Place Gutenberg
Grande Île, Strasbourg, Grand Est, 67000
Named after one-time Strasbourg resident Johannes Gutenberg, who famously invented the movable-type printing press in 1439, Gutenberg Square (Place Gutenberg) remains an important commercial and navigation center of Strasbourg's Old Town. Strategically located close to Strasbourg Cathedral, it's a popular meeting place, surrounded by cafés and restaurants.
The basics
Walking tours of Strasbourg often include a visit to Gutenberg Square. Celebrated for its striking architecture, the square boasts many half-timbered buildings dating back to medieval times. Be on the lookout for the Renaissance-style Chamber of Commerce (Chambre de Commerce) and the 16th-century Hotel du Commerce, from where writer Arthur Young watched the destruction of the magistrates' records during the French Revolution. At the heart of the square is a statue of its namesake, designed by David d'Angers in 1840.
Things to know before you go
Architecture tours of Strasbourg often visit Gutenberg Square, where you'll see several examples of the city's medieval half-timbered buildings.
You'll find a large selection of shops, restaurants, and bars on and around the square.
The paved square is traffic-free and easily accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
How to get there
Gutenberg Square is located on Strasbourg's Grande-Île, just west of the Cathedral of Notre Dame and the Kammerzell House (Maison Kammerzell). The Grande-Île is pedestrianized, so you'll have to leave your car behind. If you don't want to walk, hop on the tram instead—lines A and D stop at Langstross Grand’Rue, just a short stroll from the square.
When to get there
Gutenberg Square is the center of many of the city's seasonal festivities and events, hosting a carousel and fetes during the summer months, a Christmas market over Yuletide, and a number of flea markets and book fairs throughout the year. Be sure to stop by at night when the square is beautifully illuminated.
A walking tour of Strasbourg's Grand Ile
Strasbourg's UNESCO-listed Grand-Île is brimming with historic landmarks and is easily explored on a walking tour. Just a few steps from Gutenberg Square, the Gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame is the headline act; after looking inside, you can admire the architecture at Kleber Square (Place Kléber), approximately a 5-minute walk away. Continue to La Petite France district to explore the cobblestone lanes and picturesque canals, see the Tanners House (Maison des Tanneurs) and Covered Bridges (Ponts Couverts), and take in the views from the Vauban Dam (Barrage Vauban).
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