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Call our Specialist Cruise Consultants on:

+44 208 780 7998

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France, Painter’s Muse

See for yourself how France has inspired famous artists like van Gogh, Monet and so many more.

Related Itineraries

Lyon & Provence

Avignon to Lyon

8 Days | 7 Tours | 1 Country

From £1,495

Learn More

France’s Finest

Paris to Avignon

15 Days | 13 Tours | 1 Country

From £3,390

Learn More

Châteaux, Rivers & Wine

Bordeaux to Bordeaux

8 Days | 7 Tours | 1 Country

From £1,795

Learn More

Paris & the Heart of Normandy

Paris to Paris

8 Days | 7 Tours | 1 Country

From £1,895

Learn More

Paris to the Swiss Alps

Paris to Zürich

12 Days | 10 Tours | 4 Countries

From £1,895

Learn More

More All Videos

Sunflower field

France, Painter’s Muse

See for yourself how France has inspired famous artists like van Gogh, Monet and so many more.

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Marksburg Castle on the Rhine river

Romantic Middle Rhine

Experience the majestic stretch of the Rhine River known affectionately as the “Romantic Middle Rhine.” Winding past quaint villages and medieval castles, this idyllic waterway offers a window into the past and unmatched vistas.

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Viking Proudly Presents: The Chaperone

One was reaching for the stars. The other was reaching for her past.

From the writer and director of Downton Abbey comes the first theatrical release from MASTERPIECE FILMS | PBS. Based on Laura Moriarty’s beloved New York Times best-selling novel, The Chaperone reunites the writer (Oscar-winner Julian Fellowes), director (Michael Engler) and star (Elizabeth McGovern) of Downton Abbey for an immersive and richly emotional period piece featuring the story of Louise Brooks, the 1920s silver screen sensation who epitomized the restless spirit of the Jazz Age. In theaters March 29, 2019.

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Exterior view of Notre Dame Cathedral

Gothic Cathedrals

Marvel at the ingenuity and ethereal quality of Gothic architecture, a style inspired by a period when religion governed life and epitomized by Europe’s soaring cathedrals from the 12th to 16th centuries.

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Impressionist painting

The Impressionists

Learn the story of how impressionist paintings by Monet, Renoir, Cézanne and Degas forever changed the face of the art world and became a symbol of modern French life. Follow these iconic artists’ footsteps on a France river cruise with Viking.

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Top 10 Reasons to Reserve a Viking Longship Suite

Top 10 Reasons to Reserve a Viking Longship Suite

Our elegant, award-winning Viking Longships are recognized for their innovative design allowing for river cruising’s first-ever true (two-room) suites. Complete with a full-size veranda, these Viking Suites offer more space and comfort, early check-in, a welcome bottle of champagne and more. Learn more about what the Viking Suite Collection has to offer.

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Viking suite living room with the words "Top 10 reasons to reserve a Viking Suite" in white.

Top 10 Reasons to Reserve a Viking Suite

Whether you choose to travel with Viking by river or by sea, we bring you closer to your destinations on state-of-the-art ships. In addition to our refined onboard ambience and understated elegance, we are known for our graceful staterooms, including the first-ever true (two-room) suites. From more space and comfort to additional features and amenities, discover the benefits of reserving a Viking Suite.

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Promotional title card for National Geographic's Genius series

Genius: Picasso

Viking is proud to continue as a presenting sponsor of Genius: Picasso, building on our ongoing commitment to providing enriching cultural programming. Executive produced by Imagine Entertainment’s Brian Grazer and Ron Howard, Genius: Picasso costars Golden Globe and Emmy nominee Antonio Banderas as Picasso and True Detective/Glow’s Alex Rich as the younger Pablo.

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Karine Hagen with Mike the Beekeeper at Highclere Castle

Highclere Behind the Scenes: Mike the Beekeeper

Join Karine and Finse as they explore the world of bees with Mike Withers, a thirty-year member of the Highclere staff, whose passion for these hard-working, misunderstood insects spans 60 years.

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Pat the Painter up on a ladder, measuring and painting Highclere Castle.

Highclere Behind the Scenes: Pat the Painter

Meet Pat Withers, one of the castle’s favorite, most colorful characters, who came to Highclere as a teenager and never left. As the longest serving staff member at Highclere, she’s worked for three generations of the Carnarvon family.

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Karine Hagen with Countess of Carnavon in Highclere Castle

At Home at Highclere

Join Karine as she speaks with the Countess of Carnarvon about her new book, At Home at Highclere. Learn about what it is like to live in this stately castle, and its history, delicious food and dedicated staff.

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Tor Hagen standing under a huge gold rotar underneath a Viking Ocean Ship.

Celebrating 20 Years of Exploration

From its humble roots on Russia’s rivers to its innovative European Longships and elegant ocean vessels spanning the globe, Viking celebrates two decades of growth and acclaim.

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A dining room in Highclere Castle

Downton Abbey: The Exhibition

Downton Abbey: The Exhibition, based on the award-winning television series sponsored by Viking, transports you to post-Edwardian England, where the characters and the iconic house come to life. You will be immersed in the fascinating social history, culture, and some of the most memorable moments from the show’s six-season run.

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Karine Hagen visits Koblenz Jewish Cemetery

Koblenz Jewish Cemetery

Join Karine for the moving story of the Koblenz Jewish Cemetery, a sanctuary of reflection and a window into the history of a community and culture that were once nearly lost.

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Karine Hagen and another person inside Marksburg Castle

Iconic Marksburg Castle

Painstakingly chiseled into the slate bedrock of a mountain peak, Marksburg has long stood as one of Germany’s most formidable castles. Step back into the Middle Ages with Karine as she explores the heart of this legendary stronghold.

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Schloss Mespelbrunn Castle with a moat

Schloss Mespelbrunn

Tucked away in the midst of a verdant forest is the exquisite Schloss Mespelbrunn. Take a peek inside as Gräfin (Countess) Hedwig Margarete shares her home, and learn more about the castle’s legendary past.

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Karine, another woman and a dog standing within the vined terraces of Schloss Löwenstein

Modern Aristocracy

The Löwenstein family is one of Germany’s cultural treasures. Step behind the scenes to meet Fürst (Prince) Alois-Konstantin and his daughter-in-law Princess Stephanie as they share family history and the secret behind the renowned Fürst Löwenstein wines.

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Elderly couple drinking wine on the veranda of their stateroom

The Viking Experience

Journey through the world’s most exciting destinations with The World’s Leading River Cruise Line.

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The lobby of the Hotel Sacher in Vienna, Austria

Austria’s Hotel Sacher and Torte

Join Karine (and her beloved dog Finse) and step into the spirit of old Europe at Vienna’s iconic Hotel Sacher to learn the story behind the Sachertorte, its legendary handmade cake.

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Exterior view of the Cologne Cathedral

Gothic Cologne Cathedral

Explore the history of this ornate architectural masterpiece. Towering over the Rhine, the majestic Cologne cathedral has been a beacon for pilgrims from around the world for centuries.

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Karine Hagen dancing with a Benedictine monk at Gottweig Abbey

Austria’s Göttweig Abbey

Journey to a living abbey where Benedictine monks have worked and worshipped for more than 900 years on a hilltop overlooking the Wachau Valley. You may even dance the waltz with one!

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Six people dancing a Viennese waltz

Learn the Iconic Viennese Waltz

Learn the iconic Viennese waltz at Vienna’s oldest and most famous dance school, Tanzschule Elmayer. Watch Professor Elmayer teach Karine the basic steps in just a few minutes.

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Viking Guests enjoying wine and fresh air on a Viking River Ship.

Viking Onboard Experience

Tour our stylish ships, designed with understated elegance and comfort in mind. Spacious staterooms, indoor and outdoor dining venues and panoramic views enrich your travel experience.

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A Viking Chef greeting patrons seated to eat.

Viking Inclusive Value

With Viking, there are no hidden fees. One price covers most everything—port charges, Wi-Fi, meals, lectures, activities and shore excursions—plus hotel accommodations on cruisetours.

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Karine Hagen sitting on a couch in the Exlorers' Lounge of a Viking river ship

Longship Staterooms

The streamlined Scandinavian design and generous amenities of the staterooms on board Viking Longships create a lovely place to call home while exploring the waterways of Europe. Find out why.

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The Viking Mekong sailing along the Mekong river

Sailing Southeast Asia with Viking

Explore Southeast Asia in comfort on board elegant Viking ships. Relax as you enjoy breathtaking, upper-deck views from your stateroom and savor local cuisine in the intimate restaurant.

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Viking Beyla sails by Meissen Albrechtsburg Castle in Germany

Viking Astrild and Viking Beyla

Viking Astrild and Viking Beyla were custom built for the Elbe River. These sister ships include deluxe accommodations, streamlined interiors and many features of our Viking Longships.

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A Viking river ship sailing past a European town

Viking Hemming and Viking Torgil

Custom built for Portugal’s Douro River, the intimate, state-of-the-art Viking Hemming and Viking Torgil feature several stateroom categories and lounges with floor-to-ceiling windows.

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Viking Ships of Russia

Our refurbished, elegant Russian fleet sets new standards of excellence in this region. Enjoy spacious staterooms and suites, an inviting restaurant and beautiful public spaces.

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Russian Ballet dancers with white tutus.

The World of Viking

Immerse yourself in intriguing cultures and awaken your senses. Discover new horizons as you spend more time in port, giving you more opportunities to explore. This is the World of Viking.

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Tor Hagen and women holding bouquets of flowers at a Viking Christening Ceremony.

Viking Longships Christening 2016

During a festive waterfront Christening Ceremony in Amsterdam, Viking was proud to welcome six of its new Viking Longships to the award-winning and innovative fleet.

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Viking Emerald on Yangzte River

Viking Emerald: Pearl of the Yangtze

Experience the Yangtze River in elegant comfort. The all-veranda Viking Emerald offers superb service, delicious local cuisine with a full Western-style menu and spectacular views.

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Jewish Museum in Berlin, Germany

Jewish Museum

Designed by New York architect Daniel Libeskind, Berlin’s compelling Jewish Museum provides an unforgettable journey through Jewish culture and a rich chronicle of memory and hope.

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Western Allies loading planes at an airport to deliver supplies to Berlin

The Berlin Airlift

Go behind the scenes at Tempelhof Airport, long closed to visitors, and learn about the famed “Raisin Bombers” and their role during the historic Berlin Airlift, the largest in history.

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Truffle Hunting

Truffle Hunting

Join Karine in Bordeaux, France as she learns how dogs are trained to sniff out and unearth a treasured French delicacy, the rare and delicious truffle.

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Exterior view of Blaye Citadel

Blaye Citadel

Step inside the historic Blaye Citadel with Karine. Louis XIV built this mighty fortress in the 17th century on the banks of the Gironde River to protect Bordeaux from the British.

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Karine Hagen wine tasting in Bordeaux

Bordeaux’s Clairet & Rosé Wines

Introduce yourself to some hidden gems of Bordeaux’s world-renowned viniculture. You will learn subtle differences in wine profiles and why the French treasure their bounty each summer.

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A couple at a cognac tasting

Camus Cognac: A Bordeaux Favorite

Go behind this famous brand to meet the head of the house of Camus. Hear the story of its logo and learn the family philosophy that has guided the company for five generations.

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Rack of various wines

Bordeaux’s Prestigious Wines

Venture into the fascinating world of Bordeaux winemaking with Karine. Meet a renowned Master of Wine and learn about regional favorites from local experts.

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Glasses of red and white wine

Bordeaux’s Sublime Wines

Join Karine as she delves into the essence of Bordeaux’s most popular red and white wines with a local expert, learning some secrets of summoning a wine’s character along the way.

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Karine Hagen eats steak Bordelaise in Bordeaux

Cooking with Karine: Steak Bordelaise

Join Karine as she learns the secrets of preparing Steak Bordelaise, Bordeaux’s celebrated and classic dish, with local gourmand, chef Georges Gotrand.

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Grapes growing on the vine

The Wine Regions of Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France’s celebrated vineyard-laden province, is home to some of the world’s most prized wines. Learn about its different regions and appellations with Karine.

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Beijing Hutongs in China

Beijing Hutongs

To experience an authentic slice of real Chinese life, step into the hidden corners of the hutong alleyways, an ancient maze of traditional courtyard houses linked by narrow corridors.

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People practicing tai chi

Chinese Medicine

For millennia, the Chinese have balanced their energy with tai chi, acupuncture, herbal medicine and more. Join Karine and learn more about their approach to healthy living.

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Karine Hagen learns about history of Chinese porcelain

Chinese Porcelain

Join Karine as she learns about the history of Chinese porcelain, an art form created during the Han Dynasty and shaped by artisans from the Song, Ming and other dynasties.

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Chinese architecture

Chinese Superstitions

Why do many Chinese office buildings lack a fourth floor? What color attracts prosperity? Join Karine and learn about some of China’s time-honored beliefs.

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A steaming bowl of noodles in broth, with a small mountain of chopped chives in the center.

Cooking with Karine: Noodles

Watch as onboard Viking Chef Fong gives Karine a hands-on lesson that reveals some traditional culinary secrets that go into preparing the world’s finest noodles.

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A plate of Chinese food

Food in China

Venture into a Chinese night market to sample some of China’s most beloved delicacies. Join Karine and discover the secrets of hot pot, Peking duck, homemade noodles and more.

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The Forbidden City in China

Forbidden City

Karine helps reveal the heart of China’s greatest mystery. Once closed to all but royalty, now this legendary “treasure box” is open to guests like us.

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A giant panda sitting in a tree

Giant Pandas of China

Do you know the legend of how the panda got its unique coloring? Find out as Karine meets these rare and treasured animals in the mountain forests of central China.

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Chinese tea cup

Secrets of Chinese Tea

Legend has it that tea was discovered 5,000 years ago. Learn about the beloved beverage’s place in Chinese culture, lore and medicine.

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Acrobats performing in Shanghai, China

Shanghai Acrobats

Dexterity and strength, passion and focus. Join Karine backstage as she watches some of the world’s most courageous artists perfect their gravity-defying acrobatics.

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Exterior of Shibaozhai

Shibaozhai

Learn about mysterious Shibaozhai and the Bridge of Luck, beautifully situated in the middle of the mighty Yangtze. Join Karine as she unveils the secrets of this twelve-story temple.

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Art of Calligraphy

The Art of Calligraphy

In China, calligraphy is not just a form of writing but it is a revered form of art that dates back millennia. Join Karine and learn its timeless secrets from an expert calligrapher.

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Various roles of silk patterns

The Story of Silk

From humble silkworms to beautiful custom silk jackets, learn how the most famous fabric of China is made as Karine takes you on a fascinating visit to a silk factory.

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Ship sailes by Three Gorges Dam in China

The Three Gorges

Enjoy a scenic journey with Karine through China’s most dramatic region, the Yangtze River’s Three Gorges, and learn about some of the area’s residents, past and present.

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Karine Hagen smelling tea

What to Do in China?

Have a little extra time on your own while exploring China with Viking? Karine has a few recommendations for you, from tai chi in Beijing to exploring Taikan Lane in historic Shanghai.

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Chinese gardens and buildings over a small, tranquil pond.

Yuyuan Garden

Chosen by the wealthy Pan family as the location of their retirement home, the Yuyuan Garden is a serene example of a traditional Chinese garden—juxtaposed against the backdrop of Shanghai.

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A woman dressed in a blazer standing over water, with the words "Hello" "Bok" "Bokh" in text.

Croatian Language Lesson

Learn a few useful Croatian words and phrases with Ivana, your Viking tutor. Živjeli!

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Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace

Explore the ornate halls of Britain’s Blenheim Palace with Karine. This grand English estate, the birthplace of Winston Churchill, has close ties to the American Vanderbilts and is the seat of the Duke of Marlborough.

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Golden labrador lying on a rug

Finse Comes Home to Highclere

This is a reunion unlike any other as Karine’s golden Labrador Finse returns home to Highclere Castle, the real “Downton Abbey,” and gets reacquainted with her brothers and sisters.

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Aerial view of Highclere Castle

Highclere Castle

Join Karine at the real “Downton Abbey,” the historic and renowned Highclere Castle in Hampshire, England, home to the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon.

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A library at Oxford University

Visit Oxford & Highclere Castle

Travel with Viking to the hallowed halls of the University of Oxford, historic Highclere Castle, the real “Downton Abbey,” grand Blenheim Palace and the fabled villages of the Cotswolds.

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Aerial view of Oxford University

Visit the University of Oxford

Join Karine as she goes behind the scenes at the University of Oxford, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions and alma mater to kings and presidents.

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Aerial view of Marksburg Castle

Explore Europe with Viking

Sail Europe’s picturesque waterways in elegant comfort with Viking. Ranging from 7 to 23 days, our itineraries offer a wealth of unforgettable journeys across the continent.

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A plated Portuguese fish delecacy

Bacalhau: Portuguese or Norwegian?

Watch as chef Rui Paula shows Karine his unique nouvelle cuisine twist on bacalhau, the beloved Portuguese national dish that is based on cod, one of Norway’s national fish.

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A woman in a black blazer with the words "Hello" in English and French overlayed in white text.

French Language Lesson

Learn a few useful French words and phrases with Maaike, your Viking tutor. À votre Santé!

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Aerial view of a European town along a river

Thanksgiving in Europe

Celebrate Thanksgiving with Viking on November sailings. There is no better way to complement your succulent turkey dinner than with a stroll through one of Europe’s cultural capitals.

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Snow covered buildings as seen from above on a Holiday Viking Cruise.

The Holidays on Danube Waltz

Celebrate the holidays in Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Enjoy splendid art, architecture, history and the festive Christmas market tradition in Europe’s most beloved cities.

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Aerial view of an ice rink in France

The Holidays on Paris & the Heart of Normandy

Unwrap the romance of France at Christmastime. Experience the elegance of Paris and explore the tranquil countryside, picturesque Les Andelys, medieval Rouen and the D-Day sites of Normandy.

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Half-timbered homes along a river in a European town

The Holidays on Rhine Getaway

Explore the timeless wonders of Amsterdam, Cologne, Heidelberg, Strasbourg, the Black Forest and Basel. From The Netherlands to Switzerland, this is an unforgettable holiday season experience.

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Aerial view of a European Christmas market

The Holidays on Romantic Danube

Discover the Danube’s delights in Hungary, Austria and Germany. From historic Budapest and stunning Vienna to medieval Regensburg, experience the holiday season like never before.

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Karine Hagen shops at farmer's market in Libourne

Farmers’ Market in Libourne, France

Walk through Libourne’s bustling market with Karine and Chef Magalie of Viking as they shop for fresh fruits and vegetables to be served in the ship’s dining room.

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Orchestra plays "The Traveler"

Listen to “The Traveler”

The National Symphony Orchestra of London records Viking’s beautiful new music score at London’s legendary Abbey Road Studios. Written by Debbie Wiseman, Classic FM Composer in Residence, “The Traveler” was created to celebrate the company’s 20th Anniversary, its spirited theme reflecting the exploration and discovery found on Viking voyages.

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Karine Hagen sitting at a piano with another woman

“The Traveler”: Meet the Composer

Join Karine and meet Debbie Wiseman, London’s Classic FM Composer in Residence. Learn how Debbie’s voyages with Viking inspired this beautiful piece of music, written to celebrate our 20th Anniversary.

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Tor Hagen, Karine Hagen, and her dog crossing an iconic road.

“The Traveler”: Behind the Scenes

Step inside the hallowed halls of London’s Abbey Road Studios, where the Beatles recorded nearly all their hits. Join Karine as she shares the process of transforming an original composition into a powerful piece of recorded music.

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Leif Erikson Discovers America by Christian Krohg

Explorer Leif Eriksson

Join Viking as we chronicle the story of Leif Eriksson, the Norse navigator who set out to explore the seas west of Greenland and discovered America, 500 years before Columbus.

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Karine Hagen baking bread in Portugal

The Viking Way

Go beyond the expected and experience The Viking Way. Engage in Local Life, learn about the Working World and enjoy Privileged Access to people and places otherwise difficult to visit.

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Golden labrador lying on a rug

The World of Finse with Suzy-Jane Tanner

In this short documentary, we visit Suzy-Jane Tanner who illustrates the World of Finse books produced by Viking. We talk about her life and experiences, while talking through how she produces the beautiful illustrations.

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The Northern Lights above snowy mountains

Time

Viking is proud to showcase our newest national television commercial, “Time,” featuring Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen.

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A Viking ocean ship sailing

Advice

Join Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen as he shares his insights on travel and the benefits of engaging with new cultures.

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A Viking river ship sailing past a European town

Viking Guest Reviews

There are countless reasons to explore the world with Viking, from our exemplary service and cultural enrichment to our unmatched value. Listen as our guests share their experiences.

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Saint Basil's Cathedral in Moscow, Russia

Moscow by Night

Moscow by night is a dazzling spectacle of illumination. Join Karine on a short tour of the city’s light show, proving this is one of those cities that never sleeps.

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A WWII cemetary in Normandy

D-Day at Normandy

Meet Robert Allen, a World War II veteran who bravely came ashore at Normandy . . . then returned with Viking, sharing some of his memories with us.

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A memorial statue on the beach at Normandy.

The Normandy Beaches

There are few more pivotal moments in history than the D-Day landings that ushered in the end of World War II. Visit the sacred beaches with Karine and recall the day’s monumental sacrifices.

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Plates of German bratwurst

Cooking with Karine: Bratwurst

Taste a variety of German delicacies with Karine in Nuremberg’s medieval district, and learn some of the best side dishes to go with them, perhaps paired with a local brew.

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A black and white photo of a room full of desks and people at the Nuremberg Historic Trials.

Nuremberg Trials

Learn about the war crimes tribunals that took place in Nuremberg’s Palace of Justice as the entire world watched with rapt attention, and consider seeing Courtroom 600 for yourself.

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A basket of Portuguese bread

Cooking with Karine: Bread

Dona Manuela’s family has been making its famous Portuguese bread for centuries. Join Karine as Dona Manuela teaches her how to prepare this beloved delicacy celebrated the world over.

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A woman with red fringe singing emotionally into a microphone.

Fado, Music of Portugal

Learn about the dramatic songs of fado, born along Portugal’s waterfront. This music of passion often depicted the longing of women waiting for their men to return from sea.

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History of Port Wines

Take a journey with Karine as she explores Portugal’s history of wine and gains insight into its production and the various types of port, with a local expert on hand.

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Aerial view of Porto, Portugal

Portugal’s Wine Country

In 1756, Portugal’s Douro River Valley became the world’s first protected wine-producing region, and today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn more about the region’s famous port wine.

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Karine Hagen makes Portuguese Creme Brulee

Portuguese Crème Brûlée

Go behind the scenes with Karine to see how easy it is to make this local variation of everyone’s favorite dessert. You may want to take notes during this hands-on demonstration!

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A woman saying "thank you" in Portuguese

Portuguese Language Lesson

Learn a few useful Portuguese words and phrases with Maria, your Viking tutor. Saúde!

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A beer stein being filled with beer

Prague Microbrewery

In 1466, just off Prague’s Old Town Square, a tiny microbrewery first opened its doors. Today, on the same spot, Ladislav Vesely continues the tradition of making the finest Czech beer.

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Close up view of a relief in a synagogue

Prague Synagogue

When in Prague, be sure to visit the Old New Synagogue in Josefov, the Jewish Quarter. This is the oldest synagogue in Europe, where generations have been worshipping since 1270.

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Elderly Russian soldier in uniform

A Russian Hero

Meet Mikhail Bobrov, the “Most Honored Citizen of St. Petersburg.” The legendary Russian adventurer stopped Nazi warplanes and saved countless lives during the siege of Leningrad by putting his own life on the line.

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Document about culture and history of former Soviet Union

Eyewitness to History

Karine talks with Vladlen Kuzin, former head of propaganda and director of the Leningrad Documentary Studio, about the part he has played in documenting the culture and history of the former Soviet Union.

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Karine Hagen and Nadya, a grandmotherly woman holding boquets of purple flowers.

Karine Welcomes You to Her Russia

Karine has spent much of her adult life in Russia and remains captivated and entertained by the country and its culture. Come along as she shares her deep love and fascination for this charming country and its people.

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Annunciation Cathedral in Moscow, Russia

Kommunalka Home Visit

Come inside for a private tour of a typical Soviet Russian home, a kommunalka, a communal apartment like those shared by many Russian families for generations in the post-revolutionary years of the 20th century.

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Red Flag Factory in Russia

Red Flag Factory

Visit a former Soviet icon soon to be reborn as a business, arts and cultural center. See fascinating footage of this architectural gem’s past as a factory where uniforms were made.

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Russian Food: Soups

No Russian meal is complete without homemade soup, a central element of culinary culture. Karine samples two types of borscht, the nationally renowned beet soup, and other tasty dishes.

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Russian Beef Soup with celery and pickles, served in a white porcelain dish

Russian Food: Starters

Here are some specialties Russians might enjoy as a starter to their main meal. From pickled mushrooms to the Salad Olivier, a traditional New Year’s dish, try some for yourself!

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Woman showing Karine Hagen a selection of Russian desserts

Russian Food: Sweets

Russian meals are often topped off with something sweet. Sample some favorite desserts with Karine, from kisel, a red berry soup, to oladi, a thick pancake served with cream and jam.

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Hand holding Russian lilacs

Russian Superstitions

Why do Russians avoid shaking hands over a doorway’s threshold? Or sit on their luggage before departing on a journey? See some of the unusual ways good fortune is ensured in Russia.

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The opulent interior of the Hermitage

Travel to Russia with Viking

With Viking, you will visit Russia’s great cities; sail the Volga, Svir and Neva Rivers and through Lake Onega and Lake Ladoga; and explore charming Golden Ring cities.

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Peterhof Palance in St. Petersburg, Russia

River Cruising: Russia & Ukraine

Moscow. St. Petersburg. Kiev. Odessa. Learn what it is really like to journey through Russia or Ukraine with Viking.

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Viking Guests sitting on a couch in a Viking River Longship Suite.

Are You a First-Time River Cruiser?

There is no more enriching and convenient way to travel than on a Viking river cruise. If you are new to river cruising and would like to know what you can expect, watch this video.

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Torstein Hagen raising his placard for winning the Guinness World Record of "The Most Ships Inaugurated in One Day by One Company"

Christening Highlights 2014

Learn how Viking earned the Guinness World Records title for “Most Ships Inaugurated in One Day by One Company,” an event that unfolded in Amsterdam, Rostock and Avignon.

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Karine Hagen in the kitchen with Viking Chefs working the line.

Cooking with Karine: In the Galley

Ever wonder what goes on in your river ship’s galley? Take a look inside the kitchen at the peak of mealtime as Karine dons an apron and joins the ranks of our talented crew.

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A happy group of Viking Guests on a city tour with a Viking Representative.

Exploring in Comfort

See what sets Viking apart: daily cultural immersion, opportunities for leisure and relaxation, and events that engage your mind and enliven your spirit. Learn more here.

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Ironsmith works on ship

Making a Viking Longship

Witness the intricate craftsmanship and herculean efforts that go into building a Viking Longship as you pay a fascinating visit to Rostock’s Neptun Yard along Germany’s northern coast.

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Tables and chairs on the Aquavit Terrace of a Viking river ship

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.

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Painting of an original Viking longship

The Original Longships

Delve into the past for a look into the art of building a Viking longship. Meet a master boatbuilder and learn about the role these vessels played in Viking society centuries ago.

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Elderly couple drinking wine on the veranda of their stateroom

The Viking Experience

Journey through the world’s most exciting destinations with The World’s Leading River Cruise Line.

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A man holding a wine glass while standing on the veranda of a Viking river ship stateroom

Viking Longships: Explorer Suite

The exceptional Explorer Suites on board Viking Longships feature separate sleeping and sitting rooms, a wraparound veranda with 270° views, a French balcony and hotel-style amenities.

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Torstein Hagen at Christening cermony

Viking Longships Christening 2015

During simultaneous christenings in Amsterdam and Rostock, Germany, Viking welcomed 10 award-winning Viking Longships and two custom vessels for the Elbe River to its European fleet.

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Guests walking down the lobby stairs on board Viking Longship

Viking Longships Tour

With their innovative patented design, al fresco Aquavit Terrace and understated elegance, Viking Longships provide the most rewarding way to explore Europe. Find out more on this short tour.

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People gathered on the bow of a Viking River Longship.

Viking Longships: Innovative Elegance

Our innovative Viking Longships offer full-size verandas and the largest suites on Europe’s rivers. Dine in the restaurant or al fresco on our Aquavit Terrace, all with panoramic views.

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Viking Prestige sailing in the water.

Viking Prestige and Viking Legend

The sleek, award-winning Viking Prestige and Viking Legend feature inviting restaurants, panoramic windows, al fresco dining and spacious suites and staterooms.

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Viking river ship sailing along a river

Viking Ships of Eastern Europe

Our elegant, completely refurbished Russian fleet and Ukraine ship set a new standard for river cruising excellence in this region, offering the ambience and comforts of a fine hotel.

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A canal in St. Petersburg, lined with boats and colorful houses, sparkles in dawn light.

Canals of St. Petersburg

Join Karine and discover why majestic St. Petersburg is known as the “Venice of the North” during a tour of the city’s vast network of canals and bridges.

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Gallery of the Winter Palace in St. Petersburg

Hermitage Access

Experience St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum, the unrivaled art collection of Catherine the Great, as you never imagined: with personalized, after-hours tours by expert curators.

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Hermitage Cats

Since 1747, a stealthy army of cats has protected the treasures of St. Petersburg’s famed Hermitage Museum from rodents. Karine heads into the museum’s basement to seek them out.

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Karine Hagen outside a modest house with a small Russian woman

Uglich Home Visit

Come with Karine to the Golden Ring city of Uglich along the Volga River. Here, you will step inside the home of babushka Nadya, who raises a glass to good health, prosperity and love.

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Karine Hagen shops at Cafe Gerbeaud in Hungary

Gifts Along the Danube

The Danube’s banks overflow with shopping opportunities. Join Karine at her favorite spots in Passau, Vienna and Budapest as she shares perfect gift ideas for yourself or your loved ones.

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The Vienna Boys Choir lined up on a staircase, all wearing matching black robes.

Vienna Boys’ Choir

Go behind the scenes with the world-renowned Vienna Boys’ Choir. Join Karine as she meets some of these talented youngsters and sits in as they prepare for an evening performance.

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A barista working in a wood paneled coffee house in Vienna.

Vienna Coffeehouses

Relax and enjoy a cup of Viennese coffee with an exquisite pastry at Café Demel, one of Vienna’s oldest coffeehouses. Established in 1786, it has satisfied the cravings of Austrians for more than 220 years.

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Plated Wienerschnitzel dish