The Strasbourg Christmas market is one of the most enchanting in Europe. It’s no coincidence that Strasbourg is known as the Capital of Christmas. This historic French city transforms into a winter wonderland full of festive magic every year.
And this year, you can once again look forward to an unforgettable experience that combines tradition, Christmas atmosphere, and plenty of delicious treats. In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know about the Christmas markets in Strasbourg, France.
Strasbourg: Where to Stay Strategically
At any other time of year it hardly matters, but during the Christmas markets you really want to be in the centre — because the last thing you want is to trek across the entire city after enjoying a cup of Vin Chaud (French mulled wine).
- Strasbourg Centre Epine,
- Petit Cronenbourg,
- Hotel des Vosges BW Premier Collection.
💡TIP: You can also book organised tours to the French Christmas markets. Check the offerings on GetYourGuide or find great hotel deals on Booking.com.
Strasbourg Christmas Market: When and Where
The Christmas markets in Strasbourg, France begin on 26 November and run until 24 December. The markets are held in the historic city centre, spread across several key locations:
- Place Broglie: The main market, home to a towering Christmas tree and countless stalls selling festive decorations and gifts.
- Place de la Cathédrale: One of the most beautiful markets, set around the Notre-Dame Cathedral. This location also hosts Christmas concerts and various cultural events.
- Parc de l’Hôtel de Ville: A less crowded but equally charming location with smaller stalls and a more peaceful atmosphere.
The markets are open every day from 11:00 to 20:00.
Strasbourg, dubbed the Capital of Christmas, is home to the oldest Christmas market in France, dating back to 1570. The traditional Christkindelsmärik market has become one of the oldest and most significant Christmas markets in Europe. It found its home on Place Broglie and has gradually expanded into other parts of the city, including Place Kléber.
This market is renowned for its atmosphere, where the scent of cinnamon mingles with traditional Alsatian specialities such as sauerkraut, flambéed tarts, Bredele (butter biscuits), and foie gras — alongside a wonderful selection of Christmas decorations. Don’t forget to go ice skating at the rink near Notre-Dame Cathedral, either.
💡You might also like: Christmas Markets in Germany
What to Eat at Strasbourg Christmas Market
If you decide to visit the Christmas market in Strasbourg, France, make sure to try some of these local specialities:
- Bretzel: This salty pretzel is one of the most popular treats at the Christmas markets. It tastes even better washed down with a cup of hot punch.
- Choucroute: A traditional Alsatian dish made from sauerkraut, typically served with sausages, smoked meat, and potatoes.
- Vin Chaud: Hot mulled wine with spices that will warm you up as you stroll through the frosty streets.
- Pain d’épices: A soft spiced gingerbread loaf that is an essential part of every French Christmas market.
- Foie Gras: For lovers of gourmet experiences, foie gras is a quintessential Alsatian delicacy that can be purchased from local market stalls.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do the Strasbourg Christmas markets start and end?
The Strasbourg Christmas markets run from 26 November to 24 December.
How to get to the Christmas markets?
The markets are located in the historic city centre, easily accessible on foot or by public transport. Strasbourg also has an international airport and excellent rail connections from London (via Paris), as well as direct trains from cities like Paris, Frankfurt, and Brussels.
Where do the cultural events take place?
Events and concerts are held at the main markets, particularly at Place de la Cathédrale.
What to taste at the Christmas markets?
Popular specialities include Bretzel, Choucroute, Pain d’épices, and Vin Chaud.
Tips and Tricks for Your Vacation
Don’t Overpay for Flights
Search for flights on Kayak. It’s our favorite search engine because it scans the websites of all airlines and always finds the cheapest connection.
Book Your Accommodation Smartly
The best experiences we’ve had when looking for accommodation (from Alaska to Morocco) are with Booking.com, where hotels, apartments, and entire houses are usually the cheapest and most widely available.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Good travel insurance will protect you against illness, accidents, theft, or flight cancellations. We’ve had a few hospital visits abroad, so we know how important it is to have proper insurance arranged.
Where we insure ourselves: SafetyWing (best for everyone) and TrueTraveller (for extra-long trips).
Why don’t we recommend any Czech insurance company? Because they have too many restrictions. They set limits on the number of days abroad, travel insurance via a credit card often requires you to pay medical expenses only with that card, and they frequently limit the number of returns to the Czech Republic.
Find the Best Experiences
Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can book guided walks, trips, skip-the-line tickets, tours, and much more. We always find some extra fun there!
