Grand Rhine & Dutch Canals 2025 Start Basel, End Amsterdam (13 destinations)

Step back in time as you explore the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr, a place that seems frozen in the 16th century. Admire the historic architecture and famous sights, such as the Dolder Gate. Alternatively, head to Freiburg, a city founded in 1120, and marvel at the Gothic cathedral known as Freiburg's Münster. If you're up for a more active excursion, cycle through the countryside or hike in the magical Black Forest, a land full of cultural traditions.

As a leading hub for German culture, commerce, and architecture, Düsseldorf is a must-visit city. Here, you have two options for the day's excursions. If you're feeling adventurous, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne, home to the Cologne Cathedral, a revered Gothic masterpiece. Join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town and visit the Cologne Rathaus, Germany's oldest town hall, the Old Market, and the Heumarkt. Alternatively, explore historic Düsseldorf on foot with a knowledgeable local tour guide, then relax with a tasting of Altbier, a Düsseldorf specialty brewed using traditional techniques.

Enjoy a special tour of the world-famous Rijksmuseum. Considered The Netherlands' national museum, the Rijksmuseum encompasses 800 years of Dutch history. Wander through the world's largest collection of Dutch and Flemish art, where some of the most renowned works are housed, and marvel at such historic paintings as Rembrandt's 'The Night Watch' and Vermeer's 'The Milkmaid.'

Learn more about Dordrecht's fascinating history on your walking tour, or visit Rotterdam, the 'Gateway to Europe,' as well as Delfshaven, where, on August 1, 1620, the Pilgrim fathers departed on their epic journey aboard the Speedwell. If you prefer to venture off the beaten path, head to the smaller town of Gorinchem with its picturesque Old Town or go on an architectural bike tour through Rotterdam. In the afternoon, venture to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderdijk, a lovely village renowned for having the country's greatest concentration of windmills, all dating from the 18th century.

There are several choices of excursions in Ghent, depending on your interests. Stroll through the Capital of East Flanders, learning about its unique history on your walking tour, or pedal through the spellbinding town on a guided bike tour. Alternatively, visit Bruges, one of the best preserved medieval cities in Europe, on a full-day excursion that includes the renowned Church of Our Lady, home to the beautiful Carrara marble Madonna and Child sculpture by Michelangelo. If you prefer a shorter excursion in Bruges, visit the town later in the day or spend your afternoon at Ghent's moated Castle of the Counts, which boasts an eye-catching design as well as a ghoulishly interesting collection of medieval torture devices.

Enjoy a scenic morning cruise through the delta before arriving in Hellevoetsluis, an island metropolis of South Holland. During your tour of this medieval harbor town, you may see enchanting sites such as its iconic working De Hoop windmill and witness the charming wharf houses. Later in the day, you may discover the intriguing history of how the Delta Works, a unique storm surge barrier, came to be while visiting the Flood Museum. More than half of the Netherlands lies below sea level and the Delta Works were built to prevent a recurrence of the 1953 flood disaster. For those who prefer an active adventure, pedal from Hellevoetsluis, with its cobblestone streets and charming harbor, across the Haringvlietdam and back.

There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you'll get to enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic cruise through the IJsselmeer to Utrecht, the religious center of the Netherlands since the 8th century and a far-reaching city boasting a medieval old town, canals, and a beautiful Gothic cathedral. Some of these you may see on your walking tour, which includes a visit to the whimsical collection of automatically playing musical instruments at Museum Speelklok. Alternatively, marvel at the largest castle in Holland, De Haar, on a walking or biking tour. This castle inspires awe with its turrets, moats, and suspension bridges as well as its luxurious interior.