Holland & Belgium Signature
7 Days
from
$3,927
to
$4,375
per person*
Highlights:
Netherlands
(Amsterdam)
,
Belgium
(Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp)
Trip Start/End:
Amsterdam
/
Antwerp
See some of the best sites in Holland and Belgium from city tours in Amsterdam (including a canal boat ride), The Hague - the Royals residence, Delft (city of ceramics), the UNESCO heritage city of Bruges and the beer brewing city of Antwerp. Explore quaint fishing villages and historical hamlets, be suitably impressed at the vastness of the flower region of Holland, and gain an insight into the various industries both countries are known for from beer brewing, cheese and chocolate making, porcelain ceramics and lace making. In the company of a private driver and vehicle with the option of adding a private guide each day or having some time at leisure in various places enroute, you will be privy to a great insight into the cultures and traditions of both countries while staying at choice properties in each location.
Overview
| Day | Activities | Hotel |
- Day 1
- Amsterdam
| - Transfer - Private - Airport to Hotel - Vehicle/Driver
- Welcome package
- Lunch (not included)
- Self-Guided - Time at leisure
- Dinner (not included)
| Estherea (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 2
- Amsterdam
| - Shared - 1/2 d City Tour & Canal Ride (3.5 hrs) - Coach/Guide/Boat
- Lunch (not included)
- Self-Guided - Dinner at leisure
| Estherea (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 3
- Amsterdam
| - Shared - Grand Holland (8hrs) - Coach/Guide
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Estherea (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 4
- Amsterdam - Rotterdam - Brussels
| - Transfer - Private - Amsterdam - Rotterdam [1/2 d Delft city & porcelain factory tour (no guide)(6hrs)] - Vehicle/Driver
- Optional: Guide services
- Lunch (not included)
- Train - Rotterdam - Brussels [2 hrs] - 1st Class Train Ticket
- Private - Train Station (arrival) & City Tour (4hrs) - Vehicle/Driver/Guide
- Dinner (not included)
| Steigenberger Grandhotel (5*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 5
- Brussels - Bruges
| - Transfer - Private - Brussels - Bruges [Time at leisure in Bruges, Chocolate Factory Tour & Lace Museum (no guide)(8hrs)] - Vehicle/Driver
- Optional: Guide services
- Lunch (not included)
- Private - 1/2 d Walking Tour (4hrs) - Guide
- Dinner (not included)
| Die Swaene (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 6
- Bruges - Antwerp
| - Transfer - Private - Bruges - Antwerp [De Halve Maan & Duvel Breweries (no guide)(5hrs)] - Vehicle/Driver
- Lunch (not included)
- Dinner (not included)
| Hilton (4*) Standard (B)1 DBL (2 Adults)
|
- Day 7
- Antwerp
| - Transfer - Private - Airport - Vehicle/Driver
| Depart (Int`l Airport)
|
| B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, 1/2d = Half Day, Al = All Inclusive |
Trip Itinerary
Amsterdam
Garden
Hotel Estherea
Day 1: Amsterdam
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
A welcome package with your vouchers, a city map, train tickets (if relevant) and any other touristic information that we deem you may find useful will be presented to you by your driver upon arrival. Alternative arrangements will be made if you do not have a private transfer at the start of your itinerary.
A great way to see the city and experience it in local fashion is to rent a bike for a day or even a few hours. Amsterdam is one of the most cycle-friendly cities in the world and bicycles have sometimes more space on the road than their fellow pavement users. Expect to pay EUR12 per day for a bike rental. For bike hire contact:MacBike, Mr Visserplein 2 or Weteringschans 2. Tel: +31 (0)20-620-0985 or Rent-a-Bike, Damstraat 20-22. Tel: +31 (0)20-625-5029. From the picturesque Jordaan district where streets are named after flowers to the artistic Westerpark where open-air concerts, theatre and exhibitions take place, Amsterdam abounds with walking opportunities that combine well with cultural heritage. Amsterdam's infamous Red Light District is in the very centre of the city, concentrated on two canals (Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal) and the interconnecting streets. It is definitely an eye-opener, the working girls sit or stand in windows beckoning at passers-by.
Accommodation: Estherea (4*) Boutique hotel Estheréa (4*) is housed in a row of 17th century buildings on the Singel, Amsterdam's oldest major canal and part of the ring of canals added to the official UNESCO World Heritage list in 2010. The rich, colourful interior includes woollen carpets, crystal chandeliers, mahogany panelling, luxurious fabrics, extravagant wallpapers, flowers, plants, and fish.
House-Lined Canals
Zaanse Village
Day 2: Amsterdam
Take a shared city tour where you will see by luxurious coach, the old and new parts of this beautiful city with its many historical buildings and interesting sights. You will get to see for example the Royal Palace, the National Monument, the Skinny Bridge, the Albert Cuyp Market and the beautiful houses along the canals. You will also see a windmill on the Amstel River and a visit will be made to a diamond factory, where you get to view the traditional way of polishing. An included hour-long canal cruise will offer an interesting new perspective to this beautiful city.
Enjoy dinner at leisure. There are lots of good places to choose from - Here are some suggestions: De Kas, Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, Tel: (0)20-462-4562. An old greenhouse converted into a beautiful dining room. You can be sat at the chef’s table, under the 8-metre high glass conservatory or if the weather permits on the patio, it is an absolute delight to experience some of the greatest cuisine in Amsterdam. The daily harvest defines the menu. 11 Oosterdokskade 3-5 Tel: (0)20-625-5999. Not to be missed, 11 mixes with perfection great quality food, brilliant atmosphere and a unique location. Although the entrance could put some people off, it is worth going to the 11th floor of the Post CS building and admire the view over the city. EUR29.50 for a 3-course dinner.
Accommodation: Estherea (4*)
Madurodam
Day 3: Amsterdam
Begin with a visit to the Aalsmeer´s world famous flower auction (closed Sundays and replaced by a visit of a traditional wooden shoe maker). Continue to Rotterdam, the second largest city of the Netherlands, characterized by its contemporary and fascinating architecture. The next stop is at the picturesque town of Delft. During your visit to the Delft Blue Pottery Factory, you'll learn about the historical developments of these ceramic techniques. From Delft you drive to The Hague for a city tour. Pass by the highlights of their governmental city like the House of Parliament and the Peace Palace. During this excursion you can visit Madurodam. This miniature city offers you the highlights of the Netherlands on a scale 1:25.
Accommodation: Estherea (4*)
Brussels
Royal Palace
Steigenberger Grandhotel
Day 4: Amsterdam - Rotterdam - Brussels
Spend the morning today (6hrs) in the company of a private driver as you explore Delft before being dropped off at Rotterdam train station. Enjoy a visit of Delft, one of the most charming towns in Holland. The market place, the 'new' Church and the wonderful historical town hall in combination with narrow canals, and little shopping streets make it very special.
Delft is known worldwide for its porcelain so a visit to learn more about this artisanal craft is a must. Visit the Delft Blue Factory and see firsthand what goes into the art of painting the vases and plates as well as the firing process as the ceramic is baked. Admire the many historical pieces of Delft Blue art on display before continuing onwards to Rotterdam Central Station where your guide and driver will bid you farewell. (Please note that this service does not include a guide. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if you would like to add a proivate guide to your itinerary today). (Entrance fee to Delft factory not included and is approx. 3,5euros per person).
Consider adding a professional guide to your day's itinerary to get the most out of your day exploring. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if you are interested in adding in this service to your itinerary.
Depart by high speed train from Rotterdam to Brussels, Belgium. The train journey typically takes 2 hours.
Meet your guide on the arrival platform in Brussels. Your private driver will be waiting in front of the train station for you and after getting settled, you can enjoy a guided tour of Brussels on foot and by vehicle. Visit the monumental square, Grand Place and tour the city center with its impressive buildings, churches, the Royal Palace and Manneken Pis. Enjoy a visit of the Atomium, a landmark that was built for the World Expo in 1958. The Atomium is a visual representation of the concept of an atom. It represents an iron atom and is magnified 150 billion times. From here you will be brought to your accommodation where you will have time to get aqauinted with your surroundings before considering plans for the evening.
Accommodation: Steigenberger Grandhotel (5*) The Steigenberger Grandhotel (5*) is directly located on the legendary and very fashionable Avenue Louise, offering exceptionally stylish accommodation in sophisticated surroundings. The main tourist attractions, stations, and most elegant boutiques in Brussels are all within easy reach of the hotel. All of the 267 hotel rooms are designed to inspire, reflecting the beauty of the hotel's scenic location while ensuring your comfort and convenience. Experience a home away from home when you stay at the unique and exclusive Steinberger Grandhotel.
Bruges
Jan Van Eyck statue
Hotel Die Swaene
Day 5: Brussels - Bruges
Meet your driver in front of your hotel this morning in Brussels and relax on the drive to Bruges. The travel time is about 1 hour and 15 mins. Upon your arrival to the beautiful city of Bruges, you will have some free time to explore the city with its romantic canals, medieval buildings and many churches and cathedrals. See the marvelous market square, city hall, the belfry and its halls. The city center is car free, so it allows for great freedom for pedestrians within the core of the city.
After some time at leisure in Bruges, enjoy a visit of a chocolate factory and spend time in the small chocolate museum. You will discover the origins of cocoa, its value through the centuries, the manufacture of chocolate and finally, you will have the opportunity to taste homemade hot chocolate and chocolates.
From chocolate to lace..Visit a lace museum, a craft that has been carried out in this city for generations, and learn everything about the history of lace as you see a demonstration on how lace is made.
At days end you will be brought to your hotel in Bruges.
Consider adding a professional guide to your day's itinerary to get the most out of your day exploring. Please speak to your Sales Advisor if you are interested in adding in this service to your itinerary.
Bruges is the most romantic city in Belgium and maybe in the whole of Europe with medieval bridges spanning meandering canals. Discover the 'Venice of the North' with your own English speaking guide as you walk through the city. Your guide will introduce you to the main sights and give you the history of the town as you stroll by the artistic wealth of the innumerable monuments, historical buildings and churches. You will also get the chance to admire the marvelous market square, city hall, the belfry and its halls and the numerous canals and the typical God houses (late medieval-looking houses bearing a name and a year on the outside wall) which can be seen everywhere in the city. (The city centre is car free allowing for a pleasant, trafic-free walking tour). (No transportation included).
Accommodation: Die Swaene (4*) Hotel Die Swaene (4*) overlooks one the most picturesque canals of Bruges. It is considered one of the most romantic hotels in Europe. The rooms are elegantly furnised and all uniquely decorated. The hotel's public areas have an atmosphere of times past. A magnificent new wing, the Canal House, which has been inaugurated, has eight rooms and two suites. The sunny terrace provides spectacular views of the canals and water activities. Die Swaene has everything you need to make your visit unforgettable.
Antwerp
Hilton Antwerp Hotel
Day 6: Bruges - Antwerp
Todays' destination is Antwerp - home of many special beers! After meeting your driver at your hotel, you have the option of visiting a brewery in Bruges - the "De Halve Maan". The artisanal brewery "De Halve Maan" is the only family brewery in the centre of Bruges that is still active. Xavier Vanneste, son of Mrs Véronique Maes, restarted the old brewery after a thorough renovation of the remaining installation. He launched this new beer under the name ‘Brugse Zot’ for which a unique recipe has been developed. Today Brugse Zot is the one and only beer really brewed in Bruges’ towncenter!
From Bruges, you willbe transfered to Antwerp. The journey should take approximately 1hour and 15 minutes. The next port of call is another Belgian brewery - the well known Duvel Brewery, which is located just south of Antwerp. Duvel beer is powerful with a strong taste that requires a special way of pouring. See the process and appreciate the sophisticated and carefully cotrolled brewing process used to ensure quality always predominates. Of course a tour of a brewery would be incomplete without trying the product - enjoy sampling the beer at its origin.
Finally, you will be driven to your hotel in Antwerp at days end.
Accommodation: Hilton (4*) Located in the heart of historic Belgium, the Hilton Antwerp Hotel (4*) offers the most central location in Antwerp and is an ideal base to discover the beautiful and historic city. Enjoy Belgian cuisine at the hotel’s bistro-style Terrace Café and experience spectacular views of the Cathedral of Our Lady. After exploring the stunning city of Antwerp, relax with a refreshing cocktail or a malt whisky at the nautical themed Maritime Bar or indulge in high tea served in the refined Lobby Lounge.
Day 7: Antwerp
Take a private airport transfer today in Antwerp.
Accommodation: Depart (Int`l Airport)
Accommodations
Hotel Estherea
Estherea (4*) - Amsterdam
Boutique hotel Estheréa (4*) is housed in a row of 17th century buildings on the Singel, Amsterdam's oldest major canal and part of the ring of canals added to the official UNESCO World Heritage list in 2010. The rich, colourful interior includes woollen carpets, crystal chandeliers, mahogany panelling, luxurious fabrics, extravagant wallpapers, flowers, plants, and fish.
Steigenberger Grandhotel
Steigenberger Grandhotel (5*) - Brussels
The Steigenberger Grandhotel (5*) is directly located on the legendary and very fashionable Avenue Louise, offering exceptionally stylish accommodation in sophisticated surroundings. The main tourist attractions, stations, and most elegant boutiques in Brussels are all within easy reach of the hotel. All of the 267 hotel rooms are designed to inspire, reflecting the beauty of the hotel's scenic location while ensuring your comfort and convenience. Experience a home away from home when you stay at the unique and exclusive Steinberger Grandhotel.
Hotel Die Swaene
Die Swaene (4*) - Bruges
Hotel Die Swaene (4*) overlooks one the most picturesque canals of Bruges. It is considered one of the most romantic hotels in Europe. The rooms are elegantly furnised and all uniquely decorated. The hotel's public areas have an atmosphere of times past. A magnificent new wing, the Canal House, which has been inaugurated, has eight rooms and two suites. The sunny terrace provides spectacular views of the canals and water activities. Die Swaene has everything you need to make your visit unforgettable.
Hilton Antwerp Hotel
Hilton (4*) - Antwerp
Located in the heart of historic Belgium, the Hilton Antwerp Hotel (4*) offers the most central location in Antwerp and is an ideal base to discover the beautiful and historic city. Enjoy Belgian cuisine at the hotel’s bistro-style Terrace Café and experience spectacular views of the Cathedral of Our Lady. After exploring the stunning city of Antwerp, relax with a refreshing cocktail or a malt whisky at the nautical themed Maritime Bar or indulge in high tea served in the refined Lobby Lounge.
Travel Info
Travel tips of Belgium
VISA/PASSPORT
Belgium is a party to the Schengen Agreement. As such, U.S. and Canadian citizens may enter for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
Citizens of other countries may require a visa. Please ask your Sales Advisor. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Belgium for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/belgium.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Brussels.
Government: Constitutional monarchy. The Kingdom of Belgium was established in 1830. In 1993, Belgium became a federal state comprising three autonomous regions.
Language: The official languages are Dutch, French and German. English is widely spoken in the Flemish region.
Religion: Mainly Roman Catholic (75%), with small Protestant and Jewish communities.
Time: GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Plugs are of the round two-pin type.
Telephone: Country code +32.
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is excellent.
Internet: Internet cafes are widely available throughout the country.
Travel tips of Netherlands
VISA/PASSPORT
The Netherlands is a party to the Schengen Agreement. As such, U.S. and Canadian citizens may enter for up to 90 days for tourist or business purposes without a visa. The passport should be valid for at least three months beyond the period of stay.
Citizens of other countries may require a visa. Please ask your Sales Advisor. These requirements change often and therefore it is best that you check with the Embassy of Netherlands for the most up to date visa information.
HEALTH
Health insurance is recommended. Medical facilities are good quality. We recommend that you see a health-care provider who specializes in Travel Medicine. The doctor or health-care provider will determine what vaccinations and medication you will need, depending on factors such as your health and immunization history, areas of the country you will be visiting, and planned activities. For more information on travel requirements, visit the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website: http://wwwn.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/netherlands.aspx
COUNTRY INFO
Capital: Amsterdam.
Government: Constitutional monarchy since 1848.
Language: Dutch is the official language. English, German and French are widely spoken.
Religion: 31% Roman Catholic, 13% Dutch Reformed Church, 7% Calvinist, 5.5% Muslim, 43.5% other religions or none.
Time: GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from last Sunday in March to last Sunday in October).
Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Two-pin European-style plugs are in use.
Telephone: Country code +31 (followed by 20 for Amsterdam, 10 for Rotterdam and 70 for The Hague).
Mobile Telephone: Roaming agreements exist with most international mobile phone companies. Coverage is universal.
Internet: There are many Internet cafes and some Internet access centers.
What's Included:
- Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services
What's not Included:
- Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance
Trip Terms & Conditions
- Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $350). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure.
- Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of 30% of program price. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to loss of 100% of program price.
- Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
- Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
- Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
- Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.kensingtontours.com/terms-and-conditions
- Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.
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