5 Christmas markets to discover by train
From Luxembourg City to Trier or Metz, here’s a selection of five Christmas markets just a short train ride away: the ideal, sustainable way to enjoy these festive events.
As well as the chalets in many of the country’s towns and cities, some Christmas markets in the Greater Region are worth a visit for a whole host of reasons, from the historic character of the host town to the original market program and the stalls on display.
By using public transport to reach your destination Christmas market, you can also enjoy the festivities in complete safety and tranquillity.
Trier, an all-time favourite
The medieval atmosphere, the “mulled wine queen”, the regional specialities… the tourists who voted on the “Europe Best Destinations” platform made it clear: the Trier Christmas market is one of the most beautiful in Europe. In keeping with tradition, the 43rd edition is taking place on the Hauptmarkt (Market Square) and the Trier Dom (in front of St Peter’s Cathedral). You’ll love the warm welcome from the venders in their finely-decorated chalets, and the local specialties on offer!
- To get there by train from Gare de Luxembourg: direct trains to Trier’s main station, 850 metres from the Hauptmarkt.
- Open until 22 December 2023.
- More information: Trierer Weihnachtsmarkt
Cologne, the city of the seven markets
Cologne’s seven Christmas markets offer a varied atmosphere, starting with the main attraction: the market in front of the cathedral, with 150 stallholders. And don’t forget to take a selfie in front of the 25-metre-high Christmas tree, the largest in North Rhine-Westphalia. Four million visitors make this another must-see event in Germany.
- To get there by train, take advantage of CFL-Evasion’s “city trip” offers: CFL | Cologne, magical and luminous.
- Open until 23 December 2023.
- More information: koelnerweihnachtsmarkt.com
Metz and its lantern walk
From one cathedral to another, this time we turn to the three-thousand-year-old city of Metz, where the 29th edition of the Christmas market is taking place. The markets are spread across Place Saint-Louis, Place Saint-Jacques, Place d’Armes, Place de la République and Place de la Comédie. And don’t miss the “Sentier des lanternes” (Lantern Walk) in the “Jardin de l’Esplanade”, a magical walkway of 2,000 LED lanterns illuminating a scenography based on Christmas traditions.
- To get there by train from Luxembourg Station: direct trains to Metz-Ville main station, 1.4 km from Place Saint-Jacques.
- Open until 30 December 2023.
More info: noelametz.fr
Liège, Belgium’s oldest Christmas market
The “cité ardente” – the nickname for the city of Liège – takes on the allure of a city of lights during its Christmas market, the oldest in Belgium. In keeping with Germanic tradition, the 35th edition of the event welcomes 150 stalls, 300 craftspeople and no fewer than 1.5 million visitors. There’s also a skating rink for those who love to ice skate.
- To get there by train from Luxembourg Station: direct trains to Liège-Guillemins main station, a forty-minute walk from the Place du Marché.
- Open until 30 December 2023 and until 7 January 2024 for the ice rink.
- More information: villagedenoel.be
Luxembourg City, a must
It’s hard to resist the obvious pleasure of visiting the markets and events organised at various sites around the capital. The whole city will be in the mood for ‘Winterlights’ 2023, from the Place de Paris to the Gare district, via the Place de la Constitution – with the Ferris wheel at the foot of the Gëlle Fra – to the Place d’Armes. Concerts, exhibitions, shows and activities for children are all on the program. And why not treat yourself to a treat at the ice rink in Kinnekswiss Park?
- To get there by train, head to Luxembourg Station from one of the country’s CFL stations or train stops. Then simply walk or take the tram to the site of your choice.
- Open until until 8 January 2024
- More information: Winterlights