Celebrate the Magic of European Christmas Markets
As the holiday season approaches, a magical transformation envelops cities across Europe. Twinkling lights illuminate cobblestone streets, the scent of cinnamon-dusted almonds and fresh-baked gingerbread fills the air, and the joyous sounds of carols resonate through bustling Christmas Markets. Whether you prefer the gentle sway of a river cruise or the camaraderie of a guided land tour, experiencing these enchanting markets offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in European holiday traditions.
River Cruises: A Scenic Journey through Christmas Spirit
One of the most delightful ways to explore Europe’s Christmas Markets is by cruising along the iconic Rhine or Danube rivers. These cruises provide a leisurely, picturesque journey, allowing you to visit multiple markets while enjoying breathtaking landscapes from the comfort of your floating hotel.
On a Holiday and Christmas Markets river cruise through Europe, you will experience the festive traditions of fascinating destinations and feel the magic of the holidays in cities illuminated with millions of twinkling lights. Christmas Markets river cruises begin in late November and sail through the end of December when guests can ring in the New Year with special celebration cruises aboard the most elegantly decorated ships on the river.
Rhine River Cruises often include stops in charming towns like Cologne, known for its stunning cathedral and vibrant market. Here, you can sample mulled wine and shop for handcrafted ornaments. A Rhine cruise highlights unique markets, from Rüdesheim’s festive charm to Mainz’s artistic stalls.
A Danube cruise takes you through Austria and Germany. Explore the historic markets of Vienna, adorned with dazzling lights. Discover Salzburg, the birthplace of “Silent Night.” These cruises often feature excursions that showcase local traditions. Enjoy a deeper understanding of the region’s festive customs.
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Iconic Christmas Markets: 7 Night cruise from Budapest to Nuremberg
Marvel at the giant sparkling tree at Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace. Savor Nuremberg’s famous bratwurst and lebkuchen, then visit Regensburg’s romantic Christmas Market.
Christmas Markets on the Danube: 7 night cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen
Witness the grandeur of Melk’s Benedictine abbey. Savor Wachau Valley wines, enjoy Vienna’s apple strudel, and admire Salzburg’s 700 illuminated trees.
Colors of Provence at Christmas: 7 night cruise from Lyon to Arles, France
Enjoy sailing through the South of France for a uniquely French holiday season. From romantic cities decked in garlands and lights to foodie havens and artistic epicenters, this itinerary enlivens all the senses. You’ll be amazed by the colorful array of local handicrafts at Christmas Markets throughout the region.
Christmas Markets on the Rhine: 7 night cruise from Amsterdam to Basel
Gaze at Strasbourg’s stunning cathedral while exploring its colorful Christmas Market. Enjoy Rüdesheimer coffee and witness Gengenbach’s artistic Advent calendar lighting.
Sip & Sail With Us!
Christmas Markets Along the Rhine: November 29 – December 6, 2025.
Hosted by Brenda & Bill Ajay
Five cabins left!
See the Complete Itinerary, then contact us to receive this exclusive offer:
- $75 per person onboard credit
- Complimentary prepaid gratuities
Benefits of River Cruising
- Convenience: Your hotel travels with you, eliminating the hassle of packing and unpacking.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning riverside scenery as you glide from one charming town to another.
- Cultural Immersion: Many cruises offer guided tours and local experiences, providing insights into the regions you visit.
- All-Inclusive Experience: Most river cruises are all-inclusive, covering meals onboard, drinks, and shore excursions. Thus, you can enjoy your journey without worrying about additional costs.
Guided Group Tours: Experience the Heart of the Holidays
For those who prefer land travel, guided group tours from companies like Collette Tours offer an immersive experience. These tours include stops in major cities known for their festive spirit, ensuring you see all the highlights.
A Collette land tour might start in Prague. Here, medieval architecture provides a stunning backdrop for the bustling Christmas Market in the Old Town Square. Next, you could visit Munich, home to the famous Christkindlmarkt, filled with artisan gifts and tasty treats.
Many tours feature unique experiences, like attending a traditional Christmas concert or taking a local cooking class. Traveling with a group enhances your experience as you share memorable moments with fellow travelers.
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European Christmas Markets: 9 day fully guided tour of Prague, Vienna and Budapest
Set out on a grand holiday adventure through Central Europe’s Imperial Cities: Prague, Vienna, and Budapest. Tour the magnificent Prague Castle and explore its famous Christmas market in the Old Town Square. Visit the world’s oldest Christmas market in Vienna. Learn confectionery secrets at a candy workshop and admire the Schönbrunn Palace’s Baroque beauty. Enjoy dinner at the renowned Marchfelderhof.
Travel by train from Vienna to Bratislava, Slovakia, a historic gem. Visit the famous Hungarian wine region and tour a top wine estate. Explore beautiful Budapest and its outdoor markets, aglow with lights. Discover stalls filled with crafts and delicious treats. Immerse yourself in festive Christmas markets, experience cultural traditions, sample local cuisine, and appreciate this region’s rich history. Contact us to book this tour and receive an extra $100 off per person.
Magical Christmas Markets: 8-day fully guided group tour through Austria and Germany.
Experience the holiday spirit in Austria and Germany, where Christkindlesmarkt traditions began over 600 years ago. Explore vibrant Christmas markets filled with festive cheer and cultural treasures. Spend five relaxing nights in Innsbruck, where Christmas spirit is unmistakable.
Travel to the Alpine village of Seefeld by train. Enjoy traditional schnapps before taking a horse-drawn Christmas sleigh ride. Visit Salzburg for a guided walking tour and enjoy dinner at the historic St. Peter’s restaurant.
Embark on a lifetime journey in this winter wonderland, where twinkling lights illuminate the regions and the Christmas spirit thrives. Contact us to book this tour and receive an extra $100 off per person.
Benefits of Guided Group Tours:
- Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides provide context and history, enriching your experience.
- Social Interaction: Meet fellow travelers and share in the joy of the season together.
- Well-Planned Itineraries: Enjoy a seamless travel experience with pre-arranged activities and accommodations.
Embrace the Holiday Spirit
Whether you choose a river cruise or a guided group tour, European Christmas Markets are a delightful way to celebrate. Each market showcases local traditions, crafts, and flavors, inviting you to savor the magic of the holidays.
Imagine wandering through stalls filled with vibrant handicrafts. Sip hot chocolate while listening to joyful carols and enjoying the season’s sights and scents.
This year, let Europe’s Christmas Markets set the scene for your holiday celebrations. With flexible river cruises and engaging guided tours, you’ll create lasting memories that capture the season’s spirit.
Ready to embark on your own festive adventure? Explore our curated river cruises and guided tours to Europe’s enchanting Christmas Markets. Book your holiday experience today and make unforgettable memories this season!
About Allegro Luxury Vacations
Talk about the business overall here. This is less about you and your story and more focused on the business as a whole. Do you serve a certain type of client? Plan certain types of travel adventures? What are your values and what is important to you as a business?
Talk about the business overall here. This is less about you and your story and more focused on the business as a whole. Do you serve a certain type of client? Plan certain types of travel adventures? What are your values and what is important to you as a business?
