There is something magical about the holiday season, especially when it comes to visiting Christmas markets These bustling and festive markets offer a unique shopping experience, with rows of wooden stalls selling handmade crafts, traditional foods, and warm glühwein And what better way to immerse yourself in the holiday spirit than by arriving at these markets by train? As you journey through picturesque landscapes and quaint villages, you’ll be transported to a winter wonderland straight out of a storybook Here are some of the best Christmas markets in Europe that you can visit by train.
1 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is home to one of the most famous and beautiful Christmas markets in Europe The city’s multiple markets are spread out throughout the Old Town, but the largest and most popular one is located right outside the iconic Cologne Cathedral From the moment you step off the train, you’ll be greeted by the scent of roasting chestnuts and the sounds of festive music Don’t miss the opportunity to sample traditional German treats like stollen and bratwurst while browsing the stalls for unique gifts and decorations.
2 Vienna, Austria
Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with countless Christmas markets popping up around the city One of the most enchanting markets is the Christkindlmarkt in front of the City Hall, where you can ice skate on a picturesque rink and admire the dazzling light displays Take a scenic train ride through the Austrian countryside to Vienna and prepare to be enchanted by the magical atmosphere of this historic city.
3 Strasbourg, France
As one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe, Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik has been delighting visitors for centuries The market is held in the city’s stunning Old Town, with its picturesque half-timbered houses and cobbled streets adding to the festive charm Arriving by train allows you to soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Alsace region before immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and scents of the market Be sure to try the local specialties like vin chaud and bretzels while exploring the various stalls.
4 Brussels, Belgium
Brussels is known for its extravagant Christmas market, which takes over the historic Grand-Place every winter The market features over 200 chalets selling everything from Belgian chocolates to artisanal crafts best christmas markets by train. Arriving by train lets you bypass the holiday traffic and arrive right in the heart of the city, where you can marvel at the majestic Town Hall and the spectacular sound and light show Be sure to try the local delicacy of moules-frites and pick up some unique gifts for your loved ones back home.
5 Salzburg, Austria
Nestled in the foothills of the Alps, Salzburg is a picture-perfect destination for a Christmas market getaway The city’s charming markets are set against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains and historic buildings, creating a truly magical atmosphere Arriving by train allows you to enjoy the scenic journey through the Austrian countryside before arriving at Salzburg’s Hauptbahnhof, just a short walk from the markets Don’t miss the chance to try the traditional glühwein and admire the handmade ornaments crafted by local artisans.
6 Dresden, Germany
Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest and most traditional Christmas markets in Germany, dating back to the 15th century The market is known for its iconic Christmas pyramid and giant stollen cake, which are both must-see attractions Arriving by train lets you experience the beauty of the Elbe River and the historic architecture of Dresden before immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere of the market Be sure to sample the local delicacies like grilled bratwurst and gingerbread while shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts.
7 Budapest, Hungary
Budapest’s Christmas markets are a hidden gem in Eastern Europe, offering a more affordable and less crowded alternative to some of the larger markets The markets are held in various locations around the city, with the one in Vorosmarty Square being the most popular Arriving by train allows you to take in the beauty of the Danube River and the historic architecture of Budapest before heading to the markets to shop for handmade crafts and traditional Hungarian treats Don’t miss the chance to try the local specialty of kürtőskalács, a sweet and crispy chimney cake.
Traveling by train to these enchanting Christmas markets is not only a convenient and stress-free way to reach your destination, but it also adds an extra layer of magic to your holiday experience Whether you’re sipping mulled wine in the shadow of a centuries-old cathedral or shopping for handcrafted ornaments in a historic town square, arriving by train allows you to fully immerse yourself in the festive spirit of the season So grab your scarf and mittens, hop on board, and get ready to explore some of the best Christmas markets Europe has to offer.