Reflections on the Rhine with 2 Nights in Lucerne (Southbound) 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of Europe, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. From the enchanting canals of Amsterdam to the majestic Swiss Alps, this journey offers a perfect blend of guided excursions and leisure time to explore at your own pace. Discover the rich heritage of cities like Nijmegen, Cologne, and Strasbourg, and savor the flavors of local cuisine and wine. Marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of the Rhine Gorge and the Black Forest, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of Germany, France, and Switzerland. With luxurious accommodations on board your Suite Ship and a variety of activities to choose from, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience. Join us for an adventure that will captivate your senses and leave you with cherished memories of Europe's most iconic destinations.
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
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
Avalon Imagery II: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite
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
Lake Brienz
Freiburg Minster
The Arboretum Dreijen
Burg Castle
Roemerhalle Bad Kreuznach
Heidelberg Palace
Speyer Cathedral
Swiss National Museum
Cologne Cathedral
Gutenberg Museum
Mount Pilatus
St Thomas Church
Castle de Haar
Seepark Freiburg
Amsterdam Museum
Petite France
Airbornemuseum Hartenstein
Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal
Cologne Chocolate Museum
Frankfurter RömerDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Amsterdam
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
- More
- Castle de Haar
- More
Welcome to the enchanting city of Amsterdam, where your luxurious Suite Ship awaits your arrival. Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant streets or opt for a guided excursion to the picturesque Zaanse Schans, renowned for its iconic windmills and charming Dutch architecture. Enjoy a delightful dinner on board as you settle in for an overnight stay in Amsterdam.
Day 2 – Day 2: Amsterdam to Nijmegen
- Amsterdam
- Nijmegen
- More
- Amsterdam Museum
- More
Immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Amsterdam with a choice of guided activities. Wander through the city's cobblestone streets or glide along its iconic canals. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant local culture at your own pace before embarking on an overnight cruise to Nijmegen.
Day 3 – Day 3: Nijmegen to Arnhem
- Nijmegen
- Arnhem
- More
- The Arboretum Dreijen
- Airbornemuseum Hartenstein
- More
Explore the lush landscapes of The Ooijpolder Nature Reserve 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 WWII's Battle of Arnhem. Enjoy a brief cruise to Arnhem, where you'll discover its historical significance and savor local flavors at a medieval castle.
Day 4 – Day 4: Cologne
- Cologne
- More
- Burg Castle
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- More
Uncover the vibrant spirit of Cologne with a guided tour through the trendy Belgian Quarter or indulge in a chocolate-themed experience at the Chocolate Museum. Alternatively, explore the city's iconic Gothic cathedral. Enjoy free time to savor a glass of Kölsch and experience live entertainment on board as you cruise to Rüdesheim.
Day 5 – Day 5: Rüdesheim
Day 5: Rüdesheim
- Roemerhalle Bad Kreuznach
- Gutenberg Museum
- Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal
- More
Sail through the breathtaking Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at ancient castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock. In Rüdesheim, choose between a cable car ride to the Niederwald Monument or a visit to the Mechanical Music Museum. Savor the unique flavors of Rüdesheimer coffee before cruising to Frankfurt.
Day 6 – Day 6: Frankfurt
- Frankfurt (Oder)
- More
- Frankfurter Römer
- More
Experience the dynamic city of Frankfurt with a guided biking tour or a sightseeing excursion to discover its cultural landmarks and quaint neighborhoods. Enjoy free time in the afternoon to explore the city's vibrant atmosphere before continuing your journey to Speyer.
Day 7 – Day 7: Speyer to Heidelberg
- Speyer
- More
- Heidelberg Palace
- Speyer Cathedral
- More
Explore the imperial grandeur of Speyer Cathedral or embark on a guided tour to the majestic Heidelberg Castle, home to the world's largest wine barrel. Alternatively, enjoy a scenic walk along Heidelberg's Philosophers' Way. Cruise overnight to Strasbourg, where more adventures await.
Day 8 – Day 8: Strasbourg
- Strasbourg
- More
- St Thomas Church
- Petite France
- More
Discover the enchanting city of Strasbourg by bike or on a guided tour, featuring its stunning Gothic cathedral and the charming La Petite France district. Opt for a visit to the historic Maginot Line or explore Alsace's wine country. Enjoy free time to explore the city's museums and picturesque streets before cruising to Breisach.
Day 9 – Day 9: Breisach
Day 9: Breisach
- Freiburg Minster
- Seepark Freiburg
- More
Embark on a full-day tour to the magical Black Forest, where you'll visit an open-air museum and witness traditional butter-making. Alternatively, explore Freiburg's medieval city center, nestled amid vineyards and gardens. Consider a visit to the charming village of Colmar before cruising to Basel.
Day 10 – Day 10: Basel to Lucerne
- Basel
- Lucerne
- More
- Swiss National Museum
- Mount Pilatus
- More
Disembark in Basel and journey into the heart of the Swiss Alps for a highlight excursion to Mount Pilatus, offering breathtaking views over central Switzerland. In case of inclement weather, visit the Swiss Transport Museum instead. Continue to Lucerne for a guided walking tour featuring the poignant Lion Monument and the iconic Chapel Bridge.
Day 11 – Day 11: Lucerne
- Lucerne
- More
- Lake Brienz
- More
Savor the stunning views of Lake Lucerne with a wine tasting experience at a local vineyard. Spend your free time exploring the city's charming squares and churches, where tradition meets modernity. Enjoy shopping in the city center or simply relax and take in the serene beauty of Lucerne.
Day 12 – Day 12: Lucerne
- Lucerne - Departure day
- More
Conclude your unforgettable journey with a leisurely breakfast in Lucerne. Reflect on the incredible experiences and memories made during this extraordinary multi-day tour through Europe's most captivating destinations.
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.
