9-night Christmastime From Nuremberg To Basel Cruise

December 13, 2026

Avalon Waterways: Avalon Illumination®

Nuremberg/Basel

Vacation Offer ID 1567629

Reference this number when contacting our travel specialist.

From $5,295

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The Signature Collection – Exclusive Amenities
The Signature Collection Sailings offer Exceptional Value and Exclusive Amenities.

Cruise Inclusions

Choice of complimentary sightseeing excursions in every port – choose between Classic, Active or Discovery options
Whisper headsets for all excursions
Digital Signage ship-wide with daily agenda, menus, key details
Unlimited free Wi-Fi
Visits to UNESCO Sites
Enrichment lectures & local entertainment, dance floor and nightly song lists
Meals with regional specialties, including local wine
Sky Deck grill for lunch – weather permitting
Welcome Dinner & Farewell Dinner
Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner – sparkling wine with breakfast
24-hour specialty coffees, teas & water filling station, including flavored waters
24-hour Club Lounge (includes coffee machine), games, books, TVs, great views!
Walking track & sky deck
Fitness room with machines and free weights
Adventure Host and Adventure center (maps, binoculars, walking sticks, etc)
Afternoon tea (coffee, tea, sandwiches and cookies)
16 bikes on board
Movie Night
Elevator between stateroom decks
24-hour guest services
All port taxes & fees
Airport transfers on embarkation/disembarkation day with Avalon Air purchase
No single use plastics

YOUR STATEROOM INCLUDES:

River-view stateroom Hotel-style bed with optional twin-bed configuration; Comfort Collection bedding, including choice of pillow and firmness (Panorama Suites 200 sq feet)
Desk area with chair
Spacious closets and under bed storage
Panorama Suites include Wall-to-wall window with Open-Air Balcony
Panorama Suites include loveseat and table with chair seating area
Panorama Suites include extra large bathroom and spacious glass enclosed shower
Flat-screen LCD TV with complimentary Movies On Demand
110/220 volt outlets & USB ports
Mini Bar; security safe; hair dryer
L’Occitane® toiletries; plush robes & slippers in every stateroom
Stateroom steward & multiple times daily housekeeping

9-night Christmastime From Nuremberg To Basel Cruise

Destination Guide
Suggested Shore Excursions

Destination	Arrival	Departure
Nuremberg Nuremberg 12/13/2026 NUREMBERG, GERMANY (EMBARKATION) Welcome to Nuremberg, where your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.Flights into Nuremberg must arrive by 3:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.Indulge in traditional holiday fare and hot libations to warm your heart and soul.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN NUREMBERG (D)NUREMBERG-FESTIVE.jpg Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Nuremberg: From history to Bratwurst and ginger bread (6 hours) Highlights: Meet your experienced and fully licensed driver-guide to discuss your interests for the day before getting started Nuremberg was one of the richest and most important 'free cities' of the Holy German Empire, whose golden age, the German Renaissance, produced such illustrious artists as the painter Albrecht Duerer, the sculptor Veit Stoß and the mastersinger Hans Sachs Explore the old town market place and sample traditional ginger bread at the legendary local bakeries before heading to the beautiful Fountain and Church of our Lady as well as Sebaldus Church. Stroll the alleys uphill to the Imperial Castle, affording excellent views over historic city center and passing Albrecht Duerer house along the way Depending on interest visit sites such as the Nazi documentation centre at the former rallye grounds or the famous room 600 where the Nazi trials were held after WWII End of tour at Altstadt brewery to enjoy a beer and original Nuremberg sausages before heading back to the ship Tour Duration: 6 hours Tour can operate: All day Wheelchair Accessible: Yes Physical Activity Level: Light Inclusions: Transportation by luxury car Touring with one of our excellent driver-guides All taxes Not Included: Meals Optional admissions and museum licensing fees Tipping at your discretion	12/13/2026	12/13/2026
Nuremberg Nuremberg 12/14/2026 NUREMBERG Legends and History Lessons CLASSIC Choose a Guided Tour of Nuremberg’s medieval architecture, gilded fountain, Gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle, OR: CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds—used by the Third Reich.Spend free time browsing the spruce stalls of the Christmas Markets of Nuremberg. Sample favorite Bavarian fare—bratwurst, gingerbread, mulled blueberry wine, and countless other Christkindlmarkt culinary delights. Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BAMBERG (B,L,D)NUREMBERG-SAUSAGE.jpg Optional Private Excursions Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience! Nuremberg: From history to Bratwurst and ginger bread (6 hours) Highlights: Meet your experienced and fully licensed driver-guide to discuss your interests for the day before getting started Nuremberg was one of the richest and most important 'free cities' of the Holy German Empire, whose golden age, the German Renaissance, produced such illustrious artists as the painter Albrecht Duerer, the sculptor Veit Stoß and the mastersinger Hans Sachs Explore the old town market place and sample traditional ginger bread at the legendary local bakeries before heading to the beautiful Fountain and Church of our Lady as well as Sebaldus Church. Stroll the alleys uphill to the Imperial Castle, affording excellent views over historic city center and passing Albrecht Duerer house along the way Depending on interest visit sites such as the Nazi documentation centre at the former rallye grounds or the famous room 600 where the Nazi trials were held after WWII End of tour at Altstadt brewery to enjoy a beer and original Nuremberg sausages before heading back to the ship Tour Duration: 6 hours Tour can operate: All day Wheelchair Accessible: Yes Physical Activity Level: Light Inclusions: Transportation by luxury car Touring with one of our excellent driver-guides All taxes Not Included: Meals Optional admissions and museum licensing fees Tipping at your discretion	12/14/2026	12/14/2026
Bamberg Bamberg 12/15/2026 BAMBERG Christmas Customs and Cradle ScenesCLASSIC Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Bamberg—medieval home of Germany’s Roman Empire dynasties. Stroll through dozens of Bamberg’s nativity scenes—from miniature to life-size.Take free time to enjoy the quaint Christmas markets, and warm up with traditional German dumplings, sausage, and a glass of hearty Bavarian ale. DISCOVERY Enjoy an onboard Christmas Traditions Lecture while sailing.AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO WÜRZBURG(B,L,D)BAMBERG-FESTIVE.jpg	12/15/2026	12/15/2026
Wurzburg Wurzburg 12/16/2026 WÜRZBURG Old Saint Nicholas, and Nutcrackers Sweet CLASSIC Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the “Pearl of the Romantic Road” with its Old Main Bridge, towering fortress, and baroque Bishop’s Residence.You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to the beautiful Bavarian town of Rothenburg. Visit the Käthe Wohlfahrt German Christmas museum—the world’s most extensive collection of traditional German Christmas decorations.Spend free time enjoying the festive, warm glow of Wurzburg’s Christmas markets. Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MAIN RIVER VILLAGE(B,L,D)WURZBURG-FESTIVE.jpg	12/16/2026	12/16/2026
Main River Cruising Main River Cruising 12/17/2026 MAIN RIVER VILLAGE Hidden Gifts and Holiday Delights CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of a picturesque village along the Main River. DISCOVERY Join a Cookie-Baking Demonstration on board your ship while sailing.AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO FRANKFURT(B,L,D)MAIN-RIVER-VILLAGE-FESTIVE-COOKIES.jpg	12/17/2026	12/17/2026
Frankfurt Frankfurt 12/18/2026 FRANKFURT. EXCURSION TO RUDESHEIM Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country DISCOVERY Tour the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience in Rüdesheim, enjoy a local special treat.Don’t miss the tantalizing treats, and seasonal handiwork of sparkling winter wonderlands in the city.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO SPEYER (B,D)RUDESHEIM-COFFEE.jpg	12/18/2026	12/18/2026
Heidelberg Heidelberg 12/19/2026 HEIDELBERG EXCURSION. SPEYER Winter Wonders and a Wine Barrel Fit for a King CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour that includes the magnificent Heidelberg Castle at Christmastime to see the ruins of the magnificent renaissance treasure towering above the city, and its famed Great Vat—the world’s largest wine barrel.After the tour, visit the local German Christmas Markets in Heidelberg.Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing sailing morning and explore the sights and sounds, tantalizing treats, and seasonal handiwork of Speyer Christmas markets. This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board.EVENING/OVERNIGHT TO STRASBOURG (B,L,D)HEIDELBERG-FESTIVE-CHRISTMAS-MARKET.jpg	12/19/2026	12/19/2026
Strasbourg Strasbourg 12/20/2026 STRASBOURG, FRANCE A Gothic Cathedral, Heaven’s Time, and Joyeux Noël CLASSIC Come along for City Sightseeing, including the city’s gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District.You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to beautiful Alsace, for an afternoon in a French wine-country village. Savor the warmth and glow of Christmas tradition by spending your free time this afternoon wandering the French winter markets of Strasbourg. Take in the lights, music, and the pleasures of the season. EVENING CRUISE TO BREISACH(B,L,D)STRASBOURG-FESTIVE-CHRISTMAS-MARKET.jpg	12/20/2026	12/20/2026
Breisach Breisach 12/21/2026 BREISACH, GERMANY. EXCURSION TO BLACK FOREST History, Artistry, and the Beautiful Black ForestCLASSIC 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, OR:DISCOVERY Join a Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience local traditions and the vibrant Christmas mood.You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the charming village of Colmar, with its half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings, and enjoy the warmth and glow of the Christmas season. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BASEL (B,L,D)BLACK-FOREST-CLOCK.jpg	12/21/2026	12/21/2026
Basel Basel 12/22/2026 BASEL, SWITZERLAND (DISEMBARKATION) Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.Flights should not leave Zürich airport before 10 am or Basel airport before 8 am.(B)BASEL-FESTIVE-SUNRISE.jpg	12/22/2026	12/22/2026

The Avalon Illumination truly shines on Europe's rivers. Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck.

Ship Highlights

Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, shade awnings, & outdoor deck game area
English-speaking friendly crew, staff & professional Cruise Director
Onboard Adventure Center with active gear, bikes, Nordic walking sticks, watercraft & maps
Onshore & Onboard experiences with regional customs, cultures & tastings with local artisans, experts & entertainers
Well-stocked library with books, cards, and board games

Ship Statistics

Built Year: 2014
Ship Length: 443
Number of Crew: 47
Dining / Restaurants: 2
Pool: Yes

Bars / Lounges: 6
Fitness Center: Yes
Number of Staterooms: 83
Number of Suites: 67
Kids Friendly: No

Oceanview

Deluxe Stateroom (E) $5,295

Category: E
Indigo Deck

Size: 172 sq. ft. Stateroom Amenities: Two windows • Comfort Collection by Avalon • Deluxe beds with premium mattress covers • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens • European-style duvets • Choice of soft or firm pillows • Extra blankets • Choice of bed configuration • Nightly turn-down service • Bedside tables with reading lamps • Hairdryer • L'Occitane bath amenities • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage • Easy under-bed luggage storage • Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels • Alarm clock • Direct-dial telephone • Bathrobes & slippers • Well-stocked minibar • Complimentary bottled water • In-room safe • Individual climate control • Modern Finishings • Large mirror in bathroom

Deluxe Stateroom (D) $5,295

Category: D
Indigo Deck

Suite

Panorama Suite (B) $7,544

Category: B
Sapphire Deck

Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door with French Balcony, Full shower with glass door, Writing desk, Vanity, Bed, Sink, Toilet. Size: 172 sq. ft. Stateroom Amenities: • Comfort Collection by Avalon • Deluxe beds with premium mattress covers • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens • European-style duvets • Choice of soft or firm pillows • Extra blankets • Choice of bed configuration • Nightly turn-down service • Bedside tables with reading lamps • Hairdryer • L'Occitane bath amenities • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage • Easy under-bed luggage storage • Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels • Alarm clock • Direct-dial telephone • Bathrobes & slippers • Well-stocked minibar • Complimentary bottled water • In-room safe • Individual climate control • Modern Finishings • Large mirror in bathroom

Panorama Suite (A) $7,673

Category: A
Sapphire Deck

Panorama Suite (P) $7,737

Category: P
Royal Deck

Royal Suite (S) $9,280

Category: S
Royal Deck

Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door with French Balcony, Full shower with glass door, Writing desk, Vanity, Bed, Sink, Toilet, Sofa, Coffee table. Size: 258 sq.ft. Stateroom Amenities: • Comfort Collection by Avalon • Deluxe beds with premium mattress covers • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens • European-style duvets • Choice of soft or firm pillows • Extra blankets • Choice of bed configuration • Nightly turn-down service • Bedside tables with reading lamps • Hairdryer • L'Occitane bath amenities • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage • Easy under-bed luggage storage • Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels • Alarm clock • Direct-dial telephone • Bathrobes & slippers • Well-stocked minibar • Complimentary bottled water • In-room safe • Individual climate control • Modern Finishings • Large mirror in bathroom • Marble countertops in bathroom

Price is per person (double occupancy) and includes cruise taxes and port charges.

"Starting at" or "From" price is per person (double occupancy) and includes cruise taxes and port charges but does not include airfare to or from your vacation. Some cruise/tour packages require intra-vacation flights (and in some cases intra-vacation segments must be purchased from Avalon Waterways) in which case intra-vacation air and taxes are included in the price shown.

Important Notes

Vacation departures, itineraries and prices are subject to change.
A non-refundable, non-transferable deposit is required for Avalon Waterways to reserve space for you.
The hotels and accommodations listed are provisional and subject to change and may be substituted with properties of similar standard. Hotels are confirmed approximately 30 days prior to departure and can be found in your travel documents, but are not guaranteed until check-in.
The following charges are not included in the land/cruise vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; intra-vacation air, unless specified in the itinerary; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee up to $11.20 per person, passenger facility charges up to $18 per person, Federal domestic flight segment fees up to $4.10 per segment, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted Avalon menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature.
Additional airline-imposed fees for seat assignments may apply and are not included in your total package cost. Please refer to carrier websites for seat assignment policies and applicable pricing.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

Sky Deck