MAGNIFICENT EUROPE
Aboard our newest ship the ‘Avalon Vista’
DEPARTING 5 AUGUST 2012
15 DAYS AMSTERDAM TO BUDAPEST
See the highlights of Central Europe on this enchanting cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest. Guided sightseeing in each city shows you the highlights, with an authentic baking demonstration in Miltenberg, a beer tasting in Nuremberg, and inside visits of Wurzburg’s Residenz, Regensburg’s Old Chapel, the Benedictine Abbey in Melk, St. Martins’d Cathedral in Bratislava and Fisherman’s Bastion in Budapest. Also cruise therough the scenice canals of Amsterdam and sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge past the legendary rock of the Lorelei.
From $4,730 per person, twin share, Cat. E
Higher catergories available upon request! please contact us for further prices…
ITINERARY
Day 1: AMSTERDAM , HOLLAND (EMBARKATION)
Holland’s delightful 700-year old capital is sophisticated and modern, with a rich and fascinating history. The works of famous Dutch masters can be seen in worldrenowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh. This afternoon, board your river cruise vessel and meet your crew at a welcome reception. (D)
Day 2: AMSTERDAM
There is no better way to see Amsterdam than by CANAL BOAT, cruising through the elegant grachten lined with stately homes. Afterward, your river cruise vessel sets sail for Cologne. (B,L,D)
Day 3: COLOGNE, GERMANY
Cologne is one of Germany’s largest cities, with a river skyline dominated by the soaring twin spires of its magnificent gothic cathedral. The Germano-Roman Museum next to the cathedral is a must for history buffs! Try a Kolsch in one of the many taverns and shop for a bottle of 4711, the original “eau de cologne.” (B,L,D)
Day 4: RHINE GORGE-RUDESHEIM
The dramatic RHINE GORGE is the most beautiful stretch of river. Pass the legendary rock of the Lorelei, where sweet songs of local beauties lured enchanted sailors to their doom. Visit SIEGFRIED’S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM in pretty Rudesheim. Enjoy a SPECIAL TREAT, then there’s free time to explore the Drosselgasse. (B,L,D)
Day 5: MILTENBERG
Located on the Main River, Miltenberg is a picturesque Bavarian village that thrived on income from the river traffic. It’s cultural wealth and affluence are reflected in the beautiful medieval and renaissance houses and the gothic splendour of the Merchant Hall shown to you during your guided sightseeing. This afternoon, learn how to bake a local SOFT COOKIE specialty. (B,L,D)
Day 6: WURZBURG
Known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road,”Wurzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. The magnificent BISHOP’S RESIDENZ is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B,L,D)
Day 7: BAMBERG
Another beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site is medieval Bamberg. Your walking tour takes in its breathtaking cathedral, the Old Town Hall straddling the River Regnitz, and serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th-century mansions. (B,L,D)
Day 8: NUREMBERG
Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg’s traditions include its famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. After dinner we’ll introduce you to some of Germany’s FAMOUS BEERS! (B,L,D)
Day 9: REGENSBURG
One of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities, Regensburg’s architectural highlights include the Old Town Hall and Porta Pretoria-gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. (B,L,D)
Day 10: PASSAU-LINZ, AUSTRIA
Ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, Passau is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen’s Cathedral houses the world’s largest church organ with ore than 17,000 pipes. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights. (B,L,D)
Day 11: MELK-DURNSTEIN-VIENNA
Melk’s magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe’s largest monasteries. Durnstein, known for the baroque Stiftskirche with its blue facade, lies right in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Above town are the ruins of the castle where England’s King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192. Vienna, known as the “City of Music,” inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. (B,L,D)
Day 12: VIENNA
Once the centre of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria’s capital has much to offer: lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ring Boulevard, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy during your city tour. Shop in the Karntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood cafe. An optional concert is available tonight. (B,L,D)
Day 13: BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA
Situated at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, Bratislava is the dynamic capital of Slovakia. The charming Old Town with its Town Hall and Mirbach Palace, as well as gothic ST. MARTIN’S CATHEDRAL, should not be missed. (B,L,D)
Day 14: BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis. Seven bridges connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with FISHERMEN’S BASTION and the Matthias Church is among the impressive sights you’ll see on your included tour. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. (B,L,D)
Day 15: BUDAPEST
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Cabins subject to availability at time of booking. Prices subject to change.
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