Christmas Market Cruise Tips and FAQ
Stay warm, shop smart and enjoy every evening.
Get Free Christmas Market Cruise QuotesA little preparation turns a cold-weather cruise into the coziest trip of the year.
Dress for the Season
Expect temperatures around freezing and the occasional rain or snow shower. Dress in layers: thermal base layers, a warm sweater, a waterproof coat, hat, scarf and gloves. Waterproof boots with good grip are essential for cobblestones. Our sister site Cruising Checklist has a printable winter packing list.
Enjoying the Markets
- Visit popular markets on weekday mornings for space to browse; come back after dark for the lights.
- Keep a small bag for fragile purchases and wrap glass ornaments carefully in your luggage.
- Try the regional specialty in each town rather than the same snack every day.
- Keep your mugs or return them for the deposit — collectors love the different designs.
- Watch your belongings in busy crowds, as in any popular place.
Flights, Insurance and Extra Nights
December weather can delay flights, so arrive a day early and consider a hotel night in Amsterdam, Basel, Nuremberg or Budapest. Airfares for Less helps with fares, and Cruise & Travel Insurance explains cover for delays and itinerary changes. For other holiday trips, browse the Official Travel Directory; for American holiday ideas, see Best of the USA.
Love the season so much you want to share it with clients? Be a Travel Agent explains how to become a travel agent.
Christmas Market Cruise Tips: FAQ
How early does it get dark?
Very early. In much of Germany and Austria the sun sets around 4:30 in the afternoon in December, which is good news for market lovers: the lights come on early.
Should I bring cash?
Yes. Many stalls take cards now, but small purchases and mug deposits are often easier with euros (or forints in Budapest and Swiss francs in Basel).
Will the river freeze?
It is very rare for the main cruising rivers to freeze. Fog and low or high water are more common winter issues, and lines adapt the itinerary when needed.
Can I bring purchases home?
Ornaments, crafts and packaged sweets are usually fine. Check U.S. Customs rules for meat products and other foods before buying them as gifts.
On Board in Winter
River ships are fully heated and the panoramic lounge becomes the coziest room on board, with views of frosty banks and lit villages as you sail. The sun deck is often closed in winter, so choose a cabin with a good window or French balcony if watching the scenery matters to you. Evenings can be long: bring a book, join the onboard talks and save some energy for after-dark visits to the markets.
Finally, leave room in your suitcase. Most travelers come home with ornaments, gingerbread tins, a few souvenir mugs and handmade gifts for family and friends.
Questions About a Winter River Cruise?
Ask our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise about weather, packing or which week to choose. We answer personally and send free quotes.
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