Discovering Europe’s Holiday Spirit: The Ultimate Christmas Market River Cruise

In December 2024, we embarked on an unforgettible Christmas Market River Cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest aboard the Viking Vali. A river cruise has been on Lynn’s bucket list, and this itinerary included four new countries and festive Christmas markets. In this post, I’ll share our experience including links to the markets we visited and boast about my Glühwein mug collection. For our thoughts on the Viking Grand European River Cruise, Check out our Review of Our Viking Grand European Tour.

Is a Christmas Market River Cruise the best way to explore Europe’s Holiday Markets?

Christmas markets are a beloved European tradition, turning town squares into festive wonderlands with twinkling lights, wooden stalls, and the aroma of holiday treats. Each market offers unique charm, from intricate crafts to warm Glühwein and Kinderpunsch. While many are simply called “Christmas Markets,” traditional Christkindl Markets in German-speaking regions emphasize historical and religious themes, celebrating the Christkind (Christ Child). On our 15-day Christmas Market River Cruise, every stop but one featured at least one market. We visited over 20 markets and have the Christmas Market mugs to show for it.

A Christmas Market River Cruise is a terrific way to explore Europe during the holiday season, but it comes with both advantages and limitations. Here’s our take on the pros and cons:

Pros

• See Multiple Markets Quickly: On a Christmas Markets River Cruise you will visit several markets across different countries in one trip, all without the hassle of planning logistics.
• Convenience: Your ship serves as a floating hotel, eliminating packing, unpacking, and transportation worries. This is especially helpful if you are collecting Glühwein mugs.
• Guided Insights: Included tours provide valuable context about the cities and their markets.
• Scenic Travel: In additional to the Christmas markets you will enjoy breathtaking river views of castles, vineyards, and snow-dusted towns.
• Quieter Market Visits: Arriving earlier in the day lets you explore before peak crowds arrive.

Cons

• Limited Evening Visits: Most stops on a Christmas market river cruises will have you in town during the day, missing the magical nighttime ambiance and holiday lights that make markets extra special.
• Time Constraints: Short stops mean limited time to explore each city and market.
• Less Cultural Immersion: Staying on the ship reduces the opportunity to experience local nightlife and traditions.
• Weather Challenges: Winter in Europe can be cold, rainy, or even snowy, which might make outdoor market visits less enjoyable. This is especially true on days you spend on the top deck marveling at the historic castles along the Rhine and Danube rivers. Dressing warmly, packing a base layer and bringing waterproof gear is essential to stay comfortable.
• Structured Itinerary: Tours may feel rushed, leaving less time for independent exploration.

Bottom Line

A Christmas Market River Cruise is ideal for those who want a stress-free, festive holiday experience with a variety of markets and scenic travel. If you prefer to linger in markets at night or dive deeply into local culture, a land-based trip might be a better fit.

Collecting Glühwein Mugs at on a Christmas Market River Cruise

Glühwein, a warm, spiced red (and sometimes white) wine, is a beloved winter treat at Christmas markets across Europe, especially in Germany and Austria. Served in festive, collectible mugs often adorned with market logos or holiday motifs, Glühwein invites visitors to savor its warmth while strolling through the holiday stalls. These mugs can be returned for a deposit or kept as a cherished souvenir.

The Viking Grand European River Cruise Itinerary

We chose the Amsterdam-to-Budapest Viking Grand European River Cruise itinerary, as it offered a direct flight from Seattle and culminated with a stunning entrance into Budapest. Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of our journey:

Day 1: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Our plane landed the next morning; Viking associates were ready at the airport to guide us to our motor coach. We boarded immediately, with no lines or check-in delays—a refreshing change from the usual cruise embarkation process. The Christmas Market River Cruise started on a high note.

Our Viking Grand European River Cruise began with an included walking tour of Amsterdam, exploring its canals and historic buildings. While rain dampened our day slightly, the city’s charm shone through.

Day 2: Kinderdijk, Netherlands

Rain and wind greeted us as we arrived in Kinderdijk. Kinderdijk is a unesco world heritage site thanks to the 19 windmills built in the 18th century. It is a beautiful place where you can walk along the canals and admire Dutch ingenuity in water management. We were able to go inside one while it was spinning and see how the millers and their families lived. This was a fantastic stop. I had high expectations for the windmills, but seeing them in person surpassed them.

Day 3: Cologne, Germany (the Christmas markets start here!)

Cologne Walking Tour

Our day in Cologne began with a walking tour, kicking off at the iconic Cologne Cathedral. This towering Gothic masterpiece features twin spires and intricate stained glass. The Cathedral also houses the Shrine of the Three Kings, the largest reliquary in the western world. Built over 600 years, the Cathedral boasts awe-inspiring architecture and lifelike gargoyles. After the Cathedral, the walking tour showcased Cologne’s rich history and culture before letting us explore on our own.

Our first stop after the tour was for a Kölsch, Cologne’s signature beer. This light, top-fermented beer has a crisp, slightly fruity taste. Kölsch is served in small, cylindrical glasses called Stangen. Servers use a “beer crown,” a tray that holds multiple glasses to keep the beer fresh.

Cologne Christmas Markets

Next on our itinerary were the Christmas Markets, with three bustling markets conveniently located within walking distance of the Cathedral:

• Christmas Market at Cologne Catherdral (Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom)
• Adventsdorf am Kolner Dom (the market with the giant wooden pyramid)
• Heinzels Wintermaerchen (the Gnome Market)

Since it was a Saturday and the weather was pleasant, the markets were absolutely packed. Like most Christmas markets we visited, these featured food, handmade ornaments, woolens, nativity sets, holiday decor, and Glühwein.

Day 4: Koblenz, Marksburg Castle, and Rhine Valley Castles

We began our day in Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet. The Deutsches Eck monument, featuring Emperor Wilhelm I, is a top landmark and one of Germany’s most photographed spots. Behind it stands a small piece of the Berlin Wall, a powerful symbol of Germany’s divided past.

Marksburg Castle

From Koblenz, we visited Marksburg Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress with stunning Rhine views from its hilltop perch. At the end of the tour we visited the castle’s small market. We sampled “The Spirit of the Castle,” a warm and fragrant schnapps that complements the brisk air of the Rhine. The castle also boasts a museum featuring ancient weaponry, furniture, and even a fully preserved medieval kitchen, offering a glimpse into life in the Middle Ages.

Castles on the Rhine

We spent the afternoon on the sun deck, sailing through Castle Corridor, a Rhine stretch famous for its many castles. Each has its own charm and history. Highlights included the sprawling ruin of Rheinfels Castle, once the mightiest fortress on the Rhine. Its crumbling walls and towering ramparts offer stunning views of vineyards and the river.

We also admired Burg Katz and Burg Maus, two neighboring castles with a storied past. Despite their playful names—Cat and Mouse—these fortresses played significant roles in the region’s feudal history. Finally, the enchanting Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, situated on a small island in the middle of the Rhine. Pfalzgrafenstein stands out with its white walls and red trim, resembling something out of a fairytale. Accessible only by boat, it served as a vital toll station in its time.

The cold air on the top deck was no match for the stunning scenery and warm sunshine. Our cruise director kept us entertained with lively commentary, highlighting castles and sharing fascinating regional history.

We enjoyed this day full of history and breathtaking views, showcasing the best of the Rhine Valley’s timeless charm.

Day 5: Miltenberg, Germany

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Our destination for the day was the enchanting town of Miltenberg. Nestled along the river, Miltenberg is famed for its beautifully preserved half-timbered houses and picturesque cobblestone streets. This charming Bavarian town, already stunning in any season, has taken on an extra layer of magic with its festive Christmas decorations. Twinkling lights, garlands, and cheerful holiday displays adorned every corner, turning the town into a winter wonderland. We visited Miltenberg on a Monday, so unfortunately, the weekend-only Christmas Market in Miltenberg huts were closed

Day 6: Würzburg, Germany

Würzburg, nestled along the Main River, is known for its stunning baroque and rococo architecture, with its crown jewel being the Würzburg Residence. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most magnificent palaces in Europe and a testament to the artistic and architectural achievements of the 18th century.

The Würzburg Residence

The Würzburg Residence is a masterpiece of European architecture, featuring a grand staircase, opulent state rooms, and the breathtaking Tiepolo fresco, the largest ceiling fresco in the world. Each room showcases intricate details, from gilded stucco to lavish tapestries, transporting visitors to a time of royal splendor.

Würzburg Old Town and Chistmas Market

Beyond the Residence, Würzburg is a delight to explore. Its charming old town features narrow streets, historic churches, and inviting wine bars where you can sample the region’s renowned Franconian wines. The Würzburg Christmas Market looked magical with its sparkling lights during our late afternoon visit (sunset is around 4:00 PM this time of year). We also strolled across the Alte Mainbrücke, or Old Main Bridge. This historic stone bridge, adorned with statues of saints and rulers, offers stunning views of the Main River and the surrounding cityscape.

Day 7: Bamburg, Germany

This morning, we embarked on a serene journey down the Main-Danube Canal, heading toward Bamberg, a city steeped in history and charm. As we cruised along, the anticipation grew for our arrival at yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The city spans seven hills, with the Regnitz River flowing gracefully through its heart.This waterway adds to Bamberg’s picturesque charm, especially in the area known as “Little Venice,” where colorful half-timbered houses line the riverbanks. The river not only enhances the city’s beauty but also played a vital role in its historical trade and development, making it an integral part of Bamberg’s identity.

Bischofspfalz

A key highlight of Bamberg’s architectural and cultural heritage is the Bischofspfalz, or Bishop’s Palace, a stunning example of baroque and rococo design. The palace, which includes the magnificent Bamberg Cathedral, served as the residence of Bamberg’s prince-bishops. Its grandeur and historical significance have made it a popular filming location. Notably, scenes from the critically acclaimed TV series “The Three Musketeers” were filmed here, showcasing the palace’s timeless elegance and cinematic appeal.

Bamburg’s Famous Smoked Beer: Rauchbier

The city is famed for its Rauchbier, or smoked beer, a unique brew that gets its signature smoky flavor from malt dried over open flames. Sampling this distinctive drink offers a true taste of Bamberg’s rich brewing tradition. For the most authentic experience, head to Schlenkerla, a historic tavern dating back to 1405, where they serve their classic Märzen Rauchbier fresh from the barrel.

But Bamberg offers more than just exceptional beer and stunning architecture. This historic city also hosts a delightful Christmas market intertwined with the Green Market, a farmers market thriving since the Middle Ages.The combination of festive holiday stalls and fresh local produce creates a vibrant and inviting atmosphere, perfect for wandering and discovering seasonal treats.

With its cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the gentle hum of holiday cheer, Bamberg is a lovely city to explore. Whether you’re indulging in its unique brews, marveling at the Bischofspfalz, shopping for handcrafted ornaments, or simply soaking in the historic ambiance, Bamberg is a destination that leaves a lasting impression.

Day 8: Nuremberg, Germany

What a great day in Nuremberg! We began our adventure with a bus tour of the city, taking in some of its most significant historical sites. Our first stop was Zeppelin Field, the sprawling grounds once used for the infamous Nazi Party rallies. Next, we passed the courthouse where the Nuremberg Trials were held, a stark reminder of the city’s pivotal role in post-World War II justice.

After the bus tour, we set out on foot to explore Nuremberg’s charming old town. This area is a treasure trove of medieval architecture, complete with an impressive imperial castle and a remarkably well-preserved city wall. Wandering through the cobblestone streets, we felt as though we’d stepped back in time.

Nuremberg Christmas Markets

Old town is also home to the famous Christkindlesmarkt, one of the oldest and most beloved Christmas markets in Europe. The market was bustling with festive cheer, and we couldn’t resist doing a bit of shopping. Of course, no visit would be complete without sampling some of Nuremberg’s culinary delights. We indulged in sausages, pretzels, and gingerbread—though not all at once! One of the highlights of the market was picking up a few more Glühwein mugs to add to our growing collection. Lynn was particularly excited to finally find one shaped like a boot.

We also made a stop at the Handwerkerhof, a charming artisan market nestled by the city wall, at the Königstor, or King’s Gate, just across from the train station. This small, picturesque market offers a glimpse into Nuremberg’s traditional crafts, with stalls featuring handmade goods such as pottery, leatherwork, and wooden toys. It’s a delightful spot to pick up unique souvenirs while enjoying the cozy atmosphere of this medieval-style market. It’s open year round, not just for Christmas.

It was a long and chilly day, but the warmth of the market’s atmosphere and the beauty of Nuremberg made it an unforgettable experience.

Day 9: Regensburg, Germany

Last night, we crossed the continental divide, marking a significant milestone on our journey. Until now, we had been traveling upstream, but from this point forward, we’re sailing downstream. Overnight, our ship experienced a delay, but the crew quickly adapted, organizing buses to take us upriver so we could begin our day in Regensburg as planned.

Regensburg is another charming Bavarian town, renowned for its beautifully preserved medieval town center and festive Christmas markets. Our day began with a stroll across the iconic stone bridge, a marvel of medieval engineering and one of the oldest surviving bridges in Germany. As we walked, our guide shared fascinating stories about the town’s history and its significance as a major trade hub during the Middle Ages.

Regensburg Christmas Markets

We visited two of the four Regenensburg Chistmas Markets: The Regensburg Christmas Market on Neupfarrplatz and the Lucrezia-Market. We missed the Romantic Christmas Market
at Thurn and Taxis Palace but heard from others that is was wonderful. We’ll visit that on our next Christmas Market River Cruise.

Before crossing the bridge, we explored Stadtamhof, a quaint district on the north side of the Danube. This area a unique charm, with narrow streets, historic buildings, and a tranquil atmosphere. A notable landmark is the Colosseum building, once a World War II subcamp where prisoners were forced into labor. Although the building now serves a new purpose, a nearby memorial and information panels reflect its somber history.

A highlight of our visit was stopping at the Historic Wurstkuchl, an 800-year-old sausage house that claims to be the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the world. Here, we enjoyed freshly grilled sausages paired with sauerkraut and mustard, savoring a taste of tradition in a setting steeped in history.

As the day turned to evening, we returned to the ship, which was docked just as the sun set—an early 4:15 PM in this season. The town’s Christmas lights twinkled against the darkening sky, casting a magical glow over the cobblestone streets and market stalls.

Day 10: Passau, Germany

Our last day in Germany was spent in the enchanting town of Passau, and it couldn’t have been more memorable. Nestled at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers, Passau is known as the “City of Three Rivers,” offering breathtaking views and a rich tapestry of history and culture.

Passau Walking Tour

We began our morning with a historical walking tour, winding through Passau’s charming cobblestone streets. The guide shared stories about the city’s past, from its Roman roots to its prominence as a center of trade and religion. Passau’s baroque architecture, influenced by Italian builders, is most evident in the spectacular St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with its soaring towers and ornate façade, is the crown jewel of Passau. Inside, we marveled at the intricate frescoes and gilded details, but unfortunately, we were unable to experience the famous organ. The largest cathedral organ in the world is being restored and should be completed by 2027. The cathedral’s grandeur provided a stunning backdrop for Passau’s Christmas market, which was bustling with festive cheer.

Passau Christmas Market

The Passau Christkindlmarkt, set in the square in front of the cathedral, was a delightful mix of traditional crafts, holiday treats, and warm, spiced Glühwein. We spent time browsing the stalls and indulging in delicious local fare. There’s something magical about sipping Glühwein in such a picturesque setting, with the cathedral’s towers illuminated against the winter sky.

When we were done at the market, we took a leisurely walk down to the Old Town Hall, a stunning piece of Gothic architecture situated along the riverbank. From there, we enjoyed picturesque views of the Veste Oberhaus, the imposing castle perched on a hill across the Danube. Its commanding presence served as a reminder of Passau’s strategic importance throughout history. Along the way, Bob found a traditional German hat at one of the local shops, a perfect souvenir to remember our time in this beautiful town.

As our time in Germany came to an end, we reflected on the beauty and warmth we’d experienced, even in the brisk 30-degree weather. From the vibrant cities to the quaint towns, Germany has left a lasting impression, and Passau was the lovely place to bid this wonderful country farewell.

Day 11: Melk, Austria and Wachau Valley Castles

Our first day in Austria was action packed with spectacular views. We began the morning with a tour of the breathtaking Melk Abbey, a Baroque Benedictine monastery that towers majestically above the Danube River. Renowned for its opulent architecture, stunning frescoes, and an extensive library housing medieval manuscripts, Melk Abbey is a true masterpiece. While photography wasn’t allowed inside, the intricate details of the gold-leafed chapel left us awestruck, a sight we won’t soon forget.

After the tour, we enjoyed a leisurely stroll through the charming town of Melk before returning to our ship. Known for its quaint streets, inviting shops, and riverside charm, Melk exudes a peaceful atmosphere that perfectly complements the grandeur of the abbey. The Melk Christmas Market was open, though quiet due to it being Sunday, offering a cozy and festive vibe.

Wachau Valley

The afternoon brought another highlight as we sailed through the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its historic castles, apricot orchards, vineyards, and quaint hamlets. We spent the journey on the top deck, listening to our program director’s engaging commentary about the region’s rich history and culture. The hilltops, lightly dusted with snow, added an extra touch of winter magic to the already stunning scenery. Despite the cold, it was a journey we’ll always cherish.

By sunset, we had docked in Krems, a picturesque town known for its winemaking and charm. Though it was Sunday and many shops were closed, we took the opportunity to explore the small Christmas Market and Beer Garden and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

From the grandeur of Melk Abbey to the serene beauty of the Wachau Valley and the cozy charm of Krems, our first day in Austria was a wonderful blend of history, culture, and natural splendor.

Days 12 and 13: Vienna, Austria

From there, we took a leisurely stroll back to the ship, savoring the charm of Vienna’s streets along the way. Lynn could not resist checking out a Vienna grocery store in her quest to learn the unique potato chip flavors from different countries (paprika and sour cream for this market). The Spar Gourmet market was extra fancy with wine by the glass while you shop and aged beef. Tonight’s dinner on the ship featured schnitzel, and while it was excellent, we planned to find more for lunch on our second (and last) day in Austria.

Vienna Christmas Markets

Our second day in Vienna was all about the Christmas Markets. We set off for the Wiener Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz, home to Vienna’s largest and most famous Christmas market. With over 90 vendors, there was no shortage of unique gifts, delicious food, and holiday cheer. The market’s outdoor skating rink added to the festive ambiance, though we opted to watch the skaters rather than join in.

As we explored further, we discovered three more Christmas markets in the area, each with its own charm and offerings. The Altwiener Christkindlmarkt hosted a puppet show and children from all over town were enjoying the show. We found one of our favorite mugs at the Am Hof Christmas Market, and Weihnachtsdorf on Maria-Theresien-Platz offered a lovely setting between Vienna’ss historical buildings. Vienna markets have truly been a highlight of our trip, with their combination of tradition, artistry, and seasonal joy. Our walk took us past some of Vienna’s majestic palaces and grand buildings, showcasing the city’s architectural splendor. We also spent a little time on the Ringstraße, Vienna’s version of the Champs-Élysées, lined with impressive landmarks and bustling with life.

Vienna has left us enchanted with its beauty, history, and festive spirit. From the elegance of its squares and palaces to the warmth of its Christmas markets, our time here has been nothing short of magical.

Days 14 and 15: Budapest, Hungary

What an incredible way to end our Grand European Adventure! This morning began with a scenic sailing into Budapest, and the views were nothing short of breathtaking. The weather, while brisk (it is December, after all), was clear and crisp, making for a perfect backdrop to the city’s iconic skyline. From the top deck, we took in the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament Building as we sailed past, its Gothic Revival architecture glowing in the morning light. Our ship docked right by the Chain Bridge, an ideal starting point for our day of exploration.

Budapest’s Buda Side

Our day began with a guided tour of Budapest’s historic Buda side, home to Buda Castle, Matthias Church, and Fisherman’s Bastion, offering stunning views of the Danube and Pest. The Fisherman’s Bastion & Matthias Church Christmas Market was smaller but offered a nice variety of arts and crafts and Hungarian food nestled amongst the stunning views. The Buda side’s charm lies in its cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and quieter ambiance, making it feel like a step back in time. After soaking in the sights, we walked back to the ship, enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere along the way.

Budapest’s Pest Side

In the afternoon, we crossed over to the Pest side, the lively and bustling heart of modern Budapest. Along the way, we took a moment to visit the Shoes on the Danube Bank memorial, a poignant tribute to the Jews who were executed along the river during World War II. The rows of iron shoes, left as if their owners had just stepped out of them, were deeply moving and a powerful reminder of Budapest’s complex history.

From the market, we wandered along Andrássy Avenue, often called the Champs-Élysées of Budapest. The grand avenue, lined with luxury shops and historic buildings, offered a mix of sophistication and holiday spirit. It was a wonderful way to end our day, soaking in the elegance and charm of Budapest.

As we prepare to head home tomorrow, we can’t help but reflect on how this trip has exceeded all our expectations. Budapest, with its beauty and festive atmosphere, was the perfect finale to our journey. We’re returning full of holiday spirit and unforgettable memories. We’ve already booked our next Christmas market river cruise!