European Masterpiece: The Rhine, Seine & Rhône Revealed with 2 Nights in French Riviera 2027

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European Masterpiece: The Rhine, Seine & Rhône Revealed with 2 Nights in French Riviera 2027
European Masterpiece: The Rhine, Seine & Rhône Revealed with 2 Nights in French Riviera 2027
European Masterpiece: The Rhine, Seine & Rhône Revealed with 2 Nights in French Riviera 2027
European Masterpiece: The Rhine, Seine & Rhône Revealed with 2 Nights in French Riviera 2027
European Masterpiece: The Rhine, Seine & Rhône Revealed with 2 Nights in French Riviera 2027
European Masterpiece: The Rhine, Seine & Rhône Revealed with 2 Nights in French Riviera 2027
European Masterpiece: The Rhine, Seine & Rhône Revealed with 2 Nights in French Riviera 2027
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Description

Summary

Starts
Basel
Duration
24 days
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum age
8 years

Description

Embark on an extraordinary multi-day tour that weaves together the enchanting landscapes and cultural treasures of Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, and France. This immersive journey takes you from the cosmopolitan charm of Basel and the mystical Black Forest to the romantic canals of Amsterdam and the timeless elegance of Paris. Cruise along storied rivers, explore medieval castles, and stroll through vibrant city centers. Discover the artistry of Monet in Giverny, the poignant history of Normandy’s beaches, and the sun-drenched vineyards of Lyon and Provence. With luxurious accommodations aboard your Suite Ship® (or similar), gourmet dining, and expertly guided excursions, each day offers a new adventure—whether cycling through scenic countryside, savoring local wines, or wandering through cobblestone streets. From the rolling hills of Burgundy to the azure shores of the French Riviera, this tour promises a seamless blend of relaxation, discovery, and unforgettable memories.

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Included

Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites

Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients

Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal

Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room

Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials

Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.

Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats

Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese

Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere

Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner

Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options

Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections

Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor

Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés

New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day

Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck

Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day

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Ship details

A View with a Room

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.

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We’ve vetted and hand-selected the best hotels around the world with location, comfort, and style in mind. Enjoy first-class hotels in each destination, and check in with the confidence that we’ve already checked everything out for your comfort and convenience.

Nice Hotels: Le Meridien Nice or similar

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Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director

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Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship

Panoramic windows throughout the ship

Elegant, contemporary design & decor

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

Avalon Waterways offers a selection of included excursions in every port of call, with something for everyone within their "Classic", "Discovery" and "Active" collections

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Destinations

View of the Old Town of Basel with red stone Munster cathedral and the Rhine river, Switzerland.Basel
Photo of Panoramic aerial view of Kehl village with river in Germany.Kehl
Photo of traditional half-timbered houses on picturesque canals in La Petite France in the medieval fairytale town of Strasbourg, France.Strasbourg
Ludwigshafen am Rhein
Photo of historical city of Speyer, Germany.Speyer
Rudesheim am Rhein
Ingelheim am Rhein
Cologne Aerial view with trains move on a bridge over the Rhine River on which cargo barges and passenger ships ply. Majestic Cologne Cathedral in the background.Cologne
Amsterdam Netherlands dancing houses over river Amstel landmark in old european city spring landscape.Amsterdam
Paris, France. Panoramic view from Arc de Triomphe. Eiffel Tower and Avenue des Champs Elysees. Europe.Paris
photo of The Old Mill of Vernon in Vernon Normandy France.Vernon
Giverny
Les Andelys
Rouen - city in FranceRouen
Auvers-sur-Oise
The City of Lyon in the daytime.Lyon
Mâcon - city in FranceMâcon
Tournon-sur-Rhône
Avignon - city in FranceAvignon
Arles - city in FranceArles
Aix-en-Provence - city in FranceAix-en-Provence
Villefranche-sur-Mer
View of Mediterranean luxury resort and bay with yachts. Nice, Cote d'Azur, France. Nice

Map

Attractions

#ILoveNICE, Vieux Nice, Nice, Maritime Alps, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Metropolitan France, France#ILoveNICE
Three King's Shrine, Altstadt-Nord, Innenstadt, Cologne, North Rhine-Westphalia, GermanyThree Kings Shrine
Caen Castle, Le Château, Caen, Calvados, Normandy, Metropolitan France, FranceCaen Castle
Pont du GardPont du Gard
JARDIN DE VALÉRIANES
photo of Mini World Lyon in Vaulx-en-velin, France.Mini World Lyon
Philosophers' Way, Neuenheim, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyPhilosophers' Way
Train de l'Ardèche
Freiburger MünsterFreiburg Minster
Tour Vauban de Tatihou
photo of Cleres Zoological Park in France.Cleres Zoological Park
photo of the beautiful Jardin des Plantes at morning in Paris is the main botanical garden in France.Jardin des plantes
photo of Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Elysees at morning in Paris, France.place de la Concorde
photo of Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes), once fortress and palace, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe, at morning, Avignon, France.Palais des Papes
photo of on the way in the beautiful valley of the Seine at Château Gaillard in Les Andelys, Normandy, France.Château Gaillard
Photo of Versailles palace outside Paris at sunset, France.Palace of Versailles
Schwarzwaldmuseum
photo of Normandy German defense artillery guns in Longues-sur-Mer, France.Longues-sur-Mer Battery
Musée Regards de ProvenceMusée Regards de Provence
Ouvrage du Simserhof Maginot Line Fortress
Viaduc de Vogüé
Loreley-linie port
Keukenhof Forest, Lisse, South Holland, NetherlandsKeukenhof Forest
L'espace Van Gogh
Orange Cathedral
Heidelberg Palace, Altstadt, Heidelberg, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyHeidelberg Palace
Wutach Gorge, Göschweiler, Löffingen, Verwaltungsgemeinschaft Löffingen, Landkreis Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald, Baden-Württemberg, GermanyWutach Gorge
Photo of Cologne Cathedral, a Roman Catholic Gothic cathedral in Cologne, Germany.Cologne Cathedral
Schwetzingen Castle, Schwetzingen, Rhein-Neckar-Kreis, Baden-Württemberg, GermanySchwetzingen Palace
Pont du Gard Museum
Labyrinthe de Honfleur
Valmont Abbey
photo of the Roman Arles Amphitheatre in the Old Town of Arles in France.Arles Amphitheatre
Château de Malmaison
Parc naturel Du Marais
Photo of Palais or Opera Garnier & The National Academy of Music in Paris, France.Palais Garnier
grignan's castleChâteau de Grignan
Gutenberg MuseumGutenberg Museum
Col du petit Ballon
Botanical Garden, Bayeux, Calvados, Normandy, Metropolitan France, FranceBotanical Garden
Église Saint-Thomas, Strasbourg, Bas-Rhin, Grand Est, Metropolitan France, FranceSt Thomas Church
Photo of Pyramid in Louvre Museum at sunset, France.Louvre Pyramid
Oelsbergsteig
Queen's House, Royal Borough of Greenwich, London, Greater London, England, United KingdomQueen's House
Cathedral of Our Lady of Évreux, Normandy, FranceÉvreux Cathedral
photo of Amsterdam Museum (Rijksmuseum) with I Amsterdam sign, Netherlands.Amsterdam Museum
Arbre de la Liberté
photo of Traditional half-timbered houses on picturesque canals in La Petite France in the medieval fairytale town of Strasbourg, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Alsace, France.Petite France
Place de la République, Lyon 2e Arrondissement, Lyon, Métropole de Lyon, Departemental constituency of Rhône, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Metropolitan France, FrancePlace de la République
Biotropica, animal gardens, Val-de-Reuil, Les Andelys, Eure, Normandy, Metropolitan France, FranceBiotropica, animal gardens
Tour d'Oingt
Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes MittelrheintalWelterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal
Alsace Adventure Park

Daily Itinerary

Day1

Day 1
Day 1: Basel

  • Basel - Arrival day
  • More

Arrive in the vibrant Swiss city of Basel, where your luxurious Suite Ship® awaits. Settle into your elegant accommodations and enjoy a delectable dinner as you begin your journey along the Rhine. Take the evening to explore the ship’s amenities and meet fellow travelers, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure. Overnight on board as your cruise sets sail for Breisach.

Day2

Day 2
Day 2: Breisach, Freiburg

  • Freiburg Minster
  • Schwarzwaldmuseum
  • Wutach Gorge
  • Col du petit Ballon
  • More

Awaken in Breisach, the gateway to the enchanting Black Forest. Choose between an invigorating e-bike ride or a guided tour through the region’s mystical woods, visiting the fascinating Vogtsbauernhof Open-Air Museum and a traditional water mill. Alternatively, explore the medieval charm of Freiburg’s old town, nestled among vineyards and gardens. For those seeking more, an optional excursion to the storybook village of Colmar is available. Enjoy a delightful day of exploration before your ship continues its journey to Kehl.

Day3

Day 3
Day 3: Kehl, Strasbourg

  • Kehl
  • Strasbourg
  • More
  • Ouvrage du Simserhof Maginot Line Fortress
  • St Thomas Church
  • Petite France
  • Alsace Adventure Park
  • More

Today, discover the Franco-German blend of Strasbourg. Cycle through the city or join a guided sightseeing tour, marveling at the awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral and the picturesque La Petite France district. Optional excursions include a visit to the historic Maginot Line or a journey through Alsace’s renowned wine country. Enjoy leisure time to explore museums or stroll the vibrant city center before your ship sails overnight to Ludwigshafen.

Day4

Day 4
Day 4: Ludwigshafen, Heidelberg, Schwetzingen

  • Ludwigshafen am Rhein
  • Speyer
  • More
  • Philosophers' Way
  • Heidelberg Palace
  • Schwetzingen Palace
  • More

Begin your day in Ludwigshafen, venturing to the romantic city of Heidelberg. Walk the scenic Philosophers’ Way or tour the majestic Heidelberg Castle, famed for its Renaissance architecture and the world’s largest wine barrel. Alternatively, visit the splendid Schwetzingen Palace and its beautiful gardens. Spend the afternoon cruising towards Rüdesheim, enjoying the tranquil river scenery.

Day5

Day 5
Day 5: Rüdesheim, Koblenz

  • Rudesheim am Rhein
  • Ingelheim am Rhein
  • More
  • Loreley-linie port
  • Gutenberg Museum
  • Oelsbergsteig
  • Welterbe Kulturlandschaft Oberes Mittelrheintal
  • More

Immerse yourself in the charm of Rüdesheim with a vineyard hike or a visit to the unique Mechanical Music Museum, complete with a tasting of the region’s signature coffee. Alternatively, enjoy a wine tasting at the historic Johannisberg Castle. As you cruise through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, marvel at the dramatic cliffs and legendary Lorelei Rock. Arrive in Koblenz, where you can explore the city’s rich history before an evening of live entertainment on board.

Day6

Day 6
Day 6: Cologne

  • Cologne
  • More
  • Three Kings Shrine
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • More

Experience the vibrant spirit of Cologne, whether you choose to cycle through the city or join a guided walking tour highlighting its significant Jewish heritage and the iconic twin-spired cathedral. Savor a glass of locally brewed Kölsch beer during your free time. Enjoy the lively atmosphere on board as your ship continues towards Amsterdam.

Day7

Day 7
Day 7: Amsterdam

  • Amsterdam
  • More
  • Keukenhof Forest
  • Amsterdam Museum
  • More

Delve into the heart of Amsterdam, exploring its cobblestone streets and iconic canals on a guided walking tour or a scenic canal cruise. During tulip season, an optional excursion to the breathtaking Keukenhof Gardens is available. Alternatively, venture into the countryside on a biking tour. Enjoy free time to discover the city’s galleries, shops, and vibrant neighborhoods before another restful night on board.

Day8

Day 8
Day 8: Amsterdam, Paris

  • Amsterdam
  • Paris
  • More

After breakfast, board a high-speed train to the romantic city of Paris. Settle into your Suite Ship® and enjoy a gourmet dinner as you prepare to explore the wonders of the Seine. Overnight on board as your cruise begins towards Vernon.

Day9

Day 9
Day 9: Vernon, Giverny, Les Andelys

  • Vernon
  • Giverny
  • Les Andelys
  • More
  • Château Gaillard
  • Biotropica, animal gardens
  • More

Journey through the picturesque Normandy countryside from Vernon to Giverny, where you can visit Monet’s enchanting home and gardens, the inspiration for his masterpieces. Alternatively, explore the grandeur of Bizy Castle. Savor a traditional French luncheon on board as you cruise to Les Andelys. In the afternoon, hike to the dramatic ruins of Château Gaillard or enjoy a guided walk through one of the Seine’s most scenic towns. Evening entertainment awaits on board.

Day10

Day 10
Day 10: Caudebec-en-Caux

  • Labyrinthe de Honfleur
  • Valmont Abbey
  • More

Set out on a scenic bike ride along the Seine or embark on a guided tour along the Normandy Abbeys Route, discovering centuries-old Benedictine and Augustine abbeys. In the afternoon, opt for an excursion to the charming seaside town of Honfleur. Enjoy an engaging onboard lecture about the events surrounding D-Day before relaxing with live entertainment.

Day11

Day 11
Day 11: Caudebec-en-Caux, Normandy Beaches

  • Caen Castle
  • Tour Vauban de Tatihou
  • Longues-sur-Mer Battery
  • Parc naturel Du Marais
  • Botanical Garden
  • Arbre de la Liberté
  • More

Delve into the poignant history of Normandy with a guided tour of the WWII landing beaches, including Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery. Alternatively, explore British and Canadian commemorative sites such as the Pegasus Memorial and Juno Beach Center. For a taste of local tradition, visit the Calvados region for a brandy tasting. Cruise towards Rouen in the evening.

Day12

Day 12
Day 12: Rouen

  • Rouen
  • More
  • JARDIN DE VALÉRIANES
  • Cleres Zoological Park
  • Évreux Cathedral
  • More

Explore the medieval city of Rouen by bike or on foot, visiting landmarks such as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the 16th-century Astronomical Clock, and sites associated with Joan of Arc. Enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere before your ship departs for Conflans.

Day13

Day 13
Day 13: Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, Auvers-sur-Oise

  • Auvers-sur-Oise
  • More
  • Palace of Versailles
  • Château de Malmaison
  • Queen's House
  • More

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Seine or visit Auvers-sur-Oise, the final home of Vincent van Gogh. Alternatively, explore the opulent Château de Malmaison, once home to Napoleon and Josephine. Optional excursions include the magnificent Palace of Versailles. Return to your ship for an evening of entertainment as you cruise towards Paris.

Day14

Day 14
Day 14: Paris

  • Paris
  • More
  • Jardin des plantes
  • place de la Concorde
  • Palais Garnier
  • Louvre Pyramid
  • More

Experience the magic of Paris with a guided walk through its historic heart, featuring the Palais-Royal, the Louvre’s iconic glass pyramid, Île de la Cité, and the lively Latin Quarter. Alternatively, embark on a city tour showcasing the romance and grandeur of the City of Light. Enjoy free time to savor Parisian cafés or explore at your leisure. Overnight in Paris.

Day15

Day 15
Day 15: Paris, Lyon

  • Paris
  • Lyon
  • More

Board the high-speed TGV train to Lyon, where your Suite Ship® is ready for your arrival. Settle in and enjoy a delicious dinner as you prepare to explore the culinary and cultural delights of France’s gastronomic capital.

Day16

Day 16
Day 16: Lyon

  • Lyon
  • More
  • Mini World Lyon
  • Tour d'Oingt
  • More

Discover Lyon’s architectural wonders by bike or join a guided tour to the panoramic Fourvière Hill, with its impressive churches and sweeping city views. Wander through the atmospheric Old Town, alive with cafés and medieval alleyways. Enjoy a fascinating onboard lecture about the French Resistance before an evening of entertainment.

Day17

Day 17
Day 17: Lyon, Mâcon

  • Lyon
  • Mâcon
  • More
  • Mini World Lyon
  • Place de la République
  • More

Explore Lyon’s rich silk heritage with a museum visit and a walking tour of La Presqu’île, including a live demonstration of traditional silk printing. Enjoy a pastry demonstration on board as you cruise towards Mâcon, where you’ll be entertained with live music in the evening.

Day18

Day 18
Day 18: Mâcon, Tournon-sur-Rhône

  • Mâcon
  • Tournon-sur-Rhône
  • More

Travel through the rolling hills of the Mâconnais region, renowned for its Chardonnay vineyards. Enjoy a wine tasting in the cellars of a medieval castle before your ship sails towards Tournon-sur-Rhône for an overnight stay.

Day19

Day 19
Day 19: Tournon-sur-Rhône, Viviers

  • Tournon-sur-Rhône
  • More
  • Train de l'Ardèche
  • Viaduc de Vogüé
  • Orange Cathedral
  • More

Take a guided walking tour of Tournon-sur-Rhône, one of France’s oldest medieval cities, with its impressive 16th-century castle and Roman ruins. After lunch, sail to Viviers and explore its pale-stone buildings, Romanesque cathedral, and charming Old Town on a late afternoon tour. Overnight cruise to Avignon.

Day20

Day 20
Day 20: Avignon

  • Avignon
  • More
  • Pont du Gard
  • Palais des Papes
  • Pont du Gard Museum
  • Château de Grignan
  • More

Explore the fortress city of Avignon, encircled by medieval ramparts. Visit the awe-inspiring Palace of the Popes or opt for excursions to the ancient Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard or the renowned wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Wander the city’s vibrant streets, snapping photos of the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet, before enjoying live entertainment on board as your ship cruises to Arles.

Day21

Day 21
Day 21: Arles

  • Arles
  • More
  • L'espace Van Gogh
  • Arles Amphitheatre
  • More

Begin your day with a power walk or participate in a painting workshop inspired by Vincent van Gogh. Alternatively, enjoy a guided tour of Arles, visiting its remarkable Roman amphitheater. Take time to relax at Le Café van Gogh for a glass of wine before another restful night on board.

Day22

Day 22
Day 22: Arles, Aix-en-Provence, French Riviera

  • Arles
  • Aix-en-Provence
  • Villefranche-sur-Mer
  • More
  • Musée Regards de Provence
  • More

Travel from Arles to the spectacular French Riviera, pausing in Aix-en-Provence to discover the elegant beauty of Cézanne’s hometown on a guided tour. Arrive at the Mediterranean coast, where azure waters and sun-drenched beaches await.

Day23

Day 23
Day 23: Nice

  • Nice
  • More
  • #ILoveNICE
  • More

Experience the allure of Nice, the 'Queen of the French Riviera.' Enjoy a guided tour through the narrow, winding streets and baroque churches of Vieux Nice, a district that has retained its old-world charm for centuries. Revel in the Mediterranean ambiance as your journey nears its end.

Day24

Day 24
Day 24: Nice

  • Nice - Departure day
  • More

Your extraordinary multi-day tour concludes in Nice. Enjoy a final breakfast before bidding farewell to your fellow travelers and the unforgettable landscapes of Europe.

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From ancient cities to alpine peaks, we’re here for you 24/7 with local expertise and support, wherever your travels take you.
Secure your spot
Book instantly and lock in your place on one of Europe’s top-rated tours. Enjoy the best price and secure checkout so you can focus on the fun.
Get instant confirmation
Receive your e-ticket and booking summary immediately after checkout, with all meeting points and schedules included.
Easily make changes
Plans changed? No problem. Our team is just seconds away—ready to help with any adjustments quickly and smoothly.
Explore with confidence
From ancient cities to alpine peaks, we’re here for you 24/7 with local expertise and support, wherever your travels take you.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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