Amsterdam Explorer
With the buzz of a big city and charm of a little village, let Amsterdam's tree-lined canals captivate you.
Wander through the city's labyrinthine streets, the smell of pancakes and spicy speculaas coffee linger as you dodge the swarm of bicycles that pound the city's cobblestone roads. You'll also delve into Dutch WWII history and visit Gouda's traditional cheese market.
Overview
With the buzz of a big city and charm of a little village, let Amsterdam's tree-lined canals captivate you.
Wander through the city's labyrinthine streets, the smell of pancakes and spicy speculaas coffee linger as you dodge the swarm of bicycles that pound the city's cobblestone roads. You'll also delve into Dutch WWII history and visit Gouda's traditional cheese market.
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Day 1: USA - Europe
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Day 2: Arrive Amsterdam (5 Nights)
On arrival at Amsterdam Airport transfers will operate at 9 am, 11.30 am and 2.30 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Welcome to the picture-perfect city of Amsterdam, a charming city buzzing with bicycles and boats – every alley leads to another cozy bruin café and the canals are more plentiful than in Venice. Ease into your trip with a Welcome Reception and laidback city cruise along its winding canals, soaking up the beguiling setting as you enjoy a light meal.
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Day 3: Amsterdam Sightseeing including the Rijksmuseum
This morning, we enjoy a Small Group Sightseeing tour of the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces of Rembrandt, Hals and Vermeer. Delve into the gezelligheid of Amsterdam during a city orientation – see its beautifully preserved medieval buildings line the cobbled streets and tree-lined canals. Pass the imposing Mint Tower and mesmerising floating flower market and drive across the historic Dam Square. Spend the rest of the day at leisure exploring and experiencing the picturesque Dutch capital on your terms. End your day with delicious local flavors at one of the city's many cozy restaurants. -
Day 4: Amsterdam – Excursion to Haarlem, Volendam and Zaanse Schans
Take a trip back in time to discover the old-world charm and traditions of Holland stopping in the pretty town of Haarlem. We join a Local Specialist this morning for a visit to the Corrie ten Boom House and Museum. Learn how this watchmaker helped countless Jews escape Nazi prosecution during World War II, which would ultimately lead to her arrest. We travel to the quaint fishing village of Volendam on the shores of the Ijsselmeer, our gateway into a Holland of yesteryear. Visit Zaanse Schans, sample delicious Dutch cheeses and investigate the inner-workings of one of the country's many windmills. Along the way, you'll learn about the fascinating history of the Zuiderzee and its incredible story of land reclamation and battle against the encroaching sea. This evening, we join some of our local friends on a farm and indulge in a meal of authentic Dutch delicacies. -
Day 5: Amsterdam – Excursion to The Hague, Delft, Rotterdam and Kinderdijk
This morning we travel to the stately capital of The Hague and the heart of Dutch politics where we will learn about the International Court of Justice, housed within the beautifully designed Peace Palace. The pretty blue and white pottery of Delft takes center stage next as we visit the medieval old town in which it is crafted, enjoying an exclusive tour of the factory that produces these delicate pieces with a Local Specialist. Our next stop is edgy Rotterdam, which was almost completely rebuilt after World War II. Ascend the iconic Euromast Tower for spectacular panoramic views of the world's largest port city before meandering back to Amsterdam via Kinderdijk to see the stunning views of a series of 18th century windmills. Get a real taste of the city with Trafalgar's exclusive Eatwith Optional Experiences. Share delicious traditional flavors with a local family in their home.
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Day 6: Amsterdam – Excursion to Gouda (Keukenhof excursion included during Tulip Season as an alternative to Gouda)
The powerful aroma of delicious Dutch cheese will infuse our senses today. Seemingly frozen in time with its beautiful 15th century town hall and medieval cheese weighing station, Gouda's status as a cheese trading town dates back to the Middle Ages. Witness this proud tradition first-hand in the town's beautiful Market Square before spending the rest of the day at leisure (Please note, during the opening of Keukenhof, an excursion to see the tulip fields will be included instead of the visit to Gouda). Returning to Amsterdam this evening, you'll be treated to a superb Farewell Dinner in the heart of the city. -
Day 7: Depart Amsterdam
The time has come to bid farewell to the magnificent city and your fellow travelers after an enjoyable At Leisure encounter with Amsterdam and the surrounding Dutch countryside. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Amsterdam Airport at 8 am and 10 am. Conditions apply.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a room.
Single Room Supplement: $530 p.p.
Triple Room Discount: $100 p.p.
Shared Rooming: Guaranteed Room Share is not available on this trip.
Airport Transfers: On arrival at Amsterdam Airport transfers will operate at 9 am, 11:30 am and 2:30 pm. Guests arriving later should make their own way to the hotel. Return transfers on the last travel day will arrive at Amsterdam Airport at 8 am and 10 am.
Gratuities : Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver, $58 per person.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
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Professional Travel Director
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Sightseeing with Local Experts
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VIP Access
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
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Hotel Tips
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Most Meals
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Personal Flight Options
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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
Meal Summary
8 meals: 5 Buffet Breakfasts, 3 Dinners, all with tea and coffee.
Included Highlights
Cultural Insight
- Visit a working Dutch Windmill and see the inner workings of the machinery responsible for helping to reclaim the Netherlands from the sea. Visit the Delft Pottery factory for a look at the creation of this renowned, hand painted, porcelain. A Dutch dining experience at a cheese farm where you will also gain an insight into the making of traditional wooden clogs
Small Group Sightseeing
- In Amsterdam, enjoy a guided visit to the Rijksmuseum with a group size of no more than 25 guests
Local Specialist
- For included visit to the Corrie ten Boom House and Museum
Hidden Treasure
- Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure
Sightseeing Highlights
- City orientation in Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam
- Tickets for Keukenhof Tulip Bulb fields are included during the flowering season as an alternative to Gouda (April until mid-May)
- Scenic canal cruise in Amsterdam
- Visit the Rijksmuseum, Corrie ten Boom House and Museum in Haarlem, Volendam, Zaanse Schans, The Hague, Delft, Kinderdijk, Gouda
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
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Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to the Netherlands and Belgium must have a current passport valid for six months beyond the conclusion of their trip. You can find information on how to apply for a passport here, and how to renew a passport here. No visa is required for U.S. citizens entering these countries.
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Currency
The currency in the Netherlands and Belgium is the Euro (€). While it’s a good idea to bring some money for when you first arrive in Europe, you’ll usually find a better exchange rate in your destination. The most convenient way to obtain cash is to use your ATM card at local banks in the Netherlands and Belgium. We recommend you also bring a valid credit card for purchases while you are traveling. It is important that you inform your financial institutions of your travel plans before you leave home so they don’t flag your purchases as potentially fraudulent charges.
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Packing
We suggest bringing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress, as well as comfortable walking shoes and a waterproof jacket with a hood. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
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Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Amsterdam
Hidden Amsterdam
Adult Price: €43.00
Still in use by the Dutch Royal Family, The Royal Palace in Amsterdam was built in 1648. Originally serving as the Town Hall, it was also a Napoleonic Palace before its current role. Its rich history and the interior of this magnificent building in the heart of Amsterdam make this a must see.
Dutch Countryside Bicycle Ride with a Local
Adult Price: €52.00
The Netherlands is well known for being the perfect country to go for a bike ride. We'll leave the hectic city behind and cycle into the beautiful and green nature reserve called “Waterland”. Our Local Specialist will take us through centuries-old picturesque villages with typical wooden houses. We'll cross wooden bridges, pass brooks and green pastures and ride along the Ijsselmeer. Comfortable bicycles, helmets and refreshment in a typical Dutch Café are provided. The best way to experience Holland!
Van Loon Museum
Adult Price: €40.00
In the heart of the canal district lies Museum Van Loon, a magnificent private residence built in 1672. The former residence of the artist Ferdinand Bol, the interior has remained largely intact since the 18th century and still evokes the splendour of the Golden Age. We’ll discover the museum’s large collection of paintings, fine furniture, precious silver and porcelain from several centuries. Behind the house, the beautiful garden is laid out in formal style and is an oasis of quiet in the modern inner city. This glimpse of the world behind the façades of the world-famous canals is highly recommended.
Holland's Favorite Food
Adult Price: €62.00
Nibble your way through Amsterdam's international dining scene on a tasting tour led by a local specialist. Learn about the international flavors that have influenced Dutch cuisine, while grabbing bites at a cheese shop, beer garden and family restaurant. Savour handpicked local delicacies including artisanal cheeses, a sweet ‘stroopwafel’ and the best fish in town. We'll wash them all down with a beer or jenever.
Muiderslot, A Geniune Castle
Adult Price: €56.00
We'll take a short drive to imposing Muiderslot Castle, which will give us a real taste of Dutch history. It's part of Amsterdam's Defence Line and is UNESCO World Heritage Listed. During your guided tour, through rooms refurbished in 17th-century style, you'll imagine yourself in a Rembrandt painting as it evokes the period when Pieter Corneliszoon Hooft, known as the "Dutch Shakespeare," occupied the castle. We'll also enjoy a garden tour and a refreshment in a typical Dutch Inn is included.
EatWith Experience
EatWith is the world’s leading community for authentic food experiences with locals in over 130 countries. Choose between our hand-selected hosts and dine like a local with a local. Fully immerse yourself in food and culture while meeting other travelers at your table and experience the magic of social dining. Transport is not included in this optional experience. €45 - €65
Request a Quote
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30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Add air to your reservation
Let our Air Specialists handle your air reservations. We have direct access to the most current airfare routes and prices, so you’ll get the best value available when we book your flights. We never charge a booking fee and you’ll enjoy the flexibility to pay for air 60-90 days prior to departure.
