As the holiday season approaches, many people are eager to experience the magic of Christmas in different cities around the world One of the best ways to soak up the festive atmosphere is by visiting Christmas markets These markets are a staple in European cities and offer a wide range of activities, food, and gifts to enjoy While many people choose to fly to their destination, traveling by train can be a unique and charming experience that adds to the overall holiday spirit Here are some of the best Christmas markets to visit by train.
1 Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, located in the Alsace region of France, is known as the “Capital of Christmas” and for good reason The city’s Christmas market dates back to 1570, making it one of the oldest and most traditional markets in Europe Visitors can explore the market’s hundreds of stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, toys, and local delicacies The entire city transforms into a winter wonderland, with dazzling light displays, festive decorations, and a giant Christmas tree at the center of Place Kléber Traveling to Strasbourg by train allows you to soak in the picturesque French countryside before arriving at this enchanting destination.
2 Vienna, Austria
Vienna, the elegant capital of Austria, is a dream destination for Christmas enthusiasts The city’s Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is a must-visit, featuring over 150 stalls selling everything from classic Austrian treats like strudel and glühwein to intricate handmade decorations The market is set against the backdrop of the stunning Vienna City Hall, which is beautifully lit up for the occasion Traveling to Vienna by train offers a scenic journey through the Austrian Alps, providing the perfect prelude to the enchanting Christmas market experience that awaits.
3 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is home to several Christmas markets that collectively form the Cologne Christmas Market The most popular market is held in the city’s historic Old Town, next to the towering Cologne Cathedral Visitors can browse through rows of festive stalls selling traditional German crafts, seasonal snacks, and mulled wine A ride on the Cologne Christmas Market Express train takes you through the city’s charming streets and provides a unique perspective on the holiday festivities Traveling to Cologne by train allows you to witness the stunning architecture and picturesque landscapes of Germany along the way.
4 best christmas markets by train. Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is another city that comes alive during the holiday season with its Winter Wonders event The Place Sainte-Catherine Christmas market is a highlight, featuring a dazzling display of lights, an ice skating rink, and a Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the city Visitors can indulge in Belgian delicacies like waffles, chocolates, and steaming cups of spiced wine while browsing through the market’s charming stalls Traveling to Brussels by train offers a convenient and comfortable way to reach the heart of the city and start exploring the festive attractions.
5 Innsbruck, Austria
Innsbruck, nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, is a picturesque destination for a Christmas market getaway The city’s Old Town transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with the famous Golden Roof covered in twinkling lights and decorations The Christkindlmarkt in front of the Innsbruck Cathedral features an array of stalls selling handcrafted gifts, regional specialties, and festive treats Traveling to Innsbruck by train takes you through stunning mountain scenery, setting the mood for a magical Christmas market experience upon arrival.
6 Colmar, France
Colmar, a fairytale-like town in the Alsace region of France, is home to one of the most charming Christmas markets in the country The market’s location in the historic Petite Venise district adds to its enchanting ambiance, with colorful half-timbered houses and quaint canals creating a magical backdrop Visitors can wander through the stalls selling artisanal crafts, local wines, and Alsatian treats like bredele cookies Traveling to Colmar by train offers a scenic route through the rolling hills and vineyards of Alsace, making it a delightful journey to kick off the holiday celebrations.
7 Prague, Czech Republic
Prague’s Christmas markets are a sight to behold, set against the backdrop of the city’s historic Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square The markets feature traditional Czech handicrafts, Christmas decorations, and hearty Czech comfort food like sausages and pastries Visitors can also enjoy performances by carol singers and local musicians, adding to the festive atmosphere Traveling to Prague by train allows you to admire the beautiful Czech countryside before stepping into the magical world of the city’s Christmas markets.
Overall, visiting Christmas markets by train offers a unique and memorable way to experience the holiday season in different cities across Europe Whether you’re drawn to the festive lights, traditional treats, or handmade gifts, these markets provide a magical backdrop for celebrating Christmas So why not hop on a train and embark on a holiday adventure to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe this year?