I'm starting to plan a European Christmas Market trip. One thing I am curious about is the Krampus parade in Salzburg. Is it worth it or over-hyped? I am weighing a river cruise vs. creating my own itinerary. I'd like to hear from others who put together their own itinerary for the markets. What was the best? What didn't you like? I've got Vienna > Salzburg > Zurich> Basel > Strasbourg. This is an initial list which will get refined based on more research (which includes comparison to a cruise).
P.S. I have a friend in Zurich which is why it's on the list - it's not a deal breaker in regards to itinerary.