Our journey began on 8 November, departing Sydney on Etihad Airlines in Economy Class. I couldn’t fault the airline at all—everything from the service to the meals was excellent. The 13-hour flight to Abu Dhabi was surprisingly comfortable, with three full meals provided.
A highlight of the layover was visiting the Business Class Lounge at Abu Dhabi airport. Despite arriving at midnight, the lounge was bustling with options: a salad bar, vegetarian dishes, gluten-free choices, snacks, and a variety of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. It’s spread over three levels, and the experience was nothing short of indulgent.
In Budapest, we stayed at the Mercure Hotel on Váci Street for two nights. While the rooms were on the smaller side, the location was unbeatable—right in the heart of the city. Step outside the foyer, and you’re immediately immersed in vibrant cafes, shops, and attractions. The hotel also included a VIP Happy Hour (5–7 PM) with complimentary drinks and snacks—a perfect way to relax after exploring.
Budapest is a walkable city, but the Hop-On Hop-Off bus was the best way to see the sights. With 18 stops, we spent at least 2–3 hours at each, making the two-day ticket essential to cover everything.
Must-See Highlights
Fashion Street & Ruin Bars: Don’t miss Szimpla Kert, the most famous of the ruin bars, located in World War II bunkers revamped into eclectic hangouts.
Thermal Baths: The Gellért Baths (on the Pest side) and Széchenyi Baths (on the Buda side) are iconic. It was surreal soaking in outdoor pools with 36°C water and 4°C air temperature. You can also indulge in massages or saunas.
Parliament House: If you can’t go inside, catch it from a Danube cruise at night—the illuminated building is breathtaking.
Bridges Over the Danube: The Chain Bridge and Liberty Bridge are great for scenic walks.
Dohány Street Synagogue: The largest synagogue in Europe, with a moving story tied to the Holocaust.
For food, Budapest offers a mix of Hungarian classics like goulash and unexpected finds like Mexican cuisine. Mulled wine was a personal favourite—perfect for the chilly November weather and priced affordably at AUD 5–10.
The Scenic Crystal Cruise (Budapest to Nuremberg)
Embarkation and First Impressions
Boarding the Scenic Crystal on the Danube River was a seamless experience. The warm welcome, complete with champagne and hot towels, set the tone.
I stayed in a Balcony Suite—ideal for couples but slightly tight for two sharing. The highlight was the adjustable window that allowed me to enjoy the balcony view even on chilly days, wrapped in a blanket.
The weather during the trip (3–7°C) wasn’t ideal for outdoor spaces, but the top deck provided great views, especially when passing through the 36 locks on this leg of the cruise.
Dining and Amenities
Scenic's all-inclusive experience exceeded expectations. Meals were exceptional, with menus tailored to the region. The wine pairings, including local Rieslings, were a standout. From buffets to à la carte options and themed dinners, the culinary experience was top-notch.
The onboard lounge was spacious and inviting, perfect for mingling or relaxing. Entertainment was minimal but enjoyable, with opportunities for casual dancing or simply enjoying the piano music.
Day Excursions
Scenic offers a variety of day trips, and these were my favourites:
Bratislava, Slovakia: A charming city with cobblestone streets, cosy cafes, and unique Christmas shops.
Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic: This South Bohemian town felt like stepping back in time with its maze-like alleys and the stunning Cesky Krumlov Castle overlooking the Vltava River.
Vienna, Austria: A bustling yet elegant city filled with Christmas markets, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and a blend of old-world charm and modernity.
Melk, Austria: The picturesque town of Melk is home to the Melk Abbey, a must-see for history and architecture enthusiasts.
A Festive Surprise
Although this wasn’t a dedicated Christmas cruise, the Scenic Crystal was beautifully decorated for the holidays by the third day. The festive atmosphere added a magical touch to the journey.
Disembarkation in Nuremberg was smooth, although the rainy weather dampened plans to explore the city. Instead, I spent my final hours enjoying the comforts of the Crystal lounge—a perfect end to the trip.
Would I recommend Scenic? Absolutely! The all-inclusive experience, attentive staff, and well-planned excursions made this trip unforgettable. While it may not suit those who don’t need access to unlimited alcohol, for me, it was worth every cent.
From Budapest’s bustling streets to the charming towns along the Danube, this journey left me with incredible memories. If you’re considering a river cruise, Scenic delivers in spades.