Viking Cruises invites first-time and seasoned travelers to enjoy the Best of All Worlds on a 13-day journey across six European countries. The itinerary blends ancient civilizations, historic ports, and ten unique cities—without the hassle of unpacking more than once. Start your voyage in Barcelona or Chioggia (Venice) and savor a seamless exploration of culture, history, and local flavors.
Venice and Chioggia: A Grand Beginning
Many passengers extend their trip with pre- or post-cruise excursions. We arrived in Venice ahead of embarkation and wandered through its iconic canals and hidden alleys lined with artisan shops. No trip here is complete without a gondola ride gliding through the waterways while marveling at the city’s architectural wonders.
Large cruise ships no longer dock directly in Venice. Instead, vessels berth in nearby Chioggia, a thriving fishing town at the southern edge of the lagoon. From here, Viking offers excursions to Murano and Burano, famed for glassblowing and colorful houses. Watching artisans shape chandeliers and jewelry, then browsing boutiques for unique souvenirs, was unforgettable.
Split and Dubrovnik: Croatia’s Treasures
Our first Croatian stop was Split, where the Viking Star anchored in the Adriatic. The highlight is Diocletian’s Palace, a 1,700-year-old Roman complex now alive with shops, cafes, and museums. The Cathedral, once Diocletian’s mausoleum, and the Gallery of Fine Arts are must-sees.
Next came Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its medieval walls enclose stone houses that survived earthquakes and wars. Walking the fortifications, exploring narrow alleys, and climbing steep steps felt like stepping back in time. Traveling in November gave us the gift of mild weather and peaceful, crowd-free streets.
Corfu: Greece’s Island Gem
After a calm overnight sail, we reached Corfu. Royals and conquerors once flocked to this island for its beaches and sunshine. Our visit coincided with “First Sunday,” a local holiday marking the island’s survival of the plague in 1673. Marching bands filled the streets, adding festivity to the day.
We joined the tour of Paleokastritsa Monastery. Perched on a hill, it offered sweeping views of aquamarine waters. Fellow passengers praised the 4×4 excursions, but for us, the monastery’s history and scenery were the highlight.
Naples and Sorrento: Italian Flavors
The ship docked in Naples, once a powerful independent kingdom. From here, excursions included Pompeii, Sorrento, and Capri. We chose Sorrento, where artisans create inlaid wooden boxes. A family-run farm welcomed us with demonstrations of mozzarella and limoncello making—tastings included. It was a charming blend of culture and cuisine.
Back in Naples, the Piazza del Plebiscito and San Francesco di Paola Church were easy to reach from the port. Our only regret? Not having more time to explore this vibrant city.
Rome: Eternal Inspiration
Rome never disappoints. Ancient icons like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and Forum continue to awe. St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican remain architectural and spiritual wonders.
A single day isn’t enough to do justice to Rome’s 2,500 years of history. For first-time visitors, the overview works. Repeat travelers may prefer to linger in one district and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local trattoria. Viking’s shuttle vans make moving across the city easier.
Florence and Pisa: Renaissance Wonders
Florence dazzles with its Renaissance heritage. The Duomo dominates the skyline while Palazzo Vecchio symbolizes the city’s power. Optional tours extend to Pisa, where the Leaning Tower, Cathedral, and Baptistery delight travelers. Between world-class architecture, shopping, and people-watching, every moment in Florence feels rewarding.
Monaco: Glamour on the Riviera
The next stop was Monaco. From the deck of Viking Star, we enjoyed views of the royal palace, superyachts, and Monte Carlo Casino. Everything lies within walking distance, making this port easy to explore independently. Remember to carry your passport and proper attire if you plan to enter the casino. Exclusive boutiques nearby add to the glamour.
Marseille: France’s Oldest City
Marseille welcomed us with views of its Old Port, guarded by two 17th-century forts. Fishing boats and sleek yachts bobbed side by side. From here, we visited the Notre Dame de la Garde, offering panoramic views over Provence. A shorter walk up to the Church of Saint-Laurent rewarded us with equally breathtaking vistas.
Barcelona: A Vibrant Finale
The voyage ended in Barcelona, where Viking wisely docks overnight. This gave us time to immerse ourselves in the city’s artistry and energy. Highlights included the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Milà, and the bustling food markets. Tapas tastings capped the experience.
Tips for Future Travelers
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Pack light. Shopping on board and in each port will fill your suitcase quickly. Viking provides free laundry on every deck.
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Book excursions early. Popular tours sell out fast, though Viking keeps waitlists.
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Consider timing. Summer brings heavy crowds, while shoulder seasons promise easier exploring.
