If you ask people why they travel, most will say they want to learn about the local way of life, discover the region’s traditions, and experience a culture different from their own. Viking River Cruises offers bona fide cultural enrichment on every voyage, so guests not only enjoy a carefree luxury vacation, but also gain a deeper understanding of the destination’s customs and residents.

Enriching Shore Excursions

Viking River Cruises includes culturally enriching shore excursions in every port as part of the inclusive cruise fare. A selection of carefully curated tours, walks and experiences give guests the opportunity to engage with the destination and its residents. Knowledgeable local guides share their expertise so guests get a true insider perspective. Often tours include the use of a high-tech audio headset so travelers never miss a word as they take in the sights.

Dozens of UNESCO World Heritage Sites deemed worthy of outstanding natural or cultural significance are included in Viking River Cruises’ complimentary shore excursions. Travelers can learn how the historic mills at Kinderdijk drain the land, explore the Buda Castle Quarter or pay respect at Auschwitz-Birkenau, among other World Heritage discoveries.

Immersive Culture Curriculum^®

Inquisitive travelers will enjoy Viking’s onboard and onshore experiences that are designed to nourish the hungry mind. Programs include insightful presentations, regional folkloric and musical performances and cooking demonstrations.

Along the Rhine, guests can attend lectures on the European Union or get to know a local glassblower and his craft. Danube cruises offer musical entertainment highlighting Austrian and Hungarian classics, lectures on Viennese coffeehouses and basic German language classes. In France, learn about and sample a variety of French cheeses, visit a local market and attend lectures on Jeanne d ’Arc or French Impressionists.

Engaging Culinary Experiences

Viking River Cruises enriches their voyages with culinary experiences that help travelers learn about the local culture through its food.

Onboard, regional specialties are prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Many of Europe’s fertile river valleys are lined with vineyard-clad hillsides, so naturally guests have plenty of opportunities to sample the fine wines of the region and learn about the time-honored winemaking traditions. Hands-on cooking classes teach guests how to make traditional favorites, such as Sacher tortes and apple strudel. Onshore, travelers can actively engage with the local culinary community in gastronomic excursions like market visits and truffle hunting.

Customized Cultural Enrichment

Each Viking river boat has a Program Director who organizes a variety of optional tours that guests can use to customize their trip. These can include a classical concert in Vienna or a castle visit in Germany.

For those who want to venture off the beaten path with even more personalized customization, an onboard Viking Concierge is available to help with special requests. Dinner reservations at a restaurant in port or a visit to a local spa are favorite options.

More than ever, today’s traveler is interested in experiences – interacting with the local culture, learning what makes it special and taking a piece of it home in the form of rich memories. Viking River Cruises offers bona fide cultural enrichment opportunities in a comfortable, inclusive travel experience. To find out more about Viking River Cruises itineraries, please contact Covington’s expert cruise advisors.