Beautiful Bordeaux with Highlights of Paris

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 revel in this great city. Later, check in to your luxury hotel.

After breakfast, explore Paris with your choice of Scenic Freechoice excursions.

Scenic Freechoice:
Guided tour of Paris: Journey via coach through the City of Light. You’ll see some of the city’s most mesmerising districts and monuments. Drive along the banks of the beautiful Seine River and pass Palais Garnier, the 19th century opera house, the Louvre, one of the world’s largest art museums, and the impressive Les Invalides complex.

Secrets of Montmartre: Step back in time as you trapse the winding cobblestone streets of the district that has been home to many famous artists for centuries and once you see the beauty of this district you will understand why. See some of the quirky characteristics of the district including the greenspace in the middle of the city, the vineyard of Montmartre that produces some 27 varieties of wine.

After breakfast, travel to Bordeaux via high speed train. On arrival to the Scenic Diamond you will be welcomed on board by our friendly crew excited to share an unforgettable cruise along the waterways of the Bordeaux region.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Libourne, France, is a historic town in the Bordeaux wine region, renowned for its vibrant market and beautiful architecture. Located along the Dordogne River, it features a charming blend of medieval and Renaissance buildings, including the striking Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Libourne is a gateway to prestigious wine estates, including Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. The town’s bustling market and scenic riverside setting offer a delightful experience for visitors interested in wine, history, and local culture.

Libourne, France, is a historic town in the Bordeaux wine region, renowned for its vibrant market and beautiful architecture. Located along the Dordogne River, it features a charming blend of medieval and Renaissance buildings, including the striking Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Libourne is a gateway to prestigious wine estates, including Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. The town’s bustling market and scenic riverside setting offer a delightful experience for visitors interested in wine, history, and local culture.

Pauillac, France, is a scenic village in the Bordeaux wine region, renowned for its prestigious vineyards and charming riverfront. Located on the Gironde estuary, it is famed for its high-quality red wines, including those from renowned châteaux like Lafite Rothschild and Mouton Rothschild. The village features historic buildings, vibrant markets, and stunning views of the estuary. Pauillac’s blend of rich winemaking heritage and picturesque landscapes makes it a delightful destination for wine enthusiasts and travellers seeking a taste of Bordeaux’s elegance.

Pauillac, France, is a scenic village in the Bordeaux wine region, renowned for its prestigious vineyards and charming riverfront. Located on the Gironde estuary, it is famed for its high-quality red wines, including those from renowned châteaux like Lafite Rothschild and Mouton Rothschild. The village features historic buildings, vibrant markets, and stunning views of the estuary. Pauillac’s blend of rich winemaking heritage and picturesque landscapes makes it a delightful destination for wine enthusiasts and travellers seeking a taste of Bordeaux’s elegance.

Set on the Gironde estuary at the heart of the Médoc wine route, Pauillac is surrounded by some of the best vineyards in Bordeaux. The town itself is quiet with elegant architecture that speaks to its powerful past in the winemaking industry.

Scenic Freechoice:
Today choose from the following Scenic Freechoice options.

Médoc wine tasting by coach: With more than 16,000 hectares of vineyards across eight appellations, Médoc is home to the iconic ‘Route des Chateaux’, or ‘Route of Castles’. On this coach tour you will travel through this picturesque region to a local winery and enjoy a tasting of their wines.

Médoc wine tasting by bicycle: Discover the spectacular Médoc countryside by e-bike today on this active tour that takes you past many grand aristocratic châteaux in the world’s leading red wine producing region. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at one of the prestigious estates.

Scenic Enrich
Classical Concert at Château d’Agassac: Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château D’Agassac dates to the 13th century and is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region. Enjoy a glass on arrival and soak in the ambience of this magnificent property as live musicians perform classical masterpieces for your exclusive enjoyment.

Relax on board as you cruise towards Cadillac. You could enjoy a massage^ treatment or learn more about French cuisine in the Scenic Culinaire cooking demonstration.

Cadillac was founded in 1280 and retains many of its grand historic buildings. In 1701 French explorer Antoine de la Mothe, sieur de Cadillac took his name from the town and established the port of Fort Pontchartrain du Détroit, which would become modern day Detroit where the American auto industry began. The Cadillac car is named in his honour.

Scenic Diamond will be docked in Cadillac overnight, so you can appreciate its quiet village charm after the other tourists have left for the day.

Cadillac, France, is a charming town in the Gironde department, known for its historic architecture and vineyards. Famous for its production of sweet white wines, especially Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux, the town features a well-preserved 18th-century château and picturesque streets. Set along the Garonne River, Cadillac offers scenic views and a rich heritage, blending historical charm with local wine culture. Its vibrant markets and serene atmosphere make it a pleasant destination for those exploring the Bordeaux wine region.

Cadillac, France, is a charming town in the Gironde department, known for its historic architecture and vineyards. Famous for its production of sweet white wines, especially Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux, the town features a well-preserved 18th-century château and picturesque streets. Set along the Garonne River, Cadillac offers scenic views and a rich heritage, blending historical charm with local wine culture. Its vibrant markets and serene atmosphere make it a pleasant destination for those exploring the Bordeaux wine region.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Continue your exploration of Bordeaux today with a variety of intriguing options. The moniker ‘Sleeping Beauty’ or La Belle Endormie was given to Bordeaux when industry was moved to the outskirts and the city was all but abandoned. In the late 20th century, the city was revived and restored to its former glory. The city centre was pedestrianised, limestone was revealed under blackened facades, and Bordeaux was listed as a World Heritage site with more than 300 structures declared historical monuments.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose how you want to explore today with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Cité du Vin museum: Take a local tram to the Cité du Vin museum where you’ll enjoy an engaging and interactive journey of wine discovery. With nearly 20 themed exhibits, you’ll gain new perspectives on the global journey of wine across different times and cultures.

Tour Bordeaux by motorbike & sidecar: Join your host as you ride through Bordeaux in the side car and/or on the back of a motorcycle. Beginning in the historic Chatrons district, you’ll see the stylish Rue Notre Dame, explore the riverside quays along the Garonne and cross over to the right bank to visit vibrant Saint-Pierre.

Visit Arcachon: Join your local guide for a walking tour of the charming bayside town of Arcachon, renowned for its charming seaside atmosphere and unique architectural style. Your tour ends near the Baltard Market, where you’ll have free time to savour local delicacies and seafood fresh from the Atlantic.

Eleanor of Aquitaine – Story of the Queen who ruled France and England: Step into the world of Eleanor of Aquitaine, the most powerful and influential woman of the Middle Ages. No other woman before or since has held the crowns of both England and France. This immersive journey through Bordeaux’s historic heart makes Eleanor’s extraordinary legacy come alive.

Later, enjoy time at leisure on board as you cruise towards Bourg.

Your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship will be docked in Bourg today, a picturesque town set on a rocky promontory. It began life as a defensive château in the 12th century and has expanded over the centuries. Today, it’s a maze of ancient alleyways, moats and bell towers on the banks of the Dordogne.

Scenic Freechoice:
Today, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice activities.

Bourg with Carriages Museum: Your guided walk will lead you through the village’s charming streets to the bustling main square. Explore the historic Citadel, a symbol of the village’s strategic importance through the centuries, and then step inside its grounds to visit the fascinating Horse Carriage Museum.

Historic Saintes: Take a tour of Saintes, a charming town that’s steeped in 2,000 years of history. Admire the Arch of Germanicus, a testament to its Roman past, and the World Heritage-listed Saint-Eutrope Basilica. This immersive walking tour offers a blend of Roman history, medieval architecture and local charm on this tour exclusively available for Scenic guests.

Full day excursion to Cognac: The fortified city of Cognac is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest brandy. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the town, an included lunch, and tour the estate of famed Rémy Martin before sampling some of the Cognacs.

This morning you will arrive in Blaye, set at a strategic position on the confluence of the Dordogne and Garonne rivers. Most famously, this petite hamlet is home to a World Heritage-listed citadel that was constructed to protect Bordeaux city from enemy attacks.

Scenic Freechoice:
Today, choose from the following Scenic Freechoice activities.

Walking tour of Blaye: Join a local guide to stroll through the charming town of Blaye, proudly recognised as a World Heritage site. Walk through the town’s most iconic feature, the impressive 17th-century Vauban Citadel, and through picturesque streets that reveal its historical significance, cultural traditions, and architectural treasures.

Active walking tour of Blaye: Tour the fascinating Citadel of Blaye on an active walking tour with a local guide. Gain an understanding of the defence system created by the famous architect Sébastien Vauban.

Cycling along the Captain’s Road: Join an active cycling tour along the Captain’s Road, named in honour of the WWI Captains who chose to purchase their homes along this beautiful stretch of waterway in the early 20th century. Pass charming riverside villages, the ruins of ancient villas, splendid manor houses and limestone quarries.

Visit Château de La Roche Courbon: Originally a fortress, Château La Roche Courbon has been transformed over centuries and is now an elegantly restored Renaissance château. Family owned and still inhabited, this beautiful property and its superb gardens will allow you to leap back in time.

Blaye, France, is a picturesque town in the Gironde department, renowned for its historic Blaye Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views of the Gironde estuary. The town boasts charming streets, vibrant markets, and renowned vineyards producing exceptional wines, including Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux. Blaye’s blend of historical architecture, scenic river views, and local wine culture makes it an inviting destination for history enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.

Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you’ll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region’s largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux”—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d’Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it’s pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.