The holiday season is upon us, and what better way to get into the festive spirit than by visiting some of the best Christmas markets in Europe by train? Traveling by train offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the magical Christmas markets that pop up in cities and towns across the continent From sipping mulled wine to admiring twinkling lights, here are some of the top Christmas markets that are easily accessible by train.
1 Vienna, Austria
Vienna is known for its stunning architecture, rich history, and beautiful Christmas markets The city’s main Christmas market is held in front of the breathtaking Rathaus (City Hall) and features over 150 stalls selling gifts, decorations, and traditional Austrian treats Take a train to Vienna and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere as you stroll through the market, listening to carolers and enjoying a cup of hot chocolate.
2 Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is home to one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe The market in Strasbourg dates back to 1570 and takes place in the city’s historic Old Town Explore the market’s stalls selling handmade crafts, decorations, and delicious Alsatian treats like gingerbread and mulled wine Travel to Strasbourg by train and be transported back in time as you wander through the charming streets decked out in twinkling lights.
3 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is a bustling city known for its stunning cathedral and vibrant Christmas markets The city hosts several markets, with the most popular one located in front of the iconic Cologne Cathedral Take a train to Cologne and marvel at the impressive Gothic architecture of the cathedral before diving into the festive market atmosphere Sample local specialties like stollen (a traditional Christmas bread) and bratwurst as you shop for unique gifts and decorations.
4 Edinburgh, Scotland
Edinburgh is a magical destination year-round, but it truly comes alive during the Christmas season The city’s Christmas market is held in the picturesque Princes Street Gardens and offers a mix of Scottish and international goods Travel to Edinburgh by train and soak up the holiday spirit as you browse the stalls, ride the carousel, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top of the Big Wheel.
5 best christmas markets by train. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a hidden gem in Eastern Europe and boasts a stunning Christmas market in Vorosmarty Square The market features over 100 stalls selling handmade crafts, traditional Hungarian foods, and unique gifts Take a train to Budapest and explore the city’s festive charm as you sample chimney cakes, sip hot wine, and admire the twinkling lights that illuminate the square.
6 Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is home to one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, set against the backdrop of the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site The market features over 200 stalls selling everything from Belgian chocolates to handcrafted gifts Travel to Brussels by train and marvel at the stunning architecture of the Grand Place before wandering through the market and indulging in delicious waffles and beer.
7 Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is a picturesque city that comes alive during the Christmas season The city’s main Christmas market is held in the historic Old Town and features traditional Austrian crafts, music, and food Take a train to Salzburg and experience the magic of the season as you explore the market, attend a concert, and marvel at the festive decorations that adorn the city’s streets.
8 Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen is a fairy-tale destination with a festive Christmas market held in the historic Tivoli Gardens The market offers a mix of traditional Nordic gifts, treats, and decorations, all set against the backdrop of the park’s twinkling lights and festive decorations Travel to Copenhagen by train and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as you stroll through the market, ride the vintage carousel, and warm up with a cup of glögg (mulled wine).
Visiting Christmas markets by train is not only convenient but also allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the stunning winter scenery as you make your way to these magical destinations Whether you’re looking for unique gifts, delicious treats, or simply want to soak up the festive atmosphere, traveling by train to some of Europe’s best Christmas markets is sure to be a magical experience So pack your bags, hop on a train, and get ready to create unforgettable holiday memories at these enchanting markets