Experience the magic of Europe’s Christmas Markets on a dedicated AmaWaterways cruise. These festive journeys center around the twinkling markets, local traditions, and joyful spirit of Christmas.
From:$4,579$3,579per person
Experience the Magic of the Season on a Christmas Markets River Cruise
Highlights of your Christmas Markets Experience
Markets in every port
Every stop on this sailing has been chosen for its holiday markets. Get a stall-by-stall guide and expert recommendations so you can find the gifts you’re looking for.
A ship that feels like the season
Surround yourself in the holiday spirit aboard the ship, with garlands, twinkling lights, and a beautiful tree adorning, and a helpful crew.
Local choirs and festive evenings
Regional performers come aboard through the sailing for carols, brass, and holiday music, so the celebration continues after the markets close.
More Festive Sailings to Get You in the Christmas Spirit
From:$4,479$3,479per person
Exclusive to AmaWaterways
See One of Europe’s Oldest Markets in Nuremberg
Walk beneath glowing garlands and red-and-white striped stalls at one of Europe’s oldest markets, Christkindlesmarkt.
Shop Strasbourg’s Cathedral Square by Candlelight
Browse France’s oldest Christmas Market under the shadow of Strasbourg’s Gothic cathedral, where winter treats like Alsatian gingerbread and vin chaud wait.
Celebrate at Regensburg’s Palace Courtyard Market
Step inside the grounds of Thurn and Taxis Palace, where candlelit courtyards, local choirs, and artisans create one of Bavaria’s most romantic holiday experiences.
Visit Vienna’s City Hall Market and Ice Rink
See Vienna’s Rathausplatz transformed into a sparkling wonderland, where market stalls surround an open-air ice rink and the air fills with the sound of carols.
Stroll Basel’s Old Town and Lucerne’s Lakeside Markets
Wander Basel’s cobbled streets lined with festive stalls, or take a scenic excursion to Lake Lucerne, where Christmas markets sit beneath snowcapped peaks.
Heidelberg Castle and Christmas Markets
Pair your visit to Heidelberg’s iconic castle overlooking the Neckar River, with a detour to a festive market at the beautiful entrance to the city’s old town.
Alsace and the Capital of Christmas
In Strasbourg and other Alsatian towns, discover France’s most enchanting Christmas markets, where French flair meets German holiday tradition.
Strasbourg, France
Why Choose an AmaWaterways Christmas Markets Cruise?
Guaranteed Visits to Europe’s Christmas Markets
At this time of year, Europe’s most famous Christmas markets are open and glowing with festive lights and sailings are designed around seeing some of the most magical ones.
Festive Holiday Atmosphere On Board
Return from the markets to a ship decorated for the season, complete with warm drinks, regional dishes, and carols — a cozy retreat between magical winter ports.
Seasonal Scenery Along Europe’s Rivers
Cruise through snow-dusted vineyards, castle-studded valleys, and illuminated cities, where Europe’s winter landscapes offer some of the year’s most breathtaking views.
Warmth, Wonder, and Togetherness
Whether exploring riverside markets or sharing stories over mulled wine, every moment aboard creates memories of comfort, connection, and pure holiday joy.
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2026 Christmas Markets Guide
Europe's Christmas Markets are among the most anticipated events on the seasonal travel calendar. As Christmas Markets dates for the 2026 season are confirmed, we'll be updating this guide with everything you need to plan your visit.
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Family River Cruise Review: Why a Mother of Four Chose AmaWaterways' Christmas Markets on the Rhine
New to river cruising, mother of four Jennifer V. shares her unique perspective on why our Christmas Markets on the Rhine river cruise was perfect for her brood.
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Christmas in Bordeaux: Markets Under Chandelier Lights
Bordeaux’s Christmas markets pair chandelier-style lights, local crafts, festive foods and offbeat makers, making December a stylish season to visit.
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A First-Time River Cruiser's Christmas on the Rhine
A longtime ocean cruiser and self-described introvert discovers that AmaWaterways’ intimate Rhine Christmas cruise offers warm connections, festive markets, exceptional service, and a smaller-ship experience that wins her over.
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