Scenic Tours
1300 SCENIC (723 642)
Spectacular Scandinavia Tour & Jewels of Europe River Cruise
(27 days, Copenhagen - Budapest, 2012)
This 27 day tour takes you from Copenhagen to Budapest, travelling through Denmark, Sweden and Norway before relaxing on a 15 day cruise along Europe’s finest waterways.
Your 27 day tour begins in Copenhagen where you will spend two days exploring the Danish capital, including visiting Hans Christian Andersen’s ‘Little Mermaid’, Hamlet’s Castle and Amalienborg Palace, home to the Danish Royal Family. Next you will travel to Norway’s capital, Oslo where you will explore the city, including the National Theatre and Oslo City Hall before a visit to the medieval Akershus Castle, dating back to the late 1290s.
Your journey continues through Bergen, Balestrand and Geiranger, where you will witness some of Norway’s most magnificent fjords before travelling to Stockholm, Sweden’s beautiful capital city, which is built on 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. Wonderful buildings, greenery and fresh air are distinctive traits of Stockholm, which you will witness as you visit the Royal Palace, Riddarholm Church and the dazzling gold chamber in the City Hall, home to the annual Nobel Prize awards.
From Stockholm you will travel to Amsterdam where you will board your luxury Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ for your Jewels of Europe river cruise. Whilst in Amsterdam you can explore its intricate network of picturesque canals or visit Venlo for the once-in-a-decade 2012 Floriade. Your cruise will venture through Germany, docking at the historic city of Cologne, where you will explore the Old Town and enjoy a private medieval banquet in Marksburg Castle. Cruising through the beautiful Rhine Gorge will be a spectacle of stunning castles atop vine-covered slopes and your German adventure will also take in the charming cities of Würzburg, Bamberg, Nuremberg and Regensburg.
You will glide into beautiful Austria where your highlight will be a once-in-a-lifetime private Viennese evening concert at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein, featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart. Your final stop is Budapest, split by the mighty Danube, where you will explore both Buda and Pest during a guided tour of the Hungarian capital.
- 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
- Appreciate Norway’s historic links to the sea during a journey to the Bygdoy Peninsula near Oslo to visit the Viking Ship Museum, the Kon-Tiki museum and the Fram polar ship
- Journey by ‘trollcar’ to the Briksdalbreen arm of the Jostedalsbreen glacier for magnificent views of the ice and stunning waterfalls
- 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
- 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
- A canal cruise of Copenhagen; or a visit to the Carlsberg brewery
- A journey by funicular railway to Mt. Floien; or a visit to Bergen Aquarium
- 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 an excursion to Salzburg; or a visit 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
- Take an audio guided tour of the sights to explore Amsterdam, Cologne, Bamberg, Regensburg, Vienna and Budapest at your leisure
- 64 Superb Meals including 26 Full Breakfasts hot and cold buffet selections (FB),13 lunches buffet and daily à la carte selections (L), 5 Highlight Dinners three course table d’hôte (HD) and 20 Dinners three to four course table d’hôte (D)
- First Skt. Petri is designed in cutting edge modern Scandinavian style and is superbly located in the main shopping district of Copenhagen, just minutes from the Strøget
- The Kviknes Hotel in Balestrand has been family-owned since 1877 and your guaranteed fjord view room overlooks the breathtaking Sognefjord, just metres away
- Hotel Union Geiranger is a family run hotel located above the Geiranger fjord, surrounded by snow-covered mountains - incredible vistas abound from your guaranteed fjord view room
- Guided walking tour of Oslo including the National Theatre
- Guided tour of Akershus Castle
- Visit the Viking Ship Museum and the Kon-Tiki museum
- Visit the Vigeland Sculpture Park
- Scenic drive across the Hardangervidda
- Guided tour of Bergen including the open air fish markets
- Visit the Troldhaugen museum, Edvard Grieg’s former home
- Journey on the Flåm railway
- Scenic Fjord cruise to Balestrand
- Visit the Briksdalsbreen glacier by ‘troll car’
- Scenic drive of the Geiranger fjord
- Cruise the Geiranger fjord sailing past the ‘Seven Sisters’
- Trollstigen (Troll’s road) excursion
- Visit Maihaugen folk museum in Lillehammer
- Guided tour of Copenhagen including the Little Mermaid, Amalienborg Palace, home to Princess Mary and the Danish Royal Family
- Orientation tour of Karlstad on the banks of Lake Vänern
- Guided tour of Stockholm including the Royal Palace and City Hall
- Visit the Wasa Ship Museum
- Captain’s welcome and farewell dinner
- Discover Cologne during a guided walking tour
- Arrive in Rüdesheim and visit Siegfried’s Musical Instrument Museum
- Afternoon sightseeing tour of Regensburg
- Guided tour of Melk Benedictine Abbey
- Morning guided sightseeing tour of Austria’s capital Vienna
Day 1: Copenhagen
Welcome to Copenhagen. On arrival you will be met and transferred* to your centrally located hotel by your Scenic Tours Representative. From its humble origins as a fishing village to its heyday as the glittering capital of the Danish Empire, to its current position as one of the world’s premier design capitals, the stories and characters of Copenhagen’s history can be discovered in its sumptuous palaces, copper-roofed town houses and atmospheric cobbled squares. The rest of the day is at leisure, before meeting up this evening with your Tour Director and fellow travellers over a welcome drink.
Two Night Special Stay: Copenhagen
Two Night Special Stay: Copenhagen
Day 2: Copenhagen
(FB,HD)
Today we follow the Danish coastline and visit Hans Christian Andersen’s ‘Little Mermaid’, ‘Hamlet’s Castle’ and make our way to Amalienborg Palace, home to Princess Mary and the Danish Royal Family. Choose from the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE options: (1) a harbour cruise of the romantic canals of Copenhagen; or (2) a visit to the Carlsberg brewery to see how this world famous beer is crafted. This evening our welcome dinner is at one of Copenhagen’s finest restaurants.
Day 3: Oslo
(FB,HD)
This morning fly from Copenhagen to the capital of Norway, Oslo. On your Included guided sightseeing tour see the National Theatre and Oslo’s City Hall before a visit to Akershus Castle dating back from 1290. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy the sights and sounds of Oslo. This evening you will enjoy a highlight dinner at Holmenkollen, home of Oslo’s ski jumping arena and the host of the 1952 Winter Olympics.
Two Night Special Stay: Oslo
Two Night Special Stay: Oslo
Day 4: Oslo
(FB,D)
SCENIC ENRICH We start our day with a drive through beautiful Oslo and make our way to the Bygdoy Peninsula, home to three famous museums, all of which we will visit; the Viking Ship Museum, the Kon-Tiki Museum (Thor Heyerdahl’s dream) and the Fram polar ship. From the museums we continue to the amazing Vigeland Sculpture Park.
Day 5: Bergen
(FB,D)
This morning we say farewell to Oslo and set off on our drive to Bergen. We drive through the scenic and breathtaking Hardangervidda, Europe’s highest mountain plateau and home to Norway’s largest herd of wild reindeer. We will continue our journey to Norway’s second largest city, the Hanseatic fishing port of Bergen. Our accommodation is located in Bryggen, the most historic part of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the prettiest cities in Norway, Bergen dates back to the 12th century when the port was an important centre of European trade for the all powerful German Hanseatic League.
Two Night Stay: Bergen
Two Night Stay: Bergen
Day 6: Bergen
(FB,HD)
Today we explore Bergen and drive to Troldhaugen, now a museum; it was the former home of Edvard Grieg, Norway’s greatest composer. Choose from the following Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE options: (1) a journey up the funicular railway 1,050 feet to Mt. Floien for a bird’s eye view of the city and fjord; or (2) visit Bergen Aquarium, one of the finest and most extensive collections of aquatic life in the region.
Day 7: Balestrand
(FB,D)
This morning start your journey by train from Bergen to Mydral where we change trains and continue on the world-famous Flåm railway. Amid spectacular scenery and roaring waterfalls we will descend 900 metres into the picturesque village of Flåm. From here we enjoy a gorgeous fjord cruise to Balestrand where our hotel is located waterside at the junction of the Sognefjord and Esefjord.
Overnight Special Stay: Balestrand
Overnight Special Stay: Balestrand
Day 8: Geiranger
(FB,D)
This morning we travel alongside mountains that are home to Jostedalsbreen, the largest icefield in continental Europe covering 487 square kilometres. SCENIC ENRICH We will visit one of the most photographed and impressive arms of the icefield, Briksdalsbreen, where we will have a truly Norwegian experience and be taken by ‘trollcar’ up the glacier for a spectacular view of the glacier and magnificent waterfall. We will continue via Stryn to Dalsnibba for unforgettable views of Geiranger fjord (weather permitting) before continuing to our hotel.
Two Night Special Stay: Geiranger
Two Night Special Stay: Geiranger
Day 9: Geiranger
(FB,D)
Today’s Included excursion takes us on a cruise of the magnificent Geiranger fjord. Sail past the ‘Seven Sisters’, ‘The Suitor’, and ‘The Bridal Veil’ waterfalls. This afternoon we travel the 11 hairpin turns of the famous Trollstigen, or Troll’s ladder road, for spectacular and unforgettable scenery. Take the time to let yourself be embraced by the majestic landscape.
Day 10: Lillehammer
(FB,D)
Today we say goodbye to fjord Norway and travel alongside soaring mountains, icy glaciers, and cascading waterfalls. We enjoy a visit to the beautifully preserved 12th-century stave church in the community of Lom before continuing our journey through Lillehammer, home of the 1994 Winter Olympics.
Overnight Stay: Lillehammer
Overnight Stay: Lillehammer
Day 11: Stockholm
(FB,D)
Our journey today takes us over the Norway/ Sweden border and south to Karlstad located on the banks of Lake Vänern. In 1905 it was in Karlstad that the peace treaty between Norway and Sweden was signed giving Norway independence as a nation. We have a brief orientation tour of the city before continuing across to the east coast of Sweden and the archipelago that is Stockholm. Stockholm, said to be one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world, is built on 14 islands connected by 57 bridges. The beautiful buildings, the greenery, the fresh air and the proximity to the water are distinctive traits of this city.
Two Night Stay: Stockholm
Two Night Stay: Stockholm
Day 12: Stockholm
(FB,HD)
Our local guide this morning will showcase the treasures this city holds, including the Royal Palace, Riddarholm Church as well as the dazzling gold chamber in the City Hall, home to the annual Nobel Prize Awards. This afternoon we visit the Wasa Ship Museum, where the ornate warship ‘Wasa’ is now housed after it tragically sank on its inaugural voyage in 1628. This evening we say farewell to Scandinavia with our highlight dinner.
Day 13: Stockholm - Amsterdam
(FB,D)
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your short Included 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: Cruise
Next Fourteen Nights: Cruise
Day 14: 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). Back on board, time to relax and enjoy the Captain’s Welcome Dinner.
Day 15: Cologne - Marksburg
(FB,L,HD)
This morning cruise to historic Cologne. Join your guide on an Included tour to explore the Old Town. 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.
Day 16: Rhine Gorge - Rüdesheim
(FB,L,D)
Be sure to have your camera ready today, as we cruise through the spectacular Rhine Gorge, with its stunning vistas of castles perched above steep vine-covered slopes. We arrive at Rüdesheim and board the ‘Winzerexpress’ mini train for an Included guided visit of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum before taking a cable car to the Niederwald Monument.
Day 17: Scenic Village Experience
(FB,L,D)
SCENIC ENRICH Exclusive to Scenic Tours, you will be taken off the beaten track to a number of authentic German villages to mix with the locals and share in their everyday lives. Choose from a selection of activities ranging from cooking classes, industry tours, private castles and family wineries waiting for you to experience. 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 18: 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 19: 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 20: 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 21: 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 22: 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 at Scenic’s exclusive Portobello’s fine dining restaurant.
Day 23: Melk - Dürnstein - Vienna
(FB,L,D)
This morning your ‘Space-Ship’ glides through the spectacular wine region of the Wachau Valley to the picturesque Dürnstein. From here we will visit the nearby town of Melk where we discover the magnificent Benedictine Abbey. During your visit inside the Abbey you will be treated to a SCENIC ENRICH organ recital, performed by one of the housing Benedictine Monks. Back in Dürnstein you will have leisure time to explore one of those most enchanting villages in the region or you may wish to join us for a guided bike tour through the vineyards. Tonight our cruise ship arrives in Vienna.
Day 24: 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. For the more adventurous choose our SCENIC FREE TIME: Self guided audio tour. Afterwards enjoy time at leisure with your Cruise Director on hand to enhance your experience. Perhaps, visit one of the many museums on offer or shop along the famous “Kartnerstrausse”. 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 a magical private Viennese evening concert featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart.
Day 25: Vienna
(FB,L,D)
Today offers three Included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours to choose from: (1) A guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace; or (2) An excursion to the Slovakian capital of Bratislava; or (3) Visit the world’s oldest Classical Dressage institute, The Spanish Riding School for a guided tour or witness the famous Lipizzaner Stallions perfecting their skills during their morning exercise program†.
Day 26: 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 classical music of Hungary and Liszt House and museum.
Day 27: Budapest
(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.
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