Experience Europe's Christmas Markets on a Luxury River Cruise

From Nuremberg’s iconic Christmas Markets with its iconic red and white striped booths to Strasbourg’s charming white storks, a visit to Europe’s Christmas Markets is a whimsical experience for all ages. Take advantage of winter vacations and give your family the gift of travel! With age-old traditions (not to mention plenty of AmaWaterways traditions on board), a magical Christmas Markets river cruise is sure to delight the entire family!

Operating from around the third week of November until Christmas, Christmas Markets river cruises are perfect for reconnecting with family and friends and offer the luxury of time to bond with loved ones. Visit beautifully illuminated cities and indulge in seasonal delicacies and local traditions.

Multi-Generational Travel

Christmas Markets river cruises are immensely popular for multigenerational family groups and girlfriend getaways! People love to come together to celebrate the holidays – and what better way than to cruise and join in the sparkling traditional Christmas celebrations of Europe?

Christmas Markets

Cruise through the heart of Europe during the most festive time of year and you’ll experience the timeless tradition of its magical Christmas Markets. Browse colorful market stalls filled to the brim with whimsical handicrafts and take in the aromas of cinnamon dusted almonds and Lebkuchen gingerbread as you sip a mug of hot mulled wine beneath endless strands of twinkling lights.

Most markets are open from the last week of November through December 22nd. Select markets, including in Budapest and Vienna open as early as mid-November, making November sailings through Europe, including Thanksgiving departures, wonderful for groups who want “a taste of Christmas.”

Onboard Traditions

In addition to the wonderful experiences and amenities available during your river cruise, both on board and ashore, there are many holiday cruise traditions help make memories you will savor forever.

• Shoes for St. Nick: On one special night during each cruise, guests are encouraged to leave shoes outside their stateroom door, just as children do throughout Europe on St. Nicholas Day. Upon waking up the next morning, you’ll find your shoes filled with treats by your AmaWaterways elves!

• Tree-Trimming Party: Tinsel and garland and baubles, oh my! Guests are invited to help adorn onboard trees with festive décor. Spoiler: The first to find the glass pickle ornament within the tree wins a prize!

• Christmas Cookies: A festive assortment of seasonal cookies awaits guests in their staterooms on Christmas Eve.

So, what are you waiting for? I am ready to help plan and book your Christmas Market River Cruise vacation. I am happy to answer any questions you may have about traveling through Europe by river, and get your end-to-end travel confirmed. All you need to decide is when you want to go!