A new take on old traditions


Whether it’s on Vienna’s Rathausplatz or Regensburg’s Neupfarrplatz, opposite Strasbourg Cathedral or Kölner Dom… the first time you lay eyes on one of Europe’s classic Christmas Markets will be a moment you won’t soon forget. Ancient squares around Gothic cathedrals or Baroque town halls have been magically transformed into winter wonderlands alive with twinkling lights, festive greenery, and visitors happily hopping from one brightly decorated booth to another in search of everything from handcrafted ornaments to mouth-watering marzipan… and a little holiday cheer!


And they’ve been doing this for hundreds of years... ever since local tradesmen began setting up shop for a few days each winter in the market squares of towns large and small. Over the centuries, each Christmas Market – most commonly called Weihnachtsmarkt in Germany, Christkindlmarkt in Austria, and Marché de Noël in France – took on a distinctive character of its own. And some local traditions… like the hot mulled wine known as glühwein, usually served in collectible mugs unique to each market… caught on to become an indispensable part of the holiday celebration in villages, cities and towns throughout Europe.


Colmar, France... transformed for the season Call your travel agent or Tauck at 800-468-2825


Tauck’s two Christmas Market cruises – one along the Rhine between Köln and Basel aboard ms Swiss Sapphire, and one cruising the Danube between Vienna and Nürnberg aboard ms Swiss Jewel or ms Treasures – offer a new approach to discovering the magic of the markets. Instead of simply browsing your way through, you’ll enjoy Tauck’s signature sightseeing and exclusive events in many of the destinations you’ll visit... gain insights from the personal experiences of your local guides as they recall the Christmas Markets of their childhoods... and celebrate the holidays with special cultural performances and festive Christmas meals on the ship and off!


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