Europe's Enchanted Christmas Markets

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Although holiday river cruises are offered right through until January 1st, Europe’s fabled Christmas Markets typically run only during the weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas. The sailings that fall within these dates offer a true one-of-a-kind experience along the waterways of Europe.

Here are the highlights of the fantastic Christmas Markets in Europe.

NUREMBERG  

It is THE place to be. Nuremberg hosts Germany’s most famous Christmas Market, which dates back to 1628.

Try: Gingerbread and gluhwein (mulled wine).

Buy: German crafts, "plum people"- figures made from figs, plums, and walnuts.

Tip: When you purchase gluhwein, the price includes the mug. You may return it for a refund of a few Euros, but you will find different designs in each port, making them ideal souvenirs.

COLOGNE

In addition to the crafts, glühwein, and twinkling lights, this market also features entertainment with musical performances throughout the festival.

Try: Reibekuchen, fried potato pancakes with applesauce and Kölsch, a beer produced and served only in Cologne.

Buy: Traditional wooden German toys

Tip: Bring cash. The majority of vendors will not accept credit cards and ATMs around the Cologne Christmas Market are sparse.

 

STRASBOURG

This 300+ stall market is the oldest in France, dating back to 1570. In addition to food and shopping, you'll find a beautiful 100 foot Christmas tree, caroling, and traditional musical performances.

Try: Flammekueche, or Tarte Flambée, is a specialty of the Alsace region.

Buy: Alsatian beer steins and white plush storks (a symbol of good luck).

VIENNA

The city is home to around 20 different markets. But the main attraction is in Rathausplatz Square. The market has everything from reindeer rides and an ice skating rink to a ferris wheel and an old-fashioned merry-go-round.

Try: Weinachtspunsch, spiced Christmas punch with wine, brandy, or schnapps, and fruit juice.

Buy: snow globes (first invented in Vienna) and handknit ornaments.

LINTZ

The city hosts ten different markets, but the most popular is in the main square. The Baroque scenery in Linz makes this market truly unique. You’ll find handicrafts, warm drinks, and delicious gingerbread.

Try: Grilled sausages and potato pancakes.

Buy: Painted pottery and ornaments.

COPENHAGEN

Enjoy the Tivoli Gardens dressed up in glass lighting by the head designer at Tiffany's.

Try: Honninghjerter, a traditional honey cookie filled with apricot or orange jam and covered in rich chocolate.

Buy: Organic wool clothes and wooden kitchen tools.

PRAGUE

Prague’s Old Town market and Wenceslas market are the best in a city. And they are only a five-minute walk apart.

Try: Trdelník, a hot, rolled pastry cooked over a grill and topped with cinnamon and sugar.

Buy: Czech marionettes, a popular regional handicraft.

Tip: If you visit on December 5^th, you may see St. Nick walking around town accompanied by an angel and a devil to celebrate St. Nicholas Day.

BASEL

At one of the largest markets in Switzerland, the vendor stalls are referred to as "chalets."

Try: Swiss Raclette, Alpine cow’s milk cheese that is melted and scraped over potatoes like fondue.

Buy: Handmade ornaments.

 

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