Twelve Days of Travel: A Very Merry Viking River Cruise to European Christmas Markets

If you’re anything like me, you have wistful dreams of hopping on a plane in December, bundling up in your coziest winter wear, and flying over to visit the famed Christmas markets of Europe— strolling booths to sample the sweet and spicy Glühwein, warm gingerbread, potato cakes, and more specialty treats and sweets you can only find at a Weihnachtsmärkte.

While Europe is home to plentiful Christmas markets of this nature and it may feel overwhelming trying to plan where to go, VIKING has a perfectly handcrafted river cruising itineraries for you to consider, taking all of the stress away from planning and allowing you to experience some of the most magical holiday destinations that Europe has to offer.

For example, you can sail on an 8 day river cruise, beginning in Amsterdam, where you can begin your journey cruising down the Rhine River by strolling canals and visiting world-class museums before you embark. “Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas as you journey through storybook villages. Sample tasty yuletide treats and regional delicacies as you browse colorful stalls for handcrafted ornaments and unique gifts. Admire the twinkling lights of Cologne and revel in the merry atmosphere of the Rhine Valley, as storefront displays, wine cellars and markets embrace the holiday season. This 8-day voyage is a joyful celebration of festive cheer.” - VIKING

Or, you can experience “Christmas on the Seine,” by sailing throughout France, taking in Parisian Christmas markets, visit Rouen’s winter wonderland in Square Vedrel, and visit Normandy and its expansive hills and vistas that surround it. “Embrace the holiday season with a taste of Joyeux Noel. Explore Paris, France’s twinkling “City of Light.” Sail through the snow-covered landscapes of Normandy’s countryside and admire the scenes of fairy-tale villages along the way. Enjoy the scented aroma of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts amid a festive backdrop of Christmas markets. Onboard festivities include regional dining specialties, seasonal treats and more to celebrate the holidays.” - VIKING

With this river cruise, you’ll begin in Paris where you’ll “Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom. Long a hub of French culture and cuisine, Paris is one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Over the centuries, Parisian culture has been built on the wings of inspiration. Music, film, architecture, literature, dance and the visual arts all have their brilliant place in the museums, theaters, bookstores and remarkably preserved buildings of this magnificent city. At the center of it all is the Champs-Élysées. With its inviting riverside promenade, graceful bridges and splendid views of all things Parisian, from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum.”

Next, you’ll be able to spend more time exploring the beauty of Paris as “Paris’s landmarks come alive during the Christmas season as twinkling lights adorn the city’s streets. Shop windows are a grand affair, depicting scenes from fairy tales, Santa Claus and his workshop, or a snowy winter wonderland. While it rarely snows in Paris, there is always the chance of a dusting, adding to the magical atmosphere. From November on, leading department stores, including Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, present their seasonal displays, often featuring clever animation; their grand openings are hotly anticipated each year.”

You’ll continue over the next several days visiting a variety of cities within France, taking in the sights, sounds, culture, and tastes, arriving back in Paris where you can continue to extend your stay, possibly to even ride the Eurostar train up to London after you disembark your cruise.

There are several more options to visit holiday Christmas markets in Europe through VIKING and their river cruising options, and they book up very quickly. VIKING offers unparalleled all-inclusive options when sailing with them, with destination-focused dining, serene spaces, one complimentary shore excursion per day, and several other included items to make your vacation as stress-free and memorable as possible. With prices starting at $2289 per person, and airfare from $799 per person, you can certainly find the best option to fit your budget for one of these breathtaking and festive sailings!