Colorful rows of glittering fairy lights surrounding charming cobblestone streets and small wooden figurines ready to come home in your suitcase – it’s the “Christmas Market” season in Europe.
Throughout Europe, cities and small towns alike put on their holiday finest during this time of year, as they light up the season with all kinds of Christmas markets offering hand-carved toys and ornaments, delicious food, and a festive spirit that can only be found in the Old World.
So what’s the best way to enjoy the enchanting Christmas Market season?
Consider a river cruise, where you’ll literally sail right into the heart of each town’s market festivities. Let’s look at 3 holiday itineraries that are perfect for exploring some of the best Christmas markets in Europe:
Christmas on the Rhine (Amsterdam to Basel) – Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas as you journey through storybook villages. Sample tasty yuletide treats and regional delicacies as you browse colorful stalls for handcrafted ornaments and unique gifts. Admire the twinkling lights of Cologne and revel in the merry atmosphere of the Rhine Valley, as storefront displays, wine cellars and markets embrace the holiday season. This 8-day voyage is a joyful celebration of festive cheer.
Christmas on the Danube (Budapest to Regensburg) – Discover grand cities, medieval towns and quaint villages along the “Blue Danube,” highlighting three countries: Hungary, Austria and Germany. Stroll among the stalls at Budapest’s Christmas market and immerse yourself in the cheerful atmosphere of Vienna as you shop for handmade decorations. Visit the fairy-tale village of Regensburg, one of Europe’s best-preserved cities, and delight in the city’s joyful festivities.
Christmas on the Seine (Paris to Paris) – Embrace the holiday season with a taste of Joyeux Noel. Explore Paris, France’s twinkling “City of Light.” Sail through the snow-covered landscapes of Normandy’s countryside and admire the scenes of fairy-tale villages along the way. Enjoy the scented aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts amid a festive backdrop of Christmas markets. Onboard festivities include regional dining specialties, seasonal treats and more to celebrate the holidays.
Exuberantly decorated Christmas markets nestled in charming cities. Yuletide cookies, cakes and other freshly baked treats. Cobblestone streets illuminated by holiday lights. The angelic songs of strolling carolers. Storybook villages and snow-capped castles on the riverside
The holiday season is truly one of the best times to go to Europe, with the festive spirit in full swing and the cold weather just mild enough to walk around. And Christmas markets, found in towns large and small, are one of the best ways to soak it all in.
Sounds like it just might be time to start planning for an Old World Christmas next year!
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