The holiday season is upon us, and that means it’s time to start planning your visits to some of the best Christmas markets around One of the most magical ways to experience these festive events is by taking a train to get there Not only does traveling by train add to the festive spirit, but it also allows you to sit back and relax while enjoying the scenic views along the way Here are some of the best Christmas markets you can reach by train:
1 Strasbourg, France
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg in France boasts one of the oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe The market dates back to 1570 and is spread out across the city’s historic center, offering a magical atmosphere with its stunning decorations and festive lights To get to Strasbourg by train, you can take the high-speed TGV from Paris, which will get you there in just under two and a half hours.
2 Vienna, Austria
Vienna, the capital of Austria, is famous for its elegant Christmas markets that take place in various locations throughout the city The markets offer a wide range of goods, including traditional crafts, delicate ornaments, and delicious treats like gingerbread and mulled wine To reach Vienna by train, you can take the EuroCity service from cities like Munich, Budapest, or Prague, making it easily accessible for travelers from across Europe.
3 Cologne, Germany
Cologne, located in the heart of Germany, is home to several enchanting Christmas markets that attract visitors from near and far The most famous market is held in front of the city’s stunning cathedral, where you can shop for handcrafted gifts and enjoy local delicacies Traveling to Cologne by train is convenient, with direct connections from major cities like Frankfurt, Amsterdam, and Brussels.
4 Brussels, Belgium
The Winter Wonders market in Brussels is a must-visit destination during the holiday season The market features over 200 chalets selling a variety of goods, as well as a light and sound show at the Grand-Place To get to Brussels by train, you can take the Eurostar from London, the Thalys from Paris, or the ICE from cities like Amsterdam and Cologne.
5 Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich may be known for its luxury shopping, but during the Christmas season, the city transforms into a winter wonderland with its beautiful Christmas markets best christmas markets by train. From the traditional market at the main train station to the magical market at Bellevue, there’s something for everyone to enjoy Traveling to Zurich by train is easy, with direct connections from cities like Milan, Munich, and Paris.
6 Budapest, Hungary
Budapest’s Christmas markets are a feast for the senses, with the scent of cinnamon and mulled wine filling the air as you wander through the stalls selling handmade gifts and traditional Hungarian treats The markets are held in various locations throughout the city, including Vörösmarty Square and St Stephen’s Basilica Traveling to Budapest by train is a scenic journey, with routes connecting the city to Vienna, Prague, and Bratislava.
7 Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is a charming destination for Christmas markets The markets are set against the backdrop of the city’s historic buildings and offer a range of goods, from wooden toys to warm woolen scarves To get to Salzburg by train, you can take the Railjet service from Vienna, Innsbruck, or Munich, making it a convenient stop on your holiday travels.
8 Lille, France
The Christmas market in Lille is one of the largest in Northern France, with over 80 chalets offering gifts, decorations, and culinary delights The market is located in the city center, making it easy to explore on foot after arriving by train Lille is well-connected by train, with direct services from cities like London, Paris, and Brussels.
Traveling to Christmas markets by train adds an extra touch of magic to the holiday season Whether you’re looking for traditional crafts, festive treats, or simply want to soak up the holiday spirit, these markets offer something for everyone So hop on a train and embark on a festive journey to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe