The anticipation is palpable, a thrilling crescendo building towards an adventure we’ve long dreamed of. We’re embarking on our very first Viking River Cruise, a journey through the heart of Europe that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary! For years, we’ve heard captivating tales of the unparalleled experiences offered by Viking River Cruises, and the thought of finally immersing ourselves in such a voyage fills us with immense excitement. This isn’t just a trip; it’s the culmination of years of wanderlust and the beginning of a new chapter in our travel diary.
Embarking on a European Odyssey: The Castles & Legends Cruise
Our chosen vessel for this magnificent expedition is the Viking Vili, and our itinerary is the enchanting “Castles & Legends” cruise. Deciding on the perfect Viking cruise was a delightful challenge, as each one boasts an allure of its own. However, the Castles & Legends itinerary captured our imagination with its promise of breathtaking scenery, rich history, and the opportunity to explore countries we’ve never had the pleasure of visiting before. This journey along the legendary Danube River is set to be a seamless blend of cultural immersion, historical discovery, and luxurious comfort.
Pre-Cruise Explorations: The Charms of Southern Germany
Our European adventure officially begins in Munich, Germany, where we’ve planned to arrive a few days early. This gives us ample time to adjust to the time zone and indulge in some independent exploration before joining our Viking journey. We’ll be picking up a car, eager to discover what hidden gems and local delights await us. While our initial days are open to spontaneous discovery, we have a few aspirations. John, for instance, is determined to visit at least one or two authentic German beer gardens, savoring the rich local brews and vibrant atmosphere. As for me, I’m hoping to revisit some of the enchanting spots within the Black Forest, a region that left an indelible impression on my first trip to Germany nearly two decades ago. And, if our travels lead us serendipitously close to Switzerland, a cozy evening enjoying a traditional fondue would be an absolute dream – because, frankly, who can resist delicious, gooey cheese?
Unveiling Bavarian Masterpieces: Neuschwanstein, Linderhof, and Munich
The structured part of our cruise experience kicks off with two enriching days in Munich, meticulously organized by Viking. These initial days are packed with captivating tours, promising an in-depth look at Bavaria’s most iconic landmarks. We are particularly thrilled to visit the legendary Neuschwanstein Castle, a fantastical 19th-century Romanesque Revival palace that served as the inspiration for Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. This fairy-tale fortress, nestled amidst dramatic alpine scenery, is a testament to King Ludwig II’s romantic vision. Alongside Neuschwanstein, we’ll explore the exquisite Linderhof Palace, another of Ludwig II’s creations, renowned for its opulent Rococo architecture and stunning gardens. Our Munich itinerary also includes a comprehensive city tour, allowing us to delve into the rich history and vibrant culture of this Bavarian capital, from its grand squares to its bustling markets.
Melodies and Mountains: Discovering Salzburg, Austria
Following our Bavarian explorations, our journey continues to the picturesque city of Salzburg, Austria. This UNESCO World Heritage site, famous as the birthplace of Mozart and the enchanting setting for “The Sound of Music,” is sure to captivate us. While in Salzburg, we’ve planned to embark on a delightful Sound of Music tour, eager to retrace the steps of the von Trapp family and visit iconic filming locations amidst the stunning Austrian Alps. Additionally, a detailed Salzburg walking tour will guide us through its charming Old Town, showcasing its magnificent Baroque architecture, medieval alleyways, and the impressive Hohensalzburg Fortress perched high above the city. The blend of musical heritage, imperial history, and breathtaking natural beauty makes Salzburg an anticipated highlight of our trip.
Setting Sail: From Passau to the Heart of Europe
The true essence of our river cruise begins as we board the Viking Vili in Passau, Germany. Known as the “City of Three Rivers,” where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz converge, Passau offers a stunning backdrop for our embarkation. Before we set sail, we’ll have the opportunity to explore this charming city, admiring its Baroque architecture, visiting St. Stephen’s Cathedral with its world-renowned organ, and simply soaking in the atmosphere of this historic confluence. We’re also looking forward to settling into our cabin and taking the time to fully appreciate the luxurious amenities and welcoming ambiance of the Viking Vili, our floating home for the next week and a half.
Cultural Immersion: From Linz to a Czech Fairytale
Our journey continues downstream to Linz, Austria, a vibrant cultural hub along the Danube. From here, we’re particularly excited about taking a Cesky Krumlov Walking Tour. This excursion will add a new country, the Czech Republic, to our ever-growing list of visited nations! Cesky Krumlov is often described as a fairytale town, with its remarkably preserved medieval center, a magnificent castle complex, and the Vltava River winding gracefully through it. The tour promises a scenic drive through the picturesque Czech countryside, leading us to this UNESCO World Heritage site where we’ll wander cobblestone streets, marvel at the Gothic and Renaissance architecture, and undoubtedly capture countless photographs. Indeed, I have a strong feeling that every day on our Viking cruise will be a photographer’s dream, with endless stunning vistas and memorable moments.
Scenic Splendor: Cruising the Wachau Valley, Austria
Following our excursion from Linz, we’ll revel in a full day of scenic cruising through Austria’s breathtaking Wachau Valley. This 18-mile stretch of the Danube River is another designated UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, historic castles, and terraced vineyards. As we glide along the serene waters, we anticipate being mesmerized by the rolling hills blanketed in lush grapevines, interspersed with charming villages and ancient fortresses like Dürnstein. The Wachau Valley is renowned for its wine production, particularly Riesling and Grüner Veltliner, and we can hardly wait to witness the very landscapes that give birth to these exquisite wines.
Historical Riches and Culinary Delights: Melk Abbey and Viennese Grandeur
Day 8 brings us to Melk, Austria, where a spectacular cultural experience awaits. Our visit includes an exploration of the magnificent Melk Abbey, a colossal Benedictine monastery perched majestically above the Danube. This Baroque masterpiece is not only a spiritual center but also a repository of immense artistic and historical treasures, including an awe-inspiring library. Following our abbey visit, we’ll indulge in a Wachau Valley Winery Tour and Tasting. The Wachau wine region, though comprising just 3% of Austrian wine production, is globally acclaimed for its quality. Wine has been produced here since the time of the Celts, and experiencing this ancient tradition firsthand, complete with a tasting of local varietals, will be an absolute treat for the senses.
Vienna: The Imperial City of Music and Culture
On Day 9, we arrive in the grand imperial city of Vienna, Austria. Our day commences with an illuminating Vienna city tour, guiding us along the remarkable Ringstrasse, a majestic boulevard laid out on the site of the old city walls. This architectural marvel is home to some of Vienna’s most iconic buildings, including the State Opera, Parliament, and Hofburg Palace. We will visit the historic Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence, which also houses the prestigious Spanish Riding School and is home to the elegant Lipizzaner Horses. I am particularly excited to see the Lipizzaner Horses again; we had the privilege of witnessing their stunning performance on tour in Spokane a few years ago, and their grace and beauty were absolutely unforgettable.
Our Viennese experience will culminate in a memorable Heurigen Evening. This traditional Austrian experience involves toasting to the new wine harvest at a local vineyard, accompanied by delicious snacks and lively, traditional music performed live. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse ourselves in local culture, celebrate with fellow travelers, and truly savor the authentic spirit of Vienna. I can barely wait to experience the joyous atmosphere of this celebration in person.
Exploring New Horizons: Bratislava and the Majestic Danube Bend
Day 10 introduces us to yet another new country: the Slovak Republic, and its captivating capital, Bratislava. Our day includes a comprehensive Bratislava City Tour. This excursion will allow us to explore the vibrant capital, focusing on its charming Old Town, with its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and historical landmarks. We’ll have ample free time in the city center to browse local shops, enjoy a traditional Slovak pastry, or simply admire the blend of medieval and modern influences that characterize this evolving city.
The afternoon will be spent cruising the scenic Danube Bend as we make our way towards Budapest, Hungary. This stretch of the Danube River, approximately 40 miles long, is renowned for its dramatic curves and the picturesque landscapes it carves through Northern Hungary. As we sail, I’ll be eagerly scanning the hilltops for glimpses of ancient castles and ruins, each holding stories from centuries past. It’s also a perfect opportunity to unwind, reflect on our incredible journey, and savor some of the amazing cuisine and onboard amenities offered by the Viking Vili.
The Grand Finale: Budapest, The Pearl of the Danube
Days 11 and 12 bring us to a city we’ve long dreamed of visiting: Budapest, Hungary. This magnificent capital, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Danube,” is not only a new country for us but also promises a spectacular culmination to our river cruise. We are incredibly excited to explore the city with our included Budapest City Tour, which will introduce us to its most iconic landmarks, including the historic Buda Castle District, the majestic Parliament Building, and the Chain Bridge connecting Buda and Pest. The rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture of Budapest are sure to leave us spellbound.
One of the activities we are most looking forward to in Budapest is soaking away the afternoon in one of its famous thermal baths. Budapest is celebrated for its natural hot springs and historic bathhouses, offering a unique blend of relaxation and cultural experience. Whether it’s the grandeur of the Szechenyi Baths or the Art Nouveau beauty of the Gellért Baths, this will be a rejuvenating and iconic Budapest experience to cherish.
The Viking Difference: Unforgettable Experiences Included
Throughout our itinerary, one aspect that truly stands out about cruising with Viking is the sheer number of tours and excursions that are thoughtfully included in the cruise fare. You might have noticed the extensive list of activities we have planned, from castle visits and city tours to winery tastings and cultural evenings. This comprehensive offering is a hallmark of the Viking experience, ensuring that guests receive an enriching and immersive journey without the constant worry of additional costs. While optional excursions are available for those who wish to delve even deeper, the included tours in nearly every city provide an incredible foundation for exploration and discovery, making a Viking River Cruise an exceptional value for an unforgettable European adventure.
Follow Our European River Adventure!
We invite you to follow along on our captivating journey as we navigate the historic waterways of Europe. We’ll be sharing real-time updates, stunning photographs, and personal reflections on our social media channels throughout the cruise. Join us virtually as we explore ancient castles, charming towns, and vibrant cities, experiencing the magic of a Viking River Cruise firsthand!
Tammilee – Tammilee Tips and Tammilee Tips Life
John – John Tillison
Tammilee – @TammileeTips
John – @ParkRangerJohn
Tammilee – Tammilee Tips
We are honored to be sailing as guests of Viking River Cruises. All opinions and excitement expressed are genuinely our own.