The holiday season is a magical time of year when cities all over the world come alive with the sights, sounds, and smells of Christmas One of the best ways to experience the festive atmosphere is by visiting a Christmas market, and what better way to get there than by train? Traveling by train is not only convenient and environmentally friendly, but it also allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the snowy landscapes outside your window as you make your way to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe Here are some of the top Christmas markets to visit by train:
1 Strasbourg, France
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg is home to one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe The market takes place in the city’s stunning Cathedral Square and features over 300 traditional wooden chalets selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to delicious Alsatian treats Traveling to Strasbourg by train is a breeze, with the city being a major hub for France’s high-speed rail network.
2 Vienna, Austria
Vienna is another must-visit destination for Christmas market enthusiasts The city’s main Christmas market is held in front of the stunning Rathaus (City Hall) and features over 150 stalls selling everything from mulled wine to handmade gifts Traveling to Vienna by train is a great way to take in the picturesque Austrian countryside and arrive in the heart of the city ready to experience the magic of Christmas.
3 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is home to not one, but multiple Christmas markets spread throughout the city The most famous market is located in front of the iconic Cologne Cathedral and is a feast for the senses with its twinkling lights, festive music, and delicious food and drinks Traveling to Cologne by train is easy, with the city being well connected to major cities throughout Germany and beyond.
4 Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with its charming old town transformed into a festive market complete with ice skating rinks, Christmas trees, and an array of stalls selling unique gifts and treats Traveling to Zurich by train is a scenic journey through the Swiss Alps, offering breathtaking views of snow-covered mountains and picturesque villages along the way.
5 best christmas markets by train. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a hidden gem when it comes to Christmas markets, with its traditional market in Vorosmarty Square offering a unique mix of Hungarian handicrafts, food, and entertainment Traveling to Budapest by train is a great way to experience the beauty of Eastern Europe and arrive in the city ready to explore its vibrant holiday festivities.
6 Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is a food lover’s paradise during the holiday season, with its Christmas market offering a mouth-watering array of Belgian delicacies like waffles, chocolates, and mulled wine The market is located in the iconic Grand Place, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Europe’s Christmas markets by train.
7 Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg is not just famous for being the birthplace of Mozart, but also for its picturesque Christmas market held in the city’s Old Town The market is a festive wonderland with its traditional stalls, local crafts, and live music performances Traveling to Salzburg by train is a scenic journey through the Austrian countryside, making it the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
8 Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh’s Christmas market is a magical experience with its stunning backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street Gardens The market features a variety of stalls selling everything from handmade decorations to Scottish treats like mulled wine and haggis Traveling to Edinburgh by train is a great way to take in the beauty of the Scottish countryside and arrive in the city just in time for the holiday festivities.
In conclusion, exploring the best Christmas markets in Europe by train is a magical experience that allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the festive season in a unique way Whether you’re sipping mulled wine in Vienna or tasting Belgian chocolates in Brussels, traveling by train is an environmentally friendly and convenient way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit So why not hop on a train this holiday season and discover the magic of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets?