Cruise

Essential Britain & Ireland with Romantic Rhine

This European vacation includes a Globus escorted vacation in Britain and Ireland, along with a river cruise on the legendary Rhine River through France, Germany, and the Netherlands.A jolly good t...

Essential Britain & Ireland with Romantic Rhine

(from USD 8,688)

Inquire about this trip
Essential Britain & Ireland with Romantic Rhine
This European vacation includes a Globus escorted vacation in Britain and Ireland, along with a river cruise on the legendary Rhine River through France, Germany, and the Netherlands.

A jolly good time awaits in England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland, as you explore lively capital cities and legendary countrysides dotted with thatched-roof villages in between. Coast through rolling hills, ferry across legendary waterways, and skip down cobblestone streets to discover the wonders of Stonehenge, Waterford, and York. Drink in the sights of fairytale castles and storybook settings that warm the heart along with locally brewed ales, strong Irish coffees, and perfectly aged Scotch whiskies. With free time to browse for bits and bobs and taste local favorites like fish and chips, you’d be off your trolley not to come along!

Continue your European vacation aboard your Avalon Waterways Suite Ship® for a 7-night cruise on the romantic Rhine River. Take in the spectacular sights of Germany and sample the special experiences in the Netherlands, France, and Switzerland! Begin in the City of the Golden Age in Amsterdam, the capital of Holland, to cruise on its famous canals along the elegant grachten−the best way to see the treasures of this 700-year-old city. Visit Cologne, Germany—a 2,000-year-old city known for its Gothic-style architecture—and see its famous twin-spired cathedral and Old Town with many shops, cafés, and taverns. Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—offering the most beautiful view of the Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Soak up the sights of Rüdesheim and take in the sounds of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Continue your Rhine River cruise to Ludwigshafen for a guided visit to Schwetzingen castle or take an excursion to Heidelberg to visit the ruins of its red-walled castle. In Strasbourg, France, marvel at the red-sandstone Gothic-style cathedral with ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock. Also, stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade. Stop in Breisach, Germany, the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest. Here, find unrivaled natural beauty in the area best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock. Disembark your Rhine River cruise in beautiful Basel, Switzerland. The perfect sweet ending to a sumptuous Globus tour and Avalon river cruise!

Day 1: ARRIVE IN LONDON, ENGLAND

Welcome to London! Uniformed Globus Hosts will be waiting to welcome you. Enjoy free time this afternoon.

Day 2: LONDON–STONEHENGE–BATH–NEWPORT, WALES

Ancient Stones & Spa Days Meet your Tour Director and travel companions, to depart London at 8 am for a memorable day’s sightseeing. Try to unravel the mystery of prehistoric Stonehenge and explore the visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions, then view the monument up close. At the elegant Georgian city of Bath, see the amazing excavations of the Roman Baths. Then, cross the Severn River for a late-afternoon arrival in Wales. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel. 164 mi / 264 km TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURAL GEMS The traditions of one ancient Roman ritual are in full flow in Bath, amid the remarkable Roman and Georgian architecture and the best-preserved Roman Baths of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city of Bath sits above geothermal springs that bubble up from the limestone below. Bath also turns up the heat with some of Britain's grandest Georgian buildings, a mecca for elite 18th-century society.(B,D)

Day 3: NEWPORT–CARDIFF–WATERFORD, IRELAND

Welsh Dragons, Daffodils & Castles This morning, enjoy a visit to Cardiff Castle, one of Wales’ leading heritage attractions, the castle’s Romanesque walls conceal 2,000 years of history. Continue along the South Wales coast to Pembroke where your ferry awaits. Cross St. George’s Channel to Rosslare on the Emerald Isle, proceeding to Waterford, a stronghold founded by the Danish Vikings.168 mi / 271 km TOUR HIGHLIGHTCAPITAL CITY Explore the Welsh capital, see many historic buildings and discover its 2,000-year history of invasions, abductions, and conflicts from 1st-century AD when the Romans built the first series of forts.(B,D)

Day 4: WATERFORD–KILKENNY–DUBLIN

Spend your day your way in WaterfordThis morning, explore more of Waterford with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions. THE VIKING TRIANGLEJoin a Local Guide in Waterford for a walk through Ireland¿s oldest city where two cathedrals, four national monuments, and eleven centuries of rogues and rascals add up to a trifecta of tales in the Viking Triangle. Hear engaging stories of extraordinary characters, delivered in witty, entertaining style by a master storyteller.CRYSTAL CLEARThe city of Waterford is synonymous with the luxury crystal manufacture that bears its name. Visit the House of Waterford Crystal for a fascinating tour featuring the molding room, and glass-blowing, cutting, and engraving departments to witness the highly skilled master craftsmen creating exquisite Waterford Crystal.Continue to the “Marble City” of Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s prettiest towns. The city’s main thoroughfare is lined with medieval landmarks, quaint shops, and charming pubs. Continue on to Dublin, Ireland’s capital city. 115 mi / 195 km (B)

Day 5: DUBLIN

Ireland’s Capital City Take a morning orientation drive to see O’Connell Street, Georgian squares, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy this vibrant city. TOUR HIGHLIGHTCITY SIGHTS “In Dublin’s fair city where girls are so pretty,” you’ll also find great personality and charm. The charisma of Dubliners and the bounty of pubs here is matched only by the gorgeous Georgian Squares, 12th-century St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College.(B)

Day 6: DUBLIN–BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND–EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND

Irish Crossings On your way to Northern Ireland, cross the Boyne River, then skirt the Mountains of Mourne. In Belfast, where the Titanic was built, take in the city’s vibrant history and view the impressive City Hall. Board your ferry to cross the North Channel to Cairnryan on Scotland’s southwest coast and continue onto Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh.234 mi / 376 km TOUR HIGHLIGHTCITY SIGHTS Northern Ireland’s capital city of Belfast has seen its share of the ‘Troubles’ but its tenacity, tireless industry, and timeless traditions are easy to see. Hear how shipbuilding ruled and Irish linen was king. In the port city where the Titanic was built, a bold rebirth of arts and architecture thrives amid historic castles and churches drawing visitors from around the globe.(B)

Day 7: EDINBURGH

Drummers, Pipers & Precious Jewels Morning city sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town” and the famous scientists, inventors, and novelists who lived there. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels. The afternoon is free to enjoy the Scottish capital at your own pace. TOUR HIGHLIGHTMUSIC & MASTERPIECES Ascend to Castle Rock to explore Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important historical strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, with a 1,100-year history as "the most besieged place in Great Britain." Here you’ll find the royal regalia and Scotland’s Crown Jewels. The Castle forms the background of the spectacular Tattoo, an extravaganza of bagpipes and drums performed en masse in August each year.(B)

Day 8: EDINBURGH–JEDBURGH–YORK, ENGLAND

Augustine’s Monks & Medieval Markets This morning, drive past the abbey ruins at Jedburgh into wild Northumberland National Park. Later, see a section of Hadrian’s Wall, the Roman coast-to-coast defense against marauding northern tribes. In York, England’s most complete medieval city, view the great structure of York Minster, then follow your Tour Director on a guided walk through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles. 198 mi / 318 km LOCAL FAVORITEHISTORIC SPOT While strolling the cobblestones of York’s Shambles, it’s easy to imagine the medieval butchers' shops and boisterous crowds bartering for beef and bones outside the 14th-century timber-framed windows. The Shambles is one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe and said to have been the inspiration behind Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley – and today is a colorful gathering place with cheerful cafés and quirky boutiques brimming with the sweet aromas of chocolate, pastries, and pies.(B,D)

Day 9: YORK–STRATFORD-UPON-AVON–LONDON

Mr. & Mrs. Shakespeare Stop at Stratford-upon-Avon, the fascinating Elizabethan town, to take pictures of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace. Return to London at around 3.30 pm. 260 mi / 418 km TOUR HIGHLIGHTA LEGEND SLEPT HERE Ah, young love! Even more true as Shakespeare’s fiancée was eight years his senior. See Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the family home where the bard’s wife-to-be was born and courted by young Will. Built more than 500 years ago, much of the original structure remains. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and family home in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. Hear tales about his family life, marriage, and children with a close look at fascinating artifacts in a world-class collection assembled by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.(B)

Day 10: LONDON─AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS (EMBARKATION)

Welcome to Holland. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.Flight to Amsterdam to board your Suite Ship® and meet your Avalon Cruise Director. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM (D)

Day 11: AMSTERDAM

Canals of Colorful AmsterdamJoin your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.CLASSIC Discover the true beauty of Amsterdam with an off-the-beaten-path Guided Walking Tour through its cobblestone streets for a captivating look at this legendary city, OR: CLASSIC Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age."This afternoon, choose among the Guided Optional Excursions available or take some free time to explore Amsterdam’s colorful streets and canal houses, galleries, and shops. AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO COLOGNE(B,L,D)

Day 12: COLOGNE, GERMANY

Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland ACTIVE Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host, OR:CLASSIC Choose a Guided Walking Tour of Cologne’s important Jewish heritage sites, OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne—with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral.Spend free time over a glass of Kölsch pale lager—locally brewed for over 100 years! Later, local musicians will join us on board for live entertainment. OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO RÜDESHEIM(B,L,D)

Day 13: RHINE GORGE-RÜDESHEIM

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine CountryEn route to Rüdesheim, sail through the Rhine Gorge (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Take in the breathtaking views of ancient castles perched on cliffs 400 feet above the water and pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei—where the mythological siren’s songs lured ill-fated sailors.ACTIVE Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim, followed by a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee, OR:DISCOVERY Take a Guided Visit to the historic 18th-century wooden-barrel cellar of Johannisberg Castle and enjoy a delicious wine tasting.OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO LUDWIGSHAFEN(B,L,D)

Day 14: LUDWIGSHAFEN. EXCURSION TO HEIDELBERG

Castle Walls, and the World’s Biggest Wine BarrelACTIVE Join your Avalon Adventure Host for an inspiring walk in Heidelberg, the Philosophers' way, OR:CLASSIC Join a Guided Visit to Schwetzingen Palace—the heart of a stunning site consisting of the palace, palace gardens, and historic palace square, OR: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.”AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KEHL (B,L,D)

Day 15: KEHL. EXCURSION TO STRASBOURG, FRANCE

A Grand Cathedral and La Petite FranceAsk about today’s energizing or relaxing Adventure Host activities.ACTIVE Discover Strasbourg by bike with your Adventure Host, OR: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 Petite France District.Choose a Guided Optional Excursion to the historic Maginot Line—the pre-WWII fortifications designed to protect the eastern border of France, or visit Alsace’s wine country today.Alternatively, take some free time in Strasbourg to visit a museum, or stroll across the city center. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BREISACH(B,L,D)

Day 16: BREISACH, GERMANY. EXCURSION TO BLACK FOREST

German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black ForestACTIVE Take a Guided E-bike Tour to experience the magical Black Forest from a unique point of view, OR:CLASSIC Join a full-day Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience the Vogtsbauernohf open-air-museum, visit an authentic water mill, and see a traditional butter-making demonstration, OR:CLASSIC 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.You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the charming village of Colmar, with half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BASEL(B,L,D)

Day 17: BASEL, SWITZERLAND (DISEMBARKATION)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.Flights should not leave Zürich airport before 10 am or Basel airport before 8 am.(B)

Details

Cruise Line
Avalon
Ship Name
View
Departure Port
LON
Arrival Port
ZRH
Number of Nights
16
Pricing & departures
Option From Departs Returns
Land Only (Double) USD 8,688 April 11, 2027 April 27, 2027
Single Supplement USD 10,108 April 11, 2027 April 27, 2027
Land Only (Double) USD 8,738 May 2, 2027 May 18, 2027
Single Supplement USD 10,158 May 2, 2027 May 18, 2027
Land Only (Double) USD 8,738 May 16, 2027 June 1, 2027
Single Supplement USD 10,158 May 16, 2027 June 1, 2027
Land Only (Double) USD 8,738 May 23, 2027 June 8, 2027
Single Supplement USD 10,158 May 23, 2027 June 8, 2027
Land Only (Double) USD 8,738 June 13, 2027 June 29, 2027
Single Supplement USD 10,158 June 13, 2027 June 29, 2027
Land Only (Double) USD 8,738 June 20, 2027 July 6, 2027
Single Supplement USD 10,158 June 20, 2027 July 6, 2027
Land Only (Double) USD 8,738 June 27, 2027 July 13, 2027
Single Supplement USD 10,158 June 27, 2027 July 13, 2027
Land Only (Double) USD 8,698 July 11, 2027 July 27, 2027
Single Supplement USD 10,118 July 11, 2027 July 27, 2027
Land Only (Double) USD 9,178 September 12, 2027 September 28, 2027
Single Supplement USD 10,598 September 12, 2027 September 28, 2027
Land Only (Double) USD 9,178 September 19, 2027 October 5, 2027
Single Supplement USD 10,598 September 19, 2027 October 5, 2027
Land Only (Double) USD 9,098 September 26, 2027 October 12, 2027
Single Supplement USD 10,518 September 26, 2027 October 12, 2027
Day by day
  1. Day 1

    ARRIVE IN LONDON, ENGLAND

    Welcome to London! Uniformed Globus Hosts will be waiting to welcome you. Enjoy free time this afternoon.

  2. Day 2

    LONDON–STONEHENGE–BATH–NEWPORT, WALES

    Ancient Stones & Spa Days Meet your Tour Director and travel companions, to depart London at 8 am for a memorable day’s sightseeing. Try to unravel the mystery of prehistoric Stonehenge and explore the visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions, then view the monument up close. At the elegant Georgian city of Bath, see the amazing excavations of the Roman Baths. Then, cross the Severn River for a late-afternoon arrival in Wales. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner at your hotel. 164 mi / 264 km TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURAL GEMS The traditions of one ancient Roman ritual are in full flow in Bath, amid the remarkable Roman and Georgian architecture and the best-preserved Roman Baths of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city of Bath sits above geothermal springs that bubble up from the limestone below. Bath also turns up the heat with some of Britain's grandest Georgian buildings, a mecca for elite 18th-century society.(B,D)

  3. Day 3

    NEWPORT–CARDIFF–WATERFORD, IRELAND

    Welsh Dragons, Daffodils & Castles This morning, enjoy a visit to Cardiff Castle, one of Wales’ leading heritage attractions, the castle’s Romanesque walls conceal 2,000 years of history. Continue along the South Wales coast to Pembroke where your ferry awaits. Cross St. George’s Channel to Rosslare on the Emerald Isle, proceeding to Waterford, a stronghold founded by the Danish Vikings.168 mi / 271 km TOUR HIGHLIGHTCAPITAL CITY Explore the Welsh capital, see many historic buildings and discover its 2,000-year history of invasions, abductions, and conflicts from 1st-century AD when the Romans built the first series of forts.(B,D)

  4. Day 4

    WATERFORD–KILKENNY–DUBLIN

    Spend your day your way in WaterfordThis morning, explore more of Waterford with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions. THE VIKING TRIANGLEJoin a Local Guide in Waterford for a walk through Ireland¿s oldest city where two cathedrals, four national monuments, and eleven centuries of rogues and rascals add up to a trifecta of tales in the Viking Triangle. Hear engaging stories of extraordinary characters, delivered in witty, entertaining style by a master storyteller.CRYSTAL CLEARThe city of Waterford is synonymous with the luxury crystal manufacture that bears its name. Visit the House of Waterford Crystal for a fascinating tour featuring the molding room, and glass-blowing, cutting, and engraving departments to witness the highly skilled master craftsmen creating exquisite Waterford Crystal.Continue to the “Marble City” of Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s prettiest towns. The city’s main thoroughfare is lined with medieval landmarks, quaint shops, and charming pubs. Continue on to Dublin, Ireland’s capital city. 115 mi / 195 km (B)

  5. Day 5

    DUBLIN

    Ireland’s Capital City Take a morning orientation drive to see O’Connell Street, Georgian squares, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy this vibrant city. TOUR HIGHLIGHTCITY SIGHTS “In Dublin’s fair city where girls are so pretty,” you’ll also find great personality and charm. The charisma of Dubliners and the bounty of pubs here is matched only by the gorgeous Georgian Squares, 12th-century St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and Trinity College.(B)

  6. Day 6

    DUBLIN–BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND–EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND

    Irish Crossings On your way to Northern Ireland, cross the Boyne River, then skirt the Mountains of Mourne. In Belfast, where the Titanic was built, take in the city’s vibrant history and view the impressive City Hall. Board your ferry to cross the North Channel to Cairnryan on Scotland’s southwest coast and continue onto Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh.234 mi / 376 km TOUR HIGHLIGHTCITY SIGHTS Northern Ireland’s capital city of Belfast has seen its share of the ‘Troubles’ but its tenacity, tireless industry, and timeless traditions are easy to see. Hear how shipbuilding ruled and Irish linen was king. In the port city where the Titanic was built, a bold rebirth of arts and architecture thrives amid historic castles and churches drawing visitors from around the globe.(B)

  7. Day 7

    EDINBURGH

    Drummers, Pipers & Precious Jewels Morning city sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town” and the famous scientists, inventors, and novelists who lived there. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels. The afternoon is free to enjoy the Scottish capital at your own pace. TOUR HIGHLIGHTMUSIC & MASTERPIECES Ascend to Castle Rock to explore Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important historical strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, with a 1,100-year history as "the most besieged place in Great Britain." Here you’ll find the royal regalia and Scotland’s Crown Jewels. The Castle forms the background of the spectacular Tattoo, an extravaganza of bagpipes and drums performed en masse in August each year.(B)

  8. Day 8

    EDINBURGH–JEDBURGH–YORK, ENGLAND

    Augustine’s Monks & Medieval Markets This morning, drive past the abbey ruins at Jedburgh into wild Northumberland National Park. Later, see a section of Hadrian’s Wall, the Roman coast-to-coast defense against marauding northern tribes. In York, England’s most complete medieval city, view the great structure of York Minster, then follow your Tour Director on a guided walk through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles. 198 mi / 318 km LOCAL FAVORITEHISTORIC SPOT While strolling the cobblestones of York’s Shambles, it’s easy to imagine the medieval butchers' shops and boisterous crowds bartering for beef and bones outside the 14th-century timber-framed windows. The Shambles is one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe and said to have been the inspiration behind Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley – and today is a colorful gathering place with cheerful cafés and quirky boutiques brimming with the sweet aromas of chocolate, pastries, and pies.(B,D)

  9. Day 9

    YORK–STRATFORD-UPON-AVON–LONDON

    Mr. & Mrs. Shakespeare Stop at Stratford-upon-Avon, the fascinating Elizabethan town, to take pictures of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace. Return to London at around 3.30 pm. 260 mi / 418 km TOUR HIGHLIGHTA LEGEND SLEPT HERE Ah, young love! Even more true as Shakespeare’s fiancée was eight years his senior. See Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the family home where the bard’s wife-to-be was born and courted by young Will. Built more than 500 years ago, much of the original structure remains. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and family home in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. Hear tales about his family life, marriage, and children with a close look at fascinating artifacts in a world-class collection assembled by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.(B)

  10. Day 10

    LONDON─AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS (EMBARKATION)

    Welcome to Holland. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.Flight to Amsterdam to board your Suite Ship® and meet your Avalon Cruise Director. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM (D)

  11. Day 11

    AMSTERDAM

    Canals of Colorful AmsterdamJoin your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.CLASSIC Discover the true beauty of Amsterdam with an off-the-beaten-path Guided Walking Tour through its cobblestone streets for a captivating look at this legendary city, OR: CLASSIC Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age."This afternoon, choose among the Guided Optional Excursions available or take some free time to explore Amsterdam’s colorful streets and canal houses, galleries, and shops. AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO COLOGNE(B,L,D)

  12. Day 12

    COLOGNE, GERMANY

    Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland ACTIVE Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host, OR:CLASSIC Choose a Guided Walking Tour of Cologne’s important Jewish heritage sites, OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne—with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral.Spend free time over a glass of Kölsch pale lager—locally brewed for over 100 years! Later, local musicians will join us on board for live entertainment. OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO RÜDESHEIM(B,L,D)

  13. Day 13

    RHINE GORGE-RÜDESHEIM

    Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine CountryEn route to Rüdesheim, sail through the Rhine Gorge (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Take in the breathtaking views of ancient castles perched on cliffs 400 feet above the water and pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei—where the mythological siren’s songs lured ill-fated sailors.ACTIVE Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim, followed by a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee, OR:DISCOVERY Take a Guided Visit to the historic 18th-century wooden-barrel cellar of Johannisberg Castle and enjoy a delicious wine tasting.OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO LUDWIGSHAFEN(B,L,D)

  14. Day 14

    LUDWIGSHAFEN. EXCURSION TO HEIDELBERG

    Castle Walls, and the World’s Biggest Wine BarrelACTIVE Join your Avalon Adventure Host for an inspiring walk in Heidelberg, the Philosophers' way, OR:CLASSIC Join a Guided Visit to Schwetzingen Palace—the heart of a stunning site consisting of the palace, palace gardens, and historic palace square, OR: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.”AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KEHL (B,L,D)

  15. Day 15

    KEHL. EXCURSION TO STRASBOURG, FRANCE

    A Grand Cathedral and La Petite FranceAsk about today’s energizing or relaxing Adventure Host activities.ACTIVE Discover Strasbourg by bike with your Adventure Host, OR: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 Petite France District.Choose a Guided Optional Excursion to the historic Maginot Line—the pre-WWII fortifications designed to protect the eastern border of France, or visit Alsace’s wine country today.Alternatively, take some free time in Strasbourg to visit a museum, or stroll across the city center. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BREISACH(B,L,D)

  16. Day 16

    BREISACH, GERMANY. EXCURSION TO BLACK FOREST

    German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black ForestACTIVE Take a Guided E-bike Tour to experience the magical Black Forest from a unique point of view, OR:CLASSIC Join a full-day Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience the Vogtsbauernohf open-air-museum, visit an authentic water mill, and see a traditional butter-making demonstration, OR:CLASSIC 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.You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the charming village of Colmar, with half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BASEL(B,L,D)

  17. Day 17

    BASEL, SWITZERLAND (DISEMBARKATION)

    Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.Flights should not leave Zürich airport before 10 am or Basel airport before 8 am.(B)

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