Central Europe’s railways offer an idyllic escape for those seeking a serene winter getaway, away from the summer crowds. Whether it’s the golden landscapes, cozy cafés, or peaceful, crowd-free attractions, a train journey through the region during the off-season promises a relaxing and picturesque experience, according to Caliber.Az.
For many, the choice is simple when planning a rail trip in Europe during the cooler months: head south in search of sunshine or embrace the winter chill. As the October half-term approached, Joanna O’Connor and her family opted for the latter, choosing a “winterrailing” route through central Europe. Their nine-day journey would take them to cities well-accustomed to long, cold winters and dark nights, offering a chance to explore museums, sip coffee in cozy cafés, and even begin their holiday shopping—all while avoiding the heat and crowds of the summer season.
However, things didn’t go exactly as planned. After downloading their digital Interrail passes and boarding the Eurostar in London on a foggy October morning, Joanna and her family made their way to Strasbourg, arriving six hours later with a quick change at Lille Europe. To their surprise, the city greeted them with brilliant sunshine and clear blue skies. The suitcase of winter clothing they’d packed felt out of place under the unexpected warmth, and Joanna quickly found herself craving an Aperol spritz instead of the hot chocolate she had anticipated.
A short time after checking into their hotel, the family wandered through Strasbourg’s charming old town, admiring the Notre-Dame Cathedral. The 15th-century sandstone structure, with its intricate carvings and towering 142-meter gothic spire, glowed in the afternoon sun. Once the tallest building in the world, the cathedral continues to dominate the skyline, even amidst the modern developments of the city.
The next day, Joanna climbed the 332 steps to the cathedral’s viewing platform, where she was treated to panoramic views of Grande Île, the medieval heart of Strasbourg. Below her, the maze of cobbled streets and half-timbered houses gave way to the modern European Quarter, home to the European Parliament and the European Court of Human Rights, with the distant silhouette of the Vosges mountains in the background.
While Strasbourg may rival Brussels for the title of “capital of Europe,” it also takes pride in being a premier destination for Christmas festivities. Known as the “Capital of Christmas,” Strasbourg’s Christmas market, which dates back to 1570, is the oldest in France. Each year, a towering 30-meter Christmas tree is erected in Place Kléber, while the surrounding streets are transformed into a winter wonderland filled with the scents of cinnamon and mulled wine. Though the market had not yet opened, the city’s festive atmosphere was undeniable, and Joanna found herself drawn to a whimsical shop called La Magie de Noël. Despite the temptation, she resisted the urge to load her basket with Christmas ornaments and locally made gingerbread.
For those planning a winter escape, Central Europe by rail offers not just a journey through history and culture, but also a tranquil experience away from the summer crowds. Whether basking in the unexpected sunshine of Strasbourg or exploring the festive charm of the city’s Christmas market, travelers can find beauty in every season.
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