Festive Season on the Romantic Rhine with 2 Nights Lucerne, 2 Nights Paris & 2 Nights London 2019

14 Day River Cruise Lucerne to London

2019 Information

One of Europe’s most legendary rivers awaits you on this special winter voyage along the Rhine River. Enjoy glowing Christmas markets on your European river cruise across Germany, and touching in Holland, France, and Switzerland! This magnificent festive season Rhine vacation begins in Lucerne, with a guided walking tour including the Lion Monument, Old Town, Chapel Bridge, the Water Tower, Jesuit Church, and a special highlight excursion to Mount Pilatus.

Board your vessel in Basel, Switzerland, then head for Breisach, Germany, the gateway to the Black Forest, an area of unrivaled natural beauty, best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock. Here’s your first chance to explore a Christmas market offering many traditional items. Continue your river cruise to Strasbourg, France, where you’ll visit the red sandstone gothic cathedral with ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock. Strasbourg is home to one of the oldest and finest Christmas markets in Europe and its centerpiece is a giant Christmas tree. Visit the ruins of Heidelberg’s castle, towering magnificently over the city, and watch the skaters on the ice rink below. Stop in Mainz for a guided walk and visit the captivating Gutenberg Museum.

Next up is the charming wine town of Rüdesheim, and unique Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. You’re sure to be enthralled by the life-size figures of Europe’s largest nativity scene on the Market Square. Pass through the dramatic Rhine Gorge before arriving in Cologne—your last stop in Germany. Here, you’ll explore the 2,000-year-old city known for its gothic architecture and famous twin-spired cathedral. Wander through the Christmas market, try some traditional Lebkuchen and get some inner warmth with a cup of Glühwein.

As an exclamation point to this wonderful Rhine river cruise, you’ll spend time in Holland’s popular, modern capital of Amsterdam. The best way to see the treasures of this 700-year-old city is on a canal cruise along the elegant grachten lined with homes dating back to the city’s “Golden Age.” You’ll disembark from your ship and travel by high-speed train to Paris to enjoy your Monograms vacation package with two nights each in Paris and London. Begin with a guided tour of the City of Lights, and see the iconic sights, followed by a Seine river cruise. Next, you’ll travel via high-speed train from Paris to London. Enjoy a guided tour with your local expert, and go inside St. Paul’s Cathedral, where Prince Charles and Lady Diana were married. Your Monograms Local Host® is available during your stays in Paris and London to assist you!


Dates & Prices Get a Quote Book Online

Cruise at-a-Glance

Day 1 Lucerne, Switzerland:Welcome to SwitzerlandDay 2 Lucerne:Guided walking tour with the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge Day 3 Lucerne, Mount Pilatus—Basel (Embarkation):Excursion to Mount Pilatus (in case of bad weather, visit the Swiss Transport Museum instead; transfer to Basel to join your ship; onboard welcome receptionDay 4 Breisach:Choice of Black Forest Excursion, or guided tour in Colmar; Christmas marketDay 5 Strasbourg:Guided sightseeing, visit the La Petite France district and the gothic cathedral; Christmas marketDay 6 Excursion to Heidelberg. Mainz:Excursion to Heidelberg, guided visit of the castle, see the Great Vat; guided walk, visit the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz, Christmas marketDay 7 Rüdesheim–Rhine Gorge:Visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in Rüdesheim; special treat; Christmas market; cruise through the Rhine GorgeDay 8 Cologne:Guided city walk; Christmas market Day 9 Amsterdam:Canal cruiseDay 10 Amsterdam (Disembarkation)–Paris, France:Travel to Paris by high-speed train (first class)Day 11 Paris:Guided sightseeing, Seine river cruiseDay 12 Paris–London, England:Travel to London by high-speed Eurostar train (Standard class)Day 13 London:Guided sightseeing, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral (except on Sundays)Day 14 London:Your vacation ends this morning

Cruise YourWay

Avalon makes it easy to experience vacation your way with seamless extension options before and after your cruise. Your Way offers added nights in a selection of locales. From Budapest to Barcelona, you can spend a little or a lot more time getting to know more on shore with Your Way custom itineraries.

View 1 Your Way Cruise Option »

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 full buffet breakfast with made-to-order egg station, hot and cold menu items
  • Daily lunch buffet with pasta or carving stations
  • 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

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

LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND

Welcome to Switzerland! The remainder of the day is free to start exploring this delightful town on the Reuss River. Your Monograms Local Host will help you get the most out of your two nights in Lucerne.

Day 2

(B)

LUCERNE

Your guided walking tour includes the poignant Lion Monument, Old Town, Chapel Bridge, the Water Tower, and Jesuit Church.

Day 3

(D)

LUCERNE-MOUNT PILATUS-BASEL (EMBARKATION)

This morning enjoy a special highlight excursion to Mount Pilatus. Journey almost 7,000 ft. (2,132 m) up for spectacular views over central Switzerland (in case of bad weather, visit the Swiss Transport Museum instead).

Transfer to Basel to board your Suite Ship®.

EVENING CRUISE TO BREISACH

Day 4

(B, L, D)

BREISACH, GERMANY. EXCURSION TO THE BLACK FOREST

History, Artistry, and the Beautiful Black Forest

Classic
Visit the charming village of Colmar on a Guided Tour of its half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings; enjoy the warmth and glow of the Christmas season, OR:
Discovery
Join a full-day Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience local traditions and the vibrant Christmas mood.

Follow your visit to Colmar with a free afternoon in Breisach for shopping and taking a break in one of the many cozies cafés.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO STRASBOURG

Day 5

(B, L, D)

STRASBOURG, FRANCE

Gothic Giants, Military Marvels, and Varietal Vintages

Classic
Join a City Sightseeing Tour, including Strasbourg’s gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petit France District.

Savor the warmth and glow of Christmas tradition by spending your free time wandering the French winter markets of Strasbourg. Take in the lights, music, and the pleasures of the season.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO LUDWIGSHAFEN

Day 6

(B, L, D)

EXCURSION TO HEIDELBERG, GERMANY. MAINZ

Printing Halls, Castle Walls, and the World’s Biggest Barrel of wine

Classic
Enjoy a Guided Tour to Heidelberg Castle to see the ruins of the magnificent renaissance treasure towering above the city, and its famed Great Vat, the “World’s Largest Wine Barrel.”
Classic
Enjoy a Guided City Walk, including a visit to the Gutenberg Museum to see the captivating history of printing.

In your free time visit the local Christmas market: explore at your own pace to soak up the sights and sound.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN MAINZ

Day 7

(B, L, D)

RÜDESHEIM—RHINE GORGE—KOBLENZ

Eat, Drink and be Merry in Wine Country

Discovery
Take a Guided Tour of the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for one-of-a-kind instrumental experience.
Discovery
Based on your departure date, enjoy either a Coffee Tasting or a Wine Tasting.

Sail through the Rhine Gorge to Rüdesheim, past the legendary rock of The Lorelei–where the siren of mythology sang songs to lure ill-fated sailors.

Don’t miss the tantalizing treats, and seasonal handiwork of sparkling winter wonderlands in Koblenz.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO COLOGNE

Day 8

(B, L, D)

COLOGNE

Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland’s Capital City

Classic
Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne—with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral, OR:

Spend free time enjoying the festive, warm glow of Cologne’s Christmas markets.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AMSTERDAM

Day 9

(B, L, D)

AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND

Colorful Amsterdam —with Canals, Crooked Houses, and Cuisine of a Golden Age

Classic
Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age.”

With a free day to explore before your cruise, take time to enjoy the warmth and glow of Christmas tradition or join a Guided Optional Excursion to Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and charming Dutch houses.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM

Day 10

(B)

AMSTERDAM (DISEMBARKATION)—PARIS, FRANCE

Transfer from your Avalon ship to the train station, where you begin your Monograms package. Travel to Paris by high-speed train (first class).

Day 11

(B)

PARIS

Morning guided sightseeing includes a drive past the Latin Quarter, Les Invalides, Place de la Concorde, the Arc de Triomphe and a stop to take photos of the Eiffel Tower from one of the best panoramic viewing points. Also admire the heart of the city from a different perspective on a SEINE RIVER CRUISE. Embark your comfortable boat near the Eiffel Tower and spend a relaxing hour gliding by many of the city's important landmarks such as the L'Institut de France; magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral where Napoleon was crowned emperor in 1804; Hôtel de Ville, the city's municipal headquarters; the Conciergerie, formerly a notorious prison where Marie-Antoinette spent the last days of her life; famous Louvre Palace and museum; and much more.

Day 12

(B)

PARIS—LONDON

Travel to London by high-speed Eurostar train (Standard class).

Day 13

(B)

LONDON

Morning guided sightseeing includes all of London’s famous landmarks. Drive past the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben; Westminster Abbey, where Prince William and Catherine, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, were married; Whitehall’s mounted horseguards; the Prime Minister’s Downing Street; Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly Circus. Take photos of the London Eye, the giant Ferris wheel situated on the river bank, and the Shard, the tallest building in Western Europe. Then, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral (except on Sundays). Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece with its world-famous dome is an iconic feature of London’s skyline.

Day 14

(B)

LONDON

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

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.
  • Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.
  • Christmas markets are open from the first weekend in December, depending on the location.

YourWay Logo

Romantic Rhine – Northbound

Start Sooner, Stay Longer

Start your vacation earlier or stay longer with destination options before or after your Avalon cruise.

Ship Details

Vista

Vista

Experience European river views unlike any other ship can offer. The Avalon Vista's two full decks of suites feature Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows that transform your living space into a unique Open-Air BalconySM. Enjoy seamless cabin views that bring the view inside on your European river cruise. Our Comfort Collection beds face the window for the ultimate in relaxed luxury with fresh breezes and enchanting scenery. With 200 square feet, Panorama SuitesSM are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning facing the splendid passing scenery. Onboard amenities include a Fitness Center, complimentary computer use in public areas and Wi-Fi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, shade system, whirlpool, and the delightful Sky Bistro.

Included Amenities

Avalon Suite Fleet

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
  • Panoramic windows throughout the ship
  • 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
  • Elevator
  • Non-smoking interior and staterooms

Fitness & Wellness

  • Fitness Center
  • Avalon Adventure Center
    Your place for active gear and excursions, including
    • Bikes
    • Canoe, kayak and jogging excursions
    • Maps for hiking, biking and jogging routes
    • Fitness and wellness activities
    • FitBits®
    All through your Avalon Adventure HostSM
  • Active shore excursions, both included and optional

Avalon Panorama Suites & Staterooms

  • Open-Air BalconiesSM and Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows in all Panorama Suites
  • Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Premium L'Occitane bath products & hairdryer
  • Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
  • Wide selection of free movie channels and English-speaking TV
  • Individual climate control and in-room safe
  • Full-size closet and mirror
  • Additional under-bed storage
  • Complimentary bottled water daily

Staterooms & Suites

Avalon Deluxe Stateroom (Cat. D, E) - 172 sq. ft.
Avalon Deluxe Stateroom (Cat. D, E)
Features
  • Comfort Collection BedsSM
  • 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 bottled 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 BedsSM
  • 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 bottled water
  • Individual climate control
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air BalconySM
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
  • Coffee table
Royal Suite - 300 sq. ft.
Royal Suite
Features
  • Comfort Collection BedsSM
  • 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 bottled water
  • Individual climate control
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air BalconySM
  • 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)


Lucerne
Basel
Strasbourg
Amsterdam
Paris
Packages

Lucerne

Rotair Ride to Mount Titlis, Land of Eternal Winter

Rotair Ride to Mount Titlis, Land of Eternal Winter

Ride the world's first revolving aerial cableway to the Mount Titlis summit station, where you can lunch, shop, explore the Glacier Cave, cross Europe's highest suspension footbridge, or just marvel at the enchanting alpine views!

Price Range: $$$

Art and Culture in Lucerne

Art and Culture in Lucerne

The local guide will welcome you to the city of Lucerne! Let him take you to some incredible buildings and and the well-known art museum! He will present you the KKL building and tell you its story and why it is important to us locals. During our little stroll through the city it will be explained to you a few things about Art and Culture in Lucerne.

Price Range: $$$$

Basel

Basel sightseeing

Basel sightseeing

Discover the multiple sights of Basel, a city with 2000 years of history. Enjoy a coach ride through the city and stroll in the historical centre.

Price Range: $

Strasbourg

Into the Alsace Countryside with Wine Tasting

Into the Alsace Countryside with Wine Tasting

Travel along the famed Alsace Wine Route on this enchanting half-day excursion that visits a traditional medieval Alsace village and includes a cellar tasting of the local wines.

Price Range: $$

Amsterdam

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: $

Bites & Highlights: Jordaan Foodie Walking Tour

Bites & Highlights: Jordaan Foodie Walking Tour

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: $$

Paris

Running Paris

Running Paris

Discover the magic of Paris while staying active at the same time on this easy-paced guided running and sightseeing tour.

Price Range: $$

Dinner and Cabaret Show at the Famous Lido

Dinner and Cabaret Show at the Famous Lido

Enjoy a magical evening of delectable French cuisine and the newest cabaret show at Paris' legendary Lido on the Champs-Élysées.

Price Range: $$$$

An Evening at the Moulin Rouge

An Evening at the Moulin Rouge

Enter the exhilarating Belle Époque world of champagne, fine French cuisine, music, lights, thousands of glittering costumes, and an evening of Moulin Rouge cabaret you will never forget!

Price Range: $$$$

Seine River Cruise

Seine River Cruise

Enjoy a cruising experience like no other on this incredible excursion aboard a beautiful, glass-encased boat on the River Seine.

Price Range: $$$

Vintage Car Tour

Vintage Car Tour

Ride in a vintage car through the incredible City of Light.

Price Range: $$$

Private Guided Tour

Private Guided Tour

Explore the City of Light in your own way and at your own pace on this private, guided sightseeing tour. Just decide what you want to see and do with your certified Local Guide--the choice is yours!

Price Range: $$$$

Historic Wine Cellar Tour with Wine Tasting

Historic Wine Cellar Tour with Wine Tasting

Tour the King of France's 18th-century wine cellar, learn about the fine art of crafting world-famous wines, and taste three different French wines-c'est magnifique!

Price Range: $

French Baking Class: Classic Macarons

French Baking Class: Classic Macarons

Learn to make perfect French macarons at this fun, hands-on cooking class.

Price Range: $$$

Packages

Celebration Packages

Celebration Packages

Celebrating a birthday or anniversary while you're cruising? Add an Avalon Celebration Package to your vacation. You can make your special day even more memorable with special touches ranging from flowers to a private cocktail reception.

Price Range: $$$$