Day 1
Welkom in Amsterdam!
Welcome to Amsterdam! After arriving, we'll head to the hotel to settle in and have some time to relax, or take your first stroll through Amsterdam!
This afternoon, we'll kick off our spring adventure with the annual Flower Parade.
Tonight we'll get together with the group and experience Amsterdam the best way - cruising through the city's iconic canals over dinner.
Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2
Chasing Tulips
Today is the day we came to Amsterdam in April for!
After breakfast at the hotel, we'll escape into the Dutch countryside for a full day surrounded by tulips. We'll wander through spectacular gardens of Keukenhof, explore the colorful fields of the Bollenstreek and visit a local tulip farm for those iconic photos among the blooms.
We'll return to Amsterdam in the early evening and enjoy a relaxed night in the city.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 3
Windmills
This morning, we're stepping into classic Holland at Zaanse Schans - a storybook village of historic windmills, green wooden houses and traditional Dutch crafts.
We'll step into a working windmill, watch wooden clogs being made, sample Dutch cheeses and wander along the beautiful Zaan River.
Then it's back to Amsterdam for an afternoon exploring two beautiful neighborhoods: the Nine Streets & Jordaan. Browse boutiques, stop at a cute cafe or shop.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 4
Amsterdam Icons
Let's explore Amsterdam today!
We'll begin with the masterpieces of the Van Gogh musuem before heading into the heart of the city for an afternoon of iconic Amsterdam moments - warm Van Wonderen stroopwafels, narrow canal houses, the colorful Boemenmarkt and plenty of time to wander the picturesque streets.
Those who would like can also join for an optional visit to Westermoskee - a mosque inspired by the Turkish Aya Sophia.
Tonight, we'll gather for a delicious Indonesian dinner - a cuisine deeply connected to Dutch history and one of the experiences you shouldn't leave Amsterdam without trying,
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Day 6
Storybook Bruges
Today, we head to Bruges - one of Europe's most beautifully preserved medieval cities - Cobblestone streets, dreamy canals, colorful historic buildings and chocolate shops on every corner.
We'll explore the heart of the old city, cruise along Bruges picturesque canals and because we're in Belgium, make an essential stop for Belgian waffles!
The afternoon is yours to wander this charming city before heading back to Brussels for the evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 5
Tot Ziens, Amsterdam. Bonjour Bruxelles!
This morning, we say goodbye to Amsterdam! Travelers ending their journey here will depart for home, while those continuing on will board the train for the next chapter of our adventure - Belgium!
After arriving in Brussels, we'll check into our hotel and settle in before diving into one of Belgium's most delicious traditions with a hands on Belgian Chocolate workshop.
The evening is yours to explore Brussels at your own pace. Wander through Grand Place, grab some Belgian fries or waffles and enjoy the city!
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 7
Last Taste of Belgium
After breakfast at the hotel, we'll do a walking tour of Brussels most beautiful sights - Grand Place, Galaries Royales Saint Hubert before grabbing a casual lunch and heading to the train station.
We'll aim to be back in Amsterdam by late afternoon/early evening for our last evening together.
Free time to explore and get those last minute gifts or we can do dinner as a group.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 8
After a week of tulips, windmills, canals, chocolate, waffles and new memories, its time to say goodbye and head home.
Airport transfers at various times.
Things to Know
Visa & Travel Requirements:
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Valid passport - must be valid for entire length of stay
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US Passport holders may visit the Schengen area visa-free for up to 90 days.
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ETIAS travel authorization is expected to be required for eligible visa exempt travelers by the time of this trip.
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It is your responsibility to ensure you have the proper travel documentation - visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for more details
Safety:
Amsterdam & Belgium are safe for female travelers. As always, be aware of your surroundings and stay in well lit areas.
Currency & Cash:
Most restaurants and stores will take major credit cards. Some food stands will take Euro's only. We recommend exchanging $100 to have some Euros on hand just in case.
Getting Around:
Amsterdam is extremely walkable and has an excellent tram, metro and public transport system. Uber and bolt are available as needed.
Water:
When traveling to another country, drinking bottled water is recommended. Better to be safe than spend your vacation with an upset stomach!
Language:
You'll likely find people who speak English, but knowing a few key phrases in Dutch is always helpful!
Key Phrases in Dutch:
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Goedemiddag: (khoor-duh-mid-akh) - Good afternoon
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Goedenavond: (khoor-den-ah-font) - Good evening
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Hallo: (hah-low) - Hello (universal, can be used in most situations)
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Hoi: (hoy) - Hi (informal, used with friends)
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Goedemorgen: (khoor-duh-mor-ghen) - Good morning (formal, for people you don't know)
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Dankjewel: / Dank u wel (dahnk-yuh-vel) - Thank you (informal/formal)
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Nee: (nay) - No
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Ja: (yah) - Yes
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Spreekt u Engels? (sprek-too-eng-els) - Do you speak English?
What's Included
Round trip airport transfer
4 nights accommodation in a 4 star or better hotel
English speaking guides
Tulip Tour
Keukenhof Gardens
Zaanse Schans
Cheese tasting
Van Gogh Museum
Canal Cruise
Transportation to the excursions
All Breakfasts
2 Dinners
1 Lunch
Welcome Gift
All Gratuities & Taxes
Optional Belgium:
3 nights accommodation in a 4 star or better hotel
all breakfasts
RT train from Amsterdam
Chocolate making class
Day trip to Brugges
Brussels walking tour
Not Included:
International Airfare
Visa (if required)
Travel Insurance
other meals (not mentioned above)
Activities and transportation not included in itinerary above
Amsterdam Only Pricing:
Single Occupancy - $3,340
Double Occupancy - $2,540
Amsterdam + Belgium Pricing
Single Occupancy - $5,050
Double Occupancy - $3,750
*Returning Travelista's get $100 off final invoice!
