The holiday season is fast approaching, and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by visiting a Christmas market From twinkling lights to delicious treats and unique gifts, Christmas markets offer a magical experience for all ages And what better way to travel to these enchanting markets than by train? With the convenience of train travel, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic journey to some of the best Christmas markets across Europe Here are some of the best Christmas markets that you can easily access 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 dates back to 1570 and features over 300 stalls, selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to regional delicacies like mulled wine and gingerbread Take a train ride to Strasbourg and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of this charming French city.
2 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is another must-visit destination for Christmas market enthusiasts The city boasts several Christmas markets, with the most famous one located at the foot of the magnificent Cologne Cathedral Hop on a train to Cologne and explore the festive stalls, indulge in traditional German treats like bratwurst and stollen, and marvel at the stunning lights and decorations that adorn the market.
3 Vienna, Austria
Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with its numerous Christmas markets offering something for everyone From the elegant markets at Schönbrunn Palace to the artisanal crafts market at Belvedere Palace, Vienna’s Christmas markets are a feast for the senses Take a scenic train journey to Vienna and experience the magic of the Austrian capital during the most wonderful time of the year.
4 Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is home to some of the most picturesque Christmas markets in Europe, with the Grand-Place market being the centerpiece of the festive celebrations Enjoy a train ride to Brussels and explore the market’s wooden chalets, sip on hot chocolate, and marvel at the stunning sound and light show that illuminates the historic buildings of Grand-Place.
5 Zurich, Switzerland
For a taste of Swiss Christmas magic, take a train to Zurich and visit the city’s enchanting Christmas markets From the traditional market at Zurich’s Main Train Station to the charming market at the Old Town, Zurich’s Christmas markets offer a mix of Swiss traditions and international flair Sample Swiss delicacies like raclette and fondue, shop for handmade gifts, and soak in the festive ambiance of this beautiful Swiss city.
6 Budapest, Hungary
Budapest’s Christmas markets are a hidden gem in Eastern Europe, with the market at Vörösmarty Square being one of the most popular in the region best christmas markets by train. Take a train to Budapest and wander through the market’s festive stalls, where you can find unique handicrafts, traditional Hungarian treats, and live music performances Don’t forget to warm up with a cup of mulled wine or pálinka, a traditional Hungarian fruit brandy.
7 Edinburgh, Scotland
Scotland’s capital city comes alive during the holiday season, with its famous Christmas market at East Princes Street Gardens attracting visitors from near and far Travel to Edinburgh by train and explore the market’s Scottish-themed stalls, enjoy live entertainment, and take a spin on the charming carousel Be sure to also check out the nearby ice rink and festive attractions that make Edinburgh a magical destination for Christmas celebrations.
8 Lille, France
Just a short train ride from Paris, Lille’s Christmas market offers a festive escape in the heart of northern France Stroll through the market’s twinkling lights, sample regional specialties like tartiflette and waffles, and browse the artisanal crafts on display With its charming atmosphere and convenient location, Lille is a perfect choice for a Christmas market getaway by train.
9 Innsbruck, Austria
Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck is a picturesque setting for a winter wonderland Travel to Innsbruck by train and experience the city’s enchanting Christmas markets, where you can shop for handmade ornaments, savor traditional Tyrolean dishes, and admire the sparkling lights that adorn the historic buildings Don’t miss the famous Golden Roof market, located in the heart of Innsbruck’s old town.
10 Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen’s Christmas markets are a festive delight, with the Tivoli Gardens market being the most iconic in the city Take a train to Copenhagen and step into a fairy-tale world of twinkling lights, cozy stalls, and festive entertainment Explore the market’s Nordic-themed decorations, enjoy Danish pastries and gløgg (mulled wine), and soak in the holiday spirit that fills the air in Copenhagen.
Traveling by train to these best Christmas markets in Europe offers a convenient and scenic way to experience the magic of the holiday season Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts, sampling delicious treats, or simply soaking in the festive atmosphere, these Christmas markets are sure to enchant visitors of all ages So hop on board and embark on a magical journey to some of Europe’s most charming and picturesque Christmas markets this holiday season