Fly from the UK to Bucharest.Welcome to Bucharest. The capital of Romania was once called the Paris of the East; however, WWII changed the face of the city with much of its Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture destroyed. Now a unique mix of Art Nouveau remnants and Brutalist-era architecture, along with wide, tree-lined boulevards and leafy squares, hidden street art and thriving nightlife, splendid Orthodox churches, and a gargantuan Palace of Parliament. This evening you’ll stay in a luxurious city hotel.
Today you’ll explore the city of Bucharest, with your selected Scenic Freechoice followed by a panoramic tour of the city by coach. Travel from the south of Bucharest to Primaverii Palace, stopping to see its squares, including Union Square, University Square, Roman Square, Victory Square and Charles de Gaulle Square. Freechoice: Ceausescu’s Spring Palace: Located in one of the wealthiest districts in Bucharest, this 1960s residence is made up of 80 spacious and elegant rooms decorated with silk wallpaper, wood panels, paintings by famous Romanian painters, mosaics, marble, chandeliers and mirrors made of Murano glass.Village Open Air Museum: Take a visit to the ethnography exhibits depicting Romanian heritage and culture at the Village Open Air Museum. The museum depicts traditional peasant houses, barns, churches and more, rebuilt by craftsmen using traditional techniques. This afternoon, you will be transferred to Giurgiu, where you will be welcomed on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship.
Arrive in Silistra early this morning, a Bulgarian town that played a significant role in the Russian-Turkish wars. Freechoice: This morning’s Scenic Freechoice:Active walk to Silistra Fort: Transfer to Silistra Fort by coach. Upon arrival take a guided walking tour of the fort and learn about its history. It is the best preserved of the six points of the Turkish fortification system, which played an important role in the Russian-Turkish wars.Visit Alfatar Village: Take an excursion to the small village of Alfatar, located just outside of Silistra. Visit the ethnographic museum featuring a typical country house, where visitors will see how the residents of this region have lived over the centuries and have kept their traditions alive. Also see the beautifully restored Holy Trinity temple, a treasured symbol of the Bulgarian Orthodox religion, and visit the Alfatar school to meet local children and learn about daily life for young Bulgarians.Excursion to Varna: Take a full-day excursion to the Black Sea coast. Varna is a cosmopolitan city, home to Roman bath ruins, a white-sand beach, and many open-air bars and restaurants. Your local guide will be delighted to show you through the city, including the recently renovated Cathedral and the Military Naval Museum.
This morning you’ll arrive in Rousse (or Ruse), which has been described as ‘Little Vienna’. Freechoice: Choose one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:Guided city tour of Rousse: Join a local guide on a sightseeing tour of this opulent town, resplendent in Belle Epoque architecture and leafy manicured squares. Afterward you’ll enjoy a short piano recital and some free time to wander, before returning to the ship.Excursion to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi: Take a full-day excursion from Rousse to Veliko Tarnovo, one of Bulgaria’s oldest towns which is built among lush forested hills and on the banks of the twisting Yantra River. In the 14th century as the Byzantine Empire weakened, Veliko Tarnovo was the Bulgarian capital and was known as the third Rome. On the way to town, you will stop to enjoy the panoramic views of the old town and see the Asenevtsi Brothers Monument. You will then venture to the nearby leafy village of Arbanassi, stopping to see the 17th century Konstantsalieva House for an insight into how affluent locals lives, and the Christ Nativity Church. This afternoon, relax on board as you continue to sail along the Danube. Mingle with other guests as you sit back with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar and soak up the scenery.
Today you will cruise through the spectacular scenery of the Iron Gates, a narrow gorge carved out between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains. This stretch of the Danube is the natural border between Serbia and Romania and features four narrow gorges, soaring cliffs and the might rock carving of Decebalus, the former Romanian king. Spend some time relaxing in your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the Danube. Or perhaps you’d prefer to sweat it out in the state-of-the-art gym or take time out in the wellness centre.
Arrive in the capital of Serbia this morning. Belgrade is known as the ‘Door to Central Europe’ and lies at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. This eclectic city is steeped in history, with Neolithic ruins found nearby, a fortress built by the Romans, Brutalist buildings that sit beside Art Nouveau buildings and a bohemian vibe. One of the oldest capitals in Europe, Belgrade has been rebuilt almost 40 times. Freechoice: This morning’s Scenic Freechoice:Guided city tour with extended free time: By coach and foot, you’ll tour the major sites of the city with a guide. You will explore the city’s highlights such as cobbled streets of the Bohemian Quarter and Kalemegdan Fortress, an imposing structure that has been the site of more than 100 battles and offers panoramic views of the rivers below. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore on your own.Panoramic city tour including Tito's Memorial: Join a panoramic tour of Belgrade with a local guide. See and learn about the major sites of the city including the Ottoman heritage of the old town, the imposing fortress and Republic Square followed by some free time in the city centre. During this tour you will also visit the memorial dedicated to Tito, the former ruler of Yugoslavia.Cycling tour along the Danube: Trace the banks of the Danube on two wheels during this guided cycling tour. Learn about the region and its people, including the history of Yugoslavia and Belgrade from WWII to today. This afternoon is free at leisure to explore Belgrade further. Soak up the bohemian culture with a wander along cobblestoned Skardalija Street, a district once frequented by writers and artists and other creative souls, now home to traditional restaurants, local stores and galleries. EnrichTonight, we have a special treat in store for you with our Scenic Enrich event:Classical concert at St. Sava Temple: Visit the St. Sava, the largest orthodox temple in the Balkans. Have a chance to explore the frescos-lined walls of the cathedrals crypt where the church choir will perform some of the most beautiful hymns just for you. Because of the acoustics in the crypt, this is a once of a lifetime opportunity.
Today you will visit Osijek, a small city with a turbulent history. Osijek was at the epicentre of the 1990s war, and its scars are still evident on its buildings today. Freechoice: Today, explore the region in one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Walking tour of Osijek: Take a guided walking tour of Osijek to see the highlights of the town including the well-preserved Baroque Old Town and fortress. You’ll also have the opportunity to hear some traditional and classical music popular in the region.Ancestry of the Kitchen: Recipes have long been passed down through generations and often kept as family secrets. Today, guests will meet with a local who will divulge a family recipe of traditional fish stew, while also chatting to you about life in this region.After your touring this morning, visit the home of a typical Croatian family and have lunch with the family members. Immerse yourself in this cultural and culinary experience, and enjoy an authentic meal prepared with fresh vegetables from the host’s garden. North-eastern Croatia is the ‘bread basket’ of the country, so it is only natural that the villagers take great pride in their gardens, from which ingredients are used to make a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
Straddling the Danube, this small Hungarian town was the site of the 16th century Battle of Mohacs, which led to the destruction of the Hungarian monarchy and the rise of Ottoman and Habsburg rule. From here, you will explore the surrounding regions with one of the following Scenic Freechoice excursions.Freechoice: Todays’ Scenic Freechoice:Pecs city tour: First settled by the Romans and then later the Turks, and located close by the Croatian border, this richly historic and fascinating city is a melange of cultures. It’s filled with Roman and Turkish architecture and ruins, elegant Baroque buildings, and is famous for its decorative arts and crafts, in particular porcelain. On a guided tour, you will see the city’s first telephone exchange, which opened in 1885; the Turkish Bath of Pasha Memi, which was demolished in the late 19th century but unearthed in the 1970s; the county library and more.Villany wine village: The region of Villany is known for its big, bold red wines, which account for most of the local wine production thanks to its sub-Mediterreanean climate. The village is a charming place to visit, with rows of historic white wine cellars where you can sample some of the local reds. You will also visit an old mill.Zsolnay Ceramics Museum: Founded in 1853 and still in operation today, Zsolnay Porcelain has a proud history of creating hand-painted decorative, ornamental, and architectural porcelains, and is known for its signature eosin glaze technique. View a splendid historic collection at the museum in Pecs, which is housed in the company’s former factory.
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country’s political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city’s history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.
After breakfast, prepare to head home. It may be the end of your journey, but it’s the beginning of a lifetime of fond memories.Transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.
These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.
At 325ft², these are the largest suites on the ship. Located on the Diamond Deck, both suites enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from your private balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. Each Suite has a lounge area and a luxurious bathroom.
Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
These Suites located on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.
Located in prime locations at the front of the ship on both the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, they offer all the features of our private Balcony Suites with our ingenious Scenic Sun Lounge, but with even more space to relax.
These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony complete with a Scenic Sun Lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.
Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
Our spacious main restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Award-winning Chefs prepare buffet, while regional wines are hand picked by our sommelier.
Exclusive and intimate, Portobellos boasts the best vantage point at the front of the ship showcasing sumptuous regional specialities from the freshest local produce.
This intimate affair is the ultimate treat for your palate.
Royal and Junior suite guests as well as Diamond Deck guests are invited, by our Executive Chef, to join Table La Rive for an evening of sumptuous dégustation.
Enjoy a refreshing afternoon aperitif or pick-me-up light bite on the Riverview Terrace, an open-air lounge and bar area located on the Sun Deck. Alfresco living doesn’t get better, with all-inclusive refreshments to complement the rapturous views.
The River Café provides you with a wonderful range of complimentary delicious light meals, snacks and refreshments that you can take anywhere at any time.
Take a ride on a Scenic E-Bike and experience the wonders of Portugal like never before. These power-assisted bicycles are perfect for seeing the sights at a pace that suits you.
Immerse in the wonders of Europe with Scenic Tailormade, a GPS-powered discovery system, which can be downloaded from The App Store or Google Play, lets you see more of the continent both on board and on shore.
Enjoy the freedom of customising your holiday your way with Scenic Freechoice. Choose from a wide range of truly all-inclusive experiences classified into ‘Active’, ‘Moderate’, and ‘Relaxed’ grades, and find the ones to match your pace each day.
Enjoy wondrous moments exclusively created for you, ranging from a private concert in a grand 18th century palace in Germany or indulging in a sumptuous dinner in a local home in the Netherlands. Enjoy these exquisite handcrafted experiences that are not available to the regular traveller.
The Panorama Lounge is the main bar area on board the Scenic Crystal, Jade and Jewel. Here, you can explore our extensive bar menu, which is complete with premium wines, beers and spirits, whilst enjoying a programme of entertainment from local musicians, dancers and performers.
Ideal for those sunlit days on the river, the Sun Deck is a designated open-air space equipped with everything you might need to relax and enjoy the great outdoors on your river cruise – think deck chairs, games area and a bar where you can make the most of our all-inclusive service.
Whatever you need on your cruise through Europe, our welcoming reception team is here to ensure your trip goes down without a hitch. The reception area is also the meeting point for the day’s shore excursions; you’ll find it in the middle of the Scenic Crystal.
The Wheelhouse is where our expert crew pilot your Space-Ship, negotiating the twists and turns of the Danube with the utmost precision and care. Stop by to chat with the team and take a peek behind the scenes.
Feel pampered throughout your river cruise at the Wellness Area. From facials to massages, our beauty therapist provides a selection of indulgent treatments to help you truly relax.
Relax and unwind with a unique wellness session at our Salt Therapy Lounge. New to the Scenic Crystal, Jewel and Jade, this purpose-built therapy space uses the natural healing power of salt to help you relax, promoting improved wellness and sleep.
Featuring state-of-the-art fitness equipment, including both cardio and weight-training machines, the Fitness Centre is ideal for those who want to stay active on their travels. Drop by and get ready for the day.
Casual and comfortable during the day. In the evening dress is semi formal or business casual and casual elegance for ladies. For gentlemen a jacket and tie are requested for the Captain’s Dinner.
Travellers who are less than 21 years old on the departure date must be accompanied by and share a cabin/room with an adult aged 21 or over. Children under 12 years of age are not accepted. This is a condition of carriers and cruise operators.
Scenic accommodate special dietary requirements to the best of our ability across our river and ocean cruises, and escorted tours. If you have special dietary requests, please notify us at the time of booking and inform your Cruise Director when you arrive.
Please note: while we endeavour to accommodate all dietary requirements, special requests are not guaranteed and failure to meet any request is not breach of contract on our behalf.
Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available on board some of our vessels. Please be aware that internet access may be limited or none existent at certain times due to high demand from other users, or proximity to telecommunication services. We cannot guarantee that you will have full Wi-Fi coverage in your suite.
If you are travelling on an escorted tour, please note that Wi-Fi is available at selected hotels only.
Scenic Space-Ships do not carry medical personnel on board and immediate medical attention cannot always be guaranteed. However, our staff are trained in first aid, and can provide basic medical assistance. Should you need to call medical services, this will be at your own expense. Please be aware that we cannot provide personal escorts for medical visits.
Smoking is not permitted in suites or any other indoor area across the Scenic fleet.
Smoking is permitted in specific areas of external decks. However, we cannot guarantee that these facilities will always be available.
There are no specific pieces of clothing we insist you pack, however we can offer pieces of advice, based upon your itinerary. We recommend comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing, as well as any garments, such as hats, gloves and water-resistant jackets, which will help you to stay comfortable whatever the weather. The dress code across all Scenic cruise and tour itineraries is casual and comfortable. Dinner attire is smart casual — open-neck shirts, trousers and dresses; you may wear a jacket or blazer with a tie but it is not required.
The on board language is English. All staff, crew and tour guides speak English, and all announcements and lectures will be made in English.
Scenic Enrich | Enjoy wondrous moments exclusively created for you, ranging from a private concert in a grand 18th century palace in Germany or indulging in a sumptuous dinner in a local home in the Netherlands. Enjoy these exquisite handcrafted experiences that are not available to the regular traveller.
Scenic Freechoice | Enjoy the freedom of customising your holiday your way with Scenic Freechoice. Choose from a wide range of truly all-inclusive experiences classified into ‘Active’, ‘Moderate’, and ‘Relaxed’ grades, and find the ones to match your pace each day.
Expert Local Guides | Nobody knows a place like those who live there. Explore the highlights and the hidden gems of your destination through the expert and passionate eyes of a local and take comfort in knowing you’re in good hands.
E-bikes | Enjoy the flexibility of our electrically-assisted bikes to explore your destination with minimal pedalling.
Scenic Tailormade App | Our exclusive app is the perfect accessory for independent exploration. Select between CityTour and Riverview modes to enjoy effortless self-guided touring.
Return Airport Transfers | Enjoy seamless included return airport transfer at the end of your trip.
Spacious Suites | Scenic Space-Ship suites offer you the luxury of space. Our suites are some of the largest on Europe’s rivers. Relax in the signature Scenic Sun Lounge providing you with your very own window to the world in all our Balcony Suites.
Up to five dining options | With an array of dining options, you can sample new cuisines and a different meal each day on your relaxing river cruise. From casual to fine dining, you will experience fresh local produce and a taste sensation for every occasion.
Complimentary beverages | Whether relaxing by the pool accompanied by a refreshing cocktail, or a nightcap for a good night’s sleep, enjoy our range of unlimited complimentary premium beverages all day, every day.
Butler service | Need your shoes shined, breakfast sent to your suite or laundry done? Consider it done. Our all-day butler service will ensure you have everything you need for a relaxing holiday.
Complimentary mini-bar | The mini-bar in your room will be restocked daily with all your favourite alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and snacks, customisable to your taste.
Wellness area and fitness area | Stay in your best shape while on board with our fitness centre and wellness zone. Enjoy the healing benefits of the Salt Therapy Lounge known to improve respiratory conditions and immunity.
Cruise Director | Our expert Cruise Directors are your storyteller, historian, guide, and friend rolled into one. From helping you set up your Tailormade App to directing you to the nearest golf course, you can count them to address your every need.
Complimentary Wi-Fi | Stay in touch with your family and friends no matter where you set sail to with our complimentary on board Wi-Fi.
All tipping and gratuities | We’ve included all your tipping and gratuities for the entire cruise so you can lock away your wallet and simply enjoy the truly all-inclusive experience.