Christmas Markets of Europe 2026

Begin your enchanting multi-day tour in Amsterdam, a city renowned for its rich heritage and vibrant culture. Upon arrival, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to your luxurious Star-Ship, where you can settle in and unwind. Enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, perhaps strolling through the charming streets or relaxing on board. Your accommodation aboard the Star-Ship (or similar) ensures comfort and style as you prepare for the adventures ahead.

Experience the magic of Amsterdam during the festive season as the city glimmers with holiday lights and the aroma of seasonal treats fills the air. Today, embark on a scenic glass-top canal cruise through the UNESCO-listed waterways, offering a unique perspective of the snow-dusted city. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the festive spirit at one of Amsterdam’s charming Christmas markets, sampling traditional Dutch sweets and soaking in the joyful atmosphere. Meals and accommodation are provided aboard your Star-Ship (or similar).

Arrive in Cologne, where the festive spirit is alive with the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine. Join a guided walking tour through the city, marveling at the majestic Cologne Cathedral and exploring the vibrant Christmas market nestled beneath its towering spires. Discover handcrafted ornaments, local delicacies, and the warmth of Rhineland hospitality. Enjoy a lecture on European Christmas traditions aboard your Star-Ship (or similar), with meals and accommodation included.

Step into the storybook setting of Rüdesheim am Rhein, where the Rhine Gorge’s dramatic landscapes set the scene for a festive celebration. Explore the Christmas Market of Nations, featuring stalls from across the globe, and visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet to discover a fascinating collection of self-playing instruments. Warm up with a cup of the town’s signature coffee before returning to your Star-Ship (or similar) for a special onboard performance. Meals and accommodation are included.

Discover the picturesque town of Miltenberg, adorned with festive lights and vibrant window displays. Enjoy a guided tour through its charming streets and explore the delightful Christmas market, renowned for local crafts and treats. Later, journey to the tranquil Bronnbach Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery nestled in the scenic Tauber Valley. Return to your Star-Ship (or similar) for a relaxing evening, with meals and accommodation provided.

Arrive in Würzburg, where Baroque elegance meets festive charm. Join a guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Würzburg Residence, an architectural masterpiece, and wander through the enchanting Christmas market in the heart of the Old Town. Savor a mug of spiced Glühwein as you browse the stalls for seasonal delights. Accommodation and meals are provided aboard your Star-Ship (or similar), ensuring a restful night after a day of exploration.

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bamberg, where four distinct Christmas markets sparkle among half-timbered buildings. Enjoy a guided tour of the city’s highlights, sampling local specialties and perhaps a glass of Bamberg’s renowned beer. The festive atmosphere and historic charm make this a memorable stop on your journey. Meals and accommodation are included aboard your Star-Ship (or similar).

Delve into the rich history of Nuremberg with a sightseeing tour that highlights its architectural wonders and artistic legacy. Afterward, immerse yourself in the festive cheer of the city’s renowned Christmas market, where you can browse for unique gifts and sample traditional treats. Enjoy comfortable accommodation and delicious meals aboard your Star-Ship (or similar).

Cruise the final stretch of the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal before arriving in Regensburg, where a guided tour reveals the treasures of its UNESCO-listed Old Town. Later, experience the enchanting Christmas market set within the grounds of Thurn and Taxis Palace, illuminated by twinkling lights. Enjoy a traditional Bavarian band performance on board your Star-Ship (or similar), with meals and accommodation included.

Arrive in Passau, where the confluence of three rivers creates a picturesque backdrop for your afternoon walking tour. Stroll through narrow alleys, admire the hilltop Oberhaus Fortress, and conclude your tour at the magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to the city’s lively Christkindlmarkt. Savor festive treats and mulled wine before returning to your Star-Ship (or similar) for a restful evening. Meals and accommodation are included.

Journey to the charming town of Melk, where a guided tour of the grand Benedictine Melk Abbey awaits. Marvel at the Baroque architecture and explore the historic library, filled with centuries-old treasures. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere before returning to your Star-Ship (or similar) for meals and accommodation.

Welcome to Vienna, the illustrious City of Dreams. Embark on a panoramic drive along the grand Ringstrasse, admiring the city’s opulent architecture. After your guided tour, enjoy free time to explore Vienna’s renowned Christmas markets, where you can indulge in decadent hot chocolate and seasonal pastries. Return to your Star-Ship (or similar) for a relaxing evening, with meals and accommodation provided.

Arrive in Bratislava, where Gothic architecture and a rich history await. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the city’s peaceful streets, taking in the neo-Renaissance beauty of ancient theatres and the grandeur of the Episcopal Summer Palace. The festive season brings a blend of cultures to the Christmas markets, where you can sample local delicacies and handcrafted ornaments. Experience authentic Slovakian hospitality with a home-hosted coffee and cake. Meals and accommodation are provided aboard your Star-Ship (or similar).

Conclude your journey in Budapest, a city of stunning contrasts divided by the Danube. Explore both Buda and Pest on a guided tour, crossing the iconic Chain Bridge and discovering the city’s rich history and vibrant culture. Enjoy time at the bustling Christmas markets before a traditional Hungarian farewell dinner and folklore show on board your Star-Ship (or similar). Meals and accommodation are included.

After a final breakfast on board, bid farewell to your fellow travelers as you disembark your Star-Ship (or similar). Transfer to the airport with cherished memories of festive markets, historic cities, and the magic of a European winter adventure.