Home > All River Cruises > Europe River Cruises > Christmas Wonderland with Paris

Christmas Wonderland with Paris

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor

Christmas & New Year with Paris

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
River View
$11,624
Balcony
$15,787
Suite
$19,375
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
18 Days
 Cruise Starts
Budapest
 Cruise Finishes
Paris
18 Day Christmas Wonderland with Paris Itinerary (Scenic)
 Cruise Length
18 Days
 Cruise Starts
Budapest
 Cruise Finishes
Paris
18 Day Christmas Wonderland with Paris Itinerary (Scenic)
Cruise Line
Scenic
Ship
Departures
Passengers
163
Crew
59
Launched
2015
Cruise Code
CTPA-2
Cruise Line
Scenic
Ship
Departures
Passengers
163
Crew
59
Launched
2015
Cruise Code
CTPA-2

Overview

Europe becomes a completely different world during the festive season, with the aroma of gluhwein and roasted chestnuts providing a fragrant ambience and lifelong memories. Santa Claus, Christmas trees, gift giving – these have all been a part of the seasonal tradition in Europe for centuries. In town after town, you’ll have the opportunity to experience these rituals with new eyes. You may wish to join a Christmas Mass in Budapest before celebrating Christmas on board. Then, feel the anticipation for the last day of the year building up as we cruise to Bamberg, where you'll ring in the New Year...read more involved in the magic of one of Germany’s most beautiful cities.
Europe becomes a completely different world during the festive season, with the aroma of gluhwein and roasted chestnuts providing a fragrant ambience and lifelong memories. Santa Claus, Christmas trees, gift giving – these have all been a part of the seasonal tradition in Europe for centuries. In town after town you’ll have the opportunity to experience these rituals with new eyes. As a special highlight, celebrate Christmas on board your Scenic Space-Ship while cruising between Vienna and Passau. Then, feel the anticipation for the last day of the year building up as we cruise to Frankfurt, where...read more you'll ring in the New Year involved in the magic of one of Germany’s most impressive cities.

Itinerary

Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Budapest, the capital of Hungary and one of Europe's oldest and prettiest cities.

This afternoon, board your all-inclusive luxury Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views of ever-changing landscapes and life along the riverbanks. Relax and raise your glass to the days ahead at this evening's welcome reception. (D)

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. The city is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between.

Tonight, you can choose to attend a Christmas mass in a local church in Budapest or stay on board and rejoice in extraordinary all-inclusive culinary experiences. (B/L/D)

Merry Christmas - celebrate with newfound friends on board your Scenic Space-Ship as you cruise towards Vienna.

You may wish to take advantage of the state-of-the-art gym or relax with a massage^ in the wellness centre. (B/L/D)

Wake up this morning in Vienna, Austria's imperial capital. A city full of grandeur, it's famous for having the world's most beautiful boulevard, The Ringstrasse, and the legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. Also known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, among others. Sigmund Freud also lived and worked here in the late 19th century.

Enrich: Tonight's 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. An experience only shared with your fellow Scenic guests, you'll be seated in Vienna's largest secular baroque hall, an ornate space where royals and nobles have sat for centuries. Accompanied by ballet dancers and vocalists and surrounded by world-famous art, this will be a concert that you'll remember for a lifetime. (B/L/D)

Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock early this morning in the quaint town of Dürnstein. Surrounded by vineyards, the city has historical buildings that date back to the 12th century, including the hilltop ruins of Dürnstein Castle, where Richard the Lionheart was famously imprisoned between 1192 and 1193. Enjoy some free time exploring this captivating town before cruising towards Melk.

Tonight, as you sit down to a delicious dinner, your Scenic Space-Ship will set sail towards your next destination. (B/L/D)

Today, choose from two completely different, yet equally fascinating full day excursions. Both options require a coach journey but are well worth the drive.

Freechoice:

  • Full day excursion to Salzburg: This morning you will disembark your Scenic Space-Ship in Brandstatt, from where you will journey via coach to Salzburg, Austria. Surrounded by alpine peaks and on the banks of the Salzach River, Salzburg is best known as the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. This storybook city has a thriving art scene, music and concert halls filled with classical music, a Baroque old town where you'll find Mozart's birthplace, and Hohensalzburg, Central Europe's largest intact fortress, which sits high above the rooftops with panoramic views of the city. During a guided tour, explore this incredible city before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. After some free time, you will return to your Scenic Space-Ship in the German city of Passau.
  • Full day excursion to Cesky Krumlov: From Brandstatt, journey via coach to the Czech town of Cesky Krumlov. This delightful UNESCO World Heritage town is brimming with charm. Sitting on the banks of the Vltava River, Cesky Krumlov is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe with its vast array of well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Wander this fairy-tale location with your local guide and explore the historic centre before delighting in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Your local guide will be on hand to offer expertise on the best way to spend your free time. (B/L/D)

You will arrive in Regensburg 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 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country. Regensburg is also fringed by the Bavarian Forest, home to hundreds of kilometres of hiking trails and deer, wild boar, fox and otter.

Set on the confluence of three rivers in Bavaria, Regensburg is a delight to explore on a walking tour. Your expert local guide will show you the old stone bridge, the Church of St James, and the Porta Praetoria. (B/L/D)

You will arrive in Nuremberg, Bavaria's second-largest city, after lunch. Boasting an Old Town protected by an ancient city wall, this 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.

Freechoice: Make your choice from this afternoon's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

  • Walking tour of the Old Town: You will drive into Nuremberg's city centre, passing by the city walls and courthouse before arriving at Augustinerstrasse. From here your local guide will take you on a walking tour of Nuremberg to see the Imperial Castle which overlooks the city, St. Egidien's Church and market square.
  • The trials and tribulations of WWII Tour: Join your expert local guide and learn about the horrific events that occurred in Nuremberg during Germany's Nazi regime. Start by taking a drive to the Rally Grounds and explore Memorium Nurnberger Prozesse where subsequent trials of Nazi party members took place.
  • Traditional Gingerbread cooking class: Nürnberger Lebkuchen was invented by medieval monks in Germany during the 13th century. Today join an experienced local chef and learn how to bake this soft, moist and nutty traditional German gingerbread yourself. Enjoy tasting this regional delight whilst learning about the region and its history. You may be surprised how different this is to today's modern-day gingerbread. (B/L/D)

Built on seven hills, this UNESCO-listed town has surprises at every turn. Intersected by rivers and canals, enchanting Bamberg has an Old Town resplendent with cobblestoned streets and well-preserved medieval buildings. A charming Old Town Hall which occupies an island on its own, a Gothic and Romanesque-style cathedral and the Old and New Residences – an episcopal palace, a pretty ‘Little Venice' and a 12th century castle that teeters on the highest of the seven hills – are some of the incredible places you'll see during your guided city tour.

This evening, ring in the New Year in this magnificent town. Perhaps make your way into the historic Old Town and celebrate like the locals or stay on board and celebrate with newfound friends. (B/L/D)

Happy New Year! Start 2025 off in relaxation mode as you cruise along this picturesque stretch of the river towards Wertheim.

Enjoy time on board your Scenic Space-Ship, delight in the wonderful vistas from the privacy of your Scenic Sun Lounge or relax on the Sun Deck with a drink in hand. (B/L/D)

Arrive in the historic town of Wertheim, sitting on the picturesque banks of the Main and Tauber Rivers.

Explore this beautiful town before transferring to Miltenberg, where your local guide will take you on an orientation tour through the beautiful cobblestone streets lined with historic half-timbered houses. (B/L/D)

This morning you will arrive in Rüdesheim, a pretty town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for a staggering 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.

This afternoon we set sail for Cologne. As we cruise the Rhine River, enjoy spectacular views of the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. (B/L/D)

Today you will arrive in Cologne, a city known for its liberal and laidback lifestyle, unique beer culture, auto industry and the jaw-dropping cathedral that dominates its skyline. Settled by the Romans, this major cultural centre for the Rhineland was built during the Middle Ages but was largely destroyed during WWII. The magnificent Gothic cathedral, an enormous World Heritage site that dates to 1248, was severely damaged but stood tall above the ruins of the city.

After lunch, set sail for our final destination, Amsterdam. (B/L/D)

This morning, choose one of the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:

  • Canal cruise: Amsterdam has more than 100 kilometres of canals and today you will see some of the prettiest sights of the city from these historical waterways. This one-hour cruise takes you along the Gentleman's Canal, where you will see The Skinny Bridge and The Prince's Canal, which was known for its warehouses and common people. You will go past the Old Lord Mayor's House, The Seven Bridges, Anne Frank's House and head to the Brewer's Canal. As the historic centre glides past, you can admire the elegant merchant's residences, churches and warehouses dating from the Golden Age.
  • Flavours of Holland walking tour: Explore the Dutch capital on foot and see the city highlights while tasting some delicious local treats. Pickled herring, a favourite street food, tasty cheeses and mouth-watering Poffertjes (traditional fluffy bite-sized pancakes) are some delicacies you'll savour.
  • Excursion to Schermerhorn & Alkmaar: Step outside of Amsterdam to visit the village of Schermerhorn, home to authentic windmills dating back to the 16th century. Take in the idyllic views of the sweeping Dutch countryside and learn about the importance of the windmills. You will also head to Alkmaar, a charming town with historic buildings and picturesque canals, also known as ‘the city of cheese'. (B/L/D)

Travel by high-speed train to Paris and spend three nights at one of our centrally located hotels. (B)

It's your first morning in Paris, so why not start the day with a pain au chocolat and a café au lait? Paris is a city that has been immortalised in endless movies, TV shows, books and paintings, so even if you're a first-time visitor you will feel like you already know it. Its elegant streets, grand buildings, shady parks, stylish cafes and even more stylish residents, you'll quickly be swept up in the joie de vivre.

This afternoon, discover the part of Paris that most inspires you. Perhaps you would like to visit one of the legendary art galleries, like The Louvre, Musée d'Orsay or Centre Pomidou. Splash some cash at the flagship boutiques of the world's best designer labels or hunt out a treasure at one of the city's vintage stores and flea markets. Then there's the food; you could spend the whole afternoon (and more) at the patisseries, boulangeries, fromageries and bistros that line every street. Then pick up some supplies and retreat to one of the many elegant parks for a classic Parisian picnic. (B)

Today is yours to enjoy, with a full day to explore Paris.

Or you might like to do as the French do and embrace the ‘art of doing nothing'. The French word flâneur means to wander aimlessly through a city with no destination in mind. It's a relaxed way to soak in the sights and mingle with the locals, stopping for coffee or a glass of wine when you feel like it or perhaps browsing in an appealing bookstore or gallery. It's one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a day and gives you a real feel for life in Paris.

Take time for a final indulgent breakfast at the hotel or perhaps stop for a coffee at the legendary Café de la Paix, a Paris institution that has occupied a prime spot in the Place de l'Opera since 1862. Say ‘au revoir' to Paris this morning taking with you many fond memories of this romantic city.

During the Olympics and Paralympics in Paris (July to September 2024), visitors could face heightened security measures and potential constraints on movement in specific zones. Altered transportation routes and restricted access, accompanied by increased security checks and crowd control around Olympic venues and popular sites, may disrupt planned itineraries. Changes to transportation schedules might lead to delays or restricted access to intended attractions, impacting visitors' planned experiences. (B)

Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Budapest, the capital of Hungary and one of Europe's oldest and prettiest cities.

This afternoon, board your all-inclusive luxury Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views of ever-changing landscapes and life along the riverbanks. Relax and raise your glass to the days ahead at this evening's welcome reception. (D)

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. The city is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between.

Freechoice: A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are on offer to choose from this morning:

  • Budapest in Depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Visit both Buda and Pest, the two districts that are separated by the Danube that make up the city. Starting on the Buda side see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side where you will see Széchenyi square and Elizabeth square.
  • City Tour and Hospital in the Rock: Start your tour at the Fisherman's Bastion before visiting the Hospital in the Rock – a former top-secret nuclear bunker and emergency hospital. Afterwards, cross the Danube to the Pest side of the city, where you will have free time to wander this part of the city.
  • Thermal Baths: Budapest is known for its thermal waters and today you can relax in the natural hot springs at Gellert Baths. The baths are said to have medicinal properties and are warm year-round, allowing for a luxurious soak no matter what the season.

Your Scenic Space-Ship departs for Vienna after lunch. (B/L/D)

Today, spend the day cruising the magnificent Danube River before a late afternoon arrival into Vienna. Austria's imperial capital oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces from parks to vineyards, a vibrant coffee-house culture and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.

Enrich: Tonight's 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. An experience only shared with your fellow Scenic guests, you'll be seated in Vienna's largest secular baroque hall, an ornate space where royals and nobles have sat for centuries. Accompanied by ballet dancers and vocalists and surrounded by world-famous art, this will be a concert that you'll remember for a lifetime. (B/L/D)

A city full of grandeur, Vienna comes alive during the festive season. A visit to the Austrian imperial capital during this time of the year will create some unique, magical moments.

Freechoice: Explore your way with today's selection of Scenic Freechoice activities:

  • Schonbrunn Palace: Explore Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, one of the most prominent dynasties in European history. Wander its countless 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 to enjoy bathing, boating, cycling and relaxing on its beaches and open spaces.
  • Central Vienna exploration: The city centre of Vienna is overflowing with history, elegance and diverse architecture. During this tour, your expert local guide will delight you with stories from the city before allowing you extended free time to explore as you wish.
  • Excursion to Bratislava: Take a coach to Bratislava, Slovakia's capital since independence in 1993. Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious in medieval and Gothic architecture and its well-preserved hilltop castle, which has history dating back to the 9th century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city. Take a tour with a local guide to see Bratislava Castle, the Hlavné Námestie, the main square and the Old Town Hall.

Tonight, you may wish to join the locals at a traditional Christmas Mass at a nearby church. (B/L/D)

Merry Christmas - celebrate with newfound friends on board your Scenic Space-Ship as you cruise towards Passau.

You may wish to spend time in the exclusive Salt Therapy Lounge, which provides natural anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties or enjoy the fresh air on board the Sun Deck as your sail past charming villages and spectacular scenery. (B/L/D)

Set on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau has been an important trading city since medieval times, particularly for salt, commonly known as ‘white gold'. Each river is distinct in colour and some days you can clearly see the green, blue and black hues where the waters meet. At the centre of the Baroque city, the 13th century Italianate Old Town is packed with tight laneways tunnels and archways, including an ‘Artist's mile' where old buildings are occupied by artist studios, workshops and galleries.

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, the church proudly stood in Passau's Old Town until a devastating fire ripped through it in 1662. It was rebuilt in its current form with an Italian-style exterior complete with a Baroque stucco interior, and nowadays houses the world's largest Catholic church organ, which boasts 17,974 pipes and 233 registers. (B/L/D)

On the confluence of three rivers in Bavaria, Regensburg is known as the best-preserved medieval city in Germany. Join a walking tour with a local guide to see the old stone bridge, the Church of St James, and the Porta Praetoria. (B/L/D)

You will arrive in Nuremberg, Bavaria's second-largest city, this morning. Boasting an Old Town protected by an ancient city wall, this 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.

Freechoice: Make your choice for today's Scenic Freechoice experiences:

  • Walking tour of the Old Town: You will drive into Nuremberg's city centre, passing by the city walls and courthouse before arriving at Augustinerstrasse. From here, your local guide will take you on a walking tour of Nuremberg to see the Imperial Castle, which overlooks the city, St. Egidien's Church and the market square.
  • The trials and tribulations of WWII Tour: Join your local guide and learn about the horrific events that occurred in Nuremberg during Germany's Nazi regime. Start by taking a drive to the Rally Grounds and explore the Memorium Nurnberger Prozesse, where subsequent trials of Nazi party members took place.
  • Traditional Gingerbread cooking class: Nürnberger Lebkuchen was invented by medieval monks in Germany during the 13th century. Today join an experienced local chef and learn how to bake this soft, moist and nutty traditional German gingerbread yourself. Enjoy tasting this regional delight whilst learning about the region and its history. You may be surprised how different this is to today's modern-day gingerbread.

This afternoon you will sail towards Bamberg. Sip on a specialty tea or coffee in the Panorama Lounge & Bar or join a lecture to gain insight into the history and culture along the river. (B/L/D)

Built on seven hills, this World Heritage-listed town has surprises at every turn. Intersected by rivers and canals, enchanting Bamberg has an Old Town resplendent with cobblestoned streets and well-preserved medieval buildings. A charming Old 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 – are some of the incredible places you'll see during your guided city tour.

Back on board your Space-Ship, you may wish to spend time in the wellness centre with a soothing massage^. (B/L/D)

After a leisurely morning on board your Space-Ship, you will arrive in Würzburg. This Baroque city straddles the Main River in the heart of Franconian wine country. Surrounded by undulating vineyards, Würzburg 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.

Freechoice: Spend your day at your preferred pace with one of the following Scenic Freechoice options:

  • Guided city tour & Würzburg Residence: A short transfer via coach is needed to get to the Würzburg Residence, a Baroque palace surrounded by manicured gardens. Upon arrival, guests will be taken on a guided tour of the palace to see its most beautiful rooms, many of which feature valuable paintings, tapestries and period furniture. Afterwards, take a short stroll into the city, where you will have some free time. Explore the shopping area and the many coffee houses, pubs and restaurants; if you're feeling energetic, you can climb up to Marienberg Fortress.
  • Romantic Road to Rothenburg: From Würzburg drive by coach to Rothenburg along the so-called Romantic Road, an important trading route during the Middle Ages. Your guide will regale you with the history and legends of some of the towns and villages you pass, some of which are more than 1,000 years old. Take a guided tour in Rothenburg, famous for its well-preserved medieval old town, to see the Gothic and Renaissance City Hall as well as the famous City Councillors' Tavern, where various clocks will show you the legendary story of the “Master Draught”. After the guided walking tour, you will have free time to discover the city on your own. (B/L/D)

Spend the day relaxing at leisure on board as your cruise while cruising along the Main River towards the Germany city of Frankfurt.

You will arrive late this evening. Choose to wander off board and ring in the New Year in the city of Frankfurt or stay on board, where your Cruise Director and Enrichment manager have planned a fun party and would be delighted to celebrate the New Year with you. (B/L/D)

This morning you will disembark in Rüdesheim, a pretty town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for a staggering two millennia. The charming town centre is filled with half-timbered houses lining cobbled streets, quaint shops selling trinkets such as cuckoo clocks, as well as a smattering of wine taverns and open-air beer gardens.

This afternoon, relax on board the Sun Deck and admire the scenic landscapes as you cruise along the spectacular World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a 65-kilometre stretch of the river that is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Sailing down this section of the river is like being transported through the pages of a fairy tale book.

The Rhine is abounded in myths and legends; folklore that has been passed on for generations, including the story of Lorelei. This enchanting female was betrayed by her sweetheart and spent her days bewitching men. As her punishment, she was sent to a nunnery, however on her way she jumped to her death in the river. Legend has her spirit casting spells on sailors who passed the rock, where a bronze statue sits today. (B/L/D)

You will arrive in Cologne today, a city known for its liberal and laidback lifestyle, its unique beer culture, auto industry and the jaw-dropping cathedral that dominates its skyline. Settled by the Romans, this major cultural centre for the Rhineland was built during the Middle Ages but was largely destroyed during WWII. The magnificent Gothic cathedral, an enormous World Heritage-listed site that dates to 1248, was badly damaged but stood tall above the ruins of the city.

Discover Cologne on a walking tour. Wander the laneways of the historical Old Town, which is home to breweries serving up draft Kolsch beer and enjoy free time to visit the city's centrepiece and icon, Cologne Cathedral. (B/L/D)

Amsterdam is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, masterpiece-filled galleries, tranquil scenes of boats putting along 16th century canals, narrow cobbled laneways filled with boutiques and cafes, and streets busy with cyclists criss-crossing their way about town. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, much of the World Heritage-listed canal system exists today as it did hundreds of years ago, lined with well-preserved canal houses and intersected by charming bridges.

Freechoice: This morning, choose one of the following Scenic Freechoice:

  • Canal cruise: Amsterdam has more than 100 kilometres of canals and today you will see some the prettiest sights of the city from these historical waterways. This one-hour cruise takes you along the Gentleman's Canal, where you will see The Skinny Bridge, and The Prince's Canal, which was known for its warehouses. You will go past the Old Lord Mayor's House, The Seven Bridges, Anne Frank's House and head to the Brewer's Canal. As the historic centre glides past, you can admire the elegant merchant's residences, churches and warehouses, dating from the Golden Age.
  • City walking tour: Explore Amsterdam on foot today, 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.
  • Excursion to Schermerhorn & Alkmaar: Step outside of Amsterdam to visit the village of Schermerhorn, home to authentic windmills dating back to the 16th century. Take in the idyllic views of the sweeping Dutch countryside and learn about the importance of the windmills. You will also head to Alkmaar, a charming town with historic buildings and picturesque canals, also known as ‘the city of cheese'. (B/L/D)

Travel by high-speed train to Paris and spend three nights at one of our centrally located hotels. (B)

It's your first morning in Paris, so why not start the day with a pain au chocolat and a café au lait? Paris is a city that has been immortalised in endless movies, TV shows, books and paintings, so even if you're a first-time visitor you will feel like you already know it. Its elegant streets, grand buildings, shady parks, stylish cafes and even more stylish residents, you'll quickly be swept up in the joie de vivre.

This afternoon, discover the part of Paris that most inspires you. Perhaps you would like to visit one of the legendary art galleries, like The Louvre, Musée d'Orsay or Centre Pomidou. Splash some cash at the flagship boutiques of the world's best designer labels or hunt out a treasure at one of the city's vintage stores and flea markets. Then there's the food; you could spend the whole afternoon (and more) at the patisseries, boulangeries, fromageries and bistros that line every street. Then pick up some supplies and retreat to one of the many elegant parks for a classic Parisian picnic. (B)

Today is yours to enjoy, with a full day to explore Paris.

Or you might like to do as the French do and embrace the ‘art of doing nothing'. The French word flâneur means to wander aimlessly through a city with no destination in mind. It's a relaxed way to soak in the sights and mingle with the locals, stopping for coffee or a glass of wine when you feel like it or perhaps browsing in an appealing bookstore or gallery. It's one of the most enjoyable ways to spend a day and gives you a real feel for life in Paris.

Say ‘au revoir' to Paris this morning. Take time for a final indulgent breakfast at the hotel or perhaps stop for a coffee at the legendary Café de la Paix, a Paris institution that has occupied a prime spot in the Place de l'Opera since 1862. You'll then be transferred to the airport or train station to begin your journey home. (B)

Life Onboard Scenic Opal

Scenic All Inclusive
Scenic All Inclusive

Scenic Space-Ships offer a truly all-inclusive luxury package. No hidden extras, just exceptional experiences. Read more

Scenic Freechoice
Scenic Freechoice

These are hand-selected activities for you to choose from and enjoy at a pace that suits you. Read more

Scenic Enrich
Scenic Enrich

These are experiences that offer once-in-a-lifetime multi-sensory moments that are completely inaccessible to the ordinary traveller. Read more

The Nth Degree
The Nth Degree

Scenic go above and beyond, making your trip a truly carefree, all-inclusive experience. Read more

Scenic Wellness
Scenic Wellness

You'll have access to a range of health and wellness amenities on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. Read more

Scenic Tailormade
Scenic Tailormade

You’ll find Scenic Tailormade invaluable and it always knows the story of where you are. Read more

Play Youtube Video

Brochure

Europe

Scenic Europe (2024)

When you cruise the waterways of Europe with Scenic, the experience is in a class of its own. Scenic river cruises are meticulously designed and offer immersive experiences, blending the captivating European countryside with our signature truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury philosophy.

Brochure

Europe

Scenic Europe (2025)

Welcome to a world of ultra-luxury, fabled history and culinary delights. Enjoy many moments of wonder, exploring fascinating cities, history and culture on Europe’s most all-inclusive river cruise. With Scenic, it’s a culinary journey with up to five dining experiences, each a delightful tribute to the spectacular regions you’re visiting. It’s more...more than included touring, it’s personalising your journey and choosing how to spend your days based on your passions. It’s exceptional, exclusive once-in-a-lifetime experiences that will truly immerse you in the local culture and history, enriching your journey.

Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details

Select Savings
Monday 23 Dec 2024
Thursday 09 Jan 2025
Ship Scenic Jasper
River View
Save $2,301
$11,114
View Cabins
Balcony
Save $2,341
$15,064
View Cabins
Suite
SOLD OUT
Unavailable
Select Savings
Monday 23 Dec 2024
Thursday 09 Jan 2025
Ship Scenic Jasper
River View
Save $2,411
$21,989
View Cabins
Balcony
Save $2,491
$29,889
View Cabins
Suite
SOLD OUT
Unavailable
Super Earlybird
Friday 19 Dec 2025
Monday 05 Jan 2026
Ship Scenic Jade
*This departure itinerary varies slightly. The finalised itinerary will be provided with final documentation.
River View
Save $2,306
$11,624
View Cabins
Balcony
Save $2,348
$15,787
View Cabins
Suite
Save $2,385
$19,375
View Cabins
Super Earlybird
Sunday 21 Dec 2025
Wednesday 07 Jan 2026
Ship Scenic Opal
River View
Save $2,306
$11,624
View Cabins
Balcony
Save $2,348
$15,787
View Cabins
Suite
Save $2,392
$20,108
View Cabins
Super Earlybird
Friday 19 Dec 2025
Monday 05 Jan 2026
Ship Scenic Jade
*This departure itinerary varies slightly. The finalised itinerary will be provided with final documentation.
River View
Save $2,420
$22,910
View Cabins
Balcony
Save $2,504
$31,236
View Cabins
Suite
Save $2,577
$38,413
View Cabins
Super Earlybird
Sunday 21 Dec 2025
Wednesday 07 Jan 2026
Ship Scenic Opal
River View
Save $2,420
$22,910
View Cabins
Balcony
Save $2,504
$31,236
View Cabins
Suite
Save $2,592
$39,878
View Cabins
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Scenic. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Scenic. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

Similar River Cruises

19 Day Jewels of Europe with Zagreb & Ljubljana (Scenic)

19 Days Zagreb Amsterdam

Operated By: Scenic

From 11,495
Save 2,605
19 Day Romantic Rhine & Moselle with Switzerland (Scenic)

19 Days Zurich Amsterdam

Operated By: Scenic

From 10,233
Save 2,358
19 Day Romantic Rhine & Moselle with Switzerland (Scenic)

19 Days Amsterdam Zurich

Operated By: Scenic

From 11,916
Save 2,615
24 Day Beautiful Bordeaux & Unforgettable Douro with Madrid (Scenic)

24 Days Bordeaux Madrid

Operated By: Scenic

From 17,023
Save 6,147