European Christmas market river cruises 

Experience the magic of Christmas on a European Christmas market river cruise and sail from just £2,583pp in 2026.

Discover the Christmas markets of Europe on a festive 2026 luxury river cruise.

Celebrate Christmas in unforgettable style with one of our most popular Emerald Cruises festive river cruises. Glide along Europe’s iconic waterways and immerse yourself in timeless Christmas traditions - from enchanting markets and twinkling historic squares to the irresistible scents of gingerbread and mulled wine. Sip, stroll and sing along to carols beneath glowing lights as you discover how the Germans, Austrians and Hungarians celebrate Yuletide on a truly magical Christmas markets cruise.

Take advantage of our festive offer and save up to 20%* with flights included when you book your 2026 Christmas river cruise.

Call 0161 768 7906 to book and guarantee your preferred sailing.

Christmas Germany Cologne Lights

Cologne Christmas Market, Germany

Christmas Austria Christmas Sign

Frohe Weihnachten sign, Vienna

Christmas Austria Vienna Market

Christmas Market Stand, Austria

Christmas France Strasbourg

Strasbourg Christmas Market, France

Christmas Market Gingerbread

German Christmas markets

Idyllic Christmas markets effortlessly transform the postcard-worthy towns and cities of Germany into a winter wonderland of quaint wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and festive treats.

Christmas Budapest St Stephen Basilica

Budapest Christmas markets

The Hungarian capital comes to life with the twinkling of lights, market stalls, and general festivities in December. There’s something undeniably magical about the setting of Budapest’s Christmas markets, set in front of the grand St. Stephen’s Basilica.

Christmas Vienna City Hall

Vienna Christmas markets 

During the festive season, Vienna's most charming squares transform into magical Christmas markets. The delightful aroma of Christmas cookies baking, hot punch, and roasted chestnuts allure many visitors this time of the year.

Christmas Germany Cologne

France Christmas Markets

France glows with festive charm in December, as lights twinkle above bustling market stalls and seasonal celebrations fill the air. There’s something truly magical about exploring France’s Christmas traditions, from the enchanting markets of Lyon.

Your guide to Europe river cruising

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