Your European river cruise vacation starts in marvelous Amsterdam where there is much to see! Discover the treasures of this colorful, historic city on a canal cruise through the elegant Grachten lined with stately homes dating back to the city’s “Golden Age.” Explore the magnificent city of Cologne, Germany, which spans both sides of the Rhine River, then visit Koblenz, strategically located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Explore the charming wine village of Bernkastel with its half-timbered houses from the Middle Ages still standing! Take a guided walk through the delightful marketplace, see the renaissance-era Town Hall, and taste famed Moselle wines! Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, considered the most beautiful view of the Rhine River, and see ancient castles standing majestically on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Visit the charming Rhine Valley wine town of Rüdesheim, then visit the ruins of Heidelberg’s Castle, towering magnificently over the city. Continue your stunning European river cruise to Strasbourg, France, where a local expert will show you the red-sandstone Gothic cathedral with ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock. Also, stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade. At the foot of Kaiserstuhl Mountain on the French-German border sits Breisach—the gateway to Germany’s legendary Black Forest, an area of unrivaled natural beauty. Disembark your river cruise in Basel, Switzerland. Beauty, new discoveries, and delightful surprises are plentiful on your European river cruise on the Rhine and Moselle Rivers!
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 Koblenz:
Choice of guided tour, or visit to Sayn Manor House
Day 5 Bernkastel:
Guided walk; wine tasting on board
Day 6 Remich. Excursion to Luxembourg:
Guided tour in Luxembourg
Day 7 Trier:
Choice of guided tour in Trier, or 'Roman Trier,' see the Porta Nigra
Day 8 Cochem:
Guided tour, visit Reichsburg Castle
Day 9 Boppard-Rhine Gorge-Rüdesheim:
Free time in Boppard; scenic cruise through the Rhine Gorge; choice of visit to Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, cable-car ride to the Niederwald Monument , or hike the vineyards with your Adventure Host in Rüdesheim
Day 10 Ludwigshafen. Excursion to Heidelberg:
Guided tour of Heidelberg Castle, see the Great Vat, or hike up Philosophers' Way with your Adventure Host
Day 11 Strasbourg:
Guided tour, visit La Petite France district and the Gothic cathedral
Day 12 Breisach:
Choice of excursion to Black Forest, or visit to Badischer Winzerkeller
Day 13 Basel (Disembarkation):
Your cruise 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.
Part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, the Avalon Artistry II features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform the living space into river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning to splendid passing scenery from your window-facing bed. Stretch out on your Comfort Collection bed and cruise with the world at your feet. Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck. A true work of art in relaxed luxury on board and amazing adventures on shore!