Europe's Heartland

The city of Zurich, a global center for banking and finance, lies at the north end of Lake Zurich in northern Switzerland. The picturesque lanes of the central Altstadt (Old Town), on either side of the Limmat River, reflect its pre-medieval history. Waterfront promenades like the Limmatquai follow the river toward the 17th-century Rathaus

Welcome to Switzerland and the start of your European journey. Fly into Zurich then transfer to Basel, a centre of art and culture that sits on the banks of the Rhine River.

Board your 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.

Please book your flight to arrive into Zurich prior to 01:00 PM.

Basel is a city in northwestern Switzerland on the Swiss, French and German borders. It is located on the bend of the River Rhine and benefits from a Mediterranean climate. It is the third most populated city in Switzerland and has been the commercial hub for Swiss arts and culture since the Renaissance. In 1967 the people of Basel voted to acquire two paintings by Picasso, who was so moved by the Basel people that he donated 3 paintings and a study to the city's Kunstmuseum (Museum of Fine Arts). Visit the Augusta Raurica, one of the largest Roman archaeology parks in Switzerland, and enjoy a river crossings over the River Rhine by non-motorised ferries. During the summer months, time is spent outdoors, either swimming in the River Rhine, dining al fresco, enjoying open air concerts, cinema, street parties and festivals. Basel is home to over 20 restaurants that have won GaultMillau or Michelin awards, and boasts Switzerland's largest collection of theatre shows, including modern contemporary dance, touring and puppetry theatre.

Breisach is a town located in Southwest Germany on the French border. The town is situated in the Rhine Valley on the banks of the river Rhine and dates back over four thousand years. Breisach and its history can be experienced through the City History Museum, which houses a permanent exhibition taking you from Stone Age through the Celtic, to the Romans and Middle Ages, right up to modern day. St Stephen's Cathedral is home to the city’s famous art treasures, the wheel wells, which are housed in the neighbouring Radbrunnenturm with the forty one metre deep water well. The cathedral is also home to many other treasures including the High Altar of Master HL and wall paintings by Martin Schongauer as well as High Gothic and Roman architecture. A visit to the Blue House, the former Jewish Community Centre, is highly recommended. Now owned by the Friends of Former Jewish Community House Breisach it exhibits memorials to Breisach’s Jewish heritage.

Located between the Rhine River and the legendary Black Forest, Breisach is a food and wine destination that shares its border with the Alsace region. It was almost destroyed during World War II but was meticulously rebuilt with its traditional cobbled streets and pastel houses restored to their former glory. 

Freechoice:
Explore the region with your choice of one of these Freechoice excursions:

Wine tasting at Kaiserstuhl: Thanks to its 16-million-year-old volcanic soil, the Kaiserstuhl is known as a top-quality wine-producing region. Visit a local winery today and sample some of these delicious wines.

Excursion to Colmar: Visit Colmar and step into a fairy tale. Likened to Venice due to its quaint canals, the city centre features an abundance of half-timbered houses, some dating back a thousand years, cobblestoned streets lined with charming stores and cafes, and bustling markets serving up delicious local produce.

Excursion to Freiburg: Discover picturesque Frieburg, located on the edge of the magical Black Forest. Your local guide will escort you through the medieval town centre to see the Cathedral, one of only a handful of structures that survived the bombings during WWII.

Strasbourg is the capital of the Alsace wine region, where sherbert-coloured, half-timbered houses heave together on the banks of a complex network of canals. It’s a captivating blend of France and Germany, of a medieval past and an innovative future. Strasbourg has an infectious, youthful energy and you’ll regularly see the locals enjoying spontaneous soccer games and pop-up wine bars.

Freechoice:
Explore the city and its surrounds on one of these Freechoice tours:

Guided walking tour of Strasbourg: See the city’s most important sites on foot, like the cCathedral, Petit France and the Grand Ile, and learn about its unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. (Note: this is an active walk.)

Alsace wine region: Travel by coach through the pretty Alsace wine region to the village of Obernai for some free time. Then visit Mittelbergheim for a wine tasting in a local cellar.

Cycle through Strasbourg: Hop on board an e-bike and explore the sights surrounding the city. Strasbourg has over 500 km of bicycle trails and you will explore some of these while cycling through the city’s charming suburbs past historic buildings beautiful parklands and charming canals.

Depart to Mannheim this afternoon.

Mannheim, Germany, is a dynamic city known for its distinctive grid layout and vibrant cultural scene. Located at the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar rivers, it features the impressive Mannheim Palace and the lush Luisenpark. The city's modern architecture contrasts with its historical roots, while its thriving arts scene includes theaters, museums, and music festivals. Mannheim is also a key industrial and commercial hub, making it a blend of cultural richness and economic vitality.

Arrive in Mannheim this morning. A large metropolitan centre, Mannheim still runs along its recognisable 18th -century grid pattern and is known for its grand Baroque squares, fountains and palace. Your Freechoice excursions today will take you away from the city to discover more of the surrounding region.

Freechoice: Choose between these immersive Freechoice experiences this morning: Orientation tour of Heidelberg with free time: Transfer by coach to Heidelberg for a brief walking tour of the city, including the Old Town, and then enjoy some free time. (Note: the walk includes some stairs and uneven ground.) Historical tour of Heidelberg: Take a guided tour of Heidelberg, then visit Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Admire the views from the castle’s balcony and the great Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest wine barrel. (Note: the walk includes some stairs and uneven ground.) Excursion to Bad Durkheim: It’s just a short drive through stunning vine-covered landscapes to Bad Durkheim. Visit the renowned property of Fritz Ritter, a ninth-generation family-owned vineyard that offers exceptional quality wine. Enjoy a tour and tasting.

This morning, discover Rüdesheim, 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, as well as a smattering of wine taverns and open-air beer gardens.

Freechoice:
Make your selection from this morning'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 Rüdesheim and enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and Rhine River below. After your hike, descend on the cable car and return to town.

Relax on board this afternoon 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.

A medieval gem resting on the banks of the Moselle River, Cochem will make you feel as if you are stepping directly into a fairy-tale. The traditional town is nestled on the riverbanks, with pastel-coloured buildings, half-timbered houses, cobbled laneways and an enchanting medieval hilltop castle surrounded by sloped vineyards. 

Freechoice:
Explore Cochem your way with one of these excursions:

Walking tour of Cochem: Explore Reichsburg Castle, which dates back to the Middle Ages and has a well-preserved Knight’s Hall and Trophy Room, then enjoy some free time to walk Cochem’s charming streets on your own.

Cycling tour of Cochem: Hop on an e-bike to cycle along the flat path beside the Moselle River. Your local guide will show you Reichsburg Castle, the half-timbered houses of Cochem, and the nearby towns of Valwig and Belstein.

Another wonderfully preserved riverside town, Bernkastel is home to an atmospheric market square with buildings that date to the 13th century and the relics of Landshut Castle sitting high above on a hill, where archaeological remains from the fourth and fifth centuries were uncovered in 2012. It also sits at the heart of the Moselle Valley wine region and one of the world’s most famous Riesling vineyards, Bernkasteler Doctor, is just on the edge of town.

Freechoice:
Discover Bernkastel your way on one of these excursions:

Walking tour of Bernkastel: Your expert guide will explain the local architecture and culture during a guided tour or the town’s highlights, including perfectly preserved half-timbered houses and the Renaissance-style Rathaus (Town Hall). Then enjoy some time at leisure.

Excursion to Trier: Drive to Trier, a charming Roman city located near the Luxembourg border and birthplace of Karl Marx. Join a local guide to see the Porta Nigra, one of the best-preserved Roman gates in Germany, as well as the Trier Cathedral.

Wine tasting along the Moselle: The fertile banks of the Moselle River are a winemaker's paradise. Learn about the varieties that are grown and produced at one of the most renowned wineries in the region, then sample a selection of local wines.

Enrich
Tonight, experience an enchanting private classical concert in the breathtaking surroundings of the World Heritage-listed Liebfrauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, in the heart of the Roman city of Trier. During the concert, admire the incredible architecture and intricate stained-glass windows of the church  as you are immersed in magnificent classical music.

Located in the West of the country, Koblenz is one of the oldest cities in Germany. It is situated on both banks of the river Rhine, at its confluence with the Moselle River. The beginnings of Koblenz can be traced back to its military beginnings around 8 BC. The city is rich in its history and heritage and is easily explored on foot. Take the cable car crossing over the river Rhine for spectacular aerial views or enjoy the city from the one thousand year old fortress, Ehrenbreitstein. The upper middle Rhine Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its unique landscape can be enjoyed and discovered through the interactive multimedia journey at the Romanticum. Historical and architectural sites of interest include Stolzenfels Castle, the Electoral Palace of Koblenz and Old Town. From the romantic winding streets and small squares of Old Town, stroll through the alleyways from the Church of the Holy Virgin to the St Kastor Basilica and enjoy the picturesque buildings and squares along the way. Koblenz is also very popular for its Riesling and strong Spatburgunder wines since the Romans introduced it two thousand years ago.

One of Germany’s oldest cities, Koblenz was founded by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago and is brimming with history. It sits where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet and promises a mélange of French and German cultures. Koblenz is filled with parks and flowers and is the gateway to both the romantic Rhine Valley and the beautiful Moselle Valley.

Freechoice:
Choose to explore your way with today’s Scenic Freechoice:Guided tour of Koblenz: Join your guide to explore the old town’s winding streets, impressive townhouses, charming squares and historic churches, and visit the famed Florinsmarkt, the former political and economic centre of the city.Marksburg Castle visit: Drive to Marksburg Castle, overlooking the Rhine River below. Dating back to 1117, it’s the only castle on the Middle Rhine that has avoided destruction over the years. (Note: This is for active guests only and requires a good degree of fitness and mobility.)Medieval Limburg: Travel by coach to the charming medieval town of Limburg an der Lahn. Walk the historic cobblestone streets lined with perfectly preserved half-timbered houses, visit the Cathedral that overlooks the city and see Alte Lahnbrucke, the old bridge that straddles the Lahn River.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will overnight in Koblenz, offering you the opportunity to explore the city after dark.

The city of Düsseldorf is known for its art scene and fashion industry. This affluent centre was dubbed ‘Little Paris’ by Napoleon and is filled with museums, galleries and luxurious shops. Its charming old town is home to around 260 pubs and bars, and the harbour precinct blends the old with new: historic quay walls, warehouses and silos rub shoulders with striking architecturally designed buildings by the likes of Frank Gehry.

Freechoice:
Choose from one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Walking tour: Explore Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour. Discover its gentrified harbour, charming old town, the modern tech hub of Media Harbour, and Castle Tower, which dates to the 13th century.

Cycling tour: Active travellers can explore the banks of the Rhine on two wheels, cycle on an e-bike to one of the most historic regions of Düsseldorf, Kaiserswerth.

Düsseldorf‘s Altbier: Learn about Düsseldorf long tradition of beer production, visit well-known microbreweries and sample some delicious Altbier, the traditional ale produced in this region.

Düsseldorf , the city of art: Uncover the artistic heritage of Düsseldorf starting in the historic Old Town and making your way to Media Harbour, then visit the K21 Museum for a self-guided exploration of the contemporary exhibits.

Arrive in Arnhem after lunch. Located at the edge of the Veluwe Nature Reserve, the city offers a beautiful landscape surrounded by dense forest, lush green parklands and riverside promenades. Arnhem also played an important role in World War II and the campaign ultimately helped bring about the end of the conflict.

Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of these excursions:

Arnhem Airborne Museum: Military buffs should visit the Airborne Museum, which gives an in-depth account of the Battle of Arnhem. Follow in the footsteps of the British servicemen who parachuted into the city in September 1944 after long years of German occupation.

The Netherlands Open Air Museum: Learn about the lives and traditions of local Dutch people through the ages at the Netherlands Open Air Museum. Your local guide will take you on an exploration of this fascinating 44-hectare outdoor museum, to see replicas of historic houses, mills and farmhouses.

Palais Het Loo: Art lovers will enjoy the Palais Het Loo. Dating to 1685 it served as the royal family's summer home for centuries and is now an incredible museum showcasing the family’s rich history, elaborate décor, art collection and grand gardens.

Explore Antwerp, Belgium's second city. Known for its diamond cutting industry, fashion and the many great artists that lived in its vicinity, Antwerp is a city focused on art and culture.

Crossing the border this morning, you’ll dock in Antwerp, Belgium’s second city and one of the world’s most important seaports. Despite being bombed extensively during World War II, it retains its medieval heart, cobbled lanes, riverside fortress and impressive cathedral. Today, Antwerp is considered one of the coolest cities in Europe, famed for its vibrant fashion, entertainment and culinary scenes.

Freechoice:
These interesting Freechoice excursions are available today:

Walking tour of Antwerp: Join your local guide on a walking tour of Antwerp, known as the diamond capital of the world. Explore sights such as the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady, Steen Castle, the Medieval fortress, and main square lined with extravagant buildings.

Excursion to Ypres & Passchendaele: On a full day excursion, visit the towns of Passchendaele and Ypres to learn about their significant WWI battles, see memorials dedicated to the 325,000 allied troops who perished, and learn how this region was rebuilt in the aftermath. This tour includes lunch in a local restaurant.

Craft beer & chocolate pairing: Take your taste buds on a sensory journey with two of Belgium's most iconic culinary delicacies – chocolate and beer.

Dock this morning in Bruinisse, a mussel fishing village set on an ocean estuary. Known simply as ‘Bru’ it’s a popular holiday destination for its beaches, rich heritage and sumptuous seafood. It’s also the gateway to the 13th century town of Veere, considered one of the prettiest in the Netherlands.

Freechoice:
Choose from a range of excursions this morning:

Guided tour of Veere: Travel to the nearby town of Veere for a guided tour of its many charms, including the port area, Scottish merchant houses, impressive church and 15th-century town hall. Enjoy some free time before returning to the ship.

Delta Works visit: Visit the engineering marvel that is the Delta Works, a system of dams, locks and levees that protects the towns on the delta plain against flooding.

Oyster farm visit: The crisp, cold waters of the nearby North Sea are ideal for oysters. Visit a local farm to learn how they are grown and taste some fresh from the ocean. 

Arrive this morning in Dordrecht. One of the oldest cities in Holland, it dates back to the 11th century. Dordrecht was once an important merchant city, drawing its wealth from wood, grain and wine. More than 1,000 historic monuments can be found in its historic centre, many of which have been reborn as restaurants, museums and theatres.

Freechoice:
Choose one of the following excursions this morning:

Walking tour of Dordrecht: Admire the city’s picturesque streets, winding canals and historic buildings on a walking tour. Highlights include Groothoofd Quay, the Grote Kerk (Great Church) and the Old Water Tower.

Excursion to Delft: Travel to the nearby city of Delft, famed for its blue and white pottery and visit the only remaining 17th-century pottery factory to see the master's at work.

Excursion to Kinderdijk: Visit the traditional village of Kinderjik to see its World Heritage listed windmills, which are an icon of Dutch culture.

Amsterdam combines the unrivaled beauty of the 17th-century Golden Age city center with plenty of museums and art of the highest order, not to mention a remarkably laid-back atmosphere. It all comes together to make this one of the world's most appealing and offbeat metropolises in the world. Built on a latticework of concentric canals like an aquatic rainbow, Amsterdam is known as the City of Canals—but it's no Venice, content to live on moonlight serenades and former glory. Quite the contrary: on nearly every street here you'll find old and new side by side—quiet corners where time seems to be holding its breath next to streets like neon-lit Kalverstraat, and Red Light ladies strutting by the city's oldest church. Indeed, Amsterdam has as many lovely facets as a 40-carat diamond polished by one of the city's gem cutters. It's certainly a metropolis, but a rather small and very accessible one. Locals tend to refer to it as a big village, albeit one that happens to pack the cultural wallop of a major world destination. There are scores of concerts every day, numerous museums, summertime festivals, and, of course, a legendary year-round party scene. It's pretty much impossible to resist Amsterdam's charms. With 7,000 registered monuments, most of which began as the residences and warehouses of humble merchants, set on 160 man-made canals, and traversed by 1,500 or so bridges, Amsterdam has the largest historical inner city in Europe. Its famous circle of waterways, the grachtengordel, was a 17th-century urban expansion plan for the rich and is a lasting testament to the city’s Golden Age. This town is endearing because of its kinder, gentler nature—but a reputation for championing sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll does not alone account for Amsterdam's being one of the most popular destinations in Europe: consider that within a single square mile the city harbors some of the greatest achievements in Western art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Not to mention that this is one of Europe's great walking cities, with so many of its treasures in the untouted details: tiny alleyways barely visible on the map, hidden garden courtyards, shop windows, floating houseboats, hidden hofjes(courtyards with almshouses), sudden vistas of church spires, and gabled roofs that look like so many unframed paintings. And don’t forget that the joy lies in details: elaborate gables and witty gable stones denoting the trade of a previous owner. Keep in mind that those XXX symbols you see all over town are not a mark of the city's triple-X reputation. They're part of Amsterdam's official coat of arms—three St. Andrew's crosses, believed to represent the three dangers that have traditionally plagued the city: flood, fire, and pestilence. The coat's motto ("Valiant, determined, compassionate") was introduced in 1947 by Queen Wilhelmina in remembrance of the 1941 February Strike in Amsterdam—the first time in Europe that non-Jewish people protested against the persecution of Jews by the Nazi regime.

Today, transfer to the airport for your onward journey to Paris. Enjoy a welcome reception aboard the luxurious Scenic Gem. Later, cruise out with beautiful Paris as a backdrop.

Enjoy a relaxed morning on board as you cruise gently along the Seine to Les Andelys, arriving just after lunch. This pretty, waterside village dates back almost 900 years and is 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 this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Hike to Château Gaillard with 'Richard the Lionheart': Step back to the age of Robin Hood on this Medieval-themed walking tour. Uncover the historical secrets of Les Andelys and venture up to Lionheart’s castle, Château Gaillard, to wander among the remnants.

Tour of Les Andelys with Château Gaillard: Explore the picturesque Norman town of Les Andelys on the banks of the River Seine with your local guide before reaching the Château that looks over the city.

Cider farm visit: Normandy’s cider production embodies the essence of artisanal craftsmanship and rural charm. Visit a local farm to see the process in action and taste this distinctive effervescent drink.

Renaissance-era Château Gaillon: Explore the extraordinary 16th-century Château Gaillon, one of the earliest Renaissance-style châteaux in France. Admire the remnants of its lavish interior as you learn about its importance to French history.

Normandy’s capital, Rouen, has a history that spans over 2,000 years, from Viking legends to its significant role in both World Wars. It was also the place where Richard the Lionheart was crowned Duke of Normandy and Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake. A considerable amount 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: See why Victor Hugo once described Rouen as ‘the city of a hundred spires’ on this guided tour. Visit the cathedral district, old marketplace and Saint-Maclou Quarter. Step into a fairytale of Medieval alleys and half-timbered houses. Learn about Joan of Arc and see where she was put to death in 1431. Enjoy free time afterwards.

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 expert lecture.
WWI Lecture – Day in the life of a Tommy: During this interactive evening, you will gain an 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 experience will bring the history of war to life.

With another full day in Rouen today, you can uncover some of the region’s fascinating military history or sample local delicacies on a gourmet tour.

Freechoice:
Choose to explore your way with today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Tastes of Normandy: The abundant region of Normandy is famed for its high quality dairy industry and fruit orchards. On this tour, visit local producers to taste some of the delicious soft cheeses, cider and calvados.

Excursion to the Somme Battlefields including Newfoundland Memorial Park: Take a full day excursion to the site of the WWI Battle of the Somme, which claimed the lives of more than 150,000 soldiers from Britain and the Commonwealth. Visit the Australian National Memorial (Sir John Monash Centre), the Franco-Australian Museum, Lochnagar Crater and 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, travel to Caterpillar Valley Cemetery, which contains more than 5,500 Commonwealth graves, then visit Thiepval Memorial to the Missing, and Lochnagar Crater.

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 on your phone prior to embarking on your cruise.

Enjoy another relaxed morning on board as we cruise west to Honfleur, a colourful port city on the edge of the English Channel. 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. Scenic’s purpose built ship cruises further into the harbour, providing an easy walk from the ship to explore the harbour area and network of laneways beyond.

A guided walking tour of the city will show you its charming Inner Harbour, the Church of Sainte-Catherine and the Garden of Personalities, before you can explore on your own with some free time. Tonight, history comes a live with an engaging on board lecture about Operation Fortitude and the daily life of Honfleur’s citizens during the D-Day campaign.

Honfleur, the most picturesque of the Côte Fleurie's seaside towns, is a time-burnished place with a surplus of half-timber houses and cobbled streets that are lined with a stunning selection of stylish boutiques. Much of its Renaissance architecture remains intact—especially around the 17th-century Vieux Bassin harbor, where the water is fronted on one side by two-story stone houses with low, sloping roofs and on the other by tall slate-topped houses with wooden facades. Maritime expeditions (including some of the first voyages to Canada) departed from here; later, Impressionists were inspired to capture it on canvas. But the town as a whole has become increasingly crowded since the Pont de Normandie opened in 1995. Providing a direct link with Upper Normandy, the world's sixth-largest cable-stayed bridge is supported by two concrete pylons taller than the Eiffel Tower and designed to resist winds of 257 kph (160 mph).

Honfleur, the most picturesque of the Côte Fleurie's seaside towns, is a time-burnished place with a surplus of half-timber houses and cobbled streets that are lined with a stunning selection of stylish boutiques. Much of its Renaissance architecture remains intact—especially around the 17th-century Vieux Bassin harbor, where the water is fronted on one side by two-story stone houses with low, sloping roofs and on the other by tall slate-topped houses with wooden facades. Maritime expeditions (including some of the first voyages to Canada) departed from here; later, Impressionists were inspired to capture it on canvas. But the town as a whole has become increasingly crowded since the Pont de Normandie opened in 1995. Providing a direct link with Upper Normandy, the world's sixth-largest cable-stayed bridge is supported by two concrete pylons taller than the Eiffel Tower and designed to resist winds of 257 kph (160 mph).

With a full day in Honfleur, this is your chance to learn more about the important role this region played in WWII.  

Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of these excursions:

Excursion to the Normandy Beaches including Omaha Beach (US history 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-Mère-Église, 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 paying the ultimate sacrifice.

Excursion to the Normandy Beaches including British Normandy Memorial (UK history 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 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, visit the British Normandy Memorial, the Pegasus Bridge & Museum,  and stop at the Ranville War Cemetery.

Excursion to the Normandy Beaches including Juno Beach Centre (Canadian history 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, which is a site of an important battle.

Bayeux tour: If your interest sits in a different era of 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 have free time afterward to explore the town of Bayeux.

Honfleur, the most picturesque of the Côte Fleurie's seaside towns, is a time-burnished place with a surplus of half-timber houses and cobbled streets that are lined with a stunning selection of stylish boutiques. Much of its Renaissance architecture remains intact—especially around the 17th-century Vieux Bassin harbor, where the water is fronted on one side by two-story stone houses with low, sloping roofs and on the other by tall slate-topped houses with wooden facades. Maritime expeditions (including some of the first voyages to Canada) departed from here; later, Impressionists were inspired to capture it on canvas. But the town as a whole has become increasingly crowded since the Pont de Normandie opened in 1995. Providing a direct link with Upper Normandy, the world's sixth-largest cable-stayed bridge is supported by two concrete pylons taller than the Eiffel Tower and designed to resist winds of 257 kph (160 mph).

Begin cruising inland early this morning to the small town of Caudebec-en-Caux. Set on a curve of the Seine, the riverfront is lined with handsome homes, stately gardens and crumbling stone walls. Caudebec-eCaux 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-e-Caux. 

Freechoice:
Explore more of the region on one of these Freechoice excursions:

Cycle to Villequier with Victor Hugo Museum: Enjoy an active biking tour to the charming village of Villequier, cycling on an e-bike 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 Bénédictine Palace: Take a coach transfer to Fecamp, an historic seaside town surrounded by some of the tallest cliffs in Normandy. Join a guided tour of the Bénédictine Palace, a 19th-century architectural masterpiece, famous for producing Bénédictine liquor, 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 learn stories of the French Resistance, who fought against the Nazi Occupation of France during World War II. Hear local stories of heroism and daring missions as you explore the historic city.

Normandy Abbey Road: Spiritual health and wealth have been important in Normandy since the Middle Ages. Explore this fascinating history with a local guide on the Abbey Road, where many grand abbeys sit on the banks of the River Seine. 

Historically a border town between the Duchy of Normandy and the Kingdom of France, Vernon has a rich heritage and many distinctive buildings. Nearby Giverny was the home of Impressionist artist Claude Monet for more than 40 years.  

Freechoice:
Discover more on one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Monet's House and Garden: Journey to Giverny to tour the town and visit the home of the founder of Impressionism. Built by Monet, the gardens comprise a Japanese-inspired water garden with lilies, which inspired his most famous works. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore at your own leisure.

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 cruise towards La Roche-Guyon, where this evening’s exclusive Scenic Enrich experience will take place.

Enrich
Take a short walk from the ship to Château de La Roche-Guyon, which is built into a chalk hillside and dates to the 16th century. Walk through the manicured orchard and vegetable gardens producing fresh juices, then admire the decorative walls, ceilings and tapestries. On arrival you’ll enjoy a drink and sit for a splendid classical concert that focuses on music by French composers.

Wake this morning in Conflans-Saint-Honorine, 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 Honorine, 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.

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

Visit to Auvers-Sur-Oise: Travel to the village where Vincent Van Gogh painted his final masterpieces. See landmarks that were immortalised in his works, 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 and which has sat empty since 1890. Enjoy free time afterwards to wander through the village.

Château de Chantilly: Take a guided tour of the castle, a magnificent tribute to France’s cultural heritage, built by Henri d'Orléans, the son of the last King of France. See the fine collections he amassed in his lifetime, explore the gardens and enjoy some free time. (Please note: Chantilly Castle is closed on a Tuesday, and will be replaced with a visit to Versailles Palace and Garden instead)

Musée de la Batellerie (inland water transport museum): Join this active tour in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine to visit the Inland Water Transport Museum. Conflans, sometimes called the barge capital of the world, is located on the confluence of Oise and Seine rivers, and water has played a very important role in the lives of its residents.

Château de Malmaison: This historic estate was once the residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and his first wife, Josephine de Beauharnais. Renowned for its elegant neoclassical architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, the château reflects Josephine's refined taste and passion for botany. Today, it houses a museum showcasing furniture, artwork, and personal items from the Napoleonic era, providing a glimpse into the private lives of one of history's most famous couples.

This afternoon you’ll spend time on board as your Scenic Space-Ship cruises back to Paris.

Welcome back to Paris, where you will spend the day exploring this iconic 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

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, from the Eiffel Tower to the Champs Elysee, the Arc de Triomphe and Concorde Square. You will also view the 1163-built Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, which recently reopened after a devastating fire in 2019.

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 de Vaux-le-Vicomte: Take a coach to the  Château de 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. Alternatively, relax back on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship.

Your journey concludes this morning. Disembark after breakfast, taking with you many wonderful memories of this unique part of France. 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.