As Christmas approaches, Strasbourg gets decked out in all its finery. At the end of the afternoon, as night draws in, the magic begins to work across the city. Thousands of Christmas lights and decorations sparkle and twinkle to create a bewitching atmosphere in the Alsatian capital.
From the cobbled alleyways of La Petite France to the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral, there isn't a place I haven't been to. And there's no better month to experience all Strasbourg has to offer than December. This fairytale town transforms into a winter wonderland.
Strasbourg offers no fewer than 10 Christmas markets, a huge natural Christmas tree, and delicious traditional Christmas food and drinks sold at street stalls everywhere. Add to that a fairytale backdrop of half-timbered houses and you get a real Christmas wonderland!
During the Christmas market, the glowing lights and enchantment are outdoors, but Strasbourg is also a cosy and inviting place to be indoors. All the places of worship – Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox – are open to the public. Concerts, sing-alongs, exhibitions and more are held in churches.
STRASBOURG CHRISTMAS MARKETS - Capital of Christmas (European Christmas Markets Tour 3 of 6)
Is Strasbourg nice at Christmas?
Because Strasbourg is the 'Capital of Christmas' in France and knows how to put on a good show. And with not one but thirteen Christmas Markets, there is plenty of Christmas cheer to enjoy in this beautiful mediaeval town with its colourful half-timbered buildings.
Question: Why is Strasbourg the Christmas Capital? Answer: This Christmas capital has been ruling the throne of the best Christmas markets for generations now. Famously celebrated for its extraordinary joyous atmosphere, Strasbourg attracts millions of visitors every year to experience the authenticity of Christmas.
Paris and Strasbourg top the list of the best cities in France to enjoy the magic of Christmas. In addition to its dedicated Christmas markets and events, the French capital sets up, as it does every year, outdoor ice rinks to allow both locals and tourists to enjoy winter sports within city walls.
Yes, Strasbourg is generally cheaper than Paris. While you won't find a ton of budget-friendly options, hotels are still cheaper than in Paris. Food and entertainment are also much less expensive in Strasbourg.
Yes, the Christmas market in Strasbourg is definitely worth it. As the home of Christmas, it will easily get you in the festive spirit and with 13 markets to explore, you won't get bored. Strasbourg is a beautiful city and very easy to walk around, plus it has a 30-metre Christmas Tree with over 7km of lights.
Strasbourg is indeed one of Europe's most beautiful cities – from the imposing Cathedral with its intricate carvings, to the picturesque houses and canals of Petite France – all which make it a very popular tourist destination, not to mention a wonderful place to live.
Which Christmas market is better Colmar or Strasbourg?
Colmar, a more authentic market
Just 70 kilometres from Strasbourg, on the Alsace wine route, Colmar offers an equally enchanting Christmas market experience, but with a more intimate and picturesque atmosphere, I find. For the 2023 edition, Colmar expects to welcome between 1.3 and 1.5 million visitors.
In addition to its rich history and stunning architecture, Strasbourg is also renowned for its cultural offerings. The city is home to a number of world-class museums, theaters, and opera houses, as well as a thriving food and nightlife scene.
If you are thinking about this December, book your hotel in Strasbourg SOON. The Christmas market season is very busy and many people reserve a year in advance. We booked about a month ago and found that hotel prices were much higher than we paid in the summer this year.
If you're the kind of person who enjoys fully covering a place, wandering around its most famous streets and ticking off a list of all of the top attractions, then you'll want to head to Colmar as opposed to Strasbourg.
As the capital of France's Alsace region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and home to the European Parliament, there's plenty to see and do in Strasbourg. With two days you can cover a lot, including the city's historic heart, its top sights, the nearby wine region, and, in December, the legendary Christmas markets.
Since Strasbourg is one of the capitals of Europe, English is widely spoken. In general, the demographic in Strasbourg is very diverse, so it's not uncommon to hear several languages while walking around. This means you're almost always sure to find someone who speaks English.
Strasbourg is often thought to be slightly more expensive than some other cities in France of the same size, due in part to its geographical location and its political and economic situations.
Strasbourg is a gorgeous mid-size city known for its romantic canals, medieval architecture, and towering cathedral. Wonderful to visit during any time of the year, here's a free and self-guided Strasbourg walking tour to help you get your bearings in this European city…
What is the most beautiful Christmas village in France?
Eguisheim has many historical manor houses, such as the Unterlindenhof, that showcase the rich heritage of the village. Eguisheim is a charming place to discover the authentic Alsatian culture and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Christmas market.
The oldest and most historical Christmas market in Strasbourg, dating back to 1570, can be found at Place Broglie and around the cathedral (Place de la Cathédrale). This Christmas market is the most popular and traditional Christmas market in Strasbourg and can get very busy due to its international acclaim.
Many people in France put up a Christmas tree, visit a special church service, eat an elaborate meal and open gifts on Christmas Eve. Other activities include walking in the park, participating in city life and sharing a meal with family and close friends.
Another great asset of Strasbourg is its dining scene. The delectable local dishes, excellent wines and refreshing local beers give credence to the city's nickname as 'the crossroads of Europe'.
Since Strasbourg is much bigger, it has, of course, more to offer (hotels, shops, restaurants etc.). Colmar is more intimate. And Colmar is surrounded by picturesque wine villages.
Historical reference. Strasbourg was built on the site of the castrum Argentoratum, which was established in 12 B.C. and served as part of the Roman system of defense on the Rhine River. In the 5th century, when Alsace was ruled by the Franks, the devastated site was known as Stratisburgum (meaning “roadside town”).
