Christmas Market River Cruises
A Festive Journey Along Scenic Waterways in europe
European Christmas markets are a magical tradition, offering a festive blend of twinkling lights, charming wooden stalls, and the warm scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. From the cobblestone streets of Vienna to the squares of Munich and Prague, these markets are a celebration of local crafts, seasonal treats, and holiday cheer. Visitors can browse handmade ornaments, enjoy live music, and experience the unique holiday spirit of each city, all while surrounded by centuries-old architecture and snow-covered landscapes. It's a truly enchanting experience that brings the joy of the season to life.
Cruise to the Best Christmas Markets
in the world
A Christmas market river cruise offers an unparalleled way to experience Europe’s most iconic holiday markets. It combines the charm of festive cities with the relaxing beauty of scenic waterways.
One of the highlights is Cologne, where the majestic Cathedral serves as a backdrop to the city's vibrant Christmas market. The market’s 150+ stalls are brimming with handcrafted gifts, local delicacies like gingerbread and bratwurst, and the unmistakable scent of spiced wine.
Vienna is another standout, with its royal elegance amplified by the cozy stalls of the famous Rathausplatz market. Here, visitors can sample Austrian treats like Sachertorte while enjoying classical music in the crisp winter air.
A river cruise to these cities lets you seamlessly drift from one holiday destination to the next, capturing the essence of each city's festive spirit in one trip.
Strasbourg, known as the "Capital of Christmas," is another highlight along many river cruise itineraries. Its market, which dates back to 1570, fills the city's historic squares with over 300 stalls offering everything from handcrafted ornaments to luxurious French chocolates.
Budapest, where the Danube provides a stunning view of the city’s illuminated skyline, is equally captivating. Its Christmas markets offer Hungarian specialties like chimney cakes and spicy sausages, all set against the backdrop of the grand Buda Castle.
River cruises offer the perfect way to soak in these spectacular destinations, allowing guests to relax on board while enjoying panoramic views of the cities' festive lights and landmarks. The convenience of docking close to the market areas means less time traveling and more time to experience the holiday magic up close.
