Sip, Stroll & Celebrate: Europe’s Most Magical Christmas Markets

Categories

Strasbourg, France – Christkindelsmärik

With more than 300 wooden stalls lining the streets, Strasbourg is one of Europe’s oldest and most iconic holiday markets. Wander through a winter wonderland of bredle biscuits, handcrafted gifts, and spiced mulled wine, as festive music echoes through the medieval streets.

Why it’s special: Head to Place Kléber, where a towering 90+ foot Christmas tree lights up the heart of the market.

Cruise to Strasbourg with:
AmaWaterways’ 7-Night Captivating Rhine

Prague, Czech Republic – Old Town & Wenceslas Squares

The markets of Prague are as rich in history as they are in charm. From delicate lace and hand-poured candles to hearty bowls of rybí polévka (traditional fish soup), every offering celebrates local craftsmanship.

Why it’s special: Prague’s markets highlight locally sourced goods and ingredients. From ornaments carved from Czech trees to Moravian red wine, every detail reflects local tradition.

Cruise to Prague with:
Avalon Waterways’ 9-Night Legendary Danube

Vienna, Austria – Christkindlmarkt at the Rathaus

Set against the stunning backdrop of Vienna’s City Hall, this market is straight out of a snow globe. Sample Austrian pastries and sweet Buchteln while sipping Christmas punch. Then stroll through the adjoining park filled with ice skating rinks, nativity scenes, a carousel, and even a ferris wheel.

Why it’s special: It’s more than a market—it’s a festive playground that enchants all ages.

Cruise to Vienna with:
Viking’s 7-Night Christmas on the Danube

Other Not-to-Miss Markets

• Budapest Basilica Christmas Fair – Hungary’s most picturesque market set in front of a grand basilica

• Skansen Christmas Market, Stockholm – A traditional Swedish experience in the world’s first open-air museum

• Baden-Baden Christmas Market, Germany – Elegant and intimate, surrounded by the Black Forest

• Sternschnuppenmarkt, Wiesbaden – Known as the "Twinkling Star" Market for its dreamy lights and decor

• Cologne Cathedral Christmas Market – Over 150 stalls with the cathedral’s Gothic spires as your backdrop

Cruise through these markets with:
Avalon Waterways’ 9-Night Legendary Danube

Ready to Turn Holiday Magic Into Reality?!

Whether you're sipping glühwein under Strasbourg’s towering tree, shopping for handmade treasures in Prague, or skating past Vienna’s City Hall, a European river cruise turns holiday travel into something truly unforgettable. Let’s plan your Christmas market adventure today. Contact us today to secure your preferred cruise and take advantage of early booking perks!