Capitals of Eastern Europe

Arrive in Venice, the former capital of the mighty Venetian Republic that once dominated trade in the Mediterranean for centuries. After transferring to your hotel and checking in, enjoy free time to explore this historic city at your leisure. A Viking Tour Director is available to help you plan your time in Venice so you can make the most of your visit. This evening, meet with your fellow guests for a welcome drink and briefing.

This morning, embark on a scenic boat ride to iconic St. Mark’s Square. See the 15th-century Dogeʹs Palace, once the seat of government for the Venetian Republic and Courts of Justice. Admire the famous reconstruction of the Campanile in the heart of the square and St. Markʹs Basilica, a beautiful Byzantine-style cathedral built in the shape of a Greek cross. Afterward, the remainder of the afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at your leisure. (B)

After breakfast, set out to discover two of Venice’s most beautiful outlying islands. Embark on a scenic boat ride to the island of Murano for a visit to one of the leading glass manufacturers, then continue to Burano to learn about Venice’s lace-making industry. Afterward, return to your hotel. The rest of the afternoon and evening are at your leisure. Take a winding stroll through Venice’s charming streets, or savor a meal at one of the city’s many fine restaurants. (B)

Today, check out of your hotel and board your motor coach for a scenic drive to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia nestled between the slopes of Medvednica Hill and banks of the Sava River. Your journey will take you to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia, where you will stop for a delicious lunch. Upon arrival in Zagreb, check in to your hotel. Enjoy the evening to explore at your leisure. A Viking Tour Director is available to help you plan your time in Zagreb so you can make the most of your visit. (B, L)

This morning, set out on a panoramic tour by motor coach of Zagreb, viewing such sights as the medieval Old Town and the Gothic-style Church of St. Marcus. At the conclusion of your excursion, you will enjoy the rest of the day and evening at your leisure. (B)

This morning, check out of your hotel and begin the journey to your ship. Visit the historical city center of Graz, the capital of the Austrian province of Styria and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy lunch before continuing to Vienna, where you will board your awaiting ship. (B, L)

Arrive in Prague and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore on your own and sample some of the hearty local cuisine. A Viking Host is available to help you plan your time in Prague so you can make the most of your visit.

Set out on a panoramic tour of Prague, including a guided walk through Prague Castle. Few cities embody the past as authentically as Prague, the Czech Republic’s atmospheric capital that clings to its history with unwavering passion. Prague’s medieval architecture is its most prominent, but the city is also a rich repository of Romanesque, baroque and art nouveau buildings that stir the imagination. Later, enjoy free time to visit some of the city’s landmarks or museums. (B)

Spend the day further exploring Prague on your own. See more of the Old Town or check out some of Prague’s more modern sights such as the Frank Gehry–designed Dancing House, an office building inspired by Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. Cross Charles Bridge, see the Astronomical Clock and the Lennon Wall, and stand in historic Wenceslas Square. Stroll past the colorful cottages on Golden Lane, or visit the Jewish Quarter and see the 13th-century Altneuschul, Europe’s oldest active synagogue. (B)

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to your ship to begin your river cruise. (B)