Located where Switzerland, Germany and France meet, Basel reflects a fascinating blend of traditions. The city straddles the Rhine at the river’s farthest navigable point, and an alluring cluster of old-town buildings huddles along the riverbank. Around Market Square, guild houses recall Gothic, Renaissance and baroque splendor; the red-sandstone Rathaus, or Town Hall, is the centerpiece. More than 40 museums of art and culture lend modern polish to its history-rich streets. And there is no more refined way to sample it all than over cheese fondue or croissants. After breakfast, disembark your ship and transfer to your destination.
For oenophiles, all roads lead to Burgundy, and one road in particular—the Route des Grands Crus—is the address of eight of the ten most expensive wines in the world. Sublime as it is, its wine tells only part of Burgundy’s story. This serene region is French culture personified, where farmers and vintners are as respected as the harvests they produce. While the region’s rolling hills are known for their superior wines and amazing cuisine, Burgundy’s villages are celebrated for their tranquil beauty and historical heritage.
Lyon straddles the Rhône and Saône Rivers. After Paris, it is considered the country’s most significant cultural center. Amid a cityscape of red-roofed buildings, tree-lined boulevards and riverside promenades, the cobblestone streets of Old Lyon host a rich collection of Renaissance architecture and intimate traboules, unique passageways through buildings that connect adjacent streets, all of it overlooked by the grand basilica atop Fourvière Hill. The city also boasts a wealth of outstanding museums, cultural treasures and excellent Lyonnaise eateries. Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.
Beaune & Burgundy
Discover a small piece of the beautiful Burgundy region, famous for its fine wines and Romanesque heritage.
Videos
Viking Longships: Explorer Suite
The exceptional Explorer Suites on board Viking Longships feature separate sleeping and sitting rooms, a wraparound veranda with 270° views, a French balcony and hotel-style amenities.
At Home in Basel with Joost
Join Joost Ouendag, VP of Product Development at Viking, as he shares some of his favorite things to do, see and eat in Basel. As an experienced traveler who was born in the Netherlands, Joost answers viewers' questions while exploring aspects of Basel that are sure to surprise and delight you.
Savor regional specialities from Breisach to Basel
Sail on with Jean as she travels across the river from French Alsace to Breisach, Germany, a gateway to the Black Forest. Famous for its vineyards, Breisach is perhaps best known for spätburgunder, a German pinot noir. Follow along with Jean as she tastes this varietal and learns about organic wine production at the Missbach winery, family-owned since 1758. Next, Jean ventures to the charming town of Staufen to tour the Schladerer distillery, a family-run business that has been practicing their craft for nearly two centuries. Gain insight into the innovative process they use to produce their schnapps, a delicious clear brandy distilled with fruit. Afterward, Jean concludes her 8-day voyage in snowy Basel, Switzerland, where she visits her final Christmas market and indulges in some traditional Swiss fondue.
Explore Europe with Viking
Sail Europe’s picturesque waterways in elegant comfort with Viking. Ranging from 7 to 23 days, our itineraries offer a wealth of unforgettable journeys across the continent.
Viking Longships Naming Ceremony 2019
During a festive naming ceremony in Basel, Switzerland, Viking welcomed seven new Europe river ships to its award-winning fleet, including six innovative Viking Longships. Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen is pictured with the ships’ honorary godmothers at the Picasso exhibition at Basel’s Foundation Beyeler museum.
Viking Longships: Innovative Elegance
Our innovative Viking Longships offer full-size verandas and the largest suites on Europe’s rivers. Dine in the restaurant or al fresco on our Aquavit Terrace®, all with panoramic views.
Viking Longships Christening 2016
During a festive waterfront Christening Ceremony in Amsterdam, Viking was proud to welcome six of its new Viking Longships to the award-winning and innovative fleet.
Glühwein (Mulled Wine)
In November and December, public houses in nearly every European town offer mulled wine as a delicious antidote to the season’s chill. Let Karine show you how to prepare your own with our special and simple recipe.
German Language Lesson
Learn a few useful German words and phrases with Rebecca, your Viking tutor. Prost!
French Language Lesson
Learn a few useful French words and phrases with Maaike, your Viking tutor. À votre Santé!
