Christmastime from Budapest to Basel

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY (EMBARKATION) Welcome to Hungary. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.

Flights into Budapest must arrive by 2 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.

With a free day to explore before your cruise, take time to take photographs on the Royal Palace grounds in this treasure trove of historical architecture. Enjoy the warmth and glow of Christmas tradition before boarding your Suite Ship®.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VIENNA

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VIENNA, AUSTRIA Viennese Waltzes on the Blue Danube

Enjoy sailing the Danube, which shares dozens of miles with Hungary and Slovakia and see the rolling landscape and red rooftops of the Slovakian capital of Bratislava come into view.

DISCOVERY Enjoy an Austrian Cookie Tasting while sailing to Vienna.

This evening in Vienna, you may choose to join an Optional Excursion to attend a Royal Waltz Concert for an unforgettable evening of music in an elegant hall.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN VIENNA

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VIENNA Royal Collections and Amusing Attractions

CLASSIC Explore the Habsburg empire this morning on a Guided City Tour of Vienna’s gilded landmarks. See the Imperial Palace complex—the winter residence of the Imperial Family, the iconic Vienna Opera House, and stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Spend free time on your own enjoying the Christkindlesmarkt, or relaxing by the fire’s glow in a Viennese café. Join a Guided Optional Excursion to Schönbrunn Palace— summer home of the Habsburg Empire. Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KREMS

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KREMS Christmas Magic in the Austria’s Wine Country

CLASSIC Join a Guided Walk to explore this small valley town, seemingly untouched by the new world.

During lunchtime, sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Melk.

MELK

Frescoes Above and Vineyards Below

CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings, statues, incredible library, and ornate pipe organ.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO PASSAU

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PASSAU, GERMANY Where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers Meet

CLASSIC Join a Guided City Walk to learn more about this beautiful “City of Three Rivers.”

Later spend some free time in Passau’s charming Christkindlmarkt near magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Alternatively, join a full-day Guided Optional Excursion to Salzburg—the city of Mozart and learn how Austrians celebrate Christmas. Meet your ship back in Passau after your full-day selected activity for sailing.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO REGENSBURG

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REGENSBURG Christmas Magic in Bavaria

CLASSIC Join a Guided City Walk and see Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and Porta Pretoria—built in 179 AD as the entrance to Castra Regina fortress.

This evening, enjoy live entertainment after dinner.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO NUREMBERG

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NUREMBERG Legends and History Lessons

DISCOVERY Enjoy a Christmas Traditions Lecture on board

CLASSIC Choose a Guided Sightseeing of Nuremberg—with its medieval architecture, gilded fountain, Gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle, OR:

CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds—used by the Third Reich.

Spend free time on your own browsing the spruce stalls of the Christmas Markets of Nuremberg. Sample favorite Bavarian fare—from dozens of bratwurst varieties, gingerbread, mulled blueberry wine, and countless other culinary delights of the Christkindlmarkt.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN NUREMBERG

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NUREMBERG. EXCURSION TO MUNICH. Beer Songs and Bavarian Kings

CLASSIC Enjoy a Guided City Tour which will show you the highlights of fascinating Munich. See Nymphenburg Palace—a former residence of Bavarian monarchs, along with the Old and New Town Halls of Marienplatz.

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NUREMBERG Living Heritage and History Lessons

A day to relax and enjoy Nuremberg at your own pace. Stroll through the festively lit streets, buy those last-minute Christmas gifts, or ask your Cruise Director for suggestions of things to do. Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BAMBERG

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BAMBERG Christmas Customs and Cradle Scenes

CLASSIC Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Bamberg—medieval home of Germany’s Roman Empire dynasties. Stroll through dozens of Bamberg’s nativity scenes—from miniature to life-size.

Take free time to enjoy the quaint Christmas markets, and warm up with traditional German dumplings, sausage, and a glass of hearty Bavarian ale.

DISCOVERY Enjoy an onboard Christmas Traditions Lecture while sailing.

AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO WÜRZBURG

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WÜRZBURG Old Saint Nick and Nutcrackers Sweet

CLASSIC Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the “Pearl of the Romantic Road” with its Old Main Bridge, towering fortress, and baroque Bishop’s Residence.

You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to the beautiful Bavarian town of Rothenburg. Visit the Käthe Wohlfahrt German Christmas museum—the world’s most extensive collection of traditional German Christmas decorations. Spend free time enjoying the festive, warm glow of Wurzburg’s Christmas markets. Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MILTENBERG

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MILTENBERG Hidden Gifts and Holiday Delights

CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of Miltenberg, a showcase of medieval half-timber homes and home to Germany’s oldest inn.

AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO FRANKFURT

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FRANKFURT. EXCURSION TO RUDESHEIM Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country

DISCOVERY Tour the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience in Rüdesheim.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO SPEYER

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SPEYER. EXCURSION TO HEIDELBERG Winter Wonders and a Wine Barrel Fit for a King

DISCOVERY Take a Guided Tour that includes the magnificent Heidelberg Castle and the Great Vat—the world’s largest wine barrel. After the tour, visit the local German Christmas markets in Heidelberg.

Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing sailing morning and explore the sights and sounds, tantalizing treats, and seasonal handiwork of Speyer Christmas markets.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT TO STRASBOURG

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STRASBOURG, FRANCE A Gothic Cathedral, Heaven’s Time, and Joyeux Noël

CLASSIC Come along for City Sightseeing, including the city’s Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District.

You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to beautiful Alsace, for an afternoon in a French wine-country village. Savor the warmth and glow of Christmas tradition by spending your free time this afternoon wandering the French winter markets of Strasbourg. Take in the lights, music, and the pleasures of the season.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BREISACH

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BREISACH, GERMANY. EXCURSION TO BLACK FOREST German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black Forest

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, OR:

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

In the afternoon, you may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the charming village of Colmar, with its half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BASEL

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BASEL, SWITZERLAND (DISEMBARKATION) Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.

Flights shouldn’t leave Zürich airport before 10 am or Basel airport before 8 am.

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A spacious, open-seating dining room with elegant dining service and large panoramic windows is situated on the Sapphire∘ deck. With an elegantly simple design, you can enjoy a full buffet breakfast or lunch with special options for those who wish to eat lightly, and delicious four-course dinners in the evening. 

AVALON FRESH

With our exclusive Avalon Fresh menu, you can take an indulgent cruise without drifting from your healthy habits. From energizing juices at breakfast to artfully crafted salads at lunch to high-protein plates at dinner, Avalon Fresh options—including vegetarian and vegan specialties—are available at every meal so you can guiltlessly partake in creative cuisine without sacrificing great taste.

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On a sunny day, enjoy hand carved meats and expansive buffets including fresh salads and amazing homemade soups, all a view courtesy of the Sky Grill.

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Room service is available for Continental breakfast & beverages.

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FOR THE MOVER.

Whether you enjoy sightseeing by kayak, on two wheels, or on your own two feet, you’ll relish the energy of Avalon’s Active excursion collection. Biking, hiking, and boating tours pack real get-up-and-go for those who like to do the same.

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FOR THE DOER.

An awakening for the senses, Avalon’s Discovery excursions present heartwarming, brain-tingling, hands-on adventure. Pull up a chair to hear a Viennese waltz, roll up your sleeves to paint like Van Gogh, or grab an apron to whip up a local delicacy.

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FOR THE DREAMER.

Nothing beats the classics! Avalon’s Classic excursions put you in the story with timeless tales on guided tours in iconic cities, capitals, and castles. Skip the lines while your heart skips a beat in the rooms where history happened. 

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Adventure Center with gear and guidance to explore your way. Avalon Adventure Host℠ to direct or accompany you on active pursuits. Also included? Freedom. The freedom to enjoy river cruising your way. You’re not like everyone else.

• Bikes
• Maps for hiking, biking and jogging routes
• Canoe, kayak and jogging excursions
• Maps for hiking, biking and jogging routes
• Fitbits®
• Walking Sticks
• Binoculars
• Daypacks
• Yoga Mats
• Fitness bands

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The Panorama Lounge can be found on the Royal Deck.

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Enjoy a quiet moment in the Club Lounge whilst enjoying a cappuccino.

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The Reception can be found on the Royal Deck.

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The Observation Lounge on the Royal Deck, gives guests a prime view to enjoy the premium spirits.

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Guests will find a small Library onboard and guests may check out books from the ship's library free of charge. 

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Although heart rates are naturally elevated on an Avalon cruise, every Avalon SuiteShip features a state-of-the-art fitness center—complete with the latest cardio and weight-training equipment—for those not looking to give their abs, biceps or triceps a vacation.

Yoga on board

Before you set out to discover the lives of kings, queens and conquerors, you can easily find your inner warrior, cobra or happy baby. Avalon Adventure Hosts kick-start each day with a combination of yoga poses, Pilates exercises and gentle stretches in the fresh morning air on the Sky Deck or with panoramic views in the Panorama Lounge. Downward dogs welcome.

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Situated on the Royal Deck you might like to take advantage of the onboard hairdresser to indulge in a manicure or hair styling.

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Relax after a long day and play a game with your fellow guests at the game area towards the rear of the deck.

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Room Features

• Comfort Collection Beds

• Luxurious mattress toppers
• Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
• European-style duvets
• Soft & firm pillows
• Extra blankets
• Choice of bed configuration
• Nightly turn-down service
• Bedside tables with reading lamps
• Hairdryer
• L'Occitane bath products
• Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
• Easy under-bed luggage storage
• Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
• Alarm clock
• Direct-dial telephone
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Well-stocked minibar
• Complimentary water
• In-room safe
• Individual climate control
• Elegant, contemporary design
• Large mirror in bathroom
• Two windows
• Full shower with glass door
• Writing desk and chair
• Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• One Queen-Sized Bed or Two Twins
• USB Ports

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Room Features

• Comfort Collection Beds
• Luxurious mattress toppers
• Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
• European-style duvets
• Soft & firm pillows
• Extra blankets
• Choice of bed configuration
• Nightly turn-down service
• Bedside tables with reading lamps
• Hairdryer
• L'Occitane bath products
• Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
• Easy under-bed luggage storage
• Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
• Alarm clock
• Make-up mirror
• Direct-dial telephone
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Well-stocked minibar
• Complimentary water
• In-room safe
• Individual climate control
• Elegant, contemporary design
• Large mirror in bathroom
• Marble countertops in bathroom
• Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
• 6-person sitting area
• Full shower with glass door
• Writing desk and chair
• Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
• Sofa
• Coffee table
• Double sinks
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• USB Ports
• One King-Sized Bed or Two Twins

-

Room Features

• Comfort Collection Beds

• Luxurious mattress toppers
• Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
• European-style duvets
• Soft & firm pillows
• Extra blankets
• Choice of bed configuration
• Nightly turn-down service
• Bedside tables with reading lamps
• Hairdryer
• L'Occitane bath products
• Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
• Easy under-bed luggage storage
• Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
• Alarm clock
• Make-up mirror
• Direct-dial telephone
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Well-stocked minibar
• Complimentary water
• In-room safe
• Individual climate control
• Elegant, contemporary design
• Large mirror in bathroom
• Marble countertops in bathroom
• Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
• 6-person sitting area
• Full shower with glass door
• Writing desk and chair
• Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
• Sofa
• Coffee table
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• One Queen-Sized Bed or Two Twins
• USB Ports