Netherlands cruises

Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ lively capital, famous for its historic canals and art museums. Cruising into the city reveals a network of waterways lined with tall, narrow houses with ornate gables, a hallmark of Dutch Golden Age architecture. The city’s past as a busy trading city can be seen in its harbour and historic buildings.Exploring on foot or by bike, visitors can check out world-class museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, alongside the poignant Anne Frank House. The city’s compact centre makes it easy to wander through charming neighbourhoods like Jordaan with its boutique shops, cafés and galleries.Despite its popularity, Amsterdam maintains a relaxed vibe with leafy canals and parks offering a peaceful break from the busy centre.

Often overlooked in favour of Amsterdam, Rotterdam is long overdue its flowers. Many now consider it the Netherlands' hippest city. Bombed heavily during World War II, it has spent the decades since reinventing itself as one of Europe's most compelling centres of modern architecture. Highlights include the playful Cube Houses by visionary architect Piet Blom and the 'Horn of Plenty', a swirling digital artwork across the ceiling of the Markthal. Take in sweeping views of the city from Euromast Tower before exploring the city's maritime roots at the excellent Maritime Museums. 

At this idyllic UNESCO World Heritage Site, you can see 19 authentic windmills set against the pancake-flat yet picturesque landscape. A hallmark of Dutch culture, these ingenious structures long played a crucial role in keeping the surrounding land (relatively) dry, acting as part of an innovative and highly effective water management system. While some of the windmills are still inhabited to this day, two are open to visitors, offering a glimpse into the lives of the millers who have operated them throughout history. 

Discover a Dutch Golden Age town steeped in history and charm. Within its old ramparts, you'll find 361 monuments, alongside cobbled streets, independent shops and laid-back cafés. Don't miss the open-air Zuiderzee Museum, which brings the region's maritime past to life through hands-on exhibits. The surrounding area is laced with picturesque cycling routes, while summer sees the town come alive with its much-loved annual jazz festival. 

Hoorn has plenty to please cruisers of all kinds. If you're in the mood for a scenic harbour-side stroll followed by a leisurely lunch in a sun-dappled square, this laid-back town sets the pace. Prefer something more active? Join a guided cycling tour through the surrounding countryside and take in wide horizons and pastoral scenes. Museum lovers have lots to enjoy, too. Options range from a family-friendly steam tram museum to the Museum of the 20th Century, great for a nostalgic deep-dive into daily life in the recent past. 

The capital of Zeeland has plenty to recommend it. During the Dutch Golden Age, Middelburg was a hub of maritime trade and innovation, and echoes of that prosperous past are still easy to spot. Wander its cobbled lanes to discover more than a thousand listed buildings and monuments, from its medieval abbey to the imposing town hall. Round off your day in port by treating yourself to some of the town's celebrated seafood or even a tour of a nearby oyster farm. 

Discover one of Europe's greenest cities, often considered the gateway to Veluwezoom National Park. Arnhem makes an excellent base for an afternoon of countryside cycling, with scenic bike paths just beyond the city limits. History enthusiasts will also find plenty to explore, particularly the legacy of the 1944 Battle of Arnhem, which inspired the war epic A Bridge Too Far. The Netherlands Open Air Museum is also of interest, especially in summer, for those sailing with children in tow. 

Discover the oldest city in the Netherlands, known for its distinctly youthful vibe. Set on the banks of the Waal, Nijmegen's history stretches back to Roman times, and there's plenty to explore. Museum de Bastei is especially intriguing, with secret passageways and even an ancient mammoth skull on display. Or take things at a more relaxed pace. Spend your time in port strolling through the Grote Markt and sipping wine from a local vineyard.