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 nature. The starting point is 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.

A diverse array of experiences awaits you on your explorations from Ostende in Belgium. Avant-garde fashion, fine chocolates and the adventures of Tintin and Snowy: Belgian artistry is world-renowned, following in the tradition of the Flemish painter Jan van Eyck, the master of naturalism. A visit to the historic trading cities of Brugge* and Ghent* in Flanders brings history to life in the cobbled streets. Trade and the textile industry brought prosperity and blossoming culture to the entire region in the Middle Ages. Van Eyck’s famous winged altarpiece, typical guildhalls and a glimpse over a chocolatier’s shoulder: what will be your favourite sensory experience?

Red double-decker buses, Big Ben and Trafalgar Square: London is a city everyone has to visit at least once. The HANSEATIC nature is moored right next to Tower Bridge and offers short distances for plenty of explorations. 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.

On the second day of your stay in London as well, the crisp autumn air will awaken your spirit of discovery amongst the trees glowing in beautiful colours. The Little Venice, canal trip and Camden* excursion is something quite different and off the beaten track. If you are looking for creative jewellery and quirky souvenirs, Camden Market is the place for you. Leeds Castle and Canterbury* are rather more genteel. Admire the impressive moated castle from the ninth century and learn some interesting facts about the Christianisation of England at the famous cathedral. Sail through the Neo-Gothic monument when Tower Bridge opens to allow the HANSEATIC nature 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. As the London skyline slowly disappears behind a bend in the river, enjoy the panorama and reflect on the time you have spent in the three cities as you cruise on the Thames.