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 Viking River Cruises - Danube river cruise, Burgundy and Provence |
Created specifically for river cruising, Viking's European fleet features panoramic windows, sun decks and promenades to watch passing scenery, and warm public rooms like inviting bars, cozy libraries and charming restaurants. All cabins feature outside views and include telephone, television, radio, hairdryer, private bathroom, hotel-style beds and individually controlled air conditioning. |
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Caribbean |
Cruise Tour Planners 
European River cruises. Viking River Cruises offers deluxe river cruises along the rivers of Europe, and Russia allowing you to explore fascinating destinations up close and in comfort. All-inclusive vacation packages include roundtrip air, river cruise, shore tours with English-speaking guides, deluxe river view cabins and gourmet meals with Viking River Cruises. The rivers and canals that connect some of Europe's most fascinating cities -- Vienna, Amsterdam, Budapest, Lyon to name a few -- are too small for most cruise ships. Specially designed river cruise barges are for travelers who enjoy the comforts and variety of cruising, but want to see more of the heartland. Onboard a river cruise, you will find fewer passengers (rarely more than 200), fewer amenities and on board activities. One big difference between river cruising and ocean cruising: In the former, operators typically include shore excursions in the overall cruise fare (double check though, as policies may vary). Days at sea are rare. Evening entertainment may be a trio of singers or a small band, bingo, card games and a bit more. Traditional itineraries have typically focused on major rivers like the Rhine, Danube, and Main Rivers. You can explore small villages off the beaten path that are inaccessible via an ocean cruise. Docking in the heart of town, you'll have more time to see the cities, not just travel to the cities. You'll experience ever-changing riverside scenery as well as local nightlife when your ship overnights in port.
 FRANCE BURGUNDY AND PROVENCE Request a brochure: info@cruisetourplanners.com.Your journey along France’s scenic Saône and Rhône Rivers takes you past some of the most beautiful vineyards and vistas in the French countryside. During your 7-night cruise, explore the famed region of Burgundy and the lavender-scented hills of Provence. You visit a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and view early Roman ruins in both Vienne and Arles. Walk the cobbled streets of Arles and see for yourself why it was such an inspiration to Vincent van Gogh. Learn about the region’s time-honored traditions in wine-making and indulge your taste buds by sampling the famed cuisine of Lyon. And, of course no trip to Southern France is complete without a visit to the historic Papal Palace in Avignon, “City of the Popes.” 7-night cruise with river-view, outside cabin onboard deluxe Viking Burgundy 6 tours with private, English-speaking guides: Beaune/Burgundy wine tour; Lyon; Vienne; Tournon/Tain L’Hermitage; Avignon; Arles All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners Welcome Cocktail Reception & Dinner Captain’s Farewell Dinner Private motorcoach for all coach excursions Old World Highlights: Port lectures by your knowledgeable Cruise Manager, French wine-making demonstration and French food demonstration Individual port guides for on-your-own exploring Payment of all port charges Onboard currency exchange services 77 total cabins, 29 standard cabins, 48 deluxe cabins. All spacious outside cabins, featuring bathroom with shower, air conditioning, telephone, TV, hairdryer and safe. Restaurant, lounge and bar, library, sun deck, promenade deck, souvenir shop, elevator, laundry service, voltage 220V, 2 plugs and 115V (razor outlet). year built: 2000 year refurbished length: 111,24 m width: 11,40 m draft 4.9 ft cruising speed 22 km/h decks: 4 crew: 40 passengers: 152  8-Day All-Inclusive Cruise with Shore Excursions Your
clients journey along France's scenic Saône and Rhône Rivers takes
them past some of the most beautiful vineyards and vistas in the French
countryside. During their 8-day cruise, they will explore the hills of
Provence, known for its lavender, and the famed region of Burgundy. Your
clients will visit a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and view early Roman
ruins in both Arles and Vienne. They will walk the cobbled streets of Arles and
see for themselves why it was such an inspiration to Vincent van Gogh. They
will learn about the region's time-honored traditions in wine-making and
indulge their taste buds by sampling the famed cuisine of Lyon. And, of course
no trip to Southern France is complete without a visit to historic Avignon,
"City of Popes."
 Highlights:
WELCOME TO AVIGNON Sheltered by medieval walls, Avignon's maze of narrow streets is filled with churches, museums and palaces tracing the history of this ancient, vibrant city. Visitors can capture a bird's eye view of the city and surrounding Rhône River valley from the top of Cathedral Hill. Avignon is known as the "City of Popes," due to the role the city played in the Avignon conspiracy during the 14th century, when a series of popes abandoned Rome and fled to Avignon. Still remaining from this time of this papal residence, the lavish Palais des Papes, a fortress, church and palace was considered the center of the Christian world during the 14th century. From 1309-1377, seven popes resided in this stunning building, one of the world's most unique and grandiose examples of gothic architecture. WELCOME TO BEAUNE Dating back more than 2,000 years, Beaune has become the trading center for Burgundy's fine wines. The charming blend of half-timbered buildings and gentle curves of romanesque architecture is evident throughout the city. During its 2,000 year existence, Beaune served for a short period as the capital of the Dukes of Burgundy. Later, it became a busy commercial center for the cloth and wine industries. WELCOME TO ARLES Towards the end of the Roman Empire, this city was the former capital of Roman Gaul. Indeed, it was known as the "Little Rome of Gaul," and boasts many Gallo-Roman ruins including Les Arenes, an ancient amphitheater seating 20,000 that is still used today for bullfights and plays. The town is frequently bathed in a strong Mediterranean light that inspired legendary impressionist Vincent Van Gogh to paint a number of works, and many of the town's sights are immortalized in his paintings.
Barging Barges are even smaller than small cruiseships: Expect between 6 and 50 passengers. Beyond mealtimes, entertainment onboard may be limited. These ships do not have casinos and offer little in the way of evening entertainment. The Danube is a super choice for first-timers; a typical voyage would sail through countries such as Austria, Hungary and Germany. The Rhine leads to Amsterdam, Cologne and Coblenz. France is increasingly popular, and most companies offer Lyon-based trips down the Rhone and Saone rivers, with highlights including the region of Provence and wine country. Other rivers you can cruise include the Seine, Elbe, Po, Douro, Moselle and even the Volga. Indeed, easily the hottest itinerary these days is a "Journey of the Czars" sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg. Amsterdam Tulip time. Mosel River Cruises Cruises on the Mosel River (known as the Moselle River in France) are often combined with Rhine River cruises and are a great way to experience some of Europe's oldest and most enchanting cities. On a Mosel River cruise, you'll discover stately castles built more than 1,000 years ago, towns with architecture that ranges from Roman to rococo, and lush vineyards, as you slowly drift along the river's banks through Germany, Luxembourg and France. Oder River Cruises Oder River cruises are a great way to discover the Old World charm of interesting and little-known towns in Germany and Poland. From nature preserves to lively cultural centers and beautiful riverside landscapes, you'll experience some of the finest parts of central Europe on an Oder River cruise. Po River Cruises A Po River cruise is an enchanting way to experience the charming countryside, rich culture, fascinating art, and palate-pleasing cuisine of northern Italy. From quaint fishing villages to small islands and large historic cities, you'll discover the flavor of one of the most beautiful parts of Italy on a Po River cruise. Rhine River Cruises Rhine River cruises are perhaps the most popular of all European river cruises. Some riverboats sail strictly on the Rhine River (known as the Rhein River in Germany), while others combine the Rhine with other waterways in Germany, Austria, Hungary or the Netherlands. Whatever itinerary you choose, a Rhine River cruise allows you to experience some of Europe's most interesting river ports. Rhone River Cruises There's no better way to experience the romance of the South of France than on a Rhone River cruise. On a Rhone River cruise, you'll discover French history, culture and the country's stunning scenery. And, you'll see architecture and works of art that are almost as famous as the wine and cuisine you'll taste throughout the region. Most Rhone River cruises visit Lyon Saone River Cruises A Saone River cruise is a great way to experience the picturesque, vineyard-covered countryside in France's famed Burgundy wine region. On a Saone River cruise, you'll not only discover the magnificent wines and cuisine of the region, but you will also explore French history, culture and a wealth of notable buildings with varied architectural styles. Most Saone River cruises visit Macon Seine River Cruises There's no finer or more convenient way to experience the splendor of northern France's Normandy region than on a Seine River cruise. You'll discover the history, culture and beauty of this region, known as the birthplace of Impressionism. Russia River Cruises Volga River Cruises Ukraine River Cruises Danube River Cruises A Danube River cruise is the best way to experience the storied landscapes, cultural heritage and centuries-old architecture of the Old World. On a Danube River cruise, you'll discover Europe's vineyard-lined valleys and beautifully preserved medieval towns in countries such as Germany, Austria, Hungary, Serbia and Romania.  • 8-day cruise VIKING RIVER CRUISE with river-view stateroom • 7 guided tours • Old World Highlights®: Port lectures, apple strudel demonstration & the Baroque grandeur of the Benedictine abbey at Melk • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches & 7 dinners • Welcome Cocktail Reception & Dinner • Captain’s Farewell Dinner Day 1 Budapest Begin your journey in enchanting Budapest Welcome to Budapest, Hungary’s vibrant capital divided by the Danube River. We’ll meet you at the airport and transfer you to your ship.* After boarding, you have free time to visit both sides, traditional “Buda” and modern “Pest.” Dinner included. Day 2 Budapest See breathtaking views of “Buda” and “Pest” Your morning tour begins with a motorcoach ride through the Pest side of the city. Journey along famous Andrássy Boulevard and see numerous 19th and 20th century mansions and the National Opera House. Other noted sites are the renowned Parliament Building and Chain Bridge. You stop in Heroes’ Square to learn more about Hungarian culture and history. Cross the Danube to tour the Buda side with a visit to the Castle District. Walk up the hill to see Fishermen’s Bastion and Matthias Church and catch brilliant views of the city below. Return to your ship for lunch and cruise through the night. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Day 3 Vienna Orchestrate your day in this “City of Waltzes” Arrive in Vienna just after breakfast for your half-day city tour. Visit the baroque Belvedere Palace with colorful gardens and wonderful art. Then ride along the beautiful Ringstrasse, with sights including the Opera House, Stadtpark and Hofburg Theater. You then visit St. Stephan’s Cathedral. Return to your ship for lunch. The afternoon is yours to further explore this city on your own. You may go shopping along the Kärtnerstrasse or take an excursion to Schönbrunn Palace, home of Maria Theresa and the Hapsburgs’ summer residence. Dinner is served aboard and you may choose to complete your day in this “City of Waltzes” with an optional evening concert. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Day 4 Melk, Linz Magical Melk & Linz’s gracious vineyards Join a guided tour through the ornate interior of this baroque gem of architecture—the Benedictine abbey at Melk. See its wonderful frescoes and medieval manuscripts inside the large library as well as take time to see the garden courtyard. Rejoin your ship for lunch and an afternoon cruise along the Danube. Cruise through dinner and arrive this evening in Linz, a quaint town in the center of Austria’s wine-producing region. Enjoy your evening at leisure with a stroll around town or sample some locally-produced wines. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Day 5 Passau Hear Europe's largest pipe organ Arrive mid-morning in Passau, at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz and Danube Rivers. Your guided walk along the town’s narrow streets takes you through the Old Town and past traditional patrician houses. You see the Oberhaus Fortress and visit the impressive baroque St. Stephan’s Cathedral with its ornate interior. Inside, you’re treated to a special concert played on the 17,000-pipe organ, considered Europe’s largest church organ.† Eat lunch aboard, but return to the city for further exploration on your own before an early evening departure and cruise through the night. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. † Passau organ concert not available after November 1. Day 6 Regensburg, Kelheim A medieval city & a ferry ride past spectacular chalk cliffs After breakfast you meet your guide dockside for a walking tour through the scenic town of Regensburg, considered one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval cities. You see one of the largest groupings of 13th and 14th century church spires, towers and patrician houses north of the Alps. You also encounter the 12th century Old Stone Bridge, St. Peter’s Cathedral and a number of idyllic courtyards. Take time to stroll the streets or shop before returning to your ship for lunch and afternoon cruising. Arrive mid-afternoon in Kelheim at the southernmost point of the Main-Danube Canal. From here, you embark on a ferryboat ride to explore the Danube Gorge’s dramatic scenery and its spectacular 400-foot chalk cliffs. You then visit the renowned Weltenburg Abbey, which still echoes with age-old chants. It’s famous for its dark ale, brewed here by monks since 1050. An evening departure is followed by dinner aboard. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Day 7 Main-Danube Canal, Nuremberg Walk through time from WWII to the Middle Ages in Nuremberg Very early this morning, you sail through a number of locks that comprise the Main-Danube Canal, an engineering marvel stretching 106 miles from Bamberg on the Main River to Kelheim on the Danube. Begun as Charlemagne’s dream in 793, it was completed in 1992 with 16 locks that raise the water level 1,332 feet. Today it enables river travel from the North Sea to the Black Sea. Arrive during breakfast in Nuremberg, Bavaria’s second largest city. Your motorcoach tour features Zeppelin Grounds, the Main Railway Station and the Palace of Justice, historic home of the Nuremberg Trials. You have a brief stop at the Court House before returning to the Old Town area enclosed by ancient city walls. You see Elizabeth and St. James Church, and your tour ends with a walk from the castle grounds, passing the Albrecht Dürer House and Main Market Square. Or, join an optional WWII history tour visiting the Documentation Center Museum. Lunch is served aboard, but you have the rest of the evening to explore; your ship remains docked overnight. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Day 8 Nuremberg After breakfast, disembark and we’ll take you to the airport for your return flight.* Or, extend your journey in another country with 3 nights in Prague, Czech Republic. You’ll stay within Prague’s Old Town and will get a tour of the landmark Prague Castle. Breakfast included. Elbe River Cruises On an Elbe River cruise, you'll drift past majestic sandstone mountains, ornate Gothic castles, and modern cities that are connected to the past by remnants of medieval monuments and architecture. There's simply no better way to discover Germany and the Czech Republic's past and present than on the banks of the Elbe River. Cruise Tour Planners are experts in planning small and mid-size ocean cruises, European river cruises, barging and shore excursions throughout the world. Cruise itineraries journey along the rivers of Europe, the seven seas and beyond, allowing your to discover fascinating destinations up close and in comfort. Only the best cruise ships are featured: Celebrity Cruises, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line (HAL), Norwegian Cruise Line NCL, Princess Cruises, Royal Caribbean RCCL, Crystal Cruises, Cunard QE II, Radisson Seven Seas RSSC, Regent, Seabourn Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, Windstar Cruises. Whether you choose Caribbean cruises, Europe cruises, European cruises, Alaska cruises, Mediterranean cruises, or want a cruise vacation, or a luxury cruise, Cruise Tour Planners will provide expert cruise advice.
Rivers must have been the guides which conducted the footsteps of the first travelers. They are the constant lure... to distant enterprise and adventure... Henry David Thoreau There are few more pleasurable ways to explore our world than by its rivers, and the most leisurely way is from the comfort of a floating hotel. Our choice was Viking River Cruises' new state-of-the-art Viking Sun, largest passenger ship on the Rhine. The mood of this well-appointed ship is relaxed and casual, ideal for the destination-oriented traveler, not for those seeking formal nights, casinos, or Las Vegas style extravaganzas. Entertainment is authentic and local, like Dutch dancers and French chansons, or live after dinner music. Chefs specialize in the cuisine of the area and offer cooking demonstrations and theme dinners. On our Belgium to Switzerland itinerary, we unpacked once and sailed past enchanting fairytale castles, romantic medieval villages, verdant vineyards, and pastoral landscapes-living history from Switzerland to the North Sea. By day, the ever-changing scenery was captivating. By night, it took on an unfathomable quality: It was a kind of solemn, drifting down the big still river, laying on our backs looking up at the stars, and we didn't even feel like talking... Mark Twain Some mornings, we'd awaken early, sip coffee on the sundeck or in the lounge, watch the sun rise and the river come alive with freight barges, passenger ships, tankers, and leisure craft. We were immersed in the pulse of this commercial and recreational international highway. We'd meet with fellow travelers to enjoy the breakfast buffet or made-to-order selections. Then it was time to step ashore and meet our local tour guides for an informative walking tour or motorcoach ride to more distant places that shouldn't be missed. After this orientation, we were on our own to explore. Our river cruise began in Basel, the cultural heart of Switzerland, a university city known for its festivals, museums, and wide-ranging performing and visual arts. Marktplatz, site of the magnificent Burgundian-Gothic Town Hall, was abuzz with shoppers, and vendors. Tiny shops lined the winding narrow lanes of the former craftsmen's district, medieval and baroque areas rich in Celtic and Roman past. From here, where the Swiss, German, and French borders meet, we spent twelve days gliding along the Rhine, experiencing some of the best of Europe. The next day, a private motorcoach took us past vineyards, meadows and mountains, along roadways with names like Panorama and Clock. We were in Germany's Black Forest, land of renowned woodcarvers, and headed for a cuckoo clock demonstration. In this enchanted land, milk becomes yogurt or cheese and fruits are transformed into schnapps. Across the river in France, Strasbourg is the multicultural capital and largest city of the Alsatian region of France, home of the European Council, the Commission on Human Rights, and seat of the European Parliament. One of richest cities in medieval Europe, and most glamorous of German empire, its architecture stands as reminders of the historical and political changes through the centuries. In Petite France, the well-preserved medieval core, with traditional Alsatian half-timbered homes from the 15th and 16th centuries, aromas lure passers-by to patisseries for confections like kougelhopf, a traditional cake. We dined on the renowned regional cuisine-tarte flambée (onion tart), baeckoffe (stew), choucroute (sauerkraut), beer, and wine in a cozy half-timbered winstub overlooking boats in a tiny lock. There was ample time to see the magnificent astronomical clock come alive with an automated depiction of life and death in the spired Gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame and visit the charming Alsatian Museum, both on our "must-see" list. We were docked by the Europe Bridge, connecting French Strasbourg with German Kehl. Families picnicked on the benches of this pedestrian link between two cultures, symbolic of the unity of Europe. Germany's largest Romanesque Imperial Cathedral (1030A.D.) is within the 13th century walls of Speyer. We descended the steps of a mikvah, or ritual bathhouse, surrounded by ruins and were reminded of the tragic past of this former center of Jewish culture. The impressive ruins of Heidelberg's red sandstone Renaissance castle, draws tourists from around the world, and was the setting for The Student Prince. It looms high over the well preserved city center, picturesque city gate, and Germany's oldest university, with a much-visited student jail. Amidst vineyards surrounding the confluence of Rhine and Moselle, we came to Rudesheim, known for Drosselgasse, the pedestrian wine alley of taverns for sampling local specialties and enjoying live music and dancing. Siegfried's Mechanical Music Museum has one of the world's most entertaining collections of unusual self-playing musical instruments. We sailed along this beautiful stretch of the Rhine past the treacherous currents where the siren Lorelei lured sailors to their death with her song. The landscape is dotted with castles, many used by robber barons who extracted tolls from all who passed by. The soaring spires of Europe's largest Gothic cathedral are in medieval Europe's largest city, Cologne. They stand as triumphant symbols in a city ravaged by World War II. Inside, the resplendent gold Shrine of the Magi made this as important a pilgrimage site as Jerusalem or Rome. We strolled the modern pedestrian shopping streets, sampled Cologne's Kölsh, brewed since the Middle Ages, munched bratwurst, and visited the Chocolate Museum for some delectable fun. It is said that God created the world, but the Dutch created the Netherlands. Arnhem, site of one of fiercest battles of World War II, memorialized in the movie A Bridge Too Far, is now a city of parks and gardens popular with retirees. Our excursion was to the Palais Het Loo, hunting and summer residence of William and Mary Stuart, who in 1689 became King and Queen of England. Queen Wilhelmina donated this royal summer home for use as a museum in 1984. Viking offered optional afternoon tours to Netherlands' Open Air Museum, a village of historic Dutch houses, workshops, and windmills, and to the Kroller Muller Museum, with fine art, sculpture gardens, and a park with bicycles and cycling paths. Amsterdam, the cosmopolitan capital of the Netherlands, is known for its liberalism and tolerance, canals, and streams of bicycles. A glass-roofed boat ride took us past narrow gabled houses, unique houseboats, innovative modern and elegant historic architecture, and to the Rijksmuseum, home of treasured works by such Dutch and Flemish Masters as Rembrandt, Steen, Hals, Vermeer, Rubens, van Dyck. With the afternoon free, choices abounded-Dam Square and the Royal Palace, the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, the Floating Flower Market, antique shops, medieval churches, or the showcase windows of the Red Light District. Refreshment options were as varied as the sights, from Belgian fries served with mayonnaise, raw herring, Heineken beer at the brewery, or marijuana at a "coffee shop", where, it is said, you can walk in and fly out...And what better way to top off this exhilarating day than a folkloric dance performance by the Dutch Blokkerder group in the Viking Sun lounge? We stood in the centuries-old marketplace in Gouda, a shipping port for regional cheese, watching the animated figures of the glockenspiel on the 14th century town hall. Gouda's specialty is the Stroopwafel, a thin waffle sandwich cookie with sticky caramel filling that originated here. It is also the site of St. Janskerk, largest in the Netherlands. Our evening in the land that exports more cheese than any other was spent sampling a variety of the area's specialties. Perhaps About 900 windmills have been preserved throughout this kingdom, and our afternoon tour took us inside one at Kinder Dijk. Later, we were in Schoonhoven, city of fine silversmiths, and a local craftsman came onboard for to demonstrate his intricate jewelry making. Delft, birthplace of Dutch Master Vermeer (Girl with the Pearl Earring), is best known for its hand-painted blue and white glazed pottery. After our factory tour, we shopped in the historic pedestrian-only center and visited Nieuwe Kerk, a Royal burial site. We returned to the ship in time to learn to make Belgian Chocolate Cake, an apt introduction to our next day's excursion. The Viking Sun lounge came alive that night during the Crew Show's frolicsome performances. A motorcoach awaited us the next morning for our grand finale-Bruges, Belgium, one of most beautifully preserved medieval cities in Europe, with architecture that reflects the prosperity its days as a textile center and trading port. Horse drawn carriages clippity-clop along the cobblestoned streets of a city that brings to mind paintings of the Old Masters. Swans glide along in waters with names like Lake of Love. Our included lunch included a tasty traditional beef stew and Belgian waffles. After touring by canal boat, we visited shops selling fine laces, chocolates, and tapestries. We had journeyed through time along Europe's medieval highway, strolled village lanes and cobblestone streets, walked hallowed aisles and royal halls of awe-inspiring cathedrals, castles and palaces. Our river cruise had given us front row seats to the contemporary and historic treasures of the Rhine. Best of all, the Viking staff had taken care of everything from beginning to end, leaving us refreshed and free to experience the region or simply relax with newfound friends and enjoy the view. The itinerary featured in this article is the Belgium to Switzerland river cruise itinerary  Request a brochure:
info@cruisetourplanners.com.
PLAN EARLY FOR CHRISTMAS 2009 During the holiday season, cities across Europe come to life with their traditional winter markets. The magical atmosphere of Christmases long ago is revealed in a unique flair of tradition with beautifully lit and decorated gift booths, street performers and aromas of baked ginger breads, mulled wines and heated chestnuts floating in the air. Danube Christmas MarketsOn this cruise, usher in the winter with a timeless trip down the Danube River where you discover the beauty of Austria and Germany and are warmly welcomed by the locals. Sail through the enchanting Wachau Valley and Bavarian countryside, and experience the magic of the holiday season in the region where so many Christmas traditions began. You delight in the sweet smells of lebkuchen (gingerbread), stollen (rich sweet bread) and glühwein (hot mulled wine) as the aromas of these tasty goodies fill the crisp winter air. On select sail dates, you can shop the Christmas markets for seasonal handicrafts and unique specialty items that fill the local markets, making your holiday season one to remember. 7-night cruise with river-view, outside cabin onboard deluxe Viking Neptune or Viking Spirit 6 tours with private, English-speaking guides: Vienna; Melk/Benedictine abbey; Linz; Passau; Regensburg; Nuremberg All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners Welcome Cocktail Reception & Dinner Captain’s Farewell Dinner Private motorcoach for all coach excursions Old World Highlights: Port lectures by your knowledgeable Cruise Manager, apple strudel making demonstration, Bavarian folkloric entertainment and visits to seasonal Christmas markets Individual port guides for on-your-own exploring Payment of all port charges Onboard currency exchange services * Day 1 Vienna Begin your journey in the “City of Waltzes” After boarding your ship, enjoy free time to explore Vienna. Dinner included. Day 2 Vienna Explore the city that inspired fine art & classical music A motorcoach tour follows the Ringstrasse past the Opera and Hofburg Palace. Stop at St. Stephan’s Cathedral, followed by a walking tour along Stephansplatz. Enjoy free time; then walk from Kohlmarket to Schwedenplatz. After lunch aboard, shop the Kartnerstrasse, visit the Christmas market or a café. An optional concert follows dinner aboard. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Day 3 Melk Tour this town’s baroque masterpiece Take a coach to the top of the hill for a tour of the 900-year-old Benedictine abbey overlooking the Danube. A highlight of the lavish interior is its spectacular library, filled with medieval manuscripts and the vibrant ceiling frescoes by Paul Troger. Have lunch aboard your ship and cruise through the night. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Day 4 Linz Discover the Austrian charms of Linz Your walking tour takes you past Linz’s baroque facades to Hauptplatz. Continue through the old market to the Mozart House. Tour the cathedral and stroll through the medieval town before returning to your ship for lunch. Your afternoon is free to explore Linz’s stores or Christmas market. Dinner is aboard; dock overnight. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Day 5 Passau Hear soaring music from Europe’s largest pipe organ Cruise the scenic Danube this morning. Arrive during lunch in Passau, at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz and Danube Rivers. A walking tour along narrow cobblestone streets leads you to St. Stephan’s Cathedral, home to Europe’s largest church organ. Enjoy free time to explore the Christmas market or stores. Depart during dinner. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Day 6 Regensburg Be enchanted by this “picture-postcard” riverside town $1,499 Cruise through breakfast to medieval Regensburg. On your walking tour, see St. Peter’s Cathedral and the 12th century Old Stone Bridge. Eat lunch aboard or take free time to visit Germany’s oldest restaurant, the Alte Wurstküche (Old Sausage Kitchen) or the local Christmas market. Depart this evening after dinner aboard. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Day 7 Nuremberg Step back in history through medieval gateways After traversing some of the locks of the Main-Danube Canal, take a motorcoach tour to Zeppelin Field and the Palace of Justice (site of the Nuremberg Trials). In the old section, walk around Nuremberg’s Imperial Castle and see Albrecht Dürer’s House and the Main Market Square. Enjoy free time or visit the local Christmas market (Christkindlmarkt), Germany’s oldest. Dine aboard and dock overnight. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included. Day 8 Nuremberg Have breakfast onboard, then disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight home, or choose to extend your stay with 3 additional nights in Budapest. Breakfast included. Request a brochure: info@cruisetourplanners.com. Look at our barges - perfect for a small charter. Note about Children on Viking: If you are traveling with children, you must specify the children ages at the time of ship's sailing date. Failure to provide this information may result in improper pricing which may result in additional costs imposed by the travel provider. Due to the nature of our cruise itineraries, Viking River Cruises does not maintain facilities or services for children aboard our vessels. On all Viking River Cruises, minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied and share a cabin with a parent, legal guardian or other responsible adult over the age of 21. We regret that we cannot accommodate children under 12 years of age, and we reserve the right to limit the number of minors on board under the age of 18 years. Click here for your favorite cruiseline cruise deal: NEW!
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Cruise Tour Planners, 205 Mineola Blvd, Suite 1B Mineola, New York 11501 USA USA Phone: (800) 221-2474 Fax (516) 248-3496 .What's Special About Us:We offer a free shore excursion on select cruises This document maintained by
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Australia/New Zealand & South Pacific 
TREASURES OF THE RHINE By Linda Fasteson CRUISEREVIEW.COM Published
April 10, 2006 
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