9Strasbourg, France – The Oldest and Most Enchanting

Strasbourg proudly calls itself the “Capital of Christmas,” and with good reason—it hosts one of Europe’s oldest markets, dating back to 1570.

Set around the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral, the market’s charm lies in its authenticity and Alsatian traditions. Wooden chalets brim with handmade toys, nutcrackers, and spiced biscuits called bredele. The city’s historic center glows with fairy lights, and the massive Christmas tree on Place Kléber is a sight to remember.