A Christmas market in Basel

Day 1 - Basel, Switzerland

Arrive in Basel and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of your day is free to explore this lovely riverside city. Perhaps you will stroll the scenic, tree-lined pathways of the Rhine promenade in Kleinbasel. Or wander amid the streets of the Old Town and immerse yourself in the spirit of the holiday season. A Viking Host is available to help you plan your time in Basel so you can make the most of your visit.

Illuminated cathedral with Christmas market

Munster Cathedral, Basel

Day 2 - Basel, Switzerland

Take a guided walking tour through historic Basel, passing through Marktplatz, or Market Square, and visit the Christmas markets. Browse for handicrafts and sip a warming mug of glühwein at Barfüsserplatz. Your afternoon is free to explore on your own; perhaps return to Münsterplatz, where the thin towers of the 13th-century Romanesque Cathedral overlook the wooden chalets of its festive market or pick up a sweet treat at a Swiss chocolatier to take home. (B)

Snow-covered Chapel Bridge in Lucerne, Switzerland

Chapel Bridge, Lucerne

Day 3 - Basel, Switzerland

Discover more of Basel at your leisure today. Browse the extensive collection of the Museum of Fine Arts or take an entertaining walk through the Caricature & Cartoon Museum Basel. Or take a day trip to Lucerne and admire the snow-capped mountain scenery of the Swiss Alps. This afternoon, transfer to your awaiting ship to begin your cruise. (B)

Your Accommodations

Radisson Blu Hotel, Basel

Ideally located between Basel’s historic old town and the central train station, the Radisson Blu is an urban retreat in the heart of city. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms in a contemporary setting, relax by the pool after a day of exploration or enjoy a cocktail at the on-site restaurant.

All this is included:

2 hotel nights in Basel (as shown or similar)
2 meals: 2 breakfasts (B)
1 guided tour: Basel Walking Tour & Christmas Markets
Services of a Viking Host
All transfers

NOTE:
Optional Shore Excursions: a selection of additional excursions may be available to enhance your extension experience. Optional excursions will be bookable in MyVikingJourney.com when your cruise shore excursions open for sale.

Extension is not available on all departure dates; confirm availability & seasonal pricing when booking. Pricing may vary by departure or activity date. Activity order may vary. Accommodations are subject to change depending on availability; if advertised hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be confirmed. Any included flights are economy class. Luggage restrictions may apply on intra-country flights. Specific details will be provided once program is confirmed. Shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

The following meals are included for all days as listed: B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner

Festive building with Christmas tree and wreaths

Christmas tree facade, Lucerne

Day 1 - Lucerne, Switzerland

Transfer from the airport to your hotel, located on the shore of Lake Lucerne—minutes from the city center, Old Town and main railway station. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the breathtaking alpine scenery. A Viking Host is available to help you plan your time in Lucerne so you can make the most of your visit.

Chapel Bridge, Lucerne

Day 2 - Lucerne, Switzerland

This morning, walk through the Old Town, admiring the Chapel Bridge, iconic Water Tower and more. Then, revel in yuletide cheer at a festive local Christmas market, maybe savoring in a cup of mulled wine as you stroll. Alternatively, join a full-day optional excursion, including a cruise on Lake Lucerne and a cog railway trip to the top of one of the region’s striking mountains. Tour a local dairy farm and produce your own cheese. Complete your Swiss experience with a delicious fondue meal. (B)

Scenic winter view of Lucerne waterfront

Lucerne, Switzerland

Day 3 - Lucerne, Switzerland

Today, enjoy free time in Lucerne as you explore this picture-postcard town independently. Alternatively, you may embark on a panoramic boat ride around Lake Lucerne, soaking up the spectacular alpine scenery. Afterward, transfer to your ship late this afternoon to begin your river cruise. (B)

Your Accommodations

Radisson Blu, Lucerne

Located a short distance from Old Town and along the banks of Lake Lucerne, this contemporary hotel offers sweeping views of Switzerland’s famed mountains, including the Rigi, also known as Queen of the Mountains. Guests can enjoy modern rooms, dine on Mediterranean fare at LUCE or enjoy a casual bite at LUCE Wine Lounge.

All this is included:

2 hotel nights in Lucerne (as shown or similar)
2 meals: 2 breakfasts (B)
1 guided tour: Lucerne Walking Tour
Services of a Viking Host
All transfers

NOTE:
Optional Shore Excursions: a selection of additional excursions may be available to enhance your extension experience. Optional excursions will be bookable in MyVikingJourney.com when your cruise shore excursions open for sale.

Extension is not available on all departure dates; confirm availability & seasonal pricing when booking. Pricing may vary by departure or activity date. Activity order may vary. Accommodations are subject to change depending on availability; if advertised hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be confirmed. Any included flights are economy class. Luggage restrictions may apply on intra-country flights. Specific details will be provided once program is confirmed. Shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

The following meals are included for all days as listed: B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner

Snowy Christmas market with festive lights

Munich, Christmas Market

Day 1 - Munich, Germany

Fly to Munich, where you will be met by a Viking Representative and escorted to your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may relax or take some time to get acquainted with the city on your own, perhaps visiting Peterskirche, Munich’s 11th-century cathedral renowned for its striking golden interior. Your Viking Tour Director is available to help you plan your time in Munich so you can make the most of your visit.

Neuschwanstein Castle in snowy winter landscape

Neuschwanstein Castle, Germany.

Day 2 - Munich, Germany

Today, visit one of the region’s spectacular palatial treasures built by one of Bavaria’s most celebrated monarchs, King Ludwig II. Drive into the countryside, where you will see the famed Neuschwanstein Castle. This fairy-tale fortress was built as an homage to composer Richard Wagner, and was the inspiration for the setting of Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty. Then travel to Oberammergau, a picturesque alpine village famous for its once-in-a-decade Passionsspiele about the life of Jesus. (B)

Munich Christmas market with historic building

Marienplatz Christmas Market, Munich

Day 3 - Munich, Germany & Salzburg, Austria

Today, take a guided tour of Munich’s iconic landmarks, culminating in a visit to its famous Christmas market. Located in Marienplatz, in front of the neo-Gothic Town Hall, it is Germany’s largest Kripperlmarkt (manger market) and exudes undeniable old-world Bavarian charm. Stroll past the many stalls displaying nativity scenes and handcrafted wares while traditional Bavarian music fills the air. After lunch, continue to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B)

Festive Christmas trees in snowy cityscape

Salzburg Cathedral, Austria

Day 4 - Salzburg, Austria

Today, get an in-depth look at one of Austria’s most stunning cities. See the place of Mozart’s birth, then continue to the Alter Markt, Salzburg’s oldest marketplace. At Domplatz, see the impressive Salzburg Cathedral and immerse yourself in its famed Christkindlmarkt, which traces its roots back to the 14th century. Enjoy time to peruse its many traditional stands, lit overhead by strands of lights that evoke the winter stars. This afternoon, continue exploring on your own. (B)

Snow-covered Mirabell Palace and Gardens in winter

Mirabell Gardens, Salzburg

Day 5 - Salzburg, Austria & Passau, Germany

This morning, see the most renowned sites where The Sound of Music was filmed, including the gardens at Mirabell Palace, where the Pegasus Fountain and a now-famous stairway played a role in the song “Do-Re-Mi.” You will also see Nonnberg Abbey, Hellbrunn Palace and St. Michael’s Basilica, where Maria and Baron von Trapp’s wedding was filmed. The Sound of Music is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2025. Continue to Passau, where the Inn and Ilz Rivers meet the Danube, to board your ship. (B)

Your Accommodations

Sheraton Grand Salzburg

The Sheraton Grand Salzburg enjoys an ideal location in the heart of Old Town Salzburg, located next to the picturesque Mirabell Pleasure Garden and the Salzach river. Guest rooms are well-appointed, designed with comfort and Austrian heritage in mind, and the on-site restaurants serve a delightful range of Austrian and Italian fare.

Hyperion Hotel Salzburg

Situated in the historic Palais Fauber building in the Neustadt district, next to the Mirabell Palace, the Hyperion Hotel Salzburg offers elegantly appointed rooms with modern amenities. The Gaunmenfreund Restaurant serves a range of international cuisine and the bar offers an informal meeting place to enjoy a coffee or a cocktail.

All this is included:

2 hotel nights in Munich; 2 hotel nights in Salzburg (as shown or similar)
4 meals: 4 breakfasts (B)
4 guided tours: Neuschwanstein Castle & Linderhof Palace; Munich at Christmas; Salzburg at Christmas; The Sound of Music Tour
Fully escorted by your Viking Tour Director
All transfers

NOTE:
Optional Shore Excursions: a selection of additional excursions may be available to enhance your extension experience. Optional excursions will be bookable in MyVikingJourney.com when your cruise shore excursions open for sale.

Extension is not available on all departure dates; confirm availability & seasonal pricing when booking. Pricing may vary by departure or activity date. Activity order may vary. Accommodations are subject to change depending on availability; if advertised hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be confirmed. Any included flights are economy class. Luggage restrictions may apply on intra-country flights. Specific details will be provided once program is confirmed. Shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

The following meals are included for all days as listed: B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner

Festive street with holiday lights at night

Christmas street decorations, Warsaw

Day 1 – Warsaw, Poland

Fly to Warsaw, meet your Viking Representative and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Your Viking Tour Director is available to help you plan your time in Warsaw so you can make the most of your visit.

Festive Warsaw Old Town Square at Christmas

Town Square at Christmas, Warsaw

Day 2 – Warsaw, Poland

This morning, admire Warsaw’s sights and take in the incredibly restored Old Town. Completely demolished during World War II, historians and architects have painstakingly rebuilt it to mirror its original beauty, using bricks and decorative elements salvaged from the rubble. During the festive season, the Christmas market brings the historic square to life, with its bustling stalls and friendly vendors. This evening, explore on your own, or join an option tour to a Chopin concert. (B)

Jasna Góra Monastery, Częstochowa, Poland

Day 3 - Częstochowa & Kraków, Poland

This morning, check out of your hotel and travel to Kraków. En route, you will visit the city of Częstochowa. Here, stop at the Pauline monastery of Jasna Góra, home of the famous Black Madonna painting that draws millions of Catholic pilgrims from all over the world. Arrive in Kraków and check in to your hotel. Your Viking Tour Director is available to help you plan your time so you can make the most of your visit. (B)

Festive Christmas Market with Horse Carriages

Kraków Cloth Hall

Day 4 - Kraków, Poland

Discover Kraków’s well-preserved Old Town. Stroll through the 13th-century Main Square; at its center stands the enormous Renaissance Cloth Hall, where exotic imports once passed for trade. On Wawel Hill, visit Wawel Castle, the former residence of Poland’s kings and now a fascinating art museum. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure; perhaps return to the Old Town’s Main Square to browse the stalls of the Christmas market or join an optional evening tour to sample the flavors of Kraków. (B)

Vibrant Krakow Market Square with St. Mary's Basilica

Christmas market, Kraków

Day 5 - Kraków, Poland

After breakfast, journey outside the city to Auschwitz-Birkenau; these preserved concentration camps serve as a solemn reminder of the horrors of World War II. Back in Kraków, enjoy time to explore on your own. Peruse the National Museum’s collection of paintings, sculptures, decorative arts and military artifacts or see Wawel Cathedral, where royal coronations were held and national heroes are entombed. This evening, enjoy dinner accompanied by a lively klezmer folk music performance. (B, D)

Day 6 - Prague, Czech Republic

After breakfast, check out of your hotel and transfer to Prague, for the start of your cruisetour. (B)

Your Accommodations

Sofitel Warsaw Victoria

Set in the heart of Warsaw, just minutes away from the historic Old Town and cultural landmarks, this contemporary hotel makes exploring Warsaw easy. Guests can relax in their comfortable and elegant rooms or try the lavish menu options at the hotel’s restaurant, La Brasserie Moderne.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Krakow

Centrally located and just steps away from Wawel Castle and the Main Square, this elegant hotel offers an array of modern amenities and rooms designed for comfort. Guests can tour the city on complimentary bicycles, then experience one of the hotel’s three dining options.

All this is included:

2 hotel nights in Warsaw; 3 hotel nights in Kraków (as shown or similar)
6 meals: 5 breakfasts (B) & 1 dinner (D)
5 guided tours: Warsaw City Tour; Jasna Góra Monastery; Kraków City Tour; Auschwitz & Birkenau; Klezmer Folk Dinner
Fully escorted by your Viking Tour Director
All transfers

NOTE:
Optional Shore Excursions: a selection of additional excursions may be available to enhance your extension experience. Optional excursions will be bookable in MyVikingJourney.com when your cruise shore excursions open for sale.

Extension is not available on all departure dates; confirm availability & seasonal pricing when booking. Pricing may vary by departure or activity date. Activity order may vary. Accommodations are subject to change depending on availability; if advertised hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be confirmed. Any included flights are economy class. Luggage restrictions may apply on intra-country flights. Specific details will be provided once program is confirmed. Shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

The following meals are included for all days as listed: B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner

Waterfront, Lake Geneva, Montreaux

Day 1 - Lake Geneva, Switzerland

At the airport, meet your Viking Representative and transfer to your hotel. After check-in, the remainder of your day is free to explore this stunning setting on the shores of Lake Geneva. Your Viking Tour Director is available to help you plan your time so you can make the most of your visit.

Festive Christmas market with ferris wheel

Christmas Market Ferris Wheel, Montreux

Day 2 - Lake Geneva, Switzerland

After breakfast, set out on foot to explore the beautiful town of Montreux. Admire the winter scenery of your surroundings, with its mountain backdrop and quaint streets. Next, visit Chillon Castle, one of Europe’s most striking medieval castles, located on a rocky islet. View the 15th-century wall paintings, explore the underground vaults and hear about its longstanding winemaking tradition. Afterward, return to Montreux and browse its festive Christmas market before returning to your hotel. (B)

Suspension bridge on snowy mountain peak

Glacier 3000, Snowy Peak, Col du Pillon

Day 3 - Jungfrau Region, Switzerland

Check out of your hotel and head to the railway station to board your train. Journey along the GoldenPass route, then board a cable car to the snowcapped Glacier 3000 resort, where you may take in the winter scenery from one of its restaurants, and take a walk across the suspension bridge. Afterward, enjoy the alpine atmosphere of Gstaad, where you will board your train for Interlaken, and transfer to your hotel for an evening at your leisure. (B, L)

Snow-covered mountain peaks under clear sky

Bernese Alps Mountain Range, Engelberg

Day 4 - Jungfrau Region, Switzerland

Today, embark a cogwheel train to Kleine Scheidegg, in the heart of the Jungfrau Region. Upon arrival at Kleine Scheidegg, admire the snowy views over the three mountain peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, then savor lunch at the restaurant. Continue your scenic journey to Grindelwald, renowned for its picturesque alpine setting. Afterward, transfer to your hotel for an evening at your leisure. (B, L)

Festive riverside town with Christmas lights

Christmas Trees, Lucerne

Day 5 - Lucerne & Basel, Switzerland

Check out of your hotel and travel to Lucerne by train, while enjoying scenic wintertime vistas. After free time for lunch, enjoy a guided walk before continuing to Basel to join your awaiting ship. (B)

Your Accommodations

Lake Geneva

Straddling the border between Switzerland and France, beautiful Lake Geneva provides a serene alpine backdrop with quaint villages nestled along its shores. Towns such as Vevey and neighboring Montreux offer boutique hotel stays in charming properties that highlighting history, heritage and culture in stunning lakeside locales.

Jungfrau Region

Home to stunning alpine scenery and the highest railway in Europe, this iconic region hosts several well-known resorts. Interlaken, nestled between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz, and Grindelwald, a picture-postcard village, each offers boutique properties with inviting accommodations in the heart of the Swiss Alps.

All this is included:

2 hotel nights by Lake Geneva; 2 hotel nights in the Jungfrau Region (as shown or similar)
6 meals: 4 breakfasts (B) & 2 lunches (L)
4 guided tours: Chillon Castle & Montreux on Foot; Glacier 3000 & Festive Gstaad; Winter Wonderland of Kleine Scheidegg; Lucerne by Foot
Fully escorted by a Viking Tour Director
GoldenPass rail tickets
All transfers

NOTE:
Optional Shore Excursions: a selection of additional excursions may be available to enhance your extension experience. Optional excursions will be bookable in MyVikingJourney.com when your cruise shore excursions open for sale.

Extension is not available on all departure dates; confirm availability & seasonal pricing when booking. Pricing may vary by departure or activity date. Activity order may vary. Accommodations are subject to change depending on availability; if advertised hotel is not available, a similar hotel will be confirmed. Any included flights are economy class. Luggage restrictions may apply on intra-country flights. Specific details will be provided once program is confirmed. Shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

The following meals are included for all days as listed: B = Breakfast; L = Lunch; D = Dinner