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Excursions in Holland & Belgium

VISIT THE CHÂTEAU DE BELOEIL AND THE CHANT D’ÉOLE VINEYARD.

We'll leave from Mons in a coach for the Château de Beloeil, also known as the Belgian Versailles. The castle has stood in the middle of its moat for eight centuries. Once a medieval fortress, it became an immense, stately home over the course of several centuries. Today, it has opened its doors to visitors. This castle is not an anonymous, static museum. The objects within reflect the evolution of art. The vast library contains 20,000 works from the eras when printing was invented up to modern times. The furniture is a sampling of some of the top work of French cabinet makers in the 17th and 18th centuries. The paintings depict the grand achievements of most of the castle's family members. While some of the most beautiful French Gardens were created in the 17th century, the one surrounding Beloeil was designed and developed by 10 successive generations between 1515 and 1780.
We'll continue on to the Chant d’Éole estate. The vineyard came to be when a family of Belgian farmers joined forces with a family of eminent sparkling-wine makers. They use the best modern techniques to guarantee a sparkling wine that adheres to Belgian tradition. We'll take a guided tour recounting the vineyard's history. Our enthusiastic guides will explain the different stages of production—from planting to bottling, and everything in between. We'll finish up the tour with a tasting of three signature spirits—the Brut Blanc de Blancs, the Rosé Brut, and the Elixir Saint-Georges. We'll return to Mons.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam

We'll visit the Rijksmuseum, Holland's ultimate national museum retracing the country's history from the Middle-Ages to the present day. The collection contains more than 2,000 paintings from the Dutch Golden Age, among which you'll get to admire Rembrandt's "The Night Watch" as well as Johannes Vermeer's "The Milkmaid".

PLEASE NOTE

  • Headsets are included.
  • The order of the excursions can change.
  • Times are approximate.
The Hague and the Mauritshuis

We'll leave Rotterdam for The Hague, the seat of the Dutch parliament and the only major city with a beach on the North Sea. We’ll take a brief panoramic tour to see the important monuments and impressive sites, including the historic Binnenhof, where the government convenes. We’ll then head over to the Mauritshuis for an audio tour of the most renowned Dutch painters. The collections include Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring,  Rembrandt's The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp, and Fabritius’ The Goldfinch, as well as works by Rubens, Steen, and Hals.

PLEASE NOTE

  • The order of the excursions can change.
  • Times are approximate.
GUIDED TOUR OF OUDENAARDE AND A DISTILLERY.

We’ll take a coach to the historic heart of the city.
Oudenaarde has a very rich past. The city is jam-packed with architectural gems—each with its own story to tell. We'll stop in front of the Collegiate Church of Saint Walburga to admire its Gothic-style edifice built in the 12th century. A little further down the way, we'll run into the splendid city hall, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other memorable sites include the lovely beguinage, the house where Margaret of Parma was born, the Boudewijnstoren, and the 18th-century meat market. Everything is testimony to a rich and lively past. The city has more than 100 historic monuments. Set off on an urban hike taking you to the loveliest areas and tourist sites. Enjoy some free time on your own to see what the city has to offer. We’ll then head over to the distillery. The Flemish take the distillation of jenever very, very seriously. Western Flanders, in particular, has cultivated this deep tradition since the early production of grain spirits in the 16th century. Even today, we find a large number of active distilleries. Jenever is the most important one in this area. We'll visit the distillery and enjoy a tasting. We’ll return to the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Guided Tour of Bruges and a Beer Tasting at the Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery

We'll leave on foot for Bruges. Its works of art, tranquil ambiance, romantic aura, and stunning architecture make it one of the top places to visit during any European vacation. The city has meticulously preserved the elegance and class it exuded during its golden age as a maritime trade center. We'll visit a brewery founded in 1856 to throw back a pint. Its traditional brewing combines modern techniques and artisan methods dating back to the 18th century. Enjoy some free time at the Christmas market. We’ll return to the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
FOOD TOUR IN MONS.

We’ll take a coach to the historical heart of Mons to enjoy a tour on foot of the city. Few cities can boast about their heritage like Mons can. This is a vibrant, modern city with a deep, historic past. The Grand-Place offers a myriad of places to lose yourself in. The city hall's colossal doors conceal a curious passageway taking visitors to the city center. At the end of the passageway, the hustle and bustle give way to the tranquility of the Jardin du Mayeur. Nature surrounds many of the capital's older buildings, including the Mont-de-Piété and the baroque-style belfry. Discover Mons on a food tour to taste all the local specialties—beer, chocolate, wine, and cheese—in establishments chosen expressly for you. Indulging in the local cuisine makes this tour an unforgettable experience. Enjoy some free time on your own to see what this small city has to offer. We’ll return to the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Bruges, its Christmas Market, and a Brewery

At the beginning of the afternoon, we'll set off towards the center of Bruges for a guided tour. With picturesque cobblestone streets lined with medieval homes, romantic canals, and exceptional heritage, it's no wonder this area is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your guide will recount the city's fascinating history through its iconic monuments.
Afterwards, we'll head over to the Bourgogne des Flandres, known for its beautiful decor and handcrafted beer. The brewery combines modern techniques and artisan methods dating back to the 18th century. As night falls, enjoy a guided tour of the Christmas market illuminated by festive lights accenting the city's Gothic architecture—an enchanting experience for all! Enjoy some free time afterwards to browse through the stands proposing finely handcrafted Christmas decorations, local candies, and much, much more. After our tour, we’ll return to the ship on foot.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Guided Tour of the Christmas Market in Bruges

We'll leave on foot for the Christmas market tucked away in the center of the city, also known as the Venice of the North—an enchanting experience for all! Located mainly in the Grote Markt and near Simon Stevinplein, the Christmas market glows under festive lights accenting the city's Gothic architecture. Dozens of quaint wooden chalets display handcrafted treasures within—from finely handcrafted Christmas decorations to local candies. As the sun sets, watch the market lights come alive, chasing away the impending darkness. After our tour, we’ll return to the ship on foot.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Guided Tour of Ghent and Tasting of Local Delights

Ghent's city center is a pedestrian's dream—an open-air museum where Flemish architecture accents the indisputable beauty of its medieval heritage. During the entire length of this tour, you'll have the opportunity to taste local specialties. As the morning ends, take some time to explore the Christmas market in the city center on your own, where a magical world of festive decorations magnifies Ghent's beautiful architecture. We'll return to the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Ghent and its Christmas Market

As the day winds down, set out on foot to explore downtown Ghent and its Christmas market. Browse the quaint wooden chalets proposing handcrafted objects and local delicacies such as waffles and mulled wine, as festive music fills the air. The smell of holiday spices and the warm, friendly atmosphere will plunge you into the Christmas spirit. After our wealth of discoveries, we'll return on board.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Guided Tour of the Ghent Christmas Market and a Tasting of Local Specialties

We'll set out on foot for the city center. Ghent is a pedestrian's dream—an open-air museum where Flemish architecture accents the indisputable beauty of its medieval heritage. During the entire length of this tour, you'll have the opportunity to taste local specialties. We'll visit the Christmas market and its more than 150 beautifully decorated wooden chalets—a perfect time to browse the stands for unique gifts and handcrafted items. Stroll at your pace through the lively aisles as the tempting aroma of mulled wine, grilled chestnuts, and sweet delights awaken your spirit. At the end of the afternoon, shimmering lights transform every corner of the market into a captivating spectacle highlighting the city's historic facades. We'll return to the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Amsterdam tour by riverboat

Departure for a tour of Amsterdam by riverboat. With your guide, we'll glide further into this "Venice of the North” along the renowned Amsterdam canals, providing an ideal vantage point on the city's wonderful architecture. Our tour will take us through the four large canals surrounding the center - the Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Herengracht and Singel canals. The Singel river was transformed into a canal in the 14th century to become part of the city's defensive belt, while the other three were conceived at the beginning of the Golden Age as a means to expand the city. Construction started in 1560 and lasted for more than a hundred years. The historical center is now surrounded by those four canals, parallel to one another. Shaped in half-moons, they follow the sun rays making sure that each and every house gets direct sunlight at some point during the day. When looking at a city map, Amsterdam resembles a half-bicycle wheel. Enjoy some free time in the city. Return on board.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
The Windmills of Kinderdijk

We’ll leave by coach to visit the windmills of Kinderdijk. It’s the only place in the world where we can see so many windmills in one place, and that’s one of the reasons why they were listed as a prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. The mills were built in the 18th century to remove water from the polder as everything is below sea level. The Dutch are masters at water management, and this attraction is the best place to learn how they have dealt with their struggles against the sea over the centuries. The area was also the inspiration for a familiar children’s game. Legend has it that after a flood in 1491, as someone from the local village was inspecting the damage, they saw a cradle floating in the water. As the floating cradle came nearer, a cat was seen trying to keep it balanced by jumping back and forth so that no water could get in. When the cradle came close enough for someone to pick it out of the water, they saw a baby quietly sleeping inside. This folktale is now well known as "The Cat and the Cradle."

PLEASE NOTE

  • The order of the excursions can change.
  • Times are approximate.
The Delta Works

We'll set out to visit the largest flood protection system in the world, located along the Dutch coastline. The Delta Works was built to battle maritime inundations affecting the local provinces. Construction of the works lasted over 40 years and includes five storm surge barriers, two locks, and six dams. Traveling the Expedition Delta route brings the impressive works to life.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Guided tour of Brussels and visit of a brewery

This morning, walking tour of the Basilica of Saint Martin and the famous black virgin. Here you will find the cannonballs that, according to legend, Our Lady of Hal collected in her cloak in 1489 to protect Hal from the invader Philip of Cleves. Listen to the stories told in the many stained-glass windows and discover how Hal became a place of pilgrimage thanks to its miraculous Black Madonna. Discover the unique 14th-century statues of apostles and imagine how the priest once addressed his parishioners from the 17th-century baroque pulpit. Visit the Grand-Place, home to the town hall, built in the Renaissance style. A statue of the famous cellist Adrien-François Servais (19th century), a native of Hal, stands in the center of the square. Return to the boat to take the coach for a guided tour of the Boon brewery and a beer tasting session. Discover the story of Franck Boon and the making of a local beer in a small cellar in Halle, determined to revive this rich tradition. Back to the boat.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Good walking shoes are recommended: the visit of the Basilica of Saint Martin and the Grote Markt
  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.

Guided tour of Brussels and touring a chocolate factory

Our visit of the Belgian capital will begin with a panoramic tour to see the famous monuments such as the Royal Palace of Laeken and the Atomium, a building originally constructed for the 1958 Brussels World Fair. We'll then head for the city center to admire the Royal Palace of Brussels - the King's workplace, as well as numerous Art Nouveau style buildings and the European Institutions. The visit will continue on foot to discover the Grand Place and its impressive Gothic town hall dating from the 14th century, as well as the iconic landmark Manneken Pis. We'll stop in a chocolate factory to learn what makes Belgian chocolates so delectable. Of course, we'll enjoy a tasting of these indulgent treats. Afterwards, we'll return to the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Panoramic tour by coach with stops to take pictures.
  • Good walking shoes are recommended: the visit of the old town is on foot and the streets are cobblestoned.
  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.
Ghent

Take a tour of the top sites in the largest city in the East Flanders Province. Follow the footsteps of Charles V and admire the monuments in one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Ghent's city center is a pedestrian's dream—an open-air museum where Flemish architecture accents the indisputable beauty of its medieval heritage. Afterwards, we'll drop by a brewery to knock back a bottle. Ghent's city center was once home to a large number of breweries. Today, breweries have begun to pop up once again. Gruutbeer is the most famous, as they don't use hops to brew their beers; instead, they rely on a mixed of medieval herbs.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Amsterdam tour by riverboat

Departure for a tour of Amsterdam by riverboat. With your guide, we'll glide further into this "Venice of the North” along the renowned Amsterdam canals, providing an ideal vantage point on the city's wonderful architecture. Our tour will take us through the four large canals surrounding the center - the Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Herengracht and Singel canals. The Singel river was transformed into a canal in the 14th century to become part of the city's defensive belt, while the other three were conceived at the beginning of the Golden Age as a means to expand the city. Construction started in 1560 and lasted for more than a hundred years. The historical center is now surrounded by those four canals, parallel to one another. Shaped in half-moons, they follow the sun rays making sure that each and every house gets direct sunlight at some point during the day. When looking at a city map, Amsterdam resembles a half-bicycle wheel. Enjoy some free time in the city. Return on board.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
Antwerp, the Red Star Line Museum and Nottebohm Room

We'll begin our tour of Antwerp this morning at the Grand-Place, surrounded by the elegant facades of ancient halls. We'll stop in front of the Flamboyant-style city hall. Then, we'll head over to the Hendrik Conscience Heritage Library for a visit to one of the country's most prestigious book rooms. We'll visit the Nottebohm Room to learn about the rare historic collection it holds. The room is located in the library's oldest wing and was made into a showroom in 1936. Afterwards, we'll visit the Red Star Line Museum, which traces the saga of the great wave of Europeans emigrating to the USA between 1850 and 1930.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Amsterdam by bike

You'll leave on foot to head to the bike rental office. This guided bike tour will last about 2.5 hours, and you'll be able to explore and learn about all the must-see and out-of-the-way sites in Amsterdam. Enjoy some free time at the Flower Market or at the Albert Cuypmarkt.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Good walking shoes are recommended.
  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.
  • Attention: children are under the responsibility of their parents and must be autonomous by bike.
  • Classic bikes provided (no electric assistance)
  • Helmets are provided on all our cycling tours.
Guided tour of Haarlem

Departure by coach in the company of your guides towards Haarlem.
Known as the "City of Tulips”, Haarlem has for centuries been the main production and export center for tulip bulbs. This charming town has been an inspiration for generations of painters throughout the centuries. We'll discover the Amsterdamse Poort (Amsterdam Gate) built in 1400 and the only vestige from the city's fortifications, the Grote Markt (Main Square), the Corrie Ten Boom House, used as a hiding place during World War II and the impressive Gothic Cathedral of St Bavo dating from the 14th and 15th centuries. In Haarlem, you'll get the chance to see a great number of "beguinages”, with the oldest dating back to 1395. Before heading back to Amsterdam, you will have some free time.

PLEASE NOTE

  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.
Guided tour of Alkmaar

Departure by coach from Volendam or Enkhuizen for the town of Alkmaar.
We'll reach the city center on foot in the company of our guide. Alkmaar is a historical town with over 400 monuments. The Waag (weigh house building), dating from the 14th century, the Town Hall dating from the 16th century, the Grote or Sint-Laurenskerk (St Lawrence church) and a multitude of enclosed courtyards, noteworthy facades and canals all partake in the particular atmosphere of this city. However, Alkmaar is particularly known for its cheese. From the 1st Friday in April to the 1st Friday in September, the traditional cheese market is held every Friday morning from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The traders sell their cheeses using a barter system. The cheese carriers' guild, which has existed for 400 years, transports the cheeses on wooden barrows, after weighing the batches at the weigh house. Inside this building, a guided visit to the Cheese Museum will teach you all about the various steps to making dairy products. You'll discover the beautifully ornate cheese presses and various other implements and tools used to make cheese and butter over the centuries. The first floor houses documentation illustrating how cheese is made today on the farms and dairy factories, as well as this industry's major influence on the Dutch economy.
After some free time, return to the ship for lunch.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Wear sturdy shoes: the streets are cobbled.
  • On Friday, the visit is to the cheese market instead of the museum.
  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.
Excursion to the Keukenhof Gardens

Departure by coach in the company of your hostess towards Keukenhof. Upon arrival, your hostess will give you an entry ticket that will allow you to stroll freely inside this beautiful flower garden extending on 32 hectares (79 acres). You'll be delighted by its wonders, from the enchanting colors and fragrances of the many tulips, narcissus, daffodils and other ornamental bulbs to the orchid pavilion and the Japanese country garden. Do not miss the breathtaking view over the tulip fields from the 1892 windmill located at the back of the garden!
In the 15th century, the garden as we know it today was nothing but hunting grounds where aromatic herbs were grown for the kitchens of the castle belonging to Jacqueline, Countess of Hainaut, hence its current name, "Keukenhof” - "kitchen garden” in English.
Return on board in Amsterdam by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Only on pre-booking.
  • Good walking shoes are recommended.
  • Free visit in the park; open from March 20th to May 11th 2025. The opening dates are subject to change by Keukenhof Flower Park. 
  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.
  • Wheelchairs are available through online booking on the Keukenhof website (passengers will have to use their own credit card).
Guided tour of Bruges and a brewery

We'll leave from Ghent for Bruges (plan on a one-hour trip each way). Its works of art, tranquil ambiance, romantic aura, and stunning architecture make it one of the top places to visit during any European vacation. The city has meticulously preserved the elegance and class it exuded during its golden age as a maritime trade center. Among the sites we'll see are the market square with its medieval belfry, the Provinciaal Hof, and colorful stepped-gabled houses. We'll then visit a brewery for a taste of ale. Located in the historic center of the city, the brewery was founded in 1856. Six generations later, it is a dynamic brewery still attached to its origins and the authentic Brugse Zot. Explore the brewery as the earthy smell of malt and fresh hops permeates the air, while beer is brewed before our eyes. Of course, we'll get to drink a nice glass of ale! We’ll return to the ship in Ghent.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Visiting Delft and its pottery factories

We'll leave by coach with our guides for the city of Delft.
We'll discover this charming city made famous by its blue and white ceramics, Delftware, as well as its connections to the Dutch Royal Family and the renowned painter Johannes Vermeer. We'll stroll through the enchanting city center—where you'll be able to experience a bit of authentic Dutch living: calm canals shaded by trees, petite bridges, and historical buildings. We'll also visit a delft pottery factory in the city (or nearby) where you'll discover the secrets of making this famous imitation porcelain. We'll then head to the Oude Kerk, Nieuwe Kerk, and the Prinsenhof - where William of Orange was assassinated in 1584. Afterwards, we'll travel by coach to Rotterdam. We'll then return on board. 

PLEASE NOTE

  • Good walking shoes are recommended.
  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.
The Hague and its hidden courtyards

We'll leave by coach for The Hague, the seat of the Dutch parliament and one of the most beautiful cities in the country. The Hague is also known as the "Royal City by the Sea,” since the Royal Family enjoys the location for many of their vacations. The Hague counts no less than 155 courtyards, making it the courtyard capital of Holland. Your guide will show you some of the most splendid, including the Hof van Wouw, Hofje van Nieuwkoop and the Hofje Rusthof. We'll also stroll through the Binnenhof, where the House of Representatives meets, the prime minister works and the ministers hold their weekly consultations. It has been the seat of the Dutch government for over 400 years. Our guide will also show us royal monuments, including the Lange Voorhout Palace which houses the Escher Museum. Lastly, we'll pass by the iconic Hotel des Indes, the International Court of Justice, and the Kloosterkerk.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
Excursion to Volendam and Zaanse-Schans

We'll leave by coach with our guide for Volendam, a charming village that has preserved its character for over six centuries thanks to the tough vitality of its fishermen. We'll then visit a cheese factory in the area to discover how the famous Gouda cheese is made. We'll enjoy tasting the different flavors and ages available of one of the most popular cheeses in the world. We'll then head for Zaanse Schans, an open air museum with wooden windmills, barns, and houses. Take a walk through the stunning buildings and the unique peat landscape or watch traditional clog making techniques. Don't miss the small but impressive clog museum that features one of the largest and most attractive collections of wooden shoes in the Netherlands: painted, carved, ice clogs with iron trimmings, horse clogs, and decorative clogs. Take advantage of some free time on this excursion to indulge in authentic Dutch traditions. We'll return to our ship in Amsterdam by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Good walking shoes are recommended: guided visit on foot at Volendam and Zaanse Schans.
  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.
The must-see sites in Brussels

Our tour of the Belgian capital begins with a panoramic view by coach to discover the city's most famous monuments such as Laeken Park and the 1958 World's Fair Atomium landmark. We'll then head to the city center, which is jam-packed with exceptional architecture attesting to its deep history. The Grand-Place is surrounded by extravagant guildhalls, the City Hall, and the Broodhuis museum—listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The magnificent, ornate building exteriors present a harmonious mix of Gothic, classic, and baroque styles. We'll also see the Royal Palace—where the Belgian royal family members carry out their work—the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries, the Sablon neighborhood, and, of course, the famous Manneken Pis. Enjoy some free time to have a bite of some local specialties, including chocolate, waffles, fries, and much more.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Biking on the Polders

Take a bike tour of Hoorn and its surroundings. Located on the banks of the Ijsselmeer, Hoorn was one of the important Dutch East India Company towns in 17th-century Holland. Hundreds of merchant ships left Hoorn to sail across the world and return loaded with merchandise, especially spices such as peppercorn, nutmeg, clove and mace. Our guide will explain the city's celebrated past in detail. The outskirts of Hoorn itself are dotted with biking and hiking paths that cross the superb polders, following the river dykes and passing by old villages and the ancient Westfriese Omringdijk—an almost 800-year-old dyke. The Beemster polder, the first in the Netherlands and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a masterpiece of creative planning and a superb example of the conflict the inhabitants have waged with water in this area. You'll get to see old windmills.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Good walking shoes are recommended.
  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.
  • Attention: children are under the responsibility of their parents and must be autonomous by bike.
  • Helmets are provided on all our cycling tours.
Guided tour of Giethoorn

Imagine a town straight out of a fairytale with no pollution nor cars to be found: this is Giethoorn.

We’ll leave from Lemmer by coach to reach Giethoorn, a charming lakeside town.

Located inside the Weeribben-Wieden National Park–part of the Overijssel province, lovely canals intertwine among a lush flora and 17th-to-18th century thatched farmhouses built on peat islets connected to each other by more than 170 wooden bridges. This idyllic setting is best discovered on foot or by boat.

Our trip will take us on a one-hour boat ride along the canals for an original discovery of this typical village. You'll be enchanted by the beautiful scenery of this town by the water and the welcoming spirit that suffuses the air. Before heading back to Lemmer, you will have some free time to wander about the humpback bridges or small footbridges spanning the canals.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Good walking shoes are recommended.
  • The town can only be visited on foot or by boat.
  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.
Antwerp, its historic center, and the Het Steen fortress

The oldest building in the city sits on the banks of the Scheldt River. The medieval fortress Het Steen was built between 1200 and 1225 to defend and protect the inhabitants from invaders. Today, it houses a multimedia exhibition called The Antwerp Story, which traces the city through time in a surprising and innovative fashion. Travel from century to century as you traverse the rooms. Discover the tales, hidden secrets, and historic sites in the surprising city of Antwerp. The fortress roof offers an uncluttered view of the river, city, and the second-largest shipping port in Europe. After this immersive intro, we'll head over to the historic center and Grand-Place. The city hall—listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—is, without a doubt, the most remarkable building. Richly decorated guildhalls line the edges of the Grand-Place. The square's center contains the eclectic Brabo Fountain. The stunning Gothic masterpiece—the Cathedral of Our Lady and its single belfry—has dominated the horizon for over five centuries.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.
Gouda Cheese and Crafts Museum

We’ll leave on foot for the Goudse Waag, a museum located in a 1668 building designed by architect Pieter Post. The ground floor was formerly used to weigh cheese. Today, it has been transformed into the Cheese and Crafts Museum—where you can learn about the building’s history, the products once traded here, and how Gouda cheese is made. After our tour, we’ll return to the ship on foot.

PLEASE NOTE

  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.
Brussels, the Comic Strip capital

Did you know that Brussels claims to have the largest number of comic book authors per square mile? In honor of their artists, the city has decorated its walls with its well-known authors and characters. We'll set out on an urban hike to spot the murals that include Tintin, Gaston Lagaffe, Lucky Luke, Astérix, Corto Maltese, and many others. We'll find other affirmations along the way, such as street signs and statues referencing the "9th Art." Then, dive into the world of comics at the Belgian Comic Strip Center—a marvelous universe where comics are in the limelight. Inaugurated in 1989, the center houses permanent and temporary exhibits focusing on European comics and their progression.

PLEASE NOTE

  • Times are approximate.
  • The order of the visits can change.