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European Masterpiece: the Rhine, Seine and Rhône Revealed

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European Masterpiece: the Rhine, Seine and Rhône Revealed

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Our Price From
US$11,409
Save $2,980pp
Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
22 Days
 Cruise Starts
Basel
 Cruise Finishes
Arles
22 Day European Masterpiece: the Rhine, Seine and Rhône Revealed Itinerary (Avalon)
Countries Explored: Switzerland, France, Germany, Holland
 Cruise Length
22 Days
 Cruise Starts
Basel
 Cruise Finishes
Arles
22 Day European Masterpiece: the Rhine, Seine and Rhône Revealed Itinerary (Avalon)
Countries Explored: Switzerland, France, Germany, Holland
Cruise Line
Avalon
Ship
Departures
Passengers
128
Crew
37
Launched
2015
Cruise Code
WZL
Cruise Line
Avalon
Ship
Departures
Passengers
128
Crew
37
Launched
2015
Cruise Code
WZL

Overview

Experience the best of German and French culture on an unforgettable European river cruise along the Rhine, Seine, Saône, and Rhône rivers. Capture the romance and splendor of this magical journey with your camera as you revel in spectacular views.Your cruise commences in Breisach, Germany, the gateway to the breathtaking Black Forest. Strasbourg, situated on the French-German border, perfectly blends the cultures of both nations. Sail through the awe-inspiring Rhine Gorge, witnessing ancient castles perched on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Discover Cologne, Germany, renowned for its gothic...read more architecture and iconic twin-spired cathedral.

Continue to Amsterdam, the modern capital of Holland, before transferring to Paris via a high-speed train for your Seine River cruise. Savor wine, cheese, and the scenic beauty of the Seine River, with stops in charming and historic regions of France. Before bidding adieu to the Seine, immerse yourself in the romantic city of Paris, exploring its rich history and iconic landmarks. Embark on a high-speed train to Dijon, then transfer to your Suite Ship® on the Saône River.

Sail to Lyon, nestled at the confluence of the Saône and Rhône Rivers. Explore the medieval treasure of Tournon, featuring Roman ruins and a captivating 16th-century castle. In historic Avignon, marvel at the 14th-century Palace of the Popes, the largest gothic fortress in the world. Conclude your cruise in Arles, renowned for inspiring Van Gogh's paintings and hosting captivating plays and concerts in its 1st-century Roman Amphitheater.
Experience the best of German and French culture on an unforgettable European river cruise along the Rhine, Seine, Saône, and Rhône rivers. Capture the romance and splendor of this magical journey with your camera as you revel in spectacular views.

Your cruise commences in Breisach, Germany, the gateway to the breathtaking Black Forest. Strasbourg, situated on the French-German border, perfectly blends the cultures of both nations. Sail through the awe-inspiring Rhine Gorge, witnessing ancient castles perched on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Discover Cologne, Germany, renowned for...read more its gothic architecture and iconic twin-spired cathedral. Continue to Amsterdam, the modern capital of Holland, before transferring to Paris via a high-speed train for your Seine River cruise. Savor wine, cheese, and the scenic beauty of the Seine River, with stops in charming and historic regions of France. Before bidding adieu to the Seine, immerse yourself in the romantic city of Paris, exploring its rich history and iconic landmarks.

Embark on a high-speed train to Dijon, then transfer to your Suite Ship® on the Saône River. Sail to Lyon, nestled at the confluence of the Saône and Rhône Rivers. Explore the medieval treasure of Tournon, featuring Roman ruins and a captivating 16th-century castle. In historic Avignon, marvel at the 14th-century Palace of the Popes, the largest gothic fortress in the world. Conclude your cruise in Arles, renowned for inspiring Van Gogh's paintings and hosting captivating plays and concerts in its 1st-century Roman Amphitheater.

Itinerary

Welcome to Switzerland. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Zürich or Basel must arrive by 3pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5pm.

Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board.

EVENING CRUISE TO BREISACH (D)

German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black Forest

Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.

  • Active: Enjoy the view on a relaxing bike ride along the Rhine with your Adventure Host, 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.
You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the charming village of Colmar in the morning, with its half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings.

EVENING CRUISE TO KEHL (B/L/D)

A Grand Cathedral and La Petite France.

  • 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.
You may also choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to the historic Maginot Line—the pre-WWII fortifications designed to protect the eastern border of France—or visit Alsace's wine country today.

Alternatively, take some free time in Strasbourg to visit a museum, or stroll across the city center.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MAINZ (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: 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,” OR:
  • Classic: Enjoy a Guided City Walk in Mainz, including a visit to the Gutenberg Museum to see the captivating history of printing. This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship after a short sailing to Rüdesheim.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN RÜDESHEIM (B/L/D)

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country.

  • Active: Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Tour of the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee, OR:
  • Discovery: Take a Guided Visit to the historic 18th-century wooden - barrel cellar of Johannisberg Castle and enjoy a delicious wine tasting.
En route to Koblenz, 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.

KOBLENZ: Travel Through 2000 Years Of Monumental History

Enjoy free time in Koblenz before a relaxing evening on board with dinner and live entertainment.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN KOBLENZ (B/L/D)

Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland

Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.

  • Active: Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Discovery: Choose a Guided Walking Tour of Cologne's important Jewish heritage sites, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne—with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral.
Spend free time over a glass of Kölsch pale lager—locally brewed for over 100 years!

AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AMSTERDAM (B/L/D)

Canals of Colorful Amsterdam.

  • Active: Start your day joining your Adventure Host on an early morning walk in Amsterdam, OR:
  • 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.”
During tulip season, you may take a Guided Optional Excursion to Keukenhof gardens—with more than seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, as well as other bulbs, planted each year. Outside of tulip season, join a Guided Optional Excursion to Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and charming Dutch houses. You may also choose an Optional Biking Tour to discover the countryside.

Take some free time to explore Amsterdam's colorful streets and canal houses, galleries, and shops.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM (B/L/D)

Off to Paris.

This morning, board a high - speed train for Paris to embark on your Avalon Suite Ship® and enjoy dinner onboard this evening.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VERNON (B/D)

Monet's Muses, Castle Courtyards, and Crêpes du Jour.

Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.

  • Active: Explore Vernon's Chateau des Tourelles by foot with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Tour of Giverny, home and inspiration of the master impressionist painter Claude Monet. Walk the grounds and see Monet's charming residence, and the flower and water gardens captured in his masterpieces*, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Visit to Bizy Castle—called “Normandy's Versailles” for its magnificent courtyard, water garden, and stables.
  • Discovery: While sailing, enjoy a traditional French luncheon of authentic French crêpes, followed by a Pastry Demonstration.
This afternoon, enjoy a beautiful cruise to the picturesque town of Les Andelys.

LES ANDELYS: Serenity on the Seine.

  • Active: Join a Guided Hike up to the castle ruins of Château Gaillard—historic home of King Richard the Lionheart, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Walking Tour of Les Andelys—one of France's most picturesque spots on the Seine.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CAUDEBEC (B/L/D)

*Monet's House is closed in March and November. During this period, this excursion will be replaced with a Guided Tour of La Roche - Guyon and its castle.

Ancient Abbeys Along the Seine.

  • Active: Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the river with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route—where more than 100 medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys and churches were built along the Seine.
This afternoon, you may choose a Guided Optional Excursion to the old seaside town of Honfleur.

  • Discovery: Enjoy an Onboard Lecture about the days before and after the Normandy landing of D - Day.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CAUDEBEC (B/L/D)

Heroic Bravery on Normandy Beaches and French Farming Traditions

  • Classic: Join a Guided Tour of Normandy's WWII landing beaches, visit significant U.S. sites, including Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery, OR:
  • Classic: Take a full-day Guided Tour of the British and Canadian commemorative sites, including the British cemetery, Pegasus Memorial, the seaside town of Arromanches, the Juno Beach Center, and the Bény - sur - Mer Canadian War Cemetery, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Tour to get a taste of authentic tradition in the beautiful region of Normandy. Toast the day with a brandy tasting in Calvados.  Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.

EVENING CRUISE TO ROUEN (B/L/D)

The Cathedral of Notre-Dame and a Heroine for France

  • Active: Take a Guided Bike Tour to discover and explore the most famous monuments and the lesser known hidden gems of Rouen on two wheels, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Walking Tour of Rouen—site of Saint Joan of Arc's martyrdom—and see the medieval quarter with its 16th-century Astronomical Clock, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CONFLANS (B/L/D)

The Footsteps of Van Gogh, Bonaparte, and Louis XIV

  • Active: Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the Seine with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, home and resting place of Vincent van Gogh, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided tour of the opulent Château de Malmaison*—home of Napoléon Bonaparte and his wife Josephine. Perhaps, join a Guided Optional Excursion to the Palace of Versailles—home to a succession of French kings.

This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.

AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO PARIS (B/L/D)

*Château de Malmaison is closed the 1st Sunday of each month. On these dates, this excursion will be replaced by a visit to Château de Chantilly.

Cafés, Cathedrals and Canvases in the city of Light

Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.

  • Active: Experience the Seine river by foot with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Classic: Discover the ancient heart of Paris on a captivating Guided Walk featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, ancient sites on Île de la Cité, the Left Bank, bustling Latin Quarter, and more, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided City Tour, that shows you the iconic sites of Paris, such as the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Opéra Garnier, and the famous Champs - Élysées. Stroll through Paris on your own or linger over wine in a literary café on the Left Bank.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PARIS (B/L/D)

On to Dijon.

Take a High - Speed Train from Paris to Dijon, to drive on to Beaune.

  • Classic: Visit the Hôtel - Dieu Charity Hospital in Beaune, built in 1443, today home of the Van der Weyden's painting of the Last Judgement.
This afternoon, travel to Chalon - sur - Saône to board your Suite Ship®

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN TOURNUS (B/D)

Pearl of Southern Burgundy.

Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.

  • Classic: Tucked away in the southeast corner of Burgundy, Tournus is one of the oldest and most important monastic centers in the region, Our Local Guide will show the highlights of this delightful town.
Consider a Guided Optional Excursion to a Chardonnay wine cellar or to the Castle of Cormatin.

  • Discovery: Later, enjoy a delicious Cheese Tasting on board your ship.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN TRÉVOUX (B/L/D)

La Vie En Rose in Lyon.

Sail for lovely Lyon this morning.

  • Active: Discover Lyon's architectural district by bike with your Adventure Host, over bridges, and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour to survey Lyon from Fourvière Hill with its numerous churches. You'll also explore the Old Town with its maze of medieval alleyways, and the lively cafés, monuments, and famed fountain of Place des Terreaux.
  • Discovery: Be our guest for a WWII & French Resistance your lecture on board your ship.
Later enjoy live entertainment after dinner.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON (B/L/D)

Adventures in Food and Wine.

  • Discovery: Join a Culinary Walk through the city to discover why Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France.
The rest of your day is free to explore, relax, or shop in France's third largest city. Take a bike from the ship and explore local produce markets and parks or take a leisurely tour of the city's more than 100 murals.

EVENING CRUISE TO TOURNON (B/L/D)

A Rendezvous with Castle Views and Vineyards.

  • Classic: Take a morning Guided Walking Tour to explore Tournon—one of France's oldest medieval cities. See its 16th-century castle, and Roman ruins between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the Hermitage.
Enjoy a leisurely sail to Viviers after lunch.

VIVIERS: World History in a Charming French Country Village.

  • Classic: Explore the pale-stone buildings of Viviers on a late afternoon Guided Walking Tour of this charming village. You'll see its Romanesque cathedral and Old Town with a mix of historical Christian, Roman, and medieval influences.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AVIGNON (B/L/D)

The City of Popes in Picturesque Provence

Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.

  • Classic: Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the fortress city of Avignon—with its ramparts encircling the city—and a visit to the amazing Palace of the Popes.
Guided Optional Excursions include a visit to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard, or a trip to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf - du - Pape for a true taste of the Rhône wine region.

Explore Avignon on your own for the city's art and culture, theatre, and museums. Be sure to snap photos of the captivating countryside, historic monuments, and the medieval Pont Saint - Bénézet.

Later, enjoy onboard live entertainment.

EVENING CRUISE TO ARLES (B/L/D)

A Brush with Genius.

  • Active: Get your daily dose of exercise through a Power Walk in Arles with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Discovery: Attend a Painting Workshop to learn techniques of Vincent van Gogh. Create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist, OR:
  • Classic: Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour of Arles—the captivating city of the Provence region. You'll visit the Roman Amphitheater in this visually stunning city.
Take free time to stop in Le Café van Gogh for a glass of wine.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ARLES (B/L/D)

Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.

Flights should not leave Marseille airport before 10 am. (B)

Welcome to Switzerland.

Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Zürich or Basel must arrive by 3 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.

Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board.

EVENING CRUISE TO BREISACH (D)

German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black Forest

Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.

  • 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.
You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the charming village of Colmar in the morning, with its half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KEHL (B/L/D)

A Grand Cathedral and La Petite France.

  • 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.
You may also choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to the historic Maginot Line—the pre-WWII fortifications designed to protect the eastern border of France—or visit Alsace's wine country today.

Alternatively, take some free time in Strasbourg to visit a museum, or stroll across the city center.

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: 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,” OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Visit to Schwetzingen Palace—the heart of a stunning site consisting of the palace, palace gardens, and historic palace square.
This afternoon through the evening, enjoy leisurely sailing to Rüdesheim.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN RÜDESHEIM (B/L/D)

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country.

  • Active: Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Tour of the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee, OR:
  • Discovery: Take a Guided Visit to the historic 18th-century wooden - barrel cellar of Johannisberg Castle and enjoy a delicious wine tasting.
En route to Koblenz, 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.

KOBLENZ: Travel Through 2000 Years Of Monumental History

Enjoy free time in Koblenz before a relaxing evening on board with dinner and live entertainment.

This evening enjoy live entertainment onboard.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO COLOGNE (B/L/D)

Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland

Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.

  • Active: Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Classic: Choose a Guided Walking Tour of Cologne's important Jewish heritage sites, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne—with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral.
Spend free time over a glass of Kölsch pale lager—locally brewed for over 100 years!

AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AMSTERDAM (B/L/D)

Canals of Colorful Amsterdam.

  • Active: Start your day joining your Adventure Host on an early morning walk in Amsterdam, OR:
  • 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.”
During tulip season, you may take a Guided Optional Excursion to Keukenhof gardens—with more than seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, as well as other bulbs, planted each year. Outside of tulip season, join a Guided Optional Excursion to Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and charming Dutch houses. You may also choose an Optional Biking Tour to discover the countryside.

Take some free time to explore Amsterdam's colorful streets and canal houses, galleries, and shops.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM (B/L/D)

Off to Paris

This morning, board a high - speed train for Paris to embark on your Avalon Suite Ship® and enjoy dinner onboard this evening.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VERNON (B/D)

Monet's Muses, Castle Courtyards, and Crêpes du Jour.

Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.

  • Active: Take a Guided Bike Tour through the picturesque Normandy countryside from Vernon to Giverny, ending with a visit to Monet's enchanting gardens and home, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Tour of Giverny, home and inspiration of the master impressionist painter Claude Monet. Walk the grounds and see Monet's charming residence, and the flower and water gardens captured in his masterpieces*, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Visit to Bizy Castle—called “Normandy's Versailles” for its magnificent courtyard, water garden, and stables.
  • Discovery: While sailing, enjoy a traditional French luncheon of authentic French crêpes, followed by a Pastry Demonstration.
This afternoon, enjoy a beautiful cruise to the picturesque town of Les Andelys.

LES ANDELYS: Serenity on the Seine.

  • Active: Join a Guided Hike up to the castle ruins of Château Gaillard—historic home of King Richard the Lionheart, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Walking Tour of Les Andelys—one of France's most picturesque spots on the Seine.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CAUDEBEC (B/L/D)

NOTE: Monet's House is closed in March and November. During this period, this excursion will be replaced with a Guided Tour of La Roche - Guyon and its castle.

Ancient Abbeys Along the Seine.

  • Active: Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the river with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route—where more than 100 medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys and churches were built along the Seine.
This afternoon, you may choose a Guided Optional Excursion to the old seaside town of Honfleur.

  • Discovery: Enjoy an Onboard Lecture about the days before and after the Normandy landing of D - Day.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CAUDEBEC (B/L/D)

Bravery on Normandy Beaches and French Farming Traditions

  • Classic: Join a Guided Tour of Normandy's WWII landing beaches, visit significant U.S. sites, including Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery, OR:
  • Classic: Take a full-day Guided Tour of the British and Canadian commemorative sites, including the British cemetery, Pegasus Memorial, the seaside town of Arromanches, the Juno Beach Center, and the Bény - sur - Mer Canadian War Cemetery, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Tour to get a taste of authentic tradition in the beautiful region of Normandy. Toast the day with a brandy tasting in Calvados.

EVENING CRUISE TO ROUEN (B/L/D)

The Cathedral of Notre-Dame and a Heroine for France

  • Active: Take a Guided Bike Tour to discover and explore the most famous monuments and the lesser known hidden gems of Rouen on two wheels, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Walking Tour of Rouen—site of Saint Joan of Arc's martyrdom—and see the medieval quarter with its 16th-century Astronomical Clock, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CONFLANS (B/L/D)

The Footsteps of Van Gogh, Bonaparte, and Louis XIV

  • Active: Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the Seine with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, home and resting place of Vincent van Gogh, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided tour of the opulent Château de Malmaison*—home of Napoléon Bonaparte and his wife Josephine.
Perhaps, join a Guided Optional Excursion to the Palace of Versailles—home to a succession of French kings.

This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.

AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO PARIS (B/L/D)

NOTE: Château de Malmaison is closed the 1st Sunday of each month. On these dates, this excursion will be replaced by a visit to Château de Chantilly

Cafés, Cathedrals and Canvases in the city of Light

Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.

  • Active: Experience the Seine river by foot with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Classic: Discover the ancient heart of Paris on a captivating Guided Walk featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, ancient sites on Île de la Cité, the Left Bank, bustling Latin Quarter, and more, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided City Tour featuring the iconic sites of Paris, which make the City of Light the most romantic and remarkable city in the world.
Stroll through Paris on your own or linger over wine in a literary café on the Left Bank.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PARIS (B/L/D)

On to Dijon

Take a High - Speed Train from Paris to Dijon, to drive on to Beaune.

  • Classic: Visit the Hôtel - Dieu Charity Hospital in Beaune, built in 1443, today home of the Van der Weyden's painting of the Last Judgement.
This afternoon, travel to Chalon - sur - Saône to board your Suite Ship®

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN TOURNUS (B/D)

Pearl of Southern Burgundy.

Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.

  • Active: Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host in Tournus, OR:
  • Classic: Tucked away in the southeast corner of Burgundy, Tournus is one of the oldest and most important monastic centers in the region, Our Local Guide will show the highlights of this delightful town.
  • Discovery: Travel into the rolling landscapes of the Mâconnais region to learn about its world-famous Chardonnay vineyards and the wines produced here. Attend a wine tasting in the cellars of a real medieval castle!
  • Discovery: Later, enjoy a delicious Cheese Tasting on board your ship.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO LYON (B/L/D)

La Vie En Rose in Lyon.

  • Active: Discover Lyon's architectural district by bike with your Adventure Host, over bridges, and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour to survey Lyon from Fourvière Hill with its numerous churches. You'll also explore the Old Town with its maze of medieval alleyways, and the lively cafés, monuments, and famed fountain of Place des Terreaux.
  • Discovery: Be our guest for a WWII & French Resistance your lecture on board your ship.
Later enjoy live entertainment after dinner.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON (B/L/D)

Adventures in Food and Wine.

Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.

  • Classic: Explore Lyon's silk heritage with a museum visit, a Walking Tour of La Presqu'île, and a live demonstration of hand - printed silk serigraphy in a workshop. A rich journey through silk history
This afternoon, enjoy leisurely sailing to Tournon.

Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN TOURNON (B/L/D)

A Rendezvous with Castle Views and Vineyards.

  • Classic: Take a morning Guided Walking Tour to explore Tournon—one of France's oldest medieval cities. See its 16th-century castle, and Roman ruins between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the Hermitage.
Enjoy a leisurely sail to Viviers after lunch.

VIVIERS: World History in a Charming French Country Village.

  • Classic: Explore the pale-stone buildings of Viviers on a late afternoon Guided Walking Tour of this charming village. You'll see its Romanesque cathedral and Old Town with a mix of historical Christian, Roman, and medieval influences.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AVIGNON (B/L/D)

The City of Popes in Picturesque Provence

Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.

  • Active: Discover Avignon by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the fortress city of Avignon—with its ramparts encircling the city—and a visit to the amazing Palace of the Popes.
Guided Optional Excursions include a visit to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard, or a trip to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf - du - Pape for a true taste of the Rhône wine region.

Explore Avignon on your own for the city's art and culture, theatre, and museums. Be sure to snap photos of the captivating countryside, historic monuments, and the medieval Pont Saint - Bénézet.

Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.

EVENING CRUISE TO ARLES (B/L/D)

A Brush with Genius.

  • Active: Get your daily dose of exercise through a Power Walk in Arles with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Discovery: Attend a Painting Workshop to learn techniques of Vincent van Gogh. Create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist, OR:
  • Classic: Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour of Arles—the captivating city of the Provence region. You'll visit the Roman Amphitheater in this visually stunning city.
Take free time to stop at Le Café van Gogh for a glass of wine.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ARLES (B/L/D)

Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.

Flights should not leave Marseille airport before 10 am. (B)

Life Onboard Avalon Tapestry II

Avalon Tapestry II
Avalon Tapestry II

Float along Europe's most famous waterways in relaxed luxury aboard one of Avalon's award-winning Suite Ships. Read more

Our Vision. Your View.
Our Vision. Your View.

With the only Open-Air Balconies in river cruising, experience Europe with a view like no other in a Panorama Suite. Read more

Exclusive Meets Inclusive
Exclusive Meets Inclusive

Avalon features all the right inclusions which compliment your luxurious river cruise experience. Read more

Avalon Choice
Avalon Choice

Personalise your cruise to make it your own with Avalon Choice. Select whichever included excursions interest you the most. Read more

Active & Discovery
Active & Discovery

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
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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Brochure

Avalon River Cruises (2025-26) Brochure

Avalon River Cruises (2025-26)

Avalon Waterways has redefined cruising by going against the current and away from the ordinary. Delivering unparalleled experiences and boundless exploration, Avalon puts guests in the captain’s seat to navigate their journey, fuel their passions, and steer clear of the usual while cruising on the world’s most memorable and mesmerizing waterways. One...more step aboard our modern, luxurious Suite Ships with the grandest views in cruising and it’s easy to see how the tides are changing. Welcome to a new wave in cruising. Welcome aboard Avalon Waterways.

Dates & Pricing USD USD

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Traveled with Avalon before? We'll automatically apply any travel credits to your booking.

GJ Loyalty Discount

Save even more if you're a past client of Global Journeys!

Cabin Layout Options:

Select Cabin Preference:

From $11,409
From $16,878
Tuesday 16 Jun 2026 16 Jun 26 Basel
Tuesday 07 Jul 2026 07 Jul 26 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Fly Free
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$12,402
Save $1,988
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 30 Jun 2026 30 Jun 26 Basel
Tuesday 21 Jul 2026 21 Jul 26 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Fly Free
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Tuesday 11 Aug 2026 11 Aug 26 Basel
Tuesday 01 Sep 2026 01 Sep 26 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Fly Free
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$12,690
Save $2,000
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 25 Aug 2026 25 Aug 26 Basel
Tuesday 15 Sep 2026 15 Sep 26 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Fly Free
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$13,938
Save $1,052
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 30 Mar 2027 30 Mar 27 Basel
Tuesday 20 Apr 2027 20 Apr 27 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$11,409
Save $2,444
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 13 Apr 2027 13 Apr 27 Basel
Tuesday 04 May 2027 04 May 27 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$12,081
Save $2,472
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 11 May 2027 11 May 27 Basel
Tuesday 01 Jun 2027 01 Jun 27 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$13,329
Save $1,524
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 20 Jul 2027 20 Jul 27 Basel
Tuesday 10 Aug 2027 10 Aug 27 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$11,793
Save $2,960
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 03 Aug 2027 03 Aug 27 Basel
Tuesday 24 Aug 2027 24 Aug 27 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$11,889
Save $2,964
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 17 Aug 2027 17 Aug 27 Basel
Tuesday 07 Sep 2027 07 Sep 27 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$12,273
Save $2,980
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 31 Aug 2027 31 Aug 27 Basel
Tuesday 21 Sep 2027 21 Sep 27 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$13,425
Save $2,028
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 28 Sep 2027 28 Sep 27 Basel
Tuesday 19 Oct 2027 19 Oct 27 Arles
Details
Avalon View & Avalon Tapestry II & Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$12,945
Save $2,008
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.

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