Holiday Cruises
Christmas market river cruises for 2027, hand-picked so every market is open when you arrive: Budapest’s Basilica market, Vienna’s palace markets, Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt and the cathedral towns of the Rhine. These holiday sailings fill a year ahead.
At a glance
Christmas Market River Cruises for 2027
Updated November 7, 2026. Dates and ships are from the cruise lines' 2027 schedules and can change.
| Sailing | Line and ship | Dates | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christmas Markets on the Danube | AmaWaterways · AmaLea | Nov 27 – Dec 4, 2027 | Budapest to Nuremberg |
| Holiday Markets: Vienna to Nuremberg | Uniworld · S.S. Beatrice | Dec 1 – 8, 2027 | Vienna to Nuremberg |
| Christmas Markets on the Rhine | AmaWaterways · AmaSofia | Nov 27 – Dec 4, 2027 | Amsterdam to Basel |
Timing is everything
When the Markets Are Open
| Key date | 2027 |
|---|---|
| First Sunday of Advent | November 28 |
| Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt opens | About November 26 |
| The sweet spot to sail | November 27 – December 12 |
| Most German markets close | December 22 – 23 |
Questions we hear
Christmas Market Cruise FAQ
When are the Christmas markets open in 2027?
Most German and Austrian Christmas markets open in the last week of November and close on December 22 or 23. The first Sunday of Advent is November 28, 2027, and Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt traditionally opens the Friday before. Vienna's and Budapest's main markets run later, into late December or the New Year. Each city sets its own dates, and we confirm them against your sailing.
When is the best time for a Christmas market river cruise?
For 2027, departures from about November 27 to December 12 find every market on the Danube and Rhine open, with fewer crowds than the week before Christmas. Earlier sailings can reach a city before its market opens, and the German markets close just before Christmas.
Danube or Rhine for Christmas markets?
The Danube links Budapest, Vienna, Salzburg, Regensburg and Nuremberg, home of Germany's most famous Christmas market. The Rhine offers more variety in one week: Amsterdam, Cologne, Heidelberg, Strasbourg's market dating to 1570, Colmar and Basel. If Nuremberg and the imperial capitals are the dream, choose the Danube; for four countries and cathedral towns, choose the Rhine.
What is the weather like on a Christmas market cruise?
Expect temperatures in the 30s and low 40s Fahrenheit, with sunset around 4 to 4:30 PM. The markets are at their best after dark, so pack warm layers, gloves, a hat and comfortable waterproof shoes. We send a packing list before you go.
Are excursions included on these Christmas market cruises?
Yes. AmaWaterways and Uniworld both include guided excursions in every port, with active options such as bike rides and hikes on many days. Uniworld's fare also includes drinks and gratuities. We go through each day's choices with you.
How far ahead should I book a Christmas market cruise?
Book as early as you can. Holiday market sailings are some of the first of the year to fill, often by late summer of the year before, and many 2027 dates are already filling. The best balconies and suites go first.
Let us hold your cabin
Time is your luxury. We plan the journey.
We match you with the right river, ship and cabin, weigh the excursions in every port, and plan your hotel nights before and after. Call, text, DM or email us at 404.421.1742 or info@aureviavoyages.com for today's best price and current promotions.
Ask About a Christmas Market Cruise