Viking Opens Bookings for New 2026 European River Cruise Excursions
Viking says 2030 Bavaria departures tied to the Oberammergau Passion Play are not yet open for booking, though guests can sign up for more information.
Viking has opened bookings for new European river-voyage experiences across its Rhine, Danube, Seine and Elbe itineraries, with additions beginning in the 2026 season and land extensions rolling out through 2027. The program adds Zeppelin sightseeing flights, culinary and wine-focused excursions, small-group visits at select European destinations and fully guided pre- and post-cruise land packages.
Viking operates more than 80 river ships and more than 100 vessels across river, ocean and expedition cruising. The company did not publish starting prices for the individual new excursions or land extensions in the announcement.
“Europe remains a favorite destination for our guests, particularly those interested in experiencing a river voyage for the first time,” said Torstein Hagen, executive chairman of Viking. Hagen said the new options are designed around “local food, culture and traditions, or even from the air in a Zeppelin.”
New shore programs start in 2026
The 2026 shore-excursion additions include Zeppelin Flight Over the Ruhr Valley and Zeppelin Flight Over Cologne. Food and wine excursions include Dinner at Nikolaihof Winery, Durnstein on Foot and Local Dinner, Sights and Flavors of Belgrade, Red Stone Castle and Wine Tasting, Sights and Tastes of Rouen and Flavors of Berlin.
Viking is also adding Small Group Experiences on select European river itineraries. The new small-group options include the Palace of Versailles, Schonbrunn Palace, Cesky Krumlov on Foot, Medieval Village of Colmar and Picturesque Bratislava.
Land extensions add Italy, the Low Countries and the Balkans
The new fully guided land extensions can be added before or after river voyages. Four extensions begin in 2026: St. Moritz, Lombardy and Alpine Train; Croatia and Slovenia; Best of Belgium; and Best of Holland. Two additional extensions are scheduled for 2027: Turin and Barolo, and Seville and Cordoba.
Viking is also running a Summer Sale for North American travelers through June 30, 2026. The offer includes reduced fares, up to free international airfare on select all-inclusive river, ocean and expedition itineraries, and a $25 deposit across all itineraries.
For 2030, Viking plans a return to Bavaria with programming tied to the Oberammergau Passion Play, a production normally staged once every 10 years. Departures are not yet open for booking. Viking is accepting sign-ups from guests who want more information once the sailings go on sale.
