Cruise Advice
24-26 April
Setting sail from Paris
Paris is a joyful expression of all that is glorious about France, a city of rarified tastes, romantic riverside walks and the occasional rather rude waiter. Although the sights will be familiar even to first-time visitors, this does nothing to lessen their impact; a word like 'iconic' doesn't quite do justice to that first glimpse of Gustave Eiffel's famous tower looming over the Seine. Culture vultures will be in seventh heaven, with a plethora of galleries and museums housing some of the finest art collections in the world, and the restaurant scene is absolutely first class.
Our tip
The latest ‘up and coming’ neighbourhood changes on a regular basis, though districts such as Montmartre and the Latin Quarter retain a timeless appeal.
26-27 April
France: Bordeaux
Bordeaux sits at the centre of the world's most famous wine region, and is home to a beguiling blend of beautiful buildings, sophisticated gastronomy and high culture. It's a marvellous place to spend some time, whether it's a day sampling wines, an evening at the opera or a night on the tiles.
27 April
France: Saint Emilion
28 April
France: Libourne
The picturesque town of Libourne, situated at the confluence of the Dordogne and Isle rivers, is an important centre for the wine industry which dominates this region. Popular excursions from Libourne include the delightful medieval town of Saint-Emilion, another name that will be familiar to wine connoisseurs.
28 April - 1 May
France: Cussac-Fort-Médoc, Cadillac
2-3 May
France: Bordeaux
Bordeaux sits at the centre of the world's most famous wine region, and is home to a beguiling blend of beautiful buildings, sophisticated gastronomy and high culture. It's a marvellous place to spend some time, whether it's a day sampling wines, an evening at the opera or a night on the tiles.
3-4 May
France: Bourg
5 May
France: Blaye
The remarkable 17th century citadel of Blaye is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, designed by the famous military engineer Vauban to guard the Gironde river and the city of Bordeaux. The town is also known for its excellent wines, and there are several châteaux nearby.
5-6 May
France: Bordeaux
Bordeaux sits at the centre of the world's most famous wine region, and is home to a beguiling blend of beautiful buildings, sophisticated gastronomy and high culture. It's a marvellous place to spend some time, whether it's a day sampling wines, an evening at the opera or a night on the tiles.
6-9 May
Arriving in Madrid
Madrid is a dynamic and exciting capital filled with grandiose Habsburg architecture, cultural treasures and enough quirky little bars to spend a lifetime grazing on tapas. The city has an embarrassment of riches when it comes to the arts; the Prado houses some of the world's most important paintings, while the more contemporary-focused Reina Sofia is home to Picasso's nightmarish masterpiece, 'Guernica'. The city brims with innovative restaurants and lively nightspots, but there are plenty of quieter corners too, such as the lovely Retiro park, where Madrileños come to unwind at the weekend.
Your home from home
Scenic's pair of 149-guest ships - Sapphire and Diamond - were given a full makeover in 2017, bringing a new level of luxury to the rivers of France.
What we love
The recently refurbished Sapphire and Diamond offer stylish, spacious accommodation and a luxurious all-inclusive experience. The innovative onboard cooking school, Scenic Cullinaire, is a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the flavours of southern France.
| Capacity | 149 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 57 European Staff |
| Style |
Relaxed and informal during the day, giving way to an elegant evening atmosphere. |
| Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Extend your stay in Paris
There are so many fantastic hotels. For good value and peace, how about the Grandes Ecoles, beautifully secluded.
Day trips from Paris
If you’ve time, go out to Versailles for a fascinating visit to the great palace.
