The Romantic Rhine on Avalon (Northbound) - with a pre-cruise adventure to Switzerland!
Sailing: Romantic Rhine aboard the Avalon Vista - 8-day River Cruise Basel to Amsterdam
Dates: May 16-23, 2026 Optional Pre-sailing option: We would love to have you join us for 4-nights in spectacular Switzerland, as we explore and savor this beautiful country together prior to boarding our cruise. Our Romantic Rhine Avalon Sailing Adventure: We will set sail from Basel, Switzerland and sail one of Europe’s most legendary rivers on this exciting journey along the Rhine River, which begins in Switzerland and visits France, Germany, and Holland! Our first stop is Breisach, Germany, at the foot of the Kaiserstuhl Mountain on the French-German border. Here we find the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest, an area of unrivaled natural beauty, best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and of course: the cuckoo clock! Our river cruise continues as we sail to Strasbourg, France, and marvel at the red-sandstone Gothic-style 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. Strasbourg is one of my favorite stops - the beautiful square, incredible architecture and treats (and shopping!), are some of my favorites! Visit the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, towering magnificently over the city, or stop in Mainz for a guided walk and a visit to the captivating Gutenberg Museum. Sail to the charming wine town of Rüdesheim, and a visit to the unique Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, then 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. Last stop in Germany is Cologne—a 2,000-year-old city known for its Gothic-style architecture and famous twin-spired cathedral. Our river cruise will end in Amsterdam; however, your journey is not over! Amsterdam offers world-famous museums and an abundance of restaurants amid the classic architecture and charming canals where you can 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.” Truly a perfect ending to this once-in-a-lifetime vacation in Europe! Cruise Itinerary Interested in joining us? Contact your Stone Arch Travel Advisor, or Chris to reserve your spot! |