Scenic Tours
1300 SCENIC (723 642)
Eastern Europe Explorer Tour & Jewels of Europe River Cruise
(24 days, Prague - Amsterdam, 2012)
This 24 day tour from Prague to Amsterdam includes ten days travelling through Eastern Europe and a 14 day luxury cruise exploring the continent’s beautiful waterways.
Your 24 day holiday begins in picturesque Prague, where you will explore some of the city’s most famous attractions. Travelling to Germany you will visit Dresden, one of Germany’s greenest cities en route to its capital Berlin. From Berlin you will visit the city of Potsdam, the residence of Prussian Kings until 1918, and back in the capital you will visit the Brandenburg Gate, State Opera House and the site of the former Checkpoint Charlie. From Berlin you will journey to Warsaw, Poland’s cultural, entertainment and financial capital where you will visit the historic World Heritage-listed city centre and Jewish Ghetto. From Warsaw your tour continues to incredible Krakow, Poland’s former capital and one of the few Polish cities barely damaged during World War II.
Next you will travel to Budapest in Hungary to board your luxury Scenic ‘Space-Ship’, your home for the next 14 nights. After experiencing Budapest, your cruise will head towards Austria where your highlight will be beautiful Vienna, where you will experience a once-in-a-lifetime private Viennese concert at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein, featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart. Your cruise will take in the German cities of Regensburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg and Würzburg, with ample time to experience their character and charm.
Your cruise continues through Germany along the spectacular Rhine Gorge with its stunning castles and vine-covered slopes to the historic city of Cologne, where you will explore its Old Town and enjoy a private medieval banquet in Marksburg Castle. Finally your cruise will end in Amsterdam, where you can explore its picturesque canals, take a guided bicycle tour or head to Venlo for the once-in-a-decade 2012 Floriade festival.
- 22% more space onboard
- Portobello’s fine dining – one of 3 dining venues
- Relax in our 3 viewing areas
- Experienced Cruise Director
- ALL meals including breakfast, lunch and dinner daily included on cruise
- Coffee, premium teas, espresso drinks and hot chocolate
- Beer, wine and soft drink with lunch and dinner
- Wonderful local entertainment
- Airport transfers
- Spacious full size balcony suites
- Complimentary bicycles
- Whisper Headset for all Guided tours
- Exclusive private butler service on all Danube Deck cabins
- ALL TIPPING and GRATUITIES INCLUDED
- We gain special entry to the Reichstag in Berlin for a tour, coffee and cake under the famous glass dome
- Join our local expert historian in Potsdam, who will guide us through the Cecilienhof
- Enjoy an exclusive Chopin piano concert in Warsaw’s Manor House before dining at a traditional restaurant
- Visit the 800 year old Wieliczka Salt Mines
- Over a glass of Austrian ‘Sekt’ at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein, enjoy a private Viennese concert featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart
- Enjoy an exclusive organ recital during a guided tour to Melk Benedictine Abbey
- Scenic Village Cultural Experience: Interact with the locals and experience daily life in a German village followed by home-grown entertainment and specialised cuisine exclusive to Scenic Tours
- Step back in time on a private tour and Medieval Banquet dinner at Marksburg Castle, a 12th century hilltop castle overlooking the Rhine
- Take an audio guided tour of the sights to explore Amsterdam, Cologne, Bamberg, Regensburg, Vienna and Budapest at your leisure
- Enjoy a walking tour covering the communist era; or visit the Jewish Quarter; or Visit local breweries and mingle with the locals
- Visit Checkpoint Charlie Museum; or take a relaxing tour on the Spree river; or tour the Topography of Terror Museum (Gestapo HQ)
- Visit Wilanow Palace; or tour the mythical history of Warsaw
- In Budapest relax at the Thermal Bath & Spa; or explore the lime stone caves of Labyrinth; or a Liszt Classical music experience
- In Vienna tour Schönbrunn Palace; or see the key sights of Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava; or the Spanish Riding School for a guided tour or to watch the horses exercise
- Enjoy the sights of Passau; or excursion to Salzburg; or excursion to Cesky Krumlov
- A walking tour of Würzburg including a private wine tasting; or journey down the Romantic Road to Rothenburg
- Learn about Nuremberg’s past and present; or Relive history on a WWII dedicated tour; or a self-guided bike tour
- Enjoy a canal cruise in Amsterdam; or a guided bicycle tour; or take an excursion to Zaanse Schans and Edam; or visit Venlo to witness the 2012 Floriade spectacle
- 57 superb meals including 23 Full Breakfasts - hot and cold buffet selections (FB), 13 Lunches - buffet and daily à la carte (L), 4 Highlight Dinners - three course table d’hôte (HD) and 17 Dinners - three to four course table d’hôte (D)
- The Radisson Blu Alcron is available exclusively through Scenic Tours and has recently been refurbished to its former art deco glory
- The Ritz Carlton is one of Germany’s finest hotels, the winner of numerous awards and ideally located in Potsdam Platz
- Enjoy a welcome drink and meet your fellow travellers and Tour Director at your centrally located Prague hotel
- Visit the Old Town Square, St. Vitus Cathedral and the Astronomical clock on your guided tour of Prague
- Be enthralled by a typical Czech Highlight Dinner and Entertainment
- Tour Dresden, see the Frauenkirche, the Castle of the Electors of Saxony, the Semper Opera House and visit the courtyards of the Zwinger
- Enjoy a guided tour of Berlin seeing the Brandenburg Gate, State Opera House, Alexander Platz
- Enjoy a dinner of German delicacies at a fine restaurant in Potsdammer Platz
- See the Palace of Culture and the Chopin Memorial on your guided tour of Warsaw
- Visit the Paulite Monastery at Jasna Gora
- Take a guided tour of Auschwitz including a visit to its museum
- Enjoy a guided tour of Krakow including visits to the Wawel Royal Castle and Cathedral, St Mary’s Church and the old Cloth Hall
- Guided tour of the underground Wieliczka Salt Mines near Krakow
- Enjoy a Polish folklore show with dinner at a fine restaurant in Krakow
- Sail through the spectacular Rhine Gorge past famous Lorelei Rock
- In Rüdesheim visit Siegfried’s Musical Museum
- Guided tour of Melk including entry to the magnificent 11th century Melk Benedictine Abbey
- Guided sightseeing tour of cultural Vienna
- Enjoy a traditional Hungarian Folklore performance on board
- Land Touring Exclusive inclusions
- Luxury 40 seat coach
- Small group touring experience
- Professional Tour Director
- Whisper Headsets for all walking tours
- All Tipping, Gratuities and Porterage Included
Day 1: Prague
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
Two Night Special Stay: Prague
Day 2: Prague
(FB,HD)
This morning we will discover one of the truly magical cites of Europe – Prague on our Included tour. With our local guide we will walk around Hradcany Castle, see St. Vitus Cathedral and the Mala Strana and walk across the Charles Bridge. One of the most familiar sights in Prague the Charles Bridge was commissioned in 1357 by Charles IV after the Judith Bridge was destroyed by floods and provided the connection between the Old Town and Little Quarter. We then explore the Old Town Square and witness the Astronomical clock strikes the hours. This afternoon choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours: (1) 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; (2) a visit to the 13th century Gothic-style synagogue, built around 1270 this is the oldest synagogue in Europe or; (3) Learn about making beer in Bohemia from the middle ages as you visit some of the most known well known local breweries and pubs for a tasting, including U Fleku Brewery which has been brewing beer since 1499. This evening we enjoy a welcome dinner of hearty Czech cuisine.
Day 3: Prague - Berlin
(FB,D)
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
Three Night Special Stay: Berlin
Day 4: Berlin - Potsdam - Berlin
(FB,D)
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.
Day 5: Berlin
(FB)
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; or (3) enjoy a guided tour of the Topography of Terror museum (Gestapo HQ). This afternoon Berlin is yours to explore on your own.
Day 6: Berlin - Warsaw
(FB,D)
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
Two Night Stay: Warsaw
Day 7: Warsaw
(FB,HD)
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) visit the Warsaw Uprising Museum, and learn about Poland’s history. SCENIC ENRICH: This evening an exclusive piano concert of Chopin music in Manor House, followed by dinner.
Day 8: Warsaw - Krakow
(FB,D)
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 original glory.
Two Night Stay: Krakow
Two Night Stay: Krakow
Day 9: Krakow
(FB,HD)
Included 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.
Day 10: Krakow - Budapest
(FB,D)
After breakfast we depart Krakow and cross the border into Slovakia, passing the 13th century Castle, 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 guests for a welcome cocktail in the lounge.
Next Fourteen Nights: Cruising
Next Fourteen Nights: Cruising
Day 11: Budapest
(FB,L,D)
Budapest is one of Eastern Europe’s most ancient cities. Discover the highlights of both Buda and Pest during your Included guided city tour. Choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours: (1) Relax in the Thermal Baths and Spa; or (2) Explore the lime stone caves under the Castle Labyrinth; or (3) Explore the history of classical music in Hungary.
Day 12: Vienna
(FB,L,D)
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.
Day 13: Vienna
(FB,L,D)
To get acquainted with this beautiful city, enjoy an Included tour of the famous sights including the Ringstrasse and the Hofburg Palace. Today offers three Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE options to choose from: (1) A fabulous guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer palace of the Hapsburgs; or (2) Take a guided excursion to the Slovakian capital of Bratislava; or (3) Witness the world famous Lipizzaner Stallions refining and perfecting their skills during their routine morning exercise program or a guided tour of the oldest Classical Dressage riding school in the world (not available all departure dates). This afternoon as you set sail for Germany relax in one the many viewing areas on-board.
Day 14: Dürnstein - Melk
(FB,L,D)
This morning your ‘Space-Ship’ glides through the spectacular wine region of the Wachau Valley to picturesque Dürnstein. From here we will visit the nearby town of Melk where we discover the magnificent Benedictine Abbey. During your Included visit inside the Abbey you will be treated to an SCENIC ENRICH organ recital, performed by one of thehoused Benedictine Monks.
Day 15: Linz - Passau
(FB,L,D)
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.
Day 16: Regensburg
(FB,L,D)
Regensburg is one of Germany’s finest preserved cities and you’ll appreciate the beauty on an Included guided walking tour. Witness the beautiful white and gold Old Chapel before walking over the stone bridge across the Danube for a view of the cityscape. Included is a visit to the world’s oldest sausage kitchen.
Day 17: Nuremberg
(FB,L,D)
Today offers three Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours to choose from: (1) See the infamous WWII sites followed by a self-guided tour of the Documentation Centre; or (2) Learn about Nuremberg’s past before meeting with local students; or (3) A self-guided bicycle tour.
Day 18: Bamberg
(FB,L,D)
Relax on board this morning as we sail towards Bamberg. Bursting with character and charm enjoy the sights of the city on your Included tour. Back on-board, join your fellow passengers for the opportunity to experience some of the region’s finest brews including Bamberg’s renowned Smoked Beer.
Day 19: Würzburg
(FB,L,D)
Today choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours: (1) A guided walking tour of Würzburg including the Prince Bishop’s Residenz Palace and a wine tasting in the underground cellars; or (2) Enjoy an excursion down the Romantic Road to unforgettable Rothenburg.
Day 20: European Village Life
(FB,L,D)
SCENIC ENRICH: Today you will be taken off the beaten track as an invited guest to experience Village life just for a day- Exclusive to Scenic Tours. Choose from a selection of activities from everyday life like cooking onion pie, or be welcomed into private castles and family wineries. Enjoy home-grown entertainment as you are invited to dine with the locals and relish on their specialities and delicacies prepared just for you.
Day 21: Rüdesheim - Rhine Gorge - Marksburg Castle
(FB,L,HD)
Today in Rüdesheim visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Cruise this afternoon through the spectacular Rhine Gorge. Tonight SCENIC ENRICH highlights include a private Medieval banquet in Marksburg Castle. Step back in time and enjoy a private tour of the castle.
Day 22: Cologne
(FB,L,D)
Travel to historic Cologne. Join your guide on an Included tour to explore the Old Town. Tonight gather in the Crystal Dining Room for the Captain’s farewell Dinner.
Day 23: Amsterdam
(FB,L,D)
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 or (4) A visit to Venlo for the 2012 Floriade (seasonal option, operates from the 5th April 2012 until the 7th October 2012). 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.
Day 24: Amsterdam
(FB)
After breakfast this morning it is time to farewell your fellow passengers and disembark the cruise. Our Scenic Tours representative will transfer* you to the airport.
*Check transfer entitlements with your travel agent. For passengers who have already received documentation - refer to your booking summary.
*Check transfer entitlements with your travel agent. For passengers who have already received documentation - refer to your booking summary.
At a glance
Duration
24 Days
From
$11,860
per person twin share
Dates
02 Jun 2012
On Request
16 Jun 2012
Fully Booked
02 Jul 2012
On Request
16 Jul 2012
On Request
13 Aug 2012
On Request
27 Aug 2012
On Request
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