Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1541643
MUST-SEES Palais Rohan is considered to be a miniature Versailles thanks to its ornate 18th-century grandeur. Inside, there's plenty for history lovers to feast on from the Musée Archéologique in the basement to the Musée des Beaux-Arts' old masters painting collection. For a modern contrast, head to the Musée d'Art Moderne et Contemporain, where works by Picasso, Monet, and Strasbourg-born Gustave Doré offer a refreshing break from the city's medieval streets. On the banks of the River Ill, you'll find France's largest mosque, a striking symbol of cultural diversity with its copper dome and elegant design. Wine lovers shouldn't miss the Cave Historique des Hospices de Strasbourg, a 14th-century cellar tucked inside one of France's oldest hospitals. Here, centuries-old barrels tell the story of Alsace's winemaking heritage. During the festive season, Strasbourg truly shines. Known as the "Capital of Christmas", the city hosts 11 themed markets with over 300 chalets from late November to Christmas Eve. The Christkindelsmärik at Place Broglie is the oldest in France, dating back to 1570. Expect twinkling lights, handcrafted ornaments and Alsatian treats like bredele cookies and mulled wine. GASTRONOMY Alsace's culinary traditions are a feast for the senses year-round, but winter brings extra indulgence. Signature dishes include choucroute garnie, sauerkraut simmered in wine with sausages and cured meats, and baeckeoffe, a slow-baked casserole of marinated meats and potatoes. The Christmas markets tempt visitors with seasonal specialties such as bredele— spiced cookies in festive shapes—and pain d'épices, a fragrant gingerbread often sold in decorative tins. Foie gras and Christstollen add a gourmet touch, while steaming cups of mulled wine and locally brewed Christmas beer infuse the air with cinnamon and citrus aromas. Pair these delights with a glass of crisp Riesling or Gewürztraminer for the ultimate Alsatian experience. SHOPPING Strasbourg's Christmas markets are more than a visual spectacle—they're a treasure trove for unique gifts. Wander through chalets brimming with handcrafted ornaments, embroidered linens and vibrant Alsatian ceramics. Gourmet souvenirs such as spiced honey, artisanal jams and schnapps make perfect presents. While intricate nativity scenes and Advent calendars offer timeless keepsakes. For something different, visit the OFF Market for eco-friendly and fair-trade products, or explore the stalls around Place de la Cathédrale, where artisan crafts are set against the Gothic grandeur of Notre-Dame. EXPLORE STRASBOURG THE VIKING WAY Viking offers a number of included and optional excursions in Strasbourg. STRASBOURG HIGHLIGHTS Join your guide for a drive through the German Imperial District and the European Quarter. Explore Petite France on foot and see the Old Customs House and Strasbourg Cathedral, one of Europe's finest Gothic Cathedrals. CHRISTMAS FLAVOURS OF ALSACE Embrace the spirit of Christmas at Europe's oldest market, sampling mulled wine and delicious festive fare. Tour the romantic Petite France and enjoy a typical Alsatian meal of choucroute—a hearty, winter-warming dish of sausages and sauerkraut. GENGENBACH AT CHRISTMAS Discover local yuletide traditions during a guided walk through the Old Town and Christmas market. Cap your tour at the Town Hall, which is transformed into the world's largest Advent calendar house, with a daily opening of another calendar window on the building's facade. Strasbourg's Christmas markets are more than a visual spectacle— they're a treasure trove for unique gifts. Christmas Markets, Strasbourg Breisach Innsbruck GERMANY FRANCE RHINE Strasbourg Basel Nuremberg Bamberg Garmish-Partenkirchen Karlsruhe Frankfurt Würzburg Marktheidenfeld SWITZERLAND MAIN MAIN-DANUBE CANAL Prague Lucerne Interlaken Montreux CZECH REPUBLIC AUSTRIA – Cruise •• O vernight in Por t VIEW VOYAGE GETTING THERE: Discover Strasbourg on our 11-day Christmas on the Rhine & Main voyage from Nuremberg to Basel, or in reverse. You can also visit Strasbourg on our 8-day Christmas on the Rhine and 12-day Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle voyages. viking.com | 15 C H R I S T M A S I S S U E 2 8