There are several river cruises that sail the Dutch and Belgian waterways, offering the opportunity to explore the historic cities, picturesque towns, and scenic countryside of these low-lying countries. Discover Old World enchantment and modern delights on a cruise along the Dutch and Belgian waterways. Each spring these waterways come alive with millions of vibrant, blooming flowers, and cruises that traverse this extensive system of rivers and canals explore unique, picturesque landscapes and historic waterfront towns. Cruises on these canals and tributaries begin and end in cosmopolitan Amsterdam, where you can visit the Anne Frank House or enjoy the works of Rubens, Rembrandt and Van Gogh at the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Marvel at superb architecture in trendy Antwerp, one of the world's most ancient seaports, or wander the cobblestone streets and beautiful canals of Bruges, one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities

Here are a few examples of river cruises that sail the Dutch and Belgian waterways, and some of the highlights of cruising this scenic region:

AmaWaterways:
AmaWaterways offers a "Tulip Time" cruise that explores the springtime beauty of the Dutch and Belgian waterways. This cruise sails round-trip from Amsterdam, stopping at cities such as Rotterdam, Ghent, and Bruges. Onboard, passengers can attend guided tours of tulip fields and gardens, as well as explore the historic cities and towns of the region.

Viking River Cruises:
Viking offers a "Holland and Belgium at Tulip Time" cruise that explores the tulip fields and cultural highlights of the region. This cruise sails round-trip from Amsterdam, stopping at cities such as Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Ghent. Onboard, passengers can attend lectures and demonstrations about Dutch and Belgian culture, as well as enjoy guided tours of historic sites and scenic countryside.

CroisiEurope:
CroisiEurope offers a "Tulip Cruise" that explores the tulip fields and gardens of the Netherlands. This cruise sails from Amsterdam to Rotterdam, stopping at cities such as Gouda and Utrecht. Onboard, passengers can attend lectures and demonstrations about tulip cultivation and gardening, as well as guided tours of tulip fields and gardens.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection:
Uniworld offers a "Brussels to Amsterdam" cruise that explores the cultural highlights of Belgium and the Netherlands. This cruise sails from Brussels to Amsterdam, stopping at cities such as Antwerp, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. Onboard, passengers can attend cultural performances, wine tastings, and guided tours of historic sites.

Some of the highlights of cruising the Dutch and Belgian waterways include:

• Historic cities and sites: The Dutch and Belgian waterways are home to many historic cities, such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Bruges, as well as many historic sites and landmarks, such as the Anne Frank House and the Atomium.
• Scenic beauty: The Dutch and Belgian waterways are also known for their picturesque towns, scenic countryside, and charming canals.
• Gourmet cuisine: The region is also known for its delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood, Belgian chocolate, and Dutch cheeses.
• Tulip fields and gardens: In the spring, the Dutch and Belgian waterways are ablaze with colorful tulip fields and gardens, offering the opportunity to see this iconic flower in all its glory.
• Sights along the Schelde, Waal, Nederrun and Rhine Rivers have inspired artists dating back to the Dutch Masters.
• See whimsical windmills in Kinderdijk and learn about the region's impressive maritime history in Enkhuizen and Hoorn.
• A highlight of any cruise is a visit to famed Keukenhof Gardens, home to seven million colorful flowers.
• Along the way, enjoy local specialties like Dutch cheeses or Belgian waffles and chocolates.

These are just a few of the highlights of cruising the Dutch and Belgian waterways. It's worth noting that the specific experiences and activities offered may vary from one cruise to another, so it's important to research the itinerary and activities of any river cruise to determine if it aligns with your interests.

.A cruise on the Dutch and Belgian waterways is a relaxing way to explore the cultural treasures of the Region. Riverboats often dock in the center of town, meaning the best sights are never far away. And with your stateroom, meals, entertainment and sightseeing excursions included in the upfront price, these trips are also easy to budget.