We sailed on the luxurious Avalon Illumination to discover all the unique areas and landscapes in the heart of Europe. This is an incredible experience, cruising along the Danube and admiring the breathtaking scenery and art cities, while having everything you need to relax on board.
Article from CruisesNews magazine no. 61 – June 2022
By Gabriele Basi
That's the winning formula of Avalon Waterways, which combines a holiday exploring the most dazzling places on the Danube with pleasant moments of entertainment and dining on board.
There are many reasons to take a river cruise. First and foremost, the ship always docks right in the city center, giving you the freedom to get on and off the ship at any time of day to relax or have a meal.
Sailing is never boring. Gliding across the tranquil waters of the river is an incredibly rewarding experience, traveling through fields and vineyards, small towns and large cities. In just a few days, you can sail from Budapest to Bratislava, or from Vienna to Passau, passing through some of the most picturesque regions of countries like Austria, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary.
Each cruise offers unique routes, featuring the best of what's on offer at the ports of call, as well as some exceptional experiences, such as a classical music concert in the heart of Vienna.
There's a family atmosphere aboard ships like the Avalon Illumination, where meeting other guests is a pleasure, but where there are also private and intimate spaces, such as the beautiful aft deck. There are three cabin categories, and the Panorama and Royal Suites undoubtedly offer incredible views, with floor-to-ceiling windows that can be fully opened.
You'll also experience the difference at the table, with a welcoming and elegant atmosphere offering international dishes as well as tributes to the most authentic recipes from the places visited. The friendly and helpful staff will always be available to attend to any needs you may have and prepare your favorite cocktail.
Avalon Waterways offers river cruise itineraries to discover wonderful cities, providing truly memorable sights and moments. Of the many highlights of the trip, what impressed us most was the sense of relaxation we experienced while cruising and the beauty of the landscapes we visited. Simply relax in the Panorama Lounge or lie comfortably in your suite as castles, forests, and vineyards appear before you. The passage through the locks is also fascinating, as the ship rises and falls over water levels of more than 20 meters.
With the arrival of summer, everything comes together with the comfort of the outdoor deck, which offers reclining chairs, sun loungers, a jacuzzi and a dining area, where barbecues are often organized.
The ship always docks right in the center of the cities, giving you the freedom to get off and back on the ship at any time.
In short, it's a winning combination in every sense of the word, opening up new horizons of discovery and relaxation, combining the beauty of unique cities with the charm of small towns overlooking the Danube, all accompanied by attentive service and the charm and intimacy of Avalon Waterways ships.
