ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, TRANSFER TO BASEL (EMBARKATION)
Flights into Zurich must arrive before 3 pm. Your river cruise vessel is docked on the Rhine River in Basel, where France, Switzerland, and Germany meet. Before dinner, meet your crew at a welcome reception. (D)
BREISACH, GERMANY, EXCURSION TO THE BLACK FOREST
Located at the foot of Kaiserstuhl Mountain on the French-German border, Breisach is the gateway to Germany's BLACK FOREST region, an area of unrivaled natural beauty with its forests of thick pine trees. There's no better setting for this time of year than when smoke curls from the chimneys of the traditional Black Forest houses with their long sloping roofs, connoting images of warm and festively decorated interiors. And if there has been a fresh snowfall, this will indeed be a Winter Wonderland! Surely the most well-known products from this region are Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and cuckoo clocks. (B,L,D)
STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Situated on the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg is influenced by the culture of both countries and is the capital of the Alsace region. It is the seat of the Council of Europe and the European Parliament. A Local Guide shows you the noteworthy sights: the GOTHIC CATHEDRAL, the lovely LA PETITE FRANCE district, Place Kleber, and Place Gutenberg with the statue of the inventor of the printing press. Dating back to 1570, the traditional Christmas market is one of the oldest and finest in Europe. Located around Place de la Cathedrale and Place Broglie, its centerpiece is a giant Christmas tree. As you stroll through the festively decorated and illuminated streets you'll notice the pleasing aromas of mulled wine, sweets, spice cakes, and biscuits-a truly magical atmosphere! (B,L,D)
SPEYER, GERMANY, EXCURSION TO HEIDELBERG
This morning, dock in the ancient imperial city of Speyer on the left bank of the Rhine. From here, an included excursion takes you to Heidelberg, of Student Prince fame and Germany's oldest university town. Take your photos of imposing Heidelberg Castle, built of red sandstone and towering above the city. At this time of year an ice rink is set up at the foot of the castle, and stalls offer Gluhwein, hot punch, Bratwurst, and other tasty treats. The Christmas market itself is scattered over five town squares and you'll find a wide array of crafts and regional delicacies. (B,L,D)
FRANKFURT, EXCURSION TO RUDESHEIM
After breakfast this morning a comfortable motorcoach ride takes you to the pretty little town of Rudesheim, a perfect example of a Rhine Valley wine town. A visit to SIEGFRIED'S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM is a real surprise! Afterward, there's free time to explore. The entire town transforms itself into one large Christmas market, offering products and specialties from a number of nations, all presented in a distinctive manner. You'll be spoiled by the selection of shops offering a vast variety of Christmas presents and decorations. In the Market Square you'll find Europe's largest nativity scene, with lifesize figures. After lunch, return to Frankfurt. (B,L,D)
MILTENBERG-WERTHEIM
Miltenberg is a picturesque Bavarian village that thrived on income from river traffic. Its cultural wealth and affluence are reflected in the beautiful medieval and renaissance houses and the gothic splendor of the Merchant Hall shown to you during your guided walk. The town center is within walking distance of the ship, as is the Christmas market. After lunch, learn how to bake a local SOFT COOKIE specialty. In the afternoon, there's free time in Wertheim, whose overlapping half-timbered houses are grouped along winding streets. Glassblowers have a long tradition in this town and, especially in winter, they produce ornaments that hang on Christmas trees all over the world. Marvel at the tasteful Christmas decorations in all the shop windows and stroll through the charming Christmas market. (B,L,D)
WURZBURG, EXCURSION TO ROTHENBURG
Known as the "Pearl of the Romantic Road," Wurzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. The magnificent BISHOP'S RESIDENZ is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch, set off on the most scenic section of the Romantic Road to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. This ancient walled city-with its ramparts, fountains, and cobbled lanes-is steeped in history. Although known for its year round Christmas market, the real one at this time of the year is an experience you won't want to miss! Try a Schneeball (snowball), a local specialty not at all suitable for a diet! (B,L,D)
BAMBERG
Medieval Bamberg is a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your walking tour takes in its breathtaking cathedral, the Old Town Hall straddling the Regnitz River, and serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th-century mansions. At this time of year the town is decked out for Christmas. Especially interesting are the many nativity scenes that are built by local citizens and exhibited throughout the town. Today we'll introduce you to some of Germany's FAMOUS BEERS! (B,L,D)
NUREMBERG
Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses, all explained by a local expert. Nuremberg hosts Germany's most famous Christmas market, which dates back to 1628; the Old Town is illuminated with festive lights and decorations. The city's traditions include famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. (B,L,D)
NUREMBERG, EXCURSION TO MUNICH
After breakfast, drive to Munich, where a local expert will proudly show you the sights of the Bavarian capital. An inspiring mix of historic buildings and impressive architecture, you'll see the Olympic Stadium, 1,000-foothigh Television Tower, Nymphenburg Palace, MARIENPLATZ in the historic heart of the city with the Old and New Town Halls, and the gothic Frauenkirche. Later, there's free time to explore on your own. The traditional Christmas market is located on the Marienplatz, with aromas of toasted almonds, roasted chestnuts, and gingerbread filling the air and the strains of alpine Christmas music coming from the town hall. At the nearby Rindermarkt, you'll find the Kripperlmarkt, one of the largest markets in Germany to specialize in mangers and other nativity accessories. And don't leave Munich without paying a visit to the famous Hofbrauhaus for a stein of beer! Return to your ship in the late afternoon. (B,D)
NUREMBERG
A day to relax and enjoy Nuremberg at your own pace. Stroll through the festively lit streets, write those last-minute postcards, or ask your Cruise Director for suggestions of things to do. (B,L,D)
REGENSBURG
Regensburg is one of Germany's best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights on your guided tour include the Old Town Hall and the Porta Pretoria-gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town, and one of Bavaria's cultural centers. The Christmas market is located on the historic market square. Germany is famous for its sausages, and Regensburg is home to the country's oldest restaurant-Historische Wurstkuche (the Old Sausage Kitchen), dating back to the 12th century. (B,L,D)
PASSAU-LINZ, AUSTRIA
Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz, and Danube Rivers, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen's Cathedral houses the world's largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights as well as more Christmas cheer-the traditional carols, the sparkling lights, and the smell of candles and gingerbread! Linz, Austria's third-largest town, lies on both banks of the Danube and is an important industrial town and busy river port. (B,L,D)
MELK-VIENNA
Melk's magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe's largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! This evening, arrive in Vienna, the "City of Music," which inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. An optional concert is available tonight. (B,L,D)
VIENNA
Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria's capital has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, majestic Ring Boulevard, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen's Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy on your city tour. You do not rush through Vienna-you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Karntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood cafe. Soak up the atmosphere of the Adventszeit (Advent season) and spend some time at the beautiful Christmas markets located throughout the city. (B,L,D)
VIENNA (DISEMBARKATION)
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
* Ports of call may vary based on itinerary and departure dates selected
Cabin Pricing
Ports
Basel
Basel is by far the art and architecture capital of Switzerland. Its 40 museums, covering an area of almost 37 km2, can be easily reached on foot, mostly by strolling through romantic lanes and alleys in the Old Town. The finest and oldest art collection is housed in the Kunstmuseum Basel, as is “Schaulager” - a space for modern art - which was opened in 2003. The Fondation Beyeler, which is well worth a visit, is famous far beyond the limits of Basel - not only for the highly acclaimed special exhibitions, but also for the impressive building designed by architect Renzo Piano.
Country - Switzerland Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance to Airport - 6.5kms Currency - Swiss Franc (CHF)
Places of Interest Market Square, Town Hall, Basel Zoo, Cathedral, Fondation Beyeler Art Museum, Old Town
Strasbourg
The cosmopolitan, north-eastern city of Strasbourg is the intellectual, cultural and economic capital of Alsace. Stylish and atmospheric, it is the seat of the Council of Europe and the European Parliament. Situated just west of the Rhine, Strasbourg lies at the heart of the vital transport arteries that have linked northern and Central Europe with the Mediterranean since Roman times.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance to Airport - 10kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest The Grande Ile, Cathedrale Notre Dame, European Parliament
Speyer
The old imperial city of Speyer was a bishopric and boasts a Romanesque cathedral with six imposing towers and the finest and largest crypt in Germany. Four Holy Roman Emperors and four German Kings are buried in the impressive Royal Vault.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance to Airport - 98kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Great Romanesque Cathedral, City Centre
Heidelberg
Heidelberg is known for its famous castle, which overlooks the city's Old Town. A trip up to the castle affords a good view of the city and its photogenic bridge over the Neckar, whose form, with its multi-arch support structure, is reminiscent of a Roman aqueduct, and whose tower-flanked entrance was said to have inspired Walt Disney in his design of the Magic Kingdom. The Philosophenweg (Philosophers' Walk), across the river from the Old Town section, is another way to view the city and some of the older castles upriver.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 45kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Heidelberg Castle, Old Town, Museum of the Palatinate, Sculpture Park, Funicular Railway, Zoo, Philosopher's Walk
Rudesheim
Rudesheim sits at the entrance to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. If you come from the direction of Frankfurt or Mainz, it is one of the first major tourist towns you'll reach along the Rhine River. Rudesheim makes a good base for exploring the entire Rhine Valley, which is the home of famous wines, medieval villages and beautiful scenery.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 55kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Drosselgasse, Niederwald Monument, Rheingau Wine Museum, Asbach Brandy Distillery, Medieval Torture Museum, Bird of Prey Zoo, Jagdschloss, Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet
Miltenberg
Miltenberg, nestled tightly below wooded hills on a bend of the Main River, enjoys a wonderfully photogenic setting. Explore the "Pearl of the Main River" with your local guide. See the half timbered houses that give the town its fairy tale feel, along with the Crooked House and Royal Inn.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 1km Distance from port to Airport - 85kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest
Wertheim
The former capital of the counts of Wertheim, situated at the point where the river Tauber flows into the river Main, with its medieval lanes, frame houses and awe-inspiring castle has an atmosphere of its own and – unlike other towns – has kept its character of a small Franconian town.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 95kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Kilian's Chapel, Glass making Foundry and Museum, Spessart Forest, Tauber Valley
Wurzburg
Surrounded by pleasant hillside vineyards Würzburg is both an old episcopal see and a vivacious modern university city. The great medieval fortress of Marienburg dominates the skyline, overlooking the beautiful Old Town with its architectural masterpieces from many different periods. Art, culture and the fine wines of Franconia are all important elements of the Würzburg lifestyle. This carefree city with its relaxed southern atmosphere is the perfect starting-place for a journey of discovery on the Romantic Route.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 90kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Fortress Marienberg, Town Hall
Bamberg
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 1km Distance from port to Airport - 50kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest
Nuremberg
Visitors to Nuremberg, a lively city with a medieval feel, will find evidence of its 950-year history at every turn. These legacies of the past also reveal much about the past and present of the German people. Here in Nuremberg, monuments to the city's inventiveness and its cultural self-confidence over many centuries stand in the midst of the hustle and bustle of a modern, dynamic urban centre.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 6kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Castle, City Wall, Zoo, Toy Museum, Verkehrs Museum, Old Quarter
Regensburg
Regensburg bills itself as "Germany's best-preserved medieval city." It's hard to argue with that description, at least when you're wandering through the Altstadt (old city) with its 13th to 15th Century houses or crossing the Steinerne Bruke (Stone Bridge), which has carried traders and touists across the Danube since the 1100s. Preservation may be Regensburg's most important industry after the BMW and Siemens plants in the modern suburbs. The medieval streets in the city center have been protected by strict laws since the 1970s, and the Bavarian state's conservation experts keep a close eye on all maintenance or renovation
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 78kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Medieval city centre, Historic Sausage Kitchen, Johannes Kepler Memorial House
Passau
Passau is not merely a transfer point but a destination unto itself. Life is easy-going and lived outdoors where street cafes and restaurants abound. Student life is vibrant and multifaceted. Guests can actively interface with young people from around the world over a Hacklbräu, Andorfer Weissbier or Passauer Löwenbräu brew in the beer gardens.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 100kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Bavarian Forest, Local Breweries, Danube River
Linz
Linz is a city of the third millennium. In and around the city, its Roman and medieval past slumbers. The opulence of the Baroque and the boldness of industrial architecture from the early 20th century are part of present-day life. Linz on the Danube is manageable, cosy, cherishes its traditions and, as the third biggest city in a small country, it is both metropolis and province, Central European crossroads and regional niche.
Country - Austria Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 11kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Old Town, Linz Castle, Arts Electronica Centre, Brucknerhaus Concert Hall
Melk
Empress Maria Theresa said of Melk, "If I had never come here, I would have regretted it." The center of Melk is the Abbey and the Stiftskirche (the abbey church), some of the best examples of Baroque architecture anywhere in the world. The abbey library contains allegorical paintings by Troger on the ceiling while the Stiftskirche, has works by Rottmayr and Troger and is almost completely decorated in gold. Stand on the terrace of the abbey and view the river much as Napoleon did during the campaign against Austria so many years ago.
Country - Austria Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance to Airport - 105kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Melk Abbey and Museum
Vienna
Vienna is known worldwide as a city of music. Quality orchestras and ensembles are its seal of excellence. Along with well-established ensembles for contemporary music classical music continues to play a vital role, as made evident by the City of Vienna Concert Orchestra and the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, amongst others. The Vienna Academy, the Vienna Chamber Orchestra and the Women's Chamber Orchestra are dedicated to tradition and modern music alike. International artists are a great gain to cultural life in Vienna.Vienna's cultural life is multi-faceted. You have the choice of 50 theatres, four opera houses, two stages for musicals, 100 museums and numerous theatre, music and dance festivals. The museum quarter with its baroque facade is home to one of the biggest cultural districts in Europe.
CountryAustria Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 15kms Currency -Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Hofburg Palace, Vienna Opera House, Spanish Riding School, Prater Park, Danube Tower, Vienna Zoo
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Avalon Waterways
Now that you know why river cruising should be your next vacation, you need to decide which cruise company to choose. Thats easy, When you travel with Avalon Waterways, you can relax in the knowledge that you've made the best choice. Newest Ships
Avalon sets a new standard in river cruising Europe's newest ships; you cruise in amazing, one-of-a-kind travel comfort. Sleek and elegant, they are part of a new generation of river cruisers, with state-of-the-art technology. These ships offer larger accommodations with hotel-style beds, private facilities, satellite television, and much more, including email or internet access, and floor to ceiling sliding glass doors in many staterooms. Travellers will enjoy a fitness centre, hair salon and massage services.
The Most Enriching Experiences
Our Enrichment Program is among the best in river cruising. Experienced local guides will take you on sightseeing tours of wonderful towns and cities, plus you can spend the evening on shore, if the schedule permits. In addition to fascinating sightseeing on each itinerary, you can choose from a few optional outings, and there's always time to make your own discoveries as well. Back on board, you'll enjoy interactive presentations with area experts, wine tastings, local entertainment, and more. Look on each cruise itinerary page to see the Included Features and Special Highlights listed for each vacation.
Created for the English Speaking Market
These new ships are built for the English Speaking Market, with non-smoking interiors and English speaking crew. They feature larger staterooms than most other river cruise vessels with comfortable beds and large windows to view the passing scene. Meals are European cuisine tailored to western tastes with coffee and tea available at no extra charge throughout the day. The Enrichment Program is geared towards those that like to travel with lively itineraries, time for individual discovery, and onboard entertainment.
Fine Dining
Whether you savour time-tested recipes or experiment more boldly, with Avalon you'll taste the true flavours of Europe, Egypt and China. Meals enjoyed in the company of your travelling companions are a major part of your vacation experience. On Avalon's ships, you'll enjoy open seat dining with one sitting, wine included with all onboard dinners, and panoramic views from your restaurant.
Quality Hotels
On several itineraries, you'll either begin or end your experience with a stay on land. We understand the importance of hotel quality to your vacation; that's why any hotels included in your itinerary are rated first class (F) or above (SF). Look for the exact ratings on the itinerary pages.
Unbeatable Value
We include all the main features of a destination without extra cost. Our volume buying power saves you money. And we handle all the logistics and details, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your cruise. Plus we provide all meals on board, a rich land excursion program and much more!
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Avalon - Europe River Cruises
All European river cruise ships feature elegant interiors with abundant glass, polished metal, and vibrant colors, modern designs with contemporary appointments, state-ofthe-art technology, personalized service, fine dining, remarkable amenities, and spacious outside staterooms.
Avalon Waterways offers the most modern river cruising fleet on Europe's legendary rivers.
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