Day 1     Amsterdam - Leiden - Lisse

As we head south out of Amsterdam, our first port of call is the beautiful city of Leiden, with its canal-lined streets and 17^th century architecture. Located in the tulip-growing district of the Netherlands, it is home to the oldest university in the country and you will find many tributes to Rembrandt, who was born and raised here. This afternoon, as a fascinating introduction to our flower-themed tour, we will be visiting the “Black Tulip” Museum (Museum de Zwarte Tulp) in Lisse. Situated in a wonderfully restored old building, the museum brings to life the history of Holland’s bulb district and the origins and development of bulb-growing in the area. (D)

Day 2  Aalsmeer - Delft

We have an early start today as we head to Aalsmeer to visit the fascinating Bloemenveiling – the largest flower auction in the world which, every day, sets the world price for flowers and plants. From the visitors’ gallery you will be able to watch the frenetic action, experience the amazing hustle and bustle and, of course, enjoy the beautiful flowers!  Then a change of pace, as we make our way to the quaint and charming town of Delft. Famous of course for its blue pottery, an industry which dates back to the 17^th century, it also has royal links with the House of Orange and with the celebrated artist Vermeer. We will take a walking tour of the town, after which you will have some free time to explore this delightful town further. You might want to visit the Royal Delft porcelain factory, take a leisurely canal ride, visit one of the museums or art galleries, or simply relax and watch the world go by from one of the abundance of cafes. (B)

Day 3  Apeldoorn - Arnhem

We venture today to the area of Apeldoorn, where we visit the fabulous Paleis Het Loo. The palace, more than three hundred years old, was once a royal residence and its sumptuous interiors show how the Dutch royal family once lived. The reconstructed gardens evoke the atmosphere of the 17^th century with their fountains and elegant box-lined parterres. Arnhem is our next stop, chief city of the Gelderland province and, of course, a major site in the ill-fated World War II offensive “Operation Market Garden”. You will have some free time to explore the city before heading back to our base. (B, D)

Day 4   Keukenhof - Amsterdam

Our final morning takes us to a real highlight of our tour, the famous Keukenhof - the world’s largest flower garden. Once the Countess of Holland’s herb garden in the 15^th century, the 80-acre site boasts a dazzling display of blooming flower bulbs and fantastic flower shows – tulips, narcissi, daffodils, hyacinths and many more. We will be able to spend the entire morning here, giving you plenty of opportunity to explore these wonderful gardens. And you might choose to take a ride on one of the “whisper boats” which glide silently through the beautiful bulb landscape. After lunch we will head back to Amsterdam, where our tour sadly comes to an end. (B)