Scenic Waterways & Timeless Tales
Experience the heart of Europe in ultra-luxury with Scenic’s all-inclusive river cruises-where historic waterways, romantic towns, exclusive cultural events, and authentic local encounters create an unforgettable journey.
- Package Details
- Itinerary
- Terms and Conditions
ALL-INCLUDED SCENIC LUXURY RIVER CRUISE | BONUS STAY
A region steeped in the history of ancient trade routes, today the rivers of the Rhine, Main and Danube meander through forested hillsides, idyllic vineyards and romantic towns. Cruise the canals of Amsterdam, cruise through the magnificent Rhine Gorge, walk the WWII sites of Nuremberg and taste your way around Budapest's famed Central Market. Scenic guests also enjoy exclusive concerts in iconic locations, sitting in the place of princes and kings. Authentic encounters will introduce you to local people so you can hear their stories and experience a taste of every day life in the heart of Europe.
Package Inclusions:
- Return economy class flights from Australia* to Amsterdam, with your return journey from Budapest
- Looking for more comfort? Ask us about upgrades to Premium Economy or Business Class.
- Want to explore more of Europe? We can help you extend your stay and customise your journey. - Date: 31 August - 01 September 2026
In Amsterdam, you can stroll along scenic canals, explore world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, and experience the city's vibrant cafe culture and historic charm. - Date: 01-15 September 2026, 14 nights Amsterdam to Budapest
Winding through storybook vineyards, forested hills, and fairytale towns, the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers trace the footsteps of ancient trade routes. From cruising Amsterdam's dreamy canals to savouring local flavors in Budapest's famed Central Market, every stop offers a new delight. Wander historic WWII landmarks in Nuremberg, drift through the majestic Rhine Gorge, and enjoy exclusive concerts in grand, iconic settings. Along the way, connect with locals and experience the true heart of Europe - up close and unforgettable. - INCLUDES:
- All meals onboard with multiple dining options, from casual to fine dining
- Complimentary beverages all day onboard
- Mini bar, replenished daily
- Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard
- Personalised butler service
- Complimentary laundry service once per suite
- Scenic Freechoice activities to personalise your trip
- Scenic Cruise Director with expert local guides
- All tipping and gratuities
HIGHLIGHTS
- Gala Dinner and classical concert at La Redoute Recital Hall in Bonn
- Discover iconic Dutch windmills in the village of Schermerhorn
- Explore Siegfried's Musikkabinett Museum's weird and wonderful mechanical musical instruments
- Visit a small German village and meet Baron and Baroness von Mallinckrodt, the current owners of Gamburg Castle
- Romantic Road to Rothenburg, a well-preserved medieval old town that was once an important trading route during Middle Ages.
- Exclusive private classical concert at Palais Liechtenstein - All transfers are pre-arranged for a smooth and stress-free journey.
Amsterdam
31 August 2026 Private transfer from Amsterdam airport to hotel
01 September 2026 Private transfer from Amsterdam hotel to pier
Budapest
15 September 2026 Private transfer from Budapest pier to airport
Itinerary
Day 1 Amsterdam, Netherlands
Upon arrival in Amsterdam, enjoy a seamless start to your adventure with a private premium transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 Amsterdam
Today, after a relaxing breakfast, enjoy a worry-free journey with a private premium transfer to the port from your Amsterdamhotel.
Your journey begins in the picturesque city of Amsterdam. A labyrinth of narrow laneways and canals lined with beautifully preserved 17th-century buildings and charming cafes, the city is a delight to wander.
Board your ultra-luxury 5-star Scenic Space-Ship this afternoon, meet your fellow guests and raise a glass to the start of a fascinating journey ahead of you at this evening's welcome reception.
Day 3 Amsterdam
Scenic Freechoice:
Discover more of the city on one of these excursions:
Canal cruise: Amsterdam has more than 100 kilometres of canals. See some of the prettiest sights of the city on a one-hour cruise along these historic waterways. Admire Golden Age mansions, grand warehouses and narrow bridges.
Walking tour of Amsterdam: Explore Amsterdam on foot, discovering the maze of canals and bridges in the city centre. Your guide will be covering history, modern lifestyle and Dutch culture. You also get to taste herring, a local delicacy not to be missed.
Dutch countryside e-bike tour: Amsterdam is known as the bicycle capital of the world. Take a small ferry to the outskirts of town for a biking tour. Your local guide will be at hand to offer information about everyday life of the Dutch people, many of whom you will see getting around on two wheels.
Excursion to Schermerhorn & Alkmaar: Leave Amsterdam to visit the village of Schermerhorn, home to a number of authentic 16th-century windmills. Then travel to the charming town of Alkmaar, known for its historic buildings and picturesque canals.
Day 4 Cologne > Bonn
Arrive in the 2,000-year-old city of Cologne early this afternoon. Cologne suffered extensive damage during World War II but was painstakingly restored over the following decades. Set out on a walking tour of the Old Town, admiring its historic buildings, beautiful squares and the World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral. Then enjoy some free time to explore the city on your own.
Scenic Enrich
Gala Dinner and classical concert at La Redoute Recital Hall: An exclusive experience awaits you this evening. Travel to Bonn by coach and the magnificent La Redoute recital hall, built in 1792 by the last Elector of Cologne. Sit down to a lavish dinner accompanied by classical music.
Your Scenic Space-Ship will meet you in Bonn later that evening.
Day 5 Rhine Gorge > Rudesheim
Relax on board this morning as you cruise through the picturesque Rhine Gorge, where the landscapes could have been pulled from the pages of a fairytale. This 65-kilometre stretch of the river is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Look out for the Lorelei statue, dedicated to the tragic legend of a beautiful maiden.
This afternoon, disembark in Rudesheim, a pretty town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for more than two millennia. The charming town centre is filled with half-timbered houses lining cobbled streets, quaint shops selling trinkets such as traditional Christmas ornaments and cuckoo clocks, as well as a smattering of wine taverns and open-air beer gardens.
Scenic Freechoice:
Make your selection from this afternoon's Scenic Freechoice tours:
Siegfried's Musikkabinett Museum: Visit Siegfried's Musikkabinett Museum, where a local guide will introduce you to the weird and wonderful mechanical musical instruments. Then explore on your own or take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument.
Hike & Cable Car: Join a local guide for a hike through the rolling vineyards of Rudesheim and enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and Rhine River below. After your hike, board the cable car to return to town.
Day 6 Miltenberg > Wertheim
Relax on board this morning as you cruise towards Miltenberg. You may like to book a massage in the spa^ or relax in the exclusive Salt Therapy Lounge, which has natural anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
This afternoon, dock in Miltenberg. Located on the banks of the River Main, this historic town is one of the best preserved in Germany, home to hundreds of pastel-coloured half-timbered houses and one of the country’s oldest inns, Zum Riesen. Today is all about connecting with culture and meeting the locals.
Scenic Freechoice:
This afternoon, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice tours that will immerse you in local life.
Wertheim tour and winery: Start your excursion in Miltenberg, another historic town filled with half-timbered houses for an orientation tour and some free time. Then visit the nearby town of Wertheim before visiting a local winery to meet the winemaker and learn about the production process.
Gamburg Castle tour: Visit the town of Gamburg for a guided tour of Gamburg Castle. Here you will also meet the Baron and Baroness for a private reception and learn about their modern aristocratic life over a glass of sparkling wine.
Miltenberg tour and local farm visit: Take a guided tour of Miltenberg, then visit a charming, family-owned farmstead. Meet the owners, discover the rhythms of daily farm life, get up close with the animals, and enjoy tastings of local delicacies made right on the farm.
Schnapps tasting: After an orientation tour and free time in Miltenberg, visit a local schnapps distiller to understand how this flavoured liqueur is produced. Enjoy a tasting of the multiple flavours before transferring to the town of Wertheim where you will meet your ship.
Day 7 Wurzburg
With its lavish Baroque and Rococo architecture, you'll be captivating by the glamorous port of Wurzburg. This city straddles the Main River in the heart of Franconian wine country. Surrounded by undulating vineyards, Wurzburg is home to a World Heritage-listed palace, a dominating hilltop fortress, the 15th century Old Main Bridge, and three universities, including Bavaria's oldest.
Scenic Freechoice:
Walking tour and Wurzburg Residence: Visit the Wurzburg Residence, a Baroque palace surrounded by manicured gardens, for a guided tour to see its many valuable paintings, tapestries and period furniture. Then take a short stroll into the city for some free time.
Romantic Road to Rothenburg: From Wurzburg, drive by coach to Rothenburg along the famed Romantic Road, an important trading route during the Middle Ages. Take a guided tour of the well-preserved medieval old town and enjoy some free time to explore on your own.
This afternoon, sit back with a drink on the Sun Deck or in the privacy of your suite as you enjoy the scenery while cruising towards to city of Bamberg.
Day 8 Bamberg
Dock in picturesque Bamberg after lunch. You could spend this morning relaxing in your spacious suite or enjoying the vistas of the Main River from the Sun deck.
Built on seven hills, this World Heritage-listed town has surprises at every turn. Intersected by rivers and canals, Bamberg’s Old Town is resplendent with cobblestoned streets and well-preserved medieval buildings. Admire the charming Town Hall which occupies an island on its own, a Gothic and Romanesque-style cathedral, and the Old and New Residences – comprising an episcopal palace, a pretty ‘Little Venice’ and a 12th century castle that teeters on the highest of the seven hills.
Scenic Freechoice:
Stay in Bamberg or choose to explore further afield:
Guided tour of Bamberg Old Town: Bamberg is known for its charming World Heritage-listed Old Town, one of Europe’s largest intact old town centres. Learn about its fascinating history as you wander through stunning Medieval and Baroque buildings on a guided city tour.
Excursion to Coburg: Journey via coach to Coburg. Visit the impressive castle, which looks over the city, and is considered one of the largest and best-preserved forts in Germany. Its museum houses a large collection of carriages, weapons, armoury and paintings by renowned artists.
Day 9 Nuremberg
Arrive in Nuremberg, Bavaria’s second-largest city,where the Old Town is protected by an ancient city wall. The city is dominated by one of the most significant imperial forts of the Holy Roman Empire, the 12th century Imperial Castle, which was the preferred residence of German kings.
Behind its charming façade, Nuremberg also has a turbulent history. During WWII, the city was favoured by the Nazis for party rallies and many of the anti-Jewish laws began here. By 1945, the city was reduced to rubble, including large sections of the Imperial Castle and Old Town. After the war, Nazi leaders were tried here for their war crimes.
Scenic Freechoice:
Make your choice from today’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:
Guided tour of Nuremberg Old Town: Drive into Nuremberg’s city centre, passing by the ancient city walls, then join your local guide for a walking tour of the Old Town to see the Imperial Castle, St. Egidien’s Church and the market square.
World War II tour: Your local guide will highlight the main events that occurred in Nuremberg during the Nazi regime. Learn about this dark time in Germany's history and visit some of the most important sites.
Nuremberg's Castle and City Walls: The historic city of Nuremberg is yours to explore during this active walking tour. Follow the cobblestone streets surrounding the Imperial castle and admire the impressive city walls that remain since medieval times.
This afternoon you will depart towards Regensburg.
Day 10 Regensburg
You will arrive in Regensburg after lunch today. Boasting a staggering 2,000-year history, Regensburg has one of Germany’s best preserved medieval town centres, with more than 900 of its Romanesque and Gothic buildings listed as World Heritage sites. Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country.
Scenic Freechoice:
Today, Regensburg offers a selection of Scenic Freechoice activities to choose from:
Walking tour of Regensburg: On the confluence of three rivers in Bavaria, Regensburg is known as the best-preserved medieval city in Germany. Guests will join a walking tour with a local guide to see the old stone bridge, the Church of St James, and the Porta Praetoria.
Weltenburg Abbey: Take a ferry through the Danube Gorge to Weltenburg Abbey, the oldest monastery in Bavaria, founded by monks in approximately 600AD. Explore the Abbey and Cloister Church, then sample the award-winning beer produced on site since 1050.
Thurn und Taxis Active Walking Tour: Join an active walking tour from the ship to Thurn und Taxis Castle, for a guided tour followed by free time. Thurn und Taxis is a German noble family who can trace their history back to the 12th century.
Cycle to Walhalla Memorial: Cycle through the wonderful scenery of the Donau Valley along the river and through the countryside, to Walhalla Memorial. Commissioned by King Ludwig l of Bavaria, Walhalla Memorial honours notable Germans from past centuries.
Day 11 Passau > Schlogen
Arrive in Passau early this morning. Set at the meeting point of three rivers and close to the border with Austria, it was an important trading point for centuries. It was also a significant town in the Holy Roman Empire and the charming Old Town was mostly built by powerful prince-bishops in an Italianate style.
Scenic Freechoice:
Take your pick from the following Scenic Freechoice excursions.
Full day excursion to Salzburg: Cross the border into Salzburg, Austria, a storybook city surrounded by alpine peaks and best known as the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. On a guided tour, learn about its art and music scene, visit Mozart’s birthplace, and see the vast Hohensalzburg fortress. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and some free time.
Full day excursion to Ceský Krumlov: Journey to the Czech town of Ceský Krumlov, a World Heritage site brimming with charm. Explore with your local guide, admire the well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant.
Highlights of Passau: Join your local guide on a walking tour, admiring the brightly coloured buildings that line the waterways. Visit St Stephens Cathedral, originally built in the year 450 but destroyed by fire in 1662 and rebuilt in the Baroque style.
Day 12 Durnstein > Krems
Spend this morning in Durnstein, a small and picturesque town in Austria's scenic Wachau Valley. Enjoy some free time to explore this World Heritage-listed town, perched on the edge of the Danube River and surrounded by ancient, terraced vineyards.
Scenic Freechoice:
Today offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from:
Gottweig Abbey: Founded in the sixth century, the abbey burned down during the 18th century and rebuilt to be one of the most magnificent in the Wachau Valley. Your local guide will show you its magnificent frescoes as well as the staircase, the largest Baroque staircase in Austria.
Wachau Valley wine tasting: The Wachau valley is one of the prominent regions for wine growing in Austria. Today you'll visit a local winemaker and learn about the age-old traditions of winemaking while sampling the delicious wines produced on site.
E-biking from Durnstein to Krems: Join your guide on a bicycle tour along the Danube to the quaint village of Krems. Pass by charming villages and scenic vineyard landscapes. You will have time to stop along the way to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Danube.
Day 13 Vienna
Welcome to Vienna, the capital of Austria and a centre of art, music and culture. The city fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, and oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces, a vibrant coffee-house scene, and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.
Join your local guide and take a coach ride from the ship to Vienna’s city centre, where you will embark on a walking tour to see highlights such as the Opera House, St Stephen's Cathedral and Belvedere Palace. The ship will be docked overnight, so this afternoon you are free to wander around the city or relax on board your Scenic Space-Ship.
Scenic Enrich
Classical concert at Palais Liechtenstein: Breathe in the opulence and luxury of Palais Liechtenstein this evening as you relish an exclusive private classical concert. Enjoy a glass of fine Austrian Sekt and listen to the timeless music of Strauss and Mozart performed by a renowned orchestra. Accompanied by ballet dancers and vocalists, and surrounded by world-famous art, this will be a concert that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
Day 14 Vienna
Wake this morning with Vienna on your doorstep. A city full of grandeur, Austria’s imperial capital is famous for having the world’s most beautiful boulevard, The Ringstrasse, and for the legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. Slow down and spend a full day exploring Vienna or venture further afield.
Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice activities:
Schonbrunn Palace: Explore Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family. Wander its ornately designed rooms, hear tales about the royal family that lives here and see the impressive gardens.
Cycle to Danube Island: Explore a different side of Vienna on a guided e-bike tour to Danube Island, a recreational playground where locals come for bathing, boating, cycling and relaxing on its beaches and open spaces.
Excursion to Bratislava: Travel to Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993. This modern multicultural metropolis has an intriguing history. The glorious Old Town and well-preserved hilltop castle contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture. Your local guide will show you Bratislava Castle, the Hlavné Námestie, the main square and the Old Town Hall.
Day 15 Budapest
This morning you will arrive in Budapest, the capital of Hungary and one of Europe’s most diverse and vibrant cities. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. It’s an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths, and has a vibrant nightlife scene.
Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from a range of Scenic Freechoice activities on offer this morning:
Budapest in depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Starting in Buda, see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side to see Széchenyi square and Elizabeth square. End your tour with a mesmerising piano recital at the Institute for the Blind.
Budapest’s past and present: This walking and coach tour will give insight on Budapest’s communist past and life today as part of the European Union, including the 1956 Hungarian revolution and the significant Jewish events that have shaped modern culture.
Hospital in the Rock: Go underground to explore the labyrinths of the Hospital in the Rock, set underneath the city's Castle district. The complex was built as a secret hospital during WWII and was later converted to a nuclear bunker.
Guided hike of Buda: Strap on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike through the Buda district of the city. On your walk, see Varket Bazar and beautifully landscaped gardens, all while enjoying great views over the Danube River and the city architecture.
Hungarian culinary market tour: This foodie tour in Budapest promises an unforgettable journey through the city’s culinary delights. Visit the bustling Grand Central Market, taste local delicacies and hear fascinating stories about the city’s traditions.
This afternoon is at leisure.
Day 16 Budapest
Your journey concludes this morning. After one final breakfast on board, depart with a lifetime of memories. Upon disembarkation, enjoy a smooth conclusion to your journey with a private transfer to Budapest airport.
This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.
Terms and Conditions Terms and Conditions apply: All prices are quoted in Australian dollars, based on per person double occupancy unless stated otherwise, and inclusive of all taxes and discounts. All prices & itineraries are current as of 08 October 2025 & subject to change without notice. Prices are subject to change due to availability, currency fluctuations, fuel price, and tax increases. Oceanview and Balcony cabins may have obstructed views, please check with your consultant. Price includes any stated bonus nights, upgrades & package savings, if applicable. All passports, visas, travel permits, and vaccinations are the responsibility of the travelling passenger to secure prior to travel. Airfares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice, based in economy class from Sydney and are subject to the carriers' flight schedules and conditions. Seasonal and flight routing surcharges may apply. Flight may not be direct and may required more than 1 transit. Airfares are based on the lowest available fare, which comes with strict conditions i.e., non-refundable, or non-changeable. Please ask your consultant for pricing on flexible fare options that allow cancellations and/or amendments at a fee. Please call us for prices from other airports. Travel packages advertised may include multiple products provided by several suppliers to provide a travel itinerary. Each component of the package will be treated independent of each other, and the specific terms & conditions of each product supplier will apply. Hotels may charge resort fees, or a security bond not included or mentioned in this package, payable direct upon check-in. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty.
Scenic Waterways & Timeless Tales
Includes:- Cruise
- Flights
- Hotel
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