Portugal? Canada? New Zealand?
We asked Viking travellers to tell us which country in the world they love the most, and we received hundreds of replies. So, here it is – the Viking Hall of Fame, featuring the Top 10 destinations, as voted for by you. Of course, you can explore any and all of these countries on one of our award-winning river or ocean cruises. Everyone has a favourite place. What’s yours?
1
Italy
Aaah, Italy. Impossible not to be seduced by its countless charms, fabulous food, astonishing architecture and la dolce vita. No surprise then that more of you voted Italy your favourite country to explore. A journey around Italy reveals different regions and cities with their own character, culture and cuisine. From fairytale Venice, with its extraordinary palaces and canalside cafes to vibrant Naples, where you can feast on the best pizza, pasta and coffee. From ancient Rome with its jaw-dropping treasures to the southern beauty of Sicily. Each individual, all bellissimo!
You can explore Italy on a number of our cruises, including Italian Sojourn
2
Norway
Big skies and deep fjords. Emerald forests and ice-white glaciers. Endless summer days and long winter nights. Invigorating pure air and ethereal Nordic light. The great outdoors is rarely greater than in Scandinavia, its epic expanses of wilderness immediately connects you with nature. In contrast, its vibrant cities show off the famous Scandinavian flair for design. No wonder so many Viking explorers voted Norway their favourite destination.
Norway and Scandinavia can be explored on a variety of cruises, including Viking Homelands
3
Portugal
You revealed that spectacular scenery is your number one reason for visiting a country. And spectacular scenery is why so many of you voted for Portugal. Third in Viking’s Hall of Fame, this beautiful and ancient land offers stunning landscapes, a rich culture and exciting history. From colourful Lisbon, head to Porto for a journey along the River Douro. Carved into the mountains along the river are steep terraced hillsides blanketed by vineyards, with whitewashed quintas perched above. Enchanting.
You can discover beautiful Portugal on our Portugal’s River of Gold cruise
4
New Zealand
Spectacular scenery and captivating culture are why so many Viking guests voted New Zealand their favourite destination. From its snow-capped mountains and hot springs to its ancient Māori traditions and contemporary creative cuisine, New Zealand has it all, and more. Sublime forests, lakes, beaches, fjords, and mile after mile of wilderness make it a magnet for filmmakers and visitors alike. Add its award-winning wines, thriving cafe scene and fantastic local produce, and a visit to this unique and dynamic country will leave you wanting more.
You can discover the wonders of New Zealand on our Australia & New Zealand cruise
5
France
Call it joie de vivre. Call it savoir-faire. Whatever you call it, the French certainly know a thing or two about celebrating the good things in life. As do you. Watching the world go by over a chilled glass of Champagne at a Parisian pavement cafe. Enjoying a rich, velvety Bordeaux and vineyard views from the terrace of a traditional château. Seeing a landscape through the eyes of a great painter. You could travel through France a million times and still discover new sights and sounds. That’s why so many of you voted France your favourite destination.
You can explore France on a variety of river cruises, including Lyon & Provence
6
Antarctica
“Phenomenal.” “Exceptional.” “One of the best experiences of my life.” These are just some of the comments from guests returning from Viking’s expedition journeys to Antarctica. The White Continent is nature at its most dramatic and elemental. Snow, ice, water and rock are home to unique wildlife; whales, orcas, seals and penguins. It is hard to capture on camera the sensation of feeling like a very small part of a vast, magical planet, but you will see sights that encapsulate a sense of majesty and awe.
You can explore Antarctica on several Viking expedition journeys, including Antarctic Explorer
7
Japan
With its futuristic skyscrapers, ancient temples and vibrant markets, Japan is a feast for all the senses Yet everywhere there are reminders that as futuristic as Japan feels, it is steeped in history. And amidst the hustle and bustle, tranquillity and stillness can be found. From the mist-shrouded mystery of Mount Fuji to the soothing hot springs of Beppu – the natural wonders of Japan will leave you awestruck.
8
Canada
Magnificent mountains. Glinting glaciers. Remarkable rainforests. Beautiful beaches. Wondrous wildlife. The second-biggest country on the planet offers endless landscapes to amaze you. More than stunning natural beauty, Canada also boasts captivating cultures, from the fresh flavours of Montreal to the ceilidh on Prince Edward Island, its music, arts and cuisine are hugely exciting. And a huge hit with Viking explorers.
Canada can be explored on a variety of cruises, including Eastern Seaboard Explorer
9
Germany
Bewitching scenery, uber-cool cities crammed with culture, a rich and fascinating history, exquisite architecture, fabulous food, world-class wines – it’s not surprising that so many of you voted Germany one of your top countries. From the romantic Rhine valley with its legendary castles and medieval villages and the breathtaking beauty of Saxon Switzerland to the fairytale magic of the Black Forest, Germany boasts a wealth of wonders.
You can explore Germany on a number of river cruises, including Rhine Getaway
10
Greece
Ancient ruins, brilliant blue skies, lush mountains, pristine beaches, glittering blue seas, inspired cuisine and passionate people – Greece transports you far back in time yet anchors you in the present, as it awakens all your senses. A trip to Greece offers endless cultural pursuits, and different ways to relax. One thing is certain; once you’ve visited this fabled land you’ll want to return. No wonder so many Viking guests list Greece as their favourite destination.
You can discover Greece on a variety of ocean cruises, including Empires of the Mediterranean
