The holiday season is a magical time of year, filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the nostalgic scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit is by visiting a Christmas market, where you can shop for unique gifts, indulge in delicious treats, and soak in the festive atmosphere.
While many cities around the world host their own Christmas markets, some of the most enchanting ones are located in Europe. And what better way to experience these magical markets than by taking a scenic train ride through the snowy countryside? Traveling by train adds an extra layer of charm to your holiday adventure, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the breathtaking views as you make your way to your destination.
Here are some of the best Christmas markets in Europe that you can easily reach by train:
1. Strasbourg, France
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg boasts one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe. The city comes alive during the holiday season, with thousands of twinkling lights, festive decorations, and a giant Christmas tree towering over the market square. The market is spread out across 11 different locations throughout the city, each offering its own unique charm. From handcrafted ornaments and local delicacies to ice skating rinks and carol singers, there is something for everyone to enjoy at the Strasbourg Christmas market.
To reach Strasbourg by train, you can take the high-speed TGV from Paris, which will get you there in just under 2 hours.
2. Vienna, Austria
Vienna is another city renowned for its stunning Christmas markets, with over 20 different markets scattered throughout the city. From the elegant market in front of the City Hall to the charming market at Schönbrunn Palace, each market has its own special atmosphere and offerings. Visitors can sample traditional Austrian treats like gingerbread cookies and roasted chestnuts, shop for handcrafted gifts and decorations, and enjoy live music and entertainment.
To reach Vienna by train, you can take the EuroCity or Railjet trains from cities like Munich, Budapest, or Prague.
3. Cologne, Germany
Cologne is home to several Christmas markets, the most famous of which is the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market. Set against the backdrop of the towering cathedral, this market is a feast for the senses, with the scent of cinnamon and cloves filling the air and the sound of Christmas carols drifting through the crowd. Visitors can browse stalls selling everything from wooden toys to hand-painted ornaments, and sample traditional German treats like bratwurst, glühwein, and stollen.
To reach Cologne by train, you can take the Thalys or ICE trains from cities like Amsterdam, Brussels, or Frankfurt.
4. Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich’s Christmas markets are a feast for the eyes, with the city’s historic old town transformed into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The main market at Zurich Hauptbahnhof features over 150 stalls selling handmade gifts, decorations, and seasonal treats. Visitors can also explore the market at Bellevue by the lake, where they can enjoy stunning views of the city and sample Swiss specialties like raclette and fondue.
To reach Zurich by train, you can take the Intercity or EuroCity trains from cities like Basel, Milan, or Munich.
5. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels’ Winter Wonders Christmas market is one of the largest in Europe, stretching across the city center and featuring over 200 wooden chalets selling a variety of gifts and treats. The market is also home to a giant Ferris wheel, an ice skating rink, and a sound and light show at the Grand-Place. Visitors can warm up with a cup of hot chocolate or glühwein and sample Belgian delights like waffles and speculoos cookies.
To reach Brussels by train, you can take the Thalys or Eurostar trains from cities like Paris, London, or Amsterdam.
Traveling by train to these magical Christmas markets allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey, while also reducing your carbon footprint and avoiding the stress of holiday traffic. So why not hop on a train this holiday season and explore the enchanting markets of Europe? best christmas markets by train.