Best Christmas Market River Cruises for 2026 & 2027: Rhine vs. Danube Magic
- Emma Guse
- Jul 22
- 8 min read
Updated: Sep 16
If you’ve been dreaming of sipping mulled wine under twinkling lights, wandering through centuries-old town squares, or sailing past snow-dusted castles with hot chocolate in your hand, there’s no better time than Christmas. And in my opinion, there’s no better way to experience it all than with a river cruise.
Christmas Market river cruises offer an enchanting way to explore Europe during the holidays, with charming destinations, seamless travel, and plenty of holiday magic built in. But with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed about where to go, which line to choose, and how early you need to book.
That’s where I come in. I’m here to guide you through the best options for 2026 and 2027, especially if you’re looking at a Christmas Market cruise on the Rhine or Danube with Viking or AmaWaterways. These are two of the most trusted river cruise lines, and each offers something a little different. Let’s take a closer look.
Why Book Early?
2026 Christmas Market cruises are already filling quickly, and some 2027 itineraries are open. Suites and veranda staterooms often sell out 12–18 months in advance, especially for peak December departures. Booking early not only secures your preferred ship and cabin, it also locks in seasonal promotions that may disappear later.
Why Choose a Christmas Market River Cruise?
European Christmas Markets are more than just festive, but are deeply rooted in local culture and tradition. On a river cruise, you get to visit several of the best markets in one trip, without the hassle of packing and unpacking or navigating busy train stations.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautiful ships decorated for the season, delicious regional cuisine, and curated excursions that let you experience the heart of the holidays. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or as part of a family or group, this is a stress-free way to celebrate and create lasting memories.
Rhine vs. Danube: Which River Is Right for You?
Rhine River cruises take you through Germany, Switzerland, France, and the Netherlands, with highlights like Cologne’s famous cathedral market, Strasbourg’s historic old town, and the wine villages of Rüdesheim and Breisach.
Danube River cruises wind through Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, and Germany, featuring Vienna’s royal holiday markets, Salzburg’s alpine charm, and Budapest’s glowing parliament building lit up for the season.
Beyond the Rhine and Danube, holiday sailings also run along the Moselle, Main, and Elbe Rivers. These “hidden gem” itineraries include smaller towns with boutique markets that feel more intimate and less commercial. They’re excellent for repeat river cruisers or those seeking something off the beaten path.
Here’s a quick side-by-side to help you get started:
Rhine River | Danube River | |
Focus | Storybook towns, wine lovers, German culture | Imperial cities, music lovers, architecture |
Signature Cities | Cologne, Strasbourg, Heidelberg | Vienna, Salzburg, Budapest |
Market Style | Half-timbered villages, cozy town squares | Grand plazas, palaces, and elegant facades |
Scenic Cruising | Castles along the Rhine Gorge | Forested hills, wide bends, city skylines |
Viking Christmas Cruises for 2026
Viking offers a polished, culturally rich experience that’s especially appealing to travelers who appreciate elegance, simplicity, and excellent guided tours. Viking ships have a sleek, Scandinavian feel and a quiet, adults-only atmosphere. Their holiday cruises are tastefully festive without being over-the-top.
Christmas on the Rhine
Itinerary: Basel to Amsterdam (or reverse)
Duration: 8 days
Price: Starting from around $3,000 per person
Highlights: Breisach, Strasbourg, Heidelberg, Koblenz, Cologne
Includes: 8 guided tours, all onboard meals, wine and beer with lunch/dinner
Danube Waltz – Holiday Sailings
Itinerary: Budapest to Passau (or reverse)
Estimated Price: Starting from around $3,000 per person
Highlights: Vienna, Linz, Wachau Valley, Melk Abbey
Includes: Shore tours, enrichment lectures, and comfortable accommodations
AmaWaterways Christmas Cruises for 2026
AmaWaterways brings a more immersive, festive feel to its Christmas cruises. Think mulled wine on the deck, caroling onboard, a visit from Santa, and special themed excursions. Their service is warm and personal, and the atmosphere is joyful without feeling crowded. AmaWaterways’s holiday cruises often feature themed menus, seasonal concerts, and more robust holiday decor than other lines.
AmaWaterways is also one of the strongest options for groups. Whether you’re traveling with extended family, a circle of friends, or a club, I can secure group perks and coordinate all the details so you can focus on enjoying the festive atmosphere together.
Christmas Markets on the Rhine
Itinerary: Amsterdam to Basel (or reverse)
Duration: 7 nights
Price: Starting from around $4,000 per person (Plus savings up to $1,500 per stateroom on select sailings)
Highlights: Cologne, Rüdesheim, Heidelberg, Strasbourg, Breisach
Includes: Daily excursions, drinks at meals and happy hour, specialty dining, wellness programs
Magical Christmas Markets on the Danube
Itinerary: Nuremberg to Budapest (or reverse)
Estimated Price: Starting from around $4,000 per person
Highlights: Regensburg, Salzburg, Vienna, Budapest
Includes: Local entertainment, varied excursions, festive onboard programming
Looking Ahead to 2027
While 2026 sailings are already booking fast, some 2027 itineraries are beginning to open. Expect similar Rhine and Danube routes with festive programming, plus the possibility of expanded Christmas Market departures on rivers like the Moselle or Elbe. Booking at release often comes with the best stateroom selection and early-bird promotions.
Other Christmas Market Cruise Options
While the Rhine and Danube are the most popular rivers for Christmas Market cruises, both Viking and AmaWaterways also offer festive itineraries along rivers such as the Moselle, Main, and Elbe. Other lines, including Uniworld, Tauck, Avalon, and Scenic, also feature seasonal itineraries that visit off-the-beaten-path towns and boutique markets.
These cruises can offer a quieter, more intimate feel and are perfect for returning river cruisers or travelers looking for something unique. If you're curious about alternative holiday itineraries or want help deciding which cruise line and river best suits your style, I’d be happy to walk you through the options
Viking vs. AmaWaterways: Which Should You Choose?
Viking | AmaWaterways | |
Style | Elegant, serene | Warm, festive |
Audience | Adults 55+, couples | Couples, families, multigenerational |
Excursions | 1 daily guided tour | Active and gentle all-inclusive options |
Holiday Ambiance | Subtle and classy | Lively and immersive |
2026 Starting Price | From $3,000 | From $4,000 |
Group-Friendly? | Limited | Strong group support and perks |
Family-Friendly? | Adults-only | Select sailings welcome children |
What’s It Like to Be Onboard?
I had the chance to sail with AmaWaterways on their Taste of Christmas Markets cruise, and the experience was unforgettable. We wandered through Strasbourg’s old town decorated for Christmas, sipped hot cider in light snow on the sundeck while passing castle ruins, and returned each night to a glowing ship filled with warmth and Christmas decorations. The crew remembered our names. The food reflected the regions we visited. And the balance of activity and relaxation was just right.
I’ve also worked with many clients who chose Viking and loved the calm, unhurried pace. For travelers who want cultural depth without the holiday bustle, Viking delivers a peaceful way to experience the season.
Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Market Cruises
When is the best time to take a Christmas Market river cruise?
Most itineraries begin in late November and run through Christmas. The first two weeks of December are especially popular because markets are in full swing but crowds are lighter than just before the holiday. Many travelers book a Rhine or Danube Christmas cruise 12–18 months ahead to secure these peak dates.
Which river is more scenic for a Christmas Market cruise: Rhine or Danube?
The Rhine showcases dramatic castles, medieval towns, and cozy wine villages like Rüdesheim and Strasbourg. The Danube highlights imperial cities like Vienna, Salzburg, and Budapest, with palaces and grand architecture lit up for the season. Both are magical; the Rhine leans storybook charm, while the Danube offers elegant holiday grandeur.
Are Christmas Market cruises family-friendly?
AmaWaterways welcomes families and multigenerational groups on select sailings, making it one of the few river cruise lines where kids can enjoy the Christmas Market magic. Viking is adults-only, appealing to couples and solo travelers looking for a quieter atmosphere. I’ll help match you to the line that fits your travel style.
What’s included in a Christmas Market river cruise?
Both AmaWaterways and Viking include river-view staterooms, daily excursions, onboard meals, Wi-Fi, and festive holiday programming. Viking generally offers one guided tour per port, while AmaWaterways provides multiple excursion choices (gentle, active, or immersive), plus specialty dining, wellness programs, and a nightly Sip & Sail cocktail hour.
How far in advance should I book for 2026 or 2027?
I recommend booking 12–18 months in advance. Suites and verandas often sell out first, especially for peak December departures. 2026 Christmas cruises are already filling, and 2027 itineraries are beginning to open. Booking early also locks in seasonal promotions and ensures the best cabin selection.
Do Christmas Market river cruises sell out?
Yes. Holiday sailings are some of the fastest to fill across AmaWaterways and Viking. Booking early is the only way to guarantee your preferred sailing, cabin category, and promotions.
What are the payment terms for Viking and AmaWaterways?
Payment terms vary by promotion. Viking often requires full payment far in advance, while AmaWaterways generally allows deposits with the balance closer to sailing. I’ll help you navigate the options so your booking matches your comfort level.
What happens if river water levels affect my cruise?
Water levels sometimes impact itineraries, but both Viking and AmaWaterways have contingency plans. The cruise line may adjust the route or add motorcoach transfers, but I serve as your advocate, ensuring you know your options and aren’t left navigating changes alone.
Can I add extra days in Paris, Prague, or other cities?
Yes. Both lines offer pre- and post-cruise extensions, and I can also design custom stays with hotels, tours, and transfers. Many of my clients choose to add a few days in Vienna, Prague, or Paris to extend the holiday magic.
Do you charge fees?
No. My services are 100% complimentary. The cost of a travel advisor is already built into the price of your cruise. If you book direct, you’re paying for a service you never receive. By booking with me, you gain personalized planning, support before, during, and after your trip, and often additional perks, at no extra cost.
Why Work With a River Cruise Travel Advisor?
Most travelers feel overwhelmed planning a holiday cruise on their own, especially if traveling with a family or group. My role is to make it effortless, personalized, and unforgettable. Booking a river cruise is not one-size-fits-all. Each line, itinerary, and sailing date brings different perks and challenges. I help you:
Choose the right itinerary based on your goals
Compare lines, promotions, and group discounts
Coordinate air, pre/post hotels, insurance, and more
Take care of every detail, from stateroom to special requests
Provide in-destination support until you return safely home
And my services are 100% complimentary.
Ready to Plan Your 2026 Christmas Market River Cruise?
Whether you’re planning a romantic December getaway or a memory-making holiday with your loved ones, a Christmas Market cruise is a celebration like no other. I’ll help you match your vision to the perfect itinerary and take care of the details so you can focus on the fun.
👉 Ready to chat? Click here to fill out my River Cruise Inquiry Form. You can also scroll down and fill out the form below. No pressure. Just a conversation starter.
Here’s what happens after you reach out:
You’ll hear from me personally within 1–3 business days
I’ll review your form and contact you with curated next steps
You’ll get personalized guidance, not a generic or automated quote
Emma Guse is a River Cruise Specialist with Travelmation, helping solo travelers, couples, families, and groups plan unforgettable river cruises with ease. Known for her down-to-earth style and expert guidance, she handles the details so you can focus on making memories.
Emma's services are 100% complimentary and included in the base rates of every river cruise line. Learn more about Emma HERE or submit an inquiry HERE.
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