Bordeaux Affair with Paris & Madrid

The glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower twinkling in the night sky, romantic couples walking hand in hand along the banks of the Seine and chic locals walking the run way that is the Champs-Élysées are just some of the images conjured when thinking about Paris. Over the next three days you have the opportunity to discover this magnificent city whilst staying at one of our luxurious city central hotels.

Freechoice: Marvel at some of the city’s most iconic sights including the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe and learn about the city that is one of the most visited in the world, during a panoramic city tour. Alternatively, explore the Bohemian district of Montmartre where you will visit the vineyard of Montmartre that produces several varieties of wine, you will also have the opportunity to taste some of them. This afternoon is your chance to immerse yourself into the Parisian way of life with a free afternoon of exploration. (B)

After breakfast, transfer via high speed train to Bordeaux where you friend crew will welcome you on board the Scenic Diamond ready for your 10 night cruise along the waterways of the Bordeaux region. (B/D)

Enjoy a pleasant morning cruise on the Dordogne River to Libourne. While cruising, perhaps try your hand at a masterclass in French cuisine in Scenic Culinaire. Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, an absolute visual feast and the jewel of this ancient wine growing region. You’ll also get to explore the underground catacombs of the Monolithic Church – a true highlight. (B/L/D)

Freechoice: Enjoy a guided tour of Libourne and view its quaint 16th century town-houses and Gothic church. Alternatively, explore the estate of Château de La Rivière for a wine tasting, or view the eclectic city of Bergerac during a walking tour. Perhaps join your on board culinary team for a cooking lesson in Scenic Culinaire this afternoon. (B/L/D)

Discover the remarkable Blaye region today. Freechoice: Stroll through the town on a guided tour and observe the impressively preserved centre, or join a 30 kilometre roundtrip cycle along the Captain’s Road. This afternoon you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a masterclass in Scenic Culinaire, or simply relax as we cruise towards Pauillac. Enrich: Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château d’Agassac is truly enchanting. Soak in the ambience while live musicians perform classical masterpieces for your exclusive enjoyment. (B/L/D)

Freechoice: This morning, immerse yourself in the scenic Médoc wine region and discover why it is regarded as the world’s leading red wine producer, then sample the region’s finest at one of its spectacular estates. Or, cycle throughout this beautiful region stopping along the way for a wine tasting. Freechoice: This afternoon, discover the Carriages Museum in the enchanting Bourg Castle, including a walk through the 16th century passageway to the guards rooms and see the immense WWII oil tanks. Alternatively, visit a local Château and learn its fascinating history while sampling some of the extraordinary wines produced on site. (B/L/D)

Freechoice: Venture into the Sauternes region for a delicious wine tasting at the prestigious Château de Rayne Vigneau, or cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to taste the exquisite Grand Cru Classé wines of Château Lafaurie Peyraguey. Alternatively, take a walking tour of Cadillac including a visit to Château de Cadillac, a truly beautiful château that dates back to the 15th century. (B/L/D)

Discover the World Heritage-listed city of Bordeaux with its idyllic boulevards and architecture. Freechoice: Shop with a Chef at a local food market before cooking up a storm during your exclusive cooking lesson in Scenic Culinaire, or enjoy a guided tour of Bordeaux. Alternatively, for the more energetic, cycle the historic region of Bordeaux. Back on board, enjoy a tasting of fresh oysters delivered straight from the waters of Arcachon Bay. (B/L/D)

Board your included flight from Bordeaux to Madrid where you will stay three glorious nights. (B)

Enjoy a tour of Madrid, including the 17th century Austrian Quarter, the Sabatini Gardens and the famous Cibeles and Neptuno Fountains. Freechoice: Visit the Prado Museum, or a visit the 18th century Royal Palace of Madrid. This evening, enjoy a dinner of sublime Spanish cuisine. (B/D)

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in Spain’s largest city. (B)

After breakfast you’ll be transferred to Madrid airport for your onward 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)