Let us take for example the Viking Var from Budapest, Hungary to Regensburg, Germany on the Danube. I did the journey in May, a stunning time to be in Europe. It was a beautiful journey with stops that also included Vienna, Austria, Bratislava, Slovakia and Passau, Germany.

The cruise was themed Romantic Danube and I never tire of this unparalleled way to experience the continent’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and  vibrant cultures.  A Viking Cruise is also the perfect way to experience a unique perspective on central Europe’s charm since onboard you get luxury, comfortable accommodation, and a new destination every day. My eight-day cruise began by highlighting Budapest with its Castle District and famous Chain Bridge.

Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is Hungary’s vibrant capital. It is known as the “Paris of the East,” and is famous for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and rich history. The impressive Matthias Church is a must before the journey down the Danube begins and taking in the Buda Castle overlooking the city from the Buda side of the Danube River is not only picturesque  but unforgettable. To enjoy a thermal bath, seek out Széchenyi and Gellért for the most relaxing and rejuvenating options before the cruise officially begins.

Bratislava, Slovakia
I was looking forward to the stop in Bratislava, Slovakia and I was not disappointed.I have visited that capital twice in the past. The first time was years ago when the city first began its renovation to freedom. Bratislava has come a long way, nestled on the banks of the Danube. The charming Old Town, a medieval castle, and a vibrant cultural scene are the highlights. Bratislava Castle overlooks the  city with panoramic views and  historical exhibits.

Walking old town will take you down narrow streets, and quaint squares where you can search for Dunajska Quarter with hidden courtyards and elegant Art Nouveau buildings tucked away to discover. For a café stop Café Emil is renowned and highly regarded in Old Town with excellent coffee and a cute courtyard.

Vienna, Austria
Next stop on the Viking Var; Vienna, Austria. Another capital with a rich history and culture.  Schönbrunn Palace is referred to as the “Versailles of Vienna.” It was the former summer residence of the Habsburgs, and touts beautiful gardens and an elaborate interior design. The pulse of Vienna is music so you get that vibe anywhere in the city from the opulent palaces to world-class museums, or coffeehouses. A stop at the Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral is worth it before heading to a historic Viennese coffee house like Café Central and Café Sacher to bask in the rich coffee culture. Other Austrian stops include Melk with its abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A baroque masterpiece perched on a hilltop; it is a fine glimpse into monastic life. Linz, Austria is the country’s third-largest city with Linz Castle and Ars Electronica Center, a museum dedicated to digital art and technology.

Passau Germany
Crossing into to Germany, the ship arrives in Passau, known as the “City of Three Rivers.” This is where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers meet. The city is home to St. Stephen’s Cathedral with one of the largest pipe organs in the world. The Old Town is another piece of history with just enough narrow streets and historic buildings to fill the afternoon.

Regensburg Germany
My arrival in Regensburg was a reminder my trip was ending, but not before visiting the what is known as one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities to explore. Renowned for its historical architecture, the Regensburg Cathedral is a Gothic masterpiece and you will be stunned by the stained glass windows. The Stone Bridge dates to the 12th century and spans the Danube River. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site with charming streets, shops, and cafes.

For those looking for the unknown venture out and look for the many curious objects all through the city like ancient gates or the stumbling stones. These stones are memorial plaques embedded in sidewalks that mark the last known residence of victims of the Holocaust. The names and dates are known, but not always the story of the individual being named.

Viking Var Longship
The Viking Var launched in 2015. It has the capacity to hold 190 passengers with a range of staterooms and suites, designed with modern comfort in mind. The panoramic lounge is popular for guests with floor-to-ceiling windows and the sun deck is a good place to relax and enjoy the scenery of the Danube River.

A real shout-out goes to the gourmet dining onboard. There is a single main dining room where guests enjoy a variety of local and international dishes. The chef uses fresh, locally sourced ingredients to prepare meals, and there are also complementary selected wines.

Also onboard are cultural immersion talks daily discussing the next day’s stop. A cruise aboard the Viking Var will take you into the heartbeat of Europe where history has been made for hundreds of years now blended with modernity as part of the scenic beauty. No matter if you are exploring one of the grand capitals on the Viking Var, feeling the energy of a historical landmark or just taking in the delights of the river’s tranquility, this journey will touch your soul as you immerse yourself in the diverse experiences this part of Europe offers.

Visit: www.vikingrivercruises.com