Holland/Belgium

Destinations:
• 3 nights in Delft, Netherlands
• 3 nights in Ghent, Belgium

Holland and Belgium offer the perfect combination of Dutch charm and Belgian culture, creating an unforgettable European experience. English is widely spoken in both countries and locations feel clean and organized but not in a rigid manner. These neighboring countries are easily accessible by train and offer distinct personalities that complement each other beautifully. Due to the ease of public train travel, there is time to switch up the itinerary for a solo day trip to your dream destination - for instance The Hague, Rotterdam, Antwerp, or Brussels. At the end of the trip you'll be so confident on a train that you may wish to extend your time and tour Amsterdam on your own.

HOLLAND HIGHLIGHTS

Attractions: Delft is famous for its blue and white pottery, historic market square, and charming canals. The city offers hands-on pottery painting experiences where you can create your own Delft blue masterpiece. We will tour the famous Keukenhof Gardens and have an opportunity to visit the surrounding tulip fields. Even for those who aren't floral enthusiasts, the beauty is hard to deny and your photo gallery will be filled with line after line of tulips.

Food Scene: Dutch cuisine features hearty comfort foods like stroopwafels, cheese (lots of cheese!), and fresh herring. Local markets offer amazing fresh produce and artisanal products. I've made special efforts to ensure that we scheduled to catch the local farmers market in the charming town square. Don't miss trying authentic Dutch pancakes and sampling the incredible variety of local cheeses.

BELGIUM HIGHLIGHTS

Attractions: Ghent's medieval architecture is stunning, featuring the famous Gravensteen Castle, beautiful guild houses, and impressive cathedrals. The city's canals reflect centuries-old buildings, creating picture-perfect scenes around every corner. Ghent is also a college town so while there are amazing historical sites, it's still very much an active city with much to offer outside of the expected tourist sites.

Gravensteen Castle is a perfectly preserved medieval fortress in the heart of the city. Climb the towers for panoramic views and explore the medieval rooms and exhibits.

Historic City Center features stunning guild houses, the impressive St. Bavo's Cathedral, and charming squares. During the weekend you might be able to find a treasure at the various flea markets.

Bruges is a fairytale medieval city with perfectly preserved architecture, romantic canals, and cobblestone streets. Known as the "Venice of the North," this UNESCO World Heritage site offers stunning market squares, historic churches, and some of the best chocolate shops in Belgium.

Food Scene: Belgium is famous for its waffles, chocolate, and beer - and we'll have a chance to experience the best of all three! Authentic Belgian waffles are leagues ahead of their american counterparts and the local chocolate shops are works of art. Don't miss trying carbonnade flamande (Belgian beef stew) and fresh mussels.