Viking River Cruise Reviews
Introduction
Picture this: you’re draped in a cozy robe, sipping wine on the deck of a sleek riverboat, pretending you’re a Viking—minus the pillaging but definitely indulging in schnitzel. That was basically us, living our best modern-day Norse fantasy on a Viking River Cruise.
Over seven days, we journeyed from Munich’s beer-soaked charm to Budapest’s sparkling skyline, making unforgettable stops in Regensburg, Passau, Krems, and Vienna. Each destination brought a mix of guided excursions and “DIY” adventures (because sometimes you just want to wander and find the best pastry shop, right?).
Why choose Viking? If you’re a traveler who values luxury, cultural immersion, and a pace that lets you savor both your surroundings and your wine, this is the cruise for you. With smaller ships, personalized service, and an itinerary that practically whispers “relax and explore,” it’s perfect for professionals seeking a refined escape.
In this review, we’ll break down the highs, the lows, and a few surprises. Whether you’re already planning your trip or still dreaming about the Danube, this might just be your next great adventure. Ready to set sail? Let’s dive in!
Overview of the Cruise Itinerary
The Ship Experience
Alright, let’s talk about the ship, because if your idea of a “cruise” is a floating city with water slides, casinos, and 15 restaurants serving all-you-can-eat sushi, Viking’s riverboats will feel like a charming little boutique hotel on water. With just three decks, these ships are all about intimacy, relaxation, and, of course, those picturesque European riverside views that you’ll be gazing at the whole time.
Top Deck:
The outdoor hangout spot. It’s perfect for strolling, city-watching, or just basking in the fresh air while pretending you’re a European royalty gliding through fairytale towns. There’s a covered area for rainy days, a designated smoking section for those who still enjoy a puff with their view, and sometimes a quirky game like oversized chess or mini golf. On sunny days, this deck is prime lounging real estate.
Second Deck:
Rooms: Every room faces the water—no claustrophobic interior cabins here! Picture this: sliding open your patio door and hearing the gentle lapping of water while you float past castles that have been standing for centuries. Room sizes are generous for a cruise, and the big windows make even the smallest cabins feel spacious. It’s basically like waking up inside a postcard.
Reception Area: Always manned by the friendliest crew, ready to answer your questions, find you that forgotten raincoat, or help you snag a Viking-branded cookbook so you can try to recreate that apple strudel when you get home (spoiler alert: it won’t be as good).
Main Dining Room: Tucked away at the back of the deck, this is where you’ll dine like family—except without the awkward conversations about who forgot to bring the potatoes to Thanksgiving dinner. There are no assigned seats, so you get to meet new people—or avoid them the next day, depending on how the conversation went.
First Deck:
Most rooms are located here, and they mirror the setup of the second deck, with equally fantastic views of the water. Because who doesn’t love waking up to a view of Europe?
Lounge:
On the third deck, the lounge is where the social magic happens. With a full-service bar, cozy seating, and giant windows to soak in the views, it’s the perfect place to sip your drink while pretending to be a sophisticated traveler. There’s even an open-air seating area at the front for those perfect breezy afternoons or starlit evenings when you want to pretend you’re in a European romance novel.
Fun Facts and Quirks
Double Parking: In the world of river cruises, “double parking” is a thing. Your ship might be tied up next to another boat, so to disembark, you’ll need to walk through someone else’s vessel. It’s like crashing a stranger’s breakfast, and honestly, it’s hilarious.
Smaller Entrances: Sometimes, the river’s water levels and embankments can throw off your boarding or disembarking plans, so you might find yourself boarding from a different deck than expected. It’s a small hiccup, but one that could leave passengers wondering if they accidentally wandered onto the wrong boat. Don’t worry though, the crew’s got it under control.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Intimate, personal vibe with fewer than 200 passengers—no fighting for pool chairs here!
- Every room has a view of the water—goodbye, interior cabins!
- The top deck is ideal for panoramic views and the perfect place to kick back.
- The communal dining experience makes it easy to meet new people—or practice your “I’m too shy” skills.
Cons:
- Limited onboard activities. If you’re looking for nightly shows, a gym, or a water park, this may not be your scene.
- The ship’s small size means less privacy—so you might have to share the space with that overly enthusiastic traveler who keeps asking about your life story.
- But overall, this is a ship that’s all about immersing you in the European river cruise experience—relaxation, cultural exploration, and breathtaking views.
The Route
The cruise journey took us through some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes and historic cities, where old-world charm meets stunning scenery:
Munich: Starting in Munich, the land of beer halls and Bavarian culture, it’s the perfect place to loosen up and get into the spirit of the trip.
Regensburg: A medieval town so well-preserved it’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine.
Passau: Where three rivers meet and architecture leaves you speechless—seriously, the baroque buildings are that impressive.
Krems: In the heart of the Wachau Valley, this wine-loving town is as scenic as it is delicious.
Vienna: A city dripping with elegance, palaces, classical music, and coffee culture—bring your best Austrian accent.
Budapest: The grand finale with a blend of stunning architecture, lively energy, and a vibe that screams “come back soon!”
Every stop was packed with history, guided excursions, and plenty of free time to wander and get lost (which is basically the best way to discover a city). Ready to hear more about each destination? Let’s dive in!
Destination Highlights
Arrival in Munich
We kicked off our Viking River Cruise adventure in Munich, a city oozing with Bavarian charm, history, and—let’s be real—plenty of beer halls. But here’s the plot twist: we didn’t plan a pre-cruise stay. Nope, we flew in on the same day and were promptly whisked to the boat via shuttle bus. Spoiler alert: rookie mistake.
So, how did that work out? Well, after a long-haul flight, we were more jet-lagged zombies than eager tourists. The shuttle ride was smooth and easy, but by the time we boarded the boat, we were less ready to explore Munich and more ready to pass out in our cabin. Looking back, taking an extra day to recover in Munich would’ve made a world of difference (mental note: always arrive early, especially when beer is involved).
Onboard in Munich
Once aboard, we took the evening to decompress. Dinner on the ship was the perfect intro to the cruise experience—simple, tasty, and served with impeccable service. As we settled into our cabin, the excitement began to build (until we promptly fell asleep). By nightfall, the boat set sail and we were officially on our way down the Danube—thankfully, without any major jet lag after a good nap.
Reflections on Munich
If I could rewind time, I’d absolutely fly in a day earlier to enjoy Munich’s treasures. This city has it all—Marienplatz, Nymphenburg Palace, the famous English Garden, and, of course, plenty of opportunities to shout “Prost!” while raising a stein of beer. Trust me, Munich is too good to be rushed.
Lesson learned: Always give yourself an extra day to recover from jet lag and really soak in the first destination of your trip. After all, Munich deserves more than just a quick glance from a shuttle bus window.
Ready for the next stop? Let’s hop on over to Regensburg!
Regensburg, Germany
Arrival and Morning Walking Tour
Our first full stop on the cruise was Regensburg, a beautifully preserved medieval town that feels like it was plucked straight out of a history book—or a medieval postcard. Think cobblestone streets, charming squares, and enough old-world charm to make you feel like you’ve time-traveled. The day kicked off with one of Viking’s signature walking tours, designed for ease and comfort, starting with a short shuttle ride from the boat to meet our guide.
Each of us was handed a voice box—a nifty little device with headphones so we could hear the guide without being glued to their side. This was a game-changer. We could wander, snap photos, or pretend we were looking very interested in the architecture while still catching every juicy detail of Regensburg’s history, from its Roman roots to its lively present-day vibe.
As we strolled through the Old Town, we admired medieval buildings, learned about the town’s role in the Holy Roman Empire, and listened to stories that made Regensburg’s past feel as alive as its present. Once the guided portion wrapped up, Viking gave us the choice: return to the boat or stick around and explore on our own. They made sure we knew exactly how to find the pier, which—lucky for us—was right in the heart of the city.
Exploring Old Town
We decided to stay and get lost in Regensburg’s maze of cobblestone streets. The Old Town is charming as heck, and we made plenty of stops, including cozy cafés for a little local beer and wine tasting. (You know, for the culture.)
A standout moment was visiting the Historic Sausage Kitchen of Regensburg (Wurstkuchl), a place so old it’s practically an ancient landmark. Established in the 12th century, this iconic kitchen has been grilling sausages and serving them with sauerkraut and mustard for, well, centuries. Our fellow travelers were absolutely thrilled to try this historic dish, and we were just happy to enjoy it right by the beautiful Danube River.
Final Thoughts
Regensburg felt like stepping into a medieval fairy tale. With its historic streets, welcoming cafés, and a vibe that made you want to stay forever, it was the perfect combination of history, culture, and good eats. Viking’s freedom to explore at your own pace made this stop especially memorable.
Next stop: Passau!
Passau, Germany
Next up was Passau, known as the “City of Three Rivers” where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers converge. Our day began with a Viking walking tour, and it was just as engaging as the others. The guide shared fascinating stories about the town’s rich history, from its Roman origins to its role in European trade. The scenic walk through the historic center took us past charming streets and the towering St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with its impressive baroque architecture. Here is a similar tour you can take!
After the tour, we decided to linger in town, soaking up the atmosphere. We found a cozy café just across from St. Stephen’s and enjoyed drinks and delicious pastries while people-watching. It was the perfect way to relax and take in the sights.
Since the day was a bit shorter, we had to be back at the boat earlier than usual, but that didn’t take away from the charm of Passau. The quaint streets, the riverside views, and the relaxed pace made it a memorable stop on our journey.
Next stop: Krems!
Krems, Austria
Our next destination was Krems, a picturesque little town tucked away in the stunning Wachau Valley. It was a shorter day on the itinerary, so we had just one tour, but let me tell you—this stop was a highlight: the gorgeous Gottweig Abbey.
Now, before you picture a sun-dappled valley with panoramic views, let me set the scene: thick fog. So much fog that we couldn’t see a single thing beyond a few feet. But the abbey? Chef’s kiss. Inside, it was like stepping into a different era—ornate details, soaring ceilings, and enough history to make you feel like you’re in the middle of a National Geographic special. Dating back to the 11th century, this place has played a key role in both the religious and cultural life of the region. Our guide shared some fascinating stories about the abbey’s long and storied past, and honestly, it was easy to get lost in the serenity and beauty of the place (fog be damned).
As a bonus, the tour included access to the abbey’s museum—talk about a sweet deal. Viking really knows how to handle logistics, giving us a deeper dive into the abbey’s art collections and history. After the museum, it was time for a wine tasting, which was a perfect follow-up to all that culture. We got to sample some of the region’s finest wines while taking in the peaceful surroundings.
And of course, no trip to an abbey is complete without a visit to the gift shop. We picked up a few Gottweig Abbey-themed souvenirs—because, let’s face it, who doesn’t want a wine glass with the abbey’s logo on it?
Despite the fog, Krems was an unforgettable stop. It was the perfect cultural and peaceful pause in between the hustle and bustle of the other cities.
Next stop: Vienna!
Vienna, Austria
Vienna: A Two-Day Extravaganza
Vienna gave us two days of pure magic—history, culture, and more schnitzel than we could shake a fork at. On day one, we kicked things off with a panoramic bus tour. It was like a sightseeing buffet—Hofburg Palace, the Opera House, and the Ringstrasse all laid out in front of us, making it easy to plan which spots we’d want to revisit. The bus ride also included a short walking portion, which was basically a “Vienna in a nutshell” experience. We got a taste of the city’s energy, plus a glimpse at a few cafés where we’d soon be indulging in coffee and pastries. Vienna has a lot of options for tours. For similar ideas you can check out these options. Please note, I have not gone on any of these tours as our tour was organized through Viking.
After the tour, we decided to stay in town and keep exploring. First stop? St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Yes, we’d already visited a few churches on the trip, but this one was different—especially the catacombs. There’s a small fee to enter the catacombs, but the church itself is free to explore. And those catacombs? Creepy but fascinating. It was like a ghost tour, but with a side of history. We were both thrilled and mildly spooked as we wandered through centuries of bones and stories.
That evening, we headed to Prater, the permanent carnival that’s like your favorite county fair… but all year round. We were there on Halloween, so it was extra festive—people in costumes, parades of themed characters, and of course, enough food and beer to make your heart (and stomach) happy. It was a bit of a trek from the boat, but after navigating our way through a few other cities, we felt like seasoned pros.
Pro tip
If you’d rather skip the walk, an Uber is always a solid choice—fast, comfy, and you won’t have to argue with a map.
On day two, we ventured back to the area around St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The weather had been a bit moody on day one, but we were determined to enjoy the beauty of Vienna without getting soaked. We strolled through the picturesque streets, indulging in a bit of shopping, snapping photos, and of course, ducking into several cozy cafés. The local cuisine was calling our name, and we answered loudly with Wiener schnitzel and strudel. Who could resist?
Vienna truly is a gem. It’s a mix of old-world charm with a youthful, lively spirit that makes you want to come back for more. Two days weren’t nearly enough, but we sure did our best to take in as much as we could.
Next stop: Budapest!
Budapest, Hungary
After two glorious days of living our best Viennese lives, we ended our Viking River Cruise in Budapest with a two-day adventure that was equally as exciting, if not more. We’d chosen an Airbnb just a few blocks from the Viking pier, which worked out perfectly—walking with our carry-on luggage was a breeze.
pro tip
Viking’s piers can change at the last minute, so keep your options open when planning your post-cruise stay! We got lucky this time and didn’t have to wander far. With only a small suitcase and backpacks (because, seriously, this is not the time for a massive suitcase), the walk was an easy one.
After checking into our Airbnb, we were off to explore. First stop: the Central Market Hall or the “The Spice Market”, which was conveniently just a few blocks away. Let’s just say we got a little lost in the maze of shops, but it turned out to be a happy accident. The market was buzzing with life and colors, and we found ourselves picking up things we didn’t even know we needed—like spices and snacks. We hadn’t planned to cook at the Airbnb, but before we knew it, we had enough ingredients to make our own little dinner party. It turned out to be the perfect way to unwind, plot our next day, and just relax with a snack or two (or three).
In the afternoon, we made our way to a Beer Spa reservation. Yes, you read that right—Beer Spa. It’s a must-do in Budapest. We hopped on the bus, warned about taxis being a bit… unpredictable. Thankfully, Budapest’s public transport is pretty user-friendly, thanks to the Budapest City Transport App. We got our tickets with minimal hassle and soon found ourselves at the Beer Spa. The experience was amazing but slightly confusing at first (don’t worry, we got the hang of it). The spa is a bathhouse with different sections—public entrance here, private area there—but once we figured it out, we stored our stuff in locked changing rooms and sank into the relaxation. Afterward, we floated in the bathhouse, happily melting away the stress of travel. It was crowded, but we still found plenty of room to relax and soak in all the beer-infused goodness. After the Beer Spa, we found a cozy dinner spot near our apartment, where we refueled for the next day’s adventures.
Pro Tip
Always scout out a few restaurants the day before so you’re ready to hit the ground running the next day.
Day 2 was a walking day, with perfect weather to boot. We started with breakfast near the apartment and then took a leisurely stroll to Erzesbet square, where we rode the Ferris wheel—no lines, just stunning views of Budapest from above. Afterward, we headed to the House of Terror Museum, which, while sobering, is a must-see. It’s dedicated to Hungary’s difficult history under both Nazi and Soviet occupation. Definitely worth the visit, but bring tissues, because it’s heavy stuff.
Next, we walked to Heroes’ Square, which is just massive and iconic. After some obligatory photos, we took a break at a nearby café (because honestly, we needed the bathroom) and then wandered toward our apartment. Along the way, we found a cute pizza place for lunch and discovered a charming alley filled with little shops—perfect for grabbing a souvenir or two.
Lessons Learned:
While most of the places we visited were within walking distance of each other, by the time we were heading back, we really wished we’d taken the bus. We thought we’d find a restaurant on the way, but it turns out everything was either closed or tucked away too far off the beaten path. Next time, we’ll take public transport for longer stretches and leave the walking for the fun stuff.
Budapest was the perfect way to wrap up our Viking River Cruise—a beautiful mix of history, relaxation, and culture. It’s definitely a city we’ll be coming back to. And next time, we’ll definitely take that bus.
Dining on the Viking River Cruise
Let’s talk food—because honestly, this is what dreams are made of. Viking’s dining experience is definitely one of the highlights of the trip. The menu offers a perfect mix of trusty, everyday comfort foods (for when you need to keep it classic) and a rotating local menu based on where you’re cruising that day. This is where the magic happens—each day’s local menu is packed with fresh, regionally sourced ingredients that give you a delicious taste of the place you’re visiting without ever stepping off the boat. Whether it’s sauerbraten in Germany, goulash in Hungary, or any other delightful dish, Viking’s daily specials never disappoint. It’s like having a mini-food tour in every port—without the long lines or having to figure out where to eat.
And let’s talk about the service. Top-notch doesn’t even cover it. We’re talking 5-star treatment here. Meals come out looking like they were plated by an artist (we even took photos—don’t judge us), and the waitstaff is always on point, offering service that’s both professional and friendly. Plus, if you’re someone who enjoys a drink with your meal, Viking’s got you covered. Each meal comes with complimentary wine and beer—like a delightful bonus to the already great experience. But for those of us who like to really indulge (or avoid the stress of drink bills), we recommend the drink package. It’s an absolute game-changer, letting you sip on premium drinks before or after dinner without the dreaded “how much is this going to cost?” moment. It takes the anxiety out of ordering something new and makes the whole experience that much more enjoyable.
Breakfast on the boat was our favorite—there’s just something about starting the day with a solid meal onboard. And when the schedule allowed, we also indulged in lunch on the ship. But a heads-up: Viking’s meal times are set, so don’t expect all-day dining like you might get on bigger cruise lines. This can be a bit of an adjustment for those of us who like to snack throughout the day (guilty), and there’s no room service, either. If you’re planning on an epic day of sightseeing, just make sure you don’t miss the main meal times.
When we did head out to explore the cities, we made sure to snack like locals. And folks, let me tell you: European food is next-level. The focus on fresh, organic ingredients really makes a difference. Produce tastes like it was picked just minutes ago, meats are bursting with flavor, and pastries? Well, let’s just say they’ll ruin you for anything back home. From a slice of Sachertorte in Vienna to a casual cheese and bread snack in Regensburg, every bite felt like a mini cultural immersion. Viking does a great job of bringing a taste of that local flair to each meal on board, and honestly, we can’t recommend it enough.
In summary: Viking’s dining experience is a win. Whether you’re savoring gourmet meals on the boat or indulging in regional flavors while you’re out exploring, you’re in for a culinary treat that reflects the richness and beauty of the European cities you’re visiting.
Weather and Packing Tips
Ah, November on the Danube—a season of crisp air, chilly mornings, and the occasional surprise rainstorm to keep you on your toes. Packing for this trip is a bit like preparing for a very stylish survival challenge: layers are your best friend. We bundled up with long johns (glamorous, we know), cozy hats, gloves, and warm coats, which kept us snug as we wandered through each city. Rain made its cameo several times, and while Viking kindly provides giant bright red umbrellas (great if you’re aiming to be a walking billboard), we opted for our smaller, less conspicuous ones. No offense, Viking, but subtlety wins.
Good walking shoes? Non-negotiable. Between cobblestone streets and uneven paths at excursion sites, we were grateful we left the cute-but-impractical shoes at home. Pro tip: your feet will thank you for prioritizing function over fashion.
My Tip
For my fellow “I need to pack for every possible scenario” travelers, fear not! Start with this link to the Best Capsule Wardrobe for a 3-Day Weekend Trip: Fall Edition. Trust me, it’s your roadmap to packing smarter, not heavier. And if you’re a chronic overpacker (hi, welcome to the club), our Overpacker Anonymous guide will be your new BFF. Because nothing says “vacation ready” like a suitcase that doesn’t need a wrestling match to close.
Pros and Cons of River Cruising
Pros:
Cozy Ship, Zero Maze: The intimate size of a river cruise ship means you’ll never need to pack a compass—or a snack—just to get to the other end. Everything is a quick walk away, and finding your room is a no-brainer. It’s like living in a boutique floating hotel where you’re always steps away from your next meal, drink, or nap.
No Endless Water Views: Let’s be real, days at sea are fine… until you realize there’s literally nothing to see but waves. On a river cruise, you wake up in a new city, ready to dive straight into adventures. And since most boats don’t leave until late at night, you get full days to explore. Yes, there’s some cruising between stops, but it’s just enough to sip wine on deck without feeling like you’ve entered a water-based Groundhog Day.
Cultural Crash Course: Forget “proximity to the port” logistics—river cruises dock right in the middle of the action. Walk off the boat, and boom, you’re immersed. The smaller excursion groups make it even better; no fighting through mobs to get into museums or snapping selfies with 50 strangers in the background. It’s a VIP vibe without the VIP price tag.
Cons:
Onboard Fun is… Quiet Fun: If your idea of a cruise includes zip lines, water slides, or a 24/7 nightclub, well… this isn’t that. Evening entertainment leans more toward classy piano tunes than karaoke competitions, and “relax” is the unofficial motto. On the bright side, it’s the perfect excuse to catch up on your reading—or your sleep.
Bedtime Comes Early: By 11 PM, the ship is quieter than a library on a snow day. The guest demographic tends to skew older, but don’t write off the retirees. These folks have been everywhere and tell stories better than any travel blog (ahem). They’ll keep dinner lively, even if they’re tucked in by dessert.
Limited Nightlife: Let’s just say the boat’s nightlife is what you make it. If you’re craving a party scene, your best bet is heading into town because the ship isn’t exactly buzzing after dark. Unless, of course, you count the quiet hum of the espresso machine.
Verdict
River cruising isn’t for everyone, but if you love cultural immersion, relaxed travel, and avoiding the chaos of massive ships, it’s a dream come true. Just be ready to swap late-night dance-offs for stellar conversations over five-star meals—and maybe the occasional 10 PM bedtime.
Lessons Learned: What We’d Do Differently
Looking back, our Viking River Cruise was an incredible adventure, but hindsight is 20/20 (and apparently, so is realizing how much time we spent wandering around Budapest). Here’s what we’d tweak next time for an even better experience
Lessons Learned: What We’d Do Differently
Despite these tiny tweaks, the trip was absolutely fantastic—and let’s be honest, if this is the extent of our “lessons learned,” we’re doing just fine. Now, we’re armed with these insights to make the next adventure even more seamless (and blister-free).
Conclusion: Would We Recommend a Viking River Cruise? 100% Yes, With a Toast of Schnitzel
This trip was, hands down, one of my favorite travel experiences ever. Viking River Cruises hit that sweet spot of “I’m so relaxed, I could melt” and “Oh wow, this is cultural immersion!”—all while letting you explore both bustling cities and fairytale-like villages without breaking a sweat (except for maybe the walk back from Hero’s Square).
Picture this: You’re sipping wine, watching the sun set over the Danube from your cozy cabin, knowing you’ll wake up in a whole new city, ready for more adventures and pastries. If that doesn’t sound like the dream, you might want to check your pulse.
Would I recommend Viking? Absolutely. Always. It’s affordable luxury that delivers far more bang for your buck than you’d expect. Plus, it’s the only place where you can eat family-style schnitzel one night, sip Austrian wine the next, and still wake up feeling like royalty in a bathrobe (or maybe that’s just me).
And if Budapest has your heart—or your curiosity—stay tuned for our upcoming post, 1 Day in Budapest. Because, spoiler alert: it’s as magical as it sounds, even when you’re lost in the spice market trying to remember how to say “Which way to the paprika?”
Don’t just keep this little slice of cruise brilliance to yourself. Save it, share it, or casually send it to your friends and family with a “Hint, hint, I’m planning a trip!” Because trust me, once you’re living your own Viking fantasy, you’ll wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. Cheers to river cruising dreams! 🛳️