The Best of Austria & Switzerland with Romantic Rhine 2024 - 18 Day River Cruise Vienna to Amsterdam

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The Best of Austria & Switzerland with Romantic Rhine 2024

18 Day River Cruise Vienna to Amsterdam



Tour Description:

This amazing European vacation offers the best of both worlds: a land tour of Austria and Switzerland—two of Europe's most scenic countries—and a river cruise on the legendary Rhine River with stops in France, Germany, and Holland!

See the true definitions of palaces and castles while visiting Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace—former home to the long-reigning Habsburg dynasty. In Switzerland, enjoy a visit to romantic Chillon Castle, a well-preserved, medieval castle on the shores of Lake Geneva. Pass through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery with a ride on the world-famous Glacier Express train. Travel first class with panoramic windows to admire the thundering waterfalls, impressive peaks, glacial ice fields, and tiny villages on your way to Zermatt, Switzerland. Other scenic highlights include a Danube cruise along the prettiest part of the river on your way to Salzburg; a private boat cruise on the fjord-lake in Lucerne; a scenic drive into the Swiss Engadine, considered the most beautiful mountain area in the world; and more. Some sightseeing highlights include the Basilika St. Michael in Mondsee (of The Sound of Music fame), a walk through the Old Town in Innsbruck, and the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge in Lucerne.

Embark your Avalon Suite Ship® in Basel, Switzerland, to begin your Rhine River cruise! Visit Breisach, Germany, the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest, and an area of unrivaled natural beauty, best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock. In Strasbourg, France, be amazed by the red-sandstone Gothic cathedral with ancient murals and the fascinating astronomical clock. Stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade. Visit the ruins of Heidelberg’s castle, towering magnificently over the city, or sail to Mainz for a guided walk and visit the captivating Gutenberg Museum. 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 the charming wine town of Rüdesheim, visit the Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, and explore Holland’s popular, modern capital of Amsterdam, with its world-famous museums, wealth of eateries, iconic architecture, and charming canals. See the treasures of the city on a canal cruise along the elegant grachten lined with homes dating back to the city’s “Golden Age.” A perfect ending to this fabulous land and river cruise adventure!

Map for The Best of Austria & Switzerland with Romantic Rhine 2024 - 18 Day River Cruise Vienna to Amsterdam
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Dates & Pricing

Tuesday 07 May 24 — Saturday 25 May 24Starting at $7,498Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Tuesday 14 May 24 — Saturday 01 Jun 24Starting at $9,447Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Tuesday 28 May 24 — Saturday 15 Jun 24Starting at $8,197Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Tuesday 09 Jul 24 — Saturday 27 Jul 24Starting at $7,768Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Tuesday 23 Jul 24 — Saturday 10 Aug 24Starting at $8,478Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Tuesday 06 Aug 24 — Saturday 24 Aug 24Starting at $9,777Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Check Mark Icon Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.


Destination & Sightseeing

Day 1 Vienna: Welcome to Austria
Day 2 Vienna: Guided sightseeing, see the Ringstrasse, Heldenplatz, and visit Schönbrunn Palace
Day 3 Vienna–Melk–Salzburg: Danube cruise and visit to The Sound of Music Parish Church in Mondsee; guided walking tour and dinner at a local restaurant in Salzburg
Day 4 Salzburg: Day at leisure
Day 5 Salzburg–Innsbruck–St. Moritz: Walk through the Old Town, see the Golden Roof in Innsbruck; travel to St. Moritz
Day 6 St. Moritz–Chur–Täsch–Zermatt: Panoramic trip onboard of the Glacier Express train to Zermatt
Day 7 Zermatt: Day at leisure
Day 8 Zermatt–Berne: Visit Chillon Castle; travel to Berne
Day 9 Berne–Interlaken–Lucerne: Guided walking tour in Berne, see the Bear Park and enjoy the panoramic view from the Rose Garden; travel to Lucerne
Day 10 Lucerne: Morning walking tour, see the Lion Monument and the Chapel Bridge; private boat cruise and farewell dinner at a local restaurant
Day 11 Lucerne–Basel (Embarkation): Travel to Basel; onboard welcome reception
Day 12 Breisach: Choice of excursion to Black Forest or visit to a local winery in Breisach or bike with your Adventure Host
Day 13 Strasbourg: Choice of guided sightseeing, visit La Petite France district and the Gothic cathedral or bike with your Adventure Host
Day 14 Mainz: Choice of guided tour of Heidelberg Castle, see the Great Vat, or walk Philosophers’ Way with your Adventure Host, or visit the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz
Day 15 Rüdesheim–Rhine Gorge–Koblenz: Visit Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in Rüdesheim or hike in the vineyards with your Adventure Host; cruise through the scenic Rhine Gorge with breathtaking views of ancient castles, towering cliffs, and the legendary Rock of the Lorelei; free time in Koblenz
Day 16 Cologne: Choice of "Cologne Highlights" walking tour, or Jewish Heritage walking tour or bike with your Adventure Host
Day 17 Amsterdam: Choice of canal cruise or walk with your Adventure Host
Day 18 Amsterdam (Disembarkation): Your vacation ends this morning
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.

ITINERARY

Day 1
WELCOME TO VIENNA, AUSTRIA Welcome to Vienna! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. VIENNA-HOFBURG-PALACE.jpg
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Day 2
VIENNA City of Dreams VIENNA Guided sightseeing includes Schönbrunn Palace and Heldenplatz. Free time this afternoon. TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURAL GEMS Vienna’s spectacular Schönbrunn Palace served as the summer home of the Habsburg dynasty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site preserves the imperial home and glittering life of Austrian royalty in Vienna and the extravagant gardens surrounding the palace. VIENNA-SCHONBRUNN-PALACE.jpg
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Day 3
VIENNA–KREMS–MONDSEE–SALZBURG The Blue Danube KREMS Take a delightful Danube River cruise. MONDSEE Visit the Parish Church. SALZBURG Guided walking tour includes Mirabell Gardens, the Great Festival Hall, and Residenz Square. 193 mi / 310 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT EPIC RIDE Sit back and relax and watch the world go by during a leisurely cruise along one of the most scenic sections of the Danube, Europe’s second largest river. Wunderbar! SALZBURG-MIRABELL-GARDENS.jpg
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Day 4
SALZBURG The Birthplace of Mozart SALZBURG Enjoy a free day to explore Salzburg. TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURAL GEMS The birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg, will put a song in your heart as you explore its charmingly splendid gardens, and medieval and Baroque architecture along the pedestrian Altstadt (Old Town). Salzburg’s scenic Alpine landscape and architectural treasures has earned this Austrian jewel the reputation as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. SALZBURG.jpg
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Day 5
SALZBURG–INNSBRUCK–ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND Heavenly Hills of Switzerland INNSBRUCK Walk through the Old Town to the Golden Roof. Free time to browse. before driving into the Swiss Engadine en route to St. Moritz. 236 mi / 380 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT NATURAL WONDERS Pass through the spectacular beauty of Swiss Engadine on your way to St. Moritz. Take in the alpine vistas surrounding this paradise of deep blue lakes and rolling green meadows, forests, snow-capped summits, and endless sky in one of Switzerland’s most stunning valleys. INNSBRUCK.jpg
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Day 6
ST. MORITZ–CHUR–TÄSCH–ZERMATT All Aboard in the Alps CHUR Take the [LF] Glacier Express train to Zermatt with lunch served on board. 149 mi / 240 km LOCAL FAVORITE EPIC RIDE Don’t let the name fool you. While its speed won’t take your breath away, the Glacier Express train from St. Moritz to Zermatt delivers a slow, breathtaking ride through some of Switzerland’s most stunning scenery. Traveling the rails over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, you’ll take in each passing postcard scene while reaching an altitude of 6,670 feet above sea level. ZERMATT-TRAIN.jpg
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Day 7
ZERMATT Peak Perfection ZERMATT Enjoy a free day. FREE TIME TIPS EXPLORE MORE Spend the day leisurely strolling around car-free Zermatt or join an excursion to the Matterhorn Glacier, an Alpine paradise of sky slopes, panoramic vistas, ice carvings and unique views. An amazing experience you do not want to miss. ZERMATT-TOWN.jpg
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Day 8
ZERMATT–BERNE Poetry in Motion ZERMATT Mountain train ride to Täsch. CHILLON Take a [LF] guided visit of the castle and enjoy a wine tasting. 155 mi / 250 km LOCAL FAVORITE CULTURAL GEMS Poised on a diminutive island on Lake Geneva and protected by a natural moat is the striking site of Chillon Castle. Discover the Castle’s secrets as you stroll through it on your guided tour. What better way to complete your visit than with a wine tasting for good measure! ZERMATT-TRAIN.jpg
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Day 9
BERNE–INTERLAKEN–LUCERNE Coming up Roses in Berne BERNE Guided walking tour. includes a stop at Bear Park, panoramic views of the city from the Rose Garden and the Old Town. INTERLAKEN Free time for lunch en route to Lucerne. 75 mi / 120 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT CITY SIGHTS Explore the “City of Fountains” Berne - the capital city of Switzerland, dating back to the 12th century. Take in the medieval architecture in the Altstadt (Old Town) with its 6 kilometres of arcades and animated clock tower, and panoramic views of the city from the Rose Garden and Bear Park. BERNE.jpg
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Day 10
LUCERNE Lion Hearts in Lucerne LUCERNE Walking tour includes the Lion monument, the Old Town, and the Chapel Bridge. [LF] Private boat cruise this evening followed by farewell dinner at a local restaurant. LOCAL FAVORITE EPIC RIDE Lucerne looks on top of the stunning lake Vierwaldstättersee, the “lake of the four forested Cantons.” This evening a private panoramic cruise on the lake will highlight the sheer beauty of Lucerne and its surroundings. To top off the evening and the tour, enjoy a farewell dinner with your travel companions. LUCERNE-CHAPEL-BRIDGE.jpg
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Day 11
LUCERNE–BASEL (EMBARKATION) Transfer from Lucerne to Basel. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board. EVENING CRUISE TO BREISACH BASEL-SUNSET.jpg

Day 12
BREISACH, GERMANY. EXCURSION TO BLACK FOREST 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: 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 CRUISE TO STRASBOURG BLACK-FOREST-CLOCK.jpg
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Day 13
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 the Strasbourg’s Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District. You may also choose to join 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 CRUISE TO MAINZ STRASBOURG-PETIT-FRANCE.jpg
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Day 14
MAINZ, GERMANY–EXCURSION TO HEIDELBERG Castle Walls and the World’s Biggest Wine Barrel ACTIVE Join your Avalon Adventure Host for an inspiring walk in Heidelberg, the Philosophers' way, 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,” OR: CLASSIC Enjoy a Guided City Walk in Mainz including a visit to the Gutenberg Museum to see the captivating history of printing. Enjoy live entertainment on board your ship this evening. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN MAINZ HEIDELBERG.jpg
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Day 15
RÜDESHEIM–RHINE GORGE Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country ACTIVE Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim, OR: DISCOVERY Take a Guided Tour of the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience; based on your departure enjoy a local special treat. En route to Koblenz, 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. KOBLENZ Travel Through 2000 Years Of Monumental History Enjoy free time in Koblenz before a relaxing evening on board with dinner and live entertainment. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN KOBLENZ RUDESHEIM-VINEYARDS.jpg
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Day 16
COLOGNE Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland ACTIVE Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host, OR: DISCOVERY 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! AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AMSTERDAM COLOGNE-BEER.jpg
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Day 17
AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND Canals of Colorful Amsterdam ACTIVE Start your day joining your Adventure Host on an early morning walk in Amsterdam, OR: CLASSIC Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age.” During tulip season, you may take a Guided Optional Excursion to Keukenhof gardens—with more than seven million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths, as well as other bulbs, planted each year. Outside of tulip season, join a Guided Optional Excursion to Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and charming Dutch houses. You may also choose an Optional Biking Tour to discover the countryside. Take some free time to explore Amsterdam’s colorful streets and canal houses, galleries, and shops. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM AMSTERDAM-CANAL-CRUISE.jpg
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Day 18
AMSTERDAM (DISEMBARKATION) Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. AMSTERDAM-SUNRISE.jpg

Accommodations

ViennaSalzburgSt. MoritzZermattBernBernLucerneLucerneAmsterdam
MGallery am Konzerthaus
First-Class

Hotel as shown or similar

Am Heumarkt 35-37 Wien Austria

This 211-room upscale property offers Free Wi-Fi access in all guestrooms and public areas of the hotel. A mix of both Viennese and Mediterranean cuisine is offered in the stylish restaurant, whilst drinks can be enjoyed in the nostalgic charm of the lounge bar which has original décor from the Orient Express.
Check Mark Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.

Pavlus Travel tells you there's a wide World out there just waiting to be explored on river cruises by you, and Avalon Waterways like Pavlus Travel knows there is more than a river cruise for you and your family to see it all. Why not experience local cities, villages, and countrysides your way with a wide selection of active excursions and activities brought to you by Avalon River Cruises that put you right in the middle of it all. Borrow a bike to ride through the streets of Amsterdam, grab a Nordic walking stick to capture the castle with a hike up the vineyard off the Rhine River, or paddle a canoe along Austria’s river shores. Pavlus makes it easy to turn sightseeing into doing your adventure in real time. You’ll find all the guidance and gear you from Avalon Waterways staff to embark on an expedition of your own. From a complimentary yoga class aboard your Avalon River Cruise to a jogging tour of Vienna or an optional kayaking excursion. Know that Pavlus Travel discounts Avalon River Cruises be they in Europe or the Far East. You'll enjoy every Avalon River Cruises Ship.