European Tapestry with London

Welcome to Amsterdam! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)

Holland Days This morning, meet your Local Guide for a fascinating introduction to Amsterdam. At the pier, board a glass-topped boat to admire Amsterdam from a different perspective as you cruise along the elegant, UNESCO-listed grachten (canals). See the most captivating views of “Golden Age” homes, landmark buildings, and charming bridges. Later, visit a diamond center to learn why Amsterdam is often called the “diamond capital of the world.” Free time this afternoon and evening to explore more. (B) TOUR HIGHLIGHT There’s nowhere quite like Amsterdam! A vibrant city with an impressive artistic heritage, and a fascinating infrastructure. The city is built on about 11 million wooden poles and criss-crossed by over 165 canals. In addition, it boasts a vast network of cycle lanes frequented by the city’s 881,000 bicycles. Amsterdam is so bike-friendly that the bicycles outnumber the residents!

Tradition on Tap in Heidelberg Drive across the border into Germany where a real treat awaits with a scenic cruise on the River Rhine, one of Europe’s most important rivers, flowing through six countries. While sailing, admire castles, vineyards, and charming villages. On disembarkation, continue your journey to Heidelberg. Take photos of the red-walled castle ruins and [LOCAL FAVORITE] enjoy a beer at the Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg Brauhaus. (B,D) LOCAL FAVORITE Lift a glass of German beer in Kulturbrauerei Heidelberg Brauhaus. Enjoy the famous tastes of Germany in this elegant and rustic beer house where hospitality is served in the heart of the brewery, along with legendary beers – both traditional and modern.

With Cherries on Top This morning, head to the Black Forest to enjoy some local traditions. [LOCAL FAVORITE] Watch a traditional woodcarving demonstration followed by a delicious helping of Kaffee und Schwarzwaldkuchen (coffee and Black Forest Cake). Later, drive over the border into Switzerland and stop to admire the breathtaking Rhine Falls. Continue to Lucerne for free time this evening. (B) LOCAL FAVORITE Visit the House of Black Forest Clocks, a family-owned cuckoo clock producer, and meet Mr. Herr, a skilled woodcarver. His creations are made with linden wood sourced directly from the famous Black Forest region in Germany. Watch the artisans at work turning blocks of wood into exquisite designs – an age-old art that is passed on through generations. Afterwards, indulge your sweet tooth with coffee and Black Forest Cake.