Explore and book Avalon Waterways River Cruises 7 Night Active & Discovery In Holland & Belgium on the Avalon Illumination departing from Amsterdam, The Netherlands on Jul 25, 2026 and ending in Rotterdam, The Netherlands on Aug 1, 2026 Sail to Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Gent, Belgium, Brussels, Belgium, Antwerpen, Belgium, Rotterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

How Suite It Is! Welcome Aboard Your Avalon Suite Ship®.Flights into Amsterdam must arrive by 3:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm. During tulip season, you may take a Guided Optional Excursion to Keukenhof gardens—with more than seven million tu

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.

A Castle Moat, an Oyster Farm and Dutch Sea TradeJoin your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.ACTIVE Take a Guided Walk through woods and dunes; see Castle Westhove and farmlands of the beautiful North-Sea area, OR:

Flemish Artwork and Street ArtistsACTIVE Explore the outskirts of the city and the lesser known sights on a Guided Bike Tour, OR:

Gent, Belgium

Ancient Streets, and Chocolate Sweet ACTIVE Take a bike tour to explore the beauty near Brussels, including the Belgian town of Laken, home to the Royal family estates, exotic pavilions from the world expo, and beautiful parks and lanes

Brussels, Belgium

As the capital of Belgium and the European Union, Brussels is a city of grand squares, exquisite cuisine, and political significance. The iconic Atomium and the historic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are must-sees. Indulge in the city's culinary delights, from delicate chocolates to savory waffles, while wandering through its charming streets. Brussels seamlessly blends its medieval past with modern urban life, offering visitors a multifaceted experience.

Bike Riding, Brave New Worlds, and Rubens’ ArtJoin your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.ACTIVE Enjoy a Bike Tour and discover centuries of history and a story around every corner. Don’t miss out the unique atmosphere of sm

Antwerpen, Belgium

Avant-garde Architecture and Art LessonsACTIVE Take a unique Architecture Bike Tour to see the architectural highlights of Rotterdam. Do not miss the interesting Cube Houses, the popular Market Hall, the spectacular Erasmus Bridge, the

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.

Colorful Canals of Amsterdam ACTIVE Join a Guided Kayak Tour which provides a unique perspective of Amsterdam from the waters of its magnificent canals, OR:

Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

7 Night Active & Discovery In Holland & Belgium

Europe

Unwind in the Observation Lounge, where the serene pace and perfect vantage point on the river offer an idyllic setting for relaxation. Enjoy a coffee or wine as you drift past picturesque shorelines and stunning vistas.

Observation Lounge

Relax in the airy Club Lounge, where a 24-hour self-service beverage station offers complimentary premium coffees, cappuccinos, lattes, hot chocolate, and teas. Enjoy cookies, pastries, dried fruits, and nuts available throughout the day.

Club Lounge

Embrace your adventurous spirit at the Adventure Center, your gateway to active exploration both on board and ashore. From cycling to guided walks, the center provides all necessary gear and support for a variety of active pursuits—your adventure starts here.

Adventure Center

Relax in the Panorama Lounge's cozy seating, set against panoramic windows, and enjoy a night of dance and unique artisan demonstrations.

Panorama Lounge

Elevate your relaxation experience on the Sky Deck, where premium lounge chairs invite guests to recline in comfort. The state-of-the-art shade system ensures cool comfort even on the sunniest days, making it the ideal spot for leisure.

Sky Lounge

Relax and rejuvenate in the whirlpool on Avalon Waterways, a serene oasis where you can unwind while soaking in warm, soothing waters. Positioned on the Sky Deck with panoramic views of the ocean, this facility offers a perfect blend of relaxation and scenic beauty.

Whirlpool

Elevate your playtime on the Sky Deck game area, where endless fun meets stunning sea views. Engage in a wide array of games suitable for every member of the family all set against the backdrop of the ocean's horizon.

Deck Game Area

Set against a backdrop of breathtaking river views, Panorama Bar offers a cozy atmosphere for either quiet reflection or engaging conversation with a blend of classic and creative cocktails. Note that happy hour specials are complimentary, though additional beverages may incur additional charges.

Panorama Bar

Delight in exceptional meals from breakfast to elegant dinners in the glass-walled Panorama Dining Room, where local flavors and Avalon Fresh menu offerings enhance every part of your journey.

Panorama Dining Room

Experience the convivial atmosphere of the Panorama Bistro, where buffet-style dining meets casual elegance. Gather with friends for delightful meals and enjoy a selection of carefully curated dishes and beverages.

Panorama Bistro

Sky Grill offers a delightful dining experience that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients prepared by creative chefs. Avalon FlexDining enhances your mealtime flexibility, allowing you to choose from an al fresco lunch, an elegant dinner in the Panorama Dining Room, or a relaxed bite in the Panorama Bistro.

Sky Grill

Maintain your fitness routine at the fully equipped Fitness Center, which offers treadmills, bikes, and weights for a comprehensive workout anytime.

Fitness Center

Avalon Illumination offers an exquisite river cruise experience with its expansive Panorama suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that transform into open-air balconies, creating a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. The ship's contemporary chic design, with dark espresso woods and vibrant modern art, complements the spacious public areas including an indoor lounge and outdoor covered seating for all-weather sightseeing. Enhanced by efficient Eastern European staff and guided shore excursions, the ship caters primarily to English-speaking guests from various countries, providing a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere.

Deck Game Area 

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During tulip season, explore Keukenhof Gardens, home to over seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. Enjoy vibrant displays and the essence of Dutch horticulture in full bloom.

Outside of tulip season, visit Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and charming Dutch houses. Experience traditional Dutch crafts and the country's rich cultural heritage.

Explore the outskirts of the city and the lesser known sights on a Guided Bike Tour.

Join a Guided Tour of Graffiti Street, where artists create striking spray-can art to their heart’s content. And do not miss the chance to become an artist yourself, creating your street art.

Explore Ghent—“The Diamond of Flanders”— with a Guided Sightseeing Tour of this showcase of medieval Flemish wealth. You’ll visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral—with its remarkable Flemish artwork.

Discover medieval Bruges, one of Belgium's true crown jewels, on this captivating full-day guided walking tour and canal cruise. Conclude the experience with an orientation walk of Ghent, the "Diamond of Flanders".

Take a bike tour to explore the beauty near Brussels, including the Belgian town of Laken, home to the Royal family estates, exotic pavilions from the world expo, and beautiful parks and lanes.

Join a Belgian chocolate-making Workshop to learn how to create your own delicious candies. Enjoy a cup of the finest hot chocolate, while crafting traditional confections of pralines and mendiant from scratch.

Join a Guided Tour of Brussels, see the Town Hall with its landmark buildings, discover the many local bars, cafés, and shops of the Lower Town Streets, and visit the Atomium.

Enjoy a Bike Tour and discover centuries of history and a story around every corner. Don’t miss out the unique atmosphere of small neighborhoods and squares.

Join a Guided Tour of the Red Star Line Museum. Follow the footsteps of the emigrants, become acquainted with the Red Star Line passengers and accompany them on their trip from their native village via Antwerp to the new world. 

Take a Guided Tour of this sophisticated city to visit the central Grote Markt, lined with 16th-century guildhall houses. You’ll also see the beautiful city hall, the Cathedral of Our Lady with its stunning altarpiece paintings by Rubens.

Take a unique Architecture Bike Tour to see the architectural highlights of Rotterdam. Do not miss the interesting Cube Houses, the popular Market Hall, the spectacular Erasmus Bridge, the vertical city ‘De Rotterdam’, and the iconic Central Station. In the city centre, admire how historic buildings lash cheerfully with hypermodern skyscrapers.

Attend a Pottery Workshop. In a characteristic painter’s room, a professional painter will guide you through the process of painting a Delft tile.

Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Rotterdam featuring unusual collection of cube houses innovative architecture, including the marvelous Erasmus Bridge, and plenty of other fascinating sites.

Join a Kayak Tour through the Dutch countryside past polders, dykes, and quaint centuries-old villages.

Attend a Painting Class and be inspired by the masters’ techniques. Paint your own canvas and discover your inner artist.

Enjoy a Guided Canal Cruise to explore the iconic waterways and sites of Amsterdam.

Experience Rotterdam by foot with your Adventure Host.

Join a full- or half-day Guided Tour of breathtaking Keukenhof—known as the “Garden of Europe”—for its 70 acres of lush parkland, lakes, and the world’s largest flower gardens—with more than seven million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths as well as other bulbs, planted each year.

Explore Antwerp by bike with your Adventure Host.

Explore Brussels, the EU's capital, on this guided tour. Admire its magnificent palaces, historic cathedrals, and rich cultural heritage. Discover the city's architectural and political significance in a compact, engaging experience.

Explore a different side of Ghent by bike with your Adventure Host.

Start your day joining your Adventure Host on an early morning walk in Amsterdam.

Discover Aalsmeer Flower Auction—the largest in the world, where around 20 million flowers are sold every day. Later enjoy a typical Dutch breakfast.

Explore Zaanse Schans with its well-preserved historic windmills and Dutch houses. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and picturesque scenery. Learn about the area's industrial history and enjoy the quaint Dutch culture.

See Brussel's Aquaculture farm on bike with your Adventure Host. 

See the major highlights of Brussels and join a do-it-yourself chocolate workshop for a fun and interactive experience.

Join a Guided Tour of Brussels, see the Town Hall with its landmark buildings and discover the many local bars, cafés and shops of the Lower Town Streets.

Experience Rotterdam by bike with your Adventure Host.

Join a Biking Tour through the Dutch countryside past polders, dykes, and quaint centuries-old villages.

Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age”.

Spend a day at leisure to sample Brussels' hearty cuisine and famous beer.

Take a Guided Tour of this sophisticated city to visit the central Grote Markt, lined with 16th-century guildhall houses. You’ll also see the beautiful city hall, the Cathedral of Our Lady with its stunning altarpiece paintings by Rubens. Your sightseeing will end at a brewery where you will learn something more about the world-famous Belgian beers.

Enjoy a canal boat that will take you through the town of Ghent to one of the very special breweries where you will find how to brew the local Gruut beer.

Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age” followed by a real Dutch beer experience.

Enhance your journey with an engaging lecture on botany and nature, hosted by a local expert. Learn about diverse plant species and natural wonders as you sail, satisfying your curiosity about the natural world.

From Golden Age paintings to 13th-century arms and armor, discover the wonders of Muiderslot Castle, one of Holland's most beautiful medieval castle fortresses, on this captivating half-day guided tour.

Discover Amsterdam's charming Jordaan district, and taste the authentic foods the locals know and love on this enjoyable guided foodie walking tour.

Tour a working windmill, watch wooden clogs being made, and visit a cheese farm on this exciting half-day guided excursion to Zaanse Schans!

Enjoy a Guided Kayak Tour for an adventure which will provide you a unique perspective of the “Venice of the North” from the waters of its magnificent canals.

Pedal your way past polders, dikes, and quaint, centuries-old villages on this exhilarating guided bike tour through the beautiful Dutch countryside.

Experience the impressive highlights of Mechelen, named a top European City of the Future by the Financial Times, on this half-day guided walk featuring a cruise along the scenic canals!

Discover the many surprises of Antwerp with a guided walking tour by exploring its ethnic and cultural neighborhoods.

Discover a piece of Antwerp history with a tour of the forgotten underground waterways of De Ruien.

Explore Rotterdam with a tour and water-taxi ride, including drinks and culinary treats along the way.

Cruisebound

7 Night Active & Discovery In Holland & Belgium

About the ship

Avalon Illumination

What’s Included

7 Night Active & Discovery In Holland & Belgium Save

About the ship

Avalon Illumination

What’s Included

7 Night Active & Discovery In Holland & Belgium