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Spain, Portugal & Morocco Tour & Jewels of Europe River Cruise

(36 days, Madrid - Budapest, 2012)
Spain, Portugal & Morocco Tour & Jewels of Europe River Cruise
This 36 day tour soaks up the exceptional highlights of Spain, Portugal and Morocco before a relaxing Jewels of Europe river cruise on board a luxury Scenic ‘Space-Ship’.

Your tour begins in Madrid, discovering Casa de Campo, the arcaded Square Plaza Mayor, the Puerta del Sol and the Plaza de Espana. You will also visit one of the world’s greatest art galleries, The Prado. From Madrid you will travel to Salamanca, home to what is possibly the oldest university in Europe, founded in 1218, before continuing into Portugal. You will witness rugged mountain ranges en route to Fatima and the fishing village of Nazare, before heading south along the coast to explore its vibrant capital, Lisbon, including the Explorers and Belem Tower and the Hieronymite Monastery.

You will then travel to Seville for the Alcazar of Seville and the enormous cathedral, which houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus. From Seville, you will travel through Ronda and Marbella, before making the short journey along the coast of Tarifa, where you will embark on a cruise across the Mediterranean to Morocco.

Your Moroccan adventure begins in the picturesque imperial city of Féz, where you will visit the magnificent Royal Palace, plus the Karouine, which is the oldest religious university in the world, and the Mausoleum of the city’s founder, Idriss II. From Féz you will travel to vibrant Marrakech, admiring the main square filled with acrobats, storytellers and musicians by day and food stalls and shopping bargains by night. In Casablanca you will enjoy dinner at Rick’s Café, made famous in the legendary movie, before heading to Tangier.

You will then cruise back to Europe across the Straits of Gibraltar and drive through the Costa del Sol before heading to the Sierra Nevada mountain range, arriving in the gorgeous Andalusian town of Granada, nearly 3,000 years old. You will return to Madrid via Toledo, known as the ‘city of three cultures’. The Old Quarter of this walled city is World Heritage-listed and a remarkable open-air museum.

In the Catalonian capital, Barcelona you will witness its memorable Gothic quarter and admire the astonishing architecture of Gaudi, including his still-to-be-completed Cathedral of the Sagrada Familia, which was commenced in 1882. You will then visit the Parc Güell, a spectacular garden adorned with architectural structures designed by Gaudi. Finally, you will enjoy Catalan cuisine at Can Cortada restaurant, situated in a stately mansion beneath an 11th Century watchtower. From Barcelona you will travel to Amsterdam where you can explore its picturesque canals or visit the once-in-a-decade 2012 Floriade in Venlo.

You will board your luxury Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ in Amsterdam and cruise through Germany, docking in at the historic city of Cologne for a private medieval banquet in Marksburg Castle. You will also view the beautiful Rhine Gorge boasting stunning castles atop vine-covered slopes and visit the charming German cities of Würzburg, Bamberg, Nuremberg and Regensburg.

In Vienna you will experience Austria’s finest musicians at a once-in-a-lifetime private Viennese evening concert at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein, featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart. Finally you will make your way into Budapest for a fascinating guided city 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

Included Scenic Enrich

  • Our Prado-trained guide shows us the collection of works by Velazquez located in the Prado Museum in Madrid
  • Explore the quaint fishing village of Cascais then enjoy a seafood lunch
  • Enjoy a carriage ride through the botanical gardens of Yves St Laurent’s former home in Marrakech
  • Visit a family’s home outside Marrakech to observe a mint tea preparation ceremony and enjoy a cup of tea, followed by a highlight dinner at the Al Kasbah
  • Watch colourful ‘Zambra’ and Flamenco dances performed by gypsies who live in the caves surrounding Sacromonte
  • Step back in time on a private tour and Medieval Banquet dinner at Marksburg Castle, a 12th century hilltop castle overlooking the Rhine
  • 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 concert featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart

Included Scenic Free Time

  • Take an audio guided tour of the sights to explore Amsterdam, Bamberg and Vienna at your leisure

Included Scenic FreeChoice

  • A dolphin watching cruise or an excursion to Gibraltar
  • A guided tour of the Barcelona FC Museum; or the Picasso Museum
  • 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
  • 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 the sights of Passau; or excursion to Salzburg; or excursion to Cesky Krumlov
  • In Vienna tour Schönbrunn Palace; or see the key sights of 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

Included Scenic Dining

  • 76 superb meals including 35 Full Breakfasts - hot and cold buffet selections (FB), 1 Highlight Lunch (HL), 13 Lunches - buffet and daily à la carte selections (L), 8 Highlight Dinners - three course table d’hôte (HD) and 19 Dinners - three to four course table d’hôte (D)

Included Scenic Special Stays

  • The Parador Ronda’s building is located in the former town hall and it occupies an incomparable location on the precipice of the Tajo gorge
  • Located in the historic centre of Granada, Palacio de Santa Paola, now a refurbished luxury hotel was the old Convent of Santa Paula

Included Scenic Highlights

  • Enjoy a guided tour of Madrid including the Casa de Campo, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol and the Plaza de Espana
  • Visit the ancient capital of Castille, Toledo and visit the Synagogue and Church of Santo Tome
  • Take a guided tour of Salamanca including the Plaza Mayor and a visit to Casa de las Conchas
  • Enjoy a visit to Fatima where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared
  • Take a guided tour of Lisbon and see the Alfama quarter, Avenida de Liberdade, the Monument to the Explorers
  • Visit Sintra with our guide and enter the Palacio Nacional
  • Take a guided tour of Seville
  • Visit the Royal Palace, the Mausoleum of Idris II, the old Jewish quarter, Nejjarine Square and the Medina of Fes el Bali in Féz
  • Enjoy an Arabian Nights dinner with belly dancers in Féz
  • Experience the colourful performances of snake charmers and fire eaters in the Djmma el Fna Square in Marrakech
  • Dine at famous Rick’s Café of the movie ‘Casablanca’ fame
  • Take an orientation tour of Granada
  • Take a guided tour of Barcelona including visits to the Gothic quarter, the Cathedral of the Sagrada Familia and Guell Park
  • Enjoy a delicious dinner of traditional paella
  • Captain’s welcome cocktail party and dinner in Amsterdam
  • Discover Cologne during a guided walking tour
  • Arrive in Rüdesheim and visit Siegfried’s Musical Instrument Museum
  • Afternoon sightseeing tour of Regensburg, including the Old Chapel
  • Guided tour of Melk including entry to Melk Benedictine Abbey
  • Morning guided sightseeing tour of Austria’s capital Vienna
  • Captain’s farewell cocktail reception and farewell dinner

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: Madrid
Welcome to Spain. You will be met at Madrid’s International airport by your Scenic Tours Representative and transferred* to your centrally located hotel. Meet up this evening over a welcome drink with your fellow travellers and Tour Director. 
Two Night Stay: Madrid
Day 2: Madrid (FB,HD)
This morning our Included guided tour includes Madrid’s ‘must-sees’; the parkland entertainment centre of Casa de Campo, the arcaded square Plaza Mayor, the bustling Puerta del Sol and the Plaza de Espana. SCENIC ENRICH We then visit one of the world’s greatest art galleries, The Prado. Our art guide is an expert in his field and specially selected by the Prado to offer tours of this amazing collection.
Day 3: Madrid - Salamanca (FB)
A short drive takes us to the Valley of the Fallen – a memorial built in honour of the fallen from the Spanish Civil War. We continue to Avila and enjoy a Included guided tour of this fortified town with its mighty medieval walls before we depart for the ancient town of Salamanca. Admire the architecture of the Plaza Mayor, the Casa de las Conchas and the university.
Overnight Stay: Salamanca
Day 4: Salamanca - Lisbon (FB)
Today we cross into Portugal and drive through rugged mountain ranges before arriving in Fatima, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children 6 times, initially on May 13, 1917. We continue on to Nazare, one of Portugal’s prettiest fishing villages with long, sandy beaches for you to stroll on before we continue south along the coast to the nation’s capital, Lisbon. An Included orientation tour of Lisbon will be on arrival.
Two Night Stay: Lisbon
Day 5: Lisbon (FB,HL)

We enjoy an in-depth Included tour of the city this morning with our local guide. We visit the bustling port area and see the Monument to the Explorers and Belem Tower before a guided inspection of the Hieronymite Monastery. SCENIC ENRICH We drive via Estoril and its casino to the nearby fishing village of Cascais, where we enjoy the freshest of catches for lunch. Afterwards, we journey to the gorgeous village of Sintra and visit the 500 year old Palacio Nacional.

Day 6: Lisbon - Seville (FB,HD)
Today we return to Spain and Andalusia’s most evocative city, Seville Our Included highlight dinner this evening is set in a 19th Century town house amid a collection of European antique and oil paintings. The King and Queen of Spain as well as the Spanish President are just a few of the names to add to the guest list of this prestigious restaurant.
Two Night Stay: Seville
Day 7: Seville (FB)
A former Roman town, Seville was under the authority of the Muslim Umayyad, Almoravid and Almohad dynasties for 500 years until 1248. The city retains many Moorish features, including large sections of the city wall. A golden age ensued through trade with the Spanish Territories of the New World. We join our local guide this morning for an Included guided tour and are shown the enormous cathedral which houses the tomb of Christopher Columbus and visit the Alcazar of Seville. Then you’ll step aboard a horse-drawn carriage which will wind its way through the city’s streets and alleyways. This afternoon we take a river cruise along the Guadalquivir past the island of La Cartjua. The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy this well preserved historical city.
Day 8: Seville - Ronda (FB,D)
Our first stop today is to a bodega in the town of Jerez de la Frontera where we will sample some of the world’s finest Sherries and visit the equestrian training centre. We enjoy some time to wander the streets of the old town before we continue to Ronda, dramatically divided into two by a deep canyon and linked by three bridges. Tonight we dine in our historic hotel which features stunning views of the gorge.
Overnight Special Stay: Ronda
Day 9: Ronda - Marbella (FB,D)
On our Included guided tour of Ronda this morning you’ll enjoy breathtaking views from the Puente Nueno and a Included guided visit to the oldest operating bullring in Spain, built in 1785. Then it’s off to the chic seaside resort of Marbella, famous as a playground for Europe’s super-rich. Admire the palm lined promenades and beaches before checking into your seaview room at a resort hotel for a relaxing stay by the Spanish seaside.
Two Night Stay: Marbella
Day 10: Marbella (FB)
Choose from the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours today: (1) Old Town Walking tour; or (2) an excursion to the historically strategic British enclave of Gibraltar, where a minibus will be provided to take you to the top of the ‘Rock’ for breathtaking views and to see the famous resident apes.
Day 11: Marbella - Féz (FB,D)
We make the short journey this morning along the coast to Tarifa where we embark on our cruise across the Mediterranean to Morocco. We drive past the Rif mountains and arrive in the picturesque Imperial city of Féz, home for our next two nights.
Two Night Stay: Féz
Day 12: Féz (FB,HD)
This morning we visit the city’s outstanding sights, including the magnificent Royal Palace, the Karouine, which is the oldest religious university in the world, the Mausoleum of the city’s founder, Idriss ll, the old Jewish quarter and Nejjarine Square. Féz’s world famous Medina of Fes el Bali is unforgettable, a UNESCO World Heritage site having the largest labyrinth of shopping streets in Morocco. An evening to remember as we enjoy an Arabian nights dinner in a spectacular Moroccan setting – belly dancers Included of course.
Day 13: Féz - Marrakech (FB,D)
A memorable journey through the foothills of the Atlas Mountains takes us to the exotic destination of Marrakech. Its main square pulses with acrobats, story-tellers and musicians by day and by night teems with food stalls and shopping bargains.
Two Night Stay: Marrakech
Day 14: Marrakech (FB,HD)

Our local guide this morning will introduce us to the architectural achievements of the Saadian dynasty of the 16th century, paid for with gold from Timbuktu. The beautiful decoration of the arches and the marbled Saadian tombs contrast with the stark ruins of the dynasty’s El Badi Palace. SCENIC ENRICH We enjoy a carriage ride through the colourful botanical gardens of Yves St Laurent’s former residence, where lily pools are shaded by palms, cacti and bamboo. We then wander through Djemaa el-Fna Square to be mesmerised by the snake charmers and fire-eaters that perform for your entertainment. SCENIC ENRICH This afternoon we visit a Moroccan family’s home in the Ourika Valley to observe a mint tea preparation ceremony and enjoy a glass of this refreshing beverage. Enjoy a highlight dinner at Al Kasbah with folkloric entertainment.

Day 15: Marrakech - Casablanca (FB,HD)
Today we depart for legendary Casablanca for a Included sightseeing tour of this former French Protectorate. We will see some of North Africa’s best beaches along the Corniche Road, and marvel at the Grand Mosque and the Cathedral of the Sacré Coeur. This evening we will enjoy a highlight dinner together at Rick’s Café of the movie “Casablanca” fame. Overnight Stay: Le Meridien Royal Mansour. 
Overnight Stay: Casablanca
Day 16: Casablanca - Tangier (FB,D)
Following the Atlantic coast, home to Berber pirates for many centuries, we arrive at the capital of Morocco, Rabat. Our Included sightseeing today will reveal the main Mosque, the Royal Palace and the Mausoleum. We journey to Tangier, located at the western entrance to the Straits of Gibraltar.
Overnight Stay: Tangier
Day 17: Tangier - Granada (FB)
We cruise back to Europe across the Straits of Gibraltar and drive through the world renowned playground of the Costa del Sol before heading to the Sierra Nevada mountain range, arriving in the gorgeous Andalucian town of Granada, nearly 3,000 years old.
Two Night Special Stay: Granada
Day 18: Granada (FB,HD)

Today we explore this historic treasure of a town, with the highlight being the amazing Moorish Alhambra Palace. Originally built in medieval times by the longest lasting Islamic rulers on the Iberian Peninsula, the Nazrid Dynasty. Dinner tonight is at a famous restaurant, Tendido 1, situated in the local bullring. We then visit the beautiful valley of Sacromonte, which affords impressive views over the illuminated Alhambra Palace. SCENIC ENRICH We’ll be entertained and mesmerised by colourful ‘Zambra’ and Flamenco dances performed by gypsies who live in the caves around Sacromonte, as they have for centuries.

Day 19: Granada - Toledo - Madrid (FB,D)
Our return to Madrid today is via Toledo, known as the “city of three cultures’, where Christians, Arabs and Jews lived together for centuries. The old quarter of this walled city is a World Heritage Site and a remarkable open-air museum. Take part in a guided tour which includes the cathedral, Santo Tome Church and the synagogue. Before we leave Toledo, visit a sword factory to witness the fine craftsmanship that goes into production of these decorative pieces.
Overnight Stay: Madrid
Day 20: Madrid - Barcelona (FB)
This morning we fly to the Catalonian capital, Barcelona. On arrival, our Included guided tour highlights the major attractions of this ancient Roman town, where old meets new in pleasing contrast. We visit the memorable Gothic quarter and admire the art-nouveau and zany freeform architecture of Gaudi, including his still-to-be completed Cathedral of the Sagrada Familia, commenced in 1882. We then visit Park Guell, a spectacular garden adorned with architectural structures designed by Gaudi.
Two Night Stay: Barcelona
Day 21: Barcelona (FB,HD)

Choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE: (1) a guided tour of the Picasso Museum to view over 3,800 artistic art forms which make up the permanent collection; or (2) a guided tour of FC Barcelona’s stadium and Club Museum. This afternoon is free to explore Barcelona on your own. Tonight join your fellow travellers and farewell Spain as we dine on Catalan cuisine at Can Cortada restaurant, set in a stately mansion beneath an 11th century watchtower.

Day 22: Barcelona - Amsterdam (FB,D)
After breakfast, transfer to Barcelona airport for your short Flight to Amsterdam. A Scenic Tours representative will personally greet you and arrange your transfer to your luxury Scenic Tours ‘Space-Ship’. On board be warmly welcomed by our dedicated crew. Tonight enjoy a welcome reception with your fellow travellers.
Next Fourteen Nights: Cruising
Day 23: Amsterdam (FB,L,D)

Choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours: (1) A sightseeing canal cruise; or (2) a guided bicycle tour or (3) An excursion to the windmills of 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)

This morning explore Cologne on your Included guided tour. Tonight SCENIC ENRICHhighlights 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: Rhine Gorge - Rüdesheim (FB,L,D)
Cruise the spectacular Rhine Gorge and board the ‘Winzerexpress’ mini train in Rüdesheim for a guided visit of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum.
Day 26: 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.  
Day 27: Würzburg (FB,L,D)

Today choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours: (1) A guided walking tour of Wurzburg 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 28: Bamberg (FB,L,D)
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 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)
On our Included guided walking tour we see the Old Chapel and stone bridge.           
Day 31: Passau - Linz (FB,L,D)

Choose from one of the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE: (1) city tour of Passau; or (2) excursion to Salzburg; or (3) excursion to Cesky Krumlov.

Day 32: Melk - Dürnstein - Vienna (FB,L,D)

This morning we visit the magnificent Benedictine Abbey on our Included guided tour of Melk. SCENIC ENRICH During our visit inside the Abbey an organ recital has been arranged. Spend the rest of the day exploring the quaint little town of Dürnstein.

Day 33: Vienna (FB,L,D)

Enjoy an Included tour of the famous sights including the Ringstrasse and the Hofburg Palace. Afterwards your Cruise Director is on hand to enhance your experience as you explore Vienna at your own leisure. SCENIC ENRICH Highlights include a glass of Austrian ‘Sekt’ at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein followed by 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 this morning it is time to farewell your fellow passengers and disembark the cruise. 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. 

At a glance
Duration
36 Days
From
$18,490
per person twin share
Dates
27 Aug 2012
On Request

Interested?

Enquire now or call 1300 723 642 Download the brochure

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