River Cruise in Eastern Europe

[jldodge]

I would like to take a river cruise in eastern Europe sometime this summer (preferably August). I have done some preliminary research and Viking Cruises seems to be the best/most reliable service provider. Also, there are a number of options and I don't have much experience to base a choice on. We are experienced cruisers but this will be our first river cruise. Questions:

 

1) What are your experiences with Viking and/or river cruises?

 

2) What would you recommend in terms of the cities to visit or particular cruises that you enjoyed?

 

3) What should we be prepared for in terms of the differences between river cruising and ship cruising (e.g. it looks to me like the rooms are generally smaller)?

 

4) It also looks like the stops all have "planned" activities. Are these generally worthwhile? Has anyone done their "own thing"?

 

Appreciate any comments or suggestions ... Thanks in advance ...

[Shorex]

There is a board specifically dedicated to river cruising. You will get many more responses from experienced river cruisers if you post there. Browse the board, you will find many threads about Viking and other lines and the "ins and outs" of the various river lines and itineraries.