A river cruise is an amazing way to experience the rich history and culture of Europe, waking up each day to explore a new city with its unique stories. Our seven-day journey with Titan River Cruises on the MS Serenade 1 started in Amsterdam, where we wandered along the canals, admired street art, and enjoyed trendy cafes in converted warehouses.

Throughout the week, we cruised through the Netherlands and Belgium, creating memories in Dordrecht’s vintage shops, savoring chocolates in Brussels, cycling around Antwerp, exploring Ghent’s canals, and marveling at Rotterdam’s modern architecture. Although it’s challenging to capture all the highlights of this river cruise in one article, I’ll share the essence of our enriching and diverse Amsterdam River Cruise experience.

### Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
We took an early flight from Bristol to Amsterdam, joined our Titan River Cruise, and left our cases with the welcoming team on the MS Serenade 1. With the ship docked near Central Station and not leaving until the next morning, we had the afternoon to explore Amsterdam Noord. We took a free ferry to NDSM Wharf, a former industrial area now a cultural hotspot with street art and transformed warehouses.

One notable sight was the “Let me be myself” mural of Anne Frank by Kobra. We then visited Pllek, a trendy cafe in an old warehouse overlooking the river, recommended by my niece. After a delicious lunch, we returned via ferry and stopped at the Eye Film Museum, a modern building with free entry to its central auditorium and bar/cafe.

### Day 2: Kinderdijk Windmills
We sailed from Amsterdam to the Kinderdijk windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The MS Serenade 1 moored close by, allowing us to walk to the site. We took a boat tour along the canals and past the old windmills, learning about their historical role in water management. We explored the Nederwaard Museum Mill, which showcased how millers and their families lived. The museum visit concluded with a walk along the canal back to the visitor center.

### Day 3: Dordrecht
By lunchtime, we arrived in Dordrecht, a city rich from medieval trade. We explored the picturesque Niewe Haven harbor and Wijnstraat, a street lined with charming old houses and vintage shops. Notable stops included the Groothoofdspoort city gate and the Museum Huis van Gijn, the former home of a wealthy businessman, now a museum showcasing antiques and 19th-century life. We also admired the impressive Grote Kerke.

### Day 4: Brussels
Arriving in Brussels by lunchtime, we took a coach into the city center. Our walking tour included tastings at famous Belgian chocolate shops. We visited the Brussels cathedral, walked through the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, and marveled at the Grand Place. Coincidentally, we visited during the Tapis de Fleurs, when the square is covered in a colorful flower carpet.

### Day 5: Antwerp
The next morning, we arrived in Antwerp, exploring the city by bike. We visited the Museum aan der Stroom (MAS) for panoramic views, the Reubens House for its art collection, and the Botanical Garden for a peaceful stroll. Lunch was enjoyed near the Cathedral of Our Lady, followed by a visit to the Paniek Bar and the architecturally stunning Port House by Zaha Hadid.

### Day 6: Ghent
In Ghent, we took a walking tour of the historic center, including Graffiti Alley and the medieval Graslei and Korenlei quaysides. A boat tour provided a unique perspective of the city’s beautiful buildings and landmarks like the Gravensteen Castle. We also climbed the Belfry Tower for city views and enjoyed the local cafes.

### Day 7: Rotterdam
Our final stop was Rotterdam, known for its modern architecture. We revisited the Cube Houses, explored the Market Hall, and enjoyed lunch at a seafood stall. The SS Rotterdam provided a taste of cruise ship life, and we ended the day with a coffee on the Lido terrace.

### Final Day: Amsterdam
Returning to Amsterdam, we took a coach and canal boat tour, explored the Jordaan District, and visited the Rembrandt House. Our trip concluded with a visit to the botanic garden before heading to the airport.

This seven-night Delights of the Low Countries cruise provided an unforgettable journey through Europe’s cultural and historical treasures. For more information on similar cruises, visit the Titan Travel website.