Seeing the best of Europe can be difficult in a short period of time. If you’re headed to Europe this year, we have an incredible cruise that will please guests all year round. Viking’s Grand European voyage will take you on a classic Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise (or vice versa), where you’ll visit 13 cities and towns in 15 days.
For a limited time, this voyage also includes a huge AU $5,000 Airfare Credit per couple. Plus receive a bonus $200 onboard credit, but only when you book with Flat Beds Tour + Cruise. Offer ends 31 March 2025. This offer is valid for nearly all 2025, 2026 and 2027 voyages!
An Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise has to be one of the most popular itineraries at the moment. Viking’s voyage is totally iconic, as travellers trace the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers. Whether you’re sampling wine at Austria’s Wachau Valley in the Summer, or touring 11th-century cathedrals during Autumn, this Viking voyage is perfect for any time of the year. Onboard, you’ll experience Viking’s famous ships which offer luxurious amenities, high-quality dining experiences, along with a complimentary shore excursion in most ports.
Read all about why this Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise itinerary onboard a Viking ship is perfect for you.
Amsterdam to Budapest River Cruise: What You’ll See and Do
Embark on a timeless journey from Amsterdam to Budapest with Viking, where you’ll explore some of Europe’s most iconic destinations. Discover the rich history and breathtaking architecture of this grand part of the world.
The Netherlands
You’ll arrive in Amsterdam, transfer to your ship, and have the afternoon to settle in and explore Amsterdam as you please. Art and history lovers will adore Amsterdam- with its famous Van Gogh Museum, the Rijkmuseum and Anne Frank’s House all within walking distance of each other.
Next, you’ll sail to Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a beautiful site with old windmills and a unique piece of Dutch history.
Germany
On the third day, travellers will arrive in Cologne, Germany. This city is home to the country’s largest cathedral, the Dom, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Viking will take you on an optional excursion where you ascend to the Dom’s roof for up-close views of the cathedral’s architecture and bird’s-eye vistas of Cologne.
Following this, cruise past hilltop castles along the Rhine, stopping in Koblenz to visit Marksburg Castle, the only Rhine fortress never destroyed.
The next morning, see the beautiful Main River as it winds its way through the Spessart region. The picturesque town of Miltenberg is where you’ll stop today. Known for its half-timbered houses and Germany’s oldest inn, enjoy a walking tour and free time to spend wandering the town.
On Day 6, you may choose to join an optional full-day excursion along Germany’s picturesque “Romantic Road” to Rothenburg. Travellers in the city admire its turreted city wall and impressive Gothic and baroque architecture.
Next, continue along the Main–Danube Canal and arrive in Bamberg in the early afternoon. Furthermore, enjoy a tour of Bamberg, popular amongst tourists and a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved medieval town centre.
History buffs will love the halfway checkpoint of this Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise. You’ll disembark in Nuremberg and visit the ruins of Zeppelin Field, the Nazi parade grounds of the 1930s; then see the Palace of Justice, site of the infamous Nuremberg Trials. Popular amongst visitors, feel free to take an optional WWII tour around the city.
Regensburg will be your next stop. With architecture and buildings that date back to Roman times, you’ll discover why this hidden gem is worth the visit. Enjoy touring the 13th and 14th-century patrician houses and see the splendid St. Peter’s Cathedral. For an extra bonus city stop, drive with your Viking guide to Munich for an option full-day tour of this cultural and historical city.
On Day 10, you’ll arrive in Passau, the last stop in Germany. Take a guided walk through the town’s narrow streets, past traditional patrician houses and the Old Town. Visit the impressive St. Stephen’s Cathedral, featuring onion-domed towers and an organ with almost 18,000 pipes! For an extra bonus city stop, enjoy an optional day tour of Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and the setting of The Sound of Music.
Austria
The next morning, arrive in Melk, Austria with a plethora of things to see and do. Our top pick would be to see Melk Abbey, a 900-year-old Benedictine monastery that sits high above the town. After this, cruise through the incredibly stunning Wachau Valley. Known for its rolling hills, impressive fortresses and green vineyards, there’s no doubt travellers are adding this destination to their bucket list.
Following this, spend two days staying and cruising through Vienna. See some of the city’s baroque architecture, including the world-famous Opera House, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Hofburg Palace. Choose to do optional excursions to the famous Lipizzaner Stallions, an art workshop or a classical concert! Vienna is home to the Museum of Fine Arts and Albertina, where art connoisseurs will love checking out an unrivaled collection of Old Masters.
Hungary
Your journey will come to an end in Budapest, Hungary. You’ll have the chance to explore some of the most beautiful streets in Europe. Walk along Castle Hill to Fisherman’s Bastion which offers panoramic views of the city. A visit to Budapest is not complete without a stop at the thermal baths, some of Europe’s best and largest indoor and outdoor spa baths, pools, saunas and steam rooms.
This Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise with Viking will take you on a journey through time, visiting the grandest parts of Europe. Century old cathedrals, UNESCO World Heritage sites, picturesque towns and impressive fortresses and architecture will be just some of the highlights of this voyage.
View the Grand European deal to learn more about the voyage, or get in touch with a Tour + Cruise specialist to book.
Why Choose an Amsterdam to Budapest River Cruise with Viking?
While travelling with Viking, guests will enjoy the calming and relaxed atmosphere onboard. With classic Scandinavian style throughout and hotel-like comfort while onboard complete with ample space, plus premium amenities will create the perfect retreat while travelling.
With over 80 river ships in its fleet, the majority of them have the same design. Known as Longships, they are a reference to the historic vessels used by Vikings in the Middle Ages.
View our top Viking deals to learn more about all the voyage and the ship, or get in touch with a Tour + Cruise specialist to book.
Facilities
In terms of onboard facilities, travellers will have plenty to do. From the Nordic Spa that features a traditional Badestamp hot tub- perfect for relaxing after a long day of exploration, to comfortable lounge spaces with floor-to-ceiling windows that maximise views so you won’t miss a thing.
The outdoor areas of the ships are just as impressive with al fresco dining around a “fire pit” and three different temperature pools, both from which guests can admire the surrounding wilderness.
Viking Longships have one main restaurant where most meals are served, along with one main interior lounge with a bar. A secondary casual dining area is available at the front of each vessel that has indoor and outdoor seating, known as the Aquavit Terrace.
Suites and Staterooms
These ships also have a configuration that includes some of the largest suites ever for river ships in Europe. The innovative cabin layout offsets the main corridors meaning there are a significant number of cabins with balconies. As the corridors don’t run down the middle of the ship, it creates a wider shade with space for balconies and a narrower side with cabins turned sideways to also create room for verandas.
All-Inclusive
On your Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise with Viking, you’ll enjoy top-tier all-inclusive luxury. All meals are included, alongside complimentary beer, wine and soft drinks during lunch and dinner. Enjoy a complimentary shore excursion in every port, free Wi-Fi and expert destination guides. Plus, no kids, no casinos make for a relaxing and calm voyage.
If you’re interested in sailing an iconic Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise, we highly suggest choosing Viking. View the Grand European deal to learn more about the voyage, or get in touch with a Tour + Cruise specialist to book.
For a limited time, all Viking river voyages include a huge AU $5,000 Airfare Credit per couple, plus a bonus $200 onboard credit. But it’s only when you book with Flat Beds Tour + Cruise. Offer ends 31 March 2025. This offer is valid for nearly all 2025, 2026 and 2027 voyages!
Want to see more Viking cruises? With a range of river, ocean and expedition cruises, Viking has spectacular voyages all over the world. View them here.
