Each year, 31 October sparks wanderlust as World Cities Day presents the perfect opportunity to research global travel destinations and get inspired. Ready to book your next city break? Many of our itineraries sail to or from the world’s most celebrated cities, while others dock en route with pre or post-cruise extensions available. With endless treasures to discover, these iconic cities promise magical new experiences each and every time you visit.

Whether you choose to journey by ocean or river, Scenic places you right at the heart of the places you visit. See them in style from the comfort of our ultra-luxury, purpose-built ships and enjoy a truly all-inclusive experience where your every need is anticipated. Plus, with a range of exclusive Scenic Enrich and Scenic Freechoice experiences to choose from, you can tailor your adventure with enriching encounters that are destined to become the highlight of your trip.

Read on to discover 10 unmissable cities you can travel to with Scenic and why they should be on your wish list…  

1. Nice, France
2. Bergen, Norway
3. Lisbon, Portugal
4. Cairns, Australia
5. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
6. Prague, Czech Republic
7. Paris, France
8. Budapest, Hungary
9. Vienna, Austria
10. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

1) Nice, France

Fall in love with the picturesque city of Nice, a renowned gem of the Côte d’Azur. A popular tourist destination since the 1700s, it offers an intriguing blend of French and Italian cultures thanks to its location close to the border. One of the most glamorous and bustling ports in the Mediterranean, Nice encapsulates the luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere that makes the French Riviera so unique. Relax on chic pebbled beaches with views of the striking azure sea, browse luxurious boutiques, seek out one of the chic jazz bars clustered around Cathedral Square or take a sunset stroll along the grand Promenade des Anglais – arguably the most famous stretch of seafront in France.

On board your 6-star Discovery Yacht, Scenic Eclipse, you’ll fit right in with the luxurious superyachts that call these marinas home. Enjoy a stylish sojourn along one of the world’s most famous coastlines in truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury.

2) Bergen, Norway

Bergen, the second largest city in Norway, offers the ideal blend of nature, culture and urban life. As a UNESCO World Heritage City and a European City of Culture, this historic city is considered one of the prettiest in Scandinavia, nestled between seven majestic mountains and serene fjords.  Admire the colourful wooden houses and cobblestone streets of Bryggen: Bergen’s charming Hanseatic fishing port with a rich maritime history. Explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy fresh seafood at the bustling fish market and discover the city’s vibrant cultural scene – all while being surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

A home from home and your window to the world, the ultra-luxury and truly all-inclusive Scenic Eclipse has everything you need to soak up the unique atmosphere of Bergen in maximum comfort.

3) Lisbon, Portugal

Portugal’s coastal capital is a colourful city that blends rich history with a modern, artistic vibe. Famous for its hilly streets, mosaic pavements, iconic yellow trams and stunning viewpoints, Lisbon offers sweeping views of the Tagus River. At the centre of global seafaring tradition for more than 600 years, the city is a multicultural hub with glorious architecture and incredible food – most famously its Portuguese custard tarts. Explore historic neighbourhoods like Alfama with its narrow, winding streets, admire the ornate architecture of Belém and experience the fun of the vibrant Bairro Alto district. 

Retreat to the peaceful sanctuary of your private suite on board the ultra-luxurious Scenic Eclipse after spending  your days immersing yourself in Lisbon’s lively atmosphere.

4) Cairns, Australia

A charming city exemplifying the laid-back lifestyle for which Queensland is famous, Cairns is packed with great places to eat, cultural museums, al fresco bars and colourful markets. This tropical paradise is the only place on Earth where two World Heritage-listed sites collide – the Great Barrier Reef and the lush Daintree Rainforest. Framed by stunning beaches and offering unmatched marine adventures like snorkelling and diving in vibrant coral ecosystems, Cairns is the perfect choice for nature lovers, thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy serene waterfront walks along the Esplanade, discover local wildlife and explore nearby natural wonders like the Atherton Tablelands and Kuranda. 

Choose one of the luxurious balcony suites on board Scenic Eclipse II to soak up the sun and savour unrivalled views of this unmissable city. 

5) Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most energetic and cosmopolitan cities in the world, and the second largest in Brazil. With its golden beaches, lush mountains, samba beats and passion for partying, you’ll soon see why they call it the 'Cidade Maravilhosa'(Marvelous City). Immerse yourself in Rio’s unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, exploring the colourful streets of Lapa and the world-famous Copacabana and Ipanema beaches. The city is home to the annual Carnival: a dazzling celebration of music, dance and elaborate costumes. With its warm climate and dynamic spirit, Rio promises to deliver the experience of a lifetime.  

You'll sail into the harbour on board your 6-star Discovery Yacht, past the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and right into the city’s bustling heart. Tailor your trip by selecting a Scenic Freechoice excursion that suits your passions and preferences, with options including a visit to Rio’s famous Sugarloaf mountain.

6) Prague, Czech Republic

Situated on the Vltava River in Central Bohemia, Prague is a city that’s rich in history and home to striking architectural wonders evoking gothic fairytales. Compact and almost completely flat, the capital of the Czech Republic is perfect for those who enjoy exploring on foot. Dominated by the majestic Prague Castle and the iconic Charles Bridge, the city enchants tourists with its timeless beauty and cultural richness. Wander through the charming maze of the red-roofed Old Town with its cobblestone laneways, medieval buildings, bustling squares and elaborate statues and don’t miss the ornate Old Town Hall, where you can hear the 14th-century Astronomical Clock chime accompanied by a procession of the 12 Apostles. 

Add even more depth to your experience by selecting a Scenic Freechoice option, handpicked by our Journey Designers and always fully inclusive. We recommend joining a tour of Prague Castle – the seat of Czech rulers – which also includes a visit to St. Vitus Cathedral, the Old Royal Palace and picturesque Golden Lane: a historic street lined with colourful houses.

7) Paris, France

Say ‘bonjour’ to Paris: a romantic and culturally rich city that enchants visitors with its timeless elegance. With its charming streets, grand cathedrals, chic cafes and sophisticated residents, you’ll quickly be swept up in the joie de vivre of the French capital. Home to iconic landmarks such as the twinkling Eiffel Tower, the striking Louvre pyramid and the historic Arc de Triomphe, the ‘City of Light’ blends art, history and style at every turn. Stroll through bohemian neighbourhoods like Montmartre or Le Marais, take a wander along the Seine and be sure to savour the pastries, cheeses and fine dining for which the culinary capital is famed.

See Paris in style from the comfort of a luxuriously-appointed Scenic Space-Ship on your truly all-inclusive river cruise, or immerse yourself in its cultural heart with an enchanting city stay in the French capital.

8) Budapest, Hungary

Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, Hungary’s vibrant capital city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. A cultural melting pot and architectural treasure trove, Budapest comprises styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. Renowned for its thermal baths, lively ruin bars and Hungarian goulash, Budapest is peppered with bohemian coffee houses, beautiful markets and the historic Jewish quarter, where the scars of WWII can still be seen to this day. Gasp in wonder as you sail past the ornate Hungarian Parliament Building illuminated by night, and pack your swimsuit to enjoy a relaxing soak in the therapeutic waters of the city’s natural hot spring spas. 

Choose from inclusive Scenic Enrich and Scenic Freechoice options that are destined to become the highlight of your visit. Get under the skin of the city with ‘Budapest’s Past & Present’, a walking and coach tour providing insight into the city’s communist past, or immerse yourself in an exclusive classical music concert at the majestic Gödöllõ Royal Palace: one of the favourite residences of Queen Elisabeth of Hungary. 

9) Vienna, Austria

Oozing with charm thanks to its magnificent Baroque buildings, vibrant coffee-house culture and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums, opulent Vienna invites you to follow in the footsteps of history’s most iconic composers, artists and royals. A city full of grandeur, Austria’s imperial capital is famous for having the world’s most beautiful boulevard, The Ringstrasse, and for the legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. Known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, among others. Sigmund Freud also lived and worked here in the late 19th century.   

Relish a once-in-a-lifetime Scenic Enrich experience that brings to life the rich cultural heritage of Vienna: a private Viennese classical concert at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein, where royals and nobles have sat for centuries. Enjoy a glass of fine Austrian Sekt as you listen to timeless music performed by a renowned orchestra, accompanied by vocalists, ballet dancers and surrounded by world-famous art.

10) Amsterdam, The Netherlands

What is the theme of World Cities Day 2024?

World Cities Day 2024 takes place on 31 October 2024 in Alexandria, Egypt. This year’s theme is ‘youth leading climate and local action for cities’, which recognises the role of young people in driving climate action and shaping the future of cities. The day will highlight how to turn the bold ideas and ambitious targets of young people into tangible achievements.