Christmas in London. Photo: Shutterstock How about reaching Europe's glittering Christmas markets by sea? Cruise giant MSC Cruises offers a series of holiday cruises that connect illuminated European cities, giving you the opportunity to visit the continent's famous Christmas markets, from Paris and London to Rome and Barcelona.
During the festive cruises, the ships, specially decorated for Christmas and New Year's, and offering seasonal menus, shows, karaoke, and themed parties, will dock in European cities where traditional Christmas markets are a staple. Guests will enjoy the opportunity to disembark and experience the local holiday atmosphere at world-famous locations.
Cruise: Paris, London, Hamburg, and Amsterdam
When: Departing Paris on December 11, 2025 for 7 nights
Ship: MSC Poesia
Itinerary: The ship will travel between classic European destinations for the winter season, departing from the French capital, with a visit to the famous La Magie de Noël Christmas market, featuring traditional stalls, sweets, an ice skating rink, and a Ferris wheel. From there, the ship will continue to London, one of the cities most associated with Christmas, known for its illuminated Christmas markets and winter atmosphere. The ship will then dock in Hamburg, Germany, where markets of all kinds, from traditional to innovative, are held, and will end its journey in Amsterdam, before returning to Paris.
Price: From $513 per person.
Cruise: Barcelona, Rome, and Portofino
When: Departing from Genoa, Italy, on December 15, 2025, for 5 nights.
Ship: MSC Magnifica
Itinerary: The cruise will offer guests a warm winter celebration among historic cities along the Mediterranean coast, passing through Marseille and then continuing to Barcelona, where guests can visit the ancient Christmas market, Fira de Santa Llúcia, which takes place at the foot of the cathedral and includes art stalls, traditional foods, and holiday decorations. From there, the ship will continue to Rome, where the famous Piazza Navona market takes place, one of the largest in Italy, spread out around three famous fountains: the Four Rivers, Neptune, and the Moors. The fair offers a variety of decorations, gifts, and local dishes typical of the season. Finally, the ship will dock in picturesque Portofino.
Price: Starting at $459 per person.