15 Dec - 19 Dec 2023
We strive not to be beaten on price!
This Christmastime river cruise is a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate the season! Board your Avalon Suite Ship® in Frankfurt, Germany, then sail up the Rhine River to Basel, Switzerland, passing beautiful views and quaint villages festively lit and decorated. This one-of-a-kind Christmas river cruise through France and Germany takes you on an excursion to Heidelberg, Germany, to visit the fascinating ruins of Heidelberg Castle, towering magnificently over the city. At this time of year, an ice rink can be found at the foot of the castle and the Christmas market is spread over five town squares. Delight in the holiday cheer with Glühwein (hot mulled wine), bratwursts, and other regional delicacies. You’ll also find an array of crafts, Christmas decorations, and gifts. Strasbourg, located on the border of France and Germany, perfectly blends the cultures of both countries. Strasbourg is home to one of the oldest and finest Christmas markets in Europe—dating back to the 16th century. Take in the aromas of mulled wine, spice cakes, and biscuits. Bask in the holiday atmosphere as you visit the Strasbourg Cathedral, a gothic masterpiece made of red sandstone, and containing ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock. Your Christmas river cruise along the Rhine River takes you to Breisach, considered the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest—an area of unrivaled natural beauty, best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock. There is no better setting than this time of year when smoke curls from the chimneys of the traditional Black Forest houses. Your delightful holiday cruise ends in Basel, Switzerland. Don’t miss this experience to savor the holiday season in traditional and beautiful Christmas traditions of European winter markets and festivities!
Intimate and innovative, Avalon Artistry II is an Avalon Suite Ship which accommodates 128 passengers. With two full decks of suites each with wall-to-wall panoramic windows that open to create unique open-air balconies. A contemporary ship designed with comfort in mind, Avalon Artistry II offers upgrades and enhancements throughout, impeccable personal service and attention to detail, as well as elegant dining and chic, minimalist decor. Every suite provides the very best in size, comfort, views and design, an impressive wall-to-wall panoramic window, and measures a spacious 200 square feet. Even the placement of the bed allows you to wake up each morning and retire to bed each evening facing the magnificent river views.
Avalon Artistry II Cruise CalendarIn Europe, see the iconic sights of Paris and Budapest, Vienna and Bucharest. Explore the nooks and cobbled alleys of medieval quarters, and visit the sleepy towns and riverside villages that inspired the great artists. Rub shoulders with locals in colourful wine gardens and lively bierkellers, and then lose yourself on vineyard strolls and bike rides through shady orchards on the Danube, Rhine, Seine and Rhône.
To celebrate your passions and pursuits, we,ve crafted a series of engaging special interest cruises. Indulge your passions at no additional cost with our exclusive and diverse selection of themed cruises. From food and wine to art, history and music, each cruise includes a stimulating range of tailored activities and excursions - both on and off the ship.
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