Although in France, the Strasbourg Christmas markets rival the Christmas markets in Germany when it comes to elaborate decorations and displays. Alan and I enjoyed the festive scenery while on a walking tour with AMAWaterways.
Our Rhine River cruise had stopped in Europe’s capital city—the European Parliament meets here—for an all day discovery that included a morning walking tour and an afternoon canal ride.
Boomer Travel Tip
To read more about this trip of a lifetime, visit the Rhine River Christmas Market Cruise page.
Walking through the La Petite France section of Strasbourg, we caught our first glimpse of wreaths decorated with stuffed animals and more hanging from almost every window. Historically a German town, Strasbourg became part of Louis XIV’s France in 1681. In the following years, the city teetered between France and Germany depending on the current political situation.
Strasbourg Christmas markets (official website here) number 12 in all. You’ll discover a beautiful Christmas tree on Place Kléber and a skating rink on Place du Château.
Many of the markets are located only a few blocks apart making for a pleasant day of walking or shopping. However, eating is a major part of the fun.
Boomer Travel Tip
MedjetAssist Members who are hospitalized 150 miles from home receive medical transport to a home-country hospital of choice. Memberships from $99.
A hot drink of vin chaud is the best way to warm up at the Strasbourg Christmas markets on a cold and slightly snowy December day. The decorative glasses are yours to bring home as a souvenir.
Here’s a recipe for the tasty mulled wine just in case you’d like to fill up that glass after returning home.
Christmas markets are family affairs. A fanciful carousel near the Strasbourg Cathedral provides fun for the children to make up for all the shopping that they must endure.
Dating from 1570, the Strasbourg Christmas markets are the oldest in France. No wonder the city bills itself as the Capital of Christmas.
My only regret is that we didn’t return for a night visit to see thousands of lights strung throughout the streets. What a sight that must be.
Are you traveling independently? Check out our self-guided Strasbourg walking tour itinerary.
