Welcome to Strasbourg: The Capital of Christmas
Strasbourg, France, is known as the “Capital of Christmas,” and for good reason. The city explodes with festive cheer during the holiday season, boasting some of the most elaborate Christmas decorations you’ll ever see.
Strasbourg is also home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in France, dating back to 1570. If you’re thinking of planning a trip to see the Strasbourg Christmas Market, you’re in for a treat!
This guide will help you plan your Strasbourg Christmas market holidays, including:
- The best time to visit and what to pack
- Where to stay for easy access to the markets
- Must-see attractions and the best Christmas markets to explore
- Traditional Alsatian food and drink to try
- Nearby Christmas market destinations for extending your trip
Get ready for an unforgettable Christmas experience in Strasbourg!
Planning Your Strasbourg Christmas Holiday
Dreaming of sipping vin chaud under twinkling lights? Here’s what you need to know to plan your trip to the Strasbourg Christmas Market.
Best Time to Visit Strasbourg for Christmas
The decorations are usually at their most festive from the last two weeks of November through Christmas. The Strasbourg Christmas Market typically opens in late November, so you’ll want to confirm the official dates before you book your flights and hotels.
If you’re not a fan of crowds, you might want to plan to visit on a weekday morning when the market is less packed.
How Many Days to Spend in Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a very walkable city, and I recommend at least one overnight stay so you can experience the Christmas lights after dark. One or two days should be enough time to see the highlights of the market and the surrounding area.
Weather in Strasbourg During Christmas Season
Be prepared for cold temperatures. In late November, you can expect daytime highs around 9°C (48°F), dropping to around 0°C (32°F) in December.
Rain is common, and December sees the most snowfall, averaging about 4.4 days with snow.
Essential Preparations: Packing and Accommodation
As with any trip, it’s best to plan ahead to make sure your trip to the Strasbourg Christmas Market goes smoothly. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you plan your visit.
What to Pack for Strasbourg in Winter
Strasbourg in winter can be chilly, so pack accordingly. Warm clothing is essential. Think layers: double socks, gloves, a hat, and maybe even earmuffs. An umbrella is a good idea in case of rain, and you might even want to bring some of those heat stickers for extra warmth.
Where to Stay in Strasbourg
If you want easy access to the main attractions, it’s a good idea to look for accommodation near the Strasbourg Cathedral. Staying in the Grande Île area also gives you convenient access to the Christmas markets. Hotels fill up quickly during the peak holiday season, so be sure to book well in advance.
Here are a few highly-rated hotels that may fit your budget:
- Budget-friendly: Hotel Roses, Ibis Strasbourg Centre Historique
- Upscale: Hôtel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg – MGallery, Sofitel Strasbourg Grande Île
Exploring the Strasbourg Christmas Markets
The Strasbourg Christmas market, also called the Christkindelsmärik, is one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in Europe. If you’re planning a trip to France during the holiday season, Strasbourg is a must-see.
From November 26th to December 24th, the Strasbourg Christmas market sprawls across multiple locations within Strasbourg’s historic center, the Grande Île.
Key market locations and their specialties
You’ll find different things to see and do in different parts of the Strasbourg Christmas market. Here are some of the locations you’ll want to put on your itinerary:
- Chrìstkìndelsmärik at Place Broglie: This is the oldest and most popular market, featuring more than 100 stalls of traditional foods and crafts.
- Place Kléber: This is where you’ll find the Grand Sapin, a Christmas tree that’s at least 30 meters (nearly 100 feet) tall and decorated with 7 km (4.3 miles) of lights. The tree is harvested each year by France’s National Forestry Office.
- Place de la Cathédrale: Located near the Cathedral Notre-Dame, this market features an 18-meter-long nativity scene.
- Place Gutenberg: Here, you’ll see a 10-meter-high Christmas tree.
- OFF Market at Place Grimmeissen: This market focuses on sustainable gifts, recycled and fair-trade items, and do-it-yourself activities.
Tips for visiting the markets
To make the most of your trip to the Strasbourg Christmas market, remember these tips:
- Go on a weekday if possible to avoid the biggest crowds.
- Visit during the day for shopping, then come back in the evening to see the illuminations.
- Bring cash, as some stalls may not accept credit cards.
Must-see attractions and festive activities
Strasbourg offers a wealth of sights, sounds, and experiences that make it a perfect destination for Christmas holidays. Here are a few spots you won’t want to miss:
Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg
This towering Gothic cathedral is the heart of the city’s Christmas celebrations. Be sure to step inside and see the Nativity scene.
La Petite France
This picturesque neighborhood, with its half-timbered houses and winding canals, becomes even more magical during the holiday season. It’s a perfect place to stroll and soak up the atmosphere.
Place Gutenberg
This charming square hosts another Christmas market, adding to the city’s festive ambiance. It’s a great place to find unique gifts and enjoy local treats.
Rue des Orfèvres
This street is famous for its beautifully decorated storefronts. Take a leisurely walk and admire the creative displays.
The Magical Christmas Decorations
Strasbourg goes all-out with its Christmas decorations, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the city’s signature teddy bear decorations, which add a whimsical touch.
Consider taking a walking tour to discover some of the city’s hidden decorative gems. You’re sure to be amazed by the creativity and attention to detail.
Indulging in Strasbourg’s Christmas Flavors
Come hungry, because Strasbourg’s Christmas markets are full of tempting treats!
Traditional Alsatian Cuisine at the Markets
You’ll find a wealth of traditional Alsatian foods at the market stalls:
- Tarte flambée (or Flammekueche) is a super-thin-crust pizza topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.
- Bretzel (or pretzel) is a soft, chewy, salty snack that’s a staple of the region.
- Choucroute is a hearty dish of sauerkraut, sausages, and potatoes.
- Beignet and Chouquette are sweet, fried dough treats that are perfect for a quick sugar fix.
Sweet Treats and Festive Drinks
In addition to the savory options, there are plenty of sweet treats to try, too:
- Bredele are small Christmas cookies that come in a variety of flavors and shapes.
- Mannele are brioche buns shaped like little men, often decorated with chocolate chips or icing.
- Nougat is a chewy candy made with honey, sugar, and nuts.
- Nut’Alsace spread is a creamy hazelnut spread that’s similar to Nutella, but made with local ingredients.
- Mulled wine (vin chaud) is a warm, spiced wine that’s perfect for sipping on a cold winter day.
Restaurant Recommendation: Le Tire-Bouchon
If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, I highly recommend Le Tire-Bouchon. This restaurant is located in a heavily decorated building with a festive ambiance. The food is traditional Alsatian cuisine, and the service is excellent. Be sure to make reservations in advance, as it’s a popular spot during the Christmas season.
Expanding Your Christmas Adventure: Nearby Markets
If you have time for a bit of travel, there are other Christmas markets you might want to explore while you’re in Strasbourg.
Colmar Christmas Market
The Colmar Christmas Market runs from the last week of November to the end of December, so you’ll have plenty of time to take it in.
Karlsruhe Christmas Market
The Karlsruhe Christmas Market is scheduled to be open from November 26 to December 23. It’s about a 50-minute train ride from Strasbourg, making it an easy day trip.
In Conclusion
Strasbourg is truly the “Capital of Christmas,” and its charm is unlike anywhere else. From late November through December, the city transforms into a winter wonderland.
A trip to Strasbourg during the Christmas season means wandering through the enchanting Christmas markets, marveling at the breathtaking decorations that adorn every corner, and indulging in the region’s delicious festive cuisine.
If you’re looking for an unforgettable Christmas experience, I highly recommend immersing yourself in the magic of Strasbourg. You won’t be disappointed!