Travel should be more than just a trip—it should be a doorway to cultural insight and personal enrichment. That is why Viking itineraries are designed for The Thinking Person™ to help you explore and engage with your destination through its food, culture, countryside, and customs.

Included shore excursions and curated optional tours provide the perfect overview of must-see cultural and historic highlights. But The Viking Way® of exploration goes beyond the expected and iconic, offering Local Life, Working World and optional Privileged Access® experiences — once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to experience cultural treasures around the world through their pre- or post-cruise extensions or shore excursion options.

Named #1 for Rivers and Oceans in the 2025 Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards for the fifth year in a row, Viking is delighted to continue offering destination-focused travel experiences that resonate with curious travelers.

Only with Viking can you experience the “real Downton Abbey” with an exclusive visit to Highclere Castle on a pre- or post-cruise extension available on many Viking voyages. In addition, Privileged Access® experiences provide Viking guests once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to cultural treasures around the world.

In Vienna, go behind the scenes and tour the boarding school of the Wiener Sängerknaben, the Vienna Boys’ Choir, and meet some of the singers. One of the best known choirs in the world, this perfectly pitched ensemble of trebles and altos is made up of around 100 choristers between the ages of 10 and 14.

Head up to the roof of Cologne’s astonishing cathedral and learn about ongoing excavation and restoration efforts. Viking’s Privileged Access tour will take you to unknown and hidden areas, accessible only during this special tour where you can gaze out over the rooftops and waters of the Rhine far below.