Christmas Market River Cruises

Experience an unforgettable Christmas magic on the water

Enjoy the winter river landscapes of the Rhine, Moselle, Danube and Rhone while experiencing the pre-Christmas magic of the Christmas markets in Germany, France, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary? No problem with our river cruises! Experience the special magic of a cruise on the most beautiful rivers in Central Europe and enjoy mulled wine and punch against the backdrop of some of Europe's most beautiful cities. Always included on a Christmas market river cruise: the VIVA Cruises all-inclusive package. This includes full board with a breakfast buffet, lunch and a multi-course gourmet menu in the evening. Snacks are also served in between. Throughout the day, you can also enjoy a high-quality range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and a mini bar in your cabin that is always freshly stocked. The highlight of the all-inclusive offer from VIVA Cruises is the high tea, which takes place once per voyage and at which you are served exquisite savory and sweet treats such as scones, sandwiches, cupcakes, macarons and chocolates - naturally complemented by a large selection of teas.

Cities Highlights

Düsseldorf

RRhenish lifestyle between tradition and modernity - Düsseldorf inspires with diversity! Here art and Kultour lovers get just as enthusiastic as shopping enthusiasts, here the Media Harbor impresses with contemporary architecture as well as the historic Old Town. The old town makes Düsseldorf with more than 250 cozy pubs to the "longest bar in the world". There tastes not only the traditional Altbier! Not may miss a stroll along Königsallee, the world-famous strolling mile - or rather a visit to one of the numberrich sympathetic flea markets? And in the middle of it all: lots of Green and the Rhine with its riverside promenade to breathe easy . No wonder the VIVA Cruises family feels so right at home here!

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of those cities that every traveler should have visited at least once in his life. No wonder, millions and millions of tourists flock to the city on the canals every year to enjoy the flood of sights and cultural offerings. The best way to discover Amsterdam is by taking a boat ride along the canals or a walk along the unique canals. Art lovers will be immediately drawn to one of the world-famous museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Stedelijk Museum or the Van Gogh Museum. Party people will find their happiness in the nightlife and red light district De Wallen. And beer drinkers should by no means miss the Heineken Experience.

Lyon

Till today Lyon, the second largest city in France, stands in the tourist shadow of the French capital Paris. However, this is completely unjustified. If you travel to Lyon in France, you will experience a wonderful mix of a historic old town, excellent cuisine, numerous festivals and picturesque surroundings. Strolling through the alleys of Lyon's old town is a real pleasure. In the medieval and Renaissance style streets and alleys, you can discover something new at every corner. A special feature of Lyon are the so-called "traboules" - passageways and staircases that allow passage through buildings and courtyards from one street to another. Due to its extensive historic fabric, large parts of Lyon are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The best view of this beautiful city can be enjoyed from the Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Gastronomy is also very important in the city on the Rhone. In the home of Paul Bocuse, you can dine excellently in more than 2,000 restaurants. In combination with the excellent wines from the surrounding area, you eat in Lyon like God in France.

Paris

Paris is still probably the greatest place of longing for travelers from all over the world. And quite rightly so, as no other city in the world is such an epitome of love, seduction, art, culture and culinary delights. Paris is the city for the beautiful things in life. This begins with the beauty of the French capital. The best way to experience this is to take a look from the viewing terraces of the Eiffel Tower or the city's Montmartre hill. The city on the Seine offers so many beautiful perspectives that it's hard to decide which direction to point the camera in first. But even up close, the city's sights are hard to beat in their beauty. The ornate Notre-Dame Cathedral; the massive Arc de Triomphe; the sprawling Louvre; the magnificent Jardin des Tuileries; the magnificent Opéra Garnier and the impressive Place de la Concorde are just the tip of the iceberg of sights that you can marvel at in Paris. You will also be amazed by the city's art museums: Whether it's world-class art at the Louvre, Impressionists at the Musée d'Orsay, contemporary art at the Centre Pompidou, the history of the Middle Ages at the Musée national du Moyen Age, ethnology at the Musée du Quai Branly, or the works of Rodin and Picasso at the museums of the same name - you can spend many days and weeks in Paris' museums. And if that's not enough, you can eat and drink better in Paris than in probably any other city in the world. The city's cafés, bistros and restaurants enjoy a legendary reputation and have an incomparable flair.

Vienna

The capital of Austria is one of those cities that every traveler should have visited once in the course of his life. Hardly any other city in the world has to offer such an enchanting combination of magnificent architecture, world-famous museums and theaters and beautiful green spaces. No wonder, the entire city center of Vienna is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Vienna is known worldwide for its palaces of emperors, kings and nobles, such as Schönbrunn Palace, the Belvedere and the Hofburg. But the city's many churches, especially the landmark St. Stephen's Cathedral, are also worth a visit. Museum visitors come at the numerous world-class museums in the city, such as the Albertina, the Museum of Art History and the Museum Leopold anyway fully at their expense.

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Frankfurt

Connected to the Danube via the Main-Danube Canal, Frankfurt is one of the most unique cities in Germany. After all, it is the only city with a skyline of skyscrapers. A view of the metropolis from the observation deck of the MAIN TOWER is a very special experience. However, Frankfurt is not only a very modern and busy city, but also has a lot of history to offer its visitors. For example, the Römer and the Paulskirche are among the most famous historical sights in Germany. And when it comes to art and culture, Frankfurt is also an absolute hotspot. With almost 40 museums and exhibition houses, the Frankfurt Museumsufer is one of the most important international museum locations.

Passau

Due to its special geographical location at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is undoubtedly one of the most unique cities in Germany. But not only the location of the city on the three rivers is exceptional, Passau also offers its visitors numerous remarkable sights. Towering above the city is the Veste Oberhaus, an impressive fortress dating back to the 13th century. The old town of Passau is known for its beautiful baroque architecture, especially the Cathedral of St. Stephen with its characteristic onion domes and the largest cathedral organ in the world with almost 18,000 pipes.

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Description and info of our Christmas Marketing River Cruises

Seine Advent Magic

Experience the magical beauty of Paris in winter and discover the enchanting towns along the Seine. From the famous landmarks of the capital Paris, continue your journey into Normandy. There, you'll encounter the charming town of Les Andelys, where you can stroll through narrow alleyways, explore local shops, and admire traditional Norman architecture. Rouen is known for its well-preserved medieval old town and impressive Gothic cathedral. Immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and music scene and let it inspire you. Before returning to Paris, take a visit to Conflans. One of the main attractions is the Musée de la Batellerie, a museum dedicated to the history of inland navigation. Look forward to picturesque walking paths and promenades along the riverbanks, inviting you to leisurely strolls and relaxation.

Click here to get to the voyage: Seine Advent Magic | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Advent Magic from Vienna

Absorb the splendor of the Danube metropolises on this unforgettable trip. Begin your journey of discovery in the enchanting city of Vienna and explore its fascinating historic buildings and cultural treasures. Immerse yourself in the romantic atmosphere of Linz and be enchanted by its picturesque alleys and squares. Visit imposing Passau, a city known for its rich history and impressive architecture. Discover the medieval flair of Regensburg and be enchanted by its charming alleys and historic city center. The Danube cruise ends in Nuremberg and promises unforgettable experiences and wonderful impressions. Enjoy the diversity of the cities, their sights and the captivating atmosphere along the Danube. An unforgettable journey awaits you!

Click here to get to the voyage: Advent magic from Vienna | River cruise | VIVA ENJOY | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Christmas Elbe & Vltava

Celebrate the feast of love in a completely different way - namely on a ship. Many have already discovered the magic of such a trip for themselves, which ultimately led to the fact that our pre-Christmas and Christmas cruises are now among the most popular river cruises in our program. Your trip: You will depart from Berlin to reach Magdeburg and Wittenberg via Wusterwitz.

Continue via Meissen to Dresden, where you will have the opportunity to marvel at the Christmas market, the Semper Opera House or the Frauenkirche until the day after next. On the sixth day, you will set course for Prague via Bad Schandau, Leitmeritz and Hořín, where you will then also spend Christmas Eve with a great festive menu on board. On Christmas Day you will disembark with many memories. Because the warm and twinkling lights of passing cities and river landscapes will continue to glow in your heart for quite a long time for sure.

Adventcruise to Prague

The German capital during the Advent season offers an excellent excursion destination and at the same time the starting point for your perfect trip through the winter. Magdeburg, Wittenberg and Meissen paint a picture of times gone by with the Elbe, Martin Luther and world-famous porcelain. The Striezelmarkt is your chance to taste the Dresden Stollen, a real landmark for the city on the Elbe. On board, you can then enjoy the pre-Christmas lights on the banks of the Danube as the ship takes you to the Czech Republic. Prague could hardly make for a cozier stay with its historic architecture.

Click here to get to the voyage: Adventcruise to Prague | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Christmas Short Trip Rhine

In the run-up to Christmas, everything slows down a little. Even in big cities like Frankfurt you can observe this. The famous Christmas market invites you to forget everyday life. The journey to Mannheim is just as idyllic, where you can also marvel at the city's landmark - the water tower. Back on board, you can relax and unwind while our ship takes you to the capital of Christmas. Strasbourg is world-famous for its charm during the Advent season. You will find the perfect end to the trip in Mainz with its sacred buildings, beautiful parks and Christmas atmosphere.

Click here to get to the voyage: Christmas Short Trip Rhine | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Who are river cruises with Christmas Markets suitable for?

Whether on the Rhine, the Moselle, the Danube or the Rhône - a Christmas market river cruise is an excellent experience for people of all ages and interests. The four rivers all have their very own pre-Christmas charm. Experience the different fascination of Christmas markets in four different countries on your Christmas journey. Enjoy a mulled wine or punch in the cozy old towns of Trier, Bernkastel or Cochem on a river cruise on the Moselle with a Christmas market. Experience the pre-Christmas magic of historic cities such as Strasbourg, Speyer and Cologne on a river cruise with a Christmas market on the Rhine. And immerse yourself in the pre-Christmas magic of southern France on an Advent river cruise on the Rhône.

How does the arrival and departure work?

Usually, passengers on a VIVA Cruises river cruise with Christmas market organize their arrival and departure individually. If you have any questions or difficulties in this regard, the VIVA Cruises team will be happy to provide you with information and solutions at any time.

VIVA All-Inclusive:
for you only the best

With VIVA Cruises, "all-inclusive" means that you can relax and enjoy. Your physical well-being is taken care of with selected meals and drinks. In addition, we offer you relaxing care products. And if you do need a good connection, use our WLAN. For otherwise good connections - especially to our on-board staff - the included tip.

Welcome with a
welcome champagne - to a wonderful
stay on board

Full board with breakfast buffet,
lunch, dinner (multi-course
gourmet menus, served at the place) and
snacks with free choice of table and flexible
meal times

All-day high-quality, cold and hot
non-alcoholic beverages, as well as a
exquisite selection of alcoholic beverages;
take a look at our bar menu.

High Tea: once per trip a selection
of sweet and savory treats such
as scones, sandwiches,
cupcakes, chocolates and macarons. In addition
be suitably diverse teas
offered.

Daily freshly stocked mini-bar and
reusable water bottle on
cabin

Selected beauty products from
RITUALS

Free WLAN on board - for undisturbed
reception

Tipping fees for the entire crew

The right excursions to go with your river cruise

The guests on board our floating premium hotels are all different. That's why we devise an equally diverse excursion program for each of our fascinating itineraries. Whether you're an epicurean, a nature lover, or an art enthusiast, our selection of experiences will open up new perspectives on every voyage.

Arrival and departure to your VIVA ship

With VIVA Cruises you enjoy the feeling of being in the best hands from the very beginning. That's why our service is not limited to life on board, but begins with the preparation of your trip.

You need a parking space for your vehicle, plan a convenient arrival and departure by train or would like assistance for a suitable flight?

If you wish, we will gladly take care of your stress-free arrival and departure as well as transfers. Call us: +49 211 274 032 50 or write us an e-mail to : info@viva-cruises.com

AMSTERDAM

Düsseldorf

Frankfurt

PASSAU

Our berth in Amsterdam is usually located at Haven Amsterdam, Ruyterkade Oost IJ RO1. You will receive further information with your travel documents two weeks before the start of your trip.

If you are traveling to Amsterdam in your own car, here is our recommendation on nearby parking garages:

Piet Heingarage
Piet Heinkade 59
1019 GM Amsterdam
Piet Heingarage | Amsterdam

IJ-oever Centrum
Vriesseveem 9
1019 GM Amsterdam
IJ-oever Centrum | Amsterdam

Our berth in Düsseldorf is usually located on the Robert-Lehr-Ufer or Joseph-Beuys-Ufer below the Oberkasseler Brücke, centrally located in Düsseldorf's old town. You will receive further information with your travel documents.

If you are traveling to Düsseldorf in your own car, we recommend the following parking lot in the immediate vicinity of our Steiger:

Düsseldorf, Rheinterrasse/Tonhalle
Robert-Lehr-Ufer 1
40474 Düsseldorf

It is not possible to make a reservation in advance. Please note that the entire parking area may not be available due to events. Further information can be found here:

Rheinterrasse Tonhalle | Düsseldorf

If you would like to extend your stay in Düsseldorf, the hotel ship RIVERSIDE Altstadt Düsseldorf anchors in the immediate vicinity of the embarkation/disembarkation pier during the winter season. VIVA Cruises guests who book a pre- or post-night stay receive a 10% discount on the cabin price. To make a booking, please contact our colleagues at VIVA RIVERSIDE.

Our berth in Frankfurt is usually on the Nizzaufer or Untermainkai, centrally located in Frankfurt city center. You will receive further information with your travel documents.

If you are traveling to Frankfurt in your own car, here are our recommendations for nearby parking garages:

Frankfurt, Nizzawerft
Parking garage at the theater
Willy-Brandt-Platz 5
60311 Frankfurt am Main

Am Theater | Frankfurt

Frankfurt, Leonhardswerft/Eiserner Steg
Parking garage at the Dom am Römer
Domstrasse 1
60311 Frankfurt am Main

Parkhaus am Dom am Römer | Frankfurt

Our berth in Passau is either in Lindau or Passau Old Town, rarely also in Passau Racklau. You will receive further information with your travel documents.

If you travel to Passau with your own car, we recommend booking a space in the Globus parking garage there. Our partner Globus will take you with your luggage directly from the parking garage to the ship on the day of arrival and will conveniently pick you up from the ship on the last day of your trip. You will receive further information about the parking facilities and the voucher with your travel documents. Payment will be made directly on site.

Book your parking space now here: globus-group.de/booking

We are happy to book a transfer for you from the train station to the ship and back. This is available from us for 20 € per person, including luggage transport in the bus. Please contact us for a booking by mail or phone.