Things to Do in Strasbourg in November
November weather, activities, events & insider tips
November Weather in Strasbourg
Is November Right for You?
Advantages
- Christmas Market season begins November 24th - experience authentic Alsatian traditions before peak crowds arrive in December
- Tarte flambée and choucroute season peaks - local restaurants serve hearty winter specialties with new wine (Federweißer) available only October-November
- Indoor attractions like Strasbourg Cathedral and museums offer perfect refuge from weather, with fewer summer tour groups
- Hotel rates drop 30-40% from October highs, with excellent availability in boutique properties around Petite France
Considerations
- Daylight ends by 5:00 PM after November 15th - outdoor sightseeing window severely limited
- Rhine valley fog can reduce visibility to 100m (328 ft) on 40% of November days, making photography challenging
- Many Rhine river boat tours cease operations November 1st until March, eliminating a key sightseeing option
Best Activities in November
Strasbourg Cathedral and Astronomical Clock Tours
November's short daylight makes indoor cathedral exploration ideal. The famous astronomical clock performance at 12:30 PM becomes a perfect midday activity when outdoor walking is less appealing due to damp conditions. Gothic architecture photography benefits from November's soft, diffused light filtering through stained glass.
Alsatian Wine Cave Tastings
November marks Federweißer season - partially fermented white wine available only during harvest months. Wine caves maintain perfect 12°C (54°F) temperature year-round, offering warm refuge from November dampness. Local vintners in nearby Obernai and Ribeauvillé are less busy than summer months.
Covered Market and Food Hall Exploration
November brings seasonal Alsatian specialties like marrons glacés, pain d'épices, and early Christmas cookies to local markets. Covered Marché des Bateliers and indoor food halls provide shelter from frequent drizzle while offering authentic local food experiences. Market vendors are less rushed than in tourist season.
Boat Tours through Petite France
While Rhine tours stop, smaller canal boats through Petite France continue operating with heated cabins. November's bare trees reveal architectural details hidden by summer foliage. 70-minute covered boat tours show UNESCO World Heritage sites while protecting from weather.
Museum District Indoor Cultural Tours
November weather makes Strasbourg's museum quarter perfect for extended indoor exploration. Modern and Contemporary Art Museum, Alsatian Museum, and Palais Rohan offer climate-controlled environments. Reduced tourist numbers mean better viewing of permanent collections.
Traditional Winstub Restaurant Tours
November launches traditional Alsatian comfort food season. Winstubs serve seasonal dishes like baeckeoffe, coq au riesling, and fresh choucroute. These traditional taverns provide authentic warm atmosphere perfect for November's damp evenings, with local wines and seasonal specialties.
November Events & Festivals
Strasbourg Christmas Market Opening
Christkindelsmärik officially opens November 24th, making it one of France's oldest Christmas markets. The first weekend offers authentic local atmosphere before December tourist crowds. Over 300 chalets sell Alsatian crafts, bredele cookies, and mulled wine. Place Kléber transforms into a winter wonderland with massive Christmas tree.
Saint Nicolas Festival Preparations
November sees preparation for Saint Nicolas celebrations (December 6th), with special breads, chocolates, and decorations appearing in bakeries and shops. Traditional mannele (brioche men) become available in bakeries, and Saint Nicolas figurines fill shop windows throughout the old town.