Viking has expanded its European river cruise portfolio with a wide range of new shore excursions and fully guided land extensions, giving travelers more ways to explore Germany, Austria, Serbia, Slovakia, France, the Czech Republic, Italy, Croatia, Slovenia, Belgium, the Netherlands and Spain.
The new experiences are now open for booking and include scenic Zeppelin airship flights over Germany, culinary tours, wine-focused activities and small-group visits to major European landmarks. Viking is also adding pre- and post-cruise extensions designed to turn river voyages into longer multi-country vacations.
The expansion applies to select Rhine, Danube, Seine and Elbe itineraries beginning in the 2026 season. It responds to demand for destination-focused travel experiences that connect guests with local food, culture, landscapes and traditions.
Zeppelin Flights Bring a New Perspective to Germany
Germany is at the center of the expansion with two distinctive Zeppelin airship excursions available on select Rhine River itineraries.
The Zeppelin Flight Over the Ruhr Valley begins at Essen/Mülheim Airport and ascends to just over 1,000 feet. Guests can view forests, Lake Baldeney and the Ruhr Valley from above before flying over the Zeche Zollverein, a UNESCO World Heritage Site linked to the region’s industrial history.
A second experience, the Zeppelin Flight Over Cologne, departs from Bonn-Hangelar Airfield. The route offers aerial views of Cologne and the surrounding Rhineland, including the Trade Fair complex, Lanxess Arena, Hohenzollern Bridge and Cologne Cathedral. Guests can also see modern landmarks such as the Musical Dome and Mediapark.
These excursions add an aviation element to river cruising, allowing travelers to experience established European destinations from a different perspective.
Culinary Excursions Highlight Regional Flavors
Viking is also expanding its culinary tourism offering across several destinations.
In Austria’s Wachau Valley, guests can visit Nikolaihof Winery, one of the country’s oldest wineries, learn about biodynamic wine production and enjoy a seasonal dinner using locally sourced produce. Another excursion combines a guided walk through Dürnstein with a regional meal and local wine at a former monastery cellar.
In Serbia, travelers can explore Belgrade, visit Kalenić Market and take part in a cooking class featuring traditional dishes. Slovakia is represented through an excursion to Red Stone Castle and a regional winery in the Little Carpathians.
Seasonal food experiences are also being introduced in France and Germany. Guests can sample local treats in Rouen during the Christmas season or explore Berlin’s culinary traditions through specialty shops, street food and café culture.
Small-Group Tours Offer More Personal Exploration
Beginning in 2026, Viking will introduce additional small-group shore excursions across select European river voyages.
The new experiences include more intimate guided visits to the Palace of Versailles in France and Schönbrunn Palace in Austria. Travelers can also explore Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, the medieval streets and canals of Colmar in France, and Bratislava’s historic old town in Slovakia.
The smaller format is designed to create a more personal experience at major attractions and give guests more opportunities to engage with local guides.
Land Extensions Create Longer European Vacations
Viking is also adding fully guided land extensions that can be booked before or after selected river cruises.
New options for 2026 include St. Moritz, Lombardy and Alpine Train, featuring a journey on the Bernina Express through the Alps and Northern Italy. Guests can also choose a Croatia and Slovenia extension with visits to Ljubljana, Lake Bled, Radovljica, Zagreb and Keszthely.
Additional 2026 programs include Best of Belgium, covering Brussels, Bruges and Antwerp, and Best of Holland, featuring Delft, Gouda, The Hague and major museums.
For 2027, Viking will add Turin and Barolo, connecting Italian architecture, wine regions and Chambéry in France. A Seville and Córdoba extension will introduce travelers to southern Spain’s architecture, palaces and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Europe River Cruise Demand Supports New Tourism Opportunities
Viking’s expansion strengthens the role of river cruising as a gateway to longer European journeys. The new excursions can support local wineries, markets, museums, restaurants, guides and cultural attractions while encouraging travelers to spend more time in destinations before and after their cruises.
The company is also accepting sign-ups for future Oberammergau Passion Play voyages in Bavaria in 2030. With airship flights, culinary experiences, small-group tours and land extensions now available, Viking is giving travelers more ways to combine river cruising with deeper cultural exploration across Europe.
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