Christmas Markets River Cruises

When can I sail?

Christmas markets in Europe tend to start mid-November and stay open until the end of December, with some closing just before Christmas day. Popular Christmas markets include*:

• Strasbourg, France - Rhine River - 22 November to 30 December
• Budapest, Hungary - Danube River - 23 November to 6 January
• Vienna, Austria - Danube River - 16 November to 24 December
• Metz, France - Moselle River - 20 November to 29 December
• Dresden, Germany - Elbe River - 27 November to 24 December
• Basel, Switzerland - Rhine River - 28 November to 23 December
• Cologne, Germany - Rhine River - 26 November to 23 December

*Dates are provisional

Which rivers have Christmas markets on them?

With the listing above, the popular rivers to experience the Christmas markets along include the Rhine, Danube, Moselle and Elbe rivers - each of which offers fantastic markets teeming with wooden chalets and Christmas decorations. These visit the regions of France, Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Hungary - each of which offers their own slice of Christmas heaven!

Enjoy mulled wine and gingerbread as you browse handicrafts made by locals, each hut adorned with beautiful Christmas decorations making them the ideal festive destination for friends and family.

Suggested read: River cruising during the winter months 

When should I book?

With the Christmas markets running on selected dates, and festive sailings even more so, it's best to book as soon as possible to ensure you secure your place on-board. Christmas markets river cruises always sell out fast so ensure you have booked your sailings as soon as you know where you would want to visit.

Take a look at our latest sailings below and find your perfect Christmas markets river cruise for you. If you can’t find exactly what you are looking for, don’t hesitate to give our Cruise Concierge team a call and they will help you handpick your perfect Christmas Markets voyage.