The Best European River Cruises with Viking

Exploring Europe aboard a river cruise offers a unique blend of luxury, adventure, and cultural immersion. Among the top choices, Viking River Cruises stands out for its exceptional itineraries and unmatched service.

Let’s explore some of the many reasons why Viking River Cruises provides some of the best European river cruises and how you can make the most of your journey.

Why Choose Viking River Cruises?

Viking River Cruises is renowned for its well-planned itineraries, luxurious river cruise ships, and authentic travel experiences.

Viking has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in the medieval towns of Germany, the lush vineyards along the Danube, or the ancient sites of Eastern Europe.

Their cruises often include guided tours, wine tastings, and visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching travel experience.

Popular Itineraries

Each of Viking’s European itineraries offers a unique glimpse into Europe’s rich cultural and historical tapestry, with comfortable and luxurious river cruising experiences.

Whether you’re interested in a comprehensive journey across Europe, a romantic trip down the Danube, or a scenic voyage along the Rhine, Viking River Cruises provides well-crafted experiences for travelers.

Viking River Cruises’ “Grand European Tour,” “Romantic Danube,” and “Rhine Getaway” are among their most popular sailings. Here’s a detailed look at each of these popular journeys:

The Grand European Tour

Experience a 15-day journey along the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers, from Holland’s windmills to Hungary’s stunning landscapes.

Enjoy Rhine Valley views from a 900-year-old castle, savor Austrian cuisine in the Wachau Valley, learn the Viennese waltz, and visit Melk’s, Benedictine Abbey.

Delve into Nuremberg’s WWII history and engage with Europe’s rich culture and history at every turn.

Cruise Highlights

Budapest, Hungary
- Explore the Castle District in Buda and the modern attractions in Pest on either side of the Danube River. Cross the Chain Bridge, visit museums, or relax in a thermal spa in this city known as the “Paris of the East.”
Vienna, Austria
- Admire Vienna’s architecture and classical music heritage. Enjoy Vienna’s museums or indulge in a Viennese pastry.
Wachau Valley
- Sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with views of hillside vineyards.
Melk, Austria
- Visit the famous Benedictine Abbey, known for its medieval manuscripts and stunning ceiling frescoes.
Passau, Germany
- Explore the old town’s patrician houses and see Passau’s ornate cathedral.
Regensburg, Germany
- Stroll through the medieval streets of this UNESCO-listed city and learn about its history.
Main-Danube Canal
- Germany Transit the 16-lock, 106-mile Main-Danube Canal, an engineering marvel.
Nuremberg, Germany
- Visit the Palace of Justice, explore the old town, and browse Market Square.
Bamberg, Germany
- Discover the UNESCO-listed town hall and sample the local rauchbier.
Würzburg, Germany
- Tour the ornate Bishops’ Residenz, a baroque palace and UNESCO Site.
Wertheim, Germany
- Visit this typical German town known for its glassblowing traditions.
Middle Rhine
- Sail past hilltop castles along the UNESCO-listed Middle Rhine and see the famous Lorelei Rock.
Koblenz, Germany
- Visit the 13th-century Marksburg Castle and enjoy panoramic views from its hilltop.
Cologne, Germany
- Stroll through Cologne’s Old Town and visit the iconic Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO Site.
Kinderdijk, The Netherlands
- Explore the Dutch countryside and see the working windmills of Kinderdijk, a UNESCO Site.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Explore Amsterdam’s canals or visit the city’s museums.

Romantic Danube

One of the best Danube river cruises, this 8-day journey explores Budapest’s Castle District and crosses the iconic Chain Bridge.

Visit Göttweig Abbey in Austria and make apricot dumplings in the Wachau Valley.

Discover historic Salzburg, and spend two days in Vienna, celebrating its musical heritage with a Mozart and Strauss concert.

Enjoy medieval towns, grand cities, and stunning scenery along the beautiful blue Danube.

Cruise Highlights

Budapest, Hungary
- Explore Buda’s Castle District and modern Pest, divided by the Danube River. Cross the iconic Chain Bridge, visit museums, or relax in a thermal spa in the “Paris of the East.”
Danube Bend
- Sail along the picturesque Danube, passing charming towns and stunning landscapes.
Vienna, Austria
- Admire Vienna’s architecture and classical music heritage. Visit museums and enjoy Viennese pastries.
Krems, Austria
- Visit Göttweig Abbey to see its ceiling frescoes, grand staircase, library, and church. Sail through the scenic Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Passau, Germany
- Explore Passau’s old town and ornately decorated cathedral.
Regensburg, Germany
- Walk through the medieval, UNESCO-listed streets of Regensburg, learn about its history, and see the world’s first fast-food restaurant.

Rhine Getaway

Explore one of Europe’s most cherished rivers, the Middle Rhine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In 8 days you can visit turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, historic cities, and medieval towns. Taste renowned white wines from ancient terraced vineyards and savor Alsace’s culinary traditions.

With stops in Amsterdam, Cologne, and Basel, this journey unveils a rich tapestry of beauty and culture.

Cruise Highlights

Basel, Switzerland
- Discover the gateway to the Swiss Rhineland, where France, Germany, and Switzerland meet.
Breisach, Germany
- Explore the Black Forest region, known for its verdant hills and stunning scenery.
Strasbourg, France
- Visit the multicultural city of Strasbourg, home to the famed Strasbourg Cathedral and Alsatian cuisine.
Speyer, Germany
- Explore quaint Speyer and its historic Romanesque imperial cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rüdesheim, Germany
- Stroll the pedestrian Drosselgasse and sample local wines.
Middle Rhine
- Sail past hilltop castles along the Middle Rhine, a UNESCO Site, and see the Lorelei Rock.
Koblenz, Germany
- Visit the 13th-century Marksburg Castle and enjoy hilltop views.
Cologne, Germany
- Explore Cologne’s Old Town and its famous Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO Site.
Kinderdijk, The Netherlands
- View the Dutch countryside and working windmills of Kinderdijk, a UNESCO Site.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Cruise through Amsterdam’s canals or visit its museums.

Best Time to Cruise

Each season offers unique experiences, ensuring a memorable journey through the heart of Europe with Viking River Cruises.

Let’s explore what makes each season unique:

Spring (April – May): This season offers mild weather, blooming flowers, and lush landscapes along the rivers. It’s a great time to enjoy fewer crowds and vibrant scenery.

Fall (September – October): Fall is another ideal time with pleasant temperatures and stunning foliage. Wine harvest festivals add to the charm, making it a popular time for river cruising.

Summer (June – August): Peak season with warm weather and longer daylight hours, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring vibrant cities like Vienna and Budapest.

Winter (November – March): Christmas market cruises in November and December are popular, especially in cities such as Cologne and Vienna.

Shore Excursions and Authentic Experiences

Viking’s shore excursions are designed to provide authentic experiences and insights into local cultures. Shore excursions along the Rhine and Danube rivers offer travelers immersive experiences in some of Europe’s most captivating destinations.

On the Rhine, guests can explore the historic Cologne Cathedral, stroll through the charming streets of Koblenz, and visit the 13th-century Marksburg Castle for panoramic views.

Along the beautiful Danube, highlights include touring the opulent Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, wandering the medieval streets of Regensburg, and discovering Budapest’s Buda Castle District.

Excursions often feature unique cultural experiences, such as wine tasting in the Wachau Valley, learning to waltz in Vienna, and sampling local culinary delights in cities like Strasbourg and Budapest. These thoughtfully curated excursions provide deep insights into the rich heritage and vibrant cultures along these iconic European rivers.

Luxurious Ships

Viking’s luxury river cruise ships offer an unparalleled journey through the heart of Europe, providing an exquisite luxury cruise experience. These state-of-the-art vessels navigate the picturesque waterways of the beautiful Danube and other major rivers, connecting passengers to the most beautiful cities of Central Europe.

With elegantly designed interiors, spacious staterooms, and top-tier amenities, guests can relax in comfort and style as they sail through iconic destinations like Vienna, Budapest, and Amsterdam.

Viking’s luxury river cruise ships ensure that travelers experience the rich culture, history, and stunning scenery of Europe with the utmost elegance and sophistication.

Embarking on a Viking River Cruise is the best way to explore Europe. From the shimmering waters of the Danube to the historic buildings along the Rhine, these cruises offer a blend of luxury, culture, and adventure.

Whether you choose a shorter cruise or a longer expeditionary cruise, the experience will leave you with unforgettable memories of Europe’s most beautiful and historic destinations!

READY TO BOOK YOUR NEXT EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISE?

When you’re ready to book your next travel plans, contact one of our Tier One Travel consultants. They will find the perfect place for your next vacation and will craft something incredible that is suited to your unique needs and will make sure your travel plans will be as stress-free as possible.