Journey Extensions
Delve deeper into remarkable locations and seasonal experiences with our extensions to add to your Europe river cruise.
Experience more of Europe
We realise your cruise may only be one part of your dream European holiday. Our selection of extensions effortlessly combine with your river cruise, allowing you to customise your journey. We handle all the planning, connecting you to the heart of the fascinating destinations seamlessly.
Why Choose Scenic?
t’s more than an extension. It’s peace of mind and luxury escorted touring with carefully curated experiences that offer a true insight into each destination.
Extensions have a maximum of 44 guests, keeping your journey intimate and comfortable
Stay in 5-star hotel accommodation (or best available) including daily hotel breakfast and porterage
Be fully escorted by your Scenic Tour Director, giving you peace of mind and a seamless journey
Each stay includes a city tour by a local guide sharing expert advice, passion and knowledge of the destination
Included Scenic Freechoice excursions to personalise your journey
Included transfers to/from the airport
Tipping & gratuities included
UK, Belgium & The Netherlandsss
London
4 Day Extension, London > London Enhance your European river cruise with this handcrafted four-day extension. Discover the icons of London, the vibrant, sprawling capital of the UK. From Big Ben and the Tower of London to the majesty of Kensington Palace, London’s royal legacy and rich history await at every turn. Take the time to explore this captivating city while enjoying luxury accommodation, seamless transfers and immersive excursions.
After your Scenic river cruise, you will board the Eurostar from Paris or Amsterdam and travel to London on one of the fastest trains in Europe. Alternatively, fly into London from Lyon or Bordeaux. Once you arrive in the storied capital of the UK, you’ll transfer to your hotel for a three-night stay. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore the surroundings at your leisure.
Bruges
4 Day Extension, Bruges > Bruges Embark on an enchanting journey through one of Belgium's oldest and most romantic cities. Enjoy this compact city's vibrant atmosphere, famed for its exquisite chocolatiers that line the bustling streets. Savor the delightful offerings of lively breweries producing world-renowned Belgian beer. Dive into the rich tapestry of history at intriguing museums showcasing Bruges' storied past. Wander through the city's well-preserved medieval architecture and stroll along delightful cobblestone streets. As you explore, picturesque canals will guide your way through the heart of Bruges, offering a truly unforgettable experience.
Welcome to Belgium, the historic city founded in the 9th century by the Vikings and the capital of the West Flanders region which became an important trading route during the 12th to 15th century. Upon arrival, check into your wonderfully located hotel with turrets resembling a fairytale castle.
Amsterdam
3 Day Extension, Amsterdam > Amsterdam | New for 2027 Discover the charms of Amsterdam during this three-day extension. Often called the Venice of the North, its World Heritage-listed centre is threaded with picturesque canals lined with colourful houses. Wander the narrow streets, visit excellent museums, browse chic vintage stores, and indulge in the city’s innovative restaurants. This tour will show you the best of The Netherlands’ capital for an immersive discovery of this captivating capital.
Welcome to Amsterdam. This historic city is a labyrinth of narrow laneways and canals lined with beautifully preserved 17th century buildings and charming cafés. Upon arrival, transfer to your luxury hotel. Settle in and explore the city at your leisure.
France, Spain & Portugal
Lisbon
4 Day Extension, Lisbon > Lisbon Discover the rich history and modern flair of Portugal’s capital. Explore the elegant Belém district with its iconic tower and Jerónimos Monastery. Stroll through lively neighborhoods, filled with shops, cafes, and cultural treasures. End your days enjoying the beautiful riverfront and the taste of delectable Portuguese cuisine. This tour captures the essence of Lisbon, blending its historical significance with contemporary allure.
On arrival in Lisbon, you’ll be transferred to your luxury hotel for the next three nights. Tonight, enjoy a welcome drink with your Tour Director and fellow guests to toast the wonderful experiences that awaits.
Porto
3 Day Extension, Porto > Porto Your Scenic river cruise concludes but your journey through Portugal continues. Dive even deeper into the culture and heritage of Porto on this handcrafted 3-day extension. With its centuries of maritime heritage, edgy arts scene and exceptional dining, you’ll quickly be captivated by Portugal’s second largest city. Staying in the Vila Nova de Gaia district, this seamless stay will immerse you in its historic Port wine cellars, stunning architecture and colourful streets.
Disembark your Scenic Space-Ship and travel by coach to Amarante, a charming town in northern Portugal set on the banks of the Tâmega River. During your visit, you’ll discover the distinctive centre of the town, known for its Baroque architecture, as you walk through a maze of narrow streets filled with rich history. Stop for a delicious pastry at a local bakery before returning to Porto. Check in to your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon of exploration.
Meals: Breakfast
Madrid
4 Day Extension, Madrid > Madrid Immerse yourself in Spain’s dynamic capital on this extension. Explore the charming Austrian Quarter with its historic architecture and quaint streets, admire the grand Sabatini Gardens, and spot some of the city’s famous fountains. Sample local delicacies on a foodie walking tour or visit the magnificent city of Toledo, known as ‘The City of Three Cultures’. This seamless extension to your river cruise captures the essence of Madrid, blending its artistic heritage, regal splendour, and lively spirit to offer an unforgettable experience.
Welcome to Madrid. Upon arrival, transfer to your luxury hotel. Settle in and explore the city at your leisure.
Paris
3 or 4 Day Extension, Paris > Paris Discover the magic of Paris on this three or four-day extension in the enchanting City of Light. Join your local guide for a comprehensive tour through the city's most iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, Louvre and Notre Dame. Be immersed in Paris's artistic soul, exploring the bohemian district of Montmartre with its cobblestone streets and unique charm or visiting the remarkable Atelier des Lumières art installation.
The glittering lights of the Eiffel Tower twinkling in the night sky, meandering along the banks of the Seine as you see local life passing by and chic cafes lining the Champs-Élysées are just some of the images conjured when thinking about Paris.
Today is yours to explore at your own pace and marvel in this great city.
Later, check in to your luxury hotel for a three-night stay.
Germany
Best of Bavaria
5 Day Extension, Munich > Regensburg Be immersed in the picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage and enduring traditions of Bavaria, in southern Germany. Medieval towns, majestic palaces, crystal-clear lakes and towering forests make this charming part of the country a dream to travel through. On this handcrafted land extension, you’ll delve into some of the most fascinating towns and cities in the region and be immersed in history, stunning architecture and natural beauty.
Welcome to Munich, the Bavarian capital. Upon arrival you’ll transfer from the airport to the Hotel Bayrischer Hof in the historic heart of Munich. This historic and luxurious hotel is located alongside the city’s shopping district and pedestrian arcade. From here, it’s a short walk to some of Munich’s must-see attractions, such as the Cathedral Church of Our Lady (Frauenkirche), the Residenz Palace and the produce-rich Viktualienmarkt Square.
Central Europe
Prague
4 Day Extension, Prague > Prague Discover the enchanting allure of Prague. Wander through the historic streets to marvel at the iconic Charles Bridge, explore the majestic Prague Castle and get lost in the beauty of Old Town Square with its famous Astronomical Clock. Visit the vibrant Wenceslas Square, stay in luxury accommodation and be guided by your expert Tour Director, as you are immersed in the rich culture and history that make this city a true gem of Europe.
Welcome to Prague, one of Europe’s best-preserved and most beautiful cities, with a rich and fascinating history stretching back more than 1,000 years. The Vltava River, the longest in the Czech Republic, runs through the centre of Prague, with the historic Old Town on one bank and New Town on the other.
Check in to your luxury hotel and explore the city in your own time tonight.
Switzerland
5 Day Extension, Zurich > Montreux Embark on an unforgettable journey across Switzerland. Start in cosmopolitan Zurich, where modernity meets tradition. Continue to the picturesque city of Lucerne, nestled by a serene lake and surrounded by majestic mountains. Explore the charming capital of Bern, with its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Conclude your adventure in the stunning lakeside town of Montreux, renowned for its beautiful promenades and breathtaking views of the Alps. This itinerary promises a perfect blend of urban sophistication and natural beauty.
Transfer from Zurich Airport to start your journey with an overnight stay at the luxurious Schweizerhof Hotel*. Near the Limmat River and the Old Town, this hotel is in the most convenient location to explore not only in Zurich but all Switzerland.
Vienna
3 Day Extension, Vienna > Vienna Uncover Vienna’s fascinating history across this three-day extension. Explore St. Stephen's Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 12th century and wander through the historic Ringstrasse, admiring grand buildings like the Opera House. This exploration of Vienna guided by your expert Tour Director will showcase the cities rich imperial history and architectural splendour and timeless elegance.
After your river cruise concludes, transfer to your luxury hotel in the centre of Vienna. The capital of Austria is 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.
Begin your Viennese exploration with an afternoon walking tour around the city, guided by a local expert. Visit the historic Ringstrasse, an iconic boulevard that circles the old city and is lined with grand buildings. Continue with a walking tour of the city centre, where you'll visit the majestic Opera House, renowned for its world-class performances since 1869. Then stop off at the stunning St. Stephen's Cathedral and the elegant Belvedere Palace.
Ljubljana & Zagreb
5 Day Extension, Zagreb > Ljubljana Uncover the treasures of the Croatian and Slovenian capitals on this 5-Day extension to your ultra-luxury Scenic river cruise. Beginning in the Croatian capital of Zagreb, discover a rich history, vibrant culture and stunning landmarks. Visit the breathtaking Plitvice Lakes National Park along the way. Then cross into Slovenia to explore Ljubljana, where guided tours will take you to historic sites such as the Opera House, St Nicholas Cathedral and the picturesque town of Bled.
Welcome to Zagreb. The picturesque Croatian capital is filled with red-roofed buildings, cobbled streets, church spires and ornate architecture. Interspersed with centuries of history you’ll find Socialist-era concrete buildings splashed with colourful murals.
Check in to your luxury hotel this afternoon and meet your fellow passengers for a welcome drink. The evening is yours to explore the city at leisure.
Budapest
Delve into the treasures of Budapest, the Hungarian capital and one of Europe’s most diverse and vibrant cities. An architectural treasure trove with styles ranging from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between, Budapest is also renowned for its hot springs and thermal baths, as well as a vibrant nightlife scene. Get to know this remarkable city on a three-day extension. With extra time to explore, luxury accommodation and an expert Scenic Tour Director, it’s a seamless way to enhance your ultra-luxury Scenic Europe river cruise.
Welcome to Budapest. 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. Check in to your luxury hotel for a two-night stay in this fascinating European capital.
This afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Perhaps visit one of the city’s famed coffee houses such as the New York Café or Ruszwurm Cukrászda. Budapest developed a strong coffee culture in the 19th century and many elegant cafes are still charmingly dotting the city. You can mingle with locals and tourists, admire the opulently painted interiors, savour regional delicacies, and listen to live music.
Eastern Europe
Turkey
7 Day Extension, Istanbul > Istanbul The wonders of Istanbul, Çanakkale and beyond await on this handcrafted seven-day extension. Transfer seamlessly from your European river cruise to Turkey to follow the path of history. Walk the bustling streets of Istanbul, where Turkish heritage is alive at every turn. Visit the WWI battlefield of Gallipoli and pay your respects to the fallen, discover the vibrant city of Çanakkale, explore the Grand Bazaar and spend an enriching evening cruising the Bosphorus. Under the expert guidance of your Scenic Tour Director, it’s an incredible addition to your unforgettable Scenic river cruise.
This morning sees you setting off from Bucharest at the conclusion of your river cruise on an included flight to Istanbul. Home to more than 15 million people, it’s the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest in the world. Istanbul will inspire all your senses. It’s an exhilarating blend of cultures, cuisines, architecture, history and style.
Meals: Breakfast
Transylvania
5 Day Extension, Bucharest > Bucharest Transylvania, the mountainous region of Central Romania, is a land of ancient myths and immortal literature. Its landscape has barely changed in more than 600 years, dotted with perfectly preserved medieval villages and gothic castles amid deep green forest. Enhance your journey of discovery in Eastern Europe with this five-day extension that will immerse you in Gothic architecture, local folklore and inspiring legends.
Your journey into the Transylvanian region begins this morning as you transfer from Bucharest to Peles Castle. This former summer residence of the Romanian royal family has history dating back to 1873 and combines classic European styles. It is considered by some to be one of the most beautiful castles in Eastern Europe. Then continue your journey to the city of Brasov for your 2-night stay.
Meals: Breakfast
Bookings
To reserve a hotel for pre or post your river cruise, please contact Scenic reservations using the links below.
*Departure dates are correct as of 7 July 2025 however are subject to change due to independent operator requirements. Tours are subject to minimum numbers and must be booked in conjunction with a Scenic Europe river cruise. Hotels are indicative and subject to change.
Please refer to our full terms and conditions for further information.
Stay up to date and be inspired
Yes, please keep me updated with the latest special offers, travel inspiration, product updates and event invites.
