ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

The Hague is the governmental capital of the Netherlands and home of Queen Beatrix. Having arrived by coach, we start to explore the city by driving past the Royal Palace, Peace Palace and the Government buildings in the city centre.

The Hague is the governmental capital of the Netherlands and home of Queen Beatrix. Having arrived by coach, we start to explore the city by driving past the Royal Palace, Peace Palace and the Government buildings in the city centre. They consist of the Binnenhof (inner courtyard), Buitenhof (outer courtyard) and the new government building. The oldest building dates back to around 1280 and is called the Ridderzaal (The Hall of Knights). This is, perhaps, the single most famous building in the Netherlands. Its roof is a 19th century reconstruction of a mediaeval oak roof – the design of which is regarded as unique in Europe. Since 1904 this building has been used for the official opening of the Staten Generaal (General Assembly). Each year the Queen arrives in her golden carriage. We continue on to Scheveningen for a visit to Madurodam, Holland in Miniature. The Maduro family founded this unusual theme park over 50 years ago – in commemoration of their son. It shows historic buildings and waterways of Holland – all scaled down. We will have time to wander around, spending about an hour here, before returning to the ship. The journey time to The Hague is approximately 60 minutes. The city tour will show us the main sights from the outside only. Walking at Madurodam is at passengers’ own discretion – over mainly even ground. Wheelchairs can be accommodated.