This was our first cruise as we usually research and plan our itinerary before striking out on our own. Our biggest concern was that we wouldn't have the flexibility to see the sites we were most interested in, or that the group approach would prevent us from spending additional time in places we wanted to explore in more depth.

This Viking cruise removed those concerns and it freed us to enjoy each town and city without spending time with maps, public transportation or planning the next meal. Each day we departed the ship and spent the day ashore, usually with an optional excursion, but sometimes on our own. The excursions far exceeded our expectations - the local guides were knowledgeable and engaging. We had the flexibility to dine in local restaurants, but in the evenings we enjoyed local cuisine in one of the ship's amazing restaurants.

The service was excellent, the food and wine was outstanding and as history buffs, we particularly enjoyed the talks by visiting scholars/journalists that provided historical background on the next region. Read more