Scenic Tours
1300 SCENIC (723 642)
Majestic Britain & Ireland Tour & Jewels of Europe River Cruise
(36 days, London - Budapest, 2012)
This amazing 36 day tour takes you from London to Budapest experiencing the best of Britain and Ireland, as well as a 15 day river cruise through Cologne and Vienna.
Your 36 day tour begins in London where you will explore the culture of Britain’s capital, including a visit to Westminster Abbey or a ‘flight’ on the famous London Eye. From London you will travel to the beautiful World Heritage-listed city of Bath, established by the Romans around natural hot springs, before heading into Wales for Cardiff, home to the Millennium Stadium, a 2,000-year-old castle, and the futuristic Millennium Centre. You will continue your tour through the green Irish countryside, stopping in at Waterford, Killarney and Athlone.
Next you will travel to the Irish capital of Dublin with ample time to explore the renowned home of both James Joyce and George Bernard Shaw. Your guided tour highlights the city’s Georgian architecture and grand squares, followed by a visit to the iconic Guinness Storehouse. You will return to England via Chester and the beautiful Lake District before arriving in Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow, where you will discover the gorgeous Scottish Highlands, travelling through Inverness and Aberdeen before arriving in one of the most architecturally-beautiful cities in the world, Edinburgh. Your stay in Edinburgh includes a hearty traditional lunch of haggis, neeps and tatties, before returning to London and travelling onto Amsterdam to begin your 15 day European river cruise.
From Amsterdam you will sail for Germany on board your luxury Scenic ‘Space-Ship’, stopping in at the historic city of Cologne to wander around its Old Town and enjoy a private medieval banquet in Marksburg Castle. Cruising through the beautiful Rhine Gorge will expose you to stunning castles atop vine-covered slopes as you head through Würzburg, Bamberg, Nuremberg and Regensburg, with plenty of time to experience the character and charm of these beautiful German cities.
In beautiful Vienna you will experience an Austrian treat, a once-in-a-lifetime private Viennese evening concert at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein, featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart. Heading towards Hungary your final destination will be the country’s capital, Budapest where you will discover the highlights of both Buda and Pest during a guided tour.
- 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
- Cruise the River Thames by boat past The Tower of London and London Bridge to historic Greenwich for dinner at an authentic pub
- Visit a local pub to enjoy the hospitality of the locals and to receive a round of drinks from your Tour Director
- Tour the historic Glenfiddich Distillery and sample the whiskey of this world famous brand
- Discover from an expert the sport of falconry, which dates back almost 4,000 years
- Take a tour of iconic Edinburgh Castle and afterwards enjoy a traditional Scottish lunch of haggis, neeps and tatties
- Enjoy a private guided visit and champagne at Holyrood Palace in Edinburgh, the Queen’s official Scottish residence
- 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
- Take an audio guided tour of the sights to explore Amsterdam, Cologne, Bamberg, Regensburg, Vienna and Budapest at your leisure
- A ‘flight’ on the London Eye; or a guided tour of Westminster Abbey; or a visit to Churchill’s Cabinet War Rooms
- Tour Trinity College; or the National Museum in Dublin
- Cruise Lake Windermere; or visit the World of Beatrix Potter attraction in the Lake District
- Visit the Minster; or the Jorvik Viking Centre; or the National Rail Museum in York
- 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
- Learn about Nuremberg’s past and present; or Relive history on a WWII dedicated tour; or a self-guided bike tour
- A walking tour of Würzburg including a private wine tasting; or journey down the Romantic Road to Rothenburg
- Enjoy the sights of Passau; or excursion to Salzburg; or excursion to Cesky Krumlov
- 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
- In Budapest relax at the Thermal Bath & Spa; or explore the lime stone caves of Labyrinth; or a Liszt Classical music experience
- 80 superb meals including 35 Full Breakfasts hot and cold buffet selections (FB), 1 Highlight Lunch two course table d’hôte (HL), 14 lunches buffet and daily à la carte selections (L) 4 Highlight Dinners three course table d’hôte (HD) and 26 Dinners three to four course table d’hôte (D)
- Our London hotel, The Mayfair couldn’t be in a better location, the hotel offers outstanding quality and service
- The Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel is an elegant Georgian mansion set in seven acres of gardens
- Opposite Trinity College, the Westin Dublin is housed within a former bank and the 19th Century financial heritage is evident throughout this centrally located property
- The Chester Grosvenor is a member of the Small Luxury Hotels of the World and is located in the heart of the historic walled city
- Located in the shadows of Edinburgh Castle and on famous Princes Street, the Caledonian Hotel is one of Edinburgh’s finest hotels
- Take a guided tour of London and see Westminster Abbey
- Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of Stonehenge
- Tour Bath on an open top bus and see the Royal Crescent, the Circus and Pulteney Bridge and visit inside the Roman Baths
- Visit Blarney Castle and kiss the Blarney Stone
- Visit Bunratty Folk Park to see a 19th century recreation of an Irish village
- Enjoy a Hooley Show of traditional Irish music and dancing with dinner at Johnnie Fox’s in Dublin
- On a guided tour of Dublin see the O’Connell Bridge, Dublin University, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Parliament House and Trinity College
- Visit the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin and enjoy a Guinness tasting
- Enjoy a guided tour of Edinburgh and visit the Royal Yacht Britannia
- Discover Cologne during a guided walking tour of one of Germany’s oldest cities
- Sail through the spectacular Rhine Gorge past famous Lorelei Rock
- Arrive in Rüdesheim to visit Siegfried’s Musical Instrument Museum
- Guided sightseeing in one of Europe’s best preserved towns – Bamberg
- Sightseeing tour of Regensburg including a sample from the sausage kitchen
- Guided tour of Melk including entry to Melk Benedictine Abbey
- Morning guided sightseeing tour of Austria’s capital Vienna
- 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: London
Welcome to London. You will be met at Heathrow Airport by your Scenic Tours Representative and transferred* to your centrally located hotel. Meet up this evening with your Tour Director and fellow travellers over a welcome drink.
Two Night Special Stay: London
Two Night Special Stay: London
Day 2: London
(FB,HD)
Join your guide for an Included sightseeing tour of London. SCENIC FREE CHOICE choose from the following Included tours: (1) A ‘flight’ on the spectacular London Eye; or (2) A guided tour of Westminster Abbey; or (3) A visit to Churchill’s underground Cabinet War Rooms. This afternoon enjoy a scenic cruise on the River Thames past the Tower of London and Tower Bridge to historic Greenwich for your welcome dinner at The Trafalgar Tavern, one of London’s last authentic pubs.
Day 3: London - Bath
(FB,D)
Your first stop is at the ancient cathedral city of Salisbury. From here visit one of the most famous prehistoric sites in the world, Stonehenge. Your day ends in the beautiful city of Bath, founded around naturally-occurring hot springs where the Romans built baths and a temple.
Overnight Special Stay: Bath
Overnight Special Stay: Bath
Day 4: Bath - Cardiff
(FB,D)
Appreciate Bath on an Included open top bus tour. Your journey includes the impressive Georgian buildings along the Royal Crescent, the Circus and Pulteney Bridge followed by a visit to the Roman Baths. Travel to Bristol, home to Britain’s first steel hulled ship, the SS Great Britain, which spent its life transporting emigrants to America and the colonies in Australia. Late this afternoon cross into Wales and spend the night in Cardiff.
Overnight Stay: Cardiff
Overnight Stay: Cardiff
Day 5: Cardiff - Waterford
(FB,D)
Cardiff has been transformed in recent years and on your orientation tour see the Millennium Stadium, the 2,000-year-old castle, the Welsh National Assembly Building and the futuristic Millennium Centre before travelling through the rolling green countryside of Wales. Board a ferry and cross the Irish Sea to Rosslare in Ireland before continuing to Waterford.
Overnight Stay: Waterford
Overnight Stay: Waterford
Day 6: Waterford - Killarney
(FB,D)
Your first destination today is Ireland’s oldest city Waterford. Enjoy an Included guided tour of the world famous Waterford Crystal Factory to admire crafted stemware, chandeliers and trophies. Continue on to Midleton for a tour and tasting at Jameson’s Irish Whiskey Distillery. This afternoon visit Blarney Castle and kiss the famous stone to receive the gift of the gab before arriving in Killarney.
Two Night Stay: Killarney
Two Night Stay: Killarney
Day 7: Killarney
(FB,D)
Today experience a memorable journey – the Ring of Kerry. Wander the pretty town of Sneem, before enjoying a jaunting car ride – a traditional pony and trap. Journey back to Killarney. This evening after dinner you will visit a traditional local pub for some true Irish music and hospitality – your Tour Director will shout the first round!
Day 8: Killarney - Athlone
(FB,D)
This morning visit Bunratty Folk Park, where 19th century Irish rural and urban life is recreated in the form of a local village. Drive along the spectacular Atlantic coastline of the Cliffs of Moher before heading inland to the quaint town of Athlone.
Overnight Stay: Athlone
Overnight Stay: Athlone
Day 9: Athlone - Dublin
(FB,HD)
This morning explore this historic town before we visit the 10th century built Clonmacnoise. Continue to the capital city of Ireland, Dublin. This evening dine at Johnnie Fox’s, an authentic pub where you enjoy a Hooley show featuring traditional music and dancing.
Two Night Special Stay: Dublin
Two Night Special Stay: Dublin
Day 10: Dublin
(FB,L)
Vikings were the first known settlers, yet today Dublin is renowned as a city of literature, home to Joyce and Shaw. Your Included guided tour will showcase the Georgian architecture and grand city squares, and a visit to the Guinness Storehouse to learn how to ‘pull the perfect pint’. SCENIC FREE CHOICE choose from the following Included tours: (1) A guided tour of Trinity College with access to the Long Room and famous ‘Book of Kells’; or (2) Tour the National Museum with a guide and discover Ireland’s past.
Day 11: Dublin - Chester
(FB,D)
Rise early this morning to catch the ferry to Wales. First stop is Caernarfon, dominated by its majestic 13th century castle which you will visit. Travelling along the North Wales coast reach Chester.
Two Night Special Stay: Chester
Two Night Special Stay: Chester
Day 12: Chester
(FB)
Today your guided walking tour of Chester will include the famous black and white coloured ‘Rows’, two-tiered medieval shopping galleries and the famous Eastgate Clock. See some of the finest medieval woodcarving in the country on your visit to Chester Cathedral. This afternoon enjoy leisure time to explore the city on your own.
Day 13: Chester - Lake District
(FB,D)
This morning depart for Liverpool and rediscover the 60’s phenomenon that was the ‘fab four’ at the Beatles Story Museum. Journey north to the picturesque Lake District where Wordsworth and Potter were inspired by the natural beauty of the mountains and lakes. SCENIC FREE CHOICE choose from the following Included tours: (1) A relaxing cruise on Lake Windermere; or (2) Entry to the famous World of Beatrix Potter attraction.
Overnight Stay: Lake District
Overnight Stay: Lake District
Day 14: Lake District - Glasgow
(FB,D)
Travel past the original border where Hadrian’s Wall once stood and through unspoilt scenery to Scotland’s largest city, Glasgow. Your orientation tour will include the 12th century cathedral and stunning architecture from renowned artist and Glasgow born Charles Rennie Mackintosh.
Overnight Stay: Glasgow
Overnight Stay: Glasgow
Day 15: Glasgow - Inverness
(FB,D)
During the next two days experience the majesty of the Scottish Highlands. Begin with a drive through stunning scenery as you pass Loch Lomond before continuing through Glencoe. Journey to Loch Ness and visit the romantic ruins of Urquhart Castle. The famous monster Nessie was allegedly spotted near here, so keep an eye out! Venture into the heart of the Highlands to Inverness.
Overnight stay: Inverness
Overnight stay: Inverness
Day 16: Inverness - Aberdeen
(FB,D)
Head through the Grampians to your first destination this morning, Cawdor Castle. On your Included tour learn of the Castle’s links to Shakespeare’s play Macbeth. Enter Scotch Whiskey territory to discover the importance of the ‘wee dram’ for the local economy. See the ancient art of barrel making during a visit to a traditional cooperage. SCENIC ENRICH Tour the historic Glenfiddich Distillery, founded in 1876 by William Grant and his nine sons, and sample one of the most celebrated whiskies in Scotland.
Overnight Stay: Aberdeen
Overnight Stay: Aberdeen
Day 17: Aberdeen - Edinburgh
(FB,D)
SCENIC ENRICH This morning enjoy morning tea and a display of the ancient art of falconry, known as the sport of Kings which dates back almost 4,000 years. Depart for Scone Palace, Royal coronation site and traditional home of the legendary Stone of Destiny. Your tour will provide a great insight into the Celtic history of Scone. This afternoon cross the Firth of Forth via the Forth Road suspension bridge into Edinburgh, your home for the next two days. SCENIC ENRICH This evening, enjoy a private guided visit to Holyrood Palace, founded as a monastery in 1128 and now the Queen’s official residence in Scotland where you will enjoy a glass of champagne in the Throne room after viewing numerous restricted and private areas.
Two Night Stay: Edinburgh
Two Night Stay: Edinburgh
Day 18: Edinburgh
(FB,HL)
Edinburgh is one of the most architecturally beautiful cities in the world. Your Included guided tour will explore all of the key sights in the city. Board the Royal Yacht Britannia, which served the Queen and her family from 1953 to 1997 and tour the ship which has been preserved in the state used by the Queen on her last official voyage. SCENIC ENRICH Edinburgh Castle, the symbol of the city that is nearly 1,000 years old, towers over the old town and following your guided tour you will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
Day 19: Edinburgh - York
(FB,D)
Drive through the scenic Scottish Borders and the Cheviot Hills to the compact walled city of York. Your Included guided walking tour will reveal York’s Roman and Viking heritage. Much-photographed narrow medieval streets such as The Shambles and the famous Stonegate bring centuries of history to life. SCENIC FREE CHOICE choose from the following Included tours: (1) Entry to the stunning York Minster; or (2) A visit to the Jorvik Viking Centre to discover the ancient history of the city; or (3) Entry to the National Rail Museum.
Overnight Stay: York
Overnight Stay: York
Day 20: York - Stratford
(FB,HD)
This morning visit Chatsworth House, consistently voted one of Britain’s favourite estates and the backdrop of the film “Pride and Prejudice”. Continue on to the birthplace of William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon. Enjoy an Included walking tour of the town and see the Bard’s House. Tonight enjoy your dinner at a fine local restaurant.
Overnight Stay: Stratford
Overnight Stay: Stratford
Day 21: Stratford - Oxford - London
(FB)
Passing by Winston Churchill’s ancestral home of Blenheim Palace, arrive in Oxford, ‘the city of dreaming spires’. Your Included walking tour will take you to the splendid Christ Church college, and other significant university buildings. Continue to London, arriving late afternoon at your centrally located hotel.
Overnight Stay: London
Overnight Stay: London
Day 22: London - Amsterdam
(FB,D)
This morning after breakfast, your Scenic Tours Representative will transfer you to the airport for your short flight to Amsterdam. On board your Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ you will be warmly welcomed by our dedicated crew. Tonight enjoy a Welcome reception with your fellow travellers.
Next Fourteen Nights: Cruising
Next Fourteen Nights: Cruising
Day 23: Amsterdam
(FB,L,D)
Choose from one of the Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours: (1) A sightseeing canal cruise; or (2) a guided bicycle tour; or (3) An excursion to the windmills at Zaanse Schans and Edam; or (4) a visit to Venlo for the 2012 Floriade (seasonal option, operates from the 5th April 2012 until the 7th October 2012). Back on board, time to relax and enjoy the Captain’s Welcome Dinner.
Day 24: Cologne - Marksburg
(FB,L,HD)
Guided Tour of Cologne. 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. Step back in time and enjoy a private tour of the castle.
Day 25: Koblenz - Rhine Gorge - Rüdesheim
(FB,L,D)
Cruise the spectacular Rhine Gorge to Rüdesheim and visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum before taking a cable car to the Niederwald Monument.
Day 26: European Village Life
(FB,L,D)
SCENIC ENRICH: Today you will be taken off the beaten track as an invite guest to experience Village life 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 27: Würzburg
(FB,L,D)
Today choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours: (1) A city tour of Würzburg Including the Price Bishop’s Residenz Palace and a wine tasting In the underground cellars; or (2) Romantic Road to Rothenburg.
Day 28: Bamberg
(FB,L,D)
Bursting with character and charm enjoy the sights of Bamberg on your Included city tour. Back on-board, join your fellow passengers for the opportunity to experience some of the region’s finest brews including Bamberg’s famous Smoked Beer.
Day 29: 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 30: 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.
Day 31: Passau - Linz
(FB,L,D)
Your Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE today gives you a choice of three countries: (1) A guided tour of Passau; or (2) An excursion to Salzburg; or (3) An excursion to Cesky Krumlov.
Day 32: Melk - Dürnstein - Vienna
(FB,L,D)
This morning your ship docks in the town of Melk where you will discover the magnificent Benedictine Abbey. During your Included visit inside the Abbey you will be treated to a SCENIC ENRICH organ recital, performed by one of the housed Benedictine Monks. Glide through the Wachau Valley onto Dürnstein. Enjoy leisure time to explore one of the most enchanting villages in the region.
Day 33: Vienna
(FB,L,D)
Enjoy an Included guided tour of Vienna. 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 34: 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).
Day 35: Budapest
(FB,L,D)
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 36: Budapest
(FB)
After breakfast our Scenic Tours Representative will take* 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
36 Days
From
$
per person twin share
Dates
06 Jun 2012
Fully Booked
25 Jun 2012
Fully Booked
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