Avalon Waterways River Cruises
TOURS >> EUROPE > Jewels of Central Europe  2015/2016
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Jewels of Central Europe
19 DAYS

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CRUISING YOUR WAY!

Jewels of Central Europe - Avalon Waterways Cruises
Avalon River Cruises
JEWELS OF
CENTRAL EUROPE

Westbound
Duration: 19 days
f
rom Budapest to Paris
Includes:
All-inclusive River Cruise


Visits to: AUSTRIA, HUNGARY, GERMANY and FRANCE
Specially-priced Air Rates Available: YES

Avalon Waterways

Jewels of Central Europe - Westbound
19 days from Budapest to Paris

Sail along the Danube, Main, Rhine, and Moselle Rivers, and through the Main Danube Canal and dramatic Rhine Gorge on this remarkable river cruise vacation. Begin your trip with two nights in the vibrant Hungarian capital of Budapest, with guided sightseeing and time to explore the city on your own. Then, set sail and enjoy guided sightseeing that shows off the highlights in each city, including inside visits of Melk’s awe-inspiring Benedictine Abbey, the Bishop’s Residenz in Würzburg, Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in charming Rüdesheim, and Reichsburg Castle in Cochem. In Regensburg we’ll introduce you to some of Germany’s famous beers. Travel by high-speed train to Paris, where your vacation concludes with two overnights, guided sightseeing, and plenty of free time to explore the “City of Light” at your own pace!

Instant Rebate! DISCOUNT OFFERED FOR THIS TOUR!  

INCLUDED FEATURES

It's about you. You are the reason we've used our 80-plus years of travel expertise to design the very best river cruise experience. Inspired by you, we've taken everything special about river cruising and made it even better. Here are some of the features and amenities you'll experience on board our Avalon ships.

  • Panoramic windows throughout every ship.
  • Elegant, contemporary design throughout.
  • Included shore excursions with Local Guide.
  • Headsets for shore excursions.
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access.
  • Personalized room options & excursions.
  • Space to relax & unwind
  • Premium coffees, cappuccinos and lattes.
  • Coffee self-serve beverage station.
  • A lounge serving premium spirits.
  • Maintain your routine in the fitness center.
  • The Comfort Collection BedsSM.
  • Premium L'Occitane bath amenities.
  • Daily early- and late-riser breakfast.
  • Full buffet breakfast with sparkling wine.
  • Complimentary juices with breakfast.
  • Made-to-order egg station at breakfast.
  • Complimentary soft drinks with lunch.
  • Al fresco lunches on the Sky Bistro.
  • Chef-inspired regional recipes.
  • Four-course dinners with open seating.
  • Nightly choice of appetizers, entrées, desserts or cheese.
  • Complimentary regional wines at dinner.
  • Free soft drinks or beer with dinner.
  • Night Fare served at 10:30 p.m.
  • Remarkable service throughout the cruise.
  • English-speaking crew.
  • Non-smoking interior.
  • Large bathrooms - showers w/ glass doors.
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels.
  • Spacious 3-door closets for ample storage.
  • Alternative dinners of light regional specialties and wines in the Panorama Bistro on Suite ShipsSM.
  • And, much more.

MEALS
    • Meals are indicated by breakfast, lunch, and dinner
    • Captain’s welcome & farewell receptions with sparkling wine and canapés
    • Welcome dinner
    • Daily Afternoon Tea
    • Daily Night Fare
    • Local chef dinner
    • Farewell dinner
    • Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; soft drinks with lunch; and wine, beer, or soft drinks with dinner are included daily on board your vessel


    AIRPORT TRANSFERS
    Airport transfers may be included when you make your flight arrangements

Globus Tour Itinerary


Day 1 Arrive in Budapest, Hungary

Welcome to Budapest, Hungary’s lively capital spanning the banks of the Danube. The remainder of the day is free to start exploring Eastern Europe’s most cosmopolitan metropolis.

Day 2 Budapest

Whether you’re seeing the sights, shopping for handcrafted embroidery or Herend porcelain, or basking in the coffee house culture over a rich cream cake in the renowned Gerbeaud Café, Budapest’s unique energy is positively palatable. On your GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOUR, see Heroes’ Square as well as the massive hilltop castle complex with its remarkable Fishermen’s Bastion—for spectacular views of the city—and 11th-century Matthias Church, the coronation spot of several Hungarian monarchs. Be sure to take note of the city’s eight bridges—many famous sights in and of themselves—which connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. You may even want to walk across Chain Bridge, built in 1849 and a symbol of Budapest. (Breakfast)

Day 3 Budapest (Embarkation)

You have time this morning to explore Budapest further. Perhaps visit St. Stephen’s Basilica for marvelous views of the city from its viewing platform. This afternoon, board your river cruise vessel and meet your crew at a welcome reception. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 4 Budapest–Vienna, Austria

Enjoy a day of relaxation on board and marvel at the beautiful scenery on both banks of the Danube. Hungary is on your left as you cruise upriver and Slovakia is on your right. The two countries share the Danube for a 58-mile stretch, with the border in the middle of the river. This evening, arrive in Vienna, Austria’s capital. Known as the “City of Music,” it inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. An optional concert is available during your stay. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5 Vienna

Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria’s magical capital on the blue Danube is a showcase of gilded architecture. This is home to the lavish Hofburg Imperial Palace complex with its Vienna Boy’s Choir and dazzling Lipizzaner stallions; the neo-renaissance Vienna Opera House; and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral—plus, countless other sights your Local Guide will show you during an included CITY SIGHTSEEING TOUR. Stroll through the delightful pedestrian Kärntnerstrasse, and be sure to take a break and enjoy a piece of decadent Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in one of the classic Viennese coffee houses, historic institutions that helped shape Viennese culture! (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6 Dürnstein–Melk

Dürnstein, known for the magnificent baroque, blue Stiftskirche built in the 1700s, is situated right in the heart of the Wachau wine region. The main street of this small town—with a population of less than 1,000 people—is lined with 16th-century residences and charming cobblestone streets. This morning your Local Guide will take you on an included WALKING TOUR and tell you the tale of England’s King Richard the Lionheart, who was imprisoned in the castle whose ruins still stand above the town. During lunchtime, sail the picturesque Wachau Valley and arrive in Melk in the early afternoon. Here, enjoy a GUIDED VISIT of the magnificent 11th-century BENEDICTINE ABBEY, one of Europe’s largest monasteries. The abbey houses an ornate library with over 80,000 printed books and 2,000 manuscripts. You’ll be captivated by the splendor of the church with its frescoed ceilings, stunning high altar, marble statues, and 210-foot-high cupola. The view from the terrace of the abbey over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! This evening you’ll be able to sample some of the Wachau Valley’s FAMOUS WINES. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7 Passau, Germany

Today you can choose from several full-day optional excursions: to Salzburg, taking in some of the Sound of Music sights; the popular “Romantic Austria” tour; or to Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternatively, you may choose to stay on the ship and relax as you cruise to Passau, uniquely located where the Inn, Ilz, and Danube Rivers converge. Passau is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with beautiful patrician houses. St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Italian baroque architecture, houses one of the world’s largest church organs with 17,774 pipes. Take in the highlights on the included GUIDED WALK. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8 Regensburg

Dating back to the time of the Celts around 500 BC, Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Established during the Holy Roman Empire and the only German city not bombed during WWII, Regensburg has at least 1,300 listed buildings of “historic interest.” Architectural highlights of your GUIDED WALK include the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall), built in the 13th century, and Porta Pretoria, gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. Wander through the city’s lanes and alleys to discover the many mansions with high towers. Wealthy families built these towers to emphasize their status and wealth during the Middle Ages, and many still remain today. Walk across the 12th-century Steinerne Brücke (Stone Bridge), the oldest of its kind in Germany. Grab a beer and enjoy an included SNACK at the 17th-century Historische Wurstküche (Old Sausage Kitchen), one of Germany’s oldest restaurants. Here—where the locals congregate—feel the vibrant atmosphere and take in the remarkable views along the river. After dinner, we’ll introduce you to some of Germany’s FAMOUS BEERS. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9 Nuremberg

Today, spend a relaxing morning of cruising, and before lunch, attend a fascinating ONBOARD LECTURE about the engineering marvel that is the Main Danube Canal. The afternoon is dedicated to Nuremberg. Although 90% of Nuremberg’s Old Town suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it has been restored to the glory it once knew as the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire. Today, choose either a GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOUR and marvel at this thousand-year-old city’s medieval fortifications, extraordinary gothic churches, and the Kaiserburg (Imperial Castle), or join a more specialized “NUREMBERG RALLY GROUNDS” tour. During free time, be sure to make a wish at the beautiful fountain in the Hauptmarkt (main square). Legend says your wish will come true if you turn its gold ring three times. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10 Nuremberg. Excursion to Munich

After breakfast, drive to Munich, capital of Bavaria. With its historical museums, splendid English Garden, traditional cafés, and delightful shops, Munich has plenty to see and do. A LOCAL GUIDE will show you the highlights of this fascinating city, including Nymphenburg Palace, summer residence of the Bavarian monarchs; MARIENPLATZ with its Old and New Town Halls; and the gothic Frauenkirche, a prominent landmark for Munich. Then, enjoy time on your own in this vibrant city. Watch the famous Glockenspiel, which recreates a royal wedding from the 16th century; linger at an outdoor café; visit St. Peter’s, the oldest church in town; or maybe relax alongside the locals at one of the many Biergarten or breweries to sample one of the Bavarian beer specialties. Return to your ship in the afternoon. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 11 Bamberg

In the early morning hours, arrive in medieval Bamberg, former residence of one of Germany’s most powerful imperial dynasties and today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your GUIDED WALK takes in its historic center, including the great 13th-century Romanesque cathedral and the fascinating Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall)—built on an island in the middle of the Regnitz River when the bishop refused to give the townspeople land for a town hall! This afternoon, enjoy some relaxing time on board as you cruise toward Würzburg on the Main River and attend an interesting ONBOARD LECTURE about the European Union. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 12 Würzburg

Arrive in Würzburg during breakfast. Surrounded by verdant hillside vineyards, Würzburg, also known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road,” makes an immediate impression with imposing Fortress Marienberg perched above town and the 15th-century Alte Mainbrucke (Old Main Bridge). On your GUIDED SIGHTSEEING TOUR, visit the magnificent baroque BISHOP’S RESIDENZ, home to the largest ceiling fresco ever painted. This afternoon you might like to join an optional excursion to medieval Rothenburg. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)


Day 13 Miltenberg

Tucked away behind medieval defensive walls and towered gates, picturesque Bavarian Miltenberg is a cultural gem on the banks of the Main River. The town’s delightful Marktplatz (market square) centers around a Renaissance-era fountain, and features striking half-timbered buildings, cobblestone lanes, and one of the oldest inns in Germany, Haus zum Riesen (the giant’s house). See all this and marvel at the gothic splendor of the Merchant Hall on your GUIDED WALK. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)


Day 14 Rüdesheim–Rhine Gorge–Boppard

Pretty Rüdesheim is the perfect example of a Rhine Valley wine town, and SIEGFRIED’S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM is a real surprise. Enjoy a SPECIAL TREAT, then there’s free time to explore the Drosselgasse and pick up some souvenirs. Downstream, the dramatic RHINE GORGE is the most beautiful stretch of river. Pass the legendary rock of the Lorelei, where sweet songs of local beauties lured enchanted sailors to their doom.Continue to Boppard, a spa town and popular tourist destination, where there is time to explore on your own before dinner. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)


Day 15 Cochem

This morning, arrive in Cochem on the river Moselle, a charming, picturesque town with half-timbered houses and winding streets full of history and legends that will be brought to life during your included GUIDED WALK. Visit REICHSBURG CASTLE, built in 1000 AD and furnished with renaissance and baroque furniture. Sitting dramatically atop a conical hill covered in vines, this castle offers splendid views of the little town nestled down below and of the river valley. Cochem is at the heart of the Moselle wine trade and, most notably, the Riesling grape is cultivated, producing a dry to sweet, floral white wine. Enjoy free time here to discover this delightful town at your own pace. As you sail away, attend an ONBOARD LECTURE to learn more about the Moselle region. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)


Day 16 Trier

After breakfast, an excursion takes you to Trier, Germany’s oldest city. Some say Trier is even older than Rome and that it was populated over a thousand years before the Romans arrived. Many Roman remains have survived, including a 20,000-seat amphitheater; the Porta Nigra, a fortified gate from the original Roman settlement, which still gives access to the town’s center; imperial baths; and the Roman bridge, Germany’s oldest bridge, with stone pilings dating from 144 AD—all evidence of this once-grand Roman city. Trier also offers pleasant market squares, Germany’s oldest Christian church, and a cornucopia of architectural styles—Roman, baroque, neo-classicism, renaissance, and gothic. Choose from the included CITY SIGHTSEEING or the more history-focused “ROMAN TRIER” guided tour, followed by some free time, gives you the opportunity to discover this magnificent town. Rejoin your vessel and head for Remich in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)


Day 17 Remich, Luxembourg (Disembarkation)Paris, France

Reach Remich in the early morning hours and say goodbye to your crew after breakfast. Travel to Luxembourg or to Metz to board the HIGH-SPEED TRAIN to Paris, where you arrive later in the day. (Breakfast)


Day 18 Paris

Known as one of the world’s most romantic and lively cities, Paris is a delight for all your senses. Your INCLUDED CITY SIGHTSEEING shows you magnificent must-see sights, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the unique Louvre Museum with its glass pyramid as a contrast to its ancient architecture, the commemorative Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower. In your free time, stroll down the Champs-Elysées with its lavish cafés, or perhaps visit the world-famous Louvre museum or Montmartre with its gleaming white Sacré Coeur Basilica and bevy of artists on Place du Tertre. Paris is also well known for its colorful nightlife, and an optional excursion to one of the world’s most famous cabaret shows, the Moulin Rouge, is available. All of this awaits your discovery! (Breakfast)


Day 19 Paris

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)


You may also want to view the
EASTBOUND VERSION of this cruise/tour.


NOTES:

In the event of water level problems or any problems of a technical nature, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or to alter the program.
Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change is necessary, a substitute will be offered.


THE SHIP
Visionary

Have you Ever...?? - Experience Avalon - Watch VideoBuilt 2012 | Length 361 | Crew Members 37 | Staterooms 12 | Suites 52

2012 ushered in another exciting Suite Ship® cruising along Europe's glorious rivers. The Avalon Visionary delivers an intimate setting, along with two full decks of suites featuring Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows that transform the living space into a unique Open-Air Balcony®. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, giving you the rare opportunity to wake each morning to the enchanting scenery and fresh breezes. Onboard amenities include a complimentary Internet Corner and Wi-Fi access, an expanded Fitness Center, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, shade system, whirlpool, and the delightful Sky Bistro.
Avalon Poetry II River Cruise
Included Amenities
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows
  • Sky Deck with shade awnings
  • Expanded fitness center
  • Elevator
  • Outside Viewing Deck
  • English-speaking crew
  • Cruise Director
  • Revolutionary engineering
  • Internet Corner
  • Lounges and upscale bar serving premium spirits
  • Relax and enjoy onboard movie nights
  • 2013 - Biking excursions available in Amsterdam and Durnstein
  • Avalon Choice cruising experience
  • Choice of excursions - Leisurely, Traditional or Essential Sightseeing options
  • Culture & Cruise onboard experiences with local chefs, entertainers, artisans and experts
  • Guest Services is available to recommend, reserve and further personalize your cruise
  • Sky Deck Game Area
  • Fitness Center
  • Sky Deck with shade system & premium lounge chairs
  • Sky Deck Whirlpool
  • Non-smoking interior
  • Elegant, contemporary design throughout
  • Headsets for all guided shore excursions in Europe
  • Sightseeing with a Certified Local Guide
  • Onboard lectures, activities & nightly entertainment
  • Room service available featuring Continental breakfast and beverages
  • Hair salon (manicures available)
  • Self-serve beverage station with complimentary tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees
  • Access to iPad mobile digital devices (Royal Suites only)
  • Alternate dining experience with regional specialties and lighter fare in the Panorama Bistro
  • Behind-the-scenes ship tour
  • Complimentary maps and use of Nordic walking sticks
  • Expanded "on-demand" in-room entertainment
  • Panorama Bistro
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi Access
  • Well-stocked library

Deluxe Stateroom (Cat. E) 172 S.F.

Floorplan

Deluxe Stateroom (Cat. A, B, P) 200 S.F.

Floorplan


Suite  300 S.F.

Floorplan

Artistry II - deck plan


Avalon Waterways
Jewels of Central Europe
19 days from Budapest to Paris

You may also want to view the EASTBOUND VERSION of this cruise/tour.
Avalon Waterways Europe River Cruising!
From $6039USD Globus Low Price Guarantee
(Less applicable Globus Discounts)

Prices are per person based on double occupancy and are cruise only. We also offer competitive group-based airfares from your home city airport that fit with this particular touring program.

We provide an additional agency point-of-sale discount for all Globus, Cosmos and Avalon Waterways tour programs. Offer subject to availability and change without notice.

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AVALON BROCHURE HERE!
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TALK TO AN EXPERIENCED

As a full-service travel provider, we can help you in finding your perfect tour at the best price available, today. We've been representing the GLOBUS Family of Brands for over 35 years as a Premier Agency Partner - a designation only awarded to the top tier agencies that are authorized to represent the full Globus Family of Brands. We can take you all the way from your own hometown to some of the most beautiful touring experiences in Europe and then back again - all with the expertise of a seasoned GLOBUS professional representative. When it is important to get it right, you can trust the services of our own professional GLOBUS Certified travel specialists. Please feel free to call us or email us or we would be happy to provide your information via email on the tour form, below.

Requesting Availability

We will check your requested tour program and accommodations for the date range that you may specify in the boxes below and reply back to you as soon as possible. Of course the more information that you can provide us, the closer we will be in matching your needs and preferences. We will not knowingly sell or pass along your information that you provide to any third party for any reason (see Liabilities and Privacy Policy). And we use SSL Technology to safeguard your information on our tour request forms that we have posted throughout our website.

We are available to answer your inquiries in person Monday - Friday (except holidays) from 8:30am until 5:30pm CST (1-877-510-4653 | 817-788-5210). We are available from time to time on the weekends via email to answer your questions. Our typical response time for your email request ranges from 3 hours to as many as 72 depending upon the availability of onsite resources and those of the tour companies and resorts/lodging establishments, as well as any variations you may request from our listed programs. For those inquirers requesting a trip within two weeks, we will give you a priority due to your need to establish an immediate plan. At any rate, we will respond to your requests as quickly as possible and as soon as we have all components of your package confirmable. All tour program rates are based upon double occupancy unless otherwise specified.

Thank you for your interest in this quality tour by The GLOBUS Family of Brands!


Randy C. Gardner
President
Gardner Travel Service, Inc.

We look forward to serving your travel needs and wants!

REQUEST RATES, AVAILABILITY AND OTHER INFORMATION HERE
LOW UNPUBLISHED RATES!
To request our LOW UNPUBLISHED RATE and availability for this tour please view our scheduled departures listed HERE. Then, email us on the form BELOW and we will provide our private rate back to you by email response or phone call as you prefer it.

PLEASE NOTE:
We have access to the U.S./Canada reservations only for this tour.
If you reside outside of the U.S./Canada please contact the closest Globus Family of Brands travel agent in your country of origin.

 Exceptional Vacations
 
Celebrating over 80 Years of Travel!

Globus Family of Brands

BOOK IT ONLINE or CHECK AVAILABILITY


HOW TO READ OUR LIVE AVAILABILITY DISPLAY:

Click Here for real-time GLOBUS Availability!
You may reserve this tour by using our Globus/Cosmos secure server (right) by clicking on any of the "Book Now!" departures.

Book Now! - Tour is available to reserve.
Not Available - Tour is currently sold out.
Please Call - There may be 1-4 seats available but tour is selling out.


Please have the names of passengers as listed in each passport available to complete the brief booking process. This online reservations engine will not calculate our additional GLOBUS/COSMOS Preferred LOWER rate. Although this portal will not show or add our discounts, they will be added when we receive your booking and an adjusted quote will be provided by our experienced GLOBUS Family of Brands agent.


OR
You may provide your information ABOVE via EMAIL REQUEST and we will return a quote to you
including our lowest available discount for this tour.


How We Will Handle Your Request and Your Privacy:

Your request will be handled by a responsible and knowledgeable tour specialist that can not only check availability for this particular tour but can further advise you as to other general queries that you may have about traveling conditions, passport/visa requirements, immunization requirements and other valuable information that you may need before making your reservation. We are a full service travel company and we have always catered to the individual traveler and his/her specific needs. We want to get to know you as a valued friend in travel. We are always available with our email service but feel free to call upon us if you have an immediate request at 1-817-788-5210.

SSL Encrypted communication We use SSL Technology for secure data and information transfer to protect your privacy.

Humans still do it best!

Your Privacy is also very important to us. If you elected to be listed with us in the above Optional Advisory List then, you will be added to our mail list for the particular area(s) of interest that you have selected to be informed about. If you do not elect to be on our mail list, simply do not complete that section and we will not add you to our list. We will not add you to any other mai llist either. We do not sell or otherwise pass along any information that you may provide to to us in the process of completing your inquiry. For further information on your privacy please see Liabilities and Privacy Policy.

Our 35TH Year!
representing
the
Globus Family of Brands
GARDNER TRAVEL SERVICE
1-877-510-4653
817-788-5210
Monday - Friday from 8:30am to 5:30pm
Central Standard Time

FOR MORE INFORMATION E-MAIL US AT
globusfamily@gardnertravel.com
Traditional Service Values with a Southern Flavor since 1979!
Cruise Staterooms & Comfort
  The Roomiest Staterooms.

We have always provided river cruisers the most spacious staterooms in Europe. With our Panorama-style Suite Ships, we're not only offering cruisers our award-winning Avalon Deluxe Staterooms, we're featuring 200-square foot Panorama Suites (30 percent larger than the average stateroom) and 300-square foot Royal Suites, offering cruisers even more room to relax and take in 360-degree views of Europe.

Inspired by design, our ships are crafted to entice all five senses. Some enhancements, including deluxe woven carpeting, flowers, premium L'Occitane products and scented sticks in our staterooms are subtle. Other offerings, such as Avalon-branded premium bedding (Comfort Collection BedsSM), marble bathrooms as well as a perfect balance of warm interiors, natural lighting and panoramic views are distinctive and unexpected. Combined, all elements provide travelers with a unique feeling of space, freedom and comfort not found with any other river cruise line.

Avalon Waterways offers cruisers an exclusive, premium-bedding suite (Comfort Collection Beds) in all of our staterooms, fleet-wide, in Europe. Comfort Collection Beds provides travelers a choice of pillows as well as orthopedic mattresses, high-comfort mattress covers, European-style duvets, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, extra blankets and bed configuration options.

Peering through the looking glass to determine how we can continue to improve our cruisers on-board experiences, we have invested in the finest bathroom appointments available and such luxury touch-points such as L'Occitane toiletries, quality robes and slippers in each room, fleet-wide. We've also designed contemporary staterooms with the most available storage space, and plenty of "comfort touches" like complimentary bottled water and fully stocked mini-bars.

For some cruisers, comfort comes in the form of connection: staying in touch with friends, colleagues and family members while away. Because of this, Avalon has taken great strides to enhance the technology available to guests on ship. In addition to offering them flat-screen televisions, providing a plethora of news and entertainment options, Avalon provides cruisers with FREE Wi-Fi fleet-wide. Furthermore, Royal Suites guests will have access to in-room iPads.

On any deck, your well-appointed Avalon Deluxe Stateroom is a spacious refuge of inviting home-awayfrom- home features. Delight in the large private bathroom featuring full shower with glass shower door; deluxe beds with premium mattress covers, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, European-style duvets, and a choice of soft or firm pillows; and ample closet space. And, of course, don't miss out on the never-ending views from the large windows or floor-to-ceiling sliding-glass doors. In fact, you'll love your Avalon Deluxe Stateroom so much, you may never want to go home!


Avalon Deluxe Staterooms Include:
  Award-Winning Deluxe Staterooms by Avalon Waterways
  • Comfort Collection Beds featuring premium memory foam mattress toppers with special construction for increased air flow and ventilation
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, woolen blankets & Europeanstyle duvets
  • Soft and firm pillows
  • Choice of bed configuration (two twins or one queen)
  • Floor-to-ceiling sliding-glass door with French Balcony (most staterooms & suites)
  • Private bathroom with full shower with glass door, hairdryer & premium L'Occitane® bath products
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Well-stocked minibar with complimentary bottled water
  • In-room safe
  • Individual climate control
  • Extra blankets
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Alarm clock
  • Writing desk/vanity with comfortable chair & mirror
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Continental breakfast & beverage room service available

Panorama Suites & Royal Suites Include (in addition to the above):
  • Nearly 11' Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window—50% wider than industry standard
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window opens to create a large Open-Air Balcony
  • Open-Air Balcony with full 6-person seating area
  • Complimentary use of iPad mobile digital devices* while onboard (Royal Suites only)
* iPad is a trademark of Apple Inc.

Your River Cruise Voyage Your Way

On an Avalon Waterways river cruise, "included" is the name of the game. Spacious outside staterooms with expansive riverscape views—included. VIP access into the must-see sites—included. Your choice of enriching shore excursions led by Certified Local Guides—included. Wi-Fi access—included. Sparkling wines with breakfast, regional beers and wines at every onboard dinner, and unlimited lattes and premium coffees—included. And we're proud to offer Avalon Choice®, an exciting concept in river cruising that gives you the freedom to personalize so many elements of your cruise.

Our Cuisine is Choice - So are the ways to Enjoy it.

Avalon dining has always freed taste buds from the ordinary. And now — it frees you from restrictions. At every meal, you'll have the ability to choose from a multitude of dining experiences. All feature the highest-quality local ingredients, hand crafted by true culinary artisans. And all are included at no extra cost.

Discovery By Your Design - Cruise Excursions.

We've done our due diligence pre-selecting Certified Local Guides who truly are the best in the world. But what you see and the pace in which you see it, is completely up to you. And the best part? Unlike other cruise operators, our preplanned discoveries are included at no extra charge to you. We even provide Nordic walking sticks for active guests looking for an extra spring in their step.


River Cruise Vacation Excursions
  This. That. And Everything.

Having the most thoughtfully designed, newest ships in the industry isn't the only advantage of Avalon. We tailor experiences too. Our handpicked Cruise Directors and Certified Local Guides in Europe, Asia, Egypt, U.S. and South America are the best in the business.

Avalon's inspired, 360-degree, engaging cruise experiences afford travelers the chance to immerse themselves into a destination and culture thanks to award-winning land programs and world-class guides. Our Egyptologists (along the Nile), Naturalists (in the Galápagos), Cruise Directors (in Europe, Southeast Asia, U.S. and China) and special guest lecturers also offer them a vast onboard educational program, giving cruisers the chance to soak in the history and culture of a region as they drift from village to village or island to island.

It's not easy to be an expert on everywhere. Thanks to Avalon's relationship with Globus – an award-winning tour company with more than 85 years of experience and 300 support staff on the ground in 65 countries around the world — our cruisers are privy to the best, all-inclusive land programs available.

We transform tourists into travelers and storytellers and help them truly experience each destination with guided sightseeing in every port (complete with headsets), daily port lectures, VIP access into key destinations, no waiting in lines and great cultural immersion and storytelling thanks to highly skilled Cruise and Tour Directors.


Biking Excursions

Avalon is also encouraging cruisers to drive their personal enrichment by experiencing ports on two wheels (from the seat of a bicycle). Adding to our already robust roster of activities, we have partnered with bicycle tour specialists in Amsterdam, Lyon, Durnstein, Vienna, and Breisach for optional, guided excursions.

Stroll Along Ancient Roads & Feel the Strange Become Familiar.
  Custom River Cruise Excursions by Avalon Waterways

At Avalon, we never lose sight of the reason you're traveling—to see the people, places, and sights on shore. And because we're part of the Globus family of brands, we're backed by more than 85 years in the travel business…which means you'll experience the world in a way that no other river cruise operator can deliver!


Included Guided Sightseeing & Excursions

When it comes to showing you the world, we select the very best guides—professionals who are certified locally in each destination and selected by the Globus family of brands. These Certified Local Guides are recognized for their expertise, enthusiasm, and knowledge of the area. They will lead you on engaging, included sightseeing tours, delivering genuine, behind-the-scenes destination experiences. You'll even benefit from the use of personal headsets for sightseeing, which gives you the freedom to roam through some of Europe's most famous attractions without missing a moment of fascinating commentary.

MyAvalonSM

Avalon offers a great selection of optional excursions to help you further personalize your cruise. Whether it's a classical music concert in Vienna, a visit to a French winery, time at the colossal Romanian Parliament building in Bucharest, or a guided bicycle tour through town, with MyAvalon, selecting and paying for your optional excursions before your cruise is a cinch! Just go to AvalonWaterways.com/MyAvalon.

Sightseeing at Just the Right Pace

Sightseeing should never be a one-size-fits-all proposition. Travelers like to see the sights in different ways, so we've developed three sightseeing pace options to choose from:

Leisurely Sightseeing
    A Certified Local Guide shows you the destination's highlights in a relaxed and unhurried way.

Traditional Sightseeing
    Led by a Certified Local Guide, you'll explore a wide range of sights at a moderate pace.

Essential Sightseeing
    This orientation shows you the must-see sights, with plenty of time to explore on your own.

Explore on Your Own

Feel like discovering your destination on your own? Your onboard Guest Services is happy to assist you in making a dinner reservation on shore, getting tickets to the opera or a local cultural performance, or hiring a taxi so you can visit a friend or explore outlying areas. And for a more active experience on shore, consider the complimentary use of a Nordic walking stick.


We invite you to come experience a cruise unlike any other.

Some big-ship cruise deals sound like an incredible bargain...until you are on board and have to pay extra for everything. On an Avalon Waterways river cruise, "included" is the name of the game – and has been since we came on the scene a decade ago.


Awards

For thirteen years in a row, Globus has been selected by Recommend Magazine as the best Tour Operator to Europe, and a top finalist for North America, Asia, Latin America and Africa. The brand was also named in Travel Weekly's 2013 Reader's Choice Awards as Best Tour Operator - Europe and 2013 Reader's Choice Awards as Best Tour Operator - Europe, Best Tour Operator - International and Best Tour Operator - Asia and South Pacific.






If you like the above tour program
 you may also want to view the following tour programs for comparison:

Romantic Rhine (NB)
8 Days from Zürich to Amsterdam
Romantic Rhine (SB)
8 Days from Amsterdam to Basel
Canals, Vineyards and Paris (NB) 10 Days from Paris to Amsterdam Canals, Vineyards and Paris (SB) 10 Days from Paris to Amsterdam
Capitals of Central Europe
10 Days from Prague to Budapest
European Splendor (EB)
13 Days from Amsterdam to Vienna
European Splendor (WB)
13 Days from Vienna to Amsterdam
Highlights of Germany
13 Days from Munich to Basel
Blue Danube to the Black Sea (EB) 14 Days from Vienna to Bucharest Blue Danube to the Black Sea (WB) 14 Days from Bucharest to Vienna Grand France
(SB) 16 Days from Paris to Côte d'Azur
Grand France
(NB) 16 Days from Côte d'Azur to Paris
Magnificent Europe (EB) 15 Days from Amsterdam to Budapest
Magnificent Europe (WB) 15 Days from Budapest to Amsterdam Jewels of Central Europe (EB)17 Days from Paris to Budapest Jewels of Central Europe (WB)19 Days from Budapest to Paris

EUROPE GRAND TOURS

Europe in Depth  Globus Tours  31 Days  ENGLAND, BELGIUM, HOLLAND, GERMANY, SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA, ITALY, SPAIN and FRANCE
The Grand European Cosmos Tours 23 Days  ENGLAND, HOLLAND, GERMANY, SWITZERLAND, ITALY, SPAIN AND FRANCE
Traditional Grand European   Globus Tours  21 Days  ENGLAND, BELGIUM, HOLLAND, GERMANY, SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA, ITALY
and FRANCE
The Best of Europe   Cosmos Tours  18 Days  ENGLAND, BELGIUM, GERMANY, SWITZERLAND, ITALY AND FRANCE
Continental Introduction  Globus Tours  16 Days  ENGLAND, FRANCE, SWITZERLAND, ITALY, AUSTRIA, GERMANY and HOLLAND
European Tapestry   Globus Tours 14 Days  ENGLAND, HOLLAND, BELGIUM, GERMANY, SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA, ITALY and FRANCE
Legendary Waterways of Europe  Collette Vacations  15 Days  GERMANY, CZECH REPUBLIC, AUSTRIA, HUNGARY, SLOVAKIA  and POLAND 
Europe's Highlights   Cosmos Tours 15 Days  ENGLAND, BELGIUM, HOLLAND, GERMANY, AUSTRIA, SWITZERLAND, ITALY and FRANCE
From Vienna to Istanbul  Globus Tours  15 Days  AUSTRIA, SLOVENIA, CROATIA, BOSNIA, MONTENEGRO, MACEDONIA, BULGARIA and TURKEY
Continental Introduction  Globus Tours  14 Days  FRANCE, SWITZERLAND, ITALY, AUSTRIA, GERMANY and HOLLAND
The Best of Eastern Europe  Globus Tours  14 Days  GERMANY, POLAND, SLOVAKIA, HUNGARY, AUSTRIA and CZECH REPUBLIC
East Meets West  Globus Tours  14 Days  AUSTRIA, SLOVENIA, CROATIA, BOSNIA-HERZEGOVINA and MONTENEGRO
Magnificent Cities of Central and Eastern Europe  Collette Vacations  13 Days  GERMANY, CZECH REPUBLIC, AUSTRIA, HUNGARY, SLOVAKIA and POLAND
Enchanting Europe  Globus Tours  13 Days  ENGLAND, FRANCE, SWITZERLAND, AUSTRIA, GERMANY and HOLLAND
European Charm  Globus Tours  13 Days  HOLLAND, GERMANY, AUSTRIA, ITALY, SWITZERLAND and FRANCE
From St. Paul's to St. Peter's   Cosmos Tours  12 Days  ENGLAND, FRANCE, SWITZERLAND and ITALY
European Highlights w/Sorrento  Globus Tours  12 Days  ENGLAND, FRANCE, SWITZERLAND, and ITALY
Essential Europe  Globus Tours  11 Days  ENGLAND, FRANCE, SWITZERLAND and ITALY
The Best of Italy and France  Globus Tours  11 Days  ITALY and FRANCE
A Taste of Europe   Cosmos Tours  10 Days  ENGLAND, HOLLAND, GERMANY, SWITZERLAND and FRANCE
Six Countries, Venice and Paris   Cosmos Tours  10 Days  ENGLAND, BELGIUM, HOLLAND, GERMANY, AUSTRIA, SWITZERLAND, ITALY and FRANCE
Imperial Splendors  Globus Tours  10 Days  GERMANY, CZECH REPUBLIC, SLOVAKIA, HUNGARY and AUSTRIA
From the Colosseum to the Eiffel Tower  Globus Tours  10 Days  FRANCE, SWITZERLAND  and ITALY
European Sampler  London to London Globus Tours  10 Days  ENGLAND, HOLLAND, BELGIUM, GERMANY, SWITZERLAND, and FRANCE
European Sampler  London to Paris Globus Tours  9 Days  ENGLAND, HOLLAND, BELGIUM, GERMANY, SWITZERLAND, and FRANCE
Bohemian Dream  London to London Globus Tours  9 Days  HUNGARY, SLOVAKIA,  AUSTRIA and CZECH REPUBLIC
European Highlights  London to Paris Globus Tours  9 Days  ENGLAND, FRANCE, SWITZERLAND, and ITALY
Holland, Luxembourg and Belgium  Globus Tours  9 Days  HOLLAND, BELGIUM and LUXEMBOURG
London and Paris  London to Paris Globus Tours  7 Days  ENGLAND and FRANCE
A Week in London and Paris  Monograms Vacations  7 Days  ENGLAND and FRANCE

THE BRITISH ISLES | England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales
Britiain and Ireland in Depth
Globus Tours  25 Days
The British Isles In Depth
Cosmos Tours 24 Days
The Best of the British Isles
Globus Tours 20 Days
Highlights of Britain and Ireland  Globus Tours 15 Days
Scottish Highlands and Islands
Globus Tours  14 Days
Exploring Britiain and Ireland
Collette Vacations  14 Days
From the Shannon to the Thames  Globus Tours 13 Days Celtic Highlights
Globus Tours  13 Days
Scenic Ireland
Globus Tours 13 Days
Scotland and Ireland
Collette Vacations  12 Days
Essential Britain
Globus Tours 12 Days
Emerald Isle
Globus Tours 10 Days
Essential Britain and Ireland
Globus Tours 10 Days
Shades of Ireland
Collette Vacations 9 Days
Irish Explorer
Cosmos Tours  9 Days
Discover Scotland
Collette Vacations 9 Days
British Landscapes
Collette Vacations 9 Days
Britain Sampler
Globus Tours  9 Days
British Panorama
Cosmos Tours  9 Days
London and Paris
Collette Vacations 7 Days
Introduction to Ireland
Globus Tours 7 Days
The Best of Southern England
Globus Tours  7 Days
London and Paris
Globus Tours 7 Days
Bonnie Scotland 
Globus Tours 7 Days
Two Weeks in London and Paris Monograms Vacations  14 Days London, Amsterdam, and Paris
Monograms Vacations  10 Days
A Week in London
Monograms Vacations 7 Days
Week in London and Paris
Monograms Vacations 7 Days
ITALY | GREECE | TURKEY
Southern Italy and Sicily
Cosmos Tours  16 Days
The Best of Italy and Sicily
Globus Tours  15 Days
Turkish Delight
Globus Tours  14 Days
Exploring Greece and its Islands
Collette Vacations  14 Days
Highlights of Sicily and Southern Italy
Globus Tours  14 Days
Italy's Best
Cosmos Tours  14 Days
Italian Mosaic
Globus Tours  13 Days
Italian Vistas
Collette Vacations  12 Days
Italy and Greece
Cosmos Tours  12 Days
Italy's Treasures
Collette Vacations  11 Days
Italian Lakes and Greek Isles
Collette Vacations  11 Days
Best of Italy and France
Globus Tours  11 Days
Best of Italy
Globus Tours  11 Days
Italian Treasures
Globus Tours  11 Days
Greece and Turkey Cruise/Tour
Globus Tours  11 Days
Southern Italy and Sicily
Collette Vacations  10 Days
Italian Highlights
Globus Tours  10 Days
Greek Island Hopper Cruise/Tour Globus Tours 10 Days Northern Italy's Highlights
Globus Tours  10 Days
Discover Croatia
Collette Vacations  10 Days
Splendid Sicilia
Collette Vacations  10 Days
Rome and the Amalfi Coast
Collette Vacations  9 Days
Reflections of Italy
Collette Vacations  9 Days
Italian Tapestry
Globus Tours  9 Days
Gems of Umbria and Tuscany
Globus Tours  9 Days
The Splendours of Italy
Cosmos Tours  9 Days
Italian Sampler
Globus Tours  9 Days
Iconic Aegean Cruise/Tour
Globus Tours  8 Days
Italy's Great Cities
Globus Tours  8 Days
The Best of Turkey
Globus Tours  8 Days
Classical Greece
Globus Tours  8 Days
Italian Vista
Globus Tours  8 Days
Iconic Aegean Cruise/Tour
Globus Tours  7 Days
A Taste of Italy
Globus Tours  7 Days


FRANCE | GERMANY
La France!
Globus Tours  15 Days
Alpine Countries
Globus Tours  15 Days
Grand Tour of France
Cosmos Tours  14 Days
The Best of Eastern Europe
Globus Tours  14 Days
Poland, East Germany and World War II
Globus Tours  12 Days
Highlights of Germany
Cosmos Tours 12 Days
The Alpine Countries
Collette Vacations  12 Days
German Highlights
Globus Tours  11 Days
France Magnifique!
Collette Vacations  11 Days
Munich, Salzburg and Vienna
Globus Tours  11 Days
Best of Italy and France
Globus Tours  11 Days
Imperial Splendors
Globus Tours 10 Days
Bohemian Dream
Globus Tours  9 Days
Colors of Provence
Collette Vacations  9 Days
French Sampler
Globus Tours  8 Days
Normandy, Brittany and Chateau Country
Globus Tours  8 Days
London and Paris
Collette Vacations  7 Days
Two Weeks in London and Paris Monograms Vacations  14 Days
London, Amsterdam, and Paris Monograms Vacations  10 Days A Week in Paris
Monograms Vacations 7 Days
A Week in London and Paris
Monograms Vacations  7 Days



SWITZERLAND | AUSTRIA
Alpine Countries
Globus Tours  15 Days
From Vienna to Istanbul
Globus Tours  15 Days
The Best of Eastern Europe
Globus Tours  14 Days
The Alpine Countries
Collette Vacations  12 Days
Best of Austria and Switzerland Globus Tours  11 Days The Legendary Danube
Globus Tours  11 Days
Imperial Splendors
Globus Tours  10 Days
Bohemian Dream
Globus Tours  9 Days
Discover Switzerland, Austria and Bavaria
Collette Vacations  10 Days
Munich, Salzburg and Vienna
Globus Tours  8 Days
Grand Tour of Switzerland
Cosmos Tours  8 Days
Best of Switzerland
Globus Tours  8 Days
RUSSIA | NORTHERN/EASTERN EUROPE
Russia and Northern Europe
Globus Tours  18 Days
Arctic Circle
Globus Tours  18 Days
Jewels of the Baltics
Cosmos Tours  16 Days by 
The Best of Eastern Europe
Globus Tours  14 Days
The Scandinavian
Globus Tours  13 Days
Northern Capitals
Globus Tours  13 Days
Magnificent Cities of Central and Eastern Europe
Collette Vacations  13 Days
Warsaw, The Baltics and St. Petersburg
Globus Tours  14 Days
Poland, East Germany and World War II
Globus Tours  12 Days
Imperial Splendors
Globus Tours  10 Days
Russian River Cruise
Collette Vacations  10 Days
Bohemian Dream
Globus Tours  9 Days
Holland, Luxembourg and Belgium
Globus Tours  9 Days
Scenic Norway
Globus Tours  9 Days
Iceland Adventure
Globus Tours  8 Days
St. Petersburg and Moscow
Globus Tours  7 Days
Wonders of Iceland
Collette Vacations  7 Days



SPAIN | PORTUGAL | MOROCCO
Spain, Portugal and Morocco
Globus Tours  17 Days
Spanish Fiesta
Globus Tours
  14 Days
Iberian Vacation
Globus Tours  13 Days
The Best of Spain and Portugal Cosmos Tours  13 Days
Portugal In Depth
Globus Tours  11 Days
Sunny Portugal
Collette Vacations  9 Days
Spectacular Spain
Globus Tours  9 Days
The Best of Spain
Globus Tours  9 Days
Spain's Classics
Collette Vacations  9/12 Days




Globus Virtual Brochures!

Avalon Waterways Europe River Cruising!

Globus River and Small Ship Cruising
 - Is River Cruising for You?

View the short video about touring Europe (right) via the decks of these beautifully appointed and specialized ships!   >>>
Have you Ever...?? - Experience Avalon - Watch Video

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