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2025 Christmas Market River Cruises in Europe

Experience the magic of the holidays with our top-rated Christmas Market River Cruises through Germany, Austria, and beyond. These expert-guided, immersive journeys are the perfect way to celebrate the season in style. Our 2025 & 2026 Christmas Market River Cruises are already filling fast—limited availability means now is the time to secure your journey aboard award-winning river cruise lines like AMA, Avalon, Tauck, Uniworld, and Viking.

Sail through Europe’s festive heartlands and enjoy stress-free holiday travel with all-inclusive meals, sightseeing, and authentic cultural experiences. From mulled wine and gingerbread to guided tours and wine tastings, every cruise offers a worry-free, immersive holiday escape. These cruises are trusted by thousands and continue to be a return guest favorite.

Follow the historic waterways of the Danube and Rhine—once the lifelines of Europe—and dock steps away from enchanting Christmas villages. Escape the ordinary and explore the festive traditions of five Central European countries on a bucket-list holiday adventure.

Celebrate the season with locals and fellow travelers as you cruise past snow-dusted towns and twinkling lights. Onboard, enjoy panoramic views, festive décor, and first-class amenities like regional cuisine prepared by European chefs, live entertainment, and complimentary drinks. Whether from your private river-view cabin or the open sun deck, the views are unforgettable.

Don’t miss out—reserve your 2025 or 2026 Christmas Market River Cruise today and make this holiday season truly magical!

What to Expect on a Christmas Market River Cruise

These highly rated holiday cruises run from late November through December, offering a festive way to explore Europe. Onboard, enjoy holiday-themed events, regional treats, and a warm, celebratory atmosphere. Each stop brings a new market filled with handmade crafts, delicious seasonal foods, and local traditions.

From handcrafted ornaments to steaming mugs of glühwein, every market offers something special. Optional excursions like guided city tours, wine tastings, and museum visits add depth to your journey. These cruises are ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking for a memorable, hassle-free holiday.

With cruise lines like AmaWaterways, Viking, and Uniworld offering exclusive seasonal itineraries, you’ll discover both iconic cities and hidden gems. Most cruises run from late November through December, making it easy to plan your perfect holiday getaway.

Enjoy fine dining, festive onboard activities, and even fitness classes to stay energized. Special events like tree-trimming parties and caroling make your cruise an unforgettable holiday experience.

Best Christmas Market River Cruises

  • AmaWaterways’ Christmas Markets on the Danube: An 8-day journey through Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest. Discover historic cities aglow with holiday lights and festive cheer.

  • Viking’s Christmas Markets Along the Rhine: Visit Cologne, Koblenz, and Strasbourg on this 8-day cruise. Enjoy charming towns and authentic holiday traditions.

  • Uniworld’s Classic Christmas Markets: Explore Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Vienna on an 8-day cruise filled with culture, cuisine, and holiday magic.

Destinations and Christmas Markets

  • Nuremberg, Germany: Famous for its traditional market with handmade crafts, festive lights, and mulled wine.

  • Vienna, Austria: Home to several markets, including the iconic one at City Hall, offering Austrian treats and artisan gifts.

  • Cologne, Germany: Multiple markets, including one near the stunning cathedral, offer a wide range of local specialties.

  • Budapest, Hungary: Celebrate the season with local crafts, food, and lights at the market near St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Planning Your Christmas Market River Cruise

  • Time of Year: Cruises run late November through December—check availability early to get your preferred dates.

  • Destination: Choose markets and cities that match your interests—from iconic capitals to charming villages.

  • Cruise Line: Compare offerings from AMA, Avalon, Tauck, Uniworld, and Viking for the best fit.

  • Budget: Cruises vary in price—look for value-packed options with meals, drinks, and excursions included.

  • Optional Excursions: Enhance your experience with wine tastings, guided tours, and cultural visits.

Let us help you plan your unforgettable holiday escape. Contact us today to get your free quote or speak with a travel specialist to customize your dream Christmas Market River Cruise.


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