9 nights · Czechia · River cruise · Departs Prague · Visiting Decin, Bad Schandau, Dresden, Meissen, Torgau, Lutherstadt Wittenberg, Berlin · Aboard Viking River Cruises on the Viking Astrild
Image courtesy of Viking River Cruises ©
This river cruise sails the Elbe, departing Prague.
| Cruise line | Viking River Cruises |
|---|---|
| Ship | Viking Astrild |
| Duration | 9 nights |
| Port calls | 8 |
| Departures | 50 sailings |
| Year built | 2015 |
| Guests | 98 |
| Cabins | 49 |
| Crew | 28 |
| Length | 110 m |
| Beam | 11 m |
| Cruising speed | 15.0 kn |
Prague is best explored on foot, where Gothic spires, Baroque façades and quiet lanes reveal the city’s layered past. Cross Charles Bridge early, before the crowds, then climb towards Prague Castle for sweeping views over the Vltava. In Old Town Square, the Astronomical Clock draws visitors at the hour. Leave time for a riverside café and a measured look at a city that wears its history in daily life.
Děčín Castle rises above the Elbe, a commanding first view from the river. Northern Bohemia’s Děčín lies close to the German border. It is also a convenient base for exploring Bohemian Switzerland National Park. Visit the castle and its Rose Garden, then follow the riverfront into town. Beyond the centre, sandstone cliffs and forested trails lead toward Hřensko and the park’s celebrated landscapes. Come ashore for a Czech town where river scenery and history meet at close range.
Bad Schandau opens onto Saxon Switzerland, where sandstone cliffs rise above the Elbe. Trails climb from town through ravines and forest to striking rock formations. Ride the historic Kirnitzschtal tram into a wooded valley, or take the 1904 elevator up to Ostrau. River cruises reveal the landscape at an unhurried pace, while the town’s spa heritage offers a quieter pause.
Dresden rewards a close look: its Baroque skyline rises above the Elbe, largely rebuilt after wartime destruction. Begin at the Frauenkirche, whose reconstructed dome anchors Neumarkt, then walk to the Zwinger’s courtyards and galleries. The Semperoper and Royal Palace sit within easy reach of the riverfront. For a broader view, cross the Augustus Bridge or take the funicular to Loschwitz. Allow time for the Old Masters Picture Gallery and a pause beside the river.
Meissen rewards a slow walk above the Elbe. Steep lanes climb to a skyline of castle towers and cathedral spires. At Albrechtsburg, often called Germany’s first purpose-built palace, medieval rooms overlook the river and red-tiled roofs. The town’s porcelain tradition began in 1710, and the Meissen Porcelain Manufactory still lets visitors watch artisans at work. Save time for the old market square and a glass of wine from the surrounding vineyards.
Set beside the Elbe, Torgau rewards a slower landing with one of Saxony’s most compelling Renaissance townscapes. Hartenfels Castle dominates the riverbank, with a grand courtyard and chapel. There, Martin Luther consecrated the first purpose-built Protestant church in 1544. Renaissance façades frame the old town’s market square. St Mary’s Church holds the tomb of Katharina von Bora, Luther’s wife. Nearby, the Elbe bridge recalls the 1945 meeting of American and Soviet forces.
Step ashore in Lutherstadt Wittenberg, where a small Saxon town changed the course of European history. In 1517, Martin Luther made public his Ninety-Five Theses, challenging church practice and setting the Reformation in motion. Visit the Castle Church, the town church where he preached, and Cranach’s former home and workshop. Between these landmarks, cobbled streets and Renaissance façades make Wittenberg’s past easy to explore on foot.
Berlin rewards visitors who look beyond its grand boulevards. The Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag and remnants of the Wall trace a city shaped by empire, division and reunification. Museum Island holds five major museums, while neighbourhood cafés and galleries reveal a lively present. Berlin lies inland; cruise calls marketed as Berlin generally involve a long transfer from Warnemünde. Allow time for the journey and choose your sights carefully.
Published September 23, 2026
Last updated October 23, 2026
Author: J. Richard
Good to know: Prices are quoted per person based on double occupancy and include all applicable taxes and fees. Availability and prices can change quickly, so please continue through the booking process to confirm the latest availability and pricing before you pay.
We work hard to make sure everything on this website is accurate and up to date. However, some information may be incomplete or inaccurate, including details supplied by third parties or otherwise outside our control, and we cannot be held responsible for such errors. We work with 41 cruise line operators, that are providing cruises on 585 ships visiting 1,731 ports across 7,194 unique cruises, creating 13,822 itineraries. This is a great deal of data to continually update daily from our suppliers. If a pricing error, misrepresentation, or omission occurs, we reserve the right to adjust the pricing, correct the information, or cancel or decline any booking made in error, with notice to you. Thank you for your understanding!
