This 8-day Western European vacation takes you through Belgium and the Netherlands to see some of Western Europe’s most charming cities and towns. It features first class accommodations, private transfers, shared tours, and is perfect as an add-on to a longer journey through Western Europe.
Your journey begins in Brussels, the Belgian capital, where you’ll have a night to get your bearings and explore the stunning city, with its Gothic Town Hall, world-class art museums, and abundance of sweet treats (Belgian waffles, anyone?). After your introduction to Belgium in Brussels, connect to Antwerp to explore the second-largest city in the nation. Visit the railway station and Our Lady Cathedral, which has several masterpieces by Rubens. You’ll also head on a guided walk through the old city, starting at the 13th-century castle of Steen and working you way though the Gothic Market Square on the way to the River Scheldt. The next day, discover two of Belgium’s most enchanting cities. In Ghent, you’ll admire the medieval architecture, visit the Castle of the Counts of Flanders, and see the Mystic Lamb painting in Saint Bavo’s Cathedral. In Bruges, explore the Lake of Love and take a boat trip along the canals of the medieval old town. You’ll then ride the train into Netherlands and reach Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is the Dutch capital and one of the most charming cities in Europe. On your first full day in the Netherlands, venture into the Dutch countryside and discover its picture-perfect beauty. You’ll explore the windmill village of Zaanse Schans and visit a working windmill, stop by a cheese factory in the fishing village of Volendam, and take a boat trip to the former island of Marken, where you’ll stop off at a clog maker. The next day, explore Amsterdam’s artistic heritage on a guided tour of two world-famous museums. Skip the line at the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum and marvel at masterpieces by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Johannes Vermeer. You’ll cap the day off with a boat tour along the canals and free entrance at the Diamond Museum. You’ll have another day to explore Amsterdam at leisure. Visit another of its celebrated museums or get lost in its charming assortment of excellent restaurants, winding canals, and world-famous nightlife.
At the end of your stay, head to the train station to connect to your onward destination.
