Five flight-free Christmas markets to travel to this year
Snow is falling, the mulled wine is brewing, children are playing, and everyone has a smile on their faces, which can only mean one thing: it’s Christmas.
Whether you’re looking for a white Christmas or simply need a break from work after a long year, nothing says ‘festive’ more than a nip of frosty air and the sound of carols drifting through the street while you meander through a Christmas market.
Even better, you can get to some of the most famous markets in Europe without getting yourself stuck in airport queues or in an uncomfortable seat breathing in jet fuel.
Instead, choose to travel flight-free and watch the city lights fly past your window as you enjoy a seasonal trip away, Polar-Express style.
Here are five Christmas markets that you can take the train to now:
Strasbourg
In less than five hours from London you can be browsing the 300 wooden chalets at France's oldest Christmas market.
Simply hop on the Eurostar to Paris and take a two-hour transfer across France for some festive fun, à la Français.
2. Frankfurt
Take in the towering Christmas tree, enjoy spiced festive treats and revel in the history of a Christmas market whose life spans six centuries.
Head to Brussels on the Eurostar and then it’s a four-hour train to Frankfurt. There’s also a coach option from Brussels if you have more time, and want to save a bit of cash.
3. Brussels
No transfers, no airport taxis and no fuss: get in the festive spirit pronto with this Belgian Christmas market.
It’s a two-hour trip from London to Brussels, and the train drops you off in the centre of town, a twenty-five minute walk from the Market. Bon voyage!
4. Edinburgh
Who says you need to leave the UK for a top Christmas experience?
Arrive on 29th December to catch the Hogmanay Torchlight Procession through the streets of the picturesque Scottish capital. Trains and coaches run to Edinburgh from across the UK.
5. Amsterdam
Amsterdam boasts not just one but multiple Christmas markets, so you’ll be spoilt for choice. For extra sustainability points after your low-carbon journey, check out the ethically sourced coffee, vegan snacks and handmade soaps at the Sustainable Christmas Market in De Ceuval.
You might even bump into our very own team member Sally on the train! Eurostar runs direct trains to Amsterdam from London.
Want to get extra time off work for flight-free travel? Tell your employer about our Climate Perks scheme or contact Sarah at sarah.howden@wearepossible.org and we’ll help you make the case.
