Top Christmas Markets
Christmas markets are popping up all over Europe this year, making it tricky to decide where to head for mulled wine, festive snacks and a stroll through beautifully lit cobbled streets. So that you don't get crippled by choice, we've listed details of the top three Christmas markets to head for this year, all of which can be reached by train.
Christmas markets in Vienna Far more than just a Christmas market pulls people to Vienna over Advent and Christmas. The city oozes winter charm; classical music and carol concerts are often free for all, Vienna's dramatic churches are adorned with nativity displays and the scent of roasted chestnuts fill the streets. The main Christmas market is a celebration of Advent, in front of City Hall, however there are plenty of others throughout the city including the traditional Viennese Market on Freyung and infront of the St Charles Borromeo. If you tire of shopping and grazing at the markets then Rathauspark comes alive at this time of year with decorated trees, pony rides, winter sculptures and other winter wonderland attractions. >> Vienna's Christmas markets are open from 13th November to 26th December. See our Plan Your Journey by train to Vienna for itineraries and booking information.
Christmas markets in Cologne Cologne is arguably the leader of the pack when it comes to the original Christmas market experience. It is home to no less than seven unique markets, all with their own theme and speciality, as the names would suggest; 'Home of the gnomes' ( in the Old Town), 'Angels Market' ( on Neumarkt) and 'Fiarytale Christmas Market' (at Rudolfplatz). Arts and crafts are plentiful, as is street food of German and more exotic origin and, of course, Gluhwein and beer. Whilst there make sure you head for the ship “MS Wappen von Köln”, which not only gives you a superb view of Christmas lights reflected in the Rhine but also houses over 40 market stalls and evening entertainment. >> Cologne's Christmas market is open from 21st November to 24th December. For a tailer made trip by train see Cologne Christmas Market Holiday or check out our Plan Your Journey to Cologne by train.
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