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The renowned capital of the Alsatian region, Strasbourg is a city offering many wonders, especially during the Christmas holidays. If you haven’t planned anything for Christmas this year, then we’ll give you every reason to spend a few days in Strasbourg for an idyllic and breath-taking setting!
Strasbourg Christmas market, a real institution
Strasbourg is a city known for offering visitors a trip to the real heart of the magic of Christmas. For more information the Santa Claus Village, visit this link. In addition to its historic and atypical architecture, you will undoubtedly be charmed by the many decorations and markets for the end-of-year celebrations.
The reputation of the Strasbourg Christmas celebrations is not new: the city has been organizing a huge Christmas market, which has attracted thousands of visitors every year, for almost four centuries. We must admit that Christmas is a real institution in Alsace, where towns and villages compete with each other to attract tourists and win the smiles of children.
In addition, the Strasbourg Christmas market is inaugurated each year during a very official ceremony, including a magical, luminous parade to residents and visitors alike. A solemn moment also brings together distinguished guests around the Grand Sapin on Place Kléber.
Anywhere in France. Strasbourg is part of our selection of the most beautiful Christmas markets in France.
Things to do during Christmas in Strasbourg
In addition to the many shops and businesses opening their doors to you, Strasbourg will be a source of wonder for your taste buds, especially if you plan to spend a little time in the various markets.
While visiting the city, you will come across many chalets offering decorations, sculptures and delicacies to make you forget the great Alsatian cold. Here are some specialties not to be missed:
- The mulled wine. With its simple recipe (red and white wine with spices, sugar and citrus fruits), it is the essential drink of the Strasbourg Christmas market.
- Le Bredle. Another staple of Alsatian Christmases, this is a traditional little cake comes in a variety of flavours, including butter, anise, almonds and cinnamon.
- The Christstolle. Another cake but this time elongated and made with dried fruits and spices. A special treat.
- The Mannele. A little man made of brioche and with dried fruit eyes.
- Christmas beer. Beer, in Alsace, is an institution, and at Christmas, it gains more amber flavors, for a more “robust” drink in order to face, with greed, the rigors of winter.
In addition, many activities and events are organized in Strasbourg during the Christmas holiday including walks with a night porter, guided tours to discover Christmas traditions, shows and workshops for children, and many conferences and exhibitions.
Find a good hotel for Christmas in Strasbourg
Obviously, we advise you stay in the Alsatian capital for several days to soak up the magic of the place, so why not discover other Christmas markets in the region, such as Colmar?
But then, which hotel to choose to stay in this magical cocoon? Of course, the Christmas period means rising prices, so remember to book well in advance.
Do you want a comfortable hotel close to the Christmas market? No problem, try the Hotel Hannong. This modern establishment, located in the heart of Strasbourg, is just a 5-minute walk from the TGV station, the cathedral and the Petite France district. It is very practical with cosy and soundproofed rooms, a generous breakfast buffet and social common areas. It hotel will delight those who seek functional accommodation above all.
Tempted by a charming hotel with local traditions? For romanticism, it’s hard to beat the Hôtel du Bouclier d’Or. This property is located in the Petite France district, in a building which dates from the 16th century, just a 5-minute walk from the cathedral. Not enough to convince you? Then take a look at the Hotel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg (see photo). The latter welcomes its visitors to a renovated 16th century building, with elegant rooms and furniture in the style of Louis XV, but with all the necessary comfort and modernity.
Otherwise, you can consult our list of the best hotels in Strasbourg to find the one that suits you best.
The best Christmas addresses in Strasbourg
To make your Christmas in Strasbourg even more magical than it already will be, we have listed some good addresses to remember.
To taste a good mulled wine, go to Chez Mathilde, Place Broglie, a must-see to rest and enjoy flavours to die for. If you want to discover hot beer, you have to visit the Uberach craft brewery, located on the Place des Meuniers.
If you are looking for handcrafted objects, you will find what you are looking for at Place Broglie, where many craftsmen will present their most beautiful creations to you.
Finally, we do not forget the hungry among you: go visit Mireille Oster (Place Broglie). She is renowned for producing the best gingerbread in Alsace! And if gingerbread isn’t for you, you can take advantage of the many other local products available at Place des Meuniers.
Some additional tips
If you want to make the most of your visit and capture as many memories as possible, dress warmly and from head to toe. The winter period brings very low temperatures, especially in Alsace!
Arranging your visits during the week, unless the weekend crowds won’t bother you. In addition, plan your walk towards the end of the day to better enjoy the lights and illuminations.
For people wishing to spend a few days in Strasbourg, remember to make your reservations at least six months in advance; prices can increase quickly! Ditto for catering: book your table a few days in advance to avoid unpleasant surprises. Strasbourg and its famous Christmas market welcome nearly two million visitors each year. (Photo: Yoann PIERRE / Flickr / CC)
