We have included a selection of ways to travel to Prague – these are all included at no supplement. Fly from your choice of 15 regional airports with KLM or London Heathrow with British Airways. You will be met at Prague International Airport and transferred* to your centrally located hotel. This Bohemian metropolitan city situated on the banks of the River Vltava offers a blend of both old and new world’s which is sure to entice your appetite this evening over a welcome drink with your fellow travellers and Tour Director.
Two Night Special Stay: Prague
This morning we will discover one of the truly magical cities of Europe – Prague on our Included tour. With our local guide we will walk around Hradcany Castle, visit St Vitus Church and the Mala Strana and walk across the Charles Bridge. We then explore the Old Town Square, see the monument to the Protestant Reformer Jan Huss and witness the Astronomical clock strike the hour. This afternoon choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours: (1) a bohemian glass tour to learn more about the customs of the world famous glassware. Rückl crystal is linked to a 300 year long tradition in glass making as a family and today manufactures an extensive range of leaded crystal in a wide variety of decorations; or (2) a walking tour of Prague’s Communist era buildings and events. Step back in time to 1948 and re-live the history of these dark controlling years; or (3) a visit to the 13th century Gothic-style Jewish synagogue and its amazing cemetery. Built around 1270 this is the oldest synagogue in Europe. The cemetery has over 12,000 headstones dating back to 1478. This evening we enjoy a welcome dinner of hearty Czech cuisine.
We depart Prague for Dresden, perhaps the greenest city in Germany. Dresden has a long history as the capital and royal residence for the Electors and Kings of Saxony, who for centuries furnished the city with cultural and artistic splendour. On our Included guided tour we see the Frauenkirche, the Castle of the Electors of Saxony, the Semper Opera House and visit the courtyards of the Zwinger. We continue our journey through the Spreewald forest to Germany’s capital, Berlin our home for the next three nights.
Three Night Special Stay: Berlin
This morning we journey to Potsdam, former residence of the Prussian Kings until 1918, where SCENIC ENRICH our local expert historian on Potsdam shares his knowledge of the town and its history as we visit the Cecilienhof, where the Potsdam Treaty was signed in 1945. After free time in Potsdam we return back to Berlin. Berlin has undergone an exciting transformation since reunification in 1989. SCENIC ENRICH We have arranged special entry to explore the renovated parliamentary building that was controversially set on fire in 1933. After our tour, we’ll enjoy coffee and cake whilst under the famous glass dome. This afternoon visit the Brandenburg Gate, State Opera House, Alexander Platz, drive ‘Unter den Linden’ and visit the former Checkpoint Charlie. Checkpoint Charlie was once the notorious border crossing between the Soviet and American sectors, and witness to a number of dramatic events during the cold war.
This morning choose from the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE Tours: (1) Checkpoint Charlie Museum, where you will learn the historic details of this notorious time in German history, such as the Berlin Wall and stories of those who risked their lives for freedom; or (2) a relaxing cruise on the Spree River where you can view all the Berlin sites and fine architecture from the waterways. This afternoon Berlin is yours to explore on your own.
This morning we are taken to the main train station for our Included journey to Warsaw aboard our first class rail carriage. Time en-route to relax and watch the rural scenery change from the evergreen forests and rolling hills of Germany to the broad agricultural farmland of western Poland. We arrive this evening into Warsaw. Poland’s cultural, entertainment and financial capital was believed to be founded in the late 13th Century, when the Duke Boleshaw built a castle here overlooking the Vistula river.
Two Night Stay: Warsaw
Warsaw was largely destroyed in World War II, however the historic centre has been rebuilt and has attained UNESCO World Heritage status. We visit the Jewish Ghetto with a local guide this morning for a striking reminder of the suffering endured in WWII. We see the monument to the Ghetto heroes, the Palace of Culture and the Chopin Memorial. Choose from the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE: (1) an excursion to Wilanow Palace - known as Poland’s Versailles; or (2) a magical tour exploring the mythical founders of Warsaw. SCENIC ENRICH This evening an exclusive piano concert of Chopin music in The Manor House, followed by dinner in one of Warsaw’s finest establishments.
We travel to Czestochowa and admire the portrait of the ‘Black Madonna’, said to have been painted by St Luke and located in the beautiful 14th century Jasna Gora Paulite Monastery. We continue to Auschwitz and visit the former concentration camp and its museum, for chilling reminders of the Holocaust in World War II. Early this evening we arrive in the city of Krakow. Poland’s former capital for nearly six centuries and largest city was one of the few Polish cities scarcely damaged in World War II allowing us to enjoy it in its original glory.
Two Night Stay: Krakow
Sightseeing of this UNESCO World Heritage site includes a guided walking tour of the old town where we visit St. Mary’s Church, the Cloth Hall, the cathedral and castle on Wawel Hill. SCENIC ENRICH This afternoon we visit the nearby 800 year old Wieliczka Salt Mines. Our tour includes statues of historic and mythical figures, all sculpted by miners out of rock salt. This evening we will soak up the atmosphere of a Polish folklore show with dinner.
After breakfast we depart Krakow and cross the border into Slovakia, passing the 13th century Castle of Oravsky Hrad en-route to the Hungarian capital of Budapest. On arrival you will be personally welcomed by our friendly dedicated staff onboard your luxury Scenic ‘Space -Ship’. After unpacking for the start of your 14 night voyage, join your fellow guest for a Welcome Cocktail in the lounge.
We disembark our cruise this morning for the first of our Included land excursions. Choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE Tours: (1) guided city tour of both Buda and Pest highlighting the cites finest attractions; or (2) relax in the Thermal Baths and Spa; or (3) relive the history of Hungary’s Communist past and pay tribute to its regime victims at the Museum and Memorial Park dedicated to this era. This afternoon enjoy free time to explore more of either Buda or Pest on your own or shop for local crafts. This evening as we set sail to Vienna, why not join us on the top deck to experience 360 degree views of this mesmerising city.
As you cruise the mighty Danube river you will have the opportunity to familiarise yourself with life on the waterways. You may wish to relax and read one of our many books found in our onboard library or mingle with new found friends in one of our many public areas, such as the lounge, under cover outside Observation lounge or Sun Deck. Tonight SCENIC ENRICH highlights include a glass of Austrian ‘Sekt’ at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein. Then an enchanting private Viennese evening concert featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart.
To get acquainted with this beautiful city, enjoy an Included tour of the famous sights including the Ringstrasse and the Hofburg Palace or for the more adventurous choose our SCENIC FREE TIME: Self guided audio tour. Today offers three Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE options to choose from: (1) a fabulous guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace; or (2) visit the Opera House before enjoying coffee and cake in a famous Viennese café; or (3) take a guided excursion to the Slovakian capital of Bratislava.
This morning your ship docks in the picturesque town of Dürnstein. Back on board your cruise, sail through the spectacular wine region of the Wachau Valley to the town of Melk, where we discover the magnificent Benedictine Abbey. During your Included visit inside the Abbey you will be treated to an exclusive SCENIC ENRICH organ recital, performed by one of the housing Benedictine Monks.
Your Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE today gives you a choice of three countries all offering their own unique charm: (1) spend the morning relaxing on board through stunning scenery of the European Alps on route to Germany before enjoying a guided tour of Passau; or (2) visit Salzburg, setting for ‘The Sound of Music’ and birthplace of Mozart; or (3) a full day excursion to the beautiful medieval Czech town of Cesky Krumlov.
Continuing our cruise through Germany we arrive in Regensburg. Regensburg is one of Germany’s finest preserved cities and you’ll appreciate the beauty on an Included guided walking tour. Witness the stunning white and gold Old Chapel before walking over the stone bridge across the Danube for a view of the cityscape.
History opens up today as you take a privileged Included guided tour of Nuremberg’s old town. See the Justice Palace and Imperial Castle before heading off to visit the Nuremberg Rallies site and self guided tour of the WWII Documentation Centre.
Sailing through the night we awake in Bamberg. Boasting one of Europe’s largest intact medieval centres, Bamberg is bursting with character and charm and you will enjoy the sights on an Included tour with a local guide. Bamberg famous for its Smokey Beer, has many local private breweries within the city. As part of your Included tour, you will visit Zehnthaus, a private brewery established in 1533 and enjoy one of the finest brews.
More excitement in store as you choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours today: (1) a guided walking tour of Würzburg and visit to Prince Bishop’s Residenza Palace; or (2) enjoy an excursion down the Romantic Road to unforgettable Rothenburg; or (3) a Bicycle tour through the Bavarian town.
Wertheim is well known for its glassworks, Franconian wine and friendly people. Choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE Tours: (1) a city tour showcasing its little half timbered houses grouped together (2) for the more adventurous a bike tour; or (3) a guided hike along the Tauber River.
We continue our journey to Rüdesheim where we board the ‘Winzerexpress’ mini train for a guided visit of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Board a cable car for the trip to the 125-foot Niederwald Monument, overlooking the river. Cruise this afternoon through the spectacular Rhine Gorge with its stunning castles and vine covered slopes. Pass the infamous Lorelei Rock where sailors are said to have been lured to their doom by an enchanted temptresses. Tonight SCENIC ENRICH highlights include a private Medieval banquet in Marksburg Castle. Set high above the banks of the Rhine this 12th Century castle is the only one never to have been destroyed. Enjoy a private tour of the castle before stepping back in time for a medieval feast.
This morning cruise to historic Cologne. Join your guide on an Included tour to explore the Old Town. Enjoy free time to explore or perhaps sample the region’s most famous beer ‘Kölsch’. Tonight we gather in the Crystal Dining Room for the Captain’s farewell dinner.
Our last morning of cruising before docking in the Dutch capital of Amsterdam. With so much to enjoy choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours: (1) a wonderful sightseeing canal cruise; or (2) a bicycle tour of Amsterdam; or (3) a visit to the windmills at Zaanse Schans. For the more adventurous choose our SCENIC FREE TIME: self guided audio tour. Tonight after dinner you may wish to join us on an Amsterdam by night tour, highlighting the colourful and fascinating streets and canals of this compact city.
After breakfast, you transfer* to the airport for your flight to the UK, either directly with British Airways to London Heathrow, or with KLM to one of 15 regional UK airports. Alternatively, travel Standard Premier aboard Eurostar to St. Pancras International via Brussels.
*Check transfer entitlements with your travel agent. For passengers who have already received documentation - refer to your booking summary.
Brochure: IS/ERC/GBP1112
Tour code: EESC.7