Christmas Market Cruises
One of the best ways to enjoy the Christmas markets
is by taking a relaxing cruise along some of the most beautiful
rivers in Europe. The many treasures that can be found along
these rivers will delight you as you sail from one pretty town to
another. Incredible waterways such as the Danube and Rhine are
beautiful at any time of the year, but the magic of the festive
period makes our Christmas market cruises a real
delight. The exciting atmosphere of our festive cruises and
the charming locations that they visit will leave you with
everlasting memories. As you sail from one port of call to
another, you can enjoy the different markets offering local food
and drinks, gifts, decorations and handicrafts. There are a
variety of Christmas markets in Europe, from traditional stalls in
small villages to larger renowned markets that attract numerous
visitors every year. Enjoy one of Great Rail Journeys'
Christmas market cruises.
Since the days of Lord Byron the British have been visiting the Rhine, charmed by its riverside castles and vineyards. Our ship navigates the father of German rivers, visiting an array of Christmas Markets en route.
Departures from November to December
Enjoy six fabulous days on a rail-cruise tour along the Rhine, visiting fascinating riverside towns and exploring charming Christmas Markets from the comfort of the elegant 5-star MS Amadeus Brilliant.
Departures from December to December
Rhineland Christmas Markets Cruise 2012
Rhine Christmas Markets Cruise 2012
Wherever you decide to take your Christmas market cruises, whether it be along the remarkable Rhine with its endless beauty and fairytale castles or the majestic Danube which is punctuated with historic cities, you are sure to be enthralled. Many Christmas cruises along the River Rhine stop in the winemaking town of Rüdesheim where the renowned Christmas Market of Nations takes place. Around 120 different stalls pitch up at Rüdesheim before Christmas, with 12 different countries representing their customs and traditions at the event.
As you sail from Rüdesheim on one of our Christmas market cruises, you may visit the town of Mainz. The 1,000 year-old St Martin's Cathedral overlooks the historic market square where the yearly Christmas market is held for many stalls to sell traditional gifts. The fragrance of baked gingerbread, roasted almonds and delicious mulled wine fills the crisp air during market time, when you can buy Christmas tree decorations, candles, engraved goods and much more. There is so much to enjoy on a Christmas cruise, from the incredible landscape and towns that lie along the river to the festive atmosphere created by the markets.
Another popular route for our Christmas market cruises is along the picturesque Danube River. The waterway itself runs beside the remarkable cities of Vienna and Budapest, as well as areas of renowned beauty such as Wachau Valley. As you cruise down the river and sparkling lights flicker in the background you can enjoy the excitement of Christmas. Departing the ship at various locations along the river allows you to experience the different Christmas markets.
The Nuremberg Christmas market is perhaps one of the most famous in all of Germany and with around 180 different stalls, you are sure to have fun browsing the many delights. Sweet treats, wooden toys, unique gifts and decorations adorn the stalls which have been festively decorated by their owners. As you continue along the Danube on our Christmas market cruises you can enjoy all the best aspects of a river cruise, such as incredible landscapes and the chance to see a variety of destinations coupled with the excitement of Christmas.
01904 521 936
All of our Christmas market cruises are set aboard great ships that have been chosen for their excellent facilities. Sailing along the River Rhine and the River Danube are just an example of what you can experience during a cruise to see the Christmas markets. As well as cruises, we also provide land based holidays to enjoy the festivities, which you can also browse on this website. Choose your perfect festive getaway with Great Rail Journeys' Christmas market cruises.