Join Solos as we head to the Netherlands in the springtime, when the country begins to come alive with the colours of the tulips, the cities begin to bustle and the sun is shining. From the end of March to the beginning of May, the country is transformed into a beautiful land of colourful tulips, and the best place to see this at the Keukenhof gardens. With over 7 million flower bulbs, the gardens blossom with vibrant colours, accompanied with art sculptures and waterways, this combination is a breathtaking sight.
The historic capital of Amsterdam boasts picturesque canals lined with impressive narrow red brick buildings, flower-adorned bridges and historic homes; this wondrous place is a picture-perfect destination for travellers all over the world. There are many cultural attractions with several famous museums, with an abundance of beautiful parks and pretty outdoor cafes.
On this short break, we will witness the Netherlands in full bloom.
Today we arrive into Amsterdam and transfer to the hotel. We spend the day at our leisure. The hotel is situated a short tram ride away from the centre of Amsterdam, or we can relax and get acquainted with the hotel’s facilities.
This evening, we gather for a welcome dinner and get to know our fellow travellers.
After breakfast, we take the short journey to Keukenhof Gardens, renowned for being the most beautiful spring garden in the world. Open during springtime and spread over almost 80 acres, Keukenhof Gardens is the largest flower garden in the world. We witness various themed gardens filled with spectacular flower displays and unique art instillations. Each year, during the Tulip Festival, the park is famous for the blooming of over 7 million flowers, including over 800 species of tulips, hyacinths, daffodils and many other flowers.
Today we head into the heart of Amsterdam for a walking tour of this historical city. Amsterdam is famous for its canals lined by narrow houses with gabled facades, picturesque bridges and historic homes, adorned with colourful bicycles and tulip boxes. The Dutch capital is as fascinating as it is picturesque. Must-see sights include the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and the only floating flower market in the world. Get a little lost in the cobbled streets, enjoy a stop-off at a ‘brown café,’ where they serve up local beers and regional cuisine.
Today we enjoy our final breakfast together before we transfer to the airport for our return flight home.
Corendon City Hotel Amsterdam is located 15 minutes away by tram from Museum Square and offers a restaurant, wellness centre, complimentary WiFi and fitness centre.
The hotel offers, breakfast daily, WiFi throughout, pool, fitness centre, spa, bar with lounge area, restaurant and bike rental if you wanted to explore Amsterdam via bike.
Each room will provide you with a flat screen TV, air conditioning, a mini fridge, private bathroom with sustainable toiletries and a seating area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Transfer time from Amsterdam Airport to the hotel is roughly 15 minutes depending on transfers.
The dress code for during the day is casual. In the evening for the welcome dinner it is smart casual. Comfortable shoes for walking and sightseeing are recommended.
There is often confusion on the question of gratuities, since it frequently depends on the type of holiday, location and, of course, your attitude towards tipping, as to what is normally expected. In order to give you a rough idea, we have given appropriate guidance below. Your Tour Leader will be on hand to offer advice or suggestions if required but gratuities are offered entirely at the sole discretion of the individual. We suggest a group collection to cover drivers, porters and hotel staff of €20.00. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip. The tipping of housekeeping will be left to your individual discretion (a small amount left in your room on departure should cover this and would be much appreciated). As is customary, ‘the hat’ will be passed around for the driver and guide on all optional excursions. For any meals that are not included in your itinerary, or taxi fares, your Tour Leader can advise of an appropriate add on.
If you are planning to travel to an EU country (except Ireland), or Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino or Vatican City, you must follow the Schengen area passport requirements.
Your passport must be:
You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.
Contact the embassy of the country you are visiting if you think that your passport does not meet both these requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.
You can travel to countries in the Schengen area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.
If you are travelling to the Netherlands and other Schengen countries without a visa, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries within the previous 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days.
Compulsory vaccinations: None.
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. Guidance is also available from NHS (Scotland) on the FitForTravel website.
General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.
Euro
Please note – There is walking involved in this tour when in Amsterdam on cobbled streets.
“I’m sure you will enjoy it, I have been on three solos holidays to date and the people I’ve met have been great.”
“I’ve been travelling with Solos for nearly 20 years, on and off. The reason is for exactly what you want – you meet like minded people… and have loads of fun!”
“I’ve been on loads of trips with Solos over the years and can honestly say you will not regret booking your 1st one!”
“The feeling you have once you go away on your own is worth all the nerves before! I was so very anxious the first time but now having done it 4 times, I love it!”
