Christmas Markets on the Danube

While on my Danube River Cruise I was fortunate to visit two Christmas Markets with the first being in Vienna, Austria. The Wiener Christkindlmarkt is known for its beautiful backdrop of the illuminated city hall. This market is a culinary masterpiece with the traditional roasted chestnuts, giant donuts, cream-filled pastries and a dozen varieties of pretzels. There are many Christmas decorations along with arts and crafts for purchase in many of the booths. This Christmas Market offers so many fun activities for the entire family such as the carousel, a Ferris wheel and the ice skating rink. The love and romance was seen everywhere around the market especially at the Tree of Hearts. 

My second Christmas Market was in Budapest, Hungary in the heart of the city located on Vorosmarty Square and right in front of the well-known Gerbeaud Coffee House. This was the place I tried and fell in love with Gluehwein or mulled wine which is a traditional drink during the winter and especially around Christmas. This market has two outdoor stages for entertainment from folk, jazz, blues, soul and dance performers. My favorite food was the Hungarian Goulash, which is a must!