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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.
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Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Budapest, the capital of Hungary and one of Europe’s oldest and prettiest cities. This afternoon, board your all-inclusive ultra-luxury Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your suite. Balcony suites have windows that convert into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you fresh air and uninterrupted views of ever-changing landscapes and life along the riverbanks. Relax and raise a glass to the days ahead at this evening’s welcome reception.
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.
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Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. It’s an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. Budapest is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths, which you can visit at your leisure during an afternoon of free time. Scenic Freechoice: Choose from a range of included Scenic Freechoice activities on offer this morning:Budapest in depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Starting in Buda, see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to Pest, the other side of the river to see Széchenyi square and Elizabeth square. End your tour with a mesmerising piano recital at the Institute for the Blind.Budapest’s past and present: This walking and coach tour will give 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: Go underground to explore 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.Guided hike of Buda: Put on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike through the Buda district of the city. On your walk, see Varket Bazar and beautifully landscaped gardens, all while enjoying great views over the Danube River and the city architecture.Hungarian culinary market tour: This foodie tour in Budapest offers an unforgettable journey through the city’s culinary delights. Visit the bustling Grand Central Market, taste local delicacies and hear fascinating stories about the city’s traditions.This afternoon is at leisure.
Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.
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Relax on board this morning as you cruise towards Vienna. You may like to ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite so you can savour it as the beautiful scenery rolls by your window. Arrive in the Austrian capital of Vienna this afternoon. A centre of art, music and culture, the city fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, and oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces, a vibrant coffee-house scene, and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums. Scenic EnrichClassical concert at Palais Liechtenstein: Breathe 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. Accompanied by ballet dancers and vocalists, and surrounded by world-famous art, this will be a concert that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.
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Wake this morning with Vienna on your doorstep. A city full of grandeur, Austria’s imperial capital is famous for having the world’s most beautiful boulevard, The Ringstrasse, and for the legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. Slow down and spend a full day exploring Vienna or venture further afield with Scenic Freechoice. Scenic Freechoice: Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice activities:Schonbrunn Palace: Explore Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family. Wander its ornately designed rooms, hear tales about the royal family that lives here and see the impressive gardens.Cycle to Danube Island: Explore a different side of Vienna on a guided e-bike tour to Danube Island, a recreational playground where locals come for bathing, boating, cycling and relaxing on its beaches and open spaces.Excursion to Bratislava: Travel to Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993. This modern multicultural metropolis has an intriguing history. The glorious Old Town and well-preserved hilltop castle contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture. Your local guide will show you Bratislava Castle, the Hlavné Námestie, the main square and the Old Town Hall.Hidden Gems of Vienna tour: Enjoy a guided tour of the city, brimming with history, elegance and diverse architecture. Stroll toward Schwedenplatz, passing iconic Prater and Augarten park, home to the Vienna Boy’s Choir. Explore the peaceful Greek Quarter, uncovering hidden courtyards, coffee houses and restaurant’s popular with local’s. Hear tales of the construction of St Stephen’s before enjoying some free time.
Krems an der Donau is a city in Northeast Austria located approximately forty three miles from Vienna. The city is situated on the banks of the river Danube and is one of the oldest of the Wachau Valley. Krems prides itself on historical preservation and has recently been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The history of the city dates back more than a thousand years with evidence found in its streets, squares, monasteries, churches and fortifications. Krems is also a modern city which celebrates its contemporary art and modern literature as well as being a leader in biotech application research. Exploring Krems is easily done on foot with city walking tours being very popular. Discover Old Krems and the Art Mile and learn about the city’s rich history at Museum Krems. As with many wine cities, food and drink is in abundance with popular restaurants and wine bars housed in historical buildings which enhance and deepen the dining and wine tasting experience.
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This morning, arrive in the charming town of Krems, located in the spectacular Wachau Valley. Scenic Freechoice: Today offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from:Göttweig Abbey: Founded in the sixth century, the abbey burned down during the 18th century and was rebuilt to be one of the most magnificent in the Wachau Valley. Your local guide will show you its magnificent frescoes as well as the 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 winemaking while sampling the delicious wines produced on site.E-biking from Krems to Dürnstein return: Join your guide on a bicycle tour along the Danube to the pretty town of Dürnstein. Pass by charming villages and scenic vineyard landscapes. You will have time to stop along the way to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Danube.Later, dock in Dürnstein, a small and picturesque town in the Wachau Valley. Enjoy some free time to explore this World Heritage-listed town, perched on the edge of the Danube River and surrounded by ancient, terraced vineyards.
Dürnstein is a town located in the Northeast of Austria, situated on the Danube river. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and wine region of Wachauer. It is a popular destination for wine lovers as many wineries offer accommodation. In addition to wine tasting and vineyard tours, visitors will find exploring the area on foot is easy and enjoyable. Take one of the many beautiful hiking trails across ancient rocks and admire the impressive views across the Danube valley. Children will enjoy exploring the outdoors of Dürnstein too, with outdoor playgrounds and theme trails available to keep them entertained. In addition, children and adults will enjoy Austria’s only outdoor biological swimming pool, Kuenringerbad, with an average temperature of 23 degrees celsius. Enjoy views of the town from overhead helicopter tours, leisurely river excursions, or hike up into the mountains and explore some of Dürnstein’s ruins. The mountains offer the ruins of Dürnstein castle and city wall as well as beautiful flora and fauna to spot.
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After a short stop in Brandstatt, arrive in Passau. Set at the meeting point of three rivers and close to the border with Austria, Passau was an important trading point for centuries. It was also a significant town in the Holy Roman Empire and the charming Old Town was mostly built by powerful prince-bishops in an Italianate style. Scenic Freechoice: Select from the following Scenic Freechoice excursions:Full day excursion to Salzburg: Cross the border into Salzburg, Austria, a storybook city surrounded by alpine peaks and best known as the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. On a guided tour, learn about its art and music scene, visit Mozart’s birthplace, and see the vast Hohensalzburg fortress. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and some free time.Full day excursion to Ceský Krumlov: Journey to the Czech town of Ceský Krumlov, a World Heritage site brimming with charm. Explore with your local guide, admire the well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.Highlights of Passau: Join your local guide on a walking tour, admiring the brightly coloured buildings that line the waterways. Visit St Stephens Cathedral, originally built in the year 450 but destroyed by fire in 1662 and rebuilt in the Baroque style.
Passau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen’s Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront promenades and romantic lanes whilst enjoying the picturesque landscape. For modern art, The Museum of Modern Art and Glass Museum Passau are recommended as they offer something a bit different. Theatre and cabaret are a popular evening pastime, with performances at the former Prince Bishopric Theatre or some lively cabaret and Jazz at the Scharfrichterhaus. Visitors will also find many traditional local Bavarian and Austrian cafes and restaurants offering a cosy atmosphere with home cooked food from local produce.
Regensburg is a medieval city of Bavaria in southeast Germany. It is situated on the northern point of the Danube River at its confluence with the Regen and Naab rivers. The city is famous for its iconic 12th Century stone bridge and sixteen arches, crossing the Danube into Old Town and is the oldest preserved bridge in Germany. Regensburg is also noted for its 13th Century Regensburg Cathedral and Gothic twin spires that feature prominently on the city’s skyline. Recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, the city is home to many preserved sites. Visit the the 2nd Century Porta Praetoria which served as the north gate to a Roman camp and St Peter’s Cathedral, with its French Gothic architecture. Also the 18th Century Thurn and Taxis Palace and the Old Town Hall, which is now home to the Imperial Diet Museum, are also worth a visit. Regensburg benefits from lots of parks and gardens for visitors to relax in, as well as walks and cycle paths along the banks of the rivers.
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Boasting a staggering 2,000-year history, Regensburg has one of Germany’s best preserved medieval town centres, with more than 900 of its Romanesque and Gothic buildings listed as World Heritage sites. Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country. Scenic Freechoice: Today, Regensburg offers a selection of Scenic Freechoice activities to choose from:Walking tour of Regensburg: On the confluence of three rivers in Bavaria, Regensburg is known as the best-preserved medieval city in Germany. Guests will 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 1050.Thurn und Taxis Active Walking Tour: Join an active walking tour from the ship to Thurn und Taxis Castle, for a guided tour followed by free time. Thurn und Taxis is a German noble family who can trace their history back to the 12th century.Cycle to Walhalla Memorial: Cycle through the wonderful scenery of the Donau Valley along the river and through the countryside, to Walhalla Memorial. Commissioned by King Ludwig l of Bavaria, Walhalla Memorial honours notable Germans from past centuries.
Nuremberg is a medieval city located in northern Bavaria in Germany. It is Bavaria’s second largest city and is noted for its iconic red roofed buildings and medieval architecture. The imperial Castle overlooks Nuremberg and was one of the most important fortifications of the Roman Empire. For more significant cultural history, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, one of the largest cultural history museums in the German speaking world, offers visitors exhibitions from Prehistoric all the way to present day. Walking tours around the city offer an enjoyable and active way to learn of Nuremberg’s history and culture. Through Old Town, discover fountains, wells, churches, and art treasures, as well as learning of the colourful past and cosmopolitan present of the city and its people. Nuremberg is also home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, where visitors can purchase traditional handmade decorations and enjoy the famous gingerbread, mulled wine, and grilled sausage from over one hundred and eighty wooden stalls.
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Cruise into Nuremberg, Bavaria’s second-largest city, today, protected by an ancient city wall. The city is 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 and many of the anti-Jewish laws began here. By 1945, the city was reduced to rubble, including large sections of the Imperial Castle and Old Town. After the war, Nazi leaders were tried here for their war crimes. Scenic Freechoice: Make your choice from today’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:Guided tour of Nuremberg Old Town: Drive into Nuremberg’s city centre, passing by the ancient city walls, then join your local guide for a walking tour of the Old Town to see the Imperial Castle, St. Egidien’s Church and the market square.World War II tour: Your local guide will highlight the main events that occurred in Nuremberg during the Nazi regime. Learn about this dark time in Germany's history and visit some of the most important sites.Nuremberg's Castle and City Walls: The historic city of Nuremberg is yours to explore during this active walking tour. Follow the cobblestone streets surrounding the Imperial castle and admire the impressive city walls that remain since medieval times.
Bamberg is a German town located over a landscape of seven hills and the confluence of Regnitz and Main rivers. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre with Old Town home to structures dating back to the 11th century. An iconic landmark to visit in Bamberg is the town hall Altes Rathaus, located on an island in the Regnitz and covered in murals. Bamberg Cathedral, with its four towers and numerous stone carvings, is a striking example of Romanesque architecture. Head to the Market Gardeners District and visit the historical houses where centuries ago the town gardeners would grow and export produce such as onions, seeds and liquorice. In the town centre and heart of Little Venice, the rivers and arched bridges connecting the island city are reminiscent of Venice, with a lively atmosphere and modern shops set in historical surroundings. After a day shopping, head to one of the many Brewery pubs for some popular German beer. Bamberg is famous for its beer and is where its name originated from, with the town being populated by nine traditional breweries.
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Built on seven hills, this World Heritage-listed town has surprises at every turn. Intersected by rivers and canals, Bamberg’s Old Town is resplendent with cobblestoned streets and well-preserved medieval buildings. Admire the charming Town Hall which 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 that teeters on the highest of the seven hills.Scenic Freechoice: Stay in Bamberg or choose to explore further afield:Guided tour of Bamberg Old Town: 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. Visit the impressive castle, which looks over the city, and is considered one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Germany. Its museum houses a large collection of carriages, weapons, armoury and paintings by renowned artists.This afternoon, spend some time relaxing in your spacious suite or perhaps join your fellow guests on the Sun deck.
Würzburg is a city in Bavaria in southern Germany. It is located on the River Main and is famous for its lavish baroque architecture and Franconian wine. The Residence Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is highly recommended. It is a well known example of Baroque architecture with its acclaimed staircase, impressive frescos and imperial hall. Other impressive sites in Würzburg include the towering fortress of Festung Marienberg, the Alt Mainbrücke old bridge, which offers ideal views of the Marienberg, Dom St. Kilian cathedral and the many churches of Würzburg including the Romanesque Neumünster. Many of these sites have their own museums for visitors to learn of the history or view unique collections. Other museums of interest are the Mineralogical Museum, exhibiting the world of minerals and stones, and the Botanical Gardens, with various greenhouses and outdoor areas to enjoy. Wine lovers will find an abundance of wineries in Würzburg, offering cellar tours and wine tasting as well as traditional Bavarian cuisines and hospitality. Enjoy wine soup, Gerupfter (cheese spread) and Sauerbraten (braised beef in wine) in a friendly traditional wine tavern.
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After a relaxed morning on board, dock in Würzburg. With its lavish Baroque and Rococo architecture, you’ll be captivating by this glamorous port. This 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. Scenic Freechoice: Spend today at your preferred pace with one of these Scenic Freechoice Walking tour and Würzburg Residence: Visit the Würzburg Residence, a Baroque palace surrounded by manicured gardens, for a guided tour to see its many valuable paintings, tapestries and period furniture. Then take a short stroll into the city for some free time.Romantic Road to Rothenburg: From Würzburg, drive by coach to Rothenburg along the famed Romantic Road, an important trading route during the Middle Ages. Take a guided tour of the well-preserved medieval old town and enjoy some free time to explore on your own.
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Arrive in Wertheim this morning, a small town with a medieval centre sitting on the picturesque banks of the Main and Tauber Rivers. Look out for the distinctive Spitze Turm, a 13th-century pointed watchtower that stands tall above the town. Today is all about connecting with culture and meeting the locals. Scenic Freechoice: This morning, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice tours that will immerse you in local life:Wertheim tour and winery: Travel to Wertheim am Main, another historic town filled with half-timbered houses for a tour and some free time. Visit a local winery to meet the winemaker and learn about the production process before transferring to the nearby town of Miltenberg.Gamburg Castle tour: Visit the town of Gamburg for a guided tour of Gamburg Castle. Here you will also meet the Baron and Baroness for a private reception and learn about their modern aristocratic life over a glass of sparkling wine.Miltenberg tour and local farm visit: Visit a charming, family-owned farmstead. Meet the owners, discover the rhythms of daily farm life, get up close with the animals, and enjoy tastings of local delicacies made right on the farm. Afterwards, visit the charming town of Miltenberg for an orientation tour followed by some free time.Schnapps tasting: Visit a local schnapps distiller to understand how this flavoured liqueur is produced. Enjoy a tasting of the multiple flavours before taking an orientation tour of Miltenberg followed by some free time to enjoy the town.After touring, you will reboard your ultra-luxury Space-Ship in Miltenberg and depart for Rüdesheim. Enjoy some of the all-inclusive on board entertainment this evening as you cruise through the night.
Miltenberg is a city located in Bavaria and Southern part of Germany. Located on the banks of the river Maine the city grew from its medieval roots through Viniculture, wine trade, fishery, and general river traffic, into the established and preserved town of today. Visit the Museum Stadt Miltenberg, housed in the half timbered house called the Alte Amtskellerei (The Provost’s Office) and discover the town’s history through collections depicting culture back to the Romans. A visit to castle Miltenberg is also recommended. The castle dates back to the 11th century and is now owned by the city administration. With the castle in need of rehabilitation, the Museum Burg Miltenberg was opened to exhibit classic icons and contemporary art in a historical and significant setting. The keep of the castle, which reaches twenty seven metres high, offers picturesque views of the Main Valley below and is the perfect setting to relax and enjoy some refreshments.
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This morning, disembark in Rüdesheim, a pretty town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for more than 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. Scenic Freechoice: Make your selection from today’s Scenic Freechoice tours:Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum: Visit Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum, where a local guide will introduce you to the weird and wonderful mechanical musical instruments. Then explore on your own or take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument.Hike & Cable Car: Join a local guide for a hike through the rolling vineyards of Rudesheim and enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and Rhine River below. After your hike, board the cable car to return to town.Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise through the picturesque Rhine Gorge, where the landscapes could have been pulled from the pages of a fairytale. This 65-kilometre stretch of the river is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Look out for the Lorelei statue, dedicated to the tragic legend of a beautiful maiden. Scenic EnrichGala Dinner and classical concert at La Redoute Recital Hall: An exclusive experience awaits you this evening. Travel to Bonn and the magnificent La Redoute recital hall, built in 1792 by the last Elector of Cologne. Sit down to a lavish dinner accompanied by classical music.
Cologne is a city in western Germany located across the Rhine river. It is the oldest in Germany, dating back 2000 years and is considered the region’s cultural hub. The city is known for its iconic landmark of the twin-spired Cologne Cathedral set against the reconstructed Old Town buildings. When in Old Town, visit the historic Old Town Hall and the Roman Church Great St Martin, or take time out and sit at one of the traditional breweries and enjoy the scenery around you. Historical sites such as the Roman Dionysus mosaic and the medieval Overstolzenhaus are worth a visit too. Another iconic sight in Cologne is at Hohenzollern Bridge. Here, local and tourist couples affix padlocks to the railings of the bridge and swear their loyalty to each other, they then throw the key into the Rhein to ensure everlasting love. Cologne is home to over 30 stages providing cabaret, free ensembles, theatre and dance and also celebrates its openly gay culture.
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Dock in the 2,000-year-old city of Cologne today. Cologne suffered extensive damage during World War II but was painstakingly restored over the following decades. Set out on a walking tour of the Old Town, admiring its historic buildings, beautiful squares and the World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral. After lunch, we cruise to Amsterdam.
Amsterdam combines the unrivaled beauty of the 17th-century Golden Age city center with plenty of museums and art of the highest order, not to mention a remarkably laid-back atmosphere. It all comes together to make this one of the world’s most appealing and offbeat metropolises in the world. Built on a latticework of concentric canals like an aquatic rainbow, Amsterdam is known as the City of Canals—but it’s no Venice, content to live on moonlight serenades and former glory. Quite the contrary: on nearly every street here you’ll find old and new side by side—quiet corners where time seems to be holding its breath next to streets like neon-lit Kalverstraat, and Red Light ladies strutting by the city’s oldest church. Indeed, Amsterdam has as many lovely facets as a 40-carat diamond polished by one of the city’s gem cutters. It’s certainly a metropolis, but a rather small and very accessible one. Locals tend to refer to it as a big village, albeit one that happens to pack the cultural wallop of a major world destination. There are scores of concerts every day, numerous museums, summertime festivals, and, of course, a legendary year-round party scene. It’s pretty much impossible to resist Amsterdam’s charms. With 7,000 registered monuments, most of which began as the residences and warehouses of humble merchants, set on 160 man-made canals, and traversed by 1,500 or so bridges, Amsterdam has the largest historical inner city in Europe. Its famous circle of waterways, the grachtengordel, was a 17th-century urban expansion plan for the rich and is a lasting testament to the city’s Golden Age. This town is endearing because of its kinder, gentler nature—but a reputation for championing sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll does not alone account for Amsterdam’s being one of the most popular destinations in Europe: consider that within a single square mile the city harbors some of the greatest achievements in Western art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Not to mention that this is one of Europe’s great walking cities, with so many of its treasures in the untouted details: tiny alleyways barely visible on the map, hidden garden courtyards, shop windows, floating houseboats, hidden hofjes(courtyards with almshouses), sudden vistas of church spires, and gabled roofs that look like so many unframed paintings. And don’t forget that the joy lies in details: elaborate gables and witty gable stones denoting the trade of a previous owner. Keep in mind that those XXX symbols you see all over town are not a mark of the city’s triple-X reputation. They’re part of Amsterdam’s official coat of arms—three St. Andrew’s crosses, believed to represent the three dangers that have traditionally plagued the city: flood, fire, and pestilence. The coat’s motto (“Valiant, determined, compassionate”) was introduced in 1947 by Queen Wilhelmina in remembrance of the 1941 February Strike in Amsterdam—the first time in Europe that non-Jewish people protested against the persecution of Jews by the Nazi regime.
Day programme:
The Netherlands’ capital is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, galleries filled with masterpieces, 16th-century canals, narrow cobbled laneways, and streets busy with cyclists. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, much of the UNESCO-listed canal system exists today as it did hundreds of years ago, lined with well-preserved houses and intersected by charming bridges. Scenic Freechoice: Discover more of the city on one of these excursions:Canal cruise: Amsterdam has more than 100 kilometres of canals. See some of the prettiest sights of the city on a one-hour cruise along these historic waterways. Admire Golden Age mansions, grand warehouses and narrow bridges.Walking tour of Amsterdam: Explore Amsterdam on foot, discovering the maze of canals and bridges in the city centre. Your guide will be covering history, modern lifestyle and Dutch culture. You also get to taste herring, a local delicacy not to be missed.Dutch countryside e-bike tour: Amsterdam is known as the bicycle capital of the world. Take a small ferry to the outskirts of town for a biking tour. Your local guide will be at hand to offer information about everyday life of the Dutch people, many of whom you will see getting around on two wheels.Excursion to Schermerhorn & Alkmaar: Leave the capital to visit the village of Schermerhorn, home to a number of authentic 16th-century windmills. Then travel to the charming town of Alkmaar, known for its historic buildings and picturesque canals.
Amsterdam combines the unrivaled beauty of the 17th-century Golden Age city center with plenty of museums and art of the highest order, not to mention a remarkably laid-back atmosphere. It all comes together to make this one of the world’s most appealing and offbeat metropolises in the world. Built on a latticework of concentric canals like an aquatic rainbow, Amsterdam is known as the City of Canals—but it’s no Venice, content to live on moonlight serenades and former glory. Quite the contrary: on nearly every street here you’ll find old and new side by side—quiet corners where time seems to be holding its breath next to streets like neon-lit Kalverstraat, and Red Light ladies strutting by the city’s oldest church. Indeed, Amsterdam has as many lovely facets as a 40-carat diamond polished by one of the city’s gem cutters. It’s certainly a metropolis, but a rather small and very accessible one. Locals tend to refer to it as a big village, albeit one that happens to pack the cultural wallop of a major world destination. There are scores of concerts every day, numerous museums, summertime festivals, and, of course, a legendary year-round party scene. It’s pretty much impossible to resist Amsterdam’s charms. With 7,000 registered monuments, most of which began as the residences and warehouses of humble merchants, set on 160 man-made canals, and traversed by 1,500 or so bridges, Amsterdam has the largest historical inner city in Europe. Its famous circle of waterways, the grachtengordel, was a 17th-century urban expansion plan for the rich and is a lasting testament to the city’s Golden Age. This town is endearing because of its kinder, gentler nature—but a reputation for championing sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll does not alone account for Amsterdam’s being one of the most popular destinations in Europe: consider that within a single square mile the city harbors some of the greatest achievements in Western art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Not to mention that this is one of Europe’s great walking cities, with so many of its treasures in the untouted details: tiny alleyways barely visible on the map, hidden garden courtyards, shop windows, floating houseboats, hidden hofjes(courtyards with almshouses), sudden vistas of church spires, and gabled roofs that look like so many unframed paintings. And don’t forget that the joy lies in details: elaborate gables and witty gable stones denoting the trade of a previous owner. Keep in mind that those XXX symbols you see all over town are not a mark of the city’s triple-X reputation. They’re part of Amsterdam’s official coat of arms—three St. Andrew’s crosses, believed to represent the three dangers that have traditionally plagued the city: flood, fire, and pestilence. The coat’s motto (“Valiant, determined, compassionate”) was introduced in 1947 by Queen Wilhelmina in remembrance of the 1941 February Strike in Amsterdam—the first time in Europe that non-Jewish people protested against the persecution of Jews by the Nazi regime.
Day programme:
Your journey concludes this morning in Amsterdam. After one final breakfast on board, depart with a lifetime of 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.
Ship features
Royal Owner's Suite
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.
Suite Highlights
- A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
- Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
- Separate lounge area
- Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities
Amenities & Features
- Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
- Priority reservations at selected dining venues
- A complimentary welcome bottle of champagne (750ml)
- €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
- Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*
- Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
- Mini bar, replenished daily
- Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
- Nightly turndown service
- Bathrobes and slippers
- In-suite safe
Royal Panorama Suite
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.
Suite Highlights
- A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
- Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
- Separate lounge area
- Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities
Amenities & Features
- Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
- Priority reservations at selected dining venues
- A complimentary welcome bottle of champagne (750ml)
- €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
- Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*
- Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
- Mini bar, replenished daily
- Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
- Nightly turndown service
- Bathrobes and slippers
- In-suite safe
Royal Balcony Suite
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.
Suite Highlights
- A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
- Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
- Separate lounge area
- Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities
Amenities & Features
- Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
- Priority reservations at selected dining venues
- A complimentary welcome bottle of champagne (750ml)
- €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
- Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*
- Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
- Mini bar, replenished daily
- Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
- Nightly turndown service
- Bathrobes and slippers
- In-suite safe
Deluxe Balcony Suite
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.
Junior Balcony Suite
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.
Balcony Suite
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.
Room Highlights
- A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
- Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
- Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities
Amenities & Features
- Personalised butler service for every suite
- Complimentary laundry service once per suite
- Early morning tea and coffee
- Beverage service in your suite
- Mini bar, replenished daily
- Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
- Nightly turndown service
- Bathrobes and slippers
- In-suite safe
- Shoeshine and valet service.
Single Balcony Suite
Located on the Sapphire deck this suite is perfect for the solo traveller. Enjoy fantastic views from your full size balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. This cabin also includes an elegant bathroom with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
Room Highlights
- A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
- Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
- Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities
Amenities & Features
- Personalised butler service for every suite
- Complimentary laundry service once per suite
- Early morning tea and coffee
- Beverage service in your suite
- Mini bar, replenished daily
- Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
- Nightly turndown service
- Bathrobes and slippers
- In-suite safe
- Shoeshine and valet service.
Standard Suite
Staterooms 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.
Room Highlights
- A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
- Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities
Amenities & Features
- Personalised butler service
- Complimentary laundry service once per suite
- Early morning tea and coffee
- Mini bar, replenished daily
- Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
- Shoeshine and valet service
- Nightly turndown service
- In-suite safe.
Crystal Dining
Enjoy à la carte menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner at Crystal Dining. Available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises, this main restaurant offers a relaxed dining experience with local delicacies.
Portobellos
With up to only 32 guests an evening, the exclusive and intimate Portobellos showcase sumptuous regional specialities. The delectable five-course menu features either Italian, French or Portuguese cuisine (depending on your cruise location), paired with elegant wines, and is available on all European river cruises.
Table La Rive
Featuring a six-course degustation, the exclusive Table La Rive on our European river cruises offers an intimate dining experience for only 10 guests per evening. Guests staying on the Diamond Deck for 10 nights or longer, as well as Royal and Junior Suite guests staying for up to nine nights, will be invited by our Executive Chef.
Riverview Terrace
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.
River Café
Offering a casual dining experience, you can enjoy all-day grazing options, light snacks and tasty treats to suit your schedule. The River Café is available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises.
In-Suite Dining
Choose to dine in the comfort of your luxurious suite, while taking in the incredible views and enjoy included room service throughout your cruise.
Complimentary E-bikes
Explore cities onshore on our complimentary e-bikes^+. Keep active and interact with locals as you explore Europe’s countryside.
Experience Europe’s wonders at your own pace with truly all-inclusive Scenic Freechoice excursions. From e-bike+^ riding alongside spectacular waterways, to exploring Europe’s cultural and historic treasures on a day trip, you can choose from a wide range of activities to suit you.
Scenic Freechoice
Personalise your river cruise and pursue your own interests as you set off on curated excursions throughout Europe. Our extensive and diverse list of Freechoice excursions are designed at Active, Moderate or Relaxed pace so you can choose activities best suited to you based on your interests and needs. Whether it’s a guided hike or e-Bike ride through the vineyards or a visit to the historic towns of Ypres and Passchendaele, the choice is yours.
Each Europe river cruise has been carefully curated to include a broad range of immersive experiences onshore. From active to cultural and interactive, you can choose from a wide range of Scenic Freechoice activities to suit your interests and pace.
Active
Cycling from Dürnstein to Krems
Join your guide on a bicycle tour along the Danube to the quaint village of Krems. Pass by charming villages and scenic vineyard landscapes. You will have time to stop along the way to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Danube.
Explore Château Gaillard
Hike to King Richard the Lionheart’s Château Gaillard and enter this fabulous ruin overlooking the Seine River. Available on select Northern France river cruises.
Kayak on the Pinhão River
Enjoy a guided kayaking tour along the Pinhão River and see the beautiful town from an alternative perspective. Available on select Douro river cruises in Portugal.
Moderate
Gottweig Abbey
Visit the renovated 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.
Visit to Mateus Palace
Built in the 18th century the grounds of the palace feature a cellar, chapel and impressive gardens. Tour this amazing property depicted on the label of the internationally renowned wine of the same name.
Beer & Chocolate Pairing
Take your tastebuds on a journey whilst learning and appreciating how the complex flavours of local craft beer and chocolate go together.
Relaxed
Sausage-making class
Learn to make traditional Regensburger wurst. Discover the history of this sausage as well as the spices that flavour the meat. And of course, you can sample it once it’s complete.
Passau Photography Safari
Visit some of the most beautiful locations in Passau such as the Old Town Hall with this photography tour suitable for all. Available on Danube in Depth.
Shop with a Chef
Join your on board chef on a guided visit to a local food market where you will have an opportunity to shop for and taste the best ingredients this region has to offer. Upon returning to your Scenic Space-Ship meet in the purpose built Scenic Culinaire cooking school for an interactive cooking demonstration making some of France’s most popular and delicious dishes using the ingredients you have just bought at the market.
Disclaimer: Options above are examples, experiences might be different depending on your river cruise ship.
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.
On Board Team
The Captain and Crew
All Scenic Space-Ship Captains are selected for their knowledge of Europe’s rivers. On board, the Captain and their team can be found in the wheelhouse on the Sun Deck and will be on hand to greet guests and answer any questions during briefings.
Cruise Director & Hotel Director
Committed to delivering an exceptional level of service, the Cruise Director and Hotel Director will be your main point of contact throughout your cruise. They’ll ensure every moment of your trip is seamless, while providing daily briefings and updates.
Enrichment Manager
Your on board entertainment while cruising Europe is presented by the Enrichment Manager. They’ll add to your experience by hosting game nights, informative lectures, and organise special guest performances, to experience shows with a local flair.
Scenic Butlers
Our expert butler’s have been trained to meet Scenic’s high standards. You can relax as your laundry, shines your shoes, delivers premium beverages to your suite or replenishes your mini-bar are taken care of. All guests enjoy butler service, learning your preferences and expectations, and surpassing them.
Culinary Team and Bar Staff
Our expert team of chefs will elevate the sense of luxury on your Europe river cruise. The culinary team draws inspiration from the regions you travel through and ensures all food is fresh and seasonal while creating a daily menu to suit all palates.
Wellness Coach
Each Scenic Space-Ship has a dedicated Wellness Team. You can unwind with a massage^, work on your fitness in the gym, take time out in the healing Salt Therapy Lounge (on select Space-Ships) or join a morning stretch class, all while the Wellness Coach are on hand to assist you.
Local Guides
Our local guides are important members of your onshore team. They’re the storytellers who will share the wonders of their town and immerse you in the local history and culture, with their own personal flair.
Panorama Lounge
Explore our extensive wine list, relax with a coffee or catch-up with new-found friends at the Panorama Lounge & Bar. This is the main bar lounge on-board our Space-Ships, and it’s tastefully furnished to guarantee your comfort and enjoyment.
The Sun Deck
Make the most of every ray of sunshine with our purpose-built Sun Deck. Complete with deck chairs and a games area, this is a place to kick back and enjoy the view as your Space-Ship travels to its next destination.
Reception
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 Jade.
All Inclusive Beverages
Sit back and enjoy a beverage of your choice while cruising spectacular waterways, at your leisure. Sip on handcrafted cocktails or a full-bodied wine – the choice is yours.
You will enjoy:
- Unlimited complimentary premium international beverages^, including international wines, beers and spirits
- Full in-suite mini bar, restocked daily
- Refillable water bottle for all onshore excursions
- An extensive range of specialty teas and espresso coffees
- This selection is available all day, every day.
*Exclusive invitation for Diamond Deck and Junior Suite guests cruising for 10 nights or more, or Royal and Junior Suite guests for 9 nights or fewer.
^All beverages are included except a very small number of fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits.
Wheelhouse
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.
Gallery
Our Gallery spaces are dedicated to showcasing works by local artists, so you feel connected to people and place in every destination. We believe little touches like this are what make our European river cruises so special.
Wellness Area
Maintain your wellness routine at our state-of-the-art gym, morning stretching classes^ with the Wellness Coach or rejuvenating spa treatments*. Exercise on the walking track on the Sun Deck or take a dip in the Vitality Pool.
Fitness Centre
Stay active on your travels with a visit to our designated Fitness Centre. Featuring the latest workout equipment, including both cardio and weight-training machines, this is a space where you can work up a sweat and get ready for another unforgettable day on the river.
Salt Therapy Lounge
This innovative lounge is featured on most of our Space-Ships in Europe. The salt brick walls of the humidity and temperature-controlled lounge are known to offer a range of health benefits for respiratory and immune systems.
Vitality Pool
Admire the passing views, or take a rejuvenating dip in the Vitality Pool.
Dress Code
When you are relaxing on board, the dress code is smart casual and comfortable. Do not forget your swimsuits and exercise attire for the heated pools and plunge pools, the wellness areas and the gym, yoga and Pilates studio.
For the evening meal there is no requirement for formal jackets or ties and casual evening attire is welcomed such as open-neck shirt and trousers/dresses. Please note, shorts and thongs are not appropriate for the evening meal on all of our river cruises.
Scenic Enrich events are usually located in grand, historic venues. As such, they can be more formal occasions, and you may wish to dress accordingly. There will also be some entertainment nights that you may wish to dress up for.
Age Restrictions
Luxury expedition style cruising is not recommended for children under 12. Guests under the age of 18 years must be accompanied by an adult and must share their accommodation with an adult. No children programs or babysitting services are available on board.
Dietary Requirements
Scenic accommodates special dietary requirements to the best of our ability across our river cruises, ocean voyages and land journeys where applicable. 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 a breach of contract on our behalf.
Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi access is available on board some of our vessels. Please be aware that internet access may be limited or non-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.
Internet access is available and at no extra charge. However, please note that the internet speed is not broadband, and it is not suitable for downloading large amounts of data. The service is intermittent, with connectivity being variable and impacted by factors such as bridges, locks, and mountains.
Medical Facilities
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 Policy
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.
Packing Tips
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.
You are allowed to carry whatever prescription medication you require, and we’d recommend packing an ample supply that covers the duration of your cruise or tour. Due to strict drug laws in certain countries, make sure medication is carried in its original packaging with the prescription label clearly marked. When travelling through airports or border crossings, we’d recommend that you keep medication in your hand luggage ready for inspection.
Languages
The on board language is English. All staff, crew and tour guides speak English, and all announcements and lectures will be made in English.
Truly All-Inclusive Onshore Experiences
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.
Return Airport Transfers | Enjoy seamless included return airport transfer at the end of your trip.
The Scenic Space-Ship Experience
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.
What's Included
On a Scenic river cruise we believe it’s more than just taking care of you. It’s ensuring your entire river cruise is truly carefree. Everything below is included in the upfront cost of your cruise:
- Spacious suite with ESPA amenities and butler service for every suite
- Up to five dining experiences in Europe or up to four in South East Asia
- All on board meals
- Premium beverages^ all day, every day – not just at meal times
- Complimentary mini-bar restocked daily
- Scenic Enrich – exclusive events to immerse you in the local culture
- Scenic Freechoice – your choice of excursions to personalise your journey
- E-bikes to explore independently in Europe (excluding Scenic Azure in Portugal)
- Expert local guides in each town
- Return airport transfers in Europe and Asia when flights and pre/post hotels are booked with Scenic
- All tipping and gratuities on board and onshore
Scenic E-Bike
If you’d like to use a Scenic e-bike, please notify the reception staff the day before. They will organise for the bikes to be unloaded when the ship enters port. Please note that Scenic e-bikes are not available, and are not available during Portugal cruises due to cycling path restrictions along the respective rivers.
Dining Times
Dining times may vary depending on the day’s activities, but are generally as follows:
- Breakfast: 7am – 9:30am
- Lunch: 12pm – 2pm
- Dinner: 7pm – 10pm
Please note: if a specific sightseeing excursion means you will miss a meal on board, speak to a member of staff and they will be happy to have a picnic box prepared for you before you depart.
Laundry
On our Europe cruises, depending on your suite, a range of laundry services are included. All guests receive a complimentary laundry concierge once per cruise. For those staying on the Diamond Deck, you also receive complimentary pressing of two items of clothes daily or, if staying in a Royal Suite, you receive unlimited laundry service for the duration of your cruise.
Payment Methods
Most countries visited during a Scenic river cruise use the Euro, but some nations have retained their own currency; these include Scandinavian nations, Switzerland and the Eastern European States. For small purchases made on land or in small towns, we’d recommend carrying some local currency as ATMs or credit card facilities may not be available.
When booking an ocean voyage or land journey, our experienced Reservations Team will be able to advise on the local currency for the destination you’re travelling to.
Cash or traveller’s cheques can be exchanged easily at hotels, banks or designated exchange bureaus. It’s also possible to buy small amounts of local currency on board your ship for a fee. For the best exchange rate, we’d recommend exchanging money before you travel.
Many locations accept major credit cards, including Eurocard, MasterCard and Visa, and these can be used in some shops, hotels and restaurants. Please note that some establishments may charge a small fee for credit card transactions, or else enforce a minimum purchase amount. Before you travel, make sure your credit card and pin will work in the country you’re visiting; your bank will be able to help with this matter.
Please note that on board Scenic Eclipse & Scenic Eclipse II, unfortunately, Debit Cards or Traveller’s cheques are not accepted.
Accessibility
We welcome passengers with medical conditions or disabilities and can provide mobility provisions when notified in writing of a person’s needs before boarding. However, please be aware that there may be limitations on board and during excursions. Some of our ships do not have elevators, and where there is an elevator on board it may not access all decks. While collapsible wheelchairs are permitted on board under appropriate circumstances, you must be able to climb up and down stairs on coaches, and some excursions may require you to negotiate cobblestones or climb steps.
In addition, standard suites and bathrooms have significant thresholds and cabin doors which limit access, meaning they may not be wide enough to allow access to many wheelchairs. Please speak to a member of our team about your requirements prior to booking so that we can offer information on mobility and access.
Wheelchairs and mobility scooters, when folded are able to be taken and stored on board in your suite, however, unfortunately are not permitted to be used when on board or on the gangway while boarding. Due to narrow gangways and historic laneways and cobbled stone streets of Europe and infrastructure in Asia, some excursions are not suitable.
What fitness levels do cruises/tours require?
Due to the amount of excursions available during a Scenic cruise or tour, a reasonable level of fitness is required to take full advantage of each itinerary. You must be physically able and self-sufficient to undertake the cruise or tour you have booked, and/or travel with a companion who is able to provide any assistance you may require during your holiday. Some of the all-inclusive excursions offered require a reasonable level of fitness to complete, and you may be required to climb ramps and/or stairs.
Please also note that not all Scenic ships have a lift. Here is a list of the ships which have an elevator and their restrictions:
– Scenic Space-Ships in Europe have a lift which services the Diamond Deck and Sapphire Deck.
– Scenic Spirit has a lift which services all decks between the Diamond Deck and Gem Deck.
Travel Information
Passport and Visa’s
Scenic cannot arrange a passport or visas on your behalf, but our experienced Reservations Team may be able to advise you on the type of visas and documentation you need when visiting certain countries.
Your passport must be valid for six months beyond the conclusion of your trip. Please check your passport before departure and give yourself time to apply for a new one if this is required. Also, if the nationality on your passport differs from the country in which you currently reside, contact your local consulate to ensure you have the right documents for travel. Your holiday may be disrupted if you cannot provide valid documents at airports and border crossings.
Travel Insurance
Scenic is unable to provide travel insurance. We’d recommend that you arrange insurance cover that best suits you and covers you in the event of unforeseen circumstances. It’s also a good idea to take any documents relating to your insurance with you when you travel.
Unlike standard travel insurance, Cruise Travel Insurance includes cover specific to cruises, such as: cabin confinement, onboard illnesses, medical emergencies whilst cruising, missed port departure cover, and itinerary changes.
Guests may wish to consider arranging travel insurance and can explore options with providers such as AllClear Travel Insurance. AllClear has no upper age limits on cruise policies and can tailor a policy to match your preferences. AllClear can provide Specialist medical cover for over 1,300 medical conditions. Find out more
Other providers can be found at www.BIBA.org.uk.
What validity do I need on my passport?
All guests are required to possess a passport valid for 6 months beyond the conclusion of their trip.
Please note, if your nationality (passport) differs from the country in which you reside, please take the time to check carefully with your local consulates concerning visa and passport requirements for your travels.
Holidays can be disrupted or altered altogether if the correct documents cannot be supplied at airports or borders, so check carefully that you have the required papers.
Health Checks and Vaccinations
If you have a serious medical condition, we recommend consulting your GP before booking with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours. If you have any mobility difficulties, you should inform us at the time of booking.
Your GP will provide information regarding any and all vaccinations required to visit any of the destinations on a Scenic itinerary. Alternatively, see the NHS website.
Prior To Travel
Once I’ve booked, what other information do you require?
Once your booking is confirmed, you’ll need to enter your personal details on Trip Personaliser prior to travelling (details on Trip Personaliser will be sent to you).
Required information:
Personal details
- D.O.B.
- Address
- Contact number
Next of kin details
- Name
- Relationship
- Contact number
Passport details
- Full name
- Nationality
- City & country of birth
- Issue & expiry dates
- Passport number
- Country of issue
Additional details
- Frequent Flyer membership – if applicable
- Airline
- VISA numbers – if applicable
Please note, all guests must complete their Trip Personaliser form prior to travelling. Failure to complete the form may prevent guests sailing with Emerald Cruises.
Do I need to provide Scenic with my health and fitness information prior to travelling?
You will receive a Health and Fitness form in your pre-travel documents, which you have the option to fill out before travelling, with vital information relating to your health. This information will only be used in the event of an emergency and will be returned to you unopened upon the completion of your cruise. While the form isn’t compulsory, we’d strongly recommend that you fill it in.
However, should you have any serious pre-existing medical conditions which could affect your risk of needing medical attention at any point over the course of your trip, you must advise us of this before travel.
Do you offer face-to-face information sessions?
Yes, we do. Our information sessions are the perfect opportunity to find out more about Scenic.
Upcoming information sessions will be promoted on the Scenic website.
Alternatively contact the team on 0161 768 8129 to register your attendance.
Solo Travellers
Are special fares available for solo travellers?
Special fares are available for solo travellers on selected dates only. Please visit our River Cruising Solo Travellers page to plan your trip.
Do you have solo traveller group meet-ups?
Whilst we don’t have specific solo traveler meet-ups, we pride ourselves on the friendly and welcoming experience on board our river cruises. We often hear stories of new lifelong friends made on a Scenic river cruise. Our lounge is the perfect place to make new connections with like-minded travelers.
How do I dine as a solo traveller?
As a solo traveler, you have access to up to five dining options on board your Scenic Space-Ship in Europe or up to four on board Scenic Spirit in Southeast Asia. Each meal is curated by Scenic’s creative chefs in honor of the tradition-rich regions you pass through.
Due to our restaurant’s open seating policy, you are not able to make a reservation prior to embarkation or while on board. Some of our dining venues offer shared experiences. Table La Rive/Table d’Or is a six-course dégustation with a molecular touch and paired wines for 10 guests an evening. This experience is exclusively for Diamond Deck and Junior Suite guests cruising for 10 nights or more, or Royal and Junior Suite guests for cruises nine nights or fewer.
Scenic App
Is there a Scenic App?
Yes, guests travelling on Scenic ocean and river cruises can download the latest version of the Scenic App, to enrich their cruise experience.
What information is available on the app?
The app features interactive ship maps, an enhanced daily program, details on the art collection, ship amenities, dining venues, and up-to-date ship and destination information. Guests can also check-in and enjoy practical tools such as ship finder navigation, location sharing when ashore, and direct contact with ship staff.
Please note: some app features are only accessible when connected to the ship’s Wi-Fi network. Additional exclusive content and functionality become available once you’re on board, so we recommend waiting to explore the app until you’ve boarded your ship.
Will there be any more features or functionality added to the app?
Yes, the app is currently in the first phase of development. We are working to continually enhance the features and functionality available to improve the experience for our guests.
Does the Scenic App provide information for every cruise and tour experience offered by Scenic?
The Scenic App currently contains content for European River cruises only. Additional content for all Scenic River and Ocean cruises will shortly be released, ensuring guests can access details about these journeys. The app does not currently support information for land journeys or city extensions.
When should I download the app?
For the most optimal experience, download the Scenic App just prior to your departure, or when you leave home and use when you have boarded your ship. Some features, including online check-in, become available only within 7 days of your cruise departure.
What should I do once I’ve downloaded the app?
We recommend completing your cruise check-in — available from 7 days prior to departure, or once you’re on board. This will unlock personalised content for your cruise, including the daily program, ship time, current location, and details about your ship and crew.
Do I need internet to use the app?
Yes, the app requires an internet connection. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on board. However, for connectivity while exploring ashore, please consider getting an international mobile SIM to ensure uninterrupted access.
I’m travelling on multiple back-to-back cruises with Scenic. Can I check in for both cruises?
At this time, only one check-in can be completed at a time (we are continually enhancing the app experience and expect to offer additional check-in options for multi-cruise journeys soon).
I’ve been advised I’ll be joining a different ship due to schedule changes. Will the correct ship appear in the app?
Currently, the Scenic App will display the ship listed in your original booking and documentation (we are planning to provide real-time ship updates in future versions of the app to make your experience even smoother).
Can I download my E-Docs into the app?
Not at the moment, but we’re working to introduce this feature in the future.
Why do I see errors in some of the app features?
Some features are only available once you’ve boarded your cruise and connected to the ship’s Wi-Fi. Before boarding, these areas may appear unavailable or show temporary error messages — this is normal and will resolve once you’re on board.
Sun Deck
- Riverview Terrace
- Wheelhouse
- Sun Deck
- Walking Track
Diamond Deck
- Panorama Deck
- Portobellos Restaurant
- River Cafe
- Panorama Lounge and Bar
- Gift Shop
- Reception
- Elevator
- Royal Panorama Suite RS
- Balcony Suite A
- Royal Balcony Suite RA & R
- Deluxe Balcony Suite PD
- Junior Balcony Suite RJ
- Royal Owner’s Suite RO
Sapphire Deck
- Gallery
- Table La Rive
- Crystal Dining Restaurant
- Elevator
- Junior Balcony Suite BJ
- Deluxe Balcony Suite BD
- Balcony Suite C
- Single Balcony Suite BS
Jewel Deck
- Wellness Area
- Fitness Centre
- Salt Therapy Lounge
- Standard Suite Cat E
Get in touch with our team to start planning
Our team will get back to you to provide you more information.
Need support now? Call and speak to a member of our team today for more details on +44 (0)1491 528 988 or email info@authenticcruises.co.uk.