Embarking on a Tauck Christmas Market tour offers travelers an enchanting journey through Europe’s most festive destinations. These meticulously curated tours provide immersive experiences in historic cities adorned with twinkling lights, bustling markets, and rich holiday traditions. From the charming streets of Vienna to the picturesque canals of Strasbourg, each market exudes a unique charm that captures the essence of the holiday season. Join us as we explore five of Tauck’s most captivating Christmas Market tours, each offering a blend of cultural immersion, culinary delights, and unforgettable memories. For a German twist on the holidays, check out the Mannheim Christmas Markets.
1. Christmas Markets Along the Danube
Tauck’s “Christmas Markets Along the Danube” tour is a magical journey through some of Europe’s most enchanting holiday destinations. Beginning in the historic city of Nürnberg and concluding in Vienna, this eight-day river cruise immerses travelers in the festive charm of Central Europe. From Nürnberg’s renowned Christkindlesmarkt to Vienna’s elegant Rathausplatz Christmas Market, each location along the Danube offers a unique market experience. Visitors will experience centuries-old traditions, examine artisan jewelry, and enjoy regional cuisine, including mulled wine, sausages, and gingerbread. The expedition provides unique access to cultural landmarks, including a VIP tour of the Baroque Melk Abbey and the Thurn und Taxis Palace, in addition to the markets. The onboard atmosphere is notably celebratory, featuring gourmet cuisine, live performances, and holiday-themed events. Perfect for individuals desiring the charm of European Christmas markets without the burden of cooking, this all-inclusive vacation guarantees a seamless and enriching holiday experience. The Danube Christmas Markets journey offers a remarkable opportunity to enjoy the holidays through a blend of history, culture, and seasonal festivities, characterized by scenic environments, kind hospitality, and an in-depth exploration of cherished holiday traditions in Central Europe.
Address:
Nürnberg, Germany (Starting Point)
Dates:
Select dates in November and December 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times:
Tour schedules vary; refer to Tauck’s official website for detailed itineraries.
Entrance Fee:
Tour packages start at $3,690 per person, inclusive of accommodations, meals, excursions, and gratuities. For Booking : Visit here
Nearest Transit Stations
- Nürnberg Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station)
- Vienna Central Station (Wien Hauptbahnhof)
Events
- Guided Walking Tours: Explore historic city centers and their festive markets.
- Exclusive Palace Visits: Private tours of historic palaces adorned for the holidays.
- Onboard Entertainment: Live performances and holiday-themed activities on the riverboat.
- Culinary Experiences: Tastings of regional specialties and traditional holiday treats.
- Cultural Lectures: Insights into local traditions and the history of Christmas markets.
Notable Shops or Stalls
- Handcrafted Ornaments: Unique decorations made by local artisans.
- Traditional Sweets: Stalls offering gingerbread, marzipan, and other festive confections.
- Woolen Goods: High-quality scarves, gloves, and hats crafted from local wool.
- Wooden Toys: Hand-carved toys reflecting regional craftsmanship.
- Ceramic Mugs: Collectible mugs designed for enjoying glühwein.
Special Spots Not to Miss
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna: A Gothic masterpiece illuminated for the holidays.
- Salzburg’s Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage site with a charming Christmas market.
- Melk Abbey: A stunning Baroque monastery overlooking the Danube.
- Regensburg’s Stone Bridge: A medieval bridge offering picturesque views of the city.
- Nürnberg’s Christkindlesmarkt: One of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Germany.
Parking and Fees
As this is a river cruise, parking is not applicable. Guests are responsible for transportation to and from the embarkation and disembarkation points.
Nearby Hotels
- Le Méridien Grand Hotel Nürnberg: Luxury accommodations near the starting point.
- Hotel Sacher Wien: A historic hotel in Vienna offering opulent rooms and exceptional service.
- Hotel Stein Salzburg: A boutique hotel with panoramic views of Salzburg.
Nearby Restaurants
- Bratwurst Röslein (Nürnberg): Traditional Franconian cuisine in a historic setting.
- Figlmüller (Vienna): Famous for its Wiener Schnitzel and Austrian specialties.
- St. Peter Stiftskeller (Salzburg): One of Europe’s oldest restaurants, offering refined Austrian dishes.
2. Christmas Markets Along the Rhine
Tauck’s “Christmas Markets Along the Rhine” offers an unforgettable holiday journey through Germany, France, and Switzerland, exploring the festive traditions of the Rhine region. Starting in Basel and concluding in Cologne, this eight-day river cruise highlights the diverse cultures and holiday celebrations along the Rhine River. Every market presents distinct attractions, ranging from the medieval allure of Heidelberg’s Christmas Market to Strasbourg’s esteemed Christkindelsmärik, one of the oldest in France. Travelers may purchase artisanal wooden toys, Alsatian wines, and elaborate ornaments while enjoying traditional holiday delicacies such as stollen and glühwein. The excursion features distinctive activities, including a private tour of Baden-Baden’s Kurhaus Casino and a visit to Heidelberg Castle. Guests on board partake in exquisite dining, celebratory events, and enlightening discussions regarding local customs. This tour combines the captivating essence of Christmas with Tauck’s hallmark elegance and meticulous attention to detail. The Rhine Christmas marketplaces trip, featuring breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and lively markets, encapsulates the essence of the holiday season, making it an ideal choice for families, couples, and individuals wishing to experience Europe’s most captivating time of year.
Address:
Basel, Switzerland (Starting Point)
Dates:
Select dates in December 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times:
Tour schedules vary; refer to Tauck’s official website for detailed itineraries.
Entrance Fee:
Tour packages start at $4,190 per person, inclusive of accommodations, meals, excursions, and gratuities. For Booking: Visit us
Nearest Transit Stations
- Basel SBB Railway Station
- Köln Hauptbahnhof (Cologne Central Station)
Events
- Kurhaus Casino Visit: Explore the historic casino in Baden-Baden.
- Strasbourg Cathedral Tour: Guided visit to the Gothic Cathedral de Notre-Dame.
- Heidelberg Castle Excursion: Tour the ruins of the iconic castle overlooking the city.
Notable Shops or Stalls
- Rüdesheim’s Christmas Stalls: Renowned for their handmade nutcrackers and wooden toys.
- Strasbourg’s Alsatian Food Vendors: Offering tarte flambée, mulled wine, and bredele cookies.
- Baden-Baden’s Artisanal Craft Booths: Featuring handwoven textiles and intricate jewelry.
- Heidelberg’s Market Stalls: Showcasing regional ceramics and festive glass ornaments.
- Cologne’s Glühwein Mugs: Collectible designs unique to the city’s Christmas market.
Special Spots Not to Miss
- Strasbourg’s “Capital of Christmas” Lights: Stunning decorations that illuminate the entire city.
- Rüdesheim’s Drosselgasse: A charming cobblestone lane lined with festive shops.
- Heidelberg’s Ice Rink: A picturesque skating experience near the Neckar River.
- Baden-Baden’s Trinkhalle: A historic colonnaded structure adorned with Christmas lights.
- Cologne’s Christmas Tree at the Dom: One of the tallest and most beautifully decorated in Europe.
Parking and Fees
As this is a river cruise, parking is not applicable. Guests are responsible for arranging transportation to and from the embarkation and disembarkation points.
Nearby Hotels
- Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois (Basel): A luxury riverside hotel with historic charm.
- Hotel Europäischer Hof Heidelberg: Elegant accommodations close to the market.
- Excelsior Hotel Ernst (Cologne): A five-star hotel located near the cathedral.
Nearby Restaurants
- La Maison des Tanneurs (Strasbourg): A cozy spot for traditional Alsatian dishes.
- Weinstube Schnitzelbank (Heidelberg): Famous for its authentic German schnitzels and local wines.
- Gaffel am Dom (Cologne): A vibrant brewery serving Kölsch beer and hearty German cuisine.
3. Tauck’s Christmas Markets of Eastern Europe
Tauck’s “Christmas Markets of Eastern Europe” tour is a captivating exploration of holiday traditions in Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and the Czech Republic. Beginning in Budapest and ending in Prague, this tour takes travelers to some of the region’s most celebrated Christmas markets. From Prague’s Old Town Square to the crowded Vörösmarty Square in Budapest, every market offers a unique combination of seasonal cheer, regional crafts, and festive gastronomy. Along with seasonal cuisine featuring Czech kolaches and chimney cakes, visitors will be guided visits of historic locations including Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace and Bratislava’s small old town. Apart from unusual events like a private concert in a mediaeval church and a visit to Prague Castle decorated in winter, the trip also includes This tour is ideal for everyone hoping for a closer link to the rich holiday customs of Central Europe since of its deep cultural experiences and festive atmosphere. Expert Tauck guides ensure a perfect experience and provide knowledge about the background and relevance of every place. Whether they are looking for hand-made goods or a holiday performance, the friendliness and attractiveness of Eastern Europe’s Christmas markets will enthrall visitors.
Address:
Budapest, Hungary (Starting Point)
Dates:
December 1–December 20, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times:
- Daily tours, 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Entrance Fee:
Tour packages start at $4,250 per person, including accommodations, guided tours, and meals.
Nearest Transit Stations
- Keleti Train Station (Budapest)
- Praha hlavní nádraží (Prague Main Station)
Events
- Thermal Bath Visits: Enjoy Budapest’s famous thermal spas.
- Evening River Cruises: See holiday lights reflecting on the Danube and Vltava Rivers.
- Traditional Folklore Shows: Experience local dances and music.
- Cooking Workshops: Learn to make holiday treats like goulash or Czech kolaches.
- Exclusive Museum Access: Private tours of historic museums.
Notable Shops or Stalls
- Hungarian Paprika Stalls: Authentic spices for holiday cooking.
- Hand-Painted Glass Ornaments: Delicate, one-of-a-kind designs.
- Traditional Slovak Wool Goods: Cozy scarves and sweaters.
- Czech Marionettes: Beautiful handcrafted puppets.
- Viennese Pastry Shops: Sample Sachertorte and strudels.
Special Spots Not to Miss
- Budapest’s Vörösmarty Square: Iconic Christmas market with light displays.
- Vienna’s Rathausplatz: A winter wonderland with skating rinks and decor.
- Bratislava Castle: Stunning views of the market and the Danube.
- Prague’s Astronomical Clock: A centerpiece of the holiday season.
- Café Central Vienna: Historic café perfect for warming up with coffee.
Parking and Fees
Travelers rely on Tauck’s transportation services, as parking is not required.
Nearby Hotels
- Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace (Budapest)
- Grand Hotel Wien (Vienna)
- Hotel Paris Prague
Nearby Restaurants
- New York Café (Budapest)
- Figlmüller (Vienna)
- Café Savoy (Prague)
4. Tauck’s Christmas Markets on the Elbe
Tauck’s “Christmas Markets on the Elbe” offers a journey through the festive traditions of Germany and the Czech Republic along the picturesque Elbe River. This eight-day tour starts in Berlin and ends in Prague, with stops at iconic holiday destinations such as Dresden, Leipzig, and Wittenberg. Each market features a distinct charm, from Dresden’s Striezelmarkt, one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets, to Prague’s fairytale-like Old Town Square. Guests will shop for handcrafted ornaments, indulge in holiday treats like stollen and mulled wine, and enjoy exclusive experiences such as a guided tour of Berlin’s Reichstag and a private visit to the Frauenkirche in Dresden. Beyond the markets, the tour includes cultural highlights like Leipzig’s famous St. Thomas Church and the historic Martin Luther sites in Wittenberg. Onboard, travelers can relax with gourmet meals, festive entertainment, and cultural lectures about the region’s history. Tauck’s attention to detail and curated excursions make this tour a seamless and enriching experience. Whether admiring historic landmarks or soaking in the festive ambiance of a bustling Christmas market, the Elbe Christmas Markets tour provides a perfect blend of holiday spirit, cultural exploration, and scenic beauty.
Address:
Berlin, Germany (Starting Point)
Dates:
November 29–December 16, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times:
- Daily tours, 10:00 am – 8:00 pm
Entrance Fee:
Tour packages start at $4,500 per person, inclusive of accommodations, meals, and excursions.
Nearest Transit Stations
- Berlin Hauptbahnhof (Berlin Central Station)
- Dresden Hauptbahnhof (Dresden Central Station)
Events
- Berlin Reichstag Tour: A private visit to Germany’s parliament building.
- Dresden’s Striezelmarkt: Germany’s oldest Christmas market, featuring a giant stollen.
- Historic Leipzig Concerts: Holiday music performances in St. Thomas Church.
- Wittenberg Walking Tour: Explore Martin Luther’s hometown during the holidays.
- Prague Castle: Festive decorations and guided tours.
Notable Shops or Stalls
- Hand-Carved Wooden Angels: Saxon craftsmanship at its finest.
- Dresden Porcelain: Elegant collectible pieces.
- Berlin Street Food Vendors: Regional delicacies like currywurst.
- Prague Bohemian Glass: Stunning, colorful glassware.
- Traditional Stollen Bakers: Germany’s signature holiday cake.
Special Spots Not to Miss
- Brandenburg Gate: Illuminated with holiday lights.
- Frauenkirche (Dresden): Iconic Baroque church adorned with festive decor.
- Leipzig’s Mädler Passage: A historic arcade filled with boutique shops.
- Prague Charles Bridge: Romantic views and market stalls.
- Dresden’s Royal Palace: A treasure trove of art and history.
Parking and Fees
Parking not required as the tour includes all transportation.
Nearby Hotels
- Hotel Adlon Kempinski (Berlin)
- Taschenbergpalais Kempinski Dresden
- Augustine, a Luxury Collection Hotel (Prague)
Nearby Restaurants
- Hofbräu Wirtshaus (Berlin)
- Kastenmeiers (Dresden)
- Mlýnec (Prague)
5. Rhine & Moselle Christmas Markets
Address:
Amsterdam, Netherlands (Starting Point)
Dates:
December 5–December 15, 2025
Weekly Opening and Closing Times:
- Daily tours, 9:00 am – 9:00 pm
Entrance Fee:
Tour packages start at $4,950 per person, inclusive of accommodations, excursions, and dining.
Nearest Transit Stations
- Amsterdam Centraal (Amsterdam)
- Basel SBB Railway Station (Basel)
Events
- Amsterdam Canal Cruise: Admire the city’s lights and festive décor.
- Koblenz Wine Tasting: Sample wines from the Moselle Valley.
- Trier Cathedral Tour: Explore Germany’s oldest cathedral decorated for Christmas.
- Strasbourg Illuminations: Witness the city’s spectacular light displays.
- Cologne’s Dom: Visit the iconic cathedral during its holiday festivities.
Notable Shops or Stalls
- Cologne Gingerbread Bakers: Offering fresh Lebkuchen.
- Moselle Wine Stalls: High-quality regional wines.
- Strasbourg Alsatian Crafts: Unique French-German fusion products.
- Koblenz Christmas Ornaments: Handmade, intricate designs.
- Basel Swiss Chocolate Vendors: Gourmet holiday chocolates.
Special Spots Not to Miss
- Cologne’s Christmas Tree: One of the tallest in Europe.
- Strasbourg Cathedral: A gothic masterpiece lit for the holidays.
- Marksburg Castle: A medieval fortress overlooking the Rhine.
- Trier’s Porta Nigra: Roman architecture in a festive setting.
- Amsterdam Flower Market: Seasonal blooms and holiday wreaths.
Parking and Fees
Parking is not required as the tour includes river transportation.
Nearby Hotels
- Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam
- Hyatt Regency Mainz
- Hotel Les Haras Strasbourg
Nearby Restaurants
- Café de Jaren (Amsterdam)
- Em Krützche (Cologne)
- La Cloche à Fromage (Strasbourg)
Conclusion
Tauck’s Christmas market tours provide a luxurious, seamless way to experience Europe’s holiday magic. From riverside towns to historic cities, each itinerary combines cultural immersion, festive shopping, and scenic beauty, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime. Whether along the Danube, Rhine, or Elbe, Tauck’s curated journeys are the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season.
