Avalon Waterways River Cruises
TOURS >> EUROPE > European Splendor  2015/2016
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European Splendor
13 DAYS

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CRUISING YOUR WAY!

European Splendor - Avalon Waterways Cruises
Avalon River Cruises
EUROPEAN SPLENDOR Eastbound
Duration: 13 days
f
rom Amsterdam to Vienna
Includes:
All-inclusive River Cruise


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

Avalon Waterways

European Splendor - Eastbound
13 days from Amsterdam to Vienna

This magnificent vacation includes a deluxe cruise that reveals the best of Europe along the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers. Enjoy a canal cruise past Amsterdam’s 16th-century merchant houses and through the impressive Main Danube Canal. Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge past the legendary Lorelei rock, visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in charming Rüdesheim, have fun at a beer tasting in Nuremberg, and enjoy a tasting of local specialties in Bavaria’s picturesque Wertheim. You’ll also see the sights with Certified Local Guides in Cologne, Bamberg, Nuremberg, Grein, and Vienna. See the Stiftskirche in Dürnstein, and visit the splendid Benedictine Abbey in Melk and the Bishop’s Residenz—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—in Würzburg. While on board, be sure to have your camera ready for the majestic scenery and charming towns you’ll pass on this memorable vacation!

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 Amsterdam (Embarkation)

Welcome to Amsterdam! Holland’s capital is sophisticated and modern, with a rich and fascinating history. This delightful 700-year-old city with its elegant and classic architecture, cafés and restaurants, and lively marketplace has a distinct ambiance. The streets, squares, and canals—not to mention the bike paths throughout the city—make for a vibrant atmosphere. Early this afternoon, why not take an optional excursion to Zaanse Schans, with its traditional houses and Dutch craft workshop. Later, board your river cruise vessel and meet your crew at an evening welcome reception. (Dinner)

NOTE:
Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.


Day 2 Amsterdam

There is no better way to see Amsterdam than by CANAL BOAT, cruising through the elegant grachten lined with stately homes dating back to Amsterdam’s “Golden Age.” There’s free time this afternoon to enjoy the city or perhaps to join a biking optional excursion (weather permitting). Afterward, bid tot ziens (farewell) to Holland and set sail for Germany. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 3 Cologne, Germany

Today, enjoy some peaceful morning cruising before reaching Cologne. One of Germany’s largest cities and capital of the Rhineland, Cologne straddles both sides of the Rhine, and is known for its soaring, twin-steepled gothic cathedral. Choose between a GUIDED CITY WALK or a JEWISH HERITAGE WALK. Later, during free time, perhaps look in on the Romano-Germanic Museum, home to a large collection of artifacts from the Roman settlement on which modern Cologne is built—a must for history buffs! Be sure to try a Kölsch pale lager, locally brewed in Cologne for over a hundred years! (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 4 Rhine Gorge–Rüdesheim

The dramatic RHINE GORGE is the most beautiful stretch of river. Here, ancient castles stand sentry on lofty cliffs rising 400 feet above the waters. Cruise past the legendary rock of the Lorelei, where enchanted siren song lured unwitting sailors to their doom, before arriving in Rüdesheim, the quintessential Rhine Valley wine town. Visit SIEGFRIED’S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM, where you’ll see and hear a large collection of self-playing calliopes and music boxes from the 18th to the early 20th centuries; and enjoy a SPECIAL TREAT. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 5 Wertheim

Today, relax on board until your afternoon arrival in Wertheim. Situated at the confluence of the Tauber and Main Rivers, a GUIDED WALK shows you its medieval center. Enjoy a TASTING of local specialties and free time before departing for Würzburg. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 6 Würzburg

Surrounded by verdant hillside vineyards, Würzburg, 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 are free to explore on your own, or perhaps join an optional excursion to medieval Rothenburg. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7 Bamberg

Enjoy a leisurely morning on board as you cruise gently along the Main River. Before lunch, attend a fascinating ONBOARD LECTURE to learn more about the European Union. This afternoon, arrive in medieval Bamberg, former residence of one of Germany’s most powerful imperial dynasties. Your GUIDED WALKING TOUR 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! Wander the town’s serpentine streets with their charming houses and 18th-century mansions. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8 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. This morning, 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 try some tasty Lebkuchen and 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. This afternoon, relax on board and attend an interesting LECTURE about the engineering marvel that is the Main Danube Canal. Before dinner, we’ll introduce you to some of Germany’s FAMOUS BEERS. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9 Regensburg

Dating back to the time of the Celts around 500 BC, Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights of your GUIDED WALK this morning 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. In the Middle Ages, many mansions were built with high towers to emphasize the status and wealth of their owners, and many still remain today. Grab a beer and enjoy an included SNACK at the Historische Wurstküche (Old Sausage Kitchen), one of Germany’s oldest restaurants. Bask in the vibrant atmosphere and take in the remarkable views along the river. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10 Linz, Austria–Grein

This morning your LOCAL GUIDE will acquaint you with Linz, Austria’s third-largest city and an important river port. See the 13th-century Hauptplatz, Austria’s largest medieval square, and the Trinity Column, built in 1723 as thanks for the city escaping the ravages of the plague, war, and fire. Maybe wander around the old castle grounds and take in the beautiful views of the river, or visit the neo-gothic New Cathedral, the largest church in Austria, with capacity for 20,000 visitors. In the late afternoon, arrive in the attractive country resort of Grein, nestled at the foot of a bluff in the shadow of its castle. Join a Local Guide for a GUIDED WALK and take pictures of the turreted houses on the main square. Its castle is the oldest residential castle in Austria, and its THEATER—built in 1791—is Austria’s oldest theater. Alternatively, you might like to join a full-day optional excursion to Salzburg; or the popular “Romantic Austria” tour; or to medieval Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rejoin your ship in the late afternoon in Grein. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 11 Dürnstein–Vienna

This morning, cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley before arriving in Dürnstein. Standing on the banks of the Danube, the magnificent baroque Stiftskirche with its blue façade is without a doubt the landmark of this small town which lies in the heart of the Wachau wine region. A Local Guide will take you on a 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. This evening, arrive in Vienna, where an optional concert is available tonight. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 12 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 Boys’ Choir and dazzling Lipizzaner stallions; the neo-renaissance Vienna Opera House; and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral—plus, countless other sights you’ll see on your GUIDED TOUR. Shop in 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 13 Vienna (Disembarkation)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)


You may also want to view the
WESTBOUND 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 SHIPS

Luminary River Ship! 
Luminary

Have you Ever...?? - Experience Avalon - Watch VideoBuilt 2010 | Length 361 | Crew Members 39 | Staterooms 65 | Suites 4

Cruising on the Avalon Luminary is the ideal way to experience the majesty, extensive history and fascinating culture of some of Europe's oldest cities along the Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers. Built in 2010, the Avalon Luminary is one of the latest additions to the Avalon fleet, and holds a maximum of just 138 passengers. Visit multiple countries and cities and unpack only once, so you spend your time experiencing and enjoying Europe rather than dealing with the logistics of travel. Enjoy a highly personalized cruise experience, spacious deluxe staterooms and suites, contemporary décor, and popular onboard amenities, including a large Sky Deck with deck chairs and whirlpool, multiple lounges and a bar, Internet corner, fitness center, hair salon, and elevator.
Avalon Luminary 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  172 S.F.

Floorplan


Panorama Suite  200 S.F.

Floorplan


Royal Suite  300 S.F.

Floorplan

Luminary - deck plan

Avalon Waterways
EUROPEAN SPLENDOR
13 days from Amsterdam to Vienna

You may also want to view the WESTBOUND VERSION of this cruise/tour.
Avalon Waterways Europe River Cruising!
From $4199USD 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.

Order Your AVALON Brochure!
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AVALON BROCHURE HERE!
Click here for Avalon Specials!
Avalon Waterways Special Offers!



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.






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 you may also want to view the following tour programs for comparison:

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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
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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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Gardner Travel Service, Inc.
Serving Dallas/Fort Worth and the World

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