Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, nestled in the heart of Alsace, France, is a city brimming with history and festive charm. Its cobbled streets whisper tales of centuries past, while its charming architecture, a blend of French and Germanic influences, is a testament to its unique cultural heritage. During Christmas, Strasbourg truly shines, transforming into a magical wonderland known as the “Capital of Christmas.” If you’re planning a trip to Strasbourg during Christmas, you’re in for a treat!
The Christmas markets in Europe always beckoned me, so when my niece invited me to join a surprise trip she had planned for her Mom’s birthday, I said, “yes”. Flights from JFK to CDG and then booked a TGV to Strasbourg, France.
TGV, or Train à Grande Vitesse, is a high-speed train service in France that connects major cities across the country and beyond. It is operated by the French national railway company, SNCF, and offers a fast, comfortable, and eco-friendly way to travel. The TGV network covers over 2,000 miles of track, with speeds of up to 320 km/h (200 mph) on some routes. Our TGV from CDG to Strasbourg was 1 hour and 46 minutes and such a pleasant way to reach our destination.
Visiting Strasbourg during the holiday season is stepping back in time and living a fairy-tale come true. Strasbourg’s rich history dates back to Roman times, evidenced by the imposing ruins of the Roman amphitheater and the ancient foundations of the Rohan Palace. The city flourished during the Middle Ages, becoming a major center for trade and commerce. Its distinctive Notre-Dame Cathedral of Strasbourg, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, stands as a symbol of its past glory.
The first thing you need to consider is where to stay, and Hotel Cour Du Corbeau is a great option.
Hotel Cour Du Corbeau Strasbourg
Hotel Cour Du Corbeau is a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Strasbourg, France. The hotel is in a 16th-century historic building restored to preserve its original character while providing modern amenities. Cour Du Corbeau offers 63 rooms and suites, each uniquely decorated with a blend of traditional Alsatian and contemporary styles. The lounge area is perfect for enjoying a snack or vin chaud (french mulled wine) and the location is excellent, as it is within walking distance of many of Strasbourg’s top attractions, including the Strasbourg Cathedral, Petite France, and the Christmas markets.
Upon arriving at the hotel tucked away in a narrow alleyway, I was greeted with a magical sight – a long dinner table set for Christmas. When booking a reservation, I highly recommend their delicious breakfast – it’s optional, but definitely worth it. In fact, it’s one of the best breakfasts I’ve had in Europe.
Christmas Markets
Speaking of Christmas markets, Strasbourg boasts some of the best in Europe. The Place Kléber Christmas Market is the largest in the city and offers local crafts and gifts, such as wooden toys, handmade ornaments, and traditional Alsatian food and drinks. If you’re looking for a more unique gift, head to the Place Broglie Market, where you can find handmade candles, soaps, and skincare products. Not to mention, the Alsace Market is a great place to learn more about traditional Alsatian culture while enjoying sausages and cheese.
Meisenthal Ornaments
Might you want a Meisenthal Christmas ornament while in Strasbourg? The Meisenthal Christmas ornaments have been a tradition since the 19th century. The idea of making glass ornaments for Christmas trees originated when a glass blower in Goetzenbruck, a village in the Northern Vosges region of France, created them after a drought ruined the fruit harvest. These glass balls were hand-blown and decorated with various patterns and colors, becoming a symbol of the region’s glass-making art and culture. They were exported to many countries worldwide.
Since 1999, the International Centre for Glass-making Arts (CIAV) in Meisenthal, a nearby town, has been creating a new contemporary design for the Christmas balls every year. They invite designers to reinterpret the tradition with their own unique style and vision. The CIAV also produces and sells the traditional models, along with the previous years’ designs, while stocks last. The Christmas balls are created in front of the public, allowing them to witness the skill and craftsmanship of the glass blowers.
The Meisenthal Christmas ornaments are more than just decorations. They are a way of celebrating the history and heritage of the Northern Vosges while expressing creativity and innovation through glass. Each ball is unique and has its own story to tell, making them a source of joy and magic during the festive season. They are a valuable treasure of French culture and a gift to the world.
Thank you, Adrienne Cianfarini for sharing Meisenthal Christmas ornaments with me. While in the Christmas market in Strasbourg and Colmar, France we were looking for the stand that sells Meisenthal ornaments. We couldn’t find them. Our last evening heading to dinner, I noticed a stand that was still open and they were the keepers of these beautiful glass ornaments. Interesting how life works. You put your search on the back burner and voilà!
Strasbourg has something for everyone!
All in all, Strasbourg is a magical destination during Christmas, with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history, indulging in traditional Alsatian food and drinks, or picking up unique gifts and souvenirs, your time will be memorable. Plan your flights and hotels here.
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