Christmas markets are a beloved tradition in many European countries, where locals and tourists alike gather to shop for unique gifts, sample delicious food and drinks, and immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere With their charming decorations, twinkling lights, and the scent of mulled wine in the air, Christmas markets are a must-visit during the holiday season And what better way to experience these magical markets than by traveling to them by train?
Taking the train to Christmas markets not only adds to the enchantment of the experience but also allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey to your destination So, grab your train tickets, bundle up in your warmest coat, and get ready to explore some of the best Christmas markets in Europe by train.
1 Strasbourg, France
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg in northeastern France is home to one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe The Strasbourg Christmas Market dates back to 1570 and is spread across several locations in the city center, each offering a unique selection of handmade gifts, decorations, and traditional Alsatian treats Hop on a train to Strasbourg and wander through the cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses as you soak in the festive ambiance of this charming market.
2 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is another city that is synonymous with Christmas markets, boasting not one, not two, but seven different markets scattered throughout the city From the iconic Cologne Cathedral backdrop at the Cathedral Christmas Market to the medieval charm of the Old Town market, there’s something for everyone in Cologne Take a train ride to Cologne and sample local specialties like mulled wine, gingerbread, and bratwurst as you browse the stalls filled with handcrafted gifts and decorations.
3 Vienna, Austria
Vienna is a city that oozes elegance and sophistication year-round, but during the holiday season, it transforms into a winter wonderland filled with enchanting Christmas markets From the grandeur of the Vienna Christmas World at Rathausplatz to the artisanal offerings at the Karlsplatz market, Vienna’s Christmas markets are a feast for the senses Board a train to Vienna and marvel at the sparkling lights, live music performances, and the aroma of roasted chestnuts that fill the air.
4 Brussels, Belgium
Brussels may be best known as the capital of the European Union, but during the Christmas season, it becomes a hub of festive cheer with its Winter Wonders market best christmas markets by train. Situated in the historic Grand-Place, the market features over 200 stalls selling everything from handcrafted gifts to local delicacies Travel to Brussels by train and marvel at the magnificent light displays, ice skating rink, and Christmas tree, which stands tall in the center of the market.
5 Zurich, Switzerland
With its picturesque location on the shores of Lake Zurich and views of the Swiss Alps in the distance, Zurich is a picture-perfect destination for a Christmas market getaway The Zurich Christmas Market at the Hauptbahnhof train station is one of the largest indoor markets in Europe, featuring hundreds of stalls selling traditional crafts, jewelry, and festive treats Take a scenic train ride to Zurich and indulge in Swiss specialties like raclette and fondue as you wander through the market’s twinkling lights and decorations.
6 Budapest, Hungary
Budapest may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking of Christmas markets, but the Hungarian capital has its fair share of festive markets that are worth exploring The Budapest Christmas Fair at Vörösmarty Square is one of the city’s most famous markets, offering a mix of traditional crafts, seasonal foods, and live performances Travel to Budapest by train and stroll along the illuminated streets lined with wooden stalls, where you can shop for unique gifts and souvenirs to bring back home.
7 Munich, Germany
Munich is another German city that knows how to celebrate the holiday season in style, with its charming Christmas markets that draw visitors from near and far The Munich Christmas Market at Marienplatz is the oldest in the city and features a towering Christmas tree, festive decorations, and a wide range of stalls selling everything from handmade toys to Bavarian treats Jump on a train to Munich and savor the sights, sounds, and scents of the market as you sip on a steaming cup of glühwein and sample some roasted chestnuts.
Traveling to Christmas markets by train adds an extra layer of magic to the experience, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey as you make your way to these festive destinations So, this holiday season, why not trade the hustle and bustle of the airport for the comfort and convenience of train travel? Whether you’re exploring the traditional markets of France, Germany, or Austria, or venturing off the beaten path to discover hidden gems in Hungary or Belgium, there’s no shortage of enchanting Christmas markets waiting to be explored by train.
So, pack your bags, book your train tickets, and get ready for a holiday season filled with twinkling lights, delicious treats, and the festive spirit of Christmas markets across Europe Backlink: