Budapest’s old town is a fascinating medieval patchwork of narrow streets and colorful houses. In the Castle District, the Matthias Church soars in Gothic glory. Adjacent, the expansive wall and seven turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion overlook the Danube, the graceful Chain Bridge and the Pest side of the river. The centerpiece of the district is the sprawling Buda Castle. Constructed in the 13th century and expanded to its current baroque splendor during the 18th century, this edifice was home to Hungary’s kings for almost 700 years.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
Panoramic Budapest
Take in one of Europe’s great cultural capitals and see its iconic sights.
Hungarian Horsemen
Travel to horse country to tour a farm and witness some exciting horsemanship by highly skilled riders.
Budapest Castle Hill Hike
Explore historic Buda during a city hike to Castle Hill and admire magnificent vistas over the Danube.
Dohány Street Synagogue & Jewish Budapest
Explore Budapest’s Jewish history and heritage, including the Jewish Quarter and massive synagogue.
Budapest Thermal Bath
Soak up the restorative powers of Budapest’s thermal baths and join locals in a centuries-old tradition.
Best of Budapest
Admire city landmarks and savor a taste of Hungary during visits to a renowned chocolatier and a famed distillery.
Grand Market: Flavors of Hungary
Browse the countless stalls of Budapest’s Grand Market Hall and taste Hungarian delicacies.
Videos
Explore: Budapest
Explore the beauty of Budapest, the “Pearl of the Danube,” with Karine highlighting the city’s top attractions: Fisherman’s Bastion, Great Market Hall, Heroes’ Square and more.
Viking Executive Chefs
Come into the galleys of our European river ships for an unforgettable visit with two Viking Executive Chefs, and glimpse some of the passion that goes into every dish they serve.
Shopping in Budapest
Looking for the perfect gift? Join Karine at her favorite shop in Budapest, Hungary: the venerable Café Gerbeaud, purveyors of fine chocolates.
Hungarian Language Lesson
Learn a few useful Hungarian words and phrases with Eszter, your Viking tutor. Jó napot!
Viking Baker
Come inside the 300-year-old Schmidl Bakery in Dürnstein on the Danube River, where Karine meets the owner and sees how the fine breads served on board Viking ships are made.
Glühwein (Mulled Wine)
In November and December, public houses in nearly every European town offer mulled wine as a delicious antidote to the season’s chill. Let Karine show you how to prepare your own with our special and simple recipe.
Cooking with Karine: Goulash
Explore Budapest’s Great Market Hall and learn how to make goulash, Hungary’s rich, hearty dish seasoned with paprika and packed with flavor.
Setting a New Standard
Learn about the past and future of Viking and the innovations behind our Viking Longships. Then come explore the great rivers of the world in unprecedented comfort.
The Viking Experience
Journey through the world’s most exciting river destinations on one of our elegant, award-winning ships. Learn more about the culturally immersive experiences that await you at every bend. (2018)
Christmas Markets
Witness the beauty, romance and spirit of the holidays come alive at Europe’s colorful Christmas markets when you join Viking on a festive river cruise during November or December.
