Imagine twinkling lights reflecting on the Danube as you sail into the harbor, just steps away from the hustle and bustle of a festive Christmas market.
European Christmas markets have been a convention because the Middle Ages. Market stalls decorated with garlands and ornaments entice you with a comfortable atmosphere and delicious food and drinks.
There are 1000’s of Christmas markets in Europe. Instead of putting together an itinerary – and doing all of the essential research – a river cruise makes planning easier.
My first impression of European Christmas markets was at Viking's Danube Christmas Joy, an eight day one River cruise with stops at six locations – Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Linz, Krems and Passau – in 4 countries.
Since the ship sailed mostly at night, I woke up in a unique port daily. In addition to the Christmas spirit, there was also evening entertainment on board, from Christmas carols to a performance by the Vienna Boys' Choir.
Viking shouldn’t be the one cruise line operating on the Danube in the course of the Christmas season. Ama Waterways, Avalon Waterways and Uniworld, amongst others, offer similar itineraries and market excursions.
One trip, many markets
In most cities there are several markets within the squares or squares. You can explore at your personal pace, ask the cruise leader for advice, or join for a ship-organized tour.
In Vienna I signed up for an tour that handled the subject the architecture of town and its marketsincluding Christkindlmarkt near St. Stephen's Cathedral, and one other Christmas market around Maria Theresien Platz.
Later I explored the Belvedere market and the pedestrian zone at Stephansplatz, where there have been beautiful outdoor lights that looked like chandeliers.
The historical locations of those markets are only as much an element of the experience because the decoration, the food and the shopping opportunities. For example, imagine a stroll through Vienna's Schönbrunn market, with town's baroque castle as a backdrop.
The markets are also exceptionally beautiful at night. However, to avoid crowds, the very best time to buy is when the markets first open. The closer your travel dates are to Christmas, the busier the markets will likely be. And in fact weekends are more crowded than weekdays.
Markets at every stop
Budapest has several markets on the “Pest” side of town.
The city's primary market is positioned on Vörösmarty Square. It connects to a different market along town's “fashion street,” which was lit up with playful lights within the shapes of shoes, gifts and umbrellas. At Stephansplatz there may be one other large market with a small ice skating rink.
Christmas markets in Bratislava city center began within the Nineties. Still, they do an ideal job of making a fun, traditional atmosphere. I visited two – one in Hviezdoslav Square and one within the primary city square. I noticed plenty of eating and drinking, but not so many gifts. However, there have been quite a few shops, carolers and buskers adding to the festive atmosphere.
Passau is a small town in Germany, however the primary market offers an ideal mixture of food stalls and handmade gifts. I purchased a picket owl carved from the Black Forest.
I visited two markets in Linz, Austria. One was ideal for families, with games, a small train and humanities and crafts. The other was a gorgeous market within the primary square, with stalls arranged to present loads of space to linger, each decorated with painted landscapes that looked like artworks.
Part of the fun of visiting the markets is sampling the food and drinks. Sausages, cheese and sweet treats are common, but each market also offers local specialties. Mulled wine, a warm, spicy red wine, is served all over the place, often in a commemorative cup to maintain as a souvenir.
Shopping suggestions
The markets sell the whole lot from knitted scarves and carved ornaments to games and cheese boards. There are also plenty of Christmas decorations, including nativity scenes, angels, Santa Claus figurines and naturally nutcrackers.
Most providers are small mom-and-pop businesses. Many accept bank cards, but it surely's an excellent idea to have some money readily available too.
A top tip? Bring your personal shopping bag or tote bag on your shopping. And consider packing an additional suitcase if you happen to plan on doing plenty of shopping.
image credit : www.cnbc.com