Viking has officially launched its 2025 European river season, with its award-winning fleet setting sail on some of the most scenic rivers in Europe. The start of the season coincides with the arrival of spring, and Viking is expanding its offerings with new ships and itineraries.
This year, Viking introduces seven new sister ships, each designed for European rivers and capable of hosting 190 or fewer guests. These ships will sail alongside Viking’s other popular vessels across Europe. The company is also offering three new river itineraries for 2025, allowing guests to explore more of the continent’s stunning waterways.
Viking also welcomed its new ship, the Viking Nerthus, this week. Specifically built for the Seine River, Viking Nerthus is one of many new ships planned for the company’s fleet. By 2028, Viking expects to have 25 additional river ships and 21 ocean and expedition ships, bringing the total fleet to 109 river vessels and 21 ocean ships.
Viking’s New 2025 River Cruises in Europe
Viking’s European river voyages for 2025 will run from March through December. The company is introducing three new itineraries on the Rhine, Main, and Seine rivers, while continuing to offer its established routes.
Highlights of the new season include:
Rhine & Main Explorer (11 Days; Nuremberg – Basel):
This itinerary takes guests through southern Germany, Switzerland, and France. Travelers will visit Basel, Switzerland’s cultural capital, as well as Frankfurt’s cityscape and the medieval towns of Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria.
Christmas on the Rhine & Main (11 Days; Nuremberg – Basel):
Guests can immerse themselves in the festive spirit of Europe’s Christmas markets along the Rhine and Main rivers. Stops include Basel, Karlsruhe, Strasbourg, and Nuremberg, where visitors can enjoy mulled wine and handcrafted holiday treats.
Christmastime in Paris & Normandy (8 Days; Roundtrip from Paris):
This cruise combines the holiday magic of Paris with a scenic journey through Normandy. Guests will visit the Christmas markets in Rouen and enjoy the festive atmosphere before returning to Paris for the city’s world-famous holiday lights.
Rhine Getaway (8 Days; Basel – Amsterdam):
On this journey, guests will explore the Middle Rhine’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, medieval towns, and stunning landscapes. Stops include Amsterdam, Cologne, and Basel, along with a chance to taste renowned wines from the region.
Danube Waltz (8 Days; Budapest – Passau):
Travelers will experience the thermal baths in Budapest and learn the Viennese waltz. Other highlights include visits to Vienna and Budapest, as well as the Wachau Valley, with stops in Bratislava and Passau.
Romantic Danube (8 Days; Budapest – Regensburg):
This itinerary takes guests to Budapest’s Castle District, with scenic views of the famous Chain Bridge. Travelers can visit Gottweig Abbey, learn to make dumplings in the Wachau Valley, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the Danube.
Paris & the Heart of Normandy (8 Days; Roundtrip from Paris):
Guests will explore Paris, including views of the Eiffel Tower and a replica of the Statue of Liberty. The journey also includes visits to the Normandy beaches, the medieval town of Rouen, and Giverny, where Claude Monet lived and painted.
Grand European Tour (15 Days; Amsterdam – Budapest):
This 15-day journey offers a deep dive into Europe’s history and culture, with stops in the Rhine Valley, Wachau Valley, Vienna, and Nuremberg. Guests will also explore the landscapes along the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers.
Portugal’s River of Gold (10 Days; Lisbon – Porto):
This voyage introduces guests to the vibrant city of Lisbon and takes them to Coimbra and Salamanca, two of Europe’s oldest university towns. Guests will cruise the Douro River Valley, Portugal’s wine region, and enjoy traditional food, wine, and music.
With these new itineraries and vessels, Viking is set to offer even more ways to experience the beauty and history of Europe’s rivers in 2025.
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