Welcome to Zurich, the heart of Switzerland. Framed by alpine mountains at the confluence of Lake Zurich and the Limmat River, this scenic-rich city is known for the extraordinary quality of life it offers to its citizens. It's also Switzerland's largest city and its commercial and cultural centre.
Relax in your luxurious hotel for the evening or head out to explore the city at leisure.
This morning, you will join a local guide for a walking tour of Zurich. Wander through the Old Town's winding streets, the medieval square of Niederdorf, walk across bridges over the peaceful Limmat River, and admire the 9th century Fraumunster Church with its renowned stained-glass windows created by legendary artist Marc Chagall.
Spend the rest of the day at leisure enjoying the splendour of this beautiful city. Perhaps, browse the stores on the exclusive Bahnhofstrasse, sip a hot chocolate at the legendary Café Sprungli, explore the city's former railway Viaduct, now a hub of creativity and design, or if the weather is warm, flock to one of the ‘badis' (open-air swimming pools) as the locals do. (B/D)
This morning enjoy a short drive to charming Lucerne, a city nestled at the foot of the Alps and on the shore of its namesake lake. Its famous 14th century wooden Chapel Bridge spans Lake Lucerne from the New Town to the Old Town and is home to the octagonal water tower built around 1300.
This morning your Tour Director will take you on a orientation tour of the Old Town, including the flower-adorned bridge which is decorated with 17th century paintings that depict the history of both city and country. You'll also visit the Baroque Jesuit Church of Saint Francis Xavier and the Lion Monument, a detailed sculpture that commemorates the Swiss guards who were massacred during the French Revolution.
This afternoon, board a panoramic train and take in the spectacular scenery as you journey to Interlaken. (B)
Today you will get to enjoy the spectacular views from the peak of Jungfrau, known as the ‘Top of Europe' at 3,454 metres above sea level. Board the cogwheel Bernese Oberland Railway to climb to the mountain's peak. First opened in 1890, this railway offers passengers breathtaking view of the mountains, valleys and towns below.
Return to Interlaken this afternoon for some free time before dinner. Perhaps you'd like to wander in the fresh alpine air along the Hoheweg promenade, lined with high-end stores and alfresco dining, with the dramatic mountain ranges as a backdrop. (B)
This morning board the Golden Pass train that will take you to the city of Montreux, passing lush green rolling hills, crystal blue lakes and soaring mountain peaks.
Montreux is a lakeside gem that has attracted the creative likes of Mary Shelley, Lord Byron and Freddie Mercury. This afternoon you will enjoy some free time to explore the city, which is home to the renowned annual Montreux Jazz Festival, perhaps visit the medieval Chateau de Chillon perched on the shores of Lake Geneva or wander the scenic three-kilometre promenade walk.
Enrich: Tonight's Scenic Enrich:
Freechoice: Wake this morning in beautiful Montreux and enjoy breakfast before departing on one of two Scenic Freechoice excursions:
After a leisurely start this morning we will travel to Täsch, where you will board a cogwheel train to the village of Zermatt for a two-night stay in a luxurious hotel.
Nestled at the foot of the world's most famous mountain, the 4,478-metre Matterhorn, the village of Zermatt looks as though it has been plucked from the pages of a fairytale. When the landscape is blanketed in thick white snow, visitors flock here for exhilarating winter sports, and in summer they come to hike more than 100 trails that weave around its valleys, lakes and ridges. (B/D)
Zermatt is located at the north end of a hanging valley with breathtaking views of surrounding peaks. This morning you will bear witness to some of the most spectacular views as you ascend the Swiss Alps on the historic Gornergrat Bahn. For 125 years, this cog railway has been taking passengers to 3,100 metres above sea level, with mountains and glaciers as far as the eye can see, and the magnificent Matterhorn present at every moment, a craggy triangular peak standing sentinel in the Alps.
This afternoon is at leisure to explore Zermatt on your own. Wander along the Bahnhofstrasse, its main street, where you'll find everything from souvenirs to jewellery to traditional food mongers selling baked goods, cheese and chocolate. (B)
This morning you will board the Glacier Express for one of the world's most scenic rail journeys. Relax in your first-class seat while you soak up views of snow-capped mountains, peaceful alpine meadows and rushing mountain streams and valleys as you weave your way towards Chur, Switzerland's oldest city.
From here, cross the border into Bavaria, Germany where you will spend two nights in the Schwangau region. (B/D)
This morning you will have the opportunity to visit one of the most iconic fairytale castles, Neuschwanstein. Built for King Ludwig II in the 19th century and inspired by an opera by acclaimed composer Richard Wagner, the castle is said to be one of the most photographed buildings in the world.
This afternoon enjoy some free time where you can simply relax taking in the breathtaking landscape surrounding you. (B)
This morning we make our way across the Austrian border to Salzburg. Surrounded by soaring peaks and on the banks of the Salzach River, Salzburg is best known as the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. This storybook city has a thriving art scene, music and concert halls filled with classical music, a Baroque old town where you'll find Mozart's birthplace, and Central Europe's largest intact fortress, Hohensalzburg, which sits high above the rooftops with panoramic views of the city. (B)
This morning you will take a walking tour of the Baroque Old Town of Salzburg to admire its beautiful architecture and learn about some of its most famous residents, including Mozart. You will also visit Mirabell Gardens, which was used as a filming location in The Sound of Music, and hear about the Von Trapp family, who were the inspiration for the classic movie. (B)
Today you'll travel to Vienna, stopping in the city of Steyr on the way. With a history dating back over 1,000 years the city found its wealth in manufacturing and even though that has declined over the years the historical beauty of the town remains offering a remarkably well-preserved centre.
Your Tour Director will delight you with a short orientation tour of the town before free time to wander the charming streets surrounding the Stadtplatz.
This afternoon you will arrive in Vienna, a city that oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces from parks to vineyards, a vibrant coffee-house culture and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.
You will spend the next two nights in a luxurious hotel in Austria's grand capital. Known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, and Sigmund Freud also lived and worked here in the late 19th century. The city boasts the world's most beautiful boulevard, The Ringstrasse, a legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. (B)
This morning, embark on a guided tour to see the city's highlights, such as the opulent Opera House, City Hall, the Hellenic-style Parliament Building, the sprawling landscaped gardens of Stadtpark, and Karlskirche (Church of St. Charles)
Enrich: This evening's Scenic Enrich: Tonight will be an unforgettable evening of classical music. Visit the grand Kursalon Renaissance Palace, where you'll be treated to an exclusive Strauss and Mozart concert, followed by dinner. (B/D)
Transfer to the vibrant city of Budapest, the capital of Hungary and one of Europe's oldest and prettiest cities.
This afternoon, board your all-inclusive 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 your glass to the days ahead at this evening's welcome reception. (B/D)
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. The city is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths and has a vibrant nightlife scene.
Freechoice: A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are on offer to choose from this morning:
This afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps you may like to hop on board Scenic's e-bikes (electronically assisted bicycles) to explore the city on two wheels or find one of the city's famous ruin bars – housed in abandoned buildings – to enjoy an afternoon drink. Alternatively, make your way back to your luxury Space-Ship to relax in the Panorama Lounge & Bar. You will set sail for Vienna later this afternoon. (B/L/D)
Today, perhaps wake to a coffee delivered to your suite by your personal butler. Relax on board while cruising to the Austrian capital.
Vienna oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces from parks to vineyards, a vibrant coffee-house culture and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.
Enrich: Tonight's Scenic Enrich:
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. Also known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, among others. Sigmund Freud also lived and worked here in the late 19th century.
Freechoice: Explore your way with a selection from today's Scenic Freechoice activities:
Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock early this morning in the quaint town of Dürnstein. Surrounded by vineyards, the city has historical buildings that date back to the 12th century, including the hilltop ruins of Dürnstein Castle, where Richard the Lionheart was famously imprisoned between 1192 and 1193. Enjoy some free time exploring this charming town before cruising towards Melk.
Freechoice: Today offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from:
After your tour, you will return to the luxury of your Space-Ship. (B/L/D)
Freechoice: Today, choose from two completely different, yet equally fascinating full day Scenic Freechoice excursions.
You will arrive in Regensburg after lunch, so this morning offers a great opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in the Salt Therapy lounge, located on the Jewel Deck.
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. Regensburg is also fringed by the Bavarian Forest, home to hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails and deer, wild boar, fox and otter.
Freechoice: Today, Regensburg offers up a selection of Scenic Freechoice touring activities to choose from:
You will arrive in Nuremberg, Bavaria's second-largest city, early this morning. Boasting an Old Town protected by an ancient city wall, where the most enchanting Christmas Markets are held every year, this 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, the boycotts of Jewish businesses began here, as did the laws that denied Jewish people German citizenship – known as the ‘Nuremberg Laws'. By 1945, the city was reduced to rubble, including large sections of the Imperial Castle and Old Town. Allied powers – the US, Great Britain, France and the Soviet Union – held the Nuremberg Trials here between 1945 and 1946, when Nazi Germany leaders were tried for war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Freechoice: Make your choice from this morning's Scenic Freechoice experiences:
This afternoon you will sail towards Bamberg. Sip on a specialty tea or coffee in the Panorama Lounge & Bar or join a lecture to gain insight into the history and culture along the river. (B/L/D)
Built on seven hills, this World Heritage-listed town has surprises at every turn. Intersected by rivers and canals, enchanting Bamberg has an Old Town resplendent with cobblestoned streets and well-preserved medieval buildings. A charming Old Town Hall 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 – are some of the incredible places you'll see during your guided city tour.
Freechoice: Stay in Bamberg or choose to explore further afield with this morning's Scenic Freechoice:
Back on board your Space-Ship, you may wish to spend time in the wellness centre with a soothing massage^. (B/L/D)
After a leisurely morning on board your Space-Ship, you will arrive in Würzburg. This Baroque city straddles the Main River in the heart of Franconian wine country. Surrounded by undulating vineyards, Würzburg is home to a World Heritage-listed palace, a dominating hilltop fortress, the 15th century Old Main Bridge, and three universities, including Bavaria's oldest.
Freechoice: Spend your day at your preferred pace with one of the following Scenic Freechoice options:
Guided city tour & Würzburg Residence: A short transfer via coach is needed to get to the Würzburg Residence, a Baroque palace surrounded by manicured gardens. Upon arrival, guests will be taken on a guided tour of the palace to see its most beautiful rooms, many of which feature valuable paintings, tapestries and period furniture. Afterwards, take a short stroll into the city, where you will have some free time. Explore the shopping area and the many coffee houses, pubs and restaurants; if you're feeling energetic, you can climb up to Marienberg Fortress.
Romantic Road to Rothenburg: From Würzburg drive by coach to Rothenburg along the so-called Romantic Road, an important trading route during the Middle Ages. Your guide will regale you with the history and legends of some of the towns and villages you pass, some of which are more than 1,000 years old. Take a guided tour in Rothenburg, famous for its well-preserved medieval old town, to see the Gothic and Renaissance City Hall as well as the famous City Councillors' Tavern, where various clocks will show you the legendary story of the “Master Draught”. After the guided walking tour, you will have free time to discover the city on your own. (B/L/D)
This morning you will arrive in the historic town of Wertheim, sitting on the picturesque banks of the Main and Tauber Rivers.
Freechoice: You have a diverse range of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from today:
After touring, you will embark your luxury Space-Ship in Wertheim am Main and set sail for Rüdesheim. Enjoy some of the all-inclusive on board entertainment this evening as you sail through the night. (B/L/D)
This morning you will disembark in Rüdesheim, a pretty town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for a staggering two millennia. The charming town centre is filled with half-timbered houses lining cobbled streets, quaint shops selling trinkets such as cuckoo clocks, as well as a smattering of wine taverns and open-air beer gardens.
Freechoice: Select one of this morning's Scenic Freechoice tours:
This afternoon, relax on board the Sun Deck and admire the scenic landscapes as you cruise along the spectacular World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a 65-kilometre stretch of the river that is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Sailing down this section of the river is like being transported through the pages of a fairy tale book.
The Rhine is abounded in myths and legends; folklore that has been passed on for generations, including the story of Lorelei. This enchanting female was betrayed by her sweetheart and spent her days bewitching men. As her punishment, she was sent to a nunnery, however on her way she jumped to her death in the river. Legend has her spirit casting spells on sailors who passed the rock, where a bronze statue sits today.
Enrich: Tonight's Scenic Enrich
You will arrive in Cologne today, a city known for its liberal and laidback lifestyle, its unique beer culture, auto industry and the jaw-dropping cathedral that dominates its skyline. Settled by the Romans, this major cultural centre for the Rhineland was built during the Middle Ages but was largely destroyed during WWII. The magnificent Gothic cathedral, an enormous World Heritage-listed site that dates to 1248, was badly damaged but stood tall above the ruins of the city.
Freechoice: Today, choose one of the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:
Amsterdam is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, masterpiece-filled galleries, tranquil scenes of boats putting along 16th century canals, narrow cobbled laneways filled with boutiques and cafes, and streets busy with cyclists criss-crossing their way about town. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, much of the World Heritage-listed canal system exists today as it did hundreds of years ago, lined with well-preserved canal houses and intersected by charming bridges.
Freechoice: This morning, choose one of the following Scenic Freechoice:
Disembark in Amsterdam after a farewell breakfast this morning, taking with you 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.
^Massage/spa treatments at additional cost.
Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change. (B)
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