European Destinations To Sail To With Avalon River Cruises

• A Room With a View: Avalon's unique "Panorama Suites" feature beds angled to face wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring you never miss a moment of the passing scenery.

• Iconic Waterways: From the castle-lined banks of the Rhine to the imperial grandeur of the Danube, we explore the legendary rivers that define captivating European travel.

• Immersive Exploration: Whether you prefer cycling through Amsterdam or soaking in Budapest's thermal baths, Avalon’s diverse itineraries offer the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Watch the world go by as you meander through some of the most stunning destinations across the whole of Europe on an Avalon Waterways river cruise.

When you step onboard this stylish European cruise line, it’s all about the view, and that’s highly evident in the design of their ships, with open-air balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows and even beds angled to face the sensational views featured on their newest all-suite ships.

But just which destinations are on offer from a cruise onboard these luxury river cruise ships? Below, we reveal Avalon Waterways’ best European destinations for your next river cruise escape.

Amsterdam: River Rhine

Amsterdam is the starting point of many of Avalon’s river cruises, where you’ll have at least a full day to enjoy this captivating city, often referred to as the ‘City of Canals’ or ‘Venice of the North’.

On your guided canal tour, you’ll discover many of Amsterdam’s highlights: its historic architecture with 17th-century gabled houses, UNESCO-protected canals, bridges and leafy canal paths.

In the colourful old town, you can explore the iconic Dam Square, home to the National Monument and the grand Royal Palace, but also where entertainers, artists and musicians show off their craft, adding to the vibrant culture of this city.

And with more bikes than people situated in Amsterdam (over 800,000!), why not hop on and immerse yourself in the cycling way of life that this city is known for- using pedal power to explore the region's attractions. 

Amsterdam, capital of The Netherlands, is also renowned for its historical museums. Visit one of the most famous, thought-provoking buildings across the globe, The Anne Frank House. In this eye-opening journey, reflect on what life was like for Anne and the families she hid with during WW2.

Cologne: River Rhine

Cologne features on several of Avalon Waterways’ itineraries, with options to explore the city on foot or by bike. 

This 2,000 year-old German city is known for its Gothic-style architecture. Highlights include its famous twin-spired cathedral, magnificent Hohenzollern Bridge and the panoramic views across the mighty Rhine River.

Alternatively, you can opt to delve deeper into the city’s revered Jewish history, exploring artefacts dating back to the 11th century.

Cologne's Old Town is brimming with shops, cafés and local taverns. To sample a taste of true German culture, enjoy a traditional draft Kölsch beer or try Cologne’s typical Halve Hahn sandwich!

Budapest: River Danube

Budapest is another popular starting point for Avalon’s River Danube cruises, where you are also afforded plenty of time to see its sights.

With knowledgeable local tour guides to showcase the highlights of the majestic capital of Hungary, you can take in its rich culture, imposing buildings and attractions that draw millions of visitors each year.

Landmarks such as The House of Parliament, Heroes Square and the Hungarian State Opera House are all worthy of a visit.

Or perhaps you’d rather take in the spectacular natural vistas of the River Danube with a hike led by the Adventure Host.

Fancy a refreshing dip? Head to one of Budapest's most popular tourist destinations: the Szechenyi Bath.

These thermal baths are home to one of the biggest natural hot spring spa baths in Europe, and are open every single day of the year!

Bratislava: River Danube

Bratislava, Slovakia's capital city, is an up-and-coming tourist destination. With a laid-back vibe, compact, walkable old town and charming café culture, it’s well worth a wander.

Avalon Waterways offers guided tours of its main sights, including St. Martin’s Cathedral and Bratislava Castle. Or, you may enjoy simply exploring the cobblestone streets, colourful medieval buildings, and pausing for a coffee or a local beer while enjoying the inviting ambience.

At Christmas time, this city truly comes alive, becoming a spectacle of traditional Christmas markets and decorated alleys. Bratislava becomes a metropolis lit up by sparkling lights and blanketed with its festive scents.

So if you choose to cruise to Bratislava during November and December, be sure to make the most of this magical period in the city.

Vienna: River Danube

Vienna’s charm comes from its wondrous blend of well-preserved history, art and architecture, and lively culture.

Known as the ‘City of Music’, it is Austria's home to classical musical legends such as Mozart and Beethoven, as well as the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra – regarded as one of the best in the world.

From St. Stephen’s Cathedral, well-manicured parks and tree-lined paths to the beach-style culture found on the river banks of the Danube, this Austrian capital has something for everyone to discover.

Explore this beautiful city as part of your cruise, with guided sightseeing tours, by bike or foot.

Heidelberg: Neckar River

Heidelberg may be a lesser-known destination for tourists, but its fairy tale architecture makes it an utterly enchanting city to visit.

Guided tours are available to explore Heidelberg Castle with its Renaissance red ruins, or follow the Philosopher’s Path to gain a breathtaking view of this beautiful German town, the river and surrounding hills.

With its dreamy, romantic setting, Heidelberg is the perfect couples retreat- or simply for anyone wanting to lose themselves in the whimsical landscape of this hidden gem!

Whether you are drawn to the imperial grandeur of Vienna or the quiet romance of Heidelberg, exploring Europe by river offers a perspective you simply can't get by land. With Avalon Waterways, the journey is just as breathtaking as the destination.