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

Christmas Markets on the Rhine - Cruise Only

8 Days from $3,099

Embark the MS Amakristina for an 8-day Rhine River cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, exploring the most beloved Christmas markets along the shores of the Rhine. 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.

Christmas Markets on the Danube - Cruise Only

8 Days from $3,299

Now is your chance to enjoy a 7-night cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen through Europe's anticipated Christmas Markets. Sail down the Danube and embrace the holiday spirit where many Christmas traditions began.

Fisherman's Bastion in Budapest, Hungary

Christmas Markets on the Danube - Cruise Only

Budapest to Vilshofen
8 Days from $3,299

Join the Amasonata on this 8-day Christmas cruise. In each town along the way, you'll feel the old world charm and unique traditions as you stroll the expansive markets for souvenirs, lifted along by the sweet and savory smells of the fresh food and local flavors.

Christmas Markets on the Danube - Cruise Only

Budapest to Vilshofen
8 Days from $3,199

Cruise through the charming region where so many of today’s most beloved Christmas traditions originated. Experience a number of enchanting Christmas markets in places such as Melk and Vienna, each with its own local flavor and traditions. Celebrating the magic of the holiday season and concluding your holiday cruise in Vilshofen.

Christmas Markets on the Danube - Cruise Only

Budapest to Vilshofen
8 Days from $3,199

Cruise through the charming region where so many of today’s most beloved Christmas traditions originated. Experience a number of enchanting Christmas markets in places such as Bratislava and Vienna, each with its own local flavor and traditions. Celebrating the magic of the holiday season and concluding your holiday cruise in Prague.

Capitals of the Danube

5 Days from $1,000

Board the MS Vivaldi for this 5-day cruise visiting the historic capitals and major cities of Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia along the Danube River. Gothic & Baroque architecture and history are at the center of this tour of the former Austro-Hungarian empire, highlighting monuments, museums, castles, and the art & music that define the region.

Enjoy a cozy Christmas market in Cologne

Christmastime on the Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam

Basel to Amsterdam
8 Days from $3,020

During this 8-day cruise aboard the Crystal Debussy along the Rhine River, explore Rüdesheim’s famed Christmas Market of Nations along the city’s iconic Drosselgasse, and the dazzling wonder of Cologne Cathedral’s market, hosted beneath Rhineland’s largest Christmas tree.

Christmas Markets on the Rhine - Cruise Only

8 Days from $3,099

Enjoy timeless traditions handed down through the centuries on your 8-day Christmas Markets adventure aboard the MS Amaserena. From Amsterdam to Basel, delight in all the glory of the season in grand European style as you cruise along the Rhine.

Lights brighten the evening at this bustling Christmas Market

Christmas Markets on the Rhine - Cruise Only

8 Days from $3,099

Explore the Rhine River on this 8-day cruise from Amsterdam to Basel aboard the MS AmaMora. Experience the deep-rooted Christmas holiday traditions of Europe as you browse these unique markets for souvenirs or tasty treats, stopping in Cologne, Rudesheim, Ludwigshafen, Strasbourg in France, and Breisach along the way.

Rhine Christmas Markets: Basel to Amsterdam

Basel to Amsterdam
11 Days from $10,998

Explore Rüdesheim’s famed Christmas Market of Nations along the city’s iconic Drosselgasse, and the dazzling wonder of Cologne Cathedral’s market, hosted beneath Rhineland’s largest Christmas tree.

Best Ships with Christmas Market Itineraries

Ship Name	Max Passengers	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	$2799	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	$2799	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	$2799	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

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

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.

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.