Your journey begins in the picturesque city of Amsterdam. A labyrinth of narrow laneways and canals lined with beautifully preserved 17th century buildings and charming cafés, the city is a delight to wander.
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)
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:
This afternoon we set sail towards the cosmopolitan metropolis of Cologne, Germany. 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 the Sun Deck. (B/L/D)
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.
Freechoice: This morning, choose one of the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:
Past and present tour of Cologne: Join your local guide and learn about Cologne's fascinating heritage from Roman times to its Jewish heritage before gaining an understanding of how the city is developing into the future.
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)
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:
This afternoon you will set sail for Miltenberg. Enjoy the passing scenery as you sit down for a sumptuous three-course dinner in Crystal Dining, with all-inclusive beverages. (B/L/D)
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.
After lunch 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: This afternoon, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice tours:
After touring, you will embark your luxury Space-Ship in Wertheim am Main and set sail for Würzburg. Enjoy some of the all-inclusive on board entertainment this evening as you sail through the night. (B/L/D)
This morning 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 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. (B/L/D)
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. (B/L/D)
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 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. (B/L/D)
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. 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:
Freechoice: Today, choose from two completely different, yet equally fascinating full day Scenic Freechoice excursions.
Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock early this morning in the small and picturesque town of Melk, located in Austria’s scenic Wachau Valley. The breathtaking World Heritage-listed Benedictine Abbey built high over the city is the most spectacular building in the region.
Freechoice: This morning offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from:
After your tour, you will return to the Space-Ship, which is docked in Dürnstein. Spend the afternoon at leisure in this charming town or relax on board with a regional wine from Austria’s Wachau Valley. (B/L/D)
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.
Spend the day exploring the city on your guided tour.
Guided city tour of Vienna: 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. (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.
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:
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:
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. (B/L/D)
Budapest is often considered to be the most beautiful city in Europe and you have a full day at leisure to see why. (B/L/D)
This morning you’ll have free time on board as you sail towards Kalocsa. Relax in the sunshine on the Sun Deck as you enjoy the scenery of the Danube rolling by. Download the Scenic Tailormade App to listen to river commentary and gain insight to the villages and sites you’re passing.
You will arrive in Kalocsa at lunch time. This historic Hungarian town has some of the richest folk art in the world, like its beautifully decorated porcelain. It was an important agricultural centre in the 19th century and the region has retained much of its rural charm.
Freechoice: This afternoon, choose one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:
Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive this morning in the Croation town of 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.
Freechoice: Today, explore the region in one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:
After your touring this morning, all guests will visit the home of a local Croatian family and have lunch with the family members. Immerse yourself in this cultural and culinary experience, and enjoy an authentic meal prepared with fresh vegetables from the host’s garden. North-eastern Croatia is the ‘bread basket’ 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. (B/L/D)
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 buildings and a bohemian vibe. One of the oldest capitals in Europe, Belgrade has been rebuilt almost 40 times.
Freechoice: Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice activities:
This afternoon is free at leisure to explore Belgrade further. You might like to soak up the bohemian culture with a wander along cobblestoned Skardalija Street, a district once frequented by writers and artists and other creative souls, now home to traditional restaurants, local stores and galleries.
Enrich: Tonight, we have a special treat in store for you with our Scenic Enrich event:
Classical concert at St. Sava Temple: Visit the 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. Because of the acoustics in the crypt, this is a once of a lifetime opportunity. (B/L/D)
Today 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 mighty rock carving of Decebalus, the former Romanian king.
Spend some time relaxing 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 Danube. Sweat it out in the state-of-the-art gym or take time out in the wellness centre, then mingle with other guests as you sit back with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar. (B/L/D)
Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in the Bulgarian town of Svishtov this morning. Here you will have the choice to disembark and take an excursion to Veliko Tarnovo, known as the City of the Kings, or stay on board and sail towards Rousse (or Ruse), which has been described as ‘Little Vienna’.
Freechoice: Choose one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:
Arrive in Silistra early this morning. This Bulgarian town has changed hands many times over the centuries; a major Turkish fortress and trade centre in the 15th century, it 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.
Freechoice: Explore your way with this morning’s Scenic Freechoice options:
Upon arrival, take an orientation tour of the city by coach, from the south of Bucharest to Primaverii Palace stopping to see its squares, including Union Square, University Square, Roman Square, Victory Square and Charles de Gaulle Square.
Freechoice: Choose from this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:
This evening you will enjoy dinner with your fellow guests before heading to your hotel. (B/L/D)
This morning sees us setting off from Bucharest and across the Bulgarian border towards the historic city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second largest city. Along the way, our first stop is a traditional Bulgarian village where you learn about the local way of life before a hearty lunch of typical Bulgarian cuisine.
This afternoon we arrive in Plovdiv. Originally founded more than 8,000 years ago the city offers a rich history from prehistoric times, through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period right through to the present. (B/L/D)
Your local guide will be delighted to showcase this magnificent city including a visit to the Kapana district, also known as ‘The Trap’, which is lined with quaint, colourful buildings housing galleries, ateliers and local shops. You’ll also visit Tsar Simeon’s Garden, a beautiful 19th-century garden complete with impressive fountains and sculptures and the ancient amphitheatre that dates to the 2nd century AD. (B)
Leaving Bulgaria, today you’ll travel south into Turkey and the city of Canakkale. Sitting on the edge of the Dardanelle Strait, Canakkale has been at the forefront of history for centuries. It’s the gateway to the World War One battlefield of Gallipoli and the ancient city of Troy.
At the same time, Canakkale also has a sizeable student population that makes for a great food scene and buzzing nightlife. After a delicious, included dinner, why not join the locals along the waterfront promenade to get a taste of modern Turkish culture. (B/D)
Today you are bound for Gallipoli, a site that holds a special place in the heart of Australians and New Zealanders. As the first major battle for ANZAC troops in the First World War, it was a brutal introduction to global conflict for the new nations. Though the Gallipoli campaign was ultimately a failure, the bravery and strength of the ANZAC soldiers became legendary and helped shape our cultural identity.
The Gallipoli peninsula where the eight-month campaign took place is now a national park and your guide will take you through the most significant sites. Stand on the beach at ANZAC Cove, where the soldiers first came ashore on 25 April 1915. Contemplate the courage and sacrifice that took place at battlegrounds like Lone Pine and the Nek. Walk through some of the 31 cemeteries that dot the peninsula and where more than 10,000 Anzac soldiers are buried. A visit to Gallipoli is a moving experience that will stay with you long after you leave. (B/L)
This morning you’ll be venturing to a place that is shrouded in mystery and legend, the ancient city of Troy. For more than 3,000 years, the tales of Troy and the Trojan War were thought to be mythical, made most famous by Greek poet Homer’s epic work, the Iliad. But in the late 19th century, the ruins of Troy were discovered in modern day Turkey and centuries of history were instantly rewritten. Take a tour through the 4,000-year-old ruins, see a giant replica of the famous Trojan Horse and learn the true story behind this illustrious city.
You’ll travel along the Marmara Coast this afternoon enroute to your final destination, Istanbul. Home to more than 15 million people, it’s the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest in the world. Istanbul will inspire all your senses, an exhilarating blend of cultures, cuisines, architecture, history and style. (B)
The wonders of Istanbul await you today on a guided tour. There have been settlements on this important site, occupying both banks of the Bosphorus Strait, for thousands of years. The modern city began life as Constantinople in the 4th century, before changing its name to Istanbul in 1930.
At every turn, you’re walking through history. See two of the city’s most famous landmarks, sitting on either side of the central Sultanahmet Park; Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century as a Christian church, before being converted to a mosque in the 1450s, mirroring the changing fortunes of the city itself. Both are elaborately decorated, visually spectacular and of a scale that will leave you awestruck. You’ll also visit two of the city’s grandest royal residences, Topkapi Palace and Dolmahbace Palace.
Freechoice: Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice experience:
Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus Strait, with one half of the city in Europe and the other in Asia. This strategic waterway has played a major role in world trade for centuries and is still one of the most important global shipping routes. This morning, you’ll take a scenic cruise along the strait, winding between ferries, barges and fishing boats, and passing famous monuments and historic minarets on shore.
Then it’s on to the colourful and chaotic Grand Bazaar, a vast undercover market made up of thousands of shops along wide plazas and tiny laneways. Traders have been coming here to sell their wares since the 15th century and it’s still the place to buy ceramics, carpets, glassware, jewellery and textiles.
This afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Visit one of the city’s excellent museums or galleries, hunt for antiques in the busy Çukurcuma neighbourhood, inhale the aromas of the Spice Bazaar, or catch the bright red tram between the two main squares. Be sure to take some time out to indulge in the Turkish national pastime, tea drinking, ideally at a busy streetside café.
Enrich: Tonight’s Scenic Enrich:
A farewell to remember: A special treat awaits for your farewell dinner at the Hamdi Restaurant with its outstanding views over the Golden Horn, an inlet of the Bosphorus. You’ll dine on exceptional Turkish cuisine and raise a glass to an unforgettable journey. (B/D)
Before you farewell Istanbul, take a moment this morning to listen out for the call to prayer before the sun rises. The traditional Muslim call rings out over the city five times a day and is a reminder of the nation’s strong ties to its faith. In the relative calm and silence of the morning, it’s a particularly moving sound.
After breakfast, you’ll take a final transfer to the airport, taking off with a lifetime of memories. (B)
Your journey begins in the picturesque city of Amsterdam. A labyrinth of narrow laneways and canals lined with beautifully preserved 17th century buildings and charming cafés, the city is a delight to wander.
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)
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.
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. (B/L/D)
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.
Enrich: Tonight's Scenic Enrich:
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.
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.
This afternoon you will set sail for Miltenberg. Enjoy the passing scenery as you sit down for a sumptuous three-course dinner in Crystal Dining, with all-inclusive beverages. (B/L/D)
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.
Freechoice: This afternoon, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice tours:
After touring, you will embark your luxury Space-Ship in Wertheim am Main and set sail for Würzburg. Enjoy some of the all-inclusive on board entertainment this evening as you sail through the night. (B/L/D)
This morning 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.
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. (B/L/D)
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.
Freechoice: Stay in Bamberg or choose to explore further afield with this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice tours:
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.
Freechoice: Make your choice from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:
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. (B/L/D)
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. 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:
Freechoice: Today, choose from two completely different, yet equally fascinating full day Scenic Freechoice excursions:
Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock early this morning in the small and picturesque town of Melk, located in Austria’s scenic Wachau Valley. The breathtaking World Heritage-listed Benedictine Abbey built high over the city is the most spectacular building in the region.
After your tour, you will return to the Space-Ship, which is docked in Dürnstein. Spend the afternoon at leisure in this charming town or relax on board with a regional wine from Austria’s Wachau Valley. (B/L/D)
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.
Enrich: Tonight’s Scenic Enrich:
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:
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.
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. (B/L/D)
Budapest is often considered to be the most beautiful city in Europe and you have a full day at leisure to see why. (B/L/D)
This morning you’ll have free time on board as you sail towards Kalocsa. Relax in the sunshine on the Sun Deck as you enjoy the scenery of the Danube rolling by.
Freechoice: This afternoon, choose one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:
Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive this morning in the Croation town of 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.
After your touring this morning, all guests will visit the home of a local Croatian family and have lunch with the family members. Immerse yourself in this cultural and culinary experience, and enjoy an authentic meal prepared with fresh vegetables from the host’s garden. North-eastern Croatia is the ‘bread basket’ 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. (B/L/D)
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 buildings and a bohemian vibe. One of the oldest capitals in Europe, Belgrade has been rebuilt almost 40 times.
This afternoon is free at leisure to explore Belgrade further. You might like to soak up the bohemian culture with a wander along cobblestoned Skardalija Street, a district once frequented by writers and artists and other creative souls, now home to traditional restaurants, local stores and galleries.
Enrich: Tonight, we have a special treat in store for you with our Scenic Enrich event:
Today 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 mighty rock carving of Decebalus, the former Romanian king.
Spend some time relaxing 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 Danube. Sweat it out in the state-of-the-art gym or take time out in the wellness centre, then mingle with other guests as you sit back with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar. (B/L/D)
Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in the Bulgarian town of Svishtov this morning. Here you will have the choice to disembark and take an excursion to Veliko Tarnovo, known as the City of the Kings, or stay on board and sail towards Rousse (or Ruse), which has been described as ‘Little Vienna’.
Freechoice: Choose one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:
Arrive in Silistra early this morning. This Bulgarian town has changed hands many times over the centuries; a major Turkish fortress and trade centre in the 15th century, it 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.
Freechoice: Explore your way with this morning’s Scenic Freechoice options:
Upon arrival, take an orientation tour of the city by coach, from the south of Bucharest to Primaverii Palace stopping to see its squares, including Union Square, University Square, Roman Square, Victory Square and Charles de Gaulle Square.
This evening you will enjoy dinner with your fellow guests before heading to your hotel. (B/L/D)
This morning sees us setting off from Bucharest on an included flight to Istanbul. Home to more than 15 million people, it’s the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest in the world. Istanbul will inspire all your senses, an exhilarating blend of cultures, cuisines, architecture, history and style. (B)
The wonders of Istanbul await you today on a guided tour. There have been settlements on this important site, occupying both banks of the Bosphorus Strait, for thousands of years. The modern city began life as Constantinople in the 4th century, before changing its name to Istanbul in 1930. At every turn, you’re walking through history. See two of the city’s most famous landmarks, sitting on either side of the central Sultanahmet Park; Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, which you will also visit during your guided tour. You’ll also visit two of the city’s grandest royal residences, Topkapi Palace and Dolmabahçe Palace. (B/D)
Today, we leave Istanbul behind and visit the city of Canakkale. Sitting on the edge of the Dardanelle Strait, Canakkale has been at the forefront of history for centuries. It’s the gateway to the World War One battlefield of Gallipoli and the ancient city of Troy.
At the same time, Canakkale also has a sizeable student population that makes for a great food scene and buzzing nightlife. Tonight, why not make the most of your evening at leisure and join the locals along the waterfront promenade to get a taste of modern Turkish culture. (B/L/D)
Today you are bound for Gallipoli, a site that holds a special place in the heart of Australians and New Zealanders. As the first major battle for ANZAC troops in the First World War, it was a brutal introduction to global conflict for the new nations. Though the Gallipoli campaign was ultimately a failure, the bravery and strength of the ANZAC soldiers became legendary and helped shape our cultural identity.
The Gallipoli peninsula where the eight-month campaign took place is now a national park and your guide will take you through the most significant sites. Stand on the beach at ANZAC Cove, where the soldiers first came ashore on 25 April 1915. Contemplate the courage and sacrifice that took place at battlegrounds like Lone Pine and the Nek. Walk through some of the 31 cemeteries that dot the peninsula and where more than 10,000 Anzac soldiers are buried. A visit to Gallipoli is a moving experience that will stay with you long after you leave. (B/L/D)
This morning you’ll be venturing to a place that is shrouded in mystery and legend, the ancient city of Troy. For more than 3,000 years, the tales of Troy and the Trojan War were thought to be mythical, made most famous by Greek poet Homer’s epic work, the Iliad. But in the late 19th century, the ruins of Troy were discovered in modern day Turkey and centuries of history were instantly rewritten. Take a tour through the 4,000-year-old ruins, see a giant replica of the famous Trojan Horse and learn the true story behind this illustrious city.
Then we make our way back to the mighty city of Istanbul. (B)
Freechoice: Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice experience:
This afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Visit one of the city’s excellent museums or galleries, hunt for antiques in the busy Çukurcuma neighbourhood, inhale the aromas of the Spice Bazaar, or catch the bright red tram between the two main squares. Be sure to take some time out to indulge in the Turkish national pastime, tea drinking, ideally at a busy streetside café. (B/D)
Before you farewell Istanbul, take a moment this morning to listen out for the call to prayer before the sun rises. The traditional Muslim call rings out over the city five times a day and is a reminder of the nation’s strong ties to its faith. In the relative calm and silence of the morning, it’s a particularly moving sound.
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. (B)
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