Cruising on the Danube River, Europe’s second-longest waterway, will create a lifetime of memories. Discover the myriad of ways you’ll spend your time with this snapshot of a full day on board your luxury 5-star Scenic Space-Ship.
Flowing like a lifeline between central and south-eastern Europe is the grand darling of Europe’s waterways, the Danube River. It winds and cuts its way through some of Europe’s most timeless and popular destinations. You’ll pass imposing castles, medieval churches with towering steeples, historic townships and steep, terraced vineyards.
When you travel on Scenic’s 8-Day Gems of the Danube itinerary, you’ll commence your sojourn of the Danube in Nuremberg, Germany – before winding your way through Austria’s romantic and picturesque cities, including its capital Vienna, before finishing your journey in Budapest, Hungary.
Here’s a typical day in the life of a Scenic river cruise on the Danube River.
Awaken
Rise to the sound of birds or the gentle hum from small, passing boats as locals begin their day on the Danube. Your butler arrives to deliver your favourite coffee or tea direct to your luxury suite. Watch the sun ascend and cast a warming glow on church domes or bell towers; or greet the dawn with a guided morning yoga session. From 6:30am, you can head to the River Café for either a buffet or an a-la-carte breakfast.
Mid-Morning
Over breakfast, you may like to toast the coming day with a glass of champagne as you prepare for your exploration of either Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Cesky Krumlov, Salzburg, Bratislava, Melk, Vienna or Budapest. Depending on the departure time of your Scenic Freechoice activity, you may have time for a workout in the on board fitness and wellness centre; or a relaxation session in the therapeutic Salt Therapy Lounge, the only one of its kind on Europe’s waterways.
Late Morning
You’re off and on your way, in small group sizes, to explore the highlights of the European city where you are docked – or an inland region you’re transported to – all seamlessly arranged by your Cruise Director. On this itinerary, you may opt to travel by chartered bus to the medieval Czech Republic town of Cesky Krumlov. Take time to explore its historic old town square and castle on the hill, appearing frozen in time from bygone centuries. You may prefer to visit Austria’s Salzburg and see the birthplace of composer Mozart, or the many scenes made famous in the filming of The Sound of Music; or nearby Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, on an historic, guided tour.
Lunch
Back on board your 5-star Scenic Space-Ship, enjoy a glass of wine from the region you’re travelling within, and recall your morning’s activities over lunch served in Crystal Dining. Alternatively, you may wish to stay in town and dine at a local restaurant if your Space-Ship is not on the move; or you may want to explore the town’s streets on two wheels via the complimentary use of Scenic’s e-bikes, suitable for all fitness levels.
Early Afternoon
After an exciting morning exploring European towns and cities, you may appreciate some quiet downtime in your spacious and luxurious suite. Take advantage of your included mini-bar (which is replenished daily) as you soak up the tranquil views and fresh air from the comfort of your private Scenic Sun Lounge. On warmer days, you may like to take a dip in the Vitality Pool*; or join new friends at the Panorama Lounge & Bar for a cocktail.
*Not available on all Space-Ships
Late Afternoon
As the ship sails with ease to a new location, it’s the ideal time to position yourself on the Sun Deck and Riverview Terrace. Relax on the lounging chairs with a premium beverage in hand as you listen to the expert commentary provided on the Scenic Tailormade App, providing interesting and factual information on the sites and landmarks you pass.
Dinner
As you enjoy sundowner drinks, your Cruise Director will provide a briefing on tomorrow’s activities. Then be led to your table at Crystal Dining for a gourmet, five-course, a-la-carte meal where Scenic’s talented chefs serve cuisine inspired by the region. On select evenings, you will receive an invitation to dine at Portobello’s, with seating for just 32 guests. Enjoy the hum of chatter, twinkling ivory keyboards and vocalists as you take in the sun setting behind some of Europe’s oldest vineyards, bridges and cathedrals.
A memorable highlight will be your evening spent attending an exclusive, Scenic Enrich experience. Prepare for a night of grandeur and otherworldly splendour when visiting Palais Liechtenstein, after hours, enjoying a glass of fine Austrian Sekt. A private, classical music performance awaits where the timeless compositions of Strauss and Mozart will be played with expert precision.
You’ll be transported back to the comfort of your Scenic Space-Ship with your hearts bursting, your soul awakened and your mind open as you drift off to a well-deserved sleep in your Scenic Slumber bed, anticipating what discoveries and highlights will be revealed the next day.
Unlock truly all-inclusive Luxury
With Scenic, it’s more than a 5-star river cruise. It’s a truly all-inclusive luxury journey through the most breathtaking waterways of Europe. On board, your luxury suite is your inner sanctuary. Indulge in world-class cuisine, and relax in an abundance of wellness facilities, including the only floating Salt Therapy Lounge in Europe. Their truly all-inclusive philosophy means everything is taken care of. You could lock away your wallet on your first day and not have to touch it until you disembark. Scenic want you to focus on what’s important, creating memories to last a lifetime.