As winter's chill descends, British travellers seeking authentic festive magic are turning their attention to a particularly enchanting European destination that proudly claims the title of Christmas capital.
The Historic Heart of European Christmas
Strasbourg, the stunning medieval French city renowned for its political significance, boasts an extraordinary claim to festive fame with its 450-year-old Christmas market tradition. The celebrated Christkindelsmärik market is believed to have originated as early as 1570, making it potentially Europe's first dedicated Christmas market.
This picturesque city transforms completely during the festive season, with its grand squares becoming packed with approximately 300 chalets hosting hundreds of sellers and artists. Visitors can discover unique handmade Christmas decorations, original gifts, and traditional treats including the famous bredle Christmas biscuits and warming mulled wine.
Must-See Festive Attractions
No visit to Strasbourg's Christmas markets would be complete without witnessing the spectacular 30-foot Christmas tree dominating Place Kléber. This magnificent natural tree, recognised as Europe's largest, dazzles visitors with dramatic drapes of lights and classic ornamental baubles.
Interestingly, Strasbourg might be where the Christmas tree tradition began, with historical records from 1521 documenting payments to foresters for erecting and decorating trees in the city square during Christmas celebrations.
The historic Place Broglie serves as the central location for Christkindelsmärik, offering everything from toys and crafts to festive food items. Nearby City Hall hosts exhibitions exploring the market's remarkable history.
Food, Sustainability and Festive Workshops
Food enthusiasts should head to the Alsace market at Place des Meuniers, where local producers showcase regional specialities including delicious meats, cheeses, award-winning truffles, and local wines alongside craft beers and traditional biscuits.
For environmentally conscious visitors, the OFF market at Place Grimmeisen focuses strongly on sustainability. Operating from repurposed shipping containers, stallholders offer recycled gifts, fairtrade products and DIY gift-making activities. This area also buzzes with music events including the Soup Kitchen Disco and musical brunches featuring jazz and funk.
Those interested in traditional crafts can participate in Christmas tree decorating workshops at the Ecomusée d'Alsace. Held in authentic half-timbered houses filled with the scent of baking bredele, these sessions teach visitors how historical craftspeople created their own decorations.
Planning Your Festive Visit
Travellers can reach Strasbourg from London via Eurostar services departing from St Pancras, with journeys taking approximately five hours including a Paris stopover. Ticket prices vary significantly, with one-way fares on Monday, December 8 starting from £185, while Friday, December 12 travel costs around £223.
Budget-conscious travellers might find flying more economical, with easyJet operating direct flights from Gatwick Airport. A return trip from Friday, December 12 to Monday, December 15 currently prices at approximately £203, though midweek flights often offer better value.
Accommodation costs in Strasbourg peak during weekends. A two-night stay for two at Le Jean-Sébastien Bach apartment from December 12-14 costs around £549, while the Ibis Budget Hotel Strasbourg Republique charges approximately £481 for the same period. The Best Western Plus Hotel Villa D'est offers double rooms for about £650 over these dates.
With its unparalleled festive atmosphere, centuries-old traditions and magical setting, Strasbourg truly earns its reputation as Europe's Christmas capital, offering British visitors an unforgettable winter escape steeped in authentic seasonal charm.
