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Viking includes excursions to the poignant Normandy beaches plus the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer. You'll also get a dash of history in medieval Rouen and the quaint fishing village of Honfleur. Viking's European river cruise fleet includes four slightly smaller longships built to navigate France's iconic Seine River. Those ships are your ticket to one of the best river cruises in all of Europe -- and not just because Paris is your starting point. If you're looking for the best Viking River Cruises in Europe, you have a lot to consider.
Where to stay in Amsterdam
If you’re prone to seasickness you will enjoy river cruising. In fact, it was difficult to tell when the ship was moving. If you’ve never been on a river cruise, or seen how they dock, it’s actually quite interesting. The ships often dock right next to each other, essentially connecting to each other. You may need to walk through the lobby of one or more ships before getting to your ship (see photo below). Soda, wine and beer are available during lunch and dinner, and they are included in your cruise package.
Viking Opens Bookings for 2026 European River Cruise Season - TravelPulse
Viking Opens Bookings for 2026 European River Cruise Season.
Posted: Mon, 11 Dec 2023 08:00:00 GMT [source]
Ocean & River Voyages
If you look at the above image, you can see how calm the water is. Because this river runs through a steep valley, it is mostly protected from the wind. It then enters the lock compartment and the doors close. The lock fills with water and this lifts the ship. Once it reaches the top, the opposite side door opens and the ship departs at the higher level (or lower lever if the ship is going down). The river lock is located on the right side of Valeira Dam, in that big concrete box with the black door that resembles a garage door.
Day 13 – Cologne, Germany
Traverse the remarkable Main–Danube Canal and sail the legendary Danube into Austria’s vineyard-laden Wachau Valley, with overnights in Vienna and Budapest. Most European river cruises have entertainment in the evenings, just don’t expect elaborate shows like the ones found on a big ocean cruise ship. The lobby lounge had a musician who performed at cocktail hour and after dinner.
Day 10 – Romantic Road excursion to Rothenburg + Würzburg, Germany
Sometimes the attractions are on the opposite side of the ship. You don’t want to miss out and only see what’s happening on your side of the river. The private bathroom includes a rain shower with good water pressure. We always had hot water available, even during peak times. The room was updated daily with shampoo, conditioner, lotion and soap. Cocktails and specialty drinks are NOT included (additional charge).
The service was very good, so this daily rate was reasonable. The guides on our tours had extensive knowledge about the area and attractions. One guide is dedicated to each coach, so you’ll get to know your guide well over the course of the cruise.
Immerse Yourself in the Region and Experience Local Life on Excursions
The ship, in our opinion, is comparable to a luxury hotel. American gateways except Alaska, Hawaii, San Juan and Mexico City. The fabled Rhône, lined with vestiges of a rich Roman past, courses through picturesque Provence, cultivating renowned vineyards and vibrant wild flower fields. Admire Vienna’s architecture and discover the city’s classical music heritage. Sail the picturesque Wachau Valley, a UNESCO Site, and admire views of hillside vineyards. Encounter the Bishops’ Residenz, a large, ornate baroque palace and UNESCO Site.
Create Gold Art in Vienna
Be sure to keep an eye out for the Lorelei Rock, which marks the river’s narrowest point and is named after the legendary Rhine maiden who lured sailors to their demise. Travel through Croatia’s countryside to Krka National Park, known for its seven waterfalls and crystalline rivers, stretching across 100 square kilometres. The spectacular Skradinski Buk falls comprise 17 cataracts and spans 100 metres at its widest point.
The lock at Carrapatelo Dam rises up 115 feet (35 meters) and the lock at Valeira Dam rises 109 feet (33 meters). We were told that these are some of the tallest river locks in Europe. If you prefer to have to have unlimited specialty drinks, you can purchase an additional beverage package. It includes an upgraded wine list and all cocktails.
I found myself nodding along with a table of women next to me on Viking’s Aquavit Terrace. Strangers just a week ago, they were plotting their next river cruise, with or without spouses. I knew I wouldn’t be the only one scrolling through river options on the way home. We left late and could have one last enjoyable breakfast, once again with local breads, cheeses and other specialties.
Yes, daily excursions are included on the Portugal’s River of Gold tour with Viking. Every evening, the Program Director goes over the next day’s options for excursions. Guests are also provided the Viking Daily, a printed document that details the next day’s itinerary. One of the advantages to river cruising is that most rooms on a river cruise ship come with a balcony.
Return to your ship for a traditional Hungarian dinner. Ride along the Ringstrasse, which replaced the city walls in the mid-19th century. See some of the city’s baroque architecture, including the world-famous Opera House, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Hofburg Palace.
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