See the world’s most vibrant ports from a Viking River Ship, the world’s leading small ship cruise line
In partnership with Viking Cruises
It’s hard to imagine a more exciting way to see the hotspots of Europe than from a Viking River Ship, an elegant floating hotel plying smooth waters, nosing into places other cruise ships can’t go, being so close to countries you’ve always dreamed about you can almost reach out and touch them.
Whether cruising from Budapest to Bucharest, Amsterdam to Avignon or Paris to Prague, a Viking River Cruise is all about access. And Viking owns many dock locations along the rivers in Europe which makes every journey even smoother.
Whether you travel for wine and food, architecture, or history, there’s a cruise to fit. Designed for the discerning traveller, each journey has shore excursions that give extra depth to destinations, insightful lectures, engaging performances, cooking demonstrations, and an abundance of regional cuisine. It’s about immersion in other cultures and the one-off experiences, friendships and memories that that brings.
The best cities in Europe for wining and dining
Right now, everyone’s crazy about Portugal. The number of foreign tourists visiting this vibrant country hit a record of more than 18 million last year, up 19% from the previous year. The country has a reputation as one of the safest to visit.
Portugal’s River of Gold Itinerary is a 10-day adventure centred around the country’s Douro River and embraces history, architecture, antiquities, and the region’s gastronomic underpinnings: olive oil, fortified wines, local brews and charcuterie.
Expect to see palaces, fortresses, and charming villages. Be dazzled by colourful azulejos (ceramic tiles). Explore two of Iberia’s oldest university towns: Coimbra, Portugal, and Salamanca, Spain. Roam the port warehouses of Porto. Enjoy traditional cuisine, wine, and the country’s expressive and melancholic fado singing. Cruise through the Douro River Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated wine region and a UNESCO Site.
The 10-day cruisetour also includes a hotel stay in Lisbon, newly invigorated with trending galleries and restaurants, and a bonus visit to Spain.
What’s it like onboard?
Intimate and relaxing, river cruising is the perfect introduction to cruising or an opportunity for avid ocean cruise travellers to try something different.
Viking River Cruise ships are known for their innovative patented design, outstanding quality, and state-of-the-art engineering. With smaller ships and fewer passengers, they are designed to navigate the most majestic waterways, and dock in the heart of the most celebrated cities.
Viking river ships’ innovations include the Aquavit Terrace, an exclusive outdoor dining venue; suites that are among the largest on Europe’s rivers; and high-tech soundproofing in the staterooms for guests who prioritise sleep.
See Portugal’s award-winning 3D printed house
There are many other reasons to choose a river cruise. Unpack just once, experience smooth sailing and a new destination every day, know that everything is included – from transport to staterooms with a view, meals with wine and beer, wi-fi, and guided excursions in every port, where gourmet experiences are a given.
Expect to find your tribe: the vibe on a Viking ship is friendly and easy-going – there are no butlers, white gloves or formal nights, just curious, like-minded travellers who appreciate the flexibility and freedom to have the days they desire. Seeing the world doesn’t have to be a tangle of frazzled nerves and logistics. Leave that for the experts!
The Viking Way
A Viking River Cruise is a voyage of discovery in many different ways. Culture, comfort, and value are just the starting point.
Discover culture: Every port of call includes excursions with guides knowledgeable about their region. Local Life tours include a fascinating insight into the rhythms of daily living. Working World excursions tap into craft by artisans who offer a glimpse of a culture at work. Viking’s optional Privileged Access® program offers exclusive entrée to cultural treasure and experiences.
Discover more value: Viking’s cruise fare includes all on-board meals, with menus that feature both regional specialties and classics, complimentary beers and wine with lunch and dinner, specialty tea and coffee, unlimited wi-fi, complimentary shore excursions and UNESCO site visits.
Discover more comfort: Created by interior architects who have designed some of the world’s finest hotels, the signature Scandinavian design of Viking’s ships celebrate the cruise line’s Nordic heritage: clean lines, colourful woven textiles and light woods that evoke the original Viking explorers’ connection to the natural world.
But, wait, there’s more: Public spaces are light-filled, airy and quiet. Staterooms have thoughtful features such as heated bathroom floors, anti-fog mirrors and luxury bed linens. Each ship conveys attention to detail in leather handrails, original Nordic artwork, and libraries stocked with books curated by London bookshop Heywood Hill.
What’s on offer right now? See here.