Beautiful Benelux
Belgium, Luxembourg, & the Netherlands
DATES TBD
We're off to the "Low Countries" in Western Europe on a brand new adventure throughout the best of Belgium, Luxembourg, & the Netherlands! Our one-of-a-kind custom-designed itinerary begins in the tiny country of Luxembourg where we'll explore the city's Old Town UNESCO site, capture stunning views from Pont Adolphe, and the scenic landscapes & waterfalls along the Mullerthal Trail. Next, it's onto Belgium, the chocolate capital of the world! Visit the vibrant cities of Dinant, Brussels, and Bruges, capturing iconic sights like the Grand Place, the Atomium, and St. Bavo's Cathedral before indulging in a chocolate workshop and iconic canal cruises. In the Netherlands, we'll photograph the Cube Houses of Rotterdam, the marvel of Dutch engineering at the Delta Works, and Amsterdam’s famous canals, with stops at key sites like the Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum. Sign up now before it fills up!
Luxembourg (2 Nights)
"Squeezed in between France, Belgium and Germany, tiny Luxembourg (pop. 655,000) is something of an oddity, yet is arguably also the most European 
of the continent’s many nations. In short, it’s an intriguing place and a country that’s often overlooked thanks to its diminutive size. Those who do venture here find dense hiking wildernesses, languid wine regions, bizarre local festivals, and arguably the most distinct capital city in Europe." - Lonely Planet
- Explore Luxembourg: Discover the charm and beauty of the city on a privately guided group tour.
- Pont Adolphe: Capture stunning views and photos over the Petrusse Ravine.
- Place d'Armes: Lively public square located in the heart of the city’s old town. Perfect for street photography with its bustling atmosphere.
- Old Town UNESCO World Heritage Site: Situated atop steep cliffs, take in panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, winding cobblestone streets, ancient fortifications, and landmarks like the Cathedral of Notre Dame and the Grand Ducal Palace.
- Mullerthal Trail Hike: Often referred to as "Little Switzerland" of Luxembourg, this guided scenic hike winds through lush forests, dramatic rock formations, and picturesque valleys. The trail is famous for its unique geological features, such as narrow gorges and moss-covered boulders, highlighted by the Schiessentümpel waterfall.
- Vianden Castle & Chairlift: This stunning, hilltop fortress dates back to the Romanesque and Gothic periods. It is one of the largest and most impressive castles in Europe, with its fairytale-like towers and walls beautifully restored. Enjoy a scenic ride from the town up to a viewpoint near Vianden Castle with stunning aerial views of the Our River valley, the medieval town, and the surrounding lush landscape.
Belgium (5 Nights)
"The land of golden beers, decadent chocolates, and fluffy waffles, Belgium tempts you with its culinary delights. And its charm extends far beyond mere gastronomy. The country has more castles per square kilometer than anywhere in the world, a rich and tormented history, and quirky attractions like peeing statues and dinosaur skeletons." - Lonely Planet
Dinant
Known for its dramatic setting along the Meuse River, surrounded by cliffs and lush landscapes, Dinant's mix of history, music, and stunning scenery makes it a must-stop on any journey through Belgium.
- Discover Dinant: Privately guided walking tour.
- Collegiate Church of Notre Dame: With its distinctive onion-shaped dome, capture the stunning church set against the cliffside.
- Dinant Citadel: Discover the historic fortress perched high above the town with stunning panoramic views.
- Cruise the river Meuse: A scenic and relaxing way to experience the beauty of the Meuse River and its stunning surroundings. Admire the old Priory, the steep and green slopes, the famous castle of Freyr with its French gardens, and the rocks of Freÿr, the largest climbing massif in Belgium.
Brussels 
The vibrant capital of Belgium and the European Union is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and cosmopolitan flair.
- Experience Brussels: Encounter the city's iconic landmarks on a guided walking tour.
- Grand Place: The central square of Brussels, renowned for its stunning architecture and historical significance, featuring ornate guild halls and the impressive Town Hall. This UNESCO World Heritage Site serves as a vibrant hub for cultural events and festivals, drawing visitors to its picturesque ambiance and lively outdoor cafés.
- Atomium: Designed to resemble an iron crystal magnified 165 billion times symbolizing scientific progress and innovation, this iconic structure is a delight to photograph.
- Manneken Pis: This famous bronze statue depicts a small boy urinating into a fountain, and has become a beloved symbol of the city’s irreverent sense of humor. Dressed in various costumes throughout the year, the statue attracts visitors with its charming whimsy and serves as a reminder of Brussels' playful spirit and rich cultural heritage.
- Chocolate Museum & Private Chocolate Making Class: Dive into the gourmet world of cocoa and chocolate. From the cocoa bean to the famous Belgian praline: discover all the secrets of the Brown Gold, followed by a hands-on experience immersing us in the art of crafting exquisite Belgian chocolates. Led by a skilled chocolatier, we learn about the history of chocolate, the different types of chocolate used, and essential techniques for creating & decorating creamy pralines. We'll make our own sweet creations and indulge in a tasting to wrap up the class.
Ghent
A captivating blend of medieval charm and contemporary vibrancy, where historic architecture meets a lively arts scene along picturesque canals.
- Day Trip to Ghent: Guided tour throughout the highlights of this storied city with a rich history, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene.
- St. Bavo’s Cathedral: This stunning example of Gothic architecture is renowned for its magnificent stained glass windows and the awe-inspiring Ghent Altarpiece, painted by the Van Eyck brothers
- Gravensteen Castle: The "Castle of the Counts," as its known, stands as a remarkable testament to Ghent's medieval past, showcasing impressive architecture and a storied history dating back to the 12th century. We explore the castle's well-preserved interior, complete with formidable battlements, a torture museum, and panoramic views from its towers that offer a unique perspective of the city below.
- Ghent Canal Cruise: Enjoy a serene and picturesque way to explore the city's stunning medieval architecture and vibrant atmosphere from a unique perspective. We glide along the tranquil waters as our guide shares fascinating stories about the landmarks and history that line the canals.
Bruges 
"If you set out to design a fairy-tale medieval town, it would be hard to improve on central Bruges, one of Europe's best-preserved cities. Picturesque cobbled lanes and dreamy canals link photogenic market squares lined with soaring towers, historical churches, and lane after lane of old whitewashed almshouses."- Lonely Planet
- Discover Bruges: Wander and photograph the quaint streets and canals on a guided walking tour.
- Market Square & The Belfry: Take in the sites, sounds. and smells of Market Square, or Markt as it's known locally. This is the bustling heart of the city, surrounded by picturesque buildings and lively cafés, making it the perfect spot to soak in Bruges' charming ambiance. Dominating the square is the Belfry of Bruges, a 13th-century bell tower that stands 275 ft tall and offers a rewarding climb to the top for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
- Burg Square: This charming square features the striking Gothic-style Town Hall, built in the 14th century, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, which houses a revered relic that 
draws visitors from near and far.
- Church of Our Lady: Explore this architectural gem that showcases a stunning blend of Gothic and Romanesque styles. Home to Michelangelo's exquisite sculpture, the Madonna and Child, the church features a striking tower that soars to 400 ft, making it one of the tallest brick structures in the world.
- Cruise the canals of Bruge: Encounter the city's enchanting waterways, with its medieval bridges and fairy-tale architecture framing every turn.
- Optional Day Tour: WW1 battlefields and history of Ypres: Discover this town steeped in history, famous for its pivotal role in World War I, with its haunting battlefields and memorials serving as poignant reminders of the past. Optional visit to Flanders Fields Museum not included.
- Menin Gate Memorial: Witness this solemn tribute to the thousands of soldiers who went missing in action 
during World War I, their names etched into the stone as a lasting reminder of their sacrifice.
- WWI Battlefields: Embark on a sobering journey through the scarred landscape where some of the fiercest fighting of the Great War took place. From the haunting trenches at Hill 60 to the solemn Tyne Cot Cemetery, these sites serve as powerful reminders of the immense sacrifices made here.
The Netherlands (4 Nights)
The country with a captivating blend of historic charm and modern innovation, where iconic windmills and tulip fields meet cutting-edge architecture and bustling cities. From the picturesque canals of Amsterdam to the tranquil beauty of the countryside, the Netherlands is a destination that effortlessly 
balances its rich heritage with a progressive, forward-thinking spirit.
- Guided Tour of Deltaworks and Maeslant Storm Surge Barrier: A unique opportunity to experience one of the world's most impressive engineering feats. Designed to protect the Netherlands from the North Sea, the Delta Works is a complex system of dams, dykes, and storm surge barriers that stretches for over 700 kilometers along the country's coast.
Rotterdam
A city that pulses with creativity and energy, known for its bold, modern architecture, having reinvented itself after World War II with innovative skyscrapers, such as the iconic Cube Houses and the soaring Erasmus Bridge. As a major port city, it offers a lively cultural scene with cutting-edge 
museums, vibrant street art, and a thriving food scene that draws inspiration from its diverse population.
- Cube Houses: See and photograph this iconic architecture, a striking example of urban ingenuity.
- Experience Rotterdam: Free time to explore the city’s bold architectural innovation, bustling food stalls, & vibrant art scene.
- Markthal: Explore and photograph this architectural marvel that combines a bustling market with a stunning residential arch, featuring a colorful, massive mural on its interior. Inside, we find a vibrant array of food stalls, shops, and restaurants, making it a lively destination perfect for sampling the best of Dutch and international cuisine.
- Museum Quarter Art Depot: See and photograph this groundbreaking facility from the outside, offering a rare glimpse into the world of art conservation and storage, housing an impressive collection of over 150,000 works from the city's renowned museums.
- Optional Day Tour: Iconic Dutch windmills & the country's oldest city: Take a waterbus to capture the iconic windmills of Kinderdijk against the backdrop of canals and green fields. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its 19 well-preserved windmills from the 18th century. We'll enjoy an interactive experience and learn about the history, mechanics, and daily life of the millers. From here, we take a guided stroll through the streets of nearby Dordrecht, Netherlands's oldest city. Highlights include the Historic City Center, Great Church of Dordrecht, Court of the Netherlands, CIty Hall, Merhcant Houses, & Augustinian Church.
The Hague
The Netherlands' sophisticated seat of government is a city where regal elegance meets international diplomacy. Home to the stately Peace Palace and the International Court of Justice, this city plays a crucial role in global affairs while offering visitors a wealth of cultural treasures, including the renowned Mauritshuis Museum, which houses masterpieces like Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring. With its wide boulevards, seaside charm at Scheveningen Beach, and grand architecture, The Hague offers a refined yet accessible experience for travelers seeking a blend of history, culture, and modernity.
- The Hague City Highlights: Guided driving tour of the city's most notable locations
- Peace Palace: An architectural masterpiece and symbol of international justice, housing both the U.N.'s International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Its grand Neo-Renaissance design, adorned with gifts from nations around the world, reflects its global significance making it one of the city’s most prestigious and must-visit landmarks. We visit the exterior of the palace for lots of great pictures.
- Scheveningen Beach: Explore The Hague’s lively seaside escape, offering golden sands and a bustling boardwalk filled with cafés, restaurants, and shops.
- The Madurodam, a country in miniature: Discover this unique park showcasing the Netherlands' most iconic landmarks in intricate, scaled-down detail, from windmills to canals and historic buildings. This whimsical yet detailed look at the Netherlands in scale model form offers an educational glimpse into Dutch architecture and culture through its beautifully crafted models and engaging exhibits.
Amsterdam
"Golden Age canals lined by tilting gabled buildings are the backdrop for Amsterdam's treasure-packed museums, vintage-filled shops and hyper-creative drinking, dining and design scenes." - Lonely Planet
- Optional "Skip the Line" Entry to:
- Van Gogh Museum OR Rijksmuseum: The Van Gogh Museum is a must-visit destination for art lovers, showcasing the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh's masterpieces, including his iconic paintings, drawings, and letters, all set within a beautifully designed space that enhances the experience of exploring the life and genius of this renowned artist. The Rijksmuseum, a crown jewel of Amsterdam, boasts an extensive collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including Rembrandt's Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Milkmaid, all housed in a stunning Gothic-revival building that invites visitors to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Dutch art and history.
- Delve into Amsterdam: Guided tour throughout this storied city to see and photograph the most iconic locations.
- Dam Square & Royal Palace: The historic heart of Amsterdam where locals and tourists alike gather to take in the lively atmosphere surrounded by cafés, shops, and street performers. Overlooking the square is the grand Royal Palace, a stunning example of 17th-century architecture that once served as the city’s town hall before becoming a royal residence. With its opulent interiors and rich history, the palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the Netherlands' regal past, making it a must-see landmark in Amsterdam.
- The Floating Flower Market: Bloemenmarkt is the world’s only flower market that floats, with stalls set atop houseboats along the picturesque Singel Canal. Bursting with vibrant tulips, daffodils, and a kaleidoscope of other blooms, it’s a feast for the senses and a perfect spot to capture all sorts of interesting photographs. The colorful market offers a unique glimpse into Amsterdam’s deep-rooted horticultural traditions.
- Float on the canal: A serene way to experience the city’s stunning architecture and picturesque waterways from a unique perspective. We glide along the UNESCO-listed canals passing by charming houseboats, historic merchant mansions, and quaint bridges, all while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this cultural hub. An audio guide provides insightful commentary about the city’s history and landmarks, making it an informative and enjoyable way to explore Amsterdam’s enchanting landscape.
- Ann Frank House: See & photograph the outside of this iconic building, with its modest façade and iconic white shutters, a poignant reminder of the past inviting us to reflect on the profound history contained within its walls as it overlooks the serene canals of Amsterdam.
Price: $4395.00
Single Supplement: $895.00
E-mail us at joinus@photoflytravel.com for the daily itinerary!
Cancellation Policy & Refunds
*There is a $300.00 administrative fee for all cancellations. Cancellations made 120 days (February 5th, 2025) or more prior to trip departure date are fully refundable except for the $300 fee. Cancellations less than 120 days (February 6th, 2025) prior to the trip departure date will receive no refund of the full amount due. No refunds on unused portions of the tour. Credit card fees and paypal processing fees cannot be refunded. After airline tickets are issued, airline cancellations are per the airline’s policy and are usually non-refundable and changeable with a fee plus new ticket price. Travel insurance strongly encouraged (ask us about policy options).
*Hotels subject to change based on availability
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