After breakfast, check out of your hotel. Transfer to your ship and settle into your stateroom. During the 12th century, the first Jewish settlers arrived in Buda from neighboring German and Slavic countries. Over the next hundreds of years, the community played an important role in the cultural and economic development of Hungary. But, like elsewhere in Europe, life for Jews alternated between periods of prosperity and persecution. More than 100,000 perished during the Holocaust, and a number of Budapest’s landmarks serve as a reminder of the events that took place. One of the most poignant memorials is the 60 pairs of cast-iron shoes that line the banks of the Danube River. They represent the men, women and children who fell there at the hands of the Hungarian Nazi Arrow Cross Party.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.
Dohány Street Synagogue & Jewish Budapest
Explore Budapest’s Jewish history and heritage, including the Jewish Quarter and massive synagogue.
The Royal Palace & Gardens of Gödöllö
Visit one of Hungary’s most beloved monuments, built by a count in the 1760s.
Highlights of Budapest
Step inside Hungary’s grand parliament building and get a flavor for the nation’s hearty cuisine.
Videos
Explore: Budapest
Explore the beauty of Budapest, the “Pearl of the Danube,” with Karine highlighting the city’s top attractions: Fisherman’s Bastion, Great Market Hall, Heroes’ Square and more.
Viking Executive Chefs
Come into the galleys of our European river ships for an unforgettable visit with two Viking Executive Chefs, and glimpse some of the passion that goes into every dish they serve.
Shopping in Budapest
Looking for the perfect gift? Join Karine at her favorite shop in Budapest, Hungary: the venerable Café Gerbeaud, purveyors of fine chocolates.
Hungarian Language Lesson
Learn a few useful Hungarian words and phrases with Eszter, your Viking tutor. Jó napot!
Viking Baker
Come inside the 300-year-old Schmidl Bakery in Dürnstein on the Danube River, where Karine meets the owner and sees how the fine breads served on board Viking ships are made.
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.
Cooking with Karine: Goulash
Explore Budapest’s Great Market Hall and learn how to make goulash, Hungary’s rich, hearty dish seasoned with paprika and packed with flavor.
Setting a New Standard
Learn about the past and future of Viking and the innovations behind our Viking Longships. Then come explore the great rivers of the world in unprecedented comfort.
The Viking Experience
Journey through the world’s most exciting river destinations on one of our elegant, award-winning ships. Learn more about the culturally immersive experiences that await you at every bend. (2018)
Christmas Markets
Witness the beauty, romance and spirit of the holidays come alive at Europe’s colorful Christmas markets when you join Viking on a festive river cruise during November or December.
