Viking Adds New Shore Excursions for River Cruises in Europe

Viking has added new shore excursions for river cruises in Europe this summer that include scenic Zeppelin airship rides in Germany, and new culinary and cultural activities.

This year, guests taking a Viking river cruise will have the choice of new excursions for cruises on the Rhine, Danube, Seine and Elbe rivers.

Here is a look at the highlights of the new shore excursions now offered by Viking.

Zeppelin Flight Over the Ruhr Valley – Board a Zeppelin airship to view the picturesque Ruhr Valley from a new perspective. First conceived in 1893 by Count Ferdinand von Zeppelin, these remarkable airships became a popular mode of travel during the early 20th-century. (Available on select Rhine River itineraries.)

Zeppelin Flight Over Cologne – Take flight on a Zeppelin airship and enjoy a bird’s-eye view of Cologne’s striking monuments as the airship will slowly ascend to its cruising altitude of 1,000 feet. Soar over Cologne, seeing its Trade Fair complex and the Lanxess arena. Follow the arches of the Hohenzollern Bridge to the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO-listed site and an impressive example of Gothic architecture. (Available on select Rhine River itineraries.)

Dinner at Nikolaihof Winery – Visit Austria’s Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and renowned region to explore Nikolaihof Winery, one of the oldest wineries in Austria. The excursion will include a sit down for a dinner of seasonal dishes made from locally sourced game and produce, some of it grown right on the winery’s grounds. (Available on select Danube River itineraries.)

Dürnstein on Foot & Local Dinner – Explore Dürnstein, a town that dates to the 12th century, on a guided walking tour through its historic streets to learn about its rich history including the castle’s 13th-century construction and connection to Richard the Lionheart, followed by a dinner at Alte Klosterkeller. (Available on select Danube River itineraries.)

Sights & Flavors of Belgrade – Take in the sights of Belgrade as you visit a local market and join a cooking class to prepare your own lunch. Set off with your guide on a drive through the city to see some of its most iconic sights. Visit the Kalenić Market, Belgrade’s largest open-air market, where you can stroll through stalls and purchase ingredients for your upcoming cooking class. (Available on select Danube River itineraries.)

Red Stone Castle & Wine Tasting – Discover the heart of Slovakian wine country with a visit to the picturesque Little Carpathians and the well‑preserved Red Stone Castle, a former 16th‑century fortress transformed into an aristocratic residence. Explore its grand interiors and cellar complex before visiting a local winery to sample the region’s specialty white wines. (Available on select Danube River itineraries.)

Sights and Tastes of Rouen – Explore Rouen during the Christmas season and discover some of its iconic landmarks and taste the local fare. Begin at the Rouen Cathedral, a structure that has evolved over 800 years and features a blend of early Gothic and Renaissance architectural styles. Learn the history of the area in the Old Market Square, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. (Available on the Christmastime in Paris & Normandy itinerary.)

Flavors of Berlin – Experience Berlin during the Christmas season, sampling the flavors of Germany’s capital city. At Lindner, the city’s renowned fine foods shop celebrated for its house-made butter, you will enjoy a taste of Berliner Boulette. Admire Berlin’s colorful street art en route to EAT Berlin, located amid a network of picturesque art nouveau courtyards. Local cheeses, mustards, pestos (sauces) and more are sold here, with lots of items to sample. (Available on the Christmas Along the Elbe itinerary.)

Torstein Hagen, Executive Chairman of Viking, gave the following statement about these new itineraries:

“Europe remains a favorite destination for our guests—particularly those interested in experiencing a river voyage for the first time. As we continue to expand our offerings in Europe, we are pleased to introduce new experiences that allow our guests to engage with their destination in the Viking way—through local food, culture and traditions, or even from the air in a Zeppelin.”