Centered around the beautiful St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to Europe’s largest pipe organ, the romantic market stalls of the Christkindlmarkt are a delight to explore. An array of handmade goods, from tasty treats to ornaments, offer a wealth of opportunity to take home a unique artisan gifts created by local craftsmen. Periodically throughout the festive season, the cathedral hosts yuletide concerts; the sound of choirs singing can be heard as their voices echo through the courtyard and the town’s narrow streets.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
Christmas Traditions in Passau
Stroll historic Passau, watch an Advent wreath demonstration and sample a yuletide treat—gingerbread.
Salzburg at Christmas
Spend the day in one of Austria’s most scenic alpine cities, Salzburg, and visit its renowned Christmas market.
Festive Bavarian Beerfest
Participate in a festive celebration in a stunning rural setting as you sample Bavaria’s famous beer.
Videos
At home in Salzburg with Viking guides Peter Staudinger and Julia Hattinger
Discover one of Austria’s most picturesque cities, Salzburg, the birthplace and childhood home of Mozart and setting of the beloved film The Sound of Music. During an informative tour led by Viking guides Peter Staudinger and Julia Hattinger, follow along as they show us some of their favorite places and delve into the history of this elegant Alpine destination. Should your curiosity be piqued, you will be delighted to know that you, too, could stroll the old-world streets of Salzburg when you join us there as part of an optional excursion on our Grand European Tour or European Sojourn river voyages.
German Language Lesson
Learn a few useful German words and phrases with Rebecca, your Viking tutor. Prost!
Shopping in Passau
Passau is one of Germany’s most charming cities. Karine shows you that the city’s gift ideas hold equal charm when she takes you to her favorite shopping spot.
Wreath-Making Workshop
Join Karine in Passau, Germany, as she has a good laugh making traditional and modern German Advent wreaths with a local wreath maker.
Cooking with Karine: Gingerbread
Join Karine as she learns the art of making gingerbread at Passau’s Café Simon, established more than 100 years ago. Sample some on our late fall cruises along Europe’s great rivers.
Cooking with Karine: A German Treat
Join Karine for a private cooking lesson with pastry chef Joanna Hajn, who teaches her student how to make a German holiday favorite: a tasty gingerbread house.