Picture twinkling lights reflected on the Danube River as you sail into port, steps away from the merriment of a festive Christmas market.
European Christmas markets have been a practice for the reason that Middle Ages. Market stalls decked in garland and ornaments beckon visitors with a comfy atmosphere and delicious food and drinks.
There are millions of Christmas markets in Europe. Somewhat than cobbling together an itinerary — and conducting all of the research that requires — a river cruise makes planning easy.
I had my first taste of European Christmas markets on Viking’s Danube Christmas Delights, an eight-day river cruise that stops in six places — Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Linz, Krems, and Passau — in 4 countries.
Because the ship mainly traveled at night, I woke up in a recent port every day. Adding to the vacation cheer, there was nightly entertainment on board too, from Christmas caroling to a performance by the Vienna Boys’ Choir.
Viking is just not the one cruise line that sails the Danube in the course of the festive season. Ama Waterways, Avalon Waterways, and Uniworld, amongst others, offer similar itineraries and market excursions.
One trip, many markets
Most cities have multiple markets positioned within the plazas or squares. You possibly can explore them at your personal pace, ask the cruise director for guidance, or join for an tour organized by the ship.
In Vienna, I signed up for an tour that focused on the town’s architecture and its markets, including Christkindlmarkt near St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and one other Christmas market around Maria Theresien Platz.
A view of Christkindlmarkt at Vienna’s City Hall on Dec. 14, 2023.
Saliha Simsir Kazak | Anadolu | Getty Images
Later, I explored the Belvedere Market and the pedestrian shopping area near Stephansplatz, which had gorgeous outdoor lights that looked like chandeliers.
The historic settings of those markets are as much a component of the experience because the decor, food and shopping. Imagine strolling through Vienna’s Schöbrunn Market with town’s Baroque palace because the backdrop, for instance.
The markets are extraordinarily beautiful at night too. Nevertheless, to avoid crowds, the very best time to buy is when the markets first open. The closer your travel dates are to Christmas, the busier the markets will probably be. And, after all, weekends are more crowded than weekdays.
Markets at each stop
Budapest has several markets on “the Pest” side of town.
Town’s important market is in Vörösmarty Square. It connects to a different market along town’s “Fashion Street,” which was illuminated with playful lights in the form of shoes, presents, and umbrellas. There’s one other large market at St. Stephen’s Square with a small ice-skating rink.
A Christmas market in Passau, Germany.
Source: Penny Sadler
Christmas markets in Bratislava’s city center began within the Nineties. Nevertheless, they do an awesome job of making a fun, traditional atmosphere. I visited two — one in Hviezdoslav Square and one other in city’s important square. I noticed quite a lot of food and drinks, but not as many gifts. Nevertheless, there have been plenty of outlets, carolers and street musicians so as to add to the festive atmosphere.
Passau is a small city in Germany, but its important market has an awesome mixture of food stalls and handmade gifts. I purchased an wood owl carved from the Black Forest.
The stall in Passau where author Penny Sadler bought a carved wood owl.
Source: Penny Sadler
I visited two markets in Linz, Austria. One was ideal for families, with games, just a little train, and crafts. The opposite was a beautiful market within the important square, or Hauptplatz, with stalls spaced to permit loads of room to linger, each topped with painted landscapes that were like artistic endeavors.
A part of the fun of visiting the markets is trying the food and drinks. Sausages, cheese and sweet treats are common, but each markets has local specialties too. Glühwein, a warm spiced red wine, is served in every single place, often in a commemorative cup that you may keep as a souvenir.
Shopping suggestions
The markets carry the whole lot from knitted scarves and carved ornaments to games and cheese boards. There may be loads of Christmas decor too, including nativity sets, angels, Santa Claus figures, and after all, nutcrackers.
Picket games on the market at a Christmas market in Vienna.
Source: Penny Sadler
Many of the vendors are small “mom and pop” businesses. Many accept bank cards, nevertheless it’s a superb idea to have some money readily available too.
A top tip? Bring your personal shopping bag or tote on your purchases. And consider packing an additional suitcase in the event you’re planning to purchase quite a bit.
