Strasbourg, Capital of Christmas, in a weekend

Coming to visit the Strasbourg Christmas Market, but don’t know where to start? We’ll help you plan the perfect trip with our tips and suggestions!

Day 1

To start exploring Strasbourg, the Capital of Christmas, we suggest heading straight for the historical Petite France district. In this area, you’ll find a unique, magical ambiance thanks to the subtly decorated half-timbered houses, beautifully reflected in the canal, and, in Louise Weiss and Suzanne Lacore Squares, you’ll find the Advent Village. In this festive village, you’ll get to discover the traditions of Christmas in Alsace, see a show, or taste the products of the “Irréductibles petits producteurs d’Alsace”

Next, make your way to the “Off” Christmas Market on Place Grimmeissen. At this local, socially aware market, you’ll find about thirty stalls, staffed by players of the social and solidarity-based economy.

Our stroll continues through the Petite France quarter, with its charming Christmas markets on the squares of Place Benjamin Zix and Place Saint-Thomas. At lunchtime, you can grab a bite to eat at one of the many stalls; a great way to try some of the delicious Christmas Market specialities not to be missed!

Now that you’ve refuelled, head for Place Kléber, where the Village du Partage (Village of Sharing) is spread out around the Great Christmas Tree. When you feel like a snack, try some “Starred Soup”, concocted by a starred chef to benefit an association. And for unique gift ideas, stop by the pop-up store “OZ: An Arts-and-Crafts Christmas” (from 9 to 23 December) at the Aubette, where around sixty highly skilled artisans are presenting their best pieces.

At 4 o’clock, don’t miss the Great Christmas Tree lighting ceremony, set to music, on Place Kléber. It’s always spectacular and moving.

Now, it’s time to head for the historic market of Strasbourg: the Christkindelsmärik. Take a stroll through the market that’s considered the heart and soul of the Christmas experience in Strasbourg. Stop and enjoy a glass of mulled wine or hot apple cider. You’ll also get to admire the facade of City Hall, beautifully adorned with festive decorations honoring the characters of the history of the Christkindelsmärik.

To finish the tour with a flourish, let the magic take over! Simply wander around to your heart’s content through the narrow, winding streets, and admire the festive lights. Discover our selection of the most magical places.

Finally, end the day well by indulging in a comforting meal at a winstub.

Day 2

After a good night’s rest, before starting your second day of exploration, why not take some time to go relax at one of the town’s spas?

Or, if you’re more interested in culture and heritage, you could make the most of your time in Strasbourg by visiting one of the city’s many museums.

If this is your first time in Strasbourg, don’t miss the 5e Lieu, an architecture and heritage centre where you can discover a real panorama of Strasbourg’s urban history

Once you’ve had your fill of culture, head back to the magical ambiance of the Christmas markets, especially the most spectacular one, at the foot of the Cathedral. Stroll through this and the neighbouring markets on Place du Château, Terrasse Rohan and Place du Marché aux Poissons, before visiting the Cathedral itself. In addition to the Cathedral’s celebrated splendour, during Advent, you’ll also be able to admire magnificent 17th-century tapestries telling the tale of the Virgin Mary’s life, as well as a monumental nativity scene that’s 18 metres long.

To get a fresh perspective, you can also go up to the platform of the Cathedral. After climbing up the 330 steps, you’ll be rewarded by a breathtaking view of the markets and the urban landscape.

And to see the city from yet another point of view, we also recommend taking a tour boat ride. From the water, the architecture and decorations are even more stunning!

At nightfall, take one last stroll along the Promenade aux Étoiles (a star-studded walk) and enjoy the heritage of Strasbourg, made even more beautiful by the shimmering Christmas lights. From Pont du Corbeau (Raven Bridge) to St. Guillaume bridge, 400 stars will fill you with wonder and warm your heart with the spirit of Christmas.

More inspiration for the Christmas season

10 must-try specialities at the Christmas markets

It’s a gourmet paradise in Strasbourg and Alsace! You’ll discover lots of dishes and countless treats here. Take advantage of your visit to the Christmas market to taste some typical Alsatian specialities, some of which are only available at this time of year!

5 fun things to do with kids at the Christmas Market

If the magic of the Christmas lights and the majesty of the Great Christmas Tree aren’t enough to amaze your kids, here are a few ideas of what to do at the Strasbourg Christmas Market to make the entire family happy!