viking grand european tour reviews (2022)

15-Day Viking Cruises Grand European Tour Itinerary

Out of all the river cruise itineraries in Europe, the ultimate is probably the Grand European Tour, which runs between Budapest and Amsterdam. Dan and I had fallen in love with river cruising during our Rhine River cruise , so when Viking River Cruises invited us to review their Grand European Tour, we couldn’t resist. Five countries in two weeks, without changing hotels? Share it all with our readers? Heck, yeah!

Cruise days are full, so I kept a daily river cruise journal along the way. Our 15-day cruise became a series of stories that will tell you what you can expect every day and what you can do in each cruise port. There are articles about every stop on our river cruise itinerary. You’ll find the links throughout this article.

What happens on a river cruise?

We’ve only been on two Viking river cruises so far, and the daily routine is generally similar. Every port of call begins with a guided tour of the city (included), after which you have leisure time to do whatever you fancy until the ship sails.

As for the lunchtime meal, some passengers return to eat on the ship. Others, including ourselves, prefer to stay in town and buy their own noontime meal. In our opinion, few things can match ordering local food in a local restaurant with local patrons. To us, it adds another layer to the experience of being in another culture.

At some stops, you may be able to join an additional tour. These special interest Viking excursions usually have a limited appeal, so they charge a nominal additional fee to cover the cost. It’s a creative way to keep the basic price low, yet still add extra value to passengers. (Note: For the 2015 season, prices ranged between 29 and 64 euros per person.)

One thing about this cruise itinerary: Be prepared for a lot of scenery, culture, UNESCO sites, history and food. If you enjoy things like this, you will really enjoy the river cruising experience.

Viking Grand European river cruise itinerary

To give you a sense of the river cruise route, here is a map of our ports of call.

Now, let’s get started on the Viking Grand European Tour itinerary! 😀

Days 1 and 2 – Budapest, Hungary

Day 1—welcome aboard.

The recommended check-in time for a Viking river cruise is 3 pm. Travel schedules being what they are, Viking provides a light buffet lunch for passengers who can’t help arriving early. You can read about the first day on a Viking cruise here.

The first Grand European Tour activity happens mid-afternoon. It’s an unofficial guided walk around the area to help battle jet lag, should you be arriving the day of the cruise. You’ll also have plenty of time to explore the area and pick up a few authentic souvenirs of Budapest.

Our Program Director promised that our first dinner on board would be special, and it was. They offered a traditional Hungarian menu, accompanied by local wines and beers. Many people don’t know that Hungary has 22 wine regions and produces a number of excellent vintages. Tokaj and Bulls Blood are probably the best-known wines, and Hungary’s Tokaj wine region is so phenomenal that it is a bona fide UNESCO site.

If Hungarian food isn’t your thing or you need to selective about what you eat, no worries. They can accommodate many special diets and every menu includes a few familiar options, like grilled salmon and steak.

ⓘ TIP: If you enjoy good wine, pick up some local vintages along the way to enjoy with dinner. Unlike some river cruise lines, Viking doesn’t charge a corkage fee.

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Day 2—Tour Budapest

Your first full day in Budapest begins with a morning tour. From Pest’s National Opera House and historic Heroes’ Square, we crossed over the Danube to the Buda side of the river. Oour tour took us along Castle Hill to Fishermen’s Bastion and Matthias Church. We also had some free time to explore before returning to the ship for lunch.

Your afternoon options are varied. Would you like to explore Budapest on your own or join an optional tour? Your choices are:

• Dohány Street Synagogue and Jewish Budapest (tour highlighting Budapest’s colorful Jewish past and present)
• Spa Experience (Budapest is famous for its therapeutic thermal waters and has the spas to prove it)
• Hungarian Horsemen: Lazar Equestrian Park (trip to see a horsemanship exhibition).

The second evening in Budapest began with a Welcome Reception. Consider it an official opportunity to chat with your Program Director and traveling companions.

The evening departure results in some phenomenal photographs. Evening cruising through Budapest on the Danube is spectacular. See our Budapest photos here.

Days 3 and 4 – Vienna, Austria

Viking has updated their itinerary since our cruise, dropping a day in Bratislava in favor of two days in Vienna. As much as we enjoyed Slovakia’s capital, we left Austria’s capital feeling as though we hadn’t seen enough. Props to Viking for listening to passenger feedback and adding more time for visiting Vienna.

The Historic Centre of Vienna is a UNESCO site and there is plenty to see. We did see some of the city’s baroque architecture on our morning tour. Our guide made sure we saw the world-famous Opera House, St. Stephan’s Cathedral and Hofburg Palace, among other things.

Many of our fellow passengers spent the afternoon exploring Vienna on their own. If you do that, make sure to set aside some time to relax in one of Vienna’s traditional coffee houses, just as the locals do.

We chose to take the optional afternoon tour to Schönbrunn Palace. It is called the “Versailles of Vienna” due to its massive size (1,441 rooms!), and it qualifies as a UNESCO site as well.

After dinner, we were treated to a classical concert (think Mozart and Strauss, not classic rock) performed by a Viennese orchestra. That’s another optional tour; no need to endure it if you’re not a fan.

Day 5 – Wachau Valley + Melk, Austria

Most cruising is done overnight, unless it’s through a picturesque area. This morning we enjoyed some scenic cruising through the Wachau Valley, heart of Austria’s wine country. The Wachau is a stretch of the Danube Valley between Melk and Krems, and is of such unsurpassed beauty and historic importance that it has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The crown jewel of Melk is its abbey, an incredibly ornate 900-year-old Benedictine monastery. It features Austria’s finest Italian baroque architecture. Melk Abbey also has wonderful frescoes, as well as a library that holds an extensive collection of medieval manuscripts.

Day 6 – Passau, Germany

Passau is a town that lies where the Inn, Ilz and Danube Rivers meet. Our guided walk along the town’s narrow streets took us through Old Town and past many traditional patrician houses. Lying at the confluence of three rivers, Passau often experiences flooding, and one of the sights is where previous floods have left their mark.

We also saw the New Bishop’s Residence and the impressive baroque St. Stephen’s Cathedral with its ornate interior. If you arrive at noon, you can be treated to a special noontime concert on Europe’s largest church organ (17,000 pipes).

Then, free time to explore Passau on our own.

Day 7 – Regensburg, Germany

Regensburg is a wonderfully preserved medieval city. It’s full of medieval architecture, dark and narrow lanes, and strong fortifications, and that’s what makes it a UNESCO site.

We had a chance to tour the town’s market, city hall and the splendid St. Peter’s Cathedral, discover many 13th- and 14th-century patrician houses, and see ancient Roman, Romanesque and Gothic buildings.

Day 8 – Nuremberg, Germany

Our morning was spent on board, cruising to Nuremberg, Germany. Our program director offered a morning talk about the European Union, but Dan and I skipped it. We sat on our private stateroom balcony, sipping coffee and watching the passing scenery.

The afternoon options included a walking tour of the Old Town area. Highlights were the Albrecht Dürer House and Main Market Square. We drove by Zeppelin Field (the Nazi parade grounds of the 1930s) and the Palace of Justice, site of the infamous Nuremberg Trials.

World War II buffs can take an optional tour of the Documentation Center instead.

Day 9 – Bamberg, Germany

We spent the morning cruising through the 106-mile long Main-Danube Canal and passing through some of its 16 locks. Charlemagne first thought of continuous river travel from the North Sea to the Black Sea in 793, but it took until 1992—a whopping 1200 years—to actually accomplish his dream.

Once arriving in port, we were taken on a walking tour of Bamberg’s medieval city center. Bamberg has a magnificent 11th-century cathedral. However, it’s best know for its picturesque city hall, built on a tiny island in the middle of a river.

When our guide released us to explore this UNESCO site on our own, a few of us asked for one final stop. Schlenkerla is a historic brewpub in Bamberg, Germany and is renowned for its smoked Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier.

Germany’s Franconia region may be known for its wine, but Bamberg is famous for its distinctive, smoke-flavored beer. Truth be told, I enjoy smoky flavors so much that visiting the brewery is my favorite memory of Bamberg.

Day 10 – Romantic Road excursion to Rothenburg + Würzburg, Germany

Most passengers spent the day in Wurzburg. but we joined Viking’s optional Romantic Road excursion to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The motorcoach ride was scenic, but it was drizzling and hard to see through the wet windows.

Rothenburg is a medieval town with charming half-timbered houses, a turreted city wall and impressive Gothic and baroque architecture. It ranks among one of the most picturesque in all of Germany. If you have a camera, you should really consider taking this tour.

After a traditional German lunch in a Rothenburg restaurant, we returned to Würzburg. The town is best known for the Bishops’ Residenz. One of Germany’s largest and most ornate baroque palaces, the palace is also a UNESCO site.

It’s over-the-top elaborate, and hard to believe someone actually lived like this.

We had another delicious dinner on board. Viking had planned an evening glassblowing demonstration afterwards, but nope. The cruise director had to postpone it at the last minute because the glassblower missed the ship.

Day 11 – Wertheim, Germany

Wertheim is located at the confluence of the Main and Tauber Rivers. It’s a typical, small German town, with roots that date back to the 7th century. Wertheim is renowned for its glassblowing tradition.

Our walking tour included a visit to the historic marketplace and our guide pointed us to glassblowing studio that we could visit. Many passengers spent their free time in glass shops buying souvenirs. Dan and I preferred to leave the main drag and explore the old town’s 1100-year-old back streets. (You can see our photos here. )

Down time in the afternoon. Time to relax on the sun deck with other passengers and watch the scenic vineyards of Franconia sail by. Dinner included some of the area’s wines.

Tonight, we finally got our glassblowing demonstration. He was quite entertaining and kept us all laughing, especially when he drafted audience participants. The whole evening was super fun!

Day 12 – Upper Middle Rhine Valley + Mosel River + wine tasting + Koblenz

This morning was all about hilltop castles along a stunning stretch of the Rhine River. It’s so special that the Upper Middle Rhine Valley has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There were plenty of oohs and aahs on the Sun Deck as we passed the dozens of castles and vineyards along its banks.

This was our second time in the Rhine Gorge and we enjoyed it just as much. The views are incredible and the associated commentary is fascinating!

The ship stopped in Braubach for a tour of one-of-a-kind Marksburg Castle. This castle is in perfect shape; it’s the only Rhine fortress that has never been destroyed. Definitely a must-see.

As we had seen the castle on our previous Rhine River cruise, we opted to join a couple dozen other passengers for the optional Moselle wine tour. Our route took us along along the Mosel River, which offers a landscape of terraced vineyards punctuated here and there by typically German towns.

After stopping to stretch our legs at a very scenic overlook, we continued on to a Mosel winery. They took us into the inner sanctum of wine production and showed how they produced their wines. Then, of course, we sampled a few of their best.

Our ship docked in Koblenz until late evening. This is the picturesque town where the Moselle and Rhine converge. We ran into a group of crew members in town. They were enjoying a few hours off and invited us to join them.

Always inquisitive, we took the opportunity to ask about working for Viking. We figured they could speak frankly since we were off the ship, and we were right. Seems a few of them have worked for other river cruise lines or on ocean liners. Consensus: Viking has high standards, and they treat their employees better than the other companies did. Isn’t that wonderful?!

Day 13 – Cologne, Germany

Cologne is Germany’s fourth largest city. Our morning walking tour through Old Town passed St. Martin’s Church, the Renaissance city hall and the remnants of an ancient Jewish mikveh (a ritual bathhouse). Our tour ended at the Dom, Germany’s largest cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rest of the day was free to enjoy Cologne. I made sure we went to the Chocolate Museum….

The Captain’s Farewell Reception was a blast – we had a “Taste of Germany” buffet dinner, complete with live oompah music. The crew dressed up in German costumes to give it an especially festive air.

And being that it was a buffet, the chef made sure to come over to help us figure out which dishes were on our diet. (We had mentioned it once, at the beginning of our cruise, and the entire staff never needed to be told again. They kept it in mind every time we ordered.)

After dinner, we joined the optional Prost! Tour so we could experience Brauhaus culture and drink Cologne’s famous Kölsch beer. We’d done it on our Rhine cruise and it was just as fun this time.

• Read more: One Day in Cologne

Day 14 – Kinderdijk, Netherlands

We sailed along the Rhine all morning. and Viking had plenty of activities to keep us entertained. We enjoyed sampling Dutch cheeses and jenever (a distilled juniper liquor), and trying our hand at sjoelen (Dutch table shuffleboard).

After lunch, we docked in Kinderdijk (UNESCO!) for an afternoon tour. This is a fascinating experience, both for the photo ops and the opportunity to learn about windmills first-hand. We had done this on our last cruise, and the best part was climbing into a working windmill to explore its mechanisms and living quarters.

If you’re claustrophobic, have mobility challenges, or have already visited a real Dutch windmill, there’s an alternate tour. Passengers who would prefer an alternative can join a tour to watch Dutch cheese making. Holland is famous for Edam, but the cheese farm we visited specializes in Gouda.

Of course, the best part was sampling the many varieties in their shop….

We enjoyed a final dinner on board and our last evening together as we cruised on to Amsterdam.

• Read more: See Dutch Windmills and Cheese Making in Kinderdijk

Day 15 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Our cruise ship docked sometime after midnight. We left late and could have one last enjoyable breakfast, once again with local breads, cheeses and other specialties.

No Amsterdam tour is included on the itinerary (even though its canals are yet another UNESCO site), and I assume that’s because most people have planes to catch. If you wish, you are welcome to join the next round of passengers on the afternoon walkabout.

Or you can do what we did and spend more time in Amsterdam . There’s a lot to enjoy in the city: neighborhoods, restaurants, museums and exciting nightlife.

Even if you don’t do anything else, be sure to take a canal cruise! It’s ranked as the best things to do in Amsterdam for a reason. This tour is especially popular.

Where to stay in Amsterdam

We can recommend two hotels from personal experience:

• Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel — a short walk from Centraal Train Station.
• Bilderberg Garden Hotel — a bit further out and in a quieter location.

Both are quite nice and near a tram stop.

Note: As is common in the travel industry, Dan and Linda were provided with a complimentary cruise package for the purpose of review. While it has not influenced coverage, AWSI believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see the Disclosure page.

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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25 thoughts on “15-day viking cruises grand european tour itinerary”.

I like your philosophy of never wasting a day in life. Bamberg is certainly a top place to spend one. Nice post.

Thanks, Stuart. That cruise sure kept us busy – we didn’t waste a moment!

What is the best month to travel on the europe ?

We went in early June, but September would be nice as well, and daylight is still long enough. We prefer spring and fall, when school is in session and there are fewer tourist crowds.

It seems a nice tour and honestly, I would like to follow this itinerary. Thanks for sharing this post and on a very honest note, I got much information about the European cities and countries.

Glad it helped.

Thanks for the information, we are taking the Budapest to Amsterdam trip end of July on the Viking Modi. looks like Bratislava, Slovakia is no longer part of itinerary

Well dang, Larry & Maggie, you’re right! Instead, you get an extra day in Vienna. As much as we enjoyed our time in Slovakia, that seems like a fantastic trade-off. We were left longing for more with our single day in Vienna.

Come to think of it, we’ve seen day trips to Bratislava from Budapest online, and trains run regularly. Should be easy for one to fly in a couple of days early and see it as well.

Thanks for letting us know!

We are taking this cruise in June 2018 and reading your day to day journal is helpful in terms of what to expect each day. Thank you for sharing your adventure, it makes me even more excited about our trip.

You are more than welcome. We know you’ll have so much fun! (Do you mind if we admit to the tiniest bit of envy? We’d love to take that cruise again.)

I’ve seen comments about long bus rides at each port to get to the sites. Was that your experience on the Grand European Tour?

Well, yes and no. We docked in town at most of the Rhine and Danube stops. Those towns developed around the rivers, so naturally, ports are centrally located. Most of the trips that required bus rides were for towns on the Main Canal, because it was constructed recently and to preserve infrastructure and homes, they had to build it where space was still available.

The rides didn’t seem particularly long to us, though. Our guides gave us interesting orientations and we had wonderful scenery to enjoy on the way. (We napped and chatted on the way back.)

This itinerary looks pretty awesome. I had no idea the tours were quite so long and you get to see so many awesome places! I’d love to go on one of these cruises one day!

If you do go, you’ll be amazed. The staff is remarkable, the tours are excellent (and free), and the small passenger capacity makes it an intimate experience you will never forget.

You should go! River cruises are a fabulous experience. We can’t recommend them enough.

A Viking cruise is on our bucket list; thanks for the info. All the places look amazing. Now you have made me want to go even more.

I know what you mean. We want to take the Nile and Mekong cruises next.

Thank you so much for sharing your adventures. This has been very helpful because I will be cruising from Amsterdam to Budapest in April.

How did you pack all you needed in a carry-on and a back-pack? I would love to be able to do that.

Hi Bette, thanks for your question. Actually, I’ve been pondering writing a post about this.

In a nutshell, we always carry our valuables (camera and electronics) on board with us in our backpacks. The biggest keys to packing light are to:

• wear your clothes multiple days (just not in a row!)
• coordinate your clothes with a neutral color (I chose colorful tops and scarves, black sweater, skirt and slacks)
• hand wash your clothes when needed (we packed only 7 days’ worth of underwear)
• limit your shoes (I had walking sandals, sneakers and ballet flats, all black)
• bring travel size toiletries and leave the ones that hotels provide at home.

Enjoyed the information your post included. We are scheduled to take this cruise in July 2018 and you gave me a concise idea of what to expect each day. Also greatly appreciated your ideas on packing–this cruise will require different items than on a big ship in the Caribbean!

Thanks for the feedback! We’re so glad our post was so helpful. I hope our other posts for each destination were as useful and informative. 🙂

I am curious how you got permission to take pictures inside the Schönbrunn palace and the Milky Abbey. We were told it was absolutely not possible to take pictures while inside.

The only part of Melk Abbey that is off limits to photographers is the library. As for Schonbrunn, they forgot to tell our tour group that we couldn’t take photos until we had already taken shots of that one room. So we stopped.

I would love to do one of these river cruises and have been enjoying the posts taking note of how our small family of 3 would fare on such a cruise.

I think river cruises are best when children are old enough to appreciate sightseeing and history. Most little ones have far too much energy for a ship of that size and need more room to run and play.

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Honest Review of the Grand European Viking Cruise: 15 Days from Budapest to Amsterdam

• By runawaywidow
• July 11, 2023
• 25 Comments

Viking is a brand we have heard over here in the states as a luxury river and ocean cruise line that caters to adults as the minimum age on board is 18 years old. This adult only business appealed to us as empty nesters and having experienced crowded pool areas filled with happy kids, was something I really looked forward to. Many cruises are available on European rivers, but this 15 Day Grand European Viking Tour seemed to have everything we wanted.

The river cruise ships are smaller and accommodate approximately 180 guests. The food is very good and service was exceptional. The waitstaff know your name within a day or so and the cabins are cleaned twice a day. I definitely felt spoiled on this trip.

The small ship has pros and cons. Four of the days on our cruise, the top level called the sun deck was closed. The captain and crew warned us if the river was too low it could scrape the bottom and we would need to switch ships mid-cruise. Another scenario could be the water is too high and we can not get under the low bridges.

For those several days where the bridges were low, no one was allowed on the sundeck. The ship does not have a gym or pool. The sun deck has a small walking trail, putting greens, shuffleboard and chairs for lounging which is especially nice if your room does not have its’s own private balcony. The only other places to spend time on the ship outside of the state rooms are the lounge or a few chairs in the library and self-serve coffee station.

Tipping is taken from your account after you begin your trip at $20.00 per day per person. At the end of the trip, many of the guests gave an additional envelope to certain staff that made a positive impact on their vacation. One thing I was not prepared for was daily tipping the tour guides on each shore excursion. It is good to have small amounts of Euros handy to tip guides, who sometimes are volunteers, depending on the length and satisfaction of the tour.

Before the trip, Viking sends you information about the different shore excursions. Each day one guided tour is included but you do have the option to sign up for additional excursions for an additional cost.

Day -1 – Budapest

We arrived to the ship around 3:00 pm via bus from a 3 day extension in Prague. We were welcomed and given keys to our third floor balcony room where we spent the next hour unpacking. Plenty of dresser and night table storage as well a spacious closet and large space under the beds to store suitcases.

We explored the nearby streets and the big market which was closing just as we arrived at five o’clock. Back on the ship we enjoyed our first diner with appetizers, bread and butter, a main course and dessert. Beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages are included with meals. The silver spirits package is available for unlimited wine and cocktails at an additional cost.

After dinner we chose to stay in and visit the Lounge for an after dinner drink and music from Robert the piano player. Some people took the Budapest by Night additional excursion.

Day – 2 – Budapest

We enjoyed a great breakfast with options for omelets, eggs benedict, pancakes and French toast, assorted fruits, pastries and more on a buffet. We took the four hour included Panoramic Budapest bus tour first through the modern flat side of the city Pest and then across the Danube River to the hilly side called Buda.

The bus stopped at the top of the Castle District so we could walk through Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion. We returned to the ship for lunch and then Pete and I took the excursion to Budapest Thermal Baths.

Viking provided us with two bags filled with slippers, a towel and a white terry cloth robe. We were assigned a special cabin to lock our belongings in and then given a few hours to enjoy the varying temperature pools and hot tubs in and outside the neo-baroque palace. The thermal baths claim to have all sorts of therapeutic restorative powers. We honestly found the pool to be very crowded and the water not too hot but I enjoyed seeing the place.

At 5:30 pm it was all aboard as the Viking Modi (our ship) departed North toward Vienna. We joined guests for the port talk before dinner from our program director to find out about the excursions available in Vienna. Then dinner, some time on the sun deck for scenic sunset cruising along the river and then music in the lounge before heading to our state room to watch a movie on our high definition TV.

Day 3 – Vienna – Austria

Today was one of the longest days at sea since we did not arrive in Vienna until 7:00 pm. The scenic river ride, meals and presentation on coffee and the coffee houses of Vienna kept us entertained.

Dinner was earlier this evening and many of the passengers took the optional excursion to a Mozart & Strauss concert in Vienna in the evening. We opted to explore on our own. We walked to the nearby subway station and took a train to St. Stephens Cathedral. The organ music delighted us as we stood in awe of the immense arches and impressive chapels and artwork. On our way to the souvenir shop across the street it started to rain thus ending our evening adventure. We easily found our way back to the ship and called it a night.

Day 4 – Vienna – Austria

A full day in Austria started at 9:00 am with the three and a half hour included Panoramic Vienna tour. A bus drove us into the city where our guide then led us past the Ringstrasse boulevard to the elegant public buildings and museums, the Hofburg Palace and to St. Stephens Cathedral where we were given to the option to spend the afternoon on our own and return to the ship by subway, or meet back for the bus ride to the ship in one hour. We came back on the bus to have lunch and then get ready for our optional afternoon excursion.

At 2:15 pm we boarded a bus to the “Behind the Scenes at the Lipizzaner Stallions” located at the world-famous Spanish Riding School near the Hofburg Palace. This tour is a thrill for anyone who loves horses. Our guide took us past the outdoor training ring, the tack room, a courtyard, into the opulent baroque indoor hall where the horses perform and finally into the stables.

We were asked not to touch the horses and there was not a show although some people were surprised about that. We ended the tour by having a coffee and cake in a nearby coffee shop attached to one of the museums before boarding the bus back to the boat.

That evening some people took an additional excursion out for dinner while those of us who stayed in discovered that the attentive waitstaff was more than willing to bring over additional appetizers or main courses if we could not make a decision. The food was always very good. At 11:30 pm everyone was back on board and the ship left for our next stop.

Day 5 – Melk Abbey- Austria

Our morning involved a scenic sailing with commentary from our program director. At 12:30 we arrived after lunch and boarded buses to Melk Abbey, the only excursion this day. We broke into small groups and a guide walked us through rooms filled with artifacts and medieval manuscripts.

The view from the terrace of the valley and the Danube river is breathtaking and we enjoyed wandering through the colorful church and wooded gardens before leaving the Abbey and joining the bus in a new location up the river. This evening our director provided us with a German language lesson followed by music from the onboard musician.

Day 6 – Passau – Germany

After breakfast we arrived in Passau at 9:00 am for a two hour walking tour around the city surrounded by three rivers. Our local guide regaled us with stories of the horrific floods and how the townspeople all came together for the clean up. We walked past the town hall, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and looked up at the impressive Bishop’s Residenz on the hill. We had some time for shopping and exploring but since we did not book an additional excursion, needed to be back on the ship at 2:30 pm.

One of the excursions that appealed to me was an all day visit to Salzburg, Austria. This would cost about $500 for both of us and entail a two hour each way bus ride, tour of the city and seeing some of the “Sound of Music” locations. When I backpacked in Europe during one summer of college, I did that Sound of Music tour in Salzburg so decided to skip it this time, otherwise I would have gone.

Day 7 – Regensburg – Germany (Munich)

Since we are scheduled to see many small river towns on this cruise, I did opt for a big day trip to Munich. We left at 8:30 am and were gone for 9 hours. The two hour bus ride included a stop at the BMW show room for a rest stop with free toilets – quite the big deal. Our guide gave us a tour around the streets of Munich near the New Town Hall and the famous Glockenspiel (clock).

We dined for lunch in the Ratskeller but only had a choice of two meals. I would rather have found a better place to eat like the famous Hofbrau house that we did walk through on our tour – if I only knew then… For the amount of money we spent on this excursion, the meal should have been better. After lunch, we had free time, but since it was Sunday the stores were all closed. This is a law in Germany. Turns out it was a huge Pride festival with bands and DJs on every street, lots of people in rainbow colored outfits and just a big old party. Fun to witness as well.

Day 8 – Nuremberg – Germany

Sometime during the night our ship moved to the city of Nuremberg. The captain is quite busy getting our boat into these narrow locks (68 total on our trip), sometimes fitting in with another ship to the side of us. The water level would raise inside the lock which I assumed was because we were going upstream. One of these days mid-trip, our captain announced all future locks would now be bringing us lower to the river since we crossed the “continental divide”. It was also around this time of the trip that the staff began to worry that the Viking Modi (our ship) may not make it due to water levels in the river. We would then need to pack and be bussed up river to a different ship with new staff, that would be annoying to say the least.

In the meantime we gathered our water bottles, and audio receivers with earpieces from the staterooms and joined the 9:00 am three hour tour of Nuremberg. The bus picked us up and took us past Zepplin Field, the former Nazi Rally Grounds, as well as the Congress hall built to copy the Roman Colosseum and the Palace of Justice where the Nazi war trials took place.

Off the bus, our guide took us to the castle and Old Town and then we walked into the square where we could shop for Gingerbread and more before the bus came to pick us up again. Additional tours were popular for history lovers to delve more into history and World War ll.

Day 9 – Bamberg – Germany

Our included tour of the day was a walking tour in this medieval picturesque city famous for their smokey flavored beer. We look the option of the leisure tour due to some leg soreness from walking downhill on cobblestones the day before. This was a nice option and we saw the quaintness of this town with the river and mill. We had about one hour to shop or try their famous beer so we did a little of both before heading back to the bus and our ship.

Day 10 – Wurzburg – Germany

After a lovely breakfast on the ship we joined our same group of folks to visit the former residence of Wurzburg, the prince-bishop, and take a walking tour of the Old Town. Apparently, this beautiful building had been bombed during World War ll but underwent extensive reconstruction and shows incredibly ornate rooms, a stunning 6400 foot fresco on the ceiling and English-style gardens. We left the group and walked into the town to see the beautiful church, do some shopping and have a glass of wine on the bridge as recommended since this part of Germany boasts it’s wine, not it’s beer.

Day 11 – Wertheim – Germany

Arriving at 9:00 am we once again took the included excursion for a walking tour of the town. Some folks opted to ride bicycles along the river for 16 miles to our next stop which was great for people craving some rigorous exercise. Our volunteer guide showed us around a small village telling stories and once again showing us flood line marks, the danger of living near a river. We enjoyed some time to explore the shops and even a castle ruin on the hilltop before our 1:00 pm departure.

By this time on our cruise, we started to notice quite a few people coughing, wearing masks and bringing meals back to the staterooms. We started feel a bit rundown and complained of sore throats as well. With no doctor on board, we stopped at a local apothecary to get some medicine to alleviate the symptoms. We also opted to skip touring the next day.

Day 12 – Koblenz – Marksburg Castle

Our ship arrived in Koblenz at 2:30 for a tour of the inside of Marksburg Castle. After resting up, we rallied for dinner and a delightful cake with the waitstaff singing “Let me call you sweetheart” at our table for our 4 year anniversary thanks to the request of our new friends. The staff on Viking and the people you meet along the way really make this trip so good.

Day 13 – Cologne – Germany

We arrived in Cologne at 9:00 am for our morning walking tour. Viking provided us with umbrellas as it was our first really rainy day for a tour. The bus drove us into town where our guide walked us down the historic streets lined with Roman walls and all sorts of medieval history.

Our guide led us to the grand Cologne Cathedral which started being built in 1248 and was continued in stages over the next 600 years. Every cathedral has to have relics, or human remains of saints. It was interesting to see the golden crate claiming to hold relics of the three wise men who visited Jesus when he was born.

Feeling soggy, we took the bus back to our ship for lunch. With a change of clothes we got ready for an added excursion “Cologne’s Beer culture and dinner”. In Cologne, people drink only Kolsh brand beer from small 7-ounce glasses in an effort to keep it cold.

Our entertaining guide Carol took us to where the locals go. It was Saturday night and everyone was out since the rain had stopped. We had a yummy dinner in a local brauhaus and stopped at a few rowdy and crowded establishments before returning to our ship. This was a fun excursion to blend in with the locals, sort of.

Day 14 – Kinderdijk – Netherlands

At 2:00 we arrived in Kinderdijk ( pronounced kinder- dike) to explore the windmills currently being used to manage the water because much of the Netherlands’ land is below sea level. Families rent out windmills to live in and we were invited to visit one that is set up as it would have been, back in the day. Lots of explanations about the technical workings of a windmill enlightened us as we eagerly headed to the gift shop and then back to our ship for the final evening on our ship together.

Day 15 – Amsterdam – Netherlands

At 8:00 am we needed to have our bags packed and outside our staterooms so they could get the rooms ready for the new guests arriving that afternoon. We enjoyed a last breakfast and said a fond goodbye to the staff and our new friends. Viking arranged smooth departures to airports, hotels and the three day extension many chose to take. Since we had done the 3-day-extension to Prague, I only booked one night in Amsterdam. I chose an interesting luxury hotel called The Toren in the center of the city, just around the block from Anne Frank’s house.

Fortunately they let us check in upon arrival at 11:00 am so we dropped off our bags and headed over to Anne Frank’s house. Having read her diary as a kid and actually visited her house on my backpacking trip in in college, I didn’t get tickets to see the inside of the house again. But we had just watched the show “A Small Light” on Hulu and when I saw the house they hid in for two years, all I could imagine was the Nazi truck that took them away just a few months before the war ended.

We enjoyed our final day in Europe walking around the beautiful canal streets and dodging the 600,000 bicyclists with a delicious dinner near our hotel.

Our flight home was early but he driver picked us up at as scheduled and took us the 30 minute drive to the airport for our flight home. We loved our trip and are already considering where to go next.

Final 3 things to remember.

• Small amounts of money for tour tipping.
• On board laundry is expensive, bring enough clothes or something easy to wash in the sink.
• Food is plentiful but exercise not so much, so pace yourself.

Hope this helps you plan for your next big adventure. Let me know where you are going next.

DISCLOSURE: I did not receive a free trip or any benefits from Viking – this is my own blog and my review of the Grand European Tour Viking cruise. As an Amazon associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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Join my email list for latest posts, 25 responses.

Sounds nice but exhausting…thanks for the blog!

Thanks for reading. Yes, they kept us busy but it was great to see so much!

Leaving today for this trip in reverse…thank you for the extra info !

You’re welcome. Thanks for reading and enjoy!!!

My friend is looking at the Italy one for his 60tn with us all joining

What a great idea. That sounds like a really fun time!!

Wonderful article. Thank you.

Thank you!!

We love going on cruises as well, but have yet to try a river cruise. Have you tried both? Which one do you prefer? Thank you for including a photo of the room… Is there another of the restroom? 🙂

I love cruising too. It’s so nice to just unpack once. The river cruise ship is smaller and everything more low key but that is nice too. The bathroom is pretty spacious and has a heated floor but I don’t have any photos. I would do either one again. Depends on the destinations. Thanks so much for reading and commenting.

I’ve never (yet) been on a cruise. Thank you for taking us along with you. I loved experiencing this vicariously!

Thanks for visiting my blog and commenting. River cruises are a lot different from ocean cruises but both fun in different ways. We really enjoyed our trip.

Thanks for your wonderful daily blogging on your trip. We are in the middle of planning the same trip but going from Amsterdam to Budapest. Is there any difference in going from North to South vs South to North?

I don’t think there’s much of a difference. I wanted a balcony room which is why we chose the trip we did. Enjoy and thanks for reading!

I’ve never been on a river cruise. This European itinerary looks amazing.

There are so many different river cruises but this one we really enjoyed. Thanks for reading.

Very nice post and something to consider in the future. I have never been on a proper cruise, only on overnight ferries and smaller launches. Do you hear the engine a lot in the cabins? Is there a lot of vibration from the engines? It’s what didn’t let me sleep on overnight ferries in the past. Love the idea of a cruise in principle but dislike the big cruise ships, so 180 guests on board sounds like a good size.

Thank you for the review! We are doing this cruise this year and fun to read your experiences

Wonderful!! Thanks for reading and enjoy your trip!

Gorgeous photos of absolutely delightful locations. Thanks for sharing!

Oh thanks so much. I love taking photos when I travel and love sharing them with others too!

This is awesome, interesting cruise, i would love to try this experience this year. Longest curise we had is 7 days.

This was the longest one for me too but was really nice being pampered a little longer than a week. I’d do it again. Thanks for reading

What an excellent review, and I am blown away by the architecture. So sorry you had to miss a day of touring due to feeling icky! Thanx for sharing

Thanks for visiting. It was a great trip and so much amazing history to admire.

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Runaway Widow

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Grand European Tour

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• Visit fascinating abbey at Melk, a 900-year-old Benedictine monastery
• Opportunity to tour Regensburg a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Get an opportunity to visit 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Discover Netherlands
• Visit Marksburg Castle, the only Rhine fortress never destroyed

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Travel themes.

• Small Ship Cruise

Destinations

• Netherlands

Attractions

• Historic sightseeing
• River cruise
• Ruins & Archaeology
• Wine Tasting

Trip includes

• 15-day cruise with river-view stateroom
• 13 guided tours with audio headset
• All meals: 14 breakfasts, 13 lunches & 14 dinners, featuring regional specialties and including Welcome Cocktail Reception & Dinner
• Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with onboard dinner and lunch
• Visit 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• Culture Curriculum: Enjoy concerts aboard and ashore, ranging from Austrian classics to baroque organ music; attend lectures on current affairs in Germany, Holland & the European Union; learn how to make your own Rüdesheimer coffee; experience the wonderful scents of a Viennese market
• All port charges
• Free Wi-Fi, connection speed may vary

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Meals: Dinner

Arrive in Amsterdam, then transfer to your ship.* After boarding, the afternoon is yours to relax or explore the city on your own. If your arrival schedule permits, you may wish to visit the Rijksmuseum, or the van Gogh Museum next door.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, disembark and proceed to the airport for your return flight.* Or, extend your journey with 3 nights in Prague, Czech Republic, where you tour Old Town landmarks and Prague Castle.

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The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Viking River Cruises Reviews & Ratings

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Tour operator, viking river cruises.

Inspiring destinations, thoughtfully designed itineraries, immersive cultural explorations, state-of-the-art ships, fine cuisine, excellent service and remarkable value. All created with personal attention to every detail.

We call this the Viking Experience. It’s the way your bartender has your drink prepared at just the right moment. The gentle guidance from your tai chi master during your lesson in China. Or the handwritten directions from your concierge to the oldest coffeehouse in Vienna. Every aspect of your time with Viking, from expertly prepared meals to carefully created enrichment programs and beautifully appointed ships, is planned to bring you closer to experiencing the most from your destination.

With more itineraries in more destinations worldwide, we offer behind-the-scenes insights and opportunities that set us apart from other travel companies.

While we deliver the expected and iconic, such as visits to museums and landmarks, we also go beyond. On every itinerary, you can experience local life through such excursions as home-hosted visits or trips to local markets. We also offer the opportunity to see the working world of bakers and artisans, and the option for our guests to experience priviledged access to museums, private collections and after-hours events that we thoughtfully curate.

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Our daily shore excursions include must-see highlights and delightful surprises. These expertly guided tours bring you closer to the art, architecture, history and people of the land.

GAIN GREATER INSIGHT

Watch a local German glassblower or learn about French Impressionism. Our Culture Curriculum, an enriching onboard program, infuses every cruise and brings history to life.

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Accompany us on a shopping trip to the local market. Walk through the door of a centuries-old cathedral or visit a contemporary art museum. Meet local fine food and wine purveyors. Our tastings and demonstrations expand your mind and satisfy your senses.

EXPLORE ASHORE

Have you yearned to visit the vaults of the famed Hermitage Museum? Attend a classical concert in Vienna? Enjoy a Tang Dynasty dinner show in Xian? Your Program Director can organize a variety of optional tours.

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An appointment at the best spa in Prague or dinner at one of Lyon’s Michelin-star restaurants? Our onboard Viking Concierge is there to assist you with special requests.

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For any cruise/land booking, whether under deposit, partially paid, or paid in full and air-inclusive packages paid in full, the following travel agent or guest-requested situations are considered cancellations and penalties will apply as noted below: changes to departure date; substitutions of itinerary; substitution of another person for original booked guest(s); or changing to a promotional fare. All cancellations must be in writing. For all air-inclusive packages cancelled after issuance of an airline ticket, the air portion of the refund, if any, will be processed only after the return of airline ticket to Viking. The following cancellation charges will be assessed for all written cancellations received prior to departure up to the scheduled time of departure.

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My Viking Grand European Tour Continues Post-Flood and Ship Swap

Welcome aboard the second half of a two-week, three-river, four-country Viking river cruise aboard Viking Skadi, from Budapest to Amsterdam. 

To start from Day 1: Viking Grand European Tour Began in Budapest, Hungary.   And now…

Viking Skadi and Grand European Tour – Week Two

Day 8: Aboard Viking Skadi and Nuremberg, a City of Contrasts

Nuremberg, once the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire, is a walled city with much of the medieval fortification still standing. With Nuremberg being so spread out, Viking’s included bus tour was my choice to see as much as possible.

There was time to visit Nuremberg Castle, Hitler’s Rallying Grounds and other reminders of the city’s dark Nazi past. Plus, there was time for a short walkabout in the old town, Altstadt, to buy souvenirs and sample an authentic Nürnberg sausage.

Amazingly, near two and one-half miles of the original old walls that surround the castle are still intact. Depending on your day in Nuremberg, you may have time to take a castle tour, or at least walk across the moat. 

While I enjoyed the Old Town and could have stayed another half-hour or so, I couldn’t wait to get back on the tour bus and away from the Stadium. Conversely, I looked forward to returning someday to Nuremberg for the Christmas markets, one of the largest in Europe.

Back on Viking Skadi for our first night onboard since swapping ships. The routine was the same…pre-dinner briefing, dinner and then entertainment in the lounge. It had been a very busy and hectic day from very early morning leaving Viking Li f, to a visit to Walhalla and back on the bus to Nuremberg and board a new river ship.

Day 9:  Bamberg – one of my favorite towns on the Main-Danube Canal

Today were two port visits; Bamberg in the morning and Hassfurt in the afternoon but there were two options. Guests could leave Viking Skadi in Bamberg at 1:30 PM for the afternoon or stay aboard and cruise to Hassfurt. Since I’d already been to Hassfurt, and the river ship was only there for an hour, Bamberg was my choice.

After lunch, those going to Bamberg boarded the bus for the short ride into town. Once there, you could join the walking tour or strike out on your own.

What’s so special about Bamberg? For one thing, it was once the seat of the Holy Roman Empire and like Italy, built on seven hills, each with a church on top. In 1993, the entire city became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Back on the bus and on to meet Viking Skadi in Hassfurt. We met the river ship at 6:00 PM, enough time to rest for 45 minutes until the Daily Briefing and dinner procession. Tonight’s entertainment was provided by the onboard keyboard player. Again, we were all pretty tired and by 10:30 PM, the carpet was rolled up.

Day 10:  Würzburg and Rothenburg ob der Tauber 

I can’t tell you enough that if you have a chance to go to Rothenburg ob der Tauber (Rothenburg on the Tauber river) do it. For me, Würzburg is more of a drive-around city, with a guided tour of the baroque 40-room palace, Würzburg Residence built between 1720 and 1744, Marienberg Fortress and a drive across the Old Bridge, built in 1120.

Würzburg is a fascinating city, surrounded by wineries and some terrific cafés and dozens of old churches. More times than not, though, I opt for a day in Rothenburg ob der Tauber and its half-timbered houses.

Rothenburg is probably the most well-preserved medieval town in Germany, located on Germany’s historic Romantic Road. Amid half-timbered houses, you’ll find tiny shops and even hotels. 

But the best thing to do there is to walk the 1.5 mile city wall that circles Rothenburg since the middle ages.

You have to walk up and down several sets of uneven cobblestone steps, as the wall connects five medieval gates dating from the 13th to 16th centuries. Stop and take a look inside the guard houses, too. Get to the town center at top of the hour to see the adorable clock “show”.

Back onboard Viking Skadi in time for Cocktail Hour. No one ever missed it. Then after dinner, we all found a seat in the lounge for an hour-long glass-blowing demonstration. Good-night.

Day 11:  Wertheim – Quick Stop and a Walking Tour

We had about two and one-half hours for our guided tour to walk us through picturesque Wertheim. It was kind of a slow, lazy day. I was back on board by noon and at 12:30, we were underway, heading for a next-day arrival to ancient Koblenz, Germany, once occupied by the Roman army.

Day 12:  Cruising the Romantic Rhine – It’s Castle Day!

Our Viking Longship sailed through the night so that we’d reach the Rhine River Gorge just after breakfast. This is one of those special moments on a river cruise that you want to just relax and watch as medieval and ancient history unfolds in front of you. And it doesn’t last long…only about two and one-half hours, a distance of nearly 41 miles.

I’d love to show you all of my photos from over two dozen trips up and down the Rhine through this stretch, but that will be another article. In the meantime, here are a few of the highlights. The majority of the 30+ castles are found just after Rüdesheim, between Bingen and Koblenz.

A little less than the halfway point is the legendary Loreley Rock. Set on a steep cliff, where the Rhine is the deepest and narrowest, the Loreley Rock is said to be where the beautiful Loreley used to sit and sing to the sailors on the river. 

Her singing was such a distraction that it lured unsuspecting sailors to their doom. It’s tradition for river ships to play the Loreley song through this stretch of the river.

Arriving Koblenz

Koblenz sits on two sides of the point where the Rhine and Mosel rivers meet. Ehrenbreitstein Fortress looms overhead like a watchdog guarding a front gate. Almost all Rhine river cruises stop in Koblenz and today was no different.

River ships were everywhere and our guided walk through town was crowded with tourists. Even at night, Koblenz is alive with activity. From outdoor restaurants and cozy cafes to people leisurely strolling along the river’s promenade. I would have stopped in to my favorite dive bar, the Peanut Bar, but alas, it doesn’t open until 7PM.

There were two included tours to choose in Koblenz; a bus ride to a walking tour in Marksburg Castle, the best preserved castle on the Rhine or a cable car ride across the river and up the hill to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. I took the tour inside sprawling Marksburg Castle. I’ve done the cable car ride over the river and once was enough for me.

Tonight’s dinner was titled, “A Taste of Germany” and its name held true. Traditional German foods were served in the dining room, Aquavit Lounge and also in the Galley. 

A couple of rather staid-looking German musicians entertained while we ate. Beer flowed. It was a fun night. But in a way, it was also bittersweet. Once you’ve cruised past the incredible stretch of castle after castle, it means the trip is almost over.

With only a couple of days left, and a lot of walking planned for my day in Cologne, I called it an early night. At least for me it was early…probably just after 11:00PM. After all that rich, tasty and delicious German food and of course a slice of Black Forest cake, 11:00 wasn’t really all that early.

Day 13:  Cologne:  Chocolate, French Fries with Curry Sauce, the Cathedral and More

Cologne’s a fun and funny place. So much history, fabulous food, great beer and a lot of odd museums. Not to mention the famous Cologne Cathedral, nearly untouched by the Allies in World War II.

I set out on my usual walking tour, happy to take a couple of new friends from the ship with me. First place I head to is the Cathedral. 

Be sure to go downstairs to the creepy basement to see the crypts. Then a walk through downtown and maybe into the city a little bit deeper. 

Depending on the season that you go, you could run right into Christmas Markets. Everyone was outside, eating or drinking or strolling the two-mile long waterfront promenade.

Viking Skadi docked fairly far down along the promenade, so Viking had buses to drive guests into downtown. For me, a longer walk meant I could justify a stop at the Schokoladen Museum for a slice of chocolate cake followed by a quick stop at the outdoor kiosk next door for french fries and curry sauce.

These were soooo good! A trip to Cologne isn’t complete unless I stop at the kiosk near the Chocolate Museum for these hot, crunch, slightly spicy potatoes.

If all this food and walking during the day wasn’t enough, Viking offered a nighttime optional ($) Beer Culture walking and drinking tour! And yes, I went along, not so much for the beer, but to walk with a group and see the city at night. A good time was had by all and we were back on board Viking Skadi by 11:00PM.

CONTINUING READING:  Five Quirky Museums to Visit in Cologne

Day 14: Kinderdijk Windmills – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

I already started to pack last night. Once we docked in Amsterdam, it would be time to hit the ground running. Also, I wanted to enjoy my wandering around time in Kinderdijk without worrying about the next day.

At 11:30am, everyone was invited to a Dutch Masters art lecture followed by some of Holland’s best cheese and Jenever tastings. The cheeses were excellent samples of Gouda (correctly pronounced “How-dah”), Edam, and a Dutch Cheddar. 

Jenever, if you’re not familiar, is kind of, sort of a gin. But really, it’s not gin at all except that they both are infused with juniper berries. Think Mescal or Aquavit…something to sip, though now used in craft cocktails.

Following all of this was lunch that I happily nibbled at in the Aquavit Lounge. With a 1:45PM arrival at Kinderdijk, I wanted to be ready and not sluggish.

For some reason, even on this beautiful sunny and warm late autumn day, this working windmill village was not crowded. There’s a resident guide who explains the history and function of these 16 windmills, with all but one dating back to the 1700s. 

The remaining two hours left plenty of time to wander. It’s not easy to believe how old these windmills are but that they are actually functioning to lower the water table at this below-sea level town.

Take a walk through Kinderdijk in my article link below.

READ MORE:  A Visit to the 18th Century Windmill Village of Kinderdijk, Netherlands

Tonight was the Captain’s Farewell Dinner aboard our new home for the past week, Viking Skadi. As always, the last night’s briefing was a bit sad as we recapped the past 14 days and all that had happened. 

We traveled on three rivers, the Danube, the Main and the Rhine though four countries, visited more cities that we had days – 16 ports in total. Counted over 30 castles and fortress ruins, passed World War II monuments and landmarks all the time enjoying our two river ships; Viking Lif and by chance, Viking Skad i.

Day 15:  Goodbye Viking, Hello Amsterdam and Beyond

Our early morning arrival into Amsterdam meant it was time to gather the last of my belongings, head into the dining room and leave with last minute goodbyes.

READ NEXT:  My in-depth review of Viking Lif/Viking Skadi balcony cabin

Departure Procedure

Similar to departure morning on cruise ships, Viking does departure by time of your flight and a corresponding color-coded ribbon that you tie onto everything being transferred to the motor coach. 

The first baggage pick up outside cabin doors began at 4:00AM. Bus transfers begin at 5:00AM for those with the earliest departures. The ship can also arrange for a taxi to take you to the airport.

Because I was independent, I was able to stay onboard until 9:00AM before taking a taxi to the train station.

My day would include a train to Paris for a five-day Seine river cruise, then two trains to Berlin for the 25th celebration of the fall of the Berlin Wall. 

Finally, I’d catch another train to Hamburg and Queen Mary 2 back to New York. My two weeks with Viking, from Budapest to Amsterdam is a trip I’ll always treasure.

To start from Day 1: Viking Grand European Tour Began in Budapest, Hungary.

Disclosure:  I was a guest aboard Viking Lif and Viking Skadi for their spectacular Grand European Tour river cruise. As always, opinions are my own. There were no requirements on what to write or not to write.

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Six Best Tips to Prepare for a Europe River Cruise

Hi Gail, Thank you for pointing out my “senior moment”. I’ve corrected the blip. Viking’s Grand European Tour is a fabulous itinerary. I’ve been up and down the Rhine, Main, Danube and Mosel in every season, so I apologize for any confusion. Have a wonderful cruise! Thank you for reading my article and taking the time to send your comment. Much appreciated.

I enjoyed reading your experience. My husband and I are going in about a month. Not sure when your cruise was but I would like to point out you referred to the trip taking place in the fall and then you mentioned it happening in the spring. It does sound like you enjoyed your trip.

Hi Lori, Thank you so much for reading my latest article about Viking river cruises. You’re right…they don’t have dedicated solo staterooms or tons of solo deals. Occasionally, they will offer a reduced single supplement, usually during early spring or late fall or sometimes on a last-minute deal. Also, an Amsterdam/Basel or reverse itinerary might have special deals in the off-season, too. I would either keep checking their website or if you have a travel agent, she or he can keep it on their radar. I’ll be writing more articles about solo travel, so please check back. Thank you again for taking the time to read my blog and send an email. Much appreciated. Happy cruising! Sherry

Great summary of your 14 day river cruise! As a solo traveler myself I have found that Viking is the least likely of all the river cruise lines to offer a reduced or zero $ single supplement. I do want to try Viking however, and compare it to the other 3 river cruise lines I have tried, all of whom offer reduced rates to solo travelers. Do you have a recommendation as to how to obtain a reduced fare with Viking? Is there a time of year or certain itinerary where they offer reductions in fare? Thank you!

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Updated on April 10, 2022 by Sherry Laskin

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Linda On The Run

Travel, Lifestyle, And Fitness For Those Over 60

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Viking Grand European Tour Review: River Cruise Highlights (Part 2)

October 29, 2018 //  by  Linda Malys Yore //   21 Comments

Have you been river cruising before, and are looking into taking a Viking river cruise? Or have you done lots of ocean cruising and are now considering a Viking river cruise? Are you looking for first-hand knowledge from someone who has sailed with Viking? Look no more, because I sailed on Viking’s Grand European Tour 15 day river cruise and it was nothing short of spectacular. Here you will find my sister Robyne’s and my sailing experiences on week two of the Viking Grand European Tour river cruise.

Read first: Viking Grand European Tour Highlights, (Part 1) Amsterdam, Holland to Nuremberg,  Germany

Read Next: 20 Viking River Cruise Tips To Help You Plan Your Trip

Passau, Germany to Budapest, Hungary

Day 9: viking grand european tour, passau, germany (day 1).

Yesterday found the guests of the Viking Baldur transferring to our new ship the Viking Magni which was located in Passau, Germany.  Our ship was named after the Norse God Magni,  who is the God of strength, believed to be stronger than his father Thor. We traveled three hours via Viking motor coaches, bypassing the shallow waters of the Regensburg, Germany area.

So today we had a decision to make: take the scheduled included shore excursion of Regensburg, a 98-mile coach ride away, or explore our new city Passau. We were grateful Viking still offered the Regensburg option, or that we could remain and visit Passau. Because I had a sore throat, I decided to stay in Passau and walk the city. Robyne elected to take the coach ride and visit Regensburg. Either way, we had met so many friends, we each were comfortable with our decisions for the day.

Lovely paintings and pastel buildings lined the cobblestoned streets of Passau. 

Read Next: 7 Best Things  To Do In Passau Germany

Read Next: The Ultimate 2 Days In Amsterdam Itinerary

Guests also had the opportunity to take the optional excursion, (required additional fees) which was a full day excursion to Munich with the exciting opportunity to attend Octoberfest.

And for our enrichment, an additional included tour was added to visit the large open-air Bavarian Village, but the capacity was limited. I was interested in this but waited too long and missed my opportunity. Worked out for the best I believe because I used the afternoon to rest instead.

After breakfast, I headed out my friends Fran and Dan to tour Passau on foot. It was such a pretty city, and we had no particular plan but to see what crossed our paths. Passau is built at the confluence of three major European rivers and thus is exposed to major flooding.  We noticed everywhere we walked signs marking high water levels of past floods.

Remembrances of past floods are everywhere in Passau. 

The city center was very beautiful with the fabulous Baroque St. Stephen’s Cathedral. We shopped a bit and before we knew it, it was time for lunch. We all decided to head back to the Magni for a delicious lunch on board. Afterward, I rested in my stateroom all afternoon.

Bright and bold painting on the walls of Passau’s city hall.

Viking also arranged a shuttle bus to take guests to the city center and back throughout the day, beginning at 9:00 AM and concluding at 6:00 PM.

After all the tours had returned to the Magni, we met for the cocktail hour and Tessa’s port talk.

In the lounge during cocktail hour with our great friends Sheri, Kathi, Fran, and Dan. 

After dinner in the lounge for our entertainment, there was an operetta of sorts. A few local singer/musicians from Nuremberg and Regensburg highlighted some of the greatest and most recognizable music of famous European composers, including Mozart.

Local singers performing an operetta in the lounge after dinner.

Day 10: Viking Grand European Tour, Passau, Germany (Day 2)

This morning Robyne and I were doing the included shore excursion: Passau Walking Tour. We were to meet our guide at 9:00 AM, so we had a leisurely morning. The Magni was docked literally on the edge of Passau, not far from the city center at all.

Can’t you just imagine waking up to this unbelievable sight in Passau during your Viking Grand European Tour river cruise!?

Others were taking an optional tour to Salzburg (remember The Sound of Music??) and a fortunate few were taking the optional shore excursion to visit the Neuschwanstein Castle. It is the romantic castle perched high up on a hill in the Alps which inspired Walt Disney when he was designing Cinderella’s Castle.

We walked by the bishop’s garden as we entered St. Stephen’s Cathedral

We met our guide outside the ship and learned the history of Passau located where the Ilz, Danube and Inn Rivers join one another. No wonder Passau is called the City of Three Rivers!  The ornate Baroque inspired Old Town is situated on a spit of land between the Inn and the Danube Rivers.

The indescribably magnificent Baroque ceiling of St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Passau.

St Stephen’s Cathedral is one of the city’s most notable landmarks and boasts the largest pipe organ outside the USA. As part of our tour, we were fortunate enough to attend a concert to hear the unbelievable organ. The acoustics of the interior of the cathedral were fabulous.

The stunning St Stephen’s Cathedral was built in the opulent and elaborately ornate  Baroque style. Everywhere you looked your eye caught some magnificent statue or ornate painting. The cathedral is located at the highest point of the old town.

The gleaming silver pipes of St Stephen’s organ.

After the concert, we walked back to the ship for lunch. Because we had no organized plans for the afternoon, Robyne and I set out again to explore Passau. We wandered through the pastel-colored streets from the Danube through town to the Inn River. We decided to hike up the hill to do a personal pilgrimage at Mariahilf situated on top. It was a great physical and spiritual afternoon for us.

Equally impressive but on a much smaller scale, the high altar of Mariahilf, on our personal pilgrimage.

The Viking Magni set sail at 6:00 PM and we reluctantly said goodbye to Passau and to Germany because we were headed to Austria next.

After port talk and dinner,  Tessa hosted a presentation in the lounge about Vienna coffeehouses and the delicacies they would offer to tempt us, and also on Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. The busy day concluded with dancing in the lounge for those who still had energy!

Good evening from the beautiful foyer of the Magni during our Viking Grand European Tour.

Day 11: Viking Grand European Tour, Melk, Austria

I personally was saddened to leave Passau because (although I loved all the cities we visited) Passau ranked very high on the top of my favorites list. That was until we arrived at Melk, Austria. Little did I realize the day in store for us!

It was 36* F when we woke up to this lovely view of the misty Danube in Melk, Austria. 

By this time in our Viking Grand European Tour, Robyne and I made great use of our stateroom refrigerator, stocking it with fruit, snacks, peanut butter and bread. We often had breakfast in our stateroom, which allowed us to leisurely lounge around longer before we started our busy days.

On the balcony of the iconic Melk Abbey above the city during our visit to Melk, Austria on our Viking Grand European Tour.

Scheduled this morning was a tour of the most famous abbey in Austria,  Melk Abbey. We were on our motorcoach by 9:35 AM and rode up the hill to the abbey. We met our guide at the entrance who immediately explained the history and architecture of Melk Abbey. Once we entered the abbey, there was no photography permitted. The surveillance cameras were everywhere and volunteers monitored visitors in each room.

The Grand Room of  Melk Abbey. NO photography after this. Strictly enforced!

Melk Abbey was originally a royal palace and our tour took us through rooms used in the past by royalty as their apartments, grand halls, and even a library. In the 1200s the palace was turned over to the monks who turned it into a fortification.

The church was simply the MOST BEAUTIFUL GORGEOUS church I have ever visited in my life. The kaleidoscope of colors, the stunning gold carved pulpit, and the jaw-dropping extravaganza of Baroque architecture defies description!

The 900-year-old abbey is still run by Benedictine monks today and there is a monastery school with 700 students as well.

After touring the gift shop and purchasing some souvenirs, we decided to walk back to the Magni with our friends Fran and Dan, through the very charming and lovely city of Melk. We did some shopping, and then some more shopping. And soon it was time to head back to the boat for lunch.

Shopping in the delightful Austrian village of Melk. One of us was very lucky, yes?!

The Magni was sailing at 1:30 PM through the Wachau Valley on our way to Krems. The Wachau Valley of Austria is considered the most scenic stretch of the Danube River. Eighteen miles of it are designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here we are toasting Prost! during lunch in the Aquavit Terrace, before drinking the German herbal liqueur Jagermeister. We were informed of this approach to care for my cough/cold from the Viking bar staff. Thank you so much!

Tessa, our program director, began narrating as we sailed through this enchanting area at 1:45 PM. We passed steep hillsides where vineyards thrived and the grapes needed to be harvested by hand, countless charming towns and numerous castles and castle ruins.

Lovely Austrian countryside in the Wachau Valley on our Viking Grand European Tour.

In the lounge, later on in the afternoon, there was an apple strudel workshop, where guests were taught how to assemble an authentic Austrian apple strudel.  And Austrian tea time with delicious delicacies was also offered in the lounge after that.  There was hardly never a time when Viking did not offer some enriching event for us. We were free to attend, or not. It was really nice to have such options though to choose from during our Viking Grand European Tour.

At 4:00 PM The Viking Magni arrived in Krems, Austria, for the rest of the afternoon. We did not have the opportunity to explore Krems because Robyne and I elected to sign up for an optional tour: Wachau Valley Winery . Now I am not a wine drinker at all, but this specific tour intrigued me. How delicious must the wine be whose grapes are cultivated in the rich soils of this UNESCO designated World Heritage Site!

In the wine sampling room with the vintner and winery owner Erhard Morwald.

We were on our motorcoach by 4:15 PM and because our local tour guide, Trinka,  who accompanied us to the winery was so funny, we knew it was going to be a great afternoon. The ride to the winery was only 30 minutes or so, and before we realized it, we were there. As soon as we arrived we were greeted by the winery owner, Erhard Morwald.  He was very personable, spoke with limited English, but between our guide and him, we understood everything. Collectively they were so funny and the tour flew by.

Touring the winery and seeing all of the awards his vineyards have won and are still winning, was amazing. It was here we learned that the Morwald Vineyards produce over 350,000 bottles of red and white house wines for the Viking Cruise Lines each year, and have done so since the 1990s.

Showing Mr. Morwald our appreciation!

Next, the wine sampling! The wine sampling room was bright and spacious.  There were several servers who poured while the vintner explained each pour and how he favored them. We sampled three whites and three reds. Generous samplings, I might add. And then, the apricot Schnapps also made at the winery, appeared. Oh boy, we were having a good time! I can honestly say though, I am not a fan of Schnapps. The walnut bread served alongside the wines was a delicacy in itself.

Alas, the afternoon passed by too quickly and it was time to head back to the Magni. Well, that was, after we looked in the gift shop! Trinka, our guide, was pouring yet another delicacy, red wine liqueur. It was very delicious and I purchased a bottle to bring back home with me. I’m sorry to say I think I made a mistake by not buying more!

Here we are in the Morwald Winery gift shop sampling their red wine liqueur with our friends Charlie and Rose Marie.

You can only imagine what a fun bus ride we had heading through the Wachau Valley in Austria at dusk. The sky was alive with color.  We were late returning and missed the port call, but were right on time for dinner.

I can speak for Robyne and myself in saying the trip to the Morwald Winery in the Wachau Valley was our favorite optional excursion of all during our Viking Grand European Tour , and we both highly recommend it. Highly. You do not have to be a wine drinker to thoroughly enjoy this experience. I do not drink wine at all and I simply loved it!

The Magni dining room was very festive to celebrate our Taste of Austria!

To celebrate our arrival into Austria, the staff of the Magni held a special dinner for us: Taste of Austria.  It was an Austrian buffet, with local dishes, the staff all dressed in local Austrian costumes, and there was a father/son team of strolling musicians playing their accordions, serenading everyone. It was very festive and very much fun!

Our team in the Magni lounge, ready for the music trivia game.

To top off the evening of a very busy and very remarkable day, Tessa conducted another fun game in the lounge, a music quiz. Thank you, Viking for one of the most amazing days we have ever had on our Viking Grand European Tour!

Up and on their feet dancing during the music trivia game in the lounge to end another fantastic day on our Viking Grand European Tour river cruise. Bonus points if you guess what song they are dancing to!

The Viking Magni set sail at 9:55 PM heading to Vienna.

Day 12: Viking Grand European Tour, Vienna, Austria (Day 1)

Today in Vienna, our included excursion departed the Magni at 9:15 AM. We were docked several miles from the city center, so we rode the Viking motorcoaches into town. Our local guide pointed out all the different styles of gorgeous architecture as we rode along the Ringstrasse , the wide boulevard that encircles the inner city.

Our motorcoaches during the Viking Grand European Tour were always first-class, like this one ready to transport us to Vienna.

Vienna is the capital of Austria and displays a more elegant and romantic vibe. Also known as the City of Waltzes, Vienna is Europe’s center of classical music.

Ornate statues and fountains like this one abound in Vienna.

It was an hour-long ride to the city center, winding our way past palaces and public buildings so ornate they could have been palaces, as our guide pointed out the highlights. Finally, we reached the city center of Vienna. Talk about world-class shopping! Think of a store, Vienna has it.

Vienna City Center with a wealth of shopping to please every budget. And restaurants galore.

One of the most difficult things to decide was where to stop for coffee and Sachertorte. Coffee in Vienna is a cultural pastime and there are quaint Viennese coffee houses everywhere. Sachertorte is a rich decadent iced chocolate cake served with unsweetened whipped cream.

Opulent buildings such as these were around every corner on every street in Vienna!

With our guide narrating, we walked by the Spanish Riding School stables where we got a quick glance of the Lipizzaner stallions. They were beautiful animals. In the middle of the town square was the Gothic-inspired St. Stephan’s Cathedral. I was very disappointed that walking through the church was prohibited the day we visited and locals were stationed throughout the rear of the church explaining that.  The Gothic architecture on the walls and ceiling was certainly evident though.

Beautiful Gothic St. Stephan’s Cathedral in Vienna City Center. I was so disappointed we could not walk around more to admire it. 

After our guided coach and walking tour of Vienne concluded, we decided to walk back to the Magni, with our friends Fran and Dan. We used the GPS on Dan’s phone because Vienna was a huge city and we didn’t want to get lost. Turns out we were really only 2 miles from the ship.

A statue honoring Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria

After lunch, Robyne and I decided to head back into the city for some shopping. Our friends accompanied us and gave us a quick lesson on using the train. I’m quite overwhelmed when it comes to the subway or trains in other countries, but this time since we only had two stops to go each time, it was easy.

We shopped the day away and barely made it back to the boat for dinner! A good portion of the Viking Magni guests accompanying us on the Viking Grand European Tour were attending the optional excursion: Classical Concert. The music of Mozart and Strauss was to be played. We decided not to do this excursion, but 100% of everyone we spoke to upon their return simply gushed about how lovely it was in such an opulent setting. On behalf of all of them, I would recommend this optional tour on your Viking Grand European Tour river cruise.

Since those guests participating in the classical concert had a 5:30 PM early dinner seating, the Magni offered a late night snack for them of goulash at 10:30 PM upon their return.

Day 13: Viking Grand European Tour, Vienna, Austria (Day 2)

Our second day in Vienna began with the optional excursion we selected: Schonbrunn Palace . We boarded our Viking motorcoach at 9:30 AM for the ride to the palace. The local guide that accompanied us explained the sights along the way and about the Hapsburg family that used the palace as their summer vacation retreat. (Can you even imagine!?)

On a busy morning, we were eager to see the Hapsburg vacation palace.

Upon arrival we were surprised at the palace’s size – it was remarkably large! Matter of fact, it was built to rival the expansive Versailles Palace located outside Paris. Again, once inside we were not permitted to take pictures of the sheer opulence. It was indescribable. We toured room after room of sumptuous decadence and it was all beyond beautiful.

After the tour, we were encouraged to stroll through the expansive gardens. it was such a lovely sunny afternoon and we took advantage of it.

It was a beautiful day for a stroll through the Schonbrunn Palace Gardens.

We were back at the Viking Magni in time for a delicious lunch. We had our afternoon free until the Magni cast off at 4:00 PM so Robyne and I headed back out because we heard there was an Octoberfest celebration nearby.

Our destination was very easy for us to get to, no phone GPS needed, because we simply headed to the huge Ferris wheel in the distance, the Weiner Riesenrad. The Prater amusement park was less than 2 miles from where our ship was docked and very crowded on that Friday afternoon. It was not difficult to locate the Octoberfest celebrations once we arrived, we simply headed to the singing and laughing and music!

Robyne and I had so much fun at Octoberfest in Vienna during our Viking Grand European Tour.

All too fast 3:00 PM arrived and we headed back to the Magni.   An enrichment lecture entitled Austrian History was being presented onboard in the lounge by a professor from the local Austrian University.  What could have been a dry or uninspiring lecture actually turned out to be very interesting and entertaining.  As with all Viking presentations, this one was no different: the speaker had great command of the subject matter and presented it in an engaging manner. I would recommend when on your Viking Grand European Tour you attend this presentation.

Very interesting presentation in the Magni lounge on Austrian history. We made a point to attend as many of the enrichment activities as we could.

At 4:00 PM the Viking Magni set sail for Budapest, Hungary.

We spent many afternoons out on the top deck during our Viking Grand European Tour cruise, and it was a very popular way to meet other guests. Here we are as the Magni departed Vienna.

As much as we did not want to think about it, our Viking Grand European Tour river cruise of a lifetime was coming to an end. At her port talk this evening, not only did we learn about Budapest excursions, but Tessa began sharing the disembarkation process with us. It was an overview of what was involved, and the next evening, she would handle specifics.

Here our program director, Tessa, was instructing us on the disembarkation process .

Our busy evening ended with dinner and dancing to Oldies but Goodies in the lounge. And yes, they did take requests!

We met several of our neighbors when we were all out on our balconies during our Viking Grand European Tour as the Magni passed through the locks on the Danube. Here you can see from the wet walls all the way from the top to the bottom of this picture how far we were lowered before we could continue sailing.

Day 14: Viking Grand European Tour, Budapest, Hungary (Day 1)

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is definitely a visually beautiful city, indeed. The Danube River cuts the city in half: the more cosmopolitan elegant Pest on one side and the more traditional Buda on the other.  The Viking Magni was docked right near the iconic Chain Bridge, a very convenient location for exploring.

This outstanding view was outside our stateroom balcony, looking up to Fishermen’s Bastion on the Buda side of the Danube River. 

We met our local guide at 9:00 AM for our included shore excursion: Panoramic Budapest. We boarded our Viking motorcoach right near the Magni and took a wonderful tour all through Budapest. We began in Buda, the hilly historical part of the city, with our guide narrating along the way.

Matthias Church in Fishermen’s Bastion in Budapest

Our coach brought us partially up Fishermen’s Hill where we were let off and walked up to Fishermen’s Bastion. It was a very crowded Saturday morning, but we still were able to immerse ourselves in the Hungarian history around us. The grand and mighty Matthias Church stood tall in the Bastion with an inspiring story all its own.  The panoramic vistas of the Danube and Pest from high up on Fishermen’s Bastion were unbelievable.

Turkish influences were apparent everywhere inside Matthias Church. Here is the grand high altar.

The opulent details of the past Turkish influence are visible everywhere in Matthias Church in Budapest.

Soon it was time to walk back down Fishermen’s Hill to our Viking motorcoach. We continued our motorcoach tour on to the modern Pesh side of the city. We saw Hero’s Square, and the National Opera House, a slab of the dreaded Berlin wall, and the Hungarian Parliament Building.

A very grim reminder indeed of the Berlin Wall.

The most moving, the most emotional monument we encountered, in my opinion, was Shoes on the Danube . Commemorating when the Hungarian Nazis killed Jewish Hungarian citizens on the banks of the Danube River, then threw their bodies into the river, it is now a very popular location. There are always candles and flowers placed in and around the brass shoes. Although they deeply regret what happened, the Hungarian citizens are not sweeping it away as it is part of their history.

A very haunting memorial: The Shoes on the Danube

We were back at the Viking Magni after a very wonderful and enlightening tour of Budapest for lunch.

As one of the final things we would be participating in on our Viking Grand European Tour river cruise, Robyne and I chose the optional excursion: Budapest thermal baths.  Relaxing in the rejuvenating waters of the Hungarian spas is a cultural tradition and has been a way of life for centuries.

Our motorcoach picked us up at 2:00 PM and we drove to the Szechenyi Baths and Swimming Pool on the Pest side. The Viking Magni provided robes and slippers for us, and of course, we wore our bathing suits. (I brought a pair of flip flops too.) We found out that the  Szechenyi Baths is one of the largest spa complexes in all of Europe. Many services were offered and I needed a map to get around.

The Szechenyi Baths and Swimming Pool outdoor pools in Budapest on our Viking Grand European Tour.  Yes, gets very crowded!

Wherever water was located, there was a sign informing us of the temperature of the waters. My favorites were the steam chambers. I liked the dry heat saunas too but steam is my thing! I was grateful these rooms were designated as quiet zones because the spa was very crowded and very loud on a busy Saturday afternoon and I appreciated the few moments of peaceful quiet.

Indoor pools. Outdoor pools. It was all quite overwhelming and wonderful at the same time. I  recommend this optional tour on the Viking Grand European Tour to get a first-hand look at Hungarian culture up close, but be warned, it can be very crowded, and you could be in waters with lots of peoples. And it can be loud!

All too soon our afternoon of soaking in the nourishing spas was over and we were headed back to the Magni, and our last evening of our Viking Grand European Tour.

The final farewell from Tessa, our program director all 15 days of the Viking Grand European Tour river cruise, and Magni Captain Mykola and Hotel Manager Peter.

Since no money changed hands on board the Viking Baldur and the Viking Magni during the course of our fifteen day Viking Grand European Tour, this was the evening to settle up our onboard account. The reception desk was staffed from 6:00 to 11:00 for this purpose.

The Captain’s Cocktail Party was festive with laughing, hugging, and tears. We had a final farewell toast celebrating our journey with Viking, all the new friendships that were formed and the memories-of-a-lifetime that were made.

The final farewell was given by Tessa, our program director for the entirety of the 15 day Viking Grand European Tour.  She was our organizer, our leader. She was always around whenever and wherever we needed her. If someone was having a problem or difficulty, she was always there. She made the trip! Thank you, Tessa, for an unbelievable and outstanding job as program director on our Viking Grand European Tour!

After our last dinner on the river cruise, we spent our final evening dancing in the lounge and saying goodbye to all of our friends. And then to packing for our trip back home….

Hungarian Parliament in all her splendor!

Day 15: Viking Grand European Tour, Budapest, Hungary (Day 2)

Viking had arranged Robyne’s and my transportation to the Budapest Airport as part of their services before we left home for the trip. The staff of the Magni had published departure information yesterday for all guests. My sister and I were instructed to leave our luggage outside of our stateroom door by 7:00 AM.

Since all passengers were leaving at all sorts of times throughout the night and early morning, breakfasts at the coffee stations and the Aquavit Terrace began at 2:30 AM. Breakfast in the main dining hall was from 6 – 9:00 AM. A new group of passengers would be arriving by 11:00 AM this morning and the staff needed to prepare the ship. All passengers from OUR Viking Grand  European Tour were required to be off the ship by 9:00 AM.

We went into the main dining hall for a warm breakfast and were ready to leave by the appointed 8:15 AM time. There was a full motorcoach of fellow passengers departing with us to the airport. All of our luggage had been transported from the ship to the coach and was lined up in numerical order, according to our room numbers, and we were responsible to verify each piece of luggage we brought with us was present. Then it was loaded up in the coach and we boarded. There was one final bittersweet farewell to Tessa, and we were off.

The airport was about 30 minutes away, and the passenger drop off where we pulled up was extremely busy. Robyne and my luggage was unloaded quickly, and instead of staying with the group and the Viking rep we decided to get a head start and go inside the terminal ourselves. Once inside it was an overwhelming madhouse with people and luggage everywhere, every which way. Realizing our mistake we rejoined the group and the Viking representative expertly directed us to the proper check-in location. Lesson learned!

After this, we were on our own and our Viking Grand European Tour river cruise had come to its official end.

Robyne and I gate side at the Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport giving the Hungarian herb liqueur Unicum a try. When on a Viking Grand European River Cruise, there’s always an adventure waiting to happen. 

Have you ever been on a Viking river cruise? What is your favorite memory? Please share with us in the comment section below. Do you have any questions regarding a Viking European river cruise? Please ask away in the comment section below.

Please note: I was provided a complimentary Viking Grand European Tour river cruise for myself and a guest, and a stipend, as an opportunity through Viking Cruises for the purpose of this honest review. All opinions are my own unless otherwise noted.

Reader Interactions

December 3, 2018 at 5:20 pm

Looks amazing! What were the dates of your trip?

December 3, 2018 at 11:38 pm

The last two weeks of September

May 29, 2019 at 2:05 pm

My wife and I read your report in preparation for our GERC in 21 days. Thank you very much, we found it very interesting to read in preparation for our own trip. Excellent!

May 29, 2019 at 9:49 pm

I am so pleased I was able to make your preparations for your upcoming trip a little easier. I know you will have the BEST time.

June 11, 2019 at 10:34 am

Your narrative said May 2019..when did you take this cruise? I am especially interested in river water levels. Taking this cruise in July.

June 11, 2019 at 1:35 pm

My cruise was in Sept, 2018, after an especially dry summer. What really impressed me thoroughly though, was HOW Viking dealt with the situation. It was disruptive for guests no doubt, but having a sister ship a few hours away (an a/c, WiFi equipped coach ride) so we were able to continue on our trip, was amazing.

June 11, 2019 at 10:36 am

When did you take this cruise..I’m particularly interested in water levels as will be taking it July 2019.

June 11, 2019 at 1:38 pm

In September 2018 after an especially dry summer. Viking handled the situation expertly.

November 15, 2019 at 10:49 am

Loved reading your fantastic review of the grand European river cruise. It was so informative. Eight of us are taking this cruise next October. Thank you so much.

November 19, 2019 at 8:27 am

You are very welcome. Going with a group will be so much fun.

March 26, 2020 at 9:11 am

Glad to see such a great post,As i was looking for the same one ,As i was on vacation.Thanks for sharing such a great post.

March 10, 2022 at 1:49 pm

I enjoyed reading your adventures on the Viking Grand European river tour. I am going on the same tour this coming June. I lost my husband last June 2021 and I will be traveling solo. I am curious if you encountered any solo travelers. I’m excited, but a little nervous traveling by myself.

January 9, 2024 at 11:37 pm

Hi Cheryl, just saw your reply to Lindaontherun, who traveled with her sister on Vikings 15 day river tour. My daughter and I are going on the tour leaving Amsterdam June 9th. My husband passed away in July23. We had this trip booked before he became ill. Had to cancel.. So my daughter and I rebooked and are going to go together. So if your going’ on June 9th. Look us up on the boat. Or on this site. I guess you can asked on boat what room we are in. I hope this isn’t to forward. I just thought I would give you a heads up. Lois Scardina

March 16, 2022 at 5:13 pm

Cheryl, I am so sorry to learn about the loss of your husband. I was with my sister on this particular sailing. However, I have cruised solo and it is a wonderful experience. And, with river cruising, the number of travelers onboard is smaller, allowing more opportunities to run into the same people, thus making friends. I wish you the best time ever!!!

April 9, 2022 at 6:34 pm

My husband and I like to explore independently and I read that you sometimes took the excursion coach into town, went on all or part of the tour, and then sometimes made your own way back to the ship. If we sign up for the included tours and then decide to go it on our own for all or part of the excursion, is Viking OK with that? I’m guessing that they are. I’m thinking that we might stick with the excursion if town is far from the dock or if there is an admission fee that comes with the excursion and when we want to skip something or just set off on our own, we will do that. Thanks for your excellent report here.

April 12, 2022 at 4:16 pm

To be totally sure, I would consult Viking before your journey. I found this cruise line VERY accommodating to travelers’ needs. You are free to take all or part of a tour. The staff is very eager and ready to give advice on alternate things to do, places to visit, how to get back to the ship, tips on local transportation, etc… Hope you have the cruise-of-a-lifetime with Viking!

April 12, 2022 at 4:20 pm

November 16, 2022 at 11:43 am

On the Viking included shore excursion in Vienna did they give you the option of not going back on the bus to the ship and where was the last stop?

In Budapest you were docked on the Buda side or the Pest side?

[…] Viking River Cruise’s Grand European Tour, Highlights Part 2  […]

[…] Read next: Week two of my Viking Grand European Tour […]

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• River Cruising

Excursions on Viking Grand European

By texbecca , September 21, 2022 in River Cruising

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My partner and I are going on our first river cruise May 2023. (Viking Grand European A-B). The window to sign up for excursions will open next month. I want to be prepared because I've heard some of the more popular excursions will sell out. Which excursions are the best? On various posts, I've read a couple of mentions recommending the Top of Cologne tour as well as a wine tour. Are there others that we should consider?

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I have been on the GET and also several times along the Danube with other Viking cruises.

Of the optional ones (i.e. at an extra charge) listed on the 2023 GET itinerary I have been on

VIENNA -Historic Farmers’ Market Visit With Local Chef.

so-so I quite enjoyed it at the time but the market is not huge and I wouldn't go again. You could visit the market yourself, it's only a short ride on the Metro from where the boat is moored

VIENNA -Mozart & Strauss Concert

I didn't want to go to this and Mrs P paid and dragged me along unwillingly. I loved it, and we've been back twice and would go again next time we pass through Vienna.

MELK - Wachau Valley Winery

I'm a wine geek and book wine tastings. Last time we were in Wachau Viking had a visit to Morwald winery which was hosted by owner/winemaker Earhard Morwald. His wines used to be the red and white house wines for Viking - when it was smaller than it is today. The visit was great. 

But the blurb doesn't name the winery that is visited so it's anyones guess what the visit will be.

The most grown white - and what Austria is famous for - is Gruner Veltliner, a beautiful dry crisp white. The most grown black grape is the Bluer Zweigelt, often just known at Zweigelt, a light fruity red wine. Quality of Austrian wines is top notch.

19 hours ago, texbecca said: My partner and I are going on our first river cruise May 2023. (Viking Grand European A-B). The window to sign up for excursions will open next month. I want to be prepared because I've heard some of the more popular excursions will sell out. Which excursions are the best? On various posts, I've read a couple of mentions recommending the Top of Cologne tour as well as a wine tour. Are there others that we should consider?

We just did the GET Amsterdam to Budapest in August.  Unfortunately most of the optional tours we booked were cancelled, due to changes in our itinerary, caused by low water levels, and the need for the ship to keep moving along and pick us up in different locations.  I can comment on the optional tours that we did take.  We took the tour of Rothenburg, with the Bishops Residenz in the afternoon, which we found very enjoyable.  If you enjoy art, or art history, the Klimt workshop in Vienna is very good.  Belvedere Palace is beautiful.  A private guide meets you at Belvedere, gives you a tour, tells you about Klimt, including viewing his art works, then you decorate a mirror with gold leaf.  Unfortunately, neither of us are very artistically inclined, so our finished product was pretty amateurish, but we had fun trying.  We also took the trip/boat ride to Scharding Austria.  It turned out to be a very fun excursion, which I mostly attributed to our excellent tour guide, Eva.  Scharding is picturesque, we had an easy workshop, making seasoned salt, with a mortar/ pestle, and took a boat ride on a salt barge replica, where the beer flowed freely.  Apparently, the Life under Communism tour sells out the fastest in Budapest, along with the Lippizaner excursion in Vienna.  We got the last 2 tickets for Life under Communism, and they usually don't add slots, because you can drive a Soviet era Trabant, and only a limited # of cars are available.  Alas, this was one of our cancelled excursions, since our ship was not docked in Budapest, and we had to be bussed 90 minutes each way, so we didn't have enough time to do the tour.  Even though we didn't go on the Saltzburg tour, if you are a fan of The Sound of Music, those passengers who went, gave it good reviews. Same for the Winery Tour, which we didn't go to, but fellow passengers enjoyed it.  Hope this helps a little.

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Viking River Cruise - Grand European Tour

In June of 2017 my husband and I traveled with Viking River Cruises on their Skirnir Ship. For 15 days we traveled the Rhine and Danube rivers from Amsterdam to Budapest. We just can't say enough about this tour and Viking. The ship, crew, food and excursions was more that we could have ever hoped for!! Every meal felt like we were dining in a five star restaurant. The staff was attentive to our every need. Stephen Guy, our program director, was like a shepherd, tending to his flock. He kept track of everyone while they were off the ship. The local tour guides were very informative, giving us detailed history of their beloved cities. we met many new friends and had fun every minute of every day. We will be taking another cruise with Viking Cruise Lines. They are the best in the industry!!

Viking river cruises and their crews are the best in the business. First class all the way. We did the rhine river from basel to amsterdam and could not have had a better time.

Nuremberg to Budapest was our second river cruise on Viking. The first the Rhine was very good. This sevond was a disaster, a rippoff. Because of where the boat was docked we spent the first three days waiting fot the lock tp open being bused to our itinerary cities. Then once underway Viking never recovered schedule, due in my opinion to propulsion problems with the boat. We missed on major destinstion and sailed through the most scenic part in the dark arroving a day late in Budapest. Viking offered us only a 20% discount credit of only our cabin cost toward another cruise within a year. Attempts to negotiate aore equitable settlement were obfuscated by Viking and in the end we were given an onerous one sided Non Disclosure which it was purported to us that if we signed it we would get a 30% credit. No refunds. No admission of their incompetence and faulty equipment. We turned it down. There are many cruising alternatives and they just can't be any more arrogant. Too bad as we had liked our first cruise.

The river cruise itself met more than our expectations. The staff, food, rooms and excursions were fantastic. We took several of the optional tours to Salzburg, Rothenberg and Kunta Hora which we did not regret. Unfortunately we will not take another Viking cruise due to the marketing hook of cheap air fares at the expense of horrible flight itineraries and inconveniences that their customer service staff seems to be completely indifferent to any complaint. Also, the hotel in Prague for the post trip extension was substandard in both room accommodations and city placement.

Sailed on the one week Viking Forseti cruise out of Bordeaux on June 10, 2017. A superb experience. Cuisine was top-notch, and the staff highly trained and accommodating. The tour director, Filiz, could not be more skilled at her job. (She even graciously accepted my unsolicited edits to the English of a few on-board publications. I'm sure she had more pressing issues to deal with.)The front desk (Ana) and our waiters (Robert, Djoko, Marina) were excellent.I am a very experienced cruiser, both ocean and river. This one I would rate one of the best ever, if not the finest overall. Viking is really at the top of their game.

This was our first river cruise. We were on the Viking Jarl, it was a fairly new ship. Will have to be a great cruise before going back to the Caribbean. You had changing scenery ever minute. With also a small ship 170 passengers, you were treated very well. Within a few days the staff knew you name as well as cabin number. Food was excellent! We were a group of 6 and one had food allergies. They brought the next days menu to her every night to chose her meal . Same as ours except without the things she was ellergect to. We also bought the Silver drink package. Well worth the money if you would like try different wines and beers. We took several optional tours, as well as the included. Both exceptional. They hire local guides that live in the city. Would do it again in a heart beat on a different river.

Viking Grand European Tour: The Ultimate Guide

If you are planning to book your Viking Grand European Tour 15 day cruise, look no further. This comprehensive guide will give you all the information to have the best cruise possible.

One of the best features of this fifteen day itinerary is that you get both a Danube River Cruise and a Rhine River Cruise, all in one. Viking offers a plethora of European itineraries to choose from, but I am biased and will say this one was fantastic.

There are so many wonderful stops along the rivers and so much history and beauty to see in each port. What is even better is that each day brings something new.

Passau, Germany

As a seasoned ocean cruiser, I did not know what to expect on a river cruise, but I am so glad I got to go on one. There are not many similarities between ocean and river cruises but they all have their special qualities.

I think what I found to be one of the best incentives of the smaller river cruise was that you never got lost among the people. All the staff know who you are, they know what you like and don’t like, if you have allergies, etc. The staff is superior on Viking and they are going to make sure you have the best trip you could ask for.

Cruising The Danube

Viking Grand European Tour: Know Before You Go

Würzburg’s Bishops’ Residenz

• deciding on an itinerary – for the Viking Grand European Tour 15 day cruise, we opted to go Budapest to Amsterdam but you can go Amsterdam to Budapest as well. We chose this route specifically because of a desire to have more time in Budapest to explore the city more in depth
• choosing a room – I can’t stress enough that having a balcony room is the best way to go. You spend a lot of time on the rivers and you can easily sit on your balcony and watch all the cute towns, castles, and so forth pass you by. Grab a wine and watch the sun go down or a coffee and watch it rise
• tables are shared during dining and this is an excellent way to meet new people and make new friends on board. You do not have to sit in the same spot everyday and are free to dine around. We sat in every section available to try all the servers during our Viking Grand European Tour
• there is a coffee, tea and water bar that usually has baked goods like cookies or muffins available
• in Budapest – Hungarian goulash
• in Vienna – sachertorte, schnitzel and strudel
• in Germany – pretzels, sausage, beer, and sauerkraut
• in The Netherlands – stroopwafle
• after you book log in to “ MyVikingJourney ” – set up your account so that you can access your itinerary, book excursions, find documents and make sure everything is done prior to boarding, see the ports, add enhancements for your trip, and much more
• booking excursions – it is said that excursions fill up before departure, and I did notice that some were full months before. You can book them right in your MyVikingJourney account online, including the free ones, and you will be set to go
• cruise information – Viking will send out luggage tags and a book with all your cruise info in it well before the cruise starts. In the book you will find everything you need to know about the ship, port guide with tours, and questions you may have, etc
• since we came into Budapest early, we had to get to the river on our own. In the booklet that Viking sends out before your cruise, it shows where the boat should be. It is in one of three spots on the Danube close to each other. There is a number and email address you can contact if need be
• embarkation – getting to the dock was easy and when we arrived we walked onto the ship with our luggage where one of the staff took it to our room. We checked in and made it to our room within minutes. Since there are no scheduled tours the day of, we went back out into Budapest to explore on our own
• dress code – casual. Most of your time is out in ports exploring and you want to be comfortable, especially on cobblestone and uneven terrain in older buildings. For dinner you are free to get dressed up but it is not the rule
• Because I needed to be able to work while I was away, I brought my WiFi hotspot to use while I was out in ports and it worked perfectly.
• currency – how much to bring and where to exchange: there is not an ATM on board, and thus you should bring cash with you. I brought $400 Euros and that was plenty. I was able to use my Visa in many of the ports as well for shopping or extra dining
• additionally, we tipped our housekeeper and servers for going above and beyond
• I did not extend my trip in Amsterdam because I was short on time, but I have also been to the city before. If you get a chance to see the Amsterdam tulips , I highly recommend it. The W Hotel in Amsterdam is also a wonderful luxury property with easy walking access to attractions.
• purchase insurance – travel insurance is a necessity to protect you and your trip as you never know what could happen
• example: we had arranged to go directly to the airport. Our luggage was due outside our door at 8:30am and our ride was there at 9:30 am. We were take to the airport in Amsterdam and Viking staff on the ground helped with our bags and checking in for our flights.
• elevator – there is an elevator on board. The only floor it does not go to is the very top deck
• 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports in each room – you do not have to pack converters if you do not want to. I packed a power bar because I have so many items that need to be charged and wanted to make sure we had plenty of outlets available
• things that are not on board – medical services, a store for toiletries, medications, room service, spa
• laundry – this service is available on board and priced very nicely! We did not pack for cold weather and it was cold and rainy a lot of our trip, so we needed to have our warmer wear washed a few times. It was always back same day or within 24 hours
• shop on board – there is a small shop in the reception area that sells items like jackets, fleeces, postcards, napkin holders, books, etc
• postcards – you can buy stamps from the front desk AND they will mail out your postcards for you
• first floor is all rooms
• second floor is rooms, reception, the store, and the restaurant
• third floor is rooms, the lounge, library, coffee and tea stations, Aquavit Terrace
• fourth floor is the rooftop and you will find a walking track, shuffleboard, putting green, herb garden, and smoking area
• when the rooftop closes for a portion of the trip, they bring smoking to the third floor on the balcony
• viking daily – each night your housekeeper will leave  Viking Daily in your room that includes all the information you will need to know for the next day. You will find information on the port, what time each tour departs, places of interest in case you opt not to take tours, if there are buses provided by Viking into the city center, meal times (a few times it was different), weather, arrival and departure, if there is evening entertainment, a daily nautical term, “on this day” in history section, and so much more
• daily printed newspaper headlines from a variety of countries
• complimentary water and umbrellas during tours
• motion sickness – i rarely felt the boat move unless we were in locks, but even then, it was not anything like an ocean cruise. It would be a small movement or so and then we would carry on. I barely felt the ship move at all when we were cruising down the river
• language – all staff and tour guides spoke in English
• quietvox for tours – in your stateroom there is a quietvox for each passenger to take on tours. It comes with a left earphone only (bring headphones if you have trouble hearing on your left side) and when you meet with your tour guide they will activate it so that you can hear them on your tours

Viking Grand European Tour: Life on Board

This was one of the most asked questions I received from my viewers. To be honest, you spend about 50% of your time in ports exploring and the other 50% on board eating meals, sleeping, showering, and utilizing free time.

I purposely booked my tours on top of each other to maximize my time in ports. If there were days where i could do a morning and afternoon or even an evening excursion too, I almost always did it. By doing this, I cut some of my time on board down in favor of seeing more of the cities.

However, life on board is just as you would expect. Lots of eating, hanging out with fellow passengers, playing games, watching sunrise and sunsets, relaxing with a cocktail, reading books, watching TV, walking laps on the rooftop – you could really do anything.

I would highly recommend taking it easy on board and enjoying your down time. Its a very nice experience to go out into ports each day and learn about the places you visit and then have a wonderful place to come home to with cooked meals and friendly faces. A lot of people talked about their day and the excursions they went on or self exploration.

Everyone on board was very friendly, staff included. It becomes more of a friend atmosphere because the group is so small and you are together for fifteen days.

Staterooms:

The Viking Baldur offers 95 staterooms over five categories to include: 2 Explorer Suites, 7 Veranda Suites, 39 Veranda Staterooms, 22 French Balcony Staterooms, and 25 Standard Staterooms.

Veranda Stateroom

During our time on board our Viking Grand European Tour, we stayed in a Veranda Stateroom, room 221. Here is what was included in our room:

• size was about 205 square feet
• full size veranda offering river views and floor to ceiling glass doors
• king size bed or option for two twins
• reading lights for each side of the bed
• 2 nightstands with drawers
• vanity area with mirror and outlets
• additional sitting chair in room
• 40″ TV programmed with a location map, movies and TV shows
• 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
• telephone, safe, refrigerator, hair dryer & individual climate control
• private bathroom with heated flooring, glass shower and anti-fog mirror
• premium Freyja® toiletrie
• spacious wardrobe and drawers
• twice daily housekeeping
• water replaced daily
• robes and slippers available upon request

We found our room to be of good size for this adventure through Europe. We opted for the two twin beds and slept pretty well each night. When we arrived, we unpacked our suitcases and they fit easily under our beds as to not take up any of the space in the room. The closet and drawer space was plentiful for our needs and we even had room to spare.

Welcome Gift From Viking

The bathroom was a nice size for a cruise room. Our housekeeper cleaned it twice a day, leaving us fresh towels and toiletries when needed.

Everyone on board our cruise was watching “Downton Abbey.” Viking was kind enough to put the entire series on the TV for everyone to binge watch during their trip. I could overhear conversations about the show throughout the cruise and everyone seemed to love it.

We had the BEST housekeeper! He brought us snacks when we requested them and he was just the sweetest.

Viking Grand European Tour: Dining on Board

Dinner Table

One thing that I really loved about the dining on board this Viking cruise was the consistency in dining times, knowing what to expect and the always changing regional menus.

Available 24/7 are two coffee and tea stations outside of the lounge. You can help yourself to a variety of teas, coffee drinks, flat and sparkling water, and there was usually pastries, cookies or something of that nature in the baskets to snack on. Often, the pastry chef would make baked goods that were local to the region. I remember when we were in Kinderdijk stroopwafles were made and they were the absolute best!

Breakfast was essentially the same everyday. From 6-11 continental breakfast was available on the Aquavit Terrace and a buffet and sit down hot breakfast was available in the dining room from 7-10am. The breakfast menu never changed and included items like french toast, eggs Benedict, pancakes, etc. The buffet always had an omelette and egg station, hot meats, breads and pastries, yogurts, fresh fruits, and so much more.

French Toast

Lunch went from about 1230-2pm each day on board and was a buffet style plus a menu. You could mix and match items from the buffet and the menu.

On the buffet you would find build your own salad items, a new pasta station everyday, fresh fruits, side items and salads, etc. The menu was different each day (with the exception of the cheeseburger and hot dog always being available) and always had items like soup, sandwiches, burgers, etc.

Additionally, you could get dessert everyday at lunch and it was new everyday. Lunch was actually my favorite meal on this Viking Grand European Tour. I loved how creative chef was with the soups and pastas!

Salad Bar Toppings

Dinner started at 7pm almost every single night and went until about 9pm. Everyone pretty much came between 7-730.

At 715 there would be a few tables available in the Aquavit Terrace for dining that had the same menu as the restaurant. Dinner was a sit down meal where one side of the menu never changed and offered items like salmon, chicken and steak. The other side of the menu had a daily regional offering (for wherever we were) and other chef selections.

Stroopwaffle Dessert

Plum Dessert

Aquavit Terrace

There was one night on board where there was a dinner buffet of German and Austrian food and the entire dining room was set up so fun. Some of the staff was dressed in traditional clothing, tables were set up with pretzels and charcuterie. beer was being passed, and everything was so perfect. Don’t miss this fun event on board.

Things to note about dining:

• there is no dress code
• tables are shared in 6+ seating arrangements
• you do not have to sit at the same table for every meal
• meal times are fixed and you can find them each day on the Viking Daily
• beer, wine and soft drinks are included in your lunch and dinner. Additionally, if you find a local wine in port that you love, you can bring it with you to a meal and there is no corkage fee
• bread and butter is on the table for lunch and dinner each day. Chef mixes it up so you get to try a variety of breads and rolls

Wines at Lunch and Dinner

One thing I don’t want to leave out is how fantastic the servers are. We made a point to sit in every server groups section just to get to know the staff a little bit. By the end of the cruise everyone knew us by name and our preferences for beverages and food at each meal. The staff does a really great job at getting to know you and what you like/don’t like – which is pretty impressive since they turn the boat over twice a month.

On one of the last nights on the ship the chef let everyone take a quick tour of the kitchen so they could see how all the magic happens behind the scenes. I highly recommend stepping in briefly just so you get a feel for it.

Downtime on the Viking Grand European Tour:

While each day brings a great new adventure on this Viking Grand European Tour, you will have downtime each day to relax and get ready for the next day. I would say to approach this trip with excitement for exploration but also appreciation for the slow relaxation. Some days in ports you could be on a tour for just 2 hours and leave, which gives you a lot of time back on board.

One of the many highlights of the Viking Baldur was the rooftop deck. There was a walking deck, shuffleboard, putting green, herb garden, and plenty of seats both covered and uncovered to watch the world go by on the river. I would strongly argue the sunrise and sunset views were the best and should not be missed.

Additional items on board:

• board games
• computer center
• seating areas to hang out
• lounge with a bar
• TV pre-loaded with movies and TV shows
• occasional nightly entertainment (music, glass blowing, etc)

Seating Area

I would highly recommend bringing a book or two to give yourself something to do when you are not out exploring. There is a small library but they may not have what you want. Personally, I brought books and card games. I even got some other guests to play cards with us when we were sailing.

During the downtime on board when you are sailing to your next port, you will go through many locks. A lot of them are overnight but you will see some during the day too.

Viking Grand European Tour: Itinerary

On this 15 day Viking Grand European Tour, there are 12 ports of call that the Viking Baldur stops in and offers excursions. On the last day of the itinerary, you can go home, or stay in the city the boat docks in. With this itinerary you are essentially getting two cruises in one as you experience both a Danube River Cruise and a Rhine River Cruise. Viking does offer more than one ship that does this itinerary and it goes both ways. For our itinerary we went Budapest to Amsterdam, but it is also offered Amsterdam to Budapest as well. Below is the itinerary we were on:

• Day 1: Embark in Budapest, Hungary – boarding and overnight
• Day 2: Budapest, Hungary
• Day 3: Vienna, Austria – arrive in the evening
• Day 4: Vienna, Austria – full day in port
• Day 5: Scenic cruising Wachau Valley AND Melk, Austria
• Day 6: Passau, Germany
• Day 7: Regensburg, Germany
• Day 8: Main-Danube Canal AND Nuremburg, Germany
• Day 9: Bamberg, Germany
• Day 10: Wurzburg, Germany
• Day 11: Wertheim, Germany AND Scenic Cruising: Main River, Spessart
• Day 12: Middle Rhine Scenic Cruising AND Koblenz, Germany
• Day 13: Cologne, Germany
• Day 14: Scenic cruising Waal and Merwede AND Kinderdijk, The Netherlands
• Day 15: Disembark in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Each day when the ship docks in a new city, before you get off the ship there are things you should get at the front desk:

• your personal badge – which lets the staff know you are not on the ship. You turn this back in when you get back. This is how they know who they are missing.
• a card that gives you a letter and a number (example: 20H) this lets you know what tour you are on. A lot of days there are many tour guides and buses and this helps you to stay with your guide and on the right boat.
• maps are often available of the cities at port with highlights that include: popular attractions, post offices, restrooms, taxi, etc.
• bottled water is available before you leave each day before your tour.
• umbrellas are available each day before your tour.

Danube River Cruise: Ports of Call

Viking Baldur in Port

Many great stops were were on this Danube River cruise portion of the trip. Below are the stops and tours that were available. Please note that some of these may be seasonal and excursion offers may change. I am just putting them out there to give you an idea of what to expect.

You will spend the first 2 days in Budapest . On the first day you will be allowed to check in on the ship at 3:00pm local time. There are no excursions offered on the first day but you are free to roam the city as you wish. I recommend booking tickets in advance to see the Hungarian Parliament inside and visiting the most beautiful cafe: New York Palace Cafe.

Parliament at night

Since the boat does not leave on the first night and does leave the second day during the day, for to hours in the evening the boat will leave dock and cruise past Parliament so that you can see it all lit up from the Danube. I found this to be a wonderful first night on the boat.

Hungarian Parliament

On the second day in Budapest it is a full day, so you will see options for morning, afternoon and night. You can book tours during all three slots, just make sure there is no overlap. Here are the tours offered:

• Panoramic Budapest (Included tour) – this is a bus and walking tour of the city
• Hungarian Horseman – on this tour you will travel to horse country and experience a farm and horsemanship

Dohány Street Synagogue & Jewish Budapest – exploration of Budapest’s Jewish History 

Budapest Thermal Bath – this is a must do while in Budapest. The city is famous for its baths. *We did this tour and I HIGHLY recommend it. This is a great way to really relax before the trip gets full ahead.

• Grand Market: Taste of Hungary – this tour is an exploration of Budapest’s Grand Market Hall

Budapest Castle Hill City Hike – on this tour you will visit Castle Hill, walk across Chain Bridge, ride the funicular, Royal Palace, Matthias Church, the Fishermen’s Bastion, and finish at Grand Market Hall

Life Behind the Iron Curtain – take a ride in a Trabant and explore the communist past of the city 

Thermal Bath Excursion

Schönbrunn Palace

You will arrive in Vienna in the late afternoon and stay about a day and a half in the city exploring. I highly recommend a Vienna City tour of sorts – whether you book all or some excursions through Viking, this city should not be missed.

Day one of Vienna excursions:

Mozart & Strauss Concert – visit the Vienna Residence Orchestra for a special concert 

Day two of Vienna excursions:

Panoramic Vienna (included tour) – this tour of the city is included with your cruise and you will learn about the Hapsburg dynasty, marvel at the gorgeous architecture and see the Hofburg Palace, Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Vienna State Opera concert hall.

• Schönbrunn Palace – On this tour, visit the magnificent home of the Hapsburg Dynasty, built to rival the sprawling Château de Versailles in France.
• Imperial Vienna – learn the Waltz, have a glamorous lunch and stroll the grounds at Schönbrunn Palace

Heurigen Dinner – enjoy a Heurigen Dinner and experience this years wine at a local vineyard 

Behind the Scenes at the Lipizzaner Stallions – visit this Spanish riding school and see world-famous Lipizzaner stallions!

• Frolic to the country side for the Salzburg Sound of Music tour .

**Seasonally there are some great Austrian Christmas markets !

Melk is a shorter destination visit with only two tours offered on this Viking Grand European tour.

Melk Abbey (included tour) – you will see this masterpiece of Baroque time soaring above the Danube. Spend your excursion exploring this landmark. 

The Abbeys of Göttweig & Melk – explore both Abbey’s on this tour. This includes Melk Abbey and Göttweig.

Melk Abbey Ceiling

Melk Abbey Library

Melk Abbey Staircase

Passau is the first of the beautiful cities in Germany you will explore on this Viking Grand European Tour and is one of Bavaria’s oldest cities. Passau Germany is bursting with color and exploration.

• Passau Walking Tour and Organ Concert (included tour) – you will meet your guide for a walk through Passau and your tour ends at St. Stephens Cathedral where you will see an organ concert with Europe’s largest pipe organ.
• Salzburg Highlights – if you are interested in the movie “The Sound of Music” then this tour is for you!
• Hike The Passau Hills -this is an exploration of the city of three rivers by foot – it is a demanding activity
• Bavarian Cruise & Baroque Town of Sharding – you will visit sharding by bus for a walking tour and then board a boat for a cruise on the Inn River with pretzels, cheese and beer. Please note you need to cross a small suspension bridge to get to the boat and there is an unpaved path and stairs to get aboard the boat. We assisted many guests and others were willing to help as well. **Our boat was running late due to locks so our tour guide took us up to the top of the Fortress for the most magnificent views of Passau.
• Bavaria by Bike – this is a demanding 2.5 hour bike tour
• Passau Flightseeing – soar above Passau in a private chartered plane and see the city and rivers below

Regensburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe.

• Regensburg Walking Tour (included) – this is a 1.5 hour walking tour that will show you the Old Stone Bridge, a stroll through the city and learn about the history. **We abandoned the tour about half way through because we saw cuckoo clocks in a window and decided to go shopping.
• Munich Highlights – this 8.5 hour tour takes you to the Bavarian Capital
• Sausage Making Class – this 4 hour class will teach you to make weisswurst!

Nuremburg was one of my favorite stops on the Viking Grand European Tour but also holds a lot of dark history around WWII.

• Nuremburg Through History (included tour) – this 4.5 hour tour is both driving and walking. You will see where Nazi rallies were held and the Nuremburg trials. Then you will visit the old city that is still enclosed by its walls (of which you can walk up to)
• Surviving the War: Art in Nuremburg – this easy 3 hour tour showcases the underground chambers were art was stored during the war. Additionally you will go to the old town for more exploration.
• Nuremburg and World War Two – some of the places you will visit on this tour include: Zeppelin Field, Congress Hall and Courtroom 600 where the Nuremburg Trials took place.
• Gingerbread Making Class – learn to make this delicious treat that the locals have been making since the 14th century!

Bamberg was one of the most colorful towns we visited on the Viking Grand European Tour. We took the included walking tour and eventually just walked about 5 miles on our own exploring the city and grabbing sausages for lunch.

• Bamberg Walking Tour – this 4.5 tour of the city is a moderate activity with a lot of walking. The medieval city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and full of shopping, restaurants and charm. You will have free time to explore on your own.

Dining in Bamberg

Rothenburg ob der Tauber

This was my favorite port on the Viking Grand European Tour and we opted to take the day tour to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. I cannot recommend this tour enough!! The town is just stunning.

• Wurzburg Residenz and Walk (included tour) – this is an included tour of the former residence of the Wurzburg prince-bishop. **Please note, no cameras are allowed in side.
• Rothenbur ob der Tauber – toted as “Germany’s most beloved town” this day trip does not disappoint! This is an 8.5 hour tour that includes lunch, a walking tour and plenty of free time for shopping and self exploration
• Hike the Wurzburg Hills – this demanding activity leads you to Marienberg Fortress and gives impressive views over the city

Schloss Mespelbrunn – Modern Aristocracy Tour

Wertheim is such a charming city to explore.

• Wertheim Walking Tour (included tour) – this 1 hour tour is a great introduction to this charming city
• Modern Aristocracy – fairy-tale castles and 21st century royalty. This 8 hour tour gives you privileged access to two German castles, a visit to Miltenburg and the most delicious lunch in Germany! We did this tour on the Viking Grand European Tour and loved it.
• Wertheim Castle Hike – this demanding activity is a hike to the top to Wertheim Castle that offers sweeping views of the city below.
• Wertheim by Bicycle – this 16 mile bike journey takes you through Tauber Valley from Wertheim to Freudenberg

Rhine River Cruise: Ports of Call

Koblenz 

We actually did not take a tour in Koblenz, but instead took the cable car that was right outside the boat up to the Fortress. Riding the cable car up you can see “Germany’s Corner” where two rivers converge. You can see the Rhine River and the Moselle River. Then we walked the city for about an hour and had a small meal in town.

• Marksburg Castle (Included Tour) – this is the ONLY castle on the Rhine Valley that was never destroyed! Note that this is a demanding activity as the bus will only take you so far and then you need to walk up the rest
• Ehrenbreitstein Fortress – the fortress you can see set up high on the hill across from the boat. On this three hour tour you’ll be able to explore the fortress and see incredible views of the city
• Moselle Wine Tasting – on this tour you will explore small villages and see where some of the best Rieslings in the world come from

Cologne 

Cologne is the very last stop in Germany on this Viking Grand European Tour and it felt least like all the other cities we had been to. I was starting to get used to all the cobblestone and medieval architecture with Christmas shopping galore. But alas, Cologne is a fine city!

If you opt not to take any tours, you can go to the city in your own or the boat had buses taking people in to the old city a few times throughout the afternoon for self exploration and shopping. Additionally the boat was docked in a great spot by the bridge and many just walked across.

You could also get a taxi very easily to or from the boat.

• Cologne Walking Tour (Included Tour) – this tour lasts two hours and has a heavy focus on the Gothic cathedral
• note – you can do both the included tour and this tour as they do not overlap
• Top Of Cologne – this is a tour I WISH we had time for. You will go to the top of the Cathedral and you can see the city and Rhine River from above
• Cologne’s Beer Culture Dinner – you will visit three brew houses and enjoy Kolsch from them all

Kinderdijk 

Molly and Millie

The last and final stop on this Viking Grand European Tour, Kinderdijk, The Netherlands. The city is known for its 19 windmills that are from the 18th century, some of which are still lived in.

This is a very short stop and you do not have to take a tour here if you do not want to. The boat docks directly across from the path where the windmills are. There are a couple souvenir shops on the grounds if you are looking for postcards, trinkets, stroopwafles, etc.

• Kinderdijk Windmills (Included Tour) – this walking tour located directly across from where the boat docks, last two hours and explores this UNESCO site
• Kinderdijk Windmills and Dutch Cheese Making – on this tour you will visit the windmills and a farm to see how cheese is made
• Kinderdijk Windmills by Bicycle – this is the same as the walking tour except you will be on a bike
• Kinderdijk by Vintage Barge – hop on board a 125 year old restored cargo vessel and see the windmills from the water. This tour also stops at the oldest windmill on site and you get a tour of the grounds and to go inside

Viking Grand European Tour: Packing Tips

While the rooms are comfortable and offer generous storage space, I would highly suggest not over packing. Pack just enough or for 3/4’s of your trip and plan to have laundry done on board. We brought two big suitcases, a carry on suitcase, and two bags. All of our luggage fit under the bed.

Currently I am traveling with Bespoke luggage from Globe-Trotter . I love the design elements of the Trolley Case and found it easy to pack, carry-on, the style is very luxurious and the suitcase is sturdy. Since the suitcase is hard side, I put all my electronics and all the breakable items I bought on the trip inside to get home. This worked out really well because I was nervous about breaking the glass items, but I knew they would be safe in there.

Here are my top packing tips:

• it rained nearly everyday, so bring a rain coat and layers to be safe. We did not expect this, but weather happens. If you end up underprepared like we were, no worries, there is a small store on board with some clothing items and laundry service is very affordable and quick on the return (within 24 hours)
• pack all your electronics, medication and a change of clothes in your carry-on in case there is luggage delay for some reason. You will want to have easy access to things you need should your luggage not arrive on time.
• but also pack 1-2 other pairs of shoes in case something goes wrong with the ones you are wearing and/or like variety
• bring a camera to capture all the wonderful memories you are going to make. Believe me when I say, what you are going to see on this trip is magnificent!
• bring a first aid kit and any medications you take or may need as there is not any available on board. I brought band-aids, Tylenol, Motrin, antibiotic cream, etc
• binoculars for looking at high perched castles along the rivers and birds
• bring a book or something to entertain yourself at night or on longer days cruising

Souvenirs to Buy on Your Viking Grand European Tour:

Before I left on this trip I did not plan to buy anything but that quickly changed. When I arrived in Germany I KNEW I had to have a cuckoo clock… and so started the shopping ..

• cuckoo clock in Germany
• ornaments from Kathe Wohlfahrt (found in some of the Germany ports)
• stroopwaffles in Kinderdijk
• hummel in Germany

I really enjoyed my Viking Grand European Tour and so did my best friend. I think taking a trip like this is the best way to see multiple cities without having the hassle of having to pack, repack, get new hotels, and drive everyday somewhere new.

The overall goal of a cruise is to introduce you to many places and let you decide where you would like to spend more time. For me, I fell in love with Budapest, Vienna, Rothenburg ob de Tauber, Regensburg, Bamberg, Miltenberg, and Nuremburg. I would absolutely LOVE to come during the holidays and to explore their Christmas markets and see more of the stuff I didn’t get to on this trip. Everyone says the Christmas markets are magical.

Because the ship has less than 200 guests on board, you get to know everyone in some way because the Viking Grand European Tour is 15 days long. Whether its by dining with them, being on tours with them or just in passing on the boat. I think this is a fantastic way to get to know people with like minded interests and to make long lasting friendships.

If you are on the fence about booking a Viking River Cruise, I think you should book it. I say try everything once, twice if you like it. I know this will not be my last Viking Cruise.

Wertheim, Germany

Pins for Pinterest:

Disclosure: I was a guest of Viking River Cruises, as always, opinions are entirely my own. 

The rooms look awesome and the meals look even better. Fabulous. If you cruise you may as well do it right. Viking definitely does it right. Fabulous post!

Planning on this trip in 2020. Appreciate your post on this trip….helped confirm that this is the one we need to do! Thanks!

Thanks for reading! You are going to have a good time.

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Grand European Tour Amsterdam to Budapest

• River Cruise
• Partially Guided
• Christmas & New Year

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 Amsterdam, The Netherlands
• Day 2 Kinderdijk, The Netherlands
• Day 3 Cologne, Germany
• Day 4 Koblenz, Germany
• Day 5 Miltenberg, Germany
• Day 6 Würzburg, Germany
• Day 7 Bamberg, Germany
• Day 8 Nuremberg, Germany
• Day 9 Regensburg, Germany
• Day 10 Passau, Germany
• Day 11 Melk, Austria
• Day 12 Vienna, Austria
• Day 13 Vienna, Austria
• Day 14 Budapest, Hungary
• Day 15 Budapest, Hungary

Want to read it later?

Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start tour planning offline

What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Accommodation details are subject to availability and may change

Operated by Viking Cruises

With an operational office in Basel, Switzerland, Viking provides destination-focused itineraries designed for experienced travelers who have an interest in geography, culture and history. Each journey includes a shore excursion in every port, and an exclusive Viking Culture Curriculum program that provides deep immersion in the destination through performances of music and art, cooking demonstrations, informative port talks and carefully selected guest lecturers. The company currently operates a fleet of more than 70 vessels, state-of-the-art ships that have received numerous accolades since their launch from industry experts and travelers alike. Viking was voted the #1 River Cruise Line by Condé Nast Traveler in their 2018 Readers’ Choice Awards, and for the third year in a row, has been named the #1 Ocean Cruise Line* by Travel + Leisure readers in the World’s Best Awards 2018.

Viking Cruises Ship

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 5.0
• Itinerary Excellent 5.0
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 4.5
• Accommodation Good 4.0
• Food Excellent 4.5
• Tour Operator Viking Cruises 4.5
• CM Cheryl · 9th April 2024 This was our first Viking cruise and loved the River Cruise as there are less than 200 guests on board. The staff were friendly and very professional, the food was amazing and the Tours each day were special. Met some other guests on board who made it... Show more Trip date: March 2024
• MT Margaret · 30th July 2023 Nothing was too much trouble for staff. Excellent organisation and xare of clients. Trip date: July 2023

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• August 2025
• September 2025
• October 2025
• November 2025
• August 2026
• September 2026
• October 2026
• November 2026
• Wednesday 15 May, 2024 Wednesday 29 May, 2024 English Based on VERANDA (B) Viking Egdir Not available in your region
• Friday 19 Jul, 2024 Friday 2 Aug, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Sunday 21 Jul, 2024 Sunday 4 Aug, 2024 English Based on VERANDA SUITE (AA) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Monday 22 Jul, 2024 Monday 5 Aug, 2024 English Based on VERANDA SUITE (AA) Viking Skirnir Not available in your region
• Wednesday 24 Jul, 2024 Wednesday 7 Aug, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Tuesday 30 Jul, 2024 Tuesday 13 Aug, 2024 English Based on VERANDA SUITE (AA) Viking Gefjon Not available in your region
• Monday 5 Aug, 2024 Monday 19 Aug, 2024 English Based on VERANDA SUITE (AA) Viking Modi Not available in your region
• Monday 19 Aug, 2024 Monday 2 Sep, 2024 English Based on VERANDA (A) Viking Skirnir Not available in your region
• Wednesday 21 Aug, 2024 Wednesday 4 Sep, 2024 English Based on VERANDA SUITE (AA) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Tuesday 27 Aug, 2024 Tuesday 10 Sep, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Gefjon Not available in your region
• Saturday 31 Aug, 2024 Saturday 14 Sep, 2024 English Based on VERANDA SUITE (AA) Viking Bragi Not available in your region
• Sunday 1 Sep, 2024 Sunday 15 Sep, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Monday 2 Sep, 2024 Monday 16 Sep, 2024 English Based on FRENCH BALCONY (D) Viking Modi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 11 Sep, 2024 Wednesday 25 Sep, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Lofn Not available in your region
• Thursday 12 Sep, 2024 Thursday 26 Sep, 2024 English Based on FRENCH BALCONY (D) Viking Tir Not available in your region
• Friday 13 Sep, 2024 Friday 27 Sep, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Saturday 14 Sep, 2024 Saturday 28 Sep, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skadi Not available in your region
• Sunday 15 Sep, 2024 Sunday 29 Sep, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Monday 16 Sep, 2024 Monday 30 Sep, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skirnir Not available in your region
• Tuesday 24 Sep, 2024 Tuesday 8 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gefjon Not available in your region
• Wednesday 25 Sep, 2024 Wednesday 9 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lif Not available in your region
• Thursday 26 Sep, 2024 Thursday 10 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vali Not available in your region
• Friday 27 Sep, 2024 Friday 11 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Saturday 28 Sep, 2024 Saturday 12 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Bragi Not available in your region
• Sunday 29 Sep, 2024 Sunday 13 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Monday 30 Sep, 2024 Monday 14 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Modi Not available in your region
• Tuesday 8 Oct, 2024 Tuesday 22 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Ve Not available in your region
• Wednesday 9 Oct, 2024 Wednesday 23 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Thursday 10 Oct, 2024 Thursday 24 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Tir Not available in your region
• Friday 11 Oct, 2024 Friday 25 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Saturday 12 Oct, 2024 Saturday 26 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skadi Not available in your region
• Sunday 13 Oct, 2024 Sunday 27 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Monday 14 Oct, 2024 Monday 28 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Skirnir Not available in your region
• Wednesday 16 Oct, 2024 Wednesday 30 Oct, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Tuesday 22 Oct, 2024 Tuesday 5 Nov, 2024 English Based on FRENCH BALCONY (D) Viking Gefjon Not available in your region
• Wednesday 23 Oct, 2024 Wednesday 6 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Lofn Not available in your region
• Thursday 24 Oct, 2024 Thursday 7 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vali Not available in your region
• Friday 25 Oct, 2024 Friday 8 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Saturday 26 Oct, 2024 Saturday 9 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Bragi Not available in your region
• Sunday 27 Oct, 2024 Sunday 10 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Monday 28 Oct, 2024 Monday 11 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Modi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 30 Oct, 2024 Wednesday 13 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Egdir Not available in your region
• Thursday 7 Nov, 2024 Thursday 21 Nov, 2024 English Based on VERANDA (B) Viking Tir Not available in your region
• Friday 8 Nov, 2024 Friday 22 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Saturday 9 Nov, 2024 Saturday 23 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skadi Not available in your region
• Sunday 10 Nov, 2024 Sunday 24 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Monday 11 Nov, 2024 Monday 25 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skirnir Not available in your region
• Wednesday 13 Nov, 2024 Wednesday 27 Nov, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Thursday 21 Nov, 2024 Thursday 5 Dec, 2024 English Based on VERANDA SUITE (AA) Viking Vali Not available in your region
• Friday 22 Nov, 2024 Friday 6 Dec, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Monday 25 Nov, 2024 Monday 9 Dec, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Modi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 27 Nov, 2024 Wednesday 11 Dec, 2024 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Egdir Not available in your region
• Wednesday 11 Dec, 2024 Wednesday 25 Dec, 2024 English Based on FRENCH BALCONY (D) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Wednesday 12 Mar, 2025 Wednesday 26 Mar, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Lofn Not available in your region
• Friday 14 Mar, 2025 Friday 28 Mar, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Sunday 6 Apr, 2025 Sunday 20 Apr, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Wednesday 9 Apr, 2025 Wednesday 23 Apr, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Thursday 10 Apr, 2025 Thursday 24 Apr, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vali Not available in your region
• Friday 11 Apr, 2025 Friday 25 Apr, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Saturday 12 Apr, 2025 Saturday 26 Apr, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Bragi Not available in your region
• Sunday 20 Apr, 2025 Sunday 4 May, 2025 English Based on FRENCH BALCONY (D) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Tuesday 22 Apr, 2025 Tuesday 6 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Ve Not available in your region
• Wednesday 23 Apr, 2025 Wednesday 7 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lofn Not available in your region
• Thursday 24 Apr, 2025 Thursday 8 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Tir Not available in your region
• Friday 25 Apr, 2025 Friday 9 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Saturday 26 Apr, 2025 Saturday 10 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skadi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 30 Apr, 2025 Wednesday 14 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Sunday 4 May, 2025 Sunday 18 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Tuesday 6 May, 2025 Tuesday 20 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gefjon Not available in your region
• Wednesday 7 May, 2025 Wednesday 21 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Thursday 8 May, 2025 Thursday 22 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vali Not available in your region
• Friday 9 May, 2025 Friday 23 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Saturday 10 May, 2025 Saturday 24 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Bragi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 14 May, 2025 Wednesday 28 May, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Egdir Not available in your region
• Sunday 18 May, 2025 Sunday 1 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Tuesday 20 May, 2025 Tuesday 3 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Ve Not available in your region
• Wednesday 21 May, 2025 Wednesday 4 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lif Not available in your region
• Thursday 22 May, 2025 Thursday 5 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Tir Not available in your region
• Friday 23 May, 2025 Friday 6 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Saturday 24 May, 2025 Saturday 7 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skadi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 28 May, 2025 Wednesday 11 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Sunday 1 Jun, 2025 Sunday 15 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Tuesday 3 Jun, 2025 Tuesday 17 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gefjon Not available in your region
• Wednesday 4 Jun, 2025 Wednesday 18 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lofn Not available in your region
• Thursday 5 Jun, 2025 Thursday 19 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vali Not available in your region
• Friday 6 Jun, 2025 Friday 20 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Saturday 7 Jun, 2025 Saturday 21 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Bragi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 11 Jun, 2025 Wednesday 25 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Egdir Not available in your region
• Sunday 15 Jun, 2025 Sunday 29 Jun, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Tuesday 17 Jun, 2025 Tuesday 1 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Ve Not available in your region
• Wednesday 18 Jun, 2025 Wednesday 2 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Thursday 19 Jun, 2025 Thursday 3 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Tir Not available in your region
• Friday 20 Jun, 2025 Friday 4 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Saturday 21 Jun, 2025 Saturday 5 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skadi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 25 Jun, 2025 Wednesday 9 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Sunday 29 Jun, 2025 Sunday 13 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Tuesday 1 Jul, 2025 Tuesday 15 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Gefjon Not available in your region
• Wednesday 2 Jul, 2025 Wednesday 16 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lif Not available in your region
• Thursday 3 Jul, 2025 Thursday 17 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vali Not available in your region
• Friday 4 Jul, 2025 Friday 18 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Saturday 5 Jul, 2025 Saturday 19 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Bragi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 9 Jul, 2025 Wednesday 23 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Egdir Not available in your region
• Sunday 13 Jul, 2025 Sunday 27 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Tuesday 15 Jul, 2025 Tuesday 29 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Ve Not available in your region
• Wednesday 16 Jul, 2025 Wednesday 30 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lofn Not available in your region
• Thursday 17 Jul, 2025 Thursday 31 Jul, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Tir Not available in your region
• Friday 18 Jul, 2025 Friday 1 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Saturday 19 Jul, 2025 Saturday 2 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skadi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 23 Jul, 2025 Wednesday 6 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Sunday 27 Jul, 2025 Sunday 10 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Tuesday 29 Jul, 2025 Tuesday 12 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gefjon Not available in your region
• Wednesday 30 Jul, 2025 Wednesday 13 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Thursday 31 Jul, 2025 Thursday 14 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vali Not available in your region
• Friday 1 Aug, 2025 Friday 15 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Saturday 2 Aug, 2025 Saturday 16 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Bragi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 6 Aug, 2025 Wednesday 20 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Egdir Not available in your region
• Sunday 10 Aug, 2025 Sunday 24 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Tuesday 12 Aug, 2025 Tuesday 26 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Ve Not available in your region
• Wednesday 13 Aug, 2025 Wednesday 27 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lif Not available in your region
• Thursday 14 Aug, 2025 Thursday 28 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Tir Not available in your region
• Friday 15 Aug, 2025 Friday 29 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Saturday 16 Aug, 2025 Saturday 30 Aug, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skadi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 20 Aug, 2025 Wednesday 3 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Sunday 24 Aug, 2025 Sunday 7 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Tuesday 26 Aug, 2025 Tuesday 9 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gefjon Not available in your region
• Wednesday 27 Aug, 2025 Wednesday 10 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lofn Not available in your region
• Thursday 28 Aug, 2025 Thursday 11 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vali Not available in your region
• Friday 29 Aug, 2025 Friday 12 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Saturday 30 Aug, 2025 Saturday 13 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Bragi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 3 Sep, 2025 Wednesday 17 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Egdir Not available in your region
• Sunday 7 Sep, 2025 Sunday 21 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Tuesday 9 Sep, 2025 Tuesday 23 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Ve Not available in your region
• Wednesday 10 Sep, 2025 Wednesday 24 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Thursday 11 Sep, 2025 Thursday 25 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Tir Not available in your region
• Friday 12 Sep, 2025 Friday 26 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Saturday 13 Sep, 2025 Saturday 27 Sep, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skadi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 17 Sep, 2025 Wednesday 1 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Sunday 21 Sep, 2025 Sunday 5 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Tuesday 23 Sep, 2025 Tuesday 7 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gefjon Not available in your region
• Wednesday 24 Sep, 2025 Wednesday 8 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lif Not available in your region
• Thursday 25 Sep, 2025 Thursday 9 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vali Not available in your region
• Friday 26 Sep, 2025 Friday 10 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Saturday 27 Sep, 2025 Saturday 11 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Bragi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 1 Oct, 2025 Wednesday 15 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Egdir Not available in your region
• Sunday 5 Oct, 2025 Sunday 19 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Tuesday 7 Oct, 2025 Tuesday 21 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Ve Not available in your region
• Wednesday 8 Oct, 2025 Wednesday 22 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lofn Not available in your region
• Thursday 9 Oct, 2025 Thursday 23 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Tir Not available in your region
• Friday 10 Oct, 2025 Friday 24 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Saturday 11 Oct, 2025 Saturday 25 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skadi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 15 Oct, 2025 Wednesday 29 Oct, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Sunday 19 Oct, 2025 Sunday 2 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Tuesday 21 Oct, 2025 Tuesday 4 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gefjon Not available in your region
• Wednesday 22 Oct, 2025 Wednesday 5 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Thursday 23 Oct, 2025 Thursday 6 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vali Not available in your region
• Friday 24 Oct, 2025 Friday 7 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Saturday 25 Oct, 2025 Saturday 8 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Bragi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 29 Oct, 2025 Wednesday 12 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Egdir Not available in your region
• Sunday 2 Nov, 2025 Sunday 16 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Tuesday 4 Nov, 2025 Tuesday 18 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Ve Not available in your region
• Wednesday 5 Nov, 2025 Wednesday 19 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lif Not available in your region
• Thursday 6 Nov, 2025 Thursday 20 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Tir Not available in your region
• Friday 7 Nov, 2025 Friday 21 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Mimir Not available in your region
• Saturday 8 Nov, 2025 Saturday 22 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Skadi Not available in your region
• Wednesday 12 Nov, 2025 Wednesday 26 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Gymir Not available in your region
• Sunday 16 Nov, 2025 Sunday 30 Nov, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Friday 21 Nov, 2025 Friday 5 Dec, 2025 English Based on STANDARD (E) Viking Vili Not available in your region
• Sunday 3 May, 2026 Sunday 17 May, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Wednesday 6 May, 2026 Wednesday 20 May, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Sunday 17 May, 2026 Sunday 31 May, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Wednesday 20 May, 2026 Wednesday 3 Jun, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lif Not available in your region
• Sunday 31 May, 2026 Sunday 14 Jun, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Sunday 14 Jun, 2026 Sunday 28 Jun, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Wednesday 17 Jun, 2026 Wednesday 1 Jul, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Sunday 28 Jun, 2026 Sunday 12 Jul, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Wednesday 1 Jul, 2026 Wednesday 15 Jul, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lif Not available in your region
• Sunday 12 Jul, 2026 Sunday 26 Jul, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Sunday 26 Jul, 2026 Sunday 9 Aug, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Wednesday 29 Jul, 2026 Wednesday 12 Aug, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Sunday 9 Aug, 2026 Sunday 23 Aug, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Wednesday 12 Aug, 2026 Wednesday 26 Aug, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lif Not available in your region
• Sunday 23 Aug, 2026 Sunday 6 Sep, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Sunday 6 Sep, 2026 Sunday 20 Sep, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Wednesday 9 Sep, 2026 Wednesday 23 Sep, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Sunday 20 Sep, 2026 Sunday 4 Oct, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Wednesday 23 Sep, 2026 Wednesday 7 Oct, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lif Not available in your region
• Sunday 4 Oct, 2026 Sunday 18 Oct, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Sunday 18 Oct, 2026 Sunday 1 Nov, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• Wednesday 21 Oct, 2026 Wednesday 4 Nov, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Vidar Not available in your region
• Sunday 1 Nov, 2026 Sunday 15 Nov, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Baldur Not available in your region
• Wednesday 4 Nov, 2026 Wednesday 18 Nov, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Lif Not available in your region
• Sunday 15 Nov, 2026 Sunday 29 Nov, 2026 English Based on STANDARD (F) Viking Magni Not available in your region
• 191 Other Unavailable Departures

Frequently Asked Questions

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Good to Know

• Currencies € Euro Austria, Germany and Netherlands Ft Forint Hungary

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Tick-borne encephalitis - Recommended for Austria, Germany and Hungary. Ideally 6 months before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Hungary. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Hungary. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 13th September 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 13th September 2024, a minimum payment of €0 is required to confirm your booking with Viking Cruises. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 125 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• The following cards are accepted for "Viking Cruises" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Grand European Tour

• From $4,499
• 12 Guided Tours
• 4 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• 2024 2025 2026
• Budapest to Amsterdam Amsterdam to Budapest

Grand European Tour Map

Travel through the heart of Europe

Admire Rhine Valley vistas from a 900-year-old castle. Sample the culinary delights of Austria’s Wachau Valley. Learn the Viennese waltz, visit Melk’s Benedictine Abbey and delve into Nuremberg’s World War II history. Indulge your senses on this 15-day journey spanning the best of Europe, tracing the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers between the windmill-dotted waterways of Holland and the stunning landscapes of Hungary, with engaging encounters at every bend.

SPRING 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: Amsterdam

From $699 | 2 Nights

Pre: Amsterdam Premium

From $1,199 | 2 Nights

Pre: The Hague & Amsterdam

Post: Prague

From $899 | 3 Nights

Post: Prague Premium

From $1,199 | 3 Nights

Post: Budapest

From $599 | 2 Nights

Post: Budapest Premium

From $1,299 | 2 Nights

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Viking Expeditions

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• Budapest to Amsterdam
• Amsterdam to Budapest

Grand European Tour

• From $6,299
• 12 Guided Tours
• 4 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• 2024 2025 2026
• Budapest to Amsterdam Amsterdam to Budapest

Cruise Reviews

Find out more about the Viking experience from our guests.

Dwight Popowich

Top notch service on and off the ship.

The only way to travel! It was a wonderful trouble-free vacation, with top notch service both on and off the ship. I really liked the small ship atmosphere, as it was so easy to make new friends and develop a relationship with the on-board staff. It's a great way to see Europe and I would do it again in a heartbeat.

Kevin Walsh

An all-around great cruise..

This was the first cruise for my wife and I. It was a great cruise. The staff was terrific and the ship was the right size. The cities and towns we went to were very enjoyable. The guides were very knowledgeable and courteous.  

Allwyne Kleszczewski

I highly recommend viking.

We have enjoyed five Viking tours to date! Everything was in its own way special and exciting. The thoughtful staff, gourmet food and tours are exciting always. I highly recommend Viking to anyone who wishes to really be pampered on a cruise!

WONDERFUL FIRST JOURNEY WITH VIKING

This was our first River Cruise with Viking and the hospitality of the Viking Crew and the wonderful people we met in the towns and cities along our voyage guided our decision to book a trip to Portugal in 2023.

MARICOR & KATHLEEN

So happy and impressed.

This was our first Viking River Cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest. We were so happy and impressed, from the very start of booking, Airport, pre- extention hotel, the cruise and post- extension hotel. Viking Crews were there all the way. They basically see to it that you are having so much fun. All of them were happy to help you with smiles. It was the best time of our life and we really enjoyed it. The food was just fabulous too. They all catered to our needs. Kudos to you the "SKIRNIR CREW"-- you all are the best and the best assets of the company. We will definitely come back.

William Oman

Highly recommend.

I can't recommend this itinerary highly enough! We've sailed around the world twice and sailed on Viking Ocean many times, but had been saving river cruises in Europe for our Golden years. Wow! 5 stars! Knowing about Viking's high standards, I felt comfortable inviting 6 newbies to Viking with me. We all LOVED this itinerary! Viking staff tended perfectly to every aspect of the trip. The Viking Vali ship is beautiful and our program director was the most fabulous, competent and hard working person I've ever known in my 40 years of cruising. I don't know how she managed to keep everything going so smoothly with so many details to arrange every day. We loved the itinerary so much, we booked an even longer itinerary (Bucharest to Amsterdam) in 2023 so we can revisit many of the places we saw again this year and introduce 3 more of our friends to Viking for the first time.

Joseph Boyle

Very impressed with viking.

The crew on the Gefjon were superb. Highly recommend the two day pre- extension. I was very impressed with the logistics Viking set up…it all flowed seamlessly.

Satisfied Guest

The best ever..

These past weeks have been the best ever. All of the excursions were wonderful. I do not know which part I liked best. Food, the ship’s crew, entertainment, cleanliness of the ship. This may be my first Viking Cruise, but not my last.

Ernie and Cindy Gunderson

Well cared for..

Great River Cruise! The entire staff was excellent and made sure that we were well taken care of! We’re looking forward to taking the Viking Ocean Cruise “Trade Routes of the Middle Ages” next year, since going on the Viking Star for the “Mediterranean Odyssey Cruise” in 2019!!

Tonya Alfonso

You'll be seeing us again, viking.

Incredible experience sailing on the Grand European Tour from Amsterdam to Budapest! Just wonderful. The tours were interesting, and most allowed for adequate free time to explore the areas visited. But the staff! Beyond compare. The servers learned our names and our preferences. The Reception Desk folks were unbelievably accommodating. . . . Throughout the course of the cruise, we made many friends, laughed until we cried, and ate way too much. The housekeeping staff is top notch, and our steward kept our room immaculate. You'll be seeing us again, Viking!  

Gaye and Sam Hyland

Exceeded all expectaions..

This lovey Grand European Cruise exceeded all of our expectations. The Viking Modi crew were exceptional. From the engaging Program Director, the friendly Hotel Manager and the great Bar/Lounge Manager to all the waitstaff, cooks and room stewards, we received excellent and attentive service! The food was sublime, excursions and tour guides fantastic and ship Covid procedures were easy and precise. During an unruly COVID time like this, Viking excels. My husband and I needed and enjoyed this pleasant break. The rich history we learned (and viewed) in Budapest, Austria, Germany and The Netherlands is priceless! I want to return soon.

Bobby Wilder

My story begins with my first Viking cruise in 2013 on Viking Bragi. The ship, the staff, the service, the excursions, the food (especially the soups) were excellent. So much so that when I returned home I booked the cruise from Budapest to Bucharest. I was hooked on Viking. GO VIKING!

Rosemarie & Bill

Loved every moment of our journey.

Our third Viking cruise. Loved every moment of our journey. In between learning so many historic and interesting new things, we relaxed on board a beautifully maintained ship. Cruise director was amazing! Food and service, beyond our expectations. Can’t wait to depart again on our 4th and 5th Viking cruises. Thank you for the continuing quality.

William Sullivan

This was the first cruise for my wife and I. It was a great cruise. The staff was terrific and the ship was the right size. The cities and towns we went to were very enjoyable. The guides were very knowledgeable and courteous.

I WOULD RECOMMEND VIKING TO ANYONE

Just completed the 2-week Grand European Tour river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest. It was fantastic! Weather was awesome. Can’t give Viking credit for that, but for the remainder of the journey they deserve 100% of the credit. . . . Crews were great. The food was plentiful and tasty and the tours great with wonderful guides. I would recommend Viking to anyone. Mahalo for the journey.

Mr. & Mrs. Brown from Queanbeyan

Looking forward to our next trip with viking.

Boarding our ship in Budapest, we felt as though we had jumped into a pile of down pillows. Our tour director advised they are here to provide a seamless cultural experience, and he proceeded to do so for the entire trip. The most challenging decision we had to make each day was whether to have breakfast in the dining room or foredeck café. Air conditioning made the staterooms always feel fresh. The technology behind the scenes in these ships is first class. We are looking forward to our next trip with Viking.

Satisfied Guest

Wonderful experience from start to finish..

Thanks, Viking, we had the trip of a lifetime. Wonderful experience from start to finish. We have recommended to friends. Happy voyages. The staff was wonderful.

When you go with Viking, you go with the best.

Before you read any further, let me just say that when you go with Viking, you go with the best! Everything was exactly as they promised, no surprises, every convenience is thought of for the guests. Transfers/excursions were a piece of cake. Our river cruise was so refreshing that there was always plenty of room to hang out in the Aquavit Lounge, on the bow, on the Sun Deck. I loved that we cruised during the daylight. We slid open our stateroom door (French balcony) and watched everything we happened to be cruising by. Great food and plenty of it. Lots of choices. Our Cruise Director was just fantastic. Our next cruise will definitely be with Viking. And we can hardly wait.

Jeannie La Corte

Thanks for the memories, viking.

We are just arriving home after a 2-week Viking Grand European Tour and we cannot say enough about the overall service, staff, entertainment, food, Veranda stateroom and our ship itself. We had a very lovely time. There were occasions when, due to lock delays or other events, starting times or arrangements had to be adjusted, but the staff made it work with such ease. All of our tour guides were outstanding.

Marcia Graves

The staff went beyond all expectations..

If you are looking for a very relaxing ship experience, you will find this one a pleasure. If you are looking for outstanding service, you will find this one an outstanding experience. There were a few nights where the chef and his staff went beyond all expectations.

Add Viking to your bucket list.

This was our first ever cruise and after so many friends had recommended Viking, it was time for us to go. We celebrated our 35th anniversary on the Grand European Tour and it lived up to all expectations, and in some ways exceeded our expectations. From the first day on board, the staff was fantastic and our Cruise Director was the best; he handled everything that came his way with good humor... I recommend if you have not done a Viking cruise, add it to you bucket list. Happy cruising everyone!

Staff went out of their way.

The ship and the staff were outstanding. I felt the staff went out of their way to remember not only my name, but my preferences in food, drink, and even my preference in types of wine! This is the first time I returned home from vacation feeling rested. We are already discussing our next cruise destination.

Satisfied  Guest

Viking is the best..

Every time conversations come up about cruising, we talk about our two Viking river cruises, Grand European Tour and Waterways of the Tsars. Every other person we meet who has traveled with Viking agrees with us that Viking is the best.

John & Nancy Bonell

Experience of a lifetime..

Amazing... wonderful... Can’t say enough about Viking. We sailed from Amsterdam to Budapest. We extended our stay at the beginning—Amsterdam was fantastic! The hotel was beautiful and breakfasts included. I have to say that Viking is “a well-oiled machine”! Everything was perfect from the local tour guides at each port who shared their knowledge of the area; the food and wine on board was excellent; we enjoyed the nightly entertainment and local artists who shared their talents. . . . Our stateroom steward as well as all the staff were superior and so helpful and willing to do anything needed. Viking includes so much more than other cruise lines. It was our experience of a lifetime.

Satisfied Gest

Not one thing we could change..

We loved everything about our cruise! There was not one thing we would change. Can’t wait to do another cruise with you, hopefully next year. I must comment on “The Traveler.” It is an amazingly beautiful piece and I could visualize scenes from our trip as I listened. Thank you!

What a difference Viking makes.

We cruised Budapest to Amsterdam. We had no idea what to expect. We were totally surprised and are spoiled. What a difference Viking makes. We have Bucharest to Budapest planned for April 2020. Now looking for October 2020.

Charlie & Linda Wiltsie

Nothing short of amazing..

Our experiences during our cruise were nothing short of amazing. From the tour director to the waitstaff and all of the other people behind the scenes, we were treated to friendly and prompt service. Our shore excursions were wonderful. We will definitely travel with Viking again.

Mark & Mary Uslan

This cruise was nothing short of magnificent.

We have just returned from our cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest, with two additional days each in Amsterdam and Prague. This trip was a 50th anniversary celebration. We chose Viking because of their fine reputation and ship size… From the first day to the last, this cruise was nothing short of magnificent… The Viking staff was there to assist us and attend to our needs and comfort. Viking exudes “attention to detail.” At all stages of this trip our luggage was handled in an expeditious manner... Not one problem. We could write a book on the ship and staff but, suffice to say, it could not fully describe this great experience. Nothing was overlooked.

Viking takes care of you.

What an incredible experience. We saw amazing places, met wonderful people and ate way too much! Viking takes care of you from the moment you step off the plane. We were very impressed with everyone involved with Viking, from the driver who first picked us up in Amsterdam, every single tour guide, our Program Director, Hotel Director, to all the people who cooked, served and cleaned, and finally, the young man who took us into the airport for our flight home

Best experience of my life!

I took this wonderful cruise in May. My stateroom was very clean and spacious with plenty of storage. I just can't say enough to express how friendly and hospitable the entire staff was... The entire cruise was breathtaking... The meals were delicious. I am planning my next cruise with Viking and would definitely recommend this to anyone. Best experience of my life! Met wonderful people and made new friends... Beautiful ship, friendly staff, outstanding views and excursions and just an overall pleasant experience.

Steve Griffin

Never a want or need ignored..

The trip was wonderful. Great sites to see … The staff was outstanding—never a want or need ignored… Love all the great food and wine—you can never go wrong with Viking. Wonderful trip. Recommend highly as the best. Thanks!

Cheery & friendly staff

Staff was wonderful - cheery and friendly. The staff clearly enjoy what they are doing - they are kind, considerate and really want the guests to enjoy themselves.

All activities were very well organized

Staff were friendly and eager to please. All activities were very well organized and we were kept well informed.

Wonderufl staff

Enjoy convenience of having 'home base' on board, yet seeing many cities & sites. Service is great & wonderful staff. Only seemed more crowded than our last Viking trip.

Truly made the sights memorable

Our guide was so informative and truly made the sights all the more memorable with his explanation, especially pointing out sights to see along the way!

The accommodations, food & staff were top notch. I also liked the fact there was an included excursion each day & didn't feel like I was being nickel & dimed.  

William Kralik

Staff was accommadating..

We thoroughly enjoyed everything about the cruise. The other guests were a pleasure to be around and made the excursions more enjoyable. Our Cruise Director was beyond fantastic and ALL the staff were so accommodating. Even the Captain was there handing out umbrellas in case of rain…Viking, you have a lifelong fan!

Dan & Martha

An excellent cruise...most highly recommended.

Travelers get to know and appreciate the professional staff on the longer cruises. Personal conversations enliven and connect us. The Viking Cruise Director brought depth, understanding, experience and perspective, as well as entertainment, to evening events. The Concierge service knows how to handle passenger requests when an unexpected need for local resources arises, such as doctors, transportation, impromptu reservations and suggestions. Shore excursions are educational and informative--just be sure to use comfortable walking shoes! Staff daily takes pictures during the cruise and excursions, which are offered as mementos. The choice of food and service is fabulous! Tasting local and regional fare is a delight. Most assuredly, this cruise--and Viking Cruises--is first class, with attention to detail and passenger enjoyment, and is most highly recommended!

Bob & Dick

A wealth of good information..

Great cruise, excellent regional food, local entertainment, nice stateroom and interesting ports. Concierge services were outstanding and provided a wealth of good information. We enjoyed the many aspects of the cruise. Viking delivers a great experience.

Larry Phillips

Beautiful architecture in every city visited..

This was our first river cruise and we selected the date to allow us to see tulips in full bloom while in Amsterdam. The ship’s staff was absolutely outstanding in every respect. All of the guides gave insightful information for each port of call. Cruising the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers was a once-in-a lifetime experience and will be a lasting memory. There was so much to see, beautiful architecture in every city visited, stately churches and unique shopping along the way. Food on the ship was excellent and each meal included several choices. We thank the staff immensely for their care, support and professionalism.

Jim and Susan Pettit

This overshadows them all..

An absolutely awesome voyage. Staff was 150% and excursions were to die for.

Everyone was kind and personable.

Exceptional service and, wow, the food was spectacular! Professional and friendly—everyone was so kind and personable. The staff was the best, always smiling. So great at their jobs! Beautiful cities and wonderful excursions. Great live entertainment, beautiful music, great variety. Scenic and beautiful.

A great experience.

The service was excellent. The staff was attentive. The destinations are wonderful and the food was excellent. A great experience!

Knew what we needed before we asked.

The staff was courteous and helpful. The food was great. Lovely staterooms. The Restaurant ran smoothly and wait staff knew what we needed before we asked. We love cruising!

Could not ask for more,

The Viking Embla staff was superior in service and cordiality. They established a family-like atmosphere among us... Food, cleanliness and comfort ranked the best. I could not ask for more!

Happy to recommend Viking to others.

I had a very enjoyable experience and would be happy to recommend Viking to others. All staff have done a wonderful job.

Mike and Rose

An amazing cruise..

This was an amazing cruise that exceeded our expectations in every way. The staff of both ships were always pleasant and made you feel at home. In particular, the Maître D’ on Viking Magni was outstanding. We will have many great memories because of him and his staff. Well done!

Nancy & Dennis

Can't wait to book another viking cruise..

This was the most wonderful trip we have ever taken, and we have taken many, including several ocean cruises. We loved the smaller ship. The crew quickly learned everyone’s names and likes. All the passengers were so friendly, and we felt like we knew most of them by the end of the cruise. Everything was very well-organized. We were pleased with the ease of arrival and departure, both on ship and at the airport. . . . We can’t wait to book another Viking Cruise.

Rita, Rory, Allyson and Leslie Bourke

Willing to go to any lengths to make us happy..

We basked on the Sun Deck as we sailed along the Saône River. We danced to Giovanni’s music, begged for recipes from the Chef and fell a bit in love with our Hotel Manager for his enthusiasm, his stories and his willingness to go to any lengths to make us happy. We’ll be on Viking Sea next year—our fourth cruise with Viking.

Would not think of sailing with anyone but Viking.

What are the right words to express our thanks to Viking? The sites were above anything to be expected. It was our first river cruise but will not be our last and we would not think of sailing with anyone but Viking. We have traveled the world between us and have seen many grand places but you took it a step above... Our thanks to the staff of both ships.

We had the best time. The cruise was informative and relaxing. We loved our wait staff. . . . Can’t say enough good things about this trip. Loved it!

Val and Trevor

A great trip..

We have just arrived home after a wonderful trip on Viking Gefjon. I cannot speak highly enough of the organization. Everything ran like clockwork. Nothing was too much trouble. We were either on excursions or meeting new friends in the Lounge or on the Sun Deck. The food was great. Thanks for a great trip.

Ron & Sue

Well done, viking.

Five stars for Viking. This was our first river cruise, and it won’t be our last. I couldn’t wait to get up every morning to see what was planned for us. Well done, Viking! Can’t wait to go again and again

Diane and Tom

Ready for another cruise with viking..

We’ve cruised on Viking Lif and Viking Skadi, and on both the rooms were great and the food was wonderful. Arriving in Budapest in the evening was a highlight! We also loved the size of the ships because we really got to know other travelers. We’re ready to take another cruise with Viking.

Arnie and Jan

Quality shore excursions..

A wonderful trip. We were amazed with the quality of the shore excursions—and that they were included in the price! Also thought the food on board was great, and the wine and bar service at mealtime was unexpected.

Roland & Jane

Our Grand European Tourwas wonderful and met or exceeded our expectations in all areas of accommodations, food/drink, excursions, staff and meeting many new friends. We will definitely book another Viking river cruise, maybe France’s Finest in 2015. Thank you, Viking, for this great experience.

Lynn & Linda Ferraro

Informative and interesting..

This was our first river cruise. Viking Odin was beautiful, clean, comfortable and well-appointed, and the staff was terrific. The Program Director was super. The food was good, sometimes great. It was so nice to be able to travel to so many countries and towns, and stay in the same room. The tours were informative and interesting. Our only issue is that we would have liked more free time to explore these towns on our own, as we love to do; we would have preferred to spend more time in fewer places. This is not a complaint, just our own personal feeling about visiting a foreign country. But in the end, Viking does a wonderful job with what they do, and if you like this type of more structured vacation, I would strongly advise this Viking cruise.

John & Kathy Bratton

More than wonderful..

We had more than a wonderful time. The entire crew was extremely professional, friendly and accommodating, from housekeeping to the restaurant to the reception desk. The Program Director got everything done and was entertaining on top of it all. The local guides were all very knowledgeable, and presented the historical information in a way that was understandable and entertaining, and the headsets make such a difference. The food was excellent both in preparation and presentation; the appetizers were especially creative and delicious. The sights were amazing, from the old towns to the views along the river, from cities to churches, from palaces to statues. We liked starting in Passau and going toward Budapest, generally building from the smaller locations (Passau, Melk, Dürnstein) to the bigger cities (Bratislava, Vienna, Budapest). The ship is so smooth and quiet you couldn’t even tell we were moving. We never even heard our neighbors!

Ian Anderson

95 out of a 100.

I would rate this cruise, from Budapest to Amsterdam, as a 95 out of 100. An excellent crew who went the extra mile to handle requests, excellent meals, a super ship with all of the amenities and some very good tours.

Mel & Sharon

Pack your bags.

…and join the Viking experience. This was our first Viking cruise and believe me it won’t be the last. From the time you step aboard your Viking Longship until you step off heading home you are treated like royalty. The staff, crew and excursions were the best a person could experience. A special thanks to the crew for making this the BEST cruise ever. We'll only be taking Viking cruises from now on.

The Kessler Bertram Family

A sparkling new ship and an equally shiny crew..

We thoroughly enjoyed our Grand European Touron Viking Skadi. We traveled with our son and daughter and cannot say enough about our wonderful experience. We learned about the food, culture, history and people of each place we visited without the logistical challenge of creating the trip on our own. Without that challenge, we could enjoy an incredible family vacation like no other we have ever had. The crew, the local guides and the onboard programs were excellent and all the people of Viking created that sense of warmth we were looking for in a small-ship journey for our family. Our compliments to Viking! We will travel with you again.

David & Terri

Just do it..

This was our first river cruise and first cruise with Viking. We weren’t sure what to expect after a couple of ocean cruise disappointments, but Viking earned our business and then some! Our ship, Viking Skadi, was beautiful, the crew could not have been friendlier or more professional, the food was really, really good. The little towns on this itinerary will touch a very special place inside of you. The tours, if you opt to take them, are very well done, but if you opt to go it alone you can explore independently. We met a couple we have kept in touch with; the passengers were a really good group of people. If you are thinking about this cruise, just do it; you will not regret your choice. And we will be sailing in 2015 on Viking’s new 29-day ocean cruise!

JoEllen & Dave Mee

Loved the relaxation..

What a wonderful 15 days we and our friends had! We loved the relaxation of cruising the river and watching the scenery go by. Our tours and guides were topnotch. The chef’s food was amazing and he even gave us a galley tour. The staff couldn't do enough for us. They made each day a joy. The crew gave us a cake for our 41st anniversary. Hope to cruise on Viking again.

Marian & Aurelia Kulka

Great ship, great service..

This was our second Viking experience and it fully met expectations. Great ship, great service. We will cruise with Viking again.

Sandy & Steve

A magical cruise..

This was our first river cruise; we have been on three ocean cruises previously. In summary, Viking provided a magical cruise with informative tour guides, good accommodations, an ample variety of food, and a friendly staff. I don’t think you can beat the venue and ease of travel for a daily changing itinerary. The ship is easy on and easy off, and the excursions offer “classic” and “leisure” versions, with the leisure option involving less walking. Because walking around on cobblestones and up and down crooked and steep steps is way more rigorous than walking in the mall, it is a good idea to get in shape ahead of time. The river cruise allowed us to visit 15 interesting and varied locales with the comfort of no daily bag wrestling, no wasted time and stress on buses, taxis and the like, a cozy, clean room, and the reliability of a good meal at a set time should we wish to take advantage of it. Viking delivers a great product. Well done.

Steve Selby

Pampered for two weeks..

If you want to be pampered for two weeks and make wonderful new friends, then Viking is the cruise line for you.

Herbert & Carol Kashanitz

Ship's staff was fantastic.

This was our second cruise with Viking and our most enjoyable. Not only were our ports of call, tours and meals thoroughly enjoyable, but the ship’s staff was fantastic. I have never seen such teamwork from a crew. They made our cruise truly great. We loved the humor of our hotel director, the recommendations of our Program Manager, the attention of our maitre d’ and the attention (and food) of the chef. All of the staff, including the dining room and cabin crew, were fantastic. Thank you for hiring such dedicated professionals.

Linda Cover

Met new travel companions..

I love Viking! Went on a cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest [in 2006] and met great new friends on board. We still travel together!

A fabulous time.

Had a fabulous time on our Viking cruise.

Marilyn Niernberger

Met so many interesting people..

Took the Grand European Tour last November and met so many interesting people. Will do another tour; Viking is the BEST.

Janice Pinkus

Loved this cruise..

I loved taking the Viking river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest.

Ray & Suzanne White

Travel in october..

It was a fabulous trip. All our expectations were met or exceeded. We had delicious food, amazing service and the excursions were excellent. We also met some wonderful people. October was a great month to travel. We will definitely be taking another Viking cruise.

Loretta & James Woerner

We had a great time..

This was our first river cruise and we had a great time. We did not have to worry about anything and focused on simply enjoying ourselves. The only recommendation I have is to make the tours shorter so that there is more free time. The food was delicious; we could not wait for the next meal. I would recommend Viking River Cruises to anyone.

Gordon & Judy Gray

Staff was great on both ships..

What a fabulous way to celebrate our 40th anniversary. [October] was a great time of year to travel (not as many tourists). Our transfer [due to a low-water situation] from Viking Danube to Viking Pride was done with no work on our part and the staff was great on both ships. Imagine 14 days in Europe in the fall and only one day of rain! We are already booked for your China’s Cultural Delights cruisetour.

Paul & Kathy Easley

We would have loved to stay on board.

This was our first cruise with Viking and we were very impressed. Service and amenities were excellent, while the staff was immensely helpful, friendly and fun. Every tour was just fabulous and the guides were so informative. The scenes and sights along the river were absolutely stunning and we had some great laughs. The intimate number of guests allowed us to get better acquainted with many of them. At the end of our trip, we would have loved to stay on board and experience it all over again. We have already booked your Imperial Jewels of Chinacruise!

Michael & Mary El Weedman

Absollutely marvelous vacation..

We had an absolutely marvelous vacation thanks to Viking River Cruises, our second with you. The crew on Viking Pride came through for us when the ship got held up: extra free tours, free beverages and great parties. Buses to cities the ship can’t reach can be a ball if you have the right guide with you making everyone laugh, and you get to see so much more of the country and its people that way. What can we say but thanks Viking, we will be back!

David & Mary Woolnaugh

So impressed with everything..

This was our first cruise of any kind and we’re so impressed with everything. The staff was especially amazing. Every chance I get I will recommend Viking River Cruises to anyone who can hear me. We had the time of our lives celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary!

Joe & Eleanor Kilberger

Trip of a lifetime..

Just a note to tell you what a “trip of a lifetime” we had cruising down the Rhine and Danube. The entire experience was even better than we expected. All of the crew, and especially our program director, were so very helpful and made our trip both informative and enjoyable. We look forward to taking another cruise with your company in the future and will recommend the experience to our family and friends.

Lennart Gohrn

Outstanding food, perect service..

We were very impressed by the outstanding food, the perfect service and all the arrangements for our pleasure. The tours were well organized. We hated to leave the ship at the end of our trip. You can certainly be proud of all you did for us!

Robert & Patricia Dittrich

Best trip we have ever taken..

We just loved our European cruise. It was the best trip we have ever taken. There is now a debate at our house over the next destination, but there is no question about the cruise line.

Shirley Binder

Rhine was breathtaking..

The ports and sights were all so amazing. The riverboat ride along the Rhine was breathtaking.

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