Majestic Britain & Ireland with Edinburgh Military Tattoo & Normandy & Gems of the Seine

Start your journey in the heart of Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital, with a two-night stay in a luxurious hotel.

Set on the banks of the River Liffey, Dublin was founded by the Vikings who named the city Dubh Linn, which means ‘Black Pool’ after the tidal pool that formed where the River Poddle met the Liffey. The city is magnificent with Georgian architecture, grand squares and historic monuments, and is steeped in culture and oozes charisma with a touch of hedonism.

This morning your local guide will help you discover the history and charm of Dublin on a walking tour. See The Mansion House, the official residence of Dublin’s Lord Mayor, Dublin Castle, which was constructed in the 13th century on the site of a Viking Settlement, and the old Post Office, the heart of Dublin’s history and culture for more than 800 years. You will also see 19th century Fitzwilliam Square, St. Stephen’s Green Park, the Molly Malone statue, the old Parliament House and City Hall.

Freechoice: Choose how you want to conclude your morning exploration with Scenic Freechoice:

• Historical Ireland: Discover Dublin’s fascinating past on a guided tour: learn about the Irish Revolution, ‘the Irish War of Independence’, a decade long conflict between the British state and Irish republican guerrillas and visit the EPIC – The Irish Emigration Museum to gain a deep understanding of what it means to be Irish.
• Guinness Storehouse: Visit the Guinness Storehouse and factory to learn how this famous brew is made. After your guided tour, learn how to pull the perfect pint and enjoy a tasting from the 7th floor, which has a spectacular vantage point overlooking the city of Dublin. (B/D)

Today you will travel to Killarney, stopping along the way to visit the 600-year-old Blarney Castle. Explore the castle ruins and see the legendary ‘Stone of Eloquence’, more commonly known as the Blarney Stone. Legend says if you kiss it, you will receive the ‘gift of the gab’. Over the years, famous people such as Sir Winston Churchill, Ronald Raegan and Mick Jagger have puckered up to the ancient stone.

Afterwards, continue to Killarney for a two-night stay, a charming town nestled in a valley surrounded by Ireland’s highest mountain range, the McGillycuddy Reeks. (B/D)

Today you will experience the gob-smacking scenery of the Ring of Kerry, renowned as one of the most picturesque landscapes in Ireland. Here, the Iveragh Mountains dramatically drop into the Atlantic Ocean, where rolling green hills dotted with cows and sheep, are punctuated by sparkling lakes, grand houses and ancient castles. Watch as tiny fishing villages and off-shore islands come in and out of view as you wind along this 100-kilometre route, which will captivate you at every bend. (B)

Today you will drive along the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way to the Cliffs of Moher, a wind-whipped geological wonder that stretch for eight kilometres and soar to 214 metres above the crashing sea below.

Arrive in the vibrant city of Galway for an overnight stay. The only city along the entire 2,500-kilometre Wild Atlantic Way, Galway is a remote, bohemian city that is rich in creative culture. Its cobbled streets are lined with candy-coloured shopfronts, cafes and bars, which serve exceptional Irish food and are alive with traditional music. (B)

Today you will be making your way to Northern Ireland, stopping enroute to visit the Monastery of Clonmacnoise. Founded in the 6th century, it was a university of its time with students travelling here from all over Europe. The ruins offer a rare insight into the monastic life of this period. The site includes the ruins of a cathedral, seven churches, three high crosses and the largest collection of Early Christian grave slabs.

Continue to Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, where you will stay for two nights. Set on the shores of the Belfast Lough and overlooked by rugged Cave Hill, this lively city is the gateway to the dramatic Causeway Coastal Route, is where the Titanic was built and more recently has served as several filming locations for Game of Thrones. (B/D)

Belfast is a port city with a fascinating history. Learn about its troubled past during a guided tour. Afterwards discover the story of Titanic, from its design and build to its fateful ending. You will have the opportunity to hear some fascinating facts about the great ship and learn about the architectural design from the spot where the ship was launched. (B)

This morning, cross the Irish Sea by ferry to Scotland, where you will travel to Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s best-known lakes (loch means lake in Scotland) and the largest in Great Britain by surface area. This evening, check into your historic hotel for a two-night stay. (B/D)

Loch Lomond may be known for its breathtaking waterway, but Stirling Castle is one of the region’s most iconic castles. Home to multiple generations of Scottish royalty, including the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots, you will walk through the ancient halls of this castle, which possesses a rich storied history. You will see the Great Hall, the largest medieval banqueting hall ever built in Scotland, and the elaborate Royal Chapel. (B)

Journey to Loch Ness, a corner of the Scottish Highlands that is known for its dramatic scenery and the fabled Loch Ness monster. Keep an eye out for this elusive creature, also known as ‘Nessie’, a large prehistoric reptile believed to be living in the loch. There have been thousands of alleged sightings since the 1930s, including photographs emerging all the time, though there is no scientific evidence that Nessie exists. Nonetheless, the great folklore of the Loch Ness continues to draw in visitors far and wide. (B/D)

Known as Scotland’s Highland Capital, Inverness sits where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth, an inlet of the North Sea. Its history dates to the early Middle Ages when it was inhabited by the ancient Picts tribe. Their name is thought to mean ‘the painted ones’, and there is suggestion that they decorated themselves with tattoos and dyed their skin blue.

Today you will visit the Battle of Culloden Visitors Centre, where you will learn about the 1745 Jacobite rising and hear tales of the battle that is often described as one of the most brutal in Scottish history. Then you will discover 14th century Cawdor Castle, which is still inhabited by the Cawdor family and comprises a moat, drawbridge, turrets and turnpike stairs. (B)

This morning you will depart the Highlands bound for Edinburgh. On the way, you will enjoy a Scenic Enrich experience at Scone Palace.

Enrich:

• Falconry Display: Travel to Scone Palace, the capital of the Pict kingdom, the seat of parliaments and the crowning place of Scottish kings including Macbeth. In the palace grounds you will be treated to a delicious morning tea accompanied by an impressive demonstration of Falconry. Known as the 'sport of Kings' this ancient art has a history that dates back almost 4,000 years.

Afterwards, continue to Edinburgh, on arrival visit a local distillery to learn how famous Scottish Whiskey is produced. One of the most architecturally beautiful cities in the world, Edinburgh has been Scotland’s capital since the 15th century. (B/D)

Explore Edinburgh’s ancient, cobbled streets and well-preserved medieval and classical architecture today during a guided tour. This historic city was founded upon volcanic Castle Rock, where Edinburgh Castle – one of the oldest fortified castles in Europe – sits today. You will visit this impressive castle, as well as Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht of Queen Elizabeth II.

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps, wander down the city’s Royal Mile, which is buzzing with stores, cafes, bars, and often street performers. This road connects the two royal residences, stretching from Holyrood Palace to Edinburgh Castle.

Tonight, you will have the pleasure of witnessing the Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This annual event is celebrated at Edinburgh Castle and is an artistic performance by British Armed Forces, Commonwealth and international military bands. (B)

Travel to the English city of York today on a First Class train journey. This fascinating medieval city is nestled within ancient city walls and has Roman and Viking roots. (B)

This morning you will meet a local guide who will escort you through this delightful city seeing all the Roman and Viking heritage that is on offer. Walk along The Shambles, the narrow medieval street lined with half-timbered houses and traditional shop fronts and see the impressive York Minster, said to be one of the most beautiful gothic churches in the world. (B)

Enroute to the Roman city of Bath, you will stop in the charming town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Enjoy an orientation tour to see where the famous Bard was born, learn about his life and see his final resting place.

This afternoon you’ll arrive in Bath and check into your hotel?for a two-night stay. The city of Bath has been a spa town since Roman times thanks to the mineral waters with restorative properties that bubble beneath its surface. It was also the home of Jane Austen and was frequented by Charles Dickens. (B)

Discover beautiful Bath on a guided walking tour. The UK’s only city designated as a World Heritage-listed Site, the town is resplendent in honey-coloured Georgian architecture, stately Palladian townhouses and the renowned Roman Baths, constructed in 70AD.

This afternoon is at leisure to explore the city at your own pace. Perhaps you would like to pack your swimsuit and make your way to the contemporary Thermae Bath Spa, to experience the therapeutic waters that make this city world-famous, or climb the 212 steps to the top of Abbey Tower for a panoramic view over the ancient city and surrounding countryside. (B)

On your way to London, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the mythical wonders of Stonehenge, perhaps the world's most famous prehistoric monument. It is estimated that this World Heritage Site is around 5,000 years old. See the Stone Circle, neolithic villages and learn more at the exhibition.

Afterwards, you will continue to the English capital, London. This inimitable city needs little introduction, being home to some of the most recognisable historic landmarks in the world, including Big Ben, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. Among the city’s 2,000-year history, you’ll find bustling pubs, the charismatic West End theatre district, world-class museums, and the glorious River Thames that snakes through its centre. (B)

Today you will explore London with a local guide, seeing highlights such as Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace, the King’s official London residence and where the world-famous Changing of the Guard ceremony takes place. You’ll also visit the Tower of London, a fortress built by William the Conqueror in 1070, which has been used as a prison, a palace, and is now the home of the Crown Jewels, the nation’s most precious treasure, which we most recently saw at the coronation of King Charles III.

This afternoon is at leisure to explore the city on your own. Perhaps you’d like to take a cruise along the River Thames, make a visit to one of the city’s world-class art galleries, relax in Hyde Park, or step inside Westminster Abbey, where some of the most important events in Royal history have occurred. (B/D)

Today travel to Paris, the City of Lights. The French capital is home to some of the world’s most famous monuments, from the Eiffel Tower to the Arc de Triomphe; museums that contain masterpieces such as Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and Van Gogh’s Self Portrait; and iconic public spaces from elegant tree-lined Champs-Elysee to its urban oasis Jardin des Tuileries. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time to this romantic city, there is always something new to discover. Your journey will also culminate in Paris where you’ll have the opportunity to scratch the surface a little more.

Upon arrival, transfer to your Scenic Space-Ship where your friendly crew await to welcome you on board. Relax in your luxurious suite or take a beverage to the Sun Deck. (B/D)

This morning will be spent cruising towards Les Andelys. This riverfront medieval town is set on one of the prettiest bends of the Seine, resplendent with well-preserved Norman-era houses and exquisite public buildings and overlooked by the imposing ruins of King Richard the Lionheart’s castle, Château Gaillard. Take a stroll alongside the river, admiring the striking limestone cliffs rising from it, or through the charming centre of town where the buildings are a living catalogue through time.

Freechoice: Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Hike to Château Gaillard with 'Richard the Lionheart': Step back to the age of Robin Hood. This Medieval-themed walking tour will follow in the footsteps of King Richard the Lionheart. Explore the historical secrets of Les Andelys and venture up to Lionheart’s castle of Château Gaillard to wander among the ruins. From here you will have a panoramic view of the river and surrounding countryside.
• Tour of Les Andelys with Chateau Gaillard: Explore the picturesque Norman town of Les Andelys on the banks of the river Seine with your local guide before reaching the Chateau that look over the city.
• Excursion to Lyons la Forêt: Today you will discover Lyons la Forêt, regarded as one of the most beautiful villages in France. This delightful town is surrounded by one of the largest beech forests in Europe and comprises half-timbered houses dating to the 17th and 18th century in typical Normandy style. After exploring the town, you will visit Le Pressoir d'or where you will learn how local cider is produced as well as enjoying a sample. (B/L/D)

Rouen is the vibrant capital of the Normandy region. With a fascinating history of Roman and Viking settlement, it has also played a pivotal place in history as the town where Richard the Lionheart was crowned Duke of Normandy and Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake. Much of Rouen was sadly destroyed in World War II, but much of the city has been faithfully restored, including the exquisite Old Town. It’s an engaging and historically rich destination, packed with museums, stylish bistros and coffee shops, and a wealth of churches, including the famed 12th century Rouen Cathedral.

Freechoice: Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Rouen city tour: Victor Hugo once described Rouen as ‘the city of a hundred spires’ – find out why on a guided tour of the city, which takes you to the cathedral district, the old marketplace and Saint Maclou Quarter, home to a striking church. Feel as though you’ve stepped into a fairytale as you walk the winding medieval laneways and admire the half-timbered houses. Learn about Joan of Arc and see where she was tragically put to death after being tried for heresy and sorcery in 1431. Enjoy free time afterwards to explore on your own.
• Guided tour of Rouen with Rollo the Viking: Authentically dressed as Viking warlord Rollo the Walker – who was famously too tall to ride a horse – your guide will take you around the city to learn about the Viking raiders who made Rouen their capital. This tour focuses on the city’s medieval past and you will enjoy some free time afterwards to explore.
• Photography discovery: Join a local photographer to learn the secret of this century's old art form. Use Rouen as the landscape of your digital portrait like a modern impressionist artist.

Back on board this evening, listen to a fascinating lecture about WWI with an expert.

WWI Lecture – Day in the life of Tommy: Join a lecture on WWI with a speaker who is dressed up in a soldier’s uniform. During this interactive evening, you will be able to gain understanding into the life of a soldier on the Western Front and learn why this was known as ‘the Great War’. From the curious 1914 Christmas armistice football match to the horrors of trench warfare involving machine guns, tanks, mining and the deadly flamethrower, you will experience the war through the eyes of an allied soldier, ‘a Tommy’. Try on his equipment and weapons and taste his rations. This immersive journey is bound to be an emotional one that will bring the history of war to life.

This evening, a local pâtissier will come on board with a selection of their finest desserts for your dining pleasure. (B/L/D)

Today you’ll have the opportunity to join an excursion to the Somme Battlefields or take a walking tour from the ship to Rouen’s Fine Art Museum.

Freechoice:

• Excursion to the Somme Battlefields including Newfoundland Memorial Park: Take a full day excursion to the Somme Battlefields, the location of the infamous Battle of the Somme which claimed the lives of more than 150,000 soldiers from Britain and the Commonwealth. This tour will take you to the Australian National Memorial (Sir John Monash Centre) to pay tribute to the 10,773 Australian soldiers killed in WWI in France who have no known graves (with the exception of Fromelles). Afterwards you will visit the Franco-Australian Museum, which pays homage to the close relationship between the French and Australians soldiers during and after the war. After lunch, you will visit the Lochnagar Crater, which was created by a large mine placed beneath the German front lines on the first day of the Battle of Somme, and the Newfoundland Memorial Park, one of the largest areas on the Western Front where you can still see shell holes and trenches.
• Excursion to the Somme Battlefields Including Thiepval: This full-day excursion will follow the same itinerary as the tour above, visiting the Somme Battlefields, the Australian National Memorial (Sir John Monash Centre) and the Franco-Australian Museum. After lunch, you will be transferred to Caterpillar Valley Cemetery, which contains more than 5,500 Commonwealth graves from WWI, then visit Thiepval Memorial to the Missing and Visitor's Centre, and Lochnagar Crater, which was created by large mine placed beneath the German front lines on the first day of the Battle of Somme.
• Tastes of Normandy: The region of Normandy is as diverse as it is abundant. The dairy industry makes way for the numerous and delicious soft creamy cheeses that are popular in this area and often regarded as some of the best in France. The high number of quality orchards allow the production of Cider and Calvados. Try some of the best this region has to offer during this tour.

Please note: The Sir John Monash Centre is a state-of-the-art immersive sensory experience that uses technology to tell the story. In order to maximise your experience, we suggest you download the Sir John Monash Centre app from the Apple or Google Play store prior to embarking on your cruise. (B/L/D)

This morning your Scenic Space-Ship will dock right in the centre of Honfleur, a colourful coastal town that has been described as having one of the prettiest harbours in France, Le Vieux Bassin. Originally built for trade, the port was chosen for its strategic position on the southern bank of the Seine estuary. Over the years the town has captured the imaginations of countless artists and was the birthplace of impressionism. The bustling harbour and cobbled streets are a confection of half-timbered houses, restaurants, gourmet shops and art galleries. It’s an easy walk from the ship to explore the harbour area and network of laneways beyond.

From the ship, join a guided walking tour of Honfleur’s harbour. You will see the Church of Sainte-Catherine, which dates to the 15th century and is France’s largest church to be made entirely of wood with a separate belfry. Then visit the Garden of Personalities, a 10-hectare landscaped garden that features the busts of important French figures over time, including painters and navigators.

Back on board this evening, join a lecture about WWII to gain a better understanding ahead of your full-day excursions tomorrow.

History comes alive with an interactive lecture on the battles of WWII. Discover what life was like during the campaigns of D-Day; learn about Operation Fortitude, the plan created to deceive the Germany Army on the location of D-Day; and see how technology had evolved since WWI. (B/L/D)

Why not ask your butler to wake you with a coffee delivered to your suite, followed by a leisurely breakfast at Crystal Dining before heading off on your Scenic Freechoice excursions.

You could choose to learn about the D-Day Landings, where tens of thousands of allied troops came ashore to free north-western Europe from Nazi occupation. Six weeks of heavy fighting and losses followed, but this strategic campaign ultimately ended the war.

Freechoice: Choose from todays’ Scenic Freechoice activities:

• Excursion to the Normandy Beaches Including Omaha Beachn (US Focused): Start at the memorial on Utah Beach, where more than 20,000 US troops landed on June 6, 1944, before a visit of Sainte-mere-Eglise, the town where 30 US Paratroopers landed during the Normandy Invasion. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Visitor Centre before a short stop at the Omaha Beach Memorial. Omaha Beach is often referred to as ‘Bloody Omaha’, as it resulted in the most casualties during the operation, with 2,400 dead.
• Excursion to the Normandy Beaches Including British Normandy Memorial (UK focused): The small town of Bayeux was the first town to be liberated after the D-Day Landings and became the French capital for the summer of 1944, until the liberation of Paris. Visit the Bayeux War Cemetery and the Museum of the Battle of Normandy, which describes the chronological events from D-Day in detail. Then explore the new state-of-the-art Landing Museum at Arromanches, located across the artificial harbour that was built to dispatch reinforcements. After lunch at a local restaurant, you will visit the British Normandy Memorial, which records the names of 22,442 fallen servicemen and women under British command; the Pegasus Bridge & Museum, site of an important battle; and stop at the Ranville War Cemetery.
• Excursion to the Normandy Beaches Including Juno Beach Centre (Canadian Focused): Begin at Abbey d’Ardenne, which was founded in the 11th century and is now a memorial to the Canadian Prisoners of War from the D-Day landings. Next you will head to Juno Beach Centre, a memorial to where 20,000 Canadian troops landed on that day. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Bény-sur-Mer Canadian cemetery where the 335 Canadian men who were killed in the D-Day Landings and the early stages of the campaign are buried. You’ll also visit Pegasus Bridge & Museum, site of an important battle.
• Bayeux tour with tapestry visit: If your interest sits in a different era in history, join a guided tour of Bayeux, including the Notre Dame Cathedral of Bayeux, built between the 11th and 14th centuries and considered a masterpiece of Norman Romanesque and Gothic architecture. You will also visit the Bayeux Tapestry, an 11th century embroidered cloth nearly 70 metres long and 50 centimetres tall, which tells the story of the conquest of England by the Duke of Normandy. You will have free time afterward to explore the town of Bayeux. (B/L/D)

Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Caudebec-En-Caux this morning. This small town is set on a curve of the Seine and the riverfront is lined with handsome homes, stately gardens and crumbling stone walls. Caudebec -En-Caux dates back to the Middle Ages and a handful of historic buildings survived the bombardments of WWII, including the ornate 15th century Notre Dame Caudebec-En-Caux. From where you’ll set out to explore more of the Normandy region.

Freechoice: Explore your way this morning with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Cycle to Villequier with Victor Hugo Museum: Enjoy an active biking tour to the charming village of Villequier, cycling along the banks of the River Seine, following a flat eight-kilometre-each way route. Visit the museum dedicated to Victor Hugo, the famous French poet, playwright and novelist before returning to the ship.
• Fecamp and Benedictine Palace: Take a coach transfer to Fecamp, an historic seaside town surrounded by some of the tallest cliffs in Normandy. You will join a guided tour of the Benedictine Palace, an architectural masterpiece built in the 19th century, famous for the Benedictine liquor that is produced on site and is said to contain 27 plants and spices. Enjoy a tasting during your visit.
• Tales of the French Resistance: Set off on a walking tour and hear stories of the French Resistance, who fought against the Nazi Occupation of France during World War 2. Hear local stories of heroism and daring missions as you explore the historic city.
• Normandy Abbey Road: Spiritual health and wealth has been important in the Normandy region since the middle ages and evidence of this remains through the number of Abbeys in this region. Join a local guide on a tour of the abbeys along the meandering River Seine. Appreciate the Jumièges Abbey ruins, formally a Benedictine Abbey that dates back to the year 654 and also the 11th century Romanesque Abbey and its’ romantic garden. (B/L/D)

This morning your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Vernon, an historic border town between the Duchy of Normandy and the Kingdom of France. Today it’s a great base to explore nearby Giverny, known for its most famous resident, artist Claude Monet, who turned this quiet riverside town into an artist pilgrimage.

Freechoice:

• Monet's House and Garden: Claude Monet is renowned as the founder of French Impressionist painting and today you will visit his house and gardens. Built by Monet, the gardens comprise a Japanese-inspired water garden with lilies, which inspired his most famous works. Journey via coach from Vernon to Giverny, on arrival you will enjoy a guided tour of the town and visit Monet’s residence, followed by free time to explore at your own leisure. The town is surrounded by hillsides and features many walking paths that are fringed by wildflowers.
• Self-guided cycle from Vernon to Giverny: Take a self-guided biking tour from the ship in Vernon to Giverny (approximately five kilometres each way). When you arrive, you may wish to visit Monet’s House and Garden or wander about this charming town, before returning to the ship.

After exploring these beautiful gardens during this morning’s touring, you may feel inspired to create a masterpiece of your own during an on board painting class.

This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will sail towards La Roche Guyon, where this evening’s exclusive Scenic Enrich experience will take place.

Enrich:

• Château de La Roche Guyon: Take a short walk from the ship to Château La Roche Guyon, which is built into a chalk hillside and dates to the 16th century. It features decorative walls and ceilings as well as tapestries, and during WWII was the headquarters for German field marshal Erwin Rommel, known as Desert Fox. On your way to the château, you will pass through the manicured orchard and vegetable gardens, which are kept by nine on-site gardeners. On arrival you’ll enjoy a drink and sit for a splendid classical concert that focuses on music by French composers. (B/L/D)

Wake this morning in Conflans-Saint-Honore, a medieval town located at the confluence of the River Seine and Oise. Though it’s just a short distance from the centre of the city, it feels a world away. A castle was built here by monks in the 9th century to protect the relics of Saint Honore, from whom the town gets its name. It became a popular pilgrimage site in the 11th century, a practice which lasted for more than 700 years. Wander the quiet streets and the riverside pathway, sip coffee at an open-air café, and admire the beautiful ancient church. From here, you can explore some of the outer regions of Paris.

Freechoice: Today, choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities:

• Visit to Auvers-Sur-Oise: Transfer to the village of Auvers-Sur-Oise, the place where Vincent Van Gogh painted his final masterpieces, by coach. Throughout the town guests will see landmarks that were immortalised by Van Gogh in some of his well-known artworks such as the famous Notre Dame de l'Assomption church. The tour includes entry to Van Gogh’s room, an attic that he rented during his final months. The artist was the last occupant of this room, which has sat empty since 1890. Enjoy free time afterwards to wander through the village.
• Chantilly Castle and Gardens: Château de Chantilly is a magnificent tribute to France’s cultural heritage, built by Henri D'Orleans, the son of the last King of France. Take a guided tour of the castle and gardens, including some free time to explore the grounds. The château showcases some of the fine collections D’Orleans amassed during his life, which you can see displayed elegantly in the large gallery as well as the grand living areas used by this family.
• Kayaking on River Oise: Explore this beautiful region from a different perspective as you glide along the River Oise, which flows into the River Seine at Conflans. Paddle past impressive landscapes and estates via kayak.

This afternoon you’ll spend time on board as your Scenic Space-Ship cruises back to Paris. Relax with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar, take some time out in the wellness centre, where you can enjoy a massage, or head to the state-of-the-art gym for an invigorating workout. (B/L/D)

Welcome back to Paris, where you will spend the day exploring this great city. First timers will love the highlights tour, which allows you to tick off bucket-list items such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, while return visitors may want to discover the trendy Marais District or Opera Garnier, an opulent architectural masterpiece built in the 19th century. Or take a tour south-east of the city to an exquisite château.

Freechoice: Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice options:

• Trendy Marais with a local Parisian: Enjoy a guided walking tour of the Marais district with a Parisian guide. A melting pot of cultures, fascinating history, opulent architecture, an eclectic arts scene and high-end fashion, the Marais is one of the most diverse districts in Paris.
• Highlights of Paris city tour: Join a local guide on a coach tour of the city to see some of its most famous sites. Marvel at Paris' most iconic landmark, the Eiffel Tower, which was built in 1889 for the World Exhibition; drive along the famous Champs Elysee, the world’s most beautiful avenue; and see the Arc de Triomphe and Concorde Square. You will also view the 1163-built Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, which has been closed since the 2019 fire and is currently undergoing a painstaking restoration process.
• Opera Garnier: Located in the theatrical heart of Paris, the spectacular Opera Garnier is resplendent with ornately decorated rooms, grand staircases, and glistening chandeliers. Tour this opera house and learn about the magnificent building that was commissioned by Emperor Napoleon III.
• Château Vaux-le-Vicomte: Take a coach to the Château Vaux le Vicomte, located an hour’s drive from Paris. This château is credited as the founding French formal garden that was the inspiration for Versailles. The property is laid out in a typical symmetrical fashion with its stunning gardens creating a theatrical setting.

This afternoon is free to explore Paris at your own leisure. Perhaps you’d like to people-watch on the Champs-Elysee from a sidewalk café, head to the top of the Eiffel Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city, or venture to Montmartre, the artist’s district and where the famed Moulin Rouge is located. Otherwise you can relax back on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, transfer to Paris airport or train station for your onward journey.

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.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change. (B)