Strasbourg Christmas Market: the Capital of Christmas

Strasbourg calls itself the Capital of Christmas, and its Christkindelsmärik is one of the oldest Christmas markets in France. Stalls fill the squares around the cathedral, half-timbered houses are richly decorated, and a giant tree rises over Place Kléber.

Fun facts

• The Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570.
• Strasbourg Cathedral was the world's tallest building for over two centuries.
• The historic centre, the Grande Île, was the first entire city centre listed by UNESCO.

What to see

• The Great Christmas Tree on Place Kléber.
• The cathedral and its astronomical clock with moving figures.
• The canals and half-timbered houses of Petite France.

What to taste

• Bredele, small Alsatian Christmas biscuits in dozens of shapes.
• Vin chaud blanc, mulled wine made with Alsatian white wine.
• Tarte flambée (flammekueche), thin crispy bread with cream, onions and bacon.

What to do

• Wander between the market squares, each with its own theme.
• Take a boat tour on the Ill river around the Grande Île.
• Buy gingerbread (pain d'épices) from a traditional Alsatian bakery.

💡 Tip: Strasbourg airport has a shuttle train to the city in under 10 minutes. Hotels fill up quickly in December, so book early or stay in nearby Kehl or Offenburg.