All Aboard The Festive Fun: Great Rail Christmas Markets
As the holiday season approaches, many people are already looking forward to all the joy and cheer that comes with Christmas markets. These markets are great ways to get into the festive spirit, with colorful lights, delicious treats, and unique gifts for everyone on your list. And what better way to experience the magic of the season than by visiting some of the best Christmas markets in Europe by train? Great Rail offers a variety of holiday-themed rail tours that take you to some of the most magical Christmas markets on the continent. Here are just a few of the great rail christmas markets you can visit this holiday season.
Vienna, Austria
Known as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. The Christmas markets in Vienna are a sight to behold, with beautifully decorated stalls selling everything from handmade ornaments to traditional Austrian treats like mulled wine and gingerbread. The most famous of these markets is the Vienna Christmas Market in front of the City Hall, where you can ice skate on a large rink, listen to carolers, and shop for unique gifts. Another must-visit market is the Christmas Village at Belvedere Palace, where you can browse through artisanal crafts and enjoy the stunning backdrop of the palace.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg, often referred to as the “Capital of Christmas,” is home to one of the oldest and most charming Christmas markets in Europe. The market in Strasbourg dates back to 1570 and features hundreds of stalls selling handmade ornaments, local delicacies, and festive decorations. The entire city is illuminated with twinkling lights, and the scent of cinnamon and spices fills the air. Visitors can stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, admire the impressive cathedral, and sip on hot chocolate while taking in the festive atmosphere. The Strasbourg Christmas market truly captures the magic of the season.
Cologne, Germany
Cologne is another city that goes all out for Christmas, with several markets spread throughout the city. The most famous of these is the Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market, located in the shadow of the stunning cathedral. This market is known for its towering Christmas tree, festive music, and traditional German foods like bratwurst and stollen. Visitors can also explore the Old Town Christmas Market, where they can watch artisans at work, sample local beers, and pick up unique gifts. The markets in Cologne are a great place to experience the holiday traditions of Germany.
Bruges, Belgium
Bruges is a picturesque medieval town that becomes even more magical during the holiday season. The Christmas market in Bruges takes place in the city’s historic square, surrounded by beautiful architecture and charming canals. Stalls selling handmade crafts, Belgian chocolates, and mulled wine line the cobbled streets, creating a festive atmosphere. Visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city, sample delicious Belgian treats like waffles and speculoos cookies, and shop for unique gifts at the market. Bruges is the perfect destination for a cozy Christmas getaway.
These are just a few of the great rail christmas markets you can visit this holiday season. Whether you’re looking for traditional decorations, delicious treats, or unique gifts, these markets have something for everyone. So why not hop on a train and experience the magic of Christmas in some of the most charming cities in Europe? Great Rail offers a variety of holiday-themed rail tours that will take you to these markets and more. Don’t miss out on the festive fun – book your Christmas market rail tour today!