22 Day Avalon Waterways River Cruise from Basel to Bordeaux 2027(WZX)

Avalon Waterways River Cruise - Basel to Bordeaux

Vineyards, Chateaux & Bordeaux

Starting from $10,353
Ship(s): Avalon Envision, Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon View
22 Day Avalon Waterways River Cruise from Basel to Bordeaux 2027 - WZX
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1.888.804.CRUISE (2784)

River Cruise Description

Immerse yourself in German and French culture on this fabulous Europe river cruise vacation along the Rhine, Seine, Garonne, and Dordogne Rivers. Your adventure begins in Breisach, Germany, the gateway to unrivaled beauty of Germany's Black Forest. Soak in the sights of Strasbourg, France, located on the French-German border-perfectly blending the cultures of both countries. Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, the most beautiful view of the Rhine River where ancient castles peer from 400-foot cliffs above the shores. History comes to life in Cologne, Germany-the 2,000-year-old city best known for its Gothic architecture and towering twin-spired cathedral. Continue to Amsterdam and board a canal cruise for an immersive view of the tall, narrow houses in the capital of Holland. Be whisked away via high-speed train to Paris to board your Seine River cruise to be wined, dined, and delighted by French culture, cuisine, and captivating charm. Discover the true heart of Paris on a guided walk or see the legendary landmarks of this enchanting city.

Your European river cruise vacation gets even better with a captivating cruise on France's Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. Sail through the brilliant Bordeaux region-famed for its legendary vineyards and lovely villages. Be carried away with your choice of Avalon's included Classic, Active, and Discovery experiences-from the regal histories of castles and Châteaux to the romantic cellars where wine bouquets and bon-vivant cuisine tempt the palate. While the landscapes and lush pastoral treasures are plentiful along the shores of the Garonne and Dordogne, Avalon elevates each immersive experience for a deeper discovery of the cultural and architectural treasures that recall the rich traditions of Southwest France. From unparalleled panoramic drives to forested two-wheel excursions by bike to the delicacies of seaside Arcachon-the world is your oyster on this adventure in la belle vie of Bordeaux!
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Departure DateShipPriced From
(per person)		 
Mar 30, 2027Avalon View, Avalon Tapestry II$11,853Call Us!
Apr 6, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$12,253Call Us!
Apr 13, 2027Avalon View, Avalon Tapestry II$12,553Call Us!
Apr 20, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$12,753Call Us!
May 11, 2027Avalon View, Avalon Tapestry II$13,353Call Us!
May 18, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$13,253Call Us!
Jun 1, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$12,253Call Us!
Jun 22, 2027Avalon View, Avalon Tapestry II$12,153Call Us!
Jun 29, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$12,153Call Us!
Jul 6, 2027Avalon View, Avalon Tapestry II$12,153Call Us!
Jul 13, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$12,153Call Us!
Jul 20, 2027Avalon View, Avalon Tapestry II$12,153Call Us!
Jul 27, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$12,153Call Us!
Aug 3, 2027Avalon View, Avalon Tapestry II$12,253Call Us!
Aug 10, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$12,353Call Us!
Aug 17, 2027Avalon View, Avalon Tapestry II$12,753Call Us!
Aug 24, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$13,353Call Us!
Aug 31, 2027Avalon View, Avalon Tapestry II$13,953Call Us!
Sep 7, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$13,953Call Us!
Sep 28, 2027Avalon View, Avalon Tapestry II$12,453Call Us!
Oct 5, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$12,153Call Us!
Oct 12, 2027Avalon View, Avalon Tapestry II$11,653Call Us!
Oct 19, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$11,153Call Us!
Nov 2, 2027Avalon Tapestry II, Avalon Envision$10,353Call Us!
Avalon Choice

Avalon has designed included activities with a choice of experiences. We invite you to select the tours, activities, and events that interest you most, so you can experience your cruise your way. There are 3 types of included shore excursion on every Europe cruise:

Classic
Your local expert is ready to guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. You'll marvel at the legends, lore, and spectacular architecture of iconic and historic sites.
Discovery
We've found inspiring and interactive activities to speak to your interests — from cooking classes, to painting workshops — to immerse yourself in each culture you explore.
Active
Embark on energetic excursions to keep you in motion and on the go — from a guided jogging tour of Amsterdam, to biking, paddling, and hiking your way through scenic locales.
  • Plus independent exploration options and use of Avalon's exclusive AvalonGO APP.

River Cruise Itinerary

Day 1 BASEL, SWITZERLAND (EMBARKATION)

Welcome to Switzerland!
Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.
Flights into Zürich or Basel must arrive by 3 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.
Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board.
EVENING CRUISE TO BREISACH
(D)

Day 2 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
Take a Guided E-bike Tour to experience the magical Black Forest from a unique point of view, 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/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KEHL
(B,L,D)

Day 3 KEHL. EXCURSION TO 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 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.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO LUDWIGSHAFEN
(B,L,D)

Day 4 LUDWIGSHAFEN, 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
Join a Guided Visit to Schwetzingen Palace—the heart of a stunning site consisting of the palace, palace gardens, and historic palace square.
This afternoon through the evening, enjoy leisurely sailing to Rüdesheim.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN RÜDESHEIM
(B,L,D)

Day 5 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; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee, 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.
KOBLENZ
Travel Through 2000 Years Of Monumental History
Enjoy free time in Koblenz before a relaxing evening on board with dinner and live entertainment.
This evening enjoy live entertainment onboard.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO COLOGNE
(B,L,D)

Day 6 COLOGNE

Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland
Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.
Active
Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host, OR:
Classic
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)

Day 7 AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND

Canals of Colorful Amsterdam
Active
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. 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, canal houses, galleries, and shops.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM
(B,L,D)

Day 8 AMSTERDAM (DISEMBARKATION)–PARIS, FRANCE (EMBARKATION)

On to Paris
This morning, board a high-speed train for Paris to embark on your Avalon Suite Ship® and enjoy dinner onboard this evening.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VERNON
(B,D)

Day 9 VERNON

Monet’s Fleurs and Crêpes du Jour
Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.
Active
Take a Guided Bike Tour through the picturesque Normandy countryside from Vernon to Giverny, ending with a visit to Monet’s enchanting gardens and home, OR:
Classic
Take a Guided Tour of Giverny, home and inspiration of the master impressionist painter Claude Monet. Walk the grounds and see Monet’s charming residence, and the flower and water gardens captured in his masterpieces*, OR:
Classic
Join a Guided Visit to Bizy Castle—called “Normandy’s Versailles” for its magnificent courtyard, water garden, and stables.
Discovery
While sailing, enjoy a traditional French luncheon of authentic French crêpes, followed by a Pastry Demonstration.
This afternoon, enjoy a beautiful cruise to the picturesque town of Les Andelys.
LES ANDELYS
Serenity on the Seine
Active
Join a Guided Hike up to the castle ruins of Château Gaillard—historic home of King Richard the Lionheart, OR:
Classic
Take a Guided Walking Tour of Les Andelys—one of France’s most picturesque spots on the Seine.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CAUDEBEC
(B,L,D)
*Monet’s House is closed in March and November. During this period, this excursion will be replaced with a Guided Tour of La Roche-Guyon and its castle.

Day 10 CAUDEBEC

Ancient Abbeys Along the Seine
Active
Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the river with your Adventure Host, OR:
Classic
Take a Guided Trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route—where more than 100 medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys and churches were built along the Seine.
This afternoon, you may choose a Guided Optional Excursion to the old seaside town of Honfleur.
Discovery
Enjoy an Onboard Lecture about the days before and after the Normandy landing of D-Day.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CAUDEBEC
(B,L,D)

Day 11 CAUDEBEC. EXCURSION TO NORMANDY

Bravery on Normandy Beaches and French Farming Traditions
Classic
Join a Guided Tour of Normandy’s WWII landing beaches, visit significant U.S. sites, including Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery, OR:
Classic
Take a full-day Guided Tour of the British and Canadian commemorative sites, including the British cemetery, Pegasus Memorial, the seaside town of Arromanches, the Juno Beach Center, and the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, OR:
Classic
Join a Guided Tour to get a taste of authentic tradition in the beautiful region of Normandy. Toast the day with a brandy tasting in Calvados.
EVENING CRUISE TO ROUEN
(B,L,D)

Day 12 ROUEN

The Cathedral of Notre-Dame and a Heroine for France
Active
Take a Guided Bike Tour to discover and explore the most famous monuments and the lesser known hidden gems of Rouen on two wheels, OR:
Classic
Take a Guided Walking Tour of Rouen—site of Saint Joan of Arc’s martyrdom—and see the medieval quarter with its 16th-century Astronomical Clock, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CONFLANS
(B,L,D)

Day 13 CONFLANS

The Footsteps of Van Gogh, Bonaparte, and Louis XIV
Active
Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the Seine with your Adventure Host, OR:
Classic
Join a Guided Visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, home and resting place of Vincent van Gogh, OR:
Classic
Take a Guided tour of the opulent Château de Malmaison*—home of Napoléon Bonaparte and his wife Josephine.
Perhaps, join a Guided Optional Excursion to the Palace of Versailles—home to a succession of French kings.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.
AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO PARIS
(B,L,D)
* Château de Malmaison is closed the 1st Sunday of each month. On these dates, this excursion will be replaced by a visit to Château de Chantilly

Day 14 PARIS

Cafés, Cathedrals and Canvases in the City of Light
Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.
Active
Experience the Seine river by foot with your Adventure Host, OR:
Classic
Discover the ancient heart of Paris on a captivating Guided Walk featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, ancient sites on Île de la Cité, the Left Bank, bustling Latin Quarter, and more, OR:
Classic
Join a Guided City Tour featuring the iconic sites of Paris, which make the City of Light the most romantic and remarkable city in the world.
Stroll through Paris on your own or linger over wine in a literary café on the Left Bank.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PARIS
(B,L,D)

Day 15 PARIS (DISEMBARKATION)–BORDEAUX (EMBARKATION)

Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding
This morning, travel to Bordeaux to board your Suite Ship® and start your cruise on the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers.
This evening, enjoy a very special sailing featuring the illuminated skyline of Bordeaux.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX
(B,D)

Day 16 BORDEAUX—PAUILLAC

On the Steps of Montesquieu
Classic
Take a guided tour of Château de la Brède—birthplace of Montesquieu—political philosopher and author of “The Spirit of Law.” Visit the fortress-style castle still reflected in its impressive moat, OR:
Discovery
Join a guided visit with wine tasting at a local wine estate. Sip the sweet notes and fresh acidity of Sauternes, the beloved golden-yellow wine.
Discovery
Join a delicious onboard Bordeaux wine experience while sailing to Pauillac with a presentation by a world-class wine sommelier.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your Suite Ship®.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PAUILLAC
(B,L,D)

Day 17 CUSSAC FORT MÉDOC

Bikes, Vines, and Wines
This morning, enjoy a leisurely sailing to Cussac Fort Médoc
Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.
Active
Enjoy a relaxing E-bike guided tour in Bordeaux’s finest wine region. You will be amazed by the picturesque countryside while you enjoy a wonderful ride through the vineyards, OR:
Discovery
Join a guided tour to discover the culture and traditions of the southern Médoc region at one of Margaux' beautiful château and enjoy a wine tasting, OR:
Classic
Take a scenic drive through the famed Médoc wine country and enjoy a tasting of wonderful wines, featuring Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
This evening, enjoy a brief sailing to Blaye.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BLAYE
(B,L,D)

Day 18 BLAYE-BOURG

Fine Art, Fine Bubbly, and a Fine Day for a Drive
Ask your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.
Active
Join a refreshing power walk through the historic Citadel of Blaye with your Adventure Host, OR:
Discovery
Join a guided tour to discover Blaye from a different perspective, including a visit to a local art gallery with wine tasting, OR:
Classic
Take a panoramic drive following the famed Route de la Corniche along the right banks of the River Dordogne, followed by a guided visit to the Citadel of Blaye, an UNESCO World Heritage site.
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon sailing on the Dordogne River to Bourg.
Classic
Take a wonderful walking tour in the Citadel of Bourg on the banks of the Dordogne River and visit the carriage museum.
Alternatively, join an optional guided excursion to learn how the Fine Champagne of Cognac is made while enjoying a Rémy Martin tasting.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BOURG
(B,L,D)

Day 19 LIBOURNE. EXCURSION TO SAINT-ÉMILION

The Village Amid the Vineyards
Discovery
Enjoy a guided visit to Saint-Émilion to discover one Bordeaux’ must-see wine-growing towns and celebrate your day with a wine tasting, OR:
Classic
Join a guided tour of the medieval village of Saint-Émilion—a UNESCO World Heritage site of legends and legendary landscapes, OR:
Classic
Take an orientation walking tour to discover the history and beauty of Libourne, where wine and wonderful views are cherished in the 12th-century fortified town.
Discovery
Onboard lecture about WWII hosted by a history expert.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LIBOURNE
(B,L,D)

Day 20 BORDEAUX

Bordeaux Sights, Bikes, and Bites
Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.
Discovery
While sailing to Bordeaux, enjoy a pastry demonstration.
Active
Join your Adventure Host for a bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais, OR:
Classic
Join a guided walking tour to discover the heart of Bordeaux with a stroll amid its stunning squares, avenues, and cathedrals sights.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX
(B,L,D)

Day 21 BORDEAUX. EXCURSION TO ARCACHON’S BAY

Seas, Shells, and Sips
Active
Join your Adventure Host for a bike ride along Bordeaux’ postcard river views of the Les Quais, OR:
Classic
Take a guided tour to La Cité du Vin, Bordeaux’s iconic wine museum and cultural center, OR:
Classic
Join a full-day guided tour of the seaside resort of Arcachon on the Atlantic coast. Gaze upon its 19th-century architectural treasures and taste its local delicacy of oysters and wine.
This afternoon, consider an optional guided excursion to Les Bassins des Lumières for a breathtaking visit to the submarine base where art and music surround you in an immersive experience.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BORDEAUX
(B,L,D)

Day 22 BORDEAUX (DISEMBARKATION)

Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
(B)
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