Luxury unpacked: what to expect from Scenic’s river cruise extensions

Scenic’s reputation for unforgettable European river cruises is well known. Exquisite all-inclusive dining and drinks? Check. Luxurious suites with butler service, giving you space and freedom for maximum comfort? Of course. What you may not know is this experience also extends beyond the iconic waterways and onto land. 

These multi-day stays are a true extension of the Scenic experience, featuring luxurious hotels, seamless transfers, and passionate local guides ready to show you the very best of their home towns.

And with transfers from your flight to your cruise, your cruise to your extension and your extension back to your flight all included, it all becomes a seamless experience.

From delving into London’s heritage and regal splendour to the rich tapestry of Bruges, the options are as diverse as they are captivating.

With Scenic now offering its longest 2026 and 2027 river cruising seasons ever, with departures in February and March through to the New Year, presenting Europe through a cooler, less-crowded lens, there are even more opportunities to embark on an enriching journey – by river and land.

Bruges

Duration: Four days

Departures: March to September 2026

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, and dive into the rich tapestry of history at intriguing museums showcasing Bruges' storied past.

Picturesque canals will guide your way through the heart of Bruges, where you alight to explore the city's well-preserved medieval architecture and stroll along delightful cobblestone streets.

This four-day city stay perfectly connects with Scenic’s Romantic Rhine & Moselle cruise.

Ljubljana to Zagreb

Duration: Five days

Departures: April to June, and September 2026 & 2027

Though it may take a few tries to get its pronunciation right, the Slovenian capital of Ljubljana – draped along the banks of the Ljubljanaica River – will reward you richly should you choose to visit.

As you’ll discover with your guide, the city is brimming with treasures, from imposing Ljubljana Castle to St. Nicholas Cathedral. From there, the extraordinary sights only ramp up, as you journey on to picturesque Lake Bled and across the border into Zagreb.

The architecture is impressive, the atmosphere electric and, alongside a side-trip taking in the glorious World Heritage-listed cascades of Plitvice National Park, a guaranteed highlight.

Add to your 2026 Jewels of Europe or Danube in Depth river cruise.

Prague

Duration: Four days

Departures: February to November 2026 & 2027

Prague is worth visiting year round. The city is home to revered sights including Charles Bridge, Wenceslas Square and The State Opera, after all. Yet there's one aspect that doesn’t get enough attention: seasonal diversity.

Autumn (September to November) and spring (March to May) transform the city with a riot of colour – vibrant changing leaves; new blossoms bursting into life. Add in mild weather and fewer tourists, and you have the makings for a thrilling experience.

Summer is divine too, as the city embraces outdoor life with cafes spilling onto the pavement and the fine weather presenting a perfect excuse for strolls along the Vltava River.

With Scenic now also offering departures in February 2026 and 2027, at the tail end of winter, you have a chance to fall under the city’s spell as it awakens from its cosy, snow-dusted slumber. A must!

Discover Prague when you connect this city extension with Scenic’s Jewels of Europe, Danube in Depth or Gems of the Danube river cruise.

London

Duration: Four days

Departures: May to October 2026

Buckingham Palace, Trafalgar Square, the Tower of London… the sheer number of icons squeezed into the boundaries of London is extraordinary, as you soon find out on this extension.

There are a range of included Scenic Freechoice excursions for you to customise your experience to your interests, whether it’s walking in the footsteps of royalty at Kensington Palace or indulging in the quintessential British staple of afternoon tea, featuring exquisite tisanes, cakes and finger sandwiches.

Alongside accommodation, a half-day tour and seamless transfers, there’s ample free time to be immersed in the city’s distinct charms at leisure. A visit to the British Museum or Tower Bridge perhaps? The choice is yours.

London is calling on your Scenic France, Romantic Rhine and Moselle or Rhine Highlights river cruise.

As you can see, no matter your interest or the season, whether it’s Paris in spring, Porto in summer or Prague in autumn, there’s a Scenic extension with your name on it.

Visit the Scenic website for more info and to see which itineraries align with each extension.

Ready to go? Now is the time to secure your 2026 ultra-luxury Europe River Cruise with Scenic.

Book by 31 October 2025 to secure Economy Flights included up to the value of $2,900pp* on select cruises. Visit scenic.com.au, call 138 128 or contact your local Travel Advisor. 2027 Early Access offers are also now available.

This article was produced in collaboration with Scenic.

^*Terms and Conditions Apply, visit scenic.com.au/terms.