This will be a very introductory (and informal) mini-course on string theory. No prior exposure to string theory will be expected. Although I will use physicists language, the course is mainly addressed at math-students / postdocs who are welcome to help me translating expressions into math-language during the lectures. I will try to make at least some connection to higher gauge fields and also say a few words on how non-commutative geometry arises from open strings. In the first session I will concentrate on the bosonic string, while in the second I intend to discuss the superstring.