Amsterdam Tulip Fest
APRIL 2026
The Itinerary
Trip Overview
7-Night Amsterdam Tulip Fest
AMSTERDAM TULIP FEST
April 24 - May 2, 2026
DEPARTS: USA on evening of Fri, Apr 24
ARRIVES: Amsterdam on morning of Sat, Apr 25
RETURN: Amsterdam to USA on Sat, May 2
Join us on this immersive journey to Amsterdam, where history and modernity intertwine along scenic canals and charming gables. Timed for the breathtaking Tulip Festival, this small group trip offers a relaxed pace with a blend of guided excursions and free time to discover cozy cafés, unique shops, and the local ambiance. Each day includes a thoughtfully planned activity, with optional excursions available if you crave more adventure. From afternoons in the Rijksmuseum to leisurely canal-side meals, Amsterdam promises unforgettable memories at every turn.
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Why Amsterdam & Tulips
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Detailed Itinerary
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Inclusions & Pricing
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What's Included & What's Not
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Pricing
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Payment Schedule
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Other Trip Components
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Registration Instructions
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Registration Process
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Cancellation Schedule
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Other Common Questions
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About This Group Trip
Why Amsterdam?
Why the Tulip Festival?
Detailed Itinerary
After your day of exploring (or relaxing), we have a choice of evening activity - a sunset cruise or another tasty food activity - tapas and drinks!
Wed, Oct 8, 2025:
Sunset Cruise Excursion Description: There’s no better way to enjoy a Barcelona sunset than on the water, as the sun sinks below the mountains behind the city. Enjoy the witching hour with a drink in hand from the open bar on this intimate cruise, with a capacity of just 10 travelers in total. You’ll glide along the coast from Port Vell, Barcelona’s old port, savoring Barcelona’s skyline—old and new—as the city lights up for the night. - Cruise the Mediterranean on a sailboat as the sun sets behind Barcelona - Get in the party spirit with cava, wine, beer, and soft drinks...plus snacks - Numbers are capped at 10 travelers for a more intimate experience - Golden sunset light makes for glorious photos and memories too What's Included: - Professional Skipper - Open Bar: Cava, Wine, Beer, Soft Drinks - Light Snacks - A swim, weather permitting ________________________
Tapas Tour Excursion Description: Experience Barcelona tapas and wine culture on a gourmet walking tour that explores Spanish cuisine, drinks, and ingredients. In a city that’s packed with tapas bars, getting beyond the tourist spots for an authentic experience can be a challenge; visiting four local spots for tapas and drinks is a great way to discover where to eat and drink in Barcelona. - Try a range of tapas with a drink to accompany each one - Learn how to enjoy tapas local-style - Go beyond the menu to experience Spain's culinary heritage - Convenient meeting point close to Las Rambas - Duration: 3 hours What's Included: - Four local stops with a variety of tapas - Drinks including wine, sangria, vermouth and cava - Professional local guide ________________________
Inclusions:
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Breakfast
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Choice of Barcelona Sunset Cruise with Light Snacks and Open Bar or Barcelona Tapas Walking Tour: Food, Wine & History
Detailed Itinerary
Fri, Apr 24, 2026: Fly from the US to Amsterdam
Flying to Amsterdam (AMS) is easy, with direct flights from several US gateways, and limitless options with a single plane change. In most cases, flights will depart America in the afternoon or evening, arriving in Europe the next morning or early afternoon.
ABOUT FLIGHTS: Your actual flight cost will depend on your departure city, airline, and routing. We will begin looking at flight schedules 6-9 months before departure.
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Flight research and ticketing with no ticketing fees
Sat, Apr 25, 2026: Arrive in Amsterdam
Today we will arrive in Amsterdam, check into our hotel (once rooms are available), and rest or explore. We will begin our time together over dinner at a moderately priced restaurant for those who feel up for it.
Our Hotel: Banks Mansion
Set along the Herengracht Canal in the heart of Amsterdam, Banks Mansion is a boutique hotel with a difference. Designed to feel like an upscale home-away-from-home, this 51-room gem combines comfort, charm, and thoughtful amenities to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. From its stately exterior to its personalized hospitality, Banks Mansion ensures every detail revolves around you, making it your “Amsterdam family” for the duration of your stay.
Key Features You’ll Love:
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Inclusive Comforts: Rates include an array of free amenities, such as:
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Unlimited minibar with whisky, cognac, gin, soft drinks, and snacks.
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The Living: A spacious lounge with complimentary drinks, an open bar, daily wine and cheese hours, and a curated Amsterdam cheese trolley.
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Breakfast with Live Cooking: Enjoy made-to-order fare like pancakes, French toast, and omelets, alongside a delicious buffet.
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Stylish and Comfortable Rooms:
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Some offer canal views for a quintessential Amsterdam experience.
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High-end amenities include Nespresso machines, luxurious bedding, and personal touches like record players in select rooms.
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Prime Location: Positioned on Amsterdam's Golden Bend, you’re steps away from the city's best attractions while enjoying a serene retreat from the bustle.
Why Banks Mansion Feels Like Home
At Banks Mansion, hospitality knows no bounds. You’re invited to relax in The Living, the heart of the hotel, where you can enjoy your favorite drink, catch up on emails, or simply unwind after a day of exploring. Want more privacy? Your room is a sanctuary where you can pour a drink, run a bath, and sink into comfort. Whether it’s the welcoming staff, the cozy atmosphere, or the all-inclusive touches, Banks Mansion isn’t just a hotel — it’s your home in Amsterdam.
Inclusions:
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7 nights shared or solo accommodations (double occupancy)
Sun, Apr 26, 2026:
During the afternoon, we will enjoy a nice chunk of free time to explore or partake in optional excursions.
This evening, we will enjoy a canal cruise together.
Evening Canal Cruise Excursion Description: Elevate your Amsterdam canal cruise when you book this experience aboard a classic covered wooden saloon boat. Cruise along the UNESCO-listed canals and see famous sights like the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, and the picturesque Jordaan district while listening to commentary from your onboard guide. Depart from two central locations, with an option to include a platter of Dutch cheese with mustard and sip unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks. - Relax on a canal cruise through the UNESCO Heritage listed Canal Ring of Amsterdam - Admire the beautiful city and its landmarks as you cruise along - Enjoy Dutch Gouda cheese, mustard, and unlimited beverages - Listen to history and anecdotes from your onboard guide What's Included: - Skipper and Live Guide - Unique experience on a luxury boat - Friendly atmosphere - Two different types of Dutch Cheese - Unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks ________________________
Optional Excursions: We have pre-screened several small group tours you may want to enjoy while in Amsterdam. Examples include: - ________________________
Inclusions:
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Evening Canal Cruise
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Continuation of our accommodations in Amsterdam
Mon, Apr 27, 2026:
Today, we'll put on our aprons and take part in a 3-in-1 Cooking Class. The rest of the day, you can continue to explore Rome at your own pace.
Foodie Excursion Description: We'll delve into Italy's beloved cuisine with this pasta and tiramisù cooking class in the heart of Rome. Roll up your sleeves and learn how to roll and fill fresh pasta like a pro plus pick up techniques for assembling a flawless tiramisù in a restaurant kitchen right on Piazza Navona. End by feasting on the dishes you've prepared, served with wine, limoncello, and coffee. - Learn how to make fresh fettuccine, ravioli, and tiramisù - Convenient restaurant location right on Piazza Navona - Sample both pasta dishes and your tiramisù over dinner - A small-group experience to connect with other travelers Sample Menu: - Starter: Fettuccine with sauce of your choice - We'll make and eat the best homemade Fettuccine pasta. Choose your favorite sauce (Cacio e Pepe, Tomato and Basil or Amatriciana) - Main Course: Ravioli with butter and sage + wine & drinks - Ravioli stuffed with pecorino, ricotta in a sauce of butter and sage. Choose a red or a white wine to taste with your homemade pasta. Bottled water is included. - Dessert: Homemade Tiramisu' + Limoncello/Coffee - Homemade tiramisu following the traditional recipe. Conclude your meal with our famous Limoncello or Italian coffee What's Included: - Dinner: Fettuccine with sauce of your choice, ravioli with butter and sage, tiramisu - Bottled water - 1 Glass of wine , limoncello or coffee ________________________
Inclusions:
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3-in-1 Cooking Class
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Final night at our accommodations in Rome
Tue, Apr 28, 2026:
Before leaving Rome for Florence this afternoon, we will embark on another delicious exploration - this time, the neighborhood of Testaccio.
Foodie Excursion Description: Trastevere isn’t Rome’s only riverside neighborhood with local color and authentic way of life. Situated on the river’s opposite bank, south of the Colosseum and the Aventine Hill, we'll explore Testaccio. This working-class district, said to be where the true Roma soccer supporters are born and bred, doesn’t get as many tourists as its better-known sister across the Tiber, however, Testaccio’s credentials as a foodie destination are firmly established by landmark delis like Volpetti and old time trattorias like Perilli a Testaccio — they’ve been serving outstanding pasta alla carbonara since 1911. Step into the birthplace of Roman cuisine and the city's foodie neighborhood. Marvel at Europe's only pyramid from an exclusive spot. Savor mouthwatering Roman pasta dishes. Sample classic Italian dishes and iconic Roman street food. Visit Rome's best local food market, meet passionate vendors, and learn about culinary traditions Explore hidden culinary gems, experiencing Rome like a local. Discover offbeat landmarks with insights into Rome's culture and history. - Marvel at Europe's only pyramid from an exclusive spot. - 15 samples at 8 different tasting locations, including the Testaccio Market - Visit Rome's Pyramid from an exclusive location and the Testaccio Market - Explore hidden culinary gems, experiencing Rome like a local. - Discover offbeat landmarks with insights into Rome's culture and history. Sample Menu: - Dessert: Espresso and typical Italian pastry - Starter: Selection of fine Italian charcuterie and DOCG wines, bruschetta with fresh tomatoes, caprese salad with buffalo mozzarella - Mains: Supplì, local beer, Roman pizza with porchetta, cacio e pepe, amatriciana, and carbonara pasta with wine What's Included: - 15 samples at 8 different tasting locations, including the Testaccio Market - Wine, craft beer and water - Visit Rome's Pyramid from an exclusive location and the Testaccio Market! - Rome Food Lovers Guide + Local English speaking guide - This is the original Testaccio Food Tour, enjoyed by thousands since 2011. ________________________
After checking out of our hotel, we'll hop on a high-speed train (tickets are included) to Florence and check into our next hotel for 3 nights. For those who are up for it, we'll indulge in a Florentine steak dinner at a local hot spot (not included).
ABOUT OUR HOTEL: We will stay in a centrally-located and highly-rated 3- to 4-star hotel. Priority will be given to walkability, local-area dining, on-site eateries, and easy access to local transportation. We will also prioritize locations that have rooms available that have two twin beds for unrelated roommates. Once the hotel has been finalized in late 2024, based on our numbers and specific needs, all travelers will be informed of the details. (Hotel example: Porta Faenza, Hotel Executive Florence, or similar)
Inclusions:
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Testaccio Walking Food Tour
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High-speed train ticket from Rome to Florence
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3 nights shared 3- to 4-star hotel room in Florence (double occupancy)
Wed, Apr 29, 2026:
With time to tour Florence or relax in both the morning and the evening, the afternoon will be taken up by a delicious walking food tour.
Excursion Description: We'll explore Florence with our taste buds on a walking tour that showcases the flavors of its local neighborhoods. We'll learn how to steer clear of tourist traps as we sample authentic Tuscan cuisine in the Sant'Ambrogio market area, a favorite among locals. From gourmet fare to street vendors and wine bars, we'll savor the best of the city's food and drink like a true Florentine. - We'll discover what makes Tuscan cuisine unique - We'll go beyond the city center to eateries in less-explored districts - We'll learn how to order and eat like a local, avoiding touristy meals - This tour is a great way for food and wine lovers to get off the beaten path What's Included: - Professional local guide - Multiple food tastings - Multiple wine tastings (or non-alcohol alternatives) ________________________
Optional Excursions - Florence: We have pre-screened several small group tours you may want to enjoy while in Florence. Examples include: - Small-Group Wine Tasting Experience in the Tuscan Countryside - Skip the line: Uffizi and Accademia Small Group Walking Tour - Florence Vespa Tour: Tuscan Hills and Italian Cuisine - Florence: Duomo and Brunelleschi's Dome Small Group Tour ________________________
Inclusions:
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Foodie Walking Tour in Florence
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Continuation of our accommodations in Florence
Thu, Apr 30, 2026:
Today will be full of wonderful surprises and promises to be one of our favorite days of the trip. Most of the day will be spent on an expansive excursion, with the evening being open time for relaxation or touring at your own pace.
Excursion Description: We'll discover the secrets of Tuscan cooking during this full day experience, including a market visit and cooking class, topped off with a 4-course lunch. We'll shop for fresh ingredients at a Florentine market before venturing to a Tuscan farmhouse in the countryside. We'll take our cues from an expert chef as we create Italian dishes from scratch including bruschetta, pasta, roast pork, and tiramisu. Then we'll sit down to enjoy the fruits of our labor complimented by Tuscan wine. - We'll visit an historical food market in Florence to shop for ingredients. - We'll travel to a farmhouse in the Tuscan countryside for a cooking lesson with a local chef. - We'll savor Chianti wine and other local varietals alongside our creations. - We'll receive a cooking diploma and the recipes. Sample Menu - Starter: Bruschetta with fresh bread, homegrown tomatoes, and extra virgin olive oil - Mains: Hand made fresh tagliatelle with traditional meat sauce, Tuscan roast port with potatoes - Dessert: Tiramisu What's Included - Transport by air-conditioned minibus (20 min ride to get to the farmhouse) - Market visit and ingredients - Cooking class - 4-course lunch accompanied by wine - Recipes (sent by email after the tour) - Cooking diploma ________________________
Inclusions:
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Tuscan Farmhouse Cooking Class Experience
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Final night at our accommodations in Florence
Fri, May 1, 2026:
Before checking out of our Florence hotel today, we'll enjoy a relaxed morning with time for rest, a slow breakfast, or even a visit to a museum. This afternoon, we will check out and jump on a short high-speed train ride to our final city stay, Bologna, which is at the center of one of the tastiest regions of Italy, Emilia-Romagna. Once we check-in and get settled into our hotel, we will embark on a food experience in Bologna (home of mortadella), and hear stories from the locals most familiar with the Emilia-Romagna region.
Excursion Description: We'll be able to experience the local way of eating and drinking in Bologna thanks to this outing. The leader will take us through a gastronomic journey where we'll discover the hidden places that only the locals know and that we must try. The goal is for us to experience a typical day for an Italian food outing with friends and family, surprising our taste buds with 15+ foods and wine tastings. We'll start with the most versatile and iconic local dishes served as a pre-aperitovo, la Tigella! Then we will move on to tasting many different types of cold cuts, cheeses, and breads, all belonging to the area of Bologna, always accompanied by local wine in the oldest osteria in the city. Then walking through the old town centre, we'll try two iconic homemade pastas (tortellini and tagliatelle) in a classic osteria Bolognese, always paired with another local wine. We'll conclude with the best gelato in town! What's Included - Full Emilian meal + wines ________________________
Optional Small Group Excursions - Bologna: We have pre-screened a small group tour you may want to enjoy while in Bologna: - Bologna City Walking Tour ________________________
Inclusions:
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High-speed train ticket from Florence to Bologna
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Bologna Gastronomic Food Experience (full meal)
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2 nights shared 3- to 4-star hotel room in Bologna (double occupancy)
