This beautiful, ancient university town is noted for two things basically: its cosmopolitan atmosphere and magnificent cuisine. Foie gras has been invented here! Its location close to the Franco-German border makes the city a bi-lingual and multicultural place, also the ideal seat for the European Parliament and the Court of Human Rights. One can easily feel that in the distinct cuisine of Strasbourg as well. While you are here, make sure that you try regional specialties like tarte flambée (local white pizza) and explore Alsace, which is France's third most important wine region celebrated for its Rieslings, Tokay Pinot Gris and Gewürztraminers. The old city sits on an island called the Grande Ile, and its western tip known as the Petite France is famous for its canals and narrow streets of half-timbered houses from the 16th century. The best way to explore, of course, is by hopping on a long Parisian style boat from the quay by the Palais des Rohan.