There's no better way to see Northern Europe and Baltic Sea than from the deck of Viking Lif, sailing with Viking River Cruises for 14 nights from Budapest. Between 5 sea days, you'll explore 3 ports of call, with Vienna, Bamberg, and Kinderdijk standing out as particular highlights of the voyage. There's a pleasing rhythm to this cruise - days spent exploring ashore, and time on board to relax and recharge between ports. At £3,995 per person, this is a compelling way to explore Northern Europe and Baltic Sea with Viking River Cruises.
Viking is the largest river cruise line operators in the world, with a fleet of 76 ships running sailings across four continents on an army of award-winning ships. The river arm of Viking is just one of Viking's cruise options, the super-premium Norwegian ocean cruise line known for its superlative cruise experience, small ships with Scandi-chic interiors and fantastic destination and cultural enrichment programme.
On the river, Viking offers cruisers the chance to sail in Europe, Asia, Africa and the US, offering facilities like sundeck swimming pools, relaxing Aquavit terraces and well-stocked libraries. Continually making new additions and expanding, Viking has recently upped its Nile river cruise game with two new ships, and also sails the Mississippi river.
The cruise line also champions themed cruises, taking passengers to the likes of the Passion Play at Oberammergau and offering exclusive pre-and post-cruise land tours.
Many Danube cruises start or end in Budapest, and the Hungarian capital remains a highlight for passengers. It’s a crowd-pleaser of a city, with something for everyone – muscle-melting thermal spas for those seeking relaxation, museums packed with artefacts for the culturally curious and ruin bars for travellers searching for an offbeat adventure.
View moreThe Austrian capital is full of old-world charm. Art lovers marvel at the works of the old masters while the musically inclined head to a gilded concert hall to listen to a world-class orchestra or a ballroom for a Viennese Waltz workshop. For foodies, there's plenty to surprise and delight, from the high-ceilinged coffeehouses to the traditional wine bars that embody gemütlichkeit (the Austrian answer to hygge).
View moreThis city is full of historical treasures, but Melk Abbey, renowned for its Baroque architecture, makes it a must-visit destination on the Danube.
View moreAt this idyllic UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can see 19 authentic windmills set against the pancake-flat yet picturesque landscape. A hallmark of Dutch culture, these ingenious structures long played a crucial role in keeping the surrounding land (relatively) dry, acting as part of an innovative and highly effective water management system. While some of the windmills are still inhabited to this day, two are open to visitors, offering a glimpse into the lives of the millers who have operated them throughout history.
View moreOwing to its position at the confluence of the Danube, the Inn and the Ilz, this German city has enjoyed a long history as a religious and commercial centre. Today, you can peer into its storied past and learn about its prince bishops' courts and mysterious guilds. Also, St Stephen's Cathedral is home to the biggest organ outside of the USA.
View moreThis pretty German city is remarkably well-preserved, with landmarks including a notable cathedral and a bridge that has inspired fascinating local lore. It’s also a beer lover’s paradise, with atmospheric spots to try the local varieties, complemented by traditional sausage and sauerkraut.
View moreAt this idyllic UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can see 19 authentic windmills set against the pancake-flat yet picturesque landscape. A hallmark of Dutch culture, these ingenious structures long played a crucial role in keeping the surrounding land (relatively) dry, acting as part of an innovative and highly effective water management system. While some of the windmills are still inhabited to this day, two are open to visitors, offering a glimpse into the lives of the millers who have operated them throughout history.
View moreBavaria's second biggest city is well worth visiting. Its Christmas Market offers a wealth of handcrafted ornaments, and many visitors are drawn by the city's beer cellars. For those interested in history, there is a considerable amount to explore, including the Palace of Justice, where the Nuremberg trials were held.
View moreAt this idyllic UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can see 19 authentic windmills set against the pancake-flat yet picturesque landscape. A hallmark of Dutch culture, these ingenious structures long played a crucial role in keeping the surrounding land (relatively) dry, acting as part of an innovative and highly effective water management system. While some of the windmills are still inhabited to this day, two are open to visitors, offering a glimpse into the lives of the millers who have operated them throughout history.
View moreKoblenz occupies a strategic position where the Moselle River meets the Rhine, known as the Deutsches Eck (German Corner). The imposing Ehrenbreitstein Fortress overlooks the city, offering expansive views of the twin rivers and surrounding hills.The old town’s pedestrian streets have baroque churches, historic town halls and riverside promenades with cafés and markets. Visitors can take a cable car linking the Rhine to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for river and city views.
View moreCologne has roots going back to Roman times. Dominating the skyline is the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s largest Gothic churches. Don’t miss a visit to see its soaring spires, intricate façades and stained-glass windows.Beyond the cathedral, Cologne’s Old Town features cobbled streets lined with colourful medieval houses, cosy beer halls and cafés where the local Kölsch beer is served. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums dedicated to Roman history, modern art and chocolate.The Rhine promenade is a good option for a relaxed walk and a chance to check out the city’s bridges.
View moreAt this idyllic UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can see 19 authentic windmills set against the pancake-flat yet picturesque landscape. A hallmark of Dutch culture, these ingenious structures long played a crucial role in keeping the surrounding land (relatively) dry, acting as part of an innovative and highly effective water management system. While some of the windmills are still inhabited to this day, two are open to visitors, offering a glimpse into the lives of the millers who have operated them throughout history.
View moreAt this idyllic UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can see 19 authentic windmills set against the pancake-flat yet picturesque landscape. A hallmark of Dutch culture, these ingenious structures long played a crucial role in keeping the surrounding land (relatively) dry, acting as part of an innovative and highly effective water management system. While some of the windmills are still inhabited to this day, two are open to visitors, offering a glimpse into the lives of the millers who have operated them throughout history.
View moreAmsterdam is the Netherlands’ lively capital, famous for its historic canals and art museums. Cruising into the city reveals a network of waterways lined with tall, narrow houses with ornate gables, a hallmark of Dutch Golden Age architecture. The city’s past as a busy trading city can be seen in its harbour and historic buildings.Exploring on foot or by bike, visitors can check out world-class museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, alongside the poignant Anne Frank House. The city’s compact centre makes it easy to wander through charming neighbourhoods like Jordaan with its boutique shops, cafés and galleries.Despite its popularity, Amsterdam maintains a relaxed vibe with leafy canals and parks offering a peaceful break from the busy centre.
View moreBringer of Life to a New World
Her name means “life.” In Norse mythology, Lif and the male Lifthrasir are two mortals who are foretold that they will survive Ragnarok, the end of the world as it is known, by hiding in the forest of Hodmimir.
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