The enchanting Benelux region is made up of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. Travel through this breathtaking region as we explore the allure of unique architecture, charming cities, and enchanting canals.
DAYS 1-2—WELKOM TO AMSTERDAM
Following our included overnight flight, arrive in Amsterdam to meet our Tour Director. Together, we’ll stroll through sections of the dynamic city of Amsterdam, set amongst beautiful canals and historic buildings. See the marvelous Royal Palace and find out why Amsterdam is called the “City of Diamonds”. Then settle into our hotel before a group welcome dinner. D
DAY 3—CANAL CRUISE/VAN GOGH MUSEUM
Begin the day with some free time on your own to explore the area. Since there is no better way to experience the city than cruising on the water, our group will enjoy a traditional canal cruise to see parts of the city from a different vantage point. Later, visit the Van Gogh Museum celebrating the life and work of Vincent van Gogh. B, D
DAY 4—ROTTERDAM CITY TOUR/DELTA WORKS
Often called the “Gateway to Europe”, Rotterdam is one of the world’s largest ports. Enjoy a morning walking tour starting at the magnificent Erasmus bridge and explore the city’s modern architecture. We’ll see the famous Cube Houses of Rotterdam that have become a local phenomenon. Later enjoy a guided visit at the Delta Works project, an amazing example of how the Dutch have tamed the environment in which they live. We’ll also stop in the lovely town of Veere as we continue to our hotel for the next three nights. B, D
DAY 5—ATOMIUM/GRAND PLACE
Today, we explore Brussels, the “Capital of Europe” and center of international governance. See the EU Headquarters before making a stop at the Atomium, built for the 1958 Brussels World Fair as a symbol to maintain peace among all nations. After lunch, we continue to the heart of the city and we’ll view St. Michael’s Cathedral, famous for its 16th-century stained-glass windows, as well as the Palace of Justice and Mannekin Pis, the oldest and most honored statue of Brussels. See Art Nouveau buildings and visit the Horta Museum dedicated to the life and work of Belgian Art Nouveau architect Victor Horta. B, L, D
DAY 6— ANTWERP CENTRAL RAIL STATION/MUSEUM AAN DE STROOM
Our day’s exploration begins in Antwerp, one of Europe’s largest ports. We’ll stroll through the center of the city learning more about their modern and art nouveau styles of architecture. One of the most beautiful train stations in the world is here, Antwerpen-Centraal railway station. Later explore the Museum aan de Stroom to discover the rich history of the city and port. B, D
DAY 7—GHENT TOUR
This morning, we’ll visit one of Belgium’s most attractive cities, Ghent. Together we’ll see the charming city center and behold its belfry, a medieval bell tower and much more. Ghent lies on confluence of the rivers Scheldt and Leie. We cruise the waterways learning more about the medieval architecture followed by free time before we continue onto Luxembourg for a three night stay at the Melia Luxembourg. B, D
DAY 8—LUXEMBOURG CITY/CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM
See the magnificent city of Luxembourg today, including the Old Quarter, the Notre Dame Cathedral of Luxembourg, and the Echternach Benedictine Abbey. Later, stop at The Contemporary Art Museum of Luxembourg designed by architect I. M. Pei. B, D
DAY 9—VIANDEN CASTLE/AMERICAN CEMETERY AND MEMORIAL
Today we travel outside of Luxembourg City to Vianden Castle, one of the largest and most beautiful feudal residences of the Romanesque and gothic periods in Europe. Later, we stop for a somber visit to the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial. B, D
DAY 10—TRIER AND MOSELLE RIVER CRUISE
Trier, Germany‘s oldest city, sits at the top of the scenic Mosel Valley near the Luxembourg border.
Trier is an important site for ancient art treasures and monuments, such as the Porta Nigra, the best preserved city gate from the ancient world. The city has cozy market squares, historic buildings, and impressive churches. Following time in Trier, take a boat trip on the Mosel River, passing world-famous vineyards and typical Moselle villages. This evening continue on to Frankfurt. B, D
DAY 11—AUF WIEDERSEHEN!
After breakfast, we depart for the airport and your included flight back home from Frankfurt. B
Quality Accommodations
Nights 2-3: WestCord Fashion Hotel, Amsterdam
Nights 4-6: Hotel Weinebrugge, Sint-Michiels
Nights 7-9: Melia Luxembourg
Night 10: NH Collection Frankfurt City
Dates:
May 7-17, 2024
Price Per Person:
Double $5,797
Single $6,925
Depart/Return:
Chicago, IL
Inclusions:
Round-trip airfare from the U.S.
Professional, English speaking Tour Director
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions and meals
Luggage handling at most hotels
Free bottled water on coach
24-hour emergency call service
Arrival Time
Schedule your flight to arrive into Chicago O’Hare Int’l Airport by 1:00 p.m. on Day 1.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart Chicago O’Hare Int’l Airport any time after 4:00 p.m. on Day 11.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our pre and post hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the
airport. Free parking can be offered during the tour with a pre or post
night, please let us know ahead of time if you desire this service.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your CTD vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace for a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and European airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate. Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
We are finding that larger European cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways). In addition, you should know that you may be required to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law often does not allow travelers to remain on the motorcoach while it is parked for a scheduled stop.
Average Temps
May - high of 64°, low of 41°
Currency
Euro
Time Zone
GMT+2 (6 hours ahead of Chicago)
Hotel Amenities
Each hotel has Wi-Fi, T.V., hairdryer, and coffee makers available. Westcord Fashion Hotel, Melia Luxembourg, and NH Collection Frankfurt City have fitness centers and saunas. The Fashion Hotel has an indoor pool and wellness center for spa services.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
A valid US Passport is required for travel to/from the United States.
Land Tours begin one day later. Airport transfers are not included with Land Only Tours.
Dress on tour is casual. Comfortable walking shoes are needed.
Travel Protection Available
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
