The Grand Tour - Amsterdam, Bruges & Paris

Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
Day 2: Amsterdam - Utrecht, 26 mi. (43 km)
Day 3: Utrecht - Willemstad, 23 - 34 mi. (38 - 56 km)
Day 4: Willemstad - Antwerp, 34 mi. (56 km)
Day 5: Antwerp - St. Amands, 21 - 31 mi. (34 - 49 km)
Day 6: St. Amands - Ghent, 32 mi. (52 km)
Day 7: Ghent - Bruges, 13 - 28 mi. (22 - 45 km)
Day 8: Bruges - North Sea - Bruges, 23 - 31 mi. (38 - 51 km)
Day 9: Bruges - Paris
Day 10: Departure from Paris (or optional extension)

The tour itinerary and route may be adjusted if necessary due to nautical, technical, weather-related, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Day 1: Arrival in Amsterdam
Arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport where a tour representative greets you and escorts you via private minivan to your centrally located hotel. Your tour leader will help with check-in and serve as your dedicated concierge during the tour. In the afternoon, meet your fellow travelers in the hotel lobby, then enjoy a private canal cruise and welcome reception. Spend the rest of the evening exploring Amsterdam at your own pace.

Sample accommodation: The Hoxton Lloyd 

Day 2: Amsterdam - Utrecht, 26 mi. (43 km)
After breakfast and hotel check-out, you’ll be fitted for your bike and take a relaxed ride through Amsterdam’s green parks and neighborhoods. Meanwhile, your luggage is transferred separately to the ship. You’ll meet your floating hotel, the Magnifique X, in the afternoon and settle into your suite before setting sail towards Vreeswijk, on the outskirts of Utrecht. Enjoy your first dinner onboard and an introductory talk on Dutch history and geography.
(B, D)

Day 3: Utrecht - Willemstad, 23 - 34 mi. (38 - 56 km)
Cycle through the countryside to Schoonhoven, a charming town known for silversmithing. Explore the quaint streets before continuing through the Alblasserwaard region, a classic Dutch landscape of dikes, fields, and open skies. Pause for a relaxing lunch featuring regional specialties in a scenic local setting. Later, visit the UNESCO-listed windmills at Kinderdijk. From nearby Alblasserdam, hop on the Waterbus to Dordrecht, one of the Netherlands’ oldest cities, where your ship will be waiting. Later in the afternoon, the boat sets off for Willemstad.
(B, L, D)

Day 4: Willemstad - Antwerp, 34 mi. (56 km)
Welcome to Belgium! Begin the day with a bike ride through forests and farmland to the impressive Volkerak lock system,  Rejoin the ship and enjoy a leisurely cruise into Belgium. In the afternoon, arrive in Antwerp — a lively city known for its Renaissance architecture, diamond trade, and artistic heritage. Spend your evening exploring landmarks like the Cathedral of Our Lady or the Grote Markt, with dining tips available from your tour leader.
(B, L)

Day 5: Antwerp - St. Amands, 21 - 31 mi. (34 - 49 km)
Spend the morning in Antwerp, including a visit to the Red Star Line Museum, which explores the stories of European emigrants heading to North America. In the afternoon, bike along the quiet banks of the Schelde River. Enjoy a peaceful countryside picnic en route before arriving in the riverside village of St. Amands, where your ship is docked for the night.
(B, L, D)

Day 6: St. Amands - Ghent, 32 mi. (52 km)
Continue riding along the river toward Ghent, a lively university town with a rich medieval history and Gothic towers. Explore the city center before enjoying a private boat tour through its scenic canals, with views of landmarks like St. Bavo Cathedral and the world-famous Van Eyck altarpiece. A short ride returns you to the ship, which has relocated closer to Bruges.
(B, D)

Day 7: Ghent - Bruges, 13 - 28 mi. (22 - 45 km)
Enjoy a relaxing ride through the peaceful Flemish countryside on the way to Bruges. Along the route, stop for a tasting of Belgian specialties. Once in Bruges, spend the afternoon discovering this UNESCO-listed city with its cobbled lanes, canals, and gabled architecture. Visit a museum, sample handmade chocolates, or relax at a canal-side café.
(B, L)

Day 8: Bruges - North Sea - Bruges, 23 - 31 mi. (38 - 51 km)
Ride west through fields and dunes toward the North Sea. Take time to enjoy the coast — whether swimming, relaxing, or having a drink at a beach café — before returning to Bruges via tranquil canal paths. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner and celebration onboard with your fellow travelers.
(B, D)

Day 9: Bruges - Paris
After breakfast, say goodbye to the ship’s crew and board a comfortable coach south to Paris. Watch the scenery change from rural landscapes to the energy of the city. Upon arrival, check into your centrally located hotel and enjoy the afternoon exploring on your own. Your tour leader will be on hand for tips or to accompany you on a city stroll.
(B)

Sample accommodation: Hotel des Grands Voyageurs 

Day 10: Departure from Paris (or optional extension)
Enjoy a final breakfast before your transfer to Charles de Gaulle Airport. If you’re extending your stay, continue exploring Paris — whether at the Louvre, in Monet’s Gardens, or over coffee in Saint-Germain-des-Prés. Your tour leader will remain available to assist with planning, reservations, or local insights.
(B)

Day 1: Arrival in Paris
Day 2: Paris - Bruges
Day 3: Bruges - Ghent, 21 - 27 mi. (34 - 45 km)
Day 4: Ghent - St. Amands, 24 - 31 mi. (38 - 50 km)
Day 5: St. Amands - Antwerp, 19 - 34 mi. (30 - 41 km)
Day 6: Antwerp - Dordrecht, 14 - 21 mi. (22 - 34 km)
Day 7: Dordrecht - Schoonhoven, 19 - 27 mi. (32 - 45 km)
Day 8: Schoonhoven - Utrecht, 27 mi. (44 km)
Day 9: Utrecht - Breukelen - Amsterdam, 6 mi. (10 km)
Day 10: Departure from Amsterdam (or optional extension)

The tour itinerary and route may be adjusted if necessary due to nautical, technical, weather-related, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Day 1: Arrival in Paris
Arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport where a tour representative will greet you and transfer you to your deluxe, centrally located hotel. Your tour leader will assist with check-in and be available for personal recommendations and arrangements. In the afternoon, join your group for a relaxed welcome reception and begin getting to know your fellow travelers.

Sample accommodation: Hotel des Grands Voyageurs 

Day 2: Paris - Bruges
Depart Paris by private coach and travel to Bruges, the fairytale city of Flanders. Upon arrival, board the Magnifique X, your floating boutique hotel for the week. Settle into your suite, get fitted for your bike, and take a short stroll or ride to explore the charm of Bruges. End the day with a welcome dinner on board.
(B, D)

Day 3: Bruges - Ghent, 21 - 27 mi. (34 - 45 km)
Spend the morning discovering Bruges, one of Belgium’s most enchanting and best-preserved medieval cities. Often called the “Venice of the North,” Bruges captivates visitors with its cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and beautifully preserved Gothic architecture. Enjoy a final stroll through the historic center, browse local boutiques, or relax at a café in the Markt square before departing. After lunch onboard, continue your bike and boat tour through the scenic Flemish countryside. Pedal along quiet cycling paths that wind through rolling farmland and peaceful villages on your way to Ghent. As you near this vibrant university city, Ghent’s iconic medieval towers and lively atmosphere come into view, offering a striking contrast to Bruges’ fairy-tale charm. Your ship awaits just outside the city center, ready to welcome you back after a rewarding day of cycling in Belgium, filled with historic landmarks, beautiful landscapes, and the dynamic energy of one of Flanders’ most fascinating cities.
(B, L, D)

Day 4: Ghent - St. Amands, 24 - 31 mi. (38 - 50 km)
Begin the day cycling through the rolling countryside to Ghent, a vibrant university town filled with history and character. Explore before exploring the city’s Gothic streets and spires. A private canal cruise reveals Ghent from the water. By late afternoon, you arrive in the quiet riverside town of St. Amands.
(B, L, D)

Day 5: St. Amands - Antwerp, 19 - 34 mi. (30 - 41 km)
Continue along the Schelde as the scenery transitions from rural to urban. Arrive in Antwerp and visit the moving Red Star Line Museum, dedicated to the history of emigration. In the evening, explore the city’s rich architecture, vibrant squares, and cultural landmarks like the Cathedral of Our Lady. Dinner is on your own tonight.
(B, L)

Day 6: Antwerp - Dordrecht, 14 - 21 mi. (22 - 34 km)
Cruise out of Antwerp in the morning, then disembark near the Kreekrak Locks to begin your ride into the Netherlands. Cycle along the forested paths through the lush Wouwse Plantage toward Bergen op Zoom. Here, enjoy lunch before joining a guided walk through the historic city center. Once back on board, the boat takes you to Dordrecht. Enjoy an onboard cultural talk as you sail.
(B, D)

Day 7: Dordrecht - Schoonhoven, 19 - 27 mi. (32 - 45 km)
Start your day with a scenic Waterbus ride to Kinderdijk, one of the most iconic attractions in the Netherlands and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This world-famous landscape is home to 19 historic windmills, many dating back to the 18th century, beautifully preserved along the Dutch waterways.

Enjoy a traditional Taste of Holland lunch, featuring classic Dutch specialties and regional flavors, before continuing your cycling journey to Schoonhoven. Known as the “Silver City,” Schoonhoven is famous for its centuries-old silversmithing tradition and historic charm along the Lek River.

Dinner is at your leisure this evening, giving you the chance to explore local restaurants. Your knowledgeable tour leader will gladly recommend the best dining options in Schoonhoven to match your tastes.
(B, L)

Day 8: Schoonhoven - Utrecht, 27 mi. (44 km)
Cycle today through the Dutch Green Heart (Groene Hart), a peaceful region of meadows, canals, and traditional villages between Amsterdam and Utrecht. Enjoy quiet country roads, visit a local cheese farm for tastings, and stop in Oudewater to see the historic Witches’ Weigh House. By late afternoon, arrive in vibrant Utrecht, known for its Dom Tower and scenic canals.
(B, D)

Day 9: Utrecht - Breukelen - Amsterdam, 6 mi. (10 km)
Disembark in Breukelen and enjoy a relaxed final bike ride along canals and parkways as your luggage is transferred to your hotel. After check-in at your centrally located hotel in Amsterdam, spend the afternoon at leisure. Later, gather for a private farewell cruise through the city’s canals.
(B)

Sample accommodation: The Hoxton Lloyd 

Day 10: Departure from Amsterdam (or optional extension)
Enjoy breakfast before your transfer to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. If you’re extending your stay, explore more of Amsterdam’s neighborhoods, museums, and canal-side cafés. Your tour leader remains available to assist during your extended time in the city.
(B)

Amsterdam

Start or end your European journey with two relaxed nights in central Amsterdam, a city known for its historic canals, world-class museums, and easygoing charm. You'll stay in a centrally located hotel, with your tour leader available to assist with recommendations, reservations, or to simply help you make the most of your visit. With plenty of free time to explore at your own pace, consider these highlights during your stay:

• Visit the Anne Frank House for a powerful and moving experience
• Discover the Van Gogh Museum, home to the world’s largest collection of the artist’s work
• Explore the Rijksmuseum, where masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer await
• Take a stroll along Amsterdam’s iconic canals, especially at dusk when the city is beautifully lit
• Enjoy a coffee or drink in one of the Jordaan district’s cozy cafés or quiet courtyards

Sample accommodation: The Hoxton Lloyd

Paris 

Whether at the start or end of your journey, a stay in Paris offers the perfect way to add depth, elegance, and culture to your experience. You’ll be based in a centrally located hotel, with your tour leader available throughout to help with sightseeing suggestions, dinner reservations, or spontaneous local discoveries. You’re free to explore Paris entirely at your own pace, from world-famous icons to quiet neighborhood gems:

• Enjoy a glass of wine or espresso in a classic Saint-Germain-des-Prés café
• Walk through Montmartre’s winding streets or along the Champs-Élysées
• Relax in the Luxembourg Gardens or browse the boutiques of the Marais
• See masterpieces at the Louvre or take in the view from Sacré-Cœur

Sample accommodation: Hotel des Grands Voyageurs