Imagine the twinkling lights reflecting off the Danube River as you enter the port, away from the hustle and bustle of the festive Christmas markets.
Christmas markets in Europe are a tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages. Market stalls decorated with garlands and decorations beckon visitors with a cozy atmosphere and delicious food and drinks.
There are thousands of Christmas markets in Europe. Rather than putting together an itinerary or doing all the necessary research, a river cruise makes planning easier.
I got my first taste of a European Christmas market at Viking’s Danube Christmas Delights. 8 days A river cruise with six stops in four countries: Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Linz, Krems, and Passau.
The ships sailed mostly at night, so they woke up each day in a new port. In addition to the Christmas cheer, there was evening entertainment on board, from Christmas carols to performances by the Vienna Boys’ Choir.
Viking isn’t the only cruise company plying the Danube during the holiday season. Ama Waterways, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld and others offer similar itineraries and market tours.
One trip to many markets
Most cities have multiple markets located in squares and plazas. Explore at your own pace, ask your cruise director for guidance, or sign up for a ship-organized tour.
In Vienna, we signed up for a tour that focused on the city’s architecture and markets, including the Christkindlmarkt near St. Stephen’s Cathedral and another Christmas market around Maria Theresa Square.
View of Christkindlmarkt from Vienna City Hall on December 14, 2023.
Salih Simsir Kazak | Anadolu | Getty Images
Afterwards, we strolled through the Belvedere Market and the pedestrian shopping area near Stephansplatz, which has gorgeous outdoor lighting like chandeliers.
The historical context of these markets is as much a part of the experience as the decor, food, and shopping. For example, imagine strolling through Vienna’s Schobrunn market with the city’s baroque palaces in the background.
The night market is also particularly beautiful. However, the best time to shop is when the market opens to avoid crowds. The closer your travel date is to Christmas, the busier the markets will be. And of course, weekends are busier than weekdays.
Market at each stop
Budapest has several markets on the “Pest” side of the city.
The city’s main market is located at Velemarti Square. The market was connected to another market along the city’s “Fashion Street” and was illuminated with playful lights in the shape of shoes, presents, and umbrellas. St. Stephen’s Square also has a large market and a small ice skating rink.
Christmas market in Passau, Germany.
Source: Penny Sadler
The Christmas market in Bratislava city center began in the 1990s. Nevertheless, they do a great job of creating a fun and traditional atmosphere. I visited two locations. One was located on Hviezdoslav Square and the other in the main square of the city. I noticed that there was a lot of food and drink, But the number of gifts is not so large. However, there were plenty of shops, carolers, and street musicians that added to the festive atmosphere.
Passau is a small German city, but its main market is filled with stalls and handmade gifts. I bought a wooden owl carved from the Black Forest.
The stall in Passau where author Penny Sadler bought a carved wooden owl.
Source: Penny Sadler
I visited two markets in Linz, Austria. One had games, little trains, and crafts and was perfect for families. The other is a luxurious market on Hauptplatz, the main square, with stalls spaced out to leave plenty of space, each topped with a landscape painting that looks like a work of art. It was.
Part of the fun of visiting a market is sampling the food and drinks. Sausages, cheese, and sweet treats are common, but each market also has local specialties. Mulled wine, a warm, spiced red wine, is served everywhere, usually in commemorative cups that can be kept as souvenirs.
shopping tips
The market sells everything from knitted scarves and carved ornaments to games and cheese boards. There are also plenty of Christmas decorations, including nativity sets, angels, Santa Claus figurines, and of course the Nutcracker.
A wooden game sold at the Vienna Christmas market.
Source: Penny Sadler
Most of the vendors are small “mom and pop” businesses. Many stores accept credit cards, but we recommend that you also have cash on hand.
Top tip? Bring your own shopping bag or tote bag when making your purchase. If you plan on buying a lot, consider packing an extra suitcase.
