Dutch Waterways with Bruges

Day 1 UK - Amsterdam Titan’s VIP door-to-door travel service collects you from home for your journey to Dover, where we take a break before boarding our coaches, for the Channel crossing to Calais and onward journey to Amsterdam. Upon arrival, embark MS Serenade 1 (4T), where light refreshments are available. A welcome cocktail and Captain’s gala dinner are served this evening. Day 2 Kinderdijk - Dordrecht This morning we arrive in the pretty village of Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its 18th century windmills, which we visit on our included excursion. These picturesque landmarks have played a crucial role in keeping the area from flooding, as well as more traditional roles for the local trades. This afternoon we sail the short distance to Dordrecht and visit the Royal Delft earthenware factory, where the intricate Delft Blue patterns have been hand painted onto top quality porcelain since the 17th century. Meet the passionate craftspeople during a demonstration and learn about the history of this world-famous brand. There is even the opportunity to purchase examples of their collectable wares. Later this evening we depart for Antwerp. Day 3 Antwerp You have a full day to explore Antwerp, famous for its Diamond Quarter and tempting chocolate shops. Take a break in one of the many fine cafés and enjoy sights such as the Grote Markt (Great Market Square) and Rubens’ House, where the old master painter once lived and worked, now a museum with period 17th century furnishings and a great collection of his masterpieces, such as ‘Adam and Eve’, on display. Day 4 Ghent Enjoy a full day at leisure in Ghent, which has a number of interesting museums and galleries worth visiting, as well as some attractive parks and gardens. You may wish to join an optional guided tour to the highlights of this engaging medieval city, including the 12th century Gravensteen (Castle of the Counts) and St Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the Ghent Altarpiece painted by Jan van Eyck in the 1430s and regarded as one of the great masterpieces of the Northern Renaissance. Day 5 Ghent (Bruges) Explore the beautiful city of Bruges, which still displays its heritage from the Middle Ages and the legacies of the centuries that followed, through an abundance of charming canals, stone bridges, and medieval Flemish architecture along cobbled streets. Our included walking tour touches on the highlights and includes a chocolate tasting, before free time allows you to make your own explorations. Day 6 Rotterdam Europe’s biggest international cargo port, Rotterdam is also a major cultural centre. Today we have an optional guided walking tour of the city, visiting the distinctive modern Market Hall, the innovative Cube Houses and the Erasmus Bridge. If you prefer, you could simply take the time to relax or explore independently. Day 7 Amsterdam Returning to the characterful Dutch capital this morning, we enjoy an included tour through the city, taking in highlights such as the distinctive tall and narrow merchants’ houses that line the canals, the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), central Dam Square and the Royal Palace. A trip along the canals is also included for a different view and further insight into this delightful city. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s farewell gala dinner on board. Day 8 Amsterdam - UK After breakfast we board our waiting coaches for the return journey to Calais and Channel crossing. Upon arrival in Dover, your Titan vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.