Why Should You Vısıt Strasbourg at Chrıstmas Tıme
December is one of my favorite months in France, and while Strasbourg is always a beautiful city, it transforms into a winter wonderland straight out of fairy tales during Christmas. It could easily outdo Hollywood's Christmas movies!
The cobblestone streets are illuminated by hundreds of twinkling lights adorning every building as far as the eye can see. It's hard to know where to look, making it a perfect spot for an Instagram frenzy. And when you add the aroma of roasted chestnuts and hot mulled wine, you have a striking scene straight out of vintage Christmas cards.
✈️ First, we're flying to Basel (Switzerland) as it offers the cheapest flights. #Colmar and #Strasbourg and Europapark are right nearby. If you have a Schengen visa, there's no issue. You can explore beautiful cities from three countries (Germany, Switzerland, and France) simultaneously.
In short, here are the costs: Renting a car is the best option; I chose carjet.com and paid 155 euros for 4 days. For the flight, I paid 300 euros round trip for 3 people. I stayed in an Airbnb and paid 650 euros for 4 days. Nowadays, everything might be even more expensive!
✨ Things to Do in Strasbourg, France during Christmas
In France, Christmas is all about family and food. French people love their meals and wines, and Christmas gives them a legitimate reason to indulge in both. If you're spending Christmas in Strasbourg, you'll never struggle to find things to do.
✨ Christmas Markets
You can't come to Strasbourg during Christmas and not visit the Christmas markets. After all, this is the homeland of Christmas in France. The oldest and perhaps most iconic market dates back to 1570, known as "Christkindelsmärik." Here, you can expect a lively atmosphere, stunning medieval architecture, and a range of traditional Alsatian crafts and culinary delights, including vin chaud (hot mulled wine) and gingerbread.
✨ But the Christmas market you won't want to miss is the one at Place de la Cathédrale de Strasbourg. Lit up entirely at night against the backdrop of the Gothic cathedral, this place is simply enchanting.
Tips for Visiting Strasbourg Christmas Markets:
- Wait Until Dark: The best time to visit is in the evening so you can enjoy the lights.
- Try Local Foods: Don't miss Alsace specialties like Tarte flambée; they're a big part of the experience.
- Cash is King: While some stalls accept cards, it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases and snacks.
- Plastic Cups: Pay a euro deposit for your plastic cup so you can enjoy vin chaud and return the cup for a refund.
✨ See the Christmas Tree at Place Kléber
Place Kléber, Strasbourg's main square, hosts a magnificent Christmas tree that stands tall and proud during the holiday season. It typically reaches about 30 meters high, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and decorations, casting a warm and festive glow over the square. It's like a Christmas tree Kevin from "Home Alone" would be proud of!
Place Kléber is also a great place for shopping, with many boutiques and renowned brands alongside Galleries Lafayette.
✨ Visit Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale de Notre-Dame)
Strasbourg Cathedral, the city's main symbol, is visible from miles away. If you ever get lost, just look for its spire and follow it; you'll find your way. It's absolutely stunning with its Gothic architecture and is the fourth largest church in the world. It not only boasts beautiful stained glass windows but also hosts an Astronomical Clock. The clock's construction began in the mid-19th century and was completed by the talented clockmaker Jean-Baptiste Schwilgué in 1843.
✨ Stroll around La Petite France
La Petite France is Strasbourg's most beautiful area, with half-timbered houses, winding canals, and cobblestone streets. It's entirely pedestrianized and during Christmas, the water adds a touch of magic to the festive lights.
You'll find picturesque pedestrian bridges offering views of the canals and surrounding buildings. It's perfect for an Instagram selfie.
✨ Ice Skating under the Stars
I can never resist an outdoor ice skating rink. The atmosphere is fantastic, and the one at Place Kléber never disappoints. There's nothing more Christmassy than skating right next to the Christmas tree with the illuminated Aubette building in the background. And if it snows in Strasbourg, it's even more magical.
✨ Instagram-Worthy Spot: Le Tire Bouchon
Love it or hate it, Instagram is still a great app for beautiful photos. If you're looking for the most Instagrammable spot in Strasbourg during Christmas, it has to be Le Tire Bouchon. The restaurant goes out of its way to decorate for Christmas, covering the outside of the building with teddy bears. It's adorable and perfect for taking selfies. Though I haven't eaten there myself, I've heard the food is pretty good too.
🍽️ Dine at Chez Yvonne
Dining at Chez Yvonne is an experience not to be missed. It's known as the "Winstub for Celebrities." What's a Winstub, you ask? It's a traditional Alsatian restaurant resembling a rustic tavern. Winstubs have a rich history dating back to the 16th century. The name comes from the Alsatian dialect, where "winstub" means "wine room." Originally created by winemakers so they could enjoy their wines with friends and family while sharing meals, it's like having a restaurant in your own home!
Over time, they evolved into bistro-style restaurants, and their warm, rustic ambiance continues to be a distinctive feature of Strasbourg. Chez Yvonne was a favorite haunt of two influential European leaders, Jacques Chirac and Helmut Kohl, who would meet there to discuss the Franco-German alliance over good food and, of course, wine.
If you want to get a glimpse of history while dining, Chez Yvonne's is the place to be.
✨ Where to Stay in Strasbourg, France during Christmas
If you're spending Christmas in Strasbourg, my biggest advice is to book early. Hotels are in high demand, and everything from luxury hotels to budget accommodations fills up fast.
Here are some options: https://www.booking.com/searchresults.en.html?city=-1471697&aid=1939100&no_rooms=1&group_adults=2
🏠 Luxury 5-Star - Pavillon Régent Petite France
Located in Petite France, Pavillon Régent Petite France is just a few steps away from Strasbourg Cathedral and the Christmas Markets.
✅ In the heart of the Christmas Markets
✅ The most beautiful area of Strasbourg
✅ Luxurious spa with sauna
🏠 Charming 4-Star - Hotel de la Cour du Corbeau
Just steps from the Gothic Strasbourg Cathedral, Hotel de la Cour du Corbeau boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant where you can enjoy an Alsatian gastronomic journey.
✅ Gourmet Michelin-starred restaurant
✅ Exceptional location close to the markets
✅ A 16th-century hotel where Mozart stayed
🏠 3-Star Convenience - Hotel Suisse
Staying at Hotel Suisse, conveniently located right next to the Gothic cathedral, means you're right in the heart of all the Christmas Market action.
✅ Enjoy a gourmet breakfast buffet every morning
✅ Magnificent view of Notre-Dame de Strasbourg
✅ Adjacent to Château des Rohan (Bishop's Palace)
✏️ Don't forget to wear double socks and good boots, and bring your umbrella! Breakfast places in the morning are limited to croissants and cakes. If it were me, I'd bring sandwiches for breakfast from Turkey and my tea/coffee thermos.
