Danube and Rhine Grand River Cruise

Premium River Cruise
From£3,124
Premium River Cruise
From£3,124
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Why Book With Us?

  • Optional rail transfers from anywhere in Europe
  • Luxury River Cruise Boat
  • Choice of Bedrooms
  • Full-board
  • Activities and excursions included
  • ABTA, IPP and tour operator protection


How Do I Book?

  • Book online or over the phone with a 10% Deposit
  • Pay the remainder balance by 90 days before departure

Tour Details

Route: Budapest Bratislava Vienna Durnstein Passau Regensburg Nuremberg Bamberg  Volkach Wurzburg Miltenberg Rudesheim Vienna Cologne Amsterdam

Duration: 16 days

Age Range: The average is between 40 and 70 and popular with couples or solo travellers.

Transport: You’ll travel on the 443ft long Avalon Impression River Cruise Ship 

Transfers: We can arrange you train travel to the start city and back from the end city. Please Enquire. 

Activities: There’s plenty of included activities along the way, and lots more of optional activities to choose from should you opt for even more!

Meals: Full board

Flexibility: Enquire to add extra nights of accommodation at the start and end of your trip.

Reviews:    All independent reviews

Map
Tour Style

Discover the very best of Central Europe on this 16-day river cruise tour, as you take a long and scenic route along the Rhine and Danube, via some of the continents most culturally and historically important landmarks, cities and architectures.

Popular with more experienced travellers of 55 and above, this tour is perfect for anyone wanting an alternative way to travel, whilst maintaining luxurious elements and a true ‘holiday’ feel.

You’ll be joined on your trip by experts, on hand to guide you through each destination and uncover the legends and history to each stop on your tour. There will be plenty of chance to take part in activities and excursions, whilst you are away, with something to appeal to all interests – from cooking class, to painting workshops; all giving you the chance to mingle with like-minded people.

We take all the stress out of travelling so that you’re free to relax and enjoy your trip! With Euroventure, we can also arrange first-class train travel and hotels before and after your cruise to get you there and back. 

Tour Description

Experience the vibrant and diverse culture of Central Europe in a unique and timeless way on this incredible river cruise vacation, which begins in Amsterdam and continues on to Budapest, with plenty of exciting stops along the way. Amsterdam is a dynamic and colourful city that seamlessly blends modern and historical architecture. You can appreciate the city’s 700-year-old treasures from a unique perspective while cruising along its elegant grachten. Cologne, a stunning 2,000-year-old city known for its Gothic-style architecture, awaits you in Germany, followed by a journey through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, which offers stunning views of the Rhine River. The charming wine town of Rüdesheim is also a must-see destination. During your voyage, you will enjoy guided sightseeing in various other cities, such as Würzburg, Volkach, Bamberg, Nuremberg, and Regensburg. You’ll also have the opportunity to sail through the Main Danube Canal, which connects the Main and Danube Rivers. One of the highlights of this river cruise is the lovely town of Melk in Austria, where you can visit its magnificent Benedictine Abbey. As you cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley, you’ll encounter two capital cities: Vienna, Austria, also known as “The City of Music” for inspiring the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss; and Budapest, Hungary, a lively and energetic city with countless must-see sites. This river cruise vacation promises to be an unforgettable journey filled with lasting memories.

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What's Included?

  • Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks with every lunch and dinner
  • Peace of mind with alternative travel included if there is a strike or similar disruption
  • An experienced and local Tour Director to travel with you throughout
  • Daily a la carte breakfast with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily specials
  • Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations.
  • Daily Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, sweet treats & sandwiches
  • Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine and canapés
  • Fresh fruit available throughout the day
  • Canoe, kayak and jogging excursions
  • Fitness and wellness activities
Itinerary

Day 1 - Budapest

Welcome to Slovakia! Your Suite Ship is ready and awaiting your arrival. Please note that flights into Budapest should arrive no later than 3:30 pm. You won’t want to miss a thing, so make sure to be on board the ship by 5 pm.

 

Day 2 - Budapest

During your visit to Budapest, you have two options: either hike up to a magnificent viewpoint with your Adventure Host or enjoy a Guided City Sightseeing tour that covers iconic spots, including Heroes’ Square. Later, spend the afternoon indulging in optional guided tours or exploring Budapest on your own terms. Visiting one of the city’s many cafes and treating yourself to a slice of cream cake is always a good idea, or perhaps you’d like to take a scenic hike above the Danube for a stunning view for a bit of reflection time, before reboarding the ship.

Overnight Cruise to Bratislava

 

Day 3 - Bratislava

Experience a captivating journey and explore the rich culture of Bratislava. Admire stunning views from the lofty Bratislava Castle or join a Guided Walking Tour of Old Town’s charming cobblestone streets leading to the Town Hall. Take time to visit the Gothic halls of St. Martin’s Cathedral – a centuries-old coronation church in Hungary. If you prefer to explore on your own, ride a bicycle and savor a picnic as you discover local sights along the Danube. End your day onboard with live entertainment as you prepare for an overnight cruise to Vienna.

Overnight Cruise to Vienna

Day 4 - Vienna

During your visit to Vienna, there are several exciting activities to explore. Join your Adventure Host to explore Vienna’s Danube Island by bike. Or, you can explore Austria’s imperial legacy with a morning Guided City Tour. Gaze upon Vienna’s gilded landmarks including the magnificent Vienna Opera House, stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Imperial Palace Complex — winter home of the Imperial Family.

You can also choose to participate in the Guided Optional Excursion to Schönbrunn Palace, the opulent summer home of the Habsburg family, or choose a Guided Optional Excursion to fascinating Bratislava. For a more thrilling experience, consider a tram ride to Vienna’s Prater amusement park or one of the many museums nearby.

Finally, unwind in the evening as you enjoy live entertainment aboard sailing to Durnstein.

Overnight Cruise to Durnstein

 

Day 5 - Durnstein

An unforgettable experience today as we take you on a guided hike to castle ruins, offering a spectacular view of the village, Danube, and the picturesque Wachau Valley. You’ll then have the option to hear the legendary tale of King Richard the Lionheart, who was once imprisoned in the castle during the Crusades, on a guided walk. Afterwards, relax on the Sky Deck as you sail through the Wachau Valley past charming villages, vineyards, and castles on your way to Melk.

In Melk, enjoy a walk along the Danube river and explore the coveted Benedictine Abbey with its frescoed ceilings, statues, incredible library, and ornate pipe organ on a Guided Tour. End your day with a delightful wine tasting on board as you prepare to sail to Passau.

Overnight Cruise to Passau

Day 6 - Passau

The city where two major rivers meet – the Danube and Inn along with the Ilz, is a sight to behold. To learn more about the history and culture, a guided city walk is highly recommended. In case you have more time, you may embark on a guided excursion to Mozart’s city, Salzburg, or the Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov. For a more relaxed itinerary, you may opt for a cruise to the charming town of Linz. Linz is a fascinating place, and you can explore it at your leisure this evening. Later, there will be live entertainment on board to enjoy.

Cruise to Regensburg

Day 7 - Regensburg

Experience Bavaria’s Medieval Miracle as you explore Walhalla by bike with your Adventure Host. Join a Guided City Walk and discover the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and Porta Pretoria, which was built in 179 AD as the entrance to Castra Regina fortress. You may also choose to take a Guided Optional Excursion to the Benedictine Monastery in Weltenburg. If you prefer to explore on your own, spend a leisurely afternoon discovering the captivating charm of Regensburg on foot or by bike along its picturesque streets.

Cruise to Roth

 

Day 8 - Roth/Nuremberg

Explore Roth’s Lauter Valley with your or enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of the Bavarian town of Roth—with its half-timbered houses, market square, and 1535 hunting lodge Schloss Ratibor. Later, opt for a guided tour of Nuremberg’s medieval architecture, gilded fountain, gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle, or join a guided tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds—used by the Third Reich. During your journey, you can also enjoy an onboard lecture about the Main-Danube Canal, which links the two rivers and enables navigation between the North and Black Seas.

Cruise to Bamberg

Day 9 - Bamberg

The City of Seven Hills is a wonderful place to explore by bike or foot. If biking is your preference, your prepared and serviced bike awaits. Take a leisurely ride alongside the canals with your Adventure Host. Alternatively, take a guided walking tour that highlights the Romanesque cathedral, the Old Town Hall, and the seven hills, each crowned with a beautiful church. Finally, top off the day with live entertainment aboard a relaxing evening sail.

Cruise to Volkach

 

Day 10 - Volkach

During your trip, you have the option to visit the beautiful Bavarian town of Rothenburg by joining a Guided Optional Excursion. This excursion is the perfect opportunity to explore local sights and immerse yourself in the fairytale atmosphere that has inspired countless artists. After visiting Rothenburg, you’ll sail to Volkach and prepare for your afternoon activity. During this time, you can either choose to bike along the Main Danube Canal with your Adventure Host or join a Walking Tour of the quaint town of Volkach. This tour will take you through the charming half-timbered houses and cobblestoned streets that make Volkach so unique.

Cruise to Kitzingen

Day 11 - Wurzurg

Discover the pearl of the Romantic Road by taking a guided sightseeing tour of Würzburg where you will be awed by its Old Main Bridge, towering fortress, and baroque Bishop’s Residenz, complete with the largest known ceiling fresco. Afterward, you can enjoy the city on your own or visit a local winery for a more tranquil experience.

 Cruise to Miltenberg

Day 12 - Miltenberg

Discover today’s energizing or relaxing Adventure Host activities on the Main River and take part in what interests you the most. See Miltenberg’s showcase of medieval half-timber homes on a Guided Walking Tour, and explore Germany’s oldest inn. What better way to spend your free time than riding a bike through the lovely villages situated on the shores of the Main River.

 Cruise to Rüdesheim

Day 13 - Rhine Gorge

Discover the beauty of Wine Country! Start your day with a morning cruise through Rhine Gorge and marvel at the famous Lorelei rock. Next, hop on an open-air cable car to the Niederwald Monument. Choose to ride or walk back down through the picturesque vineyards. Alternatively, visit the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a unique instrumental experience. To end your tour, relish some local delicacies that will leave you more satisfied.

Cruise to Cologne

 

Day 14 - Cologne

Celebrate your arrival into Cologne with a toast of ‘Prost!’

Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities: for the active, enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne. Curious about history? Discover Cologne’s important Jewish heritage sites on a guided walking tour. Or opt for the classic Guided City Walk which explores the Old City and sees its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral.

Don’t miss out on savouring a (few) glass(es) of Kölsch pale lager – brewed locally for over 100 years – during free time.

Overnight Cruise to Amsterdam

Day 15 - Amsterdam

Join your Adventure Host on an early morning walk in Amsterdam or opt for a guided canal cruise along the city’s iconic waterways. As you immerse yourself in the stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age,” take in the picturesque views of the city’s breathtaking architecture. Later, you may choose to participate in an optional culinary walk to savor sweet and savory Dutch delicacies or take an optional biking tour to explore the countryside. For a more immersive experience, consider a guided optional excursion to Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and charming Dutch houses. Spend your free time exploring the colorful cafés, galleries, bridges, and canals of Amsterdam.

Day 16 - Amsterdam

Your cruise will conclude with a delicious breakfast served tomorrow morning. We hope you have enjoyed your time onboard and have made unforgettable memories. Please ensure that you have collected all your belongings from your cabin before you disembark. We wish you a safe journey back home and hope to welcome you onboard again in the future.

Optional Train Transfers

Euroventure are experts in European travel and can organise your travel from anywhere in Europe to the start city of your cruise and back again from the last city. With Euroventure you have the option to turn your river cruise into a bigger holiday with first class European rail travel.

This is an example route from London (but the possibilities across Europe are endless):

Outbound Route: London Direct Eurostar to Paris (2 nights in a hotel) Direct train to Zurich (2 nights in a hotel) Direct train to Salzburg (2 nights in a hotel) Direct train to Budapest (2 nights in a hotel)

16 Day River Cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam

Return Route: Amsterdam Direct Eurostar to London

The Ship

The Avalon Impression is the gem among the award-winning fleet of Suite Ships. Offering an exceptional river cruising experience, this stunning ship boasts two entire levels of Panorama Suites with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that can transform into an Open-Air Balcony. Imagine waking up each morning to the most splendid views of the passing scenery from your bed, which faces the large windows. And with a whopping 30% more space than the industry average, the Panorama Suites are an absolute treat.

But the perks don’t stop there. The Avalon Impression comes with some of the best amenities you can find on a river cruise. There’s the delightful Panorama Bistro, which offers light dining options for when you want to enjoy a casual meal, as well as the Fitness Centre, where you can keep up with your exercise routine. And when it’s time to relax, head to the expansive Sky Deck, which features premium lounge chairs, a whirlpool, and light meals at the Sky Bistro.

The Avalon Impression promises an unbeatable combination of casual luxury and exceptional amenities, making it an experience that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Get ready to explore the most picturesque parts of the world in style and comfort, and create unforgettable memories on board this magnificent ship!

Throughout the Ship

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Panoramic windows
  • Elegant, contemporary design & décor
  • Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
  • 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

Dining

  • Avalon FlexDining® for more venue and seating options, including flexible seating times in our Panorama Dining Room
  • Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
  • Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks with every lunch and dinner
  • Daily a la carte breakfast with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily specials
  • 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.
  • Daily Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, sweet treats & sandwiches
  • Daily four-course a la carte dinner in the Panorama Dining Room with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees and desserts. Includes selections of regional recipes, Western dishes and vegetarian options.
  • Enjoy a tasting menu with a view in the Panorama Bistro – a less formal “sit-down” atmosphere while lingering over several satisfying selections
  • Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine and canapés
  • Panorama Lounge featuring premium spirits and Avalon specialty cocktails, along with local entertainment special guests
  • Cocktails available on the Sky Deck
  • Fresh fruit available throughout the day

Health and Fitness

  • Bikes
  • Canoe, kayak and jogging excursions
  • Maps for hiking, biking and jogging routes
  • Fitness and wellness activities

Suites and State Rooms

  • Comfort Collection Beds with choice of mattress firmness
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Premium L’Occitane bath products
  • Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
  • Individual climate control and in-room safe
  • USB Ports
  • And, much more

 

Deck Plans

The Rooms

Avalon have the newest river cruise ships in Europe, with the best layouts, maximising on window space and ensuring comfort regardless of whether you choose a deluxe stateroom, panorama suite or royal suite. 

The Experience

Included Excursions

There are three types of experiences for you to pick and choose from at each destination on your cruise:

CLASSIC: Experience the expertise of a local guide as they lead you on a journey through the history and rich heritage of the local destinations. Prepare to be amazed by the captivating stories, traditions, and remarkable architectural wonders of the iconic and historically significant sites.

DISCOVERY: Unearth engaging and hands-on experiences tailored to your interests. Whether it’s participating in cooking classes or immersing yourself in painting workshops, each activity will allow you to deeply engage with the culture of the places you explore.

ACTIVE: Embark on invigorating adventures that will keep you active and constantly on the move. From a guided jogging tour of Amsterdam to cycling, kayaking, and hiking through breathtaking locations, you’ll experience the thrill of exploration firsthand.

Cuisine

Experience a luxurious cruise while staying true to your healthy lifestyle with our exclusive Avalon Fresh menu. Indulge in a guilt-free culinary journey that caters to your well-being. From revitalizing breakfast juices to meticulously crafted salads for lunch and protein-rich dishes for dinner, Avalon Fresh offers a wide array of options, including vegetarian and vegan specialties. Enjoy creative cuisine that tantalizes your taste buds without compromising on health.

In addition to the delectable menu, we offer a range of dining experiences to enhance your journey. Start your day with breakfast in bed, courtesy of our complimentary room service. Delight in buffet lunches, savour afternoon tea, and indulge in four-course dinners in the panoramic dining room. All your meals are included, and you can complement your dining experience with included wine, beer, and soft drinks.

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