Timeless Rivers of Europe: the Rhine and Seine 2025

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Description

Summary

Starts
Basel
Duration
15 days
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum age
8 years

Description

Embark on a captivating 15-day journey through the heart of Europe, exploring the rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty that defines this enchanting region. From the picturesque landscapes of Switzerland and Germany to the artistic allure of France, this multi-day tour offers a perfect blend of guided excursions and leisure time. Delight in the vibrant cities of Basel, Strasbourg, and Amsterdam, and immerse yourself in the historical wonders of Normandy and Paris. With luxurious accommodations aboard your Suite Ship® and a variety of activities to suit every interest, this tour promises an unforgettable experience filled with breathtaking sights, cultural treasures, and culinary delights. Join us for an adventure that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the diverse beauty of Europe.

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Included

14 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 Tranqulity II or similar

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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
View of the Old Town of Basel with red stone Munster cathedral and the Rhine river, Switzerland.Basel
Paris, France. Panoramic view from Arc de Triomphe. Eiffel Tower and Avenue des Champs Elysees. Europe.Paris
Photo of traditional half-timbered houses on picturesque canals in La Petite France in the medieval fairytale town of Strasbourg, France.Strasbourg
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
Les Andelys
photo of The Old Mill of Vernon in Vernon Normandy France.Vernon
Rouen - city in FranceRouen

Map

Attractions

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
photo of Haarlem attraction, Amsterdamse Poort gateway at morning, Netherlands.Amsterdamse Poort, Haarlem
Heidelberg Palace, Altstadt, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyHeidelberg Palace
Photo of Cologne Cathedral, a Roman Catholic Gothic cathedral in Cologne, Germany.Cologne Cathedral
Cathedral of Our Lady of Évreux, Normandy, FranceÉvreux Cathedral
Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes MittelrheintalWelterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal
Architectural detail of the Museum of Modern Art in Strasbourg on a winter day. Inaugurated in December 1998 by Culture Minister Catherine Trautmann.Strasbourg Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Day 1: Basel to Breisach

  • Basel - Arrival day
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Welcome to the enchanting landscapes of Switzerland as you embark on your luxurious cruise from Basel. Arrive by 3 pm to ensure a smooth boarding process, and settle into your elegant suite aboard the ship. As the evening unfolds, enjoy a delightful dinner and explore the ship's amenities. The night promises a serene cruise towards the charming town of Breisach, setting the tone for the adventures that lie ahead.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Day 2: Breisach to Kehl

  • Strasbourg
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  • Schwarzwaldmuseum
  • Freiburger Rieselfeld
  • More

Today, immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of Germany. Choose between a leisurely bike ride along the Rhine or a guided exploration of the mystical Black Forest, featuring the Vogtsbauernhof Open-Air Museum. Alternatively, delve into the medieval charm of Freiburg's city center. For those seeking more, an optional excursion to Colmar awaits. As the day concludes, enjoy a relaxing cruise to Kehl, where the evening promises more delightful experiences.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Day 3: Kehl to Mainz

  • Strasbourg
  • Mainz
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  • Sulzbach Wasserpfad
  • Naturerlebnispfad
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Discover the captivating allure of Strasbourg today. Opt for a scenic bike tour or a guided city exploration, highlighting the Gothic Strasbourg Cathedral and the enchanting La Petite France District. For history enthusiasts, an optional visit to the Maginot Line or Alsace's wine country is available. Spend the afternoon at leisure, exploring Strasbourg's museums and vibrant city center. As night falls, enjoy a peaceful cruise to Mainz.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Day 4: Mainz to Rüdesheim

  • Mainz
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  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Gutenberg Museum
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Today, explore the historic wonders of Mainz and Heidelberg. Choose a guided walk along Heidelberg's Philosophers' Way or visit the majestic Heidelberg Castle, known for its Great Vat. Alternatively, delve into the history of printing at the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz. As evening approaches, enjoy live entertainment aboard your ship while cruising to the picturesque town of Rüdesheim.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Day 5: Rüdesheim to Koblenz

  • Mainz
  • More
  • Gutenberg Museum
  • Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal
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Experience the vibrant wine culture of Rüdesheim with a guided hike through its scenic vineyards or a visit to the fascinating Mechanical Music Museum. As you sail through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, marvel at the ancient castles and the legendary Rock of the Lorelei. Upon arrival in Koblenz, enjoy some leisure time before a delightful evening of dining and entertainment on board.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Day 6: Koblenz to Cologne

  • Cologne
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  • Cologne Cathedral
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Today, explore the historic city of Cologne. Choose between a bike ride through the city, a guided tour of its Jewish heritage sites, or a city walk featuring the iconic twin-steepled Cologne Cathedral. Enjoy a glass of Kölsch, the local brew, during your free time. As the afternoon unfolds, relax on board as you cruise towards the vibrant city of Amsterdam.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Day 7: Amsterdam

  • Amsterdam
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  • Amsterdam Museum
  • More

Discover the vibrant city of Amsterdam today. Choose from an early morning walk, an off-the-beaten-path guided tour, or a canal cruise showcasing the city's iconic waterways. During tulip season, visit the stunning Keukenhof Gardens, or explore Zaanse Schans outside of the season. Enjoy free time to wander through Amsterdam's colorful streets, galleries, and shops before settling in for an overnight stay.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Day 8: Amsterdam to Paris

  • Amsterdam
  • Paris
  • More

This morning, board a high-speed train for a scenic journey to Paris. Upon arrival, embark on your Avalon Suite Ship® and enjoy a sumptuous dinner onboard. As the evening unfolds, relax and prepare for the enchanting experiences that await in the City of Light.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Day 9: Vernon to Les Andelys

  • Vernon
  • Les Andelys
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  • Château Gaillard
  • Fondation Monet in Giverny
  • Biotropica, animal gardens
  • More

Explore the artistic and historical treasures of Vernon today. Choose a guided walk to Chateau des Tourelles or visit Giverny, the inspiration for Monet's masterpieces. Alternatively, explore 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 enjoy a guided walking tour.

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Day 10

Day 10 – Day 10: Les Andelys to Caudebec

  • Les Andelys
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  • National Museum of Education
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Today, enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the Seine or take a guided trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route, home to numerous medieval abbeys and churches. In the afternoon, consider an optional excursion to the charming seaside town of Honfleur. As night falls, dock in Caudebec for an overnight stay, ready for more adventures in the days to come.

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Day 11

Day 11 – Day 11: Caudebec to Rouen

  • Rouen
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  • Tour Vauban de Tatihou
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Experience the poignant history of Normandy's WWII landing beaches today. Choose a guided tour of significant U.S. sites, including Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery, or explore British and Canadian commemorative sites. Alternatively, enjoy a taste of Normandy's traditions with a brandy tasting in Calvados. As the day concludes, enjoy live entertainment onboard while cruising to Rouen.

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Day 12

Day 12 – Day 12: Rouen to Conflans

  • Rouen
  • More
  • Cleres Zoological Park
  • Évreux Cathedral
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Explore the historic city of Rouen today. Opt for a guided bike tour to discover its famous monuments and hidden gems, or enjoy a walking tour featuring the site of Joan of Arc's martyrdom, the medieval quarter, and the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral. As the evening approaches, cruise to Conflans, where more adventures await.

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Day 13

Day 13 – Day 13: Conflans to Paris

  • Paris
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  • Château de Malmaison
  • Queen's House
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Today, follow in the footsteps of famous artists and leaders. Visit Auvers-sur-Oise, the home and resting place of Vincent van Gogh, or explore the opulent Château de Malmaison, once home to Napoleon Bonaparte. Alternatively, consider an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles. As the evening unfolds, cruise to the iconic city of Paris, where the magic of the City of Light awaits.

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Day 14

Day 14 – Day 14: Paris

  • Paris
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  • Louvre Museum
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Eiffel Tower
  • More

Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of Paris today. Choose a guided walk along the Seine, exploring the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, and Île de la Cité. Alternatively, enjoy a city tour featuring iconic landmarks such as the Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triomphe. Spend your afternoon at leisure, savoring the vibrant atmosphere of Parisian cafés and boutiques. As night falls, enjoy your final overnight stay in the City of Light.

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Day 15

Day 15 – Day 15: Departure from Paris

  • Paris - Departure day
  • More

As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, enjoy a final breakfast aboard the ship. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories made during this extraordinary tour through Europe's most captivating destinations. Safe travels as you depart from the enchanting city of Paris.

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