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 gets underway from Holland’s popular, modern capital of Amsterdam. Explore this 700-year old city before you set sail on your river cruise through Holland and Belgium. Sail through Rotterdam’s harbor, said to be the world’s busiest port, and from here garden enthusiasts will delight in a visit to see the breathtaking colors of Keukenhof, also known as the “Garden of Europe.” Every year 7 million flower bulbs are planted! Next sail to Antwerp, Belgium’s second-largest city, combining ancient buildings and monuments with modern architecture. The Grote Markt is located in the heart of the old city quarter and includes the splendid City Hall and beautiful homes from the 16th century. Visit the Botanical Gardens in the heart of the city, an oasis of tranquility with many hidden treasures. In Ghent, Belgium, 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. Back in Holland, Middelburg was formerly an important trading city and you still get a sense of its wealth today with its impressive structures like the gothic Town Hall, Abbey Tower, and bustling Market Square. No trip to Holland is complete without a visit to the technical miracle that is the Delta Works, a storm flood barrier almost six miles long, constructed after the floods of 1953 during which more than 1,800 people drowned in one night.

This beautiful and historic springtime river cruise vacation concludes with a canal cruise along Amsterdam’s elegant grachten, and a visit to some of the city’s best-kept secrets: private gardens and courtyards.

City Highlights

Day 1 Amsterdam (Embarkation): onboard welcome receptionDay 2 Rotterdam. Excursion to Keukenhof: Rotterdam harbor cruise; choice of half-day or extended visit to Keukenhof Gardens or visit GoudaDay 3 Antwerp: guided sightseeing; visit a botanical gardenDay 4 Ghent: guided sightseeing, visit St. Baaf’s CathedralDay 5 Excursion to Middelburg & Delta Works: guided walk in Middelburg; guided visit of the Delta WorksDay 6 Willemstad: time at leisureDay 7 Amsterdam: canal cruise; visit Amsterdam secret gardensDay 8 Amsterdam (Disembarkation): your vacation ends 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.Special Features and day of operation are subject to change.

PRODUCT_LINE: AVALON-WAA-T2-2018