Viking River Cruises: Your Gateway to a Magical European Holiday

Europe Shines Brighter During the Holiday Season

There is simply no better way to experience the wonders of the world than from the water. Imagine sailing into the heart of Europe on a serene river voyage, exploring charming towns and cultural gems. Alternatively, picture yourself traveling further to the great cities of the Mediterranean on a small ocean ship, arriving into harbors you have always dreamed of visiting during the holidays.

Experience the magic of an Old-World Christmas on a wintertime river sailing in Europe. Explore the origins of cherished holiday rituals and enjoy the cheerful ambience of bustling Christmas markets—each with its own unique character. From joyful decorations to the warm aroma of sumptuous treats, the inviting spirit of the season comes alive with festive charm. Join Viking on an upcoming voyage in Europe and perhaps find inspiration to start a new Christmas tradition. From twinkling lights to warming beverages, an array of magical moments awaits you in colorful Christmas markets located in iconic cities across Germany, France, Austria, Hungary and beyond. Celebrate the romance of the yuletide season in the heart of Europe when you join us on one of the enriching river journeys.

Alternatively, savor seasonal dishes, visit local markets and experience cultural events that are unique to this time of year from a quiet season Mediterranean voyage where you can enjoy a unique opportunity to explore France, Greece, Italy, Spain, Turkey and beyond in a different light. Embrace the magic of the holiday season as you stroll one of the region’s most popular Christmas markets, including the colorful Fira de Santa Llúcia at Barcelona’s Cathedral or the lavish Monte Carlo Christmas Market at Port Hercule's central square. You may also choose to discover the secrets to making flaky baklava on one of Viking’s most popular shore excursions in Istanbul on their Ancient Mediterranean Treasures voyage. As the cobblestone streets of these iconic destinations clear out from the peak travel months, you will find a calmer atmosphere. Plus, with fewer crowds, you can discover historic landmarks, uncover hidden gems and engage with locals at a more leisurely pace.

Designed to bring you closer to the heart of your destinations, Viking’s small ships offer a sense of comfort akin to a floating hotel. With light-filled spaces and a quiet, understated elegance, their signature Scandinavian design never upstages the destination. This is the Viking version of modern luxury. Viking’s intimate river vessels include an unparalleled choice of all-outside staterooms, expansive views from floor-to-ceiling windows and al fresco dining while Viking’s all-veranda ocean ships host under 1,000 guests, with the ability to dock in the world’s greatest cities, as well as seldom visited small ports that are out of reach for mega-liners.

Take advantage of airfares and cruise fares that are typically lower during this time of year when there are fewer travelers to Europe. When you travel with Viking, you may also choose to upgrade your stateroom at a great value to enjoy even more space and amenities. Plus, Viking Inclusive Value ensures your fares are always all-inclusive with everything you need—and nothing you do not—with no children, no casinos and no nickel and diming.

Designed to take you closer, The Viking® Way, Viking delivers behind-the-scenes insights and opportunities that set them apart from other travel companies. While they feature the expected and iconic—such as visits to renowned museums and bustling Christmas markets—they also offer our guests Local Life, Working World and Privileged Access® experiences, opening doors to places otherwise difficult to visit. On Christmas on the Danube, take in an exclusive performance featuring Alma Deutscher, a young musical prodigy or experience pure Tuscany with a private tour of a castle’s wine cellar and cooking lesson in its modern kitchen on Iconic Western Mediterranean.

Here is a sample of what you will see on one of Viking’s top Christmas market river voyages:

Christmas on the Rhine, 7 nights, Amsterdam to Basel - Immerse yourself in the spirit of Christmas as you journey through storybook villages. Sample tasty yuletide treats and regional delicacies as you browse colorful stalls for handcrafted ornaments and unique gifts. Admire the twinkling lights of Cologne and revel in the merry atmosphere of the Rhine Valley, as storefront displays, wine cellars and markets embrace the holiday season. This eight-day voyage is a joyful celebration of festive cheer.

Christmas on the Danube, 7 nights, Budapest to Regensburg - Discover grand cities, medieval towns and quaint villages along the “Blue Danube,” highlighting three countries: Hungary, Austria and Germany. Stroll among the stalls at Budapest’s Christmas market and immerse yourself in the cheerful atmosphere of Vienna as you shop for handmade decorations. Visit the fairy-tale village of Regensburg, one of Europe’s best-preserved cities, and delight in the city’s joyful festivities.

Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle, 12 nights, Paris to Zurich - Revel in yuletide cheer as you discover beloved European holiday traditions during this scenic 12-day cruisetour. Admire festive seasonal displays in Paris, the vibrantly lit facade of the cathedral in Reims and Alsatian bonhomie in Strasbourg. Browse stalls full of local delicacies and handicrafts at the charming Christmas markets of Trier, Koblenz and Mannheim, and enjoy a warm mug of glühwein while in the shadow of the Alps in Zürich.

Here is a sample of what you will see on one of Viking’s top quiet season Mediterranean ocean voyages:

Iconic Western Mediterranean, 7 nights, Barcelona to Rome - France’s famed southern coast and Italy’s Renaissance treasures take center stage on this eight-day Mediterranean sojourn. Immerse yourself in Catalonian and Tuscan art, architecture and history during overnights in Barcelona and Tuscany. In the South of France, call on historic Montpellier and picturesque Marseille, and visit Monte Carlo, Monaco’s glamorous city by the sea.

Ancient Mediterranean Treasures, 7 nights, Istanbul to Athens - Witness the origin of civilization as you cruise the fabled Aegean Sea. Spend two days in majestic Istanbul, with its Byzantine treasures and intriguing blend of Eastern and Western influences. Travel to the ruins of Troy, long steeped in myth and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See historic sites in Ephesus and marvel at the gorgeous islands of Rhodes and Crete. Discover the architectural gems of ancient Athens during an overnight stay.

Mediterranean Antiquities, 14 nights, Athens (Piraeus) to Barcelona - Combine Journey to Antiquities and Iconic Western Mediterranean for a magnificent 15-day cruise framed by Athens and Barcelona. Explore the storied sites of ancient Greece and Rome, the glamour of Monte Carlo and the rich history of Marseille, uncovering classical treasures and vibrant cultures at every turn. Overnights in Athens, Florence and Barcelona give you ample time to immerse yourself in the culture, allowing for the most enriching discoveries.

Wherever you choose to go, Viking takes you to places you to the heart of great places and takes you there in comfort