Canals, Champagne & Culture: A Journey through the Netherlands, Belgium & France

From iconic Dutch windmills and cozy Belgian streets to the world-renowned Champagne region and the “City of Light,” experience the essence of three European countries. Connect with deeply rooted cultures as you make your way through the Netherlands, Belgium, and France.

Narrow canals, stone bridges, and bike-brimmed lanes – this is Amsterdam, the lively starting point of your journey. Check into your hotel,* an impressive historic building with rich history and your home for the next three nights. Get a taste of the local flavors and meet your fellow travelers at a welcome dinner.

See the city the way it’s meant to be seen – by canal on a private boat. Cruise under sloping bridges and pass by classic Dutch houses. Continue discovering Amsterdam on a walking tour with a local guide. Spend the late afternoon chatting with a local about the city’s progressive (and often controversial) culture. Enjoy an evening at leisure to spend time in the city however you wish.

Make the most of a free day in Amsterdam. Perhaps you’ll visit the Van Gogh Museum** and explore the Anne Frank House.** Maybe you’ll opt to spend the day in Royal Delft.*** This picture-perfect town has mostly stayed the same since the times of Johannes Vermeer’s iconic paintings of the Dutch Golden Age. Conclude your guided tour with a visit to the Royal Delft porcelain manufacturer which has been producing hand-painted blue motives since the 16th century. Try your hand at painting a tile before returning to Amsterdam. Complete your day with an Impact Moment at A Beautiful Mess – a restaurant that helps refugees find independence in the Dutch community. Be united by food and enjoy locally sourced, environmentally conscious ingredients over dinner with your inspiring hosts.

Today, it’s your choice as you visit Holland’s storied windmills. Perhaps you’ll stroll along the winding paths and venture inside of a working windmill -OR- bike alongside a local guide through Dutch landscapes. No matter what you choose, take in the wind, water, and open spaces that make Dutch history come to life in Kinderdijk (UNESCO). End your day in storybook Bruges, your home for the next two nights, and join for an evening stroll in the city.

Wander the cobblestone streets of Bruges and get familiar with this cozy Belgian city on a walking tour with a local guide this morning. Then, cruise through fairytale canals before connecting with local traditions. Taste Belgian chocolate and learn about the intricate craft of lace making. After an afternoon at leisure, cheers to the day with a visit to a local brewery where you’ll taste Belgium’s most classic beverage. Continue tasting your way across local cuisines and enjoy dinner on your own.

Traverse Flanders with a local expert. Witness the stars and stripes raised over the graves of the valiant soldiers who gave their lives on the Western Front during the First World War inspiring John McCrae’s poem, “In Flanders Fields.” Take time to unwind with a glass of wine as you enter the heart of France’s illustrious Champagne region – Reims. Settle into your hotel before tasting your way through French cuisines paired with a glass of champagne.

Uncover the city’s Celtic roots and Gothic architecture during a guided walking tour in Reims. Step into the cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims and gaze up at a sea of colorful stained glass. Enjoy an extraordinary culinary experience during a lunch and Impact Moment at L’ExtrA, an inclusive, eco-responsible restaurant. This afternoon, cityscapes give way to vineyard rows as you make your way along the Route du Champagne. Learn all about this world-famous artisan production during a tour and tasting at a nearby maison du champagne.**** Enjoy your afternoon and evening at leisure.

Make your way to the French capital this morning. Pause in Meaux – the capital of the famous Brie cheese. Learn about the artisanal production methods and aging process from a local cheese enthusiast before sampling some for yourself. Say bonjour to Paris this afternoon and learn the secrets of perfume making during a hands-on workshop led by an expert perfumer, affectionately referred to as nez (nose). Explore your new neighborhood – your new home for the next three nights – until the sun fades and the “City of Light” debuts its sparkling grandeur. Enjoy your evening at leisure.

Start your day alongside your Tour Manager wandering through one of the most popular quarters of Paris – Le Marais. This neighborhood is famous for old-world charm, narrow cobblestone streets, hidden courtyards, and tranquil gardens among a vibrant Jewish community. Enter the kitchen of an authentic Parisian bakery to see the workspace and learn the history behind how these bakers make their delicious bread. Explore Paris as you please this afternoon. Perhaps you’ll take a stroll through the Tuileries Garden or elegant Place Vendôme displaying jewelry and high fashion. Experience Paris’ nightlife during an optional dinner at the dynamic Paradis Latin***** cabaret show, featuring champagne, can-can dancers, and endless excitement.

*****Paradis Latin may be considered unsuitable for children - consult your Tour Manager.

Be romanced by Paris today. Join a guided walk to discover the city’s oldest settlement, Île de la Cité. Sparkling with history, it is home to iconic Notre Dame and the beautiful bridges that straddle the Seine. Enjoy essential Paris views during a cruise on the Seine before continuing to legendary Saint-Germain-des-Prés with free time to explore one of the city’s most beautiful areas on your own. End the day with an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower, featuring French cuisine and breathtaking views.

Say au revoir to Europe as you depart for home.