Amsterdam, Netherlands
An inviting city of tree-shaded canals, arched bridges, colorful flower stalls, 17th- and 18th-century buildings and a treasury of museums, including the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum, whose collection of Rembrandts and other Dutch masters is world famous. Amsterdam is a major air gateway for northern Europe and a convenient base for exploring the rest of Holland.
Arnhem, Netherlands
Immortalized in the World War II book and film, "A Bridge Too Far," Arnhem is known for its beautiful parks and gardens. Stroll the charming pedestrian mall within walking distance of the ship. The Kröller-Müller museum in nearby De Hoge Veluwe National Park offers a magnificent art collection of 280 Van Gogh paintings and drawings, among other priceless works by late 19th and early 20th century artists.
Delft, Netherlands
Delft has a delightful little harbor. The city tour ends at Willemsplein landing stage, which is also the departure point for the world's largest harbor.
Dordrecht, Netherlands
Ancient Dordrecht sits picturesquely between two branches of the Rhine, and was the inspiration for many painters in the 17th & 18th centuries. Attractive Voorstraats Haven, the main canal, winds through the town's center, and the main shopping street, lined with handsome houses and tiny shops, follows along its banks.
Edam, Netherlands
Famous for its wonderful cheese, this charming city has an enchanting quality with its narrow canals, wooden bridges, its historic Weigh House and a museum with a floating cellar in the form of a boat.
Enkhuizen, Netherlands
A beautifully preserved village with cobblestone streets and a rich maritime past, Enkhuizen retains its ramparts, harbor, and many beautiful Dutch buildings. Visit the exceptional Zuider Zee Open Air Museum, a detailed replica of an old Dutch harbor town between 1880-1932.
Harlingen, Netherlands
This bustling port, known for its 16th-18th century houses, serves as a quaint introduction to the lush farming province of Friesland and its beautiful Lake District. This part of Holland, heavily influenced in the past by its Germanic neighbors, has its own anthem, flag, and language. Wide pastures dotted with ancient windmills and black-and-white Fresian cattle evoke another age. Enjoy the beauty of this unique region as you explore the lively little towns along the way.
Hoorn, Netherlands
Old Dutch sailing ships and pleasure craft have replaced the fishing boats of yesteryear. This picturesque harbor was headquarters for the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century. The town's seafaring history is displayed in the Westfries Museum housed in the impressively ornate State Council building. The tip of South America, Cape Horn, was named after a Dutch explorer who lived in this city.
Kampen, Netherlands
Chartered in 1230, this provincial Dutch town was once an important Hanseatic city. It retains a medieval atmosphere with its protective towers and turrets alongside the river. Located near the mouth of the River Ijssel, traditional Dutch sailing ships can be seen along the quayside, and the 14th century old town gates have been preserved.
Maastricht, Netherlands
Known as the "Paris of the Benelux" for its charm and elegance, this city was founded in the dawn of Christianity by Roman legions in search of a place to bridge the river. The city's remarkably preserved fortifications churches, chateaux, and canals trace the emergence of civilization in the 11th century.
Rotterdam, Netherlands
The world's largest port, in terms of goods handled, and a streamlined, prosperous city that was almost completely rebuilt after World War II. The rebirth is symbolized by the sleek Euromast, which rises 600 feet above city and harbour. A magnificent art collection, with masterpieces from every school, is in the Boymans-Van Beuningen Museum.
Volendam, Netherlands
You'll love this charming old fishing port with its wealth of little shops, bakeries and typically Dutch handicrafts. The local people still dress in traditional costumes - baggy woolen trousers for men, and for women, flowered dresses, striped pinafores and the famous winged lace cap (on Sundays and holidays).
