Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Budapest, the capital of Hungary and one of Europe's oldest and prettiest cities.
This afternoon, board your all-inclusive luxury Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your suite. 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 your glass to the days ahead at this evening's welcome reception. (D)
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:
This afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps you may like to hop on board Scenic's e-bikes (electronically assisted bicycles) to explore the city on two wheels or find one of the city's famous ruin bars – housed in abandoned buildings – to enjoy an afternoon drink. Alternatively, make your way back to your luxury Space-Ship to relax in the Panorama Lounge & Bar. You will set sail for Vienna later this afternoon. (B/L/D)
Today, perhaps wake to a coffee delivered to your suite by your personal butler. Be sure to download the Scenic Tailormade App to listen to river commentary and gain insight into the villages and sites you're passing as you relax on board while cruising to the Austrian capital.
Vienna oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces from parks to vineyards, a vibrant coffee-house culture and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.
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. (B/L/D)
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. Also known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, among others. Sigmund Freud also lived and worked here in the late 19th century.
Freechoice: Explore your way with a selection from today's Scenic Freechoice activities:
Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock early this morning in the quaint town of Dürnstein. Surrounded by vineyards, the city has historical buildings that date back to the 12th century, including the hilltop ruins of Dürnstein Castle, where Richard the Lionheart was famously imprisoned between 1192 and 1193. Enjoy some free time exploring this charming town before cruising towards Melk.
Freechoice: Today offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from:
After your tour, you will return to the luxury of your Space-Ship. (B/L/D)
Freechoice: Today, choose from two completely different, yet equally fascinating full day Scenic Freechoice excursions.
You will arrive in Regensburg after lunch, so this morning offers a great opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in the Salt Therapy lounge, located on the Jewel Deck.
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. Regensburg is also fringed by the Bavarian Forest, home to hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails and deer, wild boar, fox and otter.
Freechoice: Today, Regensburg offers up a selection of Scenic Freechoice touring activities to choose from:
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 year, 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 morning's Scenic Freechoice experiences:
This afternoon you will sail towards Bamberg. Sip on a specialty tea or coffee in the Panorama Lounge & Bar or join a lecture to gain insight into the history and culture along the river. (B/L/D)
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 morning's Scenic Freechoice:
Back on board your Space-Ship, you may wish to spend time in the wellness centre with a soothing massage^. (B/L/D)
After a leisurely morning on board your Space-Ship, 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:
This morning you will arrive in the historic town of Wertheim, sitting on the picturesque banks of the Main and Tauber Rivers.
Freechoice: You have a diverse range of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from today:
After touring, you will embark your luxury Space-Ship in Wertheim am Main and set sail for Rüdesheim. Enjoy some of the all-inclusive on board entertainment this evening as you sail through the night. (B/L/D)
This morning 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 morning's Scenic Freechoice tours:
This afternoon, relax on board the Sun Deck and admire the scenic landscapes 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; folklore that has been passed on for generations, including 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.
Enrich: Tonight's Scenic Enrich: 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. (B/L/D)
You will arrive in Cologne today, a city known for its liberal and laidback lifestyle, its unique beer culture, auto industry and the jaw-dropping cathedral that dominates its skyline. Settled by the Romans, this major cultural centre for the Rhineland was built during the Middle Ages but was largely destroyed during WWII. The magnificent Gothic cathedral, an enormous World Heritage-listed site that dates to 1248, was badly damaged but stood tall above the ruins of the city.
Freechoice: Today, choose one of the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:
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: This morning, choose one of the following Scenic Freechoice:
Board an included flight from Amsterdam to Bordeaux where you will be welcomed on board by the friendly crew of the Scenic Diamond. (B/D)
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. Download the Scenic Tailormade App to listen to river commentary and gain insight to the villages and sites you're passing. 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. (B/L/D)
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.
Freechoice: This morning, choose from one of these Scenic Freechoice activities:
This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will sail onwards to Fort Medoc where you will dock overnight. (B/L/D)
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. Today you will have the chance to explore this remarkable wine region.
Freechoice: Explore your way with a Scenic Freechoice excursion:
Enrich: Tonight, enjoy an exclusive Scenic Enrich experience: 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. (B/L/D)
This morning will be spent cruising towards Cadillac. Perhaps you'd like to spend time in 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.
Founded in the 13th century, the charming, fortified city of Cadillac is centred around its magnificent château. It has a unique connection to the United States and, ultimately, the car that shares its name. Seventeenth century French explorer Anthony Laumet was born in a nearby village but reinvented himself as Antoine de la Mothe, sieur de Cadillac (sire of Cadillac). He rose high in the French fur trade and in 1701 established the port of Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit, which would become modern day Detroit where the American auto industry began. The Cadillac car is named in his honour. (B/L/D)
Today you have the choice between many different experiences in the region surrounding Cadillac, from its bucolic countryside to its historic castles.
Freechoice: This morning explore your way with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:
Freechoice: Choose from this afternoon's Scenic Freechoice activities:
Tonight, enjoy a sumptuous welcome dinner created by your on board team using regionally sourced Truffles. (B/L/D)
This morning you will wake in the fascinating city of Bordeaux, which you can explore by foot, bike or through a cooking class. The city of Bordeaux was 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:
Back on board, your Cruise Director will organise a special treat for you, with a tasting of fresh Oysters delivered straight from the waters of Arcachon Bay.
Enrich: This evening's Scenic Enrich: Les Bassins de Lumiere: You will be given after-hours access to Les Bassins de Lumierès this evening, Bordeaux's former submarine base which has been transformed into an impressive art installation. On arrival, you will be welcomed with a glass of champagne and be immersed in the exhibit with an exclusive show. (B/L/D)
Today you'll continue your exploration of Bordeaux and its surrounding regions.
Freechoice: Explore your way with one of this morning's Scenic Freechoice excursions:
This afternoon you'll enjoy time at leisure on board as you sail towards Bourg. You may want to relax in your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the Gironde. (B/L/D)
Your luxury Scenic Space-Ship will be docked in Bourg today, 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: Choose from today's Scenic Freechoice activities:
This morning your luxury Scenic Space-Ship will sail towards 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:
This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will make its way back to Bordeaux for your final evening on board. (B/L/D)
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Bordeaux airport or train station for your onward journey.
Please note: The Gironde, Dordogne and Garonne waterways are part of a tidal river system which results in changing water levels in the region. Every effort is made to keep to the brochure itinerary however based on tides it will be amended or modified. Please refer to our terms and conditions. (B)
Regions