Old historic towns just appear to be in their element at the time of the holiday. These towns become special as market stalls and Christmas lights occupy the squares and people begin to walk around with warm mulled wine and gingerbread. 

To all this add a river winding in or along, and the scene is still more magical. You just can’t but desire to slow and to absorb all the details. 

In case you would like to have your next vacation in Europe where you can enjoy some of the most admired markets in Europe and be traveling along Europe renowned waterways, a few of them should be ranked first in your list. 

Strasbourg: Tradition Along the Rhine River

Strasbourg has long been celebrating Christmas a lot. It is easily accessible as it is near the Rhine River, and a frequent destination on river trips in the area. 

The well-known Christkindelsmärik in Strasbourg dates back to 1570, and is one of the oldest markets in Europe. Plus, its Grande-Île old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site (and you won’t want to miss it!)

During the holiday season, the historic center gets packed with stalls. The cobbled streets and towering cathedral make for the perfect storybook backdrop. Stroll around, and you’ll find plenty of handcrafted gifts and Alsatian treats. There’s also the massive Christmas tree on Place Kléber.

Visiting destinations like Strasbourg on a scenic European Christmas market river cruise also means the journey becomes a part of the experience, with winter landscapes and scenery to enjoy between stops. 

Cologne: Christmas Lights Beside the Rhine

Cologne’s Christmas lights start right at the cathedral, where the market beside it is the city’s most well-known. There’s always a huge Christmas tree and festive performances, plus plenty of snacks to sample.

Right by the Rhine River, there’s the Harbor Christmas Market, which gives things a fun maritime feel. Once you’ve had your fill of food and drinks, take a stroll along the Rhine Promenade between the harbor and Cologne’s historic Old Town for the best views of the water. 

Vienna: Grand Squares Along the Danube

Over on the Danube River, Vienna’s holiday markets take on a slightly more elegant feel. The city’s architecture and traditional coffeehouses give Christmas here a character all of its own. 

The famous Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz, which is the square in front of the town hall, is always a treat, but if you’re after something a little quieter, you can easily find some smaller markets tucked around the city.

While you look around, you can snack on roasted chestnuts or try a traditional Austrian pastry. 

As one of the major stops along the Danube, Vienna is easy to fit into a river trip if you’re planning on seeing more markets along the way.

Budapest: A Fairytale Backdrop on the Danube

Budapest’s fairytale backdrop starts at Vörösmarty Square, the best place to begin the festivities after continuing down the Danube from Vienna.

You’ll get to browse all of the Hungarian crafts and enjoy local food before heading to the Advent Feast outside St. Stephen’s Basilica for the light display.

And there is so much to see outside of the stalls. When you feel like taking a winter stroll by the Danube, you can see the Hungarian Parliament Building, and Buda Castle, which is lit up at night. 

Find a Little Holiday Magic By the River

The markets during a holiday are far more than shopping and when you add a twist on the mode of getting there, it is even more.

They are an opportunity to taste the local cuisine and explore ancient customs in some of the best-known historic towns with their best foot forward in the lead-up to the festive season. And as you sail about them you have the added advantage of seeing the winter scenery gradually floating past. 

Then choose a path, wrap up, and leave yourself some room in your schedule to those unplanned surprises, which can be the best part of your trip.