The holiday season is upon us, and that means Christmas markets are popping up all over Europe These festive markets offer a magical experience for both locals and tourists alike, with twinkling lights, delicious food, handmade crafts, and a warm atmosphere that captures the spirit of the season One of the best ways to visit these markets is by train, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the journey while taking in the beautiful winter scenery Here are some of the best Christmas markets to visit by train.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is home to one of the most famous Christmas markets in Europe, held in front of the City Hall in Rathausplatz The market features over 150 stalls selling everything from handmade ornaments to traditional Austrian treats like strudel and roasted chestnuts Visitors can also enjoy ice skating on the outdoor rink or listen to carolers singing festive tunes To get to Vienna, you can take a train from major European cities like Munich or Budapest, arriving at the Wien Hauptbahnhof station.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is known as the “Capital of Christmas,” and its Christmas market is one of the oldest and most traditional in Europe Set against the backdrop of the city’s stunning cathedral, the market features over 300 stalls selling crafts, ornaments, and local Alsatian treats like mulled wine and gingerbread The city is easily accessible by train, with regular services running from Paris, Frankfurt, and Zurich to the Gare de Strasbourg station.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Tivoli Gardens in Copenhagen transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season, with its own Christmas market featuring festive decorations, a giant Christmas tree, and over 60 stalls selling handmade gifts and Nordic treats Visitors can also enjoy ice skating, rides on the vintage carousel, and performances by local musicians To reach Copenhagen, you can take a train from major European cities like Hamburg or Stockholm, arriving at the Copenhagen Central station.
Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous Christmas markets in Germany, dating back to the 16th century best christmas markets by train. The market is known for its traditional wooden stalls selling handmade ornaments, toys, and local specialties like Nuremberg sausages and gingerbread Visitors can also watch the ceremonial opening of the market by the Christkind, a traditional Christmas figure Nuremberg is well connected by train, with regular services running from Munich, Frankfurt, and Berlin to the Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof station.
Zurich, Switzerland
The Christmas market in Zurich’s Old Town is a charming affair, with over 150 stalls selling handmade gifts, decorations, and Swiss delicacies like raclette and fondue Visitors can also enjoy ice skating on the rink in front of the Opera House or take a scenic boat ride on Lake Zurich To reach Zurich, you can take a train from major European cities like Milan or Munich, arriving at the Zurich Hauptbahnhof station.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a picturesque medieval town that comes alive during the Christmas season with its festive market held in the Grote Markt square The market features over 80 stalls selling handmade crafts, Belgian chocolates, and mulled wine Visitors can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride around the historic city center or climb the Belfry tower for stunning views of the market below Bruges is easily accessible by train, with regular services running from Brussels, Ghent, and Antwerp to the Brugge station.
Traveling to Christmas markets by train is not only convenient but also adds to the festive experience, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey while taking in the winter scenery Whether you’re looking for traditional crafts, delicious treats, or simply want to soak up the holiday atmosphere, these Christmas markets offer something for everyone So hop on a train and embark on a magical journey to some of the best Christmas markets in Europe this holiday season.