Explore Europe’s great cities, the Viking way
What makes a city great is different for everyone, but the best cities are often those with striking architecture, fascinating history and culture, fabulous food and friendly, welcoming people. On every Viking journey through Europe, you can explore some incredible cities – and lesser-known gems – on our included excursions. You can also choose from a selection of optional excursions designed to offer something for everyone, including cooking classes, history tours and visits to people’s homes or workplaces, where you can learn even more about the places you visit. And if you like to simply wander and make your own discoveries, you can enjoy plenty of time to do just that. Join us as we explore some of Europe’s great cities, the Viking way.
1
Lisbon
Cobbled streets and pastel-coloured houses with terracotta rooftops. White-domed cathedrals
and yellow vintage trams. Luminous light by day, spectacular sunsets by night. Michelin-star
restaurants, lively cafes, wonderful wines and velvety smooth coffee. Melancholic fado music
and atmospheric monasteries. Quirky shops and an independent spirit. Artists and artisans,
and warm, family-loving people. There are dozens of reasons why Lisbon is one of
Europe’s favourite cities. You are sure to find many more.
Our Portugal’s River of Gold itinerary includes a two-night hotel stay in Lisbon.
2
Lyon
Idyllically positioned where the rivers Rhône and Saône meet, Lyon is rated one of the most attractive cities in France, even topping Paris. It is also one of the most welcoming, with a rich history, world-class museums, stunning architecture and a food culture that is second to none. Lyon’s spectacular topography was first recognised by the Romans who founded its predecessor, Lugdunum, on the slopes of Fourvière Hill in 43BC. This basilica-crowned hill offers magical, panoramic views over Lyon, a city that is still luring visitors today.
Enjoy plenty of time to explore Lyon on Viking’s Lyon & Provence river journey.
3
Cologne
The cultural hub of Germany’s north-west is home to a spectacular gothic cathedral, rich Roman and medieval history and, among its ever-evolving shopping scene, cologne shops. The city also boasts a Chocolate Museum and the Museum Ludwig, a contemporary gallery offering a plethora of Picasso works and the most comprehensive Pop Art collection in Europe. Why not join a cycling tour, and explore the network of bike routes that line the Rhine, with cafes and bars dotting the riverbanks?
4
Amsterdam
Famed for its iconic waterways and treasure-filled museums, the capital of the Netherlands is an enchanting city made for exploring. Discovering Amsterdam is a pleasure best pursued on foot or by canal, past gable-roofed houses, many of them built with narrow fronts and steep stairways since residents were once taxed by the width of their property. Linger over pannenkoeken, the classic Dutch pancake, in a café window, sample a stroopwafel as you window shop in the restored Jordaan District, or people watch in the central Dam Square.
Our Tulips & Windmills river journey gives you plenty of time to discover Amsterdam’s many charms.
5
Bordeaux
In the city of Bordeaux everywhere you look is a photograph. Elegant stone buildings with wrought-iron balconies, mansard roofs, cobbled streets, gracious parks and over 350 monuments make the old city the world’s largest urban UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its treasures include the Place des Quinconces and the Place de la Bourse, with its spectacular reflecting pool. Sitting at a café on the marble pavement outside the Grand Théatre, it’s easy to imagine the city in centuries past. The city that grew prosperous from the grape is today as enticing as it was 300 years ago.
Enjoy plenty of time to explore Bordeaux on our Châteaux, Rivers & Wine journey.
6
Dresden
Some Dresden residents believe that the River Elbe slows down as it passes Dresden, kissing both banks before flowing onward. One thing is certain; sailing towards the city and seeing the spires, towers and domes belonging to palaces, churches and stately buildings come into view is an enchanting experience. Even more so considering that Dresden – known as ‘Florence on the Elbe’ – has been meticulously restored to its original glory after it was destroyed by Allied bombing in 1945. The beautiful sandstone buildings that line the river hint at the artistic treasures that lie beyond.
7
Basel
Located where Switzerland, Germany and France meet, Basel is a fascinating blend of traditions. The city straddles the mighty Rhine, which has contributed to its growth over the centuries. Today, it is a wonderful fusion of old and new. An alluring cluster of old-town buildings line the riverbank, and in the medieval old Town, cobblestone streets are graced with pastel-coloured buildings that date back to the 15th century. Each year thousands of art and architecture lovers flock to Basel for the famous ART Basel festival. And all year round, more than 40 museums of art and culture lend modern polish to its history-rich streets.
Take time to explore Basel on Viking’s Rhine & Main Explorer river voyage.
8
Bucharest
Romania’s cultural capital is a dynamic city that offers plenty to see and do. World-class museums include the George Enescu National Museum, which features a beautiful oyster-shaped glass awning. Lush parks, like the tranquil Bucharest Botanical Garden, are a green oasis. And, just about everywhere, you can indulge in delicious Romanian cuisine in traditional restaurants and trendy cafes. Yes, communism changed the face of Bucharest and has left in its wake a city brimming with imposing socialist architecture. Yet, dotted among today’s cityscape are wonderful art nouveau buildings, wide French-style boulevards lined with graceful belle-epoque villas, and ancient churches and monasteries. From the 18th-century church Schitul Maicilor to the 16th-century Mihai Vodă Church, it is best to discover these treasures on foot. The sprawling Palace of Parliament is the world’s largest civilian building. In contrast, the historic Lipscani district exudes the old-world charm of cobblestone alleys, inns and shops.
Discover more on our Passage to Eastern Europe river journey
9
Rouen
Situated on the banks on the River Seine, Rouen is Normandy’s vibrant and cultural capital, and one of France’s most engaging and historically rich destinations. Its soaring Gothic cathedral, famously depicted by Claude Monet, is the city’s most well-known building. But there is also a lot more to see, including the Gros Horloge clock tower, Gothic churches, the Bourgtheroulde Mansion, the Palais de Justice, France’s oldest inn La Couronne and the spooky Aître Saint-Maclou. Stroll through the medieval quarter along cobbled streets lined with beautiful half-timbered houses, and take in the centuries of history. Rouen is perhaps best known as the site of Joan of Arc’s last stand; the patron saint of France was tried and condemned here for heresy and burned at the stake in 1431. Though this compact city is steeped in history, it is also home to world-class museums, tempting shops and restaurants and, thanks to its university, a youthful energy.
Explore centuries of history in Rouen on our Paris & the Heart of Normandy river voyage.
10
Vienna
Austria’s charismatic capital is Europe’s centre of classical music and a must see for all lovers of the arts. Vienna’s musical heritage is matched by its elegant, graceful architecture that lines the Ringstrasse, the wide boulevard encircling the Inner City. Baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces set the stage for the city’s many cultural offerings. Yet Vienna also has an intimate side, which can be experienced in its famed coffee houses where residents get their caffeine fill and linger over a coffee, as they browse the newspaper. Consistently voted one of the world’s most liveable cities, Vienna can be enjoyed in all seasons. Winter brings the sparkle of Christmas markets, and summer offers splendid warm weather to relax in the city’s green spaces.
Discover the delights of Vienna on our Danube Waltz river journey
