Which Christmas markets can you visit on a river cruise?
Sail along European rivers on a festive journey filled with magic. As you river cruise between each destination, you'll discover the myriad Christmas traditions which have evolved throughout Europe for hundreds of years. As the comforting aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts wafts through the air, twinkling wooden chalets overflow with handmade gifts, decorations, and delicious treats to lure you in.
Although Christmas markets as we know them originated in Germany, many towns and cities across Europe host their own festive markets each year, usually from the end of November to the end of December.
Take a look at our top picks for the most enchanting Christmas markets you might come across on a European river cruise.
Vienna, Austria, Danube River Cruise
Every year, Austria's capital of Vienna hosts the Schönbrunn Christmas and New Year's Market, which is held in front of the Schönbrunn Palace. The city comes alive with gospel choirs, Jazz music and brass bands as visitors get into the festive spirit with hot punch and Christmas cookies.
Salzburg, Austria, Danube River Cruise
With the Hohensalzburg fortress as its backdrop, Salzburg Christmas Market is a grand affair with choirs singing by the cathedral, traditional nativity scenes in the Residenz courtyard and the Turmblasen music on Residenz Square. Throughout the city you'll find even more Advent and Christmas markets with reindeer, music and culinary treats.
Strasbourg, France, Rhine River Cruise
Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik is one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe. Located in the Alsace region, this fairytale setting is home to festive stalls, an ice skating rink and evening concerts. It's also worth a stroll along the Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and a visit to the Cathedral of Notre Dame.
Cologne, Germany, Rhine River Cruise
Cologne is world renowned for its Gothic architecture, in particular the UNESCO listed cathedral which creates a magical backdrop for the Christmas markets. Across the city you'll find seven Christmas markets where you can indulge in gingerbread, stollen, German sausage and, of course, a glass of warm gluhwein.
Heidelberg, Germany, Rhine River Cruise
Heidelberg is an atmospheric town filled with history. The fabulous Hauptstrasse is where you will find the main Christmas Markets and Yuletide celebrations. However, there are also more markets to be found throughout seven locations in the Old Quarter. The romantic, fairytale settings are full of music and laughter on the seasonal ice rink.
Budapest, Hungary, Danube River Cruise
Budapest presents one of our favourite backdrops for Christmas markets with its abundance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Buda Castle quarter combines culture and tradition in a magical, festive celebration, while Vorosmarty Square boasts the oldest and most flamboyant Christmas Markets in the Hungarian capital.
Nuremburg, Germany, Rhine River Cruise
Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt has everything you'd imagine to find at a Christmas market: old-fashioined carousel, gingerbread, mulled wine and traditional gifts. Make sure you keep an eye out for the Nuremberg Plum People which are made from dried plums. The opening ceremony of the markets is quite magical and transports you back in time.
Basel, Switzerland, Rhine River Cruise
The Basel Christmas market is without a doubt one of the most underrated in Europe. Sitting prettily on the Rhine, the city is quaint and charming, and Christmastime is no exception. Some of the best exhibitions and museums in Switzerland add to Basel’s enriching cultural scene; the Christmas markets throughout November and December right in the heart of the city truly enhance the beauty of the place. One thing you must do when visiting Basel on a Christmas river cruise is sample the most delicious culinary offerings, from fondue to gingerbread to grilled Swiss sausages.
Frankfurt, Germany, Rhine River Cruise
Frankfurt is perhaps one of the oldest (and largest) Christmas markets, with earliest records dating back to 1393! The market was traditionally accompanied by the performance of ecclesiastical mystery plays held in the main square, the Römerberg. It was only at the beginning of the 19th century that Frankfurt placed the enormous Christmas tree in the centre of the square, now symbolic of the markets throughout Germany and Europe. Indulge in delectable marzipan sweets and the famous German gluhwein, and enjoy the wonderful mix of craft stalls on offer.
Amsterdam, Netherlands, Dutch Waterways Cruise
There are multiple Christmas markets to choose from in Amsterdam, with a 3 day live music festival in Amsterdam North, the Ice Village Christmas Market outside the Rijksmuseum, and the fabulous Light Festival which continues into mid-January. Stroll over bridges lined with twinkling lights, take a romantic gondola ride down the canals, marvel at the glittering city from high above on the Ferris wheel, or try your hand at ice skating or curling. Alternatively, enjoy a hot chocolate and some delicious seasonal treats while listening to live music and shopping for trinkets to take home.
Whichever itinerary you choose, you are guaranteed a wonderful seasonal experience on a luxury river cruise during the winter in Europe!
Give Panache Cruises a call on 0161 516 7141 to speak to a dedicated cruise connoisseur.
