At the confluence of three rivers, Passau must be one of Europe’s prettiest cities. It certainly has been one of the most beautiful on our Viking River Cruises’ Christmas Markets voyage, which is saying a lot on an itinerary that includes Budapest, Vienna, Melk and, ahead (possibly, more on that later), Regensburg and Nuremberg.

Viking Odin guests raved about their experiences at the Passau Christmas Market today, and some said that it was the best market they have visited so far on this weeklong river cruise.

I certainly enjoyed the market, which occupied a large square in front of St. Stephan’s Cathedral, just steps away from the Danube, and a pleasant 10-minute walk from Viking Odin.

The Bavarian-style Christmas market featured lots of local craftsmen selling local goods. Products and edibles (and quaffables) seemed to be locally produced, which is always nice to see at any market. Vendors were friendly and inviting, and I even found myself practicing German that I had learned nearly 30 years ago during my university days.

I also sipped on the best Gluhweinthat has ever passed my lips, produced, if my understanding of German was correct, by the award-winning Vollfast. I know little about the company, whether it is big or small, only that to sip its Gluhwein would be worth a second visit to Passau next Christmas.

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