By Wendy Byard
Travel Advisor for solo women travellers
Tulip Time – A Spring River Cruise through Holland & Belgium
8 Days | A spring journey of flowers, canals and culture roundtrip from Amsterdam

Why I Chose This for You
There’s a gentle magic to springtime in the Netherlands and Belgium — a fresh start wrapped in blossoms and cobblestones. I chose this trip because it offers the perfect mix of nature, culture, and relaxation. It’s ideal for solo travellers, garden lovers, photographers, and anyone needing a little joy after a long winter. Every day brings a different flavour of beauty — and I couldn’t imagine a more soul-soothing way to welcome the season.
About this Trip
There’s nowhere quite like Holland in the spring — and this unforgettable river cruise is your invitation to immerse yourself in its full, fragrant glory. Cruise roundtrip from Amsterdam and delight in the sight of the Keukenhof Gardens in bloom, the windmills of Kinderdijk spinning gently in the breeze, and charming towns awash with tulips and timeless traditions.
From the storybook canals of Giethoorn to the medieval masterpieces of Bruges and the chocolatey heart of Belgium, this journey blends culture, colour, and culinary joy. Explore at your pace with walking tours, bike rides, tastings and more — all included. Whether you’re sipping Belgian beer, learning about Delft porcelain, or floating through Amsterdam’s waterways, every day is designed to delight the senses and awaken your sense of wonder.

Itinerary Highlights
Cruise the IJsselmeer, Kampen, Giethoorn, and Zierikzee
Visit the Keukenhof Gardens and Floralia Flower Show
Choose from bike rides, hikes, city tours, tastings and workshops
Sample Belgian chocolate, cheeses, waffles and beer
Discover Dutch art, Delft porcelain, and the Pilgrim Fathers’ story
Explore Bruges’ Cathedral of Our Lady & Ghent’s Mystic Lamb altarpiece
Learn about the Delta Works, an engineering marvel
Travel in style on a beautifully appointed river ship with all excursions included
Whats Included
7 nights aboard a luxury river cruise ship
Return flights & transfers
All excursions included (guided tours, tastings, bike rides, etc.)
Full board dining + select drinks (depending on ship)
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Welcome drinks to meet fellow solo travellers
Expert Cruise Director & local guides
All port charges & taxes
Helpful Hints
Currency: Euro (€) in both the Netherlands & Belgium
Language: Dutch & Flemish; English widely spoken
Weather: Fresh spring (9–14°C). Bring layers, a light raincoat & comfy shoes.
Tipping: Usually included, but small extras appreciated for excellent service.
Solo Vibe: Relaxed pace, small group excursions, easy to connect or explore alone.
Best For: Garden lovers, culture seekers, foodies, photographers.





