If, like us, you love Christmas markets, and want to see something other than Brussels’ Plaisirs d’hiver, Maredsous Abbey, Durbuy or Bruges, Strasbourg’s Christmas market is a must.
As well as being one of the oldest in Europe, it’s also one of the most authentic and magical on the continent. Its decorated tree, 300 chalets and numerous illuminations transform the center of Strasbourg into a magical place. And good news: the city is easily accessible by train from Brussels.
Strasbourg’s Christmas market is one of the oldest and largest in Europe
Strasbourg’s Christmas market dates back to the time when the city became Protestant and abandoned the St. Nicholas market. This was replaced by the Christkindelsmärik, the Market of the Christ Child, around 1570. Celebrating both the city’s religious and commercial origins, as well as know-how and traditions that have endured for centuries, it is the ancestor of the market we know today.
Five centuries later, the market has grown to include no fewer than 300 chalets, making it one of the largest on the Old Continent. This is how Strasbourg earned its nickname of Christmas Capital.
Since 1870, the main Christmas market has been held on Place Broglie. Visitors love the traditional decorations, crafts and products from Alsace. It’s impossible not to succumb to the comforting pretzels and gingerbread. The town’s unique setting, the majestic cathedral and the architecture of the wooden chalets give it a particularly authentic character.
Strasbourg, capital of Christmas
But beyond Place Broglie, the whole city comes alive with Christmas lights. Every year, the Christmas tree on Place Kléber is one of the biggest and best decorated in Europe. And the sound and light festival that surrounds it promises an equally breathtaking spectacle. If you stroll through the surrounding neighborhoods and alleys, the illuminations, illuminated arches and small markets transport you into a fairytale world.
Some might complain about the energy-consuming nature of all these illuminations. But the city is determined to stand out for its ecological commitment: the lights used are LEDs, activated according to optimized schedules to reduce consumption. At a time when many are calling for greater sobriety, this is also a point worth emphasizing.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/43vCouCIRgE
The Strasbourg Christmas Market is 3.5 hours from Brussels by train
This year’s Strasbourg Christmas Market runs from November 26 to December 24, so there’s still time to plan your trip. From Brussels, it’s an easy getaway: a train, a good cup of coffee, and 3 h 30 later, you’re there! Rail remains the best option for a fast, comfortable and more sustainable trip. The station is just a 10-minute walk from the center.
Shall we pack?