Viking Christmas Markets: Experience Historical Events

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viking christmas markets

Travelers who take a Viking River Cruise during the holidays will enjoy a magical trip through some of Europe’s most lively spots. These carefully planned cruises take you to historic places that are filled with bright lights, busy markets, and lots of holiday traditions. Around the world, from the cute streets of Vienna to the pretty rivers of Strasbourg, each market has its own unique holiday spirit. Let’s take a look at five of Viking’s most interesting Christmas ship tours. Each one gives you a different mix of cultural experiences, tasty food, and memories that will last a lifetime. Plan to visit Europe? Make sure you don’t miss the chance to see the unique Christmas Markets in Gdansk.

1. Christmas on the Rhine

Christmas on the Rhine

Viking’s “Christmas on the Rhine” cruise is an eight-day adventure that takes you through Germany, France, and Switzerland, visiting some of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets. Starting in Amsterdam and concluding in Basel, this journey showcases the unique festive traditions of cities along the Rhine River. At each stop, there is a market where you can buy hand-made gifts, treats that are in season, and fun music that celebrates the culture of that area. You should visit the well-known market and the tall church in Cologne. Koblenz has an old-fashioned feel, and Strasbourg has the famous Christkindelsmärik, which is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. There are guided walks, special trips to castles, and holiday-themed entertainment on board for guests to enjoy. It’s even better with treats like mulled wine, Lebkuchen, and sweets from the area. It looks like a lovely place to enjoy the season with the holiday lights on the Rhine River. Viking makes the trip easy by offering great places to stay, lots of things to do, and tour guides who know what they’re talking about. There’s nothing better than taking a trip over the holidays. “Christmas on the Rhine” is a magical holiday show for families, couples, and single tourists alike, whether they want to relax on the boat or go to Strasbourg’s busy markets.

Address:

Amsterdam, Netherlands (Starting Point)

Dates:

Select dates in November and December, 2025

Weekly Opening and Closing Times:

Tour schedules vary; refer to Viking’s official website for detailed itineraries.

Entrance Fee:

Cruise packages start at $2,799 per person, inclusive of accommodations, meals, excursions, and gratuities For more quoeries call us at 1-800-304-9616.

Nearest Transit Stations

  • Amsterdam Centraal Station
  • Basel SBB Railway Station

Events

  • Guided Walking Tours: Explore historic city centers and their festive markets.
  • Exclusive Castle Visits: Private tours of historic castles 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

  • Strasbourg’s Petite France: A charming district with half-timbered houses and festive decor.
  • Cologne Cathedral: A Gothic masterpiece illuminated for the holidays.
  • Heidelberg’s Old Town: A picturesque area with a traditional Christmas market.
  • Koblenz’s Deutsches Eck: A historic headland where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet.
  • Basel’s Town Hall: A stunning building adorned with holiday lights and decorations.

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

  • Hotel De L’Europe Amsterdam: Luxury accommodations near the starting point.
  • Hotel Les Trois Rois Basel: A historic hotel in Basel offering opulent rooms and exceptional service.
  • Excelsior Hotel Ernst Cologne: A boutique hotel with panoramic views of Cologne Cathedral.

Nearby Restaurants

  • The Duchess (Amsterdam): Fine dining with a blend of Dutch and French cuisine.
  • Le Clou (Strasbourg): Traditional Alsatian dishes in a cozy setting.
  • Weinhaus Brungs (Cologne): Historic wine house offering regional specialties.

2. Christmas on the Danube

The “Christmas on the Rhine” tour from Viking is an eight-day trip through Germany, France, and Switzerland, stopping at some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe. This trip, which starts in Amsterdam and ends in Basel, shows how the cities along the Rhine each have their own unique holiday customs.At each stop, there is a market where you can buy gifts that were made by hand, treats that are in season, and fun music that celebrates the culture of that place.In Cologne, the famous market and tall church are some of the best things to see. Koblenz has an old-fashioned feel, and Strasbourg has the famous Christkindelsmärik, which is one of the oldest Christmas markets in Europe. Guests can enjoy guided walks, special trips to castles, and holiday-themed entertainment on board. With mulled wine, Lebkuchen, and sweets from the area, it’s even better. It looks like a lovely place to enjoy the season with the holiday lights on the Rhine River. Viking makes the trip easy by offering great places to stay, lots of things to do, and tour guides who know what they’re talking about. There’s nothing better than taking a trip over the holidays. “Christmas on the Rhine” is a magical holiday show for families, couples, and single tourists alike, whether they want to relax on the boat or go to Strasbourg’s busy markets.

Address:

Budapest, Hungary (Starting Point)

Dates:

Select dates in December, 2025

Weekly Opening and Closing Times:

Tour schedules vary; refer to Viking’s official website for detailed itineraries.

Entrance Fee:

Cruise packages start at $2,799 per person, inclusive of accommodations, meals, excursions, and gratuities.

Nearest Transit Stations

  • Budapest Keleti Railway Station
  • Regensburg Hauptbahnhof

Events

  • Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace Visit: Explore the imperial palace adorned for the holidays.
  • Passau Organ Concert: Attend a special performance in St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
  • Krems Wine Tasting: Sample local wines in the Wachau Valley.
  • Budapest Thermal Baths: Relax in the city’s famous thermal spas.
  • Onboard Christmas Gala: Celebrate with festive dining and entertainment.

Notable Shops or Stalls

  • Hungarian Paprika Vendors: Purchase authentic Hungarian paprika and spice blends, perfect for holiday cooking.
  • Handmade Austrian Ornaments: Find intricate decorations crafted by local artisans.
  • Passau Glassmakers: Unique glass ornaments and decorations reflecting Bavarian craftsmanship.
  • Regensburg Wooden Toys: Traditional handcrafted wooden toys and figurines.
  • Viennese Chocolate Boutiques: Indulge in luxurious, handmade Austrian chocolates.

Special Spots Not to Miss

  • Budapest’s Parliament Building: Stunningly lit for the holiday season, a perfect photo opportunity.
  • Vienna’s Rathausplatz Market: A must-visit for its festive ambiance and skating rink.
  • Wachau Valley Vineyards: Beautiful, picturesque landscapes with opportunities for wine tasting.
  • Passau’s River Confluence: A scenic spot where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers meet, offering breathtaking views.
  • Regensburg’s Stone Bridge: A historic landmark, especially magical when adorned with holiday lights.

Parking and Fees

Parking is not required as Viking provides all transportation during the cruise. Guests are responsible for transport to the embarkation point in Budapest and from the disembarkation point in Regensburg.

Nearby Hotels

  • Hotel Four Seasons Gresham Palace (Budapest): Luxurious accommodations with river views.
  • Hotel Sacher Wien (Vienna): A historic hotel offering elegance and world-class service.
  • Hotel Bischofshof am Dom (Regensburg): Boutique charm near the market square.

Nearby Restaurants

  • Gerbeaud Café (Budapest): Famous for its cakes and traditional Hungarian treats.
  • Figlmüller (Vienna): Known for its authentic Wiener Schnitzel.
  • Regensburger Ratskeller: Traditional Bavarian cuisine served in a historic setting.

3. Viking’s Christmas in Germany

Viking’s Christmas in Germany

Viking’s “Christmas in Germany” cruise is a journey into the heart of the country’s rich holiday traditions. This seven-day cruise begins in Frankfurt and ends in Nuremberg, visiting some of Germany’s most renowned Christmas markets in Würzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Bamberg, and Nuremberg. Handmade nutcrackers, wooden toys, tasty Lebkuchen, and mulled wine are just a few of the things that each market is known for. In the Middle Ages towns, the streets are lit up with lights and holiday decorations. People can buy real German gifts and watch live holiday shows. You can do some one-of-a-kind things on the cruise, such as a tour of the Würzburg Residence and walks through old towns with a guide. Inside, there are Christmas shows and fancy meals, which make the trip even more fun. Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt, one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in the world, is the perfect finale to this magical experience. Viking’s expert guides and seamless itineraries ensure travelers can focus on the joy of the holiday season. “Christmas in Germany” is an ideal choice for those seeking an authentic and immersive holiday celebration in the heart of Europe’s most festive destinations.

Address:

Frankfurt, Germany (Starting Point)

Dates:

November 28 – December 23, 2025

Weekly Opening and Closing Times:

Daily tours from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

Entrance Fee:

Cruise packages start at $2,499 per person, inclusive of accommodations, meals, and guided tours.

Nearest Transit Stations

  • Frankfurt Hauptbahnhof
  • Nuremberg Hauptbahnhof

Events

  • Rothenburg Night Watchman Tour: Guided evening stroll through the historic town.
  • Nuremberg Christkind Ceremony: Watch the famous Christkind open the market.
  • Bamberg Cathedral Visit: Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Würzburg Residenz Tour: Enjoy a private guided visit to the palace.
  • German Cookie Workshops: Learn to make traditional Lebkuchen.

Notable Shops or Stalls

  • Rothenburg Käthe Wohlfahrt: Iconic Christmas shop with ornaments and decor.
  • Nuremberg Bratwurst Vendors: Sample authentic Nürnberger sausages.
  • Handcrafted Nutcrackers: Find traditional German nutcrackers at every market.
  • Bamberg Beer Stalls: Sample unique smoked beers.
  • German Gingerbread Stalls: Taste famous regional Lebkuchen.

Special Spots Not to Miss

  • Rothenburg Town Hall: Perfect for panoramic views of the festive town.
  • Nuremberg Castle: Iconic medieval landmark with Christmas charm.
  • Bamberg’s Old Town: Wander through its cobblestone streets decorated for the holidays.
  • Würzburg’s Market Square: Bustling with holiday cheer and festive lights.
  • Frankfurt’s Römerberg: A historic square hosting the city’s Christmas market.

Parking and Fees

Not required as this is a river cruise. Transportation is fully managed by Viking.

Nearby Hotels

  • Le Méridien Frankfurt
  • Hotel Victoria Nürnberg
  • Hotel Eisenhut Rothenburg

Nearby Restaurants

  • Zum Goldenen Schwan (Nuremberg): Authentic German cuisine.
  • Ratskeller Würzburg: Cozy spot for Franconian dishes.
  • Gasthof Goldener Hirsch (Rothenburg): Traditional Bavarian fare.

4. Viking’s Paris & Christmas on the Seine

Viking’s Paris & Christmas on the Seine

The “Paris & Christmas on the Seine” cruise by Viking combines the romance of Paris with the festive charm of French holiday markets. This eight-day journey begins in Paris and travels along the Seine River, stopping in Les Andelys, Rouen, and Le Havre. From the beautiful markets on the Champs-Élysées in Paris to the festively lit ancient square in Rouen, each place has its own way of celebrating the holidays. People who travel will be able to go on private tours that include seeing Claude Monet’s Giverny and Château Gaillard, which are both beautifully decorated for the holidays. The culinary experience on this cruise is exceptional, with opportunities to taste French pastries, mulled wine, and regional specialties. Onboard, guests can indulge in holiday-themed entertainment, wine tastings, and lectures on French culture. Highlights include a festive evening at the Eiffel Tower and guided tours of Rouen’s Gothic cathedral. The cozy, intimate ambiance of the ship and the enchanting river views make this cruise a perfect way to celebrate the holidays. Viking’s attention to detail, expert guides, and luxurious accommodations ensure a seamless and memorable experience for travelers seeking a magical holiday escape in France.

Address:

Paris, France (Starting Point)

Dates:

December 1 – December 18, 2025

Weekly Opening and Closing Times:

Daily tours from 9:00 am – 8:00 pm

Entrance Fee:

Cruise packages start at $2,799 per person, inclusive of accommodations, meals, and excursions.

Nearest Transit Stations

  • Paris Gare du Nord
  • Gare Saint-Lazare

Events

  • Eiffel Tower Holiday Illumination: Evening visit to the lit-up tower.
  • Rouen Cathedral Light Show: Festive projections on the cathedral.
  • Le Havre Coastal Walks: Scenic holiday strolls along the coast.
  • Paris Christmas Food Tour: Taste festive treats in Paris’ gourmet markets.
  • Onboard French Wine Tasting: Explore regional wines with expert sommeliers.

Notable Shops or Stalls

  • Parisian Pastry Stalls: Sample macarons and croissants.
  • Rouen Ceramics Vendors: Find handcrafted pottery and decor.
  • French Wine Merchants: Pick up bottles of Burgundy and Bordeaux.
  • Gourmet Cheese Stalls: Taste and buy regional cheeses.
  • Le Havre Chocolatiers: Gourmet chocolate gifts perfect for the holidays.

Special Spots Not to Miss

  • Paris’ Notre Dame Christmas Tree: Iconic tree in front of the cathedral.
  • Claude Monet’s Garden (Giverny): Visit the inspiration behind Monet’s paintings.
  • Rouen’s Market Square: Lively market with a festive atmosphere.
  • Seine River Illumination Cruise: See Paris lit up from the river.
  • Le Havre Modern Art Museum: Explore local culture and art.

Parking and Fees

Not required as Viking handles transportation.

Nearby Hotels

  • Hôtel Ritz Paris
  • Mercure Rouen Centre Cathédrale
  • Hôtel Spa Vent d’Ouest (Le Havre)

Nearby Restaurants

  • Le Meurice (Paris): Michelin-starred French dining.
  • Restaurant Gill (Rouen): Elegant cuisine in the heart of Rouen.
  • Les Enfants Sages (Le Havre): Chic, cozy bistro.

5. Viking’s Scandinavian Christmas Markets

Travelers go on a spectacular voyage through the Nordic region with Viking’s “Scandinavian Christmas Markets” cruise, which combines breathtaking winter scenery with rich holiday customs. Beginning in Copenhagen, this ten-day journey has stops in Helsingborg, Gothenburg, and Oslo, each of which has its own unique festive appeal. Handcrafted ornaments, cozy woolen products, and delectable sweets like aebleskiver and glögg may be found in the markets. They combine contemporary festive decor with warm Nordic traditions. The Liseberg Christmas Market in Gothenburg, Sweden, is among the greatest locations to witness the holidays.Seasonal lights and performances bring Copenhagen’s Tivoli Gardens to life. Oslo’s winter wonderland is a magical destination, especially when paired with live music and ice skating. Viking is known for its remarkable service, which includes mouthwatering Nordic-inspired cuisine and captivating performances. A deeper dimension is added to the holiday with guided visits of Viking heritage sites.This tour will highlight the splendor of Scandinavian Christmas customs, whether you like to take a walk along Copenhagen’s rivers or see the Royal Palace in Oslo. Viking provides first-rate lodging, all-inclusive itineraries, and knowledgeable tour guides to ensure a seamless operation. You should absolutely think about taking a Christmas holiday to a Nordic nation.

Address:

Copenhagen, Denmark (Starting Point)

Dates:

December 5 – December 15, 2025

Weekly Opening and Closing Times:

Daily tours from 10:00 am – 9:00 pm

Entrance Fee:

Cruise packages start at $3,299 per person, inclusive of meals, excursions, and accommodations.

Nearest Transit Stations

  • Copenhagen Central Station
  • Oslo Central Station

Events

  • Tivoli Gardens Christmas Show: A magical light display and entertainment.
  • Oslo Ice Skating Rinks: Enjoy skating in the heart of the city.
  • Liseberg Christmas Market (Gothenburg): Sweden’s largest holiday market.
  • Nordic Christmas Food Tasting: Sample herring, meatballs, and glögg.
  • Viking History Tour: Explore Nordic heritage through guided excursions.

Notable Shops or Stalls

  • Danish Wool Vendors: Pick up cozy Nordic sweaters.
  • Swedish Woodcrafts: Find handcrafted wooden toys and decor.
  • Scandinavian Pastry Stalls: Try Kanelbullar and æbleskiver.
  • Norwegian Jewelry Designers: Unique silver and amber pieces.
  • Nordic Holiday Décor: Traditional ornaments and candles.

Special Spots Not to Miss

  • Oslo Opera House: Panoramic views from the rooftop.
  • Tivoli Gardens Lake: Picturesque setting with festive lights.
  • Liseberg Ice Sculptures: Stunning ice carvings at the Gothenburg market.
  • Nyhavn Christmas Market (Copenhagen): A festive market along the canal.
  • Oslo’s Royal Palace: Adorned with holiday decorations.

Parking and Fees

All transportation is managed by Viking.

Nearby Hotels

  • Hotel D’Angleterre (Copenhagen)
  • Clarion Hotel Post (Gothenburg)
  • Hotel Continental Oslo

Nearby Restaurants

  • Noma (Copenhagen): Iconic Nordic fine dining.
  • Smaka (Gothenburg): Traditional Swedish dishes.
  • Maaemo (Oslo): Michelin-starred dining with Nordic flavors.

Conclusion

Viking’s Christmas Market cruises offer travelers a luxurious, immersive way to experience Europe’s most enchanting holiday traditions. From Germany’s medieval markets to Scandinavia’s winter wonderlands, these curated journeys provide an unforgettable blend of culture, cuisine, and festive cheer. Perfect for families, couples, or solo adventurers, Viking’s cruises are the ideal way to celebrate the magic of the holiday season.

 

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