The Best of Austria & Switzerland with Romantic Rhine
Overview
See the true definitions of palaces and castles while visiting Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace—former home to the long-reigning Habsburg dynasty. In Switzerland, enjoy a visit to romantic Chillon Castle, a well-preserved, medieval castle on the shores of Lake Geneva. Pass through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery with a ride on the world-famous Glacier read more Express train. Travel first class with panoramic windows to admire the thundering waterfalls, impressive peaks, glacial ice fields, and tiny villages on your way to Zermatt, Switzerland.
Other scenic highlights include a Danube cruise along the prettiest part of the river on your way to Salzburg; a private boat cruise on the fjord-lake in Lucerne; a scenic drive into the Swiss Engadine, considered the most beautiful mountain area in the world; and more. Some sightseeing highlights include the Basilika St. Michael in Mondsee (of The Sound of Music fame), a walk through the Old Town in Innsbruck, and the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge in Lucerne.
Embark your Avalon Suite Ship® in Basel, Switzerland, to begin your Rhine River cruise! Visit Breisach, Germany, the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest, and an area of unrivaled natural beauty, best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock. In Strasbourg, France, be amazed by the red-sandstone Gothic cathedral with ancient murals and the fascinating astronomical clock. Stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade.
Visit the ruins of Heidelberg’s castle, towering magnificently over the city, or sail to Mainz for a guided walk and visit the captivating Gutenberg Museum. Pass through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—the most beautiful view of the Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. In the charming wine town of Rüdesheim, visit the Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, and explore Holland’s popular, modern capital of Amsterdam, with its world-famous museums, wealth of eateries, iconic architecture, and charming canals. See the treasures of the city on a canal cruise along the elegant grachten lined with homes dating back to the city’s “Golden Age.” A perfect ending to this fabulous land and river cruise adventure!
See the true definitions of palaces and castles while visiting Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace—former home to the long-reigning Habsburg dynasty. In Switzerland, enjoy a visit to romantic Chillon Castle, a well-preserved, medieval castle on the shores of Lake Geneva. Pass through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery with a ride on the world-famous Glacier read more Express train.
Travel with panoramic windows to admire the thundering waterfalls, impressive peaks, glacial ice fields, and tiny villages on your way to Zermatt, Switzerland. Other scenic highlights include a private boat cruise on the fjord-lake in Lucerne; a scenic drive into the Swiss Engadine, considered the most beautiful mountain area in the world; and more. Some sightseeing highlights include the Basilika St. Michael in Mondsee (of The Sound of Music fame), a walk through the Old Town in Innsbruck, and the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge in Lucerne.
Embark your Avalon Suite Ship® in Basel, Switzerland, to begin your Rhine River cruise! Visit Breisach, Germany, the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest, and an area of unrivaled natural beauty, best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock. In Strasbourg, France, be amazed by the red-sandstone Gothic cathedral with ancient murals and the fascinating astronomical clock. Stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade.
Visit the ruins of Heidelberg’s castle, towering magnificently over the city, or visit Schwetzingen Castle. Pass through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—the most beautiful view of the Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. In the charming wine town of Rüdesheim, visit the Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, and explore Holland’s popular, modern capital of Amsterdam, with its world-famous museums, wealth of eateries, iconic architecture, and charming canals. See the treasures of the city on a canal cruise along the elegant grachten lined with homes dating back to the city’s “Golden Age.” A perfect ending to this fabulous land and river cruise adventure!
Itinerary
Welcome to Vienna!
At 6 pm, meet your Globus Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)
City of Dreams
VIENNA: Guided sightseeing includes Schönbrunn Palace and Heldenplatz. Free time this afternoon.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEMS: Vienna's spectacular Schönbrunn Palace served as the summer home of the Habsburg dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the imperial home and glittering life of Austrian royalty in Vienna and the extravagant gardens surrounding the palace. (B)
The Blue Danube
KREMS: Take a delightful Danube River cruise.
MONDSEE: Visit the Parish Church.
SALZBURG: Guided walking tour includes Mirabell Gardens, the Great Festival Hall, and Residenz Square. 193 mi / 310 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - EPIC RIDE: Sit back and relax and watch the world go by during a leisurely cruise along one of the most scenic sections of the Danube, Europe's second largest river. Wunderbar! (B)
The Birthplace of Mozart
SALZBURG: Enjoy a free day to explore Salzburg.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEMS: The birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg, will put a song in your heart as you explore its charmingly splendid gardens, and medieval and Baroque architecture along the pedestrian Altstadt (Old Town). Salzburg's scenic Alpine landscape and architectural treasures has earned this Austrian jewel the reputation as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. (B)
Heavenly Hills of Switzerland
INNSBRUCK: Walk through the Old Town to the Golden Roof. Free time to browse. before driving into the Swiss Engadine en route to St. Moritz.
236 mi / 380 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Pass through the spectacular beauty of Swiss Engadine on your way to St. Moritz. Take in the alpine vistas surrounding this paradise of deep blue lakes and rolling green meadows, forests, snow - capped summits, and endless sky in one of Switzerland's most stunning valleys. (B/D)
All Aboard in the Alps
CHUR: Take the Glacier Express train to Zermatt with dinner served on board. 149 mi / 240 km.
LOCAL FAVORITE - EPIC RIDE: Don't let the name fool you. While its speed won't take your breath away, the Glacier Express train from St. Moritz to Zermatt delivers a slow, breathtaking ride through some of Switzerland's most stunning scenery. Traveling the rails over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, you'll take in each passing postcard scene while reaching an altitude of 6,670 feet above sea level. (B/D)
Peak Perfection
ZERMATT: Enjoy a free day.
FREE TIME TIPS - EXPLORE MORE: Spend the day leisurely strolling around car - free Zermatt or join an excursion to the Matterhorn Glacier, an Alpine paradise of sky slopes, panoramic vistas, ice carvings and unique views. An amazing experience you do not want to miss. (B/D)
Poetry in Motion
ZERMATT: Mountain train ride to Täsch.
CHILLON: Take a guided visit of the castle and enjoy a wine tasting. 155 mi / 250 km.
LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURAL GEMS: Poised on a diminutive island on Lake Geneva and protected by a natural moat is the striking site of Chillon Castle. Discover the Castle's secrets as you stroll through it on your guided tour. What better way to complete your visit than with a wine tasting for good measure! (B)
Coming up Roses in Bern
BERN: Guided walking tour. includes a stop at Bear Park, panoramic views of the city from the Rose Garden and the Old Town.
INTERLAKEN: Free time for lunch en route to Lucerne. 75 mi / 120 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: Explore the “City of Fountains” Bern - the capital city of Switzerland, dating back to the 12th century. Take in the medieval architecture in the Altstadt (Old Town) with its 6 kilometres of arcades and animated clock tower, and panoramic views of the city from the Rose Garden and Bear Park. (B)
Lion Hearts in Lucerne
LUCERNE: Walking tour includes the Lion monument, the Old Town, and the Chapel Bridge. Private boat cruise this evening followed by farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
LOCAL FAVORITE - EPIC RIDE: Lucerne looks on top of the stunning lake Vierwaldstättersee, the “lake of the four forested Cantons.” This evening a private panoramic cruise on the lake will highlight the sheer beauty of Lucerne and its surroundings. To top off the evening and the tour, enjoy a farewell dinner with your travel companions. (B/D)
Transfer from Lucerne to Basel. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board. EVENING CRUISE TO BREISACH (B/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:
- 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 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 the Strasbourg's Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District.
EVENING 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.
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country.
- Active: Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim, OR:
- Discovery: 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.
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
- 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.
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:
- 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.”
Take some free time to explore Amsterdam's colorful streets and canal houses, galleries, and shops.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM (B/L/D)
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Welcome to Vienna!
At 6 pm, meet your Globus Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. (D)
City of Dreams
VIENNA: Guided sightseeing includes Schönbrunn Palace and Heldenplatz. Free time this afternoon.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEMS: Vienna's spectacular Schönbrunn Palace served as the summer home of the Habsburg dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the imperial home and glittering life of Austrian royalty in Vienna and the extravagant gardens surrounding the palace. (B)
The Sound of Music
MONDSEE: Visit the Parish Church.
SALZBURG: Guided walking tour includes Mirabell Gardens, the Great Festival Hall, and Residenz Square.
193 mi / 310 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - PICTURE PERFECT: Mondsee is a delightful town situated on Lake Mondsee, a privately owned lake, and is one of the 76 lakes found in the Salzkammergut region. In 1872 prehistoric pile dwellings were discovered there, but the rising lake water has since hidden them from view. Despite them being UNESCO listed, their fame in Mondsee is probably overshadowed by the medieval abbey used as a Sound of Music film location. (B)
The Birthplace of Mozart
SALZBURG: Enjoy a free day to explore Salzburg.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CULTURAL GEMS: The birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg, will put a song in your heart as you explore its charmingly splendid gardens, and medieval and Baroque architecture along the pedestrian Altstadt (Old Town). Salzburg's scenic Alpine landscape and architectural treasures has earned this Austrian jewel the reputation as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. (B)
Heavenly Hills of Switzerland
INNSBRUCK: Walk through the Old Town to the Golden Roof. Free time to browse before driving into the Swiss Engadine en route to St. Moritz.
236 mi / 380 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - NATURAL WONDERS: Pass through the spectacular beauty of Swiss Engadine on your way to St. Moritz. Take in the alpine vistas surrounding this paradise of deep blue lakes and rolling green meadows, forests, snow - capped summits, and endless sky in one of Switzerland's most stunning valleys. (B/D)
All Aboard in the Alps
CHUR: Take the Glacier Express train to Zermatt with dinner served on board.
149 mi / 240 km.
LOCAL FAVORITE - EPIC RIDE: Don't let the name fool you. While its speed won't take your breath away, the Glacier Express train to Zermatt delivers a slow, breathtaking ride through some of Switzerland's most stunning scenery. Traveling the rails over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, you'll take in each passing postcard scene while reaching an altitude of 6,670 feet above sea level. (B/D)
Peak Perfection
ZERMATT: Enjoy a free day.
ENHANCED FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: Spend the day leisurely strolling around car - free Zermatt or join an excursion to the Matterhorn Glacier, an Alpine paradise of sky slopes, panoramic vistas, ice carvings and unique views. An amazing experience you do not want to miss. (B/D)
Poetry in Motion
ZERMATT: Mountain train ride to Täsch.
CHILLON: Take a guided visit of the castle and enjoy a wine tasting.
155 mi / 250 km.
LOCAL FAVORITE - CULTURAL GEMS: Poised on a diminutive island on Lake Geneva and protected by a natural moat is the striking site of Chillon Castle. Discover the Castle's secrets as you stroll through it on your guided tour. What better way to complete your visit than with a wine tasting for good measure! (B)
Coming up Roses in Bern
BERN: Guided walking tour. includes a stop at Bear Park, panoramic views of the city from the Rose Garden and the Old Town.
INTERLAKEN: Free time for lunch en route to Lucerne.
75 mi / 120 km.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - CITY SIGHTS: Explore the “City of Fountains” Bern - the capital city of Switzerland, dating back to the 12th century. Take in the medieval architecture in the Altstadt (Old Town) with its 6 kilometres of arcades and animated clock tower, and panoramic views of the city from the Rose Garden and Bear Park. (B)
Lion Hearts in Lucerne
LUCERNE: Walking tour includes the Lion monument, the Old Town, and the Chapel Bridge. Private boat cruise this evening followed by farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
LOCAL FAVORITE - EPIC RIDE: Lucerne looks on top of the stunning lake Vierwaldstättersee, the “lake of the four forested Cantons.” This evening a private panoramic cruise on the lake will highlight the sheer beauty of Lucerne and its surroundings. To top off the evening and the tour, enjoy a farewell dinner with your travel companions. (B/D)
Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.
The Globus portion of your package ends this morning. Transfer from Lucerne to Basel to start your Avalon river cruise. Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board.EVENING CRUISE TO BREISACH (B/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.
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 the Strasbourg's Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District.
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.
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.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO COLOGNE (B/L/D)
Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland
- 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.
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.”
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM (B/L/D)
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Life Onboard Avalon Panorama
Float along Europe's most famous waterways in relaxed luxury aboard one of Avalon's award-winning Suite Ships. Read more
With the only Open-Air Balconies in river cruising, experience Europe with a view like no other in a Panorama Suite. Read more
Avalon features all the right inclusions which compliment your luxurious river cruise experience. Read more
Personalise your cruise to make it your own with Avalon Choice. Select whichever included excursions interest you the most. Read more
Avalon's Active & Discovery river cruises offer activities for travelers with varying interests & for all energy and fitness levels. Read more
Savour regional cuisine and familiar favourites using the freshest local ingredients throughout your river cruise. Read more
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Avalon River Cruises (2025-26)
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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.
