Christmas is a busy time for so many of us. But I felt this year was even more so in the weeks leading up to Christmas. I usually dedicate a bit of time to Christmas festivities, like going to the German market here in Edinburgh, and putting up Christmas decorations in my home..but this year was streaming by without letting me even stop to smell the holly!
So, I decided I would send myself on a European city break, full of great food, wine, architecture and more importantly jam packed full of Christmas spirit! I went to Strasbourg, France.
On entering the city is a banner of sparkling lights to remind you that you are in the Capital of Christmas. Good choice!
I stayed in the heart of the old town, and kicked off my first morning with a drawing of my view. ..
followed by a visit to one of the 17 christmas markets dotted about this small island city, to taste test the white mulled wine and the local Christmas foodie treats
The decorations stretched right across from one side of the street to the other, and on almost every street, not to mention the Christmas decorations and displays in every shop window.
The joint effort made by this city is astonishing, I loved every minute of it.
For someone who doesn’t enjoy small spaces and heights, it surprised me when I decided to climb Strasbourg cathedral, Europe’s tallest building for over 200 years. Crazy stuff! I sung christmas carols to myself to keep my mind off it! The views at the top were as spectacular as I had hoped.
The french style architecture is absolutely stunning, it’s a joy to see it intact compared to other cities affected by the war bombings. Strasbourg has belonged to both France and Germany over the centuries, and the architectural gems are the result of it’s history.
I couldn’t believe my luck when I saw a beautiful horse drawn carriage, with Santa peddling alongside on a pushbike! What a classic, I think Edinburgh could do with a Santa cyclist for next year. Strasbourg had it all, as well as
Christmas carol singing in this beautiful church, it was all in french but the carols were the same
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