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Netherlands River Cruises March 2021

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Netherlands Travel Guide

Discover the charm of the Netherlands through a relaxing river cruise. This journey takes you through a country renowned for its picturesque canals, historic windmills, and vibrant tulip fields. The Netherlands is a place where history and modernity meet. You'll sail through cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam, where historic architecture stands alongside cutting-edge design. Along the way, the serene Dutch countryside offers a peaceful backdrop, with quaint villages and sprawling fields. The Netherlands also boasts a rich artistic heritage, with museums dedicated to famous Dutch painters like Van Gogh and Rembrandt. A river cruise here is not just a trip; it's an immersion into the heart of Dutch culture, history, and natural beauty. With river cruise volume buys plus our low everyday prices you can save up to 50% versus the brochure price! Book your Netherlands river cruise today with AffordableTours.com, your discounted river cruise headquarters.

Netherlands Travel Guide
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Showing 1 - 40 River Cruises

Sail Date Operator Ship Departs Returns Length Price
Mar 21, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaSerenaAmsterdamAmsterdam8$3,099
Mar 21, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaSerenaAmsterdamAmsterdam8$3,099
Mar 22, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaLuciaAmsterdamAmsterdam10$3,849
Mar 22, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaLuciaAmsterdamAmsterdam10$3,849
Mar 23, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaMoraAmsterdamAmsterdam10$3,949
Mar 23, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaPrimaZurichAmsterdam12$4,879
Mar 23, 2024UniworldSS AntoinetteAmsterdamBasel8$3,399
Mar 23, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaMoraAmsterdamAmsterdam10$3,949
Mar 24, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaLuciaAmsterdamAmsterdam8$3,099
Mar 24, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaLuciaAmsterdamAmsterdam8$3,099
Mar 24, 2024VikingViking HermodAvignonAmsterdam15$5,799
Mar 24, 2024UniworldSS VictoriaBrusselsAmsterdam8$6,999
Mar 24, 2024VikingViking EinarAmsterdamAmsterdam10$4,199
Mar 25, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaCertoAmsterdamAmsterdam10$3,949
Mar 25, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaMoraAmsterdamAmsterdam8$3,199
Mar 25, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaCertoAmsterdamAmsterdam10$3,949
Mar 25, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaMoraAmsterdamAmsterdam8$3,199
Mar 26, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaSerenaAmsterdamAmsterdam10$3,949
Mar 26, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaSienaAmsterdamZurich14$5,629
Mar 26, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaSerenaAmsterdamAmsterdam10$3,949
Mar 26, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaSienaAmsterdamZurich14$5,629
Mar 26, 2024VikingViking SigynAmsterdamBasel8$6,799
Mar 26, 2024VikingViking FreyaBaselAmsterdam8$5,799
Mar 26, 2024UniworldRiver QueenAmsterdamAntwerp10$4,999
Mar 26, 2024VikingViking SigrunAmsterdamAmsterdam10$3,599
Mar 27, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaCertoAmsterdamAmsterdam8$3,199
Mar 27, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaPrimaBaselAmsterdam8$3,199
Mar 27, 2024ScenicScenic JewelBudapestAmsterdam15$21,890
Mar 27, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaCertoAmsterdamAmsterdam8$3,199
Mar 27, 2024VikingViking VidarBudapestAmsterdam15$5,599
Mar 28, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaSerenaAmsterdamAmsterdam8$3,199
Mar 28, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaSienaAmsterdamBasel8$3,199
Mar 28, 2024UniworldRiver PrincessAntwerpAmsterdam10$4,999
Mar 28, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaSerenaAmsterdamAmsterdam8$3,199
Mar 28, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaSienaAmsterdamBasel8$3,199
Mar 29, 2024Avalon WaterwaysPanoramaAmsterdamAmsterdam9$3,558
Mar 29, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaLuciaAmsterdamAmsterdam10$3,949
Mar 29, 2024AmaWaterwaysAmaLuciaAmsterdamAmsterdam10$3,949
Mar 29, 2024VikingViking ViliAmsterdamBudapest15$5,999
Mar 30, 2024Avalon WaterwaysPanoramaAmsterdamAmsterdam8$3,199

Netherlands Travel Guide

Netherlands River Cruises Highlights

  • Amsterdam: Amsterdam, the capital city, is a blend of history and modernity. Key attractions include the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and a cruise through the iconic canals.
  • Anne Frank House, Amsterdam: Visit the historic house where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II, now a museum.
  • Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam: Explore the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh's artworks.
  • Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam: This national museum houses a vast collection of art and historical artifacts, including works by Rembrandt.
  • Utrecht: Utrecht's medieval city center, with its Dom Tower and charming canals, offers a quieter but equally enriching experience.
  • Rotterdam: Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Highlights include the Cube Houses and the bustling Markthal.
  • Kinderdijk Windmills: A UNESCO World Heritage site, these windmills are an iconic symbol of Dutch water management.
  • Delft: Known for its historic town center and blue pottery, Delft is a charming stop with a rich artistic heritage.

Netherlands River Cruises Travel Tips

  • Make sure to bring a translation guide with you, or use google translate to be able to converse with the locals, though many of them might know English.
  • The currency in the Netherlands is the Euro. While credit cards are widely accepted, carrying some cash is useful for small purchases, especially in smaller towns and markets.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the cities and countryside.
  • There is a lot to do in the area, so be aware of the time you have and try to plan ahead if possible. 
  • The weather in the Netherlands can be variable, so it's a good idea to bring layers, including a waterproof jacket for rainy days.
  • Tulip season is actually pretty short. It is only around 6 to 8 weeks and it changes time every year, so you might not be able to pinpoint when this will happen.

Netherlands River Cruises Things To Do

  • Anne Frank Museum in Amsterdam
    Anne Frank Museum in Amsterdam

    This is one of the biggest and most talked-about places to visit while in the Netherlands. You can walk through the entire trail she went through when you are in the same place she was raised, and also where she hid. Everyone is welcome to come out. With statues, pieces of her past, and more are sitting almost untouched.   

    Best Time To Visit

    The best time to come and see this attraction is when it is a bit chilly outside, and even if it is raining. The museum is inside, so you don't have to worry about the outside elements.   

     

    You Should Know

    It is recommended that you purchase tickets for this ahead of time. This way, you can skip the lines and go right in. Live in the moment, and make sure to take in all of the sights, sounds, and scents of this area. Take a tour with a guide and ask questions if you have them. This is a great time to learn.
  • De Bijenkorf
    De Bijenkorf

    The most famous department store since 1870, it continues to stand and provide shoppers with many things to purchase. There are also daily open air-markets right outside the square. You can make a whole day out of shopping and looking at all of the items that each place is offering. With a little bit of everything, you will be surprised at what you might find.   

    Best Time To Visit

    The best time to see this is when it is warmer outside, and it is not raining. The open-air markets are best when you don't have to hide from the rain or the cold weather.  

     

    You Should Know

    The Flower Market is one of the best places to shop if you are headed out this way. The Nine Streets is also a place that has many things for you to shop through and look at.
  • Red Light District
    Red Light District

    This is the best place to get cannabis-inspired goods. This is also where you can find all sorts of after-hours places, drinks, and entertainment of all kinds. De Wallen is one of the largest and best districts of alleys that provide a lot of different entertainment pieces. You can choose where to go from here.  

    Best Time To Visit

    The best time is during the night time or twilight hours. This is a great thing to think about because you can see and do more during these hours as compared to the daytime.  

    You Should Know

    This is definitely a place where you don't want to bring children because it is known as the sex district. It is one of the places that is talked about the most in movies and in videos, so it might be worth checking out. Prostitution is legal and regulated in this area, so this is important to think about.
  • Street Markets for Delicious Food
    Street Markets for Delicious Food

    These street markets have the best street foods to try while you walk through the area. You cannot go wrong when you are eating some of the local cuisines. Try the herring sandwiches, stroopwafels that are filled with honey and syrup, fries with mayonnaise, bitterballen, and stamppot.   

    Best Time To Visit

    The weather should be clear, but it can be any temperature for you to make sure to get something delicious. The market is outside, so if it is raining, it can be hard to walk through the streets.  

     

    You Should Know

    You can purchase one of each of the dishes and share them with the person you are with, so you can sample a little bit of everything. Heineken provides a full-on experience, so make sure to check out the shop that provides this.
  • Van Gogh Museum
    Van Gogh Museum

    The Van Gogh Museum is a place that many people do not realize is located in the Netherlands. You can find that many of the original photos of his are hanging in this museum. It is known as the world's largest collection of his paintings, so even if you are not into art, it is definitely a piece of history.  

    Best Time To Visit

    You should visit when it is chilly and raining outside since it is mostly inside. You can hide from the weather and walk around the nicely built museum.   

     

    You Should Know

    Some of the paintings that are shown in this museum are Potato Eaters and Sunflowers. You can purchase tickets ahead of time, so you don't have to purchase them while you are there.
  • Canals of Amsterdam
    Canals of Amsterdam

    This is one of the most beautiful places to visit when you are in the Netherlands. You can walk the bridges, or you can rent a boat taxi or another type of small paddle boat and go down the canals on the water itself. For those who want to take in the best of the Netherlands, these canals are where you want to find yourself visiting.   

    Best Time To Visit

    If you go during the bloom season, it is not only warmer, but the flowers make the canals that much prettier.   

     

    You Should Know

    Many think that they can only go on the water, or on the bridges but you can do both or either. This is a great choice of things to do when you don't want to spend money on activities or things to do.
  • Zaanse Schans
    Zaanse Schans

    Do you want to know what the Netherlands in the past looks and feels like? Visiting Zaanse Schans is the best thing to do when you want a piece of history. Set back in the 17th and 18th centuries, you can walk through the villages and see the ancient craftsmen work around every corner. The factory, grocery store, shipyard, and more are all still there and you can walk through them.  

    Best Time To Visit

    The best time to see this attraction is when the weather is mild, and it is best if it is not pouring, but a bit of rain is okay.  

     

    You Should Know

    Bring a rain jacket and an umbrella with you if you are going to walk through the towns because it might rain. There are around 600 windmills in the area that you can see dotting the lines of the hills ahead. They do live demonstrations at the mills in the area if you are there during those times. They are interesting to see.
  • Rijksmuseum
    Rijksmuseum

    This entire castle is filled with antiques, art pieces, and more history than you will find in any other museum. This makes it a great place to find yourself spending some downtime. You can walk through the halls on your own, or you can opt to have a guide bring you through and talk you through what you see.   

    Best Time To Visit

    You should visit when it is a bit cooler and even when it is raining. You won't have to deal with the outside elements during this time.  

     

    You Should Know

    The library here is full of books, with over 35,000 of them and many of them dating back to the 18th century and beyond. There are over 250 rooms, so make sure to plan to spend plenty of time inside this museum. Over 7 million items are on display but you have to be careful not to touch or break anything.

Netherlands River Cruise Packages

  • Getting There

    Starting your Netherlands river cruise adventure is easy and accessible. Major cruise lines typically begin their journeys in Amsterdam, the capital city known for its extensive canal network. Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport is one of Europe's largest, offering flights from numerous international destinations. From the airport, it's a short journey to the city's cruise ports, which are well-equipped and conveniently located. The Netherlands' efficient public transport system makes it easy to reach the port if you're already in Europe. The country's flat landscape and interconnected waterways ensure a smooth and scenic start to your river cruise.

  • The Perfect Time for a Netherlands River Cruise

    A river cruise in the Netherlands provides a wonderful opportunity to experience the country's unique charm, with the timing of your journey playing a crucial role. The period from April to October is considered the best time for a river cruise in the Netherlands, offering pleasant weather that enhances the enjoyment of outdoor sights and activities along the river.

    Spring, particularly in April and May, is a highlight of the Dutch cruising calendar. During these months, the Netherlands' famous tulip fields are in spectacular bloom, offering a breathtaking display of colors. The mild weather during this time is ideal for leisurely strolls through vibrant cities and picturesque countryside, making it a perfect time for river cruising.

    The summer months, from June to August, bring warmer temperatures and longer days, allowing ample time for exploration and enjoyment of the Dutch landscapes and cultural offerings. However, summer is also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for a more bustling atmosphere, especially in popular cities like Amsterdam.

    Autumn, encompassing September and October, ushers in cooler weather and a more tranquil cruising experience with fewer tourists. This season is an excellent time to witness the changing colors of the landscapes and to participate in local harvest festivals, adding a unique cultural dimension to your river cruise.

    Each season offers its own distinct flavor for a river cruise in the Netherlands, from the vibrant tulip displays of spring to the more relaxed and picturesque autumn. Whether you prefer the lively atmosphere of summer or the quieter charm of the shoulder seasons, a Netherlands river cruise promises an unforgettable experience.

  • Experience the Flavors of the Netherlands

    The Netherlands offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of flavors to explore. Dutch cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes. A must-try is "Stamppot," a traditional dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables, often served with smoked sausage. "Poffertjes," small fluffy pancakes, are a delicious treat, especially when dusted with powdered sugar and a dollop of butter.

    Seafood lovers should try "Haring," raw herring usually served with onions and pickles. For cheese enthusiasts, the Netherlands is a paradise. Gouda and Edam are just two of the famous cheeses that originate here. Pair these with a local beer or a glass of Jenever, a traditional Dutch spirit.

    For dining, explore the local "eetcafes" (eat cafes) or street food markets where you can sample various Dutch specialties. Don't miss the chance to visit a cheese market in towns like Gouda or Alkmaar to see cheese trading in action and to sample the local produce.

    The Netherlands' culinary scene offers a mix of traditional flavors and modern cuisine, ensuring that every meal adds to the richness of your travel experience.

  • Immerse Yourself in Dutch Culture

    Dutch culture is renowned for its rich history, vibrant art scene, and open-mindedness. In the Netherlands, you'll find a society that values tolerance, innovation, and a deep respect for freedom and individual rights. The Dutch are known for their straightforward communication style, often seen as direct but honest.

    Festivals play a big role in Dutch culture. One of the most famous is King's Day (Koningsdag), celebrated on April 27th, when streets burst into orange, the national color, with music, flea markets, and festivities. Another significant event is the Tulip Festival, showcasing the country's iconic flower in a riot of colors.

    Art and history are deeply ingrained in Dutch culture, with the country being home to famous painters like Van Gogh and Rembrandt. Museums across the country showcase this rich artistic heritage.

    Lastly, the Netherlands' unique relationship with water is evident in its well-designed canal systems, historic windmills, and ongoing innovation in water management, reflecting a culture that's both respectful of nature and forward-thinking in its approach to environmental challenges.

  • Why Book a Netherlands River Cruise?

    A Netherlands river cruise is an excellent way to explore this unique European country. One of the main advantages is the ease and convenience it offers. You can see multiple destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking at each stop. The cruise provides a comfortable base from which to explore the picturesque Dutch landscapes, historic cities, and cultural sites.

    Another benefit is exclusive access to certain areas and experiences. Some cruises offer special tours, private museum access, or behind-the-scenes looks at Dutch landmarks, which aren't available to the general public.

    The value for money is also a significant advantage. Most cruises include accommodations, meals, and guided tours in the price, making it a cost-effective way to travel. Additionally, the unique perspective from the waterways offers stunning views of the Dutch countryside, historic windmills, and charming townscapes that you can't get from land travel.

    Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or just enjoy scenic landscapes, a Netherlands river cruise offers a diverse and enriching experience. It's a relaxing, convenient, and comprehensive way to explore the heart of the Netherlands.

  • Ready to Book Your Netherlands River Cruise?

    Are you looking for a unique way to explore the heart of the Netherlands? A river cruise through this beautiful country offers just that. Picture yourself gliding through serene waterways, passing by traditional windmills, vibrant tulip fields, and historic cities. The Netherlands is a blend of scenic beauty, rich history, and modern innovation. On a river cruise, you'll experience the charm of Dutch life, from the bustling streets of Amsterdam to the peaceful countryside. You'll also enjoy the convenience of having your travel, accommodations, and meals all in one place, making it a relaxing way to see the sights. Whether you're interested in art history or just soaking in the picturesque landscapes, a Netherlands river cruise is an adventure you won't want to miss.

    So, why wait? Book your journey today and set sail on an unforgettable exploration of Dutch culture and beauty.

Netherlands River Cruises Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a Netherlands River Cruise?

    A Netherlands river cruise is a cruise that provides a trip down the rivers that flow throughout the Netherlands. You will stop at a number of places including Amsterdam and Holland. They are generally weeklong, but you can find that they might last a bit longer depending on what you want out of the cruise. You can personalize the cruise experience.

  • What’s Included on a Netherlands River Cruise?

    The river cruise includes your hotel stay, as well as food and other items that you can make use of when you are on the boat. Arrival and departure transfers, gratuities, and gala dinners are also included in the cruise amount. Those excursions and activities off the ship are usually not included, but many activities on the ship are.

  • What’s the Best River Cruise for a Netherlands River Cruise?

    There are many considerations to think about when choosing which cruise line to use. How long you want to be gone, where you want to stop, and more should all be looked into. Some people recommend Viking River Cruises and Avalon Waterways.

  • How Much Does a Netherlands River Cruise Cost?

    The cruises can range in price depending on where they go through, how long they are, and more. You will want to shop around and see when you can grab the best price for cruising. They start at $2,299 and move up from there. You can get cruises as high as $6,999. 

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