Reflections on the Rhine with 2 Nights in Lucerne (Southbound) 2025
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day journey through the heart of Europe, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. This multi-day tour takes you from the charming canals of Amsterdam to the majestic Swiss Alps, offering a perfect blend of guided excursions and leisure time. Discover iconic landmarks, indulge in local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of each destination. With luxurious accommodations on board your Suite Ship® and in select cities, you'll enjoy a seamless travel experience. Whether you're exploring the medieval streets of Nijmegen, savoring the flavors of Cologne, or marveling at the breathtaking views from Mount Pilatus, each day promises new adventures and cherished memories. Join us for a journey that captures the essence of Europe's timeless allure.
Included
9 nights onboard cruise ship
2 nights in Lucerne
Avalon View: Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite, Avalon Panorama: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite, Avalon Imagery II: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite
Avalon View or similar
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
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
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
- More
- Castle de Haar
- More
Begin your enchanting journey in the heart of the Netherlands, Amsterdam. After arriving by 3:30 pm, settle into your luxurious Suite Ship® and enjoy a delightful dinner on board. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant city at your own pace or join an optional guided excursion to Zaanse Schans, where you can admire the iconic windmills and charming Dutch architecture. Overnight docking in Amsterdam ensures a restful night as you prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discovering Amsterdam
- Amsterdam
- Nijmegen
- More
- Amsterdam Museum
- More
Immerse yourself in the captivating charm of Amsterdam with a guided walking tour through its historic streets or enjoy a scenic canal cruise past the city's elegant homes. Spend the afternoon exploring Amsterdam's lively neighborhoods, galleries, and shops at your leisure. As the day winds down, your ship will set sail for Nijmegen, allowing you to relax and enjoy a sumptuous dinner on board.
Day 3 – Day 3: Nijmegen and Arnhem
- Nijmegen
- Arnhem
- More
- The Arboretum Dreijen
- Airbornemuseum Hartenstein
- More
Explore the lush landscapes of The Ooijpolder Nature Reserve by bike or delve into Nijmegen's rich history with a guided tour of its Roman-era ruins. Alternatively, visit the Airborne Museum of Hartenstein to learn about the pivotal WWII Battle of Arnhem. After lunch, cruise to Arnhem and discover its historical significance during WWII's Operation Market Garden. Enjoy a guided tour of the city's highlights, including a medieval castle where you'll sample local herb and vegetable products. Overnight cruise to Cologne.
Day 4 – Day 4: Cologne's Cultural Delights
- Cologne
- More
- Burg Castle
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- More
Uncover the vibrant spirit of Cologne with a guided walking tour through the trendy Belgian Quarter or indulge in a chocolate-themed adventure at the Chocolate Museum. Alternatively, explore the city's iconic Gothic cathedral on a guided walk. Enjoy some free time to savor a glass of Kölsch, the local brew, before returning to the ship for an evening of live entertainment. Overnight cruise to Rüdesheim.
Day 5 – Day 5: Scenic Rüdesheim
- Frankfurt (Oder)
- More
- Roemerhalle Bad Kreuznach
- Gutenberg Museum
- Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal
- More
Sail through the stunning Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the ancient castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock. In Rüdesheim, choose between a cable car ride to the Niederwald Monument with breathtaking views or a visit to the Mechanical Music Museum for a unique musical experience. Savor a tasting of the famous Rüdesheimer coffee before setting sail for Frankfurt. Overnight cruise to Frankfurt.
Day 6 – Day 6: Frankfurt's Blend of Old and New
- Frankfurt (Oder)
- Speyer
- More
- Frankfurter Römer
- More
Experience the dynamic city of Frankfurt with a guided biking tour or a sightseeing tour that highlights its cultural landmarks and financial district. Spend the afternoon exploring the city's quaint neighborhoods at your leisure. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner on board as your ship cruises to Speyer.
Day 7 – Day 7: Historic Speyer and Heidelberg
- Speyer
- Strasbourg
- More
- Heidelberg Palace
- Speyer Cathedral
- More
In Speyer, choose between a guided tour of the impressive imperial cathedral or a visit to Heidelberg Castle, where you'll see the ruins of this Renaissance masterpiece and the world's largest wine barrel. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic walk along Heidelberg's Philosophers' Way. After a day of exploration, return to the ship for an overnight cruise to Strasbourg.
Day 8 – Day 8: Enchanting Strasbourg
- Strasbourg
- More
- St Thomas Church
- Petite France
- More
Discover the enchanting city of Strasbourg with a guided bike tour or a city sightseeing tour that includes the stunning Gothic cathedral and the picturesque La Petite France district. Consider an optional excursion to the historic Maginot Line or Alsace's wine country. Spend the afternoon exploring Strasbourg's museums and charming streets before returning to the ship for an overnight cruise to Breisach.
Day 9 – Day 9: Black Forest Adventures
- Basel
- More
- Freiburg Minster
- Wutach Gorge
- More
Embark on a full-day guided tour of the magical Black Forest, where you'll visit the Vogtsbauernhof open-air museum, an authentic water mill, and witness a traditional butter-making demonstration. Alternatively, explore Freiburg's medieval city center, nestled amid vineyards and gardens. Consider an optional excursion to the charming village of Colmar. Return to the ship for an overnight cruise to Basel.
Day 10 – Day 10: Swiss Alpine Splendor
- Basel
- Lucerne
- More
- Swiss National Museum
- Mount Pilatus
- More
Disembark in Basel and journey into the heart of the Swiss Alps. Enjoy a highlight excursion to Mount Pilatus for breathtaking views over central Switzerland. In case of inclement weather, visit the Swiss Transport Museum instead. In Lucerne, take a guided walking tour to explore the city's iconic Chapel Bridge and the poignant Lion Monument. Overnight stay in Lucerne (Hilton or similar).
Day 11 – Day 11: Leisure in Lucerne
- Lucerne
- More
Enjoy a day at leisure in Lucerne, where you can explore the city's charming squares and churches, or indulge in some shopping in the city center. Discover how tradition and modernity coexist in this picturesque Swiss city. Overnight stay in Lucerne (Hilton or similar).
Day 12 – Day 12: Departure from Lucerne
- Lucerne - Departure day
- More
Conclude your unforgettable journey with a hearty breakfast in Lucerne. Reflect on the memories made during this captivating tour through the heart of Europe, from the vibrant streets of Amsterdam to the serene beauty of the Swiss Alps. Safe travels as you continue your onward journey.
Similar tours
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.