Why Europe's Christmas Markets Are Best Experienced by River
There’s something about a European Christmas market that taps into a sense of wonder many travellers thought they’d left behind. The scent of gingerbread and mulled wine drifts through medieval squares, lights sparkle across centuries-old buildings, and local artisans sell handcrafted treasures that have been part of festive traditions for generations.
For many New Zealanders, visiting Europe’s famous Christmas markets is a long-held dream. The challenge is that the most celebrated markets are spread across multiple countries and cities, making independent travel during the busy festive season both time-consuming and complex.
Brasov Christmas Markets
That’s where river cruising offers a different perspective.
Rather than navigating winter train schedules, changing hotels every few days and spending valuable holiday time in transit, guests can unpack once and wake each morning in a new destination. Along the Rhine and Danube rivers, Christmas market cruises connect some of Europe’s most beloved festive towns and cities, from grand capitals to charming villages that look as though they’ve stepped straight from the pages of a storybook.
The journey between destinations becomes part of the experience. Snow-dusted vineyards, castle-lined riverbanks and picturesque towns create a backdrop that feels every bit as magical as the markets themselves.
For travellers seeking a more immersive experience, AmaWaterways adds another layer. The line is known for offering a wide range of included shore excursions, allowing guests to explore destinations in ways that suit their interests, whether through guided walking tours, cultural experiences or more active pursuits. On board, the atmosphere is intimate and welcoming, with smaller ships designed to foster a boutique hotel feel rather than a large-scale cruise experience. Their ships are known to be the most festively decorated on the rivers.
Regional cuisine and locally inspired wines reflect the destinations visited along the way, while attentive service ensures guests feel looked after throughout the journey. A strong wellness focus, including fitness facilities and active excursion options, also appeals to travellers who want balance alongside festive indulgence.
These cruises are particularly well suited to couples seeking a romantic seasonal escape, empty nesters looking to experience Europe at its most enchanting, or travellers who value culture, tradition and authentic local experiences.
Christmas markets are undoubtedly special. Experiencing them from the comfort of a river ship, while Europe's winter landscapes unfold outside your window, is what transforms a memorable holiday into something truly unforgettable.
Our Christmas River Cruise Favourites
Swiss Alps & Rhine Castles
7 Night Cruise Tour from Basel to Amsterdam with AmaWaterways
There is a distinct kind of travel magic that only reveals itself when Europe dresses for the festive season.
For Kiwi travellers seeking a sophisticated Christmas escape, AmaWaterways’ Swiss Alps & Rhine Castles Christmas Markets cruise offers an unforgettable winter journey aboard the elegant AmaVenita.
Gems of Southeast Europe
7 Night Christmas Cruise from Budapest, Hungary to Giurgiu, Romania with AmaWaterways
Forget the traditional winter holiday and discover a different side of the festive season.
Part of AmaWaterways’ special collection of Christmas sailings, this Gems of Southeast Europe Christmas Cruise blends the magic of the holidays with the rich culture and history of Eastern Europe.
*Prices are per person in New Zealand dollars. All departures are subject to availability at time of booking. International airfares are additional. Travel agent service & credit card fees may apply. Contact your Wanderlust Travel Expert for full details.
Interested in this experience? Mention this Deal Code: 1186 when speaking with your travel agent. Don't have an agent? Click here to connect with one of our experts.