When you sail with Avalon Waterways, how you experience Europe depends entirely on you.

For a long-anticipated vacation to live up to your expectations, every detail needs to be flawless — and that can mean something different for everyone. With Avalon Waterways and Fox World Travel, ample choices allow you to tailor your voyage just the way you like it.

It starts from the moment you awaken. With beds that are perfectly positioned to face your Open-Air Balcony℠ — sliding glass that is both wall-to-wall and floor-to-ceiling — it may be tempting to stay in and order complimentary room service. Or maybe you’re an early riser, ready to start the day with coffee and croissants before taking an invigorating stroll on the deck. Captivating views also accompany al fresco dining at the Sky Grill and through the glass-walled dining room, where four courses are presented in style.

In between these moments onboard — both relaxing and enriching — there are satisfying adventures on land designed around different styles of travel. Choose from Classic guided excursions, engage in hands-on Discovery activities that speak to your interests, or get moving with Active tours that keep you going all day long. Or simply take time to explore on your own — your Avalon Adventure Host℠ or Tour Manager on your Fox Group Vacation is available to point you in the right direction.

Tip: On select voyages along the Rhine, Rhône and Danube rivers, we can arrange outings that are equal parts Discovery and Active.

Take a look at just a few of the ways to experience Europe, and tell us what sparks your interest. We’ll find the voyage that suits you best.

Heidelberg, Germany

As you’ll learn on a Classic guided excursion to Heidelberg Castle that stands atop a hillside, these ancient ruins showcase different periods of German architecture and have an enormous wine barrel in their cellar. Or you may be drawn to the intellectual roots of this riverside university town and embark on an Active hike up Philosopher’s Walk. This pathway has inspired centuries of poets and intellects with its sweeping views of Heidelberg.

Willemstad, Netherlands

In between marveling over windmills and canals as you cruise through Holland and Belgium, there are plenty of ways to deepen your connection with each destination. If the mood strikes, start your day in Willemstad on an early morning jog alongside your host. Explore the sights of this fortified town and later, decompress over an onboard cheese tasting that reflects all the depth and flavor of famed Dutch cheeses.

Budapest, Hungary

Bisected by the Danube, magical Budapest will capture your heart and stay with you forever. To experience its extraordinary sights, including the grand Castle District, you’re spoiled for choice with a Classic excursion, an Active outing by bicycle, or a walking tour where you’ll glean insider Hungarian phrases from your expert guide. Free time lets you follow your interests like sourcing the best local paprika or tasting rich cream cake under the gorgeous arches and ornate chandeliers of Gerbeaud Café.

Cologne, Germany

On a Rhine cruise between Basel and Amsterdam, you’ll pass by beautiful swaths of Germany’s emerald landscapes dotted with hilltop castles and storybook villages. In the 2,000-year-old city of Cologne, you have your pick: a Classic guided excursion through the Rhineland capital to view its Gothic architecture and famous twin-spired cathedral or a Discovery tour of its meaningful Jewish heritage sites.

Vienna, Austria

On a voyage that encompasses both Active and Discovery excursions, two days in Vienna are filled with possibilities — and plenty of time to experience it all. See the city on a guided jog or spend time peering behind the scenes of iconic attractions on an insider tour. Viewing Gustav Klimt’s “Kiss” inside Belvedere Palace may appeal to first-timers, while repeat visitors may want to delve into the Habsburg family’s private collection at the Museum of Fine Arts. You’ll even have time to cultivate personal interests on an evening vineyard hike and a visit to a local heurigen (wine tavern) or by taking a turn conducting an orchestra before settling in for a classical waltz and operetta concert.

What you get out of your European river cruise depends entirely on how much of yourself you put into it. Let us take care of the details with Avalon Waterways so you can dedicate your time to experiencing the best of every moment.

How to Stay Longer: With Monograms, Avalon Waterways’ sister company, you can enjoy multi-day stays before or after your river cruise that include a luxury hotel and guided activities.