Traveling through Europe is easier than ever when you take a river cruise. Taking a European river cruise along the Rhine and Moselle Rivers on Avalon Waterways, allows you to to see Europe up close and personal, plus there’s no jumping from train to train and unpacking from hotel to hotel. Each night you’ll return to your “floating hotel” and move on to the next port city.
Europe is rich with history–and color. As you scroll through the pictures, you’ll notice that the use of color is predominant in every city.
Photo courtesy of Avalon Waterways
Onboard the Avalon Affinity or Artistry II, you will enjoy scenic views filled with castles and vineyards as you journey down the river. On the northbound itinerary, you’ll fly to Zürich, where you’ll transfer to Basel to board your ship made just for cruising the rivers of Europe. In 13 days, you’ll see Switzerland, Germany, France, Luxembourg, and Holland.
Enjoy a wide open French Balcony on an Avalon Waterways ship
The culture of each country is brought onboard
Local chefs cook up favorite regional cuisine. Local entertainers join you onboard for an evening of music while enjoying the regions wines. Artisans and experts are also brought onboard to display their talents and share their stories with you. It’s a complete immersion into the history and cultures along the famous rivers.
DAY 1: Zürich, Switzerland—Transfer to Basel, Switzerland (northbound cruise)
We recommend you arrive in Zurich a day early so you can enjoy the place famous for its chocolate and watches. The day of your cruise, you’ll be transferred to Basel to embark on your journey.
Photo of Basel along the Rhine River courtesy of Avalon Waterways
DAY 2: Breisach, Germany
This is Germany’s Black Forest region and best known for their cuckoo clocks (you can watch one being made), Black Forest ham and Black Forest cherry cake. Yum!
DAY 3: Strasbourg, France
You’ll have all day to explore this charming city. La Petite France has a waterfront promenade which makes spending the day at one of the bistros so relaxing. There’s also an optional excursion out to the Alsace wine country.
DAY 4: Mainz, Germany
Old Town is full of fun shops with their iconic jesters, and Mainz is also Germany’s largest wine market.
The Mannheim Palace
In the afternoon, you’ll head to Heidelberg where you can taste some of Germany’s famous schnitzel with a cold beer.
Try Heidelberg’s famous viener schnitzel and cold Pilsner beer
DAY 5: Rüdesheim, Germany
Be sure to have a cup of Rüdesheim coffee, which is carefully made with coffee and German brandy, then topped with fresh whipped cream.
After you’ve savored your coffee, spend your day exploring this old German town.
Cruising through the Rhine Gorge, expect to see endless views of castles and vineyards.
DAY 6: Bernkastel, Germany
After a guided walk of the marketplace, adventure out on your own. A great way to explore this renaissance town is on a bicycle. You’ll also have an opportunity to taste the region’s best wines before you leave.
Photo courtesy of Avalon Waterways
DAY 7: Trier, Germany and cruising by Luxembourg
Besides more wonderful wines in the region, Trier boasts of seven UNESCO World Heritage sites, including Roman baths, amphitheater, bridge, and Porta Nigra (the Roman gate).
Photo of Trier courtesy of Avalon Waterways
DAY 8: Cochem, Germany
Get your camera out! Cochem is one of the most scenic areas with beautiful views from every angle.
Photo courtesy of Avalon Waterways
Photo of Cochem courtesy of Avalon Waterways
DAY 9: Koblenz, Germany
Where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers merge is an old Roman settlement called Koblenz. It’s the cultural and business center of the Middle Rhine region. It’s stories can all be told during your walking tour of the castles, fortresses and monuments.
The tram up the side of the mountain to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress is a great way to see spectacular views of the Moselle River.
DAY 10: Cologne, Germany
Cologne is most famous for it’s twin-steepled cathedral. Locals recommend you try their locally brewed Kölsch pale lager.
The Cologne Cathedral resembles the City of Oz at night
DAY 11: Kinderdijk, Holland
Nineteen windmills line the waterways in Kinderdijk. You’ll get a chance to go inside one and see how they work.
DAY 12: Volendam, Holland
You’ll set out to discover Volendam by canal boat. There’s plenty of time to explore this quaint fishing town.
Then you’ll board a bus and head to Edam. You’ll spend the afternoon tasting tasting all the wonderful dutch foods and find some great souvenirs to take home.
DAY 13: Amsterdam, Holland
Welcome to Amsterdam. The city famous for the Anne Frank house, Van Gogh’s museum, cheese, and clogs.
Did you know Amsterdam is below sea level and the entire city is built on wooden poles?
Want more information on taking a Rhine and Moselle European River cruise?
Call a CruiseExperts.com agent now to book your stateroom on an Avalon Waterways Rhine and Moselle River cruise. We are here to answer any questions you may have about all your European River cruising options. Call us at 1-888-804-CRUISE (2784) or visit our website, www.CruiseExperts.com
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2 Comments
Please send brochure and price information regarding European river cruise through Germany and Holland.
Don – one of our Cruise Experts will be sending you information. Thanks for your interest!