Avalon Waterways and National Geographic Add New Christmas Market Cruises for 2026: What You Need to Know Now!

Published on December 21, 2025

As the holiday season approaches, the popularity of Christmas market river cruises is reaching new heights. Avalon Waterways and National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions have announced that, due to high demand, they will be adding more departures for the 2026 holiday season. This surge in interest for holiday river cruises across the Danube, Rhine, and Main rivers highlights the growing trend of travelers seeking unique, immersive experiences in some of Europe’s most festive cities.

For 2026, Avalon Waterways will offer its largest-ever lineup of Christmas market cruises, with 40 departures across 19 itineraries. Meanwhile, National Geographic has responded to the demand by adding Christmas market sailings to its 2027 lineup onboard the Transcend Evolve, effectively doubling the company’s offerings in the region.

These river cruises are not just about seeing holiday lights; they provide travelers the opportunity to dive into local traditions, taste regional specialties, and experience the unique charm of European Christmas markets along the way.

Avalon Waterways’ Expanding Christmas Market Offerings: A New Era for River Cruises

Avalon Waterways, known for its luxury river cruises, is expanding its Christmas market offerings for the 2026 holiday season. The cruise line will offer seven additional departures, resulting in a 15% capacity increase compared to previous years. The increase in departures reflects Avalon’s commitment to meeting the growing interest in these seasonal cruises, which combine the warmth of holiday traditions with the comfort of river cruising.

The 2026 season will feature sailings on the Danube, Rhine, and Main rivers, with stops at iconic Christmas markets in cities like Vienna, Cologne, Strasbourg, and Nuremberg. These cities are known for their timeless holiday charm, and travelers can enjoy local handmade crafts, festive foods, and hot mulled wine. The new itineraries also include a mix of land excursions and onboard experiences, such as cooking classes and music performances, making for a fully immersive experience.

Avalon’s holiday cruises have garnered a loyal following, and the additional departures will allow even more travelers to join in the festive fun, as they sail through Europe’s most magical winter landscapes.

National Geographic’s Holiday Cruises: New Christmas Market Routes for 2027

National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, a leader in expedition cruising, has also jumped on the holiday river cruise bandwagon. For 2027, the company will introduce two new Christmas market itineraries onboard its luxurious Transcend Evolve. This expansion will allow guests to enjoy intimate, off-the-beaten-path experiences, including private chamber concerts, after-hours tours of Melk Abbey, and a private visit to Clam Castle in Austria.

The new itineraries will sail between Budapest and Passau (Germany), and Budapest and Vienna, with stops at Christmas markets in Bratislava (Slovakia) and Cesky Krumlov (Czech Republic). National Geographic’s focus on cultural immersion will shine through, offering travelers an exclusive chance to experience local holiday traditions in a personalized, luxury setting.

This experience will not only highlight the best European Christmas markets but also offer a taste of authentic local culture, with travelers enjoying hands-on experiences like artisan tours, cooking classes, and performances showcasing the best of European holiday music. For NatGeo-Lindblad Expeditions, the goal is not just to showcase the beauty of the holiday season but to provide an immersive cultural experience that reflects the region’s rich heritage.

Trafalgar’s New Christmas Market River Cruises: A Family-Friendly Option

Trafalgar, known for its guided tours across the world, is expanding into the river cruise market with its own Christmas market offerings starting in 2026 and 2027. This year, Trafalgar will offer a Rhine Christmas Markets itinerary, traveling between Basel, Switzerland and Dusseldorf, Germany, with a special focus on Strasbourg, one of the oldest and most iconic Christmas markets in Europe.

The Danube Christmas Market cruises, which will travel between Budapest and Passau, offer land extensions to Prague and a chance to visit Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart. Trafalgar’s family-friendly approach is perfect for those traveling with loved ones, and its offerings will allow families to explore the rich culture and history of the region, while enjoying the beauty of Europe during its most festive time.

The Ultimate Holiday Getaway: River Cruises and Christmas Markets Across Europe

For travelers seeking a unique, intimate holiday experience, Christmas market river cruises offer an unparalleled way to explore Europe. These cruises allow you to visit multiple destinations while enjoying the charm of the holidays. From Vienna’s opulent palaces to the quaint streets of Nuremberg, Christmas market river cruises promise to immerse travelers in the region’s rich traditions and festive atmosphere.

Avalon Waterways and National Geographic have both expanded their holiday cruise offerings in response to growing demand, while Trafalgar has jumped into the market with family-oriented itineraries that offer more relaxed and affordable options for travelers. These cruises combine the best of both worlds: the elegance of luxury cruising with the excitement and charm of Christmas markets.

Why Are Christmas Market River Cruises So Popular?

Christmas market river cruises offer the perfect mix of comfort and exploration. Travelers can enjoy gourmet meals, entertainment, and luxury accommodations while exploring the best Christmas markets in Europe. The relaxed pace allows for plenty of time to soak in the holiday cheer, sample seasonal treats, and shop for handmade gifts. Whether sipping mulled wine in Vienna or shopping for artisan crafts in Cologne, the experience offers a blend of culture, tradition, and holiday magic.

These cruises cater to all types of travelers, from couples seeking a romantic getaway to families wanting to make memories together. The addition of luxury experiences, interactive tours, and local insights ensures that every passenger enjoys a truly unforgettable holiday experience.

Conclusion: A Growing Trend in Christmas Travel

With the addition of more departures, Avalon Waterways, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions, and Trafalgar are helping to fuel the growing trend of Christmas market river cruises in 2025 and 2026. The popularity of these cruises is undeniable, with more and more travelers opting for the comfort, culture, and holiday spirit these trips offer. For those looking to make this holiday season truly special, a Christmas market river cruise might just be the perfect choice.