NORTHERN SOUL

ITINERARY

Depart the U.S. for Brussels on individual flights.

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Day 1: Arrive in Brussels

Arrive in Brussels Airport (BRU) early morning and transfer to the heart of the historic district of Brussels, where you'll settle into your room at the charming Le Dixseptieme Hotel. After check-in, you'll have the opportunity to either take a refreshing nap or explore the surrounding area on your own. Wander the cobblestone streets and marvel at the stunning architecture of the iconic Grand Place, just a short distance from your hotel. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome Meet & Greet reception, followed by a delightful dinner at a nearby restaurant. Use this time to get to know your travel companions and begin immersing yourself in the captivating culture of Belgium.

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Day 2: Exploring Historic Brussels

Begin your day with a relaxed morning, perhaps sleeping in or enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your own pace. Gather together at lunchtime before embarking on an engaging walking tour of the historic heart of Brussels led by your hosts. You'll start at the famous Grand Place, where you'll marvel at the ornate guild houses and learn captivating stories about the rich history behind this UNESCO World Heritage site. Next, you'll visit the Brussels City Museum, delving deeper into the city's past and cultural significance. Your walking tour will continue, leading you to the iconic Manneken Pis statue, a beloved Brussels landmark with its own unique tales to tell. As the day winds down, enjoy an early dinner to fuel up before attending a symphonic concert at the prestigious Bozar performance venue. Immerse yourself in the sublime sounds of classical music, a fitting way to end your day of cultural exploration in Belgium's capital.

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Day 3: Masterpieces and Surrealism in Brussels

Today, you'll explore the remarkable artistic heritage of Belgium with visits to some of Brussels' premier museums, guided by Sevan.
We will begin the day at the Royal Museums of Fine Arts, home to a stunning collection of masterworks from renowned artists such as Hieronymus Bosch, Pieter Bruegel the Elder, and Jacques-Louis David. Wander the galleries, marveling at the technical virtuosity and captivating narratives of these legendary painters.
After an enjoyable lunch, we will continue our artistic exploration with a visit to the Magritte Museum, dedicated to the life and works of the celebrated Belgian surrealist painter René Magritte, where you can immerse yourself in the thought-provoking and often whimsical world of his iconic paintings.
As the day draws to a close, come together with your fellow travelers for a delightful dinner, reflecting on the wealth of artistic brilliance you've encountered throughout this enriching day in Brussels.

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Day 4: From Brussels to Bruges, via Ghent

After checking out of your hotel in Brussels, transfer to the historic city of Ghent. Your first stop will be the magnificent St. Bavo's Cathedral, where you'll experience The Ghent Altarpiece, also known as "The Adoration of the Mystic Lamb." This monumental polyptych painting, completed in 1432 by Jan and Hubert van Eyck, has had a profound impact on art history. Before admiring the actual masterwork, you'll be guided through a digitally immersive preview of the piece.
Enjoy a delightful lunch in Ghent before, time and energy permitting, visiting the Museum of Fine Arts to further immerse yourself in Belgium's artistic heritage.
In the afternoon, continue your journey to the picturesque city of Bruges, where you'll check into the charming Martin's Relais, a boutique hotel located in the heart of the city. As the day draws to a close, gather with your group for a memorable dinner in enchanting Bruges, savoring the flavors of Belgian cuisine in this medieval setting.

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Day 5: Discovering the Enchantment of Bruges

Begin your day with a captivating walking tour of the historic city of Bruges, exploring the iconic Markt square and its surrounding landmarks. Marvel at the stunning architecture that has earned Bruges the nickname of the "Venice of the North."
Next, visit the Groeninge Museum, home to an impressive collection of Flemish Primitive and Renaissance paintings, including works by Jan van Eyck and Hans Memling.
After an enjoyable lunch, continue your cultural immersion by exploring the Memling Museum, located in the medieval St. John's Hospital. Here, you'll admire the renowned paintings of Hans Memling, one of the most celebrated Flemish artists of the 15th century.
In the afternoon, embark on a delightful canal tour, gliding through the picturesque waterways of Bruges and taking in the city's charming bridges and historic buildings from a unique perspective.
As the day winds down, gather with your fellow travelers for a well-deserved dinner, savoring the flavors of Belgian cuisine in this enchanting medieval setting.

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Day 6: Delving Deeper into Bruges

Begin your day with a continuation of the walking tour, this time starting at the historic De Burg square. Admire the stunning architecture of the City Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, learning about the rich history and significance of these impressive landmarks.
After an enjoyable lunch, continue your exploration of Bruges by visiting the Church of Our Lady, known for its impressive brick tower and the stunning Madonna and Child sculpture by Michelangelo.
Next, step into the De Halve Maan Beer Museum, where you'll discover the art and tradition of Belgian beer-making. Gain insights into the brewing process and perhaps sample a few local brews.
Your final stop of the day will be the Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site that once housed a community of devout women. Wander the peaceful grounds and watch the graceful swans glide across the serene ponds.
This evening, you'll have the freedom to dine at your leisure, allowing you to further immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Bruges at one of the many charming restaurants of your choosing.

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Day 7: From Bruges to Amsterdam, via Antwerp

After checking out of your hotel in Bruges, transfer to the vibrant city of Antwerp. Your first stop will be the Rubenshuis, the former home and studio of the renowned Flemish painter, Peter Paul Rubens. Immerse yourself in the life and work of this artistic master as you explore his beautifully preserved residence.
Following your visit, enjoy a delightful lunch in Antwerp before continuing on to the Cathedral of Our Lady. This magnificent Gothic cathedral houses several of Rubens' masterpieces, displayed as the artist himself intended them to be seen over 400 years ago.
In the afternoon, make your way to Amsterdam, where you'll check into the charming JL 76 hotel in the heart of the city.
As the day draws to a close, gather with your fellow travelers for a well-deserved dinner, celebrating your arrival in the captivating capital of the Netherlands.

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Day 8: Masterpieces and Music in Amsterdam

Begin your day with a visit to the renowned Rijksmuseum, home to an unparalleled collection of Dutch Golden Age artworks. Marvel at the technical brilliance and captivating narratives of paintings by masters such as Rembrandt, including the awe-inspiring "Night Watch."
After exploring the museum, enjoy a delightful lunch in the area surrounding the Rijksmuseum.
In the afternoon, embark on a scenic canal tour through the charming waterways of Amsterdam, savoring a selection of local wines and cheeses as you glide past the city's iconic gabled houses and bridges.
Following your relaxing canal cruise, indulge in a light meal before attending a classical concert at the world-famous Concertgebouw. Be transported by the sublime sounds of orchestral and chamber music performed in this acoustically renowned venue.

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Day 9: Tulips and Vermeer in the Netherlands

Begin your day with a transfer to the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens, often referred to as the "Garden of Europe." As you step into this 79-acre floral wonderland, prepare to be dazzled by a breathtaking tapestry of vibrant tulips, the iconic flower of the Netherlands. After your time at Keukenhof, transfer to the historic city of The Hague, where you'll enjoy a delightful lunch.

Next, embark on a short guided walking tour of The Hague, exploring the city's charming streets and landmarks. Then, visit the renowned Mauritshuis, home to an impressive collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including two of Johannes Vermeer's most celebrated works - "The Girl with a Pearl Earring" and "View of Delft."

In the late afternoon, you'll be transported back to your hotel in Amsterdam. The evening is yours to explore the city at your own pace and dine at a restaurant of your choosing.

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Day 10: A Farewell to the Masters in Amsterdam

On your last day, embark on a visit to the renowned Van Gogh Museum, where you'll be captivated by the iconic works of the legendary Dutch post-impressionist painter. Immerse yourself in the vibrant brushstrokes and emotionally charged canvases that defined Van Gogh's singular artistic vision.
After your museum visit, the afternoon is yours to explore Amsterdam further at your own pace. Take the opportunity to indulge in some last-minute shopping, seek out hidden culinary gems, or simply wander the charming streets and canals of this captivating city.
As the sun sets on your cultural odyssey through Belgium and the Netherlands, gather one final time with your fellow travelers for a special farewell dinner at a fine, select restaurant. Toast to the memories you've made and the cultural wonders you've explored throughout this unforgettable journey.

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Day 11: Back Home

On this final day, you'll be transferred to the Amsterdam (AMS) airport to catch your flight back home, carrying with you the cherished memories and cultural discoveries from your journey through Belgium and the Netherlands.