Welcome to Paris, the City of Lights. The French capital is home to some of the world’s most famous monuments, from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe; museums that contain masterpieces such as Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Van Gogh’s Self Portrait; and iconic public spaces from elegant tree-lined Champs-Elysee to its urban oasis Jardin des Tuileries. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time to this romantic city, there is always something new to discover. Your journey will also culminate in Paris where you’ll have the opportunity to scratch the surface a little more.

Upon arrival, transfer to your Scenic Space-Ship where your friendly crew await to welcome you on board. Relax in your luxurious suite or take a beverage to the Sun Deck.

This morning will be spent cruising towards Les Andelys. This riverfront medieval town is set on one of the prettiest bends of the Seine, resplendent with well-preserved Norman-era houses and exquisite public buildings and overlooked by the imposing ruins of King Richard the Lionheart’s castle, Château Gaillard. Take a stroll alongside the river, admiring the striking limestone cliffs rising from it, or through the charming centre of town where the buildings are a living catalogue through time.

Freechoice:
Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Hike to Château Gaillard with 'Richard the Lionheart': Step back to the age of Robin Hood. This Medieval-themed walking tour will follow in the footsteps of King Richard the Lionheart. Explore the historical secrets of Les Andelys and venture up to Lionheart’s castle of Château Gaillard to wander among the ruins. From here you will have a panoramic view of the river and surrounding countryside.

Tour of Les Andelys with Chateau Gaillard: Explore the picturesque Norman town of Les Andelys on the banks of the river Seine with your local guide before reaching the Chateau that look over the city. 

Excursion to Lyons la Forêt: Today you will discover Lyons la Forêt, regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in France. This delightful town is surrounded by one of the largest beech forests in Europe and comprises half-timbered houses dating to the 17th and 18th century in typical Normandy style. After exploring the town, you will visit Le Pressoir d'or where you will learn how local cider is produced as well as enjoying a sample.

Rouen is the vibrant capital of the Normandy region. With a fascinating history of Roman and Viking settlement, it has also played a pivotal place in history as the town where Richard the Lionheart was crowned Duke of Normandy and Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake. Much of Rouen was sadly destroyed in World War II, but much of the city has been faithfully restored, including the exquisite Old Town. It’s an engaging and historically rich destination, packed with museums, stylish bistros and coffee shops, and a wealth of churches, including the famed 12th century Rouen Cathedral.
 

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

Rouen city tour: Victor Hugo once described Rouen as ‘the city of a hundred spires’ – find out why on a guided tour of the city, which takes you to the cathedral district, the old marketplace and Saint Maclou Quarter, home to a striking church. Feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairytale as you walk the winding medieval laneways and admire the half-timbered houses. Learn about Joan of Arc and see where she was tragically put to death after being tried for heresy and sorcery in 1431. Enjoy free time afterwards to explore on your own.

Guided tour of Rouen with Rollo the Viking: Authentically dressed as Viking warlord Rollo the Walker – who was famously too tall to ride a horse – your guide will take you around the city to learn about the Viking raiders who made Rouen their capital. This tour focuses on the city’s medieval past and you will enjoy some free time afterwards to explore.

Photography discovery: Join a local photographer to learn the secret of this century's old art form. Use Rouen as the landscape of your digital portrait like a modern impressionist artist.
 

Back on board this evening, listen to a fascinating lecture about WWI with an expert.

WWI Lecture – Day in the life of Tommy: Join a lecture on WWI with a speaker who is dressed up in a soldier’s uniform. During this interactive evening, you will be able to gain understanding into the life of a soldier on the Western Front and learn why this was known as ‘the Great War’. From the curious 1914 Christmas armistice football match to the horrors of trench warfare involving machine guns, tanks, mining and the deadly flamethrower, you will experience the war through the eyes of an allied soldier, ‘a Tommy’. Try on his equipment and weapons and taste his rations. This immersive journey is bound to be an emotional one that will bring the history of war to life.
 

This evening, a local pâtissier will come on board with a selection of their finest desserts for your dining pleasure.  

Today you’ll have the opportunity to join an excursion to the Somme Battlefields or take a walking tour from the ship to Rouen’s Fine Art Museum.
 

Freechoice:
Excursion to the Somme Battlefields including Newfoundland Memorial Park: Take a full day excursion to the Somme Battlefields, the location of the infamous Battle of the Somme which claimed the lives of more than 150,000 soldiers from Britain and the Commonwealth. This tour will take you to the Australian National Memorial (Sir John Monash Centre) to pay tribute to the 10,773 Australian soldiers killed in WWI in France who have no known graves (with the exception of Fromelles). Afterwards you will visit the Franco-Australian Museum, which pays homage to the close relationship between the French and Australians soldiers during and after the war.

After lunch, you will visit the Lochnagar Crater, which was created by a large mine placed beneath the German front lines on the first day of the Battle of Somme, and the Newfoundland Memorial Park, one of the largest areas on the Western Front where you can still see shell holes and trenches.

Please note: The Sir John Monash Centre is a state-of-the-art immersive sensory experience that uses technology to tell the story. In order to maximise your experience, we suggest you download the Sir John Monash Centre app from the Apple or Google Play store prior to embarking on your cruise.

Excursion to the Somme Battlefields Including Thiepval: This full-day excursion will follow the same itinerary as the tour above, visiting the Somme Battlefields, the Australian National Memorial (Sir John Monash Centre) and the Franco-Australian Museum.

After lunch, you will be transferred to Caterpillar Valley Cemetery, which contains more than 5,500 Commonwealth graves from WWI, then visit Thiepval Memorial to the Missing and Visitor's Centre, and Lochnagar Crater, which was created by large mine placed beneath the German front lines on the first day of the Battle of Somme.

Please note: The Sir John Monash Centre is a state-of-the-art immersive sensory experience that uses technology to tell the story. In order to maximise your experience, we suggest you download the Sir John Monash Centre app from the Apple or Google Play store prior to embarking on your cruise.

Tastes of Normandy: The region of Normandy is as diverse as it is abundant. The dairy industry makes way for the numerous and delicious soft creamy cheeses that are popular in this area and often regarded as some of the best in France. The high number of quality orchards allow the production of Cider and Calvados. Try some of the best this region has to offer during this tour.

This morning your Scenic Space-Ship will dock right in the centre of Honfleur, a colourful coastal town that has been described as having one of the prettiest harbours in France, Le Vieux Bassin. Originally built for trade, the port was chosen for its strategic position on the southern bank of the Seine estuary. Over the years the town has captured the imaginations of countless artists and was the birthplace of impressionism. The bustling harbour and cobbled streets are a confection of half-timbered houses, restaurants, gourmet shops and art galleries. It’s an easy walk from the ship to explore the harbour area and network of laneways beyond.

From the ship, join a guided walking tour of Honfleur’s harbour. You will see the Church of Sainte-Catherine, which dates to the 15th century and is France’s largest church to be made entirely of wood with a separate belfry. Then visit the Garden of Personalities, a 10-hectare landscaped garden that features the busts of important French figures over time, including painters and navigators.

Back on board this evening, join a lecture about WWII to gain a better understanding ahead of your full-day excursions tomorrow.  

History comes alive with an interactive lecture on the battles of WWII. Discover what life was like during the campaigns of D-Day; learn about Operation Fortitude, the plan created to deceive the Germany Army on the location of D-Day; and see how technology had evolved since WWI.

Why not ask your butler to wake you with a coffee delivered to your suite, followed by a leisurely breakfast at Crystal Dining before heading off on your Scenic Freechoice excursions. 

You could choose to learn about the D-Day Landings, where tens of thousands of allied troops came ashore to free north-western Europe from Nazi occupation. Six weeks of heavy fighting and losses followed, but this strategic campaign ultimately ended the war.   

Freechoice:
Choose from todays’ Scenic Freechoice activities:

Excursion to the Normandy Beaches Including Omaha Beachn (US Focused): Start at the memorial on Utah Beach, where more than 20,000 US troops landed on June 6, 1944, before a visit of Sainte-mere-Eglise, the town where 30 US Paratroopers landed during the Normandy Invasion. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Visitor Centre before a short stop at the Omaha Beach Memorial. Omaha Beach is often referred to as ‘Bloody Omaha’, as it resulted in the most casualties during the operation, with 2,400 dead.

Excursion to the Normandy Beaches Including British Normandy Memorial (UK focused): The small town of Bayeux was the first town to be liberated after the D-Day Landings and became the French capital for the summer of 1944, until the liberation of Paris. Visit the Bayeux War Cemetery and the Museum of the Battle of Normandy, which describes the chronological events from D-Day in detail. Then explore the new state-of-the-art Landing Museum at Arromanches, located across the artificial harbour that was built to dispatch reinforcements. After lunch at a local restaurant, you will visit the British Normandy Memorial, which records the names of 22,442 fallen servicemen and women under British command; the Pegasus Bridge & Museum, site of an important battle; and stop at the Ranville War Cemetery.

Excursion to the Normandy Beaches Including Juno Beach Centre (Canadian Focused): Begin at Abbey d’Ardenne, which was founded in the 11th century and is now a memorial to the Canadian Prisoners of War from the D-Day landings. Next you will head to Juno Beach Centre, a memorial to where 20,000 Canadian troops landed on that day. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Bény-sur-Mer Canadian cemetery where the 335 Canadian men who were killed in the D-Day Landings and the early stages of the campaign are buried. You’ll also visit Pegasus Bridge & Museum, site of an important battle.

Bayeux tour with tapestry visit: If your interest sits in a different era in history, join a guided tour of Bayeux, including the Notre Dame Cathedral of Bayeux, built between the 11th and 14th centuries and considered a masterpiece of Norman Romanesque and Gothic architecture. You will also visit the Bayeux Tapestry, an 11th century embroidered cloth nearly 70 metres long and 50 centimetres tall, which tells the story of the conquest of England by the Duke of Normandy. You will have free time afterward to explore the town of Bayeux.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Caudebec-En-Caux this morning. This small town is set on a curve of the Seine and the riverfront is lined with handsome homes, stately gardens and crumbling stone walls. Caudebec -En-Caux dates back to the Middle Ages and a handful of historic buildings survived the bombardments of WWII, including the ornate 15th century Notre Dame Caudebec-En-Caux. From where you’ll set out to explore more of the Normandy region. 
 

Freechoice:
Explore your way this morning with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Cycle to Villequier with Victor Hugo Museum: Enjoy an active biking tour to the charming village of Villequier, cycling along the banks of the River Seine, following a flat eight-kilometre-each way route. Visit the museum dedicated to Victor Hugo, the famous French poet, playwright and novelist before returning to the ship.

Fecamp and Benedictine Palace: Take a coach transfer to Fecamp, an historic seaside town surrounded by some of the tallest cliffs in Normandy. You will join a guided tour of the Benedictine Palace, an architectural masterpiece built in the 19th century, famous for the Benedictine liquor that is produced on site and is said to contain 27 plants and spices. Enjoy a tasting during your visit.

Tales of the French Resistance: Set off on a walking tour and hear stories of the French Resistance, who fought against the Nazi Occupation of France during World War 2. Hear local stories of heroism and daring missions as you explore the historic city.

Normandy Abbey Road: Spiritual health and wealth has been important in the Normandy region since the middle ages and evidence of this remains through the number of Abbeys in this region. Join a local guide on a tour of the abbeys along the meandering River Seine. Appreciate the Jumièges Abbey ruins, formally a Benedictine Abbey that dates back to the year 654 and also the 11th century Romanesque Abbey and its’ romantic garden.

This morning your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Vernon, an historic border town between the Duchy of Normandy and the Kingdom of France. Today it’s a great base to explore nearby Giverny, known for its most famous resident, artist Claude Monet, who turned this quiet riverside town into an artist pilgrimage.
 

Freechoice:
Monet's House and Garden: Claude Monet is renowned as the founder of French Impressionist painting and today you will visit his house and gardens. Built by Monet, the gardens comprise a Japanese-inspired water garden with lilies, which inspired his most famous works. Journey via coach from Vernon to Giverny, on arrival you will enjoy a guided tour of the town and visit Monet’s residence, followed by free time to explore at your own leisure. The town is surrounded by hillsides and features many walking paths that are fringed by wildflowers.

Self-guided cycle from Vernon to Giverny: Take a self-guided biking tour from the ship in Vernon to Giverny (approximately five kilometres each way). When you arrive, you may wish to visit Monet’s House and Garden or wander about this charming town, before returning to the ship.
 

After exploring these beautiful gardens during this morning’s touring, you may feel inspired to create a masterpiece of your own during an on board painting class. 

This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will sail towards La Roche Guyon, where this evening’s exclusive Scenic Enrich experience will take place.
 

Enrich
Château de La Roche Guyon: Take a short walk from the ship to Château La Roche Guyon, which is built into a chalk hillside and dates to the 16th century. It features decorative walls and ceilings as well as tapestries, and during WWII was the headquarters for German field marshal Erwin Rommel, known as Desert Fox. On your way to the château, you will pass through the manicured orchard and vegetable gardens, which are kept by nine on-site gardeners. On arrival you’ll enjoy a drink and sit for a splendid classical concert that focuses on music by French composers.  

Wake this morning in Conflans-Saint-Honore, a medieval town located at the confluence of the River Seine and Oise. Though it’s just a short distance from the centre of the city, it feels a world away. A castle was built here by monks in the 9th century to protect the relics of Saint Honore, from whom the town gets its name. It became a popular pilgrimage site in the 11th century, a practice which lasted for more than 700 years. Wander the quiet streets and the riverside pathway, sip coffee at an open-air café, and admire the beautiful ancient church. From here, you can explore some of the outer regions of Paris.
 

Freechoice:
Today, choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities:

Visit to Auvers-Sur-Oise: Transfer to the village of Auvers-Sur-Oise, the place where Vincent Van Gogh painted his final masterpieces, by coach. Throughout the town guests will see landmarks that were immortalised by Van Gogh in some of his well-known artworks such as the famous Notre Dame de l'Assomption church. The tour includes entry to Van Gogh’s room, an attic that he rented during his final months. The artist was the last occupant of this room, which has sat empty since 1890. Enjoy free time afterwards to wander through the village.

Chantilly Castle and Gardens: Château de Chantilly is a magnificent tribute to France’s cultural heritage, built by Henri D'Orleans, the son of the last King of France. Take a guided tour of the castle and gardens, including some free time to explore the grounds. The château showcases some of the fine collections D’Orleans amassed during his life, which you can see displayed elegantly in the large gallery as well as the grand living areas used by this family.

Kayaking on River Oise: Explore this beautiful region from a different perspective as you glide along the River Oise, which flows into the River Seine at Conflans. Paddle past impressive landscapes and estates via kayak.
 

This afternoon you’ll spend time on board as your Scenic Space-Ship cruises back to Paris. Relax with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar, take some time out in the wellness centre, where you can enjoy a massage, or head to the state-of-the-art gym for an invigorating workout.

Welcome back to Paris, where you will spend the day exploring this great city. First timers will love the highlights tour, which allows you to tick off bucket-list items such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, while return visitors may want to discover the trendy Marais District or Opera Garnier, an opulent architectural masterpiece built in the 19th century. Or take a tour south-east of the city to an exquisite château.
 

Freechoice:
Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice options:

Trendy Marais with a local Parisian: Enjoy a guided walking tour of the Marais district with a Parisian guide. A melting pot of cultures, fascinating history, opulent architecture, an eclectic arts scene and high-end fashion, the Marais is one of the most diverse districts in Paris.

Highlights of Paris city tour: Join a local guide on a coach tour of the city to see some of its most famous sites. Marvel at Paris' most iconic landmark, the Eiffel Tower, which was built in 1889 for the World Exhibition; drive along the famous Champs Elysee, the world’s most beautiful avenue; and see the Arc de Triomphe and Concorde Square. You will also view the 1163-built Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, which has been closed since the 2019 fire and is currently undergoing a painstaking restoration process.

Opera Garnier: Located in the theatrical heart of Paris, the spectacular Opera Garnier is resplendent with ornately decorated rooms, grand staircases, and glistening chandeliers. Tour this opera house and learn about the magnificent building that was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III.

Château Vaux-le-Vicomte: Take a coach to the Château Vaux le Vicomte, located an hour’s drive from Paris. This château is credited as the founding French formal garden that was the inspiration for Versailles. The property is laid out in a typical symmetrical fashion with its stunning gardens creating a theatrical setting.

This afternoon is free to explore Paris at your own leisure. Perhaps you’d like to people-watch on the Champs-Elysee from a sidewalk café, head to the top of the Eiffel Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city, or venture to Montmartre, the artist’s district and where the famed Moulin Rouge is located.  Otherwise you can relax back on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship.

Today, bid farewell to the Scenic Gem and enjoy an overnight stay in Paris. Take a leisurely stroll along one of the city’s charming boulevards or sample some of the local delicacies.

From Paris, you'll take a short flight to Nice, where you’ll have a day to relax and explore at your own  pace. Enjoy an overnight stay.

Scenic Eclipse will be waiting for you alongside the multi-million-dollar superyachts in the marina. Be welcomed on board by your expert crew, meet your butler and take some time to settle into your spacious verandah suite.  

Enjoy a late departure from Nice tonight, giving you the chance for a sunset stroll along the grand Promenade des Anglais, arguably the most famous stretch of seafront in France. Or seek out one of the chic jazz bars that are clustered around Cathedral Square.

The beautiful fishing village of Portofino is nestled on Italy's Riviera and is one of its most famous resort towns. Postcard-perfect and oozing Mediterranean charm, Portofino is the epitome of la dolce vita. Brightly coloured buildings sit against crystal-clear water with lush pine-covered hills in the distance. 

Explore the luxury boutiques, swim in the turquoise bay, dine on exquisitely fresh seafood and look out for celebrities at the exclusive bars set around the Piazzetta. 

The vibrant city of Livorno has been welcoming sailors and traders from around the globe for over 400 years. As one of Italy's most cosmopolitan cities, Livorno serves as the gateway to the magnificent Tuscany region, renowned for its picturesque landscapes, delectable cuisine, and rich artistic heritage. Located conveniently close to Florence and Pisa, Livorno offers easy access to these iconic destinations. 

Explore the enchanting 17th century district of Venezia Nuova, delight your senses at the bustling Central Market or wander along the grand Terrazza Magascani overlooking the waterfront.

Calvi, on the French island of Corsica, has a long and illustrious history. Founded in the 13th century, its fiery medieval citadel still stands above red tiled roofs. It’s been a tourist hotspot since the 1920s, thanks to its moon-shaped bay lined with a golden, sandy beach and forested mountains on the horizon.  

Today, Calvi has the feel of a chic resort on the French Riviera, with waterfront restaurants, luxury hotels and multi-million-dollar yachts at anchor. Explore the alleys of this historic old town, walk the ramparts of the citadel, and try to find the house that is said to be the birthplace of Christopher Columbus.

Welcome to the cinematic capital of the world. While we are a few weeks early for the Cannes Film Festival, you’ll be able to feel the excitement building up as you explore the picture-perfect streets exuding subtle movie magic.

Explore haute-couture boutiques, relax on striped sun loungers along the beach, or sip cocktails at chic beachside bars. There’s plenty of history and culture to be found in this coastal enclave, but it’s really a place to relax and soak up the champagne lifestyle that plays out alongside the sparkling Mediterranean every day.

The oldest city in France, Marseille dates back to 600BC. Today, it’s a fast-paced, modern city brimming with multicultural flavours, and flanked by breathtaking natural scenery and golden beaches. This is a place where grit and grandeur meet, offering a fascinating insight into contemporary French culture. Explore its ancient streets and diverse neighbourhoods, marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and treat yourself to the freshest seafood and traditional delicacies. Marseille is also the gateway to the region of Provence, famous for its wine and cuisine.

Known for its British-style Georgian houses and medieval streets filled with palaces, churches and fortresses, Mahon is truly Vella i Bella ‘Old and Beautiful’. As the capital of the laid-back island of Menorca, life here is dictated by the slow and gentle waves that lap on the shorelines. Breathe in history during a walk through the old town and gain insight into the great past of the town, a charismatic centre with a charm all its own.

Bid farewell to the magnificent Scenic Eclipse and take an included flight to Bordeaux, where you’ll enjoy an overnight stay before boarding the Scenic Diamond.

Today embark on the luxurious Scenic Diamond for your cruise through the magnificent Bordeaux region.

This morning is spent on board relaxing as you cruise into the beautiful 13th century port of Libourne. Head up to the Sun Deck to bask in the sunshine and enjoy the scenery along the Dordogne River rolling by. Or perhaps drop into Scenic Culinaire for a French cooking class.  

Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, a World Heritage-listed medieval village with world-famous wineries, beautiful architecture and historic monuments. It’s also the birthplace of macarons. The town bears the name of a monk who is said to have performed miracles, such as restoring a local woman’s sight, and lived in a natural grotto here in the 8th century. You will enjoy a guided tour of the caves and catacombs beneath the city, including a Monolithic church built from limestone, whose 38-metre-long bell tower can be seen above ground. 

This evening your Scenic Space-Ship will be docked overnight in Libourne, a 13th-century city located at the confluence of the Dordogne and Isle rivers.

This morning, why not ask your personal butler to wake you with a coffee delivered to your suite? Then enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Crystal Dining. Then, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Libourne and its surrounding wine-growing region.
 

Freechoice:
This morning, choose from one of these Scenic Freechoice activities:

Walking tour of Libourne: Join your local guide for a walking tour of Libourne, the fortified harbour town with a rich history linked to the trade of wool, wine, salt and wood. As you stroll through the town, you'll see the quaint 16th-century town-house and Gothic church that boasts a 71-metre stone spire.

Wine tasting at Château Siaurac: Located in the prestigious Pomerol wine-growing region, Château Siaurac is the largest and most iconic estate of the appellation. With a long history in winegrowing, the estate produces award-winning wines, which you will have the opportunity to taste. You will also explore the immaculate property, which is home to a 19th-century chateau and 15 hectares of rolling parklands, resplendent with century-old trees and landscaped woods.

Excursion to Sturgeon Farm: Caviar production in the Aquitaine region of France is renowned the world over and youwill have the opportunity to learn about how they produce fine quality caviar during a visit to a local sturgeon farm. Get up close to and even hold one of the sturgeon before sampling some of the caviar produced on site.

This afternoon, relax on board as you sail towards Blaye. Toast the passing scenery with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar or spend time in the exclusive Salt Therapy Lounge, which provides natural anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.

Wake this morning in Blaye, a small town with a rich military history and surrounded by vineyards known for red wine production. Most famously, this petite hamlet is home to a World Heritage-listed citadel that was constructed to protect the city of Bordeaux, 50 kilometres upstream, from enemy attacks.
 

Freechoice:
This morning, choose your Scenic Freechoice activity:

Walking tour of Blaye: Stroll through the charming city of Blaye with a local guide. Contained within the walls of the 17th-century Citadel of Blaye, a World Heritage-listed monument that overlooks the Gironde Estuary.

Active walking tour of Blaye: Tour the fascinating World Heritage-listed Citadel of Blaye on an active walking tour with a local guide. Gain an understanding of the defence system created by the famous architect Sébastien Vauban.

Afterwards relax on board your luxury ship as you sail towards Fort Medoc for tonight’s classical concert.
 

Enrich
Tonight’s Scenic Enrich:

Classical Concert at Chateau d’Agassac: Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château d'Agassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century the Château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region and is the venue for your unforgettable evening concert. Wander through the château and its gardens and soak in the ambiance of this magnificent property before a string quartet performs classical masterpieces for your enjoyment. 

Wake up this morning in Fort Medoc, located between Bordeaux and Pointe de Grave, at the northern end of the Médoc winegrowing region. This appellation grows some of the world’s most famous and expensive wines, particularly cabernet sauvignon.

Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Medoc wine tasting by coach: The name Médoc is synonymous with exceptional wines. Considered the world’s leading red wine producer, Médoc has been a winemaking region since the 18th century, with more than 16,000 hectares of vineyards across eight appellations. The epic ‘Route des Chateaux’, which translates to the ‘Route of Castles’, which winds through undulating countryside from Bordeaux to the Pointe de Grave, at the northern end of the Médoc region. On this coach tour you will travel through this scenic region to a local winery and enjoy a tasting of their wines.

Medoc wine tasting by bicycle: Discover the spectacular Médoc countryside by e-bike today and see many fine aristocratic châteaux in the world’s leading red wine producing region. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at one of the prestigious estates.
 

Back on board, enjoy lunch as you cruise to Bourg, a picturesque town set on a rocky promontory. Built as a defensive château, it’s a maze of ancient alleyways, moats and bell towers on the Dordogne. This quiet village sits among many famous World Heritage-listed sites and, though it is just as charming, remains largely undiscovered by the masses.
 

Freechoice:
This afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice options:

Bourg tour with carriages Museum: Situated inside the grounds of Bourg Castle, visit the carriages Museum with a local guide and discover the unique collection of horse-drawn carriages on display. In addition, visit the 16th-century passageway to the guard’s rooms and immense WWII oil tanks.

Guided cycling along the Captain’s Road: Join an active cycling tour along the Captain’s Road, which is named in honour of the WWI captains who chose to purchase their homes along this beautiful stretch of waterway in the early 20th century. Cycle through beautiful riverside villages before returning to the ship.

Visit to a local estate: Enjoy magnificent panoramic views of Gironde Estuary from the right bank while tasting Côtes de Bourg wines at a local winery.
 

This evening your ship will continue its journey towards Cadillac, stopping overnight in Bordeaux before sailing onward.

Departing Bordeaux early, your Scenic Space-Ship will sail along the Garonne River to Cadillac. Relax in your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views of the passing landscape, some of the most picturesque in the Bordeaux region. Or perhaps you’d rather spend the morning in the state-of-the-art gym doing an invigorating workout before a day of sightseeing in and around Cadillac. Founded in the 13th century, this charming, fortified city is centred around its magnificent château. 
 

Freechoice:
Explore your way with this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Cadillac walking tour: Enjoy a walking tour of Cadillac, a small town with architecture dating to the 16th century. On this tour you will visit Château de Cadillac, a well-preserved monument with decorative fireplaces, more than 30 tapestries and painted ceilings. Between the early 19th century and the 1950s, the château was used as a women’s prison.

Sauternes by coach: Venture into the Sauternes region with a visit to either Château Rayne Vigneau or Château La Tour Blanche (the group will be split into two). Enjoy a delicious tasting of the chateau’s fine wines as you take in the stunning views of the vineyard and surrounds.

Sauternes by bike: Cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to the Grand Cru Classé estate of Château Mayne la Merci for a tasting. Learn the history of winemaking here and the process involved in production from time of harvest, grape to wine, length of maturing and, of course, the tasting pleasure.

Back on board this evening, fabulous local entertainers perform live in the Panorama Lounge for a night of entertainment as you cruise back to the beautiful city of Bordeaux.

Waking this morning in Bordeaux, you will have several options to explore this incredible city. Founded by the Celts around 300BC and became part of Julius Caesar’s Roman Empire in the 1st century. It has been an important trading port since the Middle Ages, thanks to its strategic location on the river flowing to a sea port, and even acted as the seat of French government at the start of both the First and Second world wars.
 

Freechoice:
The choice is yours with this morning’s Scenic Freechoice:

Guided tour of Bordeaux: Join your local guide on a tour of Bordeaux. Discover the highlights of the city by coach and on foot, such as the magnificent Gothic cathedral and Place de la Bourse, which is home to the famous ‘Water Mirror’. Along the way, you’ll learn interesting facts about the city’s history, culture and way of life. Afterwards you'll have free time to explore the streets and go shopping at your leisure.

Cycling tour of Bordeaux: Pedal through historic Bordeaux on a guided cycling tour. Cross bridges to see the Royal Gate and the Palais Rohan, relax in pretty public gardens and sample delicious treats such as Canele, a custard cake.

Shop with a chef & Scenic Culinaire: Gourmands can join Scenic’s on board chef on a visit to a local food market where you will have an opportunity to shop for and taste the best ingredients this region has to offer. Upon returning to your Scenic Space-Ship, head to the Scenic Culinaire cooking school for an interactive cooking demonstration making some of France’s most popular and delicious dishes using the ingredients you have just bought
 

This afternoon is at your leisure to wander the streets of Bordeaux. Spend your final hours in France wandering along the waterfront past 18th century buildings, make a beeline for the city’s Golden Triangle district for beautiful architecture and shopping, or visit La Cite du Vin, an interactive and sensory wine museum.

Board an included flight from Bordeaux to Porto where you will be welcomed on board by the friendly crew of the Scenic Azure.

Wake in the city of Porto, a 2,000-year-old city that lent its name to the nation of Portugal. And while it is awash in history, it has a youthful vibe. Porto is both hip yet opulent, where street art adorns ancient city walls and historical buildings are decorated with intricate colourful tiles.

Freechoice:
Explore the region with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Guided tour of Porto: Discover the rich culture and history of Porto on this guided tour, which includes a visit to the iconic Palacio da Bolsa. Located in the heart of the city, this 19th-century neoclassical building boasts stunning architecture and intricate detail, including the Arab Room, adorned with stunning Moorish-inspired decorations and with a ceiling made entirely of gold leaf. After your guided tour you have ample free time so why not explore the Bolhão Markets? This historic market has been in operation since 1914 and offers visitors a glimpse into the local food and culture. It’s a great way to mingle with locals and enjoy the bustling atmosphere.

Active tour of Porto including cable car: Walk from the ship to board a rabelo (a traditional wooden cargo boat). Travel from Porto to Gaia (or Vila Nova de Gaia) where you’ll take a cable car ride to the Dom Luis bridge, which crosses the Douro River. Walk across the bridge towards Porto Cathedral, Sao Bento railway station, and the bustling street of Rua das Flores.

Decorative blue tiles are synonymous with Portugal and this afternoon you will learn about their history while creating a masterpiece of your own during a tile painting workshop.

Your first port of call along the Douro is the quaint village of Entre-os-Rios. From here, you will set out to explore the verdant Douro Valley, with options to enjoy a hike, sample local wines, or visit a city known as the ‘cradle of Portugal’.

Freechoice:
Choose from one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Paiva Walkways: Explore nature at its finest on an active hike along the Paiva River. A wooden walkway snakes its way down a rocky hillside in Arouca Geopark, a UNESCO Global Geopark comprising a mountainscape carved by rivers, and the longest suspended pedestrian bridge in the world, at 520 metres long. This active tour requires a high degree of fitness due to a large number of stairs, uneven terrain and a walking distance of approximately 4 kilometres.

Quinta da Aveleda: Transfer by coach to this 150-year-old wine producer for a tour and tasting. Explore the fairytale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned sparkling wine producer set on an impressive estate. A highlight of this tour are the enchanting gardens.

Excursion to Guimarães: Fondly referred to as the birthplace of Portugal, Guimarães was the seat of the first King of Portugal and home to the impressive Ducal Palace. Visit the well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage-listed city and explore the palace, which dates to the 15th century and displays an historic collection of tapestries, furniture, ceramics, weapons and more. You will also have free time to explore the city on your own.

Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise to Regua, the largest of the riverside towns and an excellent base for exploring the Douro Valley. This region is famous for producing Port wine, with rolling vineyards on the terraced hillsides and wineries dating back to the 18th century. Upon arrival this afternoon you can enjoy a visit to the excellent Douro Museum. 

Learn about the history, culture and traditions of the region of the Douro Valley at Douro Museum. It’s set in a fully restored 18th century building that once housed The Company, which was responsible for the demarcation of Douro wines, as well as being a place where wines and winemaking tools were stored. After the museum visit, enjoy a drink of local port or port tonic on the terrace overlooking the magnificent Douro Valley.

This morning join you fellow guests for an excursion to the Varosa Valley, the first demarcation region of sparkling wine. Visit the charming village of Tarouca where you'll explore the restored Monastery of Saint John of Tarouca. Walk the fortified bridge of Ucanha, Portugal’s first toll bridge spanning the Varosa River which was built during the 14th and 15th centuries.

Freechoice:
Choose one of this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Excursion to Lamego: Take a coach to the town of Lamego, nestled among terraced vineyards that were the first to produce world-famous port wine. The city prospered in the 18th century and is a fascinating place to wander, with its many fine Baroque structures. Your tour will culminate at the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, standing gracefully overlooking the town. The front of the cathedral is lined by a zigzagged staircase decorated in traditional blue and white tiled mosaics leading down to the town centre. You will have the option to take a self-guided tour of the museum and will be offered a tasting of local produce.

Mateus Palace: Transfer by coach to Mateus Palace, considered one of the best examples of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal. Built in the first half of the 18th century, the former family home features rooms with original furniture and ornately carved ceilings; a library that contains one of the first illustrated editions of Os Lusiadas, Portugal’s most significant epic poem; and a manicured garden dotted with statues, hedges, a cypress tunnel and reflective ponds.

Port Wine Blending Class: Ever wanted to know how an oenologist creates their beautiful blends? Well today you will find out. Visit Quinta de Pacheca and marvel at the glorious vineyards and old cellar before taking a hands on workshop where you will learn about the blending process.

Today you’ll enjoy a relaxing day on board, as you sail towards Vega de Terron.

Spend the morning soaking up the sunshine on the Sun Deck as you enjoy the Douro scenery rolling during a full day cruise through the Douro Valley’s Vinhateiro wine growing region. A World Heritage-listed Site, Vinhateiro has a history of wine production that stretches back for 2,000 years. In fact, its impeccable port wines have been world-famous since at least the 18th century.

Wake this morning in the city of Vega de Terron, located on the border of Portugal and Spain and at the confluence of the Douro and Águeda rivers. This small town remains beautifully unspoiled, with quiet streets, lush landscapes and welcoming locals. It’s a popular gateway to the university town of Salamanca, which you will have the opportunity to explore today.

Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Salamanca Full Day Excursion: Known as the ‘golden city’ for its honey-coloured sandstone architecture. Salamanca is home to two cathedrals, one dating to the 12th century and the other to the 16th century, which you will see on today’s guided tour. You will also visit a market to taste local delicacies such as olives, cheese and smoked ham, and you’ll have free time to explore and enjoy lunch at your leisure.

Freixo de Espada à Cinta with silk museum: Visit the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta. Legend has it the Dinis King of Portugal founded the town in the 14th century. The town is also the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand, and on this guided tour you will visit a silk museum.

Wake in the village of Pocinho, established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887, a great location to explore more of the Douro Valley.

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

Côa Valley Museum: Transfer by coach to the Côa Valley Museum. The museum is a great introduction to the region’s paleolithic rock art sites through original artefacts and digital technology; on your visit you’ll enjoy a pre-historic workshop.

Tastes of the Côa Valley: Visit Casa Painova estate for a demonstration on how sweet almonds are produced and learn how these nuts are harvested and used in desserts and pastries. Enjoy a tasting of almonds, olives and fruit products.
 

This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards  Pinhão.

Wake this morning in Pinhão, set on one of the prettiest parts of the Douro River. This small village is surrounded by terraced vineyards and produces exceptional port wine.

This morning, transfer to the charming village of Provesende, located on a plateau with spectacular views of the region’s fertile rolling landscape. Wander through the village and visit the church, discover the old bakery, learn how traditional handicraft is made, and look inside the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calçada, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.
 

Freechoice:
Choose one of this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Kayaking along the Pinhão River: Explore this beautiful region as you glide past impressive landscapes of terraced vineyards, patchworked farmland and sprawling estates via kayak on the Pinhao River, a tributary of the Douro.

Quinta vineyard hiking: Take a guided hike through the breathtaking vineyards of Quinta in the Douro Valley. Enjoy stunning views across the Douro River, learn about the winemaking process and sample some of their wines.

Quinta tasting: Visit Quinta da Roêda estate for a tasting of the region’s most famous export. On a guided walking tour, you’ll learn the secrets of the vineyard. Finish in the estate’s visitors’ centre, housed in the old stables that have been restored in traditional Douro style, the perfect location for a tasting of port wines.

Enjoy time at leisure as you continue to sail along the spectacular Douro River. Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive back in Porto this afternoon, where you’ll experience an exclusive classical concert tonight.
 

Enrich
This evening’s Scenic Enrich:

Classical concert in Sao Francisco Church: From the ship, take a short walk (with some stairs) to Sao Francisco Church, which is one of the most iconic sites in Porto. Built in the 13th century, the Gothic church has an alter decorated with intricately carved wood swathed in gold. All guests will enjoy a performance of classical music.

Wake in Porto, ready for a day of unique experiences, whether that be a ride on a traditional boat, playing a round of golf or sampling wine in one of the most famous cellars in the city.

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

Excursion to Aveiro with a cruise: Take a coach to Aveiro, a city resplendent in Art Nouveau architecture and famed for its canals. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city and cruise the waterways in a brightly coloured moliceiros flat-bottomed boat.

Round of golf: Golfing enthusiasts will have the opportunity to tee off here in Porto, a city known for its top golf courses. Play 6 holes at the Quinta do Fojo Golf club, one of Porto's most popular courses. Quinta do Fojo is a spectacular course set in a walled estate which houses gardens, lakes, woods and a historical Manor House, founded in 1714. This activity is for experienced golfers only and to participate guests must bring their 'Golf Handicap Certificate'. If this is not provided you will be unable to participate in this Scenic Freechoice activity. It is recommended that participants bring sunscreen and a hat with them.

Wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia: Travel to Vila Nova de Gaia to visit one of Porto’s most famous cellars, Cockburn’s Port. Enjoy a guided visit and a tasting.
 

This afternoon you will have free time in Porto to explore the city at your own leisure. Return to your Scenic Space-Ship this evening for a farewell dinner.

This evening you will take an illumination cruise through Porto to see the city lit up at night, including the bridges that span the Douro.

Today bid farewell to your friendly crew and join an included flight to Amsterdam. Board your Scenic Space-Ship for a journey along the Rhine, Main and Danube river.

Amsterdam is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, masterpiece-filled galleries, tranquil scenes of boats putting along 16th century canals, narrow cobbled laneways filled with boutiques and cafes, and streets busy with cyclists criss-crossing their way about town. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, much of the World Heritage-listed canal system exists today as it did hundreds of years ago, lined with well-preserved canal houses and intersected by charming bridges.

Freechoice:
Today choose one of the following Scenic Freechoice:

Canal cruise: Amsterdam has more than 100 kilometres of canals and today you will see some the prettiest sights of the city from these historical waterways. This one-hour cruise takes you along the Gentleman’s Canal, where you will see The Skinny Bridge and The Prince’s Canal, which was known for its warehouses. You will go past the Old Lord Mayor’s House, The Seven Bridges, Anne Frank’s House and head to the Brewer’s Canal. As the historic centre glides past, you can admire the elegant merchant’s residences, churches and warehouses, dating from the Golden Age.

Walking tour of Amsterdam: Explore Amsterdam on foot today, 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.

Cycling tour: Take a small ferry to the outskirts of the city for a biking tour. Amsterdam is known as the bicycle capital of the world, with more bikes than cars and over 35,000 kilometres of cycle paths. 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. Hop on one of Scenic’s complimentary eco-friendly e-bikes (electronically assisted bicycles) and let it do the hard work for you as you take in the sights of the region.

Excursion to Schermerhorn & Alkmaar: Step outside of Amsterdam to visit the village of Schermerhorn, home to authentic windmills dating back to the 16th century. Take in the idyllic views of the sweeping Dutch countryside and learn about the importance of the windmills. You will also head to Alkmaar, a charming town with historic buildings and picturesque canals.  

This afternoon we set sail towards the cosmopolitan metropolis of Cologne, Germany.  

Perhaps enjoy a leisurely morning starting with coffee in your suite, delivered by your personal butler, followed by breakfast in Crystal Dining. You will arrive in Cologne, Germany, later this afternoon.

On arrival, discover Cologne during a walking tour. With your local guide, wander the laneways of the historical Old Town, which is home to breweries serving up draft Kolsch beer and enjoy free time to visit the city's centrepiece and icon, Cologne Cathedral.

Enrich
Tonight you will enjoy a magnificent Scenic Enrich event

Classical Concert in the Beethoven Room at La Redoute recital hall: Attend a lavish dinner and classical concert where live music from Beethoven and Mozart will be played in the spectacular La Redoute recital hall in Germany’s former capital, Bonn. Built by the last Elector of Cologne in 1792, this beautiful hall has hosted many important dignitaries over the centuries, including the Queen, Princess Diana and multiple US Presidents. Tonight, this elegant venue is just for you.

After breakfast, relax on the Sun Deck and admire the landscape as you cruise along the spectacular World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a 65-kilometre stretch of the river that is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Sailing down this section of the river is like being transported through the pages of a fairy tale book.

The Rhine is abounded in myths and legends that have been passed on for generations, like the story of Lorelei. This enchanting female was betrayed by her sweetheart and spent her days bewitching men. As her punishment, she was sent to a nunnery, however, on her way she jumped to her death in the river. Legend has her spirit casting spells on sailors who passed the rock, where a bronze statue sits today.

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

Freechoice:
Select one of this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Siegfrieds Musikkabinett & Cable Car: Take a mini train from the pier to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, where some 350 musical instruments from the 18th and 19th century play themselves for your enjoyment. Then board a return cable car that soars over the vineyards to a hilltop where the historic Neiderwald Monument stands. This 17th century statue was built to commemorate the unification of Germany.

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

This morning you will continue cruising towards Miltenberg. You may wish to spend the morning in the exclusive Salt Therapy Lounge, which provides natural anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.

Today you will arrive in Miltenberg. Located on the banks of the River Main, this historic town is one of the best preserved in Germany, home to hundreds of pastel-coloured half-timbered houses and one of Germany’s oldest inns, Zum Riesen. 

Freechoice:
Choose from the following Scenic Freechoice tours:

Wertheim tour and winery: Transfer by coach to the nearby town of Wertheim am Main, another historic town filled with half-timbered houses. Enjoy an orientation tour and some free time to wander around town before being transferred to a local winery. Here you will meet the winemaker and gain an understanding of how wine is produced in this region of Germany.

Gamburg Castle tour: Transfer to the town of Gamburg, where we will have 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: Enjoy a tour of Miltenberg before visiting a local farm where you will meet the friendly family who own and operate the property. Gain an understanding of daily farm life, see the animals and sample some of the local delicacies produced on site.

Schnapps tasting: After an orientation tour and free time in Miltenberg, visit a local Schnapps distiller to understand how this fruit brandy is produced. Enjoy a tasting of the multiple flavours.

After touring, you will embark your luxury Space-Ship in Wertheim am Main and set sail for Würzburg.

Today you will arrive in Würzburg. This Baroque 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.

Freechoice:
Spend your day at your preferred pace with one of the following Scenic Freechoice options:

Guided city tour & Würzburg Residence: A short transfer via coach is needed to get to the Würzburg Residence, a Baroque palace surrounded by manicured gardens. Upon arrival, guests will be taken on a guided tour of the palace to see its most beautiful rooms, many of which feature valuable paintings, tapestries and period furniture. Afterwards, take a short stroll into the city, where you will have some free time. Explore the shopping area and the many coffee houses, pubs and restaurants; if you’re feeling energetic, you can climb up to Marienberg Fortress.

Romantic Road to Rothenburg: From Würzburg, drive by coach to Rothenburg along the so-called Romantic Road, an important trading route during the Middle Ages. Your guide will regale you with the history and legends of some of the towns and villages you pass, some of which are more than 1,000 years old. Take a guided tour in Rothenburg, famous for its well-preserved medieval old town, to see the Gothic and Renaissance City Hall as well as the famous City Councillors’ Tavern, where various clocks will show you the legendary story of the “Master Draught”. After the guided walking tour, you will have free time to discover the city on your own.

This afternoon, sit back with a drink on the Sun Deck or in the privacy of your suite as you enjoy the scenery while sailing towards to city of Bamberg.

The ship will dock in Bamberg after lunch. Choose to spend your morning in your Space-Ship’s wellness centre enjoying a soothing massage^, or perhaps join an informative lecture to learn more about the culture and history found along the fascinating Main River.

Built on seven hills, this World Heritage-listed town has surprises at every turn. Intersected by rivers and canals, enchanting Bamberg has an Old Town resplendent with cobblestoned streets and well-preserved medieval buildings. A charming Old 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 – are some of the incredible places you’ll see during your guided city tour.

Freechoice:
Stay in Bamberg or choose to explore further afield with this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice tours:

Bamberg Old Town Tour: 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. The city overlooked by an impressive castle, often considered one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Germany. Visit the castle which now houses a fascinating museum showcasing a large collection of carriages, weapons, armoury and paintings by many renowned artists.

You will arrive in Nuremberg, Bavaria’s second-largest city, early this morning. Boasting an Old Town protected by an ancient city wall, where the most enchanting Christmas Markets are held every December, this 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; the boycotts of Jewish businesses began here, as did the laws that denied Jewish people German citizenship – known as the ‘Nuremberg Laws’. By 1945, the city was reduced to rubble, including large sections of the Imperial Castle and Old Town. Allied powers – the US, Great Britain, France and the Soviet Union – held the Nuremberg Trials here between 1945 and 1946, when Nazi Germany leaders were tried for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

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

Walking tour of the Old Town: You will drive into Nuremberg’s city centre, passing by the city walls and courthouse before arriving at Augustinerstrasse. From here, your local guide will take you on a walking tour of Nuremberg to see the Imperial Castle, which overlooks the city, St. Egidien’s Church and the market square.

The trials and tribulations of WWII Tour: Join your local guide and learn about the horrific events that occurred in Nuremberg during Germany’s Nazi regime. Start by taking a drive to the Rally Grounds and explore the Memorium Nurnberger Prozesse, where subsequent trials of Nazi party members took place.

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

This afternoon you will sail towards Regensburg. Sip on a specialty tea or coffee in the Panorama Lounge & Bar or relax in your suite watching life on the riverbanks from your Scenic Sun Lounge.

You will arrive in Regensburg after lunch today. 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.

Freechoice:
Today, Regensburg offers up a selection of Scenic Freechoice touring 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, which has been produced here since the year 1050 making it the oldest monastic brewery in the world.

Thurn and Taxis Active Walking Tour: Join an active walking tour from the ship to Thurn und Taxis Castle, where you’ll enjoy 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.

Freechoice:
Take your pick from the following Scenic Freechoice excursions.

Full day excursion to Salzburg: This morning you will disembark your Scenic Space-Ship in Passau, from where you will cross the border into Salzburg, Austria. Surrounded by alpine peaks and on the banks of the Salzach River, Salzburg is best known as the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. This storybook city has a thriving art scene, music and concert halls filled with classical music, a Baroque old town where you’ll find Mozart’s birthplace, and Hohensalzburg, Central Europe’s largest intact fortress, which sits high above the rooftops with panoramic views of the city. During a guided tour, explore this incredible city before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant and some free time at your leisure. You will return to your Scenic Space-Ship in the Austrian town of Schlögen.

Full day excursion to Cesky Krumlov: From Passau, journey via coach to the Czech town of Cesky Krumlov. This delightful World Heritage-listed town is brimming with charm. Sitting on the banks of the Vltava River, Cesky Krumlov is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe with its vast array of well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Wander this fairy-tale location with your local guide and explore the historic centre before delighting in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant and some time at leisure.

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, the church proudly stood in Passau's Old Town until a devastating fire ripped through it in 1662. It was rebuilt in its current form with an Italian-style exterior complete with a Baroque stucco interior, and nowadays houses the world’s largest Catholic church organ, which boasts 17,974 pipes and 233 registers.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock in the small and picturesque town of Dürnstein, located in Austria’s scenic Wachau Valley. Enjoy some freetime to explore the charming town at your leisure before we set sail to Krems.

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

Göttweig Abbey: Visit the magnificent Gottweig Abbey. Founded in the 6th Century, the abbey was burned down during the 18th Century and rebuilt to be one of the most magnificent in the Wachau Valley. Your local guide will take you through various room where you will see the magnificent frescoes that decorate the Abbey as well as its 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 wine making while sampling delicious wines produced on site.

E-biking from Dürnstein to Krems: Join your guide on a bicycle tour along the Danube to the quaint village of Krems. 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.

We arrive early in Vienna this morning. Also known as the City of Music, Austria’s imperial capital fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, among others. The city oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces from parks to vineyards, a vibrant coffee-house culture and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.

Today join your local guide and take a coach ride from the ship to Vienna’s city centre, where you will embark on a walking tour to see highlights such as the Opera House, St. Stephen's Cathedral and Belvedere Palace. The ship will be docked overnight, so this afternoon you are free to wander around the city or relax on board your Scenic Space-Ship.

Enrich
Tonight’s 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. An experience only shared with your fellow Scenic guests, you’ll be seated in Vienna’s largest secular baroque hall, an ornate space where royals and nobles have sat for centuries. Accompanied by ballet dancers and vocalists and surrounded by world-famous art, this will be a concert that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

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.

Freechoice:
Spend the day exploring the city or venture into neighbouring country Slovakia for a tour of Bratislava. The choice is yours from today’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Schonbrunn Palace: Explore Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, one of the most prominent dynasties in European history. Wander its countless 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 to enjoy bathing, boating, cycling and relaxing on its beaches and open spaces.

Excursion to Bratislava: Take a coach to Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993. Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious in medieval and Gothic architecture and its well-preserved hilltop castle, which has history dating back to the 9th century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city. Take a tour with a local guide to see Bratislava Castle, the Hlavné Námestie, the main square and the Old Town Hall.

This morning we arrive in Budapest, one of Europe’s most diverse and vibrant cities. 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. The city is 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.

Freechoice:
A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are on offer to choose from this morning:

Budapest in Depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Visit both Buda and Pest, the two districts that are separated by the Danube that make up the city. Starting on the Buda side see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side where you will see Széchenyi square and Elizabeth square. End your tour with a mesmerising piano recital at the Institute for the Blind.

Budapest’s Past & 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: Experience 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. Discover the underground former hospital that is furnished with wax figures to give you the spirit of the place. This is an exciting part of history. The underground is moderately flat but there are a few stairs to get there and then again once inside.

Thermal Baths: Budapest is known for its thermal waters and today you can relax in the natural hot springs at Gellert Baths. The baths are said to have medicinal properties and are warm year-round allowing for a luxurious soak no matter what the season.

Guided hike of Buda: Strap 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.

This afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps set out to explore the Central Market Hall – the largest market in the city, built in neo-gothic style for a combination of shopping and sightseeing.

Journey by coach to Prague, and spend three nights at a city central hotel.

You’ll take a guided tour this morning, led by an expert local guide who will reveal the city’s secrets in all their Gothic glory. The red-roofed Old Town is a charming maze of cobblestone laneways, medieval buildings, bustling squares and elaborate statues. It’s compact and almost completely flat, making it perfect for exploring on foot. Don’t miss the Old Town Hall where you can hear the 14th-century Astronomical Clock chime, accompanied by a procession of the 12 Apostles.  

The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll through this magnificent city, situated on the Vltava River in central Bohemia. Prague is rich in history and home to some of the world’s most striking architectural wonders. Your Tour Director is on hand to help you plan.

You have the morning at leisure to explore this wonderful city, perhaps rise early and take a stroll along the Charles Bridge, without the crowds or relax and people watch in one of the many cafes around the picturesque Old Town.

Freechoice:
This afternoon choose from one of today’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Communist Walk of Prague: Join an expert local guide for a walking tour of Prague, take in the city’s most famous sites and hidden gems and learn how everyday life was under Communism. During the tour your local guide will take you to a local brewery  where you’ll taste local beers that have been produced here for generations, like pilsner larger and wheat beer.

Prague Castle tour: Journey to the hill overlooking the Vltava River and the city of Prague to explore the seat of Czech rulers at Prague Castle, a vast complex covering more than 70,000 square metres that’s considered the largest castle complex in the world. The castle has its roots in the 9th century, though there are buildings dating from every period of history spread throughout the grounds. Visit St. Vitus Cathedral, the largest cathedral in the Czech Republic as well as the Old Royal Palace the former residence of Bohemian Royalty and the picturesque Golden Lane, the historic street lined with colourful houses, inhabited by soldiers, goldsmiths or alchemists in the past.

Terezin Memorial: Take an excursion outside of Prague to the nearby town of Terezin, a former Austrian imperial military fortress and location of the Theresienstadt Ghetto, which served as a concentration camp during World War II. Visit the Terezin Memorial sites including the small fortress and the Ghetto Museum to learn about the horrors committed during the Nazi occupation during World War II and pay your respects to those that lost their lives during this atrocity. )Please note due to the amount of walking involved, this tour is only recommended for guest with a good degree of fitness).

The remaining day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Today it’s time to farewell Prague, taking with you many fond memories of this charismatic city.

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.