Although we have traveled to Europe several times, the Danube Waltz cruise on the Viking Legend was the most fun and relaxing trip we have taken recently. Our favorite stop was Salzburg, where coffee and a pastry at Furst's was simply wonderful. The tour offered excellent photo opportunities, but the time in Salzburg seemed so short. The Melk Abbey tour was awe inspiring ... it was amazing to see the work of Immanuel Kant. The beautiful frescoes were breathtaking. The Vienna tour seemed rather hectic, but we did have an opportunity for a brief visit to the Art Nouveau Museum to see the Gustave Klimt exhibit. We had the pleasure of attending the Mozart Strauss concert in Vienna. The acoustics were amazing and the performance was wonderful.

The Viking staff moved patrons to and from the venue in a quick and orderly manner. There were no long lines or waiting for transportation. It was as we were heading to Bratislava that we learned we would be unable to cruise all the way to Budapest due to low water levels on the Danube. An adjustment was made to spend more time in Bratislava. Although we were disappointed initially, we loved spending time in Bratislava, enjoying the shops and outdoor markets. Viking tried to make the best of the situation by providing excellent coach service to Budapest. The travel time reduced the amount of time to visit Budapest, and we were unable to visit shops we had patronized before. There was, however, a lovely lunch at The Spoon on the Danube. We sadly left the Viking Legend, but the disembarkation was extremely well organized ... luggage was removed like magic.

The food and service aboard the Viking Legend was excellent. There were many choices for even the most particular diner, and the staff made every effort to provide a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Chef Michael was present during most meals. We wish there had been more time to explore these exceptional stops on the cruise, more time to sit and breathe in the atmosphere with a glass of wine, listening to music ... or quietly reading. We will cherish these memories forever ... this is a very special way to travel, to relax, to meet new friends, to laugh and to make memories that will last a lifetime.