Take in the natural beauty of the fabled “Blue Danube” as you pass through the Danube Bend, considered one of the most beautiful sections of the river. Cruising this 40-mile stretch through northern Hungary, you will see peaceful farmland and an ancient castle that once served as hunting grounds for royals and visiting dignitaries. As you sail the passage between the Börzsöny and Pilis Ranges, you will marvel at the steep hills draped with bucolic forests. And delight in the majestic church domes peering at the waterway from inviting villages and historic cities.
Riverside beauty and a vibrant cultural scene blend together in Budapest to form one of Europe’s most rewarding cities. Hungary’s enchanting capital straddles the banks of the Danube, with traditional hillside Buda on one side and modern Pest on the other. By day, stunning art nouveau buildings, stalwart castles and grand palaces set the stage for inspiring strolls and long soaks in thermal spas. By night, the shimmering lights of the Parliament building dance across the waters of the Danube, the Chain Bridge uniting it all as a dramatic centerpiece.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.
Panoramic Budapest
Take in one of Europe’s great cultural capitals and see its iconic sights.
Budapest Castle Hill Hike
Explore historic Buda during a city hike to Castle Hill and admire magnificent vistas over the Danube.
Hungarian Horsemen
Travel to horse country to tour a farm and witness some exciting horsemanship by highly skilled riders.
Best of Budapest
Admire city landmarks and savor a taste of Hungary during visits to a renowned chocolatier and a famed distillery.
Dohány Street Synagogue & Jewish Budapest
Explore Budapest’s Jewish history and heritage, including the Jewish Quarter and massive synagogue.
Grand Market: Flavors of Hungary
Browse the countless stalls of Budapest’s Grand Market Hall and taste Hungarian delicacies.
Budapest Thermal Bath
Soak up the restorative powers of Budapest’s thermal baths and join locals in a centuries-old tradition.
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.
