After the sizzling high cost of flights to Europe for the summer
season it is a cool relief to see such low fares for a European Vacation. The popular
Christmas Markets of England, Germany, Holland, France, Belgium, Austria, and Switzerland
are rich in tradition with vibrant evenings filled with millions of Christmas lights,
flickering candles on Advent wreaths, air filled with delicious aromas and music.
Stop and listen to the children singing carols on the street corner by candlelight.
Witness the scenes that you would only see on Christmas cards. This year discover
the holidays of the past.
Traditionally, Christmas Markets take place in December (today
they start mid November) usually over by the week before Christmas. Some say the
tradition originated in Dresden, Germany 600 years ago where one would go to buy
the important things before the harsh winter comes. Others believe that it was a
celebration of the Advent and generally held near the local churches where vendors
were allowed to sell food and goods to celebrate the season. Either way there are
thousands of Christmas Markets around Europe and people flock to experience the
season in both the big cities as well as the rural towns.
Each market has developed its own individual character, influenced
by its region and traditions. You can experience all of the local foods as well
as the individual crafts that tells the story. There are hand-made ornaments, wooden
toys, dolls, candles and Advent wreaths as well as fine chocolates, cheeses and
the famous 'Gl'wein' (hot mulled wine). Entire cities as well as the small surrounding
villages are lit up with twinkling lights.
There are many options to see this incredible wonderland. Although
most of the river cruises have stopped for the season, some gear up just for 'Christmas
Market' cruises along the Danube and Rhine rivers. From Basel to Cologne, Budapest
to Passau, Cologne to Nuremberg, and Nuremberg to Vienna, all have incredible journeys
that allow you to experience how the Europeans have been celebrating the holiday
for centuries. Amadeus Waterways offers an 11 night cruise from $2499 pp (including
Air).
Collette Vacations offers 'Mozart's Christmas' tour featuring
the Christmas Markets of Saltsburg, Linz, Vienna & Prague for as little as $2099.
pp (8 Days, 10 Meals, including air). Explore the cities associated with the life
and times of Mozart one of the world's greatest composers. Visit historic sites,
view breathtaking scenery, enjoy classical music, plus browse and shop in the traditional
Christmas markets. Collette Vacations also offers an Alpine Christmas tour which
allows you to stay in one hotel in Innsbruck and travel day trips to Munich, Oberammergau
(home of the internationally-known Passion Play), and Saltzburg. This 8 Day tour
features a panoramic tour of the Marienplatz, the Glockenspiel, Olympic Park, Neuschwantstein
Castle as well a visit to the Wies Church, and Mirabel Gardens (seen in the Sound
of Music). All from $1999 pp (including air from Orlando).
There are many Christmas Market tours and cruises to choose from,
all include transfers, local taxes, most meals, admittance to the various sites
and English speaking tour directors. Have yourself a different holiday this year...visit
the Christmas Markets of Europe.
