As December approaches, the holiday season brings the delightful sights of mulled wine, mince pies, and sparkling fairy lights.
A visit to the Christmas markets is the perfect way to fully embrace the festive atmosphere. While the UK offers many charming markets, one city in France has earned the title of the ‘capital of Christmas,’ making it a must-visit destination. Return flights are priced under £80.
Each November, Strasbourg, located in northeastern France, is transformed into a winter wonderland with over 300 enchanting wooden chalets and beautifully adorned streets. Known for hosting one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, which dates back to 1570, Strasbourg has preserved its holiday charm for more than 450 years.
Today, over 2 million visitors worldwide flock to the city yearly to experience its magical ambience and festive beauty. Want to discover what makes this market so unique? Here’s everything you need to plan your visit.
How to Get to Strasbourg
Strasbourg is located in the Grand Est Region of eastern France, near the German border, in the historic Alsace region. It’s easily accessible from the UK. According to Skyscanner, a direct flight from London Gatwick takes just over an hour and a half, with return tickets typically priced around £79 during the holiday season.
Alternatively, you can fly to Basel Mulhouse Freiburg, an airport around 90 minutes from Strasbourg. Flights start at £99 during Christmas.
For those who prefer to travel via Paris, flights from London begin at £45 in December. Then, a 90-minute train journey to Strasbourg begins, with tickets starting from £25. If you enjoy travelling by train, you can take a direct Eurostar from London St Pancras International.
The journey is longer—around five to six hours—but a single ticket in December starts at £338, and it’s always worth checking Eurostar for any special deals.
What to See at Strasbourg Christmas Markets
Strasbourg’s Christmas markets light up the city annually for four weeks, typically from late November through December 27. One of the most Instagram-worthy spots is Rue du Maroquin, the teddy bear street. During the festive season, the storefronts are adorned with giant ornaments, wreaths, Christmas trees, and stars, with giant teddy bears making the area a popular destination for visitors. The street has earned the nickname ‘Land of the Teddy Bears’ and is a must-see, especially for TikTok users.
Another highlight of the market is the Grand Christmas Tree at Place Kleber, standing at an impressive 30 meters tall. This magnificent tree is one of Europe’s tallest decorated natural Christmas trees and is often described as the ‘star of Alsatian Christmas.’ Seeing it in person is said to be genuinely awe-inspiring.
The market stalls are scattered throughout Strasbourg, with most wooden chalets found at Place Broglie and around the Strasbourg Cathedral. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of food, much of which reflects the city’s proximity to Germany, such as Bretzels and Bratwurst. For those interested in more sustainable options, the OFF Market offers a variety of recycled and fair-trade products, ideal for unique gifts and souvenirs.
Where to Stay in Strasbourg
The Petite France district is a favourite among tourists. Known for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and half-timbered houses, it’s the perfect place to soak in the city’s charm. The Cour du Corbeau, a four-star hotel in this area, is a historic gem located just a short distance from the cathedral and away from the main Christmas markets. Housed in a 16th-century building, it’s one of the oldest hotels in Europe, and its top-floor suites offer stunning views of the medieval rooftops. Prices start at £336 per night on Booking.com.
Another great option in this district is Hotel du Dragon, a four-star hotel in a 17th-century building just five minutes from Strasbourg’s main attractions. Rooms here start at £280 per night in December.
For those on a tighter budget, several chain hotels, such as Ibis and Hilton, offer prices starting around £140 per night. Hotel de l’Orangerie, located in the European Quarter, offers a more affordable option, with rates starting at £105 per night in December.
With its festive markets, charming streets, and rich history, Strasbourg is the perfect destination to experience the magic of Christmas in Europe.