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Yuletide Spirit: Amsterdam to Brussels - Southbound
Yuletide Spirit: Amsterdam to Brussels – Southbound
Festive fixes… glühwein, waffles, Belgian beers, stroopwafels, chocolate lace and cheese… heartwarming carols joyfully orchestrated… villages dressed in the season’s best… Dutch canals, cathedrals and candles aglow with yuletide spirit… Belgian squares and medieval markets making merry… aboard a riverboat cruise all decked out with holiday cheer.
The ribboned waterscapes of Holland and Belgium take on a special glow in December when storybook villages and fairy tale towns celebrate the joys of the season with holiday traditions centuries old. Experience yuletide spirit onboard and ashore on a river cruise that delights day and night… during a visit to a town steeped in 17th-century Holland life and historic windmills… and an illuminating Amsterdam canal cruise… while having cheese and stroopwafels in Gouda… in Delft or Rotterdam, as you choose… on sightseeing excursions in Ghent, Bruges, Antwerp dressed in their holiday best… in market squares where merry making entices with hot mulled wines, waffles hot off the press, beers locally produced and chocolates laced with care… and at special receptions, dinners and cultural presentations aboard a riverboat decked out with cruising delights that make you feel right at home wherever we roam.
| Day 1 |
Amsterdam, the 17th century capital of Holland, is often called the "Venice of the North" due to its numerous, boat-navigable canals. Truly rich in history, the oldest part of this populous, multicultural city is Sloten, which dates all the way back to the 9th century.
Apart from the canals, attractions in Amsterdam include the Van Gogh Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience, the Anne Frank House, and the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Nightlife abounds as well, with many visitors drawn to its vibrant network of nightclubs, theaters and festivals. Starting in 2014, the city has undergone an urban renewal effort, focused on expanding the city center and involving the construction of artificial islands. This is a one-of-a-kind city that begs to be explored by bicycle or boat tour! |
| Day 2 |
Amsterdam, the 17th century capital of Holland, is often called the "Venice of the North" due to its numerous, boat-navigable canals. Truly rich in history, the oldest part of this populous, multicultural city is Sloten, which dates all the way back to the 9th century.
Apart from the canals, attractions in Amsterdam include the Van Gogh Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience, the Anne Frank House, and the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Nightlife abounds as well, with many visitors drawn to its vibrant network of nightclubs, theaters and festivals. Starting in 2014, the city has undergone an urban renewal effort, focused on expanding the city center and involving the construction of artificial islands. This is a one-of-a-kind city that begs to be explored by bicycle or boat tour! |
| Day 3 |
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| Day 4 |
If you find yourself in Rotterdam, there's a strong chance you've arrived by water. This popular port city (the second largest in the Netherlands) has gone through an architectural renaissance since World War II, with daring, innovative structures dotting the city (cube houses!) and defining its skyline. Café culture is on the rise here, so grab yourself a table and a cup. Meanwhile, traditional cultural offerings can be found at the Boymans-van Beuningen Museum, with its paintings by Dutch and Flemish artists. And be sure to gaze upon Erasmusbrug, which is less a cable bridge than a spectacular icon, nicknamed "The Swan." |
| Day 5 |
Bruges, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," is a city where medieval charm meets modern allure. Nestled in the heart of Belgium's Flanders region, Bruges is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture, winding canals, and cobblestone streets that invite visitors to step back in time. The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is dominated by the iconic Belfry of Bruges, a medieval bell tower that offers panoramic views of the city. Climb the 366 steps to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking vista that captures the timeless beauty of Bruges. Beyond its architectural splendor, Bruges is a city that appeals to the senses. The Markt, the city’s central square, buzzes with life and is surrounded by vibrant buildings, cafes, and restaurants. Take a leisurely boat tour along the canals, where you can admire the picturesque bridges and medieval houses reflected in the water. Art lovers will find the Groeningemuseum a treasure trove of Flemish and Renaissance masterpieces, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch. Meanwhile, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, a striking Romanesque and Gothic church, holds a revered relic believed to contain the blood of Christ. Bruges is also a paradise for gourmands, with its world-famous chocolate, Belgian waffles, and an array of craft beers brewed locally. Don’t miss a visit to one of the city’s many chocolate shops, where you can indulge in exquisite pralines and truffles, or take a brewery tour to learn about the age-old traditions of Belgian beer-making. For a truly immersive experience, time your visit with one of the city’s many festivals, such as the Procession of the Holy Blood, a grand religious event held annually in May, drawing thousands of visitors. Bruges invites you to "Savor the Timeless Beauty," where every corner of the city offers a new discovery, from its historic sites to its culinary delights. Whether you’re wandering the romantic streets, exploring world-class museums, or simply enjoying a quiet moment by the canals, Bruges promises a journey that will linger in your memory long after you’ve left. |
| Day 6 |
A major port city on the River Scheldt, Antwerp, Belgium, is a cultural, historical, and commercial hub and the country's most populous city. Known as the "diamond capital of the world," Antwerp is renowned for its cut diamonds. |
| Day 7 |
Brussels, the vibrant capital of Belgium, offers a perfect blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication. At its heart lies the iconic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Gothic and Baroque guildhalls. The square is home to the Town Hall and the famous flower carpet event, held every two years, which blankets the square in a colorful tapestry of begonias. Strolling through these cobblestone streets, you’ll be transported back in time while surrounded by stunning architecture that showcases the city’s rich history. Art lovers will find Brussels a treasure trove of creativity. The city is home to the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the works of surrealist master René Magritte. You can also explore the Atomium, a symbol of post-war progress and futuristic design. This massive steel structure, built for the 1958 World Expo, offers panoramic views of the city and fascinating exhibits on science and technology. Don’t miss a visit to the Comic Strip Center, celebrating Belgium’s famous comic culture, including beloved characters like Tintin and the Smurfs. Brussels is also a haven for foodies. The city is known for its world-class chocolates, and a visit to famous chocolatiers like Pierre Marcolini or Neuhaus is a must. Sample the iconic Belgian waffle, try some moules-frites (mussels with fries), or sip a refreshing lambic beer at one of the city's many breweries. The lively atmosphere of the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Europe’s first covered shopping arcade, is perfect for both shopping and indulging in some of the best treats Brussels has to offer. Fun fact: Brussels is often referred to as the “Capital of Europe” due to its role as the de facto headquarters of the European Union. The city hosts the European Parliament and NATO, making it a key hub of international diplomacy. Whether you're drawn by its art, architecture, or culinary delights, Brussels offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. |
| Day 8 |
Brussels, the vibrant capital of Belgium, offers a perfect blend of medieval charm and modern sophistication. At its heart lies the iconic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Gothic and Baroque guildhalls. The square is home to the Town Hall and the famous flower carpet event, held every two years, which blankets the square in a colorful tapestry of begonias. Strolling through these cobblestone streets, you’ll be transported back in time while surrounded by stunning architecture that showcases the city’s rich history. Art lovers will find Brussels a treasure trove of creativity. The city is home to the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the works of surrealist master René Magritte. You can also explore the Atomium, a symbol of post-war progress and futuristic design. This massive steel structure, built for the 1958 World Expo, offers panoramic views of the city and fascinating exhibits on science and technology. Don’t miss a visit to the Comic Strip Center, celebrating Belgium’s famous comic culture, including beloved characters like Tintin and the Smurfs. Brussels is also a haven for foodies. The city is known for its world-class chocolates, and a visit to famous chocolatiers like Pierre Marcolini or Neuhaus is a must. Sample the iconic Belgian waffle, try some moules-frites (mussels with fries), or sip a refreshing lambic beer at one of the city's many breweries. The lively atmosphere of the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, Europe’s first covered shopping arcade, is perfect for both shopping and indulging in some of the best treats Brussels has to offer. Fun fact: Brussels is often referred to as the “Capital of Europe” due to its role as the de facto headquarters of the European Union. The city hosts the European Parliament and NATO, making it a key hub of international diplomacy. Whether you're drawn by its art, architecture, or culinary delights, Brussels offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
12/06/25 - 12/13/25 |
Starting At $4,190 |
Get A Quote | |
|
12/20/25 - 12/27/25 |
Starting At $4,190 |
Get A Quote |
Offer subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.
