If you’re planning a trip to Alsace at Christmas, you can’t miss the city of Strasbourg, known as the Capital of Christmas. Located in the Alsace region, on the border between France and Germany, this city transforms every December with Christmas markets, illuminated streets, and an atmosphere that could win over even the Grinch. In this post, I’ll tell you what to see in Strasbourg at Christmas.
Strasbourg is definitely one of the best destinations in Europe to visit during the holiday season. The Christmas spirit can be felt everywhere, with its markets, gastronomy, and decorations.
Christmas in Strasbourg
1. Christkindelsmärik – The oldest Christmas market in Europe
Strasbourg is known as the Capital of Christmas, and that’s no small title: its Christmas market, the Christkindelsmärik, has been held since 1570 in Place Broglie, making it one of the oldest in Europe.
During the Christmas season, you’ll find more than 300 stalls spread throughout the city, selling everything from handicrafts and handmade ornaments to mulled wine (vin chaud) and regional sweets. Strasbourg’s Christmas markets are open from November 26 to December 24, 2025.
2. Free Tour of Strasbourg– a great way to see the city
The first thing I did in Strasbourg was this free tour with Civitatis. The tour covers several important points in the city, while sharing its history and curiosities. It’s a great way to discover Strasbourg, especially if you don’t have much time.
There’s also a special Christmas tour of Strasbourg, available only during the holiday season. This tour takes you through all of the city’s Christmas markets.
3. Christmas Market at Place Kléber
One of the most impressive symbols of Christmas in Strasbourg is its monumental tree, which each year measures between 25 and 30 meters. Decorated with thousands of lights, it’s the perfect starting point for exploring the market.
4. Cathedral Square
Another must-see market is the one in Cathedral Square, where 50 stalls offer all kinds of goods. The best part of this market is its backdrop: the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral of Notre Dame.
5. Petite France
Beyond the markets, strolling through Petite France at Christmas is magical. This neighborhood, with its half-timbered houses, canals, and bridges, is decorated with garlands and twinkling lights that look straight out of a postcard.
Don’t forget to stop by Strasbourg Cathedral, whose illuminated Gothic façade at this time of year is simply breathtaking.
6. Taste Strasbourg’s Christmas Gastronomy
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Vin chaud (mulled wine with spices)
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Flammekueche, the Alsatian pizza
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Choucroute garnie, a traditional regional dish
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Bretzel
7. Strasbourg’s Christmas Lights
Every evening the city streets are lit up, and this is one of the most beautiful things to see in Strasbourg at Christmas. Rue Mercière is one of the loveliest streets, especially with the Strasbourg Cathedral as its backdrop.
Where to stay in Strasbourg
Strasbourg is a great base for exploring Alsace, offering plenty of accommodation options. Here are some of my recommended hotels in the city:
- Hotel Esplanade: Budget hotel located in the university area of Strasbourg. Good option if you you don’t want to spend too much.
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Hôtel Gutenberg: located a few meters from the Strasbourg Cathedral. A modern hotel with good reviews.
- Hôtel LÉONOR: hotel with excellent score and location in the heart of the city. One of the best accommodations you will find in the city.
How to Get to Strasbourg
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Fly into Strasbourg Airport or Basel-Mulhouse Airport.
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From Paris: the TGV takes less than 2 hours.
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From Germany: only 1 hour by train from Stuttgart.
Tips for Enjoying Strasbourg at Christmas
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Book accommodation in advance: it’s high season and places sell out quickly.
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Bundle up: it’s cold and it may snow, so make sure you pack proper winter clothing (check out my winter packing list for Europe).
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Combine your trip with other Alsace towns like Colmar, Riquewihr, or Eguisheim, which also shine at Christmas.
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Bring cash: not all market stalls accept cards.
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Wake up early: in winter it gets dark very early in this part of Europe, so mornings are the best time to explore.
Strasbourg at Christmas isn’t just a destination: it’s a full sensory experience. Between the lights, the aromas of cinnamon and mulled wine, and the festive atmosphere that fills every corner, the city wraps you in one of the most magical Christmases in Europe.
Other useful posts:
- Christmas in Alsace
- What to see in Colmar
- Christmas in Colmar
- Best Europe destinations for Christmas
- Christmas in Andorra
- Christmas in Barcelona
- 4 days in Paris itinerary
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