Christmas markets are one of the most magical aspects of the Christmas season. Little lights illuminating tiny wooden houses, the smell of cinnamon and hot chocolate, and Christmas carols accompanying some festive shopping. However, what if I told you that there is a market where you can see Santa Claus flying for real over the snow-covered roofs of houses in his magical sleigh, and all you need to do to get there is take a Belle Époque-style train? That’s right, one of the most magical Christmas experiences reachable by train from Milan in just 3 hours.
The Belle Époque train: where to catch it?
It has all the features of a vintage train, from the blue velvet padded seats to the wooden carriages with wide windows. The Belle Époque train leaves from Montreux, Switzerland and travels to Zweisimmen, connecting the two cities in one hour and 45 minutes. Unique to the Belle Époque, this train follows strict timetables: the run to Zweisimmen leaves once in the morning, at 9:50 a. m., and once in the afternoon, at 2:50 p.m. The return trip to Montreux is scheduled at 12:02 or 17:02.
🎟️Dove find tickets? On this site.
💶The cost of the ticket is about 35€.
Montreaux markets: where Santa Claus flies on a sleigh.
The majestic snow-capped Swiss Alps provide the backdrop for these magical Christmas meractins. Every year, during the run-up to Christmas, dozens of little wooden houses, lit up by thousands of tiny lights, stand out on one side of Lake Geneva. Montreaux’s markets are among the most atmospheric in Switzerland. Here, those who wish can try fondue, raclette and other local specialties, as well as take the opportunity to make some handcrafted Christmas gifts.
Alps, lake and melted cheese… What could make this market even more magical? Santa Claus! Every day at the Market Square, visitors can see Santa Claus flying over the roofs of the little market houses in his magical sleigh. A short, fun and definitely magical show.
🕒 When does Santa Claus come by? Daily. Weekdays at 5, 6 and 7 p.m., weekends also at 4 p.m.
🎟️I markets in Montreaux take place from Nov. 21 to Dec. 24.