christmas day cruises 2023

• Need help? 1-888-751-7804 1-888-751-7804
• Let Us Call You CALL ME
• Drink Packages
• Flights by Celebrity℠
• Hotels by Celebrity
• Manage Reservation
• Shore Excursions
• Upgrade with MoveUp

• My Tier and Points
• Join Captain's Club

Already booked? Sign in or create an account

• South Korea
• New Zealand
• Grand Cayman
• St. Maarten
• U.S Virgin Islands
• New England & Canada
• Pacific Coast
• Antarctic Ocean
• Panama Canal
• Transatlantic
• Transpacific
• Cruise Ports (+300)
• Mediterranean
• Perfect Day at CocoCay
• All Inclusive
• Bucket List Cruises
• Cruise & Land Package
• Groups & Events
• New Cruises
• Popular Cruises
• Specialty Cruises
• Destination Highlights
• Group Excursions
• Private Journeys
• Shore Excursions Overview
• Small Group Discoveries

• 360° Virtual Tours
• Celebrity Apex
• Celebrity Ascent NEW
• Celebrity Beyond
• Celebrity Constellation
• Celebrity Edge
• Celebrity Eclipse
• Celebrity Equinox
• Celebrity Infinity
• Celebrity Millennium
• Celebrity Reflection
• Celebrity Silhouette
• Celebrity Solstice
• Celebrity Summit
• Celebrity Xcel COMING SOON
• Explore Edge Series

Galapagos Expedition Series

• Celebrity Flora
• Celebrity Xpedition
• Celebrity Xploration
• The Retreat
• Suite Life. Elevated.
• Iconic Suite
• Penthouse Suite
• Reflection Suite
• Royal Suite
• Signature Suite
• Celebrity Suite
• Aqua Sky Suite
• Horizon Suite
• Sunset Suite
• View All Suites
• Concierge Class
• Galapagos Accommodations
• Eat & Drink
• Entertainment
• Spa & Wellness

• Cruising 101
• Cruise Fare Options
• Cruise Tips
• First Time on a Cruise
• What is Included on a Cruise
• Future Cruise Vacations
• Accessible Cruising
• Captain's Club Rewards
• Cruise Insurance
• Flights by Celebrity
• Manage Cruise
• The Celebrity Store
• Travel Documents
• Royal Caribbean International
• Celebrity Cruises

• Summer Sale - 75% Off 2nd Guest
• 3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free
• Free Caribbean Veranda Upgrades
• Galapagos 20% Savings + Free Flights
• Resident Rates
• Exciting Deals
• View All Offers
• All Included
• Cruise & Land Packages
• Dining Packages
• Photo Packages
• Wi-Fi Packages
• View All Packages
• Captain's Club Overview
• Join the Club
• Loyalty Exclusive Offers
• Tiers & Benefits
• Loyalty Status Match
• Celebrity Cruises Visa Signature® Card

Enjoy 75% off your second guest’s cruise fare. Plus, additional guests in your stateroom sail free on select Bahamas and Caribbean sailings.

CHRISTMAS CRUISES

• Celebrate with Celebrity
• Holiday Cruising
• Culinary Cruises
• Music & Themed Cruises
• LGBTQ+ Cruises

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year on a Christmas cruise.

Spend an unforgettable vacation on one of our Christmas cruises, where you’ll enjoy the spirit of the season while sailing to some of the most spectacular destinations around the world.

Feast on traditional meals designed by a chef—without worrying about any of the prep or cleanup. Marvel at our festive decorations, like Christmas trees covered in trimmings and tinsel that will make you feel right at home. Sing along with carolers, watch holiday-themed shows at The Theatre, and welcome Santa on board as he pays a special visit to all of the lucky kids spending Christmas at sea.

Christmas Fun for Everyone

On one of our Christmas cruises, you can rest easy knowing that every member of the family will enjoy the vacation of a lifetime. Adults can schedule an indulgent afternoon at The Spa, while the kids are entertained at Camp at Sea. Teens can mingle with other teens at the Teens Club, while grandparents will love the nightly family dinners that take place in the main dining room. On Christmas Eve, watch a festive holiday show together in the theater, enjoy live holiday music, or head up to the rooftop for a Christmas-themed family movie night under the stars.

Christmas Cruise Itineraries

Escape the winter chill and plan a holiday vacation to some of the sunniest destinations around the world. Build a sandman on the pristine beaches of the Caribbean. Get into the holiday spirit while sailing around Australia and New Zealand. Or spend Christmas Eve during a once-in-a-lifetime cruise around the Galapagos Islands.

Itineraries

Tips for planning the perfect christmas cruise.

Go the extra mile and book a stay at The Retreat ® , our luxury vacation experience, where you and your family will have access to a private restaurant and lounge, a team of dedicated butlers and concierges to assist you in whatever you may need, and an array of stunning suites to choose from. 

You can also purchase unlimited premium beverage and specialty dining packages, bon voyage gifts, perks packages, an unlimited class pass to the fitness center, and more special treats on our website.

View All Christmas Cruises

You might also like.

December Cruises

Holiday Cruises

New Year’s Eve Cruises

Caribbean Cruises

Galapagos Cruises

Best Babymoon Destinations in Winter

Types Of Cruises You Must Experience At Least Once

Best Cruises for Teens

Best Caribbean Islands for Families

Family Cruise Deals

Cruises from Fort Lauderdale

Cruises from Miami

Eastern Caribbean Cruises

Western Caribbean Cruises

Weekend Cruises

Retirement Cruises

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

• CruiseMapper

Christmas and New Year Cruises

Christmas cruises 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026 new year's eve.

At CruiseMapper's "Christmas New Year Cruise" hub you can compares all major cruise companies' December Holiday offers as itineraries and prices. Our Xmas cruise finder allows searching by departure ports, countries and company, also allowing you to choose vessel type (ocean ship or riverboat) and a preferable call port along the itinerary.

Christmas & New Year Cruise Finder

All our Christmas and New Year cruise schedules show only itineraries and prices per person. These are indicative fares on the ships' lowest category staterooms. All rates are based on double occupancy (twin share) and don't include cruise lines or travel agencies promotions, group booking rates or any other special offers and discounts.

Cruise lines

AIDA Cruises

AmaWaterways

Ambassador Cruise Line

American Cruise Lines

American Queen Voyages

Arosa Cruises

Avalon Waterways

Azamara Cruises

Carnival Cruise Line

Celebrity Cruises

Celestyal Cruises

Costa Cruises

CroisiEurope

Crystal Cruises

Disney Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises

Holland America

Hurtigruten

Lindblad Expeditions

Marella Cruises

MSC Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line

Oceania Cruises

P&O Cruises

Phoenix Reisen

Ponant Cruises

Princess Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

River Cruises

Royal Caribbean

Saga Cruises

Scenic Cruises

Seabourn Cruises

Silversea Cruises

Small Cruise Lines

TUI Cruises

Viking Cruises

Windstar Cruises

Christmas and New Year cruises offer the perfect combination of the three best buys - holiday, travel, vacation. Combined Christmas (Xmas) and New Year's Eve (NYE) voyages are operated with longer and usually roundtrip itineraries. Depending on shipping company and destination, Xmas-NYE itineraries vary from 4-5 days (short breaks) to 7-10 days and even up to a month, extending from early or mid-December through early January.

All CruiseMapper's Xmas pages have themed photos similar to the one above. These are called "Christmas tree worms" (Spirobranchus giganteus / translated "giant spiral gills"). Aka "bristle worms", these are tube-building marine species living on coral reefs in tropical ocean waters. Each of these worms produces two multicolored spirals, which are apparatus for feeding and respiration. These beautiful creatures are CruiseMapper's choice of "Christmas Cruise" photos because of their most obvious "Xmas-themed" look.

Christmas Holidays cruise travel destinations

The list of most popular Xmas-NYE ship travel destinations starts always with the sunny Caribbean, followed by the Mexican Riviera and Hawaii (from California), Australia and New Zealand. Another interesting and relatively inexpensive destination is Europe's Mediterranean, where during winter you can enjoy guided tours in large port cities with much fewer tourists compared to the summer season.

Christmas Markets are the best-selling European river voyages. Europe's unique Christmas Markets experiences feature shopping (for handcrafted gifts and locally made souvenirs) and traditional food and beverages. Spain's Canaries and Portugal's Madeira are also immensely popular in December and among the best-priced/cheap choices for cruising during Christmas and New Year, with various roundtrips from UK ports and inside the Canaries. A signature experience is Madeira's/Port Funchal's fireworks show on New Year's Eve.

South American voyages during Xmas-NYE can be booked mainly through the Italian companies MSC and Costa . In South Africa are offered departures from Durban and Cape Town. In Arabia you can book seasonally Dubai -homeported ships, mainly by AIDA and MSC.

There are many "international" ships deployed in Southeast Asia (homeported in Hong Kong and Singapore), but for foreigners that market is with fly-cruise deals (inclusive of flights from the USA, Australia, Europe). The list of larger company ships leaving roundtrip from Caribbean ports (Puerto Rico, Barbados, Dominicana, Guadeloupe) includes AIDA, TUI, Marella UK, Carnival, RCI, MSC, P&O UK.

Australia and New Zealand itineraries are mainly roundtrips from Sydney NSW and Auckland NZ. Ships deployed in the South Pacific visit ports in New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Fiji, Tasmania. The list of major companies in this market includes P&O Australia, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Princess.

Major companies for Christmas cruises in Europe are the UK-based Cunard, Saga, P&O and Marella, departing mainly from Southampton (roundtrip). Other options are TUI and AIDA (departures from Canary Islands), and MSC and Costa (leaving roundtrip from Italian ports). Best brands for Christmas river cruises in Europe are Viking, Avalon, AmaWaterways, Uniworld.

Christmas Holiday cruise travel deals

Xmas-NYE mini cruises are Holiday travel specials that are pretty hard to find. Offered mainly in Europe, the roundtrips are mainly from large ports in England ( Dover , Southampton , Hull ). The best chance to book Xmas short breaks is via P&O Ferries UK . The company owns numerous large-sized Ro-Pax ships/cruiseferries with regularly scheduled crossings from UK ports (to France, Holland, Belgium) visited almost exclusively as shopping and Christmas Market destinations. In the Caribbean, mini-cruises are operated from Florida ports and visit The Bahamas and Mexico.

Fly-cruise deals provide discounted airfare (one-way or roundtrip) mostly to Caribbean homeports with airports (Barbados, Puerto Rico, Dominicana, Guadeloupe), the USA ( Miami Florida ), as well as Mediterranean's largest port cities ( Barcelona , Rome-Civitavecchia , Venice , Marseille ).

Florida to Caribbean itineraries visit The Bahamas ( Nassau , the private islands CocoCay/Royal Caribbean , Half Moon Cay/Carnival , Castaway Cay/Disney , Ocean Cay/MSC , Great Stirrup Cay/NCL ), also Jamaica, Puerto Rico, BVI. Caribbean fly-cruises from the UK to Barbados (Southampton-Bridgetown-Southampton) are P&O UK's top-seller during the December Holidays.

Each year, the Cunard 's RMS Queen Mary 2 offers Christmas and New Year roundtrip voyages from NYC New York to Canada and Caribbean.

The main disadvantages of cruising over Xmas-NYE are the limited availability and higher cost. This is simply the most profitable time for all companies, and they want to get the most out of it. Booking early is essential to secure your Holiday vacation - both as itinerary/stateroom type and pricing. Early Fall (October) is a good time to book. Early booking savings are generous, plus this is the time when the brands start promoting their holiday discounts. However, to be 100% sure, booking a year in advance is highly recommended.

European Christmas Market River Cruises

"Christmas Market" themed cruises are Europe's best Holiday travel deals. They offer ship travel on the largest European rivers and major inland waterways (Rhine, Danube, Main, Moselle), as well as France's rivers (Seine, Seone, Rhone, Garonne, Dordogne, Loire) and navigational canals (via hotel barges).

All larger-sized European riverboats dock in big cities and visit some of the most popular ports in France, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Austria, Hungary, Czechia. Deals are generally all-inclusive - pre- and post-cruise hotel stays, ship transfers, coach travel (tours), gratuities, staterooms with luxury amenities, gourmet meals (European wines and beers during lunch and dinner), 24-hour specialty tea-coffee bar with snacks, complimentary city tours (guided by English-speaking experts), themed onboard enrichment and live entertainment (by resident pianist and local performers), complimentary use of walking sticks and bicycles. Some deals are also inclusive of international flights.

Another reason to choose Christmas Market travel is the opportunity to see some of Europe's largest cities in their glorious snow-cover. Unlike the full-body contact USA Christmas shopping frenzy, Europeans prefer shopping at open-air markets, opposed to shopping malls. Christmas Market cruising in Europe perfectly combines luxury travel with traditional Xmas shopping. Dining options ashore feature the seasonal specialties apple cider, mulled wine (warm spiced wine), sweet gingerbread, all kinds of handmade sweets, chocolate and cookies, perfectly cold beer and steaming hot sausages.

Next are listed itineraries that visit some of the best European Christmas Market cities.

Rhine River

• from Basel to Kehl, Mannheim, Mainz, Cologne
• from Cologne to Koblenz, Rudesheim am Rhein, Germersheim, Kehl, Basel

From Kehl (Germany) is visited Strasbourg (France) - located just across the river.

Danube River

• from Budapest to Vienna, Krems, Linz, Passau
• from Munich to Passau, Linz, Wachau Valley, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest
• from Munich to Passau, Linz, Grein, Melk, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest

From Linz can be visited Salzburg and Oberndorf.

• from Nurnberg to Bamberg, Kitzingen, Wurzburg, Wertheim, Frankfurt
• from Frankfurt to Wurzburg, Kitzingen, Bamberg, Nurnberg

From Wurzburg can be visited Rothenburg (Germany's best-preserved walled city).

Rhine-Main-Danube Canal

• from Vienna to Durnstein, Linz, Passau, Regensburg, Roth, Nurnberg
• from Nurnberg to Regensburg, Deggendorf, Wachau Valley, Vienna
• from Nurnberg to Regensburg, Linz, Wachau Valley, Vienna, Budapest

From Deggendorf can be visited Theresienthal (famous for its Glass Museum)

The following table shows exemplary Christmas Market cruisetours as itineraries (departure / arrival ports), companies/brands, voyage themes, land tours/activities.

Note: At our Finder (top-page), when searching for river cruises, be sure to select "River" in the "Ship Type" box.

Best Christmas Markets in Europe

CruiseMapper's review of the best Christmas Markets in Europe is about the best European "stall shopping" destinations during the holidays. Our list includes the Xmas markets in Barcelona , Brussels , Budapest , Copenhagen , Dublin , Edinburgh , Krakow , Lille , London , Prague , Stockholm , Tallinn , Valkenburg , Verona , and Vienna , plus the German Christmas markets (Nuremberg, Dresden, Berlin, Munich).

• Traditionally, Christmas Markets originate in Europe but now pop up all over the world and provide a celebratory atmosphere to enjoy promo shopping. Many holiday shoppers prefer to order gifts online to avoid crowds, but shopping in Europe during the winter holidays is a unique experience.
• Europe's Christmas markets are also a social experience as people gather after work to enjoy a nice meal, mulled wine, hot chocolate, cold beer with sausages, enjoy the company of others. Traveling during Christmas Holidays is an innovative way to celebrate and spend quality time with family and friends.
• "Christmas Market" travel features romantic city tours that for enjoying themed decorations, happy people, winter walks, traditional treats and beverages, cold beer, hot sausages, spiced/mulled wine.

Europe's winter is as energizing as it is cold. Town squares are lit up and decorated. Not so many European companies operate river voyages during winter. In Europe, boats navigate on the largest tributaries of Danube, Rhine and Rhone during spring, summer and fall. However, only several boats of major companies (like Avalon, AMA, Viking) offer Xmas-themed voyages - and until January 1st.

The largest European Christmas Markets are open typically between November 25th and December 24th.

SPAIN - Barcelona Christmas Market "Fira de Santa Llucia" (Plaza de la Seu)

Dating from 1786, Barcelona's traditional Christmas fair now has expanded to 300 and more stalls in front of the Cathedral, selling a variety of handcrafted Christmas gifts and decorations, along with poinsettias, mistletoe and Christmas trees. Always on sale is the most popular figure for Nativity scenes - curious Catalan figure of caganer (crapper) - small figure bending over steaming turd with trousers around ankles. Children line up on the giant caga tio - huge smiley-faced log pooping out pressies when beaten viciously by stick. There is also Nativity scene contest, exhibitions and musical parades, including the Placa Sant Jaume life-size Nativity scene. Fira de Santa Llucia is an authentic Spanish Christmas market, so you'll have difficulties to find bratwurst and gluhwein here but the many restaurants around and festive atmosphere will make up for that.

• Best for: Originally. You won't find mulled wine and bratwurst here - over 300 stalls sell nativity scenes, craft and instruments.
• Eat this: No food here! You'll have to head over to La Boqueria for a simple of Barcelona's traditional festive cuisine. Try Sopa de galets-a soup cantaining pasta shells stuffed with meat.
• Buy this: A Caganer. These small nativity scene figurines, squatting with trousers dropped, are cheeky in more ways than one.
• Skip this: Ice skating at Plaza Cataluna. Check out the spectaculap Christmas light show at Torre Agbar instead.
• When is open: 30th Nov-23 Dec.

BELGIUM - Brussels Christmas Market "Winter Wonders" (Place Ste Catherine)

Brussels Christmas market Winter Wonders with its spectacular ice rink and light show is well known and quite popular. Through the 2-km course around the historic town centre, Brussels' Winter Wonders offers unique ambiance, fairy-tale lighting, delicious dishes, quality activities, and discovery of other cultures during the event. Each year, a different guest is invited to set up market-within-the-market and share some its own traditions. Some of the past invitees are Lapland, Quebec, Provence and Tallinn. Brussels' Christmas market was founded in 2002. The theatrics include sound-and-light nightly show on Grand Place as well as a market surrounding Bourse (Stock Exchange) along Place Sainte Catherine. The big wheel illuminates with 18,000 lights, and 200-ft-long skating rink is great. Try the traditional caricoles (peppery winkles or whelks), Belgian fluffy waffles and fries, seasonal croustillons (doughnuts), and two most welcome Belgium's additions to world cuisine: powerful beer and fine chocolates.

• Best for: Food. A wide range of European foods are found at Winter Wonderland's 240 stalls, providing nourishment for those determined to waik the full 2 kms the market stretches along.
• Eat this: Moules and Frites. Mussels and chips is great with a glass of one of Belgium's famous Trappist beers.
• Buy this: Beer. Head to Delirium Cafe-it holds the Guinnes World Record for most beers in a bar-sample their offerings and take home one or two bottles of your favorites.
• Skip this: Manneken Pis (the city's famous small statue of a boy peeing). Check out the 360-degree sound and light show around the Christmas tree in Grand Place instead.
• When is open: 29 Nov-5th Jan.

Other great Christmas markets in Belgium are Grote Markt in Antwerp and Bruges Christmas Market. The city of Bruges features spectacular medieval architecture, and its Christmas Market is famous for the erected in the Markt ice rink. Kids love the Snow and Ice Sculpture Festival, a 5-minute walk from Christmas Market.

HUNGARY - Budapest Christmas Market "Vorosmarty Square"

Located on Vorosmarty Square in Pest district of Budapest, city's Christmas fair is great to experience traditional food of Hungary, live music and folk dances. The variety of hot drinks include hot chocolate punch and spicy hot apple juice, as well as the chance to try baked goods, like strudels, toki pompos (dough, oven-baked) and langos (fried bread with different toppings). This market has around 150 stalls, plenty of local culture and art, including puppet theatres. All products sold on Vorosmarty Square are traditionally handmade, with a guarantee by professional jury.

• Best for: Culture. Puppet shows,traditional music and folk dancing,all within the surrounds of Budapest's gorgeous baroque and neoclassical architecture.
• Eat this: Chimney cake, or Kurtoskalacs. Pastry Wrapped around a spit, baked over an open charcoal fire, and then sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar.
• Buy this: Matyo-patterned accessories. The ornate and colourful embroidery makes a great festive gift.
• Skip this: Gerbeaud House.Touristy, overcrowded and overpriced during the Christmas period.
• When is open: 15th Nov-31 Dec.

DENMARK - Copenhagen Christmas Market "Tivoli Gardens"

Tivoli Gardens Christmas market in Copenhagen features over 120,000 sparkling lights which illuminate the lake and flower gardens. Kids love this special Christmas market, set up in the amusement park. Enjoy the traditional wooden stalls full of gifts, Danish foods and crafts, theme park rides, firework festival, a roller-coaster, an ice rink, Santa Claus, Danish Christmas pixies... they really know the best way to celebrate Christmas in Denmark. Unlike most European cities, the atmosphere here is more authentically "Christmassy" and less commercial (maybe sub-zero temperatures are one of the reasons). The Russian theme is still going strong, although Nordic touches also have returned. The St. Basil's Cathedral replica remains, and the traditional Father Christmas is residing in 19th-century pantomime theatre. The gardens offer rollercoaster, ice rink, and theme park rides. Expect crowds as the market is based in the centre of capital and attracts a million visitors.

• Best for: Festive spirit. This centuries-old amusement park puts up a 1,000 Christmas trees, and rings its central lake-turned-ice-skating-rink with nine miles of bright lights to create a fantastic Christmas atmosphere.
• Eat this: Klejner. This fried pastry is ubiquitous in Denmark at Christmas. Wash it down with juleol, a dark, malted beer that's only available during the holiday season.
• Buy this: Knitwear. Get the classic Nordic look right from the source-not only will it make you super stylish, but it'll also keep you warm throughout the remainder of winter.
• Skip this: Tours. Instead, hop on a free bike and see Copenhagen's sights on two wheels.

IRELAND - Dublin Christmas Market "12 Days of Christmas" (Dockland)

Despite the fact it's one of the younger European Christmas markets, in 2010 the '12 Days of Christmas' in Dublin attracted the record number of 145,000 visitors. Stained glass, wooden toys, craft jewellery and artwork can be found at the regenerated Dublin Docklands. German themed and carol-singing bar, as well as the carousel, mean the relative newcomer is family crowd pleaser.

• Best for: Variety. from French crepes to African artisans and Brazilian rock bands, visitors to Dublin are really spoiled for choice.
• Eat this: Check out the Fire and Food stall for juicy flame-grilled irish steak burgers and spiced apple punch.
• Buy this: Stained glass. Ireland has some of the world's most spectacular stained glass pieces.
• Skip this: Shopping in the CHQ building. Instead, walk along the River Liffey and check out the shops on Henry Street - it's more interesting and less crowded than Grafton Street.
• When is open: 12th-23rd Dec.

SCOTLAND - Edinburgh Christmas Market "Princes Street Gardens"

If you fancy an original and Scottish Christmas this year, don't miss the opportunity to visit Edinburgh Christmas market. It features the largest ice rink in Europe, stunning views from Ferris Wheel over Edinburgh Castle, Santa's train and Grotto, several choirs and shows. Every year, in Princes Street Gardens, Christmas comes to live with interesting rides and German Christmas Markets. You can find all customary Christmas goodies in the wooden chalets, along with handmade decorations and gifts. There's a good selection of craft items and food.

• Best for: The best thing about Edinburgh Christmas market is that it's open until the 5th of January and while markets in Germany tend to close by the 23rd of December, you can keep on Christmas fun in Edinburgh. Stay for Hogmanay, which is the absolute best New Year celebration in the world.
• Eat this: hot mulled wine and Christmas cookies.
• Buy this: a ride!
• When is open: 22nd Nov-5th Jan.

POLAND - Krakow Christmas Market "Rynek Glowny"

The Christmas market in Krakow takes place every year amid Old Town historic district, on city's Rynek Glowny central square. It starts in the last November days and lasts through the 26th of December or even longer, to the 6th of January sometimes. The wooden stands sell Christmas decorations and goodies, as well as delicious sweets. The open-air eateries feature mulled wine and hearty meals. There are additional attractions as folk dances, shows and concerts of carols.

• Best for: Tradition. Polish Christmas carols are centuries-old and the city's main square has hosted markets since the 13th century
• Eat this: Fried oscypek cheese. This salty sheep's milk cheese is breaded, friend and served with lingonberry compote.
• Buy this: Amber. Amber's a local specialty; you'll find a number of stalls run by locals selling beautiful jewelry crafted from golden, fossilised resin.
• Skip this: Wawel Castle. Instead, check out the entrance to the city's annual szopki competition.These elaborately decorated nativity scenes were introduced to Poland in the 13th century, representing one of Krakow's oldest and most distinct customs.
• When is open: 25th Nov-5th Jan.

FRANCE - Lille Christmas Market "Place Rihour"

Lille has great activities during holiday season - it's situated along the northern border of France and is capital of French Flanders. The whole town around Christmas market is covered with huge garlands' crown. Lille's primary market is on Place Rihour, in 80 wooden chalets with extraordinary gift ideas, Christmas decorations, nativity figurines and festive food. The nearby Grand Place features 50-m high Big Wheel which lights up the square and provides a great view of the whole city.

• Best for: Lights. Lille is illuminated with thousands of fairy lights and le Grand Roue, the market's Ferris wheel, is the dramatic centerpiece of the elaborate light display.
• Eat this: Gaufre fouree/Originating in Lille. This is a delectable oval-shaped waffle stuffed with chocolate or brown sugar.
• Buy this: Chuque du nord. A coffee-flavored candy filled with soft caramel typical of the region, presented in a red and white striped wrapper.
• Skip this: Ferris wheel ride.Instead, navigate 17th-century cobblestone streets on foot and explore the beautiful architecture, statues and the palace in Vieux-Lille.
• When is open: 20th Nov-30 Dec.

ENGLAND - London Christmas Market "Winter Wonderland"

London features several yearly Christmas markets and ice rinks. There are great activities and markets on either side of Thames during holiday season in addition to London's Christmas decorations. Southbank Centre Christmas Market offers 80 wooden cabins that sell gifts, bratwurst and gluhwein to enjoy while strolling along the waterfront. Hyde Park's Winter Wonderland is probably the best-known Christmas market in London with more than 200 chalets featuring handmade decorations and gifts. Food and drink selections at Winter Wonderland are the most extensive, with options that include a Bavarian village, outdoor fire pit, even a bar modeled after alpine ski lodge. The carnival rides are in addition to food and shopping. Another option is the Skate rink at Somerset House Ice Rink, with DJs spinning tunes after dark.

• Best for: 60-m (197-feet) high Observation Wheel and the largest ice rink in Britain
• Eat this: mince pies, roasted chestnuts (with mulled wine, of course)
• When is open: 20th Nov-24th Dec

Other Christmas markets in England we could recommend are: in Birmingham - the "Second City" of UK - Frankfurt Christmas market, running for twelve years already. You can sip on hot mulled wine and German lager amongst the crowds, buy fresh pretzels, delicious hot chocolate and handmade gifts. No matter what time, you can join the crowds of festive people - folk music and laughter fill the air.

CZECH REPUBLIC - Prague Christmas Market "Wenceslas Square"

Prague's Christmas markets take place in Wenceslas Square and Old Town Square. The markets feature the expected holiday decor and wooden toys, but they also offer Czech specialties, like blacksmith's wares, ceramics and glasswork. Food is slightly different from German standards, although blood sausages, grog and gingerbread are offered, but there are vendors with corn on cob and trdelnik (dough cooked with sugar and cinnamon). If you're in town around 20th December, you'll see carp frequently offered - dining on it is Prague's Christmas Eve tradition. Visitors seek for unusual drinks and food rather than decoration and gifts - in the week leading to Vanoce (Christmas) holiday, streets sport enormous water tubs filled with carp (Czech Christmas dish). Don't forget to try the traditional Czech beverage grog and honey liquor. Around 5 p.m. every night the Christmas tree lights are switched on and provide a stunning sight. Dressed in traditional costumes carol singers all around from Czech Republic complete the enchanting market.

• Best for: After-parties. Prague is already popular for its beer and ambiance. Throw in mulled wine and the Christmas spirit, and a merry time is had by all.
• Eat this: Fish soup, or rybi polevka. This typical Christmas dish will definitely keep you warm while you explore.
• Buy this: Handmade puppets dressed in traditional Czech garb. The craft of puppet-making has been passed down countless generations.
• Skip this: Nativity scene exhibitions. Instead, climb up Prasna Brana, the Powder Tower, for a beautiful view of Prague all dressed up for Christmas.
• When is open: 30th Nov-12th Jan.

SWEDEN - Stockholm Christmas Market "Skansen's"

Skansen's Christmas market is ultra-traditional - it has been held since 1903 annually. Skansen is like outdoor cultural museum, it's historic, so you'll see how a Christmas market during the 1800's looked in Sweden. Homemade jams, mustards, sausages, bread, cakes and marzipan, as well as traditional handicrafts (embroidery, leather, holiday decorations). Join with kids the variety of family-friendly activities. Skansen is on Djurgarden Island. Regular ferries link from Slussen.

• Eat this: Christmas fare such as eel, salmon, smoked sausage, pepparkakor (gingersnaps), saffron buns and glogg (mulled wine).
• Buy this: Look out for craft products, hand-dipped candles and traditional Christmas ornaments that are made of straw
• When is open: 24th Nov-16th Dec (only during weekends).

ESTONIA - Tallinn Christmas Market "Rotermann Square"

Tallinn Christmas market originated in 2001 and is not the biggest market, but has lots of charm featuring the most important Estonian Christmas tree surrounded by traditional Christmas stalls. Tallinn Christmas market is set among cobbled streets and medieval squares. With a handful of stalls around Old Town Hall Square - Raekoja plats, selling hats, sweaters, gloves, Estonian arts and crafts, the market is very charming. Tallinn's Raekoja plats is the spot where the first public Christmas tree was put on display in Europe. Fun holiday activities include outdoor skating rink, jazz and classical concerts, illuminated snow sculptures, and Santa's house where kids post Christmas list and feed baby reindeer.

• Best for: Setting. With blankets of snow on market stall roots, medieval architecture, and a tall, lavishly decorated Christmas tree at the center of it all, Tallinn looks like something straight out of a fairy tale.
• Eat this: Blood sausage. A lot more appetizing than they look, these traditional Estonian Christmas treats makes for a tasty snack. Try the Glogi - Estonian mulled wine.
• Buy this: Candles. Estonia is known for its spas. Hand-poured, all-natural scented candles are a cheap and easy way of recreating the relaxing atmosphere of an Estonoan spa at home.
• When: 22nd Nov-8th Jan

HOLLAND - Valkenburg Christmas Market

The Netherlands also have long traditions of Christmas markets, but Valkenburg Christmas market is the most unique. Each year during Christmas holidays, Valkenburg transforms in real Christmas town and features Christmas markets in caves. Enjoy the usual Christmas activities, but also see the Christmas parade which is twice a week with Santa Clause himself. As visitors wander around the cave, they meet tables full of displays from local artisans. Every year they show a unique theme - the scenes are set up throughout market and tell stories related to the theme. The cave is worth a visit with mural paintings throughout. It looks more spectacular with holiday lights and festive decorations. Velvet, Wilhelmina and Municipal caves sound intriguing even on their own.

• Best for: Unique themes.
• Buy this: The typical stalls offer all you would find at other Christmas markets: beautiful crafts, delicious food, and plenty of holiday decorations.
• When is open: 24 Nov-23 Dec.

ITALY - Verona Christmas Market "Piazza Dante"

The German-style Piazza dei Signori Christmas market in Verona sells german specialty foodstuffs and handmade items. Sip vin brule on a cold night, or eat specialty bread and wurst while the kids visit babbo natale and whisper christmas wishes. Around 60 exhibitors usually offer their crafts and products, glass Christmas decorations, ceramic and wood creations, as well as original gift ideas. Piazza dei Signori (known also as Piazza Dante), is accompanied by typical flavours and smells of Christmas specialties as mulled wine, delicious sandwiches and sweets with typical Nuremberg sauerkraut and sausages.

• Best for: Charm. The Veronese market is small and intimate, but still has plenty of choice. Look out for the giant Christmas star falling from the adjacent Roman Arena.
• Eat this: Pandoro. Originating from Verona, the loaf is a delicious sweet bread shaped like an 8-point star, dusted with icing sugar so it looks like the Italian Alps during Christmas.
• Buy this: Antique style, handmade ornaments for your Christmas tree.
• Skip this: Juliet's balcony. Explore the Roman Arena instead - every Christmas the spectacular historic venue plays host to an international axhibition of nativity scenes.
• When is open: 23rd Nov-21st Dec.

AUSTRIA - Vienna Christmas Market "Christkindlmarkts"

Germany has long Christmas markets tradition for centuries like the ones in Frankfurt, Dresden, Munich and Bautzen. However, Vienna is a forerunner with the traditional yearly "December market", dating back to 1294. Today Vienna features about 20 Christmas markets yearly and Christkindlmarkt in front of City Hall is the most famous. Besides the wooden cabins, traditional for Christmas, it features Christmas stories, special post office, and International Advent Caroling. More than 150 stalls sell Christmas decorations, gifts, hot chestnuts and gluhwein (mulled wine). Two other Christmas venues that are uite popular are the Freyung Viennese Christmas Market, which is traditional, selling handicrafts, and in front of Schonbrunn Palace - the Christmas Market, which offers an imperial backdrop and also hosts New Year's market - open until January 1.

• Best for: Short attention spans. In Vienna, there are at least four major markets with different themes.
• Eat this: Maroni (roasted chestnuts) and Weinachtspunsch. Enjoy a packet of the open drum-roasted snacks with a warm punch made with tea, red wine, rum, spices and fruit juices.
• Buy this: Mozartkugel. Originating in Vienna, these traditional chocolates are unique for their pistachio marzipan and nougat centres, individually wrapped in a portrait of Mozart.
• Skip this: The market in Rathausplatz. Instead, explore the Museum Quartier where the Winter Village is. It's six ice pavilions, light projections, stalls and museums, are hugely popular with Vienna's hip crowd. Don't miss Mumok-Vienna's modern art museum.
• When is open: 15th Nov-24 Dec (dates differ at every market).

Christmas is a social affair for the Viennese. People meet up for spicy Christmas cookies, chestnuts and Punsch or Gluhwein (mulled wine). The principal hotspots are:

• Altwiener Christkindlmarkt (23 Nov-23 Dec) - in front of Salzburg cathedral; bringing cosier arty feel with stalls that sell handmade wares. The looming Hohensalzburg Fortress and baroque architecture give a fairy tale feeling. As Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart, it has an outstanding musical tradition - there are choral performances and you may to hear some of the best students in Europe perform. Another musical claim to fame was also born in Salzburg: Joseph Mohr, the lyricist behind the most famous Christmas carol "Silent Night".
• Rathausplatz market (17 Nov-24 Dec) - with tacky stalls, but Rathausplatz is worth a visit for the glimpse of Advent windows on decorated by local artists Town Hall, and the tree illuminations in park.
• Schonbrunn Palace market (24 Nov-26 Dec) - spectacular backdrop with more upmarket stalls.
• Spittelberg market (15 Nov-23 Dec) - set in cobbled streets between Siebensterngasse and Burggasse in the 7th district, one of the loveliest. You can find goods not offered elsewhere.

Best Christmas Markets in Germany

Germany is well known for the variety of beautiful Christmas markets - from the popular Cologne market to the small one in Monschau. However, the most famous one, without any doubt is Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt.

Nuremberg Christmas Market "Christkindlesmarkt"

Dating from 1600s, the Nuremberg Christmas market occupies Main Square under Frauenkirche (Church of Our Lady). Christkind opens Christmas market the Friday before Advent every year with an impressive ceremony. This market has long tradition and you'll find all original things here - gluhwein, bavarian bratwurst and hand-made gifts. The stalls, with candy-striped awnings, sell all traditional handcrafts, including carved wooden toys and "smoker" man (carved figure holding smoking incense inside). The horse-drawn stagecoach will take you on a ride over the medieval old city's cobblestone streets. On weekends, the Nuremberg market is a mass of people who huddle together to stay warm. But during the week, explore the Christkindlesmarkt in tranquility, eat the local sausages (three in a roll) and drink gluhwein (hot mulled wine).

• Best for: Atmosphere. Nurembergers know how to put on a Christmas market - they've been doing it for nearly 400 years!
• Eat this: Nuremberg bratwurst. Try it with mustard and kraut and wash down with a boot-shaped mug of Gluhwein.
• Buy this: Prune men. These dried plum figures were first created as children's toys during the Thirty Years'War. Found in a multitude of sizes and characters, they're now one of the most popular gifts to bring home from the Nuremberg Christmas market.
• Skip this: Gingerbread from the market stalls. Instead, head to one of the local bakeries where you'll find a delicious selection of fresh lebkuchen (cookies made from gingerbread).
• When is open: 29th Nov-24th Dec

Dresden Christmas Market "Striezelmarkt"

The popular Christmas market in Dresden transforms the city into winter wonderland on River Elbe. The city of Dresden is filled with festivities and sparkling lights. Traditionally known as 'Striezelmarkt', Dresden Christmas market is the oldest in Germany, as it dates back to 1434. It's named after city's famous culinary creation - Christmas Stollen, sweet fruitcake in the shape of loaf, dusted with icing sugar. The highlight of Dresden Christmas annual market is the Stollen Festival, which is held in December, on the second Sunday - a giant Stollen weighing 3,000 kg is carried to the market where it's ceremonially sliced and then distributed to the visitors. The parade is presided by "Miss Cake" (Stollenmadchen). Dresden Christmas market is old-fashioned and pretty, with more than 250 stalls that sell traditional wares and festive arts and crafts. Regional vendors display pottery and indigo-printed textiles from Lusatia; wooden ornaments from Erzgebirge mountain villages; paper advent stars, wickerwork and Plauen lace from Herrnhut.

Many other markets can be found around Dresden, and each of them has its own attractions and intimate flair. The popular Frauenkirche, Loschwitz, and especially the charming Residenzschloss Christmas markets are worth mentioning.

• Best for: Tradition and original displays - the Christmas market in Dresden is the place to see the tallest Christmas pyramid in the world - the stunning 14 meters high.
• Eat this: Christmas Stollen, of course!
• Buy this: hand-blown delicate glass baubles from Lauscha; hand-made Saxony ceramics in bright blue and white.
• When is open: 27th Nov-24 Dec.

Berlin Christmas Market "Kaiser Wilhelm"

Berlin's most popular Christmas Market is Kaiser Wilhelm Gedachtniskirche (receiving ~2 million visitors annually). Tourists visit for the jewelry, artworks and decorations on sale as well as to indulge in the cliched seasonal treats - mulled wine and chestnuts.

When is open: 24 Nov-1 Jan.

Munich Christmas Market "Marienplatz"

Besides being Bavaria's Oktoberfest destination, Munich also has a huge downtown Christmas Market (Marienplatz) surrounded by an enormous tree with 2500+ lights. Tourists can find traditional Bavarian gifts - wood carvings or gingerbread (called lebkuchen), while sipping on beer or gluhwein (mulled warmed wine).

Throughout the city there are smaller markets - one unique is Manger Market, selling the components for those who try to build authentic manger.

• Find a Cruise​ Cruise Deals Cruise Ships Destinations​ Manage My Cruise​ FAQ Perfect Day at CocoCay​ Make a Payment Crown & Anchor Society​ Royal Caribbean Blog Royal Caribbean Group
• Back to Main Menu
• Search Cruises " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-1-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/gbr/en/cruises" target="_self"> Search Cruises
• Cruise Deals
• Last Minute Cruises​
• Family Cruises​
• 2024-2025 Cruises
• Mini Cruises
• First Time Cruisers
• What's Included
• Cruising Guides
• All Cruise Ships " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-3-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/gbr/en/cruise-ships" target="_self"> All Cruise Ships
• Deck Plans​
• Cruise Dining 
• Onboard Activities
• Cruise Rooms​
• The Cruise Experience​
• All Cruise Destinations " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-4-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/gbr/en/cruise-destinations" target="_self"> All Cruise Destinations
• Cruise Ports​
• Shore Excursions​
• Perfect Day at CocoCay​
• Mediterranean Cruises​
• Caribbean Cruises​
• European Cruises​
• Greece Cruises​
• Italy Cruises​
• Cruise Planner
• Book a Flight
• Check-In for My Cruise​
• Make a Payment
• Redeem Cruise Credit
• Update Guest Information
• Beverage Packages​
• Dining Packages​
• My Account​
• All FAQs " id="rciHeaderSideNavSubmenu-6-1" class="headerSidenav__link" href="/gbr/en/faq" target="_self"> All FAQs
• Boarding Requirements
• Royal Caribbean
• Celebrity Cruises

Adventure in Warm Shores

Holiday cruises.

Heat Up the Holidays

This Holiday Season, say no to the cold and go for bold, taking your family on a sun-kissed Caribbean cruise. Make their spirits shine bright exploring the hottest tropical destinations, including the island paradise of Barbados and Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private resort. Sail on our amazing Oasis Class ships, the world’s largest. These fan favorites have reframed what boatloads of adventure and next-level relaxation look like! Treat your family to a Christmas cruise or New Year’s cruise and create memories to light up a lifetime.

Baby, It’s Bold Outside

Seize sensational, spending the Holidays in balmy destinations where uncharted adventure awaits. Book an all-inclusive cruise in 2023 for a value that frees up your dreams.

{{error.text}} {{error.link.label}}

SIZZLING DESTINATIONS

Perfect Day at Cococay

SAINT MAARTEN ISLAND

COZUMEL & CANCUN

MONTEGO BAY

LABADEE HAITI

EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY

Enjoy holiday cruises that spread waves of joy and festive cheer.

Way to Wander

Go on a holiday cruise in 2023 and start a tradition that will have the whole family ditching their snow boots and slipping on swimsuits! Dive into crystalline waters, tan on sugary sands, wander colourful colonial towns. Cheers to a habit you’ll never want to break!

A Pearl of Rare Worth

Book a Barbados cruise to explore a spectacular treasure of the Caribbean. Home to beautiful cave formations, 17th century plantations and the world’s oldest rum, Barbados is a must-see destination.

EXPLORE CRUISES FROM BARBADOS

Perfect Day at CocoCay

Where can you find the Caribbean’s biggest wave pool and the tallest waterslide in North America? Thrill, chill, and be merry at Perfect Day in CocoCay, the ultimate backdrop for your 2023 cruise.

EXPLORE PERFECT DAY AT COCOCAY

Previewing: Promo Dashboard Campaigns

My Personas

Code: ∅.

• 00800 0310 21 21 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
• | NCL Travel Blog">11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruise Tour | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruise Tour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | NCL Travel Blog">11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• View All Results
• Preferences
• Latitudes Rewards
• Special Offers
• Personalised Recommendations
• Make reservations before you cruise
• 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

• 00800 0310 21 21

Christmas Cruises

• Email Sign Up For Special Offers
• Phone Let Us Call You

View More Holidays

A Christmas Cruise Holiday YOUR FAMILY WILL NEVER FORGET

A Christmas Cruise Holiday for the Whole Family

When it comes to family holidays, it's all about options, and with Norwegian, you have plenty. Stretch out in accommodations that fit all families, including spacious suites and interconnecting staterooms. Enjoy delicious dining choices even finicky eaters can't refuse, delight in a wide variety of family-friendly activities throughout the ship and take advantage of complimentary youth programmes that accommodate all children, from tots to teens.

• Christmas Cruises

Christmas Cruises 2023

Getaway with Carnival in 2023!

Thinking about a holiday in 2023?

Christmas should always be a relaxing time, and with a Christmas cruise in 2023 you can take that relaxation to the next level.

Spend the Christmas holidays snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the South Pacific, or exploring the magnificent natural wonders of Airlie Beach.

And enjoy the Christmas-themed fun of one of our award-winning cruise deals.

CHOOSE YOUR HOLIDAY SPOT

Set sail from Brisbane or Sydney and leave the usual Christmas stress behind.

Instead, have a Christmas party you and your family will cherish forever.

Travel to some of the most picturesque destinations in the world, and make the most of more than 45 activities onboard the Carnival Luminosa or Carnival Luminosa.

A Christmas cruise in 2023 will be a Christmas you will never forget.

Jump online today at Carnival to plan and book your Christmas cruise 2023 to remember.

Commonly Asked Questions

Are christmas cruises in 2023 worth it.

Yep. And anyone who thinks otherwise is a scrooge! When you book one of our Christmas cruises in 2023, we take care of Christmas for you. And who wouldn’t want that? Christmas in a cruise ship means chilling out on a beach, relaxing on a sundeck, or exploring the South Pacific.

Christmas cruises in 2023 don’t mean stressing, spending hours cooking, or running around with family dramas. Spend the festive season with your loved ones on a cruise ship and enjoy.

Are Christmas cruises being cancelled?

Keep an eye on this page to find out the latest about our Christmas cruises for 2023. We’re planning a lot of fun for your family holiday and some pretty amazing shore excursions to places such as:

• Airlie Beach
• Isle of Pines

Are Christmas cruises crowded?

Summer is always the most popular time on cruise ships, but our Christmas cruises from Brisbane and Christmas cruises from Sydney tend to be a little quieter than others in the warmer months. But that doesn’t mean they’re not a lot of fun. As well as the heap of Christmas themed fun, there’s still all our activities onboard to enjoy including:

• Amazing food
• Waterslides
• Playlist Productions

When should I book a Christmas cruise in 2023?

You can book Christmas cruises for 2023 at any time. Our great cruise deals are ready and waiting for you.

Do cruise ships decorate for Christmas?

We don’t just decorate. Christmas cruises in 2023 will go full-out Christmas theme with fun such as:

• Santa visits
• Backyard cricket
• Festive show
• Christmas food
• Christmas tree lighting

What is a Christmas cruise like?

Just like Christmas itself, a Christmas cruise in 2023 will be full of joy and a lot of merriment. You and your family will create memories that will last forever.

• 1-855-932-1711
• My Account Hello Credits My Account Exclusive Offers Log out

Holiday Cruises

Reconnect with loved ones on a holiday cruise. Leave the prep and party planning to us as you enjoy world-class cuisine inspired by our culinary masters. Take in views and explore legendary lands as you navigate the world’s waterways in the comfort of our perfectly sized ships. Rejuvenate with hydrotherapy at the Greenhouse Spa & Salon®. Start new traditions this holiday season.

2024-2025 Holiday Cruises To Celebrate

Leave The Planning To Us

Start New Holiday Traditions

Holidays Are Better On Board

A New Year’s Cruise To Remember

CARIBBEAN HOLIDAY CRUISES

MEXICO HOLIDAY CRUISES

12 best Christmas cruises for 2024 and 2025

It's the most wonderful time of the year ... to go on a cruise.

Trade the glow of a Christmas tree in your living room with the warmth of the sand and the sun on a holiday cruise. Skip the mulled wine on your stovetop for some of the world's best at a European Christmas market.

Christmas cruises can level up your holiday celebrations — and are an ideal opportunity to escape the conventional holiday celebrations in place of an adventure.

On a holiday cruise, you can leave the cooking, cleaning and decorating to the pros and simply enjoy time with your family. Christmas and New Year's cruises can also be good options for people trying to avoid the crush of relatives or who don't have family but still want to spend the holiday surrounded by other people and festive cheer.

Winter cruises feature holiday-themed activities for all ages, special feasts that capture the magic of the holiday season and port calls at destinations that let you enjoy the holiday spirit without shivering from frigid temperatures.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

It's never too early to plan your holiday getaway, especially as these cruises are among the quickest to sell out. Here are the best Christmas and New Year's cruises still available in 2024 and holiday sailings in 2025 to book now, as well as some useful tips about holiday cruise travel.

Holiday cruise tips

Before you book, keep in mind a few key facts about Christmas cruises.

Rates will be high

Expect cruise fares to be among the highest of the year during the holiday weeks as demand increases.

The best prices will be for early bookings; you likely won't find any last-minute discounts. If you do, they might be on windowless inside cabins or guarantee cabins , where the cruise line picks your room location.

Sailings will sell out

Holiday sailings sell out earlier than other itineraries, as people plan their holiday vacations months in advance. Suites and special cabins (family, spa and solo rooms and so forth) book up the fastest.

Consider booking your holiday cruise as early as possible, as the December sailings often fill up a year in advance .

Consider your own decorations

The crew will decorate public areas on board, but passengers often go all-out decorating their doors and cabins for the holidays.

Magnetic doors on cabins are blank canvases for the imagination. You'll find stateroom doors on Christmas cruises covered in wrapping paper, adorned with garlands or dotted with holiday-themed images.

It's best to double-check with your cruise line before attaching anything to your door or in your cabin, as rules and regulations differ per line. If you're not creative, check if your cruise line offers cabin decoration packages for preorder prior to your sailing.

Specialty dining is not advised on the actual holiday

Most of the specialty dining restaurants on major cruise lines have set menus that do not change for the holidays.

Your best bet for traditional holiday dinner options (think roast turkey, smoked ham, mashed potatoes and gravy) will come from the main, included dining options on board. It can't hurt to ask if any extra-fee restaurants are doing a Christmas or New Year's menu if you're looking for a more intimate holiday meal.

Expect holiday hours in port

Most cruise ships will plan for Christmas to be a sea day, but if you're in port on Dec. 25 (or on Boxing Day, as many islands celebrate the day after), expect shops, restaurants and attractions to have modified hours or be closed.

Onboard services won't stop, so if all your top lunch spots in port are closed, you're always guaranteed a hot meal on the ship.

Consider a holiday bonus for the crew

Cruise ship crew members go beyond the standard service on all lines for the holidays, whether it's a kind note wishing you well, a Champagne toast for New Year's or a fanciful towel creation.

They can't be at home celebrating with their families because they're working hard to make your holiday special. While gratuities are often included in your fare or added automatically to your final bill, consider tipping extra on a Christmas cruise. The hardworking staff will appreciate your extra generosity during the holiday season.

Best Christmas cruises for 2024

If you're on the hunt for the ideal holiday getaway, consider these Christmas cruises for this year's holiday vacation. (Note: These sailings had availability at the time of writing, but prices may change or ships sell out at any time.)

4-night Very Merrytime Bahamian cruise on Disney Cruise Line

Sail dates: Dec. 22-26, 2024

Ship: Disney Fantasy

Access Disney Cruise Line's newest private island when you sail Disney Fantasy this Christmas. This four-night Very Merrytime Bahamian cruise sails from Port Canaveral, Florida (near Orlando) to Disney's Castaway Cay, followed by a day at the new Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. The new island destination will highlight island culture with work by local artists and Bahamian music throughout the colorful beachside resort.

This sailing is one of Disney Cruise Line 's Very Merrytime Cruises, so expect plenty of holiday-themed surprises and special moments. Disney's December sailings feature snow flurries in the ship's atrium, pop-up meet-and-greets with Disney characters dressed in their holiday best and a Christmas wonderland on the beach at Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay.

Rates start at $4,862 for two adults sharing an inside cabin, including all taxes and fees.

16-night Circle Hawaii Holiday cruise on Holland America

Sail dates: Dec. 18, 2024-Jan. 3, 2025

Ship: Zaandam

The 16-night Circle Hawaii Holiday on Holland America's Zaandam is a great way to retreat from the cold this December. The extended itinerary will whisk you away for both Christmas and the New Year.

The ship sails round-trip from San Diego with stops in Honolulu; Kahului, Maui; and Hilo and Kona, Hawaii. You'll spend five days traversing the Pacific Ocean on your way to Hawaii and five days at sea returning to the west coast for one more stop in Ensenada, Mexico, before returning to San Diego. You can also enjoy scenic cruising by the Kilauea Volcano.

Don't forget your holiday best, as Zaandam will host a Christmas Eve formal ball with dinner and dancing, as well as a midnight Mass. Other seasonal events include a holiday-themed high tea service, holiday choir performances and Santa meet-and-greets.

Rates for inside cabins start from $1,739 per person, not including an estimated $282 per person in taxes, fees and port expenses.

13-night New Zealand holiday cruise on Celebrity Cruises

Sail dates: Dec. 20, 2024-Jan. 2, 2025

Ship: Celebrity Edge

The most appealing holiday itinerary on Celebrity Cruises takes you Down Under for a two-week celebration, sailing round-trip from Sydney.

You'll cruise during the region's summer season with an itinerary that traverses the picturesque Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound and Dusky Sound before making port stops in Dunedin, Napier, Auckland, Tauranga and Bay of Islands, New Zealand.

The cruise doesn't call on Australian ports, but you can easily tack on a land-based pre- or post-cruise stay since the ship sails from Sydney.

If you're feeling the holiday spirit, sign up to join a group of crew and passengers to go caroling around the ship. Cookie decorating, visits with Santa and Christmas games are part of the holiday fun. On New Year's Eve, gather for a special party with a complimentary midnight Champagne toast, party favors and live music.

The lowest cabin fares start at $1,664 per person, plus $444.55 in taxes, fees and port expenses.

15-night South Africa Intensive Voyage on Azamara

Sail dates: Dec. 20, 2024-Jan. 4, 2025

Ship: Azamara Pursuit

Azamara is known for its travels to less-frequented ports, often with longer stays providing more time for immersion. Go somewhere new with Azamara's 15-night Christmas and New Year's cruise around South Africa. Azamara Quest sails round-trip from Cape Town with stops along the east coast of South Africa, including Port Elizabeth, Richards Bay, Durban and Mossel Bay.

Holiday events include caroling concerts, pop-ups with Christmas cookies and hot chocolate, and a special tree-trimming party on Dec. 24. Azamara Quest will time its popular White Night pool deck party to coincide with New Year's Eve. The line has a tradition of seeking out the oldest person on board to ring the ship's bell two minutes prior to midnight to literally "ring out the old." Then the youngest passenger on board will "ring in the new" as the clock strikes 12 o'clock.

Rates start from $2,784 per person, not including $196 in taxes, fees and port expenses.

7-night Christmas Markets on the Danube cruise on AmaWaterways

Sail dates: Dec. 9-15, 2024

Ship: AmaBella

A river cruise through Europe is the most convenient way to visit many of the continent's famous Christmas markets.

Your ship will dock in the heart of each city, usually just a few steps from the markets. Sailing with AmaWaterways during the holiday season, guests return from a day exploring the markets to events on board that include tree-trimming, caroling and a fun European tradition called "Shoes for St. Nick," where passengers who leave their slippers outside their stateroom awake to find them filled with sweets.

Unlike most Christmas-related retail stores in the U.S. that stay open through the holiday season, many of Europe's Christmas markets close up shop by Dec. 22, so you'll need to take your vacation before Christmas itself. AmaWaterways' seven-night Christmas Markets on the Danube cruise takes place aboard AmaBella. You'll be immersed in the holiday spirit with port stops in Passau, Germany; Linz, Vienna and Weissenkirchen, Austria; and Budapest.

Rates for the weeklong cruise start at $3,699 per person, not including $224 in port charges and taxes.

7-night Western Caribbean cruise on Princess Cruises

Sail dates: Dec. 21-28, 2024

Ship: Sun Princess

Debuting in February 2024, Sun Princess is the first of Princess Cruises ' brand-new Sphere-class series of ships.

Take the line's newest flagship for a Christmastime spin on a round-trip Fort Lauderdale itinerary that features port calls at Cozumel, Mexico; Belize City, Belize; and Roatan, Honduras. Three sea days give guests plenty of time to explore all the attractions on board, from a dome-covered pool area to a top-deck family activity zone.

The 4,300-passenger vessel will be about 21% bigger than the current biggest ships in the Princess fleet. It will be the line's first ship that features suites with exclusive access to a private restaurant, lounge and sun deck. Sun Princess will also boast an innovative new "cabana cabin" along the ship's extra-wide 10th deck with access to a private deck area.

It will be easy to get into the holiday spirit while on board Sun Princess, with festive decor throughout the ship and an occasional "snowfall" in the Atrium. If you're traveling with kids, you can leave cookies for Santa and carrots for his reindeer. Christmas caroling, storytime and other holiday events will help you create special holiday memories.

Rates for the Western Caribbean cruise start at $957 per person for an inside cabin, not including $153 in taxes, fees and port expenses.

12-night Antarctic Explorer cruise on Viking

Sail dates: Dec. 22, 2024-Jan. 3, 2025

Ship: Viking Polaris

While instinct might say to stop by the North Pole to check in on Santa's operations, it's just too cold, dark and icy for cruising. Instead, head toward the South Pole and Antarctica for a Christmas expedition.

Spend close to two weeks exploring the farthest reaches of the earth on the Antarctic Explorer itinerary aboard Viking 's Polaris. The route sails round-trip from Ushuaia, Argentina, before traversing the Drake Passage and cruising Antarctica for seven days. You'll have a cruise line-provided pre-cruise stay in Buenos Aires the night before you fly down to Ushuaia to meet your ship.

You'll explore the icebergs and cliffs of Antarctica on Christmas, presumably followed by a hot cocoa or a warm cocktail on deck. Afterward, treat yourself to Nordic-inspired dishes like smoked salmon and caviar, along with holiday treats like krumkake (a Nordic take on the cannoli) and sandkaker (Norwegian sugar cookies).

As with all Antarctica itineraries, ports and destinations on the continent change by the day, depending on weather and climate conditions. Rates for available staterooms on the cruise start from $15,495, including airfare, port taxes and fees.

Best Christmas cruises for 2025

If you want to score the best prices on a holiday cruise, book far in advance. Here are a few cruises to consider for your 2025 Christmas vacation.

Royal Caribbean: 7-night Eastern Caribbean & Perfect Day cruise

Sail dates: Dec. 20-27, 2025

Ship: Icon of the Seas

Catch a ride on the world's largest cruise ship during the 2025 holiday season. Highlights of Royal Caribbean 's new Icon of the Seas include a reconfigured Aqua Theater, now set at the bow of the ship inside a giant glass dome and featuring a dazzling 50-foot waterfall and dancing robotic arms, and Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea with six waterslides, including the tallest drop slide at sea.

This holiday-week sailing departs round-trip from Miami with stops in Philipsburg, St. Maarten; Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas; and Perfect Day at CocoCay (Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas). Three days at sea might not be enough time to try everything on board!

Holiday highlights often include Christmas Eve caroling, an ugly Christmas sweater crafting competition, Christmas ornament and gingerbread cookie decorating classes, and holiday games and trivia.

The lowest available cabin category for this sailing is an ocean-view cabin, starting at $3,266 per person, not including $182.51 in taxes, fees and port expenses per person.

7-night Eastern Caribbean cruise on Carnival Cruise Line

Sail dates: Dec. 21-Dec. 28, 2025

Ship: Carnival Celebration

Carnival's seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing is an excellent way to experience Carnival's Celebration Key, the line's new private destination on the south side of Grand Bahama Island. Carnival Celebration sails round-trip from Miami with stops in Celebration Key; Nassau, Bahamas; Amber Cove, Dominican Republic and Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos, so you can get some much-needed beach time and warm weather.

The line understands its family-forward "fun" ships are built for cheery escapes, and its Christmas celebrations fit perfectly into that world. Seasonal holiday events include Christmas caroling, an ugly sweater competition and a live holiday show with appearances by Santa and the Grinch.

Rates for inside cabins start at $1,049 per person, not including an estimated $215.65 per person in fees.

14-night Galapagos cruise on Silversea

Sail dates: Dec. 13-27, 2025

Ship: Silver Origin

Escape to the exotic Galapagos Islands for the holidays with a Silversea cruise. On the 14-night sailing round-trip from San Cristóbal, Silver Origin will alight at a remarkable 27 ports throughout the archipelago.

The Silver Origin's Christmas sailing will include many festive enhancements, beginning with an extensive overlay of greenery and ornaments throughout the interiors of the ship. The ship's culinary team will prepare a special Christmas Eve and Christmas Day dinner menu, along with mulled wine, eggnog and hot chocolate.

Adding to the cheer, guests and the ship's crew can participate in caroling, and despite no chimney in sight, a special visitor from the North Pole is scheduled to make an appearance.

The "door-to-door" rate for this sailing starts from $24,400 per person, including port fees and taxes. It includes a transfer service to the airport, airfare, shore excursions, premium alcoholic beverages, all gratuities, butler service and a return transfer back home at the end of your trip.

11-night Monteverde Cloud Forest & Arenal Volcano cruise tour on Windstar Cruises

Sail dates: Dec. 16-27, 2025

Ship: Wind Spirit

Give yourself a bucket list gift for Christmas and book a Panama Canal cruise for your winter vacation.

Windstar Cruises ' Wind Spirit — a cruise ship that's part yacht, part four-masted sailing ship — is sailing down Costa Rica's Pacific coast and through the Panama Canal during the 2025 holiday season.

The journey begins with a five-day land tour of Costa Rica, taking guests to the Arenal volcano and Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. You'll then head to Puerto Caldera to board Wind Spirit. The ship will sail south to Quepos and Puerto Jimenez, Costa Rica. Then it's on to ports in Isla Parida and Balboa (for Panama City) in Panama before sailing through the Panama Canal.

To sweeten the holiday, Windstar gifts each cabin with a basket of Christmas cookies, candy canes, mandarin oranges, roasted nuts and chocolate candies.

Rates for the 11-night Central American getaway start from $5,599 per person, not including $474 in port fees and taxes.

7-night Roundtrip New Orleans Christmas cruise on American Queen Voyages

Sail dates: Dec. 22-29, 2025

Ship: American Countess

Glide up the Lower Mississippi River and soak in the charms of historic towns decked out in their holiday finest. This American Queen Voyages itinerary will also visit the special European-style Christmas market in Natchez, Mississippi, created especially for the line.

The itinerary begins with a pre-cruise hotel stay in New Orleans, where the bustling Bourbon Street awaits exploration. The Mississippi river sailing includes stops along the river at Nottoway, Louisiana; Natchez, Mississippi; St. Francisville, Louisiana and an overnight in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Guests can opt for a premium holiday shore excursion in Natchez. The Jeweled Christmas in Natchez tour features a visit to The Towers, one of the state's most opulent privately owned antebellum homes. Guests will ooh and ahh over the festive decorations and displays that include over 100 Christmas trees.

While on board, passengers will enjoy festive holiday decorations, special holiday performances, seasonal cuisine and Christmas cocktails.

Rates for the seven-night Roundtrip New Orleans Christmas cruise start from $3,819 per person, including taxes, port fees and gratuities.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

This is the announcement bar for Poornima to test the Close Button.  It will expire May 31 2024.

• Pre-Cruise FAQ
• Onboard FAQ
• Post-Cruise FAQ
• Cruisetours FAQ
• Special Offers Sign Up
• Cruise Deals

You have been logged out

Your window will update in 5 secs

Holiday Celebration Cruises

As each year draws to a close, Princess guests look forward to enjoying the sights and sounds of the holiday season, those age-old traditions of Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year's... as they visit exotic locales, soak up the sun and participate in the many other activities a cruise has to offer. The ease with which Princess enables guests to enjoy these special days has made the holidays one of the most popular times to take a seagoing vacation, as Princess ships make the season particularly festive.

Princess' fleet offers a wide range of Christmas and New Year's cruises across the globe each year, typically sailing to the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Australia/New Zealand, South America and the South Pacific during this holiday period.

A Merry Christmas at Sea

It's not hard to get into the Christmas spirit right from the start, as ships are trimmed from stem to stern in festive holiday decor, complete with wreaths, holly, mistletoe and, of course, Christmas trees, which often even decorate the ship's mast. It's not uncommon to see Yuletide carolers strolling the decks singing favorite holiday tunes, or waiters wearing Santa hats on our Christmas cruises. Seasonal entertainment abounds, as guests may enjoy themed production shows, live music and films during the voyage. Guests can also attend Catholic mass and inter-denominational church service.

A special Christmas dinner features traditional favorites such as roast turkey or goose, and guests will enjoy a range of seasonal sweet treats such as gingerbread mousse, mincemeat pie, chocolate Yule logs and special Christmas cookies.

With kids out of school, holiday cruises have become a popular getaway for families. And to keep younger guests busy, youth counselors provide a wide array of activities including parties, sing-a-longs and arts and crafts classes, where they can create ornaments to decorate the ship's Christmas tree. Junior cruisers can also participate in an endearing holiday play, which they perform for guests. On Christmas day, Santa Claus makes a surprise appearance, bringing joy (and gifts) to each child on board.

Hanukkah Cruise Celebrations

For guests who celebrate Hanukkah, a special area of the ship is reserved for those participating in services, and ships display menorahs and fresh flower arrangements decorated in the Hanukkah colors of blue, silver and white. Kosher meals are available throughout the sailing when requested in advance, and dining rooms feature specialty items such as potato latkes, matzo ball soup, gefilte fish and matzo during the holiday.

Ringing in the New Year

Princess New Year's cruises welcome each new year in style with a fun-filled New Year's Eve party complete with music, confetti, noise-makers and, of course, champagne to join the ship staff in a toast to the arrival of January 1. These always-popular festivities can range from casual to black-tie affairs, depending on the ship and itinerary.

And once the new year arrives, football fans will be pleased to know they won't miss the day's traditional college bowl games, as the telecasts will be shown (if available) in a shipboard lounge, complete with a full buffet of "munchies" such as popcorn, chips, mini hot dogs or burgers and other assorted goodies.

In all, Princess' holiday celebration cruises are the perfect way to enjoy a joyful and stress free "what you want, when you want" holiday away from the usual hustle and bustle of the season.

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Alaskan Cruises
• All-Inclusive Cruises
• Caribbean Cruises
• Disney Cruises
• European Cruises
• Family Cruises
• River Cruises

Explore more in

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures
• Nuremberg to Basel
• Basel to Nuremberg

NEW! Christmas on the Rhine & Main

• From $4,499
• 9 Guided Tours
• 3 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• Nuremberg to Basel Basel to Nuremberg

NEW! Christmas on the Rhine & Main Map

Yuletide Traditions and Charms

Set sail on a holiday voyage, visiting festive Christmas markets along the Rhine and Main. Embrace the spirit of the season while browsing for artisanal crafts in Basel and Karlsruhe, and discover Alsatian traditions in Strasbourg. Admire the old-world charms of Frankfurt’s Römerberg Square, sample local delights in Würzburg and marvel at Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt, where centuries-old wonders like Zwetschgenmännle and aromatic mulled wine abound.

End of Summer Sale

Viking Inclusive Value

All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Innsbruck & Bavaria at Christmas

From $1,299 | 3 Nights

Pre: Prague

From $949 | 3 Nights

Pre: Prague Premium

From $1,249 | 3 Nights

Post: Scenic Swiss Alps in Winter by Train

From $2,599 | 4 Nights

Post: Lucerne at Christmas

From $949 | 2 Nights

Sign up to receive updates from Viking

Stay current with special offers, news and destination-focused content.

Company Information

• Order a Brochure
• Special Offers
• Sweepstakes
• Travel Advisors
• Media Center
• Investor Relations
• Health & Safety Program
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Manage Cookies

Viking River Cruises

• Mississippi

Viking Ocean Cruises

• Scandinavia
• British Isles & Ireland
• North America
• Caribbean & Central America
• South America
• Mediterranean
• Quiet Season Mediterranean
• Australia & New Zealand
• World Cruises
• Grand Journeys

Viking Expeditions

• Great Lakes
• Longitudinal World Cruises

2024-2027 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES:  Offer applies to bookings made from September 1-30, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe, Paris to the Swiss Alps, Cities of Light, London, Paris & D-Day, Rhine & Main Explorer . Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by September 30, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by October 31, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by April 30, 2025. 2027 : Pay in full by January 15, 2026. Offers expires September 30, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT:  For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to February 2025 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to April 2025 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $799 per person or Business Class air from $3,499 per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS:  Cruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement savings are off applicable rates. Cruise fares listed are valid for U.S. residents only. All fares and offers are for new bookings only and are subject to availability, may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Travel Credits and Viking Referral Rewards, are capacity-controlled and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Special fares are based upon published full brochure fares; cruise fares do not include pre-paid charges, optional facilities, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full brochure fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to roundtrip flights only from select Viking Cruises U.S. gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract .

AIR OFFER RESTRICTIONS:  Offer expires September 30, 2024.

NOTE: U.S. flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.

Russia Travel Blog  | All about Russia in English

• About our blog
• RussiaTrek.org

Sidebar →

• Architecture
• Entertainment
• RussiaTrek.org News

• Leave a tip to support us
• Support RussiaTrek.org via Boosty
• Support RussiaTrek.org via Hipolink
• Travel Guide to Ukraine
• Comments RSS

← Sidebar

Kudykina Gora – the most popular sight of Lipetsk Oblast

No comments · Posted by Sergei Rzhevsky in Entertainment , Regions , Travel

“Kudykina Gora” is a park located on the bank of the Don River near the village of Kamenka, Lipetsk Oblast , about 74 km west of Lipetsk .

This large park of 500 hectares, opened in 2007, is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Lipetsk Oblast offering entertainment for children and adults. “Kudykina Gora” on Google Maps . Photos by: Alexandr Lipilin .

The main symbol of the park is the 15-meter sculpture of Zmei Gorynich – a Slavic folklore three-headed dragon bursting with fire. On weekends and holidays, at 7:00 pm, a growl is heard out of three gulps of the sculpture and then fire comes out of them.

Here you can see horses, donkeys, rams, ostriches, guinea fowls, peacocks, buffalo, camels, llamas, deer, yaks, raccoons, kangaroos, and other animals. The park has the largest playground in the Lipetsk region, a wooden Scythian fortress, two springs, huge wooden sculptures “Trojan horse” and “Bull”, an artificial lake, a riding school with hippotherapy classes, and a lot of art objects.

Tags:  Lipetsk oblast

You might also like:

Ruskeala Express – a unique retro train in Karelia

Frozen Abandoned Apartment Buildings in Vorkuta >>

No comments yet.

Leave a reply.

XHTML: You can use these tags: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>

• September 2024
• August 2024
• February 2024
• January 2024
• December 2023
• November 2023
• October 2023