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Highlights of a Dutch & Belgian waterways river cruise

From Amsterdam's canals to Antwerp’s cobbled streets, explore the Dutch and Belgian waterways.

When it comes to exploring the Netherlands and Belgium, river cruising with TUI is the way to do it. The waterways of these two European gems are a vast network of canals and rivers, and flow through everything from historic cities and picture-perfect countryside to brightly coloured tulip fields. Hot hint – you can see the flowers from March until May, but they’re usually at their best in mid-April. In between à la carte or buffet dining on our adults-only ships, you’ll tick off the area’s most famous bits – plus, hidden spots you never knew about. The best part? You’ll only have to unpack once. So, get ready to get cultured in the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam, sip beer in Utrecht’s historic wharf cellars and snap photos of Kinderdijk’s UNESCO-rated windmills. Read on for more highlights of a Dutch & Belgian waterways river cruise…

Once you’re clued up, check out our river cruise deals

MUST-SEE SIGHTS

These are the big-hitting landmarks that you can’t miss on a cruise along the Dutch & Belgian waterways…

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

This Dutch capital is a treasure trove of vintage shops, art-packed museums and cutesy cafes, so there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Top spots include Anne Frank’s House and the 400-year-old Westerkerk Church. You can visit them both on foot or via bike – after all, cycling’s synonymous with this city – just like its bridges, its Heineken and its tulips.

Antwerp, Belgium

Belgium’s biggest port is a city of contrasts. On one hand, you’ve got the flashy diamond district with its swanky jewellery shops, while on the other there’s the historical quarter, which is home to impressive medieval architecture. Art lover? Don’t forget to visit the house of the Baroque painter, Peter Paul Rubens – it’s full of his finest artwork.

HIDDEN GEMS

You might not have heard of these under-the-radar places, but you won’t want to miss them…

Dordrecht, the Netherlands

Holland’s oldest city flaunts fine-art museums, monuments and busy merchant streets. When you need a break from exploring, here, you can grab a coffee and a pastry by the harbour.

FOODIE FINDS

Your taste buds will thank you for a trip here…

Edam, Netherlands

Apart from its pretty windmills and neat canals, this town’s famous for – you guessed it – its cheese. Head to the renowned Jacobs Hoeve farm where you can taste six different kinds of Henri Willig cheese – all served with mustard and washed down with a red wine.

Utrecht, Netherlands

Tuck into traditional Dutch cuisine like bitterballen – deep-fried meatballs – or stroopwafel – two waffles stuck together with syrup – in Utrecht’s canalside cafes and restaurants. Then, head to Stadskasteel Oudaen castle and sample the best beers – it’s got a brewery hidden in its cellar.

PERFECT PICTURES

Make sure to snap a photo for the album at these scenic spots…

Zaanse Schans, Netherlands

Be transported back in time at this recreation of a traditional 18th-century Dutch village. We’re talking wooden waterfront windmills and charming green houses. There are artisan workshops showcasing clog-carving and barrel-making here, too.

Kinderdijk, Netherlands

Home to 19 UNESCO-ranked windmills, dotted along the waterways, there’s plenty to get snap happy about here. This time-stamped village gives you a glimpse into 16th-century Dutch landscapes.

TOP TIPS

Prepare for your trip with these tips, so you can make the most of your holiday…

For fantastic views of Brussels, visit the Musical Instrument Museum’s rooftop café. Not only will you see the city from new heights, but you can enjoy homemade treats and a world history music showcase, too.

If you’re setting sail in April, look out for ‘Koningsdag’ AKA King’s Day – it’s the biggest event in Amsterdam’s calendar. Expect a lively, orange-clad street party.

RECOMMENDED ITINERARIES

Join our seven-night From Amsterdam to Antwerp itinerary and see a new side to Belgium and the Netherlands. Top trip highlights include a canal cruise in Amsterdam and a Rotterdam city tour.

If that's piqued your interest, check out all of our Dutch & Belgian waterways river cruises

Ready to go on a river cruise?

Check out our full range of river cruises on the Rhine, Moselle, Main, Danube and Dutch & Belgian Waterways. Plus, get some more inspiration with our best European river cruises and highlights of a Moselle river cruise.

Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.

Author: Jessica Houtby

Last updated: 06.09.2019