Experience the Magic of Strasbourg’s 2024 Christmas Market
Experience the Magic of Strasbourg’s 2024 Christmas Market by Car
Driving to Strasbourg from the UK is an exciting way to visit one of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets. Strasbourg, often called the “Capital of Christmas,” hosts an iconic seasonal market that lights up the city’s picturesque streets. The 2024 Christmas market promises to be as magical as ever, filled with holiday charm, traditional crafts, and festive delicacies.
Planning Your Route from the UK
If you're planning to use the French toll roads, an Emovis Tag electronic toll pass can streamline the drive, letting you breeze through tolls without the hassle of cash or credit cards at every booth.
Most visitors take the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais, a quick 35-minute trip, followed by a straightforward drive through northern France. Once in Calais, Strasbourg is about 550 kilometres away via the A26 and A4 motorways. Alternatively, if you’re looking to break up the journey, there are scenic stopovers in cities like Reims or Metz, both known for their own historic charm and seasonal decorations.
What Strasbourg’s Christmas Market Has To Offer
Strasbourg’s Christmas market which runs from 27th November through to 27th December 2024, or Christkindelsmärik, dates back to 1570 and is spread across multiple squares in the city centre, each with its own unique offerings. The heart of the market is at Place Broglie, where you’ll find a blend of traditional Alsatian crafts, warm mulled wine, and plenty of gingerbread. Place Kléber hosts the city’s famous Christmas tree, a towering spectacle that’s beautifully decorated with thousands of lights and ornaments, providing the perfect festive backdrop for photos.
Beyond the main squares, smaller markets extend into charming lanes where you can explore wooden chalets offering handcrafted gifts, ornaments, and delicacies unique to Alsace. Be sure to try the traditional bredele (Christmas cookies) and flammekueche, a delicious flatbread topped with cream, onions, and bacon, which is a local favourite.
For family-friendly activities, head to Place Gutenberg, where a guest country sets up a unique section every year with cultural displays and specialty foods. Kids will also enjoy the double-decker carousel, light shows, and a chance to meet Santa.
Head to Place Grimmeissen in the heart of Strasbourg’s renowned La Petite France district, where the OFF Market offers an array of activities, stalls, and events centered around solidarity and environmental responsibility. Enjoy organic and locally made tarts flambées, browse vintage thrift stalls, or join toy-making workshops. The market’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse programming emphasize conscious consumerism, creating a unique and enriching experience for all.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Trip
Parking: Strasbourg’s city centre is often closed to vehicles during the Christmas market season, so parking options can be limited. Consider using one of the city’s Park-and-Ride facilities on the outskirts and take a tram directly to the city centre. This approach saves time, avoids congestion, and is environmentally friendly.
Accommodation: Booking your accommodation well in advance is crucial, as Strasbourg attracts thousands of visitors during the holiday season. Many hotels offer special Christmas packages that include guided market tours or festive dinners.
Driving to Strasbourg's Christmas market from the UK offers the flexibility to explore the charming Alsace region along the way, turning your festive trip into a memorable holiday adventure. Whether you’re there to shop, savour seasonal treats, or simply enjoy the holiday ambiance, Strasbourg is an ideal destination to capture the spirit of Christmas