Scenic Ruby, 8 Night A Taste of the Rhine – A Wine Cruise ex Amsterdam to Zurich ex Amsterdam, Rivers to Zurich, Switzerland

Day 1
Welcome to Amsterdam and the start of your European journey. Getting lost in its labyrinth of narrow laneways and canals lined with beautifully preserved 17th century buildings and charming cafés is one of the great ways to spend a day.Board your 5-star Scenic Space-Ship this afternoon, meet your fellow guests and raise a glass to the start of a fascinating journey into wine ahead of you at this evening’s welcome reception.

Day 2
The capital of The Netherlands is a unique blend of history and art. From its ancient canals lined with gabled houses to its sprawling art museums; see the iconic works reimagined at the Fabriques des Lumieres, explore cobbled laneways on foot or join the locals on bicycles outside of the city.

Scenic Freechoice: Discover more of the city on one of these excursions:Excursion to Schermerhorn & Alkmaar: Windmills are an iconic feature of Dutch culture, Explore these outside the city, passing by the sweeping countryside landscape and explore the nearby villages of Schermerhorn, home to a number of windmills dating back to the 16th century, and Alkmaar on this excursion only with Scenic.Walking tour of Amsterdam: Explore Amsterdam on foot, discovering the maze of canals and bridges in the city centre. Your guide will be covering history, modern lifestyle and Dutch culture. You also get to taste herring, a local delicacy not to be missed.Fabrique des Lumières: Art springs to life in this impressive digital art installation, the largest in the Netherlands. Located in a former 19th-century gas works, pieces from renowned artists are projected onto the 17-metre-high walls, accompanied by music to create an immersive ambience.Cycling tour: Amsterdam is known as the bicycle capital of the world. Take a small ferry to the outskirts of town for a biking tour. Your local guide will be on hand to offer information about everyday life of the Dutch people, many of whom you will see getting around on two wheels.

Day 3
After cruising overnight, arrive in the 2,000-year-old city of Cologne this afternoon. The twin spires of its famous cathedral dominate the skyline – the largest cathedral in Germany it was one of the few sites in the city to survive the extensive bombing of World War II. You will set out on a walking tour to explore the Old Town (which was faithfully rebuilt after it was destroyed during the war), then enjoy some free time to discover the city with a late departure.

Day 4
Relax on board this morning as you cruise through the spectacular Rhine Gorge, a 65-kilometre stretch of the Upper Rhine Valley that has been given World Heritage status. Take in the dramatic landscapes, terraced vineyards and 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Look out for the Lorelei statue, dedicated to the tragic legend of a beautiful maiden.Rüdesheim is a celebrated wine region nestled in Germany’s Rhine Valley, renowned for producing exquisite Rieslings. The area combines centuries-old winemaking traditions with stunning river views, making it a favorite destination for wine lovers seeking both exceptional flavors and countryside charm.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose to explore your way with this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice:Hike and Cable Car: A local guide will take you on an active hike through the rolling vineyards of Rüdesheim where you will marvel at the spectacular views of the countryside and Rhine River below. Your journey starts with a cable car ride up to the Niederwald Monument and the return leg is on foot.Schloss Johannisberg – the birthplace of Riesling: Walk through history at Schloss Johannisberg. The estate boasts a wine growing history dating back over 1200 years and is famed as the birthplace of one of the oldest and noblest grape varieties in the world – Riesling. Learn about its history while you explore the beautiful property awarded second on the 2025 World’s Best Vineyards list and taste exceptional local wines.Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum: A mini train is the ideal way to arrive at this quirky museum, where a local guide will introduce you to its weird and wonderful mechanical musical instruments. Afterwards, explore the surrounding streets on your own or take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument.

Day 5
Arrive in Mannheim this morning. A large metropolitan centre, Mannheim still runs along its recognisable 18th-century grid pattern and is known for its grand Baroque squares, fountains and palace. It is also the gateway to the Pfalz (Palatinate) wine region, the second largest in Germany. It’s Germany’s sunniest wine region, making for some of the country’s best Riesling. Your Scenic Freechoice excursions can take you into the town of Bad Durkheim in the Pfalz region to learn more.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose between these immersive Scenic Freechoice experiences today:The essence of Riesling – Bad Durkheim: It’s just a short drive through stunning vine-covered landscapes to Bad Durkheim. Visit the renowned property of Fritz Ritter, a ninth-generation family-owned vineyard that offers exceptional quality wine. Be guided around the vineyard before enjoying a tasting. (Note: a good degree of fitness is required.)Orientation Tour of Heidelberg with free time: On the southwestern edge of Mannheim is Heidelberg, a town with Roman roots, one of the oldest universities in the world and the centre of the 18th century German romantic movement. Join a brief walking tour then enjoy time at leisure. (Note: the walk is not too strenuous but there are some stairs and uneven ground.)Historical tour of Heidelberg: Learn more about the rich history of Heidelberg on this guided tour that takes you to Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Then explore the town and enjoy some free time. (Note: the walk is not too strenuous but there are some stairs and uneven ground.)

This afternoon a local wine expert will join you on board for an engaging lecture on viticulture accompanied by a tasting of regional wines.Arrive in Rastatt this evening to be whisked away to a magical concert in a magnificent castle.

Day 6
The capital of the Alsace wine region is a captivating blend of France and Germany. It has a Gothic cathedral and an Old Town surrounded by a river, with sherbert-coloured, half-timbered houses bordering a complex network of canals. Strasbourg proudly wears its Medieval past while looking firmly towards the future and is known for its youthful energy and infectious spirit.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose from these Scenic Freechoice experiences today:Vines and villages of the Alsace: The French Alsace region is a culturally diverse wine-growing area, sharing its border with Germany and Switzerland. Visit one of the region’s most famous wine growing villages to do a tasting at a local wine cellar before exploring the neighbouring town of Obernai.Walking tour of Strasbourg: Located on the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg has been influenced by both cultures. See the city’s most important sites on foot, like the cathedral, Petit France and the Grand Ile as you learn how the two nations shaped this unique city.

A late departure gives you plenty of time to explore.

Day 7
There’s lots of reasons Breisach is a must-visit food and wine destination. Not only does it share a border with the Alsace region, it’s also located between the Rhine River and the legendary Black Forest. The town was meticulously rebuilt after World War II, complete with its traditional cobbled streets and pastel houses.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore the region with your choice of one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Guided tour of Colmar: A walking tour of the cultural centre of the Alsace shows off Colmar’s confluence of French and German architecture, lifestyle, and culture. A highlight of the tour is tasting a slice of the famed Kugelhopf cake at a local bistro.Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting: It’s location right on the edge of the Black Forest makes Freiburg a magical place to visit. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the lively Medieval town and sample delicious Black Forest cake.The vines and wine of the Kaiserstuhl region: Thanks to numerous volcanic eruptions over 16 million years ago, the volcanic soil of the Kaiserstuhl produces excellent grapes. Which make even better wines. Sample them for yourself and taste the difference.Walking tour of Breisach with wine tasting: Discover the charm of this Upper Rhine gem on a leisurely guided walk through its picturesque old town where pastel façades, cobbled lanes and centuries of history come to life beneath the hilltop cathedral of St. Stephansmünster. Then indulge in a tasting of delicious local sparkling wine.

Return to your Scenic Space-Ship and toast to your final evening on board.

Day 8
Your cruise finishes this morning in Basel (Huningue). Savour one final breakfast on board before you disembark, taking with you a lifetime of memories of the wonders and wines of the Rhine.

Please book your flight to depart out of Zurich after 12:00 PM.

Due to new restrictions on cruise ships at Amsterdam’s city docks, your cruise is now likely to embark and/or disembark at a port outside central Amsterdam. If your ship does not have a central Amsterdam docking, Scenic will provide a central Amsterdam meeting point and transfers to your ship as required. These changes are required by local authorities and are in line with our booking terms which allow changes to berthing or dock locations and ports where operationally necessary. You will be advised of the confirmed docking location prior to departure.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

Enjoy the ultimate European river cruise experience on board a luxury Scenic Space-Ship.

Scenic recently upgraded all our ships sailing the Rhine, Danube and Moselle to meet the same unrivaled standards set by our newer ships.

The upgrades include luxury suites boasting large private balconies fitted with Scenic Sun-Lounges, 32 inch Samsung HD TVs linked to Mac mini computers and complimentary internet access enhanced by an upgraded Wi-Fi system.

The two new spectacular dining areas, River Café and Table la Rive, are welcome additions, and all public areas feature new artwork, carpet, soft furnishings and designer furniture. Even the bar in the new Panorama Lounge of each ship has been upgraded and is made from sophisticated Port Laurent marble.

River cruising is a relaxed and intimate way to see the world, with smaller guest numbers on board at any one time, higher staff to guest ratios and the finest fleet of luxury river cruise ships in the world, everything is handcrafted to make your journey unique and personal.

A Scenic river cruise is truly an all-inclusive experience.

From an indulgent buffet breakfast until the moment lay your head on the pillow chosen from our carefully curated pillow menu, every moment you spend with us is one of all-inclusive luxury. Large, well-appointed suites, services of an experienced butler, and a range of on board dining options with all-inclusive beverages, all day every day. All inclusive luxury means you can put your wallet somewhere safe and have the time of your life as you explore the rivers of the world with Scenic from the exotic waterways of South East Asia, to the grand waterways of Europe.

At Scenic when we say all-inclusive river cruising, that is what you get.

Luxury is having a butler at your call, crisp white sheets, and your own private balcony to watch the sun rise and set in a different country. Luxury is having chef-prepared meals and top shelf beverages. Luxury is all-inclusive tours, events, experiences and having someone else arrange it all for you, to pick and choose as you please

And luxury certainly is not having to reach for your wallet for any of it. Welcome to the Scenic experience, where all-inclusive means exactly that. This is the essence of the Scenic experience.

Scenic Fleet: Our focus on innovation and luxury design ensures Scenic is the world leader when it comes to delivering the ultimate in river cruising on our state of the art fleet. With some of the largest suites on the river, a high staff-to-guest ratio plus incredible facilities on board, you’ll never want to leave.

Suites: We set the benchmark for the standard of suites on board, the most spacious on the river. Our balcony suites also feature innovative technology, transforming to a Sun Lounge at the touch of a button, allowing you to enjoy the luxury of extra space as well as the unfolding landscape.

Butler: We know it’s the small things that make your cruise special, and so do our butlers. From nightly turndown to laundry service included for all guests, our butlers are there to make your Scenic journey extra special. They won’t be happy unless you are.

Dining & Beverages: From casual fare to fine dining, we cater for every style on board. We source from regional suppliers so our food is both extremely fresh and in season. Our chefs draw inspiration from the countries we pass through so you’ll experience true regional cuisine. And of course there’s an extensive selection of complimentary beverages all day too.

Select the Deck to view detail.

Scenic Ruby - Jewel Deck

Scenic Ruby - Sapphire Deck

Scenic Ruby - Diamond Deck

Scenic Ruby - Sun Deck

Select the Cabin to view detail.

Cat PA - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat PP - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat RA - Royal Balcony Suite

These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (300-315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

RS - Royal Panorama Suite

At 325ft², this suite is the largest on the ship. At the rear of the Diamond Deck, enjoy panoramic views of the breathtaking passing scenery through floor to ceiling windows across two walls of the cabin.

Cat BJ - Junior Balcony Suite

These spacious Suites (250ft²), located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.

RO - Royal Owner's Suite

One bedroom suite including Scenic Sun Lounge – 48m2/520ft2. These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (48m2/520ft2), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Cat BA - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat BB - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat R - Royal Balcony Suite

These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (300-315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Cat RJ - Junior Balcony Suite

These spacious Suites (250ft²), located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.

Cat P - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat A - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat B - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat BS - Single Balcony Suite

Cat C - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat D - Standard Suite

15m2/160ft2. Staterooms are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.

Cat E - Standard Suite

15m2/160ft2. Staterooms are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.