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European Christmas market river cruises
Experience the magic of Christmas on a European Christmas market river cruise and sail from just £2,455pp in 2026.
Discover the Christmas markets of Europe on a festive 2026 luxury river cruise.
Celebrate Christmas in unforgettable style with one of our most popular Emerald Cruises festive river cruises. Glide along Europe’s iconic waterways and immerse yourself in timeless Christmas traditions - from enchanting markets and twinkling historic squares to the irresistible scents of gingerbread and mulled wine. Sip, stroll and sing along to carols beneath glowing lights as you discover how the Germans, Austrians and Hungarians celebrate Yuletide on a truly magical Christmas markets cruise.
Take advantage of our festive offer and save up to 20%* with flights included when you book your 2026 Christmas river cruise.
Call 0161 768 7906 to book and guarantee your preferred sailing.
German Christmas markets
Idyllic Christmas markets effortlessly transform the postcard-worthy towns and cities of Germany into a winter wonderland of quaint wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and festive treats.
2026 Featured Cruises
Amsterdam to Budapest
15 Days
SEASON: 2026Christmas Markets of Europe
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
GBP
£4,767*
Basel to Amsterdam
8 Days
SEASON: 2026Christmas Markets on the Rhine
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
GBP
£2,312*
Paris to Prague
21 Days
SEASON: 2026Prague to Paris & Christmas Markets of Europe
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
GBP
£6,170*
Budapest Christmas markets
The Hungarian capital comes to life with the twinkling of lights, market stalls, and general festivities in December. There’s something undeniably magical about the setting of Budapest’s Christmas markets, set in front of the grand St. Stephen’s Basilica.
2026 Featured Cruises
Budapest to Munich
8 Days
SEASON: 2026Christmas Markets on the Danube
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
GBP
£2,496*
Budapest to Vienna
5 Days
SEASON: 2026Christmas time on the Danube
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
GBP
£2,199*
Vienna to Budapest
7 Days
SEASON: 2026Christmas Time on the Danube & Budapest
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
GBP
£2,461*
Vienna Christmas markets
During the festive season, Vienna's most charming squares transform into magical Christmas markets. The delightful aroma of Christmas cookies baking, hot punch, and roasted chestnuts allure many visitors this time of the year.
2026 Featured Cruises
Amsterdam to Budapest
15 Days
SEASON: 2026Christmas Markets of Europe
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
GBP
£4,767*
Budapest to Vienna
5 Days
SEASON: 2026Christmas time on the Danube
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
GBP
£2,199*
Vienna to Budapest
7 Days
SEASON: 2026Christmas Time on the Danube & Budapest
Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
From
GBP
£2,461*
France Christmas Markets
France glows with festive charm in December, as lights twinkle above bustling market stalls and seasonal celebrations fill the air. There’s something truly magical about exploring France’s Christmas traditions, from the enchanting markets of Lyon.
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View Terms & Conditions
All our holidays are subject to availability and are valid for new bookings before 16th February 2026. All prices are correct as of 17th December 2025 and are based on two people sharing our lowest priced available cabin and include any relevant discounts. Supplements apply for single travellers, upgraded cabins and other departure dates. Our offers are not combinable, and we reserve the right to withdraw our offers at any time. Our itineraries, hotels, dates, and inclusions are subject to change. Itineraries may operate in reverse. Offers must be paid in full 10 months prior to departure, or at the time of booking if less than 10 months prior to departure. Best Available Fare is strictly limited, subject to availability, until sold out or withdrawn. ^Flights may not be a direct service and flights are up to a set credit amount (Europe: up to £500pp, If the required air fare exceeds the set credit amount, additional charges will apply.) Airport transfers are only available on the first and last day of your journey and at times we designate. Transfers outside these times will be at your expense and must be secured by your own arrangements. In the event of suitable flights not connecting with cruise embarkation/disembarkation timings, overnight accommodation may be required at an additional cost. The premium drinks package includes a selection of available beverages including juices, mocktails and non-alcoholic beers. Guests can also enjoy draft and bottled beers, house wines (red, white, sparkling and Prosecco) by the glass, with a selection of bottled wines subject to availability. Full bookings conditions can be found at emeraldcruises.co.uk/terms-conditions. Emerald Cruises is a trading name of Scenic Tours (UK) Ltd.
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