Christmas shopping by train

Book your hotel and train and discover Europe's most beautiful shopping cities

Happy couple with shopping bags at the Christmas market after a successful day of Christmas shopping in the festively decorated city. | © shutterstock / 1494691982 Happy couple with shopping bags at the Christmas market after a successful day of Christmas shopping in the festively decorated city. | © shutterstock / 1494691982

Treat yourself to a festive break and combine your Christmas shopping with a relaxing city break. With Railtour, you can travel stress-free, sustainably and comfortably by train directly to the heart of Europe's major cities. The journey itself is part of the experience: as winter landscapes pass by outside, enjoy the anticipation of sparkling lights, festively decorated shopping streets and atmospheric markets. Whether exclusive boutiques, large department stores or charming little shops – there is something for everyone here.

Let yourself be carried away by the special atmosphere that can only be felt during Advent: the glow of shop windows, the scent of cinnamon and roasted almonds, the musical sounds in bustling squares. Travelling by train, you can enjoy the utmost comfort and short distances to city centres. This leaves you more time and energy for the essentials – immersing yourself in the festive atmosphere, discovering special gifts for your loved ones and enjoying a stroll through the decorated streets.

With railtour, your Christmas shopping becomes an enjoyable break from everyday life: relaxed, inspiring and full of unforgettable moments.

Our highlights for your shopping adventure

Inspiration for your Christmas mini-break by train – discover and enjoy

Christmas tree in the centre of Galleria Vittorio Emmanuele in Milan | © shutterstock / 2309793869
Milan

When Milan sparkles in the twinkling lights and the scent of roasted chestnuts and spicy mulled wine wafts through the streets, one of the most wonderful times of the year begins: the Christmas season!

  • Hotel Ibis Milano Centro*** - Your perfect starting point in the heart of Milan; modern, comfortable and centrally located
  • Daily direct connections from Zurich (3h20), Basel and Bern

Train + hotel per person from CHF 224

Christmas tree and colorful decorations under the dome of Galeries Lafayette in Paris, France. | © shutterstock / 1936964878
Paris

When the days grow shorter and Paris glows in a sea of lights, one of the most romantic times of the year begins. Paris transforms into a festive paradise full of charm, culture and enjoyment.

  • Hotel Le Marceau Bastille**** - Just a few steps from the Bastille and the Seine, it combines elegant design and warm hospitality
  • Daily direct connections from Zurich (4h30) and Basel

Train + hotel per person from CHF 265

View of the Alster and the illuminated buildings in Hamburg city centre | © shutterstock / 2570361625
Hamburg

Christmas magic on the Elbe – during Advent, the Hanseatic city is transformed into a winter wonderland of lights, tradition and Nordic cosiness.

  • Hotel Continental Hamburg*** - Located directly at the main railway station, the hotel is the ideal starting point for your tour of discovery
  • Daily direct connections from Zurich, Basel (6h30) and Bern

Train + hotel per person from CHF 210

View of Big Ben in London with lighting in the foreground | © shutterstock / 2397823585
London

When London is aglow with festive cheer, the city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with lights, music and festive spirit. Here you will find unique gift ideas, delicious specialities and atmospheric entertainment.

  • St. Giles London Hotel*** - Just a few minutes from Oxford Street and the vibrant West End, the hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities
  • Train via Paris with Eurostar (9h30 from Zurich) or by plane

Hotel per person from CHF 105 (excluding train travel)

Illuminated piazza in Bologna in the moonlight | © shutterstock / 615862586
Bologna

At Christmas time, Bologna shows its most romantic side: fairy lights twinkle in the medieval streets and the aroma of cinnamon, roasted chestnuts and sweet panettone wafts from small stalls.

  • Il Guercino**** - Just a few steps from the historic centre, the hotel combines modern comfort with typical Italian charm
  • Daily direct connections from Zurich (5 hours) and other stations

Train + hotel per person from CHF 231

Advent trips and getaways for New Year's Eve

Be inspired now and book your city break with train and hotel

Happy couple in winter clothes in front of Christmas lights | © shutterstock / 1819607177
Advent trips by train

Experience the festive magic of Christmas markets in Europe's cities – full of sparkling lights, street food aromas and urban winter flair. Whether it's mulled wine, shopping or simply strolling through sparkling alleys – Advent becomes an experience here. And best of all: travelling by train is relaxed, central and sustainable, putting you right in the heart of the action. Discover our highlights for an Advent trip by train now!

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Several hands holding sparklers in the dark | © shutterstock / 2216852407
New Year's Eve trips in Europe

Celebrate the New Year where Europe's cities shine with lights, music and joie de vivre. Whether it's fireworks, parties or a festive atmosphere – New Year's Eve becomes an experience when you're on the move. Travelling by train is relaxed, central and climate-friendly, taking you right to the heart of the cities – and allowing you to start the New Year in style. On this page, you will find our personal favourites for unforgettable New Year's Eve trips.

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