Traveling by train is one of the most comfortable, scenic, and family-friendly ways to explore the continent during the festive season. If you’re planning a magical winter trip with your children, discovering the best train routes to Christmas markets in Europe can make the journey part of the experience itself.
Whether you’re wandering through Vienna, exploring Prague, enjoying vibrant Berlin, discovering charming Copenhagen, or soaking up the atmosphere in Budapest, Europe’s rail network connects these cities beautifully — perfect for families who want ease and adventure rolled into one.
Why Train Travel Works for Families in Winter
European trains are well-heated, spacious, and often have family compartments or play areas, making them ideal for parents traveling with kids. You skip airport lines, enjoy flexible luggage allowances, and can arrive right in the city center, just steps away from the Christmas markets. Scenic rail routes across Central Europe add a sense of adventure, especially when snow covers the countryside.
Key Train Routes to Christmas Markets in Europe
Below are some of the best train routes to Christmas markets in Europe, connecting the most magical festive destinations while keeping travel practical and family-friendly.
Vienna ↔ Prague
This popular route connects two of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Trains between Vienna and Prague take about 4 hours, with modern carriages, scenic countryside, and onboard dining cars. Both cities are walkable, full of cultural sights, and famous for their enchanting markets.
- Why families love it: No airport transfers, easy booking, and comfortable seats with views.
- Pro tip: Book window seats and bring snacks to make it a cozy family journey.
Berlin ↔ Prague
The Berlin–Prague line offers a classic scenic journey through river valleys and forests, lasting around 4½ hours. Both cities host spectacular markets and have excellent public transport.
- Why families love it: Kids enjoy watching the changing scenery, and both stations are centrally located, saving time.
- Bonus: Deutsche Bahn trains often have family zones and table seating.
Copenhagen ↔ Hamburg ↔ Berlin
This is a longer route but a memorable one. Traveling from Copenhagen to Berlin involves crossing over the Øresund Bridge and passing through Hamburg, often with one easy train change. Total travel time is roughly 7–8 hours.
- Why families love it: It’s a scenic adventure — kids will love the bridge crossing and different landscapes.
- Tip: Break the journey overnight in Hamburg for a more relaxed pace.
Budapest ↔ Vienna
This short but beautiful route takes just 2½ hours, making it perfect for families. Budapest’s thermal baths and Vienna’s palaces create a wonderfully varied winter itinerary, and the train connects city centers directly.
- Why families love it: It’s fast, easy, and affordable — ideal for families exploring multiple cities in one trip.
- Bonus: Frequent departures give flexibility for morning or afternoon travel.
Berlin ↔ Dresden
One of Germany’s classic holiday routes. The Berlin–Dresden train takes about 2 hours and leads directly to Dresden’s Striezelmarkt, one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe.
- Why families love it: Short, scenic, and leads straight into a market wonderland — a perfect day or overnight trip.
- Tip: Reserve seats in advance during the festive period; this route is popular with locals too.
Family Travel Tips for European Trains
- Book early: Many popular routes offer discounted fares for advance bookings.
- Reserve seats: Especially important for families — you’ll want to sit together.
- Pack light snacks and activities: Even short journeys feel smoother when kids are entertained.
- Use station lockers: Many stations have luggage storage if you want to explore before hotel check-in.
- Travel in daylight: Scenic winter landscapes are part of the magic.
Why These Routes Are Ideal for Christmas Market Trips
What makes these the best train routes to Christmas markets in Europe is their combination of convenience, atmosphere, and family appeal. Unlike flights, trains arrive in the heart of the cities — usually just minutes away from the festive squares. The journeys themselves are often part of the adventure, whether you’re crossing snowy bridges into Copenhagen or rolling through the Austrian countryside toward Vienna.
✨ Add Festive Magic to Your Journey
Turn your train adventure into an unforgettable holiday experience with guided tours, family activities, and special festive excursions in Europe’s most beautiful cities. It’s the perfect way to make the most of every stop along the way.
✨ Keep Planning Your Festive Adventure
Continue building your perfect European Christmas itinerary with these essential guides:
- Top 5 Christmas Markets in Europe to Visit with Kids in 2025
- Best Family Winter City Breaks in Europe
- What to Pack for European Christmas Markets with Kids
