We had heard about river cruises and wanted to try one. Viking had wonderful ratings and a great deal! So we signed up. I have to say that it was better than I had expected! The included excursions were very informative and well done. I wish we had more time on them to get off the bus, but they hit the highlights and several times we were able to go back on our own for a more in depth experience. That is another reason why we enjoyed the river cruise; you are docked within walking distance, or a bus/subway ride, to many of the "in town" sights. We were even able to do some of the "paid" excursions on our own by walking to the hot baths in Budapest and saving over half the expense. It only takes an adventurous spirit! The food onboard was excellent, the small number of passengers compared to ocean cruises was delightful - we knew many people by the end of the cruise on a first name basis; and, although I love children, it was nice to spend time with just adults. Viking is all they are hyped up to be and river cruising was wonderful!