This morning, Strasbourg welcomes you with its signature holiday magic. Explore the charming surrounding villages and experience the romantic ambiance of Obernai, or visit the famous Freiburg Christmas market.In the afternoon, Strasbourg itself is yours to discover. On an extended city tour, admire the historic European city at its finest. During the Advent season, its festively decorated shops and streets shine with a captivating glow. A visit to the Strasbourg Christmas market is of course included. End the day with a warming punch, soaking up the romantic holiday atmosphere, before an exclusive onboard gala dinner. Your AMADEUS ship stays overnight in Strasbourg.

• Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas” and hosts one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe.
• Nearby Obernai offers a quieter, storybook Alsatian village experience with half-timbered houses and charming holiday traditions.
• Together, they provide a perfect mix of grand festive energy and intimate village charm.

• Currency: Euro (€)
• Credit cards widely accepted, but Christmas market vendors often prefer cash.
• ATMs available in both locations.
• Tipping: Service is included in France, but rounding up is appreciated.

• Official language: French (Alsatian dialect also spoken locally)
• English is commonly spoken in tourist areas.
• Helpful phrases:

  • Hello: Bonjour
  • Thank you: Merci
  • Cheers: Santé! 🍷

Alsace is famous for hearty winter cuisine:

• Vin Chaud – French mulled wine 🍷
• Tarte Flambée (Flammekueche) – Thin, crispy flatbread
• Choucroute Garnie – Sauerkraut with sausages and meats
• Bredele Cookies – Traditional Alsatian Christmas cookies
• Pain d’épices – Spiced gingerbread

• Strasbourg Christmas Market

  • One of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets (dating back to 1570!)
  • Spread across multiple squares with hundreds of stalls
• Strasbourg Cathedral

  • Stunning Gothic cathedral and centerpiece of the city
  • Surrounded by festive lights and market stalls
• La Petite France

  • Picturesque canals and half-timbered houses
  • Magical when decorated for the holidays
• Grand Christmas Tree (Place Kléber)

  • One of Europe’s tallest decorated Christmas trees

• Obernai Christmas Market

  • Smaller, more intimate market with a local feel
  • Focus on traditional crafts and regional specialties
• Obernai Old Town

  • Charming streets lined with colorful half-timbered houses
  • Beautifully decorated during the holiday season
• Saint Peter and Paul Church Obernai

  • Neo-Gothic church adding to the festive atmosphere
• Market Square (Place du Marché)

  • Heart of the town’s holiday festivities

• Strasbourg: Large markets with a wide variety of:

  • Handmade ornaments
  • Regional foods and gifts
• Obernai: Smaller stalls focused on:

  • Artisan crafts
  • Local Alsatian specialties

• Strasbourg: Walkable Old Town with excellent public transport (trams)
• Obernai: Very walkable village setting
• Dress warmly—temperatures can be quite cold, especially in the evenings

• Available at:

  • Christmas market areas
  • Train stations and shopping centers
• Small fee may apply (€0.50–€1)
• Cafés/restaurants typically for customers only

• River cruise ships typically dock in Strasbourg.
• Obernai is reached via a short coach excursion (approx. 30–40 minutes).
• Easy and well-organized through cruise excursions.

• Dress in layers with a warm coat, gloves, and scarf 🧤
• Wear non-slip shoes for cobblestone streets
• Bring cash for market purchases
• Visit Strasbourg markets at night for a magical atmosphere ✨
• Pair Strasbourg’s lively markets with Obernai’s quieter charm for a well-rounded experience