Active & Discovery on the Rhine (Northbound) 2021

8 Day River Cruise Frankfurt to Amsterdam

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Get a Quote Book Online From: $3,599$2,849

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Explore the Rhine River your way on Avalon Active & Discovery river cruise. Choose included classic sightseeing, Active excursions, or Discovery activities in culture and cuisine. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an art lover, you’ll find the Avalon Choice® inclusions that speak to you! Visit the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, take a guided culinary walk in Düsseldorf, and taste regional wines in Eltville. In Koblenz, take a cable-car ride up to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for magnificent views of the surrounding area. Aboard your Avalon Suite Ship®, you’ll pass through the magnificent Rhine Gorge and enjoy specialty dishes while cruising. Your Rhine River cruise ends in Amsterdam for a day full of activities. See the colorful streets and row house doors of Amsterdam your way—from a relaxing canal cruise to a leisurely biking tour—all at your pace! Choose a painting class to recreate the masterpieces of Dutch artists. Join us for a Rhine River cruise like no other, with more freedom to cruise your way.


Dates & Prices Get a Quote Book Online

Cruise at-a-Glance

Day 1 Frankfurt (Embarkation):Onboard welcome receptionDay 2 Mainz-Rüdesheim-Bingen:Choice of visit to the Eberbach Monastery, Eltville guided tour with wine tasting, or nature walk in Eltville; free time in RüdesheimDay 3 Rhine Gorge-Boppard-Engers:Cruise through the Rhine Gorge; choice of visit to Marksburg Castle, or Ehrenbreitstein Fortress with a cable car ride, or Volcano Tour experience Day 4 Cologne:Choice of jogging tour, 'off the beaten track' sightseeing, or a visit the chocolate museum, or Cologne highlights walking tourDay 5 Düsseldorf:Choice of guided city sightseeing, biking tour, or culinary tourDay 6 Arnhem-Nijmegen:Choice of biking tour, guided sightseeing in Arnhem, or guided tour of Arnhem's Kröller-Müller Museum; free time in NijmegenDay 7 Amsterdam:Choice of painting class, or biking tour, or canal cruiseDay 8 Amsterdam (Disembarkation):Your cruise ends this morning

Always Included

You've always forged your own path...with your own distinct perspective of looking at the world. Avalon Waterways presents a river cruise experience with your unique style in mind—offering expansive views and wider perspectives. That's why we've designed a cruise experience that's just a bit different.

Here are just some of the features and amenities you'll experience on board our Avalon ships. See the Ship Amenities Section below for more information about the amenities in our fleet’s unique ships.

Throughout the Ship
Suites & Staterooms
Health & Fitness
Dining

Throughout the Ship:

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Panoramic windows
  • Elegant, contemporary design & decor
  • Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
  • Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
  • Covered Observation Lounge
  • Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day

Suites & Staterooms:

  • Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Premium L'Occitane bath products
  • Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
  • Individual climate control and in-room safe
  • USB Ports
  • Complimentary bottled water daily
  • And, much more.

Health & Fitness:

  • Bikes
  • Canoe, kayak and jogging excursions
  • Maps for hiking, biking and jogging routes
  • Fitness and wellness activities
  • Fitbits®
  • All through your Avalon Adventure HostSM

Dining

  • FlexDining® for more venue and seating options, including flexible seating times in our Panorama Dining Room
  • Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
  • Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks with every lunch and dinner
  • Early and Late Riser breakfast options
  • Daily a la carte breakfast with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily specials*
  • Daily a la carte lunch including regional specialties, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and classic dishes*
  • Alternative light lunch at Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather permitting)
  • Daily Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, sweet treats & sandwiches
  • Daily four-course a la carte dinner in the Panorama Dining Room with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees and desserts. Includes selections of regional recipes, Western dishes and vegetarian options.
  • Enjoy a tasting menu with a view in the Panorama Bistro - a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere while lingering over several satisfying selections
  • Captain’s welcome & farewell receptions and dinners with sparkling wine and canapés
  • Panorama Lounge featuring premium spirits and Avalon specialty cocktails, along with local entertainment special guests
  • Cocktails available on the Sky Deck
  • Fresh fruit available throughout the day

*Due to heightened health & safety measures, Avalon has replaced self-serve buffets with crew-served buffets and/or full a la carte menu options until further notice

Avalon has designed included activities with a choice of experiences. We invite you to select the tours, activities, and events that interest you most, so you can experience your cruise your way. There are 3 types of included shore excursion on every Europe cruise:

Classic
Your local expert is ready to guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. You’ll marvel at the legends, lore, and spectacular architecture of iconic and historic sites.
Discovery
We’ve found inspiring and interactive activities to speak to your interests - from cooking classes, to painting workshops - to immerse yourself in each culture you explore.
Active
Embark on energetic excursions to keep you in motion and on the go - from a guided jogging tour of Amsterdam, to biking, paddling, and hiking your way through scenic locales.
  • Plus independent exploration options and use of our exclusive AvalonGO APP.

Day-By-Day Itinerary

(B) = Breakfast   (L) = Lunch   (D) = Dinner

Day 1

(D)

FRANKFURT, GERMANY (EMBARKATION)

Welcome to Germany. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.

Flights into Frankfurt must arrive before 3 pm.

Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN MAINZ
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Day 2

(B, L, D)

MAINZ. EXCURSIONS TO ELTVILLE

Fantastical Forests and Famous Vineyards

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

Active
For some exercise before lunch, join a Guided Nature Walk along one of the Rheinsteig walking trails through Eltville’s idyllic forest and vineyards, OR:
Discovery
Join a Guided Walk through the historic Old Town of Eltville am Rhein, well known as the City of Wine, with a Wine Tasting included, OR:
Classic
Visit the Romanesque Beauty of Eberbach Monastery, the filming location of almost all the interior scenes of Umberto Eco’s dark medieval murder mystery “The Name of the Rose".

Sail to Rüdesheim this afternoon, where you will have time to discover this picturesque village.

Enjoy dinner on board while cruising to Bingen this evening.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BINGEN
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Day 3

(B, L, D)

RHINE GORGE–BOPPARD

Spectacular Riverscapes and a Jewel on the Rhine

Enjoy breakfast on board as you cruise through the spectacular Rhine Gorge on your way to Boppard.

Active
Take a Guided Tour of Marksburg Castle, visit its battlements overlooking the Rhine, and take a scenic walk down the surrounding hillside to Brauback Old town, OR:
Discovery
For a unique experience, join us on an excursion to the “Lava City” of Mendig for a Vulcano Encounter, including exploring the caverns and corridors where basalt (cold lava) was mined, OR:
Classic
Take a leisurely Guided Walk of ancient Koblenz, including a cable car ride to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for a spectacular panoramic view.

At day’s end, you’ll dine aboard your ship as you cruise to Engers.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ENGERS
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Day 4

(B, L, D)

BONN

Biergartens in Beethoven’s Birthplace

Take advantage of some free time in Bonn this morning.

COLOGNE

Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland

Active
For a unique view of Cologne’s history and beauty, join us on a Jogging Tour of the city, OR:
Discovery
Discover the people and true spirit of Cologne on this fascinating guided walking tour through the Belgian Quarter, OR:
Discovery
Visit Cologne’s Chocolate Museum and learn the process of chocolate production and ancient history of this food of the gods, OR:
Classic
Take a leisurely Guided City Walk of Cologne for a view of her must-see sight, including the Old City and its soaring twin-steepled Gothic cathedral.

Enjoy live entertainment on board this evening.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO DÜSSELDORF
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Day 5

(B, L, D)

DÜSSELDORF

Avant-Garde Architecture and Amazing Altbiers

Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.

Active
Join a City Biking Tour to discover interesting stories about the sights and the city itself along the way, OR:
Discovery
Experience Düsseldorf’s Old Town and get an insight into its culinary diversity, OR:
Classic
Join a Guided Tour of Düsseldorf. Visit the Old Town, but also discover its spectacular subway line, where each station has an individual magic character.

Consider a Guided Optional Excursion to Düsseldorf’s microbreweries to try a variety of Altbiers.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO ARNHEM
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Day 6

(B, L, D)

ARNHEM

Wildlife, WWII Valor, and Van Gogh

Active
Biking Join a Biking Tour on the Hoge Veluwe National Park and admire its diversity of scenery, from dense forests to sand dune, OR:
Discovery
Join a Guided Sightseeing to discover Arnhem-a key WWII operations site and home to impressive historical monuments and memorials-then visit a medieval castle for a regional herb and vegetable product tasting, OR:
Classic
Take a Guided Tour of Arnhem’s Kröller-Müller Museum with the world’s second largest Van Gogh collection
. NIJMEGEN

Delicious Dutch Specialties and Famous Mills

Consider a Guided Optional Excursion to the Windmill of Thorn or an Optional Cooking Workshop.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AMSTERDAM
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Day 7

(B, L, D)

AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND

Colorful Canals of Amsterdam

Discovery
Attend a Painting Class and be inspired by the masters’ techniques. Paint your own canvas and discover your inner artist. An orientation walk will complete your experience, OR:
Discovery
Join a Biking Tour through the Dutch countryside past polders, dykes, and quaint centuries-old villages, OR:
Classic
Enjoy a Guided Canal Cruise to explore the iconic waterways and sites of Amsterdam.

This afternoon consider an Optional Culinary Walk in one of Amsterdam’s famous districts, or an Optional Kayaking Excursion.

Spend free time strolling at leisure through the galleries and cafés of Amsterdam.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM
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Day 8

(B)

AMSTERDAM (DISEMBARKATION)

Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.

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  • In the event of technical or water level issues, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or alter the program, including hotel overnight when necessary.
  • Guided Tours, Optional Excursions, activities, sailing and docking schedules may be contingent on weather conditions or other issues outside of our control and could therefore be subject to change at any time.
  • Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.

Ship Details

Expression

Expression

Part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, the Avalon Expression features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform the living space into river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning to splendid passing scenery from your window-facing bed. Stretch out on your Comfort Collection bed and cruise with the world at your feet. Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck. Express yourself while cruising your way on the Avalon Expression!

Included Amenities


Staterooms & Suites

Avalon Deluxe Stateroom (Cat. D, E) - 172 sq. ft.
Avalon Deluxe Stateroom (Cat. D, E)
Features
  • Comfort Collection Beds
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Choice of bed configuration
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • L'Occitane bath products
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Alarm clock
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Complimentary water
  • Individual climate control
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • USB Ports
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
  • Luxurious mattress toppers
  • European-style duvets
  • Extra blankets
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Hairdryer
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • In-room safe
  • Elegant, contemporary design
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Two windows
  • Writing desk and chair
Panorama Suite (Cat. A, B, P) - 200 sq. ft.
Panorama Suite (Cat. A, B, P)
Features
  • Comfort Collection Beds
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Choice of bed configuration
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • L'Occitane bath products
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Alarm clock
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • In-room safe
  • Elegant, contemporary design
  • Marble countertops in bathroom
  • USB Ports
  • 6-person sitting area
  • Writing desk and chair
  • Sofa
  • Luxurious mattress toppers
  • European-style duvets
  • Extra blankets
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Hairdryer
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
  • Make-up mirror
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Complimentary water
  • Individual climate control
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
  • Coffee table
Royal Suite - 300 sq. ft.
Royal Suite
Features
  • Comfort Collection Beds
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Choice of bed configuration
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • L'Occitane bath products
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Alarm clock
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • In-room safe
  • Elegant, contemporary design
  • Marble countertops in bathroom
  • USB Ports
  • 6-person sitting area
  • Writing desk and chair
  • Sofa
  • Double sinks
  • Luxurious mattress toppers
  • European-style duvets
  • Extra blankets
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Hairdryer
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
  • Make-up mirror
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Complimentary water
  • Individual climate control
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
  • Coffee table
DECK PLANS

Hotels

 Optional Excursions

No matter what you’re into: food, wine, history, art, music or anything else, we give you the freedom to personalize your vacation with optional excursions that speak to your interests.

When you book your excursions with us, you can be assured that every optional excursion that we offer coordinates with the free time that you'll have in your destination, so you'll never have conflicts between included and optional activities. Our team of travel experts carefully selects each optional excursion that we offer to ensure that you receive the highest quality at a great value. Our tried-and-true partners have a finger on the pulse of the city in which they operate so they deliver the very best experiences. We offer experiences you cannot create on your own and because you’re booking with us, we coordinate all your transportation and timing needs.

The following optional excursions are examples only for this vacation. These may or may not be offered, and availability is subject to days of operation and seasonality. Please select a departure date to view optional excursions and pricing for a specific date (due to currency fluctuation, pricing shown is subject to change until purchased). Optional excursions are available for purchase on our MyAvalon site 90 days prior to the tour start date.

Price Ranges

$ ($50 USD and under)
$$ ($51 - $100 USD)
$$$ ($101 - $150 USD)
$$$$ (Over $150)


Dusseldorf
Nijmegen
Amsterdam

Dusseldorf

Rhine Tower Ascent with Sparkling Wine

Rhine Tower Ascent with Sparkling Wine

Discover Media Hafen, Düsseldorf's vibrantly redeveloped dock area, where you'll ascend the city's tallest building for magnificent views and a glass of delicious sparkling wine.

Price Range: $$

Düsseldorf Altbier Discovery Tour

Düsseldorf Altbier Discovery Tour

Join an expert guide for a tour and tasting of Düsseldorf's world-famous Altbiers! Learn all about these historic top-fermented beers, including what gives them their dark copper color and crisp, fruity taste. Prost!

Price Range: $

Düsseldorf Cultural Walk & Opera House Visit

Düsseldorf Cultural Walk & Opera House Visit

Encounter spectacular architecture, art, and culture on this wonderful guided stroll through Düsseldorf, featuring an inside visit of the city's renowned opera house!

Price Range: $

Nijmegen

Forgotten Foods Cooking Workshop

Forgotten Foods Cooking Workshop

Visit Nijmegen's 12th-century Commanderie for a fascinating cooking workshop featuring long-forgotten European recipes and ingredients, insight into how experts rediscovered them, and the chance to create and taste the delicious final products!

Price Range: $$$

WWII Operation Market Garden Liberation Museum & Jeep Safari

WWII Operation Market Garden Liberation Museum & Jeep Safari

Experience September 1944 and Operation Market Garden, the largest airborne operation in history, as you visit the National Liberation Museum and explore Groesbeek in an authentic war-era military vehicle to learn how the Allies liberated the Netherlands from Nazi occupation.

Price Range: $$

Into the Dutch Countryside: Windmill & Farm Visits with Carriage Ride

Into the Dutch Countryside: Windmill & Farm Visits with Carriage Ride

Head into the beautiful Dutch countryside for visits to an authentic windmill and a fruit farm, and a horse-drawn carriage ride through the Ooijpolder nature reserve.

Price Range: $$

Amsterdam

Bites & Highlights of Amsterdam

Bites & Highlights of Amsterdam

Discover Amsterdam's charming Jordaan district, and taste the authentic foods the locals know and love on this enjoyable guided foodie walking tour.

Price Range: $$

Zaanse Schans & the Symbols of Holland

Zaanse Schans & the Symbols of Holland

Tour a working windmill, watch wooden clogs being made, and visit a cheese farm on this exciting half-day guided excursion to Zaanse Schans!

Price Range: $

Kayak Adventure on the Canals of Amsterdam

Kayak Adventure on the Canals of Amsterdam

Get a unique perspective of Amsterdam as you traverse the city's canals by kayak! Whether you're a hard-core kayaker or a newcomer to the activity, this fun guided excursion is perfect for anyone seeking an active adventure in the city.

Price Range: $$

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