The whole of the Maltese capital Valletta is UNESCO World Heritage listed and occupies a peninsula in the north-east of the island. From the fountain of Tritons to Saint-Elme fort, there are as many majestic streets as there are narrow staircase vennels to explore. The painted loggia and carved corbels on the tall houses will accompany you in your explorations, and you’ll rarely be bothered by traffic. You can visit the Grandmasters palace decorated with coats of arms and frescoes. Saint-John’s cathedral and the ramparts which have guarded the city since the 16th century are also among the most emblematic sites of the city. Arranged in terraces, the Barrakka Gardens will punctuate your promenade with a green and floral experience.

Its undulating rocky coastline, the endless sandy beaches, the menacing form of Mount Etna which surveys its island like a patriarch, the flowery gardens on the hillside... Sicily lays out its varied landscapes like a shopkeeper displays his wares. Described by Cicero as “the most beautiful city in the world”, Syracuse was one of the most prestigious cities in Sicily and at her height was even a rival for Athens. A central city of Ancient Greece, it was home to a succession of civilisations, each of which has left their mark. The blend of Arabic, Roman, Norman, Byzantine and Spanish cultures makes Syracuse a town that is extraordinarily rich in fragrances, colours and flavours.

2 available excursions

Archaeological site & Ortygia, Noto, Baroque Town

Huddled on the south-western coast of Sicily, Porto Empedocles bears the name of the philosopher Empedocles, who lived in the region in the 5th century BC. An age-old city offered up to sun and sea, this is your doorway to the exceptional archaeological site of Temple Valley, a high place of Greek civilisation listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can admire the remains of many temples dedicated to Zeus, his wife Hera and Hephaestus. Make sure you take in the magnificent Italian countryside, with its olive orchards that cover the hillsides.

1 available excursions

Valley of the Temples and Casa Barbadoro

At the crossroads of civilisations, the capital of Tunisia is rich in cultural discoveries. The ruins of Ancient Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and particularly well preserved, testify to the splendour of this city that was once Rome’s great rival. The hill of Byrsa, the former fortified citadel of the Phoenician port and one of the presumed burial places of Saint Louis who died there during the Eighth Crusade, offers spectacular views over the Gulf of Tunis. In the Bardo National Museum, you will be able to admire one of the world’s finest Roman mosaic collections, including the magnificent portrait of the poet Virgil.

Annaba, a coastal town in eastern Algeria, is the country's fourth largest city. It contains many heritage treasures, including the ancient site of Hippo, the largest Roman forum in Africa. From the Cap de Garde lighthouse, you get a splendid and varied panoramic view with mountains and sea, while the basilica of Saint Augustine, the bishop of Hippo in the 4th century, overlooks the city with its majestic white dome. A stroll along the Corniche and the Cours de la Révolution will introduce you to the lively, elegant town that inspired numerous artists and writers.

The beauty of the Bay of Algiers offers travellers arriving by sea an unforgettable view. The Casbah houses cascade down to the Haussmann-style buildings and the hustle and bustle of the Mediterranean city creates a unique atmosphere. Algiers the White proudly bears the traces of its history with its magnificent Casbah, listed as UNESCO World Heritage, its tropical garden called Jardin d’Essai, its Martyr’s Memorial, its imposing Basilica of Our Lady of Africa, and its lively city centre with its Grande Poste (main post office) and French quarter. Seventy kilometres (43 miles) away, you will have the possibility of visiting Tipaza, one of the most extraordinary archaeological complexes of the Maghreb, listed as World Heritage by UNESCO. Once a trading post of the Carthaginians and later the Romans, the ancient city is home to the Royal Mausoleum of Mauretania, a funerary monument providing precious evidence of what was once the Punic world.

Surrounded by hills, the natural site of the Bay of Carthagena presided over the fate of this former fortress which has been home to the greatest European civilisations. Today, these Phoenician, Roman, Carthaginian, Moorish and Christian influences form a rich architectural heritage. Its Roman theatre is one of the most significant and best conserved in Spain. You will also be able to cross the landscapes of vines and citrus groves stretching endlessly towards Murcia, to visit this dynamic regional capital.

1 available excursions

Horses of Spain, Cartagena & Roman theater

On the Mediterranean shore, the easternmost Andalusian capital, the legendary Almería (from the Arab Al-Mariy-yat, meaning watchtower), has a coastline of preserved beaches with an interior characterised by its typical desert ecosystem. In the past an important port for the Caliphate of Córdoba, Almería has a remarkable citadel and a cathedral whose imperious structure stands in the very centre of the old town. This old town, with its narrow streets, will charm you with its lime washed walls and its rich historical and cultural heritage.

An autonomous city of Spain on the North African coast, Melilla and its citadel sit on the edge of Cape Three Forks, between Morocco and the Mediterranean Sea, offering breathtaking views of this blue expanse. A perfect blend of history and modernity, the city boasts charming cobbled streets, imposing ramparts and a number of historic sites that are well worth a visit, including the Baluarte de la Concepción and the Hospital del Rey. In contrast to these vestiges of the city's military past, the Art Nouveau curves of the Palacio de la Asamblea, Casa Melul, the Reconquista building and Plaza Menéndez Pelayo reflect the influence of Gaudi's student Enrique Nieto, who lived here, and the great Catalan Modernist period. After Barcelona, Melilla has the largest number of buildings in this style.

On the shores of the Mediterranean, Motril enjoys a special place on the Costa Tropical. Sheltered from the cold northerly winds thanks to the mountains that surround this Andalusian city, the city benefits from an ideal micro-climate.

A historical and festive town, Malaga is located in Andalusia, on the Costa del Sol. Between the marina and the beaches, the seaside promenade of La Farola offers an ideal setting for strolling and relaxing. Set slightly further back, the Malagueta bullring is one of the emblematic sites of the city. From the hill overlooking the old town, one can see Gibralfaro castle and the Alcazaba, two fortified ensembles rising out from the cypresses and maritime pines. To visit Pablo Picasso’s birthplace, you will go first to the courtly plaza de la Merced. A few streets back from here, you can explore the museum dedicated to the artist, in the Buenavista palace.

Welcome to Germany. Transfer to the ancient city of Nuremberg, the second largest centre in Bavaria, where your Danube journey begins. This afternoon, board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your spacious suite. Join your fellow guests for a welcome reception and toast to the start of an exciting journey. You will remain docked in Nuremberg overnight, so you can also set out to explore the city’s bustling restaurant scene. Please book your flight to arrive into Nuremberg prior to 02:00 PM.

Awaken in Nuremberg today. The 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. Behind its charming facade, Nuremberg also has a turbulent history. During WWII, the city was favoured by the Nazis for party rallies and many of the anti-Jewish laws began here. By 1945, the city was reduced to rubble, including large sections of the Imperial Castle and Old Town. After the war, Nazi leaders were tried here for the atrocities that took place. Scenic Freechoice: Make your selection from today’s Scenic Freechoice experiences: Walking tour of Nuremberg Old Town: Drive into Nuremberg’s city centre, passing by the ancient city walls, then join your local guide for a walking tour of the Old Town to see the Imperial Castle, St. Egidien’s Church and the market square. World War II tour: Your local guide will highlight the main events that occurred in Nuremberg during the Nazi regime. Learn about this dark time in Germany's history and visit some of the most important sites. Rock cut beer cellars: Go underground to discover Nuremberg’s unique beer culture. More than 20,000 square metres of rock cut cellars sit underground beneath the Imperial Castle and have been used to store and brew beer. Finish your tour with a tasting of traditional brews. This afternoon you will cruise towards Regensburg.

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 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. Traditional sausage making class: Join an expert from a local family-owned butcher for a hands-on lesson in the art of making traditional white breakfast sausages. Learn the recipe, how to measure the ingredients and fill the casing, and the importance of fresh herbs. Bavarian beer tasting: Immerse yourself in Regensburg’s centuries-old brewing tradition as you explore historic breweries and sample a range of classic Bavarian beers. Each tasting reveals the craftsmanship and heritage behind the city’s renowned beer culture.

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. With a late departure tonight, you can go ashore to explore the city after dark. Scenic Freechoice: Plan your day with the following Scenic Freechoice excursions: 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. Paddling on the River Inn: Take in this region from a different perspective as you paddle down the River Inn past charming villages, ancient castles and historic bridges, crossing between Germany and Austria. Cross border cycling: Travel further afield on a guided e-bike ride along the Inn River, during which you will cross the border from Germany to Austria. Cycle through quaint towns, viewing local life and admire the spectacular views of the region.

Wake up in Austria today, where your Scenic Space-Ship will dock in the heart of Linz, allowing you to effortlessly explore. This city is known for its vibrant music and arts scene and beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary architecture and lifestyle. The city’s quaint old town and Main Square are resplendent in Baroque architecture, while its harbour doubles as an outdoor street art gallery. Scenic Freechoice: This morning, choose to explore your way with Scenic Freechoice: Guided tour of Linz: Join a local guide on a walking tour to discover the balance between the city’s vibrant history and contemporary living. You’ll see famous sights like the restored Castle of Linz and Saint Martin's Church, and the Main Square with its towering Holy Trinity column. 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 restaurant with local cuisine. Mauthausen WWII Concentration Camp: Venture out of the city to Mauthausen’s former concentration camp that housed more than 190,000 people between 1938 and 1945, during the reign of the National Socialist Party. Learn about the terrible conditions that the prisoners lived under during this sombre tour. Linzer Torte cooking class: Create your own version of this Austrian delicacy in a hands-on cooking class in one of the city’s oldest cafes. Learn the 400-year history of this iconic tart, baked using handmade short crust pastry, red currant jam and almonds. This afternoon and evening are at leisure and with a later departure you can explore more of this enchanting city. Perhaps lace up your walking shoes to hike to Postlingberg Church, perched high above the city or perhaps explore the city’s local nightlife with many galleries and museums open after dark or wander and appreciate the glistening skyline.

Spend this morning in Dürnstein, a small and picturesque town in Austria’s picturesque Wachau Valley. Enjoy some free time in Dürnstein explore this World Heritage-listed town, nestled on the edge of the Danube River and surrounded by ancient terraced vineyards. Scenic Freechoice: Today offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from: Göttweig Abbey: Founded in the sixth century, the abbey burned down during the 18th century and rebuilt to be one of the most magnificent in the Wachau Valley. Your local guide will show you its impressive frescoes as well as the staircase, the largest Baroque staircase in Austria. Wachau Valley wine tasting: The Wachau Valley is one of the prominent regions for wine growing in Austria. Today you'll visit a local winemaker and learn about the flavour profiles and age-old traditions of winemaking while sampling the delicious wines produced on site. UNESCO Wachau Valley e-bike experience: Join your guide on a e-bike tour along the Danube to the quaint village of Krems. Pass by charming villages and rolling vineyard landscapes. You will have time to stop along the way to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Danube, whilst observing daily life in the region. On board this evening, join an informative talk on the production of local delicacies and taste some varieties.

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 today’s Scenic Freechoice activities: Schönbrunn Palace: Explore the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, an influential European family which ruled Austria from 1282 until 1918. Wander its ornately designed rooms, see impressive gardens, and hear about the royal family that lives here and their storied tales of territory expansion. 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. Cycle to Danube Island: Explore a different side of Vienna on a guided e-bike tour to Danube Island, where locals come to enjoy bathing, boating, cycling and relaxing on its beaches. 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 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. 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 relax on board as you cruise down the Danube towards Bratislava. 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: Discover more of the city this afternoon with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions: 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 discovering the history of the city. You’ll also learn what everyday life was like behind the Iron Curtain and taste some local delicacies. Coffee & cake at Kormuth Bakerai: Experience Bratislava’s famed coffee house culture. Your local guide will tell you the history of the cafe which is said to date back to the 16th century while you admire the spectacular architecture, frescoed ceilings and, of course, the magnificent home-made cakes with recipes from the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Ancestry of the kitchen cooking class: One of the best ways to get to know a culture is through its cuisine and during this hands-on workshop you will do just that, as you learn how to prepare traditional Slovak Bryndzové Halušky (potato dumplings with cheese).

This morning you will arrive in Budapest, the capital of Hungary and 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. It’s 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. 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. Beethoven’s favourite getaway: Travel to Brunszvik Castle, a favourite retreat of the famed composer, to admire its Neo Gothic architecture and the grand gardens. Learn about Beethoven’s life in the dedicated Memorial Museum. Ancestry of the kitchen cooking class: Immerse yourself in traditional Hungarian culture as you learn how to make goulash with the locals. This excursion gives a unique opportunity to experience local cuisine, hospitality and the way of life. This afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps pack your swimsuit and make your way to one of Budapest’s thermal baths for a relaxing soak in the therapeutic waters or explore the Central Market Hall. Your ship will remain docked in Budapest overnight, so you can venture out on your own to discover some of its legendary nightlife.

Your journey concludes this morning. After one final breakfast on board, depart with a lifetime of memories of your time along one of Europe’s most historic rivers. 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.