Time and time again, Avalon Waterways has redefined cruising by going against the current and away from the ordinary. There are plenty of reasons they’ve achieved this streak of success — incredible itineraries, luxurious ships and revolutionary open-air balconies come quick to mind — but one simply can’t overlook the impact of their excursions. Avalon has a range of activities to choose from when deciding how to spend your day. Here is a selection of our favorites from their Active & Discovery on the Rhine itinerary.
Van Gogh Painting Workshop
Attend a painting class and be inspired by the masters' techniques.
Channel your inner Van Gogh with this Discovery shore excursion, exclusively available in this Dutch port. You’ll spend the session learning about Van Gogh’s work and life in Amsterdam while enjoying easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions to mimic the master’s techniques — culminating in your own keepsake canvas to take home and show off for years to come.
Heidelberg Beer Tasting
Take a beer tour in Heidelberg and taste the flavors of Germany.
Explore the world of beer making on a guided tour of four breweries in and around Old Heidelberg. This entertaining and educational experience begins with an introduction to the city’s brewing traditions. Visit a mix of local craft breweries and modern facilities, each offering guided tastings of their unique brews. Enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the brewing process and meet the passionate brewers. Delight in food pairings that enhance the beer flavors and enjoy insightful stories from knowledgeable guides. With transportation included, this tour offers a personalized and memorable experience in the beautiful setting of Heidelberg.
Captivating Culinary Walk
Join a culinary walk to discover the Alsatian cuisine and traditions.
In Strasbourg, embark on a captivating Culinary Walk that explores the rich Alsatian cuisine, deeply influenced by the region’s unique history of alternating control between Germany and France. This journey takes you through the charming streets of Strasbourg’s old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where your guide will lead you to hidden gems and popular eateries. Sample traditional dishes like tarte flambée, choucroute garnie and bäckeoffe and enjoy local wine and beer tastings that reflect the region’s German influences. Explore bustling markets to see the fresh produce that forms the foundation of Alsatian cuisine and indulge in pastries such as kougelhopf. Along the way, your guide will share fascinating stories about Strasbourg’s history and the blend of French and German cultures. Some tours may even offer a hands-on experience, such as a cooking demonstration or preparing a simple Alsatian dish.
Ready to Set Sail with Avalon? Give Our Travel Agents a Call!
Eager to experience any (or all!) of the following excursions? Your ticket to all the above is on board one of Avalon Waterways’ luxe river cruises … and your best next step for booking with them is connecting with one of our travel agents. Our travel agents are certified experts at all things Avalon — from their many different cruise excursions to their onboard cultural presentations and FlexDining® menus — and on call for the duration of your trip, so you’ll never need to stress on a detail, no matter how big or small.
