Tulip Serenade
Introduction
Amsterdam - Amsterdam / 8 Days
A Symphony of Canals and Windmills
Step into the charm of Holland’s enchanting capital. From Amsterdam, your adventure winds through a landscape shaped by water and wind. Meander along hidden canals, discover quaint fishing villages, admire historic windmills, and soak in the vibrant culture of bustling cities. Stroll through the medieval streets of Ghent and Bruges, and explore the delights of Brussels and Antwerp. Feel history come alive on Arnhem’s iconic bridge, wander through the breathtaking tulip gardens of Keukenhof, and savor culinary treats in the picturesque town of Veere. Eight unforgettable days brimming with springtime magic, culminating in a grand finale amid the timeless canals of Amsterdam.
Springtime Waterway Journey
At a glance
Day 1 - Embarkation in Amsterdam and Welcome Reception
29-Mar-2027
Begin Your Cruise Adventure in Amsterdam
Embarkation in Amsterdam
Your journey begins in the heart of Amsterdam, where you step aboard your elegant AMADEUS vessel. Settle into your stateroom and take in the first impressions of this iconic city. As evening falls, a refined welcome reception and dinner set the tone for the days ahead, followed by the warm sounds of a traditional shanty choir. Later, we cast off and glide gently into the Dutch night, bound for Arnhem.
AMADEUS Experience: Shanty Choir on Board
When our shanty choir takes to the stage on board, even old sea spirits would feel their sailor’s heart stir. During an evening in Amsterdam, enjoy the deep, resonant voices of the high seas as they perform the most beloved evergreens from the world of the seven seas. Dressed in traditional attire, our choir of twelve to twenty singers brings the spirit of wind and wide horizons to life—evoking the scent of salt and the fresh sea breeze. Look forward to a musical atmosphere filled with the romance and adventure of seafaring.
AMADEUS Vessel Stateroom
Luxury accommodation in an outside river-view stateroom of your choice: Spacious Mozart Suites with a walk-out balcony, stateroom cabins on Mozart and Strauss Decks with drop-down Panorama Retractable Windows offering a wide-open view (except Amadeus Brilliant). Individual climate control and in-room safe. Choice of bed configuration in all categories (double or twin bedding). Bottled water in every stateroom.
Day 2 - Arnhem – Where History Meets Today
30-Mar-2027
Discover Arnhem’s History and Art Treasures
Arnhem – Where History Meets Today
In Arnhem, a city where history and modern life intertwine, your morning reveals stories that shaped Europe. A guided tour brings its past vividly to life, including the legacy of its famous bridge. In the afternoon, enjoy time at your leisure—stroll through lush parks, browse boutiques, or visit the renowned Kröller-Müller Museum with its exceptional Van Gogh collection. By evening, we continue our journey through tranquil waterways.
Voted “greenest city in Europe“, Arnhem rebuilt itself after the famed 1944 battle immortalized in the film “A Bridge Too Far“, and is now a thriving artists‘ town with fine museums and beautiful parks. Choose to join the morning city tour to appreciate its beautiful sights and delve deeper into the history of World War II at the War Museum. Later in the day, choose between a trip to the Open Air Museum with views of charming Dutch buildings, industries and crafts of bygone times and the Kröller-Müller-Museum, housing the second-largest collection of Van Gogh paintings in the world. Relax on board in the evening, enjoying a delicious dinner as your vessel cruises onwards to Middelburg.
Excursion Options:
Arnhem: From Medieval Town to Modern City Walking Tour
Experience Arnhem’s captivating blend of tradition and contemporary architecture on a guided city tour. Stroll through historic streets where medieval buildings sit alongside modern landmarks, and learn fascinating stories about the city’s evolution—from its beginnings as a medieval settlement to its vibrant, modern character. Along the way, you’ll see key sights such as the Eusebiuskerk, Willemsplein, John Frost Bridge, and Audrey Hepburnplein. This excursion is perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy history, culture, and urban charm at a relaxed pace.
Visit to the Kröller-Müller-Museum
We leave Arnhem for the Hoge Veluwe National Park, north of Arnhem. The park is the largest actively managed nature reserve in the Netherlands and covers 5,400 hectares of forest, heath, moorland and shifting sands. The park contains a great diversity of plants and animals and still provides habitat for rare species. Together with the Kröller-Müller Museum, Sculpture Garden and Sint Hubertus Hunting Lodge, the park forms a unique and internationally renowned combination of nature, art and architecture. The Kröller-Müller Museum is famous for its large collection of paintings by Vincent van Gogh, such as the “Potato Eaters” and the “Café Terrace at Night”, which is the second largest collection of Van Gogh paintings in the world (after the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam). It is also home to impressive works by Piet Mondrian, Paul Gauguin and Pablo Picasso. The famous Kröller-Müller Museum sculpture garden is one of the largest in Europe. The magnificent collection of sculptures is displayed in an innovative way and is surrounded by nature.
Day 3 - Zeeland Delights and Culinary Treasures in Veere
31-Mar-2027
Explore Middelburg, Veere, and Zeeland Coast
Zeeland Delights – Culinary Treasures in Veere
Arriving in Middelburg, Zeeland’s graceful capital, you are welcomed by centuries of maritime heritage reflected in its beautifully preserved architecture. After a guided walk through its historic streets, the afternoon invites you to indulge your senses: discover the culinary traditions of Veere or explore the windswept coastline by E-bike. As dusk settles, we sail on toward Belgium.
Excursion Options:
Middelburg Walking Tour
Middelburg, the capital of the province of Zeeland, is full of monuments. There are about 1,100 large and small monuments which testify to its rich past. The powerful abbey, the impressive town hall and the splendid old warehouses let you relive this past. During the walk, you will be taken past the stately warehouses and impressive monuments of Middelburg, such as the town hall, the abbey and many more.
AMADEUS Taste: Veere with Tasting of Dutch Specialities
Take a drive to the beautiful town of Veere, which was a thriving trading port in the Middle Ages due to the wool trade with Scotland. Today Veere is a popular destination with its picturesque houses and beautiful waterfront view. Embark on a voyage of discovery through the streets of Veere, past the Grote Kerk (Old Church), before sampling typical Dutch specialties - "Bitterbal" or a "Zeeuwse Oyster" accompanied by a glass of local wine. (specialty depends on availability due to the season).
AMADEUS Active: E-Bike Tour to Vlissingen
Discover the scenic and cultural diversity of Zeeland on a leisurely bike tour along picturesque canals, historic landmarks and the impressive North Sea coast. Starting in charming Middelburg, you will cycle past medieval abbeys, green dikes and hidden castles to the vibrant harbor promenade of Vlissingen - always accompanied by the fresh sea breeze and the interplay between nature and maritime history. On the return journey along the coastal path, the impressive Fort Rammekens invites you to pause and explore, before continuing along the “Kanaal door Walcheren” back to Middelburg. A tour full of contrasts, tranquility, and unforgettable views.
Day 4 - Medieval Magic in Ghent and Bruges
01-Apr-2027
Explore Ghent's Cathedral and Bruges' Canals
Medieval Magic in Ghent and Bruges
Step into a world of timeless beauty. In Ghent, admire the magnificent St. Bavo’s Cathedral and its artistic treasures. In the afternoon, venture into Bruges—a UNESCO World Heritage gem. Here, winding canals, cobbled streets, and the aroma of chocolate create an atmosphere of pure romance. Enjoy moments of discovery at your own pace before returning on board.
At night, your vessel will dock in Ghent, the ultimate medieval city, which you can explore in the morning. Admire architecture preserved since the late Middle Ages and visit 13th century residence of the Counts of Flanders, the Gravensteen or “Castle of the Counts“.
In the afternoon, join the excursion to Bruges, the capital of the province of West Flanders and enchanting its visitors with its cobbled streets, crooked bridges, meandering canals and World Heritage-listed medieval buildings. Bruges is famous for its brews, boutique chocolate-makers and canalside bars. There’s also the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a double-decker chapel which has a Romanesque church down below and a neo-Gothic church up above.
Excursion Options:
Ghent Walking Tour with Visit of the Cathedral of St. Bavo
Enjoy a leisurely walking tour of Ghent that introduces you to one of Belgium’s most charming and historically rich cities, highlighted by a visit to the magnificent Cathedral of St. Bavo. Dating back to the 10th century, the cathedral impresses with its Gothic architecture, magnificent altars, and intricate stained glass windows. The highlight is the famous “Ghent Altarpiece” by Hubert and Jan van Eyck, one of the most important masterpieces in European art history. As you stroll through the medieval old town, discover Gent’s rich past as a major trade and cultural center. Admire the beautifully preserved guild houses, picturesque canals, lively squares, and iconic landmarks, which perfectly showcase the blend of medieval grandeur and modern city life. This excursion is ideal for culture and history enthusiasts who enjoy exploring a city and its architecture on foot.
AMADEUS Taste: Bruges City Tour with Praline & Beer Tasting
Explore Bruges on a guided tour through the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover picturesque canals, impressive squares, and stunning Gothic architecture. During the tour, enjoy a tasting of two Belgian pralines and learn about the art of chocolate making. You will also have the opportunity to sample two local beers and experience Belgium’s renowned beer culture. The excursion ends with free time to stroll through charming streets or shop for souvenirs.
Day 5 - Antwerp’s Gems and Brussels Highlights
02-Apr-2027
Discover Antwerp’s Cathedral and Brussels Landmarks
Antwerp’s Gems and Brussels Highlights
Today reveals Belgium’s cosmopolitan side. In Brussels, grand boulevards and iconic landmarks such as the Atomium reflect the city’s vibrant character. Later, Antwerp enchants with its refined elegance—home to the famed diamond district and the majestic Cathedral of Our Lady, where masterpieces by Rubens await.
Antwerp, the second-largest city in Belgium, welcomes you today. After breakfast, join the excursion to the politically and culturally significant city of Brussels. View the iconic Atomium, which was created for the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair and, thanks to its popularity, was not torn down as originally planned.Visit the Cinquantenaire Park with its triumphal arch, built to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Belgium’s independence.
In the afternoon, explore Antwerp in a comfortable coach. Famous for its diamond trade, the city also boasts many cultural highlights such as the Cathedral of Our Lady with paintings by the famous Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens. In the evening, enjoy dinner, while your vessel returns to the Netherlands.
Excursion Options:
Antwerp and the Cathedral of Our Lady
Discover Antwerp and with it, one of Europe’s largest ports. Walk through the attractive old center of the city and visit the Lieve-Vrouwe Cathedral (Cathedral of Our Lady), the largest Gothic church in Belgium. It contains valuable treasures, such as works by Rubens, wall paintings dating back to the 15th century and many more. However, the church is more than just a museum, it is still an active place of worship. After your visit to the cathedral, join your guide indulge in a local speciality – the Belgian waffle - before enjoying some free time on your own and a return to the vessel.
Brussels Excursion: Atomium, Cinquantenaire Park & Lunch
Discover Brussels on a full-day excursion that perfectly blends guided highlights with ample time to relax and explore at your own pace. The tour includes a visit to the iconic Atomium, one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, as well as a stop at the elegant Cinquantenaire Park, renowned for its grand avenues, impressive monuments, and expansive green spaces. Enjoy a leisurely lunch break before continuing with free time to experience Brussels individually—whether wandering through charming streets, pausing at a traditional café, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the Belgian capital. This well-balanced excursion provides an excellent introduction to Brussels, combining must-see attractions with moments of leisure and personal discovery.
Day 6 - Tulip Fields and Windmill Wonders
03-Apr-2027
Explore Keukenhof Gardens and Kinderdijk Windmills
Tulip Fields and Windmill Wonders – Keukenhof & Kinderdijk
A day exploring the highlights of the Netherlands. In Kinderdijk, rows of historic windmills line the waterways of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, the Keukenhof gardens unfold in a breathtaking panorama of color, where millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths bloom in perfect harmony. As evening descends, we cruise back toward Amsterdam.
Excursion Options:
Kinderdijk and Visit to the Windmills
Holland is famous for its traditional windmills, of which more than 1,000 still exist today. The largest collection of windmills can be found near Kinderdijk. This is a group of 19 well-preserved windmills, built around 1740. During your stop at Kinderdijk, visit one of the old mills and learn more about the work of the mills in the past and the changes due to modern technology.
Visit to the Keukenhof Flower Gardens
During this excursion you will see one of Europe’s largest garden displays, the Keukenhof Gardens, which is located close of Amsterdam. This park, with its art, royal flair and creative diversity attracts over a million visitors each year. Seven million tulips, narcissi and hyacinths form a colorful carpet of blooms. Round, oval, triangular and rectangular borders line the park’s driveways, making a cheerful ensemble of colors, shapes and scents. Alternating exhibitions, known as parades, bloom in several pavilions. Numerous sculptures also lurk between the flowerbeds, as harmony between art and nature is a major feature of this park.
Day 7 - Amsterdam Canals and Dutch Traditions
04-Apr-2027
Cruise Amsterdam Canals and Explore Dutch Heritage
Amsterdam Canals and Dutch Traditions
Back in Amsterdam, discover the city from its most enchanting perspective: the water. A canal cruise reveals elegant merchant houses and hidden corners of this vibrant metropolis. In the afternoon, experience Dutch heritage in Zaanse Schans, where windmills, traditional crafts, and local flavours bring the past to life. A visit to the idyllic village of Marken completes the day—or choose an active exploration by E-bike through the serene Waterland countryside.
Excursion Options:
Amsterdam & Iconic Canal Cruise (to/from Amsterdam)
Founded as a small fishing village in the late 12th century, Amsterdam became one of the most important ports in the world during the Dutch Golden Age as a result of its innovative developments in trade. Today, the city has one of the largest historic centers in Europe, with about 7,500 registered historic buildings. The street pattern is largely unchanged since the 19th century. The center consists of 90 islands, linked by 1.300 bridges. On the city tour through the Dutch metropolis, you will see the Maritime Museum, the Jewish Quarter and the Museum Quarter. As there is no better way to see the city than cruising on the water, the tour will end by a canal cruise boat trip.
Zaanse Schans - Windmills, Cheese, and Tradition
Experience Dutch culture up close on a fascinating tour through picturesque landscapes and historic villages. Visit Zaanse Schans, a charming open-air museum featuring historic windmills and traditional green wooden houses. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the interior of a windmill and learn more about its traditional mechanics. As you pass by the cheese farm, you can sample the famous Dutch cheese and gain insight into its production. A live demonstration by a wooden shoe maker will also show you how traditional clogs are crafted. Afterward, explore Marken, a former island known for its charming stilt houses and unique atmosphere. Enjoy a scenic drive through the idyllic Dutch countryside and return to Amsterdam with unforgettable impressions – a true cultural experience awaits!
AMADEUS Active: Scenic E-Bike Tour Around Amsterdam
Experience the picturesque landscapes of North Holland in an active yet relaxed way on an E-Bike tour through idyllic Waterland. The tour begins with a short ferry ride into the peaceful countryside, where cycling is easy and safe. The route takes you along historic dikes, canals, and green meadows, past traditional windmills, farms with cows and sheep, and charming historic villages. Along the way, enjoy expansive panoramic views of the Wadden Sea and the unique waterways that make Waterland so special. This is an active, nature-filled, and leisurely excursion, perfect for anyone who wants to explore North Holland in an authentic and sustainable way.
Day 8 - Farewell to Amsterdam and Disembarkation
05-Apr-2027
Disembarkation and Final Reflections in Amsterdam
Disembarkation after breakfast
Enjoy a final breakfast on board, reflecting on a journey filled with color, culture, and unforgettable moments. As you disembark, Amsterdam bids you farewell—until your next voyage with AMADEUS.
Important Information
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