The festive season is a special time of year when we come together to celebrate, gift-giving, and spreading joy One of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit is by visiting the enchanting Christmas markets that pop up all around Europe Imagine wandering through cobblestone streets adorned with twinkling lights, sipping on mulled wine, and shopping for unique handmade gifts But why not take your Christmas market experience to the next level by embarking on a great rail journey to some of the most magical markets in Europe?
Great rail journeys offer a unique way to travel that combines the convenience of train travel with the luxury of exploring multiple destinations without the hassle of driving or navigating airports By taking a great rail journey to visit Christmas markets, you can relax and enjoy the beautiful winter scenery while traveling in style Here are some of the top Christmas markets in Europe that you can visit on a great rail journey:
1 Vienna, Austria
Vienna is known for its elegant Christmas markets that offer a mix of traditional crafts, delicious treats, and festive entertainment Take a great rail journey to Vienna and explore the markets in front of the stunning Schönbrunn Palace or at the romantic Belvedere Palace Sample some roasted chestnuts, admire the handmade ornaments, and enjoy a classic Viennese Christmas concert to get into the holiday spirit.
2 Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is home to one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe, the Christkindelsmärik Take a great rail journey to Strasbourg and wander through the medieval streets of the Old Town to discover over 300 chalets selling everything from decorations to local Alsatian delicacies Don’t miss the stunning Christmas tree in Place Kléber, which is one of the tallest in Europe.
3 Cologne, Germany
Cologne is a city that truly comes alive during the Christmas season, with several markets scattered throughout the city Take a great rail journey to Cologne and visit the largest Christmas market at the Cologne Cathedral, where you can shop for handcrafted gifts, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and try the local specialty, mulled wine with a shot of rum great rail journeys christmas markets. Don’t forget to explore the Christmas market on the Alter Markt for a more traditional experience.
4 Budapest, Hungary
Budapest’s Christmas markets are a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of Eastern European traditions and festive cheer Take a great rail journey to Budapest and visit the market in Vörösmarty Square, where you can shop for handmade gifts, enjoy live music, and indulge in Hungarian treats like kürtőskalács (chimney cake) and mulled wine Make sure to explore the beautifully decorated streets of Budapest while you’re there.
5 Edinburgh, Scotland
If you’re looking for a magical Christmas market closer to home, consider taking a great rail journey to Edinburgh The Scottish capital transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with the famous Edinburgh Christmas Market setting up shop in Princes Street Gardens Browse the stalls for unique gifts, take a spin on the ice rink, and warm up with a cup of hot chocolate as you soak in the festive atmosphere.
6 Basel, Switzerland
Basel’s Christmas market is a fairy tale come to life, with the historic Old Town serving as a backdrop for the festivities Take a great rail journey to Basel and explore the market at Barfüsserplatz, where you can shop for handcrafted gifts, marvel at the twinkling lights, and enjoy the delicious Swiss cuisine on offer Don’t miss the beautiful Christmas lights that adorn the streets of Basel during the holiday season.
Overall, embarking on a great rail journey to visit Christmas markets in Europe is a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday season in style Whether you choose to explore the charming markets in Vienna, Strasbourg, Cologne, Budapest, Edinburgh, or Basel, you’re sure to be swept up in the magic of the season So why not make this Christmas unforgettable by combining the joy of train travel with the charm of Christmas markets? Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime on a great rail journey to explore the best Christmas markets in Europe.