Your journey starts in Bordeaux on a luxurious river cruise. Your friendly crew are ready to receive you on board the luxurious Scenic Diamond.
Bordeaux is 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. Or perhaps drop into Scenic Culinaire for a French cooking class.
This evening your Scenic Space-Ship will be docked overnight in Libourne. (B/L/D)
Freechoice: 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.
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. Founded in the 13th century, the charming, fortified city of Cadillac is centred around its magnificent château. Seventeenth century French explorer Anthony Laumet 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: Choose from this afternoon's Scenic Freechoice activities:
This morning you will wake in the fascinating city of Bordeaux, which you can explore by foot, bike or through a cooking class. It has been an important trading port since the Middle Ages, thanks to its strategic location on the river flowing to a sea port. 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. This afternoon you'll enjoy time at leisure on board as you sail towards Bourg. (B/L/D)
Your ultra-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.
Freechoice: Choose from today's Scenic Freechoice activities:
This morning you will sail towards Blaye. Most famously, this petite hamlet is home to a World Heritage-listed citadel that was constructed to protect Bordeaux city, from enemy attacks. 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 for your flight to Nice. From Nice, it is a small transfer to Monaco, the most famous district in the world's second-smallest country, that attracts high-rollers and prodigious wealth with luxurious high-rise hotels, designer boutiques and glamourous residents at every turn.
With a late departure, there's plenty of time today to explore Monte-Carlo. Visit the iconic Monte-Carlo Casino, designed by famous architect Charles Garnier; admire the Prince's Palace, still the official residence of the Grimaldi royal family; window shop in the designer boutiques that line the Avenue de Monte-Carlo; or stop for a drink at the legendary Le Bar Americain inside the Hotel de Paris. (B/D)
After a late night in Monte-Carlo, have your butler bring coffee to your suite so you can enjoy it on the verandah as you pull into Cannes.
Welcome to the cinematic capital of the world. On your arrival in early May, the city will be just a couple of weeks out from the launch of the Cannes Film Festival, and every street and square is abuzz with movie magic. Film stars and millionaires will descend on the city, berthing their superyachts alongside Scenic Eclipse in the colourful marina. Browse the latest haute-couture collections at the breezy boutiques, relax on a striped sunlounger set up along the narrow beach, or sip cocktails at one of the endlessly 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. (B/L/D)
You'll call at two neighbouring ports today, tucked into a quiet curve of the Ligurian Coast.
Just a few kilometres away at the end of the peninsula is Portofino, one of Italy's most famous resort towns. Postcard-perfect and oozing Mediterranean charm, Portofino is a place to soak up la dolce vita. Brightly coloured buildings sit against crystal-clear water with lush pine-covered hills in the distance. Another late departure means there's plenty of time to 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. (B/L/D)
You may never had heard of the town of Marina di Carrara, but you'll be familiar with its most famous export. Towering behind the town, the Apuan Alps looks as though they are covered in snow; in fact, it's world-famous Carrara marble that's been quarried here for more than 2,000 years. Many of Italy's most famous works of art, like Michelangelo's David and Pieta sculptures, began life in these very mountains.
With a late departure, make the most of the town's western aspect and watch the sun go down over the water with a glass of Tuscan wine in hand. (B/L/D)
As the third-largest port in Italy, Scenic Eclipse will be dwarfed by giant freighters and passenger cruise ships when it pulls into Livorno this morning. This colourful port town has been welcoming sailors and traders from all over the world for more than 400 years, making it one of Italy's most cosmopolitan cities. It's also the gateway to the spectacular Tuscany region, famous for its rolling hills, incredible cuisine and fascinating artistic heritage, and the closest port to Florence and Pisa.
Tonight, once the rest of the tourists have moved on, wander the checkerboard tiles of the grand Terrazza Magascani along the waterfront. Indulge your sweet tooth with a gelato from one of the many gelaterias you'll find here. (B/L/D)
After another late night, ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite this morning so you can admire your next destination from your verandah. Today, Scenic Eclipse will dock in the centre of Portoferraio, looking out at the famous 16th century Medici Fortress. Relax with another late night in port and toast the sunset with a glass of Aleatico, a sweet red dessert wine that's a local delicacy. (B/L/D)
France's second busiest cruise port (after Calais) and one of the busiest in the Mediterranean, Bastia is the gateway to the island of Corsica. It's a dynamic city that feels genuinely ‘lived in'.
The name Bastia comes from the word ‘bastion', which is tied to the Genoese fortress that was built here in the 14th century. It now houses the interesting Musee de Bastia, which traces the town's history from early Roman times. The old town is split into two parts; Terra Vecchia around the harbour and Terra Nova in the high-walled citadel above. The narrow laneways are lined with a number of impressive churches, grand public buildings and charmingly jumbled apartment buildings. Place Saint-Nicolas is at the heart of the town, a charming square lined with outdoor cafes. Watch the world go by with a coffee or glass of wine. (B/L/D)
This morning, you will arrive in Civitavecchia, the sea port for the Italian capital city of Rome. After a final delicious breakfast, farewell your crew and fly to Lisbon. Scattered across the peaks and valleys of seven hills, alongside the Tagus River, parts of the city date back to the 8th century with winding cobblestone lanes, colourful Moorish architecture and trendy converted warehouses. Lisbon is consistently named one of Europe's coolest capitals and you'll soon be charmed by its sophisticated approach to design, art, food and culture. (B)
Your first morning in Lisbon starts with a guided tour. The city has a long and fascinating history; founded in 1200BC, it was ruled by the Moors for more than 400 years, led the oceanic Age of Exploration and was almost completely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1755.
Freechoice: Today's Scenic Freechoice options:
Today is yours to enjoy. Perhaps hop aboard the number 28 tram, which winds through the city's narrowest streets, up steep hills and incredibly close to buildings. This evening you will join your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a delicious dinner. (B/D)
After breakfast, say farewell to Lisbon and travel north to the city of Porto. Its colourful, World Heritage-listed city centre overlooks the mouth of the Douro River and it's here that you'll board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. (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.
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. 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'.
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)
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:
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. (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:
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. This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards Pinhão. (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 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 and learn how traditional handicraft is made.
Freechoice: Choose one of this afternoon's Scenic Freechoice activities:
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. (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. 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)
Disembark after breakfast this morning transfer to Porto airport for your flight to Amsterdam. The Netherland's capital city 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. Raise your glass to the marvellous cruise ahead of you at this evening's welcome reception. (B/D)
This morning will be spent on board your luxury Scenic Space-Ship sailing towards Utrecht. Relax on the Sun Deck as you enjoy the scenery rolling by.
Freechoice: Select from the following Scenic Freechoice activities and explore your way:
You will arrive in Veere this morning, one of The Netherland's prettiest villages whose historic harbour is filled with bobbing yachts. While its beginnings date to the 13th century, Veere flourished in the 16th century when it became an important port for Scottish wool. This prosperity lasted two centuries, and to this day Scottish ties are strong.
Freechoice: A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are on offer to choose from this morning:
This morning you will arrive in Belgium's second city, Antwerp. Spend the afternoon exploring the city of Antwerp at your own pace or return to your Space-Ship. (B/L/D)
Located at the edge of the Veluwe nature reserve, the city of Arnhem offers a beautiful landscape surrounded by dense forest, lush green parklands and riverside promenades.
Freechoice: Make your choice from this afternoon's Scenic Freechoice excursions:
Your Scenic Space-Ship will be sailing towards Dusseldorf this morning.
Freechoice: Choose from one of this today's Scenic Freechoice:
Today sail along the curvaceous path of the Moselle River past quaint half-timbered villages, vine-covered slopes and hilltop castles that are perched proudly overlooking the river.
Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in the medieval town of Cochem this evening. (B/L/D)
A medieval gem resting on the banks of the Moselle River, Cochem will make you feel as if you are stepping directly into a fairy-tale. The traditional town is nestled on the riverbanks, with pastel-coloured buildings, half-timbered houses, cobbled laneways and an enchanting medieval hilltop castle surrounded by sloped vineyards.
This afternoon you will set sail for Bernkastel. (B/L/D)
Another wonderfully preserved riverside town, Bernkastel is home to an atmospheric market square with buildings that date to the 13th century, one of the world's most famous Riesling vineyards, Bernkasteler Doctor, and the ruins of Landshut Castle sitting high above on a hill, where archaeological remains from the 4th and 5th centuries were discovered in 2012.
Enrich: This evening's Scenic Enrich Classical Concert at Liebfrauenkirche, Trier: Tonight, you are in for a special treat with a private classical concert in the breathtaking surroundings of Liebfrauenkirche, located in the heart of the Roman city of Trier. The Liebfrauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, has been listed as a UNESCO world heritage site since 1986. During the concert, you can admire the incredible architecture and intricate stained-glass windows of the church as you are seduced by magnificent pieces of classical music. (B/L/D)
Located where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, Koblenz has a melange of French and German cultures and it's one of Germany's oldest cities with a history spanning 2,000 years.
Your Space-Ship will overnight in Koblenz, offering you the opportunity to explore the city after dark. (B/L/D)
Leaving Koblenz this morning you will cruise along the spectacular World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley towards Rüdesheim. This 65-kilometre stretch of the river 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.
This afternoon you will disembark in Rüdesheim, a pretty town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for a staggering two millennia.
Your Scenic Space-Ship will depart late this evening, allowing you some free time to wander the enchanting laneways of Rüdesheim. (B/L/D)
Freechoice: Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Mannheim this morning, where you'll enjoy several Scenic Freechoice options:
This afternoon your Space-Ship will set sail for Kehl. (B/L/D)
The city of Kehl is the gateway to Strasbourg, the capital city of the Alsace region, where sherbert-coloured, half-timbered houses heave together on the banks of a complex network of canals.
Your Scenic Space-Ship departs later this evening, which means you have free time to wander Strasbourg at your own pace. (B/L/D)
Located between the Rhine River and the Black Forest, Breisach is a food and wine destination that shares its border with the Alsace region. It was almost destroyed during WWII but was meticulously rebuilt with its traditional cobbled streets and pastel houses.
Return to your Scenic Space-Ship and toast to your final evening on board. (B/L/D)
After a delicious breakfast, prepare to head to Zurich, the heart of Switzerland. Framed by alpine mountains at the confluence of Lake Zurich and the Limmat River, this scenic-rich city is known for the extraordinary quality of life it offers to its citizens.
Relax in your luxurious hotel for the evening or head out to explore the city at leisure. (B)
This morning, you will join a local guide for a walking tour of Zurich. Wander through the Old Town's winding streets, the medieval square of Niederdorf, walk across bridges over the peaceful Limmat River, and admire the 9th century Fraumunster Church with its renowned stained-glass windows created by legendary artist Marc Chagall. (B/D)
Transfer via Coach to the beautiful city of Lucerne where you will have ample time to admire the picturesque natural beauty of the location. Here your Tour Director will take you on an orientation tour of the city where you will see the Jesuit Church, cross the quaint wooden Chapel Bridge and visit the Lion Monument, the detailed sculpture commemorating the Swiss guards who were massacred during the French Revolution. After some free time for lunch under own arrangements guests will transfer to Interlaken on a panoramic train where they will admire beautiful Swiss lakes surrounded by the mountains. (B)
Freechoice: This morning, choose from 2 Scenic Freechoice excursions as you uncover the tranquilly of Interlaken:
This afternoon, you will enjoy some time at leisure. (B)
Board the picturesque Golden Pass train through stunning scenery to the romantic Swiss town of Montreaux. Enjoy an orientation tour on arrival before free time to explore this charming resort town.
Enrich: Tonight's Scenic Enrich. You will be taken to a chalet-style Swiss restaurant in the mountains overlooking Montreux where you will be treated to a delicious meal accompanied by traditional live music. Members of the Alphorn Academy of Switzerland will introduce you to the cultural importance of the Alphorn, a long wooden horn that was traditional used by shepherds to call cows in from the pastures. (B/D)
Located on the Shore of Lake Geneva, this pretty lakeside town is a home away of home of many artists. This morning personalise your journey by your choice Scenic Freechoice excursions before lunch.
Freechoice: This morning personalise your journey by your choice Scenic Freechoice excursions before lunch:
This morning transfer from the lakeside resort of Montreux to the alpine village of Zermatt, nestled at the foot of the world's most famous mountain, the 4,478-metre Matterhorn. (B/D)
Overlooked by the imposing and iconic Matterhorn, Zermatt is an idyllic carefree, car free village set amongst the most glorious natural beauty. Today we ascend the Swiss Alps by rail to Gornergrat where we will indulge in magnificent 360-degree views with the highlight being the magnificent Matterhorn.
Switzerland is famous the world over for its delicious and various types of cheese. Perhaps, learn about local cheese production at a local producer. Discover how the local Alpine conditions and herbs contribute to the flavours of cheese produced onsite. Your afternoon will then be at leisure. (B)
Start the morning on a train journey onboard the Glacier Express to the quiet town of Chur. On arrival cross the border with Germany and head to the alpine region of Schwangau, overlooked by the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, that inspired the infamous Disney castle. (B/D)
Today you will be able to feel part of a fairy tale. After a short drive you'll arrive at the majestic Neuschwainstein Castle and have the chance to explore the opulent room of this castle before returning to their hotel to relax. (B)
Today we traverse the alpine valleys and rugged hills of the Salzkammergut region enroute to Salzburg. The hills truly are alive in this region, and you will recognise some of the marvellous landscape from scenes of the famous movie, The Sound of Music as you arrive at one of the most iconic musical cities in the world. (B)
Join your local guide that will escort you through this spectacular city seeing the iconic Mirabell Gardens, Mozarts' birthplace and residence as well as the Old Market Square. (B)
Today you'll travel to Vienna, stopping in the city of Linz on the way. Located on the mighty Danube River, this city is known for its vibrant music and arts scene and beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary architecture and lifestyle.
This afternoon you'll arrive in Austria's grand capital, Vienna, a city full of grandeur, where you will spend the next two nights in a luxurious hotel. Known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, and Sigmund Freud also lived and worked here in the late 19th century. The city boasts the world's most beautiful boulevard, The Ringstrasse, a legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. (B)
Today your expert local guide will show you around Vienna, which 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: This evening's Scenic Enrich: Tonight will be an unforgettable evening of classical music. Visit the grand Kursalon Renaissance Palace, where you'll be treated to an exclusive Strauss and Mozart concert, followed by dinner. (B/D)
Depart Vienna after breakfast, taking with you memories that will last a lifetime.
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)
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