There are few travel experiences that seem as festive − or as easy − to me as touring through Europe in December. Medieval towns glow with lights. Church bells ring. The air is scented with roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. That’s why best Christmas market river cruises − they just keep on getting more popular!
And riding iconic rivers brings a serene, storybook pace that land-based forays can’t touch. You seamlessly go from city to city, as the holiday magic occurs around you.
This is a basic guide. It puts a few hottest river cruise lines side by side, and points you toward a can’t-miss Christmas market on what should be your route.
Why Select a Christmas Market River Cruise?
Getting on a river cruise makes the winter travel holiday headache-free. You unpack only once and you go to sleep in a new city every night. Everything is walkable. Everything is festive.
Key advantages:
- Centrally moored, near historic old towns
- Curated excursions to iconic markets
- Seasonal food and drink are offered on many sailings
- Cozy, warm ships in a cold European winter
In short, it is the easiest way to discover Europe’s Christmas traditions.
Top 5 Best Cruise Lines: A Comparison If Top Five Cruise Lines Were Athletes
The following is a detailed comparison of the top companies that provide best Christmas market river cruises in Europe.
| Cruise Line | Style | Best For | Notable Strength |
| Viking River Cruises | Elegant, Scandinavian | First-time cruisers | Cultural immersion |
| AmaWaterways | Modern, relaxed | Active travellers | Included excursions |
| Avalon Waterways | Contemporary | Scenic viewing | Panoramic cabins |
| Uniworld Boutique River Cruises | Ultra-luxury | High-end travellers | Ship décor & service |
| Scenic Luxury Cruises | All-inclusive luxury | No-compromise comfort | Butler service |
With different onboard feels for each line, all of them rely heavily on European holiday traditions.
Christmas Markets to Visit on These Cruises
These famed excursions exist on many Danube and Rhine itineraries.
| City | Country | Why It’s Special |
| Vienna | Austria | Classical music and royal backdrops |
| Budapest | Hungary | Local crafts and chimney cakes |
| Nuremberg | Germany | One of Europe’s oldest markets |
| Strasbourg | France | “Capital of Christmas” charm |
| Cologne | Germany | Cathedral views and themed stalls |
Markets are typically a short distance from where the ship docks, and you can expect plenty of variety when it comes to getting out and about.
Which Cruise Line is the One for You?
- Opt for Viking, if history and learning are priorities.
- Opt for AmaWaterways, if you like going on walks and want options.
- Opt for Avalon, if scenery is all about what matters most to you.
- Opt for Uniworld, if you’re looking for opulent decor and gourmet cuisine.
- Opt for Scenic, if you want all-inclusive, no questions asked.
Final Thoughts
Europe shines brightest in December. On a river cruise, you can experience that magic without the pressure (or cold) of waiting on platforms. With well-crafted itineraries and city access so immersive, you can hop on and off as you wish, the best Christmas market river cruises offer something no twinkly-land coach tour or pop-up winter wonderland in a soulless clone of the beauty that is your home town ever could: authentic Christmas spirit.
You get front-row seats to Europe’s favorite holiday traditions, minus the travel hassle. From lantern-lit squares to warm nights on board, every element is crafted for an easy ride and lasting enjoyment.
Pick the style that suits you − and have Europe’s Christmas spirit delivered to your door.
