Belgian Delights & Holland in Bloom

Welcome to the heart of Belgium - Brussels, the delightful Belgian capital well-known for its world-class chocolate and other culinary treats, artistic heritage and architectural splendour. Today, you'll be welcomed by your Tour Director that will accompany you during your 3 night stay in Brussels.

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Brussels on a guided city tour, exploring its iconic landmarks and vibrant culture – without having to pay for any museum entrance tickets. Marvel at the stunning architecture of the Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the capital's central square and take in the quirky charm of Manneken Pis, one of Belgium's best-known symbols. Admire the grandeur of the Royal Palace and immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral. Stroll through the capital’s quaint streets, discovering hidden gems and learning fascinating insights from your knowledgeable guide. Be sure to also experience the futuristic Atomium, a striking symbol of Brussels' innovative spirit. (B)

• Included Excursion Guided city tour of Brussels

The day is yours to explore vibrant Brussels at your own pace. Try some of the local delicacies, such as the world-famous Belgian fries, and pair these with a delicious craft beer - the capital is renowned for its brewing heritage. Or simply relax and wander through the Parc du Cinquantenaire, a collection of French-style gardens combined with a historical site that is home to museums, monuments and sculptures. (B)

• DiscoverMORE Belgium Comic Heritage (extra expense)
• DiscoverMORE Belgian Craft Beer (extra expense)

This morning after breakfast, you’ll join a coach transfer to The Netherlands and city of Amsterdam, where you'll embark your Emerald Cruises luxury Star-Ship. (B/D)

This morning, you will have the opportunity to visit one of Holland’s main attractions as you venture to Zaanse Schans. Historic windmills, distinctive wooden houses, and artisan workshops make up this quintessentially Dutch town, where the smell of freshly baked goods and the sight of spinning windmills offers a truly memorable experience. Alternatively, enjoy a guided bike tour to Waterland, passing picturesque scenery and iconic fields of tulips.

Relax on board your Star-Ship this afternoon, as we welcome a local clog painter on board for a demonstration. As part of our EmeraldPLUS programme, you’ll have the opportunity to try your hand at this unique craft. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Tour to Zaanse Schans windmills
• EmeraldPLUS Clog painting on board
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Waterland

Rotterdam is a unique example of a Dutch city. Following the air raids of WWII, reconstruction efforts utilised a patchwork of architectural styles, forever altering the skyline. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this contemporary city, which currently boasts the tallest commercial and residential buildings in the Netherlands. The reputation as the city of high rises has historical roots, beginning with the construction of the 45-metre-high office building, the Witte Huis, which, for quite some time, was the tallest office building in Europe. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Architectural tour of Rotterdam
• EmeraldACTIVE Cycling and tasting tour of Rotterdam
• DiscoverMORE Visit to Delft pottery factory (extra expense)
• DiscoverMORE Royal Delft Tile Workshop (extra expense)

Today, you will have an exclusive visit to the beautiful Mauritshuis museum, home to the best of Dutch painting from the age of Rembrandt and Vermeer – and specially known for being the home of the “Girl with the pearl earring”.
In the afternoon, those feeling more active can enjoy a guided bike tour through the Dutch countryside. (B/L/D)

• EmeraldPLUS Private visit to the Mauritshuis
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour through the Dutch countryside

This morning, you’ll arrive in Belgium's largest port Antwerp. Located on the River Scheldt, the city's large harbour provides a link to the sea. Home to the famous Baroque artist Pieter Paul Rubens, Antwerp attracts art-lovers from all over the world.

Enjoy a guided tour of the city centre, with its café-lined cobbled lanes. Admire the Renaissance city hall and Hat Steen, a medieval fortress that was built during the early Middle Ages and one of the oldest buildings in Belgium. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore Antwerp at your leisure. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Walking tour of Antwerp
• DiscoverMORE Excursion to Bruges (extra expense)

Welcome to Nijmegen, the Roman settlement of Noviomagus and the oldest town in the Netherlands. Join a walking tour through its centre, exploring its architectural wonders and learn more about the International Four Days Marches Nijmegen that takes place every year, welcoming tens of thousands of people. If you are feeling more active, join a bike ride along the river, embracing the unique countryside features along the Waal river. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Walking tour of Nijmegen
• DiscoverMORE Visit to Paleis Het Loo (extra expense)
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour

Experience traditional Holland today during a visit to the beloved Keukenhof Gardens. Nestled in the middle of the region’s tulip farms, where row-upon-row of technicolour flowers stretch as far as the eye can see, the gardens boast incredible displays of millions of bulb varieties, all perfectly assembled by an expert landscape architect. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Visit to Keukenhof Gardens
• DiscoverMORE Visit to the flower auction at Royal FloraHolland in Aalsmeer (extra expense)
• DiscoverMORE Walking tour of Hoorn with Dutch apple pie making (extra expense)

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests as you disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of wooden windmills and blossoming flowers with you.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. (B)