From Amsterdam to Budapest, and in many exciting stops along the way, you’ll be immersed in the culture of Central Europe in a unique way on this timeless river cruise vacation. Amsterdam is Holland’s lively capital—both historical and modern. This colorful city is loved for its vibrant mix of sophisticated architecture and classic squares and canals. See the treasures of this 700-year-old city from a unique perspective on a canal cruise along the elegant grachten. On to Germany for a guided city walk in Cologne—the stunning 2,000-year-old city known for its gothic architecture. Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, offering the most beautiful view of the Rhine River, and stop in the charming wine town of Rüdesheim. Enjoy guided sightseeing in Würzburg, Volkach, Bamberg, Nuremberg, and Regensburg, and sail the Main Danube Canal which connects the Main and Danube Rivers. Your first stop in Austria is the lovely town of Melk. Visit its magnificent Benedictine Abbey, then sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley. Your local experts will also introduce you to two capital cities: Vienna, Austria, also known as “The City of Music” for inspiring the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss; and lively Budapest, Hungary, with its unique energy and countless must-see sites. This truly is a magnificent European river cruise to remember!
Day 1 Amsterdam (Embarkation):
Onboard welcome reception
Day 2 Amsterdam:
Canal cruise
Day 3 Cologne:
Choice of Cologne highlights walking tour or Jewish Heritage walking tour
Day 4 Rhine Gorge-Rüdesheim:
Scenic cruise through the Rhine Gorge; choice of visit to Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum or cable-car ride to the Niederwald Monument in Rüdesheim
Day 5 Main River Village:
Guided walk
Day 6 Würzburg:
Guided sightseeing, visit the Bishop's Residence
Day 7 Volkach:
walking tour
Day 8 Bamberg:
Guided tour, see the Old Town Hall; on board lecture
Day 9 Roth. Excursion to Nuremberg:
Choice of guided tour in Roth, or guided tour in Nuremberg, or Nuremberg Rally Grounds tour; on board lecture
Day 10 Regensburg:
Guided tour
Day 11 Passau-Linz:
Guided tour in Passau; free time in Linz
Day 12 Melk-Wachau Valley-Vienna:
Guided tour of the Benedictine Abbey in Melk; scenic cruise through the Wachau Valley; free time in Vienna
Day 13 Vienna:
Guided tour
Day 14 Budapest:
Guided tour, see Heroes' Square
Day 15 Budapest (Disembarkation):
Your vacation ends this morning
Avalon has designed included activities with a choice of experiences. We invite you to select the tours, activities, and events that interest you most, so you can experience your cruise your way. Plus, we offer independent exploration options and the use of our exclusive AvalonGO APP on most of our cruises.
Below are 3 types of included shore excursions for you to experience.
Your local expert is ready to guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. You’ll marvel at the legends, lore, and spectacular architecture of iconic and historic sites.
We’ve found inspiring and interactive activities to speak to your interests - from cooking classes, to painting workshops - to immerse yourself in each culture you explore.
Embark on energetic excursions to keep you in motion and on the go - from a guided jogging tour of Amsterdam, to biking, paddling, and hiking your way through scenic locales.
Your Avalon river cruise will bring new tranquility to your traveler's soul, but you'll also find plenty of ways to excite your adventurous spirit to cruise your way! While on board, enjoy the intimate setting of the Avalon Tranquility II with two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that create river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. Spanning 200 square feet, the Passion's Panorama Suites are 30% larger than the industry standard. It's the perfect place to stretch out on your window-facing Comfort Collection bed with the world at your feet. Host a private cocktail party in the spacious sitting area-comfortably accommodating six guests. On board, passengers enjoy free Wi-Fi access, complimentary computer use in public areas, a Fitness Center with state-of-the-art equipment, an elevator, and an expansive Sky Deck with shade system, premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, deck games, and the delightful Sky Bistro for al fresco lunches of light grill fare. Relaxed luxury and new discoveries await from ship to shore on the Avalon Tranquility II.