Gems of the Danube with Eastern Europe Explorer: 17 days Prague to Munich

Your journey begins in the glorious city of Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic that until 1989 was behind the Iron Curtain. The city is home to one of Europe’s best preserved city centres, with its architecture dating to the 14th century, and despite the number being closer to 1,000, its nickname ‘City of a Hundred Spires’ remains today. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your luxurious hotel, the Prague Marriott Hotel or similar, for a two-night stay. This evening, join your fellow travellers and your expert Scenic Tour Director for a welcome drink. 

Discover one of Europe’s most magical cities during a guided tour this morning. You will pass the Jewish Quarter and Jan Palach Square, considered one of Prague’s most striking. Cross the medieval stone arch of Charles Bridge and visit the Old Town Square, where you will see the famous Astronomical Clock. Legend has it that the designer of this masterpiece was blinded on completion so he could never make another piece as beautiful.

You will have some free time to wander the city and enjoy lunch before your choice of Scenic Freechoice this afternoon.   

Scenic Freechoice:
Make your choice from this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Tastes of Czechia: Join your local guide and learn about the culinary profile of Prague, known for hearty traditional comfort food. Today sample local favourites including pickles, cheeses and traditional cakes.

Prague Castle tour: Known as the world's largest ancient castle complex, Prague Castle dates back to 880 AD and still serves today as the Czech Presidents office. Explore some of this majestic site visiting St. Vitus Cathedral, the largest cathedral in the Czech Republic, as well as the Old Royal Palace, the former residence of Bohemian Royalty and the picturesque Golden Lane.

Tonight, join your fellow guests for a traditional Czech dinner in a local restaurant in the heart of the city.

This morning, you’ll depart for Dresden, known as ‘Florence on the Elbe’. Considered one of the greenest cities in Germany, Dresden is famed for its music and culture.

Today, enjoy an orientation tour to see the Frauenkirche Church, which was reduced to rubble after the Second World War and took 60 years to rebuild, the Castle of the Electors of Saxony, the Semper Opera House, and Zwinger Courtyard in the heart of the Old Town.

Afterwards, continue through the picturesque Spreewald Forest to Germany’s capital, Berlin, for a three-night Scenic Special Stay at the Grand Hyatt Berlin. 

Berlin is a city of contrasts, possessing both beauty and grit, historic architecture and cutting-edge design, and a vibrant youthful vibe with a tumultuous history. On a guided tour, you’ll see the 18th century neoclassical Brandenburg Gate and the traditional State Opera House. Drive the famous ‘Unter den Linden’, a boulevard to the City Palace, and visit Checkpoint Charlie, the former border crossing between east and west Berlin.

This afternoon, join a local guide to discover Charlottenburg Palace, Berlin’s most beautiful former royal summer residence, with its dazzling Porcelain Room, elegant palace chapel, extensive French-style gardens and the royal mausoleum.

Spend the day exploring the city of Berlin and learn about its Cold War history or venture to the nearby city of Potsdam. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with a choice from the following Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Berlin Wall and Hackesche Hofe: Visit the Berlin Wall Memorial, built to remember the Cold War that divided Berlin from 1961 to 1989, and see the only stretch of the infamous wall that remains Continue by subway to Hackesche Hofe, wandering eight early 21st century courtyards comprising Art Nouveau buildings that are now used as shops and cafes.

Visit New Palace & Potsdam: Journey to Potsdam, where a local historian will share insights into the town that was once founded by Prussian kings some 300 years ago. Delve into its history before a guided tour of the Baroque New Palace built in 1763.

Cross the border into Poland, towards the city of Warsaw. You will stop along the way in the city of Poznan, known for its colourful narrow merchant houses built in the 16th century.

The capital of Poland was completely rebuilt after it was razed during the Second World War, which is why it’s often referred to as the Phoenix City. Whole neighbourhoods have been revitalised, and today it is rich in culture and has a thriving dining scene and nightlife.

Largely destroyed during World War II, Warsaw’s historic centre has been resurrected and has attained World Heritage-listed status. Your local guide will take you through the city’s key sites including the Jewish Ghetto, where some 380,000 Jews were sealed inside during the war. You’ll also visit the monument to the ghetto heroes, and the Palace of Culture and Science. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Today you have two fascinating tours to choose from with this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice:

Pierogi cooking class: Learn to make Poland’s national dish, Pierogi – traditional dumplings that have been a favourite meal since the 13th century. After an immersive cooking class, you will have the opportunity to taste the finished product.

Wilanów Palace: Step into Poland’s royal past with a guided visit to the magnificent Wilanów Palace, often called the ‘Polish Versailles’. Wander through opulent Baroque halls filled with priceless artworks, admire richly decorated chambers that once hosted King Jan III Sobieski and hear the stories that shaped this grand estate.

Scenic Enrich
Tonight, enjoy an exclusive classical music concert inside a grand Polish manor house. Be immersed in the immortal music of Chopin followed by an elegant dinner. 

Travel to Kraków today, stopping enroute at Auschwitz, where you’ll visit the former German Nazi concentration camp. In operation from 1940 to 1945, more than one million Jews tragically died here. Take a poignant walk through the grounds, made up of original camp blocks, barracks and guard towers, and see the museum which houses personal possessions of the prisoners and the SS garrison who perpetrated the crimes committed here on a moving tour paying your respects to the atrocities that took place.

This afternoon continue to Krakow, arriving early this evening. Poland’s former royal capital until 1596, Krakow is the only major Polish city that wasn’t reduced to rubble in the Second World War.

Today’s exploration of Kraków includes a walking tour of the well-preserved historic centre, a World Heritage-listed site with 13th century merchant houses lining its sprawling market square. You will also visit the splendid 14th century Wawel Castle and Cathedral, perched on a limestone outcrop that dominates the city.

This afternoon, travel to the 800 year old Wieliczka Salt Mines, which are made up of around 245 kilometres of corridors, underground chambers and saline lakes. Admire statues of historic and mythical figures, sculpted by miners out of rock salt and view old mining tools and machines. Tonight, enjoy delicious Polish cuisine at a local restaurant.

Cross the border into Slovakia and continue on into Hungary and its capital city, Budapest.

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. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths and has a vibrant nightlife scene.

Board your all-inclusive ultra-luxury Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your suite. Balcony suites have windows that convert into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you fresh air and uninterrupted views of ever-changing landscapes and life along the riverbanks. Relax and raise a glass to the days ahead at this evening’s welcome reception.

Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, the Hungarian capital became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. It’s peppered with Roman ruins, Gothic buildings, bohemian coffee houses, world-class operas, and an historical Jewish quarter where the scars of WWII can still be seen to this day. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths.

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.

Guided hike of Buda: Strap on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike through the Buda district of the city. On your walk, see Várkert Bazár and beautifully landscaped gardens, all while enjoying great views over the Danube River and the city architecture.

National Opera House: Step into one of Europe’s most magnificent cultural landmarks, a neo-Renaissance masterpiece that reflects the grandeur of the Austro-Hungarian era and Hungary’s deep devotion to the arts. This guided tour reveals the splendid interior as well as stories of royal guests, world-famous performers and the building’s exceptional acoustics.

Excursion to Szentendre: Journey to the riverside town Szentendre, known for its museums, galleries, and artists. Experience the Mediterranean atmosphere and discover its charms on a guided city tour.

Your 5-star Scenic Space-Ship will depart Budapest later this afternoon, allowing you some free time to explore the city on your own. Pack your swimsuit and make your way to one of Budapest’s thermal baths for a relaxing soak in the therapeutic waters or perhaps explore the Central Market Hall.

Your 5-star Scenic Space-Ship will depart Budapest later this afternoon, allowing you some free time to explore the city on your own. Pack your swimsuit and make your way to one of Budapest’s thermal baths for a relaxing soak in the therapeutic waters or perhaps explore the Central Market Hall.

Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious with medieval and Gothic architecture. Its well-preserved hilltop castle, which dates back to the ninth century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city.

Scenic Freechoice:
As we dock in the city centre, this today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions are just steps away:

Walking tour of Bratislava: Join a knowledgeable local guide to see the highlights of the city, including the Hlavné Námestie (main square) and the Old Town Hall while learning about the history of the city. You’ll also learn what everyday life was like behind the Iron Curtain, the political boundary that divided Europe after WWII.

Carpathian wine route: Embark on a delightful Slovakian wine-tasting just beyond Bratislava, where the picturesque villages of the Small Carpathians invite you to discover this celebrated viticultural region. Enjoy an insider’s perspective on local culture and heritage, meeting passionate family winemakers who have preserved their craft across generations.

Communist walk: Journey behind the Iron Curtain to explore Bratislava’s complex and compelling history during the communist regime. Discover how this controversial era shaped the daily lives of Slovaks, with impacts that were sometimes positive, often negative, and always fascinating.

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.  

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from these Scenic Freechoice activities today:

Schönbrunn 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.

Art tour of Vienna including Kunsthistorisches Museum: Vienna has an abundance of cultural institutions and a visit to the Kunsthistorisches provides something for everybody. Join a local guide who will give you an overview of the magnificent exhibits including its world class art collection and impressive ancient artefacts, before some time to wander the museum at your leisure.

Central Vienna: Vienna is brimming with history, elegance and diverse architecture. During this tour your expert local guide will delight you with stories from the city before allowing you free time to explore as you wish.

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. 

This morning your Scenic Space-Ship will dock in the quaint town of Dürnstein, where you have ample free time to wander at your leisure. Surrounded by vineyards, the town 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.

Over lunch, cruise through the Wachau Valley where you will be mesmerised by the sloping vineyards and charming villages, before arriving in Melk. This small town is dominated by its dramatic, World Heritage-listed Benedictine Abbey, which towers above it from a rocky outcrop.

Scenic Freechoice:
This afternoon offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from:

Guided tour of Melk Abbey: Wander the halls of this grand 18th century abbey, visit the decorated marble hall and the library, which is filled with more than 80,000 books, and be awed by the Abbey Church, adorned in frescoes and intricate statues.

UNESCO Wachau Valley e-bike experience: Embark on a guided e-bike ride to soak up the scenery along the Danube as you cycle from the quaint village of Dürnstein to Melk. You’ll pass by small villages and through rolling vineyards, stopping along the way to enjoy the river views.

Artstetten Castle: Meet the current owners of Artstetten Castle, which dates to the 13th century. It was once home to the Archduke Franz Ferdinand, whose assassination sparked the beginning of WWI in 1914. See the family crypt and visit the onsite museum, before hearing tales from decedents of the royal family dynasty that were influential in European history.

While on board later today, you can also join an informative talk on the production of regional delicacies and taste some local varieties. 

After a short stop in Brandstatt, arrive in Passau. 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.

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.

Bavarian beer tasting: Learn about intricacies of beer making and the region's rich brewing heritage than spans over 1,000 years and is a valued part of the regions culture. Visit a traditional brewery to taste a variety of distinctive Bavarian brews.

Your journey concludes this morning. After one final breakfast on board, depart with a lifetime of memories. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Munich after 12:00 PM.

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.