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.

Cologne Christmas Market, Germany

Frohe Weihnachten sign, Vienna

Christmas Market Stand, Austria

Strasbourg Christmas Market, France

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.

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.

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.

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
Start planning your extraordinary Emerald Cruises journey, details about river cruises and frequently asked questions.
All our holidays are subject to availability and are valid for new bookings before 30th June 2026. All prices are correct as of 26th March 2026 and are based on two people sharing our lowest priced available cabin and include any relevant discounts. Supplements apply for single travellers, upgraded cabins and other departure dates. Our offers are not combinable, and we reserve the right to withdraw our offers at any time. Our itineraries, hotels, dates, and inclusions are subject to change. Itineraries may operate in reverse. Offers must be paid in full 10 months prior to departure, or at the time of booking if less than 10 months prior to departure. Best Available Fare is strictly limited, subject to availability, until sold out or withdrawn. ^Flights may not be a direct service and flights are up to a set credit amount (Europe: up to £500pp, If the required air fare exceeds the set credit amount, additional charges will apply.) Airport transfers are only available on the first and last day of your journey and at times we designate. Transfers outside these times will be at your expense and must be secured by your own arrangements. In the event of suitable flights not connecting with cruise embarkation/disembarkation timings, overnight accommodation may be required at an additional cost. Full bookings conditions can be found at emeraldcruises.co.uk/terms-conditions. Emerald Cruises is a trading name of Scenic Tours (UK) Ltd.
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