Why Take a Viking River Cruise?

By Sarah Etinas

Why Take a Viking River Cruise?

By Sarah Etinas

Discover lesser-known European ports on an exceptional Viking river voyage.

There’s simply no better way to experience the rivers of the world than from the comfort of one of Viking’s elegant, small ships. From the staterooms to the meals to the ports of call, each aspect of a European Viking river cruise has been thought out to ensure that every guest has a wonderfully memorable getaway.

Ships Designed for Exploration

The base of every cruise is its ship, and at Viking, you can’t ask for anything more. Each of its impeccably designed vessels feels like a luxury boutique hotel—just one equipped to sail across the world’s rivers. In your stateroom, you’ll feel unprecedented levels of comfort every moment of the day, from waking up amongst the high-quality bed linens to winding down in the well-equipped bathroom with heated floors and anti-fog mirrors.

The common spaces, like the Observation Lounge and the Aquavit Terrace, are equally well thought out. Admire the floor-to-ceiling windows, Scandinavian design choices, and refined layouts as you take in the passing panoramic views.

Ports Pulled Out of a Storybook

The cultural gems of Europe have beckoned curious travelers for centuries, and Viking’s river cruises make it easier than ever to explore them. In many ports, you’ll arrive in the center of town—often at Viking-owned dock locations—and stroll right into the flourishing heart of history, culture, and community. From Lyon, France to Porto, Portugal to Budapest, Hungary, you’ll be immersed in near-fantastical ports of call.

Even better, Viking’s onshore experiences are designed to take guests deeper than ever before. Within each destination, guests can discover the Local Life, Working World, and Privileged Access® experiences exclusive to Viking. With Privileged Access, guests can go behind the scenes, spending an afternoon with Austria’s lauded Vienna Boys’ Choir or a day at the top of the 11th-century Cologne Cathedral.

Cuisines Inspired by the Destination

While you are more than welcome to partake in culinary delights while in port—and many of Viking’s excursions are crafted to do just that—you’ll also savor a feast for the senses when enjoying a meal in The Restaurant or dining al fresco in the Aquavit Terrace®. Each meal serves as an extension of your journey, featuring regionally inspired dishes made with fresh ingredients from local purveyors. To take your dining experience to the next level, Viking also curates a regional specialties wine menu, meant to showcase your port of call’s quintessential varietals. As you sail the Rhine past Germany’s legendary vineyards, you might sample a local Riesling, sourced from those very same vineyards—and the same goes for the meals throughout your voyage.

With Viking Inclusive Value

Viking doesn’t require a whole bunch of add-ons in order to enjoy your sailing. Rather, with Viking Inclusive Value, the price includes everything you need for a vacation of a lifetime. This includes one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call; led by a knowledgeable guide; all onboard meals featuring regional specialties and always available American classics; wine, beer, and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner; free Wi-Fi; visits to UNESCO sites; all port fees and taxes; and more.

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