The hustle and bustle of the summer months is over and the low sun paints the sky in magical light – time to enjoy all that autumn has to offer with the small HANSEATIC inspiration. The starting point is in Amsterdam. Old and new, quiet and busy, provincial and cosmopolitan – no description of Amsterdam is without its contradictions. Discover the jewel of the Netherlands on a city walk with a canal trip* or at your own pace. Only by wandering through the narrow streets will you notice the elegance of the gabled houses, the heron on a house boat or a hidden inner courtyard known as a “hofje”. For a bit of culture, head to the Van Gogh Museum or the Moco Museum of modern art, for instance. Get a different perspective in typical Dutch style on the bicycle tour of Amsterdam’s hidden corners*. A countryside excursion to the picturesque little harbour towns of Marken and Volendam* reveals unspoilt scenes.

The mighty trading city of Ghent was built in the Middle Ages at the spot where the River Schelde and River Leie meet, with the winding course of the rivers’ arms forming a charming part of the cityscape. A culinary walking tour of Ghent* appeals to all the senses: Gothic treats for the eyes and pralines and waffles for the taste buds. The excursion to the historic trading cities of Brugge and Ghent in Flanders* brings the Hanseatic legacy to life in the cobbled streets. Both trade and the textile industry have always brought prosperity and blossoming culture to the entire region. The Royal Palace, Manneken Pis and Atomium are the most memorable landmarks in Brussels*. Be sure to try a portion of the famous Belgian fries while you are here. Your experts will explain how important the estuaries on the North Sea coast are in modern times as you sail past the autumnal landscape in the evening light while cruising on the Ghent–Terneuzen Canal and the Westerschelde.

The low sun shines through the early morning mist as breathtaking sights reveal themselves on the morning cruise on the Thames. Two eventful days in London await you. Sail through the Neo-Gothic monument when Tower Bridge opens to allow the HANSEATIC inspiration to reach its mooring point in the heart of the city. A moment like this will stay with you forever and is only possible with a small expedition ship. Red double-decker buses, Big Ben and Trafalgar Square: London is a city everyone has to visit at least once. The crisp autumn air will awaken your spirit of discovery amongst the trees glowing in beautiful colours. Enjoy a panoramic trip with the London Eye* for an initial view of the city. There is much to experience and marvel at, be it organised or at your own pace. For example, take a city walking tour of the South Bank and St Paul’s Cathedral*, an area awoken from its slumber by spectacular construction projects. Kings and castles are as much a part of the fabric of Great Britain as the Royal Family in Buckingham Palace. Explore the world’s largest inhabited castle with a visit to Windsor Castle*. Would you rather sink into an armchair with tea and scones or enjoy a pint in a cosy pub? Our travel concierge will be happy to organise the perfect evening for you* in Great Britain’s cosmopolitan city.