Traditional travel is often a fixed path. You arrive, follow the guide and return to the ship. Avalon Waterways’ Active & Discovery river cruises are designed around freedom, curiosity and personal choice. Find out how each day becomes an opportunity to decide how deeply you want to engage with a destination.
The Freedom to Choose Your Experience
At the heart of Avalon’s philosophy is the Avalon Choice® , which organizes excursions into three categories. Each day, you can choose the experience that fits your interests and energy.
Active excursions focus on movement and exploration. These experiences allow you to connect with the landscape physically.
Examples include:
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- Guided bike rides through vineyards and countryside
- Scenic hikes to historic landmarks and viewpoints
- Canoeing and kayaking along peaceful waterways
- Walking tours designed for travelers who want to stay active
Discovery excursions focus on hands-on cultural immersion. They allow you to participate, not just observe.
Examples include:
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- Cooking classes led by local chefs
- Visits to historic wineries with guided tastings
- Art workshops inspired by regional traditions
- Culinary experiences that introduce authentic local flavors
Classic excursions provide traditional guided tours led by expert local guides. These experiences offer valuable historical and cultural context.
Examples include:
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- Guided tours through iconic cities and quaint towns and villages
- Visits to historic landmarks and architectural treasures
- Cultural walks that explore the story of each destination
Explore culture through hands-on art workshops.
Exceptional Inclusion and True Flexibility
Avalon Waterways offers up to 28 included excursions per itinerary — significantly more than traditional river cruises. This approach removes the pressure of additional costs and allows you to focus entirely on the experience. Every day brings new possibilities. You might choose a bike ride one morning, a wine tasting the next day and a guided city tour the day after. The journey evolves based on your interests.
Support for Independent Exploration
Avalon also makes it easy to explore on your own. Their ships feature an Adventure Center, which provides equipment and recommendations for independent discovery. Complimentary bikes and ebikes are available for guests who want to explore beyond organized excursions.
The AvalonGO mobile app offers details for excursions, meals, activities, sailing times and more.
Enjoy wall-to-wall views from your Panorama Suite.
A Journey Designed Around You
Active & Discovery cruises sail along Europe’s most legendary rivers, including the Danube, Rhine, Rhône and Seine. These routes connect historic cities, scenic countryside and cultural landmarks that have shaped European history.
What makes these journeys different is not just where they go, but how you experience them. Avalon Waterways created Active & Discovery for travelers who want more than a passive vacation. These journeys are for those who want to participate, engage and create a journey that reflects their own interests. And choosing the right Active & Discovery cruise involves more than selecting dates and destinations. Each itinerary offers something different, and our role is to help you find the one that aligns perfectly with your interests and travel style. When you book through our travel agency, you benefit from expert guidance, personalized recommendations and access to exclusive offers and added amenities when available. We assist with every detail, from selecting the ideal sailing to coordinating air, transfers and pre- or post-cruise plans, so your journey feels seamless from the moment you begin planning.
