The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by visiting some of the best Christmas markets Europe has to offer? While there are plenty of ways to reach these magical markets, traveling by train is not only convenient but adds an extra touch of charm to your journey From cozy villages to bustling cities, here are some of the best Christmas markets to visit by train.
1 Strasbourg, France
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg boasts one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe The market is spread across the city center, with its stunning Gothic cathedral as a backdrop Visitors can wander through the illuminated streets, browsing traditional Alsatian crafts and sampling local treats like mulled wine and gingerbread To reach Strasbourg by train, take the TGV from Paris, which will get you there in just under two hours.
2 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is home to several Christmas markets, but the one in front of the city’s majestic cathedral is a must-see With its towering Christmas tree and dazzling lights, the market creates a fairytale-like atmosphere Wander through the rows of wooden stalls selling handmade gifts and enjoy a mug of hot Glühwein while listening to carolers Traveling to Cologne by train is easy, with direct connections from major cities like Berlin and Frankfurt.
3 Vienna, Austria
Vienna’s Christmas markets are some of the most elegant in Europe, set against the backdrop of historic palaces and grand buildings The market in front of the Rathaus (City Hall) is a standout, with a giant ice-skating rink and a bustling atmosphere Visitors can shop for traditional handicrafts, try local delicacies like roasted chestnuts, and enjoy festive concerts and performances Trains run regularly to Vienna from cities like Munich and Budapest, making it a convenient destination for a winter escape.
4 Brussels, Belgium
Brussels transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with its Christmas market taking over the Grand-Place square The market features an enormous Christmas tree, a Ferris wheel, and an ice-skating rink, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors of all ages Sample Belgian chocolates and waffles, browse the stalls for unique gifts, and soak up the festive spirit best christmas markets by train. Traveling to Brussels by train is a breeze, with high-speed connections from cities like London and Paris.
5 Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Christmas markets are some of the most picturesque in Europe, set against the backdrop of the city’s historic architecture The main market in the Old Town Square features a towering tree, nativity scene, and a wide variety of traditional Czech handicrafts Visitors can warm up with a cup of svařák (mulled wine) and sample local treats like trdelník (chimney cake) Trains run regularly to Prague from cities like Berlin and Vienna, making it a convenient destination for a winter getaway.
6 Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich’s Christmas markets are a feast for the senses, with their stunning decorations, twinkling lights, and festive atmosphere The markets are spread across the city, from the traditional stalls at the main train station to the cozy market in the old town Visitors can shop for handmade gifts, try Swiss specialties like raclette and fondue, and enjoy live music and entertainment Traveling to Zurich by train is easy, with direct connections from cities like Geneva and Milan.
7 London, England
London’s Christmas markets are a mix of traditional and modern, with something for everyone to enjoy From the historic market at Hyde Park Winter Wonderland to the quirky stalls at Southbank Centre Winter Market, there are plenty of options to explore Visitors can shop for unique gifts, sample festive treats like mince pies and mulled cider, and enjoy seasonal activities like ice skating and light displays Trains run regularly to London from cities across the UK, making it a convenient destination for a festive day out.
Traveling to these magical Christmas markets by train adds an extra layer of charm to your holiday experience Whether you’re looking for traditional handicrafts, seasonal treats, or a festive atmosphere, these markets have something for everyone to enjoy So hop on board, sit back, and let the train take you on a magical journey through Europe’s best Christmas markets