Best of the Netherlands
Experience the Dutch way of life
Tour the best of the Netherlands on this 6-night vacation. On this escorted journey, see Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Groningen, plus typically Dutch villages and towns.
What's Included
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Amsterdam (AMS)
- Round-trip airport transfers*
- Accommodations in hotels listed, or similar:
- 2 nights in the Amsterdam area at the Best Western Plus Amedia Amsterdam Airport or the Hotel Ibis Styles Amsterdam Airport Hotel (Formerly the Tulip Inn Hotel)
- 1 night in Rotterdam at the Bilderberg Parkhotel Rotterdam
- 1 night in the Arnhem area at the Postillion Hotel
- 1 night in Groningen at the Apollo Hotel Groningen
- 1 night in the Amsterdam area at the Best Western Plus Amedia Amsterdam Airport or the Hotel Ibis Styles Amsterdam Airport Hotel (Formerly the Tulip Inn Hotel)
- Guided sightseeing as described in itinerary, including:
- Amsterdam sightseeing tour with canal cruise and visit to the Diamond Center
- Visit to the Aalsmeer Flower Auction or Keukenhof Gardens - on departures from April 4th - May 2nd only
- Visit to the Royal Delft Pottery Factory
- Guided sightseeing in Rotterdam
- Visit to a Wooden Clog Workshop
- Visit to a Dutch Cheese Workshop
- Buffet breakfast daily and 3 dinners
- Services of a Professional Travel Director
- Headsets throughout the tour
- Transportation by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach
- Hotel tips, taxes, porterage and service charges
*Note: To take advantage of included transfers, flights must arrive and depart Amsterdam between 6:00 am and 4:00 pm
**Note: Children must be 8 years or older at time of travel.
***Note: Starting in 2022, porterage will no longer be offered on this tour. Travelers will be responsible for transporting their own luggage for the duration of their tour.
Great Ways to Explore
-
Marvel at the works of Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh in Amsterdam.
- Admire the world famous tulips at Keukenhof gardens!
-
Visit the Delft Pottery factory to see how this delicate porcelain is created.
-
Stroll through the central Grote Markt square in Groningen, also known as the "World Cycling City."
-
Taste the Netherlands' delicious Gouda and Edam cheese!
Please note:
GOOD NEWS - The local tour operator will no longer require a COVID-19 vaccination for travelers as of March 1, 2023. For travelers departing before March 1, the tour operator requires that travelers aged 12 and older provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination in the form of written documentation (paper or electronic copy), in English, for all vacations. Proof of vaccination must be completed at least 14 days prior to the tour start date. *Exceptions apply to children who do not qualify for vaccination.
Explore beyond the Netherlands' iconic tulip fields and canals to see its grand cities, pretty towns and unique culture.
Begin your adventure in the capital of Amsterdam, home of the great Dutch masters and romantic canals. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the canals and soak up the city's unique cafe culture before heading to Rotterdam, Europe's busiest port. On the way, visit the Aalsmeer Flower Auction or Keukenhof Gardens and the famous Royal Delft Pottery workshop!
Continue your journey to two important towns during WWII before arriving in Groningen, named one of the happiest cities in Europe. Enjoy a lovely drive through the Frisian Lake District en route to Volendam, a former fishing port on the edge of IJsselmeer. Return to Amsterdam and spend one night before flying home.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Round-trip economy class airfare to Amsterdam (AMS)
- Round-trip airport transfers*
- Accommodations in hotels listed, or similar:
- 2 nights in the Amsterdam area at the Best Western Plus Amedia Amsterdam Airport or the Hotel Ibis Styles Amsterdam Airport Hotel (Formerly the Tulip Inn Hotel)
- 1 night in Rotterdam at the Bilderberg Parkhotel Rotterdam
- 1 night in the Arnhem area at the Postillion Hotel
- 1 night in Groningen at the Apollo Hotel Groningen
- 1 night in the Amsterdam area at the Best Western Plus Amedia Amsterdam Airport or the Hotel Ibis Styles Amsterdam Airport Hotel (Formerly the Tulip Inn Hotel)
- Guided sightseeing as described in itinerary, including:
- Amsterdam sightseeing tour with canal cruise and visit to the Diamond Center
- Visit to the Aalsmeer Flower Auction or Keukenhof Gardens - on departures from April 4th - May 2nd only
- Visit to the Royal Delft Pottery Factory
- Guided sightseeing in Rotterdam
- Visit to a Wooden Clog Workshop
- Visit to a Dutch Cheese Workshop
- Buffet breakfast daily and 3 dinners
- Services of a Professional Travel Director
- Headsets throughout the tour
- Transportation by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach
- Hotel tips, taxes, porterage and service charges
*Note: To take advantage of included transfers, flights must arrive and depart Amsterdam between 6:00 am and 4:00 pm
**Note: Children must be 8 years or older at time of travel.
***Note: Starting in 2022, porterage will no longer be offered on this tour. Travelers will be responsible for transporting their own luggage for the duration of their tour.
-
Marvel at the works of Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh in Amsterdam.
- Admire the world famous tulips at Keukenhof gardens!
-
Visit the Delft Pottery factory to see how this delicate porcelain is created.
-
Stroll through the central Grote Markt square in Groningen, also known as the "World Cycling City."
-
Taste the Netherlands' delicious Gouda and Edam cheese!
Please note:
GOOD NEWS - The local tour operator will no longer require a COVID-19 vaccination for travelers as of March 1, 2023. For travelers departing before March 1, the tour operator requires that travelers aged 12 and older provide proof of full COVID-19 vaccination in the form of written documentation (paper or electronic copy), in English, for all vacations. Proof of vaccination must be completed at least 14 days prior to the tour start date. *Exceptions apply to children who do not qualify for vaccination.
Explore beyond the Netherlands' iconic tulip fields and canals to see its grand cities, pretty towns and unique culture.
Begin your adventure in the capital of Amsterdam, home of the great Dutch masters and romantic canals. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the canals and soak up the city's unique cafe culture before heading to Rotterdam, Europe's busiest port. On the way, visit the Aalsmeer Flower Auction or Keukenhof Gardens and the famous Royal Delft Pottery workshop!
Continue your journey to two important towns during WWII before arriving in Groningen, named one of the happiest cities in Europe. Enjoy a lovely drive through the Frisian Lake District en route to Volendam, a former fishing port on the edge of IJsselmeer. Return to Amsterdam and spend one night before flying home.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Departure Airport:
Departure Month:
Prices From:
Day 1. Welcome to Amsterdam!
Say "hallo" to Holland! Arrive at Amsterdam airport and enjoy a transfer to your first accommodation in the Amsterdam area. The rest of the day is free to explore the vibrant capital on your own - perhaps you want to take a leisurely stroll along the famous canals, or do as the locals do and rent a bike! Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers.
Transfer to Amsterdam hotel
Step into the modern decor of the Best Western Plus Amedia Amsterdam Airport. This practically equipped hotel offers all the amenities you'll need for a comfortable stay. Enjoy easy access to the hotel by car and convenient parking in the garage or surrounding parking lot. Take a load off in the hotel bar, which offers a relaxing view of the pond while you indulge in a drink and some small snacks. Bike rentals are also available to explore the surrounding areas.
Just 6 miles from Amsterdam, the Tulip Inn Amsterdamn Airport rests in Schiphol, in the Noord-Holland region to provide an excellent stay. The hotel features a terrace, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, private on-site parking, free Wi-Fi, a gift shop, and bike rental.
Rooms are plush and feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, daily housekeeping, coffee and teak making facilities, and a private bathroom as well as a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. With the Hauge 26 miles away, Rotterdam 30 miles away, and the Schiphol Airport 2 miles away, this hotel offers an excellent stay for those traveling far.
Day 2. Amsterdam
Your first full day in the Netherlands begins with an exciting excursion! See the city from a different perspective on a canal cruise followed by a visit to a diamond center where you can watch skilled craftsmen cut and polish precious stones. Then, follow a local guide on a tour of Amsterdam's highlights.
You'll then have time in the afternoon to explore on your own. Consider a visit to the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, or the Van Gogh Museum, all cultural highlights of the city. End your day of sightseeing with a delicious stroopwafel!
Day 3. Amsterdam - Aalsmeer/Keukenhof - The Hague - Delft - Rotterdam
Begin your day with a visit to the fascinating Aalsmeer Flower Auction or, when the tulips bloom, see some of the 7 million flowers on your visit to world-famous Keukenhof, one of the world’s largest flower gardens (weather permitting).
Continue on to historic Delft to visit the famous Royal Delft Pottery Factory. See how this precious pottery is made and marvel at its magnificent collection of hand-painted earthenware.
End your day in Rotterdam, the world’s busiest port that gives the city the nicknames "Gateway to Europe" and "Gateway to the World." Marvel at the city’s futuristic architecture with a stroll on Erasmusbrug, a modern suspension bridge known locally as "The Swan."
Check-in - Bilderberg Parkhotel Rotterdam
Half a mile from Erasmus Medisch Centrum in the center of Rotterdam, the Bilderberg Parkhotel offers an amazing stay in style and serenity. Featuring a contemporary design and an on-site restaurant, guests can also enjoy a 24-hour front desk, daily breakfast, a tour desk, free Wi-Fi, a bar, fitness facilities, a garden, equipped meeting rooms, a sauna, and private parking for a fee.
Rooms are comfortable and feature cable TV, a minibar, air conditioning, a safe, complimentary newspapers, and private bathrooms including complimentary toiletries and a hairdryer. Some rooms include a sitting area and tower rooms also have views fo the Rotterdam skyline. Sitting right next to the Boijmans Van Beuningen and the Eendrachtsplein metro stop, 800 feet from the Witte de Withstraat, and 950 feet away from the Museumpark, the hotel is an excellen place to walk from to find entertainment and activities. The Koopgoot shopping area, World Trade Center, and Congress Center de Doelen are all a half-mile from the hotel, and the Hague Airport is only a 10-minute drive away.
Day 4. Rotterdam - Groesbeek - Arnhem
Today is all about exploring the Netherlands' recent history and role in WWII. Your first stop is Groesbeek, a town where Allied forces launched Operation Market Garden, the largest airborne battle in history and the only major Allied defeat of the northwest Europe campaign during WWII. While in town, enjoy a guided sightseeing expedition through Rotterdam.
Your next stop is Arnhem, site of the disastrous Battle of Arnhem, where you will see John Frost Bridge, named for the commander of the British forces that held the bridge for four days. Enjoy time on your own to do some independent exploring in the old city center or head just north of the city to the Netherlands Open-air Museum.
Check-in - Postillion Hotel Arnhem
Day 5. Arnhem - Giethoorn - Groningen
Your first stop today is in Giethoorn, a quaint village built on canals that is often referred to as "Little Venice." Only fully accessible by boat, this fairy tale town is world's away from busy cities like Venice or Amsterdam. Spend the night in the provincial capital of Groningen, the largest city in the northern Netherlands. This vibrant university city is brimming with culture, excellent restaurants, and nightlife.
Check-in - Apollo Hotel Groningen
Guests can revel in the chic architecture and modern flair that makes the Apollo Hotel Groningen an aesthetic stay. Featuring a fitness center and free Wi-Fi, the hotel also offers private parking, and on-site restaurant, a 24-hour front desk, bike rental, room service, a business center, a garden, a terrace, and a bar.
Rooms are modern and feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, a desk, a safe, ironing facilities upon request, coffee and tea making facilities, and private bathrooms complete with free toiletries and a hairdryer. Some rooms also include a sitting area. With Groningen Eelde Airport 6 miles away, Schiermonnikoog 25 miles away, Borkum 27 and Emden 29 miles away, the Apollo Hotel makes for an excellent stay within reach of many opportunities.
Day 6. Groningen - Zaanse Schans - Volendam - Amsterdam
Explore Groningen this morning, an important trade center in the 13th century that today is hailed as the “World Cycling City.”
Later, enjoy a scenic drive through the lovely Frisian Lake District. Cross over the 19-mile Barrier Dam, which is part of an incredible system of 1,200 miles of dikes, dams, and dunes built over the last 900 years to protect the part of Holland that is below sea level.
You'll then head to the charming village of Zaanse Schans and visit a renowned wooden clog workshop. Continue to the fishing village of Volendam, then arrive back in Amsterdam to enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Step into the modern decor of the Best Western Plus Amedia Amsterdam Airport. This practically equipped hotel offers all the amenities you'll need for a comfortable stay. Enjoy easy access to the hotel by car and convenient parking in the garage or surrounding parking lot. Take a load off in the hotel bar, which offers a relaxing view of the pond while you indulge in a drink and some small snacks. Bike rentals are also available to explore the surrounding areas.
Just 6 miles from Amsterdam, the Tulip Inn Amsterdamn Airport rests in Schiphol, in the Noord-Holland region to provide an excellent stay. The hotel features a terrace, a fitness center, an on-site restaurant, private on-site parking, free Wi-Fi, a gift shop, and bike rental.
Rooms are plush and feature air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, daily housekeeping, coffee and teak making facilities, and a private bathroom as well as a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. With the Hauge 26 miles away, Rotterdam 30 miles away, and the Schiphol Airport 2 miles away, this hotel offers an excellent stay for those traveling far.
Day 7. Depart the Netherlands
Your Netherlands vacation ends today. Say "vaarwel" to all things Dutch as you transfer to Amsterdam airport for your flight home.
Transfer to Amsterdam airport (AMS)
Fly home!
We have selected the most economical flight schedule for you. Please note that shorter and more convenient flight options may be available at an additional cost.
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