Best of Holland, Belgium & Luxembourg
11 Days from $2,291 per person
Take a At Leisure jaunt through Benelux – from fairy-tale castles to flowering fields, Rembrandt to Royal Delft. See the historic fortified city of Maastricht, where four nations converge, the breathtaking gorge of Luxembourg's Alzette and Petrusse rivers, and one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities, where traditional Belgian chocolate, beer and lace are in plentiful supply – where else but in Bruges?
Overview
Take a At Leisure jaunt through Benelux – from fairy-tale castles to flowering fields, Rembrandt to Royal Delft. See the historic fortified city of Maastricht, where four nations converge, the breathtaking gorge of Luxembourg's Alzette and Petrusse rivers, and one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities, where traditional Belgian chocolate, beer and lace are in plentiful supply – where else but in Bruges?
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Day 1: USA - Europe
Board your overnight flight to Europe (not included). -
Day 2: Arrive Amsterdam (3 Nights)
On arrival at Amsterdam Airport transfers will operate at 9am, 11.30am and 2.30pm. Guests arriving later should make
their own way to the hotel. Fall in love with the Lowlands, launching your At Leisure vacation in the magical city of Amsterdam, whose labyrinthine canals and quaint cobbled squares you will have an opportunity to explore before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Reception cruise including a light meal and welcome drink. Cruise the city's famous waterways admiring the picture-perfect surrounds and gabled façades. -
Day 3: Amsterdam Sightseeing and At Leisure
Explore Amsterdam's historic city center this morning and enjoy a Small Group Sightseeing tour of the Rijksmuseum with a Local Specialist. Come face-to-face with such masterpieces as Rembrandt's 'The Night Watch', Van Gogh's self-portrait, and 'The Milkmaid' by Vermeer. We leave great art behind and visit a historic diamond polishing factory where we'll gain an Cultural Insight into the tradition of diamond cutting. Celebrate spring and enjoy an included visit to Keukenhof. Meander through an enchanting wonderland of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths with millions of blooms planted across the 70-acre site (subject to season). -
Day 4: The Hague – Delft and Rotterdam Excursion
Soak up the gezellig Dutch atmosphere this morning before heading to Delft via The Hague. We admire the delicate blue and white porcelain that has made this historic town famous during a Cultural Insight at the Royal Delft Pottery workshop. Meandering south, we arrive in the edgy port city of Rotterdam where we will enjoy an informative orientation and ascend the iconic Euromast Tower for stunning panoramic views of this city. Heading back to Amsterdam, consider an evening relaxing in one of the charming pleins lined with cozy cafés. -
Day 5: Amsterdam – Maastricht – Bastogne – Luxembourg (2 Nights)
The fortified city of Maastricht takes center stage this morning. We spend some time ambling through its cobblestone town center before continuing to Bastogne, the site of bloody skirmishes in the World War II Battle of the Bulge. See the Mardasson Memorial commemorating the almost 80,000 American soldiers who were injured or killed during the siege before journeying to the Duchy of Luxembourg, where tonight we'll dine in our hotel. -
Day 6: Luxembourg Sightseeing and At Leisure
This morning we pay tribute to Allied Forces hero, General George S. Patton, whose final resting place is the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial. Later, we take to the streets of a fairy-tale capital on a leisurely walking tour of Luxembourg with a Local Specialist. Our route takes us past the Cathedral and the Grand Ducal Palace, with its Flemish Renaissance façades, and includes spectacular views of the gorge of the Rivers Alzette and Petrusse. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. -
Day 7: Luxembourg – Orval – Dinant – Bruges (2 Nights)
We begin our day with a visit to the 12th century Cistercian Orval Abbey renowned for its distinct cheese and for being one of the few breweries that produces Trappiste beer. En route to the enchanting medieval village of Bruges, we stop in Dinant whose famous son, Adolphe Sax, is credited with having invented the saxophone. This evening we enjoy a memorable Be My Guest experience with Marc and Judig Nyssen at their 18th century Bruges farmstead to learn about Flanders farm life and enjoy hearty Belgian fare. -
Day 8: Bruges Sightseeing and At Leisure
Wake up in beautiful Bruges and join a Local Specialist for a walking tour of this picturesque town. Take to the water and enjoy a whimsical sightseeing cruise along the city's wonderful canals lined with Gothic façades. Admire the delicate art of Belgian lace during a Cultural Insight at the Lace Center in the old lace school of the Sisters of the Immaculate Conception. Spend the rest of the day at leisure soaking up the old-world charm of this beguiling town. -
Day 9: Bruges – Ghent – Brussels (2 Nights)
Delve into centuries of trade heritage in the port city of Ghent, with its picturesque riverine backdrop. See the medieval city's three famous towers – Saint Nicholas' Church, the Belfry and Saint Bavo's Cathedral – before continuing to Brussels, a multi-cultural melting pot which you will have an opportunity to explore after your Travel Director shows you the city's highlights. See the Atomium – designed for the 1958 Brussels World's Fair, Mannekin Pis and the exquisite Grand Place with its opulent and ornate guildhalls. This evening consider sampling mouth-watering Belgian cuisine washed down with the city's best beers. -
Day 10: Brussels At Leisure
Embrace a full day at leisure in the Belgian capital to explore the city on your terms. Meander past the Royal Palace and through the leafy lanes of Brussels Park or indulge in delicious chocolate tasting. Your Travel Director will assist you to make the most out of your full day at leisure. This evening we celebrate a memorable sojourn through three fascinating countries during a Farewell Dinner. -
Day 11: Depart Brussels
We bid Belgium a fond adieu this morning as we prepare to close the curtain on a memorable At Leisure vacation. Return transfers
on the last travel day will arrive at Brussels Airport at 8 am and 12 noon. Conditions apply.
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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.
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Definite Departure
| Depart Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 Sep 18 | 23 Sep 18 |
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$2,695pp | Request Quote | |||
| 20 Sep 18 | 30 Sep 18 |
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$2,695pp | Request Quote | |||
| 27 Sep 18 | 7 Oct 18 |
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$2,695$2,291pp | Last Minute DealPromo Code: PPLMDE416 | Call 1-877-622-9109 |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: $900 p.p.
Triple Room Discount: $100 p.p.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $97 per person.
Airport transfers: On arrival at Amsterdam Airport transfers will operate at 9:00 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 Brussels Airport at 8:00 am and 12:00 noon.
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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WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
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Personal Flight Options
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Most Meals
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Hotel Tips
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Expertly Selected Hotels
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Cultural Enrichment
Meal Summary
13 meals: 9 buffet breakfasts, 4 dinners, all with tea and coffee.
Included Highlights
Be My Guest
- Join Marc and Judig Nyssen at their 18th century Bruges farmstead to learn about Flanders farm life and enjoy hearty Belgian fare
Cultural Insight
- Explore Holland's long diamond heritage at a historic diamond polishing factory in Amsterdam, visit the Delft Pottery factory to see how this delicate, porcelain is created and see first-hand the famous tradition of Belgian lace at a workshop in Bruges
Small Group Sightseeing
- Enjoy a guided visit to Amsterdam's famous Rijksmuseum with a group size of no more than 25 guests
Local Specialist
- For included sightseeing in Luxembourg and Bruges
Hidden Treasure
- Enjoy at least one surprise Hidden Treasure
Sightseeing Highlights
- City tour in Luxembourg, Bruges
- Orientation of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Maastricht, Ghent, Brussels
- Tickets for Keukenhof Bulb fields are included during the flowering season (April until mid-May)
- Cruise the canals of Amsterdam, Bruges
- View The American Memorial at Bastogne
- Visit the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, Royal Delft Pottery, the Euromast Tower in Rotterdam, General George Patton's Grave, Orval Abbey, Dinant
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
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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.
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Passports and Visas
U.S. citizens traveling to the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg 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, Belgium and Luxembourg 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. 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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Cuisine
Dutch cuisine is simple and rustic. You might like to try specialties such as rookworst (smoked sausage), kibbeling (fried fish) and pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes). And, if you’re feeling adventurous you can try local raw herring prepared with onions and gherkins. For something sweet, try stroopwafels, a delicious chewy cookie made with two thin layers of waffle and sticky syrup filling.
Belgian food is saucy, rich, and satisfying. Try popular dishes like waterzooi (fish stew), boudin blanc sausage, stoemp (Belgian mashed potatoes), moules-frites, and waffles.
If you enjoy large portions of meat and fish, potatoes, dashes of cream and wine, you’ll love the food in Luxembourg. Hearty options include pork and broad beans, fried blood sausage, pates and soups.
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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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Tipping
Tipping is less common in Europe than in the U.S. Many restaurants will include a service charge in the bill. While tipping it is not required, you can leave up to 10 percent gratuity for excellent service. In bars and cafes it’s appropriate to round up or leave some small change.
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend €3.00 per person/per day for your driver and €5.00 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 euros per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
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Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
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Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
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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.
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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.
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
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.
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.
Dinner In A Historic Dutch House
Adult Price: €63.00
Join us for a delicious meal of Dutch specialities, including drinks, in the elegant surroundings of this historic house.
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.
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!
Muiderslot, A Genuine 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 Defense 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.
Rotterdam
Kinderdijk Exploration And Boat Ride
Adult Price: €32.00
Join us to discover the spectacular straight line of 19 working windmills at the Kinderdijk. Part of a UNESCO Cultural Heritage site and situated below sea-level, they were built around 1740 to pump water out of the reclaimed 'polder' lands. You’ll also admire the classic Dutch landscape between the Rhine river branches of the delta, during a relaxing boat ride.
Luxembourg
Roman Trier Discovery And Dinner
Adult Price: €70.00
Your Local Specialist will reveal the historic Roman city of Trier, with free time in the centre before you proceed to the nearby hills, for views over the Moselle River and famous wine region. Here, in a traditional villa converted into a restaurant, you’ll enjoy a three-course dinner with drinks overlooking the valley.
Bruges
Magical Bruges By Horse And Carriage
Adult Price: €38.00
Experience a magical carriage ride by the colourful canals and squares of the Venice of the North. You’ll see the Lake of Love with its gliding swans, the ornate bridges, the step-gabled houses reflecting in the canals and hear the bells of the carillon chiming.
Ypres Excursion and Last Post Ceremony
Adult Price: €38.00
Travel with your local expert to the historic town of Ypres, a ‘city of peace’ famous for its involvement in World War I. Afterwards, you’ll visit two famous cemeteries and attend the famous Last Post Ceremony, which commemorates the fallen of the British Army and her allies on the surrounding Flanders Fields. You’ll also have the chance to visit Ypres' famous market square and take in the atmosphere of this unique location.
Belgium's Best Traditions and Tastes
Adult Price: €39.00
You’ll discover all the secrets and techniques that make Belgian chocolate the most exquisite in the world. Then head to a Belgian Brewery to savour a selection of Belgian beers.
Brussels
Waterloo Explored
Adult Price: €40.00
In 1815 Napoleon fought his famous last battle here against the Duke of Wellington. You’ll visit the battlefields and monuments, and discover how the face of Europe was changed forever. You’ll also see the huge iron monument built by the widows of veterans, and hear their story as you gaze at the spectacular panoramic view.
Antwerp Unveiled
Adult Price: €40.00
Join this half-day experience to Antwerp, the second largest city and biggest port of Belgium. You’ll discover the city with your Local Specialist and visit the largest Gothic cathedral of Belgium to see artworks by Peter Paul Rubens. You can also enjoy a traditional beer or waffle in the beautiful square right by the Cathedral.
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.
Keukenhof takes place every year from late March through mid-May. Tickets to the gardens are included on seven departure dates in 2018 from March 29 until May 10.
During the flowering season, we include tickets to the beautiful Keukenhof Bulb fields. See more than 800 varieties of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths in this beautiful 70 acre garden. Every year world famous artists are invited to design the blooming mosaics around a central festival theme.
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.
