TORONTO — Avalon Waterways’ list of Top 10 ‘Views’ and ‘Must Do’s’ for the Danube River is a great selling tool for clients considering an Avalon cruise.

Avalon reminds agents that clients who book by March 9 can extend their stay in Prague, Budapest, Vienna or Munich for free.

From rolling hillside vineyards to wine-producing towns oozing with charm, and sky-high fortresses to the Black Forest’s evergreen canopy, the Danube River shapes a picturesque passage across Europe, says the river cruise line.

The ‘Blue Danube’ is also home to the beautiful Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of the most picturesque hiking and biking trails in the world.

“Along this legendary Danube River, Avalon Waterways has created a boatful of extraordinary, ‘no one does it like this’ river cruise vacations that take travellers beyond the river Danube’s beautiful views to delve into breathtaking stories, personalized experiences and untethered exploration,” says Pam Hoffee, Managing Director of Avalon Waterways. “These are journeys that will forever shape the way travellers choose to see and experience the world.”

Here’s Avalon’s list of ‘Sail & See’ suggestions, and also ideas for ‘Dock & Do’….

SAIL & SEE

“In addition to Budapest’s dramatic architecture and Vienna’s grandeur, some of Avalon’s favourite highlights – and surprises – include …

. Untouched Regensburg
Just outside Germany’s Black Forest lies the perfectly-preserved medieval town of Regensburg: a hidden destination that boasts ancient treasures and an historic market square that invites travellers into a Christmas dream during the holidays.

. The Stunning Schlögener Schlinge
Cruisers needn’t worry about the pronunciation of this dramatic river point, considered a natural wonder of Austria: When laying eyes on this breathtaking loop, travellers are left speechless.

. Bustling Bratislava
Don’t let the baroque palaces and Renaissance remembrances of this ancient city fool you. The capital of Slovakia’s pedestrian-only old town has one of Europe’s most youthful vibes.

. Brewtiful Bamberg
Nicknamed ‘The Rome of Germany’, the historic, cobblestoned town of Bamberg built on seven scenic hills remains devoid of modern architecture – and full of its signature smoked beer.

. Gorge-ous Iron Gates
A beautiful gorge that forms the boundary between Serbia and Romania, the Iron Gates present a photo-worthy landscape nestled between two national parks.

DOCK & DO

There’s not just more to see on an Avalon river cruise down the Danube River, there’s more to do, too, says Avalon. With a daily selection of ‘Classic,’ ‘Active’ and ‘Discovery’ excursions included in the price of their cruise, travellers can delve into each destination and customize their journey. Some of Avalon’s favourite ‘must dos’ on the Danube include:

. Sashay, sauté!
Join a foodie walking tour or a cooking class in Budapest and Vienna to taste (or make!) local specialties like Weiner schnitzel and Sachertorte.

. Sink your teeth into history
Drink in the scenery while hiking to the stunning Visegrád Castle where Count Dracula of Romania was imprisoned in the 15th century.

. Paddle or pedal
Grab a paddle or a pair of handlebars and canoe or bike through the Wachau Valley, considered the most romantic stretch along the Danube.

. Don’t clam up!
Put your best foot forward when meeting the current Count of Clam in his majestic and medieval home, Burg Clam, a castle inhabited by the Clam family for over 500 years.

. Go underground
Explore Budapest’s subterranean caves and lairs, including the Underground Flower Garden, named for its unique cave corals and crystals.

Clients who book by March 9, 2020 can extend select Danube vacations in Budapest, Prague, Vienna or Munich for free, up to a $902 value. See avalonwaterways.ca.