Explore and book Viking River Cruises 9 Night Tulips & Windmills on the Viking Bragi departing from Amsterdam, The Netherlands on Mar 16, 2025 and ending in Rotterdam, The Netherlands on Mar 25, 2025 Sail to Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Enkhuizen, The Netherlands, Kinderdijk, Netherlands, Antwerpen, Belgium, Veere, The Netherlands, Zeeland, Netherlands, Nijmegen, The Netherlands, Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

A city of charming canals, elegant gabled houses, splendid museums and abundant bicycles, the Dutch capital of Amsterdam is a delight to explore. Its patchwork of waterways forms about 90 islands connected by 1,500 bridges. The legacy of the Dutch Golden 

Amsterdam, with its iconic canals and historic architecture, offers a blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Stroll through the Museum District to explore masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum. Enjoy a scenic canal cruise to see the city from a unique perspective. Don’t miss the lively Jordaan neighborhood, known for its boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.

Journey across the Ijsselmeer, once known as the Zuiderzee. This remarkable artificial body of water, one of the largest lakes in Western Europe, formed after the inland sea here was closed off from the North Sea by construction of the 20-mile-long Afslui

Originally a small fishing village, Enkhuizen grew into a prosperous harbor before joining the Hanseatic League. During the 17th century, the city flourished as a center of maritime trade and shipbuilding. The silting up of the Zuiderzee at the end of the

Enkhuizen, The Netherlands

Enkhuizen, a historic port city, offers a glimpse into the Netherlands' maritime past. Discover the Zuiderzee Museum, where you can explore reconstructed villages and learn about the region’s cultural heritage. Wander through the charming streets lined with 17th-century buildings, or enjoy a relaxing boat trip on the IJsselmeer. Enkhuizen’s rich history and scenic beauty make it a perfect stop for history buffs and nature lovers alike.

Perched on the south bank of the Waal River, vibrant Nijmegen is home to one of The Netherlands’ largest universities. Residents and students alike linger at sidewalk cafés and unique eateries and the city’s many shops offer items that reflect Nijmegen’s 

Nijmegen, The Netherlands

Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands, is rich in history and vibrant culture. The city’s Roman roots are evident in its archaeological sites and museums, while its modern side is reflected in lively squares and riverside promenades. Visitors can stroll through Valkhof Park, with its ancient ruins and scenic views, or explore the historical architecture of St. Steven’s Church. Nijmegen’s blend of antiquity and modernity offers a unique and engaging experience.

Kinderdijk is a village community in the Alblasserwaard province. This corner of South Holland, part of the scenic Waal and Merwede regions, has long been shaped by Rhine Delta waters. Kinderdijk is most known for its 19 remarkably preserved 18th-century 

Kinderdijk, Netherlands

Kinderdijk is famous for its picturesque windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage site that exemplifies Dutch ingenuity in water management. Visitors can tour the beautifully preserved windmills, learn about their history in the visitor center, and even enter some to see their inner workings. The scenic walking and cycling paths offer stunning views of the mills and surrounding waterways. Kinderdijk is a perfect destination for those looking to experience quintessential Dutch landscapes and history.

Rotterdam stretches across a maze of natural and artificial waterways. With its location at the mouth of the New Meuse River and easy link to the Rhine and Central Europe, it is Europe&rsquo;s largest port, earning it the nickname &ldquo;Gateway to Europe

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Rotterdam is a bustling port city renowned for its modern architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can marvel at the innovative design of the Cube Houses, explore the extensive art collections at the Boijmans Van Beuningen Museum, and take in panoramic views from the Euromast Tower. The city's dynamic waterfront, bustling markets, and diverse culinary offerings make it a lively and exciting destination. Rotterdam showcases the cutting-edge side of Dutch urban life.

A cosmopolitan city, Antwerp is one of the world’s major seaports. Its unique atmosphere comes from the contrasts between old and new, commerce and art. The Old Town and the expansive Grote Markt are filled with narrow, winding streets and medieval guild 

Antwerpen, Belgium

A picturesque town located in the province of Zeeland, Veere has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. A bustling port, the town grew in prominence during the Dutch Golden Age and became a hub for the wool and fishing industries. Veere remains d

Veere, The Netherlands

Veere is a charming, small town known for its picturesque harbor and historic architecture. Visitors can wander through its cobbled streets, admire the beautifully preserved medieval buildings, and visit the Grote Kerk, an impressive Gothic church. The town’s maritime museum offers insights into Veere’s rich nautical past. Veere provides a tranquil and scenic escape, perfect for those seeking a peaceful and historically rich destination.

The capital of Zeeland, Middelburg’s historical significance can be seen in its well-preserved medieval buildings. The magnificent 15th-century Gothic-style Town Hall stands as a testament to Middelburg’s past grandeur. The soaring abbey tower of Lange Ja

The tranquil region of Zeeland is a fascinating blend of natural and human-made landscapes. Here, large swaths of land have been shaped by the tendrils of the delta where the Rhine, Meuse and Scheldt Rivers make their final sprint to the sea. Much of this

Zeeland, Netherlands

9 Night Tulips & Windmills

Europe

The Aquavit Terrace, revolutionary in its design, provides the ultimate al fresco dining experience along the river, blending indoor and outdoor settings seamlessly. Engage with fellow travelers over breakfast and lunch as you take in the tranquil beauty of the river, creating memorable moments in this inviting and relaxing space.


Aquavit Terrace

Discover a haven of literary delight in the onboard Library, where a thoughtfully curated selection of titles beckons the curious traveler. Choose a volume, find your cozy nook, and let the pages transport you as the world glides by.


Library

Embark on a leisurely stroll around the walking track, soaking up the sun and enjoying panoramic views of the ocean and landscapes. This facility is perfect for guests who want to stay active while indulging in the beauty of their surroundings. Ideal for early morning jogs or evening walks under the stars.


Walking Track

The Sun Deck features a shaded sitting area and an organic herb garden, offering a perfect spot for relaxation and taking in the views. Enjoy the fresh air while lounging under the umbrellas or exploring the lush greenery of the herb garden.


Sun Deck

Whether you need a last-minute gift or an essential item forgotten at home, the onboard shop offers everything from essential travel items to exclusive Viking memorabilia like books, apparel, and jewelry. It's the perfect spot to pick up souvenirs or essentials, ensuring your voyage remains comfortable and memorable.


Shop

Challenge your putting skills on the open-air mini golf course atop the sun deck. With each stroke, enjoy the crisp river breeze and the captivating historical townscapes that border the river. This fun and accessible activity is a great way to enjoy some leisure time while sailing.


Mini Golf

Dive deep into the art, culture, and history of your destinations with the expert-led lectures and port talks, providing insights into the landmarks and heritage of each place. These sessions are perfect for enriching your understanding and preparing for your adventures ashore.


Guest Lectures & Port Talks

Witness the artistry of local crafts and culinary traditions with demonstrations by artisans and chefs, from glassblowing to making Austrian apple strudel. These sessions offer a hands-on glimpse into the region's heritage and flavors.


Craft & Cooking Demonstrations

The Lounge Bar combines crafted cocktails with a serene riverside backdrop, inviting guests to enjoy attentive wait service from lunch through the late evening. Here, conversation flows as smoothly as the river outside, creating an effortlessly elegant atmosphere.


Lounge Bar

The Restaurant presents a feast for the senses, serving multicourse meals that celebrate regional flavors alongside timeless classics. Dine in upscale elegance as panoramic windows frame ever-changing vistas, ensuring every meal is accompanied by a view.


The Restaurant

Nestled in the Lounge, guests find solace on plush seating, with live music providing a serene soundtrack to the stunning river vistas framed by expansive windows. It's an intimate retreat for relaxation and mingling as the river's grace glides by.


Viking Lounge

Experience the spirit of each region through the Destination Performances, featuring local cultural arts like Portuguese fado and Viennese opera. These performances are a captivating blend of entertainment and cultural immersion.


Destination Performances

Enjoy the soothing sounds of classical and regional music performed by talented musicians, from local ensembles to renowned choirs. This auditory journey is designed to enrich your mind and complement the scenic beauty of your travels.


Classical & Regional Musicians

The Viking Bragi, part of the "Longships" series, offers a refreshing Scandinavian design marked by an airy, minimalist ambience, complemented by natural light and earthy tones throughout its public spaces. Highlight features include the Aquavit Terrace, an innovative open-air café with both indoor and outdoor seating, providing an alternative dining experience rarely found on river cruises. The ship also demonstrates a commitment to eco-friendly practices with its hybrid diesel-electric engines and onboard solar panels that significantly reduce emissions.


The Sun Deck offers a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding beauty, complete with a shaded sitting area for comfort. Engage with nature at the organic herb garden, embrace sustainability with the solar panels, or stay active with amenities like a mini golf and walking track.


Viking River Cruises

Grand European Tour

Rhine Getaway

Paris to the Swiss Alps

Tulips & Windmills

Christmas Markets

Cities of Light

European Sojourn

Viking Bragi

Cycle through the grasslands of Kinderdijk and see the 19 historic windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don your cycle helmet, mount your e-bike and pedal with ease through stunning scenery. The route takes you through the polders, or low-lying lands, along the Lek River. Kinderdijk is famed for its windmills, which were built to pump the excess water from the polders that lie around 5 feet below sea level. As you cycle through this network of windmills, your guide will explain how this magnificent sight symbolizes Dutch water management today. During your ride, you will pass several of the windmills up close. At the Blokker Windmill Museum, stop and take a peek inside for a glimpse of the rustic life of a mill keeper. Journey through picturesque villages and admire the quaint old cottages and monuments, then begin the return cycle back to your ship.

Go beyond the usual visitor experience on a Viking exclusive boat tour and visit the oldest Kinderdijk windmill. Board the Jantina, a 125-year-old restored cargo vessel, adapted to carry passengers to the Blokker Windmill, which dates back to 1630. Meet the miller and his family and tour the windmill. Take a peek at the vegetable garden and see the traditional outbuildings, such as the cooking shed and the outhouse. Learn everything there is to know about the life of a miller’s family in days gone by and also what it takes today to preserve these mighty machines. On your way through the canal and back, your expert guide will explain the history of water management in the region and the vital role of the magnificent mills in this endeavor. Return to the visitor center for more information or a memento of your visit.

See the picturesque Dutch countryside and the original technological marvels of historic Kinderdijk. You will walk with your guide into the serene polder lands of South Holland. As you cross the dike to the windmills, you will notice that they in fact are at a lower elevation than your ship, as much of this part of The Netherlands is below sea level. Built in the mid-18th century, these 19 windmills, the largest concentration in The Netherlands, stand like sentinels on a hushed landscape. You will learn why they were built and see firsthand how they work, even stepping into a working windmill to observe its mechanics and living quarters. Families who live in these mills are required to keep them in working order. This excursion provides a revealing look at these marvelous buildings that helped shape the legendary Dutch landscape.

See the picturesque Dutch countryside as you explore The Netherlands’ world-famous cheeses and windmills. Visiting a cheese farm, get an in-depth look at how one of The Netherlands’ top products is made. Upon arrival, enjoy a walk around the farm with your hosts, busy farmers making their living off the earth. Later, meet the cheese makers who patiently create their product from fresh milk and learn the craft, process and history of cheese making, which dates back to pre-Christian times. By lesson’s end, there will be plenty of cheese for sampling. You will also visit Kinderdijk’s 19 historic windmills, the largest group in The Netherlands and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In South Holland’s polder lands, these windmills stand like sentinels. Learn why the mills were built and how they operate, even stepping into a working windmill to observe its mechanics and living quarters.

Learn about Holland’s water defense system during a walking tour of Gorinchem. During the 17th century, the Dutch Water Line was created to protect its borders by combining the resources of the surrounding natural bodies of water and building defenses to flood low-lying areas. It was later extended, making the region inaccessible to enemy forces on foot or by boat, transforming Holland into an island. Transfer to Gorinchem for a guided walk to explore the historic center of this fortified town. Pause for tastings of cookies and local cheese, and stroll along the 17th-century ramparts as you hear more about the water defenses, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See a traditional grain mill and learn about one of the town’s residents, Henrik Hamel, who diarized his discoveries of Korea. After free time to browse the boutique stores, return to your ship.

Discover Amsterdam via one of its famous glass-topped canal boats, then visit a historic diamond cutting factory. This famous Dutch city is home to 165 canals that wind their way through the cityscape, spanning a total of 31 miles; 1,281 different bridges cross over the canals. With a local guide, you will see some of Amsterdam’s oldest buildings, from narrow-fronted gabled houses to gilded manses adorned with riches during the height of Holland’s Golden Age. Take in some of the city’s interesting sights as you pass a variety of vessels, including charming houseboats moored canal side. Enjoy views from the Golden Bend to Overhoeks, the city’s newest quarter, and from the Music Building to the replica of the 18th-century ship Amsterdam moored outside the Maritime Museum. Afterward, enjoy a guided visit to a refurbished 19th-century diamond cutting factory before returning to your ship.

Walk the flower-lined footpaths of one of the most renowned flower gardens in the world. Every spring, a vibrant, multihued carpet blankets the 70 acres at Keukenhof Gardens. Some 7 million flowers are said to bloom here: tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, lilies, bluebells, crocuses and countless others form graceful ribbons along pathways and brooks and fill greenhouses and fields to bursting. Stroll among 100 varieties of tulips on these 15th-century hunting grounds. Breathe in glorious scents as you loop through Gerbrand’s circular garden and mingle among sculptures and statuary. Admire Keukenhof Castle, where a countess once sorted herbs in her “kitchen garden.” You can also step back in time in the historical garden, where old tulip varieties and 17th-century daffodils grace a castle’s garden.

Peruse the work of the Dutch Masters, cruise Amsterdam’s charming waterways and visit a patrician museum. Meet your guide and drive to the city’s picturesque Museumplein, or Museum Square. Visit the galleries of the world-renowned Rijksmuseum, home of Rembrandt’s most famous masterpiece, The Night Watch. After time to explore the museum’s collection, some of it commissioned by the wealthy merchant class of the Dutch Golden Age, board a boat for a relaxing cruise through the city’s endless network of canals. After lunch, continue on foot to one of the city’s patrician canal house museums. Here, gain insight into the lives of Amsterdam’s 17th-century elite. View period furnishings, artwork and elegant rooms and gardens that look much as they did when the wealthy filled their coffers with profits from the burgeoning overseas spice trade. Note: This tour involves significant walking and may not be suitable for guests with mobility issues.

Uncover Amsterdam’s fascinating Jewish history during visits to several important landmarks. Until the Holocaust, Jews comprised 10% of Amsterdam’s population; the religious acceptance they enjoyed in the Dutch Republic was unequaled throughout Europe. To witness their rich legacy, drive to the Portuguese Synagogue, which served one of Europe’s largest and richest Jewish communities in the Dutch Golden Age. After a guided tour, walk into the heart of the former Jewish Quarter to the Jewish Historical Museum, occupying four Ashkenazi synagogues. Here, you will explore the only institution in The Netherlands dedicated solely to the religion and its history and culture. Next, take a stroll past the Hollandsche Schouwburg. This 19th-century theater was converted into a deportation center by the Nazis and today is an important monument to those who were lost.

Discover Holland’s love affair with cheese and make your own during a workshop at a working farm. Your journey will take you through the Beemster region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and The Netherlands’ first polder—a tract of land reclaimed from a body of water and surrounded by dikes. Stop at a family-run farm in Middenbeemster, where you will enjoy a cup of coffee or tea before beginning your cheese-making workshop. Learn the basics during this hands-on demonstration; at the workshop’s conclusion, you will be given a small cheese to take with you. En route to the farm, visit the charming town of Edam—world famous since the 17th century for its namesake cheese. At the Kaaswaag, or cheese weighing house, peruse its museum on Dutch cheese production, sample several cheeses and see the old-fashioned scales used by merchants to weigh cheeses brought to the market.

Walk the footpaths of renowned Keukenhof Gardens and the streets of charming Haarlem. Every spring, a vibrant, multihued carpet blankets the 70 acres at Keukenhof Gardens. After a short orientation, enjoy free time to stroll among 100 varieties of tulips that are grown on these 15th-century hunting grounds. Afterward, drive to Haarlem, nicknamed “Flower City” due to its ties the tulip-bulb growing industry. Following lunch, set out on a walk, passing some of the city’s hofjes (almshouses), provided by Dutch cities since the 14th century to house single elderly women. See historic houses and the city’s famed square where five streets meet. During a guided visit of the Frans Hals Museum, admire the work of Haarlem’s Old Masters of the Golden Age. Finish with free time at the eclectic Warmoesstraat shopping district before returning to your ship.

Stroll the cobblestone streets and see several historic landmarks of the oldest city in the Netherlands, Nijmegen. Depart from your ship with your knowledgeable guide and begin your leisurely walk to the city center. Stop to view St. Stephen’s Church, its looming presence somewhat obscured by the more modern buildings that surround it. Originally built in the late Gothic style during the 13th century, the church—like many of Nijmegen’s buildings—was badly damaged during World War II and subsequently underwent several renovations. Continue to the nearby Grote Markt (Big Market), where you will learn about the history of De Waagh, a richly decorated former weigh house for goods, and see the statue of Dutch medieval legend Mariken van Nieumeghen. Cap your tour outside the 16th-century Oude Stadhuis (Old Town Hall); gaze at the ornate carvings that adorn its facade and the octagonal turret with an onion dome perched atop its roof.

Walk in the footsteps of renowned painter Vincent van Gogh during a visit to the village of Nuenen. Van Gogh experienced one of his most productive periods while residing in Nuenen during the early 1880s, producing more than 195 paintings including the famous Potato Eaters. Take a guided tour around the village and see several locations that inspired the artist; no fewer than 23 buildings and rural scenes are connected to van Gogh’s stay. Visit the Vincentre museum to immerse yourself in an audiovisual presentation that vividly tells the story of van Gogh’s development and his time in Nuenen. Your journey will also take you to the city of ’s-Hertogenbosch, home to an extensive collection of Dutch art housed in the Noordbrabants Museum. Take a guided walking tour around this medieval city, then head to the museum, which chronicles the Brabant region’s artistic history from Hieronymous Bosch to van Gogh.

Enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process during a visit and beer tasting at Brouwerij de Hemel. Founded in 1983, the brewery—whose name means “heaven” in Dutch—specializes in small-batch beer production. Walk to the brewery, located in a historic 12th-century monastery near the banks of the Waal River. Upon arrival, get acquainted with Brouwerij de Hemel’s production methods. Learn about the ingredients that are used, and gain insight into the brewery’s use of beer to create distilled spirits, vinegar and mustard. Afterward, grab a glass and partake in a tasting of their craft beers. You will have an opportunity to sample six beers paired with a delicious selection of savory snacks. Try the Luna, a mildly bitter pilsner; the Serafijn, an aromatic brew with orange and coriander; or the twice-fermented Nieuw Ligt Grand Cru. Afterward, you will return to your ship.

Discover Nijmegen’s role in World War II and learn about the liberation of the city. See the Waal Bridge and listen as your guide tells fascinating stories about Operation Market Garden, the Allied forces’ plan to take the main bridges at Arnhem, Nijmegen and Eindhoven. However, the Germans were waiting, the operation failed, and Arnhem proved to be a “bridge too far.” Pay tribute to 2,610 souls who gave their lives at the Canadian War Cemetery in Groebseek. Afterward, visit the Freedom Museum and hear about the lives of local residents during World War II, including accounts that highlight the bravery of the people of Nijmegen. You will learn how they successfully overcame the failed operation, the rebuilding of the cities and the successful integration of the neighboring nations to create a united Europe.

See Antwerp’s dazzling historic quarter up close as you explore by foot. Join your guide for a short walk to the Cathedral of Our Lady, a vision of Gothic beauty, the largest church in Belgium and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of its spires stands 404 feet high. Continue to the historic Old Town along crooked streets to Grote Markt, where the incredible Renaissance Town Hall stands. With both Flemish and Italian influences, it too is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nearby, you will see the medieval Het Steen castle, built after the Viking incursions as the city’s first stone fortress. At tour’s end, you may spend time pondering the famous Brabo fountain statue, commemorating the legend of how Antwerp got its name.

Immerse yourself in the rich Jewish heritage of Antwerp’s vibrant shtetl, a Yiddish term for village. Transfer to the Jewish Quarter for a visit to a kosher bakery that caters to the neighborhood’s large Hassidic population. You will then proceed to the home of a Jewish family and gain an unprecedented view into their daily lives as they welcome you into their home. After a guided viewing of their residence, you will have an opportunity to talk with your hosts about their family’s history and more, over coffee or tea and a pastry. Afterward, pass Antwerp’s Holocaust Memorial, a monument in remembrance of those who perished during World War II. Continue to one of the city’s major synagogues, the Romi Goldmuntz, where you will learn about the community’s religion and history before returning to your awaiting ship.

Enjoy a sample of some of Belgium’s best-loved culinary creations during a walking tour of the city. Try a fragrant Belgian waffle, Belgium’s world-renowned sweet treat, before beginning your tour on foot through the historic center. At your next stop, it is time to sample a selection of Belgium’s finest beers during a tasting. At a traditional restaurant, sit down to savor a Flemish beef stew served with Belgian frites, or fries, before continuing your tasting tour at a renowned chocolatier to learn how Belgium’s love affair with chocolate began. Enjoy a glass of Elixir d’Anvers, an herbal liqueur, then cap your tour with speculoos—delicious spiced cookies—and discover the city’s famed Antwerpse Handjes, or Antwerp Hands, before biting into one. Your appetite sated, you will return to your awaiting ship.

Explore historic Antwerp by bicycle and visit the Gothic Cathedral of Our Lady. After a short safety briefing, set off with your knowledgeable guide. Exploring by bike is the best way to get around the city. Cycle along the Scheldt quays, see Antwerp’s former harbor—a charming district that embraces its maritime history, including the iconic MAS Museum—and view the Havenhuis, the new headquarters for the Antwerp Port Authority designed by world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid. Admire the stunning Central Station building, considered one of the world’s most beautiful, and stop to visit the Cathedral of Our Lady. Step inside this national treasure to admire the interior of its seven-naved church, which took 169 years to build, and view its impressive art collection, including works by Rubens. Continue by bike past the Grote Markt and back to Steenplein before walking back to your ship.

Enjoy a city walking tour, then visit a Delftware factory to see up close how the famed porcelain is made. Take a stroll through the pedestrian-only city center; see the Nieuwe Kerk, resting place of the Dutch royal family, and other historic buildings. Next, visit your choice of two Delftware factories. De Candelaer is a small, charming manufacturer. Witness a demonstration of its process of creating Delftware entirely by hand. Or instead, visit the Royal Dutch Delftware Manufactory (“De Porceleyne Fles”), the only surviving 17th-century Delftware manufacturer. Its world-famous Royal Delftware is still entirely hand-painted in accordance with tradition. Journey through the history of Blue Delft and Royal Delft and its development and production process; see a master painter at work, a museum with antique Delft pieces, the ceramic rooms, the historic courtyard and more.

Explore the historic sights of Enkhuizen during an informative walking excursion. Enkhuizen is known as one of the most beautiful Dutch East India Company cities in the Netherlands and still exudes much of its Dutch Golden Age charm. Meet your guide, then set off on foot for your approximately 2-mile round-trip. Visit Snouck van Loosenpark, admiring this beautiful green space and learning its history as the site of the country’s first social housing project. Continue past the Dromedaris—a 16th-century gate and Enkhuizen’s most famous building—and stroll along the canal to the Zuiderkerk. A striking late Gothic hall-style church from the 15th century, its floor consists of old gravestones. Then, stop by the Westerstraat, once the main entrance to the city and part of the old fortifications, before returning on foot to your ship.

Explore a traditional village showcasing the culture and maritime history of the Zuiderzee region. A short ferry ride will take you to the Zuiderzee Museum, which recreates what life was like here before the completion of the Afsluitdijk closed off the inlet from the North Sea in 1932. Follow your guide through the cobblestone alleyways of the outdoor museum, visiting some of the more than 140 buildings on site, including workshops, a fish smokery, a well-preserved home from the 1920s and more. Enjoy an opportunity to talk to a local Urker—someone who hails from the former island of Urk—and learn about life here between 1880 and 1930 through a series of short lectures. You will also savor the taste of local cheeses and smoked fish. Cap your visit with free time to explore the various thematic exhibits displaying artifacts inside the museum before returning to your ship.

Explore historic sites in the heart of Rotterdam and enjoy a tasting of local favorites during a walking tour. Europe’s largest seaport, Rotterdam is a bustling city with a lively culture and intriguing architecture. With your guide, set out on a stroll through the most scenic parts of Rotterdam. Pass the Blue City, a sustainable hub that promotes a zero-waste circular economy. At the Old Harbor, walk through the innovative design of the iconic Cube Houses and the 14th-century port. Visit the Market Hall for an opportunity to sample a stroopwafel, a waffle cookie with a caramel filling. Then, head to the Leuvehaven neighborhood and the late Gothic-style St. Lawrence Church—the last remaining structure of the medieval city. Cap your walk at a local craft brewery, where you will enjoy a beer tasting or nonalcoholic beverage along with a salty snack, before returning to your ship.

Explore Brussels, the hub of Belgian culture. Drive to the city with your guide, viewing the Duvel Brewery and Fort Breendonk along the way. After a photo stop at the famed Atomium, you will pass the American pavilion and the Castle of Laeken, home to the royal family. See the Ministry of Finance and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. At the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula in Royal Square, you will begin your walking tour. Stroll into the Old City and to the Grand Place, where you will see the City Hall and picturesque guild houses. After free time, drive to the Royal Palace and the European Quarter, where you will see the European Parliament, European Commission, Council of Europe and Jubilee Park. After passing NATO headquarters, you will return to your ship for lunch.

Savor some of Antwerp’s traditional treats and learn what inspired their distinct creation. Belgians are proud of their cuisine and claim that their dishes are as refined as those of the French, but with portions more akin to larger German-style servings. Each region of Belgium has its own specialties, which often boast a long history with strong cultural ties. Accompany your guide throughout the city, following your nose and satisfying your taste buds along the way. You will experience the fragrant, delectable waffles for which Belgium is most famous and learn about the centuries-old brewing process that has refined Belgium’s many beers. Find out about the Antwerpse Handjes, or Antwerp Hands, before biting into one. And discover the secret behind Belgium’s beloved street food, including its famed frites, or fries, invented not by the French, but by the Belgians.

Explore the quaint town of Veere and its pretty marina during a walking excursion. Meet your guide at the pier and set off on foot to the Grote Kerk, or the Great Church. It was founded in 1342 but was not constructed as planned. It has enjoyed an illustrious past as a military hospital, a shelter for beggars and even a cattle shed during World War II; today it is a celebrated venue for art and cultural events. In the center of the town, view 15th- and 16th-century buildings and the Old Town Hall in the market square. You will also view the Schotse Huizen, or “Scottish Houses,” named after the flourishing wool trade between Scotland and the Netherlands from 1541 to 1799. Cap your tour with a stroll around the marina and view the picturesque, gilded houses and shops before returning to your ship.

Explore the remarkable Delta Works and the fascinating landscapes that they have forever altered. Drive with your guide into the Walcheren region in the southwestern corner of The Netherlands. Once an island, the dam across the Oosterschelde helped connect it to the mainland. In Ouwerkerk, visit the Watersnoodsmuseum and browse the exhibits that tell the story of the last great flood, which occurred in 1953. The museum is housed in three Phoenix caissons that were used to close dike breeches during the disaster. Continue to Zierikzee for a walking tour of this timeless town with a rich history tied to the tides. After taking in its seaside charms, travel to the Delta Works, a massive storm surge barrier. This ingenious system protects the area from floods while still allowing the tide to ebb and flow through the Oosterschelde. After time for photos, return to your ship.

Savor the taste of local oysters, learn about the significance of the industry to the region and try shucking your own. Begin with a warm Zeeland reception: coffee and a fragrant bolus, a local cinnamon pastry. Your hosts will explain how the oyster industry was saved in the 1970s and how today’s oyster beds are managed. When the massive flood protection barriers were built in the wake of the devastating flood of 1953, the oyster growers insisted that salt water should be allowed to flow freely through them, challenging the engineers to think far outside the box. Learn about the different varieties of oysters found here take the opportunity to open the shells yourself with a special shucking knife. After the work is done, savor oysters five different ways while enjoying sweeping views over the waters of the Grevelingen, the source of the oysters.

Journey to historic Haarlem, revered for its many museums and its grand collection of paintings by Dutch masters. Meet your guide and drive to Haarlem, nicknamed “Flower City” due to its ties the tulip bulb-growing industry. Upon arrival, have lunch at a local restaurant, then set out on a walking tour. You will pass some of the city’s hofjes (almshouses) provided by Dutch cities since the 14th century to house single elderly women who, in many cases, have nowhere else to live. See the Hofje van Loo and the Brouwershofje, among other historic houses, and the city’s famed square where five streets meet. Next, during a guided visit of the Frans Hals Museum, admire the work of Haarlem’s Old Masters of the Golden Age, including the world’s largest collection of paintings by Frans Hals. Later, enjoy free time at the eclectic Warmoesstraat shopping district before returning to your ship.

Tour the magnificent Paleis Het Loo, the summer residence of the Royal House of Orange from 1686 until 1962. The marriage of Willem of Orange and Mary, the daughter of James II of England, created an influential union and the palace became the center of power in Europe. Travel to Apeldoorn, where this Dutch baroque building sits regally amid beautifully manicured grounds. Enjoy a leisurely stroll as you admire the garden’s landscaping and perfect planting symmetry. Hear the story of King Willem III and Queen Mary II during an audio tour and gain a glimpse of this splendid residence; its many rooms contain the royal family’s original furniture and cherished objects and paintings. Each chamber provides enlightening insight into each period of the reign of the “Oranjes,” which has spanned centuries and the palace’s recent renovations restore the building to its former glory.

Cruisebound

9 Night Tulips & Windmills

About the ship

Viking Bragi

What’s Included

9 Night Tulips & Windmills Save

About the ship

Viking Bragi

What’s Included

9 Night Tulips & Windmills