Cruising the DANUBE

This summer, take in glorious eastern European capitals from the comfort of a luxury cruise

- QIN XIE.

The trend in river cruising these days is the longer the better. One of the longest in Europe takes in seven different rivers over the course of almost seven weeks! But if you're looking for something a bit more manageable that still allows you to see plenty, try Viking's Capitals of Eastern Europe itinerary. This 17-day Danube odyssey between Vienna and Bucharest features 12 guided tours in seven different countries. The joy of an extended river cruise is that you're going slower and staying for longer in each destination, and you can expect the following highlights.

Charms of Vienna

You'll have three nights to embrace the soul of the Austrian capital, including a walking tour of Ringstrasse, inside which is the historic centre. Stop to admire the Gothic spire of St Stephen's Cathedral, or marvel at the grace of the Lipizzaner stallions at the Spanish Riding School. Then, in your free time, seek out landmarks such as the Vienna State Opera or the Rathaus (city hall).