Tourists flock to Europe for many reasons. The cities are majestic and romantic, the history is rich, and the food is outstanding. But come December, a singular purpose drives tourists to the Old World: The Christmas Markets. And taking them in from the Danube is one of the best ways to experience them.
What Are Christmas Markets?
Imagine the exact opposite of the hectic, stressful environment induced by an American mall the days before Christmas.
Christmas markets originated in the Holy German Empire in the late middle ages, when merchants and artists got together on the town square to sell their wares before the annual celebration of the birth of Christ. And while a whole industry has now evolved out of this idea, the basic concept hasn't changed. Christmas markets are still being held in the middle of many European cities, with the food and drinks being almost as well known as the intricate, hand-crafted wares for sale. Today, European and especially German Christmas Markets have become so famous that they make for a popular river cruise destination despite the winter cold.
Getting the Best Experience
While the basic nature of Christmas markets remains the same from Strasbourg, France to Budapest, Hungary, every Christmas market has its own unique charm and features. That means an agony of choice; even after you've decided on a European Christmas Market river cruise, where should you go? Allow us to suggest the Danube. Cruising along Europe's longest river allows you to enjoy the full experience of the continent's Christmas markets in some of its most beautiful cities.
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Nuremberg, Germany. The majestic Bavarian city offers one of Germany's most famous Christmas Markets. The Christkindlesmarkt is opened each year by the Christ Child, reciting the solemn prologue from the gallery of the church of Our Lady. 180 wooden booths offer a space for the over 200 merchants to sell their gingerbread, fruit loaves, wooden ornaments, Christmas pyramids and much more. The market in the old town is overlooked by Nuremberg's medieval castle, giving visitors a wonderful sense of history.
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Next up: Vienna, Austria's capital. The city is unique in that it offers not just one, but multiple Christmas markets in its historic squares. No less than 11 markets, ranging from the historic Old Viennese Christmas Market to the romantic cultural and Christmas market in front of Schönbrunn Palace, invite the visitor for a Glühwein (traditional spiced wine) and some relaxed shopping.
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Budapest, Hungary. Widely considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe, Budapest awaits with more than just its 150 stands. Live music and folk dances showcase the Hungarian culture, while puppet theaters and delicious food are sure to keep the younger guests happy. All products sold here are certified to be handmade locally.
Of course, a great river cruise includes more than just three stops, and the Christmas markets in Regensburg and Passau (Germany) along with Melk (Austria), all situated between Nuremberg and Budapest, are beautiful enough to make the cruise worth its price.
Cruising down the Danube and visiting the historic Christmas markets of Germany, Austria and Hungary will be a memory you'll carry with you for a life time. To find out more about booking a Christmas market river cruise, schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our travel specialists.
