Exploring Europe’s Christmas markets by train in 2026-2027 is one of the most magical and convenient ways to experience the festive season, especially if you want to avoid renting a car and dealing with parking hassles. Below, I’m sharing six Christmas market itineraries inspired by my past travels, each a personal favorite that captures the joy, charm, and wonder of Christmas in Europe.
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2026–2027 Christmas Markets in Europe by train
As someone who loves the European Christmas atmosphere, I’ve made it a tradition to travel somewhere new each December for years. In this post, I’m sharing my personal experiences and recommendations for planning a festive European getaway using trains only, with itineraries that combine several Christmas destinations without the need to rent a car. From France, Germany, and Austria to Spain and Switzerland, these are the routes and places I’ve explored over the past few years, along with tips to help you plan your own magical Christmas market adventure.
While you can crisscross Europe by train, not every route is equally convenient. For instance, travelling from Paris to Prague takes around 13 hours by rail, compared with just 1 hour and 40 minutes by plane. That’s why, when planning my European Christmas getaways, I always started by choosing a well-connected central city to fly into and then explored nearby Christmas markets within a comfortable two-hour train ride. This approach allowed me to combine several festive destinations without spending too much time travelling between them.
Each of these itineraries was originally a 4–5 day trip, but you can easily combine a few – or even all of them – into one extended holiday adventure. Europe’s major cities are incredibly well linked by rail, which makes hopping between markets not just doable, but a scenic part of the experience.
I mostly spent one day in each of the cities listed in this guide (with the exception of Vienna, where I stayed longer to soak it all in). To help with your own planning, I’ve included links to each market’s official 2026-2027 schedule so you can decide where you might want to linger a bit more.
Pro Tip: You can find and compare the best deals via Omio, which is the platform I personally use for train tickets in Europe.
My Top 5 European Christmas Markets Itineraries for 2026/2027
1. Basel – Colmar – Strasbourg – Mulhouse
Basel Christmas Markets
On one of my recent December getaways, I found budget-friendly ticket offer to Basel, and it seemed like the perfect opportunity to combine Swiss Christmas markets with a visit to the famous Alsace region in France.
Basel’s central Christmas market is one of the largest in Switzerland. While I wouldn’t personally call it the prettiest, its unique charm lies in Basel’s geographical location, right on the border with both France and Germany.
Find the best train ticket deals to and from Basel here.
Where to stay in Basel: GAIA Hotel
Check out Christmas markets and events in Basel here.
Colmar Christmas Markets
From Basel, I took a train to visit the Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Colmar. It’s the same train line, with Colmar being closer than Strasbourg. In this post, you can read more about my experience in Colmar and the unexpected railway incident I encountered in France.
Although not common, it’s a situation worth being prepared for when planning to visit European Christmas markets by train.
Where to stay in Colmar: Un Petit Vintage
Check out Christmas markets and events in Colmar here.
Strasbourg Christmas Markets
Strasbourg, often referred to as the Capital of Christmas, is home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. Depending on your travel dates, Strasbourg might even be a better option than Colmar, especially closer to Christmas when Colmar becomes quite crowded.
While Strasbourg also gets busy, being a larger city, it doesn’t feel as overwhelming to walk around. We traveled in early December and were able to enjoy Colmar’s fairytale ambiance, so, personally I found Colmar’s charm even more magical than Strasbourg’s (although Strasbourg is stunning too).
Where to stay in Strasbourg: Hotel Rohan
Check out Christmas markets and events in Strasbourg here.
Mulhouse Christmas Markets
Another lesser-known destination to consider is Mulhouse, a small French town just a 30-minute train ride from Basel. It has a charming Christmas market and is a great alternative if you’re looking to avoid the more crowded spots.
Alternatively, Freiburg, located in Germany’s Black Forest region, is another excellent option. About an hour from Basel by train, Freiburg’s Christmas market provides a cozy, inviting atmosphere, perfect for trying hot wine and enjoying the famous Black Forest cake.
Where to stay in Mulhouse: La Maison Hôtel
Check out Christmas markets and events in Mulhouse here.
2. Munich – Nuremberg – Rothenburg ob der Tauber
Christmas markets in Munich
While Munich is one of the most important cities in Germany and home to some of the oldest and most iconic Christmas markets in the country, I would mainly recommend it as a base due to its excellent travel connections to other German cities and the rest of Europe. However, the Marienplatz Christmas Market, which dates back to the 14th century, is an absolute must-visit. It’s the perfect place to buy handmade crafts and try both Glühwein (mulled wine) and Lebkuchen (gingerbread).
Find the best train ticket deals to and from Munich here.
Where to stay in Munich: Bayerischer Hof
Check out Christmas markets and events in Munich here.
Christmas markets in Nuremberg
From Munich, you can easily take a train (approximately 1.5 hours) to Nuremberg, famous for its world-renowned Christmas market, which often appears on lists of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the world. This market is known for its ornate red-and-white stalls and traditional foods like Nuremberg bratwurst and Glühwein.
Where to stay in Nuremberg: Park Plaza
Check out Christmas markets and events in Nuremberg here.
Christmas markets in Rothenburg ob der Tauber
The medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber (about 2.5 hours from Nuremberg) left me with the most vivid and Christmassy memories of my time in Germany. Rothenburg is like stepping into a holiday fairy tale. In the photo below, you can see one of the charming local shops – it’s hard to imagine how anyone could make themselves leave such a place! Even spending just one day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber will allow you to experience all the magic that makes this town so special.
Where to stay in Rothenburg ob der Tauber: Gästehaus Edelzimmer
Check out Christmas markets and events in Rothenburg ob der Tauber here.
Other Christmas markets near Munich to visit by train
Augsburg Christmas market is just a short 45-minute train ride from Munich and is also one of the oldest in Germany. Alternatively, Regensburg Christmas Market is about an hour and a half from Munich. During one of my visits to Regensburg, I attended a Sunday church service to listen to a local choir, a suggestion from a local friend, and I absolutely loved the experience.
Where to stay in Augsburg: Boutique Rooms
Check out Christmas markets and events in Augsburg here.
3. Vienna – Salzburg – Graz and Linz
Christmas Markets in Vienna
Vienna is one of my favorite Christmas destinations in Europe. As the capital of Austria, it is one of the best places to explore Christmas markets across the country by train. On my last visit, we spent 3 days in Vienna, as its vast sightseeing options went beyond just the Christmas agenda. Vienna in December gets crowded, but it is still an epic place to visit. The Rathausplatz market is the most legendary place in the city over the holidays.
Find the best train ticket deals to and from Vienna here.
Where to stay in Vienna: Hotel Sans Souci
Check out Christmas markets and events in Vienna here.
Christmas Markets in Salzburg
Just within a 2.5-hour train ride from Vienna, you can visit Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace and home to one of the most charming European Christmas markets. The Salzburg Christkindlmarkt, set against the backdrop of the Hohensalzburg Fortress, is a truly dream destination to include in any December itinerary.
Where to stay in Salzburg: Altstadt Hotel Stadtkrug
Check out Christmas markets and events in Salzburg here.
Graz and Linz Christmas Markets
Other Austrian Christmas markets that can be visited by train from Vienna are in Graz and Linz. Though not as famous as Salzburg, these destinations are well worth a day trip or a weekend getaway. Linz is just 1.5 hours from Vienna by train and is known for its lovely market at the Hauptplatz, surrounded by baroque buildings. Don’t miss their famous Linzer Torte, a delicious pastry available during the festive season. Graz Christmas Market is a bit farther, about a 2.5-hour train ride from Vienna, but this town also offers several delightful Christmas markets.
Where to stay in Linz: Hotel Schwarzer Bär
Check out 2025 Christmas markets and events in Linz here.
4. Zurich – Lucerne – Bern
Christmas markets in Zurich
Zurich is a great base for any Swiss holiday adventure, with elegant Christmas markets that can be easily combined with sightseeing in the city. The Christkindlimarkt inside Zurich train station is one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe, famous for its towering Swarovski tree. However, I personally enjoyed the Wienachtsdorf Christmas Market at Sechseläutenplatz more, with its charming atmosphere, local crafts, and delicious Swiss comfort foods, like fondue.
Find the best train ticket deals to and from Zurich here.
Where to stay in Zurich: Alden Splügenschloss
Check out Christmas markets and events in Zurich here.
Christmas markets in Lucerne
Around an hour from Zurich by train, you’ll find Lucerne, one of my personal favorites. The city’s charming medieval architecture creates a picture-perfect setting for a Christmas break in Europe. Switzerland is a bit less touristy than its famous neighbors, Germany and France, particularly outside of the big cities.
Lucerne is, without a doubt, one of the most picture-perfect cities in all of Switzerland, renowned for its crystal-clear lake dotted with swans, charming architecture, and Christmas markets set against the stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Where to stay in Lucerne: Hotel des Balances
Check out Christmas markets and events in Lucerne here.
Christmas markets in Bern
About an hour by train from Zurich, Bern’s Christmas market is set in the UNESCO-listed old town. The Waisenhausplatz market features plenty of handmade crafts, while the Münsterplatz market is perfect for enjoying local food and mulled wine. Another great alternative to visit in Switzerland by train is Montreux. Just over 2 hours from Zurich, Montreux offers a beautiful lakeside Christmas market, where the backdrop of Lake Geneva and the Alps enhances the enchanting atmosphere.
Where to stay in Bern: Hotel Waldhorn
Check out Christmas markets and events in Bern here.
5. Cologne – Dusseldorf – Bonn
Christmas Markets in Cologne
Cologne’s Christmas markets are some of the most beautiful in Germany, and they completely exceeded my expectations. The Cathedral Christmas Market is iconic, set against the backdrop of the stunning Gothic Cologne Cathedral, one of the tallest religious buildings in Europe. There are also several other markets to explore in the city, including the maritime-themed Harbour Christmas Market and the cozy Angel’s Market at Neumarkt.
I never expected Cologne would make it to my list of all-time favorite Christmas destinations in Europe – truth be told, I never really considered it a Christmas destination at all. But those magical fairy-tale markets, with the little train circulating between them, changed my mind. At first glance, Cologne might not seem as charming as Rothenburg ob der Tauber or some of the smaller villages in Germany. However, the glorious lights of Kölner Dom, sparkling cruise boats on the Rhine River, and the abundance of Christmas-inspired activities and events all come together to make Cologne one of the coolest places to experience a magical Christmas in Europe.
Find the best train ticket deals to and from Cologne here.
Where to stay in Cologne: The Midtown Hotel
Check out Christmas markets and events in Cologne here.
Christmas Markets in Dusseldorf
From Cologne, it’s extremely easy to hop on a train for the 30-minute journey to Düsseldorf, with trains running frequently. Düsseldorf also has several charming Christmas markets spread across the city. The market at Marktplatz, in front of the town hall, is the most picturesque, while the one on Königsallee offers high-end shopping alongside festive stalls.
You can also visit the Aussichtsturm (tower) for panoramic views, which can be especially beautiful with the city covered in snow. (Although during our last trip to Düsseldorf in December, it was raining, snowfall in winter is quite common.) Also, with so many trains running between Düsseldorf and Cologne, we accidentally got on the wrong one (ours was delayed by 10 minutes), and we were fined. So, keep in mind that Germany is strict about its rules, and being a tourist won’t excuse you if you board the wrong train or seat. If in doubt, it’s always better to ask the staff for directions.
Where to stay in Dusseldorf: Leonardo Royal Hotel
Check out Christmas markets and events in Dusseldorf here.
Christmas Markets in Bonn
Only 30 minutes by train from Cologne, you can visit the charming and less crowded Christmas markets of Bonn. The main market stretches from Münsterplatz to Friedensplatz, featuring plenty of delicious food stalls and festive activities. Another great option is the Aachen Christmas Market, located just under an hour from Cologne. This German town is famous for its unique market set around the cathedral and town hall, as well as Aachener Printen, the city’s traditional gingerbread.
Where to stay in Bonn: Beethoven Hotel Dreesen
Check out Christmas markets and events in Bonn here.
6. Barcelona – Madrid – Malaga
Having lived in Spain for more than 15 years, I have always said that the country loses out to northern Europe when it comes to traditional Christmas charm. However, the milder weather, delicious food, and the way Spaniards embrace the festive season might make all the difference for many travelers. Christmas in Spain has its own personality, with spectacular light displays, lively streets, seasonal treats, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the festivities outdoors.
Christmas Markets in Madrid
Madrid is probably the most popular destination for Spaniards looking to admire Christmas decorations and soak up the festive atmosphere. You can get a glimpse of the city’s Christmas magic and events in this post.
Christmas Markets in Malaga
Malaga, on the other hand, has become one of the most popular Christmas destinations among international visitors, thanks to its spectacular light displays and lively festive atmosphere. You can see more photos from my visit in this post, along with all the information you need about this year’s Christmas markets and events.
Christmas Markets in Barcelona
Barcelona is another popular option for a Christmas getaway in Spain, especially if you already love the city and want to experience it at a different time of year. While Barcelona in December is not my absolute favorite Christmas destination, the city is still beautiful and offers plenty of festive charm. You can find this season’s Barcelona Christmas map here.
More Christmas Destinations to Combine with Spain’s Top Cities
What makes Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga such a practical combination for a Christmas getaway is their high-speed train connections (you can find and compare the best deals via Omio).
Both Barcelona and Malaga are connected to Madrid by affordable high-speed rail services, making it possible to explore all three cities without renting a car. However, the journey between Madrid and Malaga still takes around three hours each way, so I would recommend spending at least two days in each city.
Torrejon de Ardoz from Madrid
If you have extra time, you can also add a few Christmas-themed day trips to your itinerary. From Madrid, you can take the train to Torrejon de Ardoz to visit its popular Christmas park, which is particularly appealing to families with children.
You can check out the gallery from my visit here. As I mentioned, I loved the ice sculptures but enjoyed the park itself less. My kids, however, absolutely loved it, so I think it deserves a mention despite my personal preferences!
PortAventura World & Andorra from Barcelona
From Barcelona, PortAventura World is another festive option, with Christmas decorations, seasonal performances, and Santa’s house. It is especially worth considering if you are traveling with kids. We recently visited during Halloween and loved it, so now my daughters are already asking to go back in December! You can visit PortAventura World from Barcelona on an organized day tour or travel independently by train to PortAventura(Salou).
For something a little different, you could also plan a winter day trip or weekend getaway from Barcelona to Andorra, in the Pyrenees. However, this option is only practical if you join an organized tour or rent a car in Barcelona, as there is no direct train connection to Andorra. You can read all the details in this post, or check out this one if you are traveling as a couple.
Alongside Christmas markets and Santa-themed attractions, you can enjoy snowy mountain scenery that feels worlds away from the bustling city streets. As you probably know by now, I love the Pyrenees in winter, and combining them with city Christmas markets makes for such a well-rounded European Christmas itinerary!
Christmas day trips from Malaga (+Algarve)
Finally, if you are looking for Christmas markets and festive day trips from Malaga, you can easily visit several cities in southern Spain, including Cordoba, Seville, and Granada. However, personally, I would consider these more worthwhile as cultural destinations you can enjoy year-round rather than places to visit specifically for their Christmas atmosphere. Still, they are great options if you prefer to travel by train and avoid renting a car.
Last December, during our family road trip through southern Spain, we combined Malaga with the Algarve in Portugal. I found this to be a particularly good option for families with children, as Portuguese Christmas markets turned out to be surprisingly more child-friendly than many of those we visited in Spain. You can read more about our experience in this post.
If you are thinking of extending your Spanish Christmas getaway into Portugal, I would definitely consider the Algarve.
We found driving around this region surprisingly comfortable compared with many other European destinations during the busy Christmas season. There were no parking problems, traffic jams, or icy roads to worry about, which are precisely the reasons I usually prefer not to rent a car when exploring Europe in December.
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For more tips on holiday travel my Pinterest Boards Winter Travel Destinations and Travel to Spain.
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This post is linked up with The Weekly Postcard
I’ve never been to any of these places but they look so cute and perfect for Christmas holidays!
Merry Christmas!
Thanks Violette! Merry Christmas!
I completely agree with each one of these destinations, Anna. I would love to spend Christmas in Vienna as it was astonishing in spring. Excellent post!
Thanks Agness! Always great to hear from you!
Great! I love it!
Thanks, Mary Maria!
You definitely know the very best spots! I agree especially to Colmar – I have been there several times and still like it!
Have wonderful and happy holidays!
xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
Thanks for stopping by, Rena! I´d love to visit Colmar in summer, it must be extremely beautiful as well!
Looks pretty there! I love the Christmas vibes.
Thanks for stopping by, Courtney!
oooh Yes I heard that Germany is glorious for Christmas! Maybe I’ll add it to my Christmas list for next year!
-DIdier
Germany is a perfect place for the lovers of Christmas markets! Thanks for stopping by!
so beautiful places! I hope you had a wonderful Christmas! 🙂
xoxo, rae
Thanks, Rae! Happy Holidays to you as well!
It looks so pretty and christmassy I definitely will put Switzerland to my wishlist!
Switzerland is such a fairytale county for the winter season! Thanks for stopping by!
Now I want to visit all these places too! haahhaha
Andrea//
I know the feeling lol Thanks for stopping by, Andrea!
I think I am partial to Austria but all the other places look lovely too.
Happy new year, Anna!
Thank you, Deeptha! Happy Holidays to you as well!
Thank you 🙂
That picture of Rothenburg ob der Tauber is always so misleading! I know that it’s the Kathy Wohlfahrt Christmas store but every time I see it I always think oooh how pretty but then remember it’s the store! Never considered Lucerne for a Christmas Market town! Thanks for linking up with #TheWeeklyPostcard! Happy New Year!
I know [lol] but what a shop ?! And it looks so normal from the outside, loved this tiny city anyway! Happy New Year!
First, I have to say I really love this snowing thing you’ve got going on the blog, Anna! It’s so festive! I haven’t been to that many Christmas markets but from what I’ve seen, Germany does appear to be the place to go 😉 I’ve been to the one in Zurich (reportedly the largest indoor Christmas market in the world) which was pretty awesome. Not least because it was indoors, therefore not as cold!!
Thanks, Michelle! I have holidays without snow every year, here in Spain, so creating some festive mood for myself never hurts! [lol] I´ve been to that one in Zurich as well, indoors was a huge benefit with the Swiss weather!
I haven’t been to any of those during Christmas and I really want to go to all of them. I really love Europe during Christmas and am already excited for next year. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard
Thanks for stopping by, Anisa! Europe looks lovely for the winter holidays!
Thanks for these great suggestions, Anna. I really miss Europe around Christmas time. It’s so charming there in December. I’m hoping next year I’ll be able to take a 3-weeks vacation and head that way. I’d love to see Colmar and Cologne, since the other cities on your list I have already visited. Wishing you a happy New Year and safe travels in 2018. #TheWeeklyPostcard
Thanks, Anda! Happy New Year to you as well!
Colmar is high on our list even when it’s not Christmas time! This is a great list – we’d be ecstatic to get to any of these cities during the holidays. Thanks for sharing with us on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Thanks Rob and Ann, I´d love to visit Colmar in summer as well!
I’ve never been to any of these places but they all look so magical with the lights! While we have the lights at Christmas time here in Australia it’s very different with the heat of summer, haha!
Happy new year. Hope that this first week of 2018 went well for you and you’re having a good weekend. We’re having a quiet weekend here.
Away From The Blue Blog
These places look stunning! x
Very interesting! Love and surprised that Colmar is there – but as it should!
I always thought to go see these markets by car, but it’s a great idea to talk about how to connect them by train! really nice post, I enjoyed reading it !
Great post!!! Oh my goodness does it ever make me excited to visit the Christmas markets in Europe this year. Wonderful tips!
I’m heading the Zurich soon and can’t wait to see the Swarovski tree!
I´m planning my next winter trip and this guide of the best Christmas markets in Europe by train has helped me so much!