The Merriest Market Adventure Part 4: Trains, Planes, and Tips
Eurostar wins, LNER feeds you, and the sleeper seat isn’t a vibe
This last part is the nuts and bolts I wish someone had handed me before I left. I’ll keep it straight, just like I’d tell you over lunch.
Eurostar: love the ride, load your luggage smart
I liked Eurostar a lot. It’s clean, quick, and simple once you’ve done it once. My one warning is about luggage. Do not board mid-route with a giant suitcase if you can avoid it. Storage is limited and you can end up standing in the exit area guarding your bag like a coat rack. If you’re starting at the origin station, get to the platform early enough to snag rack space near your car.
Checks and timing: Treat the check-in and security like a small airport without the drama. Have your ticket ready, keep your liquids neat, and walk straight to your coach so you’re not weaving a suitcase through a crowd.
LNER and the Caledonian Sleeper: one’s a go, one’s a skip
I rode LNER to Edinburgh and back and had a great day on rails. I even ordered food to the seat. It’s not fancy, but it’s hot, on time, and better than a random station grab when you’re tired. LNER feels like the right balance of speed and comfort for a day trip where you want to arrive human and get home without a sag.
The Caledonian Sleeper in a coach seat is a skip for me. I don’t say that just because it was expensive. The ride is long, double the time of there are too many stops, and sleeping in that seat isn’t restful. If you love the idea of a sleeper, book a proper cabin; otherwise, take LNER or Lumo, stay overnight, and actually sleep. You’ll enjoy the city more and you won’t spend your next morning trying to unkink your neck. Funny enough, the pizza I had on the Sleeper was great, but good food doesn’t fix a bad night sleep especially when you still have to get back from the train station to your hotel!.
TGV INOUI: first class felt right
I took TGV INOUI first class and would do it again. The seat is larger, the storage makes sense, and you can recline without landing in someone’s lap. If you’re doing a longer French leg and you can swing a modest upcharge, this is where it pays you back. It’s not about champagne; it’s about space and calm.
Airport flights and changes
I flew in and out around the trip edges and kept it simple: early departures, nonstop where possible, and carry-on that fit everywhere. If you’re going in peak December, pick flights that land you by late morning so you can check in, drop bags, and still catch a market before dinner. That first night sets your rhythm for the whole run.
Packing, money, and the small stuff that matters
- Layers, not bulk: thin base, mid sweater, packable puffer, small umbrella. Wool socks and shoes you’ve already broken in. Gloves you can text with.
- Day bag: crossbody or small backpack that closes fully. Add a flat tote for overflow when you buy gifts.
- Souvenirs: if you collect mugs, wrap them in socks. For ornaments, a small hard case with tissue keeps things intact between cities.
- Payments: contactless everywhere, but keep coins for toilets and a few small bills for stalls that prefer cash.
- Warm-up plan: one café or indoor space pinned near each market cluster. You save time and frustration when the wind kicks up.
- Photos at night: wipe your lens, use night mode, and brace your elbows against a rail or tree. Two quick shots beat one shaky long hold.
Your green list and red list
Must-visits I’d tell you to book a trip around:
- Edinburgh Christmas Market with the Wheel at night and Christmas at the Botanics on first entry.
- Strasbourg with the Grand Sapin and the Cathedral streets.
- HEAVENUE in Cologne for the LGBTQ vibe and stage energy.
Maybe-nots or “set your expectations” picks:
- Römerberg (Frankfurt). If you’re cold and tired, it can feel flat next to Strasbourg and Cologne.
- Rosa Weihnacht (Frankfurt) if you’ve already eaten. Great food options, but come hungry.
- Notre-Dame market (Paris). It’s tiny. Cute, but not the cathedral-scale moment you might expect.
- Covent Garden. Beautiful tree and décor, but wall-to-wall people at peak times.
How I’d shape your 17-day version
Start in Germany for depth: Berlin variety, Cologne vibes, a funfair day, and the lights trail to slow your pace.
Slip to Strasbourg for the full city experience, then Paris for rides and glow, with Disneyland Paris as your night anchor.
Finish in the UK with London at 5 p.m. for Winter Wonderland and an Edinburgh day trip using the wheel-then-Botanics trick.
You’ll get the big hits, the cozy corners, and just enough rides to break up your walking days. You’ll also land at home with real advice for your friends who ask, “Which markets should I do if I only have five days?”
