It's about you. You are the reason we've used our 80-plus years of travel expertise to design the very best river cruise experience. Inspired by you, we've taken everything special about river cruising and made it even better. Here are some of the features and amenities you'll experience on board our Avalon ships.

Day 1 Arrive in Istanbul, Turkey

Free time to relax and begin soaking up the unique atmosphere of this city built on two continents. At 6 pm, meet your Local Host for a welcome get-together.

Day 2 Istanbul

Founded by the Greeks as Byzantium more than 2,500 years ago, renamed Constantinople in the year 330, and finally called Istanbul, the city on the Bosporus remains one of the most exciting places in the world. Its strategic location as a gateway between the Orient and the Occident, the Islamic and the Christian worlds, the Black Sea and the Mediterranean, predestined it for a turbulent history. Guided sightseeing includes Emperor Justinian's HAGIA SOPHIA and Sultan Ahmet's BLUE MOSQUE, magnificent monuments to two competing world religions that stand peacefully side by side; TOPKAPI SERAGLIO, residence of the Ottoman Sultans; and the GRAND BAZAAR. (Breakfast)

Day 3 Istanbul

A free day in Istanbul to explore on your own. Or, why not join a full-day optional excursion to the fabulous archaeological site of Ephesus? Fly to Izmir, then travel to the city which later became the capital of Roman Asia Minor. When St. Paul arrived here he was so awestruck that he asked, "Is there a greater city?" Visit the Library of Celsus, the Amphitheater, and listen to exciting "inside stories" of life in ancient Ephesus as you walk down its "Champs Elysees." Also visit the House of the Virgin Mary before returning to Istanbul for a final evening in Turkey. (Breakfast)

Day 4 Istanbul-Bucharest, Romania

Fly to Bucharest, its wide boulevards and Arc de Triomphe have gained this city the name "Paris of the East." (Breakfast)

Day 5 Bucharest-Oltenita (Embarkation)

Much recent history has taken place in Romania's capital city. During your included tour this morning, see the impressive Parliament Building, the second-largest building in the world, after the Pentagon. The Royal Palace Square was the scene of riots in 1989, which finally led to the collapse of the communist dictatorship. The former Royal Palace now houses the NATIONAL ART MUSEUM. This afternoon a motorcoach ride takes you to Oltenita, where your river cruise vessel is docked. Before dinner, meet your crew at a welcome reception. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 6 Harsova. Excursion to Celic Dere Monastery

After breakfast, a drive in the countryside takes you to Celic Dere, one of the most well-known monasteries in this area and considered the center of Orthodoxism. The first church was built here in the early 19th century by priests from Transylvania and Bessarabia who had lived on Mount Athos in Greece. Return to your ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon and evening of tranquil sailing toward Tulcea and the mouth of the Danube. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 7 St. Gheorghe, Danube Delta

Maybe this morning you will wake up early to watch the sunrise over the Black Sea. Later, enjoy a small celebration to mark "Km 0." From its source in the Black Forest to its delta at the Black Sea, the Danube measures 2,845 kilometers in length. The Km markings can be clearly seen on the river banks the length of the river, and today it's time to celebrate the end of the Danube's journey at "Km 0." This afternoon, enjoy an excursion into the Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best preserved of Europe's deltas, hosting over 300 species of birds as well as 45 species of freshwater fish. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 8 Cernavoda. Excursion to Constanta, Black Sea

Cernavoda lies at the western end of the 40-mile-long Black Sea Canal, the pride and joy of communist achievement. From here, drive to Constanta, the most important commercial center in Romania, situated on the Black Sea. Enjoy a guided tour of this popular resort town and visit the NATURAL HISTORY & ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM. Late this afternoon, return to your ship. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 9 Svistov, Bulgaria. Excursion to Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanassi

A comfortable ride from Svistov is the ancient Bulgarian capital of Veliko Tarnovo. Situated on three hills surrounding the Yantra River, the city was a natural fortress with ancient stone houses clinging to the steep slopes. The oldest part is Tsarevets Hill, home of the Royal Fortress, palaces and the PATRIARCH"S CHURCH. The historic village of Arbanassi is best known for its ETHNOGRAPHICAL MUSEUM and the outstanding collection of frescoes in the CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 10 Iron Gates

The Trajan Table marking the Roman conquest of Dacia and the Serbian fortresses of Golubac and Smederevo are impressive sights on the left bank of the Danube. The most spectacular scenery must surely be the dramatic gorge of the IRON GATES, a narrow and formerly very dangerous passage dividing Europe's Alps in the northwest from the Carpathians in the southeast and forming a natural border between Serbia and Romania. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 11 Belgrade, Serbia

The capital of Serbia is situated at the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers. A local expert will be proud to show you its main sights, which include the city's principal landmark, KALEMEGDAN FORTRESS; St. Sava, the world's largest Orthodox church; and Marshal Tito's tomb and monument. The city center has a lively pedestrian area and charming outdoor cafes. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 12 Vukovar, Croatia. Excursion to Osijek

Today, learn more about the complex history of Croatia and the events that led to the Croatian War of Independence. A Certified Local Guide shows you both Vukovar, Croatia's largest river port located at the confluence of the Danube and Vuka Rivers, and Osijek, an important economic and cultural center. Vukovar was scene to an 87-day siege in 1991, known as the Battle of Vukovar. This and other dramatic events in the recent past have shaped both the present and the future of this region. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 13 Mohacs, Hungary. Excursion to Villany Wine District

This morning, an excursion takes you into the Villany district, where some of Hungary's best red wines are produced. Learn more about which varietals are grown, and why the climate and soil conditions here are ideal for the production of excellent wines, as you enjoy a WINE TASTING. Relax on board this afternoon as you sail toward Budapest. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 14 Budapest

Spanning the banks of the Danube, Budapest is Eastern Europe's liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis. Eight bridges, including the famous Chain and Elisabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with Fishermen's Bastion and the Matthias Church is among the many sights your Local Guide will show you. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 15 Bratislava, Slovakia-Vienna, Austria

A leisurely morning before you arrive in Slovakia's capital, Bratislava, situated at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. A Certified Local Guide will show you the charming Old Town with its Town Hall and views of Mirbach Palace, as well as gothic ST. MARTIN"S CATHEDRAL. Return to your ship in time for lunch and cruise to Vienna, where you arrive in the late afternoon. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 16 Vienna

Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, the city has much to offer: lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse and awe-inspiring St. Stephen's Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy during your included tour. You do not rush through Vienna; you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Karntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood cafe. An optional concert is available during your stay. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 17 Durnstein-Grein

Standing on the banks of the Danube, the magnificent baroque Stiftskirche with its blue facade is without a doubt the landmark of Durnstein. A Certified Local Guide will take you on a walking tour of this town, which lies right in the heart of the Wachau wine region, and will tell you the tale of England's King Richard the Lionheart, who was imprisoned in the castle whose ruins still stand above the town. In the late afternoon, arrive in the attractive country resort of Grein, nestled at the foot of a bluff in the shadow of its castle. Enjoy a guided walk and take pictures of the turreted houses on the main square. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 18 Grein-Linz

In the early morning hours, depart Grein for Linz, where you arrive before lunch. A Certified Local Guide will acquaint you with the highlights of this, Austria's third-largest city and an important river port. Culture is an important part of life in Linz. Composer Anton Bruckner lived here and Mozart's Linzer Symphony was composed in the city. Alternatively, you may opt for a full-day optional excursion to Salzburg or Cesky Krumlov in the Czech
Republic. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 19 Regensburg, Germany

Regensburg is one of Germany's best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights on your guided tour include the Old Town Hall, and Porta Pretoria-gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town, and one of Bavaria's cultural centers. It is here you will find Germany's oldest restaurant, the 12th-century Historische Wurstkuche (Old Sausage Kitchen). (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 20 Nuremberg

Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses-all explained by a local expert. Nuremberg's traditions include famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 21 Bamberg

Another beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site is medieval Bamberg. Your walking tour takes in its breathtaking cathedral, the Old Town Hall straddling the River Regnitz, and serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th-century mansions. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 22 Wurzburg

Known as the "Pearl of the Romantic Road," Wurzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. The magnificent BISHOP"S RESIDENZ is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 23 Miltenberg

Located on the Main River, Miltenberg is a picturesque Bavarian village that thrived on income from river traffic. Its cultural wealth and affluence are reflected in the beautiful medieval and renaissance houses and the gothic splendor of the Merchant Hall. This afternoon, learn how to bake a local SOFT COOKIE specialty. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 24 Rudesheim-Rhine Gorge

Visit SIEGFRIED"S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM in pretty Rudesheim. Enjoy a SPECIAL TREAT, then there's free time to explore the Drosselgasse and pick up some souvenirs. The dramatic RHINE GORGE is the most beautiful stretch of river. Pass the legendary rock of the Lorelei, where sweet songs of local beauties lured enchanted sailors to their doom. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 25 Cologne

Cologne is one of Germany's largest cities, with a river skyline dominated by the soaring twin spires of its magnificent gothic cathedral. The Germano-Roman Museum located next to the cathedral is a must for history buffs! Try a Kolsch in one of the many taverns and shop for a bottle of "4711," the original eau de cologne. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 26 Amsterdam, Holland

Holland's delightful 700-year-old capital is sophisticated and modern, with a rich and fascinating history. The works of famous Dutch masters can be seen in world-renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh. There is no better way to see Amsterdam than by CANAL BOAT, cruising through the elegant grachten lined with stately homes. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Day 27 Amsterdam (Disembarkation)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)