If you really want to get into the holiday season, think about going on a Christmas Markets River Cruise next year on either the Rhine or Danube River.
We just finished a AMA Waterways River cruise from Amsterdam, Netherlands, to Basel, Switzerland, visiting Christmas Markets along the way. The first stop was in Cologne, Germany, when, after a tour of the city, we were able to enjoy up to six Christmas markets.
Most of the cities along the river have multiple markets featuring local food and Gluhwein, a holiday warm drink of red wine and fruits and spices, also called mulled wine. Of course, the markets also offer Christmas items unique to the region. You may end up with a collection of five to eight different mugs unique to each area.
It was amazing to see cities as small as 2,000 residents swell to 30,000 celebrating the holiday season.
We also cruised the Rhine Gorge, lined with medieval castles. Then, on to Rudesheim, Germany, Speyer, Germany, Strasbourg, France, and Breisach, Germany, before landing in Basel, Switzerland. We were able to have escorted tours of these fantastic cities, with the Christmas markets a bonus.
Christmas markets are open from Nov. 26 until Dec. 21.
Living in Arizona, we had to supplement our wardrobe with warmer coats and boots. The weather was delightful, usually in the 30s and 40s every day, making you really get into the holiday spirit.
The Christmas markets are the big event in these cities, with families traveling from the entire region to participate. There also are ice skating rinks set up with skate rentals available.
Another thing unique was the way the stores were decorated. They would make holiday displays and hang them from their roofs. Teddy Bears were strung everywhere.
If you would like to experience the holiday spirit in other countries, a Christmas Markets River Cruise is perfect for you.
Aside from AMA Waterways, there are several other cruise lines specializing in river cruises. Let Cruise Planners help you choose the right ship and itinerary for you.
If you have any questions, feel free to email Sue Mitchell at smitchell@cruiseplanners.com, or call her at (480) 396-8084.