It will come as no great surprise to many that the most popular combined river cruises of the Netherlands and Belgium take place during the spring. This is because both these countries are a veritable kaleidoscope of colours with un-countable thousands of flowers being in bloom. Taking a relaxing cruise along the Dutch and Belgian rivers really is the best way to see this spectacular vista at its very best.
The river cruises through the Netherlands take you through Amsterdam, tulip fields, windmills and pretty villages. In Belgium, you will you will visit medieval towns bursting with character, enjoy some great beer and experience the cosmopolitan elegance of Brussels.
There are also stops along the way to see some of the greatest works of art by the great Dutch and Flemish painters such as Rembrandt and Van Gogh. There is lush countryside to look out over as you relax on your river cruise, and one of the best stop offs in the Netherlands is Zaanse Schans, which although quite touristy, has amazing windmills, and the stunning Keukenhof had more than 7m tulips in bloom in the Spring.
It is also fascinating to discover exactly how Dutch cheeses and Delft pottery is created, as well as the delicious Belgian chocolates that are lovingly created by hand in Bruges. This town is effectively one enormous open air museum, buzzing with life and vitality and a great place to go for a short break if you can manage it.
Other places of interest that you will probably take in on your combined river cruise to the Netherlands and Belgium, depending on your itinerary, include Edam, Hoorn, Gouda, The Hague, Bruges, Brussels and Antwerp. Whichever of these you do, or do not, visit you can guarantee that you will have a great time on your river cruise, and see some amazing sights to boot.