Scandinavia & Great European Cities - cruise & land journey

Welcome to Norway’s second largest city, the Hanseatic fishing port of Bergen, surrounded by seven hills. One of the prettiest cities in Norway, Bergen dates back to the 12th century. Admire the many pretty multi-coloured wooden buildings, a short way from your Special Stay residence for the next two nights.

During the Middle Ages, Bergen was Norway’s major seaport, as well as its capital, a legacy that can still be seen today. You will have the opportunity to discover Bergen and drive to Troldhaugen, the former home of Edvard Grieg, Norway’s most celebrated composer and pianist.

Enrich
Enjoy a private piano concert at Edvard Grieg’s concert hall, Troldsalen.

Freechoice: Journey 320 metres up the funicular railway to Mount Fløyen for a spectacular view of the city and fjord. Alternatively, take the tram to Fantoft to explore the Fantoft Stave Church. The old church burned down in 1992, but it has since been painstakingly reconstructed to reflect a style of construction that is unique to Norway.

Lofthus is known as the orchard of Hardanger region, due to its unique position overlooking the majestic Folgefonna glacier. Your overnight Special Stay is complete with fjord views.

Drive through the majestic Hardangervidda, Europe’s highest mountain plateau, and home to Norway’s largest herd of wild reindeer, before reaching Oslo. A metropolitan capital with forests and fjords, Oslo is a modern and diverse city. Check into your hotel for your two-night Special Stay.

Enrich
Immerse yourself in the architecture, stage technology, opera and ballet at Oslo’s Opera House on a private backstage tour with a specialist guide. Breathe in the beautiful views from the rooftop while enjoying a glass of wine.

From the 8th to the 11th century, the Vikings started their journey across Europe, looking for land and trade. Discover their amazing history during your visit to the Bygdoy Peninsula, home to three famous museums honouring the rich nautical heritage of the Norse race and its warrior ancestors. Wander the Viking Ship Museum, the Kon-Tiki Museum and the Fram polar ship. Fram is the strongest wooden ship ever built and still holds the records for sailing farthest north and farthest south. At the museum you will be able to step on board the ship and see how the crew managed to survive in the coldest and most dangerous places on earth – the Arctic and the Antarctic.

Enrich
Enhance your art knowledge with an art specialist at the Munch Museum. Explore one of the most comprehensive one-man museums in the world, home to over half of Munch’s paintings, including ‘The Scream’.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to the trendy Swedish capital, Stockholm. Built on 14 islands connected by 57 bridges and looking proudly out onto the Baltic Sea, Stockholm is said to be one of the most beautiful capital cities in the world. The graceful architecture, the greenery, the fresh air and the proximity to the water are distinctive traits of this city. Spend the next two nights at your Special Stay hotel.

Your local guide will unveil the city’s most treasured hotspots during a city tour. You will discover the City Hall with its spire featuring the golden Three Crowns, one of Sweden’s most famous buildings; you will also see the Riddarholm Church and the Royal Palace. Then, visit the Vasa Ship Museum located on the island of Djurgården, where the 17th century warship ‘Vasa’ is now housed after it tragically capsized and sank on its inaugural voyage in 1628. This evening enjoy a highlight dinner at Fem Sma Hus, a mixture of Swedish cuisine with a French touch, in a stunning historical setting.

Welcome to Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark. Your wondrous journey begins with a two night Special Stay. From its humble origins as a fishing village, to its heyday as the glittering capital of the Danish Empire, to its current position as one of the world’s premier design capitals, the stories and characters of Copenhagen’s history can be discovered in its sumptuous palaces, copper-roofed town houses and atmospheric cobbled squares. Soak up the atmosphere of this modern and diverse city.

This morning, tour the wonderful Rosenborg Castle, an elegant Renaissance castle built as a country summerhouse in 1606. Rosenborg Castle features 400 years of magnificence, royal art treasures, the Crown Jewels and Royal Regalia. You will also get to see the delightful courtyard of Amalienborg Palace, home to Princess Mary and the Danish Royal Family.

Freechoice: Take an iconic cruise and see the city’s many attractions including Christiansborg Palace, the impressive Black Diamond Library and the Little Mermaid, while gliding along the canals. Alternatively, visit the Tivoli Gardens.

This evening you will savour every morsel at your welcome dinner at one of Copenhagen’s finest restaurants.

Embark Scenic Eclipse and toast the start of your exploration of western Europe with your Captain and new friends.   

Acquaint yourself with the exceptional range of facilities on board your ultra-luxurious Discovery Yacht. Choose a class in one of the fitness spaces or relax in one of the therapy lounges in the Spa Sanctuary. Tempt your palate from one of the exceptional dining venues or taste the exquisite wines. 

Boasting meadows with grazing cows, thatched roof cottages and vast beaches with candy striped lighthouses, you are sure to fall in love with Germany’s northernmost island. This anchor shaped island is an incredible mix of bustling activity and peaceful seclusion, featuring a landscape that ranges from flowering heathlands to majestic cliffs, and a rich and vibrant culture. Enjoy your day at leisure.  

Today, relax on board and choose one of the daily activities, an entertaining discussion in the theatre, or make time for yourself in the Senses Spa.

This Georgian harbour town is home to one of the world’s longest running sailing regattas. A waterfront lined with vintage sailing boats; the peaceful Isle of Wright is the former residence of the British royal family. Stroll through the vibrant town, composed of independent boutique shops, explore the beaches or maybe partake in some water sports. Take a stroll around its towering chalk cliffs, golden sandy beaches, rolling rural vistas, and lush marshland, and you will soon see why Queen Victoria says that is ‘impossible to find a prettier spot’.
 

Freechoice:
Carisbrooke Castle: Carisbrooke Castle was built as one of the fortified camps intended to defend England against the Vikings. The Normans later came along looking for a place to establish their own stronghold. They found that the stone-faced Saxon fortifications provided them with an excellent ready-made type of defence system. Today, you'll explore this romantic castle and its Edwardian-style Garden, taking in the panoramic views from atop the high castle walls. Place yourself at the very heart of the Isle of Wight's history in Carisbrooke's Princess Beatrice Garden.

Cowes Walking Tour & Sir Max Aitken Museum: Enjoy this delightful afternoon's exploration of both modern Cowes and the Cowes of yesteryear with a friendly local guide to lead the way. Walk along quaint cobblestone streets as you head uphill from the Esplanade. Wander up the charming high street to the pretty pink Prospect Building. It houses the Max Aitken Museum. You will stop for here a visit, learning a little of Cowes' incredible maritime history.

Royal Osbourne House: The Royal summer residence of Osborne House was built for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert between 1845 and 1851.  Although it is a grand, imposing, Italianate palace, Osborne House was essentially a family holiday home and is filled with many personal and family mementoes.

Panoramic Island Drive: Shanklin is a pretty seaside town, filled with picturesque buildings and even some thatched cottages. Proceed across the island to meet up with the eastern coastal road taking you through Freshwater, a large village with a spectacular bay, Follow the coastal road to Yarmouth, where you will have some free time to enjoy this historic port town. Sitting at the mouth of the River Yar and containing some of the oldest architecture on the Isle of Wight. From here you will follow the Hamstead heritage coast to return to Cowes to re-join Scenic Eclipse.

Isle of Wight by Bike: Join your specialist biking guide on an unforgettable journey. Cycle through Cowes High Street and catch the Chain Ferry to East Cowes. Admire Harbour views and the largest Union Jack in the World. Head towards the historic St Mildred's Church, a beautiful place of worship designed by Prince Albert for Queen Victoria. Cycle through the charming country lanes to Island Harbour and see views of the Osborne Estate. Pass by Egypt Point, the coastal viewpoint between Cowes and Gurnard. This was one of Queen Victoria's most treasured places with magnificent sunsets and panoramic views of the Solent. Continue onto the scenic streets of Cowes before arriving back to the Parade and your awaiting ship.

Built on a rock standing in a naturally defensive position, Saint-Malo is best known as being a breeding ground for privateers. This resilient walled city has been an important stop for many over centuries.
 

Freechoice:
Walking tour of St. Malo: Stroll around the quaint narrow streets as your knowledgeable guide points out sites of historical interest. View the castle, part of the ramparts protecting the town, the house of Duchess Ann, and the cathedral. Get acquainted with more famous personalities of St. Malo, such as Jacques Cartier, Duguay-Trouin, Surcouf, and the well-known romantic writer Châteaubriand. Enter the Asfeld Hotel for a visit of this former Corsair’s house, followed by a cider & crepe tasting. Built in 1725, the house is listed as a Historic Monument, protecting its authenticity. Enjoy some of the Corsair’s way of life while tasting a glass of Cider and the Breton crepe (a local and tasty kind of pancake) before walking back to Scenic Eclipse.

Cancale: The Oyster & The Sea: Drive to the fishing village of Cancale, a picturesque fishing village renowned for its “bancs d’huîtres” (oysters beds). With the guided visit of the “Ferme Marine“, you will discover everything about an oyster, the work of the oyster farmer, the workshop (tanks, washing, conditioning) and the shell’s museum. Enjoy a wine and oyster tasting before heading to the village for a guided stroll and some free time.

Medieval Dinan: Discover the charming medieval town of Dinan. Snake in and out its ancient streets and appreciate the historical remains. See the houses of the old town clustered together behind the long circuit of walls built by the Dukes of Brittany in the 14th century as protection against the Normans. Also see St. Sauveur’s Basilica, Place des Merciers, with its triangular gables and porches, and Rue du Jerzual, which links the main part of the town with the port. Enjoy some free time to explore the town before returning to Scenic Eclipse.

Mont St. Michel: Visit Mont Saint Michel, described by Victor Hugo as being “to the ocean what the Pyramid of Cheops is to the desert.” Walk through the narrow streets of the mediaeval village, and to the abbey for a guided tour. Originated by a dream, the monastery was found in the 10th century. Today the Mont welcomes you as modern pilgrims following the century-old tradition. Continue exploring at leisure before returning to Scenic Eclipse.
 

Discovery:
Hiking Dinarid Promenade: Escape to the seaside town of Dinard. Enjoy a pleasant walk, discover its culture and history through the unique aspects of the city. Located on the Rance Estuary, the elegant town displays the charm of the Belle Epoque with a unique architectural style known as “Marine” style, and impressive villas perched atop cliffs. The pedestrianized seawall promenade will offer you attractive views of St Malo. Flower beds and striking Mediterranean vegetation add to its beauty, as do its fine villas, making it perfect for a nice stroll.

Located on the tip of the French region of Brittany, discover a city that is known for its breath-taking landscapes and scenic coastal villages. With a bustling quayside, this attractive town will captivate you with its craft workshops and fisherman cottages as you explore the narrow streets. This town of contrast and colour owes much to sardine fishing, which have been carried out here since the Roman times.
 

Freechoice:
Douarnenez Walking tour: Throughout the 19th century, Douarnenez flourished thanks to its fish-canning factories. Locals lived to the rhythm of sardines: men would head out on the fishing boats to catch the little silver fish, which the women would then prepare at the factories. The sardine reigns supreme in Douarnenez and is still fished today, from June to September. By following the “venelles”, alleyways full of character, you will discover the soul of Douarnenez. Visit the port museum and learn of life aboard, before continuing to the “Sardine house” to listen to stories of fishermen and women who live here, and taste local sardine based traditional recipes to feel totally immersed.

Locronan Crepe & Cider: Drive to Locronan, a lovely medieval village listed as one of the most picturesque in France. Traces of its Golden age are to be found in its granite houses built during the Renaissance, old well, large church and pretty chapel. Your local guide will tell you the story of the 15th century Church, Saint Ronan. The pulpit decoration relates the life of Saint Ronan and the stained glasses depict scenes of the Passion. Taste the famous "kouing aman", a traditional Breton butter cake and enjoy a crepe and a bowl of cider in a traditional creperie.

Sweet Concarneau: Get away to Concarneau, a typical fishing harbour and a walled city very rich historically and culturally. After a guided visit of the walled city and its ramparts, you will enjoy a tasting of local sweet products. Discover, with a glass of cider, the famous “Kouign amann”, a traditional Breton cake. Spend some time at leisure before returning to Scenic Eclipse.

The Bigouden Country: Make the most of the fresh breeze coming from the deep west of Brittany. Admire the stunning seaside panorama and the historical edifices while learning more about the local history and culture. See villages known for being the heart of Brittany’s traditions. Discover the wild landscapes facing the Atlantic Ocean including dunes, reeds and pebbles. Walk in the coastguard paths, and enjoy the show of the waves splashing the granite rocks.
 

Discovery:
Hiking Cap Sizun: Hike among the tremendous landscapes of the far western Brittany. Drive to La Pointe du Van, a spectacular headland set on the rocks and discover the wild Cap Sizun. During this hike admire natural sites of sheer cliffs with breath-taking panoramas and peaks.

Enjoy the exceptional range of facilities on board your luxurious yacht.

Sail to Vigo, located in the Galicia region near the north Portuguese border. Dating back to the Middle Ages, the city has Celtic ruins, beaches and a cathedral that is a sacred place of pilgrimage for millions of Christians around the world.
 

Freechoice:
Vigo Sightseeing and Baiona: This tour shows you the beauty of the marshes of Southern Galicia. Begin your exploration of Vigo with a drive up to Mount Castro. Continue to Baiona, one of the most important fisherman villages of the Galician coastline. There, visit the remains of the old walls dated from the 16th century, and see monuments that show the importance of this village through the history, such as the Romanesque Collegiate Church.

Santiago: The small town of Santiago reserves big surprises to all visitors. The local guide will impart some of the region's history, a perfect prelude to the sights that await you at the town. Once in Santiago, local guides will introduce you to the history of Saint James and show you inside the Cathedral. It is a Romanesque work in which numerous architectonic styles converge.

Gardens of the North: Witness the beauty of the marshes of Southern Galicia. Begin your exploration of Vigo with a drive up to Mount Castro. Continue to Quiñones de León Palace to visit the gardens. The English Garden is also known as "Meadow of Tea" due to the British custom of having tea here. It consists of a rectangular lawn surrounded by two paths crossing.  You will end with a panoramic tour passing Samil beach and Bouzas quarter.

Wine Appreciation: For those who have a taste for wine, this tour will take you to the heart of the Galician wines. The Agro de Bazan Winery makes high quality wines with only the Albariño grape, an aromatic, long-standing grape native of the Salnes Valley. The Gran Bazan Cellars are a result of a strong entrepreneurial project created to lead an elitist grape and wine-growing project in the smallholdings of Galicia 25 years ago.
 

Discovery:
Kayaking Tour: Kayaking here is a fantastic way to get in direct contact with Mother Nature. Kayaking through the estuary of the Minho River, one can appreciate the biodiversity and stunning natural beauty of this protected area.

Discover the unique historic treasures of Porto. Located on the Douro river estuary, this metropolis shares its name with one of Portugal’s best-known exports, Port wine. Known as the commercial centre of northern Portugal, it is a city of baroque splendour. Explore this colourful city boasting houses decorated in Portuguese tiles, Gothic cathedrals, fado restaurants and amazing food. Stroll through the winding alleys, see the public street art, greet the friendly locals, hear the rickety tram, and feel the breeze off the Atlantic.
 

Freechoice:
Porto Active City Tour with Palacio da Bolsa Visit: Enjoy an active walking tour of Porto. Starting at Clerigos Tower with over 250 years of history, with a walk down to Sao Bento station where you can admire the beautiful Portuguese tiles named azulejos which depict historical life scenes and on to Flores Street. Continue to Infante Square to visit Palacio da Bolsa (Stock Exchange), a remarkable 19th century neoclassic styled building with a unique space of great decorative wealth inside honouring Porto's past and present money merchants, now a place for cultural, political and social events.

Guimarães with Ducal Palace Visit: Classified a World Heritage site based on the originality and authenticity applied in its restoration, a visit to Guimarães is worthwhile due to its historical centre, the rickety houses and medieval buildings, making this a delightful and charming city that preserved its illustrious past.

Porto City Tour with Gaia Cellar Visit: Experience the most emblematic places in the charming city of Porto, such as Clerigos Tower, Sao Bento station with azulejos which depict historical life scenes and Porto's riverside quarter known as the Ribeira. All the way to Gaia, the southern side of the Douro River, where you will find all the port houses and experience a tasting and visit to Caves Ferreira, a brand over 250 years old with a prominent role in the history of Porto wine.

Aveiro Tour: Depart Porto and journey south to the beautiful coastal city of Aveiro on the Ria de Aveiro Lagoon. After a guided walking tour, cruise along the canals of the “Venice of Portugal” to admire the colourful fishermen’s houses of Costa Nova beach and get amazing views of the landscape.
 

Discovery:
Hiking tour: Join a local guide to experience a different side of this region. Transfer to Cais de Gaia and experience a scenic cable car ride all the way up to Jardim do Morro. Cross the historic Don Luis I Bridge and take in the amazing view of the city. Continue to Sé, Porto's 12th century cathedral, and discover the picturesque narrow streets of Porto in Sé neighbourhood. Walk to the Douro admiring traditional colourful houses, and by Palácio da Bolsa. Hike up Rua das Flores and reach Sao Bento where you can admire 20 000 of the beautiful Portuguese tiles named azulejos which depict historical life scenes.

Your cruise ends this morning as you farewell the crew and disembark after breakfast taking away memories of a truly unforgettable experience.

Please book your flight to depart out of Lisbon after 11:00 AM.

The itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons. As such Scenic cannot guarantee the tour will operate unaltered from the itinerary stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.