Strasbourg Christmas market tour and culinary city tour with tastings

Exploring Strasbourg during the holiday season is like stepping into a winter wonderland. This tour, run by Knack & Rucksack, promises a three-hour journey through the city’s historic streets, laden with Christmas cheer, savory bites, and sweet delights. We’ve gathered all the details so you can decide if this experience fits your holiday travel plans.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s a small-group experience — just six participants — which means plenty of personal attention and cozy moments. Second, the focus isn’t just on sightseeing; it’s a true taste of local culture through carefully chosen stops and tasting sessions. Third, the insider knowledge from Céline, a Strasbourg native, adds authentic flavor to every step.

A potential challenge? The tour is designed for those who are comfortable walking and standing in crowds, which can be busy and bustling in Strasbourg’s festive season. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with specific dietary restrictions beyond the ones listed. But if you’re eager to truly soak in Strasbourg’s Christmas spirit with a focus on food, this could be an ideal choice.

This experience suits travelers who love food and culture, enjoy small-group tours, and want a personalized, behind-the-scenes look at Strasbourg’s holiday traditions. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip during Advent, this tour promises unforgettable tastes and local insights.

Good To Know

• Authentic Local Experience: Guided by Céline, a Strasbourg native with deep roots and insider tips.
• Tasty Highlights: 5-6 stops featuring savory, sweet, and festive drinks, including Alsatian specialties.
• Specialized Focus: Carefully selected market huts, artisan stores, and holiday treats.
• Value for Money: At $123 per person, you get a rich combination of food, drinks, and local knowledge.
• Comfort & Convenience: Seating options and detailed brochure make the tour relaxing and informative.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (max 6) ensure a personalized, engaging experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Overview of what to Expect

This three-hour tour offers a relaxed but immersive way to experience Strasbourg during its most festive time. Starting at 5e Lieu (Boutique Culture), the tour takes you on a walk through the city’s famed Christmas market, Christkindelsmärik. Known as one of Europe’s oldest markets, Strasbourg’s market is a picture-perfect holiday scene with glittering stalls, decorated facades, and a towering Christmas tree on Kleber Square.

Your guide, Céline, a passionate foodie and Strasbourg local, will lead you through 5 to 6 carefully selected stops where you’ll taste an array of Alsatian and regional specialties. From sweet cookies like Bredele and Männele to savory bites such as baguette flambée and pretzel gratiné, every stop is designed to give you a bite-sized taste of local holiday traditions.

Throughout your walk, you’ll also sample warm beverages like mulled wine, hot apple juice, or Christmas beer, perfect for warming up amid the seasonal buzz. Plus, you’ll have time to browse Christmas decorations, artisanal products, and souvenirs, making it a full sensory experience.

Why the Food and Market Stops Matter

The carefully curated stops mean you won’t just get a generic tour. Each location was picked for its authenticity and high-quality offerings, making your tasting experience feel genuine rather than touristy. Céline explained that the market huts, shops, and artisans she chose focus on local, sustainable products, giving you a taste of regional pride.

In addition, many reviewers, like Sabine from Germany, appreciated the well-planned treats and the warm welcome from Céline. She mentioned, “We had a lot of fun. We will be back in the summer,” highlighting how the tour makes a lasting impression.

Delving Into the Details: The Itinerary

Meeting Point and Start

Your journey begins at 5e Lieu, a charming boutique space, where Céline will greet you with a warm smile and a brief overview. She’s bilingual in French and German, which can be a bonus if you speak either language, and she’s well-versed in Strasbourg’s festive traditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Christmas Market: A Historic Setting

The market itself is a marvel. As you stroll, Céline points out the decorations, the big Christmas tree, and explains the history of Christkindelsmärik, which dates back centuries. You’ll notice the festive atmosphere—twinkling lights, scents of baked goods, and the chatter of shoppers.

Tastings at the Market Huts

Expect to stop at 5 to 6 locations. These may include artisan stalls selling Bredele cookies (like gingerbread and citrus-infused treats), Hützelbrot (spiced bread), and Baerewecke (a traditional Alsatian Christmas bread). The savory stops are equally tempting, featuring spaetzle with Munster cheese, raclette, and gourmet sandwiches with foie gras.

Beverages to Warm You Up

Sample mulled wine (both red and white varieties), warm apple juice, and perhaps a Christmas beer. These drinks do more than just warm your hands—they echo Strasbourg’s festive culinary culture.

Souvenir and Gift Shopping

Many guests enjoy browsing the local stalls for handmade ornaments, gourmet foods, and artisanal products. Céline offers insider tips on the best spots to find authentic gifts.

What We Loved About the Tour

Personalized attention from Céline made all the difference. Her local knowledge and passion for Strasbourg’s traditions made each stop engaging. You felt like exploring with a knowledgeable friend rather than a tour guide.

The quality of tastings was notable. Many of the treats, like the classic Männele and pretzel gratiné, exceeded expectations, offering authentic flavors you might not find in supermarkets. The drinks, especially the mulled wine, were well-chosen and served in cozy settings.

The relaxing seating options and the detailed brochure with tips and local points of interest meant the experience was comfortable and informative. And the small group size made it easy to ask questions and interact.

Price and Value

At $123 per person, this tour provides excellent value considering the variety of tastings, insider tips, and the personalized experience. It’s not just about eating; it’s about understanding the traditions behind each bite and sip. You’re paying for quality, authenticity, and a genuine connection to Strasbourg’s holiday spirit.

Potential Drawbacks

A few guests noted that crowds and queues can be intense, especially at peak times. The tour is designed to be flexible, with seating available, but it’s understandable if some prefer quieter, less populated times. Also, the tour isn’t suitable for those with food restrictions outside the specified dietary needs, so planning ahead is wise.

This experience is ideal for food lovers eager to explore local holiday treats. Those who appreciate small-group tours will value the personalized approach. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of Strasbourg’s Christmas traditions without the rush of large, commercial markets.

If you’re visiting Strasbourg during Advent and want to blend sightseeing with culinary discovery, this tour offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to celebrate the season. It’s especially suitable for adults and older children who enjoy walking and tasting.

The Strasbourg Christmas market and culinary city tour provides a delicious, authentic, and engaging way to experience the city’s holiday charm. From historic market stalls to handmade treats and local drinks, every element enriches your understanding of Alsace’s festive spirit. The small-group setting, combined with Céline’s personal insights, makes it feel like exploring with a knowledgeable friend.

While it’s best suited for those who enjoy walking and eating, the experience also offers a chance to relax and soak in the holiday atmosphere comfortably. If you want a taste of Strasbourg’s Christmas traditions — literally — this tour is an excellent choice.

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
The tour includes many traditional Alsatian treats that are meat and dairy-based, so vegans may find it limited. Vegetarians might enjoy most tastings, but it’s best to inform Céline in advance if you have dietary restrictions.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking through the market and exploring the city. Dress warmly, especially during winter, and consider bringing an umbrella.

Are there seating options during the tour?
Yes, seating is available at certain stops, allowing you to relax and enjoy your treats comfortably.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Absolutely. You’ll have opportunities to browse Christmas decorations, artisanal products, and souvenirs at the market stalls.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for older children who can walk and enjoy tasting. Babies under one year are not suitable, and the tour isn’t designed for strollers or young children.

What if I have food allergies or restrictions?
Please inform Céline beforehand. The brochure mentions the possibility of accommodations if notified in advance.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, several drinks, including mulled wine and apple juice, are part of the tasting experience.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking and market terrain.

What makes this tour different from other Strasbourg Christmas experiences?
It combines authentic tastings with insider tips, personalized attention, and a focus on local, sustainable products — not just sightseeing.

This detailed, carefully curated tour offers a delicious and authentic way to celebrate Strasbourg’s Christmas. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking festive cheer, it’s a memorable way to embrace the season.

You can check if your dates are available here: