The Best of Austria & Switzerland with Romantic Rhine

River/Barge Cruise

18 Day River Cruise Vienna to Amsterdam
This amazing European vacation offers the best of both worlds: a Globus land tour of Austria and Switzerland—two of Europe's most scenic countries—and a river cruise on the legendary Rhine River with stops in France, Germany, and Holland!

See the true definitions of palaces and castles while visiting Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace—former home to the long-reigning Habsburg dynasty. In Switzerland, enjoy a visit to romantic Chillon Castle, a well-preserved, medieval castle on the shores of Lake Geneva. Pass through some of the world’s most spectacular scenery with a ride on the world-famous Glacier Express train. Travel with panoramic windows to admire the thundering waterfalls, impressive peaks, glacial ice fields, and tiny villages on your way to Zermatt, Switzerland. Other scenic highlights include a private boat cruise on the fjord-lake in Lucerne; a scenic drive into the Swiss Engadine, considered the most beautiful mountain area in the world; and more. Some sightseeing highlights include the Basilika St. Michael in Mondsee (of The Sound of Music fame), a walk through the Old Town in Innsbruck, and the Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge in Lucerne.

Embark your Avalon Suite Ship® in Basel, Switzerland, to begin your Rhine River cruise! Visit Breisach, Germany, the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest, and an area of unrivaled natural beauty, best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock. In Strasbourg, France, be amazed by the red-sandstone Gothic cathedral with ancient murals and the fascinating astronomical clock. Stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade. Visit the ruins of Heidelberg’s castle, towering magnificently over the city, or sail to Mainz for a guided walk and visit the captivating Gutenberg Museum. Pass through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—the most beautiful view of the Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. In the charming wine town of Rüdesheim, visit the Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, and explore Holland’s popular, modern capital of Amsterdam, with its world-famous museums, wealth of eateries, iconic architecture, and charming canals. See the treasures of the city on a canal cruise along the elegant grachten lined with homes dating back to the city’s “Golden Age.” A perfect ending to this fabulous land and river cruise adventure!

Notes:

High altitudes may be challenging for some guests. St. Moritz elevation is 5,978 ft (1,822 m).
In the event of technical or water level issues, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or alter the program, including hotel overnight when necessary.
Guided Tours, Optional Excursions, activities, sailing and docking schedules may be contingent on weather conditions or other issues outside of our control and could therefore be subject to change at any time.
Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.

From price

$15,739

$13,239

From price per person, twin share

Tour Provider	Avalon Waterways
Number Of Days	18
Start Location	Vienna, Austria
End Location	Amsterdam, Netherlands
Age Range	Avg. 40+
Group Size	20 to 90
Tour Style	Premium
Tour Themes	River/Small ship/Barge
Physical Rating	Easy to Moderate

Departure dates

From price per person, twin share

Start	End	Availability	Price
02 Sep 2026	19 Sep 2026	Please call	$16,388 $15,763
09 Sep 2026	26 Sep 2026	Please call	$16,388 $15,538
16 Sep 2026	03 Oct 2026	Please call	$16,388 $15,538
05 May 2027	22 May 2027	Available	$15,939 $15,239
12 May 2027	29 May 2027	Available	$15,939 $14,689
19 May 2027	05 Jun 2027	Available	$16,269 $14,469
26 May 2027	12 Jun 2027	Available	$15,739 $13,939
02 Jun 2027	19 Jun 2027	Available	$16,069 $13,969
09 Jun 2027	26 Jun 2027	Available	$15,904 $13,404
16 Jun 2027	03 Jul 2027	Available	$16,879 $14,379
23 Jun 2027	10 Jul 2027	Available	$15,739 $13,239
30 Jun 2027	17 Jul 2027	Available	$15,739 $13,239
07 Jul 2027	24 Jul 2027	Available	$15,739 $13,239
21 Jul 2027	07 Aug 2027	Available	$17,044 $14,544
28 Jul 2027	14 Aug 2027	Available	$16,249 $13,749
04 Aug 2027	21 Aug 2027	Available	$17,044 $14,544
11 Aug 2027	28 Aug 2027	Available	$15,904 $13,804
18 Aug 2027	04 Sep 2027	Available	$16,204 $14,104
25 Aug 2027	11 Sep 2027	Available	$16,504 $14,704
01 Sep 2027	18 Sep 2027	Available	$16,339 $15,289
08 Sep 2027	25 Sep 2027	Available	$16,339 $15,639
15 Sep 2027	02 Oct 2027	Available	$16,339 $15,289
26 Apr 2028	13 May 2028	Available	$16,803 $16,103
03 May 2028	20 May 2028	Available	$15,802 $15,102
10 May 2028	27 May 2028	Available	$15,802 $14,552
17 May 2028	03 Jun 2028	Available	$16,103 $14,853
24 May 2028	10 Jun 2028	Available	$15,960 $14,560
31 May 2028	17 Jun 2028	Available	$15,960 $14,560
07 Jun 2028	24 Jun 2028	Available	$15,960 $14,160
14 Jun 2028	01 Jul 2028	Available	$16,861 $14,761
21 Jun 2028	08 Jul 2028	Available	$15,888 $13,788
28 Jun 2028	15 Jul 2028	Available	$15,617 $13,517
05 Jul 2028	22 Jul 2028	Available	$15,888 $13,788
12 Jul 2028	29 Jul 2028	Available	$16,103 $14,003
19 Jul 2028	05 Aug 2028	Available	$17,104 $15,004
26 Jul 2028	12 Aug 2028	Available	$16,103 $14,003
02 Aug 2028	19 Aug 2028	Available	$17,104 $15,004
09 Aug 2028	26 Aug 2028	Available	$16,103 $14,303
16 Aug 2028	02 Sep 2028	Available	$16,103 $14,303
23 Aug 2028	09 Sep 2028	Available	$16,703 $15,303
30 Aug 2028	16 Sep 2028	Available	$16,631 $15,756
06 Sep 2028	23 Sep 2028	Available	$16,631 $15,756
13 Sep 2028	30 Sep 2028	Available	$16,631 $15,756

Itinerary details

Day 1 - WELCOME TO VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Welcome to Vienna!
At 6 pm, meet your Globus Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

(D)

Day 2 - VIENNA

Spend your day your way in Vienna
Follow your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour featuring some of Vienna’s celebrated landmarks. Explore more of Vienna with your choice of included Globus choice excursions.

Spectacular Schönbrunn
Take a guided walking tour and experience the elegance of imperial Vienna at Schönbrunn Palace, one of the most important cultural, historic, and architectural monuments in Austria. Marvel at richly decorated Baroque rooms, stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens, and uncover centuries of Habsburg history in Vienna’s breathtaking imperial jewel.

Echs of Art at the Kunsthistorisches Museum
Join us for a cultural visit to Vienna’s renowned Kunsthistorisches Museum. Explore highlights from its rich art collections, including masterpieces from ancient civilizations and the European Renaissance. An enriching experience inside one of Vienna’s most remarkable museums.

Free time this evening.

(B)

Day 3 - VIENNA–MONDSEE–SALZBURG

Leave Vienna and drive to the pretty town of Mondsee. Take a stroll in the center and visit the baroque Basilika of St. Michael, location of the wedding scene in the film “The Sound of Music.” Continue to Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart, and follow your Local Guide on a walking tour which includes Mirabell Gardens, the Great Festival Hall, and Residenz Square.
186 mi / 300 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
PICTURE PERFECT Mondsee is a delightful town situated on Lake Mondsee, a privately owned lake, and is one of the 76 lakes found in the Salzkammergut region. In 1872 prehistoric pile dwellings were discovered there, but the rising lake water has since hidden them from view. Despite them being UNESCO listed, their fame in Mondsee is probably overshadowed by the medieval abbey used as a Sound of Music film location.

(B)

Day 4 - SALZBURG

The Birthplace of Mozart
Enjoy a free day in Salzburg, absorb more art and culture in one of the museums, browse the stores, or try local specialties, like the delicious Salzburger Nockerl. Alternatively, join an optional excursion.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS The birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Salzburg, will put a song in your heart as you explore its charmingly splendid gardens, and medieval and Baroque architecture along the pedestrian Altstadt (Old Town). Salzburg’s scenic Alpine landscape and architectural treasures has earned this Austrian jewel the reputation as one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

(B)

Day 5 - SALZBURG–INNSBRUCK–ST. MORITZ, SWITZERLAND

Heavenly Hills of Switzerland
This morning reach Innsbruck for an orientation walk through the Old Town to see the Golden Roof, built over 500 years ago and designed to be a royal box from where the emperor could watch local events. Later, cross the border into Switzerland for a scenic drive through the Swiss Engadine en route to St. Moritz.
236 mi / 380 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Pass through the spectacular beauty of Swiss Engadine on your way to St. Moritz. Take in the alpine vistas surrounding this paradise of deep blue lakes and rolling green meadows, forests, snow-capped summits, and endless sky in one of Switzerland’s most stunning valleys.

(B,D)

Day 6 - ST. MORITZ–CHUR–TÄSCH–ZERMATT

All Aboard in the Alps
A leisurely morning before boarding [LF] the world-famous Glacier Express train for an iconic train ride to Zermatt. Enjoy dinner with a view, as it is served on board while you admire the stunning scenery.
174 mi / 280 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
EPIC RIDE Don’t let the name fool you. While its speed won’t take your breath away, the Glacier Express train to Zermatt delivers a slow, breathtaking ride through some of Switzerland’s most stunning scenery. Traveling the rails over 291 bridges and through 91 tunnels, you’ll take in each passing postcard scene while reaching an altitude of 6,670 feet above sea level.

(B,D)

Day 7 - ZERMATT

Peak Perfection
Oozing tradition, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, Zermatt offers an unforgettable experience. Marvel at the stunning mountainscapes and discover the picturesque village during a full free day at leisure.

ENHANCED FREE TIME
EXPLORE MORE Spend the day leisurely strolling around car-free Zermatt or join an excursion to the Matterhorn Glacier, an Alpine paradise of sky slopes, panoramic vistas, ice carvings and unique views. An amazing experience you do not want to miss.

(B,D)

Day 8 - ZERMATT–BERN

Ptry in Motion
Take the local mountain train to Tasch before driving to Chillon. Enjoy a guided visit of the castle, built on a rock island on the shores of Lake Geneva, followed by a wine tasting experience. Continue to beautiful Bern, capital city of Switzerland.
143 mi / 230 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS Poised on a diminutive island on Lake Geneva and protected by a natural moat is the striking site of Chillon Castle. Discover the Castle’s secrets as you stroll through it on your guided tour. What better way to complete your visit than with a wine tasting for good measure!

(B)

Day 9 - BERN–INTERLAKEN–LUCERNE

Coming up Roses in Bern
This morning, join your Local Guide for a walking tour. Stop at the Rose Garden for a panoramic view of the city. Stroll through the UNESCO-listed Old Town with its ornate fountains and entertaining Zytglogge (clock tower) and stop at the Bear Park to see some of Bern’s most famous inhabitants. En-route to Lucerne enjoy some free time in Interlaken, one of Switzerland’s oldest resorts.
78 mi / 125 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CITY SIGHTS Explore the “City of Fountains” Bern - the capital city of Switzerland, dating back to the 12th century. Take in the medieval architecture in the Altstadt (Old Town) with its 6 kilometres of arcades and animated clock tower, and panoramic views of the city from the Rose Garden and Bear Park.

(B)

Day 10 - LUCERNE

Lion Hearts in Lucerne
This morning, join a walking tour to see the highlights of Lucerne. Stop to admire the Lion Monument, a moving rock relief that Mark Twain called the “saddest sculpture in the world,” and the 14th century Chapel Bridge that crosses the River Reuss from the Altstadt (old town). Enjoy free time this afternoon to get better acquainted with this alpine gem. This evening, end your tour in style with [LF] a private boat cruise followed by a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

LOCAL FAVORITE
EPIC RIDE Lucerne looks on top of the stunning lake Vierwaldstättersee, the “lake of the four forested Cantons.” This evening a private panoramic cruise on the lake will highlight the sheer beauty of Lucerne and its surroundings. To top off the evening and the tour, enjoy a farewell dinner with your travel companions.

(B,D)

Day 11 - LUCERNE–BASEL (EMBARKATION)

Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.

The Globus portion of your package ends this morning. Transfer from Lucerne to Basel to start your Avalon river cruise.

Enjoy dinner and explore the ship on your first night on board.

EVENING CRUISE TO BREISACH

(B,D)

Day 12 - 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 Enjoy the view on a relaxing bike ride along the Rhine with your Adventure Host, 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 CRUISE TO KEHL

(B,L,D)

Day 13 - 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 the 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.

EVENING CRUISE TO MAINZ

(B,L,D)

Day 14 - MAINZ, 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 Enjoy a Guided City Walk in Mainz including a visit to the Gutenberg Museum to see the captivating history of printing.

Enjoy live entertainment on board your ship after a short sailing to Rüdesheim.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN RÜDESHEIM

(B,L,D)

Day 15 - 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, 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.

Travel Through 2000 Years of Monumental History

Enjoy free time in Koblenz before a relaxing evening on board with dinner and live entertainment.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN KOBLENZ

(B,L,D)

Day 16 - COLOGNE

Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland

ACTIVE Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host, OR:

DISCOVERY 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 17 - 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. You may also choose an Optional Biking Tour to discover the countryside.

Take some free time to explore Amsterdam’s colorful streets and canal houses, galleries, and shops.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM

(B,L,D)

Day 18 - AMSTERDAM (DISEMBARKATION)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

(B)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I choose this tour?

This tour offers a unique 'best of both worlds' experience by combining a premium Globus land tour of Austria and Switzerland with a luxurious river cruise on the legendary Rhine River. You will enjoy a diverse array of experiences, from riding the world-famous Glacier Express train with panoramic windows to staying on an Avalon Suite Ship featuring one-of-a-kind Open Air Balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows.

What type of traveller is this tour designed for, what type of traveller will enjoy this tour most?

This tour is designed for premium travellers who appreciate a blend of scenic natural beauty, imperial history, and cultural immersion. Those who enjoy a variety of activities—ranging from relaxing canal cruises and museum visits to active options like biking and hiking with an Adventure Host—will find this itinerary particularly rewarding.

What are the pros and cons of this tour?

Pros include a comprehensive itinerary covering five countries, high-end accommodations on Suite Ships, and a great mix of guided excursions and free time. A potential con is that some guests may find the high altitudes challenging, specifically in St. Moritz which reaches an elevation of 5,978 ft.

Is this a good option for solo travellers, couples, or families?

While the text does not explicitly categorize the tour for specific groups, the premium nature of the river cruise and the romantic settings, such as Chillon Castle and the canals of Amsterdam, make it an excellent choice for couples. The structured group environment and diverse activities also make it welcoming for solo travellers and families.

Is this tour better for first-time visitors or experienced travellers?

This tour is an excellent option for both. First-time visitors will benefit from the guided introductions to iconic landmarks like Schönbrunn Palace and the Rhine Gorge, while experienced travellers will appreciate the 'off-the-beaten-path' walking tours and specialized visits like the Mechanical Music Museum.

Is this suitable for people with mobility concerns?

The tour is rated as 'Easy to Moderate' in terms of physicality. While many activities are accessible, some parts of the itinerary involve walking tours through cobblestone streets and visits to castles and museums, so guests with significant mobility concerns may wish to inquire about specific accessibility options.

Is this tour more focused on sightseeing, culture, or adventure?

This tour provides a balanced focus on all three. Sightseeing is highlighted by the alpine vistas and the Rhine Gorge; culture is explored through visits to the Gutenberg Museum and the Kunsthistorisches Museum; and adventure is integrated via optional biking, hiking, and the Glacier Express ride.

What is the pace of this tour (fast-paced vs relaxed)?

The pace of the tour is moderate. It covers a significant amount of ground across multiple countries over 18 days, but it balances scheduled sightseeing with 'leisurely mornings' and dedicated free days in cities like Salzburg and Zermatt.

Does the itinerary feel rushed or relaxed?

The itinerary feels thoughtfully paced. By combining land travel with a river cruise, the tour allows guests to see many highlights without feeling rushed, offering several opportunities for 'enhanced free time' to explore at their own pace.

Are key highlights and landmarks included?

Yes, the tour includes many iconic landmarks, such as Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace, the Lion Monument in Lucerne, the Gothic cathedral in Strasbourg, the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, and a canal cruise through the 'Golden Age' homes of Amsterdam.

Are language barriers handled by the guide?

Yes, the tour provides professional support to handle language barriers, including a Globus Tour Director and Local Guides in various cities to ensure a smooth and informative experience.

Disclaimer: