There’s something so magical about Europe at Christmas: cities and towns dressed to the nines in twinkling lights and decorations, markets overflowing with mulled wine and joyous celebration.
The best way to experience this winter wonderland? With Scenic, of course.
From Amsterdam to Budapest, Strasbourg to Cologne and so much in between, Scenic’s festive collection of all-inclusive ultra-luxury itineraries take the guesswork out of planning the perfect Christmas escape, ensuring the whole experience feels relaxing from start to finish.
When not floating from trinket stall to bratwurst stand in Nuremberg’s Christkindlmarkt, kicking back in the spas of Baden-Baden, or breathing in the scent of fresh gingerbread in Old Town Prague, you can expect intuitive five-star service, balanced with a range of exclusive experiences aimed at taking you deeper into regions visited.
Plus, with only up to 163 guests onboard, there’s a level of personalisation that cannot be understated – it’s staff knowing ‘whiskey, no ice’, alongside a choice of casual or fine dining at up to five venues and included Scenic Enrich events plus Scenic Freechoice activities at a pace that suits you.
Then, there are the luxury suites themselves, where cloudlike Scenic Slumber queen beds, butler service and ever-changing views create a feeling that’s more than simply a ‘home away from home’.
Add in return airport transfers in Europe, plus all tipping and gratuities included, it’s Scenic’s all-inclusive philosophy that allows you to relax knowing everything is taken care of.
Sound like your style of cruising? It’s not too late to book for Christmas 2025 – or perhaps get a head start on 2026.
Christmas & New Year – Amsterdam to Budapest
Dates: 21 Dec 2025 to 4 Jan 2026
The ultimate northern hemisphere winter experience. Departing in the days leading to Christmas, this 15-day river cruise soaks up the diverse customs and traditions of Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Germany, Austria and the Netherlands in one unforgettable itinerary.
Enhancing the journey is Scenic’s all-inclusive gourmet dining and premium drinks all day, not just at mealtimes – a standard across all of its river cruise itineraries, combined with Scenic Enrich events and a range of Scenic Freechoice excursions.
As a particular highlight, you’ll celebrate Christmas on board while cruising between Rüdesheim and Würzburg, and then feel the anticipation of the year’s end build as you cruise to Vienna, ringing in the New Year in one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.
Click here to learn more about Scenic’s Christmas & New Year – Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise
Rhine Christmas Markets – Zurich to Amsterdam
Dates: 1 Dec to 8 Dec 2025, 78 Dec to 14 Dec 2025, 15 Dec to 22 Dec 2025
Fairy tales come to life on this eight-day sojourn along the Rhine, as it weaves through romantic villages, renowned wine regions and awe-inspiring landscapes from Zurich to Basel and Amsterdam.
Along the way you’ll stroll the enchanting Christmas market of Cologne – in the shadow of the soaring twin-spired Dom, explore the spa resort town of Baden-Baden, marvel at the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, discover Christmas trinkets for loved ones in festive town squares and so much more.
Click here to learn more about Scenic’s Rhine Christmas Markets – Zurich to Amsterdam river cruise
Danube Christmas Markets – Budapest to Munich
Dates: 13 Dec to 20 Dec 2025
Beginning in one of Europe’s most captivating cities, Budapest, this eight-day journey immerses you in the festive traditions and culture of three extraordinary countries, with plenty of opportunities to craft your own experience through included Scenic Freechoice activities.
An in-depth discovery of Budapest’s historic sights and squares, wooden stalls brimming with handicrafts and gifts in Bratislava, an exclusive Scenic Enrich classical concert at Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna, and a full-day excursion to Salzburg are just a tease of the experiences that await.
Click here to learn more about Scenic’s Danube Christmas Markets – Budapest to Munich river cruise
Rhine Christmas Markets with Switzerland – Zurich to Amsterdam
Dates: 4 Dec to 15 Dec 2025, 10 Dec to 21 Dec 2025
Strolling amid cobbled laneways and vibrant market stalls, and gazing in awe at the grandeur of Strasbourg Cathedral, is just one part of this magical 12-day tour and cruise from Zurich to Amsterdam. And the bucket list moments only ramp up from there.
Think an awe-inspiring drive amid the snow-dusted Swiss Alps, a panoramic train journey to the village of Château-d’Oex, soaking in the thermal waters of Caracella Spa in Baden-Baden, and a cruise amid the picturesque canals of Amsterdam, as just a teaser.
Click here to learn more about Scenic’s Rhine Christmas Markets with Switzerland – Zurich to Amsterdam river cruise
Danube Christmas Markets with Prague
Dates: 6 Dec to 16 Dec 2025, 14 Dec to 24 Dec 2025
A classic cruise along the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers, this 11-day cultural immersion takes in the varied wonders of Germany, Austria and Slovakia, followed by three unforgettable nights in the historic city of Prague.
Boasting more than 900 World Heritage-listed sites, starting point Regensburg is a true delight explored on foot, after which you’ll cruise to the colourful city of Passau, through the majestic wine country of Wachau Valley, have the chance to lose yourself in the splendour of Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace, and explore the remarkable city of Budapest by coach.
In Prague, a local expert will reveal the secrets of the remarkably preserved Old Town on day nine, while Freechoice activities allow you to choose your own experience the following day.
Click here to learn more about Scenic’s Danube Christmas Markets with Prague river cruise
Christmas Markets – Budapest to Amsterdam
Dates: 23 Nov to 7 Dec 2025
This is arguably the European Christmas cruise, where across 15 glorious days you’ll make memories to last a lifetime.
Explore Christmas Markets all along the Danube, Main and Rhine Rivers, where festive stalls honouring age-old traditions tempt you with traditional food, drinks, treat, toys and trinkets. You’ll never forget the merry sounds and sweet aromas of an authentic European Christmas market.
Wander along the cobblestoned lanes of charming town squares, where the buildings have hundreds of years of storis to tell.
Discover the ornately-designed rooms and gardens of Vienna’s famed Schönbrunn Palace, and enjoy a private Viennese classical concert at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein.
There’s also a full-day excursion to dreamy Ceský Krumlov, plus 26 included Scenic Freechoice activities to make this trip your very own.
Click here to learn more about Scenic’s Christmas Markets – Budapest to Amsterdam river cruise
Book your Scenic Christmas river cruise and indulge your love to travel in 2025.
For a limited time, receive up to $2,200pp* on select 2025 itineraries. 2026 dates and departures are also available at 2025 prices when you book before 17 March 2025. To book visit www.scenic.com.au, call 138 128 or speak to your local travel advisor.
This article was produced in collaboration with Scenic.
Experience the magic of Christmas on a Scenic river cruise
- Advertisment - 
Recent Comments
on CONCEPT ART: New Details Revealed for Disney Cruise Line Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Destination
on David and Victoria Beckham so ‘Charmed’ by Tom Cruise They Have His Photos on Display at Their Home
on Iowa State starting RB Jirehl Brock among latest college football players charged in gambling probe
on Biden to tout bill’s prescription drug prices, energy provisions in pitch to Americans, aide says
on Iowa State starting RB Jirehl Brock among latest college football players charged in gambling probe
on The Rev. Al Sharpton to lead protest after Florida governor’s ban of African American studies course
on Sports World Hails ‘Superwoman’ Lindsey Vonn for Her Grand Comeback Despite Career-Changing Injury
on San Mateo County Community College District sues five companies over role in ‘pay to play’ scandal
on Saipan, placid island setting for Assange’s last battle, is briefly mobbed – and bemused by the fuss
on ‘Pokémon Scarlet’ and ‘Violet’ Fan Theories Suggest Legendary Time Travel, Alternate Dimension Plot
on Joe Manchin and Tommy Tuberville introduce bill on name, image and likeness rules for college sports
on Inside the Michael Jordan ‘Air’ movie, plus why NFL, others are buying into the sports film industry
on If you’re a frequent traveler, these wrap tops from Aday will revolutionize your on-the-go wardrobe
on How Does Jack Nicklaus Travel? Exploring the Private Jets Owned by the ‘Golden Bear’ Over the Years
on Hollywood Reporter: Tom Cruise negotiated with movie studios over AI before the actors strike began
on Ford Blue Cruise: US regulators investigate fatal crashes involving hands-free driving technology
on Dozens of boats cruise the Seine in a rehearsal for the Paris Olympics’ opening ceremony on July 26
on Devout athletes find strength in their faith. But practicing it and elite sports can pose hurdles
on Despite strong Lunar New Year holiday data, consumer spending in China isn’t roaring back just yet
on David and Victoria Beckham so ‘Charmed’ by Tom Cruise They Have His Photos on Display at Their Home
on CONCEPT ART: New Details Revealed for Disney Cruise Line Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Destination
on CBS Sports announces Matt Ryan will join NFL studio show. Longtime analysts Simms and Esiason depart
on Boston College vs. Army live stream, how to watch online, CBS Sports Network channel finder, odds
on Boise State vs. Air Force live stream, odds, channel, prediction, how to watch on CBS Sports Network
on Biden to tout bill’s prescription drug prices, energy provisions in pitch to Americans, aide says
on After UFC Fallout, Conor McGregor Offers a Valuable Piece of Advice to Free Agent Francis Ngannou
on 2024 Super Bowl: CBS Sports Network and CBS Sports HQ to combine for 115 hours of weeklong coverage
on ‘Best Intention’: Chris Kirk Has Absolute Trust in Jay Monahan and PGA Tour’s Widely Debated Model
on 2023 NFL All-Rookie Team: CBS Sports draft expert, former GM unveil league’s best first-year players
on “Completely Knocked Me Out”: Rob Lowe Recalls Boxing Match With Tom Cruise On 1983 Brat Pack Classic
on CONCEPT ART: New Details Revealed for Disney Cruise Line Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Destination
on “Completely Knocked Me Out”: Rob Lowe Recalls Boxing Match With Tom Cruise On 1983 Brat Pack Classic
on CBS Sports announces Matt Ryan will join NFL studio show. Longtime analysts Simms and Esiason depart
on Carlos Sainz’s Soccer Fanboy Emerges as Spaniard Shares Defining Moment With This Real Madrid Legend
on Biden: ‘At this point I’m not’ planning to visit East Palestine, Ohio, after toxic train derailment
on ‘Best Intention’: Chris Kirk Has Absolute Trust in Jay Monahan and PGA Tour’s Widely Debated Model
on Ahead of big sports weekend, dispute with Disney leaves millions of cable subscribers in the dark
on A heavy wave of Russian missile attacks pounds areas across Ukraine, killing at least 4 civilians
on 2024 Super Bowl: CBS Sports Network and CBS Sports HQ to combine for 115 hours of weeklong coverage
on 2023 NFL All-Rookie Team: CBS Sports draft expert, former GM unveil league’s best first-year players
on Army vs. Coastal Carolina live stream, how to watch online, CBS Sports Network channel finder, odds
on AL Rookie of the Year Julio Rodriguez Spreads Joy and Sportsmanship to the Youth of Loma de Cabrera
on After UFC Fallout, Conor McGregor Offers a Valuable Piece of Advice to Free Agent Francis Ngannou
on Dubai International Airport sees 41.6 million passengers in first half of year, more than in 2019
on Devout athletes find strength in their faith. But practicing it and elite sports can pose hurdles
on Despite strong Lunar New Year holiday data, consumer spending in China isn’t roaring back just yet
on Dave Portnoy: Taylor Swift’s security should ‘drag Kim Kardashian to jail’ if she attends Eras Tour
on CONCEPT ART: New Details Revealed for Disney Cruise Line Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point Destination
on “Completely Knocked Me Out”: Rob Lowe Recalls Boxing Match With Tom Cruise On 1983 Brat Pack Classic
on CBS Sports, Serie A announce new TV rights deal; Paramount+ to air over 400 Italian soccer matches
on Cam Newton’s Violent Public Incident Draws Hilarious Reaction From 3x All-Star: “Where Do I Sign Up
on Boston College vs. Army live stream, how to watch online, CBS Sports Network channel finder, odds
on Angel Reese Launches Foundation Dedicated To Empowering Women Through Sports & Financial Literacy
on A weaker dollar, skyrocketing prices and ‘record’ visitor numbers: Good luck in Europe this summer