Christmastime has a feeling all its own. There is something about the scent of cinnamon and pine in the air, the sound of carollers echoing through a square, and the soft twinkle of fairy lights that makes everything feel just a little more magical. Whether you are in a big city or a small town, the traditions that surround the season are what bring people together. And few traditions capture the spirit of the holidays quite like a Christmas market.
Here in Canada, I have loved watching Christmas markets pop up across the country in recent years. From Vancouver to Halifax, more and more communities are embracing the festive season with artisan stalls, holiday music, mulled drinks, and beautifully decorated squares. There is something comforting about these local celebrations, and they always put me in the mood for Christmas.
But there is something even more special about a Christmas market in Europe.
Over there, you do not have to go far to find a completely different experience. Each country, each region, and even each village seems to put its own unique spin on the season. One market may focus on hand-carved wooden toys. Another may be known for its glowing lanterns or bold seasonal spices. Some feel refined and elegant. Others are rustic, charming, and full of heart. The food changes. The music changes. The decorations change. And all of it is wrapped in layers of history and tradition.
You are not just visiting a market. You are stepping into the soul of a place and seeing how it celebrates joy, light, and togetherness in its own way.
What if you could see many markets in one trip?
Well, you can, if you are on a European river cruise.
That is what makes this experience so incredible. A river cruise lets you see a wide variety of Christmas markets in one unforgettable journey, all without the hassle of packing and unpacking or worrying about trains, hotels, or getting lost in transit. You unpack once, and each day you wake up in a new destination sometimes a large, famous city, and other times a quiet, storybook village where the market feels like something out of a snow globe.
The ship docks right in the heart of each place, so you step off and you are there in the middle of the lights, the music, and the scent of something delicious in the air.
As a Brit, I will always have a soft spot for the Christmas markets back home there is nothing quite like sipping mulled cider while listening to a proper choir and eyeing up the mince pies and artisan gins. But part of the magic of cruising is how quickly everything changes. One day it is schnitzel and glühwein in Austria. The next, it is stroopwafels and jazz in Amsterdam. And every stop offers a new kind of wonder.
Here are just a few of my favourite stops on a European Christmas market cruise.
Markets that still make me smile
Budapest, Hungary
The main market in Vörösmarty Square is filled with warmth and festive energy. Chimney cakes bake over open flames, goulash simmers in giant pots, and just nearby, St Stephen’s Basilica glows as a light show dances across its facade. You will find beautiful ornaments and delicious street food around every corner.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna feels like it was made for Christmas. Whether it is the regal setting of Schönbrunn Palace, the creative flair of Spittelberg, or the romantic glow of Belvedere, each market here has a distinct personality. Classical music, spiced gin, and the scent of roasted chestnuts follow you wherever you go.
Passau, Germany
At the meeting point of three rivers, this small town delivers big charm. Its market, set beside the cathedral, is filled with wooden crafts, hand-blown glass, and the kind of festive snacks that make it hard to leave.
Cologne, Germany
With several markets to choose from, Cologne offers variety and atmosphere. The market beneath the towering cathedral is the most iconic, but my favourite is the Harbour Market near the chocolate museum. It is relaxed, beautifully lit, and the potato pancakes with apple sauce are always my first stop.
Strasbourg, France
Often called the Capital of Christmas, Strasbourg does not hold back. There are more than ten themed markets spread throughout the old town, each filled with festive decor, local crafts, and some of the best raclette and vin chaud you will ever find.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam brings creativity to Christmas. The canals reflect glowing lights, and floating stalls add a unique twist. The stroopwafels are best hot off the iron, and local musicians give this market a distinctly Dutch flair.
Winchester, England
This one holds a special place in my heart. Nestled beneath the gothic arches of Winchester Cathedral, the market feels old and beautiful, with proper mince pies, mulled cider, and talented choirs filling the air with music. And of course, there is always a great selection of small-batch gins to bring home.
Edinburgh, Scotland
With its dramatic skyline and medieval charm, Edinburgh offers a Christmas market experience that feels bold and joyful. From the Christmas tree maze to the warming Highland whisky cocktails, there is something fun around every corner.
Hallstatt, Austria
Small, quiet, and breathtaking. Hallstatt’s market may not be large, but its location nestled between snowy mountains and a still lake makes it one of the most peaceful and beautiful places I have ever visited during the holidays.
And I cannot talk about Christmas markets without mentioning the food. One of my favourite memories is standing in a candlelit courtyard, watching sides of salmon roast slowly over open fire. The smell of wood-smoke and rosemary, the soft flakes of fish layered onto warm bread with herb butter, I still think about it every December.
Why a river cruise makes it all effortless
Beyond the markets, the cruise itself is an experience worth savouring. Each day offers the chance to explore, to wander, or to simply relax.
Guided walking tours are included. You can borrow a bicycle and ride along frosty river paths. You can join morning yoga on the top deck or sip tea in the lounge while the countryside drifts past. Meals are thoughtfully prepared using local ingredients, and wine is always flowing at dinner.
I have sailed with several lines, but my personal favourite is AmaWaterways. Their ships feel like a floating boutique hotel, their staff are warm and attentive, and they know how to make the festive season feel personal. Their Christmas cruises are some of the most memorable journeys I have ever taken.
Which is why I am thrilled to say that this year, I will be hosting a Christmas market cruise along the Danube, departing from Budapest in the last week of November. We will visit the most beautiful and festive towns in Austria and Germany, sharing good food, new friendships, and a whole lot of holiday cheer.
Want to join me?
If this sounds like your kind of Christmas, I would love to have you join me. There is nothing quite like strolling through a glowing market, wrapped in a scarf, with a warm drink in hand and nowhere to be but here.
Send me a message if you would like to be added to the list. Details will be announced soon.
And yes. Pack an extra suitcase. You will need it.
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Email me: lorraine@lorrainesimpson.
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Or contact one of my Ontario-based agents: Michelle Lucy or Lauren Preston
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Or explore some of my favourite stories and videos at: www.lorrainesimpson.com
