Quais des Bateliers: The Boatmen's Quays

The Quai des Bateliers, on the banks of the Ill in Strasbourg

The quays you walk along here, by the Ill, are called the Quai des Bateliers, in memory of the boatmen who were installed there in the past. Now enlivened with restaurants, they offer a fine walk. The Strasbourg audio-guided tour stops here to evoke this river past and the charm of the banks of the Ill.

The boatmen's quarter

The Quai des Bateliers is a quay in the centre of Strasbourg, by the Ill, which owes its name to the boatmen who lived and worked there in the past. The river was long a great trade route, at the heart of the prosperity of the city. Lined with old houses, the quay has kept its charm and testifies to the intimate bond between Strasbourg and its river.

What to see

Here you enjoy the banks of the Ill, the old houses, the terraces and the view of the historic centre. The quay is a pleasant place to stroll, enlivened with restaurants. It is a peaceful and charming stop, ideal for strolling along the water and feeling the atmosphere of Strasbourg.

Practical information

The Quai des Bateliers runs along the Ill, in the heart of central Strasbourg, reachable on foot. It is a freely accessible public quay on the level; the restaurants and terraces that line it have their own hours. The walk along the river is particularly pleasant in fine weather.

Where does the name of the Quai des Bateliers come from?

From the boatmen who were installed there in the past, at the time when the Ill was a great trade route in Strasbourg.

Where is the Quai des Bateliers?

By the Ill, in the heart of the historic centre of Strasbourg.