Highlights of the Low Countries
If you're keen on discovering the treasures of the Low Countries, this one-week itinerary is the perfect introduction to the Netherlands and Belgium. Starting in Amsterdam, this trip will initiate you into the magic of the Dutch capital, a city characterized by remarkable diversity and known for its culinary delights. You'll then enter the realm of fairytales in magical Bruges and its UNESCO-listed medieval heart before ending your journey in the multicultural wonder that is Brussels on a sweet note - world-renowned waffles and pralines.
One of our team members in Benelux will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with information on the best these destinations have to offer, including things to see and do, and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon arrival, we will provide you with a local SIM card or e-SIM with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (who you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.
3 Nights in Amsterdam
3 Nights in Amsterdam
3 Nights in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is dubbed the Venice of the North, and for good reason. Spanning more than 60 miles, the city’s 165 canals define Amsterdam and provide the perfect backdrop to the iconic 16th century buildings that seem to be floating sleepily on the calm waters. Art is central to Amsterdam’s cultural identity, as the city’s museums are abundant in masterpieces by Van Gogh, Vermeer, Rembrandt, and several other geniuses of Dutch painting. Traditionally a bike-friendly city and with a mind to ensure a relaxed lifestyle for residents and visitors alike, Amsterdam never stops improving and expanding its cycling infrastructure and facilities.
Amsterdam is dubbed the Venice of the North, and for good reason. Spanning more than 60 miles, the city’s 165 canals define Amsterdam and provide the perfect backdrop to the iconic 16th century buildings that seem to be floating sleepily on the calm waters. Art is central to Amsterdam’s cultural identity, as the city’s museums are abundant in masterpieces by Van Gogh, Vermeer, Rembrandt, and several other geniuses of Dutch painting. Traditionally a bike-friendly city and with a mind to ensure a relaxed lifestyle for residents and visitors alike, Amsterdam never stops improving and expanding its cycling infrastructure and facilities.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Amsterdam
Welcome to Amsterdam! A driver will meet you at the airport to take you to your centrally located accommodation. The drive to the city center takes about 30 minutes.
Amsterdam and its canals
Amsterdam's canals are the heartstrings of the city, painting a picturesque scene of timeless beauty and architectural elegance. As you wander along the waterways, each canal unveils a snapshot of Amsterdam's rich history, framed by charming buildings and iconic houseboats. Whether explored by boat or on foot, the canals encapsulate the essence of this captivating city, where every twist and turn tells a story of enchantment and cultural allure. Cruising the canals during the evening is one of the best times to see them - we have an evening cruise just for that.
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Amsterdam
A Stroll Through Amsterdam
Today you are joining an incredible small-group tour of Amsterdam. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour will take you on a fascinating journey into the history of the Dutch capital. You will learn how a muddy village on the Amstel River became the exciting city that it is today. During your walk around Amsterdam, you will be amazed by the city's diversity. From the infamous tales of prostitution and drug decriminalization to Anne Frank's tragic story and the Nazi occupation, all of Amsterdam's secrets are about to unfold before your eyes.
Getting to Know Amsterdam, One Museum at a Time
No Amsterdam visit is complete without exploring renowned museums like the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, or the Stedelijk Museum for fine arts masterpieces. Beyond the museum district, NEMO and Micropia offer interactive experiences for science enthusiasts. Delve into Amsterdam's history at the Museum of the Canals, Amsterdam Museum, or National Maritime Museum. The city's diverse museums cater to various interests, ensuring an enriching experience for all.
Day 3
Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Amsterdam
Amsterdam For Foodies
A culinary trip through Amsterdam is the best way to know the Dutch capital in depth. Alongside Dutch staples, such as bitterballen (meatballs) and pannenkoeken (pancakes), Amsterdam is also famous for its international food scene. Among the many ethnic cuisines you can try in this multicultural city, Indonesian stands out due to the Asian country's ties with the Netherlands - Indonesia was a Dutch colony. When it comes to dessert, you can't leave Amsterdam without trying the delicious local apple pie. For beer lovers, Amsterdam is the best place to learn the history of one of the world's most famous beers: Heineken.
A Day in the Dutch Countryside
Amsterdam has no shortage of charms, but during your trip to the Dutch capital, it's worth spending a day exploring the glorious countryside that surrounds it. From gazing at the iconic windmill-filled scenery to tasting freshly made cheese to learning everything about the local culture and traditions, there's a lot in store for those who decide to venture out to unveil the secrets of the Dutch countryside.
Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam, and Marken Group Tour
On this group day trip, you will venture out into the stunning Dutch countryside to discover the magic of the real Netherlands. From marveling at picture-perfect windmills to tasting freshly made local cheese and visiting a klomp (whole-foot clog) factory to see how the quintessentially Dutch wooden clogs are made, this tour is an unparalleled journey into the local culture and traditions.
Zaanse Schans and Zaandam - Countryside E-Bike Group Tour
While in Amsterdam, cycling through the city and countryside is unavoidable. In this tour you will see Waterlands, the countryside just beyond the city limits, Zaanse Schans- an area best known for its collection of windmills and wooden houses. Coming back into town you will pass the NDSM werf in north Amsterdam, a unique neighbourhood. Since you will spend most of the time outside the city, the stress of biking in the city will be minimised.
Day 4
Day 4 - Traveling to Bruges by Private Transfer
A driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Amsterdam and take you to Bruges. On the way, you will enjoy a two-hour stop in Antwerp, the so-called Diamond Capital of the World, with one of the most important ports in Europe. The journey lasts about five and a half hours, including the stop in Antwerp.
2 Nights in Bruges
2 Nights in Bruges
2 Nights in Bruges
Despite its small size, Bruges is a city of wonders where divine beauty coexists with the mundane pleasures of exquisite chocolate and locally brewed beer. In the Middle Ages, Bruges was one of the wealthiest cities in Europe. This splendor is evident in Bruges’ sophisticated architecture that features magnificent buildings with unique ornamental elements, such as golden figures and countless turrets. Wandering around the cobblestone lanes of one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the world feels like a journey into the past. Back in the present, the city’s peaceful canals mirror the unfathomable beauty of Bruges, capturing it in what seems to be an eternal moment.
Despite its small size, Bruges is a city of wonders where divine beauty coexists with the mundane pleasures of exquisite chocolate and locally brewed beer. In the Middle Ages, Bruges was one of the wealthiest cities in Europe. This splendor is evident in Bruges’ sophisticated architecture that features magnificent buildings with unique ornamental elements, such as golden figures and countless turrets. Wandering around the cobblestone lanes of one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the world feels like a journey into the past. Back in the present, the city’s peaceful canals mirror the unfathomable beauty of Bruges, capturing it in what seems to be an eternal moment.
Day 4
Day 4 - Arrival in Bruges
Upon arrival in Brussels, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.
Bruges Through its Museums
Don't let the compact size of Bruges fool you. This bijou town is abundant in historical landmarks and museums waiting to be explored, especially on a cold winter day when spending time indoors is more than pleasant. From the famous Belfry of Bruges and the Basilica of The Holy Blood to the Groeningemuseum and its masterpieces to the quirkier Choco-Story Chocolate Museum and the Frietmuseum, a museum dedicated to French fries! Bruges has a lot to keep you busy and excited about.
Day 5
Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Bruges
Wandering Around the Medieval Heart of Bruges
Today, you are exploring the picture-perfect Bruges. This city has been awarded Unesco World Heritage Site status for its unique medieval architecture, which has been heavily influenced by the commercial and cultural activity the city has witnessed in the past. During this two-hour walking tour across the medieval streets and alleys of the Old Town, you will discover world-famous attractions, such as the Lake of Love, the Beguinage, the Church of Our Lady, the canals, the Burg Square with the Town Hall, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the Market Square with its Belfry.
A Journey into Belgium's History
For your second day in Bruges, we recommend taking a day trip to the surrounding countryside and nearby towns of the Flanders region. Dotted with fairytale-like towns and graced with gorgeous landscapes, this region is also abundant in remnants of the country's troubled past. During this tour, you will visit restored trenches, bunkers, and WWI battlefields, before making your way to quaint Ypres, a beautiful medieval town that was completely rebuilt after its destruction during the First World War.
Day 6
Day 6 - Traveling to Brussels by Private Transfer
A driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Bruges and take you to Brussels. On the way, you will make a 2-hour stop in Ghent, one of Belgium’s oldest cities and the historic capital of Flanders. The duration of the journey is about three hours, including the stop in Ghent.
2 Nights in Brussels
2 Nights in Brussels
2 Nights in Brussels
The birthplace of Tintin, the Smurfs, and several other famous comic strip characters, Brussels is also the capital of Art Nouveau architecture and the ultimate symbol of the European Union. Home to over 80 museums of all shapes and sizes and for all tastes, the multifaceted capital of Belgium is a laid-back multicultural city with an inescapably authentic and irresistibly quirky character, where the flavors of chocolate, beer, and fried mussels come together to create the city’s mesmerizing scent. Conveniently located between London and Paris, Brussels has always been a hub for international artists and the perfect starting point for a trip across Belgium and beyond.
The birthplace of Tintin, the Smurfs, and several other famous comic strip characters, Brussels is also the capital of Art Nouveau architecture and the ultimate symbol of the European Union. Home to over 80 museums of all shapes and sizes and for all tastes, the multifaceted capital of Belgium is a laid-back multicultural city with an inescapably authentic and irresistibly quirky character, where the flavors of chocolate, beer, and fried mussels come together to create the city’s mesmerizing scent. Conveniently located between London and Paris, Brussels has always been a hub for international artists and the perfect starting point for a trip across Belgium and beyond.
Day 6
Day 6 - Arrival in Brussels
Upon arrival in Brussels, your driver will take you to your centrally located accommodation.
An Evening Around Brussels
Your first evening in Brussels offers a wonderful chance to embrace the charm of the Belgian capital. Begin with a leisurely drive around the town and continue with an easy stroll around the splendidly illuminated Grand Place, marveling at its grandeur. Continue your journey to the Old Town and the delightful Place Saint Catherine. As you return to your hotel, unwind at an authentic pub, savoring Belgian beer and immersing yourself in the unique local atmosphere.
Day 7
Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Brussels
Best of Brussels Group Walking Tour
Visit the historical center of Brussels and the Belgian capital's top attractions, like the Grand Place, the Royal Palace, the Place Royale, the Royal Galleries, the Cathedral, and many others. During this walking tour, you will learn a lot about the history, culture, and modern lifestyle of Brussels and Belgium. Of course, no tour to Brussels would be complete without a delicious tasting of Belgian waffles and pralines.
Delicious Brussels
It may come as a surprise but, apart from all its other charms, Brussels is also a unique culinary destination. This uniqueness doesn't stem from fine dining or gourmet dishes though. Brussels is all about hearty, comfort food and simple yet unparalleled pleasures. For instance, in Brussels, you can try the best pommes frites in Europe. Belgian fries are literally unique and the same goes for the delicious sauces they're topped with. Moreover, Brussels is renowned for its fried mussels. When it comes to dessert, you can never say no to a fluffy Belgian waffle nor is it possible to resist the superb handmade chocolates you'll find displayed all over the city. Last but not least, no trip to Brussels is complete without a journey into the Belgian beer culture. A special mention should be made to Belgium's Trappist beer, which is brewed by Trappist monks. During your stay in Brussels, you can delve into the city's gastronomy on your own. Yet, for a more immersive experience, consider joining special-themed tours, focusing on chocolate, waffles, or beer.
Belgian Chocolate Workshop Group Experience
Become a real Belgian chocolate maker in just two and a half hours and learn how to make delicious treats under the guidance of a local artisan.
Waffle Workshop Group Experience
Learn how to prepare the famous delicious Belgian waffles, Brussels-style, and eat as many of them as you can! This activity is especially fun for families.
Day 8
Day 8 - Departure Day
Our driver will come and pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport in plenty of time before your departing flight.
What's Included
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Amsterdam
Bruges
Brussels
package excludes:
- Flights to and from Europe.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your Europe-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
We had already scheduled a river cruise, so we wanted to see some other things in the area before and after the cruise that JayWay was very helpful in setting up. JayWay is a high quality, reliable travel agency. They are always quick to respond to our questions and having someone available to speak to while traveling is very helpful!
Visited : Netherlands, Belgium
Itinerary : Amsterdam, Cruise, Amsterdam, Brussels, Bruges, Amsterdam
Rating :
The communication and assistance we received during the planning process was excellent. Elena was wonderful! It provided a huge peace of mind that we had a "local" contact while overseas. She monitored our itinerary and quickly reached out when one of our trains was cancelled - she handled all the re-booking and sent us new tickets.
Visited : France, Belgium, Netherlands
Itinerary : Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam
Rating :
JayWay Travel was so helpful in planning our trip. They worked around my pre-planned biking trip and everything was seamless!
Visited : France, Belgium, Netherlands
Itinerary : Paris, Tours, Bike Tour, Tours, Paris, Bruges, Amsterdam
Rating :
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