Viking Cruises

Destination Guide - European Christmas Markets

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20 | Europe's Christmas Markets Destination Guide Art In Würzburg, step inside the opulent Bishops' Residenz to marvel at Tiepolo's breathtaking 595-square-metre fresco, a masterpiece of Baroque ceiling art. In Vienna, the Museum of Fine Arts invites you to linger among works by the Old Masters, while Göttweig Abbey's Imperial Staircase stuns with one of the world's largest ceiling frescoes. At Prague's Lobkowicz Palace, centuries of artistic patronage come to life through grand portraits, rare artifacts and handwritten musical scores. A river journey through Europe reveals how deeply the visual arts are woven into the cultural fabric of this region, even as the festive season adds its own radiant layer of sparkle and sophistication. Culture Vienna enchants with classical concerts featuring the timeless works of Mozart and Strauss, while Budapest invites you to soak in centuries-old thermal baths alongside locals. In Paris, the spirit of the Belle Époque lives on in the cabaret halls, where music, dance and theatrical flair light up the night. In Prague, music lovers can trace Mozart's handwritten notes and Beethoven's symphonic manuscripts at the Lobkowicz Palace. These experiences go beyond sightseeing, they're invitations to participate in living traditions. From candlelit performances to historic rituals, every moment is steeped in the customs and creativity that define Europe's cultural soul. Culinary A river journey through Europe is a delight for the taste buds at any time of year. In Gouda, try your hand at crafting the perfect stroopwafel, a sweet Dutch treat layered with toffee syrup. In Germany, savour sizzling sausages with tangy mustard and sauerkraut, or sip crisp Rieslings at Schloss Vollrads, one of the country's oldest wineries set amongst 198 acres of stunning scenery. Alsace tempts with its blend of French and German culinary traditions, offering everything from creamy cheeses to crispy flammkuchen - wood-fired flatbread topped with cream, onions, and cured pork. Budapest's Something FOR EVERYONE ere's so much more to a Christmas markets river voyage than twinkling lights and festive cheer. ese journeys follow the same storied waterways as our year-round itineraries, offering rich access to Europe's art, architecture, culture and history, just with a magical seasonal twist.

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