This morning, take part in a guided exploration of Portugal’s picturesque capital. Visit the Bélem district to see the famed Jeronimos Monastery and taste the Portuguese delicacy, Pasteis de Nata, which was invented here by monks in the 18th century. Return to the city centre to walk through the iconic Rossio square and Terreiro do Paço, home to the emblematic statue of King Dom Jose I on horseback.

Spend more time discovering the charms of Lisbon today.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose how you want to explore with the following Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Visit Sintra & Palacio Nacional: Travel to the hilltop town of Sintra, around 45 minutes outside of Lisbon. Explore Sintra on an orientation tour and visit the national monument, Palacio Nacional. Perched high above the town, the palace is a glorious blend of Moorish and Portuguese Gothic architecture topped with twin conical chimneys. This well-preserved Medieval palace was a favourite location of Portuguese nobility and was a royal residence for nearly 500 years.

Traditional Portuguese Cooking Class: Experience Portuguese cuisine firsthand and learn about its history and popular ingredients before getting hands on and cooking a traditional dish yourself.

This afternoon is at leisure, so you can take advantage of everything that Lisbon has to offer. Perhaps browse the elegant shops located on your doorstep or take Tram 28 to discover more of this fascinating city.

This evening, join your fellow guests for a delicious dinner in a local restaurant.

Wake in the city of Porto, a 2,000-year-old city that lent its name to the nation of Portugal. It is recognised as a World Heritage Site for its striking urban landscape, with many well-preserved buildings and monuments. And while it is awash in history, it has a youthful vibe. Porto showcases sensory delights, streets are lined with restaurants showcasing local delicacies and historical buildings are decorated with intricate colourful tiles. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore the region with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Guided tour of Porto: Discover the rich culture and history of Porto on this guided tour, which includes a visit to the iconic Palácio da Bolsa. After the tour, enjoy some free time to explore on your own. You may want to mingle with the locals in the 110-year-old Bolhão Markets.

Active tour of Porto including cable car: Travel from Porto to Gaia (or Vila Nova de Gaia) where you’ll take a cable car ride to the Dom Luis bridge, which crosses the Douro River. Set out on an active walk across the bridge towards Porto Cathedral, São Bento railway station, and the bustling street of Rua das Flores.

Decorative blue tiles azulejos are synonymous with Portugal and this afternoon you will learn about their history while creating a masterpiece of your own during a tile painting workshop on board.

Nestled amongst the scenic landscape between the Tâmega and Douro rivers, the quaint village of Entre-os-Rios is known for brilliant landscapes and historical bridges. Despite the unfortunate collapse of the Hintze Ribeiro Bridge in 2001, the village has since worked towards reconstruction and emerged as a serene, picturesque destination within the Douro Valley.

Your first port of call along the Douro is the quaint village of Entre-os-Rios. From here, you will set out to explore the verdant Douro Valley, with options to enjoy a hike, sample local wines, or visit a city known as the ‘cradle of Portugal’.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Paiva walkways: Explore nature at its finest on an active hike along the Paiva walkways. This wooden boardwalk snakes its way down a rocky hillside in the World Heritage-listed Arouca Geopark, beside rivers and across the longest pedestrian suspension bridge in the world.

Quinta da Aveleda: Explore the fairytale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned sparkling wine producer set on an impressive estate with enchanting gardens.

Excursion to Guimarães: Visit this well-preserved World Heritage-listed city considered the birthplace of Portugal, and explore the palace, which dates to the 15th century, and is home to a historic collection of tapestries, furniture, weapons and more.

Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise to Régua, the largest of the riverside towns. This region is famous for producing Port wine, with rolling vineyards on the terraced hillsides and wineries dating to the 18th century. This evening, enjoy a visit to the impressive Douro Museum.  

Sometimes known as Peso da Régua, Régua is a key hub situated in the Duoro Valley and serving as a central location for the region's wine production. Home to a number of port wine lodges and museums, the town offers stunning views of the surrounding vineyards combined with a unique insight into the legacy and craftmanship of Portugal's iconic fortified wine.

Wake early to watch the sunrise illuminate the vineyards surrounding Régua, creating a magical golden hour of light through the mist. Explore more of the region today with multiple excursions on offer. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from the following Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Visit Varosa Valley, Tarouca & Ucanha On this unique excursion, only available with Scenic travel further into Portugal’s authentic villages. Explore the Varosa Valley and visit the charming village of Tarouca where you'll explore the restored Monastery of Saint John of Tarouca. Walk the fortified bridge of Ucanha, Portugal’s first toll bridge.

Quinta visit with olive tasting: Visit a Quinta, a traditional rural estate, and learn about the production of olive oil that has been handed down through the family for 11 generations. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of their produce.

Back on board indulge with a delicious lunch before exploring the region further with a selection from the following Scenic Freechoice activities.

Excursion to Lamego: Take a coach to the town of Lamego, nestled among terraced vineyards that were the first to produce world-famous Port wine. Visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, walk down the staircase lined with mosaic tiles and taste local delicacies in a bodega. Finish with some free time. Mateus Palace: Transfer by coach to Mateus Palace, built in the early 18th century and considered to be one of the best examples of Baroque civil architecture in Portugal. Admire the original furniture, ornate ceilings and manicured gardens.

Port wine blending class: Visit Quinta de Pacheca to marvel at the glorious vineyards and old cellar. Then take a hands-on workshop on the Port blending process, followed by bottling, capping, and labelling with a personalised label.

Take things slowly today as you enjoy a relaxed cruise through the spectacular Vinhateiro wine growing region. You may wish to absorb the view from the Vitality Pool or book a massage in the wellness area. Terraced vineyards line the sides of the Douro Valley, dotted with traditional red-roofed farmhouses and tiny villages. Vinhateiro was the first demarcated wine region in the world, established in 1756, and this stretch of river is World Heritage listed for its historic significance and importance in wine cultivation. Arrive in Vega de Terrón this evening.

A gateway to the Douro Valley, Vega de Terrón is a port town offering its visitors access to the breathtaking landscapes and magnificent vineyards of the region. Located close to the Spanish border in North-East Portugal, near the Spanish town of Barca d'Alva, the town serves as a strategic base to explore both Portuguese and Spanish cultural gems.

Wake this morning in the city of Vega de Terrón, located on the border of Portugal and Spain and at the confluence of the Douro and Águeda rivers. This small town remains beautifully unspoiled, with quiet streets, lush landscapes and welcoming locals. It’s a popular gateway to the university town of Salamanca, which you will have the opportunity to explore. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Salamanca full day excursion: Known as the Golden City for its honey-coloured sandstone, Salamanca is famous for its university, the third oldest in the world. It's home to two cathedrals, one dating back to the 12th century and the other to the 16th century, which you will see on today’s guided tour. You will also visit a market to taste local delicacies, and you’ll have free time to explore and enjoy lunch at your leisure.

Freixo de Espada à Cinta with silk museum: If you would like a more relaxed day, take a half-day tour to the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta., This is the only place in Portugal where handcrafted silk is still processed entirely by hand, and on this guided tour you will visit a silk museum before returning to the ship for lunch.

Wake in the tiny village of Pocinho. Established as the terminus of the Douro Railway in 1887, it’s a great base for exploring more of the Douro Valley. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Côa Valley Museum: Opened in 2010, this museum is the largest open-air Paleolithic rock art site in the world. Inside the striking contemporary building, experience an introduction to rock art through original artefacts and digital technology. You’ll also enjoy a pre-historic workshop.

Village life in the Côa Valley: Visit the traditional village of Freixo Numão, where life has remained unchanged for centuries. Then visit Casa Painova estate for a demonstration on how sweet almonds are produced and enjoy a tasting of almonds, olives and fruit products.

This afternoon, relax as you cruise towards Pinhão. Perhaps meet new friends as you enjoy a refreshment in Panorama Lounge and Bar.

Situated in the heart of the Douro Valley, Pinhão is a charming riverside town characterised by terraced vineyards and traditional wine estates, locally known as quintas. Visitors are invited to explore historic wineries and savour the rich flavours of the region's iconic port wines.

Wake this morning in Pinhão, set on one of the most picturesque parts of the Douro River. This small village is surrounded by terraced vineyards and produces exceptional Port wine.

Transfer to the charming village of Provesende, located on a plateau with spectacular views of the region’s fertile rolling landscape. Wander through the village and visit the church, discover the old bakery, witness traditional handicraft being made, and look inside the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calçada, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of delicious bola.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose one of this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Kayaking along the Pinhão River: Explore this beautiful region from a different perspective as you glide past impressive landscapes of terraced vineyards, patchworked farmland and sprawling estates via kayak on the Pinhao River, a tributary of the Douro.

Quinta vineyard hike: Take a guided hike through the breathtaking vineyards of a quinta. Enjoy stunning views across the Douro River, learn about the winemaking process, and sample some of their blends.

Quinta tasting: Visit a local estate for a tasting of the region’s most famous export, Port wine. On a guided walking tour, you’ll learn the secrets of the vineyard and take in the magnificent landscapes.

Enjoy time at leisure as you continue to cruise along the spectacular Douro River. Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive back in Porto this afternoon, where you’ll experience an exclusive classical concert tonight.

Scenic Enrich
Classical concert in São Francisco Church: From the ship, take a short walk (with some stairs) to São Francisco Church, which is one of the most iconic sites in Porto. Built in the 13th century, the Gothic church has an altar decorated with intricately carved wood swathed in intricate gold detailing. In these magnificent surrounds, enjoy a performance of classical music.

Enjoy a full day in Porto, with more time to explore the city and be immersed in authentic Portuguese culture.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Excursion to Aveiro with a cruise: Enjoy a guided walking tour of Aveiro, famed for its canals and Art Nouveau architecture., Cruise the waterways in a brightly coloured moliceiros flat-bottomed boat, that are unique to the city.

Excursion to Braga: Travel north through the green, rolling countryside of Minho to the historic city of Braga, one of Portugal’s oldest and most elegant destinations. In the historic centre, join a guided tour past the Sé de Braga Cathedral, graceful plazas, and centuries-old residences that reflect the city’s ecclesiastical heritage.

Wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia: Travel to Vila Nova de Gaia to visit one of Porto’s most famous cellars, Cockburn’s Port. Enjoy a guided visit and a tasting.

This afternoon you will have free time in Porto to explore the city at your own leisure. Return to your Scenic Space-Ship this evening for an illumination cruise through Porto, passing the beautiful city skyline and travelling beneath the six bridges that span this stretch of river.

Later, toast a memorable journey with your fellow guests at a farewell dinner.

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.

Cruising downstream, along the Rhône River, your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Chavaney today. This charming village is made up of quintessentially French red-roofed buildings and surrounded by the lush vineyards of the Rhône wine region. It’s also known for its outdoor pursuits, such as hiking and cycling, and is a key stop on the French Camino pilgrimage route.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with a choice from these Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Walking tour of Vienne with Roman theatre: Travel to nearby Vienne to uncover the fascinating history of this quaint riverside town, once conquered by Julius Caesar. You will visit one of the best-preserved Roman theatres, which was built against the steep slopes of a hill and could hold more than 10,000 spectators.

St-Joseph - Côte-Rôtie wine tasting: Savour the exquisite wines of the Côte-Rôtie amid the nourished vineyards of Chavanay. This region is renowned for its exceptional terroirs that produce some of the finest wines in France. During a private tour of a local estate, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the meticulous craftsmanship and passion behind each bottle.

Cycling tour: Enjoy an easy e-bike tour along gentle, flat terrain. Make a leisurely loop from Chavanay along the Rhône River and through nearby picturesque villages. The route offers beautiful views of the rolling hills and stops for wine tasting or local refreshments.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is an historic village in the southern Rhône Valley, famous for its full-bodied red wines made primarily from grenache, syrah and mourvèdre grapes. The name means ‘new castle of the pope’ as it was a papal summer residence in the 14th century. Today, it is a celebrated wine region with over 300 wineries offering tastings and tours, attracting wine lovers from around the world.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore the area on one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Wines of the Popes – Wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC: The fertile banks of the Rhône are peppered with Côte du Rhône vineyards, including at the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where centuries of wine production make for a fascinating history. Take this opportunity to sample some of the region’s most celebrated wines.

Chocolate workshop: Experience a delicious tour of Chocolaterie Castelain, featuring a live chocolate-making demonstration followed by a tasting session. Savour their signature artisanal chocolates infused with local Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine, paired perfectly with select regional wines and delicacies.

Bike tour along the Rhône: Follow the gentle paths of the ViaRhôna along the beautiful Rhône riverbanks on this gentle cycling tour. As you pedal through peaceful landscape filled with vineyards on both riverbanks, you’ll reach the impressive Passerelle de l'Oiselay, a striking pedestrian and cycle bridge offering stunning panoramic views over the river.

Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

The southern most point of your journey, Arles is just a few kilometres from the Mediterranean Sea. Founded by Julius Ceasar more than 2,000 years ago, the city is home to the largest number of Roman ruins outside of Rome itself. Vincent van Gogh lived here in 1888 and drew inspiration for many of his works from the surrounding landscape. Arles is also a gateway to the vines of Provence where historic wineries produce the region’s famous rosé.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore the city with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice:

Provence in Pink – Rosé wine tasting: Discover the renowned vineyards that produce Provence’s signature rosé. Learn about unique terroir and popular grape varieties that produce the crisp, elegant pinks the region is famous for.

Guided tour of Arles: Set out from the ship on foot to visit the heart of Arles and its most impressive Roman ruins. Experience the vibrant colours and striking quality of light that has inspired many artists. Your local guide will provide fascinating insights about the city’s history and modern culture.

Visit Les Baux with Carrières des Lumières: Marvel at the Carrières des Lumières, a former quarry that has been transformed into a 7,000 square metre immersive digital art space. Then explore the stunning medieval village of Les Baux.

Ancestry of the Kitchen with olive mill: Visit a local olive farm where you will learn the techniques of olive oil production. Later, the owner will share their experience of life in this region as well as traditional Provençal recipes.

Following Vincent – Van Gogh’s Arles: Step into the vibrant world of Vincent van Gogh on a walking tour. Trace the artist’s journey through the cobbled streets and historic sites that inspired some of his most famous works during his 15 months in this charming Provençal town, experiencing the colours and atmosphere that shaped his genius.

Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise towards Avignon, where you will be docked overnight.

Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, Avignon offers a rich cultural heritage. Its charming streets, vibrant markets, and annual theater festival, the Festival d'Avignon, add to its allure. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and the Rhône River, Avignon blends history with a lively contemporary atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture seekers.

Wake in the ancient city of Avignon. Known as the ‘City of the Popes’, it is home to the World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace), the former papal residence in the 14th century when Rome was in turmoil. Avignon is surrounded by wine regions on all sides, with the Rhône Valley to the north and Provence to the south. It is also known for artisan products like olive oil, lavender and chocolates.

Scenic Freechoice:
Take your pick from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice:

Guided walking tour: Learn the rich and fascinating history of Avignon on this guided tour, wandering the ancient cobblestone streets to reach the Pope’s Palace, home to the Papacy and seat of Western Christianity in the 14th century. A moderate degree of fitness is required.

Excursion to Pont Du Gard: Visit the ancient Pont du Gard aqueduct, built by the Romans around 2,000 years ago. Afterwards, learn about this engineering marvel and how it carried water at the engaging museum.

Kayaking at Pont du Gard: Get a different perspective on the Pont du Gard from the tranquil waters of the Gardon River. Paddle a kayak beneath the World Heritage-listed aqueduct and marvel at its intricate stonework.

Shop with a chef & Scenic Culinaire: Join your on board chef to visit the local market where you will shop for and sample the best ingredients this region has to offer. Return to the ship for an interactive cooking demonstration at Scenic Culinaire. (Please note: Avignon Market is closed on a Monday). Guest limits apply.

Excursion to Luberon villages and Sénanque Abbey: Visit the village of Gordes, considered one of the most beautiful in France. Its stone buildings spiral around the rock on which it is perched, with the church and castle at the apex. Later, visit the picturesque Sénanque Abbey.

This afternoon is at your leisure to further explore Avignon at your own pace. If you’re feeling energetic, wander up Le Rocher des Doms. Set 30 metres above the river, it offers excellent views over the city as well as a pretty English-style garden with shady trees, fountains and ponds.

Scenic Enrich
Classical concert at the Palais des Papes: Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime private experience inside Palais des Papes. Sit down to an exclusive gala dinner inside the very banquet hall Popes used to host formal feasts in and be immersed in the beauty of famous classical pieces performed by a quartet of musicians.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will cruise north overnight, arriving in Viviers early this morning. Founded in the fifth century, the city is often described as an open-air museum. Wandering its narrow, zig-zagging lanes, you will feel as though little has changed in the past 1,600 years. Viviers also has a fascinating connection with the French Resistance and is bordered by the vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône.

Scenic Freechoice:
This morning the choice is yours with Scenic Freechoice:

Walking tour of Viviers: Admire the many architectural treasures of Viviers on foot, including the Cathedral of St Vincent with its mix of medieval, Gothic and Renaissance styles. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Viviers at your leisure.

French Resistance walking tour: Hear tales of heroism from the French Resistance, who fought bravely against the Nazi Occupation of France during World War II. Learn about their most daring missions as you explore the historic town on foot.

WWII in Viviers: Uncover the layered history of Viviers, whose quiet charm belies a dramatic past. This guided walk reveals how the Rhône Valley became a pivotal stage in the Battle of Montélimar, when Allied and German forces clashed in August 1944 during the final push to liberate southern France. Learn why this battle is still studied at West Point.

Scenic Freechoice:
After lunch explore more of the surrounding region with Scenic Freechoice:

Côtes du Rhône villages tasting: Discover the rich flavours of the Rhône Valley on this guided tasting excursion. Experience the diverse terroir and time-honoured winemaking traditions of southern France in a glass.

Ardèche Nature Park with Caverne du Pont-d'Arc Museum: Explore the natural beauty and historic sites that come together in the Ardèche Nature Park. Then be immersed in the Caverne du Pont-d’Arc Museum, the largest decorated Palaeolithic cave replica in the world. The original site was deemed too fragile for public access, so this replica cave was built only a few kilometres from the actual cave.

Excursion to Grignan de Provence: Travel to the beautiful provincial town of Grignan. Your local guide will accompany you to the mighty castle that dominates the town as well as the Collegiate Church of the Holy Saviour, before enjoying some time at leisure.

Arrive in the charming town of Tournon early this morning. This hillside village is known for its terraced vineyards, enchanting castle dating back to the 10th century and quaint cobblestoned streets. Tournon is at the centre of the northern Rhône Valley wine region, famous for producing the best Syrah in the world. The surrounding vineyards also produce signature white varietals – Viognier, Marsanne and Roussanne.

Scenic Freechoice:
Spend this morning at your preferred pace with one of the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Côtes du Rhône tasting: Enjoy a guided tasting of the famed Côtes du Rhône wines. A local wine expert will share their knowledge as you sip their renowned drops.

Hiking through the vineyards in Tournon: Get a first-hand look at the famous vines of the Rhône on a hike through the sloping vineyards that flank the town. Learn about the local wine production and taste some of the delicious varietals of the region.

Walking tour of Tournon: Explore this ancient town on foot, visiting the castle, built between the 10th and 16th centuries, and crossing France's oldest suspension bridge to the neighbouring town of Tain l'Hermitage, home to prestigious chocolatiers Valrhona.

Biking along the Rhône: Cycle a section of the famed ViaRhona bike route along the Rhône River between Tournon and Gun. Admire charming villages, lush orchards and historic bridges, seeing daily life of locals as you pass by.

This afternoon you will have some free time to explore the town on your own.

This evening, indulge in a dessert buffet on board Scenic Sapphire from a local pâtissier. Savour the authentic flavours of the region and conclude your night with delicious creations – delicate pastries, silky creams, and vibrant confections that delight the eyes as much as the palate.

Return to Lyon today. France’s culinary capital sits at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. The city is home to more than 4,000 restaurants – including 20 that hold Michelin stars. Learn more about its rich history, dating back to the days of the Romans, or discover one of the region’s surrounding villages

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore Lyon with this morning’s range of Scenic Freechoice:

Guided tour of Lyon: Experience the essence of Lyon on this coach tour, taking you past Roman ruins and to its hidden traboules, secret passageways that date back to the fourth century. Then visit Notre Dame Basilica, offering a fabulous vantage point for views across the city.

Excursion to Pérouges: Travel to the medieval walled village of Pérouges, perched atop a hill overlooking the Ain River. Enjoy a walking tour of through its vine-covered stone buildings, cobbled laneways and market square centred around a centuries-old lime tree. Please note: Due to uneven surfaces and a lot of walking both up and down hill, this tour is recommended only for guests with a high degree of fitness.

Silk painting workshop: Fine silk has been produced in Lyon since the 15th century and the city still has a proud tradition of textile production. Join this immersive workshop to learn about this rich heritage and create your own masterpiece.

Scenic Enrich
Choral concert at Chapelle de la Trinite: Step inside the grand Trinity Chapel, a Baroque beauty with an interior decadently covered in Carrera marble. Scenic guests will be treated to an exclusive acapella choir performance, made even more breathtaking by the sublime acoustics of the chapel.

Dock in the town of Mâcon, which will be your base for exploring the surrounding south Burgundy region. Mâcon sits right on the edge of the river, with picturesque pastel-hued buildings, ancient churches and picturesque quays. It is close to the Burgundy wine region, one of the most famous in France, which produces exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gamay and Sparkling wines.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Excursion to Cluny and Cluny Abbey: Step back in time to the medieval town of Cluny, which is famous for its Benedictine Abbey, once the largest Christian buildings in the world. Tour the impressive town, learn about its history and soak up its charm during some free time.

Truffle tasting: Meet a local truffle farmer and his dog to learn the tricks and techniques of truffle farming. Afterwards, enjoy tasting of truffle butter plus chocolate mousse with truffles.

Georges Blanc cooking demonstration: Learn the story of the village of Vonnas, a gourmet destination created by legendary Michelin-star chef George Blanc. Visit one of his famed restaurants for an interactive cooking demonstration featuring classic French dishes.

Hameau Dubœuf – the first wine theme park in Europe: Step into the world of wine, where over 30,000 square meters of engaging exhibits, immersive rides and interactive shows take you through 2,000 years of wine and vineyard history. Explore historic cellars, take hands-on olfactory walks in aromatic gardens, experience a panoramic flight over the Beaujolais and Mâconnais landscapes, and finish with a guided wine tasting only available on this departure.

This afternoon, enjoy a cooperage demonstration. A skilled artisan will shows you the secret of this ancient art and learn how it still plays a crucial role in wine and spirit making.

Tonight, sit down to an exclusive dinner on board prepared by Michelin-starred Chef Didier Goiffon. This intimate dining experience in Crystal Dining allows you to experience authentic flavours in exquisite regional dishes that showcase the best of French gastronomy.

Stay in Mâcon this morning to discover more of the region’s gourmet delights and dramatic architecture.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice activities:

Beaujolais wine region: Drive through the rolling hills of the world-famous Beaujolais wine region and meet a local vintner. Discover how this wine is produced and sample some of the region’s best drops.

Excursion to Château de Cormatin: Transfer by coach to the historic Château de Cormatin, built in 1606. The castle boasts a fascinating history and has been lovingly restored back to its original glory. Admire the castle’s gilded rooms, moat, water features and more than 10 hectares of manicured gardens on a guided tour.

Monastère Royal de Brou and Bourg-en-Bresse: Discover the cultural treasures of Bourg-en-Bresse with a guided tour featuring the stunning Monastère Royal de Brou. This 16th century masterpiece commissioned by Margaret of Austria combines flamboyant Gothic architecture with refined Renaissance artistry. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing centuries of Flemish and Netherlandish art.

Your journey concludes this morning. Farewell your fellow guests and Scenic crew, taking with you vivid memories of France’s most famous wine regions.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. Please refer to our terms and conditions.