We wanted to see Europe as "hassle-free" as possible. This is a great way to do it. We did the pre-cruise package in Amsterdam and the post-cruise package in Lucerne. We booked our flights through Viking as well. Viking arranged all the transfers. Viking were great hosts, they took care of everything. No worries! What more could you ask for? We saw some great parts of Europe. While doing the cruise part of the adventure, you have the luxury of taking a floating hotel room and a restaurant with you. No packing & unpacking for a week! We dressed casual. There were no "formal nights" and we enjoyed the fact there were less than 200 paying passengers. The service could not have been better. The ship was clean and the cabin was the right size. Ships crew were warm and welcoming. There were free excursions every day. (walking tours) The food was excellent and the wait staff was very attentive. I highly recommend going to Lucurne. The hotel Viking uses is very close to "Old Town" which is the center of action. This was the very best vacation my wife and I have ever had. We plan doing it again in 2019 on the Danube.