Viking River Cruises Europe, Danube, Rhine, Elbe, Moselle, Amsterdam, Budapest, Prague, Brussels, Nuremberg, Munich, Paris, Vienna, Berlin

Europe is the birthplace of Western civilization-from the political models of the classical Greeks and Romans to modern democratic ideals, from the knowledge guarded by medieval European monks to the flourishing arts of the Renaissance and beyond. Travel along the great rivers of western, central and eastern Europe to experience its history and culture.

Along the Danube River, explore both sides of Hungary's capital - traditional "Buda" and more cosmopolitan "Pest" - and from Fishermen's Bastion, see how the river divides this fascinating city. Experience Vienna's imperial architecture and gracious culture, and tour riverside towns in Austria's Wachau Valley. And in Germany, explore a baroque cathedral and stroll cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses. Savor the tastes of authentic dishes, learn about local legends, and see why Strauss immortalized this romantic river in his famous "Blue Danube" waltz.

Journey along the Elbe River through the timeless riverside landscape of the former East Germany. Tour the gracious parks and palaces of Saxon monarchs, and float between monumental sandstone cliffs in Germany's rugged "Saxon Switzerland" area. Walk through the baroque splendor of Dresden, and see for yourself how Meissenware porcelain is crafted.