Get ready to experience Strasbourg Christmas markets 2024!
The Strasbourg Christmas markets in Alsace, France, are on the bucket lists of many European travelers these days, and for very good reason! With a history as long as Christmas markets themselves, Strasbourg’s markets are absolutely spectacular, and showcase all the very best of French style, food, and Alsacian cultural tradition. If you are looking for Christmas market eye candy, and a long storied history, Strasbourg is an absolute must.
Christmas Markets Present and Past
European Christmas market travel is all the rage these days, because let’s face it – Europeans really know how to celebrate Christmas right. It’s about the spirit of the season, camaraderie and community, enjoying good food and drink, choosing that special hand-crafted Christmas gift, being outside in the crisp air, and savoring the holiday at a slow pace surrounded by beauty and history. It’s no wonder so many charming historical places throughout the continent have created and sustained successful modern-day Christmas markets.
But there are a few cities that really can claim a long historical Christmas market tradition, and Strasbourg is one of them. It’s often dubbed the “Capital of Christmas” because although specific historical records are hard to come by, Strasbourg definitely claims the title of oldest in France, and probably the oldest in Europe.
The “modern day” market in Strasbourg can trace its origins back to 1570. But it’s likely that the precursor to the Strasbourg Christmas markets happened long before that, maybe as early as the 12th century – in the shadow of the then-brand-new cathedral.
The First Strasbourg Christmas Markets
When you arrive in Strasbourg you can’t help but be awed by the sense of history surrounding you, and you find yourself imagining how many feet have walked these very streets on crisp cold days, to the cathedral to buy special Christmas treats, and what it must have been like back in the middle ages.
Those first Strasbourg Christmas markets in the 1500s were much smaller than the huge incredible spectacle you’ll see today. There were probably only a few dozen sellers consisting of local artisans and merchants selling wooden toys, pottery, textiles and glassware. There also would have been special items for Christmas like advent wreaths and candles.
And vendors would also have sold bread, cheeses, meats, fruits, nuts, and sweet treats. Some things haven’t changed!
Shoppers came from the city of Strasbourg itself, plus some of the smaller surrounding villages. The atmosphere would have been a cozy and intimate one with familiar faces, focusing on the local foods, customs, and Christmas traditions of the region.
The Strasbourg Christmas Markets Today
A Contentious Border
Over the centuries, Strasbourg itself has undergone many transformations. The city was historically part of the Holy Roman Empire which was a loose confederation of territories in Central and Western Europe that lasted almost a thousand years. Then during the 19th century, Strasbourg became part of the German Empire following the Franco-Prussian War which devastated the city.
After World War I, Strasbourg was returned to France as part of the Treaty of Versailles. Then it fell back into German hands during World War II. Hitler ordered all the stained-glass windows to be taken, and they were hidden away in a salt mine, where they were discovered by Americans in 1945 and returned. Strasbourg was ultimately liberated by French forces on November 24, 1944 when the French flag was raised over the cathedral and it once again belonged to France.
Strasbourg’s history in these contentious borderlands has shaped its culture, and you will still find much German influence in the region. You will see this most easily in the food offerings which include pretzels, and flammküchen, and sauerkraut in many local dishes. Place names and architecture too will at times seem more German than French. This phenomenon extends throughout the region of Alsace of which Strasbourg is the capital.
The Alsacian Sensation! (Yes, I just made that up!)
The Christmas market in this unique region has expanded and evolved now into multiple markets stretching from the original location by Strasbourg Cathedral, to encompass Place Kléber, Place Broglie, Place St. Thomas, and the areas in front of the covered bridges on the west point of the Grande-Île (the island that makes up the historic city center).
Strasbourg has often laid claim to the title of World’s Best Christmas Market and it’s hard to argue that point. Even though we tend to think of Germany as having started and maintained the Christmas market tradition, Strasbourg has been there since the beginning. And the results today are sumptuous, overflowing, gorgeous Alsacian holiday splendor. If that seemed like a mouthful it’s because when describing the Christmas markets in Strasbourg, I can’t come up with enough adjectives!
Strasbourg Christmas Markets 2024 Map
You’ll be able to find large helpful maps scattered around the Christmas market area, but to prepare in advance, definitely check out the map that will be posted online. The market doesn’t change much from year to year so even if they haven’t updated the map for the current year, you’ll get a really good idea of the layout and where to find particular markets, parking areas, public toilets, etc. from last year’s version.
The Illuminations and Decorations
To me, this is the most striking difference between French and German Christmas markets. Even though the Alsace region is right on the border of the two countries, the French influence wins the day in the decoration department.
As you pass from street to street, the incredible creative light displays will shift and change, one more stunning and elegant than the next. They reflect the individual vision of the designers, sometimes playing off the names of the streets. Everywhere you look – over doorways, in shop windows, overhanging streets, on Christmas trees, will be thoughtful, beautiful decorative art.
Strasbourg Christmas Markets 2024 Annual Theme
Each year Strasbourg changes up its look with a new and different theme to the dazzling decorations you’ll see all over the city. 2021 marked the year of the star, 2022 brought the snowflake, and in 2023 the heart took over as the official symbol of the markets. What will 2024 be? We’ll have to wait and see!
Must-See Attractions and Places
Christkindelsmärik
The market’s Alsatian name, “Christkindelsmärik,” translates to “Market of the Christ Child.” This is the traditional Alsacian market, and the best place to find traditional regional Christmas decorations and gifts. It has been located in the Place Broglie since the 1870s!
Giant Christmas Tree: The Christmas Tree (Grand Sapin) in Place Kléber
In addition to having one of the first Christmas markets, Strasbourg was also responsible for the first mention of a Christmas tree all the way back in 1492! Then, evergreen trees could be found outside, usually at the church. This tradition spread into German speaking countries and throughout Central Europe. But by the 18th century, the Christmas tree had moved indoors to bring its light and cheer to private homes, and the tradition was firmly entrenched across Europe and America.
In keeping with Strasbourg’s Christmas tree connection, a huge tree is erected every year at Place Kléber, providing a wonderful photo-op as one of the true highlights of the markets.
La Petite France:
This historic district, known for its charming half-timbered houses and canals, is the most picturesque area on the Grand-Île. You’ll know you’ve entered when you pass under its beautiful illuminated sign.
The Cathedral of Strasbourg: You definitely won’t miss this one! This Gothic masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is the center of it all! It’s so huge it’s actually hard to get a good photo of it! But it’s here that I really felt connected to all the people who have celebrated and enjoyed the market stalls in front of the cathedral for nearly a thousand years.
Ice Skating Rink
Nothing says winter fun like a nice ice rink, and you can watch the skaters as you sip your gluhwein. Or skate yourself! The outdoor ice skating rink is located near Place Kléber with its giant tree. And for anyone (cough cough) who can’t live without a puppaccino, you’ll find a Starbucks right on the square.
Market Food and Drink
Hang on to your fuzzy winter hat because the food at the Strasbourg Christmas market is off the hook! The best of France plus the best of Germany is all at your fingertips, and an inevitable holiday food coma awaits.
Feeling like a beer, pretzel and bratwurst? No problem. More in the mood for a foie gras sandwich and a steaming cup of vin chaud (hot mulled wine)? They got you. Maybe something in the middle like a traditional Alsacian flammküchen (German) tarte flambée (French) on a baguette? Yes please!
You can pretty much gourmand your entire way through this foodie paradise. And don’t forget to pop into the boulangeries and restaurants all along the route. We came home with a Bûche de Noël (a traditional Christmas yule log cake), a pile of pastries, wine, chestnuts, cheeses, and I can’t even remember what else. It was a haze of delicious delights.
Where to Eat for a Sit Down
If you need to get off your feet and want to sit down for a proper restaurant meal, I have three suggestions for you.
L’Oignon – 4 Rue des Moulins
Yep, that means “the onion” and if you’re thinking our quest was for French onion soup, then you’re right! This place did NOT disappoint in any regard. We made reservations to take a market break, and sat outside with a bottle of wine while they got our table ready. The interior is super cozy, the wine was great, the soup was decadent, and the duck was incredible. Soup Quest success!
You can see the menu and make reservations from their website.
Maison Kamerzell – 16 Place de la Cathédrale
I saw this building right across from the cathedral and almost fell over. The picture doesn’t do it justice. It’s the oldest building in Strasbourg (other than the cathedral) and when we saw it was a restaurant we tried our luck and actually got a table. Don’t count on luck though. Reservations are definitely recommended!
We had wine and wild boar stew which were both delightful. We also poked around the inside of the multi-story restaurant just to gawk at the rooms! Eating in a building that’s been a brasserie since 1427 was just… wow. Those very first Christmas market shoppers likely popped in for stew and brew almost 800 years ago!
Check out the gorgeous photos of the building and the menu on their website
Chez Yvonne
This cozy and charming little restaurant came recommended to us, and was an awesome romantic dinner place for two. The tapestries, the dark wood, and candle light set the mood. And of course more wine! The menu is traditional Alsacian cuisine and they know what they’re doing! The staff is lovely and made sure our evening was special. It was so beautiful I was worried it would be all ambiance and no substance, but the food was top notch. We went with the foie gras and filet of beef.
You can see the menu and make reservations on their website.
Shopping
The shopping at the Strasbourg Chrismas markets is fantastic in more than one way. The market stalls, of course, sell all the beautiful crafts and gifts you can imagine, but the shops that exist in the market space all year really go all out for Christmas. Every store is dressed to the nines from window displays to huge decorations across the top of the store fronts. And all of them from the florists to the bakeries to the charcuterie stores and gift shops are filled to the rim with Christmas treasure and collectibles.
And if you love a good antique store, I’ve got good news for you! We shopped in several INCREDIBLE antique stores right in the cathedral area, plus there are stalls set up in Place Kléber where you can find wonderful old books, prints, and antique ephemera of all kinds.
Christmas Market Pro-Tips
⏰ Timing
Make sure you experience the market in the daytime, but in Strasbourg especially at night! It’s the same place, but a very different mood. Daytime has for fewer people and it’s easier to see what goods are being sold, and do some shopping. It would also be a great time to take in some of the other amazing sights in the city.
But as day turns to night and the lights come on – that’s the time to let everything go and just wander where your heart takes you. It is the ultimate in lush, romantic, holiday vibes. Not just the traditional green and red, you’ll see Strasbourg bloom into a sparkling sea of purple and blue and gold. And the reflections in the river and canals are just stunning.
💵 Cash
You will definitely need to bring cash, since many booths are cash only. France accepts euros so you’ll need to plan ahead to exchange currency if you need to. The euro is usually within 10 cents of the US dollar. Of course this is a rough estimate and you should check what the exact current rate is when changing your money.
🧤What to wear
Layers are key. And definitely have a hat, scarf, and warm gloves. But if you do go inside to a restaurant or shop or museum, they’ll be a lot warmer so keep that in mind too. Also, smartwool socks, and sturdy comfortable flat shoes or walking boots are a must for uneven cobblestones, and potential puddles or slush! Check out this link for current weather conditions in Strasbourg. Be sure to check it before you plan your time at the markets, and bring a collapsible umbrella if it looks like rain.
🚨 Security:
The center of the city and Strasbourg’s Old Town is an island in the Ill River. The only way in and out is over bridges. You can expect a short line and a security check as you enter. The times I’ve been there it consisted of a bag check and a very quick side pat to make sure nothing is under your coat.
🗓 Come during the week
There’s no candy-coating it. With this kind of splendiforous Christmas magic, you’re not the only one with Strasbourg on the bucket list! Weekends can be super crowded. If it’s weekend or nothing, I’d still go, but given the choice it’s much nicer to hit this market on a weekday when the crowds are thinner, and you can move around easier, and see all the beauty in an unhurried atmosphere.
☕Get the mug!
When you buy a cup of vin chaud or other warm drink, it will come in a glass mug and the cost of the mug (usually a couple euros) will be included in your charge. If you want to return the mug when you’re done, you’ll be refunded the cost that you paid. Or you can keep the mug as a souvenir if you like! You can also reuse the mug throughout your time at the markets to save resources. I personally think the mugs are a great inexpensive souvenir.
🐾 Dog-friendliness
France, as most of Europe, is very dog friendly. A well-behaved dog is welcomed in most cafes and restaurants, and there are many dog-friendly hotel options. But the market is definitely a stimulation overload. We took Helga for walks outside the market area, or where the crowds were thin. I would not recommend having your dog with you all day at the market though.
Nearby Sights to Explore
Strasbourg Cathedral
This iconic Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a marvel of architecture. Seriously, it’s one of the most beautiful buildings I’ve ever seen – inside and out. Its old astronomical clock (inside), the stunning stained glass windows, and towering spire are truly incredible. And don’t forget to enjoy all the artwork on the outside of the building. The gargoyles, the statues of the saints, the incredible medieval craftsmanship is stunning.
Palais Rohan
This magnificent palace, once the residence of the archbishops of Strasbourg, houses not one, not two, but three museums: the Museum of Decorative Arts, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Archaeological Museum! We had a really great museum day here. We got the three for one ticket, and explored to our heart’s content. Our favorite exhibition showcased some of the original medieval clock parts for the cathedral’s famous astronomical clock.
Barrage Vauban and the Covered Bridges
This impressive fortified dam, built in the 17th century, straddles the river and provides panoramic views of the city, the Ill River, the iconic covered bridges, and Petite France that mark the beginning of the Christmas market area.
European Parliament
Strasbourg is also one of the official seats of the European Parliament! You can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the European Union and its operations. Even if you don’t take a tour it’s an interesting building to see.
Tours and Sightseeing
And to get the most out of your stay in this incredible and historic city, be sure to explore outside the Christmas markets with these fantastic tours and experiences! You’ll find everything from food tours, to walking tours of the city with a guide, to day trips to wineries with wine tastings, or to explore the unbelievably quaint postcard towns surrounding Strasbourg.
Where to Stay in Strasbourg
We can recommend two dog-friendly hotels in Strasbourg!
Hôtel Léonor
Hôtel Léonor was a lovely stay, and the location was perfect. Just a quick walk to everything.
The room was well appointed and beautiful (with a coffee maker which was appreciated), as was everything in the hotel. And you’ll find tasteful and festive decor in the lobby to put you in the Christmas spirit. Très chic!
The in-house restaurant was excellent, and they also have a nice bar. And the breakfast was out of this world – like having your own personal boulangerie.
The room and the entire property was immaculately clean, and photogenic as you can see. Helga the frenchie particularly liked the fainting sofa!
Parking is available around the corner at the hotel’s garage, but it is 35 euros extra per day and must be booked in advance. It’s only about 900 feet from the train also, which is convenient.
Be sure to book early at the Hotel Léonore because this beautiful spot sells out during market season. And they speak French, German, and English!
Appart’City Confort Strasbourg Centre
This is the more budget-friendly of our two choices, and I was grateful for it because we made the reservation fairly late in the game.
It was a great option for my husband and I, our two grown kiddos, and a dog when we were on a budget.
It’s basically an apartment. There was a kitchenette with a dishwasher, kitchenware and a refrigerator, which came in handy to store all our edible Christmas loot. Our room had two twin beds and a small sofa bed.
My husband and I (and the dog) ended up on the sofa bed, and each kid got a twin. It wasn’t the most comfortable mattress I’ve ever slept on (sofa beds never are), but for the price point and the awesome location I’m not complaining!
It was also very clean, and located close to the Old Town and the markets. There’s even a little green space behind the hotel for the doggos.
I literally have zero pictures of it because to be honest there wasn’t a lot to look at, and we were focused on maximizing the market magic. But you can check it out and make a reservation at Appart-City Confort Strasbourg Center at the link.
Parking is available in a nearby garage with a prior reservation. It’s about a 10 minute walk to the main train station, and there is a tram stop literally outside the front door.
Also, the staff was super friendly and even gave us a bottle of Christmas beer at check-in!
Getting to Strasbourg
From Frankfurt, Germany
🚉 By Train 2 hours 28 minutes
🚗 By Car 1 hour 58 minutes
From Stuttgart, Germany
🚉 By Train 1 hour 25 minutes
🚗 By Car 1 hour 33 minutes
From Kaiserslautern, Germany
🚉 By Train 2 hours 38 minutes
🚗 By Car 1 hour 42 minutes
From Paris, France
🚉 By Train 1 hour 46 minutes
🚗 By Car 4 hours 29 minutes
✈️ Closest Airports to Strasbourg
The closest airports to Strasbourg are: Zurich (ZRH), Strasbourg (SXB), Stuttgart (STR), Basel (BSL), Karlsruhe/Baden-Baden (FKB)
Parking
This map shows parking areas, and Park & Ride locations near the Strasbourg Christmas Markets 2024.
See You at the Strasbourg Christmas Markets 2024!
I hope you’ve gotten a good idea of what to expect from this world-class Christmas market. We plan to return this year with visiting guests and it was absolutely top of our list, so we’ll be there with bells (and comfortable shoes) on to take it all in once again!
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