Many of Strasbourg’s iconic highlights are packed into the charming quarter of Esplanade. Its university keeps the district’s ambiance youthful, while the green, undulating park has military vestiges providing a glimpse of a bygone era. Stroll east from the city center to find yourself in these pleasant and picturesque surroundings.

Bring food and drink for a picnic to enjoy with your family on the green hills of the Parc de la Citadelle in the neighborhood’s southeastern corner. Moats surround the remains of the citadel that rises from the lower levels of the park. Let your kids frolic amid the water features of the playground and join games in the sports fields.

From the park, walk north along the Quai des Belges, appreciating the views of the Bassin de la Citadelle, as it meets the Bassin Vauban. Cycle between the trees and rest at a bench, with a vista of Strasbourg’s labyrinth of canals and bridges.

Reach the Vauban Stadium, where local soccer team ASPV Strasbourg play their home games. Watch men’s and women’s soccer on this field, which has a capacity of about 3,000.

Northwest is the University of Strasbourg, which traces its history back to the 16th century. Explore the grassy campus and chat with local and international students about college life. Join a guided tour of the university’s botanical gardens and learn about its varied vegetation. Attend one of the many events and exhibitions. Several high schools and elementary schools are dotted around the rest of the quarter, alongside student accommodations and plazas.

The neighborhood borders the Bassin de la Citadella in the southeastern corner of the city center. Head east by tram from the adjacent areas of Petite-France and Krutenau to the Esplanade stop and get around on foot or by bus. Visit other nearby districts, such as Neudorf, Neudorf-Est and Vauban.

Esplanade is a neighborhood of studious youth, scenic waterways and the majestic remains of a citadel.