Viking River Cruises

Daily Itinerary

1. Day 1

   Bucharest

   Romania

   

   Bucharest, Romania's sprawling and magnificently contradictory capital, layers Belle Époque mansions, communist-era boulevards, and a furiously creative twenty-first-century scene into a city that rewards the curious traveler who looks beyond the obvious. Ceaușescu's colossal Palace of the Parliament — the world's heaviest building and a monument to totalitarian hubris — is unmissable; equally essential is the neighborhood of Floreasca, where design studios, natural wine bars, and acclaimed restaurants have made Bucharest one of Europe's most exciting emerging food capitals. Visit April through June for the most pleasant weather. Transylvania, with Bran Castle and the medieval city of Brașov, lies two hours north through dramatic Carpathian scenery.

2. Day 2

   Bucharest

   Romania

   

   Bucharest, Romania's sprawling and magnificently contradictory capital, layers Belle Époque mansions, communist-era boulevards, and a furiously creative twenty-first-century scene into a city that rewards the curious traveler who looks beyond the obvious. Ceaușescu's colossal Palace of the Parliament — the world's heaviest building and a monument to totalitarian hubris — is unmissable; equally essential is the neighborhood of Floreasca, where design studios, natural wine bars, and acclaimed restaurants have made Bucharest one of Europe's most exciting emerging food capitals. Visit April through June for the most pleasant weather. Transylvania, with Bran Castle and the medieval city of Brașov, lies two hours north through dramatic Carpathian scenery.

3. Day 3

   Constanta

   Romania

   

   Constanța is Romania's Black Sea port city, founded as a Greek colony over 2,500 years ago, where ancient Roman mosaics, Art Nouveau architecture, and Ottoman mosques share a spectacular coastal setting. Visit from May through September for archaeological exploration, beach culture, and excursions to the Danube Delta's extraordinary bird colonies.

4. Day 4

   Constanta

   Romania

   

   Constanța is Romania's Black Sea port city, founded as a Greek colony over 2,500 years ago, where ancient Roman mosaics, Art Nouveau architecture, and Ottoman mosques share a spectacular coastal setting. Visit from May through September for archaeological exploration, beach culture, and excursions to the Danube Delta's extraordinary bird colonies.

5. Day 5

   Pleven

   Bulgaria

   

   Pleven is the Bulgarian city where a five-month siege during the 1877-78 Russo-Turkish War led to national independence, now commemorated in a stunning 360-degree panoramic painting surrounded by preserved battlefield earthworks. Visit May through September via Viking's Danube itineraries for the immersive Panorama experience, prehistoric cave dwellings at Kaylaka Park, and the local Gamza wines that thrive in the Danubian plain.

6. Day 6

   Vidin

   Bulgaria

   

   Vidin is a captivating port town on the Danube River known for its rich history, eclectic architecture, and vibrant local culture. Must-do experiences include exploring the Baba Vida Fortress and savoring local dishes like **kavarma** and **lutenitsa**. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the local markets are bustling with activity.

7. Day 7

   Donji Milanovac

   Serbia

   

   Donji Milanovac is a tranquil Serbian town on the banks of Lake Đerdap, nestled within the dramatic Iron Gates gorge of the Danube and surrounded by pristine national parkland. Visitors should not miss the Lepenski Vir archaeological site, home to seven-thousand-year-old Mesolithic sculptures, and the restored medieval fortress at nearby Golubac. The ideal time to cruise through the Iron Gates is from late May through September, when long daylight hours illuminate the gorge walls and riverside terraces invite lingering over fresh riblja čorba and local šljivovica.

8. Day 8

   Belgrade

   Serbia

   

   Belgrade, the 'White City' rebuilt at least forty times at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, surprises every visitor with its raw, uncurated vitality — a capital that wears its turbulent history lightly while embracing the present with irresistible energy. The Kalemegdan Fortress, fortified for over two thousand years, offers the most dramatic river panorama on the entire Danube; below it, the Skadarlija cobblestone quarter fills nightly with kafana musicians and the aromas of Serbian rakija and roasted meats. Belgrade's nightlife — centered on the floating river clubs called splavovi — is genuinely legendary in Europe. Spring and early autumn offer the most comfortable conditions; the Iron Gate gorge is two hours downstream by river.

9. Day 9

   Novi Sad

   Serbia

   

   Novi Sad — the "Serbian Athens" — unfolds along the left bank of the Danube beneath the commanding walls of the Petrovaradin Fortress, a Habsburg military masterpiece whose underground tunnel labyrinth and hilltop clock tower (with hands reversed, to confuse enemy gunners) make for one of Europe's most unusual fortress visits. The city's elegant pedestrian street, the Zmaj Jovina, is lined with 19th-century Habsburg architecture that rewards a leisurely afternoon, while the Serbian cultural renaissance of the same era left behind museums, galleries, and coffee house traditions that endure today. In July, the EXIT music festival transforms the fortress into one of Europe's most storied outdoor stages. Visit May through September for the finest weather.

10. Day 10

    Ilok

    Croatia

    

    Ilok, a historical port in Croatia, enchants visitors with its medieval architecture, serene riverfront, and vibrant local culture. Must-do experiences include savoring traditional dishes like "čobanac" and sampling the exquisite local wine, "Traminac." The best time to visit is during the late spring or early fall, when the weather is pleasant and the vineyards are lush.

11. Day 10

    Vukovar

    Croatia

    

    Vukovar, Croatia's largest river port, sits at the confluence of the Vuka and Danube rivers, offering a rich historical narrative and vibrant local culture. Must-do experiences include savoring traditional dishes like fiš paprikaš and exploring nearby attractions such as Trogir and Solin. The best time to visit is in late spring and early autumn when the weather is pleasant and the local events are in full swing.

12. Day 11

    Mohacs

    Hungary

    

    Mohács is a historically significant Hungarian town on the Danube, renowned for the pivotal 1526 battle and the UNESCO-listed Busójárás winter festival featuring dramatic masked processions. Visitors should not miss the fiery halászlé fisherman's soup prepared with fresh Danube catch, and a wine excursion to the nearby Villány appellation for world-class reds. The ideal season to visit is late spring through early autumn for warm riverside days, though February offers the unforgettable spectacle of Busójárás.

13. Day 12

    Budapest

    Hungary

    

    Budapest, divided by the Danube into the hilly Buda of thermal baths and medieval castle lanes on one bank and the grand Pest of coffee-house culture and Art Nouveau splendor on the other, delivers the most theatrical first impression of any European capital — whether approached by river as the neo-Gothic Parliament materializes from the water or by night from the Citadella's sweep of illuminated panorama below. The city's celebrated thermal bath culture, rooted in Ottoman-era hammams and perfected in palatial Secession-era pools like the Széchenyi, is an experience entirely unlike anything else in Europe. Visit spring and autumn for comfortable temperatures; Vienna is two and a half hours west by train.

14. Day 13

    Budapest

    Hungary

    

    Budapest, divided by the Danube into the hilly Buda of thermal baths and medieval castle lanes on one bank and the grand Pest of coffee-house culture and Art Nouveau splendor on the other, delivers the most theatrical first impression of any European capital — whether approached by river as the neo-Gothic Parliament materializes from the water or by night from the Citadella's sweep of illuminated panorama below. The city's celebrated thermal bath culture, rooted in Ottoman-era hammams and perfected in palatial Secession-era pools like the Széchenyi, is an experience entirely unlike anything else in Europe. Visit spring and autumn for comfortable temperatures; Vienna is two and a half hours west by train.

15. Day 14

    Bratislava

    Slovakia

    

    Bratislava, the only national capital bordering two sovereign states, sits sixty kilometres downstream from Vienna on the Danube — close enough for a day trip to the Austrian capital, yet possessed of its own entirely distinct character: a pastel-hued medieval old town of hidden courtyards, playful bronze statues, and hilltop castle views, where wine bars pour outstanding Slovak Riesling at prices that make the Viennese feel extravagant. The city's dramatic reinvention since 1989 has produced a dynamic, youthful culture that fills the old quarter's restaurants and concert halls with genuine warmth. Pair with Vienna or Budapest for the classic Danube river trilogy; all three cities are within two hours of each other.

16. Day 15

    Vienna

    Austria

    

    The port of Vienna is a cultural gem along the Danube River, famous for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene. Must-do experiences include sampling authentic Wiener Schnitzel and visiting the picturesque village of Dürnstein. The best season to visit is spring or early fall, when the city's gardens bloom and outdoor activities abound.

17. Day 16

    Vienna

    Austria

    

    The port of Vienna is a cultural gem along the Danube River, famous for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene. Must-do experiences include sampling authentic Wiener Schnitzel and visiting the picturesque village of Dürnstein. The best season to visit is spring or early fall, when the city's gardens bloom and outdoor activities abound.

18. Day 17

    Vienna

    Austria

    

    The port of Vienna is a cultural gem along the Danube River, famous for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene. Must-do experiences include sampling authentic Wiener Schnitzel and visiting the picturesque village of Dürnstein. The best season to visit is spring or early fall, when the city's gardens bloom and outdoor activities abound.

Cabin Categories

French Balcony- Cat C & D

Balcony

135 sq ftMax 2C

Stateroom size: 135 sq ft River-view stateroom with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door to create a French balcony Hotel-style bed 79 in x 63 in (with optional twin-bed configuration); luxury linens & pillows Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary) 40" flat-screen Sony TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX, National Geographic & more 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports Telephone, safe, refrigerator, hair dryer & individual climate control Private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor & anti-fog mirror Premium Freyja toiletries; plush robes & slippers available upon request Bottled water replenished daily Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping Space under bed for storing suitcases Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Queen or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTVFree Wi-Fi+4

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French Balcony- Cat C & D

Balcony

135 sq ftMax 2D

Stateroom size: 135 sq ft River-view stateroom with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door to create a French balcony Hotel-style bed 79 in x 63 in (with optional twin-bed configuration); luxury linens & pillows Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary) 40" flat-screen Sony TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX, National Geographic & more 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports Telephone, safe, refrigerator, hair dryer & individual climate control Private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor & anti-fog mirror Premium Freyja toiletries; plush robes & slippers available upon request Bottled water replenished daily Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping Space under bed for storing suitcases Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Queen or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTVFree Wi-Fi+4

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Veranda Stateroom- Cat A & B

Outside

205 sq ftMax 2A

Stateroom size: 205 sq ft River-view stateroom with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to a full-size veranda Hotel-style bed 79 in x 63 in (with optional twin-bed configuration); luxury linens & pillows Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary) 40" flat-screen Sony TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX, National Geographic & more 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports Telephone, safe, refrigerator, hair dryer & individual climate control Private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor & anti-fog mirror Premium Freyja toiletries; plush robes & slippers available upon request Bottled water replenished daily Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping Space under bed for storing suitcases Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Queen or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTVFree Wi-Fi+4

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Veranda Stateroom- Cat A & B

Outside

205 sq ftMax 2B

Stateroom size: 205 sq ft River-view stateroom with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to a full-size veranda Hotel-style bed 79 in x 63 in (with optional twin-bed configuration); luxury linens & pillows Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary) 40" flat-screen Sony TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX, National Geographic & more 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports Telephone, safe, refrigerator, hair dryer & individual climate control Private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor & anti-fog mirror Premium Freyja toiletries; plush robes & slippers available upon request Bottled water replenished daily Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping Space under bed for storing suitcases Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Queen or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTVFree Wi-Fi+4

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Standard Staterooms- Cat E & F

Outside

150 sq ftMax 2F

Stateroom size: 150 sq ft River-view stateroom with half-height picture window Hotel-style bed 79 in x 63 in (with optional twin-bed configuration); luxury linens & pillows Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary) 40" flat-screen Sony TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX, National Geographic & more 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports Telephone, safe, refrigerator, hair dryer & individual climate control Private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor & anti-fog mirror Premium Freyja toiletries; plush robes & slippers available upon request Bottled water replenished daily Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping Space under bed for storing suitcases Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Queen or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTVFree Wi-Fi+4

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Standard Staterooms- Cat E & F

Outside

150 sq ftMax 2E

Stateroom size: 150 sq ft River-view stateroom with half-height picture window Hotel-style bed 79 in x 63 in (with optional twin-bed configuration); luxury linens & pillows Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary) 40" flat-screen Sony TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX, National Geographic & more 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports Telephone, safe, refrigerator, hair dryer & individual climate control Private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor & anti-fog mirror Premium Freyja toiletries; plush robes & slippers available upon request Bottled water replenished daily Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping Space under bed for storing suitcases Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers

Queen or Twin ConfigurationShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableTVFree Wi-Fi+4

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Explorer Suite- Cat ES

Suite

445 sq ftMax 2ES

Suite size: 445 sq ft River-view suite with private wraparound balcony offering 270-degree views off the spacious, separate sitting room & floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door, known as a French balcony, in the sleeping quarters Hotel-style bed 79 in x 63 in (with optional twin-bed configuration); luxury linens & pillows Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary) Two 40" flat-screen Sony TVs with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX, National Geographic & more 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports Telephone, safe, refrigerator, hair dryer & individual climate control Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor & anti-fog mirror Premium Freyja toiletries; plush robes & slippers Bottled water replenished daily Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping Space under bed for storing suitcases Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers Early check-in (no later than 12 PM) Complimentary Silver Spirits beverage package, laundry service, room service (during breakfast) & shoe shine service Private airport transfers in Europe Welcome champagne; mini-bar with wine, beer & soft drinks (replenished daily); daily fruit plate Binoculars, coffee brewer & cashmere blanket

Queen or Twin ConfigurationLounge AreaShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableSuite Benefits+8

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Veranda Suite- Cat AA

Suite

275 sq ftMax 2AA

Suite size: 275 sq ft River-view suite with full-size veranda off the spacious, separate sitting room & floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door, known as a French balcony, in the sleeping quarters Hotel-style bed 79 in x 63 in (with optional twin-bed configuration); luxury linens & pillows Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary) Two 40" flat-screen Sony TVs with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX, National Geographic & more 110/220 volt outlets & USB ports Telephone, safe, refrigerator, hair dryer & individual climate control Large private bathroom with spacious glass-enclosed shower, heated bathroom floor & anti-fog mirror Premium Freyja toiletries; plush robes & slippers Bottled water replenished daily Stateroom steward & twice-daily housekeeping Space under bed for storing suitcases Roomy wardrobe with wooden hangers Early check-in (no later than 12 PM) Complimentary laundry & shoe shine services Welcome champagne; mini-bar with wine, beer & soft drinks (replenished daily); daily fruit plate Binoculars

Queen or Twin ConfigurationLounge AreaShowerToiletries ProvidedRoom Service AvailableSuite Benefits+6

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