The traditional Christmas markets of Germany and the surrounding countries date back the 13th century, when they marked the beginning of the Advent season in Europe's dominant Christian church. Now, they have evolved into a colorful seasonal display of shops and festivities for all to enjoy. From tinkered toys to fir wreaths to gingerbread houses, these bustling markets bring life to the European origins of the Christmas holiday. Here we highlight some of our featured Rhine River and Danube River cruises specially designed around traditional Christmas markets, where you'll see how each country celebrates with their own distinct traditions & wares. Along the way, you'll visit the Netherlands, Germany, France, & Switzerland. Of course, their limited availability goes quickly, so contact us today to reserve your spot.

Top Christmas Market Cruises to Europe

Take a ride on the ferris wheel or take a stroll through the Christmas Market

Christmas Markets in Alsace: The Sweet Atmosphere of a Traditional Christmas Season

4 Days from $951

Join Madeleine, a river cruise ship, on a 4-day magical cruise and see beautiful places as you go along the trip. Enjoy the festive and magical vibe on the Christmas markets that you can find in Alsace!

The Great Capitals and their Celebrations

6 Days from $2,018

Cruise along Danube River on this 6-day cruise aboard MS Vivaldi and explore the enchanting Christmas Markets in Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest and see the Puzsta Plains in Hungary.

Lights brighten the evening at this bustling Christmas Market

Christmas on the Romantic Rhine

5 Days from $1,266

Cruise the Rhine River on this 5-day adventure aboard the MS Gerard Schmitter. From Strasbourg, France to Rudesheim, Germany and back, you'll see the Rock of Lorelei, visit a tourist train stop & wine tasting cellar, and see museums & neighborhoods like those of Braubach Rhine Valley and Speyer.

Christmas in Alsace: Potter Villages and Revue at the Royal Palace

4 Days from $1,094

Enjoy Alsace's Christmas holidays and visit the Potter villages and christmas markets on Strasbourg on this 4-day sailing trip on MS Gérard Schmitter.

Christmas Markets in Alsace

4 Days from $994

Enjoy Alsace's Christmas holidays and discover their traditions and markets on this 4-day sailing trip on MS Gérard Schmitter around Strasbourg.

Christmas Markets in Alsace

4 Days from $799

Enjoy Alsace's Christmas holidays and discover their traditions and markets on this 4-day sailing trip on MS Modigliani around Strasbourg.

Christmas Markets on the Danube - Cruise Only

8 Days from $2,899

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with a festive 8-day journey from Budapest to Nuremberg aboard MS Amaviola. Visit multiple Christmas Markets on this scenic river route, stopping in Regensburg, Salzburg, and Vienna, each with its own local flavor and traditions. Churches, bridges, and palaces highlight the way!

Capitals of the Danube

5 Days from $1,000

Board the MS Vivaldi on this 5-day sailing adventure. Relax while you cruise across three historical countries via the Danube River – Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia, featuring some of the most enchanting landscapes in Europe. Gothic & Baroque architecture and history are at the center of this tour of the former Austro-Hungarian empire.

Three Countries on a Majestic Cruise

5 Days from $1,163

Cruise along Danube River on this 5-day cruise aboard MS Vivaldi and explore the enchanting Christmas Markets in Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest!

Christmas Markets on the Rhine - Cruise Only

8 Days from $2,899

Embark the MS Amakristina for an 8-day cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, exploring the most beloved Christmas markets along Europe's Rhine River. These traditional markets are a treasure trove of culture and authentic souvenirs. You also have the option to hike, tour castles, and participate in wine-tasting excursions.

Best Ships with Christmas Market Itineraries

Ship Name	Capacity	From	Summary
MS Amaserena	164	$2699	Making its debut in 2015, the AmaSerena features the most advanced designs in river cruise vessels. This 164-passenger ship boasts spacious …
MS Amakristina	158	$2799	The Amakristina is the sister ship to the Amaviola and Amastella, and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in …
MS Amastella	158	$2699	With occupancy for up to 158 passengers, the MS Amastella is one of Europe's newest and most innovative riverboats, featuring a variety of staterooms …
MS Amacerto	164	$2699	This luxurious river cruiser features panoramic views from the sundeck, a pool and swim-up bar, gourmet meals, luxurious lounges, and comfortable …
MS Amaviola	158	$2699	The AmaViola – set to debut in 2016 – is a sister ship to the AmaSerena and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel …

Travel Guide to Europe's Christmas Markets

Cruising Europe Christmas Markets

Explore the enchanting Christmas Markets throughout Germany, Austria and Hungary on your Europe river cruise. Drink hot mulled wine as you meander through these traditional street markets. This is sure to be a charming, festive way to spend the holiday.

A cathedral at sunset from the Rhine in Cologne

European Rivers

The multiple rivers flowing through Europe provide the perfect mode of transit for intimate travel experiences throughout various countries! River cruises also eliminate the stress of finding public transportation or driving. This brief overview of the Rhine, Rhone, Danube and Main rivers can help guide you in selecting your best river cruise option.

Highlights of the Christmas Markets
These exclusive tours come but once a year, just before the Christmas holiday. Temperatures aren't quite freezing, but don't expect a warm summer holiday either. That's the price you pay to witness and explore one of Europe's most ancient traditions - the Christmas Markets.

Primarily situated along the Danube River and a scattered also along the Rhine, small towns and big cities alike bring their squares and plazas into vibrant colors as they recognize this age-old holiday event.

Here's what to look for:

Hot food and drinks - prepared in traditional ways, this is one of the best times to get a taste of the true flavor of central Europe.
Handmade souvenirs, like ornaments, toys, and artisanal goods.
Singing, dancing, and cultural celebrations on every corner.