Balmoral, Netherlands & Belgium City Break ex Southampton Return
- Departs Southampton, England
- 13th Nov 2020
- 5 nights
- Balmoral
-
Prices from
NZ$1,180*
5 Night Cruise sailing from Southampton roundtrip aboard Balmoral.
Epitomising the benefits of a Fred. Olsen city break, this short, yet rewarding cruise affords time to explore a trio of Dutch and Belgian cities in-depth and relax on board smaller, friendlier Balmoral. In just five nights, you’ll uncover contrasting architectural wonders, famous canals, sparkling diamonds and much more ashore, and enjoy scenic river cruising too.
A navigation of the peaceful Nieuwe Maas kicks-off two days of discovery in the Netherlands, passing through changing scenes of pretty countryside and fascinating industrial zones, en route to Rotterdam. The imposing Erasmusbrug Bridge hints at the type of futuristic attractions found within Rotterdam’s heart, renowned for its hypermodern architecture and landmarks, galleries and museums. Particular highlights are the Central Station, the mighty Markthal and the curious Cube Houses. Continuing on to the Dutch capital, the world-famous sights and highlights of Amsterdam also await. With a day to explore you could take advantage of the opportunity to visit Anne Frank House, immerse yourself in this effervescent city’s arts and culture at the Museum Quarter, and see the grand mansions of the UNESCO-listed Canal Ring. Alternatively, you might be tempted take the weight off your feet and see the city from a different perspective – a boat tour of Amsterdam’s iconic canals, passing underneath low bridges and through charming districts, is an unforgettable way to take in the sights.
Soon after departing Amsterdam via the North Sea Canal, your city break concludes with an extended stay in Belgium’s sparkling second city, Antwerp. With ample time to uncover Antwerp’s gems at your own pace, you can take in some of the city’s most prized possessions with ease: The main square, Grote Markt, with its intricate 16th century guildhouses, and the mighty Cathedral of our Lady are on a seemingly endless list of must-visit sites. You’re sure to be drawn in by the legendary Diamond District, where some of the world’s finest and most expensive diamonds are on display. There’s opportunities to indulge with Antwerp’s authentic flavours too: perhaps satisfy your sweet tooth with traditional Belgian chocolates – hand crafted by artisan chocolatiers – by day; and in the evening, sample some of Belgium’s best brews on an enlightening beer tour.
Highlights of this cruise:
Rotterdam, Netherlands
Innovative and inspiring nicely sums up Rotterdam, the major port city in the Dutch province of South Holland. The Netherlands' second largest city has a diverse community, a captivating maritime history, and an abundance of excellent museums.
The city is like an exhibition of futuristic architecture, an achievement made even more remarkable given Rotterdam was literally razed to the ground during World War II. The north side of the city is easy to discover on foot. The Maritime Museum has vintage ships and exhibits that trace the city's seafaring history, while the Pilgrim Fathers Church is the site where pilgrims worshipped before embarking for America.
The rapid expansion of Rotterdam’s art scene, and the surge of quality dining and drinking venues make the port one of Europe's most exciting cities. The 17th century Delfshaven neighbourhood is home to canal side boutiques and shopping, and is one area of Rotterdam that still offers an impression of what the city looked like before the bombings.
Split by the imposing Nieuwe Maas shipping channel, the city is crossed by a collection of tunnels and bridges, notably the dramatic Erasmusbrug – nick-named “the swan”. The innovative Cube Houses, tilted at 45 degrees, are a quirky discovery, as is the Schouwburgplein square. The renowned Blijdorp Zoological Garden, is also worth a visit.
Antwerp, Belgium
Belgium’s charming, medieval city of Antwerp is the country’s biggest port and often recognised as its capital of cool. It has proved an alluring city for centuries, attracting lovers of art, fashion and, of course, diamonds – over 80% of the world's rough diamonds pass through the city's famous diamond district at some point or other. Renowned for its charm and sparkle, Antwerp was one of Europe’s principle cities in the mid-16th century and has maintained the essence of its medieval past, despite severe bombing during World War II.
A riverside fortress and numerous intriguing cobbled streets are overshadowed by the 123m high tower of the imposing Cathedral of Our Lady, the biggest church in Benelux. Its construction started in 1352 on the site of a 10th century chapel, but like many medieval religious buildings, it took several centuries to complete. The cathedral interior has four altarpieces by Peter Paul Rubens – a true legend of baroque painting. The Royal Museum of Fine Arts is dedicated to Rubens and houses many of his finest works, along with those of other Flemish masters.
Itinerary may vary by sailing date and itineraries may be changed at the cruise line's discretion. Please check itinerary details at time of booking and before booking other travel services such as airline tickets.
