This year, why not combine Christmas markets visits with river cruising? The European Christmas markets are a great place to enjoy the seasonal cheer. Europe also offers a great variety of traditions when it comes to celebrating Christmas. Cinnamon, mulled wine, cakes: all the ingredients are gathered to marvel young and old. It will also be a great opportunity to find unique gifts for the whole family. It is time to treat yourself to a magical Christmas!

Christmas Markets in Alsace

A tour of Christmas Markets in Alsace, in the north East of France, will bring you to an iconic city: Strasbourg. With 300 chalets located in 11 different places, the Strasbourg Christmas Market is one of the biggest ones in Europe and is often voted “Best Christmas Market” by travel experts and tourists! Handmade artefacts, local traditional decorations, and delicious local culinary delicacies are all on offer. Beautifully decorated huts provide a warm atmosphere to stroll the various markets. The streets, houses, church facades, windows and terraces are decorated with magical lighting to put enjoy the run up to Christmas. Legend has it that it was in Strasbourg that the first report of a decorated tree can be traced back to.

The Colmar Christmas Market – made up of 5 different markets – is also one of the most famous ones in France. The Christmas lights in the town of Colmar, in France's north-eastern region of Alsace, are on the main local attractions. During the festive period the Christmas illuminations and markets give a magical feel to this town, known for its numerous architectural treasures dating from the Middle Ages to the 19th century..

CroisiEurope offers a unique formula: its wonderful ships are available to accommodate guests as prestigious "floating hotels" close to major sites. The CroisiEurope spirit and quality service are guaranteed for gueststo enjoy comfort, gastronomy and a great atmosphere on board.

Christmas Markets in Europe

A Danube cruise is ideal to discover 3 major Eastern European capitals at the most magical time of the year: Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava. Vienna hosts several famous Christmas markets, including one of the oldest ones in Europe. Culinary delights, local arts and crafts and a wide range of events are there for to discover an important part of the Austrian culture during the holiday celebrations! The Budapest Christmas Market is especially interesting as exclusively local by Hungarian artists can display and sell their work. You can also find a lot of specialties: fresh Hungarian bread, grilled meat, caramel candies, etc. In Bratislava, local workers including blacksmiths, glass-makers, and ceramicists showcase their products next to the City Hall. Sausages, roast beef, cabbage soup, and potato pancakes are some of the many Slovak culinary specialties you could enjoy to keep warm! The abundant cultural and gastronomical offerings of all these cities provide a unique setting to experience a central Europe trip differently, not to mention all the dance performances and lovely folklore .

We can’t help sharing with your another fantastic itinerary taking you to Belgium and the wonderful cities of Brussels, Anvers and Bruges. In Brussels, the Christmas Market will let you visit the famous Grand-Place all the way to the Marché aux Poissons. You will discover a Christmas village, a skating rink and a lot of surprises! Belgian specialties are waiting for you, including chocolate waffles and hot chocolates with whipped cream.

Discover all our Christmas Markets itineraries and our Christmas cruises.

Christmas time and New Year cruises