Sustainable Holland & Belgium by train
3 nights in Amsterdam, 2 nights in Brussels, 3 nights in Bruges
Welcome aboard a sustainable adventure through the vibrant landscapes and cultural delights of Holland and Belgium. This eco-conscious tour invites you to experience the best of these enchanting countries while treading lightly on the environment.
Embrace the eco-friendly spirit of Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, and Brussels as you travel effortlessly by train, reducing your carbon footprint while enjoying the scenic routes. Explore the iconic canals of Amsterdam, the artistry of The Hague, and the architectural wonders of Rotterdam. Delight in Antwerp’s diamond heritage, Ghent’s medieval charm, and Bruges’ fairytale ambiance. Immerse in Brussels’ lively cultural scene and sustainable initiatives.
Discover innovative sustainable practices, from green architecture and eco-conscious urban planning to organic markets and locally sourced cuisine. Engage with local communities that prioritize environmental conservation and eco-tourism.
Throughout the journey, our knowledgeable guides will share insights into sustainable living, eco-tourism initiatives, and ways to protect the natural beauty of these incredible destinations.
Suggested Itinerary
Day 1 Amsterdam
Independent arrival at your hotel in Amsterdam. Overnight in Amsterdam.
Day 2 The Heart of the City and the Rijksmuseum
Meet your guide in the heart of Amsterdam and join a 2.5-hour walking tour covering the inner city’s main sights. You’ll learn the city’s history, from its construction as a shabby village on the River Amstel to how it evolved into Europe’s most significant trading city. From the tumultuous history of prostitution and drug legalization to the tragedy of Anne Frank’s story and the Nazi invasion, the purpose is to introduce you to this city.
Finally, you will enjoy the Dutch pancake menu in a lovely restaurant.
The Dutch pancake, Pannenkoek, is a delicate pancake that can be eaten sweet or savory. They are typically large, whole-pan, and much lighter than a traditional American pancake but not thin as a French crepe).
You can eat plain with thick apple syrup, Stroop, and powdered sugar if you like sweet: or with thinly sliced bacon, cheese, mushrooms, or whatever you prefer.
Later, reach your own Rijksmuseum to join a small group tour.
During this 120-minute tour, you will explore how the artists Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Frans Hals, captured the extraordinary growth of the Dutch Golden Age. See the people and the artworks that define this exceptional era of the Dutch past.
Overnight in Amsterdam
Day 3 Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague
Start your tour by meeting your guide/driver at a centrally located meeting point, then reach Rotterdam, today’s first destination, in about 60 minutes.
The Rotterdam skyline is recognizable thanks to its modern and unusual architecture. You’ll see this futuristic skyline and the beautiful harbors, shipyards, and docks during a 75-minute boat tour. Next up on our tour is Delft. On this visit, you’ll see the historic canal-streaked town center and impressive historical monuments like the Old Church and New Church. You’ll also visit a factory specializing in hand-crafted Delft Blue pottery, the most coveted porcelain for centuries. The Hague is the official capital of the Netherlands and is home to foreign embassies, international organizations, and civic institutions. The Hague’s seat of the Dutch government also has historic sites, including the Palace of Peace and Justice (where international courts are located), the Mauritshuis museum, and Binnenhof – the Dutch parliament. Overnight in Amsterdam
Day 4 Brussels
In the morning, private transfer the Central Station in Amsterdam to board your high-speed train to Brussels. Upon your arrival, private transfer to your hotel.
in the afternoon, meet your guide for a visit of the heart of Brussels
This visit will focus on the picturesque historic city center. This walk leads you along the famous Grand Place, the most beautiful square in the world, listed as a world heritage by Unesco. Let us also explore the neighborhoods, the medieval streets where authentic estaminets are nestled, and chocolate shops and waffle stalls …. During your walk in the heart of Brussels, admire the magnificent Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries among the oldest in Europe as well as the Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula with its stained glass windows, the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament …
A little further, you are in the royal area with the Royal Park and Palace (only open to the public during the summer holidays) and the Palace of Coudenberg, the former residence of Charles V. Overnight in Brussels.
Day 5 Antwerp
Private transfer from your hotel to Brussels Central station, where you board the train to Antwerpen Centraal you will reach in about 45 minutes. Upon arrival, private transfer to your hotel. Antwerp offers an incredible food scene. You will enjoy a great lunch in an amazing restaurant in the heart of the city. A true experience!
After lunch, at 2 PM, you will join a small group walking tour at the Lange Wapper Statue, Steenplein 1 to explore the heart of the town: from the Great Market Place with its splendid Town Hall to the guildhalls and the Brabo Fountain, then alongside Our Lady’s Cathedral to various stunning spots in the old centre. Your guide will make sure you see everything and better understand the city. During this historical walk, they will be pleased to tell you everything you want to know about our fascinating town.
Overnight in Brussels.
Day 6 Bruges, guided walking tour of the Venice of the North
Private transfer to Antwerp Centraal to catch the train to Bruges, where you will arrive comfortably in 1 hour 30 minutes. Upon arrival, private transfer to your hotel.
In the afternoon, reach the start location on your own, the Bargeplein – red awning, where you will meet with your private guide. You will visit the historic inner town and discover step-by-step what makes Bruges such a marvel. You will stroll along the medieval streets and alleys in the inner town while soaking up the particular atmosphere. Discover world-famous treasures and sights such as the Lake of Love, the Beguinage, the Church of Our Lady, the canals, the Burg Square with the Town Hall, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and the Market Square with its Belfry. This wonderful historic walk will show you why Bruges merits its place on the Unesco World Heritage List.
Overnight in Bruges.
Day 7 Ghent, guided tour of Ghent’s historical city centre
Private transfer to Bruges station to board the train to Ghent, where you will arrive in less than 30 minutes. In Ghent, your expert guide will lead you through the picturesque streets and historic landmarks, providing fascinating insights into Ghent’s past and present.
Explore the iconic Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress that offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Wander through the atmospheric Graslei and Korenlei, picturesque quaysides lined with historic buildings and lively cafes.
Discover the magnificent St. Bavo’s Cathedral, home to the famous Ghent Altarpiece, a masterpiece by the Van Eyck brothers. Marvel at the unique blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture that adorns the city’s skyline.
Stroll along the enchanting Patershol neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets and charming houses, and hear captivating stories of Ghent’s medieval past.
Enjoy a typical Belgian lunch in town. Indulge in the city’s culinary delights, from traditional Belgian cuisine to trendy eateries and gourmet treats.
Time to go back to Bruges. Independent transfer to Ghent station to board the train to Bruges. Upon arrival, reach your hotel on your own.
Overnight in Bruges
Day 8 Bruges at leisure
Today is free to explore the city or discover some must do’s in Bruges : a boat trip on the canals, the visit of Brewery de Halve Maan, the visit Choco story Bruges. See our listing of optional visits and select the ones you prefer. Overnight in Bruges.
Day 9 Departure
Check out, Independent departure transfer.
