Vineyards, Chateaux & Bordeaux 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of Europe, where enchanting landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures await. From the picturesque Swiss city of Basel to the romantic allure of Paris and the renowned wine region of Bordeaux, this journey offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. Discover the medieval charm of Heidelberg, the vibrant streets of Amsterdam, and the historic sites of Normandy. Delight in guided tours, scenic cruises, and immersive cultural experiences, all while enjoying the luxurious accommodations and exquisite meals provided on board your Suite Ship®. Whether you're exploring the artistic heritage of Giverny, savoring the flavors of Bordeaux's wine country, or strolling through the iconic streets of Paris, this tour promises a captivating adventure filled with unforgettable 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
Cruise ship
21 night accommodation
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
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Basel
- Basel - Arrival day
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Welcome to the enchanting landscapes of Switzerland! Begin your journey in Basel, where your luxurious Suite Ship® awaits. Arrive by 3 pm to ensure a smooth boarding process by 5 pm. Settle into your comfortable accommodations and enjoy a delightful dinner as you explore the ship. This evening, embark on a serene cruise towards Breisach, setting the tone for an unforgettable adventure.
Day 2 – Day 2: Breisach to Kehl
- Fribourg
- Freiburg im Breisgau
- Colmar
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- Freiburg Minster
- Schwarzwaldmuseum
- Wutach Gorge
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Immerse yourself in the beauty of Germany's Black Forest region. Choose from a variety of activities, including a relaxing bike ride along the Rhine or a full-day guided tour of the Black Forest, where you can explore the Vogtsbauernhof Open-Air Museum and witness traditional butter-making. Alternatively, discover the medieval charm of Freiburg's city center. In the evening, enjoy a scenic cruise to Kehl, with meals provided on board.
Day 3 – Day 3: Strasbourg to Mainz
- Strasbourg
- Mainz
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- St Thomas Church
- Petite France
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Explore the captivating city of Strasbourg, renowned for its Gothic cathedral adorned with ancient murals and an astronomical clock. Wander through the enchanting La Petite France district, or opt for a guided excursion to the historic Maginot Line or Alsace's wine country. Enjoy free time to explore Strasbourg's museums and city center before cruising to Mainz. Meals are provided on board.
Day 4 – Day 4: Heidelberg to Rüdesheim
- Mainz
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- Heidelberg Palace
- Gutenberg Museum
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Delve into the history of Heidelberg with a guided tour of its iconic castle, home to the world's largest wine barrel. Alternatively, explore Mainz with a visit to the Gutenberg Museum, showcasing the evolution of printing. In the evening, enjoy live entertainment on board as you sail to Rüdesheim. All meals are included.
Day 5 – Day 5: Rüdesheim to Koblenz
Day 5: Rüdesheim to Koblenz
- Gutenberg Museum
- Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal
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Experience the charm of Rüdesheim with a hike through its picturesque vineyards or a visit to the Mechanical Music Museum, complete with a tasting of Rüdesheimer coffee. Sail through the stunning Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei. Arrive in Koblenz for an evening of leisure and entertainment on board. Meals are provided throughout the day.
Day 6 – Day 6: Cologne to Amsterdam
- Cologne
- Amsterdam
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- Cologne Cathedral
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Discover the vibrant city of Cologne with a bike ride or a guided walking tour of its Jewish heritage sites. Alternatively, explore the iconic twin-steepled Gothic cathedral. Enjoy a glass of Kölsch, a local pale lager, before setting sail for Amsterdam. Meals are served on board, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Day 7 – Day 7: Amsterdam
- Amsterdam
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- Amsterdam Museum
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Explore 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 Keukenhof gardens, or explore the historic windmills of Zaanse Schans. Enjoy free time to wander through Amsterdam's colorful streets and galleries. Meals are provided on board.
Day 8 – Day 8: Paris to Vernon
- Paris
- Vernon
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Travel to the romantic city of Paris and board your Suite Ship® for a delightful dinner on board. In the evening, embark on a scenic cruise to Vernon, setting the stage for a journey filled with art, history, and culture. Enjoy the luxurious accommodations and exquisite meals provided on board.
Day 9 – Day 9: Vernon to Les Andelys
- Vernon
- Giverny
- Versailles
- Les Andelys
- La Roche-Guyon
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- Château Gaillard
- Fondation Monet in Giverny
- Biotropica, animal gardens
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Explore the artistic heritage of Vernon with a visit to the Chateau des Tourelles or a guided tour of Giverny, the inspiration for Claude Monet's masterpieces. Alternatively, visit Bizy Castle, known as Normandy's Versailles. In the afternoon, enjoy a cruise to the picturesque town of Les Andelys, where you can hike to the ruins of Château Gaillard or take a walking tour of this charming spot on the Seine. Meals are provided on board.
Day 10 – Day 10: Caudebec
- Honfleur
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- Valmont Abbey
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Delve into the rich history of the Normandy region with a guided trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route, where medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys line the Seine. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the river. In the afternoon, consider an optional excursion to the charming seaside town of Honfleur. Meals are provided on board, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Day 11 – Day 11: Normandy to Rouen
- Bayeux
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- Tour Vauban de Tatihou
- Botanical Garden
- Arbre de la Liberté
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Step back in time with a guided tour of Normandy's WWII landing beaches, including Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery. Alternatively, explore British and Canadian commemorative sites or delve into the agricultural richness of Normandy with a taste of local delicacies. In the evening, enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise to Rouen. Meals are provided throughout the day.
Day 12 – Day 12: Rouen to Conflans
- Rouen
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- Évreux Cathedral
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Discover the historic city of Rouen with a guided bike tour or a walking tour of its medieval quarter, where you can see the site of Saint Joan of Arc's martyrdom and the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral. In the evening, enjoy a scenic cruise to Conflans. Meals are provided on board, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Day 13 – Day 13: Conflans to Paris
- Auvers-sur-Oise
- Versailles
- Chantilly
- Paris
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- Château de Malmaison
- Queen's House
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Follow in the footsteps of artistic and historical figures with a visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, the final resting place of Vincent van Gogh, or explore the opulent Château de Malmaison, home to Napoléon Bonaparte. Consider an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles. In the evening, cruise to the City of Light, Paris. Meals are provided on board.
Day 14 – Day 14: Paris
- Paris
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- Champ de Mars
- Louvre Museum
- Eiffel Tower
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Experience the magic of Paris with a guided walk along the Seine or a city tour showcasing iconic sites such as the Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, and Champs-Élysées. Enjoy free time to explore the city's vibrant streets or relax in a charming café. Meals are provided on board, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Day 15 – Day 15: Paris to Bordeaux
- Bordeaux
- Paris
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Travel to the renowned wine region of Bordeaux and board your Suite Ship® for a delightful dinner on board. Enjoy the luxurious accommodations and exquisite meals provided as you prepare to explore the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. The ship may sail in the evening to Cadillac-sur-Garonne, depending on tide and water levels.
Day 16 – Day 16: Cadillac-sur-Garonne
Day 16: Cadillac-sur-Garonne
- Château Peixotto
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Explore the birthplace of Montesquieu with a guided tour of Château de la Brède, a fortress-style castle surrounded by a moat. Alternatively, enjoy a wine tasting at a local château, savoring the sweet notes of Sauternes. In the evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your Suite Ship®. Meals are provided throughout the day.
Day 17 – Day 17: Cussac Fort Médoc to Blaye
- Bordeaux
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Enjoy a leisurely sailing to Cussac Fort Médoc, where you can embark on an E-bike guided tour through Bordeaux's finest wine region. Alternatively, visit a historic château in the Médoc area for a wine tasting experience. In the evening, sail to Blaye, where you can enjoy the picturesque surroundings. Meals are provided on board.
Day 18 – Day 18: Blaye to Bourg
- Cognac
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- National Opera of Bordeaux
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Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Citadel of Blaye, followed by a scenic drive along the Route de la Corniche. Alternatively, explore Blaye from a different perspective with a visit to a local art gallery and wine tasting. In the afternoon, sail to Bourg, where you can explore the storybook village or join an optional excursion to learn about Cognac production. Meals are provided on board.
Day 19 – Day 19: Saint-Émilion to Bordeaux
- Bordeaux
- Saint-Émilion
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Explore the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its legendary landscapes and rich history. In the evening, sail back to Bordeaux, where you can enjoy the vibrant city atmosphere. Meals are provided on board, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Day 20 – Day 20: Bordeaux
- Bordeaux
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- Tour Pey-Berland
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Discover the heart of Bordeaux with a guided walking tour through its stunning squares, avenues, and cathedrals. In the afternoon, consider an optional excursion to Les Bassins des Lumières for an immersive art and music experience. Meals are provided on board, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Day 21 – Day 21: Bordeaux
- Bordeaux
- Arcachon
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- Parc Mauresque
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Join your Adventure Host for a bike ride along Bordeaux's picturesque river views or take a full-day guided tour of the seaside resort of Arcachon. Discover its 19th-century architectural treasures and savor the local delicacy of oysters and wine. Meals are provided on board, ensuring a delightful culinary experience.
Day 22 – Day 22: Bordeaux
- Bordeaux - Departure day
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Conclude your extraordinary journey with a delightful breakfast on board your Suite Ship®. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking sights you've encountered throughout this multi-day tour. Depart with cherished memories of the enchanting destinations and captivating attractions that have made this adventure truly remarkable.
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