Classic Paris to Amsterdam

Day 1 - Paris
Bonjour! Welcome to Paris – the capital of France, known for its art, fashion, cuisine and culture. Your trip starts with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, perhaps check out the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre or simply take a walk along the Seine. After the welcome meeting, head into the streets of Paris for dinner with a purpose at Le Reflet Restaurant. Located in Le Marais, Le Reflect is run by our Intrepid Foundation partner Les Extraordinaires, promoting employment and inclusion for people with mental disabilities, helping them fully integrate into society. Sit back and enjoy a meal of traditional French cuisine in the heart of the capital, before returning to your accommodation.

Day 2 - Paris
Rise and shine for breakfast at your accommodation before boarding the metro for a hidden highlights tour of Montmartre. Explore this artist district away from the big attractions and into the heart of the neighbourhood. With a local guide, stop by the sites like the former homes of Van Gogh and Picasso, the Montmartre vineyard and Moulin Rouge. Enjoy a fresh croissant and the best views but lesser-known views of Paris before ending your tour around midday. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore. Maybe walk down the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe or find famous artwork in one of the capital’s galleries.

Day 3 - Brussels
Today, leave France behind as you board the Eurostar heading north to Belgium. Pass through the towns and agricultural fields of the French countryside before arriving at the capital of Belgium, Brussels. Nowadays, Brussels is largely populated by people known as Zinnekes – an inhabitant of the city who is foreign-born. Explore Brussels and its key landmarks while learning how successive generations of immigrants have helped shape the city’s vibrant cultural identity on a private walking tour with a Zinneke guide. Tonight, enjoy a free evening perhaps trying out some of Belgium’s famous beer, chocolate or their national dish – Moules frites.

Day 4 - Bruges / Brussels
Wake up and enjoy breakfast before setting out on a daytrip to nearby Bruges. This city is famous for its canal-side medieval buildings. When you arrive, stretch your legs on an orientation walk with your leader, stopping by the city’s most recognisable sights, such as Burg Square's Gothic City Hall building and the Medieval Belfort tower in Market Square, with a sweet pause to try a typical Belgian waffle along the way. Then, the afternoon is yours to explore the canal-lined streets of the city. Tonight, head back to Brussels by local train with the group.

Day 5 - Rotterdam
This morning, travel from Brussels to Rotterdam. While heavily bombed during World War II, Rotterdam quickly rebuilt, becoming the modern port city it is today. Set out on an orientation walk with your trip leader, where you may learn about the city’s notable sights like the futuristic Markthal building or the medieval St. Lawrence Church. Today’s itinerary includes a visit to the world’s first floating farm. Head out on a ‘Future of farming tour’ to learn about how sustainability, innovation and animal welfare combine in this urban environment. You might also get the chance to sample some of the dairy produce made right in the city. The rest of the evening is for you to explore. If you’re looking for a place to head for dinner, ask your guide for their recommendations.

Day 6 - Rotterdam
Eat a good breakfast before jumping on a quick train ride to the small city of Delft – best known as the originator of Delft Blue ceramics and the birthplace of the famous painter, Johannes Vermeer. Join your leader for a walk through the small canal-lined streets, learning about the city's history and its preservation of its cultural heritage. Later, discover the secrets of the Delft Blue pottery as you sit down to paint your own tiles at the Royal Delft Museum. Return to Rotterdam this evening, where you can spend your time at the many eateries, breweries and nightlife spots the city has to offer.

Day 7 - Amsterdam
Today, you depart for the final destination – Amsterdam. This well-known capital city is famed for its canals, urban living and charming architecture. Accompany your leader on an orientation walk through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed neighbourhoods found across the city. After your orientation walk, you’re free to enjoy your afternoon in Amsterdam. Those interested in history might enjoy visiting Anne Frank's House, while art-lovers can choose from the many world-class museums such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh Museum. This evening, join your group for a farewell traditional Dutch dinner.

Day 8 - Amsterdam
Today is the final day of the adventure. With no further activities planned, your trip comes to an end today and you’re free to leave at any time after checking out. There’s so much more to see and do in Amsterdam, speak to our booking agents if you’d like to book additional accommodation.