We're answering all your most-asked questions about Christmas market river cruises so you can plan the perfect holiday trip with confidence. Be sure to check out Part 1 & Part 2 of our Christmas Markets River Cruise Planning Guide.

Discover practical advice and answers to burning questions, like:

• How to choose between the Danube & Rhine rivers?
• When is the ideal time to go?
• Do market vendors accept credit card payments? 
• What foods can you look forward to at the markets? 
• Do you really need to add the concert in Vienna? 
• Do you get to see the markets during the day & night? 
• Can you ship your souvenirs home? 
• …and more! 

We'll walk you through what to expect onboard, share our essential winter packing tips for staying warm and comfortable, and explain what excursions look like during the colder months. 

Whether you're deciding if a Christmas market cruise is right for you or you've already booked and want to know what to expect, we're giving you honest answers to help you navigate potential challenges and make the most of this magical holiday experience in Europe.

• For Christmas Markets photos and even more info, check out our Christmas Markets River Cruises: All You Need to Know article. 
• Packing Tips: Our 5 River Cruise Must-Pack Essentials episode highlights our hotspot that keeps us connected at Christmas markets & AirTags—ESSENTIAL for tracking your day pack, luggage, & more. 

We use our ​​Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card at the markets whenever possible. Use our referral link to get bonus rewards for signing up!  

Send us a text

Thank you to our sponsor, Riverside Luxury Cruises. Find out more about our experience with this outstanding river cruise line, providing guests with the luxury of choice.

Support the show

👉🏻 Subscribe so you never miss an episode, released every Wednesday.

✈️ Use our preferred travel advisors to book your cruise.

⭐️ Love the show? Please give us a 5-star rating (we'll read it on the air)!

💙 Join our Small Ship Cruise Talk community on Facebook.

💻 Follow us on Instagram, Threads, & Pinterest.

📩 Sign up for our newsletter.

👍🏻 If you find value in our premium cruise insights, support Small Ship Cruise Talk to help us continue to deliver expert guidance for your extraordinary voyages.

🌏 SometimesSailing.com has even more planning tips, firsthand experiences, & advice.

📱 Have questions or topic suggestions? Contact us.

©2025 Small Ship Cruise Talk. All rights reserved. May contain affiliate links. Some trips have been hosted. All opinions are our own.