As the holiday season approaches, many people look forward to visiting Christmas markets across Europe to experience the festive spirit and shop for unique gifts and decorations One of the best ways to travel to these markets is by train, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery as you make your way to some of the most charming and magical markets in the world Here are some of the best Christmas markets that you can 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 is spread throughout the city’s historic center, with its iconic Cathedral providing a stunning backdrop To reach Strasbourg by train, you can take the TGV from Paris and arrive in just under two hours Once there, you can stroll through the illuminated streets, marvel at the elaborate decorations, and sample traditional Alsatian treats like bredele cookies and mulled wine.
2 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is another must-visit destination for Christmas market enthusiasts The city boasts several markets scattered across its picturesque Old Town, with the largest one located in front of the city’s iconic cathedral To reach Cologne by train, you can take a high-speed Thalys train from Brussels or Amsterdam, arriving in just a few hours Once there, you can explore the markets, take in the festive atmosphere, and admire the twinkling lights and decorations.
3 Vienna, Austria
Vienna’s Christmas markets are renowned for their elegant decorations, musical performances, and delicious treats The city hosts several markets, with the main one situated in front of the stunning Rathaus (City Hall) To reach Vienna by train, you can take the EuroCity or Railjet from cities like Budapest, Prague, or Munich Once there, you can wander through the markets, sample traditional Austrian delicacies like sausages and pastries, and enjoy the festive ambiance.
4 Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich’s Christmas markets are a festive delight, with the city’s Old Town transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season best christmas markets by train. The main market is located at the Zurich Hauptbahnhof (main train station), making it easily accessible by train You can take a direct train from cities like Basel, Lucerne, or Geneva and arrive in just a few hours Once there, you can shop for handmade crafts, indulge in Swiss chocolates, and soak up the festive atmosphere.
5 Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is home to several charming Christmas markets, including the Winter Wonders market at the Grand-Place and the Christmas Village at Place Sainte-Catherine To reach Brussels by train, you can take the Eurostar from cities like London or Paris and arrive in just a couple of hours Once there, you can wander through the markets, admire the dazzling light displays, and feast on Belgian waffles and hot chocolate.
6 Budapest, Hungary
Budapest’s Christmas markets are a hidden gem, offering a more intimate and traditional experience compared to some of the larger markets in Europe The main market is located in Vorosmarty Square, with an ice-skating rink and carousel adding to the festive atmosphere To reach Budapest by train, you can take the Railjet from Vienna or the InterCity from cities like Prague or Bratislava Once there, you can shop for handmade gifts, try Hungarian specialties like chimney cake and goulash, and soak up the holiday spirit.
7 Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is a picture-perfect destination for a holiday getaway The city’s Christmas market is held in several locations, including the picturesque Domplatz (Cathedral Square) and Residenzplatz (Residenz Square) To reach Salzburg by train, you can take the Railjet from Vienna or Munich and arrive in just a few hours Once there, you can explore the markets, listen to carolers singing traditional songs, and savor Austrian treats like roasted chestnuts and gluhwein.
Traveling by train to Christmas markets not only adds to the festive experience but also allows you to relax and enjoy the journey without the stress of driving or navigating through traffic So pack your bags, hop on a train, and experience the magic of Christmas at some of Europe’s best markets this holiday season.