The holiday season is fast approaching and one of the most magical ways to celebrate is by visiting a Christmas market These markets are filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts While there are many Christmas markets to choose from all over the world, some of the best ones can be easily accessed by train Here are some of the top Christmas markets you can visit by train.
1 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is home to one of the most famous Christmas markets in Europe The Cologne Christmas Market is set against the stunning backdrop of the city’s iconic cathedral and features over 160 wooden booths selling everything from handmade crafts to traditional German treats The market is easily accessible by train, with regular services from cities like Frankfurt, Brussels, and Amsterdam.
2 Vienna, Austria
Vienna is known for its stunning architecture and rich history, and during the holiday season, it becomes even more magical The Viennese Christmas Market at Rathausplatz is one of the oldest and most traditional markets in the city, featuring over 150 stalls selling handmade gifts and delicious treats Traveling to Vienna by train is a great way to take in the beautiful scenery along the way.
3 Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is often referred to as the capital of Christmas, and for good reason The city’s Christmas market is one of the oldest in Europe and features over 300 stalls spread out across the city center Visitors can wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, marvel at the towering Christmas tree, and sample regional specialties like bredele cookies and vin chaud Strasbourg is easily accessible by train from cities like Paris and Frankfurt.
4 Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is home to one of the most picturesque Christmas markets in Europe The Winter Wonders market takes over the city center, with over 200 chalets selling everything from handmade ornaments to Belgian chocolate Traveling to Brussels by train is a great way to avoid traffic and parking hassles, and you can enjoy beautiful views of the Belgian countryside along the way.
5 Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is a city that truly comes alive during the holiday season The Christmas markets in the Hungarian capital are set against the backdrop of historic landmarks like St Stephen’s Basilica and Buda Castle, creating a magical atmosphere Visitors can shop for handmade gifts, sample traditional Hungarian dishes, and even ice skate on a rink in front of the city’s iconic Parliament building Traveling to Budapest by train is a convenient way to reach the city and take in the beautiful scenery along the Danube River.
6 best christmas markets by train. Edinburgh, Scotland
The Edinburgh Christmas Market is a festive wonderland set against the backdrop of the city’s historic buildings and cobblestone streets The market features over 100 stalls selling everything from handmade gifts to Scottish whisky, and visitors can enjoy ice skating, carnival rides, and live entertainment Traveling to Edinburgh by train is a convenient option, with regular services from cities like London and Glasgow.
7 Vienna, Austria
Vienna is known for its stunning architecture and rich history, and during the holiday season, it becomes even more magical The Viennese Christmas Market at Rathausplatz is one of the oldest and most traditional markets in the city, featuring over 150 stalls selling handmade gifts and delicious treats Traveling to Vienna by train is a great way to take in the beautiful scenery along the way.
8 Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany The market dates back to the 16th century and features over 180 stalls selling everything from wooden toys to gingerbread cookies Visitors can also watch the official opening ceremony, featuring the Christkind angel, who is the market’s symbolic figure Traveling to Nuremberg by train is a convenient option, with regular services from cities like Munich and Frankfurt.
9 Zurich, Switzerland
Zurich is known for its luxury shopping and beautiful lakeside setting, and during the holiday season, it becomes even more enchanting The Zurich Christmas Market is set against the backdrop of the city’s historic Old Town and features over 150 stalls selling handmade gifts and gourmet treats Visitors can also enjoy the city’s famous Christmas lights and decorations, creating a magical atmosphere Traveling to Zurich by train is a convenient option, with regular services from cities like Geneva and Bern.
10 London, England
London is home to some of the most festive Christmas markets in the world The Winter Wonderland market in Hyde Park features over 200 stalls selling everything from handmade gifts to festive food and drink Visitors can also enjoy ice skating, circus performances, and a giant observation wheel Traveling to London by train is a great way to avoid traffic and parking hassles, and you can enjoy beautiful views of the English countryside along the way.
In conclusion, visiting a Christmas market by train is a magical way to celebrate the holiday season Whether you’re looking for handmade gifts, delicious treats, or simply want to soak up the festive atmosphere, these top Christmas markets are easily accessible by train and offer something for everyone So why not hop on a train and embark on a magical journey to one of these enchanting Christmas markets?