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The Best of Austria & Switzerland with Romantic Rhine
Operated by Avalon Waterways
Tripcode: XZC5
Overview
Destination:
Austria,
Netherlands,
Duration:18 days
Type:Group tour (max 90)
Travel Period
May 2026 - September 2027
18 Day River Cruise Vienna to Amsterdam
This amazing European vacation offers the best of both worlds: a Globus 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 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 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!
This amazing European vacation offers the best of both worlds: a Globus 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 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 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!
Highlights:
Itinerary
Expand all 
Collapse all
Collapse allWELCOME TO VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Welcome to Vienna!
At 6 pm, meet your Globus Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.(D)
At 6 pm, meet your Globus Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.(D)
VIENNA
Spend your day your way in Vienna
Follow your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour featuring some of Vienna’s celebrated landmarks. Explore more of Vienna with your choice of included Globus choice excursions. Spectacular Schönbrunn Take a guided walking tour and experience the elegance of imperial Vienna at Schönbrunn Palace, one of the most important cultural, historic, and architectural monuments in Austria. Marvel at richly decorated Baroque rooms, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, and uncover centuries of Habsburg history in Vienna’s breathtaking imperial jewel. Waltzing Through History Step into the world of "The Waltz King" at the Johann Strauss Museum in Vienna! Discover the life, music, and legacy of the composer behind "The Blue Danube" and "Die Fledermaus." Explore rare exhibits, personal artifacts, and immerse yourself in the elegance of 19th-century Vienna. Free time this evening.(B)
Follow your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour featuring some of Vienna’s celebrated landmarks. Explore more of Vienna with your choice of included Globus choice excursions. Spectacular Schönbrunn Take a guided walking tour and experience the elegance of imperial Vienna at Schönbrunn Palace, one of the most important cultural, historic, and architectural monuments in Austria. Marvel at richly decorated Baroque rooms, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, and uncover centuries of Habsburg history in Vienna’s breathtaking imperial jewel. Waltzing Through History Step into the world of "The Waltz King" at the Johann Strauss Museum in Vienna! Discover the life, music, and legacy of the composer behind "The Blue Danube" and "Die Fledermaus." Explore rare exhibits, personal artifacts, and immerse yourself in the elegance of 19th-century Vienna. Free time this evening.(B)
VIENNA–MONDSEE–SALZBURG
Leave Vienna and drive to the pretty town of Mondsee. Take a stroll in the center and visit the baroque Basilika of St. Michael, location of the wedding scene in the film “The Sound of Music.” Continue to Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart, and follow your Local Guide on a walking tour which includes Mirabell Gardens, the Great Festival Hall, and Residenz Square. 186 mi / 300 km TOUR HIGHLIGHTPICTURE PERFECT Mondsee is a delightful town situated on Lake Mondsee, a privately owned lake, and is one of the 76 lakes found in the Salzkammergut region. In 1872 prehistoric pile dwellings were discovered there, but the rising lake water has since hidden them from view. Despite them being UNESCO listed, their fame in Mondsee is probably overshadowed by the medieval abbey used as a Sound of Music film location.(B)
SALZBURG
The Birthplace of Mozart
Enjoy a free day in Salzburg, absorb more art and culture in one of the museums, browse the stores, or try local specialties, like the delicious Salzburger Nockerl. Alternatively, join an optional excursion.TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURAL 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. (B)
Enjoy a free day in Salzburg, absorb more art and culture in one of the museums, browse the stores, or try local specialties, like the delicious Salzburger Nockerl. Alternatively, join an optional excursion.TOUR HIGHLIGHTCULTURAL 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. (B)
SALZBURG–INNSBRUCK–ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND
Heavenly Hills of Switzerland
This morning reach Innsbruck for an orientation walk through the Old Town to see the Golden Roof, built over 500 years ago and designed to be a royal box from where the emperor could watch local events. Later, cross the border into Switzerland for a scenic drive through the Swiss Engadine en route to St. Moritz.236 mi / 380 kmTOUR 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. (B,D)
This morning reach Innsbruck for an orientation walk through the Old Town to see the Golden Roof, built over 500 years ago and designed to be a royal box from where the emperor could watch local events. Later, cross the border into Switzerland for a scenic drive through the Swiss Engadine en route to St. Moritz.236 mi / 380 kmTOUR 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. (B,D)
ST. MORITZ–CHUR–TÄSCH–ZERMATT
All Aboard in the Alps
A leisurely morning before boarding [LF] the world-famous Glacier Express train for an iconic train ride to Zermatt. Enjoy dinner with a view, as it is served on board while you admire the stunning scenery. 174 mi / 280 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 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. (B,D)
A leisurely morning before boarding [LF] the world-famous Glacier Express train for an iconic train ride to Zermatt. Enjoy dinner with a view, as it is served on board while you admire the stunning scenery. 174 mi / 280 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 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. (B,D)
ZERMATT
Peak Perfection
Oozing tradition, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Zermatt offers an unforgettable experience. Marvel at the stunning mountainscapes and discover the picturesque village during a full free day at leisure.ENHANCED FREE TIMEEXPLORE 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.(B,D)
Oozing tradition, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Zermatt offers an unforgettable experience. Marvel at the stunning mountainscapes and discover the picturesque village during a full free day at leisure.ENHANCED FREE TIMEEXPLORE 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.(B,D)
ZERMATT–BERN
Poetry in Motion
Take the local mountain train to Tasch before driving to Chillon. Enjoy a guided visit of the castle, built on a rock island on the shores of Lake Geneva, followed by a wine tasting experience. Continue to beautiful Bern, capital city of Switzerland. 143 mi / 230 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT 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! (B)
Take the local mountain train to Tasch before driving to Chillon. Enjoy a guided visit of the castle, built on a rock island on the shores of Lake Geneva, followed by a wine tasting experience. Continue to beautiful Bern, capital city of Switzerland. 143 mi / 230 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT 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! (B)
BERN–INTERLAKEN–LUCERNE
Coming up Roses in Bern
This morning, join your Local Guide for a walking tour. Stop at the Rose Garden for a panoramic view of the city. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its ornate fountains and entertaining Zytglogge (clock tower) and stop at the Bear Park to see some of Bern’s most famous inhabitants. En-route to Lucerne enjoy some free time in Interlaken, one of Switzerland’s oldest resorts. 78 mi / 125 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT CITY SIGHTS Explore the “City of Fountains” Bern - 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. (B)
This morning, join your Local Guide for a walking tour. Stop at the Rose Garden for a panoramic view of the city. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its ornate fountains and entertaining Zytglogge (clock tower) and stop at the Bear Park to see some of Bern’s most famous inhabitants. En-route to Lucerne enjoy some free time in Interlaken, one of Switzerland’s oldest resorts. 78 mi / 125 km TOUR HIGHLIGHT CITY SIGHTS Explore the “City of Fountains” Bern - 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. (B)
LUCERNE
Lion Hearts in Lucerne
This morning, join a walking tour to see the highlights of Lucerne. Stop to admire the Lion Monument, a moving rock relief that Mark Twain called the “saddest sculpture in the world,” and the 14th century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss from the Altstadt (old town). Enjoy free time this afternoon to get better acquainted with this alpine gem. This evening, end your tour in style with [LF] a private boat cruise followed by a 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.(B,D)
This morning, join a walking tour to see the highlights of Lucerne. Stop to admire the Lion Monument, a moving rock relief that Mark Twain called the “saddest sculpture in the world,” and the 14th century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss from the Altstadt (old town). Enjoy free time this afternoon to get better acquainted with this alpine gem. This evening, end your tour in style with [LF] a private boat cruise followed by a 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.(B,D)
LUCERNE–BASEL (EMBARKATION)
Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.The Globus portion of your package ends this morning. Transfer from Lucerne to Basel to start your Avalon river cruise.Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board.EVENING CRUISE TO BREISACH (B,D)
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:CLASSIC 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: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.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 KEHL(B,L,D)
KEHL. EXCURSION TO STRASBOURG, FRANCE
A Grand Cathedral and La Petite FranceACTIVE 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(B,L,D)
MAINZ, GERMANY–EXCURSION TO HEIDELBERG
Castle Walls and the World’s Biggest Wine BarrelACTIVE 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 after a short sailing to Rüdesheim.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN RÜDESHEIM(B,L,D)
RÜDESHEIM–RHINE GORGE
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine CountryACTIVE Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim, OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee, OR:DISCOVERY Take a Guided Visit to the historic 18th-century wooden-barrel cellar of Johannisberg Castle and enjoy a delicious wine tasting. 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.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(B,L,D)
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(B,L,D)
AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND
Canals of Colorful AmsterdamACTIVE Start your day joining your Adventure Host on an early morning walk in Amsterdam, OR:CLASSIC Discover the true beauty of Amsterdam with an off-the-beaten-path Guided Walking Tour through its cobblestone streets for a captivating look at this legendary city, 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. 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(B,L,D)
AMSTERDAM (DISEMBARKATION)
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Dates
Select a date or submit general enquiry
Operator
Avalon Waterways
Designed from the bottom up for comfort, space, and room to dream, each Avalon Suite Ship consists of 80% Panorama Suites—offering the widest view in river cruising. Larger suites result in fewer passengers, so you’ll never feel crowded anywhere on board. From reclining on the open-air Sky Deck, relaxing in the spacious Panorama Lounge, or feeling the wind over the bough In the Observation Lounge, there’s never a shortage of comfortable spots to stretch out, day dream, or just watch the world go by. From our inception, Avalon Waterways has cast a light on the world’s most fascinating places and people – inviting wayfarers and wanderers like you to bask in their glory, intrigue and wonder. Along the way, we’ve helped travellers uncover ancient traditions while meeting the locals dedicated to preserving them; to meander historic hallways while giving back to the societies that safeguard them; and to put down the guidebooks and pick up a greater understanding of the world and its people.
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