BELGIUM & NETHERLANDS A GUIDED JOURNEY

Brussels • Bruges • Ghent • Delft • Amsterdam • Gouda

A curated journey through medieval cities, royal capitals, canals, chocolate houses, and living history — experienced at walking pace with a private guide.

DAY 1 — THURSDAY April 15 | FLIGHT DAY
Evening departure flight (own expense). Today is your travel day as you make your way toward Belgium for the start of the journey.

DAY 2 — FRIDAY April 16 | ARRIVAL IN BRUSSELS
Land in Brussels, transfer to hotel and relax in the lobby bar/restaurant with a drink while your guide checks you in and brings your bags up to the rooms. After a thorough room inspection your guide delivers your room key to you. After you freshen up enjoy a short orientation tour of our neighborhood in Brussels. This evening is at your leisure but remember that your guide is available every evening for additional exploring and will happily give meal recommendations at any time.
Overnight: Alma Grand Palace hotel Brussels

DAY 3 — SATURDAY April 17 | BRUSSELS: ROYAL CITY, CHOCOLATE & GRAND SQUARES
The next morning we begin high above the city at Mont des Arts, where gardens step down toward the medieval core and the skyline stretches across royal rooftops and church spires. From here, Brussels reveals itself in layers — structured, symbolic, and unexpectedly dramatic.
We move into the neoclassical elegance of Place Royale, leading naturally into the Royal Palace of Brussels and surrounding Parc de Bruxelles, where long tree-lined paths reflect the city’s royal identity and political history. A short walk brings us to the towering Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, its twin spires and stained glass marking one of the most powerful Gothic interiors in Belgium.
From here, the tone shifts into the elegant glass-roofed Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, where light filters over cafés, boutiques, and chocolate houses. Inside, we explore Belgium’s chocolate culture through Neuhaus and Pierre Marcolini, followed by a deeper artisan experience at Laurent Gerbaud Chocolatier, known for creative modern chocolate craftsmanship. We then arrive at the iconic Grand Place, surrounded by ornate guild houses and golden façades that define Brussels’ identity. A classic stop at Maison Dandoy for waffles follows before finishing at the famous symbol of the city — Manneken Pis, small in size but enormous in cultural identity.
Evening is at leisure — your guide remains available for recommendations.
Overnight:Alma Grand Palace hotel Brussels

DAY 4 — SUNDAY April 18 | BRUGES & GHENT: MEDIEVAL BELGIUM
We travel into Belgium’s most atmospheric historic cities.
In Bruges, we begin at Minnewater, a peaceful lake of swans and bridges, before entering the silence of the Begijnhof, a whitewashed courtyard frozen in time. The city unfolds through art at the Groeningemuseum, then into postcard-perfect views at Rozenhoedkaai.
We continue into the historic heart at Burg Square, home to centuries of civic and religious power, including the Basilica of the Holy Blood. The day peaks at Markt Square, dominated by the towering Belfry of Bruges.
As long as your stamina endures, we continue into Ghent, where highlights include Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the Belfry of Ghent, Graslei & Korenlei, Gravensteen Castle, and the atmospheric lanes of Patershol. Evening return to Brussels.
Overnight: Alma Grand Palace hotel Brussels

DAY 5 — MONDAY April 19 | BRUSSELS → DELFT (NETHERLANDS)
We cross into the Netherlands and arrive in Delft, a city of canals, bridges, and timeless Dutch charm. After check-in, we settle into Delft with a relaxed evening introduction to the city’s canals and historic centre. Late evening is at leisure — your guide remains available for recommendations.
Overnight: Hotel De Plantaan, Deflt

DAY 6 — TUESDAY April 20th | DELFT EXPERIENCE DAY
Today we explore Delft in depth — a city of royal history, pottery tradition, and quiet canal beauty.
We visit the leaning Oude Kerk, the royal significance of the Nieuwe Kerk, the civic centre at the City Hall, and the world-famous Royal Delft Factory. We also explore the canals, bridges, and hidden courtyards that give Delft its intimate character.
A canal cruise offers a final perspective on the city’s quiet elegance.
Evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel De Plantaan Deflt

DAY 7 — WEDNESDAY April 21 Tulip Day
Today we venture out in the Tulip fields to stroll through the colorful fields and capture some truly memorable pictures. Our local experts will curate the perfect Tulip Day Experience in the Bollenstreek region of Holland. Evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel De Plantaan Deflt

DAY 8 — THURSDAY April 22 | GOUDA: CHEESE, CANALS & TRADITION
We explore Gouda’s historic centre, including the cheese market square, Waag, City Hall, and the remarkable stained glass of St. John’s Church. We also walk canals, the old harbour, fish market, and historic neighbourhoods, experiencing classic Dutch life at its most authentic. Return to Delft in the evening.
Evening is at leisure — your guide remains available for final recommendations.
Overnight: Hotel De Plantaan Deflt

DAY 9 — FRIDAY April 23 | AMSTERDAM: CANALS, HISTORY & ENERGY
We begin at Amsterdam Centraal, entering a city defined by movement, water, and history. We explore the old heart at De Wallen, the Oude Kerk, then move into Dam Square, home to the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk. We continue to the reflective Anne Frank area before drifting into the colour and atmosphere of the Bloemenmarkt. From there, we pass the Munttoren, and finish in the lively energy of Rembrandtplein.
We return via scenic canals toward the station, completing a full city loop. Evening is at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel De Plantaan Deflt

DAY 9 — Saturday April 24 |DEPARTURE
Transfer from Delft to Schiphol Airport for your flight home.

INCLUSIONS
Hotels
transfers/ public transportation, trains,
Entry fees
Tours as listed
Dedicated tour direct/guide
Breakfast at hotel daily

EXCLUSIONS
International flights
Lunch / Dinner
Insurance
Gratuities
Expenses of a personal nature
*Alternate dates and itineraries are available upon request!!!
* If you like this itinerary or Netherlands is on your Bucket List remember that we specialize in customization. We can set up a tour tailored to your specific interests. Let us help you check it off the Bucket List!