First Viking River Cruise: A Guide to Deciding Between the Rhine Getaway and Romantic Danube

The Marksburg Castle, Germany

First, both cruise options will have the same overall experience onboard and include the following signature Viking features:

• Relaxed and refined atmosphere

• Rooms with ample light, allowing for stunning views

• Flexible dining options with itinerary-specific food

• Daily enrichment (tours and presentations)

• Quieter, adults-only

• Culturally rich

Scenes from Vienna

The Rhine

The Rhine Getaway cruise is full of fairy-tale like castles with vineyards, windmills, significant history and is known for being the best option for classic, dramatic scenery and vibrant European cities.

On the Rhine, you’ll visit famous European cities like Amsterdam, Cologne, and Strasbourg, which all blend modern and culture seamlessly together. Here you will be able to see canals, iconic cathedrals, the Black Forest, and charming old towns for classic European charm. The Rhine Getaway provides extensive medieval history for all those history and WWII buffs.

The picturesque scenery is truly what makes a river cruise special and memorable. If you love vineyards and fairy-tale castles, the Rhine is the best option for you. If you want to step into a storybook with stunning natural beauty, alongside wonderful vineyards and delicious food options that include German focused dishes and Riesling wine options, this is the right cruise for you.

Cologne, Germany from the Rhine River

The Danube

By comparison, the Romantic Danube cruise is filled with lush and green landscapes and is more relaxed overall. The river itself isn’t as busy as the Rhine and has a sense of calm. There are lots of large, culturally rich, and grand cities, including Vienna and Budapest, where you can experience Eastern European dishes.

On this cruise you will explore the imperial history of Vienna’s Grand Palace, Budapest’s captivating and impressive architecture, and witness the medieval history of Bratislava. If you love food, this cruise has some classics that are a must-try including Hungarian Goulash, Austrian Wiener Schnitzel, and pastries including strudel.

This might be the best option for you if you love a good thermal spa, classical music, art, Old World European elegance, and the unique flavors of Eastern Europe. This option is very peaceful, romantic, culturally, and historically immersive.

Now that you are able to decide, let me help make your first Viking River Cruise the trip of a lifetime! Envisioning something different? Don’t hesitate to reach out so I can make it happen for you.

The Danube River

Tips for cruising like a pro

• Viking is in demand! It’s critical to book extra early—I’m talking 1+ year out—and it doesn’t hurt to do more in advance for those highly in-demand cruises. Many people experience Viking and then favor it over any other cruise line, which oftentimes results in booking cruises up to three years out.

• The above advice applies to booking pre/post extensions and excursions. Everyone wants the same experience, so you will get the pick of the litter if you are certain to book in advance.

• Don’t feel obligated to sign up for every tour on every day and remember, you will want some down time. Make certain to allow for that in your schedule.

• Each tour has a ‘easy walker’ option if you have mobility issues or are just a slower walker. Don’t hesitate to ask about this option for yourself.

When you book with me, I will ensure you have all of your top choices and advise you on how to maximize your trip each and every time you take a Viking cruise. I also provide extra perks and/or onboard credit, which can be applied to a variety of purchases like excursions, souvenirs, and more. I can advise you on any trip you take with Viking as I am Viking certified and can provide support for every aspect of your entire trip.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Cruises page.