Explore the waterways of Holland and Belgium in springtime when the countryside explodes in a riot of colour. Sail past fields of tulips, traditional windmills and medieval cities and discover centuries of history and culture.
Explore the cosmopolitan city of Amsterdam, whose canals are connected by hundreds of beautiful bridges, then sail to Arnhem where there is the option to visit the Airborne Museum and the open-air museum. Cruise to the picturesque town of Middelburg and perhaps travel to the impressive Delta Works to learn more about the flood defences here.
Cross the border into Belgium for visits to the lovely cities of Ghent and Antwerp, with optional excursions to explore Bruges and Brussels. On returning to Holland there is the opportunity to visit the magical Keukenhof Gardens, 79 acres of breathtaking beauty, open only in the springtime.
L132 Operated by Amadeus River Cruises
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Tulip Serenade Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Amsterdam (Holland)
Fly from the UK and embark ship in Amsterdam. Enjoy a Welcome Cocktail with fellow guests this evening followed by a Welcome Dinner and a performance by traditional shanty choir.
Day 2 - Arnhem
Discover the fascinating heritage of Arnhem, including the World War II battle operation 'Market Garden'. In the morning there is the chance to enjoy a city tour of Arnhem, and in the afternoon choose between a trip to the Open Air Museum and the Kroller-Muller Museum.
Day 3 - Middelburg
The picturesque town of Middelburg flourished in the Golden Age of the 17th century. Perhaps explore the town on a walking tour or drive to the Delta Works Project to learn more about this engineering marvel, followed by a visit to the lovely town of Veere.
Day 4 - Ghent (Belgium)
Explore medieval Ghent's famous sights including the Cathedral and the Castle of the Counts on an optional guided tour this morning. This afternoon there is the option to travel to Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or to learn about (and sample) local Belgian beer and chocolates.
Day 5 - Antwerp
Perhaps take the optional tour of Brussels this morning to see the Heysel Stadium, the famous Atomium and the royal residence. In the afternoon, spend free time in Antwerp exploring the city's impressive architecture, including the Cathedral of Our Lady. Enjoy the Captain's Gala Dinner tonight.
Day 6 - Rotterdam (Holland)
This morning perhaps visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderdijk, a lovely village with the country’s greatest concentration of windmills, or explore Rotterdam with a visit to a food hall. In the afternoon take the opportunity to see the millions of flowering tulips on a visit to the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens, one of the most magnificent public gardens in the world, and enjoy time strolling through the stunning flower displays. This evening, the festive Captain’s Gala Dinner will provide a fitting finish to the day.
Day 7 - Amsterdam
Explore the beautiful canals and waterways of Amsterdam. Perhaps see the Royal Palace and the Museum Quarter on an optional guided tour this morning followed by a canal trip and a visit to a flower market. In the afternoon there is the chance to drive through the Dutch Polder landscape to the pretty fishing village of Volendam, with a trip to a local cheese farm. Alternatively, you can visit Haarlem, where you will learn more about its art, history and the Dutch lifestyle. If you'd like to see the amazing Floriade flower show instead, you can join the full-day excursion.
Day 8 - Amsterdam - UK
Disembark ship after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return flight to the UK.
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.