t just a historical site; it’s a living cultural stage. Among its most delightful features is the whimsical La jeune fille à la tortue (“Girl with the Turtle”), a bronze fountain sculpted in 1963 by Jean-Paul Henninger. With a gentle nod to Copenhagen’s Little Mermaid, the statue invites both children and adults to pause, reflect, and maybe even make a wish.

For architectural buffs and tactile travelers, the square boasts the Point de convergence, an intricate scale model (plan-relief) of Strasbourg’s hypercenter. Conceived by artists Raymond Waydelich, Egbert Broerken, and Jean-Claude Goepp, and inaugurated in 2012, this public artwork is more than just a map—it’s a three-dimensional love letter to the city’s architectural wonders. Visitors of all ages gather here to trace Strasbourg’s iconic streets in miniature, adding a playful twist to your visit.

Cultural Hotspot and Local Favorite

Trading in its bygone role as a bus parking lot, Place d’Austerlitz now buzzes with life year-round. Locals gather for market days, open-air festivals, and jubilant celebrations. Cafés spill onto the pavements, offering shaded tables for a leisurely espresso or an indulgent local pastry. Street performers add color and music, turning the square into an unexpected stage.

The magic of Place d’Austerlitz lies in its successful marriage of Strasbourg’s grand history and its youthful, creative present. For visitors, it’s a rare chance to experience the city as both museum and playground.

How to Explore: Make the Most of Your Visit

Ready for a self-guided adventure? Here’s how to get the best out of Place d’Austerlitz as part of your Strasbourg explorations:

• Marvel at the Monuments: Don’t miss the famous “Girl with the Turtle” fountain or the Point de convergence model for hands-on architectural discovery.
• Stroll the Bourse district: From the square, wander street after street filled with colorful houses, boutique shops, and welcoming bistros.
• Absorb the Atmosphere: Whether it’s a bustling morning market or a languid afternoon, take a moment to people-watch like a local.
• Try an Audio Tour: Enhance your city landmarks experience with an audio tour app—perfect for those who love learning at their own pace without missing hidden gems.

Nearby Highlights to Add to Your Itinerary

While Place d’Austerlitz is a landmark in its own right, it’s also the perfect launch pad for further city exploration. Just a short stroll away you’ll find:

• Rue des Orphelins: A picturesque street known for its blend of historical buildings and contemporary flair.
• Grande Île: The UNESCO-listed heart of Strasbourg, brimming with heritage sites, famous buildings, and jaw-dropping architecture.
• Bourse-Esplanade-Krutenau: This vibrant district offers plenty of boutique shopping, dining, and nightlife for intrepid city explorers.

Experience Strasbourg’s Living Heritage

To truly understand a city, you have to experience its living, breathing spaces. Place dʼAusterlitz is exactly that—a dynamic crossroads of history, cultural heritage, and local life. Here, layers of French and European past intertwine with modern creativity, making every visit a chance to uncover a new story.

If your heart beats for historical landmarks, cultural sites, and the quirky surprises that only real city exploration reveals, don’t miss Place d’Austerlitz on your next Strasbourg adventure.

Want to make the most of your journey? Check out our Science, Sanctity, and Streetscapes: An Estroussian Odyssey audio tour for an immersive look at Strasbourg’s top city landmarks and beyond. Explore at your own pace—your next story awaits!