The Avalon Panorama led the way as the first of its kind in the industry to feature two full decks of Panorama Suites complete with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows. You'll cruise in river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony in a 200-square-foot suite that's 30% larger than the industry standard. The Comfort Collection beds actually face the view, so you can stretch out and relax with the world at your feet. Retire each evening and wake each morning to a panorama of picture-postcard scenes!
Day 1 Zurich
Zurich is often referred to as the "garden city on the lake". A stroll through the fascinating city will soon explain the reason for this. Zurich is one of the richest cantons in the country and home to the famous and very beautiful shopping street, Bahnhofstrasse. It is a bustling metropolis with many new buildings and modern architecture. Age-old landmarks and examples of unique design and artistic styles proliferate the city; the oldest and best preserved are most densely distributed in Neumarkt. The famous Grossmunster with its two tall towers is most dominant. Visit the late 15th century Wasserkiche and the Rathaus, a graceful town hall built in renaissance style. Famous for its traditional festivals and holiday celebrations, Downtown Niederdorf is the center of activities. From jazz clubs to restaurants & bars to cultural pursuits including galleries, museums and exhibitions, there is something interesting all year. To really get familiar with Zurich, experience it from the Lake of Zurich. The perspective of the city and its romantic surrounds from this vantage point is unique and not to be missed.
Day 2 Zurich
Zurich is often referred to as the "garden city on the lake". A stroll through the fascinating city will soon explain the reason for this. Zurich is one of the richest cantons in the country and home to the famous and very beautiful shopping street, Bahnhofstrasse. It is a bustling metropolis with many new buildings and modern architecture. Age-old landmarks and examples of unique design and artistic styles proliferate the city; the oldest and best preserved are most densely distributed in Neumarkt. The famous Grossmunster with its two tall towers is most dominant. Visit the late 15th century Wasserkiche and the Rathaus, a graceful town hall built in renaissance style. Famous for its traditional festivals and holiday celebrations, Downtown Niederdorf is the center of activities. From jazz clubs to restaurants & bars to cultural pursuits including galleries, museums and exhibitions, there is something interesting all year. To really get familiar with Zurich, experience it from the Lake of Zurich. The perspective of the city and its romantic surrounds from this vantage point is unique and not to be missed.
Day 2 Biel/Bienne
Day 2 Neuchatel
Located 25 mi/40 km west of Bern, Neuchatel is truly a sparkling little city—its buildings of yellow sandstone glitter in the sun. It's also the cantonal seat, situated at the foot of the Jura Mountains on one of the largest lakes in Switzerland. The city is acclaimed academically because of its outstanding prep schools and university. It's also said that the purest French spoken in Switzerland is spoken in Neuchatel.
At the Art and History Museum, (http://www.mahn.ch) ask if you can see the androids—three mechanical puppets built in 1774 that are so fascinating, they were invited to perform in the courts of 18th- and 19th-century Europe. In tiny towns clustered throughout the canton, Swiss clocks and watches are made.
Day 2 Geneva
Geneva is located between the Alps and the Jura mountains, at the extreme southwest of Switzerland and Lake Geneva. The Rhône and the Arve are the main rivers crossing Geneva. It is the central crossroads of Western Europe. Geneva holds a privileged geographical position and it is only one hour far from Paris or Milan by plane and less than two hours from London, Rome or Madrid. Geneva is a town of Arts and Culture. Its numerous museums and libraries, the Opera, the Orchestra of the Suisse romande have largely contributed, among others, to its development. For nearly twenty years they have been new cultural centers which have been created from old uninhabited buildings, some of which are now preserved as monuments, like the Halles de l’Ile, l’Usine, la Maison des Arts du Grütli.
Day 3 Geneva
Geneva is located between the Alps and the Jura mountains, at the extreme southwest of Switzerland and Lake Geneva. The Rhône and the Arve are the main rivers crossing Geneva. It is the central crossroads of Western Europe. Geneva holds a privileged geographical position and it is only one hour far from Paris or Milan by plane and less than two hours from London, Rome or Madrid. Geneva is a town of Arts and Culture. Its numerous museums and libraries, the Opera, the Orchestra of the Suisse romande have largely contributed, among others, to its development. For nearly twenty years they have been new cultural centers which have been created from old uninhabited buildings, some of which are now preserved as monuments, like the Halles de l’Ile, l’Usine, la Maison des Arts du Grütli.
Day 4 Geneva
Geneva is located between the Alps and the Jura mountains, at the extreme southwest of Switzerland and Lake Geneva. The Rhône and the Arve are the main rivers crossing Geneva. It is the central crossroads of Western Europe. Geneva holds a privileged geographical position and it is only one hour far from Paris or Milan by plane and less than two hours from London, Rome or Madrid. Geneva is a town of Arts and Culture. Its numerous museums and libraries, the Opera, the Orchestra of the Suisse romande have largely contributed, among others, to its development. For nearly twenty years they have been new cultural centers which have been created from old uninhabited buildings, some of which are now preserved as monuments, like the Halles de l’Ile, l’Usine, la Maison des Arts du Grütli.
Day 4 Evian-les-Bains
Day 4 Gruyere
La Gruyère is a spectacularly beautiful region of Switzerland. Deep valleys surrounded by high mountains hold wooded hamlets, farms and farmlands. The forests are without equal and are considered a national treasure. The village of Gruyere is known for the crafts produced there- from laces, the Waistcoasts of the Rock, which is knitted from wool, to pottery and hand carved wooden spoons.
Day 4 Broc
Day 5 Gstaad
Day 5 Interlaken
Interlaken's foundations can be seen in the 12th century castle and its fascinating Augustinian monastery. Nestled beneath the legendary triad of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains, Interlaken is a wondrous health resort and an international favorite. The superb mountainous scenery and gentle climate are ideal venues for virtually every leisure activity. Höheweg is the business and social center of Interlaken. The shopping is varied and interesting from simple souvenirs to luxurious timepieces. Grand hotels and inviting restaurants and cafes to spoil the visitor abound while a traditional horse-drawn carriage transports guests in fine style. The famous Kursaal - Interlaken's casino - is situated in the center of Höheweg. There are many types of entertainment including elegant balls, annual music festivals, Folklorica, local and trade shows in addition to the delights of the casino tables. Interlaken is also an ideal starting point for excursions to the Bern upperlands and breathtaking Jungfrau region with the centrepiece's massive peak soaring into cloudless skies.
Day 5 Grindelwald
Grindelwald, Switzerland, is a good base for both winter and summer activities in the mountains, about 50 mi/80 km southwest of Lucerne. In winter, this town in the Jungfrau region has good skiing; during other seasons, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and more adventurous pursuits, such as canyoning. Be sure to visit one of the nearby glaciers; the higher one, Obergletscher, is the best.
Visiting the town via the train from Interlaken is recommended. From Grindelwald, you can also continue on the train to Kleine Scheidegg, at the base of the famous north face of Eiger mountain. In Kleine Scheidegg, you can transfer to another train that takes you to Jungfraujoch. The train travels through the Eiger tunnel to the Eigerwand and Eismeer stations, making a five-minute stop at each one, before finally reaching the Jungfraujoch station, the highest railway station in Europe.
On clear days (there's no point in taking the expensive trip if the skies aren't clear) you can see as far as the Vosges Mountains in France and the Black Forest in Germany from the Sphinx Observatory. The Great Aletsch Glacier begins near the station. But don't expect to have the place all to yourself: It is usually very crowded.
One of the many tourist amenities is the Ice Palace, which has several ice sculptures carved in the glacier. There are also a ski and snowboard park, sled rides and pricey restaurants.
Day 6 Grindelwald
Grindelwald, Switzerland, is a good base for both winter and summer activities in the mountains, about 50 mi/80 km southwest of Lucerne. In winter, this town in the Jungfrau region has good skiing; during other seasons, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and more adventurous pursuits, such as canyoning. Be sure to visit one of the nearby glaciers; the higher one, Obergletscher, is the best.
Visiting the town via the train from Interlaken is recommended. From Grindelwald, you can also continue on the train to Kleine Scheidegg, at the base of the famous north face of Eiger mountain. In Kleine Scheidegg, you can transfer to another train that takes you to Jungfraujoch. The train travels through the Eiger tunnel to the Eigerwand and Eismeer stations, making a five-minute stop at each one, before finally reaching the Jungfraujoch station, the highest railway station in Europe.
On clear days (there's no point in taking the expensive trip if the skies aren't clear) you can see as far as the Vosges Mountains in France and the Black Forest in Germany from the Sphinx Observatory. The Great Aletsch Glacier begins near the station. But don't expect to have the place all to yourself: It is usually very crowded.
One of the many tourist amenities is the Ice Palace, which has several ice sculptures carved in the glacier. There are also a ski and snowboard park, sled rides and pricey restaurants.
Day 7 Grindelwald
Grindelwald, Switzerland, is a good base for both winter and summer activities in the mountains, about 50 mi/80 km southwest of Lucerne. In winter, this town in the Jungfrau region has good skiing; during other seasons, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking and more adventurous pursuits, such as canyoning. Be sure to visit one of the nearby glaciers; the higher one, Obergletscher, is the best.
Visiting the town via the train from Interlaken is recommended. From Grindelwald, you can also continue on the train to Kleine Scheidegg, at the base of the famous north face of Eiger mountain. In Kleine Scheidegg, you can transfer to another train that takes you to Jungfraujoch. The train travels through the Eiger tunnel to the Eigerwand and Eismeer stations, making a five-minute stop at each one, before finally reaching the Jungfraujoch station, the highest railway station in Europe.
On clear days (there's no point in taking the expensive trip if the skies aren't clear) you can see as far as the Vosges Mountains in France and the Black Forest in Germany from the Sphinx Observatory. The Great Aletsch Glacier begins near the station. But don't expect to have the place all to yourself: It is usually very crowded.
One of the many tourist amenities is the Ice Palace, which has several ice sculptures carved in the glacier. There are also a ski and snowboard park, sled rides and pricey restaurants.
Day 7 Berne
Berne, the superb city of medieval magic, is capital of Switzerland. Explore magnificent museums filled with art treasures; enjoy the famous Berne Symphony Orchestra or visit cozy, historical basement pubs. It is a living museum, the craftsmanship of which is emphasized in her art. Each of the city's magnificent museums yields an adventure into artistic and cultural endeavor. From the largest Paul Klee collection in the world at Kunstmuseum to literature through the ages at Stadtbibliothek to the special experience that is the Symphony Orchestra performing in the superb Gothic cathedral whose 254 steps take the intrepid visitor to the top of the highest church tower in Switzerland, Berne is a magical voyage of discovery. Set within the medieval atmosphere is the largest and most modern sheltered shopping center in Europe. The passageways direct the visitor to a network of exclusive boutiques and stores, and the quaint old-town shops. Visit one of Berne's historical Kellerlokale or a good cabaret show and dancing.
Day 7 Lucerne
Without a doubt one of the prettiest towns in Switzerland, Lucerne lies in the heart of the country on famous lake of Lucerne. Dotted with Renaissance and Baroque fountains, colorful paintings on the gables and commanded by the exquisite wooden bridge, the Kapellbrücke and Wasserturm, the 13th century octagonal water tower, Lucerne's character is pure charm. Spectacular views and sights abound from almost every vantage point in and around Lucerne. The Old Town Hall is a fine example of a Renaissance building while the City Wall, built between 1350 and 1405 stands proud above the city. A stroll along the quay leads past the modern health resort and onto the largest, most important Transport Museum in Europe and the only Planetarium in Switzerland. The famous Lion Monument and Glacier Garden make for remarkable viewing as do the mountain peaks surrounding the city. A short drive from town takes visitors to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth, and a short drive from Viewaldstätter Lake leads to nearby winter resorts and many more lakes.
Day 8 Lucerne
Without a doubt one of the prettiest towns in Switzerland, Lucerne lies in the heart of the country on famous lake of Lucerne. Dotted with Renaissance and Baroque fountains, colorful paintings on the gables and commanded by the exquisite wooden bridge, the Kapellbrücke and Wasserturm, the 13th century octagonal water tower, Lucerne's character is pure charm. Spectacular views and sights abound from almost every vantage point in and around Lucerne. The Old Town Hall is a fine example of a Renaissance building while the City Wall, built between 1350 and 1405 stands proud above the city. A stroll along the quay leads past the modern health resort and onto the largest, most important Transport Museum in Europe and the only Planetarium in Switzerland. The famous Lion Monument and Glacier Garden make for remarkable viewing as do the mountain peaks surrounding the city. A short drive from town takes visitors to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth, and a short drive from Viewaldstätter Lake leads to nearby winter resorts and many more lakes.
Day 9 Lucerne
Without a doubt one of the prettiest towns in Switzerland, Lucerne lies in the heart of the country on famous lake of Lucerne. Dotted with Renaissance and Baroque fountains, colorful paintings on the gables and commanded by the exquisite wooden bridge, the Kapellbrücke and Wasserturm, the 13th century octagonal water tower, Lucerne's character is pure charm. Spectacular views and sights abound from almost every vantage point in and around Lucerne. The Old Town Hall is a fine example of a Renaissance building while the City Wall, built between 1350 and 1405 stands proud above the city. A stroll along the quay leads past the modern health resort and onto the largest, most important Transport Museum in Europe and the only Planetarium in Switzerland. The famous Lion Monument and Glacier Garden make for remarkable viewing as do the mountain peaks surrounding the city. A short drive from town takes visitors to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on earth, and a short drive from Viewaldstätter Lake leads to nearby winter resorts and many more lakes.
Day 10 Breisach
The town of Breisach, located on the Rhine River in southwest Germany, is a major producer of wine, textiles, electrical goods and paper. This town has been long coveted because of its strategic location. Fortified by the Romans prior to the 13th century, it became an imperial town in 1275. Taken by Bernhard of Saxe-Weimar 1638, in 1648 it was secured by Louis XIV for France in the Peace of Westphalia and ceded back to the emperor in the Treaty of Ryswick in 1697. The French repeatedly captured Breisach during the 18th century but finally gave it to Baden in 1805.
Day 11 Kehl
Day 12 Ludwigshafen
Day 13 Rudesheim
Rüdesheim is located in the heart of the Rhine river area at the southern entrance to the Lorelei valley. This romantic holiday town offers much to visitors seeking a fabulous German experience. As you cruise down the Rhine, if you listen carefully, you just might hear the siren calling as you pass the Rock of Lorelei. One attraction to visit is the Niederwald monument. Erected between 1877 and 1883, this huge monument symbolizes the re-establishment of the German Empire and unity. From Rudesheim, one can either take the foot path to the monument or the cablecar leading to the top. The panoramic views from the top are spectacular. Rudesheim is also famous for the Abbey of St. Hildegard. Some think the building is older than it is, but truly, it was built at the beginning of the 20th century. Other sites to see are the Wine Museum in Broemserburg Castle, Siegfried's Mechanical Music Instruments Museum and the Medieval Torture Museum, which boasts a wide collection of medeival relics.
Day 13 Rhine Gorge
Winding from Bingen to Bonn, the 'heroic Rhine' has created a beautifully picturesque gorge. The river-scape has been an inspiration to both artists and authors.
Day 13 Koblenz
This 2,000-year-old city at the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine rivers is the cultural and business centre of the Middle Rhine region. History buffs can explore the Neoclassic Residence Schloss, the Prince Elector's palace; the Deutsches Eck, a settlement founded by the German Order of Knights in 1216; and Ehrenbreitstein, the oldest fortress in Europe.
Day 14 Cologne
Cologne is a city where cathedral spires tower over Germany's oldest city and its innumerable cultural and historical treasures, world-famous museums and active art scene. In Cologne, street music on the Hohe Strasse or galas in the modern opera house; pavement painting on the cathedral concourse or old masters in the Wallraf Richartz Museum; the annual music festival along the inner ring road or carnival in the entire city all becomes synthesized into a vivacious work of art in a cosmopolitan metropolis boasting more than a million inhabitants which has never lost its neighborly character. From venerable breweries offering unique Kolsch beer and typical Cologne delicacies to first-class restaurants - boasting well in excess of 3000 public houses, restaurants and breweries Cologne is one of Germany's leading gastronomic lights. The world feels at home in Cologne, where people meet for a Kolsch, a chat or simply a laugh.
Day 15 Amsterdam
Cosmopolitan Amsterdam is most famous for its narrow, gabled houses lining the canals. Interesting attractions include the medieval weighhouse, Royal Palace on Dam Square, and New Church. Its most glamorous industry is the diamond trade. Not too far from Amsterdam are the flower centers of Aalsmeer, the picturesque fishing villages of Volendam and Marken, cheese markets at Edam and Gouda, and historic Haarlem, the main center of the bulb-growing industry. Enjoy the city’s sights from a glass-topped sightseeing boat which passes characteristic gabled houses and negotiates picturesque arched bridges. Facing Dam Square, the Royal Palace was built in 1648 and is still officially the royal residence, although the royal family resides in The Hague. The marbled Citizens Hall with inlaid maps of the world is worth seeing. One of Amsterdam’s most visited sites is historic Anne Frank House. Rijksmuseum, the city’s most prestigious museum, houses the largest collection of Dutch paintings in the world. Van Gogh Museum houses a striking collection.
Day 16 Amsterdam
Cosmopolitan Amsterdam is most famous for its narrow, gabled houses lining the canals. Interesting attractions include the medieval weighhouse, Royal Palace on Dam Square, and New Church. Its most glamorous industry is the diamond trade. Not too far from Amsterdam are the flower centers of Aalsmeer, the picturesque fishing villages of Volendam and Marken, cheese markets at Edam and Gouda, and historic Haarlem, the main center of the bulb-growing industry. Enjoy the city’s sights from a glass-topped sightseeing boat which passes characteristic gabled houses and negotiates picturesque arched bridges. Facing Dam Square, the Royal Palace was built in 1648 and is still officially the royal residence, although the royal family resides in The Hague. The marbled Citizens Hall with inlaid maps of the world is worth seeing. One of Amsterdam’s most visited sites is historic Anne Frank House. Rijksmuseum, the city’s most prestigious museum, houses the largest collection of Dutch paintings in the world. Van Gogh Museum houses a striking collection.