See Europe’s Christmas markets by rail
Candlelight stalls piled high with hand-made gifts, local foods, wine in beautiful packaging, and traditional decorations to add to your collection. What better excuse could you have for enjoying one of these seasonal short breaks by train?
But our guided rail tours to the Christmas Markets offer much more than a quick shopping trip. Many British Christmas traditions originated in mainland Europe, such as Christmas trees and advent calendars, not to mention some of our favourite carols. In the face ofincreasing commercialism, a few days away on our Christmas Markets holidays by train enjoying age-old customs in an enchanting setting is a wonderful way to re-discover the true meaning of Christmas.
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Historic cities, quaint riverside towns and festive Christmas markets
Since the days of Lord Byron the British have been visiting the Rhine, charmed by its riverside castles and vineyards. Our ship navigates the father of German rivers, visiting an array of Christmas Markets en route.
Departures from November to December
Explore the Christmas markets of Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands
Compare the lights, sounds and smells of Christmas Markets in three different countries: Belgium's largest, Liège; joyful Aachen in Germany and Valkenburg's unique grotto markets in Holland.
Departures from November to December
Historic steam railways and York's Christmas markets
Based in the spa town of Harrogate, experience the Christmas Markets in York, enjoy two vintage steam rail journeys with a festive theme and visit the historic house of Castle Howard in its full Christmas glory.
Departures from November to December
Experience of the myriad of absorbing sights
As the cultural hub of the North West, Manchester boasts a myriad of absorbing sights, along with eight fantastic Christmas Markets. The city also serves as a great base for our exciting excursions in the local area.
Departures from November to November
Cathedral and Christmas markets outside your door
Sample the sights and sounds of Cologne and Bonn's festive markets from the historic 5-star Dom Hotel. Enjoy a warming glühwein on the hotel's balcony overlooking the cathedral and markets of Roncalliplatz.
Departures from December to December
Rhineland Christmas Markets Cruise 2012
Three Countries Christmas Markets 2012
Yorkshire Christmas Market 2012
Manchester Christmas Markets 2012
Cologne & Bonn Premium Christmas Markets 2012 | |
South Africa's highlights and a journey on the legendary Blue Train | |
| More details >>> Prices from £3795 |
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A relaxing 10-day cruise on MS Belvedere exploring Germany, Hungary, Slovakia and Austria | |
| More details >>> Prices from £1795 |
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Christmas markets by rail - Christmas markets guided rail tours
6 December is St Nikolaus Eve, when German children leave polished shoes outside their bedroom door in the hope that Weihnachtsmann will have filled them with treats come morning. In Luxembourg children wait for Klees'chen but in parts of France it is Saint Nicolas who fills the shoes with sweets and small toys. This region of the world has some of the best Christmas markets by rail and starting from late November children step incredibly cautiously around their parents. Not for fear that they won't receive their presents but if they misbehave then Black Peter or Père Fouettard will take them away on Christmas Eve.