The holiday season is upon us once again, and there’s no better way to get into the festive spirit than by visiting some of the most magical Christmas markets in Europe. While many people choose to fly to their destination, there’s something extra special about taking a scenic train journey to these winter wonderlands. Not only is it a more environmentally friendly way to travel, but it also allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful snowy landscapes whizzing by outside your window. So why not hop on board the festive express and explore some of Europe’s best christmas markets by train?
One of the most famous Christmas markets in Europe can be found in the charming city of Strasbourg, France. Known as the “Capital of Christmas”, Strasbourg’s market dates back to 1570 and is one of the oldest in Europe. The city’s historic center is transformed into a winter wonderland, with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts filling the air. To get there by train, you can take the high-speed TGV from Paris, which will whisk you away to Strasbourg in just under two hours. Once you arrive, you can wander through the market’s hundreds of stalls selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to traditional Alsatian treats.
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path Christmas market experience, consider heading to the Czech Republic’s picturesque capital, Prague. The city’s Old Town Square is home to one of the most beautiful markets in Europe, with its stunning Gothic architecture serving as a backdrop to the festive festivities. To get there by train, you can take the EuroCity train from cities like Vienna or Berlin, which will take you right into the heart of Prague. Once you arrive, you can explore the market’s wooden huts selling handmade gifts, sample traditional Czech treats like trdelník (a sweet pastry), and even skate on the city’s famous outdoor ice rink.
For a truly unique Christmas market experience, consider visiting the snow-covered town of Rovaniemi in Finnish Lapland. Known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi’s market is a winter wonderland straight out of a fairytale. To get there by train, you can take the Arctic Circle train from Helsinki, which will take you on a scenic journey through Finland’s snowy countryside before arriving in Rovaniemi. Once you arrive, you can visit Santa’s official post office, take a husky sled ride through the snow-covered forests, and of course, meet the man himself at his magical grotto.
Closer to home, the German city of Nuremberg hosts one of the most famous Christmas markets in the world. Dating back to the 16th century, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt is a traditional market that draws in visitors from near and far. To get there by train, you can take the ICE high-speed train from cities like Munich or Frankfurt, which will take you to Nuremberg in just a few hours. Once you arrive, you can wander through the market’s festively decorated stalls, sample traditional German treats like Nuremberg sausages and gingerbread, and marvel at the city’s iconic Christmas pyramid.
No matter which Christmas market you choose to visit, traveling by train is a magical way to experience the holiday season in Europe. Not only is it a more sustainable mode of transport, but it also allows you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey as much as the destination. So this holiday season, why not hop on board the festive express and explore some of Europe’s most magical christmas markets by train?