Explore and book Avalon Waterways River Cruises 21 Night Vineyards, Chateaux & Bordeaux on the Avalon Envision departing from Basel, Switzerland on Nov 2, 2027 and ending in Bordeaux, France on Nov 23, 2027 Sail to Basel, Switzerland, Breisach am Rhein, Germany, Mainz, Germany, Cologne, Germany, Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Vernon, France, Caudebec-les-Elbeuf, France, Rouen, France, Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, France, Paris, France, Cussac-Fort-Medoc, France, Blaye, France, Bordeaux, France

Basel, Switzerland

Welcome to Switzerland! Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Zürich or Basel must arrive by 3 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board.EVENING CRUISE TO B

Nestled at the junction of France, Germany, and Switzerland, Basel is a cultural gem with a rich heritage. Visit the Kunstmuseum and the impressive Basel Minster to experience its artistic and architectural splendor. Wander through the medieval Old Town's cobbled streets, lined with charming squares and historic buildings. The vibrant market square and numerous festivals make Basel a dynamic stop along the Rhine on any cruise itinerary.

German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black Forest Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.ACTIVE Enjoy the view on a relaxing bike ride along the Rhine with your Adventure Host, OR:

Breisach am Rhein, Germany

A Grand Cathedral and La Petite FranceACTIVE Discover Strasbourg by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:

Castle Walls and the World’s Biggest Wine BarrelACTIVE Join your Avalon Adventure Host for an inspiring walk in Heidelberg, the Philosophers' Way, OR:

Mainz, Germany

Mainz, the capital of Rhineland-Palatinate, is famous for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Discover the Gutenberg Museum, dedicated to the inventor of the printing press, and marvel at the impressive Mainz Cathedral, a Romanesque masterpiece. The city’s lively market squares, such as the picturesque Schillerplatz, offer a delightful array of shops and cafes. Mainz's location along the Rhine River makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the scenic Middle Rhine Valley.

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine CountryACTIVE Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim, OR:

Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.ACTIVE Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host, OR:

Cologne, Germany

Cologne seamlessly blends its ancient heritage with a vibrant modern culture. The iconic Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, towers over the city, inviting you to explore its gothic splendor. Meander through the Altstadt (Old Town) with its quaint alleys, historic buildings, and lively squares. Cologne’s thriving art scene and world-class museums make it a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.

Canals of Colorful AmsterdamACTIVE Start your day joining your Adventure Host on an early morning walk in Amsterdam, OR:

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam, with its iconic canals and historic architecture, offers a blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Stroll through the Museum District to explore masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum. Enjoy a scenic canal cruise to see the city from a unique perspective. Don’t miss the lively Jordaan neighborhood, known for its boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

On to Paris This morning, board a high-speed train for Paris to embark on your Avalon Suite Ship® and enjoy dinner onboard this evening. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VERNON

Monet’s Fleurs and Crêpes du JourVisit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.ACTIVE Explore Vernon's Chateau des Tourelles by foot with your Adventure Host, OR:

Vernon, France

Vernon, nestled on the banks of the Seine River, is a charming gateway to the renowned Giverny. This quaint town features cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, offering a quintessential French experience. The main attraction, Claude Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny, is just a short trip away, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts. Stroll along the Seine and explore local markets to soak in the serene beauty of Vernon.

Ancient Abbeys Along the SeineACTIVE Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the river with your Adventure Host, OR:

Caudebec-les-Elbeuf, France

Heroic Bravery on Normandy Beaches and French Farming Traditions CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of Normandy’s WWII landing beaches, visit significant U.S. sites, including Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc monument, and the American Cemeter

The Cathedral of Notre-Dame and a Heroine for France ACTIVE Take a Guided Bike Tour to discover and explore the most famous monuments and the lesser known hidden gems of Rouen on two wheels, OR:

Rouen, France

Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy, is rich in medieval heritage and cultural vibrancy. Its skyline is dominated by the stunning Rouen Cathedral, immortalized by Monet, and its cobblestone streets lead to landmarks like the Gros Horloge and the place where Joan of Arc was martyred. The city’s museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, offer a deep dive into its artistic past. Wander through the old town to experience Rouen's unique blend of history and contemporary French life.

The Footsteps of Van Gogh, Bonaparte, and Louis XIV ACTIVE Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the Seine with your Adventure Host, OR:

Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, France

Cafés, Cathedrals and Canvases in the City of Light Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.ACTIVE Experience the Seine river by foot with your Adventure Host, OR:

Paris, France

Paris, the iconic capital of France, is a city of timeless elegance and cultural grandeur. Marvel at the architectural splendor of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. Stroll along the Seine River, visiting charming cafes and boutique shops in the vibrant neighborhoods. A cruise stop in Paris offers an unforgettable blend of history, art, and romance, ensuring an enriching and inspiring experience.

Your Suite Ship® is Ready for BoardingThis morning, travel to Bordeaux to board your Suite Ship® and start your cruise on the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers.This evening, enjoy a very special sailing featuring the illuminated skyline of Bordeaux.<SPAN CLASS=

On the Steps of MontesquieuDISCOVERY Join a delicious onboard experience in Bordeaux wines with a presentation by a worldclass wine sommelier.

Bikes, Vines, and Wines This morning, enjoy a leisurely sailing to Cussac Fort MédocVisit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.ACTIVE Enjoy a relaxing E-bike guided tour in Bordeaux’s finest wine region.

Cussac-Fort-Medoc, France

Fine Art, Fine Bubbly, and a Fine Day for a DriveAsk your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.ACTIVE Join a refreshing power walk through the historic Citadel of Blaye with your Adventure Host, OR:

Blaye, France

Blaye, located on the Gironde estuary, is a picturesque town known for its impressive citadel and scenic vineyards. The 17th-century Citadel of Blaye, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Explore the fortifications, enjoy wine tastings at local chateaux, and take in the serene beauty of the region. Blaye provides a perfect mix of historical intrigue and natural beauty, ideal for a peaceful and enriching visit.

The Village Amid the VineyardsDISCOVERY Enjoy a guided visit to Saint-Émilion to discover one Bordeaux’ must-see wine-growing towns and celebrate your day with a wine tasting, OR:

Bordeaux Sights and Brilliant Lights Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.DISCOVERY While sailing to Bordeaux, enjoy a pastry demonstration.

Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage city, is celebrated for its elegant architecture, exceptional wines, and vibrant cultural scene. The Place de la Bourse and its stunning Water Mirror are iconic landmarks that capture the city's charm. Visitors can explore the Cité du Vin, an immersive wine museum, and enjoy wine tastings in the surrounding vineyards. Bordeaux offers a sophisticated blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it a premier destination for travelers.

Seas, Shells, and Sips ACTIVE Join your Adventure Host for a bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais, OR:

Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

21 Night Vineyards, Chateaux & Bordeaux

Mediterranean

Europe

Unwind in the Observation Lounge, where the serene pace and perfect vantage point on the river offer an idyllic setting for relaxation. Enjoy a coffee or wine as you drift past picturesque shorelines and stunning vistas.

Observation Lounge

Relax in the airy Club Lounge, where a 24-hour self-service beverage station offers complimentary premium coffees, cappuccinos, lattes, hot chocolate, and teas. Enjoy cookies, pastries, dried fruits, and nuts available throughout the day.

Club Lounge

Embrace your adventurous spirit at the Adventure Center, your gateway to active exploration both on board and ashore. From cycling to guided walks, the center provides all necessary gear and support for a variety of active pursuits—your adventure starts here.

Adventure Center

Relax in the Panorama Lounge's cozy seating, set against panoramic windows, and enjoy a night of dance and unique artisan demonstrations.

Panorama Lounge

Elevate your relaxation experience on the Sky Deck, where premium lounge chairs invite guests to recline in comfort. The state-of-the-art shade system ensures cool comfort even on the sunniest days, making it the ideal spot for leisure.

Sky Lounge

Relax and rejuvenate in the whirlpool on Avalon Waterways, a serene oasis where you can unwind while soaking in warm, soothing waters. Positioned on the Sky Deck with panoramic views of the ocean, this facility offers a perfect blend of relaxation and scenic beauty.

Whirlpool

Elevate your playtime on the Sky Deck game area, where endless fun meets stunning sea views. Engage in a wide array of games suitable for every member of the family all set against the backdrop of the ocean's horizon.

Deck Game Area

Set against a backdrop of breathtaking river views, Panorama Bar offers a cozy atmosphere for either quiet reflection or engaging conversation with a blend of classic and creative cocktails. Note that happy hour specials are complimentary, though additional beverages may incur additional charges.

Panorama Bar

Delight in exceptional meals from breakfast to elegant dinners in the glass-walled Panorama Dining Room, where local flavors and Avalon Fresh menu offerings enhance every part of your journey.

Panorama Dining Room

Experience the convivial atmosphere of the Panorama Bistro, where buffet-style dining meets casual elegance. Gather with friends for delightful meals and enjoy a selection of carefully curated dishes and beverages.

Panorama Bistro

Sky Grill offers a delightful dining experience that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients prepared by creative chefs. Avalon FlexDining enhances your mealtime flexibility, allowing you to choose from an al fresco lunch, an elegant dinner in the Panorama Dining Room, or a relaxed bite in the Panorama Bistro.

Sky Grill

Maintain your fitness routine at the fully equipped Fitness Center, which offers treadmills, bikes, and weights for a comprehensive workout anytime.

Fitness Center

The Avalon Envision offers a relaxed and immersive cruising experience along the Danube River, characterized by its spacious Panorama Suites with floor-to-ceiling windows and beds facing the view, ensuring stunning vistas from the comfort of your room. With Flex Dining options and free-style dinner seating, the ship caters to a casual dining atmosphere, while also providing diverse excursion choices ranging from low-intensity tours to active adventures like hiking and biking. The interior design emphasizes elegant, window-lined spaces that allow for panoramic views and a sense of openness, never feeling crowded even at full capacity.

Avalon Waterways River Cruises

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Main River Cruise Vacations

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Avalon Envision

During tulip season, explore Keukenhof Gardens, home to over seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. Enjoy vibrant displays and the essence of Dutch horticulture in full bloom.

Outside of tulip season, visit Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and charming Dutch houses. Experience traditional Dutch crafts and the country's rich cultural heritage.

Join a Kayak Tour through the Dutch countryside past polders, dykes, and quaint centuries-old villages.

Attend a Painting Class and be inspired by the masters’ techniques. Paint your own canvas and discover your inner artist.

Enjoy a Guided Canal Cruise to explore the iconic waterways and sites of Amsterdam.

Start your day joining your Adventure Host on an early morning walk in Amsterdam.

Discover Aalsmeer Flower Auction—the largest in the world, where around 20 million flowers are sold every day. Later enjoy a typical Dutch breakfast.

Explore Zaanse Schans with its well-preserved historic windmills and Dutch houses. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and picturesque scenery. Learn about the area's industrial history and enjoy the quaint Dutch culture.

Join a Biking Tour through the Dutch countryside past polders, dykes, and quaint centuries-old villages.

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

Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age” followed by a real Dutch beer experience.

Visit to Badischer Winzerkeller, the largest German wine producer in Europe. Discover Germany’s southernmost wine country in Baden—ideally situated between the hills of the Black Forest and the Rhine River. Learn about the vintners’ process in the vineyards here, and enjoy a wine tasting.

Join a Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience local traditions and the vibrant Christmas mood.

Explore the picturesque village of Colmar, known for its half-timbered medieval and Renaissance buildings. Wander through charming streets, and discover unique shops, cafes, and historical landmarks. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this Alsatian gem.

Discover the fusion of German and French culture on this wonderful guided tour through storybook Colmar, the "Little Venice" of France and capital of the Alsace wine region.

See the wonders of Basel by coach and on foot during this enjoyable guided excursion that shows off the best of this 2,000-year-old city.

Join a guided tour of Colmar, renowned for its half-timbered medieval and Renaissance buildings. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely afternoon at Breisach's Christmas market, sampling pretzels, mulled wine, and Black Forest cake.

Join a full-day Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience the Vogtsbauernhof open-air-museum, visit an authentic water mill, and see a traditional butter-making demonstration.

Visit to a local winery in Breisach, where you will learn about German winemaking and enjoy a wine tasting.

Join A Guided Tour to explore Freiburg’s medieval city center, sheltered by the Black Forest amid vineyards and gardens of the Upper Rhine Valley.

Enjoy the view on a relaxing bike ride along the Rhine with your Adventure Host

Join your Avalon Adventure Host for an inspiring walk in Heidelberg, the Philosophers' way.

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".

Enjoy a Guided City Walk in Mainz, including a visit to the Gutenberg Museum to see the captivating history of printing.

Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host.

Choose a Guided Walking Tour of Cologne’s important Jewish heritage sites.

Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne—with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral.

From Golden Age paintings to 13th-century arms and armor, discover the wonders of Muiderslot Castle, one of Holland's most beautiful medieval castle fortresses, on this captivating half-day guided tour.

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

Join a full-day Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience local traditions and the vibrant Christmas mood.

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

Enjoy a Guided Kayak Tour for an adventure which will provide you a unique perspective of the “Venice of the North” from the waters of its magnificent canals.

Take a Guided E-bike Tour to experience the magical Black Forest from a unique point of view.

Pedal your way past polders, dikes, and quaint, centuries-old villages on this exhilarating guided bike tour through the beautiful Dutch countryside.

Take a full-day Guided Tour to the charming village of Colmar in the morning, with its half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings, followed by a visit to a countryside chateau wine cellar.

Enjoy a wine and chocolate tasting hosted by your Master of Wine.

Explore Vernon's Chateau des Tourelles by foot with your Adventure Host.

Take a Guided Tour of Giverny, home and inspiration of the master impressionist painter Claude Monet. Walk the grounds and see Monet’s charming residence, and the flower and water gardens captured in his masterpieces.

"Take a Guided Tour of Giverny, home and inspiration of the master impressionist painter Claude Monet. Walk the grounds and see Monet’s charming residence, and the flower and water gardens captured in his masterpieces.

Note: Monet’s House is closed in March and November. During this period this excursion will be replaced with a Guided Tour of La Roche-Guyon and its castle.

Join a Guided Visit to Bizy Castle—called “Normandy’s Versailles” for its magnificent courtyard, water garden, and stables.

Take a Guided Bike Tour to discover and explore the most famous monuments and the lesser known hidden gems of Rouen on two wheels.

Take a Guided Walking Tour of Rouen—site of Saint Joan of Arc’s martyrdom—and see the medieval quarter with its 16th-century Astronomical Clock, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Experience the Seine river by foot with your Adventure Host.

Discover the ancient heart of Paris on a captivating Guided Walk featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, ancient sites on Île de la Cité, the Left Bank, bustling Latin Quarter, and more.

Join a Guided City Tour, that shows you the iconic sites of Paris, such as the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Opéra Garnier, and the famous Champs-Élysées.

Enjoy a relaxing E-bike guided tour in Bordeaux’s finest wine region. You will be amazed by the picturesque countryside while you enjoy a wonderful ride through the vineyards.

Take a Guided Visit to an historic Château in the Médoc area and enjoy a tasting of their wonderful wines, with Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon as protagonists.

Take a guided visit to the Citadel of Blaye, an UNESCO World Heritage site, followed by a panoramic drive following the famed Route de la Corniche along the right banks of the River Dordogne.

Join a Guided Tour to discover Blaye from a different perspective, including a visit to a local art gallery with wine tasting.

Join a guided walking tour to discover the heart of Bordeaux with a stroll amid its stunning squares, avenues, and cathedrals sights.

This afternoon, enjoy an optional guided visit to Les Bassins des Lumières. Explore the immersive art and music experience within a historic submarine base.

Join your Adventure Host for a bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais.

Join a full-day guided tour of the seaside resort of Arcachon on the Atlantic coast. Gaze upon its 19th-century architectural treasures and taste its local delicacy of oysters and wine.

Experience Montmartre, one the of most artistic and picturesque districts in Paris.

Visit the Hôtel-Dieu Charity Hospital in Beaune, built in 1443, today home of the Van der Weyden’s painting of the Last Judgment and is one of France’s architectural highlights.

Take a WWII tour of Paris which will include a visit to the museum of Les Invalides, dedicated to the Ordre de la Libération which was created in 1940 by General Charles de Gaulle, leader of the Free French Forces.

Spend a fun and active day kayaking. Join an expert guide and paddle your way through areas accessible only by water.

Explore the picturesque town of Vernon with a leisurely Guided Tour through its marvelous medieval streets on the banks of the Seine River.

Hop on a bike to explore Paris like a local on this enjoyable guided tour through its sights, mesmerizing history, and incredible ambiance.

Immerse yourself on our Food and Cultural Tour of Paris where you will find out why the French food and culinary tradition has been even added to the UNESCO heritage list.

Join a Guided Sightseeing which will show you magnificent must-see sights.

Learn the art of creating the French favorite, the macaron, with a hands-on cooking class in Rouen.

Enter a world where kings walked the halls of the finest achievements of 17th-century French art and architecture at the dazzling Palace of Versailles.

Indulge in this exclusive wine tasting experience in Paris, allowing you to delve into the captivating world of the French "art de vivre" and gastronomy.

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21 Night Vineyards, Chateaux & Bordeaux

What’s Included