Beautiful Bordeaux & Unforgettable Douro with Madrid

Welcome to Bordeaux. Your friendly crew are ready to receive you on board the luxurious Scenic Diamond.

The moniker ‘Sleeping Beauty’ or La Belle Endormie was given to Bordeaux when industry was moved to the outskirts and the city was all but abandoned. The quiet waterfront was a vestige of a once bustling port, shops were empty… it was a once beautiful city that lay dormant. In the late 20th century, the city was woken and restored to its former glory, a project headed by former mayor Alain Juppe.

The city centre was pedestrianised, limestone was revealed under blackened facades, and Bordeaux was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 300 structures declared historical monuments. It’s now one of the most desirable places in France to live and visit, with its waterfront rich in architecture and bustling with locals and visitors promenading, sipping coffee or wine from the surrounding renowned vineyards, a landscape that’s also dotted with beautiful castles. (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:

• 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 château and 15 hectares of rolling parklands, resplendent with century-old trees and landscaped woods.
• Biking and tasting at Château Siaurac: Cycle through this acclaimed wine-growing region to the impressive estate of Château Siaurac where you will learn about the wines produced at this property and enjoy a tasting.
• Paint and Pour: Join a local artist for a class on the Sun Deck of Scenic Diamond. Enjoy the magnificent river views, learn watercolour techniques and create your own masterpiece while sipping on delicious local wines.

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:

• Medoc wine tasting by coach: With more than 16,000 hectares of vineyards across eight appellations, Medoc is home to the epic ‘Route des Chateaux’, which translates to the ‘Route of Castles’ and winds through undulating countryside from Bordeaux to the Pointe de Grave. On this coach tour you will travel through this scenic region to a prestigious 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 grand aristocratic châteaux in the world’s leading red wine producing region. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at one of the prestigious estates.

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:

• 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 La Tour Blanche 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.

Freechoice: Choose from this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

• Roquetaillade Castle: The first fortress here was built by Charlemagne, or Charles the Great, in the 10th century. Today, the architectural jewel of Roquetaillade Castle, which comprises two castles and a chapel, dates from around the 13th century. You'll tour the castle with the family whose ancestors have resided here for more than 700 years.
• Biking to Château Benauge: Join a local guide as you cycle through the landscapes of the Gironde towards the impressive Château Benauge. The Château, which dates to the 11th century, maintains a strategic position at one of the highest points of the Gironde allowing for breathtaking views.
• Château Toulouse-Lautrec: This historic estate dates back over five centuries and is considered one of the oldest estates in the region. Château Toulouse-Lautrec was the family home of renowned French artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. During a guided tour you will discover the historic rooms of the estate including the apartments of the famous painter, which still house some of his greatest works.
• Truffle Farm: Visit one of the most renowned truffle producers of the Aquitaine region to learn about and taste this revered delicacy. The farm you will visit today supplies truffles to some of the greatest chefs in the world. Meet the truffle hunter and his specially trained dog and gain an understanding of how these truffles are found. While in the region you'll also enjoy an orientation tour of the small town of St. Croix du Mont.

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:

• 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 canelé, 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.

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:

• Moon Harbour Whisky production: Although synonymous with wine, Bordeaux is also home to an exceptional whisky distiller. Named after the city’s crescent shaped port, guests will tour Moon Harbour’s distillery to learn how whisky is made and enjoy a tasting.
• Dune du Pilat: Climb Europe’s largest sand dune for expansive panoramas over Arcachon Bay and the stunning French countryside. Please note: Guests must be able to ascend at least 150 steps to reach the top.
• Visit Arcachon & the Baltard markets: Join your local guide for a walking tour of the charming bayside town of Arcachon, including a visit to Baltard market, an undercover food hall where stallholders tout local delicacies. Enjoy some time at leisure to explore this elegant town yourself or wander to the seven-kilometre-long beach Plage d’Arcachon, which borders the main shopping and dining precinct.

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:

• 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.
• Full day excursion to Cognac: The fortified city of Cognac is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest brandy. You’ll be taken on a walking tour of the town and have some free time to explore on your own, followed by lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch, you will travel to the breathtaking estate of famed Rémy Martin, which you will tour before sampling some of the cognacs. (B/L/D)

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:

• 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.
• 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 Chateau de la Roche Courbon: In the 15th century, Château La Roche Courbon was built on a high cliff overlooking the River Bruant. The fortified castle was transformed into a grand residence in the 17th century. Guests will discover this historic château and its sprawling manicured gardens during a guided visit. Prehistoric caves have also been found in the thousand-year-old forest surrounding the property.

This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will make its way back to Bordeaux for your final evening on board. (B/L/D)

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

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, history and food 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 Market. 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 from the dock to the Dom Luis bridge, which crosses the Douro River. Walk across the bridge towards Porto Cathedral, Sao Bento railway station, described as one of the most beautiful in the world, 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. (B/L/D)

Your first port of call along the Douro is the quaint village of Entre-os-Rios. The name means ‘in between the rivers’, as the village is set where the Douro and Tamega rivers meet. The cobbled streets are lined with historic churches and charming houses built in traditional architectural styles. 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. An eight-kilometre 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.
• Quinta da Aveleda: Transfer by coach to this 150-year-old wine producer for a tour and tasting. Wander the enchanting gardens and enjoy free time to explore.
• 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. (B/L/D)

Awake in Regua, where the ship has remained docked overnight. Why not ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite if you would like a slower start to the day?

All guests will enjoy a morning excursion to the Varosa Valley, which was the first demarcation region of sparkling wine.

Varosa Valley, Tarouca and Ucanha: Discover the captivating Varosa Valley and 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 ancient buildings and monuments, including a Baroque staircase and Rococo church. You will have the option to take a self-guided tour of the museum and will be offered a tasting of bola, a donut-like pastry.
• 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. (B/L/D)

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.

Perhaps you’d like to spend some time in the state-of-the-art gym for an invigorating workout or wind down in the wellness centre with a relaxing massage. (B/L/D)

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 famous for its university, which is the third oldest in the world, founded in 1218. Salamanca is a vibrant place with a young population – around one-fifth of its residents are students. It’s 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, a town with a curious name that translates to ‘ash tree girded with sword’. Legend has it the Dinis King of Portugal founded the town in the 14th century, then tied his sword to an ash tree before having a rest, hence the unusual name. 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 before returning to the ship for lunch. (B/L/D)

Wake in the village of Pocinho. There’s not much to the village, which was established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887, though it’s a great location to explore more of the Douro Valley. Perhaps savour a coffee delivered to your suite by your personal butler before heading off for the day.

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

• Côa Valley Museum: Transfer by coach to the Côa Valley Museum. Opened in 2010, this museum is one of the largest in Portugal and is a contemporary building designed to blend into the landscape. 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 sweet almond workshop to see 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. Spend time 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 Douro. Or head to the Panorama Lounge & Bar to enjoy a regional port wine. (B/L/D)

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. Look out for the charming riverside train station, which is decorated with azulejos (hand-painted tiles) depicting the annual grape harvest. From here, you’ll join your fellow guests for an excursion to Provesende.

This morning, all guests will be transferred 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 where you’ll watch a piano recital, help to bake bola (donut-like pastries) in the old bakery, learn how traditional handicraft is made, and look inside the historic manor house where you’ll enjoy the bola that you made earlier.

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

• Kayaking along the Pinhão River: Explore this beautiful region from a different perspective 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 and take in the magnificent landscape with views across the Douro River. 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. (Comfortable footwear is recommended.) (B/L/D)

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 watch 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 be seated in the church for a performance of classical music.

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. (B/L/D)

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. Admire fantastic views of Porto as you play a round.
• 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. (B/L/D)

Board your included flight from Porto to Madrid and transfer to your hotel for a three night stay. (B)

There’s so much to discover in just a short time in Madrid, so spend this morning on a guided tour of the highlights. Start in Madrid de los Austrias (the Austrian Quarter), the most historic area of the city that dates back to the reign of the Habsburgs. Discover the iconic Plaza Mayor, a 400-year-old square surrounded by neat rows of brightly coloured buildings; the impossibly picturesque Plaza de la Villa; and the bustling Plaza de la Paja, lined with restaurants and bars.

Wander through the elegant Sabatini Gardens, built in front of the Royal Palace in the 1930s and admire the formal garden, fountains and statues. More classic fountains await in the leafy plaza near the famed Prado Museum, the 19th-century Cibeles and Neptuno fountains.

Freechoice: Today’s Scenic Freechoice:

• Get arty at The Prado: The Prado Museum is renowned as one of the best in the world, with more than 1,500 artworks on display from a collection of over 7,000. See works from Spanish grand masters Goya and Velázquez as well as other prominent European artists like Rubens, Bosch, Rafael and more.
• Explore the spectacular Royal Palace: Covering more than 135,000 square metres, Madrid’s exquisite 18th-century Royal Palace is the largest in Western Europe. Walk through the grand rooms and airy courtyards, admire the incredible artworks on the walls, and see the weapons and armour on display in the armoury.

Tonight, enjoy a special Spanish dinner with your fellow guests and toast a wonderful day of exploring. (B/D)

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. Madrid is truly one of Europe’s most inclusive, engaging and entertaining cities, meaning there is something that appeals to every type of traveller. If the sun is shining (as it usually is), head for the lake at the centre of El Retiro Park. Rent a rowboat to paddle lazily past the grand monuments, water features and leafy forest that line the shores.

There’s an excellent crop of museums and galleries where you can while away the day, like the Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Museo Lazaro Galdiano and the National Archaeological Museum. If you’d prefer to be able to buy the beautiful things on display, join the crowds at Gran Via, look for luxury labels in Barrio de Salamanca, or find vintage treasures in the Chueca and Malasaña districts. Foodies should make their way to the Mercado de San Miguel, a century-old cast iron covered market filled with the finest produce from all over Spain. The market draws more than 10 million visitors a year to sample meat, cheese, fruit, vegetables, ice cream and more. (B)

Madrid is famous for its nightlife, but the mornings can be just as special. Take some time on your last day for one last walk around the tranquil grounds of Sabatini Park, just a few minutes from your hotel, or sit at a pavement café for one last cup of strong Spanish coffee.

After check out, you’ll transfer to the airport where you will farewell Madrid, taking with you memories of an unforgettable journey.

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. (B)