Viking Var Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We did the Romantic Danube from Nuremberg, Germany to Budapest, Hungary from 10/28 to 11/4/2016 (our first river cruise). The pre-trip in Prague, Czech Republic and post-trip in Budapest were well worth the money, especially the choice of hotels which were outstanding! The transfer from and to international airports were efficient and trouble free.
The age group on this sailing was 30 to 80+. The younger group engaged the older ones after dinner in the lounge. There was a constant mix of getting to know each other.
Best of all, was the staff on the Var from the captain to the cleaning staff - Outstanding!!. George, the Program Director and a very talented singer, went above and beyond to make sure everyone was taken care of. Stan, the concierge was always available with any questions; taking care of everyone needs with a lovely smile! The serving staff were most pleasant, especially Peter and Cazmir (spelling?).The tour guides and bus drivers were all excellent.
Cabin Review
Veranda Stateroom
So surprised by all the storage area; even a refrigerator, which we did not use as all of our needs were always available (water, etc).
The only change I would suggest is a french balcony is adequate on this particular sailing. Going through 26 locks and being fall, there was not a lot of opportunity to sit out on the balcony.
Port Reviews
Nuremberg
The bus tour was very informative, high lighting current issues in the city itself to a great view of the city at the Castle with a great guide explaining the functions of the fortress. Loved the gingerbread in old town square.
Regensburg
Loved old town! Great place for authentic ginger cakes souvenirs in the market!
Budapest
We did not take the walk up the hill on the Buda side to St. Matthias Church and a view of the chain bridge connecting the Buda side to Pest as we stayed on for the post-cruise visit at the Hilton next to the Church for 2 nights.
After dis-embarking to our fabulous room overlook Parliament in the Hilton we visited the shops and discovered a small grocery store to buy the sought after paprika in many varieties and packaging for souvenirs.