Group tour operator and DMC for tours to the Netherlands
The Green Heart of Holland – Keukenhof, Amsterdam and The Hague
Discover the “Green Heart of Holland” by visiting the Keukenhof Bulbfields and enjoy a cruise through the ‘Amsterdam Lakes’ taking in the beautiful views, the historic windmills and the typical villages during the famous Tulip season.
Visit the capital of The Netherlands, Amsterdam, where you’ll find an abundance of excellent museums and art galleries amidst its canals and cobbled streets, from Van Gogh to Rembrandt, there’s something to suit every taste. Or see the sights whilst traversing the city’s famous canals on a boat trip. Iff your visit to Keukenhof didn’t fulfill your floral appetite, why not head to the Bloemenmarkt, where vibrant colours and fragrances of fresh flowers every Monday to Saturday fill the city centre.
This tour is based in the cosmopolitan city of The Hague. Bursting with style and culture as well as being a bastion of Justice and Peace, the Hague has a key role as a diplomatic centre and the site of the International Court of Justice is housed in the famous Peace Palace. Home to the seat of the National Government and the official residence of the Dutch Monarchs, there are three Royal Palaces that grace the city. Yet the city is more than just the home of the Royal family. Hosting around 30 theatres and more than 40 museums which house famous art work like the Vermeer’s Girl with the Pearl Earring (Maurithuis) and Eschers Hand with Reflecting Sphere (Escher in Het Paleis). The Hague is regarded as one of the most culturally vibrant cities in the Netherlands.
Dates
mid March - mid May 2025 (dates to be confirmed)
Suggested itinerary by coach
Day 1
Travel to the Netherlands
Take the overnight cruise ferry from Hull to Rotterdam/Newcastle to Amsterdam or Harwich to the Hook of Holland. Enjoy many of the facilities on board, including bars, eateries and some even have entertainment before settling into your cabin. Meal packages are available on request (dinner and breakfast).
Day 2
Amsterdam Sightseeing
After early disembarkation travel directly to Amsterdam, to explore one of the most interesting cities in Europe, at your own pace. The capital of the Netherlands is known for its artistic heritage, elaborate canal system and narrow houses with gabled facades. Explore this unique city on foot, walking along its many canals. Each area of Amsterdam has its own character and its own unique variety of shops, restaurants, cafes, museums and attractions. Museum fans are spoilt for choice with great museums such as Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank’s House. Optional canal trips available.
Drive to your selected hotel for check in and the evening at leisure.
Day 3
Amsterdam Lakes & Keukenhof Gardens
This morning we head to Lisse to enjoy a 1.5 hour cruise across the ‘Kagerplassen’ (also known as the ‘Amsterdam Lakes’). Enjoy the beautiful views, the historic windmills and the typical villages in the famous bulb region. Upon request it is also possible to make a stop at a working windmill which can be visited. Upon return to Lisse, head directly to Keukenhof Gardens. With over 50 years of displaying its floral art with a different theme every year and a fresh look every day, Keukenhof has developed into a showcase for the flower bulb and ornamental plant industry. The history of Keukenhof, the name meaning ‘kitchen garden’, goes back to the 15th Century. Tulips proliferate but there are daffodils, hyacinths, narcissi and crocuses to admire as well. Perhaps see the gardens from a different perspective on a ‘Whisper Boat’ cruise. Optional guided tours also possible.
Day 4
The Hague, Royal Delft and overnight ferry
Meet up with a local guide for a walking tour to highlight the city’s main attractions. See the International Court of Justice which is housed in the famous Peace Palace, the National Government building and the official residence of the Dutch monarchs. There are many museums which house famous art works such as Vermeer’s ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’ which can be seen at the Maurithuis.
After some free time to explore and have some lunch continue by coach to the world-famous Royal Delft porcelain factory, where the renowned Delft Blue is still entirely hand painted according to centuries-old tradition. After a guided visit and tour you can browse the onsite shop and make purchases.
Continue onto your chosen port of departure for the overnight sailing to the UK, once again enjoying many of the on board facilities.
Day 5
Arrive in the UK
Prepare for an early disembarkation before heading homewards.
Hull/Rotterdam return ferry | Half Twin/2 berth inside share cabin | Single Supplement |
mid March-mid May 2025 | Price on request | Price on request |