This contrasting discovery of Holland and Belgium visits the poignant sites and commemorative memorials of World War II in Ypres, and the colourful tulip gardens in the spring at the Keukenhof Gardens.
See the highlights of Amsterdam on a glass-topped boat along the picturesque waterways past the gabled houses, before cruising to the fishing village of Volendam and historic Hoorn. Learn about the events of World War II at Arnhem and Oosterbeek, and visit the war sites in Ypres including the Menin Gate, a memorial to the missing, where the Last Post is played each evening.
In the Spring the vibrant tulips are in full bloom and the magnificent flower displays can be seen in the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens, where tens of thousands of flowers are set among the landscapes of shimmering lakes and ancient trees.
RT112 Operated by Riviera Travel
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Medieval Flanders and Dutch Bulbfields Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Amsterdam (Holland)
Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels and change trains to Amsterdam or fly from the UK to Amsterdam and transfer to your ship. The dedicated crew will welcome you aboard your five-star floating hotel.
Day 2 - Amsterdam - Hoorn
See the highlights of Amsterdam on a cruise along its picturesque canals in a glass-topped boat, past the gabled buildings, discovering the art, history and culture. This afternoon cruise towards the Ijsselmeer, continuing on to historic Hoorn. Explore Hoorn's twisting alleyways and cobblestone squares lined with brick warehouses.
Day 3 - Arnhem
Pass the flower-decked houseboats and traditional windmills before arriving in Arnhem, which is associated with the battle depicted in the film 'A Bridge Too Far'. Visit the former British Headquarters at Oosterbeek and the Commonwealth War Cemetery before continuing along the Rhine river.
Day 4 - Antwerp (Belgium)
See the magnificent waterside scenery as the captain navigates the ship along the River Schelde, mooring in Antwerp. See the main square lined with tall gabled houses and enjoy a sightseeing tour of the historic city. This afternoon there is time to explore at leisure, perhaps visit the Fine Art Museum which houses over 7000 paintings from renowned artists.
Day 5 - Ghent
Moor in medieval Ghent for the next two days. Once one of Western Europe's largest cities, Ghent boasts an unspoilt waterfront, an imposing Gravenstein fortress and an impressive cathedral. Enjoy a sightseeing tour this morning before visiting Ypres in the afternoon. Ypres is a place of pilgrimage after the horrors of the Great War when it was almost destroyed. You may wish to visit the 'In Flanders Fields' Museum in the restored town centre. Also visit the Tyne Cot Cemetery and the battlefield of Passchendaele. An optional visit to the Menin Gate which is a memorial to the missing is also available.
Day 6 - Bruges
Take a short drive to Bruges and enjoy a guided walk through the centre which is dominated by the Belfry. There is the option to climb the 366 steps to see the fantastic views across the city. Also visit the City Hall, the Old Law Courts and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. Leave Ghent this evening and return to Holland.
Day 7 - Keukenhof (Holland) - Amsterdam
See the colourful tulips in full bloom at the Keukenhof Gardens. Admire the tends of thousands of flowers set amongst the landscapes of glistening lakes and tall trees. Rejoin the ship in Amsterdam with time to explore at leisure this afternoon. Perhaps visit the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum, or sample the rich Dutch coffee in a nearby cafe.
Day 8 - Amsterdam - UK
This morning transfer back to the station for your train to Brussels and connecting Eurostar back to London St Pancras or alternatively transfer to the airport for your return flight home.
The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary to suit wind and weather conditions.