Scenic Tours – 28 Day Rome to Budapest, Passion Play and Jewels of Europe Cruise

Scenic Enrich
Learn how to make wine and oil at a Tuscan farmhouse near San Gimignano then enjoy lunch
Enjoy a romantic gondola serenade in Venice followed by dinner at Antico Pignolo
Indulge on apple strudel and coffee at a local inn before enjoying a traditional horse-drawn carriage ride amongst the woods of Seefeld
Over a glass of Austrian ‘Sekt’ at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein, enjoy a private Viennese concert featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart
Enjoy a short exclusive organ recital during a guided tour to Melk Benedictine Abbey
Enjoy a private tour of the Zehnthaus brewery in Bamberg where the cellar master explains the traditions and method behind brewing – complete with a sample of the finished product
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Rome (HD)
You will be met at Fiumicino Airport and transferred* to your centrally located hotel. Your first excursion today is an afternoon walking tour to see such famous sights as the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona. This evening see the city illuminated by night on the way to your welcome dinner. (Please arrange for your flights to arrive before noon).
Two Night Special Stay: Rome
Day 2: Rome (FB)
Begin today’s sightseeing at the Vatican City. See incalculable riches during your visit to the Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel. The highlights here are Michelangelo’s Last Judgement and Old Testament Frescoes. Enter the world’s largest church, St. Peter’s Basilica and emerge into St. Peter’s Square to marvel at Bernini’s colonnade and Michelangelo’s impressive dome. Continue to the Forum and follow in the footsteps of the ancients to the mighty Colosseum, opened in 80 A.D.
Day 3: Rome – San Gimignano (FB,D)
View medieval hill towns, olive groves and vineyards in the Umbrian heartland en-route to Tuscany. Famous red grape varieties are grown in the renowned Chianti region around delightful Siena, which you will visit. Enjoy the sights of this well-preserved medieval city including the Torre della Mangia, the Duomo and the famous heart of the town, the Piazza del Campo. We make a short but pleasant journey to medieval San Gimignano, famous as the city of 14 towers.
Overnight Stay: San Gimignano
Day 4: San Gimignano – Florence (FB,HL)
Take an orientation tour of San Gimignano and discover how the vanity of wealthy merchants resulted in the construction of the gorgeous towers. SCENICENRICH Visit a Tuscan farmhouse and its cantina to learn the techniques of wine and oil production used in the area.A rustic lunch will feature the local produce and wines. Enjoy the scenic drive to Florence this afternoon.
Two Night Special Stay: Florence
Day 5: Florence (FB,HD)
Today enjoy a guided walking tour of Florence, starting at the Academy of Fine Arts, to admire Michelangelo’s David. Then visit the Duomo with its spectacular exterior of marble panels. The immediate vicinity features Giotto’s Belltower, Brunelleschi’s Dome and Ghiberti’s ‘Gates of Paradise’. A walk onto the stunning Ponte Vecchio and through Piazza della Signoria will take you back to the historic centre. SCENIC FREECHOICE choose from: (1) a guided tour of the Uffizi Gallery featuring works by the Italian masters; or (2) an excursion to Pisa to see the Leaning Tower. This evening we enjoy exquisite Italian cuisine in one of Florence’s fine restaurants.
Day 6: Florence – Venice (FB,HD)
Pass through the mountainous countryside of the Apennines en-route to magnificent Venice – the most unique city in the world! Cruise up the Grand Canal by private motor launch past ornate and gilded Palazzos and Palladian churches to your superbly located hotel. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure to discover this unique city. SCENICENRICH Tonight enjoy a romantic gondola serenade whilst gliding under ancient bridges along breathtaking canals.Tonight we dine at Antico Pignolo, a traditional canalside restaurant.
Two Night Special Stay: Venice
Day 7: Venice (FB)
Today, appreciate the beauty of historic Venice during your guided walking tour of the city. Soak up the atmosphere of the bustling cafés in the square, see the clock tower ‘dei Mori’ and the Campanile and visit both the stunning Basilica of San Marco and the spectacular Doge’s Palace. SCENIC FREECHOICE choose from: (1) a lagoon cruise visiting some of the many islands; or (2) a walking tour to visit the Fine Arts Academy.
Day 8: Venice – Innsbruck (FB,D)
Enjoy stunning alpine scenery as you cross into Austria, passing pine forests, picture-postcard villages and crystal clear lakes on the drive to Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol. Take a city tour upon arrival which includes the ski jump of this Winter Olympic town and the famous Golden Roof in the old town.
Overnight Stay: Innsbruck
Day 9: Innsbruck – Oberammergau (FB,D)
Enjoy a morning at leisure before journeying to the pretty Austrian town of Seefeld, SCENICENRICH where we enjoy a horse-drawn carriage trip amongst the woods and meadows after indulging in apple strudel and coffee at a local inn. Cross into Bavaria past majestic peaks to your hotel, which lies in an idyllic lakeside location.
Two Night Stay: Oberammergau
Day 10: Oberammergau Passion Play (FB,L,D)
Arrive in Oberammergau after a short drive past chalets and alpine pastures. There is time to explore the quaint town before enjoying lunch and the world-famous play from your Category 1 seat. During the interval, dinner is served and at the conclusion of the play this evening, return to your hotel.
Day 11: Oberammergau – Munich (FB,D)
A short journey to Munich along the Romantic Road is followed by a guided walking tour, which includes the Marienplatz and the famous Glockenspiel in the heart of the old town. All the significant attractions radiate from the Marienplatz including the historic Victuals Market. The afternoon affords time to explore at your own pace.
Overnight Stay: Munich
Day 12: Munich – Prague (FB)
Travel through Bavaria and Bohemia en-route to the stunning medieval city of Prague, widely acclaimed as the most beautiful city in Europe. Arriving in the afternoon, the rest of your day is at leisure. Wander the delightful maze of narrow cobbled alleyways or people watch whilst enjoying a coffee or a renowned Pilsener from a café around the square, just a short stroll from your hotel.
Two Night Special Stay: Prague
Day 13: Prague (FB,HD)
With a local guide you will walk around Hradcany Castle, visit St. Vitus Church and the Mala Strana and walk across the Charles Bridge. Winding up the narrow streets you then explore the Old Town Square, see the monument to the Protestant Reformer Jan Huss and witness the Astronomical clock strike the hour. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner of hearty Czech cuisine.
Day 14: Prague – Budapest (FB,D)
This morning travel to Budapest, set on the banks of the Danube. This afternoon, a warm welcome awaits you from your crew as you board your luxury Scenic Tours “Space-Ship”.
Day 15: Budapest (FB,L,D)
Nearly 2,500 years old, Budapest is one of Eastern Europe’s most ancient yet cosmopolitan cities. Your morning tour will visit the Heroes’ square, Matthias Church, the Fisherman’s Bastion and the medieval town on Castle Hill. In the afternoon enjoy free time to explore more on your own.
Day 16: Vienna (FB,L,D)
This morning we explore the famous sights of Vienna, including the Ringstrasse and the Hofburg Palace. Whether it’s strolling Vienna’s famous shopping street ‘Kärtnerstrasse’or visiting one of the many museums on offer, lose yourself in the marvel of Vienna with an opportunity to explore this magnificent city on your own. Your Cruise Director is on hand to enhance your experience and help you make the most of your time in this history steeped Austrian capital. SCENICENRICH This evening enjoy a glass of Austrian ‘Sekt’ at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein, followed by a private Viennese concert featuring the music of Strauss and Mozart.
Day 17: Vienna (FB,L,D)
SCENIC FREECHOICE Today choose from: (1) a guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace; (2) visit the Opera House before enjoying coffee and cake in a famous Viennese café: or (3) a guided excursion to the Slovakian capital of Bratislava.
Day 18: Dürnstein – Melk (FB,L,D)
The ship sails through the spectacular wine region of the Wachau Valley, and on to enchanting Dürnstein. The town is nestled below the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned after the crusades. Continue to Melk and enjoy a guided tour, discovering the magnificent Benedictine Abbey. SCENICENRICH During your visit inside the Abbey an exclusive organ recital has been arranged.
Day 19: Linz – Passau (FB,L,D)
SCENIC FREECHOICE Today choose from: (1) a guided tour of the cobblestone streets and graceful arcades of picturesque Passau; or (2) visit Salzburg, setting for ‘The Sound of Music’ and birthplace of Mozart; or (3) a full day excursion to the beautifully preserved medieval town of Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 20: Regensburg (FB,L,D)
Dating back to settlement in 500BC, Regensburg is one of Germany’s finest preserved cities. Your guided walking tour visits the Old Chapel and the Thurn und Taxis Castle and includes the medieval stone bridge across the Danube which is a wonderful place to view the cityscape of red roofs, churches, towers and turrets.
Day 21: Nuremberg (FB,L,D)
Today, explore this lively 950 year old city with its medieval feel. Commence with a guided orientation tour including the old town. You’ll see the Justice Palace and Imperial Castle rising above the old quarter enclosed by thick walls punctuated with 80 towers. We dedicate this afternoon to the history of WWII with a visit to the Nuremberg Rallies and Trial sites. Later there’s free time to shop for traditional handicrafts, toys and metal work.
Day 22: Bamberg (FB,L,D)
Explore this UNESCO World Heritage city with your guide. The centre of town is the largest preserved old quarter in Europe with 2,400 listed buildings and you will admire hundreds of richly decorated and ornamented building facades including the iconic Old Town Hall, built in the middle of the River. SCENICENRICH Later in the day enjoy beer tasting at the Zehnthaus, a private brewery established in 1533, where you are greeted by the cellar master and taken to an underground vault to sample his selection of brews.
Day 23: Würzburg (FB,L,D)
SCENIC FREECHOICE Today choose from: (1) a guided walking tour of Würzburg and the magnificent Prince Bishop’s Residenz Palace; or (2) a Romantic Road excursion to Rothenburg, considered to be the best preserved medieval city in Europe.
Day 24: Wertheim (FB,L,D)
Known for its glassworks, Franconian wine and friendly people, enjoy time today exploring this quaint medieval village with its half-timbered houses and cobble stoned streets.
Day 25: Rüdesheim – Rhine Gorge (FB,L,D)
We continue our journey to Rüdesheim where we board the ‘Winzerexpress’ mini train for a guided visit of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Board a cable car for the trip to the 125-foot Niederwald Monument, overlooking the river. Cruise this afternoon through the spectacular Rhine Gorge with its stunning castles and vine-covered slopes. Pass the infamous Lorelei Rock where sailors are said to have been lured to their doom by enchanted temptresses.
Day 26: Coblenz – Cologne (FB,L,D)
This morning you can explore the 2,000-year-old town of Coblenz, situated on the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Sail through breathtaking scenery en-route to Cologne where your guide awaits you. Explore the Old Town with its beautiful squares and historical monuments. Perhaps sample the region’s most famous beer, ‘Kölsch’.
Day 27: Amsterdam (FB,L,D)
This afternoon you will arrive in Amsterdam, a fascinating and compact city of picturesque canals, world-class museums and cafés. SCENIC FREECHOICE Today choose from: (1) a sightseeing canal cruise; (2) a guided bicycle tour (limited availability); or (3) a visit to the windmills at Zaanse Schans.
Day 28: Amsterdam (FB)
After breakfast, you will be transferred* to the airport for your flight and the end of an unforgettable journey.
Departure Dates/ Prices:
| Departure Dates | Return Dates | Prices in AUD |
| 8 June 2010 | 5 July 2010 | $15,150 |
| 7 September 2010 | 4 October 2010 | $15,250 |
Scenic FreeChoice
Tour the Uffizi Gallery in Florence; or see the Leaning Tower of Pisa
Lagoon cruise; or visit the Fine Arts Academy in Venice
In Vienna tour Schönbrunn Palace; or visit the Opera House and a Viennese cafe for coffee and cake; or see the key sights of Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava
Enjoy the sights of Passau; or excursions to Salzburg; or Cesky Krumlov
A walking tour of Würzburg; or journey down the Romantic Road to Rothenburg
Enjoy a canal cruise; or a guided bicycle tour; or take an excursion to Zaanse Schans for Windmills and Dutch Cheese in Amsterdam
Scenic Highlights
Enjoy a guided visit to the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum in Rome
Take a guided tour of Florence and visit the Duomo and see Giotto’s Belltower
Enjoy a guided tour of Venice including visits to the Doges’ Palace and St.Mark’s Basilica
Witness the spectacular Oberammergau Passion Play from a Category 1 seat
Captain’s welcome cocktail party and dinner in Budapest
Tour Budapest with a local guide visiting Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion
Morning guided sightseeing tour of Vienna including a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral
Visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in Rüdesheim
Captain’s farewell cocktail reception and farewell dinner in Amsterdam
Scenic Dining
65 superb meals including 27 Full Buffet Breakfasts (FB), 1 Highlight Lunch (HL), 14 Lunches (L), 4 Highlight Dinners (HD) and 19 Dinners (D)
Scenic Special Stays
The Westin Excelsior has played host to celebrities, statesmen and artisits since 1906 and is located in the heart of Rome near the Villa Borgehese and Spanish Steps.
The Grand Hotel is in an incomparable location steps a way from iconic landmarks and has been preferred by seasoned travellers since the 18th Century
The Gritti Palace was originally built as the residence for the Doge of Venice in 1525, today the Grand Canal location and opulence of the former palace is ours to enjoy
The Radisson SAS Alcron is available exclusively through Scenic Tours and has recently been refurbished to its former art deco glory