Embrace the enchantment of an Old World Christmas on a winter river cruise through Europe. Discover the roots of beloved holiday traditions as you explore lively Christmas markets, each brimming with its own unique charm. From dazzling decorations to the tempting scents of seasonal delights, the joyful spirit of the season surrounds you. Set sail with us in Europe and maybe even begin a new Christmas tradition of your own.
Step into a world of holiday magic at vibrant Christmas markets in iconic cities across Germany, France, Austria, Hungary, and more. From sparkling lights to cozy drinks, every moment is filled with festive cheer. Embrace the romance of the season in Europe’s heartland when you join Viking on one of the unforgettable river cruises below.
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 eight-day voyage is a joyful celebration of festive cheer.
Discover grand cities, medieval towns and quaint villages along the “Blue Danube,” highlighting three countries: Hungary, Austria and Germany. Stroll among the stalls at Budapest’s Christmas market and immerse yourself in the cheerful atmosphere of Vienna as you shop for handmade decorations. Visit the fairy-tale village of Regensburg, one of Europe’s best-preserved cities, and delight in the city’s joyful festivities.
Pass through Europe’s most enchanting countries, stopping to explore cultural capitals and fairy-tale villages. Savor Austro-Hungarian cuisine, admire the Wachau Valley’s beauty and explore Central European cities. Take part in European holiday traditions and experience the region’s renowned Christmas markets. Breathe in the scents of traditional fare and admire the handiwork of local artisans—perfect for bringing home to your family and friends.
Revel in yuletide cheer as you discover beloved European holiday traditions during this scenic 12-day cruisetour. Admire festive seasonal displays in Paris, the vibrantly lit facade of the cathedral in Reims and Alsatian bonhomie in Strasbourg. Browse stalls full of local delicacies and handicrafts at the charming Christmas markets of Trier, Koblenz and Mannheim, and enjoy a warm mug of glühwein while in the shadow of the Alps in Zürich.
Celebrate the holiday season as you immerse yourself in French, German and Czech traditions. Spend time in chic Paris and sample tasty yuletide dishes. Explore Christmas markets in quaint German towns and enjoy the scent of spiced gingerbread and glühwein as they fill the air amid colorful stalls. Visit castles and cathedrals that are adorned with festive displays. Revel in the merry atmosphere as you sail along Europe’s iconic rivers.
Set sail on a holiday voyage, visiting festive Christmas markets along the Rhine and Main. Embrace the spirit of the season while browsing for artisanal crafts in Basel and Karlsruhe, and discover Alsatian traditions in Strasbourg. Admire the old-world charms of Frankfurt’s Römerberg Square, sample local delights in Würzburg and marvel at Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt, where centuries-old wonders like Zwetschgenmännle and aromatic mulled wine abound.
Take part in time-honored European holiday traditions on this 10-day cruisetour. Stroll among colorful stalls and mingle with locals as you sample glühwein. Revel in Berlin’s festive atmosphere and discover the treasured recipe for Dresden’s famous Christstollen. Shop for handmade porcelain in Meissen and spend two days in Prague, delving into the city’s Jewish history while its famed Christmas market exudes an abundance of good cheer.
Offer valid on bookings made from Mar 1-31, 2025. Not applicable on World Cruise itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE airfare only applicable to select departures of featured itineraries during stated sailing period and excludes World Cruise products. Free Airfare based on select voyages of Grand European Tour, Capitals of Eastern Europe, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, London, Paris & D-Day, Pharaohs & Pyramids, European Sojourn and select Mississippi voyages. Offer is based on inventory availability at time of purchase. A limited-time $25 deposit per person is due at time of booking for select departures of featured itineraries; remaining deposit is due with final payment (excludes World Cruise products). Pay in full by February 28, 2025 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2026: Pay in full by June 15, 2025. 2027: January 15, 2026. Free and Reduced Air offers not valid when booked from gateways in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or Mexico. Reduced Air offers vary by selected Air gateway in country of residence. Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Air does not have to be purchased to receive cruise/cruisetour offer. Prices are based on double occupancy in US dollars and for US residents only, solo travelers higher. Offer may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. All fares reflect cruise taxes, port taxes and fees. Additional restrictions may apply.
With Viking's exclusive patented corridor configuration—a distinctive feature of our Viking Longships—they are able to offer a variety of stateroom choices, from the deluxe comfort of spacious Veranda and French Balcony Staterooms to Veranda and Explorer Suites.
Viking’s river cruise ships blend modern elegance with Scandinavian design, offering spacious staterooms, gourmet dining, enriching cultural experiences, and panoramic views for an intimate and immersive journey on iconic waterways.
Our award-winning Viking Longships® showcase innovative engineering, streamlined design and understated elegance for the most comfortable European river cruise experience available.
Sign Up for Exclusive Cruise Deals!
Get our top river & ocean cruise deals & promotions, plus travel tips & news, delivered straight to your inbox!
We respect your privacy. You can unsubscribe at any time.