Christmas Market River Cruises: How Early to Book

A Christmas market river cruise is one of the most charming trips in travel: mulled wine, timbered squares, and a ship that carries you to a new market every morning. It's also one of the first things to sell out.

When markets are open

Most German and Austrian markets run from late November through December 23. A few Alsace and Budapest markets continue past Christmas into early January. If you want the full market experience, the first three weeks of December are the window.

The routes that matter

How early to book

Twelve to fifteen months ahead for the best cabins and the sailing dates you actually want. Nine months out is still workable. Inside six months, you're usually choosing between a lower deck cabin and a different week.

What to know before you commit

December river levels can be unpredictable, and occasionally ships swap or bus a segment. Lines handle it well, but it's honest to say it happens. Days are short, so mornings are for towns and evenings are for markets, which is exactly how you'd want it anyway.

What's typically included

Cabin, all meals, wine and beer with dinner, guided walking tours in each town, and gratuities on some lines. Air, transfers, and pre cruise hotel nights usually cost extra, and we recommend arriving a day early in December.

Pack for cold

It's 30 to 40 degrees, often damp. Layers, a warm coat, and waterproof shoes make the difference between charming and miserable.

Tell us your December and we'll see what's still open.