All Aboard: Best Christmas Markets By Train

As the holiday season approaches, many people across Europe and beyond are beginning to make plans for visiting some of the continent’s most magical Christmas markets And what better way to immerse yourself in the festive spirit than by traveling to these markets by train?

Traveling by train not only adds to the charm and nostalgia of the holiday season, but it also allows you to relax and take in the stunning winter scenery along the way From bustling cities to quaint villages, here are some of the best Christmas markets in Europe that you can reach by train:

1 **Strasbourg, France**
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg hosts one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe The market is spread out across the city center, with hundreds of stalls selling everything from traditional Alsatian crafts to delicious treats like mulled wine and gingerbread You can easily reach Strasbourg by train from Paris, making it a perfect day trip for those staying in the French capital.

2 **Cologne, Germany**
Cologne’s Christmas market is one of the largest in Germany, with several different markets scattered throughout the city The most famous of these is the market in front of the imposing Cologne Cathedral, where you can browse through handcrafted gifts, enjoy a warm mug of glühwein, and marvel at the twinkling lights Cologne is easily accessible by train from major cities like Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich.

3 **Vienna, Austria**
Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt is a feast for the senses, with the scent of roasted chestnuts and the sound of carolers filling the air The market is set against the backdrop of the stunning Rathaus (City Hall), creating a picturesque winter wonderland Vienna is well connected by train to cities across Europe, making it a popular destination for Christmas market enthusiasts.

4 **Bruges, Belgium**
Bruges is already known for its fairy-tale charm, and during the Christmas season, it becomes even more enchanting The city’s medieval squares and cobbled streets are transformed into a magical winter wonderland, with ice skating rinks, festive decorations, and a bustling Christmas market Bruges is easily reachable by train from major cities like Brussels and Antwerp.

5 best christmas markets by train. **Budapest, Hungary**
Budapest’s Christmas market is one of the most picturesque in Europe, set against the backdrop of the stunning St Stephen’s Basilica Here you can shop for unique gifts, sample Hungarian specialties like kürtőskalács (chimney cake), and enjoy traditional folk music and dance performances Budapest is well connected by train to neighboring countries like Austria and Slovakia.

6 **Salzburg, Austria**
Salzburg’s Christmas market is a truly magical experience, with the snow-covered Alps providing a stunning backdrop The market is held in several locations throughout the city, each offering a unique atmosphere and an array of festive delights Salzburg is easily accessible by train from major cities like Vienna and Munich.

7 **Edinburgh, Scotland**
Edinburgh’s Christmas market is a highlight of the city’s winter festivities, with attractions like a Ferris wheel, an ice rink, and a traditional German market The market is held in the heart of the city, in Princes Street Gardens, making it a convenient stop for visitors exploring Edinburgh’s historic sites Edinburgh is well connected by train to cities across the UK.

8 **Zurich, Switzerland**
Zurich’s Christmas market is a feast for the senses, with the scent of mulled wine and the sound of carolers filling the air The market is held in several locations throughout the city, each offering a unique atmosphere and an array of festive delights Zurich is easily accessible by train from major cities in Switzerland and neighboring countries.

Traveling to these magical Christmas markets by train not only adds to the festive experience, but also allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the winter scenery along the way So why not hop on board and embark on a magical holiday adventure to some of Europe’s best Christmas markets? Merry Christmas and happy travels!