European Masterpiece: the Rhine, Seine and Rhône Revealed with 2 Nights in Lucerne 2025

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Description

Summary

Starts
Lucerne
Duration
24 days
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum age
8 years

Description

Embark on an extraordinary multi-day tour through the heart of Europe, where breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures await. From the picturesque Swiss town of Lucerne to the romantic city of Paris, this journey offers a perfect blend of guided excursions and leisure time. Explore iconic landmarks, savor local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the unique charm of each destination. Whether you're wandering through medieval alleyways, cruising along scenic rivers, or indulging in culinary delights, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. With comfortable accommodations and delightful meals included, you'll experience the best of Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, and France in style and comfort. Join us for a journey that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of Europe.

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Included

2 nights in Lucerne

21 nights onboard

Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness

Egyptian super-combed cotton linens

Bathrobes & slippers

Premium L'Occitane bath products

Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door

Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels

Individual climate control and in-room safe

USB Ports

And, much more

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Avalon View or Avalon Tapestry II or Avalon Poetry II

High-speed train

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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

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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

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Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director

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Destinations

Mainz - city in GermanyMainz
Amsterdam Netherlands dancing houses over river Amstel landmark in old european city spring landscape.Amsterdam
Dijon - city in FranceDijon
Paris, France. Panoramic view from Arc de Triomphe. Eiffel Tower and Avenue des Champs Elysees. Europe.Paris
Beaune - city in FranceBeaune
Photo of traditional half-timbered houses on picturesque canals in La Petite France in the medieval fairytale town of Strasbourg, France.Strasbourg
The City of Lyon in the daytime.Lyon
Arles - city in FranceArles
Cologne Aerial view with trains move on a bridge over the Rhine River on which cargo barges and passenger ships ply. Majestic Cologne Cathedral in the background.Cologne
Lucerne - town in SwitzerlandLucerne
Les Andelys
photo of The Old Mill of Vernon in Vernon Normandy France.Vernon
Avignon - city in FranceAvignon
Rouen - city in FranceRouen

Map

Attractions

Chapel Bridge, Lucerne, Luzern, SwitzerlandChapel Bridge
photo of Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes), once fortress and palace, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe, at morning, Avignon, France.Palais des Papes
photo of on the way in the beautiful valley of the Seine at Château Gaillard in Les Andelys, Normandy, France.Château Gaillard
Photo of beautiful summer view of Louvre Museum, one of the world's most important museums, historic monument and parisian landmark, Paris, France.Louvre Museum
photo of The Foundation Claude Monet is a nonprofit organization that runs and preserves the house and gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny, France.Fondation Monet in Giverny
The cathedral Notre-Dame de Bayeux. Antique Norman-Romanesque cathedral is located in the Bayeux, Calvados department of Normandy, France.Bayeux Cathedral
Photo of Lucerne dying lion monument, Switzerland.Lion Monument Lucerne
Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune, Beaune, Côte-d'Or, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Metropolitan France, FranceHôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
Heidelberg Palace, Altstadt, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyHeidelberg Palace
Wutach Gorge, Göschweiler, Löffingen, Verwaltungsgemeinschaft Löffingen, Landkreis Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyWutach Gorge
Photo of Eiffel Tower in Paris, France best Destinations in Europe.Eiffel Tower
Photo of Cologne Cathedral, a Roman Catholic Gothic cathedral in Cologne, Germany.Cologne Cathedral
Pont du Gard Museum
photo of the Roman Arles Amphitheatre in the Old Town of Arles in France.Arles Amphitheatre
Gutenberg MuseumGutenberg Museum
Mount Pilatus, Alpnach, Obwalden, SwitzerlandMount Pilatus
Église Saint-Thomas, Strasbourg, Bas-Rhin, Grand Est, Metropolitan France, FranceSt Thomas Church
Cathedral of Our Lady of Évreux, Normandy, FranceÉvreux Cathedral
photo of Amsterdam Museum (Rijksmuseum) with I Amsterdam sign, Netherlands.Amsterdam Museum
Biotropica, animal gardens, Val-de-Reuil, Les Andelys, Eure, Normandy, Metropolitan France, FranceBiotropica, animal gardens
Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes MittelrheintalWelterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Day 1: Lucerne

  • Lucerne - Arrival day
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Welcome to the enchanting city of Lucerne, nestled on the banks of the Reuss River. Spend your day leisurely exploring the charming squares and historic churches, where tradition meets modernity. Alternatively, indulge in some retail therapy in the bustling city center. Your adventure begins in this picturesque Swiss town, setting the tone for an unforgettable journey.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Day 2: Lucerne

  • Lucerne
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  • Chapel Bridge
  • Lion Monument Lucerne
  • Nölliturm
  • Wätterloch
  • Fraumünster Church
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Embark on a guided walking tour of Lucerne, where history and culture come alive. Visit the poignant Lion Monument, stroll through the charming Old Town, and cross the iconic Chapel Bridge. Marvel at the Water Tower and the stunning Jesuit Church. This day is a perfect blend of history, architecture, and the vibrant spirit of Lucerne.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Day 3: Lucerne to Breisach

  • Lucerne
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  • Swiss National Museum
  • Mount Pilatus
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Begin your day with a breathtaking excursion to Mount Pilatus, offering panoramic views of central Switzerland. If weather conditions are unfavorable, explore the fascinating Swiss Transport Museum instead. In the evening, board your Suite Ship® for a delightful cruise to Breisach, where you will enjoy a sumptuous dinner onboard.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Day 4: Breisach to Kehl

  • Strasbourg
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  • Freiburg Minster
  • Schwarzwaldmuseum
  • Wutach Gorge
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Discover the enchanting Black Forest with a guided tour, where you'll visit the Vogtsbauernhof Open-Air Museum and witness traditional butter-making. Alternatively, explore Freiburg's medieval city center, nestled amidst vineyards and gardens. You may also opt for a visit to the charming village of Colmar. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing cruise to Kehl, accompanied by a delightful dinner onboard.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Day 5: Kehl to Mainz

  • Strasbourg
  • Mainz
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  • Sulzbach Wasserpfad
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Explore the captivating city of Strasbourg, where you can admire the Gothic architecture of the Strasbourg Cathedral and wander through the picturesque La Petite France district. Consider an optional excursion to the historic Maginot Line or Alsace's wine country. Spend your afternoon exploring the city at your leisure before embarking on an evening cruise to Mainz, enjoying dinner and entertainment onboard.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Day 6: Mainz to Rüdesheim

  • Mainz
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  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Gutenberg Museum
  • More

Discover the historic city of Heidelberg with a guided tour of its magnificent castle and the world's largest wine barrel. Alternatively, explore Mainz with a visit to the Gutenberg Museum, delving into the captivating history of printing. In the evening, enjoy live entertainment onboard as you sail to the charming town of Rüdesheim.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Day 7: Rüdesheim to Koblenz

  • Mainz
  • More
  • Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal
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Embark on a scenic hike through the vineyards of Rüdesheim or visit the Mechanical Music Museum for a unique experience. As you sail to Koblenz, pass through the stunning Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and witness the legendary Rock of the Lorelei. Enjoy free time in Koblenz before a delightful evening onboard with dinner and entertainment.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Day 8: Koblenz to Amsterdam

  • Cologne
  • Amsterdam
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  • Cologne Cathedral
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Explore Cologne with a guided walking tour of its Jewish heritage sites or a city walk featuring the iconic twin-steepled Gothic cathedral. Enjoy a refreshing glass of Kölsch pale lager, a local specialty, before embarking on an afternoon cruise to Amsterdam. Relish a delightful dinner onboard as you sail towards the vibrant Dutch capital.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Day 9: Amsterdam

  • Amsterdam
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  • Amsterdam Museum
  • More

Discover the vibrant city of Amsterdam with a guided walking tour through its cobblestone streets or a canal cruise past the stately homes of the Golden Age. During tulip season, visit the breathtaking Keukenhof Gardens. Alternatively, explore the historic windmills of Zaanse Schans. Spend your afternoon wandering through Amsterdam's colorful streets, galleries, and shops before enjoying dinner onboard.

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Day 10

Day 10 – Day 10: Amsterdam to Paris

  • Amsterdam
  • Paris
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Board a high-speed train from Amsterdam to the romantic city of Paris. Settle into your Avalon Suite Ship® and enjoy a delightful dinner onboard as you begin your cruise to Vernon. Experience the magic of Paris as you sail along the Seine, setting the stage for the next chapter of your journey.

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Day 11

Day 11 – Day 11: Vernon to Les Andelys

  • Vernon
  • Les Andelys
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  • Fondation Monet in Giverny
  • Biotropica, animal gardens
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Explore the artistic haven of Giverny, home to Claude Monet, or visit the magnificent Bizy Castle, known as 'Normandy's Versailles.' Enjoy a traditional French luncheon onboard, followed by a pastry demonstration. In the afternoon, cruise to the picturesque town of Les Andelys, where you can hike to the ruins of Château Gaillard or take a guided walking tour of this charming spot on the Seine.

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Day 12

Day 12 – Day 12: Les Andelys to Caudebec

  • Les Andelys
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  • Parc Animalier de la Forêt de Roumare
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Embark on a relaxing bike ride along the Seine or take a guided trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route, home to over 100 medieval abbeys and churches. In the afternoon, consider an optional excursion to the seaside town of Honfleur. Enjoy a delightful dinner onboard as you dock in Caudebec for the night.

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Day 13

Day 13 – Day 13: Caudebec to Rouen

  • Rouen
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  • Tour Vauban de Tatihou
  • Botanical Garden
  • Arbre de la Liberté
  • More

Delve into the history of Normandy's WWII landing beaches with a guided tour of Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery. Alternatively, explore British and Canadian commemorative sites or savor the traditions of Normandy with a brandy tasting in Calvados. Enjoy live entertainment onboard as you cruise to Rouen.

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Day 14

Day 14 – Day 14: Rouen to Conflans

  • Rouen
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  • Cleres Zoological Park
  • Évreux Cathedral
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Explore Rouen, the site of Saint Joan of Arc's martyrdom, with a guided walking tour of its medieval quarter, featuring the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral and the 16th-century Astronomical Clock. Alternatively, discover the city's hidden gems on a guided bike tour. Enjoy dinner onboard as you cruise to Conflans.

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Day 15

Day 15 – Day 15: Conflans to Paris

  • Paris
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  • Château de Malmaison
  • Queen's House
  • More

Visit Auvers-sur-Oise, the final resting place of Vincent van Gogh, or explore the opulent Château de Malmaison, home to Napoleon Bonaparte and Josephine. Consider an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles. Enjoy a delightful dinner onboard as you cruise to the City of Light, Paris.

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Day 16

Day 16 – Day 16: Paris

  • Paris
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  • Champ de Mars
  • Louvre Museum
  • Eiffel Tower
  • More

Experience the magic of Paris with a guided walk through its ancient heart, featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, and Île de la Cité. Alternatively, take a city tour to see iconic landmarks such as the Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, and Champs-Élysées. Spend your afternoon exploring Paris at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a glass of wine in a Left Bank café.

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Day 17

Day 17 – Day 17: Paris to Chalon-sur-Saône

  • Paris
  • Dijon
  • Beaune
  • More
  • Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
  • More

Travel from Paris to Dijon by high-speed train, then drive to Beaune to visit the historic Hôtel-Dieu Charity Hospital, home to Van der Weyden's painting of the Last Judgement. In the afternoon, continue to Chalon-sur-Saône to board your Suite Ship® for an overnight docking in Tournus.

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Day 18

Day 18 – Day 18: Tournus to Trévoux

Day 18: Tournus to Trévoux

  • Cluny Abbey
  • Château de Cormatin Stephen Abragan
  • More

Discover the historic town of Tournus, one of Burgundy's oldest monastic centers, with a guided tour of its highlights. Consider an optional excursion to a Chardonnay wine cellar or the Castle of Cormatin. Later, enjoy a cheese tasting onboard as you sail to Trévoux for an overnight docking.

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Day 19

Day 19 – Day 19: Trévoux to Lyon

  • Lyon
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  • Place Bellecour
  • Tour d'Oingt
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Sail to the beautiful city of Lyon, where you can explore its architectural district by bike or take a guided sightseeing tour from Fourvière Hill. Discover the Old Town's medieval alleyways and the lively Place des Terreaux. Enjoy a WWII & French Resistance lecture onboard, followed by live entertainment after dinner.

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Day 20

Day 20 – Day 20: Lyon to Tournon

  • Lyon
  • More

Embark on a culinary walk through Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, to discover its culinary delights. Spend your afternoon exploring the city's markets, parks, and murals at your leisure. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner onboard as you cruise to Tournon.

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Day 21

Day 21 – Day 21: Tournon to Avignon

  • Avignon
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  • Train de l'Ardèche
  • Viaduc de Vogüé
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Explore the medieval city of Tournon with a guided walking tour of its 16th-century castle and Roman ruins. In the afternoon, sail to Viviers, where you can discover its Romanesque cathedral and Old Town. Enjoy live entertainment onboard as you cruise to Avignon.

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Day 22

Day 22 – Day 22: Avignon to Arles

  • Avignon
  • Arles
  • More
  • Pont du Gard
  • Palais des Papes
  • More

Discover the fortress city of Avignon with a guided tour of the Palace of the Popes. Consider optional excursions to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard or the wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Spend your afternoon exploring Avignon's art and culture before enjoying live entertainment onboard as you cruise to Arles.

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Day 23

Day 23 – Day 23: Arles

  • Arles
  • More
  • Arles Amphitheatre
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Explore the captivating city of Arles with a guided walking tour of its Roman Amphitheater. Alternatively, attend a painting workshop to learn the techniques of Vincent van Gogh or enjoy a power walk with your Adventure Host. Spend your afternoon at leisure, perhaps enjoying a glass of wine at Le Café van Gogh.

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Day 24

Day 24 – Day 24: Departure from Arles

  • Arles - Departure day
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  • Arles Amphitheatre
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Conclude your unforgettable journey with a delightful breakfast onboard. As your vacation comes to an end, ensure your flights from Marseille airport are scheduled after 10 am for a smooth departure. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories made during this extraordinary multi-day tour.

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