On this garden-and nature-themed Tulip Time cruise, visit spectacular Keukenhof near Lisse, Antwerp’s Botanical Gardens, and small, hidden-away private gardens in Amsterdam. This scenic river cruise begins in Holland’s modern capital of Amsterdam. This 700-year-old city offers classic architecture, cafés, and restaurants to explore, as wells as the legendary canals and bridges crisscrossing the city. Set sail for destinations in Holland and Belgium, and cruise through Rotterdam’s harbor, noted as the world’s busiest port. Garden enthusiasts will delight in the breathtaking colors of Keukenhof, also known as the “Garden of Europe.” With 70 acres of parkland and lakes, it’s one of the world’s largest flower gardens. Alternatively, an excursion to the city of Gouda, famous for its cheese, is available. Next, sail to Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city, with ancient buildings and monuments combining with modern architecture in this medieval port city’s many chic shops, museums, galleries, and cafés. The Grote Markt is located in the heart of the old city quarter and includes the splendid City Hall, beautiful 16th-century homes, and the splendid Botanical Gardens—an oasis in the heart of the city. In Ghent, join a local expert for a guided tour of the city, including a visit to St. Baaf’s Cathedral, housing important works of Flemish art. Return to Holland, and visit the historic trading port of Middelburg. See its gothic Town Hall, Abbey Tower, and bustling Market Square. You’ll marvel at the technical miracle of the 6-mile-long Delta Works, a storm flood barrier constructed after 1,800 people drowned in the floods of 1953. This beautiful and historic springtime river cruise vacation concludes in Holland’s capital city with a canal cruise along the elegant grachten, or a visit to some of the city’s best-kept secrets—the private gardens and courtyards of Amsterdam.
City Highlights
Day 1 Amsterdam (Embarkation): onboard welcome receptionDay 2 Rotterdam. Rotterdam harbor cruise: choice of guided sightseeing in Gouda, or visit to Keukenhof GardensDay 3 Antwerp: choice of guided sightseeing, or visit the Arboretum KalmthoutDay 4 Ghent: choice of guided sightseeing, visit St. Baaf’s Cathedral, or visit the Nature Reserve ZwinDay 5 Middelburg–Veere. Excursion to the Delta Works: guided walk in Middelburg; guided tour of the Delta WorksDay 6 Willemstad: time at leisure; cheese tasting on boardDay 7 Amsterdam: visit to flower auction; canal cruise or visit Amsterdam secret gardensDay 8 Amsterdam (Disembarkation)—Paris, France: transfer to Paris by high speed trainDay 9 Paris: guided sightseeingDay 10 Paris: full day at leisureDay 11 Paris: your vacation ends with breakfast this morning
Notes
In the event of water level problems or any problems of a technical nature, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or to alter the program.Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change is necessary, a substitute will be offered.Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.
PRODUCT_LINE: AVALON-WAA1-T2-2019