Strasbourg Christmas Markets 2023

Strasbourg Christmas Markets 2023

It was in Strasbourg in 1570 that the very first edition of the oldest Christmas market in Europe took place, then called the “Christkindelsmärik” (market of the Infant Jesus). Since that time, Strasbourg has continued the tradition of a traditional, authentic, warm and generous Alsatian Christmas each year.

• Stay at the Hotel Les Haras, a beautiful 4 star hotel, close to all the city’s attractions and markets with delicious breakfast options and uniquely designed rooms.

The Capital of Christmas

• “Strasbourg, the Capital of Christmas” continues to enjoy repeated success by blending the old with the new, constantly surprising yet remaining authentic to the traditions that made it famous.
• Strasbourg is a city extremely well connected by train (about 2.5 hours from Paris) and it also has its own international airport.

Where to stay in Strasbourg?

• As it is the “Capital of Christmas”, hotels are at a premium, so book your stay well in advance. Choose a hotel close to Place Kléber, steps away from the busiest markets.

The Markets

About 300 stalls are spread out over 10 different markets under the glow of the city’s illuminations, making Strasbourg one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe. Visitors will find a wide range of Christmas goodies including craftwork, food and drink and traditional Alsatian Christmas decorations.

• Stay close to the main markets at the Hotel Cour du Corbeau, rated “Superb” by guests, featuring picture-perfect rooms in a unique Alsace style, perfect location and highly-rated brakfasts.

Most of the biggest markets are located as follows:

• The Strasbourg Christmas Market at Place de la Cathédrale
  Possibly the busiest of the markets, quite touristy but with the stunning backdrop of the square and with a buzzing atmosphere. Lots of stands selling delicious hot wine.
• Place Broglie, on Place Kléber (with the largest real Christmas Tree in France grown specifically for the market)
  Great location with some of the best food options out of all the markets in the city. Also worth a visit to see the tree.
• Off Christmas Market at Place Grimmeisen
  Complete with a dazzling LED tree shines in the corner, with vendors all around, wares displayed in repurposed shipping containers, transparent igloos and wooden chalets. Great wines on sale, chutneys and art. Try the plum mulled wine.
• Place des Meuniers
  Offering delicious local artisan food options including award-winning Bredele cookies, truffles, mushrooms, and delicious local craft beers.
• Alsatian Delicacies Market at Place du Marché-des-Poissons and the Patio of Palais Rohan
  An idyllic market right by the water with special focus on delicious wines from the Alsace region.
• Carré d’Or Christmas Market at Place du Temple-Neuf
  A cosy market with unique gifts and Vin Chaud sold in traditional mugs. An eclectic mix of traditional Christmas classic gifts, local delicacies such as foie, and handmade gifts.
• Note – Update – The after-Christmas village will be open until 1st January 2023 at Louise Weiss Square.

The Christmas Lights

• Come night-time, the Capital of Christmas is lit up by dozens of kilometres of Christmas lights and decorations, while the centrepiece, the Great Christmas Tree on place Kléber, brings a magnificent sparkle to the city centre.
• The Strasbourg Big Christmas tree, adorned with all its finery is an essential symbol of Strasbourg Capital of Christmas. The whole city is transformed into an enchanting and enchanted setting, to the delight of all. Let yourself be amazed, by rediscovering the warmth of Christmas chalets, at the corner of the cobbled streets and alleys of the illuminated city.
• The decorated tree is an age-old Strasbourg tradition, recorded in a manuscript dated 1605, describing the fir trees and their decorations put up by the Strasbourg trade guilds during the Advent period.

Events, Concerts & Shows

• Strasbourg, Capital of Christmas, would not be the same without the some 500 events organised throughout the city, including live music, shows and exhibitions. There’s something to suit every taste as you walk down the narrow streets, across the squares and past the magnificent historical buildings.
• Take a guided tour of all the markets to get your bearings with insider tips on what to see during your stay, including the best shows and stalls.

Strasbourg Christmas Food and Drink

• Explore the various markets and enjoy some authentic Strasbourg Christmas dishes, including Grumbeerekiechle (Galette de Pomme de Terre) with Munster Cheese, a delicious crispy hashbrowns. Wash it down with a glass of sparkling Alsace wine or some Flavoured Vin Chaud.
• For something more hearty try the Spätzle a dumpling served with cheese. Another delicious dish is the Baguette Flambée, thin crispy flatbreads topped off with creme fraiche and a variety of toppings, typically onions and bacon bits.
• Finally no trip to the markets would be complete without sampling a sausage or two! Knack d’Alsace, so-named for the “knack” sound that they make when bitten into. They are famous for for their crispy outer skin and smoky flavour.

Strasbourg Gay Scene

• Strasbourg has a small but busy gay scene that belies its size. Because Strasbourg is so close to the German border, both Germans and French gay guys mix it up, especially at the weekends on the lead up to Christmas.  Z bar is a busy gay venue open Wed to Saturday from 9.30pm. Meanwhile the fun is non stop at Oxydo Sauna Club.
• All of the bars in the city are gay friendly. Notable sand outs include Jeannette et les Cycleux and the Golden Gate . Locals are very welcoming.

Recommended Hotels

Here are our editors top hotel choices. These venues will keep you close to all of the markets.

Pavillon Hotel,    Mercure Hotel,    Le Bouclier D’or,    Cour du Corbeau Hotel