Picture-perfect town squares filled with twinkling lights, brass bands, and the sweet aromas of mulled wine and gingerbread from quaint little chalet-like stalls… Welcome to Christmas in Alsace.
If you’re looking for a festive vacation in a Christmas wonderland, then look no further than a European Waterways Christmas Markets Cruise in the region of Alsace & Lorraine. The air is filled with scents of mulled wine or vin chaud, gingerbread, and sweet chestnuts cooking over embers to get you in high spirits, as well as fairgrounds, ice rinks and chalet-style Christmas stalls galore. And, if you’re lucky, you may even see snow!
Our Christmas Markets Cruise Destinations
When you think of a traditional Christmas market, it’s the jovially decorated scenes Alsace’s market towns that spring to mind – even if you haven’t heard of the region yet! Famed for its fusion of German and French cultures and traditions, the Alsace & Lorraine region has a distinct festive atmosphere, unlike anywhere else in the world. Our Christmas Markets Cruises visit a selection of the very best Christmas markets in Alsace & Lorraine, taking you on an unforgettably magical journey aboard hotel barge Panache.
Colmar has a total of six amazing Christmas markets that are spread out across the town. During the festive season, stunning timber-framed buildings sparkle with Christmas lights and huge fir trees with baubles bring Christmas cheer to its winding avenues and squares. A trip to Colmar’s Christmas markets offers the opportunity to explore the town, walking the historic, cobbled streets and looking up at towering real-life chocolate box houses! Colmar really is a very special place to visit, especially during the Christmas period.
Strasbourg Christmas Markets, known locally as Christkindelsmärik, brings in around two million visitors every year as Europe’s oldest and largest markets. With its grand total of thirteen Christmas markets sprawled across the Old Town, you’ll be spoilt for choice. From sweet treats to hand-blown trinkets – you’ll have no trouble collecting all the items on your Christmas shopping list! Wander the many historic quarters of the city such as Place Gutenberg and la Petite France (Little France), and keep your eyes peeled for the enormous Christmas tree in Place Klébler that towers above decorated chalets and an ice rink. You’ll find quintessentially festive seasonal stalls at the Strasbourg Christmas markets, offering souvenirs, gifts, and delicious delicacies such as vin chaud (mulled wine), christolle (a traditional brioche made with candied fruits and almond cream) and perhaps a slice of another local delicacy that is gingerbread. Strasbourg is affectionately known as the ‘Capital of Christmas’, and it’s easy to see why.
Haguenau Christmas market is a very traditional Christmas market and gives a flavour of the unique Alsatian culture. With temporary wooden chalets dispersed throughout the town, there are multiple Christmas specialities on offer in Haguenau. Everywhere you go, you’ll see images of the Christkindl, a traditional German Christmas angel, who brings festivities to earth every Christmas. Haguenau also has the most impressive nativity set you’ve ever seen! Measuring sixteen metres long, it’s quite the display of Christmas splendour.
To see the full itinerary and prices for these magical Christmas cruises, click here!
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