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Lower Danube Discovery & Jewels of Europe: 30 days Bucharest to Amsterdam

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Operated by Scenic
Tripcode: AU-0b099d187ae68cdb0
Itinerary
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Day 1 - Bucharest

Welcome to Bucharest. The capital of Romania was once called the Paris of the East; however, WWII changed the face of the city with much of its Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture destroyed. Now it offers a unique mix of Art Nouveau remnants and Brutalist-era architecture along with wide, tree-lined boulevards and leafy squares, hidden street art and thriving nightlife, splendid Orthodox churches, and a gargantuan Palace of Parliament.

Upon arrival, you will transfer to a luxury hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2 - Bucharest > Constanta

Following a guided tour of Bucharest this morning you will be transferred to Constanta where our friendly crew await your arrival and welcome you on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship.

Balcony suites have windows that convert into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you fresh air and uninterrupted views of ever-changing landscapes and life along the riverbanks. Relax and raise a glass to the days ahead at this evening’s welcome reception.

Day 3 - Constanta

Sitting on the Black Sea Coast, Constanta is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, dating back to 600BC. Join a guided tour to learn about this long and fascinating heritage. Visit Ovid Square, Orthodox Cathedral, scenic promenade and Genovese Lighthouse.

After lunch, your Scenic Space-Ship will depart for the Bulgarian town of Silistra.

Day 4 - Silistra

Arrive in Silistra after lunch. This Bulgarian town has changed hands many times over the centuries. It was a major Turkish fortress and trade centre in the 15th century, played a significant role in the Russo-Turkish wars of the 1870s, briefly became part of Romania after the Second Balkan War, and finally reverted to Bulgaria in 1940. The town is dotted with historic sites stretching back to late Roman times. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice:

Active walk to Silistra Fort: Take a guided walking tour of the 19th-century fort and learn about its history. It is the best preserved of the six points of the Turkish fortification system, which played an important role in the Russo-Turkish wars.

Visit Alfatar Village: Travel to this small village, located just outside of Silistra. Learn how its people have lived over the centuries and kept their traditions alive in the ethnographic museum and see the beautifully restored Holy Trinity temple, a treasured symbol of the Bulgarian Orthodox religion. You’ll also visit the school to meet local children and hear about daily life for young Bulgarians.

Return to your Scenic Space-Ship this afternoon and enjoy time at leisure. You may wish to stretch your legs on the walking track up on the Sun Deck.

Day 5 - Rousse

This morning, dock in the town of Rousse, often described as ‘Little Vienna’. Join a local guide on a sightseeing tour of this opulent town this morning, resplendent in Belle Epoque architecture and leafy manicured squares. You will also learn about traditional Bulgarian handicrafts, sample some delicious local wine and delight in a short piano recital.  

Spend the rest of the day relaxing on board. Perhaps you’d like to visit the state-of-the-art gym for an invigorating workout or, if you’d prefer to wind down, head to the wellness centre for a relaxing massage^.

Day 6 - Vidin

You will arrive early in Vidin, Bulgaria, this morning. This historic town has a well-preserved medieval fortress and sits between the borders of Bulgaria and Romania. The region boasts a fertile landscape where wine has been grown for almost a century. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from the following Scenic Freechoice morning excursions:

Hiking to Belogradchik Castle Ruins: Take an active hiking tour to the Belogradchik Fortress. Admire the unique rock formations and the ruins of the ancient stronghold constructed when the region was part of the Roman Empire.

Visit to a local winery: Travel to Negovanovtsi village and Dos Alamos Winery for a tour and tasting. Established in 2013, this boutique vineyard grows Bulgarian Rubin grapes (used for high-quality reds) as well as sauvignon blanc and semillon.

Ancestry of the Kitchen – Banitsa cooking demonstration: Recipes have long been passed down through generations and are often kept as a family secret. Meet with a local who will tell you about life in this region as well as divulge a family recipe of traditional  Banitsa, a delicious cheese-filled pie made with filo pastry.

Triangle of Tolerance walking tour: Join a walking tour of Vidin to learn its history and the legacy of tolerance among its residents. You will see the Metropolis Orthodox church of St. Nicholas, the Orthodox Cathedral of St. Dimitar, the Osman Mosque, and the Synagogue.

Day 7 - Iron Gates > Golubac

This morning, you will cruise through the spectacular scenery of the Iron Gates. This stretch of the Danube is the natural border between Serbia and Romania and features four narrow gorges, soaring cliffs and the might rock carving of Decebalus, the former Romanian king. 

Later, dock in the charming town of Golubac, which is home to one of Europe’s best preserved medieval fortresses. It was strategically built at the section of the Danube River that narrows to form the Iron Gate gorge. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from one of these afternoon Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Golubac Fortress: Take a guided tour of the 14th-century fortress, built on a steep embankment of the Danube in the Djerdap National Park. It has nine towers connected by ramparts and has been an imposing figure above the river for centuries.

Lepenski Vir Archaeological Site: One of the most significant archaeological sites in the region, Lepenski Vir was first inhabited some 12,000 years ago. Tour the excavation site of 136 building ruins, a central square, fireplaces and stone idols. Learn how it was discovered and gain a fascinating insight into Europe’s early stone age.

Hike through Djerdap National Park: Join a local park ranger and local guide and hike through the Djerdap National Park. Enjoy spectacular sights along the way such as Golubac Fortress and incredible views over the Danube River.

Day 8 - Belgrade

The capital of Serbia, Belgrade is known as the ‘Door to Central Europe’ and lies at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. This eclectic city is steeped in history, with Neolithic ruins found nearby, a fortress built by the Romans, Brutalist buildings that sit beside Art Nouveau architecture, and a bohemian vibe. One of the oldest capitals in Europe, Belgrade has been rebuilt almost 40 times.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Guided city tour : By coach and foot, you’ll tour the major sites of the city with a guide. See the cobbled streets of the Bohemian Quarter and Kalemegdan Fortress, which has been the site of more than 100 battles and offers panoramic views of the rivers below. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore on your own.

Panoramic city tour including Tito's Memorial: Join a local guide to tour the city’s highlights, including the Ottoman old town, Kalemegdan Fortress and Republic Square, followed by some free time. You will also visit the memorial dedicated to Tito, the former ruler of Yugoslavia.

Cycling tour along the Danube: Trace the banks of the Danube on two wheels, admiring the beautiful scenery and learning about the fascinating history of Belgrade from your local guide.

Education with the Roma community: Visit the Bread of Life project, which works to reduce the prejudices against Roma people, help Roma children to finish primary school and integrate better into society. See how the project is benefiting the community and meet some of the children to hear about the challenges they face.

Scenic Enrich
Visit St. Sava, the largest orthodox temple in the Balkans. Have a chance to explore the frescos-lined walls of the cathedrals crypt where the church choir will perform some of the most beautiful hymns just for you. Due to the acoustics in the crypt, this incredible performance is a once of a lifetime opportunity.

Day 9 - Novi Sad

Arrive in Novi Sad early this morning. Serbia’s second largest city is a lively place of music, art and liberal freedoms. It is also an ethnically diverse city, has a thriving contemporary art scene with several large-scale public murals and hosts ibrant festivals, all while nurturing its rich 500-year history.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Guided tour of Novi Sad: Join your local guide as you discover all that makes this city a true highlight of this region, from the 18th-century Petrovaradin Fortress, to charming Dunavska Street, lined with colourful buildings and a popular place for walking, gathering and dining.

Hike to Petrovaradin Fortress: A symbol of the city, the fortress is often referred to as 'Gibraltar on the Danube'. Learn about its powerful history, dating back to the Middle Ages, as you hike to and be rewarded with magnificent views over the Danube River and city below.

Excursion to Sremski Karlovci: Journey by coach for a guided tour of this charming Baroque town, which was once a hub of the cultural and political life of the Serbs. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own, followed by a visit to a local winery and honey museum.

Fruska Gora National Park: Explore Serbia’s oldest national park, where the landscape is blanketed with oak and beech wood forests, more than 60 family vineyards, and 16 monasteries. Visit the oldest monastery, dating to the 16th century, and stop by a winery for a tasting.

Day 10 - Osijek

Cross into Croatia this morning and dock in Osijek, a small city with a turbulent history. Over the past 500 years it has been part of the Ottoman, Habsburg and Austro-Hungarian empires, and in the 1990s was the epicentre of the Croatian War of Independence. Many of the grand Baroque buildings remain standing but bear the scars of the war. Osijek is famous for its food, which is heavily influenced by Hungary and features plenty of paprika, locally made sausages and river fish.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Walking tour of Osijek: Take a guided walking tour of this charming city, visiting , the well-preserved Baroque Old Town and fortress.

Cycling tour: Explore the Kopacki Rit Nature Park on two wheels on this guided tour. The park is home to 293 kinds of birds, 46 species of freshwater fish, amphibians, reptiles, wild boars and red deer, and the ponds and lakes are teeming with water lilies. You may even see the most famous inhabitant, the white-tailed eagle.

Baranja wine region: The fertile soil of the Baranja region is famous for its exceptional white wines. You will tour family-owned wineries to savour locally produced wine in rustic cellars or outdoor terraces with sweeping views of the vines.

After your touring this morning, you will visit the home of a local Croatian family for lunch. Immerse yourself in this cultural and culinary experience as you enjoy an authentic meal prepared with fresh vegetables from the host’s garden. North-eastern Croatia is the ‘breadbasket’ of the country so it is only natural that the villagers take great pride in their gardens. You’ll be treated to a feast for both the palate and the eyes.

Day 11 - Mohacs

Straddling the Danube, this small Hungarian town was the site of the 16th century Battle of Mohacs, which led to the destruction of the Hungarian monarchy and the rise of Ottoman and Habsburg rule. From here, you will explore the surrounding regions. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Guided tour of Pecs: First settled by the Romans and then later the Turks, and located close by the Croatian border, Pecs is a melange of cultures. On a guided tour, you can see its Roman ruins, Turkish baths, Baroque buildings, and decorative arts and crafts, like porcelain.

Villány wine village: Visit a charming town in the Villány wine region, known for its exceptional red wines, particularly bold, full-bodied varieties. See its rows of historic wine cellars, sample local wines and visit an old mill.

Zsolnay Ceramics Museum: Founded in 1853, Zsolnay Porcelain has a proud history of creating hand-painted decorative, ornamental, and architectural porcelains. View a splendid historic collection at the museum in Pecs, which is housed in the company’s former factory.

Day 12 - Kalocsa

Dock in Kalocsa, one of the oldest towns in Hungary.  Known for its rich history, this region is renowned for producing some of the world's most intricate and beautiful folk art, particularly its detailed embroidery. It was an important agricultural centre in the 19th century and the region has retained much of its rural charm.

Scenic Freechoice:
Discover more about local culture on one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Hungarian Traditions: The region of Kalocsa is teeming with culture and traditions. It is famous for its traditional handicrafts such as needlework and embroidery. Learn about the origins of these beautiful designs as well as other crafts.

Hungarian Horse Show: Kalocsa is located on the Great Hungarian Plain, with an agricultural history dating back more than 2,000 years. Watch a traditional horse show, meet the horsemen who will demonstrate impressive equestrian skills and enjoy a tasting of local delicacies.

Day 13 - Budapest

Wake in Budapest this morning. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. It’s an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths, and has a vibrant nightlife scene.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from a range of Scenic Freechoice activities on offer this morning:

Guided hike of Buda: Strap on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike through the Buda district of the city. On your walk, see Várkert Bazár and beautifully landscaped gardens, all while enjoying great views over the Danube River and the city architecture.

Budapest’s past and present: This walking and coach tour will give insight on Budapest’s communist past and life today as part of the European Union, including the 1956 Hungarian revolution and the significant Jewish events that have shaped modern culture.

Beethoven’s favourite getaway: Travel to Brunszvik Castle, a favourite retreat of the famed composer, to admire its Neo Gothic architecture and the grand gardens. Learn about Beethoven’s life in the dedicated Memorial Museum.

Etyek region wineries and vineyards: The Etyek wine region, often called the ‘vineyard of Budapest’, is renowned for its crisp, aromatic white wines and sparkling wines. Learn about its winemaking tradition and taste local vintages.

Jewish Heritage Tour: During this tour you will learn about the significant Jewish events from history that have shaped the culture of today. You will also visit the fascinating Jewish Museum and impressive Synagogue.

This evening, transfer to Vac for your exclusive Scenic Enrich event. 

Scenic Enrich
Tonight, step back into Hungary’s imperial past as you attend an exclusive classical concert inside Gödöllõ Royal Palace, one of the favourite residences of Queen Elisabeth of Hungary. The world’s second largest Baroque palace, it dates back to the 18th century.

Day 14 - Bratislava

Enjoy a relaxing morning on board your Scenic Space-Ship as you cruise through Hungary and into Slovakia. Request a coffee from your butler and enjoy it in the comfort of your Scenic Sun Lounge as the beautiful Danube scenery rolls by. Take a dip in the Vitality Pool~, work out in the gym, book in for a treatment in the spaˆ or be soother by the healing properties of the Salt Therapy Lounge.

Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious with medieval and Gothic architecture. Its well-preserved hilltop castle, which dates back to the ninth century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city.

Scenic Freechoice:
Discover the city on one of this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Communist tour of Bratislava: Journey behind the Iron Curtain and learn about Bratislava during the communist regime. Your local guide will share how this controversial regime impacted directly on the daily lives of Slovaks and shaped Bratislava’s complex identity.

Walking tour of Bratislava: Join a knowledgeable local guide to see the highlights of the city, including the Hlavné Námestie (main square) and the Old Town Hall while learning about the history of the city.

Coffee and cake with a Slovakian family: On this authentic and immersive experience, you’ll visit a local family home to gain an insight about the everyday lives of Slovaks, while enjoying delicious coffee and cake.

Day 15 - Budapest

Return to Budapest today. Your luxury Space-Ship will dock after lunch, giving you free time to explore on your own this afternoon. Perhaps, pack your swimsuit and make your way to one of Budapest’s thermal baths for a relaxing soak in the therapeutic waters. Szechenyi Baths are the largest, boasting 15 indoor baths and three vast outdoor pools. Or check out the Jewish Quarter’s famous ruin bars, which are housed in old and abandoned buildings that were left in decay after WWII.

Day 16 - Budapest

Budapest is often considered to be the most beautiful city in Europe and you have a full day at leisure to see why.

Day 17 - Budapest

Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. It’s an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. Budapest is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths, which you can visit at your leisure during an afternoon of free time.  

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from a range of included Scenic Freechoice activities on offer this morning:

Budapest in depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Starting in Buda, see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to Pest, the other side of the river to see Széchenyi square and Elizabeth square. End your tour with a mesmerising piano recital at the Institute for the Blind.

Budapest’s past and present: This walking and coach tour will give insight on Budapest’s communist past and life today as part of the European Union, including the 1956 Hungarian revolution and the significant Jewish events that have shaped modern culture.

Hospital in the Rock: Go underground to explore the labyrinths of the Hospital in the Rock, set underneath the city's Castle district. The complex was built as a secret hospital during WWII and was later converted to a nuclear bunker.

Guided hike of Buda: Put on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike through the Buda district of the city. On your walk, see Varket Bazar and beautifully landscaped gardens, all while enjoying great views over the Danube River and the city architecture.

Hungarian culinary market tour: This foodie tour in Budapest offers an unforgettable journey through the city’s culinary delights. Visit the bustling Grand Central Market, taste local delicacies and hear fascinating stories about the city’s traditions.

This afternoon is at leisure.

Day 18 - Vienna

Relax on board this morning as you cruise towards Vienna. You may like to ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite so you can savour it as the beautiful scenery rolls by your window. 

Arrive in the Austrian capital of Vienna this afternoon. A centre of art, music and culture, the city fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, and oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces, a vibrant coffee-house scene, and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.  

Scenic Enrich
Classical concert at Palais Liechtenstein: Breathe in the opulence and luxury of Palais Liechtenstein this evening as you relish an exclusive private classical concert. Enjoy a glass of fine Austrian Sekt and listen to the timeless music of Strauss and Mozart performed by a renowned orchestra. Accompanied by ballet dancers and vocalists, and surrounded by world-famous art, this will be a concert that you’ll remember for a lifetime. 

Day 19 - Vienna

Wake this morning with Vienna on your doorstep. A city full of grandeur, Austria’s imperial capital is famous for having the world’s most beautiful boulevard, The Ringstrasse, and for the legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. Slow down and spend a full day exploring Vienna or venture further afield with Scenic Freechoice. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Schonbrunn Palace: Explore Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family. Wander its ornately designed rooms, hear tales about the royal family that lives here and see the impressive gardens.

Cycle to Danube Island: Explore a different side of Vienna on a guided e-bike tour to Danube Island, a recreational playground where locals come for bathing, boating, cycling and relaxing on its beaches and open spaces.

Excursion to Bratislava: Travel to Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993. This modern multicultural metropolis has an intriguing history. The glorious Old Town and well-preserved hilltop castle contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture. Your local guide will show you Bratislava Castle, the Hlavné Námestie, the main square and the Old Town Hall.

Hidden Gems of Vienna tour: Enjoy a guided tour of the city, brimming with history, elegance and diverse architecture. Stroll toward Schwedenplatz, passing iconic Prater and Augarten park, home to the Vienna Boy’s Choir. Explore the peaceful Greek Quarter, uncovering hidden courtyards, coffee houses and restaurant’s popular with local’s. Hear tales of the construction of St Stephen’s before enjoying some free time. 

Day 20 - Krems > Dürnstein

This morning, arrive in the charming town of Krems, located in the spectacular Wachau Valley. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Today offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from:

Göttweig Abbey: Founded in the sixth century, the abbey burned down during the 18th century and was rebuilt to be one of the most magnificent in the Wachau Valley. Your local guide will show you its magnificent frescoes as well as the staircase, the largest Baroque staircase in Austria.

Wachau Valley wine tasting: The Wachau valley is one of the prominent regions for wine growing in Austria. Today you'll visit a local winemaker and learn about the age-old traditions of winemaking while sampling the delicious wines produced on site.

E-biking from Krems to Dürnstein return: Join your guide on a bicycle tour along the Danube to the pretty town of Dürnstein. Pass by charming villages and scenic vineyard landscapes. You will have time to stop along the way to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Danube.

Later, dock in Dürnstein, a small and picturesque town in the Wachau Valley. Enjoy some free time to explore this World Heritage-listed town, perched on the edge of the Danube River and surrounded by ancient, terraced vineyards.

Day 21 - Brandstatt> Passau

After a short stop in Brandstatt, arrive in Passau. Set at the meeting point of three rivers and close to the border with Austria, Passau was an important trading point for centuries. It was also a significant town in the Holy Roman Empire and the charming Old Town was mostly built by powerful prince-bishops in an Italianate style. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Select from the following Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Full day excursion to Salzburg: Cross the border into Salzburg, Austria, a storybook city surrounded by alpine peaks and best known as the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. On a guided tour, learn about its art and music scene, visit Mozart’s birthplace, and see the vast Hohensalzburg fortress. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and some free time.

Full day excursion to Ceský Krumlov: Journey to the Czech town of Ceský Krumlov, a World Heritage site brimming with charm. Explore with your local guide, admire the well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.

Highlights of Passau: Join your local guide on a walking tour, admiring the brightly coloured buildings that line the waterways. Visit St Stephens Cathedral, originally built in the year 450 but destroyed by fire in 1662 and rebuilt in the Baroque style. 

Day 22 - Regensburg

Boasting a staggering 2,000-year history, Regensburg has one of Germany’s best preserved medieval town centres, with more than 900 of its Romanesque and Gothic buildings listed as World Heritage sites.  Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Today, Regensburg offers a selection of Scenic Freechoice activities to choose from:

Walking tour of Regensburg: On the confluence of three rivers in Bavaria, Regensburg is known as the best-preserved medieval city in Germany. Guests will join a walking tour with a local guide to see the old stone bridge, the Church of St James, and the Porta Praetoria.

Weltenburg Abbey: Take a ferry through the Danube Gorge to Weltenburg Abbey, the oldest monastery in Bavaria, founded by monks in approximately 600AD. Explore the Abbey and Cloister Church, then sample the award-winning beer produced on site since 1050.

Thurn und Taxis Active Walking Tour: Join an active walking tour from the ship to Thurn und Taxis Castle, for a guided tour followed by free time. Thurn und Taxis is a German noble family who can trace their history back to the 12th century.

Cycle to Walhalla Memorial: Cycle through the wonderful scenery of the Donau Valley along the river and through the countryside, to Walhalla Memorial. Commissioned by King Ludwig l of Bavaria, Walhalla Memorial honours notable Germans from past centuries.

Day 23 - Nuremberg

Cruise into Nuremberg, Bavaria’s second-largest city, today, protected by an ancient city wall. The city is dominated by one of the most significant imperial forts of the Holy Roman Empire, the 12th century Imperial Castle, which was the preferred residence of German kings. 

Behind its charming façade, Nuremberg also has a turbulent history. During WWII, the city was favoured by the Nazis for party rallies and many of the anti-Jewish laws began here. By 1945, the city was reduced to rubble, including large sections of the Imperial Castle and Old Town. After the war, Nazi leaders were tried here for their war crimes. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Make your choice from today’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Guided tour of Nuremberg Old Town: Drive into Nuremberg’s city centre, passing by the ancient city walls, then join your local guide for a walking tour of the Old Town to see the Imperial Castle, St. Egidien’s Church and the market square.

World War II tour: Your local guide will highlight the main events that occurred in Nuremberg during the Nazi regime. Learn about this dark time in Germany's history and visit some of the most important sites.

Nuremberg's Castle and City Walls: The historic city of Nuremberg is yours to explore during this active walking tour. Follow the cobblestone streets surrounding the Imperial castle and admire the impressive city walls that remain since medieval times.

Day 24 - Bamberg

Built on seven hills, this World Heritage-listed town has surprises at every turn. Intersected by rivers and canals, Bamberg’s Old Town is resplendent with cobblestoned streets and well-preserved medieval buildings. Admire the charming Town Hall which occupies an island on its own, a Gothic and Romanesque-style cathedral, and the Old and New Residences – comprising an episcopal palace, a pretty ‘Little Venice’ and a 12th century castle that teeters on the highest of the seven hills.

Scenic Freechoice:
Stay in Bamberg or choose to explore further afield:

Guided tour of Bamberg Old Town: Bamberg is known for its charming World Heritage-listed Old Town, one of Europe’s largest intact old town centres. Learn about its fascinating history as you wander through stunning Medieval and Baroque buildings on a guided city tour.

Excursion to Coburg: Journey via coach to Coburg. Visit the impressive castle, which looks over the city, and is considered one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Germany. Its museum houses a large collection of carriages, weapons, armoury and paintings by renowned artists.

This afternoon, spend some time relaxing in your spacious suite or perhaps join your fellow guests on the Sun deck.

Day 25 - Würzburg

After a relaxed morning on board, dock in Würzburg. With its lavish Baroque and Rococo architecture, you’ll be captivating by this glamorous port. This city straddles the Main River in the heart of Franconian wine country. Surrounded by undulating vineyards, Würzburg is home to a World Heritage-listed palace, a dominating hilltop fortress, the 15th century Old Main Bridge, and three universities, including Bavaria’s oldest. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Spend today at your preferred pace with one of these Scenic Freechoice options:

Walking tour and Würzburg Residence: Visit the Würzburg Residence, a Baroque palace surrounded by manicured gardens, for a guided tour to see its many valuable paintings, tapestries and period furniture. Then take a short stroll into the city for some free time.

Romantic Road to Rothenburg: From Würzburg, drive by coach to Rothenburg along the famed Romantic Road, an important trading route during the Middle Ages. Take a guided tour of the well-preserved medieval old town and enjoy some free time to explore on your own.

Day 26 - Wertheim > Miltenberg

Arrive in Wertheim this morning, a small town with a medieval centre sitting on the picturesque banks of the Main and Tauber Rivers. Look out for the distinctive Spitze Turm, a 13th-century pointed watchtower that stands tall above the town. Today is all about connecting with culture and meeting the locals. 

Scenic Freechoice:
This morning, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice tours that will immerse you in local life:

Wertheim tour and winery: Travel to Wertheim am Main, another historic town filled with half-timbered houses for a tour and some free time. Visit a local winery to meet the winemaker and learn about the production process before transferring to the nearby town of Miltenberg.

Gamburg Castle tour: Visit the town of Gamburg for a guided tour of Gamburg Castle. Here you will also meet the Baron and Baroness for a private reception and learn about their modern aristocratic life over a glass of sparkling wine.

Miltenberg tour and local farm visit: Visit a charming, family-owned farmstead. Meet the owners, discover the rhythms of daily farm life, get up close with the animals, and enjoy tastings of local delicacies made right on the farm. Afterwards, visit the charming town of Miltenberg for an orientation tour followed by some free time.

Schnapps tasting: Visit a local schnapps distiller to understand how this flavoured liqueur is produced. Enjoy a tasting of the multiple flavours before taking an orientation tour of Miltenberg followed by some free time to enjoy the town.

After touring, you will reboard your ultra-luxury Space-Ship in Miltenberg and depart for Rüdesheim. Enjoy some of the all-inclusive on board entertainment this evening as you cruise through the night. 

Day 27 - Rüdesheim > Rhine Gorge > Bonn

This morning, disembark in Rüdesheim, a pretty town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for more than two millennia. The charming town centre is filled with half-timbered houses lining cobbled streets, quaint shops selling trinkets such as traditional Christmas ornaments and cuckoo clocks, as well as a smattering of wine taverns and open-air beer gardens. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Make your selection from today’s Scenic Freechoice tours:

Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum: Visit Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum, where a local guide will introduce you to the weird and wonderful mechanical musical instruments. Then explore on your own or take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument.

Hike & Cable Car: Join a local guide for a hike through the rolling vineyards of Rudesheim and enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and Rhine River below. After your hike, board the cable car to return to town.

Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise through the picturesque Rhine Gorge, where the landscapes could have been pulled from the pages of a fairytale. This 65-kilometre stretch of the river is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Look out for the Lorelei statue, dedicated to the tragic legend of a beautiful maiden. 

Scenic Enrich
Gala Dinner and classical concert at La Redoute Recital Hall: An exclusive experience awaits you this evening. Travel to Bonn and the magnificent La Redoute recital hall, built in 1792 by the last Elector of Cologne. Sit down to a lavish dinner accompanied by classical music. 

Day 28 - Cologne

Dock in the 2,000-year-old city of Cologne today. Cologne suffered extensive damage during World War II but was painstakingly restored over the following decades. Set out on a walking tour of the Old Town, admiring its historic buildings, beautiful squares and the World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral. After lunch, we cruise to Amsterdam.

Day 29 - Amsterdam

The Netherlands’ capital is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, galleries filled with masterpieces, 16th-century canals, narrow cobbled laneways, and streets busy with cyclists. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, much of the UNESCO-listed canal system exists today as it did hundreds of years ago, lined with well-preserved houses and intersected by charming bridges.   

Scenic Freechoice:
Discover more of the city on one of these excursions:

Canal cruise: Amsterdam has more than 100 kilometres of canals. See some of the prettiest sights of the city on a one-hour cruise along these historic waterways. Admire Golden Age mansions, grand warehouses and narrow bridges.

Walking tour of Amsterdam: Explore Amsterdam on foot, discovering the maze of canals and bridges in the city centre. Your guide will be covering history, modern lifestyle and Dutch culture. You also get to taste herring, a local delicacy not to be missed.

Dutch countryside e-bike tour: Amsterdam is known as the bicycle capital of the world. Take a small ferry to the outskirts of town for a biking tour. Your local guide will be at hand to offer information about everyday life of the Dutch people, many of whom you will see getting around on two wheels.

Excursion to Schermerhorn & Alkmaar: Leave the capital to visit the village of Schermerhorn, home to a number of authentic 16th-century windmills. Then travel to the charming town of Alkmaar, known for its historic buildings and picturesque canals.

Day 30 - Amsterdam

Your journey concludes this morning in Amsterdam. After one final breakfast on board, depart with a lifetime of memories.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.

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Scenic

At Scenic, we create exceptional journeys to every corner of the world. You will enjoy once-in-a-lifetime experiences, indulgent truly all-inclusive luxury, and a world class crew who will ensure every detail is cared for to the Nth Degree. With more than three decades of experience, the loyalty of our Scenic guests reflects our dedication to always placing you at the heart of everything we do. With Scenic, you'll find this is worldwide discovery truly in a class of its own. Across our 5-star luxury river cruises on custom-built Scenic Space-Ships, and 6-star ultra-luxury voyages on board Scenic Eclipse, The World’s First Discovery Yachts™, it is more than taking our guests to exceptional destinations around the world. Our truly all-inclusive philosophy enables our guests to be immersed in their chosen destination, indulge in an unparalleled level of luxury, and relax knowing everything is taken care of.

Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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29 nights
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