Small Ships, Bigger Stories

Posted on 08/28/2026

As the summer season comes to an end, now is the perfect time to plan your future travels. Viking’s curated itineraries span all seven continents—from Europe’s cultural capitals and the vibrant ports of South America and Asia to the shores of Australia and Antarctica. Wherever you sail, the Viking experience is singular.

Your Viking home will always be an elegant small ship offering unparalleled service and comfort that embodies the best of Scandinavian design. Their policy of no children and no casinos ensures a serene atmosphere, allowing you to connect more meaningfully with fellow travelers. 

 

Explore Europe with Viking

A European cruise is perhaps the best way to experience the continent’s rich history, delicious cuisine and diverse cultures. Join Viking on board one of their small, elegant ships and explore Europe’s charming villages and vibrant cities, such as Paris, Berlin, London and Amsterdam. When you venture on shore, you may have an opportunity to stroll through ancient vineyards and sample Europe’s celebrated wines. Enjoy fine dining in scenic European destinations, savor local dishes prepared with market-fresh ingredients and learn to cook Europe’s classic regional cuisine during a hands-on workshop. Admire iconic masterpieces in Europe’s renowned art museums and marvel at UNESCO-listed architecture in some of the region’s finest destinations, including Portugal, France, Germany and beyond.

Viking’s onshore programs are designed to take guests closer, The Viking Way®, by offering behind-the-scenes insights and opportunities to provide travelers with deeper immersion into meaningful experiences. Guests can discover within each destination the Local Life, Working World, and Privileged Access® experiences exclusive only to Viking. With Privileged Access, guests can head up to the roof of Cologne’s astonishing cathedral and learn about ongoing excavation and restoration efforts or experience the real Downton Abbey on a pre or post-extension option and visit the iconic filming location of Highclere Castle. 

Consider Viking’s most popular river itineraries such as Grand European Tour, a 15-day journey that spans the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, from Holland’s windmills to Hungary’s stunning vistas, or perhaps spend 8 days exploring their Rhine Getaway voyage between Basel, Switzerland and Amsterdam, The Netherlands, or their Romantic Danube sailing from Regensburg, Germany to Budapest, Hungary, for 8 days of exploration along the “Blue Danube.” 

For guests seeking an ocean voyage, Viking offers an 8-day Iconic Western Mediterranean itinerary from Barcelona to Rome, where you can experience the glamour of the French Riviera and Italy’s Tuscan treasures. Viking calls on stunning Marseille and Monte Carlo, and overnights in cosmopolitan Barcelona and historic Florence. Plus, consider travel dates during the Mediterranean’s “quiet season,” from fall to spring, when you can enjoy better weather with a milder climate, fewer travelers, and the pleasure of easier access to iconic sites.

 

Your Home Away From Home

With ships designed for exploration, Viking’s vessels provide all the amenities of a boutique luxury hotel with all outside-facing staterooms. Its modern small-ships are designed for comfort and discovery, with light-filled public spaces and staterooms that feature thoughtful amenities, such as heated bathroom floors, anti-fog mirrors, and luxury bed linens. For guests wishing to have the ultimate Viking experience, their suites offer the pinnacle of spaciousness and comfort – a private residence that feels like a “home away from home.” Your suite is your base for exploration – a sanctuary that can serve as an escape or as a gathering space for fellow travelers.

While sailing on a European river cruise, guests can enjoy a meal on the Aquavit Terrace and take in the scenery as it passes by while enjoying the most al fresco dining on Europe’s rivers. When traveling with Viking, guests can experience the local culture through its food and wine, with fresh locally sourced ingredients. While dining, guests can also enjoy handpicked wine selections and tastings that showcase the area’s quintessential varietals. 

With Viking Inclusive Value, the price includes everything guests need – and nothing they do not – with one complimentary shore excursion in each port of call, led by a knowledgeable guide, all onboard meals featuring regional specialties and always available American classics, wine, beer & soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner, free Wi-Fi, visits to UNESCO sites, all port fees & taxes, and more.

In addition to being known for all that they do, Viking stands apart for all that they do not do:

  • No children under 18
  • No casinos
  • No nickel and diming
  • No charge for Wi-Fi*
  • No charge for beer & wine at lunch & dinner
  • No umbrella drinks
  • No photography sales
  • No art auctions
  • No inside staterooms
  • No smoking
  • No waiting in lines
  • No formal nights, butlers or white gloves

Wherever you choose to go, unpack once and explore in Viking comfort.

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