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Reflections on the Rhine with Lucerne (Southbound)
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Our Price From
US$4,258
Save $2,672pp
Port charges, taxes and fees included
Cruise Length
12 Days
Cruise Starts
Amsterdam
Cruise Finishes
Lucerne
Cruise Length
12 Days
Cruise Starts
Amsterdam
Cruise Finishes
Lucerne
Ship
Departures
Passengers
128
Crew
37
Launched
2015
Cruise Code
WDZE
Ship
Departures
Passengers
128
Crew
37
Launched
2015
Cruise Code
WDZE
Overview
Your 12-day river cruise vacation includes stays in Holland, Germany, France, and Switzerland—all beginning with your Avalon Rhine River cruise embarking from Amsterdam. Before sailing down the Rhine River, you’ll enjoy a guided canal cruise through the captivating capital of Holland. Next discover the beautiful cities of Nijmegen and Arnhem.
Visit Cologne, Germany—a 2,000 year-old city known for its Gothic-style architecture—and see its famous twin-spired cathedral and Old Town with many shops, cafés, and taverns. Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—offering the most beautiful view of read more the Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Cruise to the charming wine town of Rüdesheim and visit the unique Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum.
Continue your Rhine River cruise to Frankfurt for a guided walk or take an excursion to Heidelberg to visit the ruins of its red-walled castle. In Strasbourg, France, marvel at the red-sandstone Gothic-style cathedral with ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock. Also, stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade. Stop in Breisach, Germany, the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest. Here, you’ll find unrivaled natural beauty in the area best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock.
Cruise to Basel, Switzerland, to disembark from your Avalon Suite Ship® and continue your vacation with a visit to Mt. Pilatus (or Mount Stanserhorn per seasonal accessibility) and a walking tour in Lucerne. Spend two nights in this lovely Swiss setting where the Swiss Alps provide a stunning, snowcapped backdrop. Your Rhine River cruise and vacation in Switzerland are the perfect combination to unlock a guided European vacation of a lifetime.
Visit Cologne, Germany—a 2,000 year-old city known for its Gothic-style architecture—and see its famous twin-spired cathedral and Old Town with many shops, cafés, and taverns. Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—offering the most beautiful view of read more the Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Cruise to the charming wine town of Rüdesheim and visit the unique Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum.
Continue your Rhine River cruise to Frankfurt for a guided walk or take an excursion to Heidelberg to visit the ruins of its red-walled castle. In Strasbourg, France, marvel at the red-sandstone Gothic-style cathedral with ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock. Also, stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade. Stop in Breisach, Germany, the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest. Here, you’ll find unrivaled natural beauty in the area best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock.
Cruise to Basel, Switzerland, to disembark from your Avalon Suite Ship® and continue your vacation with a visit to Mt. Pilatus (or Mount Stanserhorn per seasonal accessibility) and a walking tour in Lucerne. Spend two nights in this lovely Swiss setting where the Swiss Alps provide a stunning, snowcapped backdrop. Your Rhine River cruise and vacation in Switzerland are the perfect combination to unlock a guided European vacation of a lifetime.
Your 12-day river cruise vacation includes stays in Holland, Germany, France, and Switzerland—all beginning with your Avalon Rhine River cruise embarking from Amsterdam. Before sailing down the Rhine River, you’ll enjoy a guided canal cruise through the captivating capital of Holland. Next discover the beautiful cities of Nijmegen and Arnhem. Visit Cologne, Germany—a 2,000 year-old city known for its Gothic-style architecture—and see its famous twin-spired cathedral and Old Town with many shops, cafés, and taverns.
Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—offering the most beautiful view of the read more Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Cruise to the charming wine town of Rüdesheim and visit the unique Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Continue your Rhine River cruise to Frankfurt for a guided walk or take an excursion to Heidelberg to visit the ruins of its red-walled castle. In Strasbourg, France, marvel at the red-sandstone Gothic-style cathedral with ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock.
Also, stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade. Stop in Breisach, Germany, the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest. Here, you’ll find unrivaled natural beauty in the area best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock.
Cruise to Basel, Switzerland, to disembark from your Avalon Suite Ship® and continue your vacation with a visit to Mt. Pilatus (or Mount Stanserhorn per seasonal accessibility) and a walking tour in Lucerne. Spend two nights in this lovely Swiss setting where the Swiss Alps provide a stunning, snowcapped backdrop. Your Rhine River cruise and vacation in Switzerland are the perfect combination to unlock a guided European vacation of a lifetime.
Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—offering the most beautiful view of the read more Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Cruise to the charming wine town of Rüdesheim and visit the unique Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Continue your Rhine River cruise to Frankfurt for a guided walk or take an excursion to Heidelberg to visit the ruins of its red-walled castle. In Strasbourg, France, marvel at the red-sandstone Gothic-style cathedral with ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock.
Also, stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade. Stop in Breisach, Germany, the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest. Here, you’ll find unrivaled natural beauty in the area best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock.
Cruise to Basel, Switzerland, to disembark from your Avalon Suite Ship® and continue your vacation with a visit to Mt. Pilatus (or Mount Stanserhorn per seasonal accessibility) and a walking tour in Lucerne. Spend two nights in this lovely Swiss setting where the Swiss Alps provide a stunning, snowcapped backdrop. Your Rhine River cruise and vacation in Switzerland are the perfect combination to unlock a guided European vacation of a lifetime.
Itinerary
Welcome to Holland. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Amsterdam must arrive by 3:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5pm.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM (D)
Canals of Captivating Amsterdam.
Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.- Discovery: Discover the true beauty of Amsterdam with an off-the-beaten-path Guided Walking Tour through its cobblestone streets for a captivating look at this legendary city, OR:
- Classic: Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam's “Golden Age."
AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO NIJMEGEN (B/L/D)
Wildlife and WWII Valor.
- Active: Explore the beautiful landscape of lush fields and blue water on a bike ride through The Ooijpolder Nature Reserve, OR:
- Discovery: Join a Guided Tour of Nijmegen— the oldest town in the Netherlands. Learn how this city was first built more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans and see the archaeological Roman - era ruins in the city that was also damaged in WWII, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Visit to the Freedom Museum in Groesbeek to experience the fascinating story of war and freedom through interactive exhibits focused on democracy and human rights.
- Classic: This afternoon, discover Arnhem, a key site during WWII's Operation Market Garden, and enjoy a Guided Tour featuring the city's historical highlights and war memorials, followed by a tasting of herb and vegetable products at a medieval castle.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO COLOGNE (B/L/D)
Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland
Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.- Discovery: Discover the people and true spirit of one of Cologne's hippest and most creative districts on this fascinating Guided Walking Tour through the Belgian Quarter, OR:
- Discovery: Learn all about the 5,000-year history and production process behind “Brown Gold”—chocolate—on this fun hands-on Guided Tour and Tasting at Cologne's incredible Chocolate Museum, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne—with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO RÜDESHEIM (B/L/D)
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country.
En route to Rüdesheim, sail through the Rhine Gorge (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Take in the breathtaking views of ancient castles perched on cliffs 400 feet above the water and pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei—where the mythological siren's songs lured ill-fated sailors.- Active: Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim, OR:
- Active: Take an open-air cable car ride to the Niederwald Monument. Ride or walk back down through the vineyards; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee, OR:
- Discovery: Tour the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO FRANKFURT (B/L/D)
Charm in Frankfurt.
- Active: Enjoy a biking experience in the city of Frankfurt with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Frankfurt to see the city's cultural landmarks and gleaming financial headquarters combined with the cozy ambience of quaint neighborhoods.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO SPEYER (B/L/D)
Castle Walls, and the World's Biggest Wine Barrel.
- Active: Join your Avalon Adventure Host for an inspiring walk in Heidelberg, the Philosophers' way, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided Tour of Speyer, see its imperial Cathedral, one of the largest and most significant Romanesque edifices in Germany, OR:
- Classic: Enjoy a Guided Tour to Heidelberg Castle to see the ruins of the magnificent renaissance treasure towering above the city, and its famed Great Vat, the “World's Largest Wine Barrel.”
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO STRASBOURG (B/L/D)
A Grand Cathedral and La Petite France.
Ask about today's energizing or relaxing Adventure Host activities.- Active: Discover Strasbourg by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Join a City Sightseeing Tour, including Strasbourg's Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BREISACH (B/L/D)
Winemaking and Wonderful Woods of the Black Forest.
- Discovery: Join a full-day Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience the Vogtsbauernohf open-air - museum, visit an authentic water mill, and see a traditional butter-making demonstration, OR:
- Classic: Join A Guided Tour to explore Freiburg's medieval city center, sheltered by the Black Forest amid vineyards and gardens of the Upper Rhine Valley.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BASEL (B/L/D)
Spectacular Views in Switzerland.
This morning, disembark your Avalon ship and take a motorcoach transfer which will bring you in the heart of the Swiss Alps.- Classic: Enjoy a special highlight excursion to Mount Pilatus (or Mount Stanserhorn per seasonal accessibility) up for spectacular views over central Switzerland (in case of bad weather, visit the Swiss Transport Museum instead)
- Classic: Join a Guided Walking tour to explore beautiful Lucerne, which includes Thorvaldsen's poignant Lion Monument and the famous Chapel Bridge. (B)
Alpine Beauties.
Today, enjoy a day at leisure in Lucerne. Discover the many squares and churches and how tradition and modernity stand side - by - side or spend your free time to enjoy some shopping in the city center. (B)Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Welcome to Holland. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Amsterdam must arrive by 3:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM (D)
Canals of Captivating Amsterdam.
Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.- Classic: Discover the true beauty of Amsterdam with an off-the-beaten-path Guided Walking Tour through its cobblestone streets for a captivating look at this legendary city, OR:
- Classic: Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam's “Golden Age."
AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO NIJMEGEN (B/L/D)
Wildlife and WWII Valor.
- Active: Explore the beautiful landscape of lush fields and blue water on a bike ride through The Ooijpolder Nature Reserve, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Tour of Nijmegen— the oldest town in the Netherlands. Learn how this city was first built more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans and see the archaeological Roman - era ruins in the city that was also damaged in WWII, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Visit to the Freedom Museum in Groesbeek to experience the fascinating story of war and freedom through interactive exhibits focused on democracy and human rights.
- Classic: This afternoon, discover Arnhem, a key site during WWII's Operation Market Garden, and enjoy a Guided Tour featuring the city's historical highlights and war memorials, followed by a tasting of herb and vegetable products at a medieval castle.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO COLOGNE (B/L/D)
Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland
Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.- Classic: Discover the people and true spirit of one of Cologne's hippest and most creative districts on this fascinating Guided Walking Tour through the Belgian Quarter, OR:
- Classic: Learn all about the 5,000-year history and production process behind “Brown Gold”—chocolate—on this fun hands-on Guided Tour and Tasting at Cologne's incredible Chocolate Museum, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne—with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO RÜDESHEIM (B/L/D)
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country.
En route to Rüdesheim, sail through the Rhine Gorge (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Take in the breathtaking views of ancient castles perched on cliffs 400 feet above the water and pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei—where the mythological siren's songs lured ill-fated sailors.- Active: Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim, followed by a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee, OR:
- Classic: Tour the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO FRANKFURT (B/L/D)
Charm in Frankfurt.
- Active: Enjoy a biking experience in the city of Frankfurt with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Frankfurt to see the city's cultural landmarks and gleaming financial headquarters combined with the cozy ambience of quaint neighborhoods.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO LUDWIGSHAFEN (B/L/D)
Castle Walls and the World's Biggest Wine Barrel.
- Active: Join your Avalon Adventure Host for an inspiring walk in Heidelberg, the Philosophers' way, OR:
- Classic: Discover Schwetzingen Palace—the heart of a stunning site consisting of the palace, palace gardens, and historic palace square, OR:
- Classic: Enjoy a Guided Tour to Heidelberg Castle to see the ruins of the magnificent renaissance treasure towering above the city, and its famed Great Vat, the “World's Largest Wine Barrel.”
AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO STRASBOURG (B/L/D)
A Grand Cathedral and La Petite France.
Ask about today's energizing or relaxing Adventure Host activities.- Active: Discover Strasbourg by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Join a City Sightseeing Tour, including Strasbourg's Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BREISACH (B/L/D)
Winemaking and Wonderful Woods of the Black Forest.
- Active: Take a Guided E-bike Tour to experience the magical Black Forest from a unique point of view, OR:
- Classic: Join a full-day Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience the Vogtsbauernohf open-air - museum, visit an authentic water mill, and see a traditional butter-making demonstration, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Tour to explore Freiburg's medieval city center, sheltered by the Black Forest amid vineyards and gardens of the Upper Rhine Valley.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BASEL (B/L/D)
Spectacular Views in Switzerland.
This morning, disembark your Avalon ship and take a motorcoach transfer which will bring you in the heart of the Swiss Alps.- Classic: Enjoy a special highlight excursion to Mount Pilatus (or Mount Stanserhorn per seasonal accessibility) up for spectacular views over central Switzerland (in case of bad weather, visit the Swiss Transport Museum instead)
- Classic: Join a Guided Walking tour to explore beautiful Lucerne, which includes Thorvaldsen's poignant Lion Monument and the famous Chapel Bridge. (B)
Lakeshores and Soaring Peaks
Today, enjoy a day at leisure in Lucerne. Discover the many squares and churches and how tradition and modernity stand side - by - side or spend your free time to enjoy some shopping in the city center. (B)Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
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Personalise your cruise to make it your own with Avalon Choice. Select whichever included excursions interest you the most. Read more
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Avalon's Active & Discovery river cruises offer activities for travelers with varying interests & for all energy and fitness levels. Read more
From View to Table
Savour regional cuisine and familiar favourites using the freshest local ingredients throughout your river cruise. Read more
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Dates & Pricing
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Cabin Layout Options:
Select Cabin Preference:
Sunday
17 May 2026
17 May 26
Amsterdam
Thursday
28 May 2026
28 May 26
Lucerne
Details
Avalon Imagery II
Exclusive Savings
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Friday
05 Jun 2026
05 Jun 26
Amsterdam
Tuesday
16 Jun 2026
16 Jun 26
Lucerne
Details
Avalon Imagery II
Exclusive Savings
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Wednesday
08 Jul 2026
08 Jul 26
Amsterdam
Sunday
19 Jul 2026
19 Jul 26
Lucerne
Details
Avalon Imagery II
Exclusive Savings
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Monday
10 Aug 2026
10 Aug 26
Amsterdam
Friday
21 Aug 2026
21 Aug 26
Lucerne
Details
Avalon Imagery II
Exclusive Savings
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Friday
02 Oct 2026
02 Oct 26
Amsterdam
Tuesday
13 Oct 2026
13 Oct 26
Lucerne
Details
Avalon Imagery II
Exclusive Savings
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Sunday
02 May 2027
02 May 27
Amsterdam
Thursday
13 May 2027
13 May 27
Lucerne
Details
Avalon Imagery II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$5,122
Save $2,200
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday
05 Jun 2027
05 Jun 27
Amsterdam
Wednesday
16 Jun 2027
16 Jun 27
Lucerne
Details
Avalon Tranquility II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$4,450
Save $2,672
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Thursday
08 Jul 2027
08 Jul 27
Amsterdam
Monday
19 Jul 2027
19 Jul 27
Lucerne
Details
Avalon Tranquility II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$4,258
Save $2,664
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Monday
30 Aug 2027
30 Aug 27
Amsterdam
Friday
10 Sep 2027
10 Sep 27
Lucerne
Details
Avalon Tranquility II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$5,122
Save $2,200
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Avalon. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Avalon. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
