See the iconic sights of Belgium and Holland
There is no better way to explore the cultural and scenic attractions of the Netherlands and Belgium than on a river cruise.
There’s an extensive network of waterways and man-made canals criss-crossing large areas of Holland and Belgium, which enable you to explore the unique countryside, as well as a host of towns and cities, by boat. The inland waterways of the Netherlands also provide a link to Amsterdam.
Our holidays in Dutch and Belgian River Cruises
We offer a variety of excursions…
Step ashore and immerse yourself in these unique river cruise experiences.
A tour of Alkmaar and visit to the traditional cheese market
Join a guided walk to the heart of the city, observing the architectural highlights pointed out by your local guide. See several churches and museums, along with the city’s windmill and network of canals. Then, visit the Dutch Cheese Museum, founded in Alkmaar in 1983. Located in the historic Waaggebouw, overlooking the cheese market, the museum documents the history of cheese making, production methods and the cheese trade. You will also be able to experience the traditional Alkmaar Cheese Market at its most authentic, with bartering traders and farmers negotiating the prices of cheese in a ritual that has been taking place here since 1365.
Canal cruise in Giethoorn
Travel by coach to the car-free village of Giethoorn, where you a canal cruiser for a tour by water. Admire 18th and 19th-century farmhouses nestled between the trees and wooden bridges during a leisurely cruise. You will also learn about daily life in Giethoorn as you are guided by a local skipper. Afterwards, you can enjoy some coffee and cake.
See the Kinderdijk Windmills
Although windmills are slowly disappearing from the Dutch landscape, Kinderdijk boasts the largest collection within the Netherlands – totalling up to 19 with many still in working order. Enter the Kinderdijk Theatre, located in the Wisboom pumphouse, and watch a short film explaining the story of Kinderdijk and the history behind this windmill site. Take a tour inside a working mill and browse the exhibits of the museum inside.
Visit to Keukenhof Gardens
Travel from your ship by coach to Keukenhof Gardens. Regarded by many as 'the most beautiful spring garden in the world', Keukenhof is in bloom from late March to early May, as every autumn a dedicated team plants over seven million spring flowering bulbs to create a striking display. Explore at leisure, following paths lined with flowers. The sculptures and statues create an interesting contrast against the floral backdrop. You may even pick up some design ideas for your garden back home!
Why choose a Saga river cruise?
You can enjoy all-inclusive local drinks and dining on board, as well as on-board gratuities, Wi-Fi and travel insurance. We will even get you to and from the ship with our included return UK travel service. Plus, our ships are always exclusive to Saga guests.
Return UK travel service included on all river cruises
Our popular return UK travel service is the perfect way to get your trip on one of our Saga river cruise ships off to a great start, and it's included on all our river cruises.
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