Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises & Tours invite travelers to experience Europe’s Christmas markets and their traditions through a collection of river cruises across Europe in 2026 and 2027.
“River cruising provides the perfect way to experience multiple markets and destinations in one seamless journey, allowing travelers to fully immerse themselves in the magic, culture and traditions that make Christmas in Europe so unforgettable,” said Ken Muskat, president of Scenic Group USA and LATAM.
Travelers can sail aboard Scenic and Emerald Cruises’ ships, while visiting some of the continent’s most celebrated Christmas markets along the Rhine, Danube and Main rivers.
Guests will also can browse handcrafted ornaments beneath the Cologne Cathedral, sip mulled wine in Vienna’s squares, discover Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik and stroll through riverside villages adorned with holiday lights and decorations, the company said in a press release.
Featured itineraries include the following:
Scenic Christmas Markets from Amsterdam to Budapest
Multiple 15-day departures throughout November and December 2026 and 2027. Guests sail through the heart of Europe’s festive season along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, experiencing Christmas markets and holiday traditions.
Scenic Rhine Christmas Markets
Select departures in December 2026 and 2027. Guests will cruise the Rhine River through Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands, visiting Christmas markets set among villages and cities.
Emerald Cruises Christmas Markets on the Rhine
Eight-day sailings throughout the 2026 and 2027 holiday season, showcasing festive celebrations in destinations including Cologne, Strasbourg and Amsterdam.
Emerald Cruises Christmas Markets on the Danube
Eight-day voyages sailing through Hungary, Austria and Germany, featuring Budapest, Vienna and Passau. Selected departures begin November 24, 2026.
Beyond the markets themselves, guests can look forward to the comforts of river cruising during one of Europe’s most picturesque seasons.
These include castles, festive onboard celebrations, locally inspired cuisine and included excursions.
