Journey Through History: Top Viking River Cruises You’ll Love (Connie's Top 7)

Viking has built a reputation as a premier river cruise line, offering thoughtfully curated journeys through Europe, Egypt, Asia, and beyond. Known for its sophisticated ships, high-quality service, and immersive itineraries, Viking provides an ideal blend of luxury and cultural discovery.

I’ve put together seven of the most popular Viking river journeys to give you that capture the magic of travel, blending history, culture, and natural beauty for an unforgettable experience.

Viking ship sailing out of Porto, Portugal.

7 Viking River Boat Cruises to Consider for Your Next Vacation

Here are my seven "Top Viking River Cruises" that I want to share with you:

1. Grand European Tour (Amsterdam to Budapest)

The Grand European Tour is one of Viking’s signature itineraries, taking travelers through the heart of Europe on a journey from Amsterdam to Budapest. This 15-day cruise along the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers offers a comprehensive look at Europe’s rich history, spanning four countries and countless cultural sites.

Highlights:

• Explore iconic cities such as Amsterdam, Cologne, Vienna, and Budapest with guided tours showcasing both famous landmarks and hidden gems.

• Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Rhine Valley with its medieval castles and the historic town of Bamberg.

• Enjoy the scenic Wachau Valley in Austria, known for its vineyards and charming villages, as well as the grandeur of Melk Abbey.

• Take part in enriching experiences, like a home-hosted visit in Austria and a traditional German beer tasting in Bavaria.

The Grand European Tour is perfect for travelers seeking an in-depth exploration of European history and culture, making it one of Viking’s most popular journeys.

2. Rhine Getaway (Amsterdam to Basel)

The Rhine Getaway offers a shorter, 8-day cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, Switzerland, showcasing the beauty and history of the Rhine River. This voyage includes stops in Germany and France, offering travelers a taste of Western Europe’s rich culture and medieval charm.

Highlights:

• Explore Amsterdam’s famous canals, the Gothic cathedral in Cologne, and the picturesque town of Heidelberg, with its historic castle overlooking the river.

• Cruise through the Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning castles, terraced vineyards, and the famous Lorelei Rock.

• Enjoy a scenic tour of Strasbourg, France, known for its half-timbered houses, beautiful canals, and the striking Strasbourg Cathedral.

• Participate in wine tastings in Germany’s Alsace region, learning about the art of winemaking in one of Europe’s most renowned wine-producing areas.

The Rhine Getaway is ideal for those who want to experience the magic of the Rhine and the charm of Europe in a relaxed, immersive journey.

3. Paris to the Swiss Alps (Paris to Zurich)

This 12-day cruise combines a scenic river journey with land excursions that lead travelers from the iconic city of Paris to the Swiss Alps. This route, which includes the Seine and Rhine Rivers, offers a mix of city sights, historical landmarks, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Highlights:

• Begin your journey in Paris with guided tours of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre Museum.

• Cruise through the picturesque vineyards of Burgundy and explore France’s culinary delights with wine tastings and market visits.

• Visit the medieval town of Mainz, Germany, and the charming villages of the Alsace region, blending French and German influences.

• End your journey in the Swiss Alps, where you’ll enjoy views of snow-capped mountains, lakes, and lush valleys, with an optional excursion to Jungfraujoch, one of the highest points in Europe.

Paris to the Swiss Alps is a fantastic option for those who want a combination of city elegance, historical exploration, and alpine beauty in one unique journey.

4. Pharaohs & Pyramids (Cairo to Aswan)

Looking to delve into ancient history and the wonders of Egypt? Viking’s Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary will fill that dream. This 12-day Nile River cruise takes you on a journey through Egypt’s ancient temples, tombs, and monuments, bringing history to life along the banks of the Nile.

Highlights:

• Explore the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Sphinx, as well as the treasures of Tutankhamun’s tomb in the Egyptian Museum.

• Visit the Valley of the Kings in Luxor, where you’ll enter the tombs of ancient pharaohs, including that of Tutankhamun.

• Cruise the Nile in a traditional Viking ship, with stops at iconic sites such as the Temple of Karnak, the Temple of Philae, and Abu Simbel.

• Experience traditional Egyptian culture, including a galabeya (traditional Egyptian robe) party and a Nubian dance performance.

With expertly guided tours and enriching lectures, this cruise immerses travelers in the world of the pharaohs, making it ideal for history enthusiasts. Are you ready to picture yourself as Cleopatra as you sail the Nile?

5. Danube Waltz (Passau to Budapest)

The Danube Waltz cruise is a classic 8-day journey along the picturesque Danube River, taking travelers through four beautiful countries: Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. This itinerary combines medieval history, vibrant arts, and Baroque architecture with serene river landscapes, making it perfect for travelers who want a taste of Central Europe’s charm.

Highlights:

• Begin in the historic German town of Passau, known for its striking Baroque architecture and the impressive St. Stephen’s Cathedral with its world-famous organ.

• Cruise through Austria, stopping in Salzburg (Mozart’s birthplace) and exploring the city’s medieval Hohensalzburg Fortress.

• Discover Vienna’s grand architecture, from the Hofburg Palace to the Vienna State Opera, and enjoy an optional concert to experience classical music in the city of composers.

• Explore the charm of Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital, with its medieval Old Town, cobblestone streets, and Bratislava Castle.

• Conclude in Budapest with guided tours of both the Buda and Pest sides, including Fisherman’s Bastion, Parliament Building, and the historic Chain Bridge.

The Danube Waltz is ideal for travelers seeking an enriching blend of music, art, history, and European charm in one relaxing journey. This is a popular first time European river cruise itinerary and an excellent opportunity to experience a week-long adventure in Western and Central Europe.

6. Portugal’s River of Gold (Porto to the Douro Valley)

Portugal’s Douro River Valley is one of Europe’s hidden treasures, and Viking’s Portugal’s River of Gold cruise lets travelers experience the beauty of this wine-growing region in a 10-day itinerary from Porto to the Douro Valley. This journey offers a fascinating look at Portugal’s ancient traditions, stunning landscapes, and famed port wines.

Highlights:

• Start in the colorful city of Porto, famous for its historic Ribeira district, narrow medieval streets, and beautiful tiled churches.

• Tour the Douro Valley’s terraced vineyards and visit local Quintas (wine estates) to taste Portugal’s iconic port wines.

• Visit small Portuguese towns like Régua and Pinhão, where the slower pace and traditional way of life provide an authentic look at rural Portugal.

• Enjoy excursions to historic sites, including the Mateus Palace, known for its stunning Baroque architecture and beautifully manicured gardens.

• Discover the city of Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Spain, with its sandstone architecture, university, and Romanesque and Gothic cathedrals.

With its breathtaking landscapes and emphasis on Portuguese heritage, Portugal's River of Gold is perfect for wine lovers and those who appreciate the charm of rural Europe.

7. Magnificent Mekong

Magnificent Mekong is a journey that delivers an incredible experience spanning Cambodia and Vietnam, this 15-day cruise invites you to explore the heart of Southeast Asia with Viking’s signature blend of comfort and discovery. Every stop along the Mekong River offers something extraordinary from ancient temples to bustling floating markets.

Highlights:

• Experience the awe of the world’s largest religious monument, Angkor Wat, a stunning testament to Cambodia’s Khmer Empire.

• Discover the vibrant capital of Cambodia, Phnom Penh, featuring the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda, and poignant Killing Fields.

• Immerse yourself in the bustling energy of the Mekong’s floating markets, where goods are traded from boat to boat.

• Explore this charming riverside town of Tan Chau, renowned for its traditional silk weaving and authentic local culture.

• Wander through picturesque rice paddies, stilt houses, and coconut groves that define life along the Mekong at villages depending on the river.

The Secrets of Southeast Asia cruise is ideal for travelers who are fascinated by Eastern cultures, historical sites, and scenic river landscapes. This immersive journey offers a deep dive into Vietnam and Cambodia's vibrant traditions and complex histories.

Magnificent Mekong is ideal for travelers who love culture, unique sights, and authentic experiences. It’s perfect for people dreaming of exploring Southeast Asia in a way that combines convenience with unforgettable adventures,

Enjoying each other's company, a beverage, and sights from the ship's Sun Deck.

> Click to see all Viking ocean, river and expediton cruises we can assist you in planning. <

Viking’s river cruises offer some of the most immersive travel experiences in the world, blending luxury with cultural enrichment and breathtaking scenery. Whether you’re drawn to Europe’s grand waterways, the mysterious Nile, or the vast landscapes of Asia, Viking is one of our river cruise lines providing great service, carefully curated itineraries, and a comfortable, luxurious “home” from which to explore the world’s great rivers.

Do you see something above that tickles your travel bone? ;-) Connie George Travel Associates works with you to match the cruise line and ship that best fits your interests, needs, and personality. Ready to get planning your next adventure?

Happy Traveling!

-Connie