Holland and Belgium: Medieval History and Scenic Waterways

Arrive in Amsterdam and embark Connect. After settling into your stateroom explore this historic city on your own, stay onboard and relax with a drink on the top deck, enjoy local music by the resident pianist in the Lounge or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment. Choose to arrive early for an optional two-day pre-voyage extension to explore Amsterdam and its neighboring countryside.

Amsterdam combines the unrivaled beauty of the 17th-century Golden Age city center with plenty of museums and art of the highest order, not to mention a remarkably laid-back atmosphere. It all comes together to make this one of the world's most appealing and offbeat metropolises in the world. Built on a latticework of concentric canals like an aquatic rainbow, Amsterdam is known as the City of Canals—but it's no Venice, content to live on moonlight serenades and former glory. Quite the contrary: on nearly every street here you'll find old and new side by side—quiet corners where time seems to be holding its breath next to streets like neon-lit Kalverstraat, and Red Light ladies strutting by the city's oldest church. Indeed, Amsterdam has as many lovely facets as a 40-carat diamond polished by one of the city's gem cutters. It's certainly a metropolis, but a rather small and very accessible one. Locals tend to refer to it as a big village, albeit one that happens to pack the cultural wallop of a major world destination. There are scores of concerts every day, numerous museums, summertime festivals, and, of course, a legendary year-round party scene. It's pretty much impossible to resist Amsterdam's charms. With 7,000 registered monuments, most of which began as the residences and warehouses of humble merchants, set on 160 man-made canals, and traversed by 1,500 or so bridges, Amsterdam has the largest historical inner city in Europe. Its famous circle of waterways, the grachtengordel, was a 17th-century urban expansion plan for the rich and is a lasting testament to the city’s Golden Age. This town is endearing because of its kinder, gentler nature—but a reputation for championing sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll does not alone account for Amsterdam's being one of the most popular destinations in Europe: consider that within a single square mile the city harbors some of the greatest achievements in Western art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Not to mention that this is one of Europe's great walking cities, with so many of its treasures in the untouted details: tiny alleyways barely visible on the map, hidden garden courtyards, shop windows, floating houseboats, hidden hofjes(courtyards with almshouses), sudden vistas of church spires, and gabled roofs that look like so many unframed paintings. And don’t forget that the joy lies in details: elaborate gables and witty gable stones denoting the trade of a previous owner. Keep in mind that those XXX symbols you see all over town are not a mark of the city's triple-X reputation. They're part of Amsterdam's official coat of arms—three St. Andrew's crosses, believed to represent the three dangers that have traditionally plagued the city: flood, fire, and pestilence. The coat's motto ("Valiant, determined, compassionate") was introduced in 1947 by Queen Wilhelmina in remembrance of the 1941 February Strike in Amsterdam—the first time in Europe that non-Jewish people protested against the persecution of Jews by the Nazi regime.

Visit Keukenhof (April and May departures only), also known as the “Garden of Europe,” one of the world’s largest flower gardens. Marvel at the vibrant displays of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths planted each autumn by a team of 40 gardeners using over 7 million bulbs donated by 100+ growers. Visit historic Alkmaar (August departures only), a city famous for its cheese, where you’ll explore the old town, with its well-preserved architecture and canal system. Alternatively, choose a guided walking tour through Amsterdam's most iconic neighborhoods, historic landmarks and hidden gems before taking a scenic canal cruise through the historic waterways of the Dutch capital city. Learn about Amsterdam’s unique relationship with water and its iconic canal system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This afternoon, delve deeply into the city’s Jewish history and culture on a tour led by guides who are family members of Holocaust survivors or survivors themselves. Together, you’ll visit the Holocaust Museum, the Hollandsche Schouwburg—a theater-turned-museum with a poignant WWII history—the Portuguese Synagogue and the Jewish Historical Museum for a profound exploration of resilience and heritage.

Cast off this evening with a welcome reception and dinner followed by a musical performance on board.

Amsterdam combines the unrivaled beauty of the 17th-century Golden Age city center with plenty of museums and art of the highest order, not to mention a remarkably laid-back atmosphere. It all comes together to make this one of the world's most appealing and offbeat metropolises in the world. Built on a latticework of concentric canals like an aquatic rainbow, Amsterdam is known as the City of Canals—but it's no Venice, content to live on moonlight serenades and former glory. Quite the contrary: on nearly every street here you'll find old and new side by side—quiet corners where time seems to be holding its breath next to streets like neon-lit Kalverstraat, and Red Light ladies strutting by the city's oldest church. Indeed, Amsterdam has as many lovely facets as a 40-carat diamond polished by one of the city's gem cutters. It's certainly a metropolis, but a rather small and very accessible one. Locals tend to refer to it as a big village, albeit one that happens to pack the cultural wallop of a major world destination. There are scores of concerts every day, numerous museums, summertime festivals, and, of course, a legendary year-round party scene. It's pretty much impossible to resist Amsterdam's charms. With 7,000 registered monuments, most of which began as the residences and warehouses of humble merchants, set on 160 man-made canals, and traversed by 1,500 or so bridges, Amsterdam has the largest historical inner city in Europe. Its famous circle of waterways, the grachtengordel, was a 17th-century urban expansion plan for the rich and is a lasting testament to the city’s Golden Age. This town is endearing because of its kinder, gentler nature—but a reputation for championing sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll does not alone account for Amsterdam's being one of the most popular destinations in Europe: consider that within a single square mile the city harbors some of the greatest achievements in Western art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Not to mention that this is one of Europe's great walking cities, with so many of its treasures in the untouted details: tiny alleyways barely visible on the map, hidden garden courtyards, shop windows, floating houseboats, hidden hofjes(courtyards with almshouses), sudden vistas of church spires, and gabled roofs that look like so many unframed paintings. And don’t forget that the joy lies in details: elaborate gables and witty gable stones denoting the trade of a previous owner. Keep in mind that those XXX symbols you see all over town are not a mark of the city's triple-X reputation. They're part of Amsterdam's official coat of arms—three St. Andrew's crosses, believed to represent the three dangers that have traditionally plagued the city: flood, fire, and pestilence. The coat's motto ("Valiant, determined, compassionate") was introduced in 1947 by Queen Wilhelmina in remembrance of the 1941 February Strike in Amsterdam—the first time in Europe that non-Jewish people protested against the persecution of Jews by the Nazi regime.

Giethoorn, often referred to as the "Venice of the Netherlands," is renowned for its serene canals, charming thatched-roof cottages and picturesque wooden bridges. Uncover the village’s rich history, dating back to the 13th century while cruising its narrow waterways. Alternatively, enjoy the scenic beauty of the countryside near Kampen on a guided bicycle tour before indulging in a Dutch cheese presentation aboard the ship. This evening, enjoy an authentic Dutch dinner featuring fresh, locally sourced mussels and oysters. During the meal, a local chef will come aboard to reveal insights on the region’s traditions and flavors, making for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Explore Arnhem’s rich history with visits to landmarks such as the John Frost Bridge, a pivotal site during the 1944 Battle of Arnhem, and the Old City Hall located in Market Square. Alternatively, discover Het Loo Palace, a former royal residence that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Dutch monarchy. Stroll through the opulent gardens, admire the baroque architecture and uncover the legacy of the royal family.

After an afternoon spent at your leisure in Arnhem exploring the Airborne Museum or wandering through the picturesque old town, enjoy a private, after-hours tour of the renowned Kröller-Müller Museum. Nestled in De Hoge Veluwe National Park, the museum boasts an exceptional collection of modern art, including masterpieces by Van Gogh and Rembrandt, plus a breathtaking sculpture garden. Conclude your visit with an exclusive reception, offering an unforgettable finish to the day.

Arnhem is the capital of the province of Gelderland in the Netherlands. The city is located on a short section of the Rhine, the Nederrijn. It is surrounded by peaceful natural areas, such as the Hoge Veluwe National Park. There you can hike and bike to your heart's content. The city has its reputation as a fashion city. Large shopping centers and boutiques in the Modekwartier invite you to stroll. A great destination for a day trip is the famous Burgers Zoo, the most beautiful zoo in the Netherlands. Alternatively, you can visit one of the many museums: the Museum Arnhem inspires with modern art, the Wijnmuseum is located in one of the oldest wine cellars in the Netherlands. The Open Air Museum and the Dutch Water Museum are also worth a visit. A panoramic lift in the Eusebius Church takes you 73 meters high above the city. From here you can enjoy a great view over the whole city.

Arrive in Rotterdam this morning with options to explore the city. Visit The Hague, the political heart of the Netherlands and home to the esteemed International Court of Justice. Enjoy a private visit to the Mauritshuis Museum before it opens, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to admire masterpieces such as Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring in a crowd-free setting. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the city of Delft, renowned for its iconic blue pottery and royal connections. Visit the Royal Delft factory, the last remaining producer of the famous Delftware, and wander through the town’s storied streets.

This afternoon, journey to the UNESCO-listed Kinderdijk to witness its iconic windmills and learn about the Netherlands' groundbreaking water management systems.

Rotterdam is a city that's a long way removed from most people's stereotypical notion of the Netherlands. There are few, if any, canals to be found here nor are there any quaint windmills. There is, however, a thriving modern city which is one of the busiest ports in the entire world.

Kinderdijk is a village community in the Alblasserwaard province. This corner of South Holland, part of the scenic Waal and Merwede regions, has long been shaped by Rhine Delta waters. Kinderdijk is most known for its 19 remarkably preserved 18th-century windmills. The charming hamlet is located amid low-lying polders, tracts of land reclaimed from the sea by the power of the windmills and enclosed by embankments, or dikes. This legendary place calls to mind the 1865 novel Hans Brinker, in which a heroic boy plugs his finger into a ruptured dike.

This morning, you’ll explore Ghent, one of Belgium's most vibrant cities, on a walking tour through medieval streets, lively squares and stunning architecture. Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to admire the world-renowned Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Van Eyck. In the afternoon, choose between free time to further explore Ghent or a visit to Gravensteen, the city’s impressive medieval fortress.

This evening on board, enjoy a classical concert followed by a gourmet dinner, creating the perfect end to a memorable day.

Start your day in Antwerp with a visit to the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, home to an impressive collection of Flemish Baroque and contemporary masterpieces. Alternatively, delve into the city's Jewish heritage, which dates back to the 16th century when Sephardic Jews fled the Spanish Inquisition, as your guide shares fascinating insights into the community's growth and contributions during Antwerp's economic golden age. This afternoon, indulge in a progressive food tour, sampling Belgian fries, waffles and chocolate at some of the city's finest eateries and capping it off with a Belgium beer tasting led by a knowledgeable beer sommelier. Enjoy a celebratory farewell cocktail party and dinner on board this evening.

Explore Antwerp, Belgium's second city. Known for its diamond cutting industry, fashion and the many great artists that lived in its vicinity, Antwerp is a city focused on art and culture.

Following breakfast, disembark in Brussels and transfer to the airport for flights home. Alternatively, opt to spend more time in Belgium on an optional two-day post-voyage extension exploring Brussels and Bruges.

Manneken Pis or Atomium? Then they have arrived in Belgium's capital Brussels! The Manneken Pis is a fountain figure made of bronze, which is only about half a meter tall, but has been delighting people since 1650. In addition to the ancient buildings, Brussels is also known for its culinary, especially its fine chocolates, which are available in numerous chocolatiers. If enough buildings have been visited and the sweets extensively tested, a relaxing day can only be rounded off by a delicious beer. There are plenty of them in Brussels and as a beer lover you can choose your favorite beer from a selection of over 1,000 types. Whether Manneken Pis, Chocolatier or Leffe Blonde - in Brussels you will find everything your heart desires..