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Dream Cruises: European Christmas Markets
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Dream Cruises: European Christmas Markets

If you’ve never been to Europe during the Christmas holiday season, you may not know about Europe’s Christmas markets. These pop-up style markets help carry European towns into the holiday spirit by offering handmade Christmas gifts, such as ornaments, nativity scenes, candles, wreaths, and more! The stalls that line the streets are lined with garlands and festive, twinkle lights. 

Luckily, there is an easy way to experience many of the Christmas markets that Europe has to offer! Some of the popular cruise lines offer river cruises that will take you to several Christmas markets in different countries, such as along the Rhine River or Danube River. 

As your top choice for vacation planning in the Twin Cities, Riverdale Travel has the details about soaking in the holiday cheer at Europe’s quaint Christmas Markets. 

What Are Christmas Markets?

Christmas markets typically run from November to January and were traditionally popular in locations such as Nürnberg, Munich, Cologne, Heidelberg, Frankfurt, and Dresden. 

The tradition has expanded to other countries and cities, such as Copenhagen, Edinburgh, Prague, and Brussels.

Christmas markets are loaded with delicious food to sample, handcrafted gifts, and edible gifts (such as jam and chocolate). Though you may see some mass-produced items (which will be the same at several stalls), you can avoid these and focus on the luxury, handcrafted items instead. 

If you love Christmas, visiting the markets on a river cruise is an excellent way to experience many markets in a short amount of time. 

Why Take a River Cruise to Christmas Markets?

Taking a river cruise is an excellent way to experience multiple Christmas markets. Less choppy than an ocean cruise, river cruises are relaxing and fun. Plus, you can see the cities and countryside you pass through, rather than the endless ocean. 

Some benefits of river cruises for Christmas markets include: 

  • Less itinerary planning

  • Can visit many markets in one trip

  • Are mostly all-inclusive

  • Only have to unpack once

  • The ships are smaller

  • Fewer passengers

Tips for Visiting European Christmas Markets

Because of their popularity, it’s important to follow some tips for planning a river cruise through Europe’s Christmas markets. 

Riverdale Travel has compiled some of the most helpful tips to make sure your Christmas market river cruise is an experience to remember!

Tip 1: Book Early

River ships are much smaller than ocean liners and can fill up quickly. It’s important to plan way ahead for a Christmas market river cruise. If you have specific dates or cruise lines in mind, make sure you try to book at least two years out to get what you want. 

You’ll also want to check when the markets open to make sure your trip coincides with the ones you want to see. 

Tip 2: Check Itinerary Options

The most popular river cruises for Christmas markets are along the Rhine and Danube Rivers. You’ll want to check which cities the cruises are stopping in and try to catch at least two to three markets along the way.

You can also check for pre- or post-trip transfers. This makes it easier to continue or finish your trip without the hassle of lugging around your luggage. 

Tip 3: Pack for the Weather

Layers are essential when exploring Christmas markets. It will be cold, and depending on how long you spend outside, you may start to feel a chill in your bones. Layering up is the best way to stay comfortable. 

Some great layer ideas include: 

  • Long underwear

  • Fleece-lined leggings or jeans

  • Water-resistant or waterproof coat

  • Mittens/Gloves/Fingerless Gloves

  • Waterproof shoes for snowy days

  • Sneakers for non-snowy days

  • Hats/scarves and other accessories

Tip 4: Bring an Extra Suitcase

If you plan on shopping quite a bit, plan to bring an extra suitcase. A collapsable or foldable bag that you can stow in your luggage on your way there is perfect for traveling. 

Just be sure to put your trinkets and breakables in a hard case suitcase and your less-fragile items in the other suitcase or bag. 

Tip 5: Plan Snacking & Meals

Most of the markets don’t open until around noon, so make sure you eat enough on the cruise ship ahead of sightseeing in the morning. When you get hungry, try to indulge in the local fare. 

For example, chimney cakes are essential in Budapest and Prague. Most markets also sell mulled wine and non-alcoholic beverages like hot chocolate or eggnog. 

Tip 6: Make a Loop Before Buying

A common pitfall of market shopping is buying too early. The best method to explore the markets is to make a loop around the entire thing before starting your purchases. This way, you’ll have a good idea of what is available.

You don’t want to purchase something only to find a better option later. However, if you see something you love at artisan markets, you should purchase it because there may not be another one like it. 

Book Your Christmas Market Cruise With Riverdale Travel

Riverdale Travel is a premier travel consultant in the Twin Cities. With many exclusive connections with popular cruise lines, we can help you plan and book your European Christmas market cruise. 

Our expert consultants are well-versed in European travel, and we can help you find out-of-the-way local establishments and sights to enrich your trip. We can also help you plan a group trip or provide concierge services for business travel

Call us today to start booking your river cruise! We can be reached at 763-323-3665, or you can book a consultation online

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