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Rhine & Main Explorer - Basel to Nuremberg - 2026

From Basel, Switzerland to Nuremberg, Germany
Length: 11 Days - Departs: Wed, Apr 01, 2026
Operator
Departure
Apr 01, 2026
Arrival
Apr 11, 2026

Please see below brochure cabin pricing

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Your Choice Sale

Mention Promo Code: PT3508
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Your Choice Sale

Your Choice Sale

Promotion Details
For a limited time, choose your bonus savings between up to $1000 onboard credit or a Free Beverage package and Included gratuities. Plus, receive our exclusive $400 off per couple and up to $1000 onboard credit. (Not all sailings apply, contact your Travel Consultant for full details.)
Must Book By Fri, Feb 28, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Offer valid on bookings made from February 1 - 28, 2025. Your choice of a FREE beverage package and included gratuities (BEV) or shipboard credit (SBC). Shipboard credit based on cruise length: up to 8 days: $500 per couple ($250 per person), 9 to 14 days: $750 per couple ($375 per person), 15+ days: $1,000 per couple ($500 per person). Shipboard credit value in USD. No beverage package on Egypt ships. Not applicable on World Cruise itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE airfare only applicable to select departures of featured itineraries during stated sailing period and excludes World Cruise products. Free Airfare based on select voyages of Grand European Tour, Capitals of Eastern Europe, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, London, Paris & D-Day, Pharoahs & Pyramids, European Sojourn and select Mississippi voyages. Offer is based on inventory availability at time of purchase. A limited-time $25 deposit per person is due at time of booking for select departures of featured itineraries; remaining deposit is due with final payment (excludes World Cruise products). 2025: Pay in full by March 15, 2025 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2026: Pay in full by June 15, 2025. 2027: January 15, 2026. Free and Reduced Air offers not valid when booked from gateways in Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or Mexico. Reduced Air offers vary by selected Air gateway in country of residence. Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Air does not have to be purchased to receive cruise\cruisetour offer. Prices are based on double occupancy in US dollars and for US residents only. Offer may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. All fares reflect cruise taxes, port taxes and fees. Additional restrictions may apply. Call for details.

Exclusive, $400 Off + up to $1000 Onboard Credit

Mention Promo Code: PT3013
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Exclusive, $400 Off + up to $1000 Onboard Credit

Exclusive, $400 Off + up to $1000 Onboard Credit

Promotion Details
Only at AffordableTours.com will you save an additional $400 per couple ($200 per person) and up to $1000 onboard credit on any Viking cruise.
Must Book By Thu, Jul 31, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Offer applies to new bookings deposited from April 9, 2024 and is capacity controlled which may be removed at any moment without notice. Promotion is not combinable with Viking vouchers. Offer is combinable with all Viking offers Additional restrictions apply. Onboard credit amount varies by length of cruise and has no monetary value and is non-refundable and non-transferable, may not be used toward service charges, cannot be redeemed for cash, and unused portions will become void after sailing is complete.

Save 3.3% On Your River Cruise!

Mention Promo Code: PT2191
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Save 3.3% On Your River Cruise!

Save 3.3% On Your River Cruise!

Promotion Details
Enjoy the convenience of paying for your trip by echeck and save 3.3%. (Speak with your Travel Consultant for full details.)
Combinable with all current offers
Must Book By Mon, Dec 31, 2029
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

You may use echeck to pay for your Viking cruise or cruisetour, and for airfare. Every dollar paid for cruise, air, taxes, fees or surcharges can be paid by echeck, including regular-priced itineraries and airfare, any special offers or Viking Air Plus services to receive a 3.3% discount. Additional restrictions may apply.


River Cruise Itinerary

  1. Day 1
    Basel
    Wed, Apr 01, 2026

    Located where Switzerland, Germany and France meet, Basel reflects a fascinating blend of traditions. The city straddles the Rhine at the river's farthest navigable point, and an alluring cluster of old-town buildings huddles along the riverbank. Around Market Square, guild houses recall Gothic, Renaissance and baroque splendor; the red-sandstone Rathaus, or Town Hall, is the centerpiece. More than 40 museums of art and culture lend modern polish to its history-rich streets. And there is no more refined way to sample it all than over cheese fondue or croissants.

  2. Day 2
    Basel
    Thu, Apr 02, 2026

    Located where Switzerland, Germany and France meet, Basel reflects a fascinating blend of traditions. The city straddles the Rhine at the river's farthest navigable point, and an alluring cluster of old-town buildings huddles along the riverbank. Around Market Square, guild houses recall Gothic, Renaissance and baroque splendor; the red-sandstone Rathaus, or Town Hall, is the centerpiece. More than 40 museums of art and culture lend modern polish to its history-rich streets. And there is no more refined way to sample it all than over cheese fondue or croissants.

  3. Day 3
    Breisach
    Fri, Apr 03, 2026

    Breisach is a gateway to the fabled Black Forest region, built on a basalt rock outcropping in the Rhine plain. It is located in one of the warmest parts of Germany, across the river from French Alsace, famous for its wine growing. But Breisach, too, can boast about its wine: it is home to Europe’s largest cellars, with a storage capacity of more than 160 million liters. The most prominent landmark of Breisach is the Romanesque-Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, built between the 12th and 13th centuries. Its two towers are visible from throughout the city and from the Rhine.

  4. Day 4
    Strasbourg
    Sat, Apr 04, 2026

    The largest port on the Upper Rhine, Strasbourg is the cultural center of France's Alsace region. Thanks to its location at the border of France and Germany, it boasts a convivial mix of cultural influences. The well-preserved Old Town is enclosed on all sides by the little Ill River, with sites so compact that it is easy to explore the "island” on foot. And there is plenty to explore: cobblestone streets lined with wooden houses and intersected by picturesque canals. Indulging in Alsatian café culture is central to any visit here; enjoy coffee and cake amid lovely half-timbered houses.

  5. Day 5
    Karlsruhe
    Sun, Apr 05, 2026

    Blending tradition and modernity, Karlsruhe is one of southwest Germany's cultural gems. Founded as the Grand Duchy of Baden during the early-18th century, the city is home to the majestic Karlsruhe Palace, from which the city's streets span forming a distinctive circular layout. Innovation is ingrained in the city's DNA; it was the chosen destination to establish the world-renowned Karlsruhe Institute of Technology in 2009. Numerous museums, theaters and galleries are popular sights to explore, as well as the peaceful green spaces that offer a serene escape from city life.

  6. Day 6
    Frankfurt
    Mon, Apr 06, 2026

    Straddling the Main River, Frankfurt has been nicknamed "Mainhattan” for its skyline that resembles that of Manhattan. It is a major financial center and a rich hub of culture, history and architecture. No fewer than nine museums line the Main embankment, covering everything from art to film to ethnology. In the Roman Hill district, Frankfurt's town hall spreads out over 11 conjoined patrician houses. Emperors were crowned in the Gothic St. Bartholomew's Cathedral, and remnants from Roman settlements are on exhibit in the city's Archaeological Garden.

  7. Day 7
    Scenic Sailing: Main River, Spessart
    Tue, Apr 07, 2026

    Journey along one of Germany's most important waterways today, passing landscapes that embody the country's scenic beauty and storybook charm. You will sail by quaint riverside villages, undulating farm country and the sylvan forests of the Spessart woodlands. Along the way, you just may lose yourself in the dreamy canvases of half-timbered houses, historic castles and splendid palaces. This is the Germany once ruled by dukes and brought to magical life by the imagination of the Brothers Grimm, who grew up in the town of Hanau and wove fantastic tales from these banks.

  8. Day 8
    Würzburg
    Wed, Apr 08, 2026

    Surrounded by Franconian vineyards, Würzburg was heavily damaged during World War II, but has since been completely restored. This prestigious university city is a jewel of baroque architecture. Its most pristine example of pomp and glory is the great Bishops' Residenz palace, built in 1744 for the prince-bishop; his unwavering support of artists is evidenced by the sweeping staircase and magnificent ceiling frescoes by Tiepolo. Other landmarks include the medieval, statue-lined Old Main Bridge and Marienberg Fortress, originally a Celtic hill fort and later residence of the bishops. The city remains a major wine-making center, hosting Germany's oldest and largest vineyard.

  9. Day 9
    Bamberg
    Thu, Apr 09, 2026

    Founded in 902, Bamberg remains a medieval-looking city known for its symphony orchestra and rauchbier, specialty smoked beer. The city's winding streets are filled with baroque patrician houses and are home to the stunning 11th-century Cathedral of Holy Roman Emperor Heinrich II, housing his tomb and that of Pope Clement II. Bamberg is especially noted for its Altes Rathaus, or Old Town Hall, situated on a twin-arched bridge over the Regnitz River, and for the old bishop's houses: the 16th-century Alte Hofhaltung (Old Court) and 17th-century Neue Residenz (New Residence).

  10. Day 10
    Nuremberg
    Fri, Apr 10, 2026

    The second-largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg is filled with traditional half-timbered houses and Gothic churches with intricate spires. Although nearly destroyed during World War II, the remaining medieval city walls stretch some three miles and feature original gateways and 80 original watchtowers. Nuremberg is well known historically for its metal and toy craftsmanship. But it is infamous for its role in World War II, first as the site of Zeppelin Field's Nazi rallies and later as the site of the war crimes trials at the Palace of Justice that captured the attention of a generation.

  11. Day 11
    Nuremberg
    Sat, Apr 11, 2026

    The second-largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg is filled with traditional half-timbered houses and Gothic churches with intricate spires. Although nearly destroyed during World War II, the remaining medieval city walls stretch some three miles and feature original gateways and 80 original watchtowers. Nuremberg is well known historically for its metal and toy craftsmanship. But it is infamous for its role in World War II, first as the site of Zeppelin Field's Nazi rallies and later as the site of the war crimes trials at the Palace of Justice that captured the attention of a generation.

Countries Visited

France, Germany, Switzerland

Rivers Visited

Main, Rhine

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Inclusions

11 Days 9 Guided Tours / 3 Countries

Daily Shore Excursions: 9 included guided tours
Port Charges: Included on all itineraires

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Ship Information

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Cabins

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Life on Board

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Questions & Answers
  Ask A Question

Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?

Yes, the river cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.

Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?

The river cruise will be conducted in English only.

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
4.1
Accommodations
4.1
Itinerary
4.3
Professional Staff
4.5
Repeat with Operator
4
Value for Money
3.8

Ratings based off 27 reviews - currently showing 9 reviews with comments only

Travel agent Soazeg Vadel very supportive.

Darlena, Thank you for being so helpful during our booking and marvelous Viking Grand River Tour. All of the material in our travel package was spot on with the step by step explanations. You always returned my call promptly. We will recommend your services on our next Viking trip. Respectfully, Alan

I like Viking. I am already booked for 3 more future cruises.

Delightful trip with wonderful staff. Was a trip of a life time and hope I can go again

The agent that put our trip together was outstanding. Complete knowledge and understanding of the Viking Cruise policy and procedures. She was very helpful when a couple of minor issues came up with Viking and she quickly helped us resolve them. Would definitely book another trip through Affordable Tours.

The Viking River Cruise, European Grand tour, was exceptional. The cruise staff were wonderful, attending to every detail once we boarded the ship to arrival at the airport for our return trip home. The staff that greeted us at the airport upon arrival needs training. They did not actually greet us. They were in a cluster talking among themselves and the Uniworld rep directed us to them. We then stood around for 45 minutes without a rep telling us what was happening. I finally went to find out what the delay was. They then told us three people were missing luggage so we had to wait for them.

Our first Viking river cruise was an excellent experience. Well-organized itinerary, friendly and hard-working staff, delicious and plentiful food and beverage choices, and customer service orientation assured us of a positive and happy vacation.

This was our first cruise and we chose river cruise because of small number of guests and proximity to land. Viking Skirnir Tour director met us on the dock in Amsterdam, welcomed us and assured us Viking would care for us the entire trip. Every staff member from crew, housekeeper, waiters, chef, etc always addressed us and were there to please. The included tours were excellent. The French balcony room 270 was small, but comfortable. The sliding glass door enabled us to open, enjoy the views and the cool river breezes, and even touch the walls of the 68 locks traveled through from Amsterdam to Budapest. The upper deck was enjoyable for relaxing, or walking around 12.75 times for 1 mile of exercise. There were adequate seating, but not all covered. We did experience unseasonably warm temperatures and only 1 day of rain. The cafe for relaxed dining was nice for lunch. The main dining room was fantastic for all 3 meals. The Chef and his staff prepared 5 star meals every night for dining with 3 choices as well as some standbys as steaks if you preferred. The desserts were to die for. I wish he and his staff would come to my home. My only negative was the upper deck had to be closed around 5 days as we proceeded on Main River where there were many LOW bridges. There was a bar area with sofas and comfortable seating which was available whether you had drinks or not. There was a daily review by Tour director of the day and the upcoming activity along with the Chef describing your upcoming meal. Yum, Yum, Yum. Your daily included tours were separated into various groups to accomodate smaller tours and always one for gentle tour for those requesting. The tour ended on Sunday night with a river cruise of Budapest city lights where everyone was on upper deck celebrating an OUTSTANDING experience of a lifetime.

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AffordableTours.com is a travel agent for Viking. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. Our price reflects our base price for the same departure as Brochure Price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. All prices are USD per person and based on double occupancy. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. All prices change frequently and our website prices are not guaranteed until a deposit has been received by us. The prices on our website are intended to serve as a guide only and may not accurately reflect current prices. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-342-0019 to confirm current prices and availability. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy.

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