Avalon Waterways The Best of the Rhine (WWZ)

5 days from Frankfurt to Basel

Discover extraordinary destinations in Germany, France, and Switzerland on this Rhine River cruise to sample local charms and traditions from Frankfurt to Basel. Relax on the Sky Deck and pass through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—the most beautiful view of the Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. In Strasbourg, France, you’ll be amazed by the red-sandstone Gothic 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. Before the end of your European river cruise vacation, 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.

Ships: Tranquility II

Avalon Highlights & Sightseeing

Day 1 Frankfurt (Embarkation): Onboard welcome reception

Day 2 Rhine Gorge: Cruise through the scenic Rhine Gorge with breathtaking views of ancient castles, towering cliffs, and the legendary Rock of the Lorelei.

Day 3 Strasbourg: Choice of guided sightseeing, visit La Petite France district and the Gothic cathedral or bike with your Adventure Host

Day 4 Breisach: Choice of excursion to Black Forest or visit to a local winery in Breisach

Day 5 Basel (Disembarkation): Your cruise ends this morning

Itinerary (2024)

Day 1	FRANKFURT, GERMANY (EMBARKATION)
	Welcome to Germany. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Frankfurt must arrive before 2 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm. OVERNIGHT CRUISE (D)
Day 2	RHINE GORGE
	The Most Beautiful View of the Rhine River DISCOVERY While sailing enjoy a cup of Rüdesheimer Coffee, a local drink prepared mixing brandy and sugar, topped with coffee and a layer of whipped cream and chocolate shavings. Enjoy a relaxing day onboard and 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 Join your Adventure Host to discover today’s special activities and classes. DISCOVERY Enjoy a wine tasting onboard. Enjoy live entertainment on board your ship this evening. OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO STRASBOURG (B,L,D)
Day 3	STRASBOURG, FRANCE
	A Grand Cathedral and La Petite France ACTIVE Discover Strasbourg by bike with your Adventure Host, OR: CLASSIC Join a City Sightseeing Tour, including Strasbourg’s 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 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 4	BREISACH, GERMANY. EXCURSION TO BLACK FOREST
	German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black Forest DISCOVERY 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: DISCOVERY Visit to a local winery in Breisach, where you will learn about German winemaking and enjoy a wine tasting. You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the charming village of Colmar in the morning, with its half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BASEL (B,L,D)
Day 5	BASEL, SWITZERLAND (DISEMBARKATION)
	Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning. Flights should not leave Zürich airport before 10 am or Basel airport before 8 am.

Avalon Pricing Details

Port charges:
$120

Gratuities to Local Guides & Excursion Drivers are included on Avalon portion only.

Avalon offers the opportunity for solo travelers to sail with no single supplement (subject to availability).

Please call for single accommodation price. Triples not available.

Avalon Notes

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