Jewels of Europe & Romantic Rhine & Moselle

Welcome to Switzerland. Upon arrival at your Scenic Space-Ship in Basel, raise your glass to the marvellous cruise ahead of you at this evening’s welcome reception.

Please book your flight to arrive into Zurich prior to 01:30 PM.

Inclusions: Dinner

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. This morning you will arrive at Breisach for a day of exploration.

Freechoice:
A diverse range of Scenic Freechoice experiences are on offer to choose from this morning:

Wine tasting at Kaiserstuhl: Volcanic rocks make up a large part of the central and western Kaiserstuhl thanks to numerous volcanic eruptions more than 16 million years ago. Because of its loose covered volcanic soils, the Kaiserstuhl is known as a very good wine-producing region. During your visit, sample some of these delicious wines.

Excursion to Colmar: A visit to Colmar is like stepping into a fairy tale. Likened to Venice due to its quaint canals, the city centre also features an abundance of historical half-timbered houses, some dating back a thousand years. Wander the cobblestoned streets lined with charming stores, cafes and don’t miss the markets serving up delicious local produce.

Excursion to Freiburg: Located on the edge of the magical Black Forest, Freiburg is a picturesque city. During a guided tour your local guide will escort you through the lively medieval town centre where among the highlights you will see the Freiburg Munster, the cathedral that was one of only a handful of structures that survived the bombings during WW2 and that dates back to the 13th century.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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. On its central island, the UNESCO-listed Grand Ile, Petite France – named so for the 15th century hospital that was built here for patients suffering from syphilis ‘the French disease’ – was a medieval Tanners’ Quarters. Its meandering cobbled laneways are lined with a medley of buildings with shuttered windows and bright flowerboxes.

Freechoice:
A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are available for you to choose from today:

Guided walking tour of Strasbourg: Enjoy a guided walking tour of the charming town of Strasbourg, seeing many of the most important sights of the city including the Cathedral, Petit France, the Grand Ile and its many half-timbered houses and beautiful canals. Strasbourg is located on the border of France and Germany and ownership of the town has changed hands many times between the two countries. Due to this, Strasbourg is a unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. Drive to Strasbourg passing by many notable sites including the European Parliament. Please Note: this is an active walk.

Excursion to Mittelbergheim: The French Alsace region is a culturally diverse wine-growing area that shares its border with Germany and Switzerland. Today you will visit the village of Mittelbergheim, a member of the Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (‘the most beautiful villages in France’) association. In Mittelbergheim, enjoy a tasting at a local wine cellar before going to the neighbouring town of Obernai, where you will have free time to explore this vibrant location.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will depart for Mannheim this afternoon.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Freechoice:
Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Mannheim this morning, where you’ll enjoy several Scenic Freechoice options:

Orientation Tour of Heidelberg with free time: From Mannheim, transfer by coach to Heidelberg. Enjoy a brief walking tour of the city, including the Old Town, and then enjoy some free time. The walking tour is not too strenuous but there are some stairs and uneven ground.

Historical tour of Heidelberg: As well as a guided tour of Heidelberg, this option includes a visit to Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Explore the courtyard, the balcony that offers an incredible view over the Old Town and view the great Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest Wine Barrel located in the castle’s cellar. Enjoy some free time before returning to your Scenic Space-Ship via coach. There are some stairs and uneven ground, but the walking tour is not too strenuous.

Excursion to Bad Durkheim: From Mannheim, it’s just a short drive through stunning vine-covered landscapes to Bad Durkheim. On arrival, visit the renowned property of Fritz Ritter, a 9th generation family-owned vineyard that offers exceptional quality wine that you will have the opportunity to taste during your guided tour.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning you will arrive 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 traditional Christmas ornaments and cuckoo clocks, as well as a smattering of wine taverns and open-air beer gardens.

Freechoice:
Make your selection for this morning’s Scenic Freechoice tours:

Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum: From the pier, take a mini train through the quaint winding streets of Rüdesheim to Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum, where a local guide will introduce you to the weird and wonderful mechanical musical instruments. Afterwards, enjoy free time to wander the town or take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument, where you’ll have breathtaking views over the river. This 17th century statue was built to commemorate the unification of Germany.

Hike & Cable Car: Join a local guide for a hike through the rolling vineyards of Rüdesheim, a wine region famous for its Riesling, and enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and Rhine River below. After your hike, board the cable car to return to town.

Leaving Rüdesheim, you will cruise along the spectacular World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. 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.

The Rhine is abounded in myths and legends; folklore that has been passed on for generations, including the story of Lorelei. This enchanting female was betrayed by her sweetheart and spent her days bewitching men. As her punishment, she was sent to a nunnery, however on her way she jumped to her death in the river. Legend has her spirit casting spells on sailors who passed the rock, where a bronze statue sits today.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Freechoice:
Decide how you will spend your morning from the following Scenic Freechoice options:

Walking tour of Cochem: Take a short transfer to Reichsburg Castle, which dates to the Middle Ages. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle, which features a knight’s hall, trophy room and cellars, before wandering down to the Old Town seeing many historic buildings along the way.

Cycling tour of Cochem: Join a local guide and hop on one of Scenic’s e-bikes to explore the town of Cochem and the surrounding region. See the impressive Reichsburg Castle sitting proudly above the city and ride through winding streets past half-timbered houses.

Spend the afternoon at leisure in this beautiful location before setting sail for Bernkastel after dinner.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Freechoice:
Today, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Walking Tour of Bernkastel: Discover the town of Bernkastel, settled on the banks of the Moselle River. Your expert guide will explain the local architecture and culture during your guided tour and you will also have some time at leisure to discover Bernkastel on your own. Explore the pretty town with highlights including perfectly preserved half-timbered houses and the Renaissance-style Rathaus (Town Hall).

Excursion to Trier: Drive to Trier, a charming Roman city located near the Luxembourg border and the birthplace of Karl Marx. Explore this medieval town with a local guide to see the Porta Nigra, one of the best-preserved Roman gates in Germany, as well as the Trier Cathedral.

Wine tasting along the Moselle: The fertile banks of the Moselle River are a winemaker’s paradise. Learn about the varieties that are grown and produced in this region at one of the most renowned wineries in the region. Guests will also have the opportunity to sample a selection of local wines.

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.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Relax in the opulence of 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 the Moselle Valley during this full day of cruising. This afternoon you will be able to indulge in a Moselle Wine Degustation to sample local varieties.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Located where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, Koblenz is a melange of French and German cultures and one of Germany’s oldest cities with a history spanning 2,000 years. Koblenz is surrounded by vineyards, forest and mountain ranges and is also known as the gateway to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a picturesque section of the mighty river that is protected by UNESCO.

Freechoice:
This morning’s Scenic Freechoice are diverse and unique, decide what suits you:

Guided walking tour of Koblenz: Join your guide through one of the oldest cities in Germany. Explore the Florinsmarkt, the former political and economic centre of the city. On your way through the winding streets of the old town you will see impressive townhouses, each with its own unique history, charming squares and historic churches.

Marksburg Castle: From Koblenz drive to Marksburg Castle, perched high above the Rhine River. Tour this impressive medieval castle that holds the honour of being the only castle on the Middle Rhine that has avoided destruction over the years. The castle dates to 1117 and is a perfect example of medieval architecture. Note: This is for active guests only and requires a good degree of fitness and mobility.

Medieval Limburg: From Koblenz, travel by coach to the charming medieval town of Limburg an der Lahn. Here you will have the chance to walk the historic cobblestone streets lined with perfectly preserved half-timbered houses. Make your way up to the Cathedral that overlooks the city as well as the Alte Lahnbrucke, the Old Bridge that straddles the Lahn river.

Your Space-Ship will overnight in Koblenz, offering you the opportunity to explore the city after dark.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive Dusseldorf this morning.

Dusseldorf is an affluent city, which was dubbed ‘Little Paris’ by Napoleon. The city is filled to the brim with museums and galleries, one of the world’s most luxurious shopping streets, an old town with around 260 pubs and bars, and a harbour precinct that blends the old with new: historic quay walls, warehouses and silos neighbour striking architecturally designed buildings by the likes of Frank Gehry.

Freechoice:
This morning you can take your pick from the following Scenic Freechoice tours:

City walking tour: Explore Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour, from its gentrified harbour to its charming old town. Transformed from a once abandoned area to a haven of architectural masterpieces, Media Harbour is a fascinating mix of old and new. The Old Town is referred to as the world’s longest bar for its high concentration of drinking spots and is also home to the 450-year-old city hall and Castle Tower, which dates to the 13th century.

Cycling tour: Cycle along the banks of the Rhine River towards one of the most historic regions of Dusseldorf, Kaiserswerth. Enjoy the wonderful scenery, including the fortress that has protected this region for over 1,000 years.

Dusseldorf’s Altbier: Today you can learn all about Dusseldorf’s long tradition of beer production. Visit some well-known microbreweries and sample some delicious Altbier, the traditional ale produced in this region. The beer is named for the old method in which it is produced, using top fermentation.

Dusseldorf – City of Art: Dusseldorf is a fascinating city were medieval buildings and modern skyscrapers co-exist. Learn about the artistic heritage of Dusseldorf starting in the historic Old Town and making your way to the Media Hafen. Transformed from a once abandoned area to a haven of architectural masterpieces, Media Harbour is a fascinating mix of old and new. Your tour concludes at the K 21 Museum where you can take a self-guided exploration of the contemporary exhibits.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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. Coupled with its long and rich history, Arnhem is the perfect location to spend an afternoon.

Freechoice:
Make your choice from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Arnhem Airborne Museum: Visit the Arnhem Airborne Museum with your local guide to learn about the Battle of Arnhem. The Airborne Experience allows you to follow in the footsteps of British parachutists as they made their way to Arnhem in September 1944 and to meet the cheering citizens who had been oppressed by the German occupiers for four long years.

Biking tour of Arnhem: Join your fellow travellers on an active biking tour of the Arnhem region. Enjoy commentary from your local guide and take in the beautiful countryside as you stop at some key attractions.

Netherlands Open Air Museum: Discover the stories and immerse yourself in life in Holland from years gone by. Your local guide will take you on an exploration of this fascinating 44-hectare outdoor museum, to see replicas of historic houses, mills and farmhouses, and to learn about Dutch work, customs and traditions.

Het Loo Royal Palace: Het Loo Palace dates to 1685 and served as the royal family’s summer home for centuries. Since 1984 it has been turned into an incredible museum showcasing the rich history of the Dutch royal family. Travel to the town of Appeldorn and admire the elaborately decorated rooms, an impressive collection of coach stables and the magnificent gardens of Paleis Het Loo.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning you will arrive in Belgium’s second city, Antwerp. Full of historical and cultural contrasts, Antwerp has a melange of architectural wonders, a medieval centre with cobbled streets and Gothic buildings, many that were severely bombed during WWII, blended with architecture. It’s also the diamond capital of the world, with 70 per cent of the world’s diamonds traded there.

Freechoice:
Today offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from:

Guided walking tour: Join your local guide on a walking tour through this beautiful city, known as the diamond capital of the world. Explore sights such as the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, Steen Castle, the Medieval fortress, and main square lined with extravagant buildings.

Excursion to Ypres & Passchendaele: On a full day excursion from Antwerp, visit the towns of Passchendaele and Ypres to learn about the WWI battle of Passchendaele. Visit memorials dedicated to the 325,000 allied troops who perished during this terrible battle, learn about the strategies put in place to defend against the German troops and learn how this region was rebuilt in the aftermath. Tour includes lunch in a local restaurant.

Excursion to Bruges: Transfer via coach to Bruges where a local guide will walk you through the main sights of the city including the medieval centre. Highlights of this tour will be the medieval Bell Tower and the Belfry of Bruges. Please note: Due to uneven surfaces (cobblestone) and extensive walking, tour is recommended for guests with a high level of fitness.

Craft Beer & Chocolate pairing: Some of Belgium’s most iconic culinary delicacies are Chocolate and Beer. Today join your local expert guide and take your taste buds on a journey of flavour while learning and appreciating how the complex flavours of local craft beer and chocolate pair.

Your Scenic Space-Ship departs later this evening, which means you have free time to wander Antwerp at your own pace. Alternatively return to your Space-Ship and take the time to unwind in the exclusive Salt Therapy Lounge, which provides natural anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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:

Guided City Tour: Discover many of the hundreds of heritage buildings of Veere on a guided tour. Set on the Veerse Meer Lake, the village is home to a harbour lined with Scottish merchant houses, a 15th century town hall with tower, a defensive tower that was later used as an inn and lighthouse, and Grote Kerk, an imposing Gothic church that has also been used as a hospital and poorhouse.

Cycling Tour: Join your local guide as you ride though the village of Veere, seeing all its key sights as well as the unspoilt natural beauty along the dykes in the surrounding area.

Delta Works Visit: Transfer from Veere to tour the Delta Works, a complex series of dams purposely created to protect the population on the Delta plain from flooding. Discover this impressive engineering feat and see one of the Storm Surge Barrier that make up the project.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning you will arrive at Utrecht, a canal lined city boasting a multitude of green space, lively streets and hidden alleyways leaving you intrigued by what is around the next corner.

Freechoice:
Explore your way with today’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Highlights of Utrecht: The city of Utrecht is dotted with green parklands and lively canals lined with terraces and warehouses. The medieval Old Town houses the impressive Domtoren which acts as a beacon guiding its visitors back to the centre of the city. Explore all this and more during your tour with an expert local guide.

Excursion to De Haar Castle: A true fairy tale, De Haar Castle is the largest castle in the Netherlands and has all you could ever want from a castle and more. Cross the suspension bridge that spans the impressive moat to this truly remarkable castle. Inside, wander the rooms furnished with classic furniture and admire the turrets and towers, several offering wonderful views out to the spectacular rose gardens.

This afternoon, relax on the Sun Deck as you enjoy the scenery rolling by while cruising towards your final destination, Amsterdam.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Enjoy a free day in Amsterdam and explore the wonderful sights of this delightful city or simply relax and stay on board your Scenic Space-Ship.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Amsterdam is a treasure trove of urban beauty. Look around and you’ll find architectural marvels, masterpiece-filled galleries, boats putting along 16th century canals, narrow cobbled laneways filled with boutiques and cafes and streets busy with cyclists. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, the World Heritage-listed waterways are lined with well-preserved canal houses and intersected by charming bridges.

Freechoice:
Today, choose one of the following Scenic Freechoice:

Canal cruise: Amsterdam has more than 100 kilometres of canals, with some of the prettiest sights of the city visible from these historical waterways. This one-hour cruise takes you along the Gentleman’s Canal, where you will see The Skinny Bridge and The Prince’s Canal, known for its warehouses. You’ll pass the Old Lord Mayor’s House, The Seven Bridges, Anne Frank’s House and head to the Brewer’s Canal. As the historic centre glides past, admire the elegant merchant’s residences, churches and warehouses, dating from the Golden Age.

City walking tour: Explore Amsterdam on foot today, discovering the maze of canals and bridges in the city centre. Your guide will cover history, modern lifestyle and Dutch culture. You’ll also get to taste herring, a local delicacy.

Excursion to Schermerhorn & Alkmaar: 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, return to your Scenic Space-Ship and set sail towards the cosmopolitan metropolis of Cologne, Germany.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Start your day with a leisurely morning, perhaps with coffee in your suite, delivered by your personal butler. Enjoy breakfast in Crystal Dining and relax on board your Scenic Space-Ship. You will arrive in Cologne, Germany, later this afternoon.

On arrival, discover Cologne during a walking tour. With your local guide, wander the laneways of the historical Old Town, which is home to breweries serving up draft Kolsch beer, and visit the city’s centrepiece and icon, Cologne Cathedral.

Enrich
Tonight you will enjoy a magnificent Scenic Enrich event.

Classical Concert in the Beethoven Room at La Redoute recital hall: Attend a lavish dinner and classical concert of music by Beethoven and Mozart in the spectacular La Redoute recital hall. Located in Germany’s former capital, Bonn, and 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.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning you will cruise along the spectacular World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. 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 fairytale.

The Rhine abounds in myths and legends; folklore that has been passed on for generations, including the story of Lorelei. This enchanting woman 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 it her spirit cast spells on sailors who pass 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 2,000 years.

Freechoice:
Explore Rudesheim and the surrounding region with the following Scenic Freechoice options:

Rudesheim with Siegfrieds Musikkabinett: Take a mini train from the pier to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, where some 350 musical instruments from the 18th and 19th century play themselves for your enjoyment. Afterwards, explore the charming centre of Rudesheim, filled with half-timbered houses lining cobbled streets, quaint shops selling trinkets such as cuckoo clocks, as well as a smattering of wine taverns.

Rheingau region wine tasting: Wine tasting in Germany’s Rheingau region offers a chance to savor world-class Rieslings in a stunning setting – on the banks of the Rhine River. Known for its rich wine history and ideal climate, the region’s vineyards produce aromatic, mineral-rich drops, making it a top destination for aficionados.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This morning you’ll 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.

Located on the banks of the River Main, Miltenberg is one of the best-preserved towns in Germany. It’s home to hundreds of pastel-coloured half-timbered houses and one of Germany’s oldest inns, Zum Riesen. Explore this charming town on the tranquil banks of the Main River. After some free time, transfer by coach to the neighbouring town of Wertheim for a guided tour before returning to your Scenic Space-Ship. Alternatively remain on board your Space-Ship and bask in the landscape of the Main River.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today you’ll 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:

Guided city tour & Würzburg Residence: Take a coach to the Würzburg Residence, a Baroque palace surrounded by manicured gardens. Upon arrival, guests will be taken on a guided tour of the palace to see its most beautiful rooms, many of which feature valuable paintings, tapestries and period furniture. Afterwards, take a short stroll into the city. Explore the shopping area and the many coffee houses, pubs and restaurants. If you’re feeling energetic, you can climb up to Marienberg Fortress.

Romantic Road to Rothenburg: From Würzburg, drive by coach to Rothenburg along the so-called Romantic Road, an important trading route during the Middle Ages. Your guide will regale you with the history and legends of the towns and villages along the way, some of which are more than 1,000 years old. Explore Rothenburg, famous for its well-preserved medieval old town. With an expert guide, see the Gothic and Renaissance City Hall as well as the famous City Councillors’ Tavern, where various clocks will show you the legendary story of the “Master Draught”. Afterwards, you will have free time to discover the city on your own.

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.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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. The ship will dock in Bamberg after lunch.

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 that 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 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 is topped by an impressive castle, often considered one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Germany. Now it houses a fascinating museum showcasing a large collection of carriages, weapons, armoury and paintings by renowned artists.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You will arrive in Nuremberg, Bavaria’s second-largest city, early this morning. Nuremberg boasts an Old Town where the enchanting Christmas Markets are held every December. The city is also 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. Nazi boycotts of Jewish businesses began here, as did the eponymous laws that denied Jewish people German citizenship. 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 leaders were tried for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

Freechoice:
Make your choice from today’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Walking tour of the Old Town: Drive into Nuremberg’s city centre, passing by the city walls and courthouse before arriving at Augustinerstrasse. From here, your local guide will take you on a walking tour of Nuremberg to see the Imperial Castle, which overlooks the city, St. Egidien’s Church and the market square.

The trials and tribulations of WWII Tour: Join your local guide and learn about the horrific events that occurred in Nuremberg during Germany’s Nazi era. Start by taking a drive to the Rally Grounds and explore the Memorium Nurnberger Prozesse, where subsequent trials of Nazi party members took place (on dates where Courtroom 600 is not available, this tour will visit the WWII Art Bunker instead).

Nuremberg’s Castle and City Walls: The historic city of Nuremberg is yours to explore during this active walking tour. Explore the cobblestone streets surrounding the Imperial castle and admire the impressive city walls that remain since medieval times.

This afternoon, you’ll return to your Scenic Space-Ship and 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.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

You’ll arrive in Regensburg after lunch today. With a 2,000-year history, Regensburg has one of Germany’s best preserved medieval town centres. More than 900 of its Romanesque and Gothic buildings are listed as World Heritage sites. Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country.

Freechoice:
Today, Regensburg offers up a selection of Scenic Freechoice touring activities to choose from:

Walking tour of Regensburg: Join a walking tour with a local guide to see the old stone bridge, the Church of St James, and the Porta Praetoria.

Weltenburg Abbey: Take a ferry through the Danube Gorge to Weltenburg Abbey, the oldest monastery in Bavaria, founded by monks in approximately 600AD. Explore the Abbey and Cloister Church, then sample the award-winning beer produced on site since the year 1050, making it the oldest monastic brewery in the world.

Explore Thurn and Taxis: Join your guide on a tour of Thurn und Taxis Castle. Thurn und Taxis is a German noble family who can trace their history back to the 12th century. Explore the history of the Family and the region followed by free time.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Situated at a confluence of the Inn, Ilz and Danube rivers, Passau has been an important trading route – particularly for the ‘white gold’ of salt – for centuries. Each river is distinct in colour and some days you can clearly see the green, blue, and black hues where the waters meet. At the centre of the Baroque city, the 13th century Italianate Old Town is packed with tight laneways tunnels and archways, including an ‘Artist’s mile’ where old buildings are occupied by artist studios, workshops, and galleries.

Freechoice:
Take your pick from the following Scenic Freechoice excursions.

Excursion to Salzburg: Disembark your Scenic Space-Ship in Brandstatt and journey via coach to Salzburg, Austria. On the banks of the Salzach River, surrounded by alpine peaks, Salzburg is best known as the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. This storybook city has a thriving art scene, music and concert halls filled with classical music. In this Baroque old town you’ll find Mozart’s birthplace and Hohensalzburg, Central Europe’s largest intact fortress, which enjoys panoramic views of the city. Explore this incredible city on a guided tour before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant followed by free time to explore at your leisure. You’ll return to your Scenic Space-Ship in the German town of Passau.

Excursion to Cesky Krumlov: From Brandstatt, journey via coach to the Czech town of Cesky Krumlov. This delightful World Heritage town is brimming with charm. Sitting on the banks of the Vltava River, Cesky Krumlov is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, with a vast array of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Wander this fairytale location with your local guide and explore the historic centre before enjoying a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. After some free time to explore at your leisure, return to your Scenic Space-Ship in the German town of Passau.

Highlights of Passau: Join your local guide on a walking tour, admiring the brightly coloured buildings that line the waterways. Visit the Old Town, situated on a narrow peninsula, and admire the brightly coloured buildings that line the waterways. Visit St. Stephens Cathedral. Originally built in the year 450, the church proudly stood in Passau’s Old Town until a devastating fire ripped through it in 1662. It was rebuilt in its current form with an Italian-style exterior complete with a Baroque stucco interior, and nowadays houses the world’s largest Catholic church organ, which boasts 17,974 pipes and 233 registers.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock in the small and picturesque town of Dürnstein, located in Austria’s scenic Wachau Valley. Enjoy some free time to explore the charming town at your leisure before we set sail to Krems.

Freechoice:
This afternoon offers the following Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Göttweig Abbey: Visit the magnificent Gottweig Abbey. Founded in the 6th Century, the abbey was burned down during the 18th Century and rebuilt to be one of the most magnificent in the Wachau Valley. Your local guide will take you through various room where you will see the magnificent frescoes that decorate the Abbey as well as its staircase, the largest Baroque staircase in Austria.

Wachau Valley wine tasting: The Wachau valley is one of the prominent regions for wine growing in Austria. Today you’ll visit a local winemaker and learn about the age-old traditions of wine making while sampling delicious drops produced on site.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

This afternoon you’ll arrive in Vienna. It’s a city full of grandeur, featuring the world’s most beautiful boulevard, the Ringstrasse, and the legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. Also known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, among others. Sigmund Freud also lived and worked here in the late 19th century.

Enrich
Tonight’s Scenic Enrich:

Classical concert at Palais Liechtenstein: Take 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.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake this morning with Vienna on your doorstep. Spend the day exploring the city or venture into neighbouring country Slovakia for a tour of Bratislava.

Freechoice:
The choice is yours from today’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Schönbrunn Palace: Explore Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, one of the most prominent dynasties in European history. As you wander its countless ornately designed rooms, hear tales about the royal family that lived here and marvel at its impressive gardens.

Excursion to Bratislava: Take a coach to Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993. Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious in medieval and Gothic architecture and its well-preserved hilltop castle, which has history dating back to the 9th century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city. Explore Bratislava with a knowledgeable local guide to see all the highlights of the city such as the Hlavné Námestie, the main square and the Old Town Hall. As you walk, learn about the history of the city including what everyday life was like under the Iron Curtain era, the political boundary that divided Europe after WWII.

Central Vienna exploration: The city centre of Vienna is brimming with history, elegance and diverse architecture. During this tour your expert local guide will delight you with stories from the city before allowing you free time to explore as you wish.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today 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, the city came together in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. Budapest 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:

Budapest in Depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Visit both Buda and Pest, the two districts separated by the Danube. Starting on the Buda side see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side where you will see Széchenyi square and Elizabeth Square. End your tour with a mesmerising piano recital at the Institute for the Blind.

Budapest’s Past & Present: This walking and coach tour gives an insight on Budapest’s communist past and life today as part of the European Union, including the 1956 Hungarian revolution and the significant Jewish events that have shaped modern culture.

Hospital in the Rock: Experience the labyrinths of the Hospital in the Rock, set underneath the city’s Castle district. The complex was built as a secret hospital during WWII and was later converted to a nuclear bunker. Discover the underground former hospital furnished with wax figures to give you the spirit of the place. Note: This excursion involves stairs.

Thermal Baths: Budapest is known for its thermal waters and today you can relax in the natural hot springs at Gellert Baths. The baths are said to have healing properties and are warm year-round allowing for a luxurious soak no matter what the season.

This afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps set out to explore the Central Market Hall. It’s the largest market in the city, built in neo-gothic style for a combination of shopping and sightseeing.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart after breakfast, taking with you a lifetime of wonderful memories.

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.

^Massage/spa treatments at additional cost.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.

Inclusions: Breakfast