Growing up in India, I had an idea of Christmas that was entirely shaped by Hallmark movies: snowy streets, warm lights everywhere, and a whole town wrapped in one cozy celebration.
Where I live, decorations are mostly limited to malls, and the few Christmas markets are smaller embassy events with entry fees. So, my vision of a charming winter wonderland always felt like a faraway fantasy I hoped to experience someday.
Last winter, I finally did.
While traveling through Europe, I took a day trip to Strasbourg, France, a city often referred to as the “Christmas Capital of the World.” After seeing its decorated streets all over social media, I felt I’d be missing out if I didn’t go.
Even with just one day in Strasbourg, I tried to experience as much of the Christmas magic as I could. Here are five things I thought were worth it and two I’d skip next time.
Strolling through the historic old town was the best way to enjoy the festive vibes.
Whenever I visit a new city, I make sure to arrive early in the day, when it’s often quieter and much easier to navigate. In Strasbourg, this made all the difference.
I started my day trip in the historic city center of Grande Île. Every corner had a little festive magic, from bakeries with elaborate gingerbread displays to shops decorated like they were competing for “most Christmassy storefront.”
Strasbourg Cathedral looked beautiful in the peaceful early hours.
I’ve always been drawn to Gothic architecture, and I’m really glad I visited the cathedral before the busy tourist rush.
Constructed between 1015 and 1439, Strasbourg Cathedral is 466 feet tall and absolutely spectacular up close. I’d suggest going inside as well because the interior is free to explore and just as breathtaking.
The cathedral square, Place de la Cathédrale, also hosts one of the liveliest Christmas markets in the city. With this stunning landmark in the background and a little carousel spinning nearby, the whole scene looked like a postcard brought to life.
The Petit Train was a great last-minute choice.
The Petit Train wasn’t something I’d planned on taking, but when it began to rain, it became the perfect alternative to walking.
The aptly-named little train loops through the old town and passes major landmarks while an audio guide walks you through Strasbourg’s history.
Since the tour I took started and ended near the cathedral, it was easy to fit into my tight schedule. This 45-minute ride was a fun way to get a quick overview of the city and take a short break from walking.
Watching the giant Christmas tree light up at Place Kléber was a delight.
One of Strasbourg’s best holiday attractions is the massive Grand Sapin, a decorated tree that’s around 98 feet tall and just a quick walk from the cathedral. Throughout the evening, it lights up in sync with music and draws large crowds.
Even with all the bustle, I’m glad I stayed to watch the light show. It was one of the moments that, in my opinion, captured the city’s festive charm best.
Rue du Maroquin, or “Teddy Bear Street,” was beautiful at night, but less crowded in the afternoon.
This was the one place I’d been looking forward to the most because I’d seen so many videos of it online. On the iconic street, you can stroll by half-timbered houses covered in oversize teddy bears and twinkling lights.
I first passed by Rue du Maroquin in the afternoon, and it already looked adorable. I was determined to see it fully lit up, though, so I went back at night.
Though the decorations were as charming as expected, it was also the most crowded area I visited all day. After seeing it during both times of day, I’d recommend the afternoon for the same magic with less chaos.
Next time, though, I won’t try to do all the Christmas markets at once.
Strasbourg has many different Christmas markets, and although it’s tempting to try to cover as many as possible, I discovered that it isn’t the best use of time.
I visited six markets, and though they were genuinely fun to explore, the smaller ones started to look the same. The walking time added up, too, and I ended up feeling rushed at the places I’d actually planned to enjoy, especially the market at Place Broglie.
For a one-day visit, I’d suggest focusing on the cathedral market, Place Broglie, and Place Kléber. You’ll likely enjoy plenty of holiday magic without feeling rushed.
I’d also skip the mass-produced souvenir stalls.
Strasbourg’s markets are known for their Alsatian crafts, like hand-painted ornaments, straw stars, wooden toys, and embroidered pieces.
Mixed in with those, I noticed a few stalls selling identical printed ornaments, generic keychains, and the same snowman figurines I later saw in smaller European markets for much less.
I’d recommend saving your money for the food instead — the pretzels at the Place Broglie market were the best food I had on my trip.
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