7 Reasons To Take A European Christmas Market Cruise

Even though I live in Arizona and we have the most wonderful, sunny and perfect temperatures during the Christmas season, I still on occasion like brisk weather, snowflakes in the air, crackling fires and warm mugs of hot chocolate. Well no, let me take that back.  Gluhwein - yes gluhwein more so than hot chocolate!  

Feel the True Christmas Spirit

The Christmas Spirit is truly alive on a river cruise.  Ships are beautifully decorated and cruise lines arrange for special festive activities and meals on board.  Cities and quaint towns are magical with their decorated streets and squares, only seen during this time of year.   These trips are a wonderful way to celebrate the holidays with your family - young and old, especially on the special family sailings.   What a great opportunity to show children how other countries celebrate the season. 

Having grown up in Germany, I still have fond memories of the lovely Christmas Markets that pop up in just about every city from the mid/end of November to the end of December.  Oh, and the aromas...  pretzels, freshly grilled sausages, gingerbread cookies, hot chocolate, hot cider and yes the gluhwein (well, this memory is more recent...  promise, I didn't drink gluhwein as a child.).  And of course the fresh scent of the pines trees. The Christmas trees were always so beautiful.  Christmas Markets really are a wonderful experience, from all the regional foods to the locally made crafts - every market has it's uniqueness!  

One of the best ways to enjoy the holiday season in Europe is on a Christmas Market river cruise.  No worries about driving, you unpack once, you experience fewer crowds, numerous cultures and numerous markets all on one itinerary.  Shall I go on?   Imagine picking up that perfect gift in Prague, Vienna, Amsterdam and Strasbourg, one of the oldest Christmas markets in all of Europe.  Or spending Christmas through New Year on board ship - what a way to celebrate the holidays and bring in the New Year!

Here are 7 great reasons to consider a Christmas Market river cruise in Europe.
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Opportunity to experience a European Winter Wonderland

Yes, winter river cruises can be cold and there is a good chance you will experience snow.  But that is the beauty.  This time of year offers you the chance to experience Europe's winter wonderland and fairy tale settings.  Imagine cruising on the Rhine with castles sitting on white frosted hills, or walking the cobblestone streets of Nuremberg, exploring the famous Christkindlesmarkt, the largest and oldest Christmas Market in Germany.   Remember, river cruising isn't about the weather - it's about the destinations and the experiences that go with them!

Photo credit: Viking River Cruises

Unique Itineraries

While some of the itineraries are the same or similar to spring, summer and fall itineraries, some are special, created specifically around visiting the Christmas markets.  Whether the same or not, these itineraries are unique in that traditions, foods and crafts are on display only during the Christmas season.    
 

Multiple Christmas markets - multiple cultures

One of the primary reasons to enjoy a river cruise any time of year is the opportunity to explore multiple countries and experience multiple cultures on one itinerary.  The cruises stop in vibrant cities and quaint villages, giving you the opportunity to experience the hustle of the big city and the charm of the small towns.   Christmas Market cruises add to the excitement, not only by visiting multiple markets only available this time of year but also experiencing the different traditions, foods and art, giving you an extra insight, if you will, to the local life.   

Shop for unique gifts

Christmas markets are certainly the place to pick up some unique gifts for friends and family - gifts you won't find anywhere else in the world.  This in of itself is special.  Explore over 300 stalls in Strasbourg or 180 in Nuremberg...hundreds of local and regional artisans displaying their beautiful handcrafted wares.  You can't go wrong!
 

Sample local specialties

Roasted chestnuts, fresh pretzels, grilled sausages, lovely gingerbread cookies, hot chocolate, mulled wine, local beers and many other traditional and regional foods bring hundreds of people to the markets - locals and visitors alike.  The markets offer a great place for people to meet and simply enjoy each others company.  Go out and meet the locals - it really is a lot of fun. 

Lower prices than summer or fall

Christmas Market cruises are a great value and a wonderful opportunity for first time cruisers to experience what river cruising is all about.  Cruise fares are are generally lower, as are airfares.  Lower prices, fewer crowds (and possibly the ability to take advantage of some additional days off) makes this a great time to visit Europe.