Strasbourg Christmas Market vs. Colmar Christmas Market: Which Is Worth It?

It is one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back in part to 1570. It takes place each year in Strasbourg’s historic city center, around Notre-Dame Cathedral and several major squares. Strasbourg proudly bears the nickname “Capital of Christmas” as the event forms a core part of the city’s cultural and festive identity. The city offers a carefully curated selection of artisanal goods, handmade decorations, local specialties such as bredeles (little Christmas cookies), regional products, and unique gift ideas — far from the “Made in China” items you might find elsewhere.

What You Absolutely Must Try in Strasbourg

What should you definitely sample? The spiced Hot Mulled Wine, of course. Giant pretzels. Flammekueche (t tarte flambée). The Munstifette, a Munster-cheese twist on tartiflette. The Spätzle au gratin — Alsatian egg noodles baked with cheese. The Maenele (Mannele) — a brioche shaped like a little man, traditional for Saint Nicolas. The Roestis — potato pancakes, sometimes topped with cheese, bacon, and cream. Gertwiller’s gingerbread: a must, fragrant and soft. The Kouglof — Alsatian raisin and almond brioche. Traditional waffles, often generously loaded.

And it isn’t just a market. Christmas concerts, exhibitions, illuminations, kids’ activities, and festive events run one after another throughout Advent. The atmosphere blends with local culture and the city’s History, creating an experience deeper than the classic image of a “Christmas market.”