NORTHERN EUROPE CRUISE TC JOURNEYS
The Ultimate Winter Getaway: Belgium, Netherlands & Germany
7 nights | 2 adults
Trip highlights
- Set sail from Southampton aboard Queen Anne, Cunard’s newest ship, and enjoy its refined service and elegant surroundings.
- Explore Zeebrugge, with the opportunity to visit medieval Bruges and embrace its winter charm.
- Discover Rotterdam, a dynamic blend of avant-garde design, Dutch tradition, and culinary innovation.
- Immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Hamburg with a two-night stay at the luxurious Grand Elysée Hotel and sip Glühwein in the atmospheric Rathausmarkt market.
- Experience the perfect balance of cultural discovery, seasonal wonder, and elegant relaxation.
Embark on a luxurious winter escape aboard Cunard’s Queen Anne, where timeless elegance meets the festive magic of Europe. This curated voyage weaves through twinkling cities, including the storybook charm of Bruges, Rotterdam’s cutting-edge architecture, and the festive warmth of Hamburg’s renowned Christmas markets.
Day 1: Southampton
Your journey begins in Southampton, where you’ll be welcomed aboard Queen Anne, a ship that marries classic grandeur with contemporary luxury. After settling into your elegantly appointed stateroom, explore the ship’s exquisite interiors, from the soaring Grand Lobby to the curated onboard art collection, which includes works by celebrated European artists such as Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and L.S. Lowry.
Dine at your leisure in the Britannia Restaurant, enjoy a refined steakhouse experience, or sample Mediterranean delights. For a truly indulgent evening, reserve a table at the Queen’s Grill for a tasting menu designed by world-renowned chefs, pairing each course with fine European wines.
Later, unwind with afternoon tea in the Queen’s Room or sip a signature cocktail in the Commodore Club, where panoramic views of the sea set the tone for an unforgettable voyage.
Day 2-3: Zeebrugge
Awake to the crisp sea breeze as you dock in Zeebrugge, a picturesque port just a short journey from Bruges. Arrange a guided tour or private transfer to this enchanting city, where cobbled lanes, soaring Gothic towers, and indulgent Belgian chocolate shops await. Pause in a welcoming café for a warming mug of Belgian hot chocolate or sample frites with tangy mayonnaise from a festive market stall.
With an overnight stay in port, you’ll also have time to visit Ghent, a city famous for its medieval architecture, cosy cafés, and acclaimed Belgian breweries where you can try a local Trappist ale.
As night falls, return to the warmth of Queen Anne for a West End-style show, live jazz in a plush lounge, or a swim under the stars in a heated pool.
Day 4: Rotterdam
In Rotterdam, discover a bold city that champions design and innovation. Take in the striking Erasmus Bridge, stroll through the dazzling street art of Witte de Withstraat, and explore the cube houses. Wander through the iconic Markthal, where a soaring archway shelters stalls filled with artisan Dutch cheeses and warm stroopwafels, all beneath a vast, muralled ceiling.
Back on board, enjoy a classic film in the ship’s boutique cinema, join a wine-tasting masterclass, or experience the lively atmosphere of the Golden Lion pub, complete with quiz nights and live entertainment.
Day 5-7: Hamburg
Sail into the heart of Hamburg for a final, unforgettable chapter. Your home for the next two nights is the Grand Elysée, an elegant hotel in the city’s leafy Rotherbaum district.
Wander the UNESCO-listed Speicherstadt, where red-brick warehouses line historic canals, explore the intricate miniature worlds of Miniatur Wunderland, or book a private tour of the iconic Elbphilharmonie Concert Hall, where you can soak in sweeping city views from its spectacular Plaza. In the evenings, let Hamburg’s Christmas markets enchant you: browse stalls selling carved wooden toys and spiced biscuits, listen to cheerful carol singers, and watch the snow fall beside the illuminated Rathaus.
The next day, stroll along the serene Alster Lakes, browse local art galleries, or indulge in the Grand Elysée’s wellness spa with a soothing massage. For your farewell night, reserve a table at a Michelin-starred restaurant such as Haerlin and toast to your journey with a German Riesling.
Day 8: Return to London
After a restorative stay in Hamburg, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight to London Heathrow. Depart with memories, and a few Belgian pralines or German Christmas biscuits, from a winter journey unlike any other.
