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European Christmas markets river cruises
Originating in Germany, dating back to the late Middle Ages, Christmas markets are popular in northern Europe.
Discover the Christmas markets of Europe on a luxury river cruise
Europe during winter is unlike anywhere else, with gingerbread stalls and twinkling fairy lights welcoming in the festive period. Discover the magic of a Christmas markets cruise, and celebrate Yuletide as the Germans, Austrians, and Hungarians do.
Nuremberg Christmas markets
Over 2 million people a year visit Nuremberg’s Christmas markets due to its reputation for being one of the world’s finest. The best parts of any German Christmas market can be found here, including spiced gingerbread and festive decorations.
Cologne Christmas markets
Offering seven German Christmas markets from its location on the banks of the Rhine, Cologne is the ideal city for those who are looking for a European Christmas market cruise. One of its must-visit markets has Cologne Cathedral as its backdrop.
Budapest Christmas markets
The Hungarian capital comes to life with the twinkling of lights, market stalls, and general festivities in December. There’s something undeniably magical about the setting of Budapest’s Christmas markets, set in front of the grand St. Stephen’s Basilica.
Breisach Christmas markets
Set on the banks of the Rhine, the German town of Breisach is one of the warmest spots in the country - although this doesn’t mean you won’t experience winter temperatures during the festive season! Great for those looking for a smaller Christmas market.
Vienna Christmas markets
Schönbrunn Christmas Market runs from the end of November until Boxing Day before reopening on December 27th and running through the first few days of the new year. Another fantastic market in Vienna is the Christmas market at Spittelberg.
Featured Itineraries
Budapest to Vienna
5 Days
SEASON: 2024Christmas time on the Danube
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
USD
$2,595*
Budapest to Munich
8 Days
SEASON: 2024Christmas Markets on the Danube
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
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$5,895*
Budapest to Vienna
7 Days
SEASON: 2024Christmas Time on the Danube & Budapest
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
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$2,965*
Budapest to Prague
7 Days
SEASON: 2024Prague & Christmas Time on the Danube
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
USD
$3,065*
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