Scenic Tours
1300 SCENIC (723 642)
Paris, Christmas Markets River Cruise & Prague
(21 days, Paris - Prague, 2012)
Spend 21 days travelling from Paris to Prague, including Vienna, Budapest and an incredible trip to Cologne to one of the most spectacular Christmas markets in Germany.
Your 21 day tour begins in Paris where you will spend three days exploring the beautiful French capital, including visits to the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. From Paris, you will travel to Amsterdam where you will board your Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ and head to Cologne where you will spend the day at one of the most spectacular Christmas markets in Germany. You will have plenty of time to explore the diverse range of stalls, before visiting the largest Christmas tree in Rhineland. You will also visit the Alter Markt (Old Square) with its half-timbered stalls, puppet theatres, toy stalls and Santa’s grotto, while the world of fairytales comes alive at Rudolfplatz.
From Cologne, you will cruise through the amazing Rhine Gorge, before arriving in Rüdesheim for a ride on the Winzerexpress mini train to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Rüdesheim is also home to Europe’s largest nativity scene and you will have the chance to stroll through the 120 stalls of its markets, representing 12 countries, each showcasing their own customs and traditions. You will then travel through Würzburg and Bamberg, before stopping in Nuremberg, host to Germany’s most famous Christmas market, dating back to 1628. Nuremberg is famous for its toy making and metal work.
Your cruise continues through Regensburg, Passau and Linz before stopping in the magical Austrian capital, Vienna, where you will visit the Christkindlemarkt on the square in front of City Hall. In Budapest you will experience Christmas markets Hungarian style, before your tour ends in one of Europe’s most picturesque cities, Prague.
- 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
- Exclusive private butler service on all Danube Deck cabins
- ALL TIPPING and GRATUITIES INCLUDED
- Ascend to the 2nd level of the Eiffel Tower then dine at 58 Tour Eiffel
- 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
- Enjoy an exclusive organ recital during a guided tour to Melk Benedictine Abbey
- Over a glass of Austrian ‘Sekt’ at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein, enjoy a private Viennese evening concert featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart
- Enjoy a canal cruise; or a guided bicycle tour; or an excursion to Zaanse Schans and Edam in Amsterdam
- A walking tour of Würzburg; 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 the Spanish Riding School for a guided tour or to watch the horses exercise
- Take an audio guided tour of the sights to explore Amsterdam, Cologne, Bamberg, Regensburg, Vienna and Budapest at your leisure
- 49 superb meals including 20 Full Breakfasts - hot and cold buffet selections (FB), 13 Lunches - buffet and daily à la carte (L), 2 Highlight Dinners - three course table d’hôte (HD), 14 Evening Meals - four course - à la carte (D)
- With its 19th century grandeur the Hotel Scribe is ideally located between the Opera Garnier and the Place Vendome
- The Westin Paris offers magnificent views of the Eiffel Tower, just moments from the Louvre Museum
- The Radisson Blu Alcron is available exclusively through Scenic Tours and has recently been refurbished to its former art deco glory
- Welcome reception and drink on arrival in Paris
- Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Paris, including Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Concorde Square and the famous Champs Elysées
- Captain’s welcome cocktail party and dinner in Amsterdam
- Enjoy free time to explore and shop the European Christmas Markets - including Cologne, Nuremberg, Regensburg and Vienna
- Discover Cologne during a guided walking tour of one of Germany’s oldest cities
- Listen to live commentary on the sun deck as you sail through the spectacular Rhine Gorge past famous the Lorelei Rock
- In Rüdesheim visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum
- Guided sightseeing in one of Europe’s best preserved towns – Bamberg
- Tour of Nuremberg including a self-guided tour of the Documentation Centre
- Sightseeing tour of Regensburg, including a sample from the sausage kitchen
- Guided tour of Melk including entry to Melk Benedictine Abbey
- Sail through the Wachau Valley as stunning beauty glides by
- Enjoy free time to explore the quaint village of Dürnstein
- Guided sightseeing tour of Vienna including Ringstrasse and the Hofburg Palace
- Enjoy a traditional Hungarian Folklore performance on board your cruise
- Captain’s farewell cocktail reception and farewell dinner in Budapest
- Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Prague, including Prague Castle, St Vitus Church and the Charles Bridge.
- Relax over Coffee and Cake in Old Town Prague
- Highlight Czech dinner with local entertainment and traditional Czech cuisine
Day 1: Paris
You will be met at Charles De Gaulle airport by your Scenic Tours Representative before being transferred* to your centrally located hotel. Enjoy a welcome drink this evening with your fellow travellers and Tour Director.
Three Night Special Stay: Paris
Three Night Special Stay: Paris
Day 2: Paris
(FB,HD)
Paris, the capital of France, is situated on the river Seine, in northern France, at the heart of the Île-de-France region. Today join your Tour Director on your Included sightseeing tour of all the major sights of Paris. See the Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Concorde Square and the famous Champs Elysées. SCENIC ENRICH Tonight journey to the Eiffel Tower and ascend to the second level for unforgettable views. It’s a short walk to your spectacular dinner venue, 58 Tour Eiffel, just one floor below, where you will dine overlooking the Paris skyline
Day 3: Paris
(FB)
Your Tour Director is on hand to help plan your free day where the city awaits with countless sights. You may wish to step out of the city and take a trip to the Palace of Versailles where among the highlights are the Hall of Mirrors, Marie Antoinette’s bedchambers and the outstandingly well-manicured gardens. Perhaps you may wish to visit the world’s largest museum, the Louvre, where you can see many famous art works including the Mona Lisa, or you may wish to shop the for the latest fashion on the Champs Elysées.
Day 4: Paris - Amsterdam
(FB,D)
Today we travel by coach to picturesque Amsterdam, a fascinating and compact city of picturesque canals. A warm welcome awaits you from your crew as you board your luxury Scenic ‘Space-Ship’. On board be warmly welcomed by our dedicated crew and settle into your cabin. Tonight enjoy a welcome reception with your fellow travellers. After dinner you may wish to take a stroll into Dam Square to capture a glimpse of its brightly illuminated tree.
Next Fourteen Nights: Cruising
Next Fourteen Nights: Cruising
Day 5: Amsterdam
(FB,L,D)
There is so much to enjoy. Choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours: (1) A sightseeing canal cruise through the cities 17th century architecture in a glass-top boat; or (2) Explore Amsterdam the traditional way on a guided bicycle tour through the canals and over the wooden bridges. En route visit the Dam Square, Royal Palace and the war monument and then into the Red-Light district where you’ll see the Old church and Nieuw Market; or (3) A visit to the open-air conservation area and windmills of Zaanse Schans followed by an excursion to the Dutch town of Edam famous for its cheese of the same name. Back on board, time to relax and enjoy the Captain’s Welcome Dinner.
Day 6: Cologne
(FB,L,D)
This morning cruise to historic Cologne, one of the most spectacular displays of Christmas Markets in Germany. After an Included orientation tour of the town enjoy free time to explore the diverse range of markets, all offering their own unique and distinct feel. Cologne Cathedral markets set against the imposing Cathedral itself, is also home to the largest Christmas Tree in Rhineland. Here you can choose from numerous sweet delicacies, watch artisans at work and enjoy the “Original Christmas mulled wine” out of the festively decorated Christmas mugs. The Alter Market with its half-timbered stalls include puppet theatres, toy stalls and Santa’s grotto, while Rudolfplatz takes you to the world of fairy tales.
Day 7: Rhine Gorge - Rüdesheim
(FB,L,D)
Today cruise through the spectacular Rhine Gorge, with its stunning vistas of castles perched above steep vine-covered slopes. Arrive at Rüdesheim and board the ‘Winzerexpress’ mini train for an Included guided visit of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Home to Europe’s largest Nativity scene stroll through the 120 stalls representing 12 countries, each showcasing their own customs and traditions.
Day 8: 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 9: Würzburg
(FB,L,D)
This morning cruise through Bavaria to Würzburg, the capital of Lower Franconia. It is said to be one of the loveliest baroque cities in the country and became famous as the centre of Franconian wine production. Today choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours:(1) Würzburg is best explored on foot. Visit the Prince Bishop’s Residenz Palace followed by a private wine tasting underneath the Residenz in the Palace’s wine cellar. Just outside the Palace the air is filled with spicy smells from innumerable decorated stalls and the sound of traditional Christmas songs; or (2) Follow the Romantic Road to Rothenburg, a walled medieval gem overlooking the Tauber river. Although known for the all year round Christmas market the real one is just as impressive. Don’t forget to try the local specialty Schneeball (snowball); a fist-sized ball of dough strips coated in a variety of sugary temptations.
Day 10: Bamberg
(FB,L,D)
Relax on board this morning as you sail towards Bamberg, one of Europe’s largest intact medieval centres. Bursting with character and charm enjoy the sights of the city 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 renowned Smoked Beer.
Day 11: Nuremberg
(FB,L,D)
Nuremberg is host to Germany’s most famous Christmas market dating back to 1628 and is opened each year by Christkindl. Take a moment to breathe in the aroma of gingerbread, roasted chestnuts and toasted almonds filling the air. Famous for its toy making and metal work, Nuremberg will be sure to have the perfect gift available to place under the tree.
Day 12: 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 Drop into the world’s oldest sausage kitchen, where recipes dating back as far as 1256 are still being used today, just waiting for you sample. With bands, choirs and homemade goodies the city square is filled with Christmas cheer.
Day 13: Passau - Linz
(FB,L,D)
Your Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE today gives you a choice of three countries all offering their own unique charm: (1) A guided tour of Passau followed by a relaxing afternoon of cruising through the European Alps; 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. Appreciate the incredible value as you savour your discoveries tonight perhaps over an intimate dinner in exclusive Portobello’s fine dining restaurant.
Day 14: 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 an SCENIC ENRICH organ recital, performed by one of the housing Benedictine Monks. For the more active, you may wish to embark on a guided bike ride along the river from Melk to the picturesque town of Dürnstein, where you will have the opportunity to witness some truly spectacular scenery whilst your Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ glides through the awe-inspiring wine region of the Wachau Valley to meet up with you. In Dürnstein you will have leisure time to explore one of the most enchanting villages in the region, famous for its wide range of apricot produce and towering castle on top of the hill. Tonight your cruise ship arrives in Vienna.
Day 15: Vienna
(FB,L,D)
To get acquainted with this beautiful city, enjoy an Included tour of the famous sights, before enjoying time at leisure to soak up the wonderful Christmas atmosphere. The “Christkindlmarkt” on the square in front of City Hall is Vienna’s classic Christmas Market. Tonight be enchanted by the charm of Viennese fine arts and culture. SCENIC ENRICH highlights include a glass of Austrian ‘Sekt’ at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein before an enchanting private Viennese evening concert featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart.
Day 16: Vienna
(FB,L,D)
Today offers two SCENIC FREE CHOICE options to choose from: (1) A guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace; with festive concerts and it very own Christmas Market or (2) Witness the world famous Lipizzaner Stallions refining and perfecting their skills during their routine morning exercise program or guided tour of the oldest Classical Dressage riding school in the world.†
Day 17: Budapest
(FB,L,D)
Budapest is one of Eastern Europe’s most ancient cities. Join your guide on an Included tour before enjoying free time this afternoon to perhaps try the local delicacies or shop for local crafts at the Hungarian Christmas markets. Tonight celebrate with Folklore music before dinner.
Day 18: Budapest - Prague
(FB)
After breakfast this morning journey by coach to Prague, one of Europe’s most magical cities. Situated on the bank of River Vltava in central Bohemia, the beautiful city of Prague is rich in history and is home to some of the world’s most pristine and varied collections of architecture.
Three Night Special Stay: Prague
Three Night Special Stay: Prague
Day 19: Prague
(FB,HD)
Today join your local guide on your Included sightseeing tour through the old town. Start your tour at the top of the towering Prague Castle before making your way down the cobbled stone streets to such sights as the cathedral of St Vitus. After your Included visit of the cathedral walk across the Castle courtyards to the Little Quarter over 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. After relaxing over Coffee and Cake continue your sightseeing to the Old Town where you conclude your tour at the foot of the Astronomical clock. Enjoy a Highlight Dinner of traditional Czech cuisine and local entertainment.
Day 20: Prague
(FB)
Enjoy exploring this magnificent city at your leisure where your Tour Director is on hand to help plan your day. You may wish to visit the Old Jewish Cemetery and Gothic Synagogue, built around 1270 or visit one of the many museums Prague has to offer.
Day 21: Prague
(FB)
After breakfast this morning you will be transferred* by your Scenic Tours Representative to Prague International Airport for your onward or homebound flight.
*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.
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