Dutch Treat!

Day 1-2

Welkom in Nederland! A trans-Atlantic, overnight flight brings you to Holland's principal city, Amsterdam, where you will meet your driver and local guide. Let's save the big city for later and start instead in the charming 1850s Dutch living history village of Zaanse Schans. Visit a windmill, the bakery museum, the tin foundry, and view a range of traditional Dutch crafts such as cheese and clog making. Enjoy a typical Dutch pancake lunch for your first taste of the region. Park Centraal Amsterdam - 4 nights (L,D) 

Day 3

Begin your day with a guided tour of the renowned Rijksmuseum led by an expert guide. The museum houses some of the world's most celebrated masterpieces, including "The Night Watch" and "The Jewish Bride," as well as works by Johannes Vermeer, Frans Hals, and Jacob van Ruisdael. Enjoy a relaxing lunch cruise through Amsterdam's picturesque canals where every view is photo-worthy, followed by a walking tour through the historic city center. See landmarks such as Dam Square, the impressive Royal Palace Amsterdam, the Nieuwe Kerk, the tranquil Begijnhof, and the colorful Bloemenmarkt. You will also visit Hortus Botanicus, one of the world's oldest botanical gardens. (FB,L) 

Day 4

Travel into the scenic Waterland region, known for its green meadows, waterways, and charming villages including visits to Broek in Waterland, Marken, and Monnickendam. Conclude your day with a cooking class where together with professional chefs, you prepare your own tasteful dinner. (FB,D) 

Day 5

Today you'll visit Giethoorn, the water village of the Netherlands. The best way to view the farms and houses is by whisper boat which will be ready for you upon arrival. After a delightful lunch, continue to Apeldoorn, home to the magnificent Paleis Het Loo, the former residence of the Dutch Royal Family, where you will uncover over 300 years of royal history. Discover the stories of the House of Orange and experience one of the Netherlands' most treasured cultural, architectural, and botanical landmarks. (FB,L) 

Day 6

Depart Amsterdam and travel south towards Belgium with numerous adventures along the way. Stop in Gouda and visit their famed Cheese Market as well as the home of the famous Dutch Stroopwafel. Continue to Delft, renowned for its Delft Blue pottery. Visit Royal Delft, also known as De Porceleyne Fles, where you will discover the history and craftsmanship behind this iconic Dutch porcelain on a factory tour. Travel onwards to Ghent, one of Belgium's most charming cities. Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel - 4 nights (FB, D) 

Day 7

Discover the highlights of Ghent during a guided sightseeing tour as you explore landmarks such as the Belfry of Ghent. Saint Michael's Bridge and the historic quays of Graslei and Korenlei. Your tour also includes a visit to the St. Baafs Cathedral, home to the world-famous "Adoration of the Mystic Lamb." After leisure time in Ghent you will head to Domein Leeflank, a family-owned vineyard nestled in the Flemish countryside. (FB,D) 

Day 8

Today you will visit the picturesque city of Bruges, often referred to as "Venice of the North." With its cobble streets, romantic canals, and beautifully preserved medieval architecture, Bruges is one of Europe's most captivating historic cities. Upon arrival, meet your local guide and enjoy a guided walking tour through the city center, during which you will see highlights such as the Basilica of the Holy Blood, the iconic Belfry of Bruges, the picturesque Minnewater (Lake of Love), and the tranquil Beguinage of Bruges. Following the city tour, enjoy a guided visit to De Halve Maan Brewery, home of the popular Zot Blond. (FB,L) 

Day 9

Indulge in the sweet side of Ghent during a delightful chocolate-themed discovery tour. Begin with a canal cruise through the city's picturesque waterways. Your guide will introduce you to Ghent's rich history and vibrant culture while visiting several artisan chocolatiers. Soon you'll discover why Belgian chocolate is celebrated around the world. (FB,D) 

Day 10

Today you return to the Netherlands, spending the morning in the vibrant city of Antwerp. Renowned for its historic port, magnificent architecture and reputation as one of Europe's leading centers for fashion and diamonds, Antwerp offers a fascinating blend of tradition and modern elegance. Enjoy a guided visit to DIVA, a museum of diamonds, gold, and silver, where you will discover the fascinating world of jewelry creation through the exhibition "A Brilliant Story" and a visit to the DIVA Atelier. A farewell dinner at your hotel offers a chance to reflect on the highlights of your vacation in the Netherlands and Belgium. Radisson Blu Amsterdam Airport (FB,D) 

Day 11

Following breakfast, transfer to Amsterdam Schiphol International Airport (AMS) for your flight back home. (FB)