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Cheap Budapest Viking River Cruises

• Europe    
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• Viking River Cruises

7 Night Cruise to Europe

• You want a river cruise with warm Scandinavian style and decor
• You appreciate having great views from every room onboard
• You want locally inspired cuisine, enrichment and excursions
• You plan on bringing the kids; Viking is strictly adults-only
• You need solo occupancy cabins or connecting cabins
• You want luxuries like butler service, indoor pools and spas

14 Night Cruise to Europe

• You want a high-quality river cruise at a reasonable price
• You love clean, Scandinavian design and subtle design touches
• You enjoy socializing with other like-minded adult travelers
• You dislike socializing over mealtimes and cocktail hours
• You are looking for an all-inclusive, ultra-luxury cruise
• You want to bring the kids; Viking is designed for adults
• You love river cruises with bright, airy spaces and open decks
• You might book one of the ship's two massive Explorer Suites
• You appreciate good service, cuisine and onboard programming
• You're looking for lavish, all-suite luxury accomodations
• You are traveling with kids; Viking caters only to adults
• You need connecting cabins or dedicated solo cabins
• You want a quality river cruise with plenty of ports of call
• You value bright, airy design with crisp Scandinavian touches
• You want some included amenities, like beverages during meals
• You prefer smaller ships with fewer than 100 passengers
• You are looking for a family or kid-friendly experience

10 Night Cruise to Europe

• You want a river cruise with plenty of open space and airy rooms
• You must have a cabin or suite with a full step-out balcony
• You appreciate good service, onboard cuisine and enrichment
• You are expecting suites with butler service and lavish features
• You want to travel as a family with small children or teenagers
• You dislike socializing over dinners and cocktail hours
• You want a charming, adult-oriented river cruise experience
• You appreciate cabins and suites that have real balconies
• You enjoy warm, friendly service and excellent cuisines
• You want to go river cruising with the kids; Viking is adult only
• You need amenities like onboard bicycles, spa services or pools
• You want a river cruise with plenty of amenities and features
• You appreciate a mix of European and American cuisine choices
• You like the idea of dining al fresco on the Aquavit Terrace
• You are on a budget or are looking for a last-minute cruise
• You want inclusions like onboard bicycles and fitness centers
• You want to bring kids; Viking is an adult-centric river cruise
• You enjoy Scandinavian decor and architectural details
• You want a casual-yet-refined, adults-only cruise experience
• You want your shore excursions included in your cruise fare
• You want your cruise line to provide bikes or a fitness center
• You are looking for a family-friendly river cruise
• You want a quality river cruise with plenty of thoughtful touches
• You value included amenities and not being nickel-and-dimed
• You enjoy crisp Scandinavian decor and friendly service
• You need a kid-friendly river cruise; Viking caters to adults
• You are looking for a great first-time river cruise experience
• You like bright, open public rooms and well-designed cabins
• You want an adult-centric river cruise with some inclusions
• You want to bring your kids; Viking caters only to adults
• You want an all-inclusive luxury river cruise experience

• You want a well-rounded river cruise on a modern, trendy ship
• You enjoy socializing with like-minded adults over meals
• You want some inclusions, but don’t mind paying for options
• You are planning on bringing kids; Viking Modi isn’t for them
• You want the most lavish, all-inclusive river cruise experience
• You wish to book one of Viking's signature full-size Longships in Europe
• You seek comfortable accommodations while exploring abroad
• You appreciate inclusive shore excursions and onboard dining
• You would like to take a river cruise closer to home
• You prefer larger ocean ships with more to do onboard
• You want additional activity and dining options on a riverboat
• You want a river cruise on a modern, well-designed ship
• You appreciate a wide array of bright, airy public rooms
• You want an adult-oriented river cruise throughout Europe
• You want a river cruise ship that holds fewer than 100 guests
• You are looking for a ship with dedicated solo cabins
• You want a river cruise experience that is family-friendly
• You value high-quality design and airy river cruise cabins
• You appreciate the option to dine al fresco during meals
• You are looking for an adult-oriented vacation in Europe
• You plan on traveling with children; Viking caters to adults
• You are looking for things like onboard bicycles or spas
• You want to try out a Viking River Cruise vacation for yourself
• You are attracted to cabins and suites with balconies
• You appreciate locally inspired cuisine and beverage options
• You prefer an all-inclusive river cruise vacation in Europe
• You plan on traveling as a multi-generational family with kids
• You want onboard amenities like bicycles or spa services
• You want a river cruise with solid food, service and amenities
• You enjoy rooms with step-out balconies and great design
• You want to see what all the Viking River Cruises fuss is about
• You want an all-inclusive river cruise experience in Europe
• You want to travel with children; Viking doesn’t encourage this
• You need onboard bicycles, spa services or fitness facilities

Explore Budapest

One Day in Budapest on a Viking River Cruise

This is one of a series of journal entries from Viking River Cruises’ Grand European Tour, the Budapest to Amsterdam itinerary. I kept it so you could know what to expect if you plan to go yourself. To be honest, I think this is one of the best European river cruise itineraries out there. We had a blast.

But I realize that a long tour isn’t always an option. If you are looking for a brief Budapest river cruise or tour, here are a few to get you started:

Our first full day on board sure didn’t have a promising beginning. I awoke at an ungodly predawn hour to the muted patter of rain outside our window. Fearing the worst, I dragged myself to the window to see if my imagination was playing tricks on me.

It wasn’t.

Raindrops dripped onto our balcony railing and blurred the Danube in the city’s predawn light. Groaning, I fled back to my warm cocoon of covers, with visions of an ocean of Viking’s bright red umbrellas dancing in my head.

But by breakfast time, the rain had become a light mist. Bins of those bright red umbrellas stood sentry at the door as we walked out to Viking’s waiting tour buses. The crew were really on top of things.

Our Budapest river cruise itinerary

We had boarded the ship yesterday, so today was our first full day on the ship. It began at 8:30 with a bus ride through the drizzle to the Castle District, the oldest part of Buda.

The Banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue are three of the best things to see in Budapest. So much so, in fact, that they have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Today’s tour would include more than just that, though.

As the bus took us along the Danube banks to Elisabeth Bridge, our guide pointed out a statue is of a woman holding a palm leaf up on the hill ahead. First called the Liberation Monument, It was erected to honor the Soviet soldiers who “liberated” Budapest at the end of the Second World War.

After the Velvet Revolution, it was renamed the Liberty Monument and is one of a very few Soviet-era statues that still remain in Budapest. Most of those that survived the fall of Communism have been banished to Memento Park , a sculpture park outside the city.

I think that would be a great attraction to add to an itinerary, if we make it back here.

Castle Hill

Once at our destination, we braved the unseasonable chill to walk through Buda’s ancient cobblestone streets. For such a compact area, there’s a lot to see.

The advantage to having a guide is that they can show you things you might have missed if you were sightseeing on your own. For example, we saw a historic letter box that’s still in use, and he told us which typical Hungarian souvenirs weren’t made in China.

Of course, he also told us more about Buda’s buildings as well. Some were famous, such as the Royal Palace, National Gallery and the National Széchenyi Library, and some were just plain pretty.

Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion are two of Buda’s highlights, and so is a certain irresistible cafe.

ⓘ TIP: If you’d like to take a guided tour of Budapest on your own, click here for some great ideas.

Matthias Church

One of the city’s best-known landmarks, Matthias Church has witnessed many coronations and royal weddings in its 700 years. Unfortunately, we couldn’t enter so our guide had to adjust the planned walking tour a bit. Apparently, today’s mass was in honor of the Prime Minister’s birthday, so tourists weren’t welcome.

Fisherman’s Bastion

Our walking tour ended at Fisherman’s Bastion, which offers a breathtaking panorama of the Danube. This is probably the best place to take photos of Budapest.

At this point, everyone took off to explore on their own, promising to meet back at the bus at 10:45.

Cafe Ruszwurm

Architecture and history are all well and good, but the damp weather sent us in search of a café instead of exploring the city streets. Coffee is probably our favorite way to warm up.

We soon found a charming coffeehouse that looked centuries-old, called Cafe Ruszwurm. As we entered, an ancient wood-and-glass cabinet greeted us, full of tempting pastries. There was no way we could just get a mere cup of coffee now.

A pretty young waitress dressed in a traditional outfit took our order: two espressos and a tasty sour cherry strudel to share. We savored the the cafe’s homey atmosphere until it was time to return to the bus.

Two fun facts about Cafe Ruszwurm:

• It is one of the oldest traditional cafes & confectioners in the city.
• The cherrywood counter that we admired is 200 years old!

Pest city tour

The second part of our tour took us to Pest, on the other side of the river. The itinerary was supposed to include a walk along Andrassy Avenue, Budapest’s high-end shopping street, along with passing the Hungarian State Opera House and culminating on the far end at Heroes’ Square.

Bad timing, unfortunately. Today was Heroes’ Day and they were rerouting traffic and holding events on the square.

So, no walking tour for us. Our guide and driver did their best though to make it up to us with an extended bus tour of the city. All good. Our guide was interesting, and we were able to see places most Viking passengers probably never have the opportunity to visit.

Lunch on the cruise ship

When lunchtime rolls around, Viking offers the choice of a light lunch on the Aquavit Terrace or full menu service in the dining room (that includes a salad bar).

Here’s the lunch menu from our first day:

Ria, the ship’s Maitre d’, is responsible for ensuring that all passengers on a special diet receive suitable dishes. Every morning she brings us the day’s menu and we select our lunch and dinner items in plenty of time for the chef to prepare.

Judging from the sheet she was carrying, it looked like quite a few people had dietary limitations.

Viking River Cruises’ Budapest afternoon itinerary

Viking’s afternoon itinerary in Budapest has something for everyone. You can enjoy free time in the city or take one of three optional tours (extra cost).

• Jewish Budapest –  the highlight is a tour of Dohany Street Synagogue, the second-largest synagogue in the world
• Budapest Spa Experience –  enjoy a few hours at one of Budapest’s therapeutic thermal springs
• Hungarian Horse Show –  watch the legendary Hungarian cowboys display their famous horsemanship

Having arrived a few days early, we’d already visited the Jewish Synagogue and one of Budapest’s famous spas ( see our photos here ). Let us tell you about the third tour.

Hungarian horsemanship

Our 40-minute bus ride to Lazar Equestrian Park came with a warning: Today was a holiday and It would be quite crowded. Moreover, it was Children’s Day and there would were kids everywhere.

Stepping off the bus, we were all welcomed with a traditional biscuit and a glass of plum- or apple-flavored Hungarian brandy called palinka . As usual, Dan and I each asked for different ones so we could try them both.

We first visited the stables so we could meet some of their beautiful Lipizzaner horses. The equestrian show that followed was outstanding.

It’s one thing when a kid stands up to get a better view, but it’s quite another when a horde of Chinese tourists do it. They felt it was perfectly acceptable to barge to the front of the audience, obliviously blocking everyone’s view while they took a shipload of photos. Thank goodness the host finally instructed everyone to sit down.

If you’re looking for a business idea, offering “How to Be a Good Tourist” lessons in China would be a great idea.

After the show, we enjoyed a horse-and-carriage ride around the property. The highlight was a museum that displays some of the numerous awards that their Lipizzaner horses have won.

Before we returned to the bus, Dan and I bought some treats: local ice cream and a sweet dessert that tasted like a thick custard and was topped with stewed plums.

We arrived back at the ship a little after 6.

Back aboard the ship

Once back aboard, Hotel Manager Felix Anheier gathered everyone in the Lounge so Captain Oliver Barsic could welcome everyone aboard with a toast to the coming voyage. We were offered kir royale, mimosa or champagne, though of course nonalcoholic options were available as well.

Next, our Program Director Dewi gave the Daily Briefing, which is basically an overview of what to expect the following day.

As dinner ended, we felt our ship begin to drift downriver. This signaled the beginning of our cruise and the Bragi’s departure from Budapest. We joined many other passengers on the Sun Deck to bid goodbye to the city and toasted our departure with a glass of Tokaj.

This Hungarian wine is so unique that the region it comes from has actually earned UNESCO status. (It is known as the Tokaj Wine Region Historic Cultural Landscape.)

Once Viking Bragi had drifted her way down to Gellert Hill, Captain Oliver kicked the engines into gear and headed the ship back upriver. Liberty Monument waved goodbye with her palm from the top as she watched us go.

We are only 3 weeks from midsummer so it wasn’t fully dark. The twilight blue hour gave us a memorable view. One by one, lights came on along the river and the sight became magical.

I overheard someone say “I can see why evening cruises are such a popular attraction in Budapest. The view is remarkable.” Lit up, the city was aglow.

Next stop: Bratislava.

ⓘ 2019 update: The Viking Grand European Tour itinerary no longer includes Bratislava. Instead, you’ll spend two days in Vienna.

Places to stay in Budapest

Are you planning to spend more than one day in Budapest, like we did? We stayed at the Marriott hotel, but travel styles and budgets differ. Whether you prefer a hotel, hostel, or vacation rental, this map will help you find the best accommodation for your visit.

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

Hover over the top left of the image to save it to your Pinterest gallery. You’ll also find more images in our Budapest photo gallery.

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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5 thoughts on “one day in budapest on a viking river cruise”.

Did you see the Cty Market? It is fantastic with different things, like spices, on each level. They had fresh meats and fish, beautiful flowers – oh, I just loved it!

Aren’t markets wonderful? We just love seeing all that’s available!

Yuck! Rain is the last thing you want to face when traveling. Budapest is one of my most favorite cities in Europe and we travel there quite often. My husband is Hungarian so we have many friends and relatives there, which is not always convenient. Sometimes I wish I didn’t know anybody there, so that we can just visit and not be invited to endless dinners and drinks. My favorite places in Budapest are, well, the pastry shops! Can’t stay away from their “Doboshtorta.”

You’re right, and we have the same issue. Whenever we’re in Florida, sightseeing is a challenge because our family wants to spend time with us. We know a Filipina who sometimes flies home and doesn’t tell her family so she can take care of what she needs to. Besides, in her culture gifts are expected, and that can cost more than the flight!

Have you ever been to Budapest? What did we miss?

Comments are closed.

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Viking Grand European Tour 15-Day River Cruise Review

I was more than ready for this Viking Grand European Tour 15-day river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam. Lee Oliver, our Viking Lif river ship Program Director, greeted us at the gangway with a warm “Welcome Aboard!” 

Those two words were like music to my ears. Maybe not Bartok or Liszt but music nonetheless.

Budapest , Hungary, on the beautiful and sometimes-blue Danube , has so much to experience.

A mid-afternoon boarding gave guests plenty of time before dinner to explore this spirited yet somewhat austere city, either on their own or with a Viking tour excursion.

Viking River Grand European River Cruise Review

In This Post...

In the course of two-weeks, we would cruise on three rivers; the Danube, Main and Rhine rivers. Along the way, Viking Lif  had 12 scheduled cruise ports to visit before docking in Amsterdam. A couple of port tour excursions offered day trips to other nearby ancient towns, and I highly recommend those options. Here’s our itinerary.

Grand European Tour Itinerary

• Day 1:    Budapest, Hungary
• Day 2:    Budapest and Bratislava, Slovakia
• Day 3:    Vienna, Austria
• Day 4:    Melk, Austria
• Day 5:    Linz, Austria and Passau, Germany
• Day 6:    Regensburg, Germany
• Day 7:    Nuremberg, Germany
• Day 8:    Bamberg, Germany
• Day 9:    Wurzburg, Germany and Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany
• Day 10:  Wertheim, Germany
• Day 11:  Koblenz, Germany
• Day 12:  Cologne, Germany
• Day 13:  Kinderdijk, The Netherlands
• Day 14:  Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Getting to Budapest by Train

As a solo traveler and someone who doesn’t fly, it was a challenge to figure out how to get to Budapest. After one night in Munich, Germany, it was an eight hour train ride to Budapest.

In First Class on trains in Europe, you’ll find many English-speaking passengers from North America. It was easy to strike up conversations with fellow travelers and the eight hours quickly passed.

With the help of Viking reservations, I pre-reserved a driver to meet me at Budapest’s historic Keleti station.

Within 30 minutes of pulling into the station and getting into the taxi, I was on board Viking Lif , met our program director and settled into my cozy cabin. Our Viking Grand European Tour was about to begin.

RELATED:   How to Take the Train to Budapest for a River Cruise

Day 1:  Viking Lif Embarkation

By the time I arrived at the ship in the late afternoon, other passengers had already unpacked and were mingling about the vessel. They had enough time for a short city tour and were enjoying cocktails in the lounge. 

I had about an hour to get acquainted with my cabin and Viking Lif river ship before the first pre-dinner meeting.

At 6:30pm, it was time to head to the lounge, meet the other guests and attend the informative yet brief review of our river cruise itinerary. Though the meeting was necessary and very informative, I really looked forward to tonight’s dinner. 

All I ate on the eight-hour train ride from Munich to Budapest was a bowl of Hungarian Goulash. No complaints…the goulash was very good and of course, very appropriate!

READ NEXT:  Getting to Budapest for Viking Grand European Tour Embarkation

It was a balmy autumn night that beckoned tourists and locals alike to stroll along the banks of the Danube late into the evening. I was tired but excited to finally have a chance to walk across Budapest’s historic Chain Bridge. 

Camera in hand, I must have crossed the Danube four or six times, snapping photos of the warm yellow bridge lights, couples strolling arm in arm, and the magnificently illuminated state buildings that line the riverfront.

Finally, it was time to call it a night. Tomorrow, our Grand European Tour river cruise would begin with a full day of sightseeing before we even got underway.

READ MORE:  In-Depth Review of Embarkation Day in Budapest

Day 2:  Touring and Tasting Budapest

If being chatty at breakfast isn’t your thing, there’s the option for a very relaxing breakfast buffet at Aquavit Terrace every morning. It’s also a good way to plan your morning time if you have a 9:00am or even earlier tour departure. This was usually how my day started; quiet, comfortable, and a cappuccino in hand.

By 8:15am on our second day in Budapest, passengers heard the first warning announcement for our city tour departure.

Know Your Tour Departure Time

Here’s how it’s done on river cruises. You know your tour departure time, say 9 A.M. At 8:45 A.M. over the PA system, you’re given a 15-minute heads-up for the tour to leave. 

Then you hear a 5-minute warning for your motor coach departure. The tour departure time that’s posted is not when you should walk out of your stateroom. It’s actually when the bus departs. I’ve had to run to catch the bus on more than one occasion.

Today’s complimentary morning tour was your basic European city overview; historic places, medieval churches, political hotspots of yore. In the scope of four hours, we would either drive by, stop to view or exit the motor coach to stretch and take photos. 

Highlights of Our Budapest Tours

Morning tour of budapest.

Our motor coach drove across the Chain Bridge to Buda side of the Danube. This is the hilly side of the city where many of the most beautiful building are located.

Views from the Buda side of the river…

Fishermen’s Bastion, built between 1895 and 1902, the beautiful towers and covered terrace weren’t built to defend the territory but to provide unparalleled views of the city. We had ample time to wander along the terrace and up to the Neo-Romanesque designed towers. This is the prime photo op location for sweeping vistas of Budapest.

Back aboard Viking Lif in time for lunch. As there would be on every day of the cruise, you can choose from two lunch venues; The Restaurant with table service and a buffet or in Aquavit for a café lunch, buffet-style. Most days, I chose Aquavit Lounge.

Afternoon Tour on the Pest Side

Budapest jewish and hungarian history.

I signed up for the optional 2:00PM Dohány Street Synagogue and Hungarian Jewish Museum tour. The motor coach let us off just a short walk to the synagogue. Part of the intrigue was seeing the small shops, bars and cafés in what was once the Jewish Quarter, or Ghetto.

Built in the Moorish Revival style between 1854-1859, it is the largest synagogue in Europe. In addition to the main synagogue (Great Synagogue), inside you’ll find the Hungarian Jewish Museum, the Graveyard and the Memorial.

The Weeping Willow memorial is in the courtyard behind the synagogue. On its leaves are inscribed the names of 30,000 Holocaust victims. The father of actor Tony Curtis, Emanuel Schwartz, funded the weeping willow memorial. 

The courtyard was named Raoul Wallenberg, the Swedish diplomat who managed to save thousands of Jews from going to concentration camps.

Stopping for a Slice of Budapest’s Finest

After a stop at a small shop for a Hungarian pastry called, “Flódni”, we boarded the bus to head back to the ship. We returned just in time for Cocktail Hour.

Tonight was the official “Welcome Aboard” toast by Captain Marcin and Hotel Manager Eve. One sparkling wine down and just before dinner, we had our next day’s briefing. Next port going north on the Danube would be Bratislava, Slovakia.

READ MORE:  Top 10 Things to See in Budapest

Day 3:  Bratislava, Slovakia and Funny Little Men

I woke up to see that we were underway, gently cruising along the Danube towards our next port, Bratislava , Slovakia.

Following breakfast and before we’d arrive, a mandatory safety drill was held. Warm autumn weather quickly drew everyone to the top deck and the drill took all of 15-20 minutes.

Afterwards, many of us stayed and either walked laps or settled into a lounge chair. With a mid-afternoon arrival into Bratislava, the day would be relaxing and informative. 

Program Director Lee led an enrichment talk about Vienna coffeehouses (where to go and what to eat) and a background about Austrian-born composer Wolfgang Mozart.

Locals have a great sense of humor as can be sensed when you try to find all the bronze statues. When I was in Bratislava, I counted eight almost human-size funny little men bronze statues. How many will you find?

Day 4:  Vienna, Austria

This wasn’t my first visit to this medieval city. From the beautifully baroque Schönbrunn Palace to a peek at the Spanish Lipizzaner Horses, Vienna has something surprising or magnificent around every corner.

I decided to pass on the complimentary morning motor coach tour of the city and get some writing done. One thing to note about Vienna, river cruise ship dockage is usually too far to walk to the city center. It is walkable but most people opt for a bus into the city and some will then walk back to the river ship.

Too good to pass up, I signed up for the Chef’s Tour to the Farmer’s Market (Naschtmarkt). A bit of walking, two subway trains and we were smack in the middle of a working-class neighborhood and a several-blocks-long farmer’s Market.

After a couple of hours, we were back on the subway, walked two blocks through Mexikoplatz and past St. Francis of Assisi Church and we were back on Viking Lif …in time for cocktails, of course. But not much time to spare. 

Not-to-Miss Evening in Vienna

I had signed up for the optional ($) Viking excursion tour to a concert hall for a Mozart and Strauss concert. Every river cruise line offers this but I had never done it. There would be an early dinner on board and then leave on the motor coaches before 7pm for the concert hall.

The concert hall was beautifully Baroque. We were all packed in on folding chairs like sardines in a tin though not as smelly. The performances were excellent with most of the music and singing were familiar classical pieces. 

If you have a chance to book a shore excursion that includes a concert in Vienna, I highly recommend it.

Afterwards, everyone was really quiet on the motor coach back to the ship. It had been a busy, long day from one end of the city to another.

When we arrived back to the ship, we were greeted with a special Viking Grand European bedtime treat: goulash soup in Aquavit Restaurant. The gorgeous bowl of soup and a fresh-baked crunchy roll accompanied me back to my cabin. Within an hour, I was asleep. One more port in Austria tomorrow.

Day 5:  Melk, Austria

All that glitters is mostly gold.

Melk is a curiously monastic community with the resplendent gold Melk Abbey high on a hill overlooking the Danube. Cobblestone street wind through town, leading to the Abbey’s grand entrance. Monks from the Abbey stroll through town and work in the Abbey as they have for more than 900 years.

Plan to spend about an hour inside the Abbey. You can walk up to the entrance or take a motor coach to the top of the hill.

The baroque interior is dazzling, the library has over 80,000 medieval manuscripts and several hidden doors. Leave time to step outside for a sweeping view of the city and Danube below. 

It’s a pleasant stroll over a little bridge back to the river ship, or take the motor coach again. The town is lovely with cafés and small boutique shops.

With a “Be back on board” at 3:45pm, we were welcomed with an Austrian apple strudel-making demonstration. Then the habitual cocktail hour, daily port briefing and the slow walk into the dining room. Another satisfying multi-course dinner and off to bed.

Every night on the river cruise there’s entertainment in the lounge. So far, we’ve had the onboard musician at the keyboard and dancing, Slovakian folk dancing show and the goulash event. With days so busy, evening entertainment has been kept to a minimum. I think Viking knows that we’d be exhausted.

READ NEXT:  Viking Adds New Pre- and Post-River Cruise Options

Day 6:  Passau, Engine Issues and a Slight Detour

Surprise! We were informed last night that Viking Lif was having engine trouble and we’d not make it to dock in Passau. Instead, Viking Lif would tie up in Linz. So at 8:15am, (it was a really early wake-up!) passengers boarded Viking’s motor coach for a full-day nine-hour tour.

Sadly, one man had to see a doctor in the nearest town so he and his wife had to stay in Linz. I was working under deadline to file a story, so a 9-hour day in motion put me into panic. 

Viking’s Program Director, Lee, made similar arrangements for me so that I could spend the day writing instead of touring. I was so incredibly happy when I found out I would have a hotel room for the day in Linz and would get a full day’s writing done.

Even the light drizzle didn’t stop anyone from walking in the city center. After my friend’s doctor appointment, the three of us met for lunch and a walk through town. Linz is one of the most non-touristic larger cities I’ve visited in Europe. It’s very charming. And I’ll bet it’s even lovelier during the holiday/Christmas market season.

At 5:00PM, a white minivan arrived and the three of us were off to meet Viking Lif , fully repaired at the shipyard in Linz. All the other passengers were on their way back from Passau. And we all arrived in time for cocktail hour, daily briefing and another very nice dinner in the dining room.

Onward to Straubing, Germany! Almost halfway through our Viking Grand European Tour. Tempus Fugit.

Day 7:  Regensburg, Bavaria – Germany

This was one of those years in central Europe when the rain seems to never stop. Germany and France had seen flooding at the end of summer and rivers were swollen and overflowing their banks. 

As we made our way up the Danube, I started to watch the water’s edge. I knew from past river cruises, if I saw tree trunks submerged and debris quickly flowing past us, it meant trouble.

With high water, river ships cannot fit under the dozens of ancient bridges. Locks get stuck. But Viking Lif made its way to Straubing and by 2:00pm, we boarded the motor coach for the short ride to beautiful medieval Regensburg.

I was so glad Regensburg was included on this Viking Grand European Tour. It’s among my favorite places in Europe. This is the oldest city on the Danube and dates back to the year 179.

While the Dom St. Peter Gothic Cathedral is one of the grandest in all Bavaria and worth a visit, I always head to the Alte Würstküche, meaning, “Old Sausage Kitchen”, it’s the oldest restaurant in Germany.

The restaurant is usually packed with tourists throughout the summer but this rainy October day, I had no problem getting my own indoor table. Once you’ve finished your beer and extras, take a walk across the Old Stone Bridge. Built between 1135 and 1146, it was the bridge used by the knights on the second and third Crusades to the Holy Land.

Danube Begins to Look a Little Ominous

What I saw from Regensburg Old Bridge didn’t look too good. I’d been on enough floods on the rivers in Europe to recognize the inevitable.

The Danube was rushing past us downstream heading towards the Black Sea, its terminus. Trees were submerged. The water was creeping up to the lower levels of the medieval buildings.

While we were in Regensburg, Viking Lif sailed from Straubing to Regensburg to meet us. This was a chance for passengers who simply yearned for a quiet day onboard to just cruise.

Back onboard with time to freshen up before the daily briefing. But tonight, the meeting took a sudden twist. The Program Director proceeded with an (un)expected announcement.

To paraphrase, Lee said, “Pack your bags, we’re changing river ships in the morning”. It was a very busy evening for everyone. 

We would disembark with our carry-on luggage the next morning at 8:30 AM in Deggendorf, then board a bus to meet sister ship, Viking Skadi, in Nuremberg. Our Viking Grand European Tour was about to take a twist.

Day 8:  Changing Ships and a Detour

A visit to an extraordinarily bizarre monument.

With our luggage taken off the ship and loaded onto buses, we only had to bring along our carry-on bags. 

I had been through this river ship shuffle three times in the last few years so I knew what to expect. River cruisers seem to roll with the punches. There’s nothing you can do when there’s a flood or a drought except board a bus and change ships.

Viking had a really good plan on the way to Nuremberg. Driving through Bavaria en route to Nuremberg, we stopped at Walhalla, Germany’s monument to its native Germanic language politicians, scientists, artists and other distinguished people over the centuries. 

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Danube river, Walhalla looms on the horizon bearing a striking resemblance to the Parthenon in Greece.

By 11 AM we were back on the bus leaving Walhalla, heading to our next ship. 

How River Cruise Ships Deal With Floods

To explain how this ship shuffle works, our original river ship, Viking Lif, couldn’t go any further upriver – the water was too high to let Viking Lif go under the next bridge. Viking Skad i, on its way south from Amsterdam, couldn’t get past Nuremberg for the same reason. 

Thus, each ship would swap passengers and bus everyone to the other ship. Then the ships do a U-turn and continue on the route of the original river ship. Everyone would end up at their scheduled port. Viking had this ship exchange experience down to a science.

We had reached the half-way point of our Grand European Tour. Where did that first week go?

READ MORE ABOUT:  What exactly happened on this ship-shuffle day

I divided my Viking Grand European Tour river cruise into two parts. 

This is part one; Budapest to Nuremberg. Click the link below to continue onto our  second week; Nuremberg to Amsterdam.

CONTINUE READING : WEEK 2 ABOARD VIKING SKADI – NUREMBERG TO AMSTERDAM

Thank you for reading the first half of my Viking Grand European Tour. Spoiler alert:  Seven more days of cruising, castles, culture and cuisine.

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Hi Gary, Thank you for your comment and for reading my article. I think I did this cruise in 2018. The last two years were a wash for sure. Nothing has changed with the itinerary, unless it is a last minute decision. Viking still advertises for their Grand European Tour so I think my article is very reliable to help readers decide to try this amazing trip. Viking did a great job, especially when you consider the unexpected ship change. Thank you again for taking the time to write. I hope you have the opportunity to try this cruise.

Hi Ruth, Thank you for writing and taking the time to read my post. As you saw, this river cruise was with Viking and it was wonderful. I also recommend AmaWaterways, Avalon and Uniworld for these longer cruises – they also carry fewer passengers.

While a suite isn’t necessary, it does give you more space. But similar to ocean cruising, in my opinion, as long as I can open a door for fresh air, a balcony or french balcony on a river cruise is fine…and less expensive. Whichever line you choose, have a wonderful river cruise. Thanks again for your comment.

When did you take this cruise? It looks like a great cruise.

This is the River cruise I’ve been wanting to do..I’m just undecided which company to go with. This seems very busy to get everything in. I also wanted a suite room but maybe that’s not necessary. Your article is very informative especially about the changing of boats due to water issues..I’ve always wondered how that would work.

Hi Terry, Thank you, too, for reading my article and your comment. Much appreciated!

Most interesting thank you

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Where do Viking River Cruises Dock in Budapest?

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Are you planning a Viking River Cruise to Budapest? Exciting times lie ahead! Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a captivating city that offers a blend of historic charm and vibrant modernity. As you embark on your river cruise, one question may be on your mind: where do Viking River Cruises dock in Budapest? Let’s explore the docking locations and what you can expect from each.

The Docking Locations

Viking River Cruises in Budapest primarily dock at two locations, offering different experiences and accessibility:

1. Budapest International Cruise Terminal

The Budapest International Cruise Terminal, also known as the Buda-Castle Pier, is located on the Buda side of the city. This docking location provides a fantastic view of the iconic Budapest Castle and offers easy access to some of the city’s most significant landmarks, including the Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church. The Buda side is a quieter, more residential area, perfect for those seeking a calmer ambiance.

The Buda-Castle Pier is conveniently located near the Chain Bridge, allowing you to cross the Danube River and venture into Pest, the livelier part of the city. The bridge itself is a masterpiece of engineering and provides a picturesque setting for memorable photos.

When docking at the Budapest International Cruise Terminal, you’ll find taxis and public transportation options readily available. Exploring the Buda side by foot is also a delightful way to immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere. Keep in mind that due to the location on the Buda side, it may take a bit longer to reach certain attractions on the Pest side.

2. Mahart-Drava Dock

The Mahart-Drava Dock, situated on the Pest side of Budapest, provides a different perspective on the city. This docking location is closer to downtown Budapest, allowing for quick access to popular tourist spots such as the Hungarian Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, and the bustling Váci Street.

Docking at the Mahart-Drava Dock provides the advantage of being within walking distance of many popular attractions. You can easily explore the historical district and enjoy the lively atmosphere with its chic restaurants, trendy shops, and charming cafés.

Transportation options are abundant near the Mahart-Drava Dock, ensuring you can seamlessly move around the city. Taxis, trams, buses, and the metro system are readily accessible, making it convenient to venture further and experience the city’s diverse neighborhoods and hidden gems.

Tips for Exploring Budapest from the Docking Locations

Now that you have an understanding of the two main docking locations in Budapest, here are some tips to help you make the most of your time:

1. Plan Your Itinerary

Take time before your river cruise to research and plan your itinerary. Note the attractions and landmarks you want to visit and group them based on their proximity to each docking location. This way, you can efficiently explore the areas near the docking points without wasting time or feeling rushed.

2. Utilize Public Transportation

Public transportation in Budapest is reliable, efficient, and cost-effective. Consider purchasing a Budapest Card, which provides unlimited travel on public transport and discounts for various attractions. Using public transportation allows you to easily navigate the city between the docking locations and venture further into the city.

3. Embrace Walking Tours

Budapest is a city best explored on foot. Consider joining guided walking tours to discover the city’s rich history, intriguing stories, and hidden gems. Walking tours often start from central locations near the docking points, providing an excellent way to get acquainted with Budapest and its unique charm.

4. Time Your Visits Wisely

Some attractions in Budapest, such as the Hungarian Parliament Building and St. Stephen’s Basilica, have specific opening hours and may require advance booking, especially during peak tourist seasons. Plan your visits accordingly to avoid disappointment and make the most of your time.

5. Indulge in Local Cuisine

Budapest is known for its vibrant food scene, ranging from traditional Hungarian cuisine to modern fusion dishes. When exploring near the docking locations, venture into local restaurants, cafés, and food markets to experience the delicious flavors of Budapest. Don’t forget to try the famous Hungarian goulash!

In Conclusion

Viking River Cruises in Budapest dock at two main locations: the Budapest International Cruise Terminal on the Buda side and the Mahart-Drava Dock on the Pest side. Each offers a unique experience, allowing you to explore the city’s different neighborhoods and attractions.

Now that you know where Viking River Cruises dock in Budapest, you can plan your itinerary, prioritize the attractions you wish to visit, and make the most of your time in this breathtaking city. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Buda side or indulge in the vibrant atmosphere of the Pest side, Budapest will undoubtedly captivate you with its rich history, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality.

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Viking Overnight in Budapest

By seatrial , April 8, 2015 in River Cruising

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Does Viking take passengers on an evening cruise while spending the night in Budapest at the start of the Romantic Danube itinerary? I thought I read this somewhere. Thanks.

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They didn't when I took this trip in 2013, and according to the itinerary on their web site they are not doing so this year.

Day 1 , passengers arrive, dinner on board, boat stays moored in Budapest

Day 2, morning, included tour of Budapest

during this time boat departs and tour rejoins boat for lunch.

Rosethorn40

They didn't this past December (2014) either. I wish they would reconsider this. Another line did, so it can be done. The boats are docked on the same side of the river as the Parliament Building, so if you want to see it lit up you have to walk across the Chain Bridge to get a view.

I fianlly found the language that I saw earlier. This is from the itinerary under "My Trip". So maybe Viking listened and is starting to do this evening cruise before the overnight in Budapest. Here's hoping!

"This evening, enjoy a scenic cruise on your Viking ship. See Buda Castle, Fishermen’s Bastion, Matthias Church and the Citadella, as well as the beautiful and iconic Parliament, Margaret Island perched in the middle of the river, and the many bridges connecting the Buda and Pest sides of the Danube. Your ship remains docked overnight.

Included Meals: Dinner"

I fianlly found the language that I saw earlier. This is from the itinerary under "My Trip". So maybe Viking listened and is starting to do this evening cruise before the overnight in Budapest. Here's hoping!   "This evening, enjoy a scenic cruise on your Viking ship. See Buda Castle, Fishermen’s Bastion, Matthias Church and the Citadella, as well as the beautiful and iconic Parliament, Margaret Island perched in the middle of the river, and the many bridges connecting the Buda and Pest sides of the Danube. Your ship remains docked overnight. Included Meals: Dinner"

Vantage does this too.....it's a repositioning cruise because the ship docks in one location to on and off load passengers and luggage and then after dinner moves to it's over-night spot. It's a wonderful cruise and Vantage times it so you're on the river when the lights come on. Budapest at night is truly one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Make sure you're on deck with camera ready....it's spectacular!!!

• 1 month later...

gentlemancruiser

Avalon did this last year, however the captain explained that the local tour companies get very upset with the river cruise companies because it takes way from their business.

We begin our trip on the 31st and the documents have a detailed itinerary and that says YES day of boarding is a scenic cruise, with the next day still in Budapest for the 'included tour'

We're on the 'romantic Danube' 8 day, Budapest to Nur' (and commin' home on the QM2)

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Admire Rhine Valley vistas from a 900-year-old castle. Sample the culinary delights of Austria’s Wachau Valley. Learn the Viennese waltz, visit Melk’s Benedictine Abbey and delve into Nuremberg’s World War II history. Indulge your senses on this 15-day journey spanning the best of Europe, tracing the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers between the windmill-dotted waterways of Holland and the stunning landscapes of Hungary, with engaging encounters at every bend.

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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.

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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 .

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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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Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Booking Terms & Conditions >

Booking Terms & Conditions

2024-2026 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES:  Offer applies to bookings made from April 1-30, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe . Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in CA dollars and for CA residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024: Pay in full by May 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025: Pay in full by July 31, 2024. 2026: Pay in full by February 15, 2025. Offers expires April 30, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT:  For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to September 2024 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to November 2024 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS: Cruise fares listed are cruise only in CAD dollars, per person, based on double occupancy and for CA residents only. Cruise ship fuel surcharge may apply. All fares and offers are for new bookings made April 1, 2024 to April 30, 2024, are subject to availability; may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Credit and Viking Referral Rewards. Special cruise fares are based upon published full cruise fares; cruise fares do not include prepaid charges, optional facilities and service fees, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full cruise fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to economy, roundtrip flights only from select Viking River Cruises CA gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. The cruise ship fuel surcharge is additional revenue to Viking Cruises, as are any additional charges relating to currency fluctuation other than for fully paid cruise fares and full fares, which fluctuations are beyond our control. All fares include cruise taxes, port taxes and fees. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract  .

Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information on  Airline Luggage Restrictions  or to learn more about allowances and general airline information visit  Airline Information & Restrictions . AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $999 CAD per person or Business Class air from $4,499 CAD per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

AIR OFFER RESTRICTIONS:  Offer expires April 30, 2024.

NOTE:  North American flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.

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