Cruise European Christmas Markets with Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways Christmas Market cruises offer a unique and enchanting way to celebrate the holiday season, blending the festive charm of Europe’s Christmas markets with luxurious river cruising.  These cruises provide an exceptional opportunity to explore the cultural and historical richness of Europe’s most iconic rivers, such as the Danube, Rhine, and Main, while immersing yourself in the magical ambiance of traditional Christmas markets.

Features that take Avalon a step above the rest:

• Elegant Accommodations: Avalon’s signature Panorama Suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows that transform into open-air balconies, offering breathtaking views of Europe’s enchanting winter landscapes. With boutique-style amenities, personalized service, and fine dining on board, these cruises are designed for discerning guests.
• Exclusive Shore Excursions: Beyond the Christmas markets, Avalon Waterways curates a variety of unique and culturally rich excursions that appeal to discerning travelers seeking exclusive and memorable experiences. Examples include:
  • Vienna: Enjoy a private concert at one of Vienna’s iconic venues or explore Schönbrunn Palace in a small, guided group for an intimate look at Austrian history and architecture.
  • Strasbourg: Indulge in a gourmet Alsatian food and wine pairing experience at a historic vineyard before visiting the market at Place Broglie, known for its artisanal crafts.
  • Budapest: Participate in a private cooking class featuring Hungarian holiday dishes or take a guided evening tour of the city’s illuminated landmarks.
  • Passau:  Take a full day excursion to Salzburg to celebrate Christmas in the Austrian tradition.
• Christmas Markets Experience: Each destination features its own unique markets, offering regional specialties, handcrafted goods, and festive treats. You’ll have the benefit of inside information from Avalon’s professional staff, pointing you in the right direction for the best Christmas treats, unique shopping opportunities, and times of day that will be less crowded.  Some of the markets visited include:
  • Nuremberg:  Renowned for its Christkindlmarkt, explore over 180 stalls selling traditional handcrafts, mulled wine and ornaments. Indulge in a tiny (but tasty) Nuremberg bratwurst.
  • Cologne:  Discover one of Cologne’s iconic markets set against the backdrop of the beautifully lit Cologne Cathedral. Other nearby markets can be visited on foot or by riding the Christmas Market Express – Cologne’s version of the Polar Express!  Festive handmade gifts and wonderful Christmas delicacies like handbrot (bread stuffed with just about everything) and elaborate gingerbread creations are sold in the numerous quaint stalls.
  • Regensberg:  Visit the Romantic Christmas Market in the courtyard of the Thurm und Taxis Palace, known for its medieval charm. Blueberry mulled wine is traditional here.
  • Budapest:  The Vorosmarty Market offers free concerts and Christmas tableaux and the goulash served in a crusty bread bowl can’t be missed.

• Cultural Immersion: Avalon offers “Active & Discovery” excursions tailored to travelers’ interests, from walking tours led by local historians to art workshops and tastings that reflect the holiday traditions of each region.
• Onboard Enrichment: Avalon enhances the experience with onboard activities like wine tastings, holiday-themed cooking demonstrations, and talks and entertainment delivered by local performers, artisans and historians, ensuring the journey is as enriching as the destinations themselves.

Avalon Waterways provides a perfect blend of luxury, cultural immersion, and holiday cheer, making their Christmas Market cruises an excellent choice for discriminating cruisers. The carefully curated itineraries ensure that guests experience the best of each destination, from classic Christmas markets to exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime excursions. For travelers who value comfort, personalization, and authenticity, Avalon’s Christmas Market cruises offer a seamless way to celebrate the season in style.

Call your favorite travel professional at Travel Leaders soon to start planning for your 2026 Christmas vacation now!