The holiday season is upon us, and that means it’s time to start planning your Christmas market shopping trips There’s something magical about wandering through the stalls filled with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and delicious treats One of the best ways to experience these markets is by train, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful scenery as you travel to your destination Here are five of the best Christmas markets to explore by train.
1 Strasbourg, France
Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg is home to one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe The market dates back to 1570 and takes place in the city’s historic center, which is easily accessible by train The train ride to Strasbourg offers stunning views of the French countryside, adding to the holiday magic Once you arrive, you can explore the market’s over 300 stalls selling everything from handmade ornaments to local delicacies like foie gras and mulled wine Don’t miss the city’s Christmas tree, which stands tall in Place Kléber and is beautifully illuminated each night.
2 Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg is another must-visit destination for Christmas market enthusiasts, and getting there by train is a breeze The city’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of the oldest in Germany, dating back to the 16th century The market is held in the city’s main square and features traditional wooden stalls selling toys, ornaments, and delicious gingerbread cookies known as lebkuchen You can also catch a train to the nearby town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which hosts a charming medieval Christmas market that feels like stepping back in time.
3 Innsbruck, Austria
Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck is a picturesque destination for a Christmas market getaway best christmas markets by train. The city’s Old Town transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with twinkling lights and snow-capped mountains providing the perfect backdrop The Innsbruck Christmas market is known for its handmade crafts, like wooden toys and ornaments, as well as traditional Austrian treats like schnitzel and strudel You can easily reach Innsbruck by train from major cities like Vienna and Salzburg, making it a convenient and scenic journey.
4 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is home to multiple Christmas markets, each offering its own unique atmosphere and attractions The most famous market is held in front of the city’s stunning cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site The market features over 150 stalls selling crafts, decorations, and foodie delights like bratwurst and glühwein Cologne is well-connected by train, with high-speed services from cities like Frankfurt and Amsterdam, making it a popular choice for a festive day trip or weekend getaway.
5 Edinburgh, Scotland
For a Christmas market experience with a Scottish twist, head to Edinburgh’s Princes Street Gardens The market is set against the backdrop of the city’s historic castle, creating a truly magical setting Stroll through the markets’ traditional wooden stalls selling Scottish souvenirs, handmade crafts, and local treats like haggis and whiskey Getting to Edinburgh by train is easy, with regular services from London and other major cities in the UK, so you can sit back and enjoy the scenic journey through the Scottish countryside.
In conclusion, exploring Christmas markets by train is a magical way to experience the festive season From the traditional markets of Germany to the picturesque squares of France and Austria, there are endless opportunities to shop, eat, and soak up the holiday spirit So why not hop on a train and embark on a Christmas market adventure this year?