Strasbourg's Christmas market, the Christkindelsmärik, dates back to the sixteenth century and is one of the oldest in Europe, which is why the city calls itself the capital of Christmas. Strasbourg lies in northern Alsace, across the border into France and a long half-day's drive from Geneva, so AirportsTransfers.ch suggests a stay of two nights to enjoy the market, the cathedral and the old town without rushing.
- History: the Christkindelsmärik has been held since the sixteenth century
- Main sites: Place Broglie, the cathedral square and stalls across the Grande Île
- Landmarks: Notre-Dame de Strasbourg cathedral and the Petite France quarter
- Atmosphere: large tree, illuminated streets, Alsatian food and crafts
- Getting there: private transfer from Geneva, overnight stay recommended
A historic market across the old town
The Christkindelsmärik, the market of the Christ Child, is traditionally centred on Place Broglie, a long square in the city centre, but today markets fill many squares on the Grande Île, the historic island at the heart of Strasbourg, surrounded by the River Ill. Each market has its own theme, from crafts and decorations to local food or products from a guest country. Place Kléber, the main square, is home to a giant illuminated Christmas tree, one of the central images of a Strasbourg December.
The scale is considerable, with hundreds of stalls, and the city puts great care into lighting and decorations. Streets are hung with garlands and light displays, shop façades are decorated with oversized ornaments, and wooden chalets glow in the evening. The Grande Île is a UNESCO World Heritage site, so the setting is as much part of the visit as the market itself.
The cathedral and Petite France
The cathedral of Notre-Dame de Strasbourg dominates the city. Built in pink sandstone, it has an extraordinarily detailed Gothic façade and a single spire that was for centuries among the tallest buildings in Christendom. Inside, the astronomical clock draws crowds, and the stained glass is remarkable. In December, the cathedral square fills with stalls, making it one of the most atmospheric spots of the market.
Petite France, the old quarter of tanners, millers and fishermen, is a picturesque area of half-timbered houses, canals and covered bridges. It is lovely by day and charming in the evening, when lights reflect in the water. A boat trip on the Ill gives another perspective on the city, passing both the old town and the modern European institutions that make Strasbourg a seat of the European Parliament.
- Place Broglie: the historic heart of the market
- Cathedral square: stalls beneath the Gothic façade
- Place Kléber: the great Christmas tree
- Petite France: canals and half-timbered houses
Food, drink and gifts
The market is a feast. Look for bredele biscuits, pain d'épices, kougelhopf, pretzels, roasted chestnuts and tarte flambée. Vin chaud, mulled wine made with Alsace wine, is everywhere, and hot apple juice is available for those who prefer something softer. Alsatian sauerkraut dishes and local charcuterie are served in the city's traditional restaurants, called winstubs.
For gifts, there are Christmas ornaments, glass decorations, candles, Alsatian ceramics, textiles and wines from the region. Stalls with local and handmade goods are worth seeking out among the many vendors.
Practical travel and planning tips
The journey from Geneva to Strasbourg is long, crossing northern Switzerland or eastern France before entering Alsace. A chauffeur makes it straightforward, with a coffee or lunch stop along the way. The market is very popular, and weekends bring large crowds; if possible, come midweek and visit the main squares in the late afternoon or after dinner, when the light is magical and the crush is easier.
Security checks and traffic restrictions are common in the city centre during the market period, which is another reason a private transfer helps: your chauffeur drops you as close as permitted and collects you at an agreed point. Book hotels and restaurant tables well ahead, dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. Strasbourg combines well with Colmar on the same trip, as the two towns are close to each other.
Book your Strasbourg transfer
Reserving with AirportsTransfers.ch means you see the fixed price per vehicle before paying online by card, Apple Pay or Google Pay. Flying in to Geneva, you will find your chauffeur waiting with a name sign, your flight tracked and any delay covered by included waiting time. Choose an E-Class sedan, an S-Class for the longest journeys, a V-Class van for up to seven passengers, or a Sprinter minibus for groups and company outings, with invoices available for businesses. Child seats are provided on request. Phone or WhatsApp +41 78 346 56 77, day or night.
