As the holiday season approaches, Christmas markets begin to pop up all over Europe, offering an array of festive treats, handmade gifts, and twinkling lights to get you into the holiday spirit While many people flock to these markets by car or airplane, there is something especially magical about arriving by train The picturesque journey through snowy landscapes and quaint villages only adds to the enchantment of the Christmas market experience Here are some of the best Christmas markets to visit by train this holiday season.
1 Strasbourg, France
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg hosts one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe The market is spread out across the city’s charming cobblestone streets, with stalls selling everything from traditional Alsatian crafts to delicious holiday treats Arriving by train is the perfect way to get into the festive spirit, as the journey takes you through the scenic French countryside before arriving at the picturesque train station in the heart of Strasbourg.
2 Vienna, Austria
Vienna is known for its elegant Christmas markets, which offer a mix of traditional Austrian crafts and modern holiday decorations The city’s main market is held in front of the stunning Rathaus (City Hall), where visitors can sip on mulled wine and enjoy the festive atmosphere Arriving by train allows you to take in the beautiful Austrian scenery along the way, and the Vienna train station is conveniently located near the city center, making it easy to explore the markets on foot.
3 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is home to several Christmas markets, each offering its own unique charm and attractions The largest and most famous market is held in front of the city’s iconic cathedral, providing a stunning backdrop for holiday shopping and festivities The journey to Cologne by train is a scenic one, with views of the Rhine River and the charming German countryside best christmas markets by train. The train station is located just a short walk from the cathedral, making it easy to explore all of the city’s markets on foot.
4 Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich’s Christmas markets are a mix of traditional Swiss crafts and international holiday offerings, making them a great destination for unique gifts and decorations The city’s main market is held in the historic Old Town, with stalls set up along the narrow, winding streets Arriving by train allows you to take in the beautiful Swiss countryside on your journey to Zurich, and the train station is located within walking distance of the Old Town, making it easy to explore the markets at your own pace.
5 Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is known for its vibrant and bustling Christmas markets, which offer a mix of traditional Belgian treats and modern holiday decorations The main market is set up in the Grand-Place, the city’s central square, where visitors can admire the stunning architecture and lights Arriving by train allows you to take in the beautiful Belgian countryside on your journey to Brussels, and the train station is conveniently located near the Grand-Place, making it easy to explore the markets and the city’s other attractions.
6 Budapest, Hungary
Budapest’s Christmas markets offer a mix of traditional Hungarian crafts and international holiday gifts, set against the backdrop of the city’s stunning architecture The main market is held in Vorosmarty Square, where visitors can enjoy live music and traditional Hungarian foods Arriving by train allows you to take in the beautiful Hungarian countryside on your journey to Budapest, and the train station is conveniently located near the city center, making it easy to explore the markets and the rest of the city.
Traveling by train to these magical Christmas markets adds an extra layer of enchantment to an already unforgettable experience Whether you’re sipping mulled wine in Vienna or browsing crafts in Strasbourg, arriving by train allows you to relax and enjoy the journey while taking in the beautiful winter scenery So hop aboard and experience the magic of Christmas in the most charming way possible – by train!