where does the viking cruise ship dock in budapest

Viking River Cruise Dock in Budapest – The Ultimate Guide for Beginners

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Welcome to the ultimate guide for beginners on Viking River Cruise Dock in Budapest! If you’re planning a river cruise adventure, Budapest is an incredible city to start or end your journey. In this post, we’ll provide you with all the essential information you need to know about Viking River Cruise Dock in Budapest, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

1. Introduction to Viking River Cruise Dock in Budapest

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is situated along the beautiful Danube River, making it a popular port for many river cruise companies, including Viking River Cruises. The Viking River Cruise Dock is conveniently located near the city center and offers a gateway to exploring the historical and cultural wonders of Budapest.

Whether it’s your first time taking a river cruise or visiting Budapest, here’s everything you need to know:

1.1 How to Get to Viking River Cruise Dock in Budapest

The Viking River Cruise Dock in Budapest is easily accessible by various means of transportation:

• By Public Transportation: Budapest has an efficient public transportation system. You can reach the Viking River Cruise Dock by taking tram line 2 or bus 15, which both stop nearby.
• By Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Budapest. Ensure you choose a reputable taxi company or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Bolt for convenience and reliability.
• By Airport Transfer: If you’re arriving at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, many river cruise companies offer pre-arranged airport transfers to the cruise dock. Check with your cruise operator for availability and pricing.

1.2 Amenities and Facilities at Viking River Cruise Dock in Budapest

The Viking River Cruise Dock in Budapest provides a range of amenities and essential facilities to enhance your experience:

• Cruise Terminal: The modern and well-equipped cruise terminal offers check-in facilities, information desks, and baggage handling services.
• Restaurants and Cafes: Enjoy a pre or post-cruise meal or a cup of coffee at the restaurants and cafes available at the dock.
• Shopping: Browse through the souvenir shops to find unique mementos of your time in Budapest.
• ATMs and Currency Exchange: ATMs and currency exchange services are available for your convenience throughout the dock area.

2. Exploring Budapest from Viking River Cruise Dock

Budapest is renowned for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. While you dock at the Viking River Cruise Dock, you’ll have ample opportunities to explore the city:

2.1 Budapest’s Top Attractions

Don’t miss these must-visit attractions during your time in Budapest:

• Buda Castle: Explore the historical Buda Castle, which offers stunning views of the city from its hilltop location.
• Parliament Building: Admire the iconic Hungarian Parliament Building, an architectural masterpiece along the Danube River.
• Chain Bridge: Walk across the famous Chain Bridge, connecting Buda and Pest, while enjoying magnificent river views.
• St. Stephen’s Basilica: Visit St. Stephen’s Basilica, the largest church in Budapest, and climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
• Great Market Hall: Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the Great Market Hall, where you can sample Hungarian delicacies and find unique souvenirs.

2.2 Organized Excursions and Tours

Viking River Cruises offers a range of guided excursions and tours to help you make the most of your time in Budapest:

• City Highlights Tour: Join a guided tour that covers the main highlights of Budapest, providing historical and cultural insights.
• Danube River Cruise: Embark on a scenic cruise along the Danube to appreciate Budapest’s stunning riverside landmarks.
• Jewish Heritage Tour: Experience Budapest’s rich Jewish heritage with a specialized tour that explores the significant sites.
• Spa and Thermal Baths Visit: Indulge in the famous thermal baths of Budapest for relaxation and rejuvenation.

3. Tips for a Memorable Viking River Cruise Dock Experience

To ensure a memorable experience at the Viking River Cruise Dock in Budapest, consider these helpful tips:

• Plan Ahead: Research the attractions and activities you’re most interested in to maximize your time in Budapest.
• Comfortable Footwear: Budapest is a walkable city, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the city’s cobblestone streets.
• Weather Considerations: Check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly, especially during the summer or winter months.
• Local Currency: Have some Hungarian Forints (HUF) on hand for smaller purchases, as not all places may accept credit cards.
• Respect Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with Hungarian customs and respect the local culture during your stay in Budapest.

4. Conclusion

Exploring Budapest from the Viking River Cruise Dock presents a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the history, culture, and beauty of this vibrant city. From the ease of reaching the dock to the abundance of attractions to explore, Budapest will surely captivate your heart. Use this guide to make the most out of your Viking River Cruise Dock experience in Budapest, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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Port Guides

Where does viking river cruise dock in budapest.

The charm and historical importance of Budapest have continually fascinated me. Witnessing the city’s riverside, adorned with its iconic buildings and stunning architectural designs, is indeed a spectacle. As someone who is passionately fond of traveling, identifying the best places to moor during my river journeys is always at the top of my list. Therefore, I’m excited to share the various mooring locations available for Viking River Cruises in Budapest.

One of the most popular docking locations is at the Chain Bridge, which offers a prime view of the city’s skyline.

The Margaret Island docking location is another great option, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city.

For those who want to be closer to Budapest’s historical sites, the Buda Castle docking location is the perfect choice.

And let’s not forget about the Fisherman’s Bastion, known for its panoramic views of the Danube River.

In this article, I will guide you through the different docking locations and provide tips on how to make the most of your time in Budapest. So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover where Viking River Cruises dock in Budapest.

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Key Takeaways

• Viking River Cruises typically docks at the city center in Budapest.
• The docking location is close to Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building.
• Public transportation, such as trams and buses, provide efficient access to various riverfront tour options.
• Walking distance attractions from the docking locations allow for easy exploration of the city at your own pace.

Overview of Budapest’s Riverfront

If you’re looking to experience the vibrant riverfront of Budapest, you won’t be disappointed! Budapest’s riverfront offers a stunning view of the city’s iconic landmarks and an array of activities to enjoy.

As the sun sets, the riverfront comes alive with the buzzing nightlife, making it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. There are plenty of restaurants along the riverfront where you can indulge in delicious Hungarian cuisine while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Danube River.

From traditional Hungarian dishes to international flavors, the riverfront has it all. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner or a lively night out, Budapest’s riverfront has the perfect spot for you.

Now, let’s dive into the exciting Viking River Cruise itineraries in Budapest.

Viking River Cruise Itineraries in Budapest

Nestled along the majestic Danube, Budapest warmly welcomes the docking point for Viking’s enchanting river voyages. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Budapest is the perfect starting or ending point for a Viking River Cruise.

Here are four of the best Viking River Cruise itineraries in Budapest:

Romantic Danube: Explore the charming cities of Budapest, Vienna, and Nuremberg while enjoying breathtaking views of the Danube River.

Danube Waltz: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna as you sail through the heart of Europe.

Grand European Tour: Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime journey from Budapest to Amsterdam, discovering the iconic landmarks and hidden gems along the way.

Passage to Eastern Europe: Experience the lesser-known treasures of Budapest, Belgrade, and Bucharest as you cruise through the enchanting landscapes of the Danube Delta.

The best time to visit Budapest for a river cruise is during the spring or fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.

Now, let’s explore the docking location: Chain Bridge.

Docking Location: Chain Bridge

When you arrive in Budapest, you’ll be captivated by the magnificent Chain Bridge, a breathtaking docking location that will leave you in awe. The Chain Bridge is not only a vital transportation link between Buda and Pest, but it also offers a perfect starting point for exploring the Chain Bridge area. As you step off the Viking River Cruise, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere filled with nearby restaurants and shops. Take a leisurely stroll along the Danube Promenade, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city and the bridge itself. Indulge in delicious Hungarian cuisine at one of the charming restaurants, or browse through the boutique stores for unique souvenirs. The Chain Bridge docking location provides a convenient and lively experience for all travelers. Transitioning to our next docking location on Margaret Island, get ready for another exciting adventure.

Docking Location: Margaret Island

Located in the heart of the Danube, Margaret Island offers a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city, like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Exploring Margaret Island is a must-do when visiting Budapest.

This 2.5-kilometer-long island is a perfect escape from the city’s noise and crowds. As you stroll through its lush gardens, you’ll find beautiful landmarks such as the musical water fountain and the Japanese Garden. The island also boasts sports facilities, a swimming pool, and even a small zoo. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike or a pedal-powered cart to explore the island at your own pace.

Nearby attractions near Margaret Island include the Hungarian Parliament Building and St. Stephen’s Basilica.

As we leave behind the tranquility of Margaret Island, let’s head to our next destination, the docking location at Buda Castle.

Docking Location: Buda Castle

Tucked away in the historic district of Budapest, the docking location at Buda Castle offers a captivating view of the city’s rich architectural heritage. As I step off the Viking River Cruise, I am immediately drawn to the stunning beauty of the castle, perched on a hill overlooking the Danube River. The castle itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit for any history enthusiast. Exploring Buda Castle allows me to immerse myself in the city’s past, with its intricate architecture and fascinating exhibits. Nearby attractions such as Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion add to the allure of this area. For those seeking adventure, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, including walking tours and horse-drawn carriage rides. The docking location at Buda Castle truly offers a unique and unforgettable experience in Budapest. Now, let’s move on to the next docking location: Parliament Building.

Docking Location: Parliament Building

As we leave behind the picturesque Buda Castle, our Viking River Cruise docks at a new location that offers an equally captivating experience – the Parliament Building.

Situated along the riverfront, this iconic landmark is a sight to behold. Its stunning architecture and grandeur instantly command attention. From the ship’s deck, you’ll have a panoramic view of the magnificent Parliament Building, standing proudly on the banks of the Danube River.

As you disembark, the atmosphere is filled with a sense of awe and wonder. The bustling riverfront is dotted with cafes, shops, and street performers, adding to the lively ambiance. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade and soak in the history and beauty of this remarkable city.

Our next docking location awaits us at the enchanting Fisherman’s Bastion, where more wonders await.

Docking Location: Fisherman’s Bastion

Follow the winding cobblestone paths that lead you to the mesmerizing Fisherman’s Bastion, a fairytale-like structure that stands as a guardian of Budapest’s rich history and offers a breathtaking view of the city’s majestic skyline.

This iconic landmark, located on Castle Hill, is a must-visit attraction for anyone exploring Budapest. As you ascend the steps and reach the intricate balconies, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the Danube River, the Chain Bridge, and the stunning Parliament Building.

The nearby attractions in Budapest, such as Matthias Church and the Royal Palace, further enhance the allure of Fisherman’s Bastion. After immersing yourself in the beauty of this architectural gem, you’ll be eager to continue exploring Budapest from the docking locations.

Exploring Budapest from the Docking Locations

From the Fisherman’s Bastion docking location, I couldn’t wait to explore Budapest and immerse myself in its rich cultural heritage. The city is brimming with historical landmarks, stunning architecture, and vibrant neighborhoods waiting to be discovered.

As I strolled along the riverfront, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the magnificent views of the Danube River and the iconic Chain Bridge connecting Buda and Pest. The riverfront is also home to a plethora of popular restaurants and cafes, where I indulged in delicious Hungarian cuisine and sipped on a cup of strong, aromatic coffee.

From traditional dishes like goulash to mouthwatering pastries, Budapest’s culinary scene is truly a treat for the senses.

As I continued my exploration, I couldn’t help but be excited about the nearby attractions and activities awaiting me in this enchanting city.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

There are so many exciting attractions and activities to explore near the docking locations in Budapest! Whether you’re in the mood for a delicious meal or some retail therapy, you won’t be disappointed.

There are plenty of nearby restaurants to satisfy your taste buds, offering a variety of cuisines from traditional Hungarian dishes to international fare. And if you’re in the mood for some shopping, you’ll find a range of options, from small boutiques to large department stores.

Take a stroll along Vaci Street, one of the city’s main shopping streets, lined with shops selling everything from clothing and accessories to souvenirs and gifts. After indulging in some retail therapy, you can easily navigate Budapest’s docking locations with the help of these helpful tips.

Tips for Navigating Budapest’s Docking Locations

When planning your itinerary, it’s helpful to know some tips for smoothly navigating the docking locations in Budapest. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Research the docking locations : Viking River Cruises typically docks at the city center, close to popular attractions like the Buda Castle and the Hungarian Parliament Building.

Use public transportation : Budapest has an efficient public transportation system, including trams and buses, that can take you to various riverfront tour options.

Consider walking : Many of Budapest’s top attractions are within walking distance from the docking locations, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace.

Plan ahead : Check the schedule of your river cruise to ensure you have enough time to explore the city without rushing.

Take a riverfront tour : Consider booking a riverfront tour to get a different perspective of Budapest’s stunning architecture and landmarks.

Navigating the Danube and exploring the riverfront tour options in Budapest can enhance your Viking River Cruise experience and allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of this vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are viking river cruises the only cruise line that docks in budapest.

No, Viking River Cruises is not the only cruise line that docks in Budapest. There are several cruise line options available, allowing travelers to explore the city’s popular attractions along the Danube River.

How far in advance should I book my Viking River Cruise to Budapest?

Booking my Viking River Cruise to Budapest in advance is essential, as this popular destination fills up quickly. Don’t wait too long to secure your spot and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe.

Can I walk from the docking locations to the city center?

Yes, you can easily walk from the docking locations to the city center in Budapest. The nearby attractions include the stunning Chain Bridge, the iconic Parliament building, and the vibrant Vaci Street for shopping and dining.

Is there public transportation available near the docking locations?

When it comes to public transportation options near the docking locations, Budapest has got you covered. From trams to buses, getting around is a breeze. Plus, there are plenty of nearby attractions to explore.

Are there any specific dress code requirements when visiting the docking locations in Budapest?

While visiting the docking locations in Budapest, it is important to be aware of any specific dress code requirements. It is recommended to dress in appropriate attire that is respectful and suitable for the occasion.

Does Viking River Cruise Dock at Tender Ports in Budapest?

Yes, Viking River Cruise does dock at tender ports in Budapest. They operate smaller ships that are able to navigate into the heart of the city without the need for tendering. This concept allows passengers to easily explore the city center directly from the ship.

In conclusion, Budapest’s riverfront offers a variety of docking locations for Viking River Cruises. Each spot provides a unique experience, from the iconic Chain Bridge to the picturesque Margaret Island. Exploring the historic Buda Castle or taking in the breathtaking views from Fisherman’s Bastion are just a few of the options available. There is something for everyone in Budapest. As the saying goes, ‘The journey is the destination,’ and in Budapest, the journey begins right at the dock. This promises a memorable adventure filled with rich history and stunning sights.

Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform.

With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

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Alfons is the visionary leader and driving force behind Voyager Info’s success. As the Editor in Chief, he brings a wealth of experience and an unwavering passion for travel to the helm of our cruise-centric platform. With a lifelong fascination for exploring new horizons, Alfons discovered his love for the ocean and cruising at a young age. From sailing across pristine Caribbean waters to embarking on daring expeditions to far-flung destinations, he has amassed a treasure trove of first-hand experiences in the world of cruising.

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Exploring the enchanting ports of alaska: unveiling the gems of juneau, skagway, ketchikan, icy strait point, and sitka.

Setting foot on the pristine beaches of Alaska evoked a sense of wonder and excitement within me. The enchanting ports of Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Sitka beckon, captivating with their hidden marvels and irresistible charm. Each harbor offers its own unique gems awaiting exploration.

In Juneau, the Mendenhall Glacier stands tall, a magnificent icy marvel that leaves you in awe. The thrill of hiking through lush forests, kayaking in crystal-clear waters, and soaring above the glaciers in a helicopter is simply unparalleled.

Skagway takes you back in time to the days of the Gold Rush. The history comes alive as you join historic tours, try your hand at gold panning, and embark on a breathtaking journey aboard the White Pass and Yukon Railway.

Ketchikan embraces you with its rich native heritage, where the rainforest meets the sea. Kayak through misty fjords, reel in the catch of the day while fishing, and keep an eye out for majestic bears roaming in their natural habitat.

Icy Strait Point offers a glimpse into the captivating world of native culture and abundant wildlife. Hike through untouched wilderness, paddle through calm waters, and witness the awe-inspiring sight of whales gracefully swimming in the distance.

Lastly, Sitka captivates with its blend of native Alaskan and Russian history. Explore the Russian architectural influences, immerse yourself in the stories of the past at the Sitka National Historical Park, and marvel at the majestic raptors at the Alaska Raptor Center.

These enchanting ports of Alaska are waiting to be discovered, each offering a world of adventure and discovery. Join me as we embark on a journey to unveil the hidden gems of Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Sitka, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

• The best Alaska cruise ports are Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Sitka.
• Each port offers unique attractions and activities such as glacier viewing, hiking, kayaking, gold panning, wildlife cruises, and native Alaskan cultural experiences.
• Juneau is the capital of Alaska and is known for its main attraction, the Mendenhall Glacier, as well as the Mount Roberts Tramway and whale-watching tours.
• Skagway is a historic town with a strong connection to the Gold Rush, offering attractions like the White Pass and Yukon Railway and the Chilkoot Trail.

Juneau: Mendenhall Glacier

I’ve always wanted to visit Juneau and see the famous Mendenhall Glacier. The thought of hiking through this icy wonderland and witnessing its breathtaking beauty is simply irresistible.

As I step foot on the glacier, I can feel the cool, crisp air filling my lungs, rejuvenating my spirit. The towering ice formations and sparkling blue hues are a sight to behold.

For those seeking even more adventure, helicopter rides offer a unique perspective, allowing you to soar above the glacier and take in its grandeur from above. The thrill of flying over this frozen paradise is unparalleled.

Whether you choose to explore on foot or from the sky, a visit to Mendenhall Glacier promises unforgettable hiking adventures and exhilarating helicopter rides that will leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.

Skagway: Gold Rush History

Skagway’s rich history can be traced back to the Gold Rush era, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in the pioneering days of Alaska.

When you visit Skagway, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the late 1800s. The town is filled with well-preserved historic buildings that tell the story of the thousands of gold seekers who flocked here in search of their fortunes.

Take a gold rush tour and learn about the hardships and triumphs of these brave souls. Explore the historic sites, such as the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park, which offers a glimpse into the past with its restored buildings and artifacts.

Don’t miss the chance to try your hand at gold panning and experience a taste of the excitement that once filled the air in Skagway during the Gold Rush.

Ketchikan: Native Alaskan Culture

When you visit Ketchikan, you’ll be immersed in the captivating culture of the Native Alaskans, experiencing a vibrant and authentic glimpse into their rich traditions and heritage. Here are four incredible aspects of Native Alaskan culture that you won’t want to miss:

Native Alaskan Traditions: From storytelling to traditional dances, Ketchikan offers a wide range of opportunities to witness and participate in Native Alaskan traditions. Learn about their ancient customs, rituals, and spiritual beliefs that have been passed down through generations.

Native Alaskan Art: Ketchikan is renowned for its thriving art scene, showcasing stunning Native Alaskan artwork. Visit the Totem Heritage Center and Saxman Native Village to marvel at intricately carved totem poles and learn about their symbolic significance. You can also explore local galleries and studios to purchase unique pieces of Native Alaskan art.

Cultural Centers: Immerse yourself in Native Alaskan culture by visiting the Tongass Historical Museum and the Southeast Alaska Discovery Center. These educational centers provide fascinating insights into the history, lifestyle, and contributions of the Native Alaskan people.

Totem Parks: Take a stroll through Saxman Native Village or Totem Bight State Historical Park to witness a remarkable collection of beautifully carved totem poles. These parks offer a glimpse into the stories and legends of the Native Alaskan tribes, allowing you to appreciate their artistry and cultural heritage.

In Ketchikan, the enchanting world of Native Alaskan traditions and art awaits, ready to leave you with a profound appreciation for their vibrant culture.

– Is it possible to visit any of the ports mentioned on a Disney cruise leaving from New York?

Yes, it is possible to visit some of the ports mentioned on a Disney cruise leaving from New York . The Disney cruise departure location in New York allows travelers to explore destinations such as Florida, the Bahamas, and even Canada. These cruises offer a variety of exciting itineraries for passengers to enjoy.

What are some activities for thrill-seekers in Icy Strait Point?

Thrill-seekers in Icy Strait Point can experience thrilling adventures and extreme sports. Activities include hiking, kayaking, rafting, ATV rides, ropes courses, and zip-lining, providing an adrenaline rush amidst the stunning natural beauty of Alaska.

Are there any Russian influences in the architecture of Sitka?

Sitka’s architecture reflects its rich cultural heritage, with notable Russian influences. The city’s Russian Orthodox Cathedral, Bishop’s House, and Russian Blockhouse are stunning examples of this unique blend of Alaskan and Russian history.

What is the significance of the Chilkoot Trail in Skagway?

The Chilkoot Trail in Skagway holds great historical significance. It was a major route during the Klondike Gold Rush, where thousands of miners trekked through rugged terrain in search of gold, facing immense challenges along the way.

Can you recommend any unique wildlife tours in Ketchikan?

One unique wildlife tour in Ketchikan is the Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary tour. It offers a chance to see bald eagles, black bears, and other native wildlife in their natural habitat, while supporting eco-friendly conservation efforts.

How can visitors support the native Alaskan community in Icy Strait Point?

To support the Native Alaskan community in Icy Strait Point, visitors can purchase handmade crafts and artwork from local artisans. This helps preserve their cultural traditions and provides economic support to the community.

Late At A Port: Will The Cruise Ship Wait?

Have you ever thought about what happens if you’re running late and the cruise ship is about to leave the harbor? Will they wait for you to arrive, or will they set sail right away without a second thought?

As someone who loves cruising and has experienced the stress of being late at a port, I can tell you that the answer is not always straightforward. In general, cruise ships do not wait for late passengers, and I’ve even witnessed people sprinting back to the ship as it’s preparing to depart. Being late can also result in increased fuel consumption for the ship.

However, there are exceptions to this rule. If you’re on a ship-sponsored shore excursion, the cruise ship will typically wait for you. This is one of the many reasons why booking sponsored excursions through the cruise line is a smart choice. But if you’re exploring on your own or on an independently organized tour, you’ll need to be extra vigilant about returning to the ship on time.

In this article, we’ll explore the consequences of missing the ship and share some tips to help you avoid getting left behind.

• Cruise ships may leave late passengers behind at ports
• The cruise ship will not wait for late passengers
• The captain has the final say on waiting for late passengers
• Exception: cruise ship will wait for passengers on ship-sponsored shore excursions

Late Passengers and Departure

I’ve learned that if you’re late at a port, the cruise ship won’t wait for you according to the pre-existing knowledge.

Instances of passengers running back to the ship at departure time are not uncommon, and I can understand why.

Late passengers can cause increased fuel consumption for the ship, which isn’t ideal for the cruise line. It makes sense that the cruise ship wouldn’t wait for late passengers, as it could disrupt the scheduled itinerary and inconvenience other passengers.

The captain has the final say on whether to wait for late passengers, but it seems that they generally follow the policy of not waiting.

It’s important for passengers to be aware of this and allocate enough time to return to the ship to avoid being left behind.

Ship-Sponsored Shore Excursions

Booking sponsored excursions through the cruise line ensures a guaranteed return to the ship. One of the benefits of opting for ship-sponsored shore excursions is the peace of mind knowing that the cruise ship will wait for you.

These excursions are carefully planned to ensure that passengers have ample time to explore the destination and return to the ship on time. Additionally, the cruise line has established relationships with local tour operators, minimizing the risk of traffic delays or unforeseen circumstances.

Traffic delays can be common, especially in busy ports, and can easily cause passengers to be late. By booking a sponsored excursion, you can trust that the cruise line has taken these factors into consideration and has planned accordingly.

So, if you want to avoid the stress of potentially being left behind, it’s highly recommended to book ship-sponsored shore excursions.

Consequences of Missing the Ship

Stranded in a foreign land, the sinking feeling of missing the ship washes over me like a wave. The consequences of missing the cruise ship are daunting and require quick action.

First, I must arrange last-minute flights and accommodations, which can be both challenging and costly. It’s crucial to have the contact information for a port agent in case of emergencies. Once stranded, contacting the port agent immediately is essential for assistance and guidance.

Exploring options to fly to the ship’s next port can help salvage the vacation. However, it’s important to note that the cruise line may remove passports and leave documents with the port agent, so relying on their proactivity in assisting with missing passports isn’t recommended.

Being prepared with extra doses of prescription medication and having cash and credit cards for unexpected expenses is also crucial in such situations.

Can I Still Board the Cruise if I’m Late to the Port?

If you’re running late to the port for your Norwegian Cruise Line Haven getaway, it’s best to contact the cruise line immediately. In some cases, they may have procedures in place for late arrivals. However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that missing the departure time could result in being unable to board the ship.

What happens if I am late for the cruise ship departure?

If I am late for the cruise ship departure, there are consequences. I would need to arrange and pay for last-minute flights and accommodations. The cruise line may provide assistance, but it’s not guaranteed.

Will the cruise ship wait for me if I am on a ship-sponsored shore excursion?

The cruise ship will wait for passengers on ship-sponsored shore excursions. This is due to the cruise ship policies and schedules that prioritize the safe return of passengers participating in these excursions.

Can I explore independently during a port visit and still expect the cruise ship to wait for me?

When exploring independently during a port visit, it is important to manage time effectively and be aware that the cruise ship may not wait for late passengers. It is advisable to explore options and plan accordingly to prevent being left behind.

What are the consequences of missing the cruise ship?

Missing the cruise ship can have serious consequences, including arranging last-minute flights and accommodations, carrying extra medication, and contact with a port agent. Passports may be removed by the cruise line, so it’s important to be proactive in finding a solution.

Is there any assistance provided by the cruise line if I miss the ship at a port?

If you miss the cruise ship at a port, the cruise line may not provide assistance. However, there are options available, such as contacting a port agent, arranging last-minute flights, and exploring ways to catch up with the ship at the next port. Cruise line policies vary.

Explore The Riches Of Costa Maya’s Cruise Port

Stepping off the cruise ship onto the docks at Costa Maya’s cruise port immediately immerses me in the vibrant ambiance that surrounds me.

The sun-soaked beaches beckon me to lounge and relax, while the crystal-clear waters invite me to dive in and explore the underwater wonders.

From the bustling fishing village of Mahahual, with its charming boardwalk and tantalizing street tacos, to the ancient Mayan ruins of Chacchoben, this port is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.

Whether I choose to snorkel through colorful coral reefs, dance my heart out in salsa classes, or embark on thrilling ATV adventures, there is no shortage of excitement and adventure here.

And when I want to unwind, there are day pass options that offer luxurious amenities and stunning beachfront views.

Costa Maya’s cruise port truly offers a wealth of riches to explore, and I can’t wait to dive into all it has to offer.

• Mahahual is a convenient and affordable option for cruise passengers, offering activities such as fishing, snorkeling, shopping, and trying street tacos.
• There are various day pass options available in Costa Maya, including beach clubs and all-inclusive day resorts.
• Costa Maya Cruise Port itself offers pools, bars, restaurants, an aviary, and shopping opportunities for a no-frills day.
• Other attractions near the cruise port include snorkeling and scuba diving, Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, and Bacalar Lagoon.

Top Activities

I’ve heard that Costa Maya’s cruise port offers a variety of top activities, including snorkeling, scuba diving, exploring Mayan ruins, visiting Bacalar Lagoon, taking salsa making and dancing classes, and going on ATV tours.

When it comes to top beach destinations, Mahahual is a must-visit. This small fishing village, located just 1.5 miles from the cruise port, offers stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun.

For those who love snorkeling, there are some fantastic spots to explore near Mahahual. The Chunky Monkey Beach Club is known for its vibrant marine life and offers snorkeling tours for around $45 per person. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeler, you’re sure to be amazed by the underwater beauty of Costa Maya.

Day Pass Options

Yaya Beach Club offers day passes starting at $25 per person for a private sun bed. This exclusive option allows you to soak up the sun in comfort and privacy while enjoying the stunning views of the Costa Maya coastline. The club offers a relaxing and luxurious atmosphere, with attentive staff ready to cater to your every need. Whether you want to lounge by the pool, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters, or indulge in delicious food and drinks at the beachside restaurant, Yaya Beach Club has it all.

If you’re looking for a bit more adventure, Costa Maya is also the perfect place for ATV exploration. Hop on an ATV and embark on an exciting journey through different terrains, from rugged jungle paths to sandy beaches. Feel the thrill as you navigate through the lush vegetation and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. This adrenaline-pumping activity is a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of Costa Maya while getting your heart racing. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to discover the hidden gems of this stunning destination.

Mayan Ruins

After soaking up the sun at Yaya Beach Club, I couldn’t wait to uncover the hidden treasures of the Mayan Ruins. The Chacchoben Mayan Ruins, historical marvels near Costa Maya’s cruise port, were a sight to behold.

Here are four reasons why these ancient ruins captured my heart:

Enchanting Architecture: The Basamento Temple, towering high above the jungle, showcased the incredible architectural skills of the Mayan civilization. The intricate carvings and grandeur of the structures left me in awe.

Rich Cultural Heritage: Exploring the ruins allowed me to delve into the fascinating history of the Mayan people. I learned about their rituals, beliefs, and the significance of the ruins in their society.

Breathtaking Views: Climbing to the top of the ruins rewarded me with panoramic vistas of the surrounding lush greenery. It was a breathtaking sight that reminded me of the beauty of nature.

ATV Tours: To fully appreciate the landscapes of Costa Maya, I embarked on an ATV tour. Riding through the rugged terrains, I experienced the thrill of exploring the region on four wheels while enjoying the stunning scenery.

The Chacchoben Mayan Ruins and the exhilarating ATV tours provided me with an unforgettable adventure, immersing me in the rich history and natural beauty of Costa Maya.

Water Activities

For water lovers like myself, the variety of water activities available in this vibrant destination is truly impressive. Costa Maya offers an array of options to satisfy any water enthusiast’s cravings.

Snorkeling adventures here are a must-do, with opportunities to explore the colorful marine life near Mahahual. Imagine diving into the crystal-clear waters and encountering vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish. The Chunky Monkey Beach Club even offers snorkeling tours at a reasonable price.

If you prefer to stay on the surface, kayaking excursions are also available. Paddle through the calm waters, taking in the breathtaking views of the coastline and enjoying the serenity of the surroundings.

Whether you choose to dive deep beneath the waves or glide along the surface, Costa Maya’s water activities are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Cultural Experiences

When it comes to immersing myself in the local culture, Costa Maya offers a wide range of experiences that allow me to truly connect with the vibrant Mexican traditions.

One of the best ways to do this is through salsa making and dancing classes. These classes provide a unique cultural experience where I not only learn how to make authentic salsa and guacamole, but also get to sample them. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn about the flavors and ingredients that are essential to Mexican cuisine.

Additionally, ATV tours are another popular option for exploring the riches of Costa Maya’s cruise port. These tours take me through different terrains, allowing me to see the stunning natural beauty of the area while also experiencing a thrilling adventure.

Barbanegra Beach Club in Mahahual is often a stop on these tours, offering a chance to soak up the sun and enjoy the beach.

Costa Maya truly has something for everyone, from cultural experiences to exciting adventures.

What Exotic Delights Can You Explore at Costa Maya’s Cruise Port?

Costa Maya’s cruise port offers a variety of exotic delights, including pristine beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and unique cultural experiences. Visitors can explore the natural beauty of the coast, relax on the sandy shores, and even enjoy activities such as snorkeling to discover Bermuda’s exotic pink sand .

What are some popular restaurants or dining options in Costa Maya’s cruise port?

Popular restaurant options in Costa Maya’s cruise port include La Bamba Beach Club, serving Mexican and seafood dishes with stunning ocean views, and Tropicante, known for its delicious cocktails and beachfront dining. Don’t miss the chance to try local cuisine options like fresh seafood and authentic Mexican tacos.

Are there any options for shopping in Mahahual or near the cruise port?

The best places to shop for souvenirs in Mahahual or near the cruise port include local markets and boutiques. These offer a variety of unique and handmade items, perfect for bringing back a piece of Costa Maya.

Can you recommend any specific snorkeling or scuba diving tours in the area?

Sure! When it comes to snorkeling tours and scuba diving excursions in Costa Maya, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, you’ll find tours that cater to your skill level. From exploring vibrant coral reefs to swimming alongside exotic marine life, these tours offer unforgettable underwater experiences. So grab your gear and get ready to dive into the crystal-clear waters of Costa Maya!

Are there any other historical sites or ruins near the cruise port besides Chacchoben?

Yes, there are other historical sites near Chacchoben in Costa Maya. You can explore the Kohunlich and Dzibanche ruins, which offer a unique cultural experience and a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization.

What are some other water activities available at Bacalar Lagoon?

At Bacalar Lagoon, you can embark on boat tours that take you through the crystal-clear waters, revealing hidden swimming spots that are perfect for a refreshing dip. It’s a paradise for water enthusiasts.

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Budapest (Hungary)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Europe Rivers

Local Time 2024-04-13 04:53

Port Budapest cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Budapest, Hungary. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Budapest is a Danube River cruise port in Hungary. River's most operated cruise itineraries are between Budapest and Bucharest . The longest itineraries are from Holland ( Amsterdam ), including cruising on Danube, Main and Rhine. Budapest is Hungary's main (largest) cruise port and biggest tourism industry contributor. Each year, the city attracts over 4,5 million tourists, ranking it world's 25th most popular and Europe's 6th most popular city tour destination.

Budapest is Hungary's capital and largest city (population around 1,8 million, metro over 3,3 million), as well as country's commercial, industrial and transportation hub. On November 17, 1873, it became a single city occupying both banks of Danube River and merging three cities (Obuda, Buda, Pest).

Originally a Celtic settlement, during the Roman Empire it became the capital of Lower Pannonia. In the 9th century Hungarians arrived. Their first settlement was pillaged by the Mongols in 124–242. Next dark period was the Battle of Mohacs and the following 150 year Ottoman rule. Budapest was the Austro-Hungarian Empire's second capital (together with Vienna ).

Among city's most popular tourist landmarks are Buda Castle Quarter, Heroes' Square, Millennium Underground Railway, 118 geothermal springs (world's largest thermal water cave system), Dohany Street Synagogue (aka Nagy Zsinagoga, world's 2nd largest - after Belz Great Synagogue in Jerusalem), Hungarian Parliament Building (world's 3rd largest).

On shore excursions (bus tours from Budapest/riverboat's homeport) can be also visited Slovenia's capital Ljubljana, as well as Croatia's capital Zagreb .

Budapest cruise terminal

Budapest port’s parking area has max capacity of 100 cars. The distance from the port nad the city center is approx 5 km (3 ml). The nearest airport is the Ferihegy International Airport - at approx 20-min drive distance from the cruise ship terminal.

Popular tourist attractions located near the port are the Buda Castle, old bridges (called hidak), St Stephen’s Basilica (height 96 m / 315 ft), many bathhouses with therapeutic spring water.

• Among the hotels located near the port are Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal (5-star), Hotel Rila (budget priced), Parliament Hotel, K+K Opera Hotel.
• Pop[ular restaurants located near the port are Gerbaud House, Fatal Restaurant, Karpatia Etterem.
• Pop[ular shopping centers located near the port are Folk Arts Gallery (hand-made souvenirs, wooden toys, traditional Hungarian dolls) and the Arkad shopping mall.

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Budapest - user reviews and comments

Budapest on Foot – Acessible Highlights from the Viking Cruise Ship Port

My favourite city on the Danube is easily Budapest. Besides being the city where I met my girlfriend (10 years ago!), the bridges and architecture are the best on the river. It is also an incredibly walkable city. On my last visit, I toured around with City Sightseeing’s Budapest Hop on hop off bus . Although it was a great way to cover a large area in a short period, Budapest on foot is the best way to experience Hungary’s capital city. Budapest was the final stop on my trip down the Danube with Viking Cruises and I was eager to see and show off what the accessible highlights are from the Viking Cruise port.

Table of Contents

Starting Point

With our Viking cruise ship tightly tucked next to the Chain Bridge, we were in the perfect spot to explore Budapest from. To be honest, it was pretty tough to leave my private balcony with views like this. Can you blame me?

To cover as much of the city as possible (and to get me out the door) start your day seeing Budapest on foot by tagging along on the city tour excursion. Viking Cruises does a great job getting its guests out and about and makes the most out of each stop with free excursions and activities. In Budapest, this was a guided bus and walking tour. The bus tour took us past city highlights such as the Hungarian Opera House, Hero Square, and the Pest Synagogue (Europe’s largest) before dropping us on top Castle Hill for a guided walking tour.

 READ MORE:    Down the Danube with Viking River Cruises

Buda Castle

Buda Castle was first built in the 14th century but, like the rest of the city, was heavily damaged during World War II. At that time it’s secret tunnels below served as a hospital. Postwar it served as a bomb shelter for the Soviet-controlled city. Today, the tunnels are open to tourists and offer a great view of life during Nazi and Soviet reign.

My Rhine Getaway Experience and What to Expect on a Viking River Cruise

Above these tunnels is the castle and the beautifully tiled Matthias Church. Now if you’re taking a tour down the Danube with Viking Cruises , You will probably be over churches by this point. I strongly recommend you do not skip Matthias Church . It’s unique tile work really makes it one of a kind and the colours inside and out are beautiful.

After touring the church our group started making its way back to the ship. We decided to continue our Budapest on foot tour by taking in the views before heading down the hill via the 146-year-old funicular . Note: Pay a couple of euros for access to the upper viewing platform next to the Matthias Church for fewer selfie sticks in your postcard photos!

Chain Bridge

Budapest is known for its beautiful bridges. With 8 fascinating ones that cross the Danube , it is easy to see why. Sadly, several were destroyed by the fleeing Germans at the end of World War II. This includes the Chain Bridge, arguably the prettiest of the bunch. Thankfully it has been rebuilt to its original state. A walk across it is a must-do while visiting the city. Really, you could spend a day crisscrossing Budapest on foot, exploring places like Margaret Island and Gellert Hill.

After a pit stop back at our Viking Cruise ship for lunch, our Budapest on foot tour concluded with a walk around the country’s parliament – one of Europe’s finest.

Perched on the Danube, the Hungarian parliament building is a stunner. Constructed from 40 million or so bricks, it is also the 3rd largest in Europe. Although tours inside are available, we chose to continue on by foot. In doing so we took in the beauty of the grounds, fountains, and sculptures that surround this masterpiece. We also made a stop at the Budapest Uprising exhibit. Located on the southeast corner of the parliament building, this underground museum does an excellent job sharing the story of Hungary’s uprising in 1956.

Down the Danube | Viking River Cruise Highlights from Port to Port

Down the Danube

Our Budapest on foot tour continued along the Danube promenade. The riverside path is worth a stroll to say the least. Be sure to stop at the Shoes on the Danube Bank art display. This installation tells the sad story and shares the memory of Hungarian Jewish men, women, and children that were executed and pushed into the Danube during WWII.

Great Hall Market

26 minutes and 3 bridges later we arrived at the Central Market Hall. Note: if the distance is too great for you, the city trams run the same route along the river and has stops near the Viking Cruise ship port and in front of the market. Hop on the #2!

Along with Riga’s Central Market, this historic building is one of my favourite markets in Europe. Don’t miss a visit to the top floor where locals dish out delicacies like goulash and lángos, a Hungarian flatbread topped with sour cream, cheese, and onions.

 READ MORE:    Learning to make Hungarian Goulash in Budapest

Vaci Street

Post-market tour we made our way back to our Viking Cruise ship via Vaci Street . This pedestrian-only street is lined with major brand name shops, cafés, and restaurants. Stop for a beer or coffee with a side of people watching out front of St. Stephen’s Basilica. A great way to spend an hour or afternoon!

Home Sweet Home

Seeing Budapest on foot from the Viking Cruise port is easily doable and I highly recommend it. It’s a great way to see the city at a slow and relaxing pace. Combining this route with the Viking Cruises included excursion, Budapest’s yellow streetcars, and the metro system makes it easily achievable for less mobile guests too. Those looking to make more of their time in Budapest should consider taking a local cooking class or take in a show at the historic opera house. Either way, there is much to experience in this vibrant European capital city.

What say you? Thoughts on seeing  Budapest on foot ? Let’s hear it!

For more reviews from Europe  and beyond see HERE .

Like it? Pin it!

— Viking River Cruises on Facebook — — Viking River Cruises on Twitter —

This Budapest on foot tour was made possible thanks to  Viking River Cruises . As always the experience, opinions, and 100’s of photos are my own.

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Van Budapest | Shuttle Bus Service, Private Airport Transfer

We offer transportation for small and large groups in Hungary. Van & Bus transfer, Meet & Greet, Fix Price, Online booking. Private shuttle to Budapest Airport

Meet and Greet Services – River Cruise Port Budapest

Ship station transfer services in budapest, hungary.

Experience the enchanting beauty of Budapest elevated by our unparalleled Meet and Greet Services and River Cruise Port Transfers. Whether embarking on a river cruise adventure or bidding it farewell, our services prioritize safety, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience. Check out our prices, click here!

Meet and Greet Services – Ship Station

• Welcoming Assistance – Budapest River Cruise Port
• Budapest Ship Station – Seamless River Cruise Port Transfers
• Transfers to and from Budapest River Cruise Ports: Flexible Hourly Ride Service
• One-way Transfer Services: to/from Budapest River Cruise Docks
• VAN Rental with a Professional Driver
• BUS Rental with Experienced Chauffeur

Reliable Meet & Greet Service

As depicted on the map, Budapest boasts numerous river cruise ports due to the influx of river cruises during the holiday season. However, fret not! Our customer service diligently tracks your ship’s online status, always keeping us informed about its current location. In some cases, ships may move between two port stations even after arrival. We meticulously monitor these movements, making our Meet & Greet service genuinely unique and secure.

Effortless and Secure Transfers in Budapest, Hungary

When booking your transfer from any Budapest River Cruise Port, our customer service only requires the name of your ship. Based on this information, we continuously track your ship’s movement, precisely knowing its location in Budapest. You have nothing to worry about; just show up at the requested pickup time, and our driver will be waiting at the ship’s reception, and displaying your name on a sign. It’s that simple – no need to disembark, no confusing meeting points, etc. The meeting point is always at the ship’s reception, eliminating any misunderstandings.

Why Choose Our River Cruise Transfers?

Drawing from years of experience, we can confidently say that our River Cruise Transfers are the safest, with excellent customer service earning us recognition. We encourage you to take advantage of our River Cruise Transfer Service, knowing that we’ll take care of you, and your personal driver will go above and beyond to ensure your comfort. The vehicle conveniently parks directly at the dock, assisting with the hassle-free transfer of your luggage from the ship to the vehicle, alleviating any stress on your end.

Book Online or Request a Quote

Whether you’re ready to book online or seeking a personalized quote, click here to experience the epitome of comfort and security with our River Cruise Port Transfers in Budapest.

Our Budapest ShipStation – River Cruise Port Transfer online ordering is simple and fast. You just enter the name of the ship and we take care of the pickup. We always check the exact port of the ship. Sometimes ships move between Budapest Ports, but you don’t have to worry. Van & Bus Budapest Ltd. customer service keeps track of which Budapest Port your ship is in online.

To ensure a smooth transfer to Budapest Airport , we make it a point to double-check the exact port location of your ship online, as ships are known to move between ports at times. Upon arrival, our driver will be waiting for you at the ship reception area , holding a sign bearing your name for easy identification. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy a hassle-free transfer with us.

River Cruise Port Transfer Budapest

Cost of van rental or bus rental with driver in 2024 – River Cruise Port in Budapest: Hourly ride Service

Your driver will waiting for you at the ship’s reception to personally welcome you and help you to navigate the first leg of your trip. The driver will help you safely stow your luggage, and then take you to the specified destination, whether it is Budapest Downtown, Budapest Airport, or a Long-distance transfer to Hungary or Vienna. Please remember that you can rely on us for safe short and long-distance travel wherever possible.

2024 Transfer prices from downtown Budapest or from Budapest Airport to the Budapest River Cruise Terminal:

VAN rental with driver: Mercedes Benz V-Class

SHIPSTATION TRANSFER UP TO 7 PASSENGERS

BUS rental with driver: Mercedes Benz Sprinter

SHIPSTATION TRANSFER UP TO 20 PASSENGERS

Whether you are a tourist itching to see the sights of Hungary, or a business professional with no time to waste, partner with our Meet and Greet Service to get you from Budapest Shipstation, to on the road as quickly and efficiently as possible.

River Cruise Dock Budapest – Let us make your travel experience easy.

Meet and Greet services with Van & Bus Budapest Ltd. will escort you through every step of the way, making sure your travel experience is stress-free from start to finish for one reasonable price. Van & Bus Budapest Ltd. prides itself on transparency, which is why you won’t receive any hidden fees when you book a River Cruise Transfer with us and the price you see is the price you pay! Contact us for more information or book your River Cruise Dock Budapest Transfer online today!

Where does Viking Cruise dock in Budapest?

The River Cruise ship port of the Danube is located in downtown Budapest, from the Liberty bridge to the Margaret bridge. There are several Budapest piers on both banks of the Danube. Viking River Cruise Ships usually dock at the Chain Bridge bridgehead in Pest side or between Elizabeth bridge and Liberty bridge on the Pest side.

We provide private bus transfers for small and large groups to or from Budapest Ship Station:

Amawaterways™ river cruise line avalon waterways® river cruises viking river cruises®, bus rental budapest – meet and greet service.

At Van & Bus Budapest Ltd., we believe your time is valuable. This is why we make it our duty to see that you make it to your destination quickly and efficiently. Our River Cruise Dock and Airport Meet and Greet Services in Budapest, Hungary will make sure you are not wasting any valuable time on your trip, and will provide you the perfect stress-free start or finish to your vacation or business trip.

VAN rental with driver – Mercedes Benz V-Class

Whether your business or private trip, book our VAN services with a driver by the hour, be free to go wherever you need to go and make as many stops as you like.

With our River Cruise Dock Meet and Greet Services in Budapest, you will enjoy the comfort of knowing you have a professional by your side who will guide you through your Budapest shipstation experience in style. Whether you are just arriving, catching a departing River Cruise Ship, or in transit, Van & Bus Budapest Ltd. guarantees your comfort and peace of mind.

BUS rental with driver – Mercedes Benz Sprinter

Rent a bus for sightseeing, prom, a wedding, a big night out, or even a corporate event. It is also possible to rent several days for rural trips at a discounted price.

Van & Bus Budapest Ltd. is also approved by the Ministry of Transport and are proud members of the National Bus Association. As such, each of our drivers undergo a thorough screening process to ensure that our passengers have a quality experience with a driver they can trust. The safety and needs and comfort of our clients are our top priority. Van & Bus Budapest Ltd. prides itself on providing customer care and ensuring a great experience.

We can give you hourly rental prices, which we apply within Budapest. Thus, we can give you a few pointers to help you start planning your budget. If you want to get to a destination outside Budapest, we can send you a personalized accurate quote.

River Cruising in Budapest – Docking Locations:

Access online port information for comprehensive details on port services, facilities, and related data >

Budapest Cruise Terminal, gracefully welcomes an array of vessels, each with its own distinct charm and allure. From the elegant A-Rosa fleet to the luxurious Viking River Cruises, the Budapest cruise terminal stands as a nexus for explorers seeking the beauty of the Danube aboard a plethora of remarkable ships. Let’s explore some of the notable vessels that frequent this iconic terminal.

A-Rosa Fleet:

A-Rosa Bella A-Rosa Donna A-Rosa Flora A-Rosa Mia A-Rosa Riva

Avalon Waterways:

Avalon Envision Avalon Illumination Avalon Passion Avalon View

Amadeus River Cruises:

Amadeus Royal Amadeus Silver II Amadeus Silver III Amadeus Symphony

AMA Waterways:

AMAMAGNA AMAVIOLA ANNIKA Albertina

Nicko Cruises:

NickoSpirit NickoVision Primadonna

Viking River Cruises:

Viking Aegir Viking Atla Viking Baldur Viking Bragi Viking Egdir Viking Egil Viking Embla Viking Gullveig Viking Gymir Viking Ingvi Viking Jarl Viking Kadlin Viking Lif Viking Lofn Viking Mimir Viking Rinda Viking Skadi Viking Skirnir Viking Tir Viking Tor Viking Vali Viking Var Viking Vidar Viking Vilhjalm Viking Vili

Other Notable Ships:

Belvedere Bolero Budapest CruceStar DCS Amethyst Excellence Empress Joy Maxima Monarch Governess Prinzessin Isabella Riverside Mozart Rousse Prestige S.S. Beatrice S.S. Maria Theresa Savor Scenic Jade SE Manon Swiss Crown Thurgau Prestige Travelmarvel Capella Travelmarvel Polaris Victor Hugo Vista Star Viva Two William Wordsworth Zsófia Rendezvényhajó

As these vessels gracefully navigate the iconic Danube River, passengers embark on unforgettable journeys, weaving through the rich tapestry of Budapest’s history and culture. The diversity of the ships symbolizes the varied preferences of discerning travelers, each vessel promising a unique experience along the enchanting waterways of Budapest. From the panoramic views of the Avalon Waterways to the intimate luxury of the Viking River Cruises, the Budapest Ship Station stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to offering a memorable and diverse river cruise experience.

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Budapest VIKING River Cruise Docks | Taxi, private transfer

The prices are per car and include all fees: highway toll, parking fees, Meet & Greet services, all taxes and VAT. Prices are valid for one way.

Budapest, Hungary International VIKING ShipStation. MAHART: A, V1

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How close is it to the Viking River Cruise dock...

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Sofitel Budapest Chain Bridge

Sofitel Budapest Chain Bridge Questions & Answers

How close is it to the Viking River Cruise dock? Will we need a taxi to get to Viking? Does the hotel have an airport shuttle that can pick us up at the airport? How much is the charge? Thank you.

Dear 1943 Hummingbird,

Thank you for your enquire about Sofitel Budapest Chain Bridge.

The Viking River Cruise Dock is just right front of the hotel easy access by walk and our Bell boy staff is ready to help you with the luggage. You don't need a taxi to take.

Our Hotel doesn't have its own shuttle bus from and to the airport, however our Concierge staff can organize it for you or can give you more details about the possibilites to get to the hotel, you just have to write an e-mail to the h3229-fo3 @ sofitelcom e-mail address and they'll give you all the details.

I do hope we can welcome you in our property in the close future!

Kind Regards,

Zsombor Jávorka

Revenue Manager

Sorry, didn't respond regarding the shuttle from the airport to the Hotel. Sofitel will arrange a car to pick you up at the airport which is what we did. It is pricey, I just emailed the Sofitel Chain Bridge concierge and he responded with the charge. We did make arrangements through the hotel. I am sure we could have gotten to the hotel for less, however we are both in our 70's and after a 16 hour trip our concern was ease and comfort not price. Arriving after a long journey (to a country with a very different and difficult language although English is spoken by many) and have a man holding up our name on a placard and having him get our luggage and take us right to a guaranteed comfy automobile was worth whatever they charged! Email the concierge for the charge, as I recall there were a couple of options.

Hi 1943Hummingbird, not sure if you received my first reply.

The Viking dock is close by so no taxi needed. They may even supply a shuttle from the hotel. We took a shuttle bus from the airport one way as took a cruise ourselves (about 20 Euro for the two of us). Not sure if the Sofitel offers a shuttle service but the airport shuttle dropped us to the door.

Cheers, Rambling NT

We had a problem with that as Viking claims there cruise ships stop right there at the Chain Bridge which is really just across the street from the Hotel. HOWEVER, while some of Vikings ships do dock there, there are some which do not. Evidently it the Danube Budapest River Captain decides where ships will dock and it changes daily according to traffic on the river. We ended up having to take a Taxi from the Sofitel to our ship, the Viking Freya. It wasn't very far, about mid-way between the Chain Bridge and the Elizabeth Bridge and I don't remember the exact Taxi fare but it wasn't very much. I recommend having the hotel concierge call Viking (there is a phone number somewhere in the booklet Viking sends you) and have them connect directly to the ship who will tell you what dock they are located. That is what we ended up doing as our booklet giving the ships location said our dock was at the Chain bridge; it wasn't!

Hope this helps.

Good morning from Athens...I see y got answers for Viking dock.For the shuttle service....yes,Sofitel Budapest can arrange your pick-up from the airport..,but it's expensive ....we were 3 adults and 3 children so we needed a mini bus..the price was double compare to the private company that we used.If you need any more informations please don't hesitate to ask.Have a nice time in Budapest !!!

When we were there the Viking dock is right next to the Chain Bridge, its a very short walk to the Sofitel hotel.

I am unsure about a shuttle as we had arranged a shuttle through APT so therefore cannot assist you in this question.

Also for your knowledge there are several hop on hop off buses that tour around the city the one we chose had a 48 hour ticket and the stop was between the hotel and chain bridge.

We never got booklets have researched everyting on line. Now on departure day not sure what number to call to find aout about boarding?

Does the. K+K Hotel Opera Budapest have a shuttle that can be taken from Dock7 where the Viking river boat arrives

How far is the Viking dock to the Hotel Hofmatt?

As to the Viking River Cruise dock: cannot answer, no experience

as to the taxi from the airport: if jou write a mail to the hotel, they will give you a detailled answer, it is expensive though.

Have a nice stay, but in the Sofitel you will surely do!

There is a river cruise depot right outside the hotel, can walk in a couple of moments. I am 99% sure this is a Viking dock. Book the hotel and enjoy

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Ask a question.

Get an answer from Sofitel Budapest Chain Bridge staff and past guests.

Hotels near Port of Budapest Danube River Cruise Terminal

Budapest Hotel Deals

Budapest in Hungary is one of the largest and most beautiful cities in Europe. Sitting on the River Danube, it is a popular destination for river cruise boats. Budapest, like Hungary, was shaped by many forces over the centuries and displays an eclectic mix of architecture, with riverbanks that have World Heritage protected status.

You will find much of the visible skyline is 20th century but on your cruise visit, look below this to find the past.

Plenty of hotels can be found located not far from the cruise dock.

Cheap Deals for Cruise Hotels

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Extend your Visit in Hungary

If you want to extend your visit in Hungary before or after your river cruise , you will find accommodation deals for all budgets near your terminal (Mahart – International Passenger or Drava Street Port), from hostels and cheap pensions to 5 star hotels. Do some research first to get the best deals.

More expensive hotels are located near Castle Hill . There are excellent value hotels near Matthias Church and cheaper hotels in Pest . Wherever you stay you will get deals that put you near both the centre of the town and your port terminal. Many hotels have spacious rooms and Wi-Fi, as well as their own restaurants, serving a taste of Hungary. They will all have en-suite facilities and TV’s.

Look out for deals that include breakfast or other meals. Higher end hotels often have good deals on offer, especially at different times of the year.

• River Cruise Port
• Buda on the West Bank
• Pest on the East Bank

Nearest Airport

Some cruise facts.

Deluxe 4 star property set at the former site of Hungaria Bath in downtown Budapest near the metro line.

Popular accommodation in the center of Budapest close to public transportation.

One of the most luxurious 5 star hotels in Budapest. Located in the city centre on the Grand Boulevard.

Vessels dock at various piers within close distance of the city centre

Docking Locations – Pier

Cruise boats arriving in Budapest dock on the PEST side of the river , a few minutes away from city centre hotels. Ships tie up at Belgrad Rakpart Port ( Mahart – International Passenger or Drava Street Port ) usually between the Liberty (Szabadság) and Chain (Széchenyi) bridges. There are plenty of docking positions. One of the main operators is Viking River Cruises . The Viking Pier located between the Elizabeth Bridge and the Chain Bridge. The port and terminal of Belgrad Rakpart is in Pest and here you can step straight off your cruise ship into the heart of Budapest . River cruise boats dock at the port and terminal in Budapest all year round. From the Spring Festival, through the huge Sziget Rock Festival in August to Christmas markets in Vorosmarty Square, there is always something happening.

Buda on the West bank

Budapest spans the River Danube. Many beautiful wrought-iron bridges link the two sides.

In Buda, on the West bank, a funicular takes you up to Castle District hanging above the city. Medieval courtyards and cobbled streets make this a pleasant area to explore.

Visit the famous Matthias Church, where Emperor Franz Josef was crowned to the strains of Liszt’s music. Climb the 700 centuries old ramparts to be rewarded with magnificent views over both the River Danube and the River Pest.

Pest on the East bank

Pest, on the East bank, is more modern with a buzzing nightlife. The Vaci Utca shopping precinct is traffic free and lined with boutiques and jewellers, a great place to look for deals in souvenirs.

The Old Jewish Quarter is here, but little remains other than the Great Synagogue, with its Hall of Heroes, Jewish Museum and the Holocaust Memorial Room. The State Opera House, elegant villas with gardens and expensive shops line Andrassy Street. Here you can enjoy a coffee in Franz Liszt Square or Heroe’s Square.

Young children will enjoy Varosliget Park, where they can run around the lake and feed the ducks. Nearby is the famous Hungarian Circus and one of the oldest zoos in the world. Whilst in Budapest try some of the stews of Hungary, such as goulash.

Goulash is heavily flavoured with Hungary’s national spice, paprika. For elegant coffee and torte step into Gerbeaud. This looks much the same as it did 150 years ago, with its polished wood and chandeliers.

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (IATA : BUD) is the main international airport, formerly called Budapest Ferihegy International Airport. The airport is situated approx. 10 miles or 16 km from the downtown area hotels and the cruise piers. You can easily travel to Budapest city center by public transport (metro). Taxi’s, AirportShuttle Mini-Buses and regional buses are also available. Ferihegy train station, which is the nearest railway station, can be reached by bus. trains operate from Ferihegy to and from the Nyugati railway station in central Budapest Hungary.

web : Budapest Airport

The currency of Hungary is the Hungarian Forint.

Hungarian is the official language of Hungary, but many people in Budapest speak some English.

Tourist Information

web : budapest.com

River Cruise Lines

Several cruise lines offer itineraries and schedules to/from Budapest. Popular destinations include Vienna in Austria on the Danube , Passau in Lower Bavaria and Nuremberg on the Rhine–Main–Danube Canal in Germany . Some longer voyages end in Amsterdam Holland .

Avalonwaterways , Viking River Cruises, AmaWaterways , Scenic Cruises , Uniworld and Emerald Waterways .

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15-Day Viking Cruises Grand European Tour Itinerary

Out of all the river cruise itineraries in Europe, the ultimate is probably the Grand European Tour, which runs between Budapest and Amsterdam. Dan and I had fallen in love with river cruising during our Rhine River cruise , so when Viking River Cruises invited us to review their Grand European Tour, we couldn’t resist. Five countries in two weeks, without changing hotels? Share it all with our readers? Heck, yeah!

Cruise days are full, so I kept a daily river cruise journal along the way. Our 15-day cruise became a series of stories that will tell you what you can expect every day and what you can do in each cruise port. There are articles about every stop on our river cruise itinerary. You’ll find the links throughout this article.

What happens on a river cruise?

We’ve only been on two Viking river cruises so far, and the daily routine is generally similar. Every port of call begins with a guided tour of the city (included), after which you have leisure time to do whatever you fancy until the ship sails.

As for the lunchtime meal, some passengers return to eat on the ship. Others, including ourselves, prefer to stay in town and buy their own noontime meal. In our opinion, few things can match ordering local food in a local restaurant with local patrons. To us, it adds another layer to the experience of being in another culture.

At some stops, you may be able to join an additional tour. These special interest Viking excursions usually have a limited appeal, so they charge a nominal additional fee to cover the cost. It’s a creative way to keep the basic price low, yet still add extra value to passengers. (Note: For the 2015 season, prices ranged between 29 and 64 euros per person.)

One thing about this cruise itinerary: Be prepared for a lot of scenery, culture, UNESCO sites, history and food. If you enjoy things like this, you will really enjoy the river cruising experience.

Viking Grand European river cruise itinerary

To give you a sense of the river cruise route, here is a map of our ports of call.

Now, let’s get started on the Viking Grand European Tour itinerary! 😀

Days 1 and 2 – Budapest, Hungary

Day 1—welcome aboard.

The recommended check-in time for a Viking river cruise is 3 pm. Travel schedules being what they are, Viking provides a light buffet lunch for passengers who can’t help arriving early. You can read about the first day on a Viking cruise here.

The first Grand European Tour activity happens mid-afternoon. It’s an unofficial guided walk around the area to help battle jet lag, should you be arriving the day of the cruise. You’ll also have plenty of time to explore the area and pick up a few authentic souvenirs of Budapest.

Our Program Director promised that our first dinner on board would be special, and it was. They offered a traditional Hungarian menu, accompanied by local wines and beers. Many people don’t know that Hungary has 22 wine regions and produces a number of excellent vintages. Tokaj and Bulls Blood are probably the best-known wines, and Hungary’s Tokaj wine region is so phenomenal that it is a bona fide UNESCO site.

If Hungarian food isn’t your thing or you need to selective about what you eat, no worries. They can accommodate many special diets and every menu includes a few familiar options, like grilled salmon and steak.

ⓘ TIP: If you enjoy good wine, pick up some local vintages along the way to enjoy with dinner. Unlike some river cruise lines, Viking doesn’t charge a corkage fee.

Inspired? Pin this post and share it with your friends!

Day 2—Tour Budapest

Your first full day in Budapest begins with a morning tour. From Pest’s National Opera House and historic Heroes’ Square, we crossed over the Danube to the Buda side of the river. Oour tour took us along Castle Hill to Fishermen’s Bastion and Matthias Church. We also had some free time to explore before returning to the ship for lunch.

Your afternoon options are varied. Would you like to explore Budapest on your own or join an optional tour? Your choices are:

• Dohány Street Synagogue and Jewish Budapest (tour highlighting Budapest’s colorful Jewish past and present)
• Spa Experience (Budapest is famous for its therapeutic thermal waters and has the spas to prove it)
• Hungarian Horsemen: Lazar Equestrian Park (trip to see a horsemanship exhibition).

The second evening in Budapest began with a Welcome Reception. Consider it an official opportunity to chat with your Program Director and traveling companions.

The evening departure results in some phenomenal photographs. Evening cruising through Budapest on the Danube is spectacular. See our Budapest photos here.

Days 3 and 4 – Vienna, Austria

Viking has updated their itinerary since our cruise, dropping a day in Bratislava in favor of two days in Vienna. As much as we enjoyed Slovakia’s capital, we left Austria’s capital feeling as though we hadn’t seen enough. Props to Viking for listening to passenger feedback and adding more time for visiting Vienna.

The Historic Centre of Vienna is a UNESCO site and there is plenty to see. We did see some of the city’s baroque architecture on our morning tour. Our guide made sure we saw the world-famous Opera House, St. Stephan’s Cathedral and Hofburg Palace, among other things.

Many of our fellow passengers spent the afternoon exploring Vienna on their own. If you do that, make sure to set aside some time to relax in one of Vienna’s traditional coffee houses, just as the locals do.

We chose to take the optional afternoon tour to Schönbrunn Palace. It is called the “Versailles of Vienna” due to its massive size (1,441 rooms!), and it qualifies as a UNESCO site as well.

After dinner, we were treated to a classical concert (think Mozart and Strauss, not classic rock) performed by a Viennese orchestra. That’s another optional tour; no need to endure it if you’re not a fan.

Day 5 – Wachau Valley + Melk, Austria

Most cruising is done overnight, unless it’s through a picturesque area. This morning we enjoyed some scenic cruising through the Wachau Valley, heart of Austria’s wine country. The Wachau is a stretch of the Danube Valley between Melk and Krems, and is of such unsurpassed beauty and historic importance that it has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The crown jewel of Melk is its abbey, an incredibly ornate 900-year-old Benedictine monastery. It features Austria’s finest Italian baroque architecture. Melk Abbey also has wonderful frescoes, as well as a library that holds an extensive collection of medieval manuscripts.

Day 6 – Passau, Germany

Passau is a town that lies where the Inn, Ilz and Danube Rivers meet. Our guided walk along the town’s narrow streets took us through Old Town and past many traditional patrician houses. Lying at the confluence of three rivers, Passau often experiences flooding, and one of the sights is where previous floods have left their mark.

We also saw the New Bishop’s Residence and the impressive baroque St. Stephen’s Cathedral with its ornate interior. If you arrive at noon, you can be treated to a special noontime concert on Europe’s largest church organ (17,000 pipes).

Then, free time to explore Passau on our own.

Day 7 – Regensburg, Germany

Regensburg is a wonderfully preserved medieval city. It’s full of medieval architecture, dark and narrow lanes, and strong fortifications, and that’s what makes it a UNESCO site.

We had a chance to tour the town’s market, city hall and the splendid St. Peter’s Cathedral, discover many 13th- and 14th-century patrician houses, and see ancient Roman, Romanesque and Gothic buildings.

Day 8 – Nuremberg, Germany

Our morning was spent on board, cruising to Nuremberg, Germany. Our program director offered a morning talk about the European Union, but Dan and I skipped it. We sat on our private stateroom balcony, sipping coffee and watching the passing scenery.

The afternoon options included a walking tour of the Old Town area. Highlights were the Albrecht Dürer House and Main Market Square. We drove by Zeppelin Field (the Nazi parade grounds of the 1930s) and the Palace of Justice, site of the infamous Nuremberg Trials.

World War II buffs can take an optional tour of the Documentation Center instead.

Day 9 – Bamberg, Germany

We spent the morning cruising through the 106-mile long Main-Danube Canal and passing through some of its 16 locks. Charlemagne first thought of continuous river travel from the North Sea to the Black Sea in 793, but it took until 1992—a whopping 1200 years—to actually accomplish his dream.

Once arriving in port, we were taken on a walking tour of Bamberg’s medieval city center. Bamberg has a magnificent 11th-century cathedral. However, it’s best know for its picturesque city hall, built on a tiny island in the middle of a river.

When our guide released us to explore this UNESCO site on our own, a few of us asked for one final stop. Schlenkerla is a historic brewpub in Bamberg, Germany and is renowned for its smoked Aecht Schlenkerla Rauchbier.

Germany’s Franconia region may be known for its wine, but Bamberg is famous for its distinctive, smoke-flavored beer. Truth be told, I enjoy smoky flavors so much that visiting the brewery is my favorite memory of Bamberg.

Day 10 – Romantic Road excursion to Rothenburg + Würzburg, Germany

Most passengers spent the day in Wurzburg. but we joined Viking’s optional Romantic Road excursion to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The motorcoach ride was scenic, but it was drizzling and hard to see through the wet windows.

Rothenburg is a medieval town with charming half-timbered houses, a turreted city wall and impressive Gothic and baroque architecture. It ranks among one of the most picturesque in all of Germany. If you have a camera, you should really consider taking this tour.

After a traditional German lunch in a Rothenburg restaurant, we returned to Würzburg. The town is best known for the Bishops’ Residenz. One of Germany’s largest and most ornate baroque palaces, the palace is also a UNESCO site.

It’s over-the-top elaborate, and hard to believe someone actually lived like this.

We had another delicious dinner on board. Viking had planned an evening glassblowing demonstration afterwards, but nope. The cruise director had to postpone it at the last minute because the glassblower missed the ship.

Day 11 – Wertheim, Germany

Wertheim is located at the confluence of the Main and Tauber Rivers. It’s a typical, small German town, with roots that date back to the 7th century. Wertheim is renowned for its glassblowing tradition.

Our walking tour included a visit to the historic marketplace and our guide pointed us to glassblowing studio that we could visit. Many passengers spent their free time in glass shops buying souvenirs. Dan and I preferred to leave the main drag and explore the old town’s 1100-year-old back streets. (You can see our photos here. )

Down time in the afternoon. Time to relax on the sun deck with other passengers and watch the scenic vineyards of Franconia sail by. Dinner included some of the area’s wines.

Tonight, we finally got our glassblowing demonstration. He was quite entertaining and kept us all laughing, especially when he drafted audience participants. The whole evening was super fun!

Day 12 – Upper Middle Rhine Valley + Mosel River + wine tasting + Koblenz

This morning was all about hilltop castles along a stunning stretch of the Rhine River. It’s so special that the Upper Middle Rhine Valley has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There were plenty of oohs and aahs on the Sun Deck as we passed the dozens of castles and vineyards along its banks.

This was our second time in the Rhine Gorge and we enjoyed it just as much. The views are incredible and the associated commentary is fascinating!

The ship stopped in Braubach for a tour of one-of-a-kind Marksburg Castle. This castle is in perfect shape; it’s the only Rhine fortress that has never been destroyed. Definitely a must-see.

As we had seen the castle on our previous Rhine River cruise, we opted to join a couple dozen other passengers for the optional Moselle wine tour. Our route took us along along the Mosel River, which offers a landscape of terraced vineyards punctuated here and there by typically German towns.

After stopping to stretch our legs at a very scenic overlook, we continued on to a Mosel winery. They took us into the inner sanctum of wine production and showed how they produced their wines. Then, of course, we sampled a few of their best.

Our ship docked in Koblenz until late evening. This is the picturesque town where the Moselle and Rhine converge. We ran into a group of crew members in town. They were enjoying a few hours off and invited us to join them.

Always inquisitive, we took the opportunity to ask about working for Viking. We figured they could speak frankly since we were off the ship, and we were right. Seems a few of them have worked for other river cruise lines or on ocean liners. Consensus: Viking has high standards, and they treat their employees better than the other companies did. Isn’t that wonderful?!

Day 13 – Cologne, Germany

Cologne is Germany’s fourth largest city. Our morning walking tour through Old Town passed St. Martin’s Church, the Renaissance city hall and the remnants of an ancient Jewish mikveh (a ritual bathhouse). Our tour ended at the Dom, Germany’s largest cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The rest of the day was free to enjoy Cologne. I made sure we went to the Chocolate Museum….

The Captain’s Farewell Reception was a blast – we had a “Taste of Germany” buffet dinner, complete with live oompah music. The crew dressed up in German costumes to give it an especially festive air.

And being that it was a buffet, the chef made sure to come over to help us figure out which dishes were on our diet. (We had mentioned it once, at the beginning of our cruise, and the entire staff never needed to be told again. They kept it in mind every time we ordered.)

After dinner, we joined the optional Prost! Tour so we could experience Brauhaus culture and drink Cologne’s famous Kölsch beer. We’d done it on our Rhine cruise and it was just as fun this time.

• Read more: One Day in Cologne

Day 14 – Kinderdijk, Netherlands

We sailed along the Rhine all morning. and Viking had plenty of activities to keep us entertained. We enjoyed sampling Dutch cheeses and jenever (a distilled juniper liquor), and trying our hand at sjoelen (Dutch table shuffleboard).

After lunch, we docked in Kinderdijk (UNESCO!) for an afternoon tour. This is a fascinating experience, both for the photo ops and the opportunity to learn about windmills first-hand. We had done this on our last cruise, and the best part was climbing into a working windmill to explore its mechanisms and living quarters.

If you’re claustrophobic, have mobility challenges, or have already visited a real Dutch windmill, there’s an alternate tour. Passengers who would prefer an alternative can join a tour to watch Dutch cheese making. Holland is famous for Edam, but the cheese farm we visited specializes in Gouda.

Of course, the best part was sampling the many varieties in their shop….

We enjoyed a final dinner on board and our last evening together as we cruised on to Amsterdam.

• Read more: See Dutch Windmills and Cheese Making in Kinderdijk

Day 15 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Our cruise ship docked sometime after midnight. We left late and could have one last enjoyable breakfast, once again with local breads, cheeses and other specialties.

No Amsterdam tour is included on the itinerary (even though its canals are yet another UNESCO site), and I assume that’s because most people have planes to catch. If you wish, you are welcome to join the next round of passengers on the afternoon walkabout.

Or you can do what we did and spend more time in Amsterdam . There’s a lot to enjoy in the city: neighborhoods, restaurants, museums and exciting nightlife.

Even if you don’t do anything else, be sure to take a canal cruise! It’s ranked as the best things to do in Amsterdam for a reason. This tour is especially popular.

Where to stay in Amsterdam

We can recommend two hotels from personal experience:

• Renaissance Amsterdam Hotel — a short walk from Centraal Train Station.
• Bilderberg Garden Hotel — a bit further out and in a quieter location.

Both are quite nice and near a tram stop.

Note: As is common in the travel industry, Dan and Linda were provided with a complimentary cruise package for the purpose of review. While it has not influenced coverage, AWSI believes in full disclosure of all potential conflicts of interest. For more information, see the Disclosure page.

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Written by Linda

Linda is multilingual and has been to over 50 countries. Her insatiable love of travel, cuisine, and foreign languages inspired her to create As We Saw It, where she documents her trips, shares practical itineraries, and offers insider tips. She’s passionate about helping fellow travelers save time, money, and hassle, and loves to discover new places to explore.

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25 thoughts on “15-day viking cruises grand european tour itinerary”.

I like your philosophy of never wasting a day in life. Bamberg is certainly a top place to spend one. Nice post.

Thanks, Stuart. That cruise sure kept us busy – we didn’t waste a moment!

What is the best month to travel on the europe ?

We went in early June, but September would be nice as well, and daylight is still long enough. We prefer spring and fall, when school is in session and there are fewer tourist crowds.

It seems a nice tour and honestly, I would like to follow this itinerary. Thanks for sharing this post and on a very honest note, I got much information about the European cities and countries.

Glad it helped.

Thanks for the information, we are taking the Budapest to Amsterdam trip end of July on the Viking Modi. looks like Bratislava, Slovakia is no longer part of itinerary

Well dang, Larry & Maggie, you’re right! Instead, you get an extra day in Vienna. As much as we enjoyed our time in Slovakia, that seems like a fantastic trade-off. We were left longing for more with our single day in Vienna.

Come to think of it, we’ve seen day trips to Bratislava from Budapest online, and trains run regularly. Should be easy for one to fly in a couple of days early and see it as well.

Thanks for letting us know!

We are taking this cruise in June 2018 and reading your day to day journal is helpful in terms of what to expect each day. Thank you for sharing your adventure, it makes me even more excited about our trip.

You are more than welcome. We know you’ll have so much fun! (Do you mind if we admit to the tiniest bit of envy? We’d love to take that cruise again.)

I’ve seen comments about long bus rides at each port to get to the sites. Was that your experience on the Grand European Tour?

Well, yes and no. We docked in town at most of the Rhine and Danube stops. Those towns developed around the rivers, so naturally, ports are centrally located. Most of the trips that required bus rides were for towns on the Main Canal, because it was constructed recently and to preserve infrastructure and homes, they had to build it where space was still available.

The rides didn’t seem particularly long to us, though. Our guides gave us interesting orientations and we had wonderful scenery to enjoy on the way. (We napped and chatted on the way back.)

This itinerary looks pretty awesome. I had no idea the tours were quite so long and you get to see so many awesome places! I’d love to go on one of these cruises one day!

If you do go, you’ll be amazed. The staff is remarkable, the tours are excellent (and free), and the small passenger capacity makes it an intimate experience you will never forget.

You should go! River cruises are a fabulous experience. We can’t recommend them enough.

A Viking cruise is on our bucket list; thanks for the info. All the places look amazing. Now you have made me want to go even more.

I know what you mean. We want to take the Nile and Mekong cruises next.

Thank you so much for sharing your adventures. This has been very helpful because I will be cruising from Amsterdam to Budapest in April.

How did you pack all you needed in a carry-on and a back-pack? I would love to be able to do that.

Hi Bette, thanks for your question. Actually, I’ve been pondering writing a post about this.

In a nutshell, we always carry our valuables (camera and electronics) on board with us in our backpacks. The biggest keys to packing light are to:

• wear your clothes multiple days (just not in a row!)
• coordinate your clothes with a neutral color (I chose colorful tops and scarves, black sweater, skirt and slacks)
• hand wash your clothes when needed (we packed only 7 days’ worth of underwear)
• limit your shoes (I had walking sandals, sneakers and ballet flats, all black)
• bring travel size toiletries and leave the ones that hotels provide at home.

Enjoyed the information your post included. We are scheduled to take this cruise in July 2018 and you gave me a concise idea of what to expect each day. Also greatly appreciated your ideas on packing–this cruise will require different items than on a big ship in the Caribbean!

Thanks for the feedback! We’re so glad our post was so helpful. I hope our other posts for each destination were as useful and informative. 🙂

I am curious how you got permission to take pictures inside the Schönbrunn palace and the Milky Abbey. We were told it was absolutely not possible to take pictures while inside.

The only part of Melk Abbey that is off limits to photographers is the library. As for Schonbrunn, they forgot to tell our tour group that we couldn’t take photos until we had already taken shots of that one room. So we stopped.

I would love to do one of these river cruises and have been enjoying the posts taking note of how our small family of 3 would fare on such a cruise.

I think river cruises are best when children are old enough to appreciate sightseeing and history. Most little ones have far too much energy for a ship of that size and need more room to run and play.

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10 Things You Should Know Before Your First European River Cruise

T wenty-fifth wedding anniversary! Where did the time go? And most importantly, what should we do to celebrate? A few days later, with suspiciously perfect timing, a Viking river cruise advertisement dropped into our mailbox.  

Two decades ago, we tried a Caribbean ocean cruise — big ship, lots of people, so much food and drink — and never did a second one. But a European river cruise sounded appealing: smooth water, a new city every morning on a small ship with less than 200 passengers, top-notch food and a customizable mix of culture, lectures and activities.  

Ten months later, we were flying to Budapest, Hungary to begin our 11-day Passage to Eastern Europe on Viking Cruises. Here are 10 things we learned from our first river cruise: 

1. You’ll Wind Up Feeling Young Again

If you are in your 50s and miss that young and spry feeling, you could do worse than go on a river cruise. We knew the average age would likely skew into the 60s, but we did not anticipate being the youngest couple on our ship. Nor did we mind. Being surrounded by seniors in their 70s and 80s having a great time seeing new places was an inspiration for our own future.   

2.  You Won’t Find Too Many First-Time Cruisers

Those folks a generation ahead of us have been busy. We didn’t stand out just because of our relative youth, but also because this was our first river cruise. Nearly everybody we met had cruised before — not just with Viking, but other lines around the world as well. Ron, a former Army master sergeant, was on his seventh Viking cruise and even admitted to doing the 15-day Grand European Tour from Amsterdam to Budapest twice. 

“I’d do it a third time if they let me do it for free,” he told us.

3. Water Levels May Cause Unexpected Detours

A huge river cruise appeal for my wife was the absence of ocean waves. No waves = no seasickness. But, unlike the ocean, river levels rise and fall. Too high, and the river ships can’t pass under certain bridges. Too low and, like us, the ship may have to stop short of some destinations and passengers will spend extra time on the bus. For us, low water levels triggered shore excursion substitutions in an unexpected Bulgarian city as well as a longer bus ride to Bucharest. Disappointing, but manageable. In other cases, passengers might have to abandon their river ship and bus transfer to an identical one upriver to continue the journey. Be prepared.        

4. Every Day Is Casual Day

We were going to be in Europe, cruising on an upscale boat, and our fellow passengers would be older than us; accordingly, my wife and I planned to dress nicely: collared, button-down shirts and sleek sweaters and blouses. Viking emphasizes no formal dinners and a relaxed vibe, but I still almost brought a jacket for the evenings. 

I’m glad I didn’t. Our fellow passengers overwhelmingly embraced comfortable casual — bright, plush sneakers; jeans; shorts and even a few Harley T-shirts — it was all okay.  There were definitely people like us, avoiding the jeans and sneakers look, and if you want to dress nicer, go for it, but it’s not necessary.

5.  Embrace Conversation

If you fear initiating new conversations with new people several times a day, a river cruise might intimidate you. Fear not. Most of our experienced river cruiser passengers seemed to crave meeting new people and were easy to chat with.      

In our first 24 hours on the ship, I listened to a tale about an encounters with Perth Australia gold miners gone wrong, met a guy who got a Purple Heart when his helicopter crashed in Vietnam, admired the mangled fingers of a 75-year-old New England hockey player and listened to our dinner companion say, “I would not have married my husband if I had to do it again.” With him right there. 

How Expedition Cruising Appeals to the Adventurous Traveler

6.  i’ll have both entrees, please. .

Yes, river cruise food is delicious. Nearly every meal featured regional specialties of the neighboring country. A few minutes before dinner seating began, the chief chef would describe his culinary creations to select from that evening. It was like a halftime speech. He’d finish up and we’d all race (or, in some cases, shuffle) out of the lounge to the dining room, pumped up for the coming delicacies.  

Yet, as good as the shipboard food may be, take some time to…

7. Eat Locally

Don’t confine yourself to only the refined ship meals. A few steps away from your docked ship you’ll probably find flavorful local food well worth nibbling on. Some of my favorite meals of our trip were a platter of cevapcici eaten under a portrait of Uncle Tito (the Cold War era Yugoslav leader) in Belgrade and some meltingly lovely pumpkin phyllo pastry in Croatia.  

8. Pace Yourself

With a new city each day and limited time, you can exhaust yourself trying to do too much. At one point, our new friends, Victor and Leslie, admitted that they signed up for too many excursions. There is only so much anyone can sample in a few hours or even a day, and we accepted that. A travel memoir I found in the ship’s library, Far and Away , gave a satisfying response to that dilemma: “Always leave something for next time, something to tempt you back.”  You’re on a cruise; make some time to simply relax on the sundeck or terrace, admiring the views. 

9.  Find a Less-Traveled River

Ever heard of the Iron Gates of the Danube? I hadn’t either. Every passenger was out taking photos as our ship slipped into this dramatic gorge between Serbia and Romania. At one point, the giant face of an ancient Dacian king carved into the rock wall stared back at us.   

Other European rivers plying well-traveled countries like Germany, the Netherlands and France host most river cruise traffic, but we delighted in discovering more unfamiliar East European countries. Every day gave us new stories and perspectives, often containing history that we’d never heard of. Nor was all of this history ancient. On successive days we got thoughtful perspectives from a local Croatian tour guide and then her Serbian counterpart on the 1990s Balkan War. When choosing your cruise itinerary, consider the lesser-known places. 

10. Cabin Class Choices Matter

After choosing a cruise date and itinerary, you pick your cabin class. I agonized over that. Budget limitations dictated the cheapest, er, “most affordable” cabin for us, down on the lower deck and featuring only a narrow window just above the waterline. My online research emphasized that most of our cabin time would be at night when it was dark anyway.  Moreover, even during daylight hours, the ship would often be parked next to a dock or sandwiched between other cruise ships with someone else’s window inches away.  

All of that was indeed true. And once on board, it was obvious that even the most spacious cabins could not compare to the nearly 360-degree views from the outdoor terrace and top sundeck where passengers gathered in the sunny afternoons. Still, I would have enjoyed more window space in our stateroom. Next cruise maybe I’ll spring for the fancy veranda cabin.

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What It’s Like to Take a Viking Danube Cruise – Passau to Budapest

When my husband and I celebrated our 21st wedding anniversary, we wanted something extra special and decided to celebrate in style on a Viking River Cruise. This was by far our biggest anniversary celebration and one we were super excited about.

Half the fun (okay, an 1/8th of the fun) was researching the different options and choosing our river cruise .  After spending many hours on the Viking Cruises website, we chose the  Danube Waltz Viking River Cruise .

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Viking Danube Cruise – Viking Journey from Passau to Budapest

Danube Waltz River Cruise – Our Viking Journey from Passau to Budapest

The Danube Waltz Cruise was my second river cruise. I previously sailed on the Rhine Getaway Christmas Cruise with Viking Cruises .

This 8-day Danube itinerary on Viking reveals the highlights of Passau, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest while cruising leisurely through spectacular scenery. A Viking Danube River Cruise offers views and visits to enchanting castles,  gorgeous landscapes, and fairy-tale villages. We knew this would be a trip of a lifetime.

Our eight-day river cruise with Viking began in Passau, Germany and ended in Budapest, Hungary (the itinerary also runs in the opposite direction and can be booked from Budapest to Passau).

Danube River Map

The Danube River is Europe’s second-longest river, after the Volga. The Danube River flows between 10 countries and runs southeast for about 1,700 miles. It begins in Germany (Central Europe) and ends in Ukraine (Eastern Europe) before emptying into the Black Sea via the Danube Delta in Romania and Ukraine . Below, you can see the Danube map and how it travels through Europe.

Viking Danube River Cruise Map

The Viking Cruise Danube itinerary can be booked from Passau, Germany to Budapest, Hungary or Budapest to Passau.

The Danube River cruise I took began in Passau, Germany, and included stops in; Linz, Melk, Durnstein, Krems, Vienna (all in Austria), Bratislava (Slovak Republic) and ended in Budapest (Hungary).

8 Day Viking Danube Waltz Cruise Itinerary

Day 1: Embark in Passau, Germany Day 2: Passau, Germany Day 3: Linz, Austria Day 4: Melk, Austria (we visited Melk, Austria on our cruise) Day 5: Vienna Austria Day 6: Bratislava, Slovak Republic Day 7 Budapest, Hungary Day 8: Disembark in Budapest

Viking Danube River Cruise: Airport Pick Up & Arrival

If you book airfare with Viking Cruises and go directly from the flight to the ship, you will be picked up at the airport by Viking. You will be transported by first-class bus to the docking station in Passau. Once you arrive at the ship, the check-in process is super quick. My husband and I were in our room within minutes upon arrival to the Viking Bragi longship.

Viking Danube River Cruise: The Ship

The Viking Longship Bragi has 95 staterooms, one main dining room, and a smaller dining terrace, bar/lounge open-air upper deck, and many spaces for lounging and hanging out. There are three main levels for cruisers; the main level (middle deck) where you’ll find the concierge, the main dining room, and most staterooms.

The next level up you’ll find the bar/lounge, the Aquavit terrace with an outdoor deck and more staterooms. The upper deck (sun deck) is the third level where guests can relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. We cruised in April and the weather was gorgeous. We found ourselves spending time on the sun deck daily.

Viking Danube Cruise Ship Details:

• Sun deck with 360-degree views with putting green, chess, walking track and herb garden
• Aquavit Terrace with a revolutionary indoor/outdoor viewing area at the bow of the ship and grills for al fresco dining
• Observation Lounge and bar with floor-to-ceiling glass doors
• Restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic views
• Library corner and onboard boutique
• Elevator from Middle to Upper Deck

Viking Danube River Cruise : Stateroom

On our river cruise, we had a veranda stateroom. We loved the balcony, especially during daytime sailings. While in port there are times you will find that two Viking ships are docked next to each other. You may or may not have a view during the port calls depending on how the boats are docked.

Room Details:

• 95 comfortable outside staterooms (2 Explorer Suites, 7 Veranda Suites, 39 Veranda Staterooms, 22 French Balcony Staterooms, 25 Standard Staterooms)
• All suites feature two rooms with a veranda off the living room and a French balcony in the bedroom
• Hotel-style bed topped with European linens and duvets
• Bathrooms with heated floors
• Premium Freyja™ bath products
• Cord in the shower for drying/hanging clothes, etc.
• European and North American plugs throughout the cabin.
• In-Room 40″ flat-panel Sony TV with infotainment system featuring movies on demand plus CNBC, CNN, National Geographic  

Viking Danube River Cruise: Life onboard a Viking Longship

Everything about a Viking cruise is casual and relaxed. The dress is informal for a Viking cruise. Think smart casual. Depending on the day, you may find yourself coming to dinner straight from an excursion. There are no fancy evenings and no need for formal attire whatsoever.

Each day onboard the Viking Bragi, you will receive the Viking Daily. This is an onboard newspaper sharing the next day’s itinerary, ship information, history of the town you’ll be visiting, histories of upcoming locations, country profiles, and suggestions of things to do in port.

Most days will follow a schedule similar to this:

• Morning excursion
• Optional afternoon excursion
• Cocktail hour with a briefing (port talk) for the following day
• Evening entertainment (onboard musicians, as well as entertainers, brought in from the port city or an interesting presentation)

This is a general overview as there are multiple excursions to choose from daily. There are also additional onboard activities on the itinerary for those not on an afternoon excursion. On a Viking River Cruise, you can be as busy as you choose.

Viking Danube River Cruise : The Crew & Service

With 50 crew members and a maximum of 190 passengers, this offers a high level of service during a Viking River Cruise. As you can imagine, it’s quite easy to get to know the cruisers and staff on such a small ship. This was my second Viking River Cruise, and I have been impressed with the quality of service. Being able to compare two cruises, what I find noteworthy is the consistency in the high level of service. Every crew member we came in contact with had a smile and truly seems to enjoy their position. The excellent service is one of the many aspects that truly places Viking River Cruises in a class of its own.

Viking Danube River Cruise: The Food

You won’t go hungry on a Viking cruise. In addition to the three meals per day, you’ll find coffee and pastries available from 6am-11am as well as cookies, tea, and coffee in the afternoon.

I absolutely loved breakfast. You can order from the menu or enjoy the daily buffet with fresh pastries, an omelet station, cheeses, meats, yogurt, lox with fixings, juices, and much more.

Lunch is a combination of buffet and menu. Salad and additional courses are available on the buffet or you can order soup and a main course from your waiter. You can enjoy lunch in the dining room or in the open-air aquavit terrace. We loved having lunch on the terrace.

Most evenings dinner is served from the menu and there are four to five options for the main course. Each dinner includes appetizers, soup or salad, a main course, and dessert. One of our favorite meals was “Taste of Austria” on day four. We are now Wienerschnitzel devotees!

They do a wonderful job working with food sensitivities and allergies. If you are allergic to gluten, as I am, or have any other allergy make sure to inform the booking agent you work with in advance of sailing. On this sailing, there was a handful of us who were celiac or allergic to gluten, and the chef prepared special courses and desserts for us. At breakfast each day, I would be shown the lunch and dinner menu for the day and I would pre-order my meals. The chef was able to make just about everything on the menu gluten-free.

Cocktail Hour

Every evening there is a cocktail hour before dinner, with each evening being a bit different. The first night is a welcome briefing and introduction to the crew management. The second night is a toast with the captain. Most nights include live music and there might also be a port talk or other announcements. It’s a fun time to gather and socialize.

Viking Danube River Cruise: The Onboard Entertainment

Entertainment consists of fun and sometimes funny shows with the crew, local bands and singing groups will also join the ship during dinner or after dinner for special performances. Before dinner, there will often be a lecture or other learning event (ranging from the culture of locations, language lessons and learning about river cruising). You’ll find live music in the lounge daily at cocktail hour and after dinner. The crew frequently participates in the after-dinner fun in the lounge.

Viking Danube River Cruise: The Locks

One very interesting aspect of the Danube River Cruise is sailing through the locks. There are a total of 19 locks on the Danube and during this sailing, the ship navigates through many of them. There are a few days when you’ll sail through locks during the day, rather than at night. It’s is quite fascinating to watch the process of the boat entering the lock and adjusting to the correct water level for the next part of the river.

Viking Danube River Cruise: Scenic Cruise Days

There are two days on this itinerary where you can enjoy the most beautiful stretches of the Danube River; the Wachau Valley and Danube Bend.

Traveling from Passau to Budapest, the first scenic cruise day is sailing through an 18-mile stretch of the Wachau Valley that is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll pass vineyards, forests, and wine-growing villages between Melk and Krems, Austria.

The second day of scenic cruising is a 40-mile stretch through the Danube Bend. Here you follow the curve of the river into Hungary and will see farmland, ancient castles, steep hills, quaint villages, and many domed churches.

Viking Danube River Cruise: The Excursions

One of the aspects of the Viking Danube Cruise we loved the most is that a daily excursion is included with your cruise. The excursions are also optional, so if you’d prefer to explore on your own, this is an available alternative. Most days, the ship will dock in one location, but there will be a few days the ship will dock in one port in the morning and another in the afternoon. When this occurs, a bus from the morning excursion will then deliver you to the new port.

Depending on the distance of the excursion you will either travel by bus or foot. Passengers are divided into groups and you’ll have a local guide who will take you by bus or foot to explore the daily excursion.

For every excursion, there is a group that moves a bit slower and it’s great for anyone with walking issues, who need breaks or for those who want to take a lot of photos. During the walking portion of the excursions, they provide an earpiece so you are never straining to hear what the tour guide is saying.

In addition to the daily “included excursions” there are usually between one and three excursions that can be booked for an additional charge. These excursions might be visiting a nearby town or focused on a local tour or a culinary experience. Most excursions are between three and seven hours, but the average excursion is four hours.

Included Excursions on Viking Danube Waltz Cruise:

Day 1 & 2: Passau Walking Tour & Organ Concert Day 3: Cesky Krumlov Walking Tour in the Czech Republic Day 4: Gottweig Abbey Day 5: Panoramic Vienna Day 6: Panoramic Bratislava or Bratislava Walking Tour Day 7 & 8: Panoramic Budapest

There are a multitude of included and optional tours such as; learning to waltz at a Viennese dance school. visiting an abbey on an exclusive visit to Göttweig, savoring Austro-Hungarian cuisine in Vienna and Budapest, and soaking up soothing steam at a Budapest thermal bath. One of our favorite optional tours was the Dohany Street Synagogue & Jewish Budapest tour.

I can’t do each port and excursion justice in this article. So, check back shortly for my article about all the excursions on the Viking Danube Waltz.

Budapest Cruise at Night

One of the most spectacular events on the Viking Waltz cruise was the night sailing in Budapest. This Budapest river cruise event took place on the last night and was simply gorgeous.

The Budapest Danube cruise portion was a slow journey under numerous bridges and included seeing the most spectacular portions of the city at night. To see the city lit up and sail through town was the perfect way to end this experience.

What’s Included on a Viking River Cruise

Below you can find a full list of what is included with the Viking Danube Waltz cruise. The two big items that stood out to me are 1) wine and beer are always complimentary during lunch and dinner (as well as during special shipboard events and tastings) and 2) daily included excursions.

• 8-days; 5 countries; 10 ports
• Visit 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
• All onboard meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) featuring regional specialties & American classics are always available
• Welcome Cocktail Reception & Farewell Dinner
• Open-air walking track
• 24/7 Guest Services for special requests
• 6 included shore excursions with a local guide & headset
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Complimentary beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner
• Multiple dining venues with open seating 24/7 specialty coffees, teas & bottled water
• Aquavit Terrace (the most al fresco dining on Europe’s Rivers)
• All port taxes and fees
• Airport meet & greet transfers are included when air is purchased from Viking River Cruises  

What’s Not Included

A Viking Cruise could be 100% all-inclusive if you stick with the provided alcohol and soft drinks as well as included daily excursion. There are no hidden fees or costs once aboard. Below are the few items that aren’t included in the cruise:

• If you want to upgrade, you can opt for unlimited beverages during your cruise, with the  Viking’s Silver Spirits package. You could also buy your favorite bottles and mixers in port and keep them in your stateroom.
• As stated previously, additional excursions are not included in the cost.
• Tipping at the end of the cruise.

Who goes on Viking River Cruises?

The largest percentage of passengers were between 60-75 years old. There were several families who were traveling together with adult children in the 30-40’s. Like my husband and I, there were a handful of couples in their early 50’s. It does seem that the Viking cruise demographic is skewing a bit younger now that river cruising is becoming more and more popular.

The Weather

We expected a lot of rain during a spring cruise, but we were pleasantly surprised by a mini-heatwave on our cruise. We had a bit of rain the first few days, but it progressively got warmer as the days continued. This is not the norm and you should be prepared for rain with warm to cool days and cold evenings.

If you happen to take this cruise in winter, I’ve created a list of what to pack for a winter river cruise that will help you take the guesswork out of what you should and should not bring.

Bottom Line

We loved the Viking Danube River cruise experience. It was a huge treat to visit four countries and 10 ports without having to pack and unpack. Visiting Europe without having to check into a new hotel every day or two, as well as travel by bus, train, car or plane is such a treat. The concept of unpacking once is a huge plus.

What We loved!

• The ships are small (less than 200 passengers).
• It’s quite easy to get to know most of the guests.
• There were no hidden costs.
• The daily excursions.
• The gorgeous sunsets!

Overall, we highly recommend a Viking River Cruise. Sailing through the heart of Europe on the “Danube Waltz” was a first-time experience I’ll cherish forever. From exploring the enchanting old towns to savoring the views from my full-size veranda, every moment was a treasure.

Viking River Cruises really know how to make your European sojourn unforgettable.

And here’s a little tip – they do have specials that include free airfare and good cruise discounts, so make sure to keep an eye out for these deals on select departures of the Grand European Tour and other cruises. It’s the perfect way to embark on a romantic Danube journey and discover the beauty of different countries along the way. Happy cruising!

Helpful Links

• Viking Danube Waltz
• Viking River Cruises on Facebook
• Viking River Cruises on Twitter
• How to Choose the Right Viking River Cruise
• Viking Rhine River Christmas Cruise
• How to Pack for 2 Weeks in Europe (in one suitcase)
• Cheap Flights to Europe with Condor Airlines

6 Indispensable Items to Pack for a Viking Danube River Cruise

• Get a good guidebook for Austria  and Hungary

• Lightweight tote for your port excursions.

Thinking about a Viking River Cruise? Ask your questions in the comments below!

Although I was provided a complimentary Danube River Cruise thanks to Viking River Cruises , the experiences shared and opinions are my own.

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Alexa Meisler is the editorial director of 52 Perfect Days. Born in Paris, France she has since lived in Chicago, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Portland, Oregon. She currently resides in San Diego with her husband and son where they enjoy exploring California and Mexico.

Travel has always been a part of her life; traveling to such places as Morocco, Tangiers and Spain as a young child as well as taking many road trips to Mexico with her grandparents as a young girl. Since then, she has traveled abroad to locations such as Russia, Taiwan and throughout Europe.

Prior to working at 52 Perfect Days she was a freelance travel writer; focusing on family and women’s adventure experiences.

18 Comments

It’s so good that they include excursions. On the 3 sea cruises we’ve done they were extra and they were hugely expensive. It was also really hard to arrange your own independent travel as the ports were miles out of town. So this is excellent. Food looks good, love the herb garden. But the big question…how was the wi-fi?

I hear the best things about Viking Cruise ships! I must go on one myself, this looks amazing 🙂

Hi Claire! I’ve been on two now and I look forward to more Viking sailings. Everything you heard is true! They are top-notch!

I love that you highlighted the sunsets and Budapest. Two of my favorite parts of my travels. I’d love to try a river cruise one day. Seeing the old world cities and experiencing a bit of them on excursions would be a unique experience. The locks would definitely be a trip too.

I’m not usually a cruise person but I do love the look of river cruises in Europe, the itinerary of this one looks really appealing. And the smaller ship size, and no extra costs for excursions etc, are a big plus.

My husband and I are taking this cruise next summer. I am very interested to learn more out the excursions on the Viking Danube Waltz. I look forward to reading that post when you have it ready.

I have to be on this cruise! I love everything that you posted! I can’t believe there are only a few young adults on board!

Wow these river cruises look like a spectacular way to explore Europe! I love all the great activities on board. And those views are unreal!

It’s absolutely amazing! I’ve been looking forward to reading about your river cruise adventures, Alexa! Would love to do this cruise one day!

You just can’t beat the views from a river cruise. This itinerary looks amazing.

Omg that’s so cool that the boat has the giant chess set on the deck. This sounds so perfect to go to all these places on a cruise. Sounds like something I would enjoy.

Ugh, I am dying to go on a Viking Cruise media trip, but I think that they are only looking for a very specific demographic. Looks like so much fun!

The itinerary and overall concept sounds wonderful, but I have to say that I’m shocked at how big the state rooms are. I had no idea they were that large. Much bigger than a normal cruise ship. I’d totally be into doing a Viking Danube River cruise.

Your river cruise experience was better and most luxurious than the ones I have tried. Lucky you! Good thing you were blessed with a very good weather and a gorgeous sunset.

Very helpful article, will you be reviewing the excursions on the Danube Waltz?

It looks stunning. I’ve never been on a Viking river cruise, though I have travelled in Eygpt with Oberoi – I love that most of the staterooms come with balconies – and the food looks excellent.

What an incredible journey! Loved reading your personal experiences and the ultimate guide with helpful tips, vivid descriptions and stunning photos.

I’ve seen these cruise ships in Budapest but from the banks. I’m sure that gliding through the Danube with all those Budapest lights is a magical experience. Also, wondering what are those other alternative activities they offer on board for people who don’t go on excursions?

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