Christmas river cruises are perhaps one of the most popular and festive cruises you can choose. Nothing is quite as memorable as a vacation cruising along the Danube and Rhine Rivers. These Christmas river cruise itineraries are among the most popular. On the Danube river, some of the main highlights are the Vienna Christmas Markets that date back to 1298. One of Germany’s oldest Christmas fairs, the Nuremberg Christmas Market (Christkindlesmarkt) is also spectacular and not to be missed.
If you’re planning to travel the Rhine river, you’ll want to make notes about these wonderful markets as well. Rhine itineraries include visits to: Cologne Christmas Market, Heidelberg Christmas Market, Basel Christmas Market, and Strasbourg Christmas Market. The Strasbourg market proudly displays with a 98-foot-tall tree. These markets all have something wonderful to offer and we suggest you look at the links to discover your favorites.
River Cruises to Vienna Christmas Markets & Nuremberg Christmas Market
The delicious aromas of baked goods and beverages will draw you in. Enjoy a warm beverage while you shop, along with perhaps one or two (or more) tasty treats. Glühwein is a traditional German drink and a favorite. Be sure to try other traditional favorites in other counties. Each country has it’s own warm Christmas beverage. It’s easily located at every market. It’s the warm drink almost everyone enjoys as they wander from stall to stall.
This popular mulled wine is made with red wine and spices like cinnamon, cloves, anise seed, vanilla, lemon and sugar. Traditionally it’s served in festive mugs which are available for a small up-charge and make wonderful keepsakes. Don’t miss this favorite mulled beverage at German Christmas markets.
Enchanting stalls are brimming with finely crafted treasures. Seasonal aromas fill the air. It’s challenging to decide what to eat. Beautiful handmade crafts make excellent gifts for family and friends, or even for yourself. Don’t forget to pick up stocking stuffers too. Smaller trinkets add a special touch to holiday giving.
If you want to visit these destinations you will need to contact us or call 855-4CRUISING to book your river cruise, because the larger ocean cruise ships don’t make these voyages due to the ship’s draft. The water is too shallow for larger cruise vessels, making river cruises your only option if you prefer to travel via waterways.