strasbourg at christmas look to me what dr. Seuss had in mind when he was building the movie "Whoville" in How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It's as if you're stepping into an enchanted city of lights, plentiful and, dare I say, crazy, Christmas decorations on every window, the smell of wine wafting in the air, and Christmas music drifting through the picturesque town.
I have created a guide for things to do in Strasbourg at Christmas as well as a guide to the Christmas markets when you visit this magical city.
Strasbourg Christmas market 2022: from November 25 to December 26, 2022.
They don't call it Noel Capital (Christmas Capital) for no reason. The Christmas markets in Strasbourg are world famous, and the giant Christmas tree in the town square may bring tears to your eyes. Alsace in France may be one of the most beautiful regions in Europe, but Strasbourg takes the cake when it comes to Christmas. I have compiled a list of things to do in Strasbourg, France at Christmas that will make it one of the most memorable and most magical things ever.
Strasbourg borders France and Germany, and truthfully, it has changed hands many times over the years. Although it is now a French city, it still has a great deal of German influence. Don't be surprised to hear German spoken as you pass through the Christmas kiosks. Getting to Strasbourg It's handy because it has the second largest railway station right after Paris. You can also fly to Karlsruhe Airport, Germany, which is approximately 45 minutes away. I often drive or take a bus from my hometown Heidelberg, Germanyonly one hour away.
See my picks for the best Christmas markets in Europe here!
Christmas markets
There are no market, two or even seven Christmas markets in Strasbourg. There are ten. For a city of this size, this is completely redundant, but in the best possible way. This city is decorated from street to street with lights, wreaths and ornaments. It's easy to walk around town to see all the markets in a day or two. Christmas markets usually start in the last week of November (22nd) and end on Christmas Eve (December 24th).
The dates for the Strasbourg Christmas Market for 2022 are from November 25 to December 26, 2022. After Christmas, there are a few markets that are still open.
Of course, there are many Christmas markets around the world, especially in Germany, but the Christmas market in Strasbourg seems to have an extra twinkle in its eye. Markets represent a time of the past, where families gather to celebrate, enjoy and share. It is unique that the Christmas markets are here and it echoes the fact that Germany once ruled this region. The tradition of the Christmas market is remarkably German, so it is special that this tradition remains in France. You will find the most famous Kristkindlsmarek At Place Broglie dating back to 1570 and one of the oldest markets in Europe.
See my full Christmas market itinerary here!
In total, there are over 300 booths throughout the city, so you're bound to find one as you wander along. At the bottom of this post, I am listing all the markets that are happening.
Check out the cathedral
The Notre Dame cathedral It is one of the greatest structures I have ever seen. From the fifteenth to the seventeenth centuries it was the tallest building in the world. Sticking to this arrangement for that time period means that it was an architectural mastery and one of the best representations of Gothic art. Head inside to see the beautiful structure up close and check out the astronomical clock. Don't forget to head up the tower to enjoy the city views.
Of course, there is a Christmas market outside the cathedral and it is one of the most historic. You can sip on warm wines as the cathedral bells ring from time to time. Here there are more than 100 chalets (these are kiosks or booths) offering Christmas decorations, sheepskins, mittens, warm drinks and delicious food.
Eating a German-French fusion
Strasbourg is definitely a great place for gastronomic purposes. There are two restaurants with three Michelin stars (Au Crocodile and Buerehiesel). Of course, with all this mix of German and French influence, produce some delicious food. One of my favorites is Flamkoken Also known as tart flambee. This is a very thin pizza topped with fresh cream, sliced onions and ham.
The intoxicating aroma of onions will tempt anyone to try it. There are a variety of options and add-ons so you can find what suits your taste. Great place to check is Lancien Duan Which is famous for the cuisine of Alsace.
Admire the Christmas tree
What is so special about Christmas trees that instill a childlike wonder in all of us? There is something so magical about the combination of greenery, lights, and ornaments that always fills me with joy. When it comes to Christmas trees in Strasbourg, they've decided that bigger is better. The tree towers above the plaza must be at least 30 meters high and 7 kilometers are lit by twinkling lights. It is located on Place Kléber and is one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen, and every year it comes with a different theme.
On weekend nights and around Christmas, you can watch live music by the tree. There is also plenty of shopping around and near the square, in case you need any Christmas gifts. Just watching the lights come on while the sky gets dark is the star of the Christmas parade in Strasbourg.
Little France
This is one of the most charming regions that can be seen in all of Europe. It is a historic district in Strasbourg lined with half-timbered houses surrounding the river. Of course, during Christmas it lights up more. Walk through the canals to admire the 14th-century towers and wander the cobbled streets of traditional restaurants and shops. Don't forget to stop and take a picture at the Quartier des Tanneurs, one of the best places to take pictures in Strasbourg.
One of the best parts of touring Petite France is the fact that it is so well preserved. Of course, you will also find a Christmas market held here. It really feels like you're going back in time. When the bridges light up and glow over the water, you can't help but feel the romance.
A Glimpse of the Christmas Markets:
Christkindelsmärik on Place Broglie is the most famous.
Place de la Cathédrale - Strasbourg Cathedral Market.
Place a Clipper or "Share Market" with a Great Christmas Tree
Place du marché-aux-Poissons, terrasse du Palais rohan et rue rohan - Just outside the Palais Rohan and famous for its Christmas food.
Place Benjamin-Zix is also known as the "Three Kings" market and is located in Petite France.
Place du Temple-Neuf takes place in the Carré d'or.
Place des Meuniers for a smaller market.
Place Gutenberg is often the highlight of another country and their Christmas traditions are celebrated.
Find out about events during Christmas in Strasbourg Check this calendar.
Where to stay in Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a relatively small city, so you really can't go wrong with a stay here. However, I would suggest staying in Grande Île, the historic center of the city. Here, all the Christmas markets are within walking distance. suggest Hotel Gothenburg - Very good reviews and reasonable price!
Check out more hotels here:
See our Christmas market itinerary here!
Find the best Christmas markets in Europe here!
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