(NC) Europe in winter is enchanting, with snow-dusted cobblestone streets and charming town squares lit by twinkling festive lights. Every year during this season, Christmas markets pop up in villages, towns and cities across Europe, featuring traditional food, drink, culture and crafts.

One way travellers can experience the local magic in several places over one trip is by taking a river cruise. For instance, the Danube River winds through some of Central Europe’s most iconic winter destinations. Here are just a few reasons to consider a Christmas market cruise for your next winter vacation:

Christmas markets are a rich European tradition. Christmas markets originated in the medieval period as winter provision markets. Today, they’re still bringing people together, with travellers coming from much further away. Each Christmas market has beloved seasonal traditions that unite its community, who often love to share them with visitors. Whether in grand cities or charming towns, these markets are full of heritage, warmth and festive spirit.

One river can take you the whole way. A cruise along the Danube flows through scenes straight out of a storybook, from Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace bathed in festive lights to the nightly illuminated spectacle of Budapest’s St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Gothic charm of Nuremberg and Cologne.

Some cruise companies, like Emerald Cruises, take travellers through locations like these, and more. Luxury river cruises offer a unique way to travel, with personalized service in private, panoramic cabins. An added plus is being able to see multiple cities and towns without packing and unpacking at hotels each time.

There are festive treasures you won’t find elsewhere. Christmas markets celebrate skilled local craftsmanship. Take the time at each market to explore stalls filled with hand-carved ornaments, traditional wooden toys, woollens, delectable confections and other seasonal offerings. They can make great gifts, as well as unique souvenir additions to your own festive decorations.

A trip through the Danube’s Christmas markets is a unique holiday getaway and an invitation to participate fully in Europe’s festive traditions. And if you want a relaxed and unforgettable way of doing it, a river cruise might just be what you’re looking for.

You can learn more about experiencing Christmas markets at emeraldcruises.ca/christmasrivercruises.