Magical Ijsselmeer

Small harbors, endless beaches, water as far as the eye can see. Our flat neighboring country has a lot to offer. Canals and churches, squares and patrician houses await exploration. During this 4-day bus trip, visit the land shaped by the sea and countless bodies of water, which also entices with numerous museums and buildings, stunning coastal landscapes, and not least the multicultural metropolis of Amsterdam, also known as the 'Venice of the North'.

Day 1 | Arrival

Departure in the morning and drive to Almere – the youngest city in the Netherlands. It may not have a centuries-old history, but it has a unique one, as it is built on the former Zuiderzee, 3.49 m below sea level. After checking into the hotel, you can go on an individual exploration tour. Stroll through the city center and enjoy the fresh sea air. Back at the hotel, you will be expected for a joint dinner.

Day 2 | Amsterdam

After breakfast, you will travel to Amsterdam. Amsterdam is also referred to as the largest pile dwelling in the world. A sophisticated system of locks and pumps maintains a constant water level in the canals. During a canal cruise, you will get to know the city from the water. Afterwards, you will have plenty of time to explore the city on your own. In the late afternoon, return to the hotel.

Day 3 | Ijsselmeer

Today you will discover the picturesque Ijsselmeer region and the Markermeer. The journey first takes you to the port city of Enkhuizen, where the Golden Age has left its mark with many magnificent buildings. From here, it’s “anchors aweigh” for a boat trip on the Ijsselmeer. The boat trip ends in Medemblik, where you will have a short stay at your leisure before embarking on a historic steam train ride, continuing on to Hoorn in a relaxed manner. The steam locomotive whistles, the stoker shovels coal onto the fire, the wheels sing, and the steam hisses. You will participate in an event from long ago. Afterwards, you will visit the charming harbor town of Volendam on the Markermeer. Take your time and stroll along the picturesque harbor, simply enjoying being here. However, you should not miss the typical Dutch kibbelings (fried pieces of fish fillet with garlic dip or remoulade sauce), a delicious fresh fish sandwich, or poffertjes, a truly Dutch delicacy.

Day 4 | Free Time

After breakfast, the day is yours to spend as you wish. Explore Almere according to your own desires and discover the special atmosphere of the youngest city in the Netherlands. Stroll through the modern city center with its diverse shopping options, cozy cafés, or take a walk along the waterfront promenade. Those who want to enjoy nature will find numerous opportunities for relaxed walks and beautiful views of the unique landscape in the surrounding area.

Day 5 | Utrecht – Return Journey

After breakfast, the luggage will be loaded, and it’s time to say goodbye to North Holland. However, before leaving the Netherlands, you will make a stop in Utrecht. Discover the medieval center with its treasures during a canal cruise. Climb the magnificent Dom Tower, which is 112 m high, and enjoy the unique view. With many beautiful impressions in your travel luggage, you will begin your journey home after the lunch break.

• Travel by modern coach
• 4x overnight stays including breakfast buffet at the 4-star Leonardo Hotel Almere City
  Center in Almere (local category)
• 1x dinner at the hotel on the day of arrival
• Canal cruise in Amsterdam
• Full-day guided tour on the excursion
  "Ijsselmeer"
• Boat trip from Enkhuizen to Medemblik (one-way)
• Steam train ride from Medemblik to Hoorn (one-way)
• Canal cruise in Utrecht
• City Tax
• Continuous BOHR travel accompaniment

The modern hotel is centrally located in the heart of Almere, right next to the city theater. Numerous shops and shopping opportunities are easily accessible on foot and invite you to stroll through the vibrant city center. The hotel impresses with its modern, extraordinary architecture and offers a pleasant starting point for a stay in Almere. The modernly furnished rooms feature a bathtub or shower, toilet, hairdryer, TV, Nespresso coffee machine, safe, and free Wi-Fi. Due to the special modern construction of the building, the windows are partially designed to be relatively narrow, which corresponds to the architectural concept of the house.