By: Sandy Fenton
Have you been thinking about starting a new Holiday tradition, or perhaps giving the gift of travel early this year?
If the answer is yes – now (yes, February) is the time to book a magical and memorable Christmas Market River cruise throughout Europe.
European river cruising continues to be a top vacation choice for Americans (with over 90% satisfaction scores) – with more ships, onboard amenities, new & longer itineraries, and more expanded port excursions than ever before. Christmas Market River cruises have a short window of time, have become super popular – and sell out quickly.
In my opinion there’s not an easier or more carefree way to explore Europe than on a river cruise, and now there are more options available for travelers on a budget wanting the basics, to all-inclusive, ultra-luxury – and everything in between.
If you’re a history buff (particularly WWII landmarks and Jewish Heritage sites) and love scenery, the Danube offers guests opportunities to get up close and personal throughout Budapest and Nuremberg, plus sailing the stunning Wachau Valley. For foodies and wine lovers, the Rhine, Moselle and Rhone itineraries will not disappoint, especially the glorious vineyards and wine-making history throughout the region. And of course sailing the Seine and experiencing Paris, “The City of Lights”, during the holiday season – simply glorious.
Today’s river ships are modern, comfortable, and small (fewer than 200-passengers) with a friendly, like-minded atmosphere ; they feature attentive service and all the upscale amenities found in fine European hotels. But please note, river ships are not big, glitzy floating cities. They are the opposite of Las Vegas or mega-ocean cruise ships with all the 24/7 onboard activities, entertainment, casinos or water parks.
If you’re like me and love the Holiday season bursting with decorations, merriment and tradition – a Christmas Market sailing should be a perfect fit for you. Just imagine snow-dusted hills surrounding cliff-top ancient castles and charming cobble-stone villages decorated with millions of twinkling lights and candles, complete with gigantic pine tree displays in the town square.
The moment you step onto your decorated river ship you’ll feel the joyful holiday magic and Christmas spirit. You will be listening to Christmas music and traditional carols performed by local choir groups while looking around at all the tastefully decorated trees and displays. And let’s not forget about all the delicious holiday feasts and festive drinks served daily, so many special touches to remind all guests of the beauty of the season.
Christmas Markets have been an annual tradition in Europe for centuries with the markets open during the four weeks of Advent around November 24th through December 24th. Most Christmas Market river cruises sail throughout Germany, Austria, Hungary, France and Switzerland – and trust me, the feel of the grand cities of Vienna, Budapest, Salzburg and Paris take on a completely different aspect during the season, (dazzling and magical come to mind immediately), and are not nearly as crowded as the summer.
Onboard guests walk off the river ship into the decorated town centers where the Christmas Markets are lit up with old and new decor and bustling with local families gathering for hearty seasonal meals (be sure to sample some Gluh Wein – hot mulled wine; authentic gingerbread and thicker than thick hot chocolate) before shopping among the local merchants and tradesmen. Every port village features its own local holiday beverages, specialties and foods. Almost instantly, you will become part of the festivities as you take in all the festive sights, sounds, tastes and aromas. (During our Danube Christmas Market sailing there were school choirs dressed up in customary holiday clothing and singing beloved Christmas carols at many of the port stops.)
Be sure to take your time and wander around all the nativity scenes, hand-crafted and custom built by the villagers and placed throughout the market and around the beautiful small churches and magnificent cathedrals illuminated with sparkling lights and handmade decorations, many from the village children.
If you see a Christmas gift or keepsake you love (even if it’s your first day) – buy it. Don’t wait until your last port day to complete your holiday shopping. Some of the most popular gifts include traditional and authentic glass-blown ornaments & decorations, nutcrackers, wooden toys and handmade dolls. (Bring an empty bag or leave space in your luggage to bring all your treasures home.)
Touring Europe during the Christmas season is truly unforgettable. I loved walking about and exploring the beautifully decorated cobblestone streets and storybook villages, especially at dusk when it seems the entire port town is glowing with candlelight and then returning to the ship where every evening was a special and live holiday performance or event.
I recommend packing a waterproof coat, gloves, hat/headband, scarf and comfy walking shoes or boots. The ships are so lovely and warm inside, but when walking throughout the village or spending time on the upper observation deck or your private verandah – especially when sailing – you will be happy to be nice and toasty.
Several river cruise lines offer European Christmas Market sailings including Viking ; Uniworld Boutique River Cruises ; AmaWaterways and Tauck. (And just in case you want to stay closer to home and cruise the Christmas Markets throughout the United States, check out American Cruise Lines.) Be sure to contact your local AAA travel advisor as soon as possible. If you can’t go this season, then book your trip now for 2026. All river cruises go on sale – and depending on the time of year and itinerary, you may be able to find some excellent sales and promotions, and of course you can save with AAA Member Benefits. Be sure you are getting on the right ship for your personal tastes, lifestyle and budget. You’re going to love it – I promise!
“Let’s Talk Travel with AAA, hosted by Sandy Fenton” is syndicated Saturday mornings on iHeartRadio and heard locally on WHP580Harrisburg & WRAWReading. SandyFenton@iHeartmedia.com.
