Strasbourg Christmas Market: How to spend 3 magical days

Introduction

Strasbourg, located in eastern France near the German border, is famous for its charming canals, half-timbered houses, and fairy-tale atmosphere. But every winter, the city turns into something truly magical — a glowing wonderland of lights, music, and festive scents.

The Strasbourg Christmas Market — known as Christkindelsmärik, or “Market of the Child Jesus” — dates back over 450 years, making it one of the oldest in Europe. Every year from late November to December, more than two million visitors come to experience this Alsatian winter tradition. The entire city center, set on an island, transforms into a pedestrian paradise filled with over 300 wooden chalets, twinkling lights, and decorations that bring pure holiday joy.

French gives way to German, Italian, and English as visitors from all over the world fill the streets. Around every corner, you’ll find handmade crafts, mulled wine, and heartwarming Alsatian specialties — all set beneath glowing stars and giant Christmas trees.

Local Tip: Experience the market both by day and at night — they feel like two different worlds. And if you can, stay a couple of days to visit nearby Alsace villages, where the Christmas spirit continues in medieval streets and cozy squares.

Nadia Audgier Photography took all the photos in this article. Nadia is one of our good friends here in Strasbourg and an incredibly talented portrait photographer. She’s been capturing stories and the Strasbourg Christmas Market through her lens since 2015 and has a real gift for making people feel comfortable in front of the camera.

Nadia speaks French, English, and Russian, and she’s always happy to take visitors on a photo journey through the city — whether it’s wandering along the canals, exploring the Christmas markets, or finding hidden corners of Strasbourg bathed in festive light.

Read: All the best things to do in Strasbourg

Mapping the Strasbourg Christmas Market

Getting there

Getting to the Strasbourg Christmas Market is super easy, whether you’re coming from France or elsewhere in Europe. The city is well-connected by train, plane, and road, making it a great destination for a weekend trip or part of a longer European itinerary.

If you’re traveling from Paris, the TGV (high-speed train) is the best option — it takes only about 1 hour and 45 minutes from Paris Gare de l’Est to Strasbourg’s central station, which is just a short walk from the old town. From Germany, you can reach the Strasbourg Christmas Market in less than 2 hours from cities like Stuttgart or Frankfurt.

For those flying in, the Strasbourg-Entzheim International Airport (SXB) is about 15 minutes by train from the city center. From the airport, the journey to the city center takes 9min and costs 4,5€. Alternatively, many travelers land in Basel, Frankfurt, or even Paris airports and take a train or bus to Strasbourg — it’s often cheaper and still very convenient.

If you’re road-tripping, Strasbourg is right on the French-German border, connected by major highways and beautiful scenic drives through Alsace. Just keep in mind that during the Strasbourg Christmas Market period, the historic center is closed to cars — you’ll need to park outside and take public transport or walk in.

Check all your transportation options online — from buses to trains and ferries — it makes planning so much easier.

Moving around the Strasbourg Christmas Market

Once you’re in the city center of Strasbourg, you won’t really need a car — everything about the Strasbourg Christmas Market is within walking distance. The old town, especially the area around the Cathedral and Petite France, is pedestrian-friendly and perfect for exploring on foot.

If you need to go a bit further and out of the Strasbourg Christmas Market, the city has an excellent public transport system run by CTS, with trams and buses connecting all parts of the city. The tram is super easy to use and runs frequently — it’s one of the best ways to get around, especially if you’re staying outside the center.

Tip: During the Christmas Market period, some tram stations around the hyper-center may be temporarily closed for safety reasons. Just plan a few extra minutes to walk from the nearby stops — and honestly, strolling through Strasbourg’s decorated streets is part of the charm.

Read: The Best Christmas Markets in Alsace

When to Visit

The best time to visit Strasbourg is during its world-famous Christmas Market, when the city turns into a true winter wonderland. The Strasbourg Christmas Market (Christkindelsmärik) usually runs from the last week of November until the end of December.

In 2025, the market is expected to open on Friday, November 28, and run until Tuesday, December 30. During this period, Strasbourg’s entire historic center is beautifully decorated with twinkling lights, Christmas trees, and more than 300 wooden chalets selling local crafts, mulled wine, and Alsatian specialties.

If you can, plan to visit during the week or early in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds, as weekends can get very bus

Where to Stay

To truly soak up the magic of the Strasbourg Christmas Market, plan to stay at least 3 days — this will give you enough time to explore all the markets scattered around the city and enjoy Strasbourg both by day and night. If you have more time, consider staying a little longer to visit the Christmas markets in nearby Alsatian villages, such as Colmar, Obernai, or Eguisheim.

• (€): Hôtel Tandem – Boutique Hôtel: Just across from the train station, this eco-friendly hotel combines modern design with cozy comfort. Perfect for those arriving by train and looking to explore Strasbourg on foot.
• (€€): Hôtel & Spa Le Bouclier D’or: Located in the historic Petite France district, this charming hotel offers elegant rooms and a relaxing spa — ideal after a chilly day wandering the markets.
• (€€€): Hotel Cour du Corbeau Strasbourg – MGallery: A stunning 16th-century building transformed into a luxury hotel. Its location near the Cathedral makes it one of the most atmospheric places to stay during the festive season.

Here are all your accommodation options in Strasbourg

What to Eat

One of the highlights of the Strasbourg Christmas Market is definitely the food. From local Alsatian specialties to comforting festive treats, every stall offers something delicious — and it’s all part of the experience.

Here’s what to try while exploring the markets:

• Tarte Flambée Baguette: The most iconic dish of Alsace — usually a thin flatbread topped with cream, onions, and bacon — but at the market, it’s served on a crispy baguette slice for easy snacking.
• Wood-Fired Salmon: Found at Place de Broglie, this smoky salmon cooked over open flames is a local favorite and perfect for colder evenings.
• Bredele: The must-try Christmas treat! These traditional Alsatian biscuits come in dozens of varieties — cinnamon, almond, lemon, hazelnut… Every stall has its own secret recipe. (We even bake them ourselves every year!)
• Crêpes & Churros: Not exactly Alsatian, but a staple at every Strasbourg Christmas market — and perfect to pair with a warm drink as you wander through the lights.
• Hot Chestnuts: A winter classic sold from cute little carts shaped like trains, filling the air with a cozy roasted aroma.

What to Drink

• Red Mulled Wine: The king of all Christmas drinks — rich, spiced, and served steaming hot. You’ll find it at almost every stall, and it’s worth sampling from a few different places.
• White Mulled Wine: A regional twist made with Alsace’s white wines. Try it at the Terrasse des Rohan, Place Saint-Etienne, or Tribu des Gourmets.
• Hot Beer: Yes, really! At Place des Meuniers, the local Uberach Brasserie serves a surprisingly good spiced hot beer — a unique way to toast the season Alsace-style.

Read: The Best Christmas Markets in Alsace

All the Best Strasbourg Christmas Markets

Place Kléber: See Strasbourg’s Iconic Grand Sapin

Place Kléber is the beating heart of the Strasbourg Christmas Market. Towering over the square is the Grand Sapin, a magnificent pine reaching around 30 meters, set above the seasonal skating rink and the Village du Partage—a special market where charitable and humanitarian associations are hosted.

Historically, the Christmas tree symbolized the Tree of Paradise, once decorated with apples and hosts; today its fairy-tale ornaments and lights are switched on daily at 5:00 pm, transforming the square into a glowing winter scene.

Tip: Arrive a little before 5 pm to watch the lights come on, then loop around the Village du Partage to support local causes. If you’re taking photos, step back toward Rue de la Mésange for the best full-height view of the tree.

Place Broglie: Discover the Historic Christkindelsmärik

Place Broglie hosts the Christkindelsmärik, the most historic Strasbourg Christmas market — and one of the oldest in Europe. Until 1992, it was the only Strasbourg Christmas market in the city, where locals came to buy festive decorations and traditional treats.

Today, the square still captures that authentic Alsatian charm, with rows of wooden chalets selling ornaments, candles, and handmade gifts, alongside delicious seasonal food like tarte flambée baguette and vin chaud.

Tip: Visit in the late afternoon, when the lights start glowing and the smell of mulled wine fills the air — it’s one of the most atmospheric moments of the Strasbourg Christmas Market.

Place de la Cathédrale: Experience the Magic Beneath Strasbourg’s Iconic Landmark

The Strasbourg Christmas market at Place de la Cathédrale is one of the most enchanting spots in Strasbourg. Nestled right at the foot of the city’s magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral, it’s hard not to be awed by the contrast between the glowing wooden stalls and the towering Gothic spire above.

As you wander through, you’ll find local artisans selling ornaments, handcrafted gifts, and Alsatian delicacies — all surrounded by the warm light of the cathedral’s façade. The sound of choirs and the aroma of roasted chestnuts add to the charm, making this one of the most unforgettable corners of the Strasbourg Christmas Market.

Here are all your accommodation options in Strasbourg

Place du Château: A Fairytale Setting Beside the Cathedral

Just next to Place de la Cathédrale, you’ll find the Place du Château, a small square that adds a magical touch to the Strasbourg Christmas Market. This area is perfect for families, with its charming carousel spinning in front of the illuminated cathedral — a scene straight out of a winter fairytale.

Around the carousel, you’ll also discover a few unique Christmas huts offering handmade crafts, festive treats, and warm drinks. It’s a lovely spot to pause, take photos, and enjoy the joyful atmosphere of Strasbourg’s old town during the holidays.

Place Gutenberg: Themed Market Square

Just a short walk from the Cathedral, Place Gutenberg hosts one of the most dynamic parts of the Strasbourg Christmas Market. Each year, this square welcomes a guest country or special theme, transforming the area into a cultural showcase filled with unique decorations, traditional crafts, and specialties from the featured region.

You’ll also find several festive huts offering international treats and gifts, making it one of the most original and diverse sections of the market. The square’s backdrop — with the statue of Johannes Gutenberg and the surrounding historic buildings — adds even more charm to this lively corner of Strasbourg during Christmas.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Place du Temple Neuf: The Heart of the Golden Square

Tucked between charming half-timbered houses and the elegant Temple Neuf Church, this smaller square offers one of the coziest settings of the Strasbourg Christmas Market. Known as part of the Golden Square Christmas Market (Carré d’Or), it’s a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a more intimate and magical atmosphere.

Here, you’ll find beautifully decorated stalls selling artisan crafts, gourmet treats, and festive ornaments, all surrounded by the warm glow of Christmas lights. The mix of architectural beauty and holiday charm makes Place du Temple Neuf one of the most picturesque stops during your Christmas stroll through Strasbourg.

Tip: We never travel without our DJI Mini 3 PRO drone anymore — it’s totally worth having to capture places from a whole new perspective.

Terrasse des Rohans: Riverside Magic and White Mulled Wine

Set along the river beside the Rohan Palace, the Terrasse des Rohans is one of the most atmospheric spots during the Strasbourg Christmas Market. With twinkling lights reflecting on the water and music echoing softly from nearby stalls, it’s a perfect place to slow down and soak in the festive spirit.

This is the place to try the famous white mulled wine, made with local Alsatian wine, and to pair it with a few homemade Bredele — the region’s beloved Christmas biscuits. Whether you stop here during the day for a quiet riverside break or at night when the lights shimmer on the Ill River, Terrasse des Rohans offers one of the most magical Christmas vibes in Strasbourg.

Place du Marché aux Poissons: The Alsatian Christmas Delights Market

Right at the end of the Terrasse des Rohans, you’ll find the Place du Marché aux Poissons, home to the Alsatian Christmas Delights Market. This cozy section of the Strasbourg Christmas Market is all about local flavors — from Bredele biscuits and foie gras to regional wines, craft beers, and the famous mulled white wine that warms you up instantly.

The atmosphere here is both festive and gourmet, with the scent of spices, roasted nuts, and baked treats filling the air. It’s the perfect place to sample Alsace’s culinary treasures, chat with local producers, and maybe even pick up a few edible souvenirs to bring home.

Place du Marché-Gayot

This small and charming square doesn’t host a full market but offers a lovely festive atmosphere during the Strasbourg Christmas Market. You’ll find a beautifully decorated Christmas tree and, most notably, creative workshops for children, where they can make their own ornaments and decorations. It’s a quieter spot away from the larger crowds, perfect for families or anyone wanting to take a short break while still soaking in the Christmas spirit.

Place Benjamin Zix

Nestled in the heart of La Petite France, Place Benjamin Zix is one of the most picturesque areas to experience the Strasbourg Christmas Market. Surrounded by half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets, this market feels straight out of a fairy tale.

The cozy stalls, twinkling lights, and reflections on the canals make it one of the most romantic corners of Strasbourg during Christmas — a must-visit, especially at dusk when the lights start to sparkle.

Here are all your accommodation options in Strasbourg

Place des Meuniers

Just a short walk from Place Benjamin Zix, Place des Meuniers is the perfect stop for anyone who loves authentic local flavors. This square hosts a market dedicated to small local producers — you’ll find stalls selling cheese, honey, beer, jams, and other regional specialties. It’s the ideal place to pick up a few edible souvenirs or chat with the producers themselves. Don’t miss trying the hot beer brewed by the local Uberach Brasserie, one of the most unique drinks of the Strasbourg Christmas Market.

Place Saint Thomas

On your way to or from La Petite France, make a stop at Place Saint-Thomas. This smaller, cozy market sits beside the beautiful Saint-Thomas Church, one of Strasbourg’s most iconic Protestant landmarks. The few huts here sell handcrafted items and local delicacies, creating a calm and intimate Christmas atmosphere — a great contrast to the busier markets in the center.

Place Grimmeisen

For something a little different, head to Place Grimmeisen, home to the OFF Market, Strasbourg’s alternative and socially conscious Christmas market. Focused on sustainability, fair trade, and solidarity, this market features eco-friendly products, creative upcycled gifts, and stalls run by local associations. It’s the perfect spot for those looking to give their Christmas shopping a meaningful twist.

Strasbourg Christmas Market’s Decoration

Quai des Bateliers

One of the most magical spots to enjoy the Strasbourg Christmas decorations is the Quai des Bateliers. Once open to traffic, this picturesque street has been fully pedestrianized, making it a peaceful and scenic walkway along the canal on the edge of the historic center.

During the Strasbourg Christmas Market, the Quai des Bateliers is beautifully decorated with sparkling lights, garlands, and festive window displays. It’s also lined with restaurants, cafés, and boutique shops, making it a perfect place to stop for a warm drink or dinner after exploring the markets. The reflections of the lights dancing on the water give the whole area a cozy, romantic feel — especially in the evening when Strasbourg truly shines.

Rue des Orfèvres

If you visit only one decorated street in Strasbourg during Christmas, make it Rue des Orfèvres. This narrow pedestrian lane, right in the heart of the old town, is without a doubt the most beautifully decorated street in Strasbourg.

Every window, balcony, and storefront bursts with lights, garlands, teddy bears, ornaments, and festive displays — making it feel straight out of a Christmas movie. The atmosphere is absolutely magical, especially at night when everything glows softly under the warm holiday lights.

Walking down Rue des Orfèvres is a must during the Strasbourg Christmas Market, and you’ll quickly understand why it’s one of the most photographed streets in the city.

Tip: Now, that we travel with baby Milo, we always bring this Babybjorn baby carrier with us.

Grand Rue

Grand Rue is one of Strasbourg’s main arteries, often compared to the Champs-Élysées of Strasbourg — though with a much more local and Alsatian charm. This long, lively street is lined with shops, cafés, restaurants, and traditional half-timbered houses, making it a great place to stroll during your visit.

During the Strasbourg Christmas Market, Grand Rue is beautifully decorated with lights and festive garlands, creating a magical ambiance. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, enjoying a meal, or just soaking in the Christmas spirit, Grand Rue is one of those places where you’ll truly feel the pulse of the city.

Here are all your accommodation options in Strasbourg

Rue des Tonneliers

Rue des Tonneliers is one of Strasbourg’s most atmospheric streets, especially during the Christmas Market season. Famous for its bars, restaurants, and lively nightlife, this narrow street comes alive in winter with hundreds of sparkling illuminated barrels hanging overhead — a nod to its historic connection to the city’s wine merchants and coopers.

Tip: This is the stroller we recommend for traveling — it’s super lightweight and compact enough to fit in airplane cabins.

Rue du 22 Novembre

Rue du 22 Novembre is another must-see during the Strasbourg Christmas Market. This main shopping street, now half-pedestrian, is beautifully decorated with golden and silver baubles and festive lights hanging between the buildings. It’s a great spot to enjoy the lively holiday vibe while browsing shops or grabbing a warm drink.

Don’t miss a stop at Le Meteor, one of our favorite bars in Strasbourg — perfect for relaxing after a long stroll through the markets with a local beer or hot wine in hand.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Rue des Maroquin

Rue des Maroquins is one of the most charming and lively streets in Strasbourg. Connecting the Cathedral Square to the canal, it’s lined with beautiful half-timbered houses that host some of the city’s most traditional Alsatian restaurants.

It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a warm meal after exploring the Christmas Market — think tarte flambée, sauerkraut, or a comforting baeckeoffe. With its festive lights and cozy ambiance, Rue des Maroquins truly captures the spirit of the Strasbourg Christmas Market

Tip: We never travel without our DJI Mini 3 PRO drone anymore — it’s totally worth having to capture places from a whole new perspective.

Rue des Serruries

Rue des Serruriers connects Guttenberg Square to La Petite France, making it a pleasant route to stroll between two of Strasbourg’s most charming areas. While it isn’t fully pedestrian, the street shines during the Christmas season with its beautiful festive decorations and warm lights. You’ll also find boutiques, cafés, and small artisan shops along the way, perfect for a quick stop before continuing your Christmas wander through the city.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg

No visit to the Strasbourg Christmas Market is complete without stepping inside the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, the city’s most iconic landmark. Entry is free, and during the festive season, you’ll find beautiful Christmas decorations inside, adding a magical touch to its already awe-inspiring Gothic architecture.

Don’t miss the Astronomical Clock, a masterpiece of Renaissance engineering that draws visitors every day for its intricate moving figures. And if you’re up for a bit of exercise, climb the 330 steps to the upper platform (ticket required) for one of the best panoramic views of Strasbourg — especially enchanting when the city is glowing with Christmas lights.

Petite France

La Petite France is hands down the most picturesque district in Strasbourg. With its half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and canals weaving through the old town, it feels like stepping into a fairy tale — especially when it’s dressed up for Christmas.

During the Strasbourg Christmas Market, take your time to wander through this enchanting area, even if it’s slightly quieter in terms of decorations. Walk along the canals, cross the Covered Bridges, and make your way to the Vauban Dam, where you’ll find one of the best panoramic views of La Petite France and the glowing rooftops of Strasbourg. It’s the perfect spot to take in the magic of the season away from the crowds.

Christmas Market Unique Souvenirs

Boules de Meisenthal

Located in Benjamin Zix Square, the Meisenthal Christmas baubles are true works of art. Entirely handmade at the Glass Art Center in Meisenthal, each glass ornament carries a touch of Alsatian craftsmanship and history. Every year, a new design is added to the collection — making them perfect keepsakes or gifts to remember your visit to the Strasbourg Christmas Market.

Poteries de Soufflenheim

Head to Place du Marché aux Poissons to discover the beautiful Soufflenheim pottery. These traditional handcrafted ceramics are among the region’s most authentic souvenirs, featuring bright colors and patterns that reflect Alsatian heritage. Whether it’s a cooking pot, mug, or decorative dish, each piece is unique and made to last.

Here are all your accommodation options in Strasbourg

Le Coin d’Alsace

Located in a charming old half-timbered Alsatian house, Le Coin d’Alsace is a must-visit shop for anyone looking to bring home a piece of the region. Spread across three beautifully decorated floors, it’s packed with local souvenirs, from traditional Christmas ornaments and regional specialties to handcrafted decorations and gifts. Whether you’re searching for a small keepsake or a standout item to remember your trip, this cozy boutique has it all — all wrapped in that warm Alsatian charm.

Read: All the best things to do in Strasbourg