November 25th 2024.
As the weather gets colder and December approaches, it's impossible to ignore the Christmas season that is upon us. The smell of mulled wine and mince pies fills the air, and the twinkling fairy lights bring a magical touch to the streets. If you're looking to fully immerse yourself in the holiday spirit, there's no better place to visit than the Christmas markets. While the UK has its own fair share of festive fayres, there's one city in particular that has been dubbed the 'capital of Christmas' and it's definitely worth a trip. Plus, return flights can be found for under £80!
Every year, the city of Strasbourg in France transforms into a winter wonderland, with over 300 charming wooden chalets and beautifully decorated streets. This market has been around since 1570, making it one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, and it has maintained its festive charm for over 450 years. Today, it attracts over 2 million visitors from around the world who come to experience the 'magical' atmosphere and scenery that has been described as a 'must-see' during Christmas time.
If you're feeling inspired and want to see what all the fuss is about, here's everything you need to know to plan your trip. Strasbourg is located in the Grand Est Region of eastern France, near the German border in the historic region of Alsace. It's easily accessible from the UK, with flights from London Gatwick taking just over an hour and a half and costing around £79 in November and December. You can also fly into the nearby airport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg, which is a 90-minute drive from the city, with tickets starting from £99. Another option is to fly to Paris and take a train to Strasbourg, which takes about an hour and a half and tickets can be found for as low as £25.
For those who prefer to travel by rail, there's also a direct Eurostar train from London St Pancras International. However, the journey takes longer (around five to six hours) and tickets start at £338 for a single ticket in December. It's always worth checking the Eurostar website for deals and discounts.
Now, let's talk about what you can expect to see at the Strasbourg Christmas markets. Every year, the city lights up for four weeks, with most markets opening on November 27 and closing on December 27. One of the most Instagrammable spots is Maroquin Street, also known as the 'teddy bear street'. During the Christmas season, storefronts are decked out with festive decorations, including giant baubles, wreaths, Christmas trees, and huge teddy bears. Visitors have dubbed it the 'land of the teddy bears' and a 'must-see' on TikTok.
Another must-visit attraction is the Grand Christmas Tree at Place Kleber, which stands at an impressive 30 meters tall. This 'majestic' and 'glittering' tree is one of the tallest decorated natural Christmas trees in Europe and is described as the 'star of the Alsatian Christmas'. Seeing it for the first time is truly a moment of wonder, according to the Christmas in Alsace website.
The market stalls are scattered throughout the city, with the majority of them located at Place Broglie and around the cathedral. You'll find plenty of food options, especially since the city is so close to the German border. From traditional Bretzels to Bratwurst, there's something for everyone. There's also the OFF Market, which focuses on sustainability and offers recycled and fair-trade products and gifts.
When it comes to accommodations, the Petite France quarter is a popular choice for tourists. This picturesque district is home to cobblestone streets, canals, and half-timbered homes. The Cour du Corbeau, a four-star hotel, is located in this area and offers top-floor suites with views of the medieval rooftops. Prices start at £336 per night on Booking.com. Another option in this district is the Hotel du Dragon, a four-star hotel in a 17th-century building. Prices start at £280 per night in December on Booking.com. For budget-friendly options, there are several chain hotels, including Ibis and Hilton, with prices starting at £140 per night. The Hotel de l'Orangerie, located in the European Quarter, is another budget-friendly option with prices starting at £105 per night in December on Booking.com.
So, if you're looking for a magical Christmas experience, why not plan a trip to Strasbourg? With its enchanting Christmas markets, rich history, and unparalleled charm, it's the perfect destination to ignite your holiday spirit. And with return flights starting at just under £80, it's an affordable option for a festive getaway.
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[Generative AI is experimental.]
