As the holiday season approaches, Christmas markets begin to pop up all around the world, drawing visitors with their festive decorations, delicious food, and unique artisan crafts One of the best ways to experience these markets is by train, allowing you to sit back, relax, and watch the winter scenery pass by as you journey from market to market Here are some of the best Christmas markets to visit by train:
1 Strasbourg, France:
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg boasts one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe Hop on the train and make your way to this charming city to wander the narrow cobblestone streets lined with wooden chalets selling everything from ornaments to mulled wine Don’t miss the spectacular Cathedral Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, which serves as a stunning backdrop to the market.
2 Vienna, Austria:
Vienna is home to several Christmas markets, each with its own unique charm Take a scenic train ride to this imperial city and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit at the famous Rathausplatz market, where you can ice skate in front of City Hall or browse the stalls for handmade gifts and traditional Austrian treats Be sure to sample some hot chestnuts or a slice of delicious Sachertorte while you’re there.
3 Cologne, Germany:
Cologne is a Christmas market lover’s dream, with multiple markets scattered throughout the city Board a train and head to this picturesque German town to experience the magic of the Cologne Cathedral market, held in the shadows of the city’s iconic cathedral Stroll through the market’s twinkling lights and enjoy a mug of Glühwein as you peruse the handmade crafts and festive decorations.
4 Basel, Switzerland:
For a truly unique Christmas market experience, catch a train to the charming Swiss city of Basel Set against the backdrop of the Rhine River, Basel’s Christmas market is a treasure trove of handcrafted goods, local delicacies, and holiday cheer Browse the stalls for one-of-a-kind gifts, then take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank to soak in the festive atmosphere.
5 best christmas markets by train. London, England:
London is home to a plethora of Christmas markets, each offering something different for visitors to enjoy Jump on a train to this bustling metropolis and head to the Southbank Centre Winter Market, where you can shop for artisan goods, dine on street food, and take a spin on the vintage carousel Don’t miss the iconic Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, which features a sprawling market, ice skating rink, and thrilling rides.
6 Budapest, Hungary:
Budapest is a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with festive markets popping up all over the city Travel by train to this enchanting Hungarian capital and make your way to the traditional Christmas market in Vorosmarty Square, where you can sample authentic Hungarian dishes like kürtőskalács (chimney cake) and lángos (fried dough) Be sure to take a dip in one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths to warm up after a day of shopping and sightseeing.
7 Prague, Czech Republic:
Prague’s Christmas markets are a sight to behold, with the city’s historic Old Town Square transformed into a winter wonderland Hop on a train and make your way to the Czech capital to wander the market stalls, sip on hot mead, and feast on traditional Czech fare like klobása (sausage) and trdelník (sweet pastry) Don’t forget to visit the stunning Prague Castle for sweeping views of the city’s twinkling lights.
8 Brussels, Belgium:
Brussels is home to one of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe, set against the backdrop of the stunning Grand-Place Take a train to the Belgian capital and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere as you sample local delicacies like waffles and chocolate while browsing the market stalls for unique gifts Be sure to visit the spectacular Winter Wonders light show for a dazzling display of holiday cheer.
Traveling by train to these best Christmas markets offers a convenient and stress-free way to experience the magic of the holiday season So pack your bags, hop on board, and get ready to explore these festive destinations by train Merry Christmas and happy travels!