Tour suggestion
Two countries, countless flavors, and unforgettable experiences: This journey takes you through the Netherlands and Belgium, where culture, history, and cuisine come together in the most enjoyable way. From Dutch specialties to Belgian delicacies, every day brings something new to discover.
To ensure a relaxed and enjoyable travel experience, we have carefully chosen just one comfortable hotel base in each country, ideally located to allow all excursions to be made with ease and without changing accommodation.
Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam / ‘s-Hertogenbosch Region
You arrive at Amsterdam Airport, where your tour escort and coach driver warmly welcome you and continue with you to your hotel in the ‘s-Hertogenbosch region, a charming area in the south of the Netherlands known for its historic towns and relaxed atmosphere. In the afternoon, you enjoy a guided visit of the impressive Heeswijk Castle, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved castles in the Netherlands, offering a fascinating insight into Dutch history and architecture.
The rest of the afternoon you can unwind and enjoy your first dinner at the hotel.
Day 2: Amsterdam Excursion
After breakfast, you head to Amsterdam, the vibrant Dutch capital famous for its UNESCO-listed canal belt, historic merchant houses, and lively cultural scene.
During a guided city tour, you discover highlights such as Dam Square, the Royal Palace, and the picturesque canals that define the city’s unique character.
You also visit the Heineken Experience, where you learn more about one of the world’s most famous beer brands.
In the evening, you return to your hotel in the ‘s-Hertogenbosch region for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Dutch Traditions & Volendam
Today you explore traditional Dutch culture. You visit a cheese farm and enjoy a tasting of locally produced Gouda and Edam cheeses. At a traditional wooden shoe workshop, you learn how clogs are still crafted today.
In Volendam, a picturesque fishing village at the IJsselmeer, you experience authentic harbor life with colorful houses and a lively promenade. Here you enjoy fresh fish specialties directly at the harbor.
Dinner and overnight stay in the ‘s-Hertogenbosch region.
Day 4: Windmills & Sweet Specialties
You visit Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with 19 historic windmills that showcase the Netherlands’ centuries-old water management system.
Afterwards, you continue to the Gouda region, famous for its cheese and stroopwafels. You visit a traditional stroopwafel bakery and enjoy a fresh tasting of this sweet Dutch specialty.
Return to your hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5: Rotterdam Experience
After breakfast, you explore Rotterdam, a dynamic and modern port city known for its innovative architecture and Europe’s largest seaport.
During a guided city tour, you visit the famous Markthal, a spectacular indoor market with food stalls from around the world and impressive ceiling artwork. Tastings are included.
You also enjoy a harbor cruise, offering insight into one of the busiest ports in the world.
Dinner and overnight stay in the ‘s-Hertogenbosch region.
Day 6: Travel to Belgium
Today you travel from the Netherlands to Belgium. Your journey takes you to Antwerp, where you will spend the rest of the day and also your next overnight stays. Antwerp is a vibrant city known for its rich history, impressive Gothic architecture, and its important role as one of Europe’s leading diamond and fashion capitals.
Upon arrival, you enjoy a guided city tour through the historic old town, including highlights such as the Grote Markt and the Cathedral of Our Lady. You also experience tastings of Belgian waffles, one of the country’s most iconic specialties.
Dinner and overnight stay in Antwerp.
Day 7: Brussels Discovery
Today you visit Brussels, the capital of Belgium and the heart of the European Union. The city combines historic architecture with modern European institutions.
During a guided city tour, you discover landmarks such as the Grand Place, Manneken Pis, and the Royal Quarter.
You also visit the Atomium, one of Brussels’ most famous modern landmarks, and the Chocolate Museum with tasting experience.
Dinner and overnight stay in Antwerp.
Day 8: Ghent & Belgian Flavours
You travel to Ghent, a lively university city known for its medieval architecture and canals. During a guided city tour, you explore the well-preserved historic center and impressive guild houses.
A relaxing canal cruise gives you a different perspective of the city.
At lunchtime, you enjoy traditional Belgian fries with mayonnaise or “stoofvleessaus”.
Dinner and overnight stay in Antwerp.
Day 9: Bruges & Ostend
You visit Bruges, often called the “Venice of the North”, famous for its medieval charm, canals, and cobblestone streets. During a guided city tour, you discover highlights such as the Market Square and historic town center.
You also visit the De Halve Maan Brewery with a guided tour and tasting.
In the afternoon, you continue to Ostend, Belgium’s most popular seaside resort on the North Sea coast. Here you enjoy free time at the seafront and taste traditional mussels and fries (moules-frites) by the sea.
Dinner and overnight stay in Antwerp.
Day 10: Departure from Brussels
After breakfast, you transfer to Brussels Airport for your return flight, taking home unforgettable impressions of the Netherlands and Belgium.
Copyright program and pictures: © APPINA TRAVEL GmbH
