Rhine & Rhône Revealed with 2 Nights in French Riviera (Northbound) 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an enchanting multi-day tour through the heart of Europe, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes converge. From the sun-drenched shores of the French Riviera to the vibrant canals of Amsterdam, this journey promises unforgettable experiences at every turn. Discover the artistic allure of Arles, the medieval marvels of Tournon, and the timeless beauty of Strasbourg. Savor world-renowned wines in the Mâconnais region and explore the enchanting Black Forest. With luxurious accommodations and expertly guided tours, this adventure offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Join us for a voyage that will captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories.
Included
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere
Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
Avalon Waterways cruise ship
2 Nights in French Riviera
14 nights onboard
Open–Air Balconies® and Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows in all Panorama SuitesSM
Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
Bathrobes & slippers
Premium L'Occitane® bath products & hairdryer
Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
Wide selection of free movie channels and English-speaking TV
Individual climate control and in-room safe
Full-size closet and mirror
Additional under-bed storage
Well-stocked mini-bar
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
Panoramic windows throughout the ship
Elegant, contemporary design & decor
Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
Covered Observation Lounge
Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
Elevator
Non-smoking interior and staterooms
Avalon Waterways offers a selection of included excursions in every port of call, with something for everyone within their "Classic", "Discovery" and "Active" collections
Map
Attractions
#ILoveNICE
Pont du Gard
Palais des Papes
Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
Heidelberg Palace
Wutach Gorge
Cologne Cathedral
Arles Amphitheatre
Gutenberg Museum
Place Bellecour
Amsterdam Museum
Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes MittelrheintalDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Welcome to the French Riviera
Welcome to the French Riviera
- Fort de la Revère
- More
Begin your adventure in the sun-kissed city of Nice, where the azure waters of the Mediterranean beckon. Spend your day exploring the vibrant streets and savoring the local cuisine. The French Riviera, with its stunning beaches and charming promenades, offers the perfect start to your journey.
Day 2 – Exploring the Heart of Nice
Exploring the Heart of Nice
- #ILoveNICE
- More
Delve into the historic charm of Nice with a guided tour through Vieux Nice. Wander its narrow streets, admire baroque churches, and immerse yourself in the rich history that dates back to the 1700s. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting out on this cultural exploration.
Day 3 – Embark on a River Cruise
Embark on a River Cruise
Board your luxurious Avalon Suite Ship in Arles, where your river cruise adventure begins. Enjoy a delightful breakfast and dinner on board as you prepare for the scenic journey ahead. Overnight docking in Arles ensures a restful night.
Day 4 – Art and History in Arles
- Avignon
- More
- Arles Amphitheatre
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Experience the artistic allure of Arles with a guided walking tour. Visit the Roman Amphitheater and indulge in a painting workshop inspired by Vincent van Gogh. Enjoy a glass of wine at Le Café Van Gogh before sailing to Avignon.
Day 5 – The Majesty of Avignon
The Majesty of Avignon
- Pont du Gard
- Palais des Papes
- More
Discover the fortress city of Avignon with a guided tour of the Palace of the Popes. Optional excursions include a visit to the ancient Pont du Gard or a wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Enjoy live entertainment on board as you dock overnight in Avignon.
Day 6 – Charming Viviers
Charming Viviers
- Orange Cathedral
- More
Sail to the quaint village of Viviers, where history comes alive. Explore the Romanesque cathedral and the Old Town's blend of Christian, Roman, and medieval influences. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon before cruising to Tain l'Hermitage.
Day 7 – Medieval Marvels in Tournon
- Lyon
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- Train de l'Ardèche
- More
Explore the medieval town of Tournon with a guided walking tour. Visit the 16th-century castle and enjoy a morning hike. Cruise to Lyon in the afternoon, where live entertainment awaits on board.
Day 8 – Lyon's Enchanting Allure
Lyon's Enchanting Allure
- Place Bellecour
- Tour d'Oingt
- More
Discover Lyon's rich history with a guided tour from Fourvière Hill. Explore the Old Town's medieval alleyways and the lively Place des Terreaux. Spend your afternoon biking through the city's picturesque squares and along the riverbanks.
Day 9 – Wine and Cheese Delights
Wine and Cheese Delights
Venture into the Mâconnais region to explore its renowned Chardonnay vineyards. Enjoy a wine tasting in a medieval castle and savor a cheese tasting on board. Cruise to Chalon-sur-Saône for an evening of live entertainment.
Day 10 – From Beaune to Basel
From Beaune to Basel
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
- More
Visit the architectural marvel of Hôtel-Dieu in Beaune, home to Van der Weyden's 'Last Judgment.' Travel to Basel by motorcoach to embark on your Rhine River cruise, with an evening sail to Breisach.
Day 11 – Enchanting Black Forest
Enchanting Black Forest
- Schwarzwaldmuseum
- Wutach Gorge
- More
Explore the Black Forest with a guided tour to the Vogtsbauernhof open-air museum. Witness traditional butter-making and visit an authentic water mill. Alternatively, enjoy a bike ride along the Rhine or explore Freiburg's medieval city center.
Day 12 – Strasbourg's Timeless Beauty
Strasbourg's Timeless Beauty
- Sulzbach Wasserpfad
- More
Discover Strasbourg's Gothic cathedral and the enchanting La Petite France district on a guided tour. Choose an optional excursion to the Maginot Line or Alsace's wine country. Enjoy free time to explore the city's museums and charming streets.
Day 13 – Heidelberg's Historic Treasures
Heidelberg's Historic Treasures
- Heidelberg Palace
- Gutenberg Museum
- More
Explore Heidelberg Castle and its Great Vat, the world's largest wine barrel. Alternatively, enjoy a city walk including a visit to the Gutenberg Museum. Sail to Rüdesheim for an evening of live entertainment.
Day 14 – Rhine Gorge Wonders
Rhine Gorge Wonders
- Gutenberg Museum
- Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal
- More
Hike through Rüdesheim's vineyards or visit the Mechanical Music Museum. Sail through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, admiring ancient castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock. Enjoy free time in Koblenz before an evening of relaxation on board.
Day 15 – Cologne's Cultural Riches
Cologne's Cultural Riches
- Cologne Cathedral
- More
Explore Cologne's iconic cathedral and Jewish heritage sites on a guided tour. Enjoy a bike ride or savor a glass of Kölsch lager. Cruise to Amsterdam, where your journey continues.
Day 16 – Amsterdam's Vibrant Canals
Amsterdam's Vibrant Canals
- Amsterdam Museum
- More
Discover Amsterdam's hidden gems with a guided walking tour or a canal cruise. During tulip season, visit the Keukenhof gardens. Alternatively, explore Zaanse Schans or enjoy a biking tour through the countryside. Overnight docking in Amsterdam.
Day 17 – Farewell to Amsterdam
Farewell to Amsterdam
Conclude your unforgettable journey with a hearty breakfast in Amsterdam. Reflect on the memories made and the sights seen as you prepare for your departure.
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