This holiday season, you can hit all the best Christmas markets via train.
Rail Europe makes it possible to visit multiple countries sustainably
Just a few days out from November 1st, if you haven’t at least started planning your holiday travels, you’re late. I am always late—November is pretty much booked out for me, but I still have no idea where I’ll be or what I’ll be doing mid to end of December.
If you’re still wondering where to go next month (will you need plane tickets or a rental car, hotels and/or a cute little log cabin in the woods someplace where it snows?), maybe you should consider train travel. I’ve traveled a bit via train on the West Coast and in Europe and Japan, and it’s always a solid option when you want to see and hear and feel all of the things (I also love traveling with a good book in case I get tired of staring out the window, which happens infrequently, but it does happen).
This December, take the scenic route, allowing you to hit all the best Christmas markets in Europe when you opt for sustainable travel via Rail Europe, which sounds like an actual dream. Read on for 5 of the best Christmas/holiday markets you can experience when you travel Europe via train this December.
With an extensive rail network, connecting major European cities and Christmas market destinations seamlessly, Rail Europe allows travelers to hop from one destination to another, while simultaneously relaxing and experiencing some of the most breathtaking views and landscapes along the way.
Europe's Top 5 Christmas Markets to experience this holiday season (which are all easily accessible when you’re traveling on the train):
Strasbourg, France
Known as the Capital of Christmas, Strasbourg’s market offers a charming blend of Alsatian traditions and festive delights. One of the coolest things here is that you’ll get a big taste of Franco-German culture, which includes traditional foods, wines and more.
Cologne, Germany
Cologne's Christmas market, set against the backdrop of the stunning Cologne Cathedral, is a treasure trove of handmade crafts and delightful treats. The market runs from the 23rd of November to the 23rd of December in Germany’s fourth largest city.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt transports visitors to a winter wonderland with its classical music, dazzling lights, and exquisite crafts. Great food is abundant here as is some of the best shopping. You can experience this magical market from the 11th of November to the 26th of December.
Rome, Italy
The Eternal City's Christmas markets are a delightful fusion of ancient traditions and modern festivities, offering a wide array of Italian delicacies, handicrafts, and seasonal entertainment. Visit this market between December 1st and January 6th.
Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona's Christmas market in Plaza de Catalunya captures the city's vibrant spirit with colorful stalls, traditional Catalan products, and joyful celebrations. If you’re looking for somewhere a bit warmer to get into the holiday spirit, Barcelona is a perfect option. The market takes places from the 24th of November through the 23rd of December and is kid friendly; there’s something for everyone here!