Best Strasbourg Christmas Markets: A Complete Guide
Visiting the Christmas markets in Strasbourg is a true bucket list experience. The city is nicknamed the “Capital of Christmas” and it takes its role very seriously! With over 300 chalets spread across different locations, Strasbourg offers one of the most impressive and diverse Christmas markets in Europe.
The whole city is adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, and the smell of mulled wine and traditional Alsatian food fills the air. It’s simply magical!
In this article, we’ll share tips and advice on making the most of your visit to Strasbourg in December. We’ll tell you which markets to visit, what to eat and drink, where to stay, and more. Let’s dive right in!
*Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

Quick Tips for Strasbourg
Best Hotels in Strasbourg
Best Strasbourg Christmas Markets You Can’t Miss
Strasbourg is not known as the Capital of Christmas for nothing – this city is home to thirteen different Christmas markets. For a small city like Strasbourg, this is absolutely insane!
In the below section, we are going to guide you through our favorite Christmas markets in Strasbourg. However, if you have the time, you can certainly visit all, not just our favorites!
1. Place Kleber
This is the main market and the heart of Strasbourg’s Christmas celebrations. Located in the city center, Place Kléber is where you’ll find the iconic Christmas Tree, towering at 30 meters (100 feet) high.
The tree is beautifully decorated with lights and ornaments, making it a must-see attraction during your visit. Every hour between 4 pm and 9 pm, the tree is lit up in a magical light and music show – don’t miss it!
The market at Place Kléber is also pretty big, with chalets selling a variety of traditional and handcrafted goods, as well as delicious food and drinks.
2. Place de la Cathedrale
If you’re looking for one of the most popular and lively Christmas markets in Strasbourg, then head to Place de la Cathédrale. This market is located right in front of the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, making it a great spot for some Instagram-worthy photos.
As you can probably guess, this market can get pretty crowded, but I think it’s worth it for the atmosphere and the delicious food options. The Christmas decorations here are also some of the most beautiful in the city.

3. Place du Chateau
Just on the other side of the Cathedral, you’ll find another great Christmas market at Place du Chateau. It’s flanked by the Palais Rohan, a beautiful historical building that adds to the charm of this market.
You can also find lots of chalets here selling everything from food to crafts and decorations, and also a super cute merry-go-round! If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll definitely love this market.
4. Place Gutenberg
Located in the city’s medieval quarter, Place Gutenberg is home to a smaller Christmas market. There are only a handful of stalls here, but the reason I really loved it was because of the gorgeous Christmas lights.
You can find some really cool LED art installations on the square, such as a Christmas tree and a teddy bear. This is one of the markets that you have to visit after dark to truly appreciate its beauty!

5. Place du Temple Neuf
Tucked away from the busier squares, Place du Temple Neuf is a hidden gem among the Christmas markets in Strasbourg. If you’re looking for a quieter place without the massive crowds, this is it!
The market here is on a smaller scale, but there’s still plenty to see and buy. You can also find some unique gifts here that you might not find in the more touristy markets.

6. Place Benjamin Zinx
Located on the edge of the Petite France district right in front of a beautiful Methodist church, this is one of the smallest and more intimate Christmas markets in Strasbourg.
It’s a great place to escape the crowds, browse through the unique Christmas decorations, and enjoy some hot cider or mulled wine as you wander through the stalls.

7. Place Broglie
Located in the northeast part of Strasbourg’s old town, Place Broglie is home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, the Christkindelsmarik. It was first held in 1570 and after changing location several times throughout the years, it has now found its home at Place Broglie.
As expected, you can find lots of tasty treats at this market, along with handcrafted gifts and souvenirs. This market is also known for being one of the best places to buy Christmas decorations!
What to Eat and Drink at the Christmas Markets in Strasbourg
Food is definitely one of the best things when it comes to visiting the Christmas markets in Strasbourg! Here are some of the best Alsatian culinary delights you absolutely have to try.
- Vin Chaud: Warm up with a classic mulled wine! Try unique flavors like gingerbread, pear, or cherry for a festive twist.
- Bretzel: A freshly-baked bretzel is a must! Perfect for snacking as you wander through the market.
- Bredele: Traditional Christmas cookies in flavors like almond, cinnamon, and hazelnut – perfect for sampling or gifting.
- Flammekueche: This Alsatian “pizza” is topped with onions, bacon, and crème fraîche.
- Choucroute Garnie: A hearty Alsatian classic with sauerkraut, sausages, and meats – ideal for meat lovers.
- Kougelhopf: A unique Alsatian bundt cake, filled with raisins and dusted with powdered sugar.
- Pain d’Épices: This spiced gingerbread makes for a delicious snack or souvenir.
- Alsace Wines: Sample the region’s famous Riesling or Gewürztraminer for a local wine experience.
Bretzels Crepes
Other Festive Things to Do in Strasbourg in December
Find the Teddy Bear House
If you’ve seen pictures of Strasbourg at Christmas, you’ve probably already seen tons of photos of the iconic Teddy Bear House!
Located near Place du Chateau, the building is actually home to a French restaurant called Le Tire-Bouchon. Every holiday season, the owners decorate the whole building with huge teddy bears and other Christmas decorations. It’s definitely the most adorable place to stop for some festive photos!
Visit Petite France
A trip to Strasbourg wouldn’t be complete without exploring the historic district of Petite France. With its half-timbered houses, picturesque canals, and cobbled streets, this area looks straight out of a storybook.
Make sure to wander around its winding streets, browse the small shops, and enjoy a meal in one of the cozy restaurants. The area is also home to several smaller Christmas markets in Strasbourg if you want to check out some more unique gifts and decorations.

Admire Strasbourg’s Christmas decorations
The entire city of Strasbourg is transformed into a winter wonderland in December. The city truly earns its title as “the Capital of Christmas,” with its streets, squares, and buildings transformed by sparkling lights, ornate garlands, and whimsical ornaments.
From the charming Petite France district to the grandeur of Place Kléber, each corner of the city is beautifully decorated. I especially loved the Christmas decorations around the Cathedral!
Climb the Strasbourg Cathedral
If you’re looking for the best panoramic views of the city, head to the top of Strasbourg Cathedral. The climb up may be steep, but the stunning views from the top make it all worth it.
You have to climb up 332 steps, but trust me, the views of the city and its Christmas markets from above are absolutely breathtaking. If the weather is clear, you can even see all the way to the Black Forest in Germany!

Check out the Strasbourg Cathedral’s interior
While you’re at the Strasbourg Cathedral, make sure to also step inside and admire its beautiful interior. The cathedral is known for its stunning stained-glass windows and intricate Gothic architecture.
It’s free to visit so there’s no excuse not to take a peek inside! During December, there are also special Christmas concerts held within the cathedral.


Explore the Alsatian Museum
If you want a break from the chilly weather (Strasbourg can get quite cold in December!), head to the Alsatian Museum. Located in a charming 16th-century building, this museum showcases traditional Alsatian life and culture.
It’s open every day except Tuesdays, and they often have special exhibitions and workshops around the holidays, focusing on traditional Christmas celebrations in Alsace.
Walk through Barrage Vauban
For a unique perspective of the city, take a walk over Barrage Vauban. This 17th-century dam turned bridge offers stunning views of Strasbourg’s canals and historic buildings.

Tips for Spending Christmas in Strasbourg
Useful Info for Visiting Strasbourg in December
Now that you know all about the Christmas markets in Strasbourg, here are some other practical tips to help you plan your visit to Strasbourg in December.
Where to stay in Strasbourg
Strasbourg offers a number of different neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and things to do. From the charming half-timbered houses of La Petite France to the bustling Quartier de la Gare, you will find a wide variety of experiences and atmospheres to explore.
If you want to know more about what each district has to offer, check out my ultimate guide about where to stay in Strasbourg.
If you’re in a rush, you can find my top recommendations for different budgets below.
- Luxury: Hotel Cour du Corbeau – MGallery
- Mid-range: Okko Hotels Strasbourg Centre
- Budget: K Hotel

How to get to Strasbourg
If you’re planning to arrive by plane, you can look up flights either to Strasbourg’s international airport (SXB), or the nearby EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg (BSL/MLH).
Strasbourg is also well-connected by train, with a central station located just outside the historic city center. If you’re coming from Paris, the TGV (high-speed train) only takes a little over 1.5 hours so you can easily combine your trip to Strasbourg with a visit to Paris at Christmas!
Regional trains also connect Strasbourg with other cities and towns in the Alsace region, so you can easily plan day trips to neighboring areas. If you want to visit other smaller towns in the region, it might be better to rent a car.
How much time to spend in Strasbourg in December?
Generally, a 2-3 day stay is usually enough time to experience the city’s magical holiday atmosphere, visit the main Christmas markets in Strasbourg, and explore some popular attractions like the Strasbourg Cathedral and the adorable Petite France neighborhood.
If you have more time, consider extending your visit to 4-5 days. This will allow you to take day trips to nearby towns, such as Colmar, Riquewihr, or Eguisheim.

What’s the weather like in Strasbourg in December?
In December, Strasbourg experiences chilly winter weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 0°C (32°F) to 5°C (41°F). Although snow is not a guarantee, there is always a possibility of light snowfall or flurries.
When visiting the Strasbourg Christmas Markets, it’s important to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, a scarf, and a hat, to stay comfortable while exploring the city. You’ll be outside a lot so dressing in layers is the key!
How to get around in Strasbourg
Strasbourg’s city center is fairly compact and easily walkable, so you can easily just walk from one Christmas market to another.
However, if you want to explore further out or if you’re staying farther from the city center, you can take advantage of the tram network or the bus system.