The Best Christmas Markets in Europe: A River-by-River Guide

Europe’s Christmas markets are among the world’s great winter traditions, and some of the most magical line the banks of its rivers, which is exactly why a river cruise is such a natural way to visit several in a single trip. Here is a breakdown of the best Christmas markets in Europe, organized by the rivers that reach them, so you can see how they string together.

Christmas markets on the Rhine

The Rhine and the neighboring Alsace hold some of the most famous markets in Europe, close enough together that a single cruise can take in several.

Strasbourg, France

Known as the Capital of Christmas, Strasbourg hosts one of the oldest and largest markets in Europe. Its old town glows with stalls, and Place Kléber holds the tallest decorated Christmas tree in Europe. Just south, the fairytale canals of Colmar light up with their own charming markets.

Cologne, Germany

Cologne sets its main market directly beneath its soaring Gothic cathedral, one of the most dramatic backdrops anywhere. The city actually spreads seven themed markets across its center, including a winter-fairytale market with one of Europe’s largest ice rinks.

Rüdesheim, Germany

This pretty Rhine wine town hosts its Christmas Market of Nations, where stalls from around the world fill the medieval lanes. It is an intimate, small-town counterpoint to the big-city markets.

Christmas markets on the Danube

The Danube links a string of glittering capitals and intimate old towns, each with its own take on the season.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna does the holidays grandly. The Rathausplatz market in front of the City Hall is a wonderland of lights and stalls, and a separate market sets up in the courtyard of Schönbrunn Palace. Expect punch, pastries, and plenty of classical charm.

Nuremberg, Germany

Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt is one of Germany’s oldest and most beloved markets. The Hauptmarkt fills with red-and-white striped stalls selling the city’s famous gingerbread and little grilled bratwurst, along with the quirky Zwetschgenmännle, small figures made from prunes. It is reached by way of the Main-Danube waterway.

Regensburg, Passau, and Budapest

The medieval Bavarian towns of Regensburg and Passau host smaller, atmospheric markets in beautifully preserved old centers, while downriver, Budapest lights up its squares with grand markets and hearty Hungarian food.

Two more worth planning around

Not every great market sits on the Rhine or Danube. On the Elbe, Dresden’s Striezelmarkt is one of the oldest in Europe, famous for its towering Stollen fruit bread and a festival to celebrate it. Along the Main, the smaller German towns of Bamberg and Würzburg offer pretty, less-crowded markets for travelers who want to go deeper.

What to eat, drink, and buy

Half the joy of a Christmas market is wandering with something warm in hand. Look for glühwein (hot mulled wine), roasted chestnuts, gingerbread and Lebkuchen, sizzling sausages, and stalls of hand-carved wooden ornaments, nutcrackers, and glass baubles to bring home. Every region has its own specialties, which is part of why seeing several markets in one trip is so rewarding.

Why a river cruise is the easiest way to see them

Because these market cities grew up along the water, a river cruise docks you right in the center of town, often a short walk from the stalls. You unpack once, wake up somewhere new each morning, and return to a warm, festive ship each evening. If that appeals, see our guide to European Christmas market river cruises and our broader guide to European river cruising.

Plan your Christmas markets trip

Whether you want to sail the Rhine, the Danube, or both, an Atlas advisor can match you to the right itinerary and handle every detail, including group arrangements if you are traveling together. And since the best holiday sailings sell out early, summer is the time to plan. Call 1-800-942-3301 or email [email protected].

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Source: https://blog.atlastravelweb.com/cruises/river-cruises/best-christmas-markets-in-europe/