The holiday season is fast approaching, and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by visiting some of the best Christmas markets across Europe. And what better way to travel to these enchanting markets than by train? Train travel not only offers a scenic journey through snow-capped landscapes but also provides a hassle-free and sustainable way to reach your destination. So grab your mittens and a cup of hot cocoa, and let’s embark on a magical journey to some of the best christmas markets by train.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna, the capital city of Austria, is home to one of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe. The Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is a feast for the senses, with the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine filling the air, while twinkling lights and festive decorations create a winter wonderland atmosphere. To reach Vienna, you can take a scenic train ride from neighboring countries such as Germany or Switzerland, or even travel by the luxurious Orient Express for a truly memorable experience.
Strasbourg, France
Known as the “Capital of Christmas”, Strasbourg in France boasts the oldest and most famous Christmas market in Europe. The market takes place in the city’s historic center, with hundreds of stalls selling handmade ornaments, gourmet treats, and traditional Alsatian crafts. To get to Strasbourg, you can take a high-speed TGV train from Paris, which will whisk you away to this enchanting destination in just under two hours.
Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg is home to Germany’s most famous Christmas market, dating back to the 16th century. The Christkindlesmarkt is a feast for the senses, with the scent of gingerbread and mulled wine wafting through the air, while the sound of carolers fills the cobblestone streets. To reach Nuremberg, you can take a direct train from major cities such as Munich or Frankfurt, with the journey taking just a few hours.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens Christmas Market is a true winter wonderland, with an array of festive decorations, twinkling lights, and traditional Danish treats. Take a train from neighboring cities such as Hamburg or Berlin to reach this magical market in just a few hours. Once you arrive, be sure to take a spin on the vintage carousel, sample some traditional Danish pastries, and shop for unique gifts at the charming stalls.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest’s Vorosmarty Square Christmas Market is a true hidden gem, with a cozy atmosphere and a wide variety of handcrafted goods and local delicacies. To reach Budapest, you can take a train from major cities such as Vienna or Bratislava, with the journey offering stunning views of the Danube River and the Hungarian countryside.
Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is home to one of the most picturesque Christmas markets in Europe, set against the backdrop of the historic Grand-Place. The market features over 200 stalls selling everything from handmade gifts to gourmet treats, as well as an ice skating rink and a giant Christmas tree. To reach Brussels, you can take a high-speed Thalys train from cities like Paris or Amsterdam, with the journey taking just over an hour.
Salzburg, Austria
Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is a truly magical destination during the holiday season. The city’s Christkindlmarkt takes place in the shadow of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, with traditional wooden stalls selling handmade ornaments, festive treats, and local crafts. To reach Salzburg, you can take a scenic train ride from cities like Munich or Vienna, with the journey offering stunning views of the snow-capped Alps.
Innsbruck, Austria
Innsbruck’s Old Town Christmas Market is a fairy-tale destination, with charming stalls selling handmade gifts, traditional Tyrolean treats, and mulled wine. To reach Innsbruck, you can take a train from major cities such as Munich or Zurich, with the journey offering scenic views of the Austrian Alps and the River Inn.
Stockholm, Sweden
Stockholm’s Old Town Christmas Market is a true winter wonderland, with a cozy atmosphere and a wide variety of gifts, decorations, and delicious Swedish treats. To reach Stockholm, you can take a train from neighboring cities such as Oslo or Copenhagen, with the journey offering stunning views of the Swedish countryside and the picturesque archipelago.
So this holiday season, why not skip the stress of driving and opt for a magical journey by train to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe? Whether you’re sipping mulled wine in Vienna, shopping for handcrafted gifts in Strasbourg, or ice skating in Brussels, traveling by train is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit and create lasting memories. Happy travels and Merry Christmas!