Holland and Belgium: Medieval History and Scenic Waterways

Description

Journey along the Rhine and other picturesque waterways of Holland and Belgium, where centuries of rich culture, art and history come to life amidst vibrant tulip fields, iconic windmills and fairytale towns. Travel down Amsterdam’s scenic canals, call on historic cities such as Antwerp and Delft, and take in the serene Dutch countryside while delving into the region’s defining artistic legacy, deep-rooted Jewish history and culinary delights. This captivating voyage sails aboard the newly chartered 120-guest Connect, a luxurious vessel rooted in sustainable design—from thoughtfully sourced build materials and green technology that minimizes food waste to environmentally friendly bath and bedding products in every spacious stateroom.

Trip Name

Holland and Belgium: Medieval History and Scenic Waterways

Days

Overview

Vessel Type: River Ship Length: 134.7 meters Passenger Capacity: 120 Built: 2025 Launching in 2026, Connect is a next-generation European river ship designed to deliver a sophisticated and sustainable travel experience through the heart of Europe. Built in 2025 with state-of-the-art technology and refined amenities, this sleek vessel accommodates 120 guests in 60 spacious staterooms—each offering full-width floor-to-ceiling windows, spa-style showers, and the option to combine into expansive suites. Rooted in sustainability, Connect uses environmentally friendly materials and practices, from green energy systems and waste-reduction technology to eco-conscious bath products, ensuring every journey treads lightly on the planet. Life aboard Connect is both enriching and relaxing. The top deck offers a vibrant social hub with fitness zones, a bar and grill, and space for al fresco dining and film nights under the stars. Inside, guests can enjoy wine tastings, musical performances, and expert-led talks in dynamic venues like the two-storey Forum amphitheatre. A restaurant, bistro, and lounge with a well-stocked bar provide culinary delights and casual gathering spots. With a fleet of bikes available for scenic rides through Amsterdam’s canals or the French countryside, Connect offers a modern, immersive way to explore Europe’s most charming riverside towns.

Itinerary

Day 1 - Day 1 Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Arrive in Amsterdam and embark Connect. After settling into your stateroom explore this historic city on your own, stay onboard and relax with a drink on the top deck, enjoy local music by the resident pianist in the Lounge or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment. Choose to arrive early for an optional two-day pre-voyage extension to explore Amsterdam and its neighboring countryside. Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2 - Day 2 Amsterdam

Visit Keukenhof (April and May departures only), also known as the “Garden of Europe,” one of the world’s largest flower gardens. Marvel at the vibrant displays of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths planted each autumn by a team of 40 gardeners using over 7 million bulbs donated by 100+ growers. Visit historic Alkmaar (August departures only), a city famous for its cheese, where you’ll explore the old town, with its well-preserved architecture and canal system. Alternatively, choose a guided walking tour through Amsterdam's most iconic neighborhoods, historic landmarks and hidden gems before taking a scenic canal cruise through the historic waterways of the Dutch capital city. Learn about Amsterdam’s unique relationship with water and its iconic canal system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This afternoon, delve deeply into the city’s Jewish history and culture on a tour led by guides who are family members of Holocaust survivors or survivors themselves. Together, you’ll visit the Holocaust Museum, the Hollandsche Schouwburg—a theater-turned-museum with a poignant WWII history—the Portuguese Synagogue and the Jewish Historical Museum for a profound exploration of resilience and heritage. Cast off this evening with a welcome reception and dinner followed by a musical performance on board. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 - Day 3 Kampen / Giethoorn

Giethoorn, often referred to as the "Venice of the Netherlands," is renowned for its serene canals, charming thatched-roof cottages and picturesque wooden bridges. Uncover the village’s rich history, dating back to the 13th century while cruising its narrow waterways. Alternatively, enjoy the scenic beauty of the countryside near Kampen on a guided bicycle tour before indulging in a Dutch cheese presentation aboard the ship. This evening, enjoy an authentic Dutch dinner featuring fresh, locally sourced mussels and oysters. During the meal, a local chef will come aboard to reveal insights on the region’s traditions and flavors, making for an unforgettable culinary experience. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 - Day 4 Arnhem

Explore Arnhem’s rich history with visits to landmarks such as the John Frost Bridge, a pivotal site during the 1944 Battle of Arnhem, and the Old City Hall located in Market Square. Alternatively, discover Het Loo Palace, a former royal residence that offers a glimpse into the grandeur of Dutch monarchy. Stroll through the opulent gardens, admire the baroque architecture and uncover the legacy of the royal family. After an afternoon spent at your leisure in Arnhem exploring the Airborne Museum or wandering through the picturesque old town, enjoy a private, after-hours tour of the renowned Kröller-Müller Museum. Nestled in De Hoge Veluwe National Park, the museum boasts an exceptional collection of modern art, including masterpieces by Van Gogh and Rembrandt, plus a breathtaking sculpture garden. Conclude your visit with an exclusive reception, offering an unforgettable finish to the day. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 - Day 5 Rotterdam / The Hague or Delft / Kinderdijk

Arrive in Rotterdam this morning with options to explore the city. Visit The Hague, the political heart of the Netherlands and home to the esteemed International Court of Justice. Enjoy a private visit to the Mauritshuis Museum before it opens, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to admire masterpieces such as Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring in a crowd-free setting. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the city of Delft, renowned for its iconic blue pottery and royal connections. Visit the Royal Delft factory, the last remaining producer of the famous Delftware, and wander through the town’s storied streets. This afternoon, journey to the UNESCO-listed Kinderdijk to witness its iconic windmills and learn about the Netherlands' groundbreaking water management systems. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 - Day 6 Ghent, Belgium

This morning, you’ll explore Ghent, one of Belgium's most vibrant cities, on a walking tour through medieval streets, lively squares and stunning architecture. Visit St. Bavo’s Cathedral, where you’ll have the rare opportunity to admire the world-renowned Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Van Eyck. In the afternoon, choose between free time to further explore Ghent or a visit to Gravensteen, the city’s impressive medieval fortress. This evening on board, enjoy a classical concert followed by a gourmet dinner, creating the perfect end to a memorable day. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 - Day 7 Antwerp

Start your day in Antwerp with a visit to the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, home to an impressive collection of Flemish Baroque and contemporary masterpieces. Alternatively, delve into the city's Jewish heritage, which dates back to the 16th century when Sephardic Jews fled the Spanish Inquisition, as your guide shares fascinating insights into the community's growth and contributions during Antwerp's economic golden age. This afternoon, indulge in a progressive food tour, sampling Belgian fries, waffles and chocolate at some of the city's finest eateries and capping it off with a Belgium beer tasting led by a knowledgeable beer sommelier. Enjoy a celebratory farewell cocktail party and dinner on board this evening. Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 - Day 8 Brussels

Following breakfast, disembark in Brussels and transfer to the airport for flights home. Alternatively, opt to spend more time in Belgium on an optional two-day post-voyage extension exploring Brussels and Bruges. Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 9 - Please note:

Itineraries are subject to change.

Trip Dates

Start	End	Price From	Room Type

Inclusions

Stroll through more than 7 million tulips, daffodils and hyacinths at Keukenhof, known as the “Garden of Europe” (Spring departures only)
Witness the works of masters like Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer and more with exclusive, after-hours tours at the Kröller-Müller and Mauritshuis Museums
Tour WWII monuments that reveal Amsterdam’s rich Jewish heritage, guided by Holocaust survivors or family members of survivors
Indulge in incredible culinary experiences throughout your voyage, from a progressive food tour of Belgian specialties in Antwerp to curated dinners onboard featuring local flavors
Choose from a variety of engaging excursions throughout your voyage, guided by your National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions team every step of the way
Cruise the canals of Holland and Belgium aboard Connect, an elegant, new vessel designed to deftly transport you through the heart of Europe with maximum comfort in mind