Welcome to Nuremberg, a city steeped in history and culture that stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Bavaria. Nestled in the heart of Germany, Nuremberg is a place where medieval charm meets modern vitality. Its well-preserved medieval old town, encompassed by formidable city walls, boasts architectural treasures that transport visitors back in time. Beyond its historic facades, Nuremberg's dynamic spirit shines through in its thriving arts scene, bustling markets, and vibrant culinary culture.
This morning, your expert local guide will take you on a guided walking tour of this wonderful medieval city. Wander through the grounds of the Imperial Castle before making your way to the Old Town, where you will see St. Lawrence Church and the lively market square.
This afternoon, you have free time to discover the city as you wish. Perhaps, learn more about Nuremberg's WWII history with a visit to the Documentation Center Nazi Party Rally Grounds, explore history of a different age as you wander along the medieval city walls or simply relax in one of the many delightful Beer gardens that are dotted around the city. (B)
Make the most of your last morning in Nuremberg before transferring to the historic city of Regensburg. With a legacy spanning over two millennia, the city is the perfect location to start your eight-day cruise along the Danube river. (B/D)
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 all while sharing the customs and traditions of the region during the festive period. Your tour will end at the lively Christmas Markets, where you will have free time to delight in the festive atmosphere. (B/L/D)
Freechoice: Today, choose from three completely different, yet equally fascinating Scenic Freechoice excursions:
Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock early this morning in the small and picturesque town of Melk, located in Austria's scenic Wachau Valley. The city's breathtaking UNESCO-listed Benedictine Abbey built high over the city is the most spectacular building in the region.
Sailing the Wachau Valley, you will be mesmerised by the sloping vineyards and charming villages. This afternoon we are docked 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.
While you indulge in the spectacular views this afternoon, it's also the perfect opportunity to indulge in some delicious local produce from the Wachau Valley. Your Cruise Director will organise a special treat for you and invite a local producer on board to share some regional delicacies that are famous in this region. Sample some Apricot dumplings and local schnapps among other delights in this breath-taking location. (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:
Enrich: This evening, join an unforgettable Scenic Enrich experience:
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.
This afternoon, the Hlavné Námestie or Main Square, comes alive with the sights, scents and sounds of Christmas. Twinkling lights surround charming wooden stalls brimming with regional handicrafts and gifts, the delightful smell of roasted chestnuts permeate the air and enthusiastic carollers grace the square adding to the incredible ambiance of the Christmas markets. After your included Scenic Freechoice activity, you have the option to spend the afternoon wandering this festive atmosphere. (B/L/D)
This morning we arrive in Budapest, one of Europe's most diverse and vibrant cities. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873, when a newly built bridge connected the two. The city is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. At Christmas time, it comes alive with twinkling lights strewn around the city, wooden huts popping up in magnificent locations and seductive scents filling the air with festive spices.
Freechoice: A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are on offer to choose from:
Journey by coach to Prague, and spend three nights at a city central hotel. (B)
Pull back the curtains of your hotel room this morning and you'll see why Prague is known as the city of 100 Spires. More accurately, it should be called the city of 1,000 spires as a seemingly endless landscape of Baroque belfries, Gothic church spires and 19th-century clocktowers.
The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll through this magnificent city, situated on the Vltava River in central Bohemia. Prague is rich in history and home to some of the world's most striking architectural wonders. Your Tour Director is on hand to help you plan. (B)
Freechoice: This morning choose from one of today's Scenic Freechoice activities:
The remaining day is yours to enjoy at leisure. (B)
Today it's time to farewell Prague, taking with you many fond memories of this charismatic city.
Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change. (B)
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