Discover the Charm of the Strasbourg Christmas Market
The Strasbourg Christmas market, dating back to 1570, holds the distinction of being the oldest and most revered Christmas market in Europe. Its historical significance, coupled with its annual attraction of nearly two million visitors, makes it a must-visit destination. The town of Strasbourg, also known as the 'Capital of Christmas,' is a sight to behold with its beautifully decorated storefronts as you stroll through the streets.
Markets at Place de la Cathédrale
Market Locations and Descriptions
1) Chrìstkìndelsmärik at Place Broglie
This is the original Christmas market of Strasbourg, which found its home at Place Broglie after several moves in 1871.
2) Place de la Cathédrale
If the name doesn't give it away, this market is located around the Cathedral, offering a stunning backdrop. On one side, you will find the double-story carousel, luring in people of all ages. On the other side, you will find my favorite vendor, Les Sapins Bleus. They make hand-painted wooden ornaments that are works of art. Each year, they offer a new scene to add to your collection.
If you are a collector of market mugs, this year's (2024) adorable red mug can be found at the crepe stand to the right at the very end of the row of stalls. As you look straight at the Cathedral, you should see the carousel behind the stand a bit off to the right. You can purchase it outright for €7 or opt to add a beverage to it while you stroll the market.
The lines were too long both times I visited, but climbing the 333 steps to the top of the Cathedral is still on my list. You can find the entrance at Place du Château Square.
Adult rate : 8 € Child rate : 5 € Free for children (age limit) : 6 years, disabled
October to March: daily from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 1:30 to 6 p.m. Last climb 45 min before evening closing time. Closed on 01/01, 01/05, 25/12. Access may be temporarily suspended due to overcrowding or bad weather.
3) Place Kléber
This is where you find the beautifully decorated (and very large) Christmas tree. Each year brings a new theme. The stalls here boast local makers and I picked up ornaments for my children last year from this lovely lady.
4) Le Quai des Délices at Terrace Rohan & Place du Marché-aux-Poissons
A gourmet market offering local delicacies and savory goods.
5) Carré Or at the commercial and residential district located between Rue des Orfèvres, Place de la Cathédrale, Rue du Dôme, and Rue du Temple Neuf
This is where you will find the spectacular Christmas displays on storefronts (hello, iconic teddy bear image). Stroll through cheese shops, wine shops, bakeries, gourmet chocolatiers and more.
6) Irréductibles Petits Producteurs d’Alsace (The small producers of Alsace) at Square Louise Weiss
Here, you can find homemade goods like jam, and the Advent Village is located, offering family programs and workshops.
7) La Petite France (two markets located at Place Benjamin Zix and Saint-Thomas)
Petit France is famous for its half-timbered houses and picturesque neighborhoods. The market in front of Saint Thomas is mostly food vendors. Then, at Place Benjamin, you can find several ornament vendors and the famous wooden Christmas pyramids. Make sure you stroll through Saint Thomas while there; it is free to walk through and worth the stop.
8) The OFF market at Place Grimmeissen
This market is built with containers and has a focus on sustainability. It closes on December 24.
In 2023, while living in Korea, I traveled to France specifically for the Christmas markets. Sadly, it rained most of my trip that year. When I returned to Strasbourg with my family this year, we had a lovely, mostly sunny day (albeit cold). If you are planning to go to Strasbourg, here are some tips:
If you are not based locally, plan to stay overnight and book your accommodations early. Prices are incredibly high during this time as millions of people come through Strasbourg each Christmas to enjoy the markets. Get up early and walk the city before the markets open. You will get to enjoy the decorations without a lot of people in your photos.
If you drive, arrive before the markets open to secure parking. I parked at Parcus Parking Bateliers, which was a great location from which to walk to the markets.
If you arrive by train, it is about a ten- to fifteen-minute walk from the station to the markets. Lockers are available at the train station for luggage storage but space is limited.
Prepare to have your bags searched at perimeters before entering the areas of the markets.
Strasbourg is stroller-friendly overall. There are areas on the cobblestone that get a little tricky occasionally, but you can use a stroller here.
Evenings and weekends get insanely crowded. If crowds are not your thing, go right when the markets open during the week for a better experience.
More vendors accept cards here than in Germany, though some are still cash only, so be prepared. There are plenty of ATMs in the area.
Markets open at 11:30 and close at 21:00. The dates are November 27-December 27, 2024.
The iconic photo of the teddy bears can be found at the restaurant Le Tire-Bouchon.
Pack warm layers, gloves, hats and handwarmers (check out rechargeable ones), the temperatures can dip quickly! It rains frequently, so it’s good to have a rain jacket and/or umbrella handy.
Bring a backpack or tote for any purchases you make at the markets.
If you are driving a vehicle not registered in France, secure your Crit'Air sticker for driving in Strasbourg
Saint Thomas
My second trip to the Strasbourg Christmas Markets only reinforced its position as one of the top markets to visit during the holidays. The decorations are unparalleled, and the presence of numerous local and handmade artisans adds a unique charm. I urge you to support these artisans during your visit. If you're looking for other experiences in Strasbourg, this food tour was phenomenal!
I hope this helps aid in your trip planning to the Strasbourg Christmas Market!
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