Let's celebrate the season together as we explore enchanting Christmas Markets from one of my favorite cities, Nuremberg, to Frankfurt along the Main River. Take guided walks in the picturesque Bavarian villages on our itinerary—sure to be even more appealing lit up with festive lights and decorations. As this unforgettable Europe river cruise ends in Frankfurt, you will never forget the historical treasures of Germany perfectly paired with the views, sounds, and tastes of the joyous holiday season.
We begin our river cruise in Nuremberg, the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire. Guided sightseeing shows you its historical treasures, as well as Old Town, illuminated with holiday lights and decorations. There’s plenty of time to visit the Christmas market, one of the most famous in Germany, and be sure to savor some traditional lebkuchen (spicy gingerbread), a specialty of Nuremberg.
Bamberg is a delightful UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, throughout town, you’ll see nativity scenes built by local citizens. Walkers will discover an abundance of nativity scenes spread across approx. 36 stations, including the Cathedral, small chapels, museums and public buildings all around Bamberg's Old Town and beyond.
Würzburg is known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road,” and surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. Walk through the halls of the ornate Bishop’s Residence—home to the largest ceiling fresco ever painted, then stroll through the Christmas markets while you sip Glühwein (hot mulled wine). Explore one of the charming small towns with half-timbered houses and narrow streets that are dotted along the Main River.
Exceptional Comfort, Dining, and Exploration
SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
- Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi access on Europe Avalon Suite Ships®
- Large private bathroom featuring full shower with glass door
- Premium personal amenities, including L’Occitane® bath products
- English-language TV channels with 50+ free movies
AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
- Wellness Activities: Fitness Center, yoga classes with Adventure Host; bicycles & e-bikes available for use onshore
- Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land packages
- Panoramic windows throughout the ship
- Elegant, contemporary design & decor
- Sky Deck Whirlpool
- Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
- Elevator
- Daily live entertainment and/or cultural experience
- Complimentary headsets for excursions
AWARD-WINNING DINING
- Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
- Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
- Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
- Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
- Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
- Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
- Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
- Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
- Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere
- Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
- Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
- Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
- Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
- Included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
- Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
- Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
A WORLD OF EXPLORATION
- Immersive tours in every destination
- Special interest tours
- Expert local guides
- Optional tours
- AvalonGo Mobile App
Rates are per person, based on double occupancy (two guests sharing one room).
Beds can be 1 Queen or 2 Twins in Deluxe or Panoramic Suite. 1 King or 2 Twins in Royal Suite.
$3023/Person
Gratuities & Port Taxes Included!
172 sq. ft.
Indigo Deck (Category D, E)
Starting at $4273/Person
Gratuities & Port Taxes Included!
200 sq. ft.
Sapphire Deck (Category A, B)
Starting at $4380/Person
Gratuities & Port Taxes Included!
300 sq. ft.
Royal Deck (Category P, S)
16 Staterooms 67 Suites
Avalon Illumination blends elegant, contemporary design, from the suites with Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows to the spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room's exquisite regional cuisine. Enjoy floor-to-ceiling views of castles, cathedrals, and pastures, relax on the Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs and whirlpool, or stay active in the fitness center as we sail the Main River.
Savor exquisite cuisine at a variety of dining venues, like the Main Dining Room or lunch buffet at the Sky Grill on the Sky Deck or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
Enjoy live entertainment, a German Cookie Baking Demonstration, and a Christmas Traditions lecture onboard in the evenings.
Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform your living space into river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony.
Lampasas, TX 76550
512-656-9083
thereandbackagain@sbcglobal.net
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Luxury Travel & Vacations by Robin: Europe, Alaska, Mexico and Cruises