Netherlands/Belgium
Art History in Belgium and Holland
Program No. 3544RJ
Find inspiration as you celebrate the achievements of great European artists, gaining a deeper appreciation of their works through scholar-led excursions.
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800-454-5768
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DATES
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PRICES
Apr 25 - May 8, 2025
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7,599May 16 - May 29, 2025
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7,599Sep 12 - Sep 25, 2025
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7,599Sep 26 - Oct 9, 2025
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14 days
13 nights
24 meals
12B 4L 8D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
3
Brussels
Brussels
8
Delft, Birthplace of Vermeer
Amsterdam
11
Rijksmuseum, 18th-Century Art
Amsterdam
12
Haarlem, Frans Hals Museum
Amsterdam
13
Kröller-Müller Museum, Free Time
Amsterdam
14
Program Concludes
Amsterdam
At a Glance
As you stroll through the sculpture garden, you realize that most of these art lovers are speaking Dutch and admiring the works of their own beloved artists. In this comprehensive exploration, learn why even local residents hold artists such as Vermeer and van Gogh so dear. Expert artists guide a study of the history, architecture, genres and artists that comprise the rich artistic traditions.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up between 3-4 miles per day; cobblestones and many unavoidable stairs. Public transportation and motor coaches used throughout the program.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Receive expert insight into three centuries of art by Brueghel, Bosch, Vermeer, De Wit, Mondrian and many more.
- Spend a day at the Kroller Muller Museum, located in a national park, with 90 van Gogh paintings and a magnificent sculpture garden.
- Discover the collections of Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum and the Museum of Ancient Art in Brussels.
General Notes
Select dates are designated for small groups and are limited to 24 participants or less.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Max Put
After studying painting and graphic art and working as an artist, Max Put attended Leiden University and earned a master’s in art history. In 1995, while still at university, he started giving talks on Dutch art and culture. He has been a charismatic figure leading Road Scholar groups for more than 15 years.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Max Put
View biography
After studying painting and graphic art and working as an artist, Max Put attended Leiden University and earned a master’s in art history. In 1995, while still at university, he started giving talks on Dutch art and culture. He has been a charismatic figure leading Road Scholar groups for more than 15 years.
Carmen Rademaker
View biography
Carmen was born and raised in Amsterdam, where she studied human resource management. In 2000 she moved to Chiang Mai, Thailand. Carmen has been an HR consultant for an NGO for 19 years, working with Burmese refugees, and has been involved in the development of a cultural exchange program at Chiang Mai University. She was also the director of the Asian Elephant Foundation. Carmen has led Road Scholar groups throughout Southeast Asia since 2009, and is excited to continue leading Road Scholar groups in Europe.
Suggested Reading List
(26 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Art History in Belgium and Holland
Program Number: 3544
The Professor
Bronte's first novel, published posthumously, is based on her experiences with Emily as a language student in Brussels in 1842.
Bruegel
A volume in the excellent "World of Art" series, Gibson's book dispels the myth of Bruegel the simpleton artist and replaces it with a portrait of a man who understood the needs of his patrons. With many black-and-white and color reproductions of the paintings.
Travels in Vermeer, A Memoir
In the wake of a vengeful divorce, an American poet travels to Amsterdam, The Hague, Delft, London, Washington and New York to find solace and inspiration in the paintings of Johannes Vermeer.
Eyewitness Guide The Netherlands
Gorgeously illustrated and filled with excellent maps, this compact book covers Holland, its history, traditions, cultures and sights. With hundreds of color photographs and illustrations.
The Diary of a Young Girl, The Definitive Edition
The classic story of an adolescent Jewish girl's life and thoughts while in hiding with her family in Nazi-occupied Holland. A new edition with added material.
Master of Shadows, The Secret Diplomatic Career of the Painter Peter Paul Rubens
Ranging from his home in Antwerp to London, Madrid, Paris and Rome, Lamster uncovers the gripping tale behind one of the world’s most famous painters and his double life as a secret agent, diplomat and political operative in 17th century Europe.
Eyewitness Guide Amsterdam
A wonderful guide to Amsterdam, filled with detailed drawings, photographs and thumbnail sketches.
Niccolo Rising
From the reigning queen of historical fiction comes this fast-paced, thoroughly-researched novel of ambition and worldly goods in 15th-century Bruges. This is the first volume in her House of Niccolo series.
Culture Smart! Belgium
A concise, well-illustrated and practical guide to local customs, etiquette and culture.
Headlong, A Novel
A Bruegel canvas claims a central role in Frayn's hilarious tale of an art heist gone awry. Frayn weaves detailed research about the Old Master with a philosopher's foiled plot to appropriate the valuable masterpiece from a boor he feels is unworthy of it.
Tulip Fever
In this surprise bestseller, set in 1630s Amsterdam, a man contracts the talented painter Jan Van Loos to paint a portrait of him and his beautiful wife, Sophia. A vivid drama unfolds as a mutual attraction develops between Van Loos and Sophia.
Tulipomania
The story of the world's most coveted flower and the extraordinary passion it aroused, this vivid history traces the tulip from its origins on the Turkish steppes to its status as an absurdly desired object in Europe and its key role in the financial follies of 17th-century Holland.
Girl With a Pearl Earring
Chevalier's richly drawn novel imagines the story behind Vermeer's mysterious portrait of a turbaned girl with a pearl earring.
Girl in Hyacinth Blue
This finely-crafted novel tells the story of the girl in an imagined, undiscovered portrait by Vermeer. Created in the 17th century, the painting passes through a number of people's hands, providing a series of tales that reflect the history and character of Holland and Europe through the years.
A Worldly Art
This appreciative analysis of Dutch art in its Golden Age (1585-1718) features 100 exemplary illustrations by Rembrandt, Vermeer, Pieter de Hooch, Frans Hals and other Old Masters.
A Tall Man in a Low Land
Pearson, a British travel writer, journalist and comic, is an entertaining guide to Belgium and its traditions, culture, beer and chocolate.
Amsterdam, A History of the World's Most Liberal City
Russell Shorto opens this delightful ode to an adopted city with his daily journey, by bike of course, through his neighborhood to drop off his toddler son. He spins a tale of a diverse city wrestled from the sea, its coffee shops, canals and its personalities and politics, with panache.
Amsterdam, A Traveler's Literary Companion
Organized by district, these 17 contemporary short stories by modern Dutch writers, including Cees Nooteboom and Geert Mak, are set amid the canals, cafes and neighborhoods of Amsterdam.
The Netherlands in a Nutshell
With information on the Dutch East India Company, Huygens, Spinoza, Van Gogh, the Great Flood, the Dutch overseas colonies and much more, Van Oostrom's popular primer covers the essential highlights of Dutch history.
Rubens
Belkin chronicles the 17th century artist Peter Paul Rubens from his early family life to his influential interactions with the Italian Renaissance masters and finally to Antwerp, where he rose to fame as a renowned painter and diplomat to the royal courts of Europe.
Benelux Map
Covering the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg at a scale of 1:400,000.
Eyewitness Guide Brussels, Bruges, Ghent & Antwerp
This superbly illustrated guide features color photos and maps of city neighborhoods, with information on history, culture and sightseeing.
The Embarrassment of Riches
An engaging cultural history and much more, this book is a study of the Dutch in the 17th century and their surprising challenge to Spanish rule.
The Autumn of the Middle Ages
A pioneering work of social and cultural history, this well translated classic is a richly detailed portrait of life, thought and art in 14th- and 15th-century France and the Netherlands.
The Undutchables
A laugh-out-loud, irreverent guide to Dutch character and habits, including how to drink coffee and why you shouldn't even think about haggling over prices.
Why the Dutch are Different
Mingling history with travelogue, Coates speaks to why the Netherlands is such fascinating country. He explains the significance of milk, beer and the color orange in the lives of the Dutch, their world-famous culture of tolerance and much more.
Program No.
3544
Duration
14 days
Program Begins
Brussels
Program Concludes
Amsterdam
Group Type
Small Group
Activity Level
At a Glance
As you stroll through the sculpture garden, you realize that most of these art lovers are speaking Dutch and admiring the works of their own beloved artists. In this comprehensive exploration, learn why even local residents hold artists such as Vermeer and van Gogh so dear. Expert artists guide a study of the history, architecture, genres and artists that comprise the rich artistic traditions.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Receive expert insight into three centuries of art by Brueghel, Bosch, Vermeer, De Wit, Mondrian and many more.
- Spend a day at the Kroller Muller Museum, located in a national park, with 90 van Gogh paintings and a magnificent sculpture garden.
- Discover the collections of Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum and the Museum of Ancient Art in Brussels.
General Notes
Select dates are designated for small groups and are limited to 24 participants or less.
Featured Expert
Max Put
After studying painting and graphic art and working as an artist, Max Put attended Leiden University and earned a master’s in art history. In 1995, while still at university, he started giving talks on Dutch art and culture. He has been a charismatic figure leading Road Scholar groups for more than 15 years.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Carmen Rademaker
Carmen was born and raised in Amsterdam, where she studied human resource management. In 2000 she moved to Chiang Mai, Thailand. Carmen has been an HR consultant for an NGO for 19 years, working with Burmese refugees, and has been involved in the development of a cultural exchange program at Chiang Mai University. She was also the director of the Asian Elephant Foundation. Carmen has led Road Scholar groups throughout Southeast Asia since 2009, and is excited to continue leading Road Scholar groups in Europe.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up between 3-4 miles per day; cobblestones and many unavoidable stairs. Public transportation and motor coaches used throughout the program.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List: 26 Books
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
14 days
13 nights
What's Included
24 meals | 12B | 4L | 8D |
3 expert-led lectures
14 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
12 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrive Brussels, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Brussels
Meals:
D
Stay:
Pullman Brussels Centre Midi
Activity Note
Driving transfer to is about 11.5 miles, approximately 45 minutes riding time. Hotel check-in available from 3:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
Hotel check-in is available at 3:00 PM. We may store our luggage with the front desk while we explore the area on our own while we wait for our rooms to be available. After checking in to the hotel and getting your room, take some time to freshen up and relax before our Orientation session. Orientation: 5:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. We will learn from the Group Leader and a series of local experts who will give lectures and lead field trips. Program-related travel and transfers will be via private motorcoach, tram, and other public transportation where noted. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Brussels
Location:
Brussels
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Pullman Brussels Centre Midi
Activity Note
Walking about 3 miles total throughout the day; uneven pavement, unavoidable stairs, cobblestones in the city center; periods of standing. Extent/duration of walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll set out on foot from our hotel on an expert-led walk into the city center to soak in the sights.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in Brussels. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
4
Antwerp, Royal Museum of Fine Arts
Location:
Ghent
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Ghent River Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 75 miles, approximately 2.5 hours total riding time with stops. Walking, stairs without railings and periods of standing in the museum. Extent/duration of walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we will board the motorcoach and transfer to Antwerp where we will enjoy an expert-led visit to the Royal Museum of Fine Art. After 11 years of renovations, the KMSKA reopened its doors and has expanded its rich collection of artwork spanning Rubens to Tuymans.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in Antwerp. We will meet at a predetermined time and location to board the motorcoach and continue on to Ghent. Upon arrival, we will check in to the hotel and get our rooms. Take some time to freshen up before we meet for dinner.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Ghent, Museum of Fine Arts
Location:
Ghent
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Ghent River Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation, approximately 1/2 hour total. Walking about 3 miles, approximately 3 hours; paved terrain; periods of standing in the museum; unavoidable stairs and cobblestones in the city. Extent/duration of walking and other activities during independent time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Arriving via public transit, we will join a museum staff member for an expert-led field trip at the Museum of Fine Arts in Ghent. While here, we will learn about Flemish and Dutch art from the Middle Ages, and its development through the middle of the 20th century.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in Ghent. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
Ghent, Van Eyck Painting, Bosch & Bruegel
Location:
Ghent
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Ghent River Hotel
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles total throughout the day; cobblestones and uneven pavement, some stairs without railings; occasionally crowded places.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After breakfast, we will gather in our meeting room for a lecture from an art historian about the painters Hieronymus Bosch (1450-1516) and Pieter Bruegel the Elder (1525-1569), and track their evolution from the 15th to 17th centuries. Setting out from the hotel, we will take an expert-led walk through the city center of Ghent, a medieval city where the Industrial Revolution began in the 19th century. A local expert will provide us with the history of the city as we walk along the canals, through the historical center with its many squares (Vrijdagsmarkt, Groentenmarkt, and Koorenmarkt), and to see such sites as the medieval fortress of Gravensteen and the meat market.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
The afternoon is free to see and do what interests you most. We will gather in the early evening to transfer to dinner.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Bruges, Groeninge Museum
Location:
Ghent
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Ghent River Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off motorcoach; driving about 70 miles total (110 km); approximately 2 hours, with stops. Walking up to 4 miles total throughout the day; cobblestones and uneven pavement, sometimes in very crowded places; stairs without railings; periods of standing in the museum. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during independent time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Arriving in Bruges via motorcoach this morning, we will have an expert-led walk in the beautiful, fairytale city of Bruges. This field trip will take us along the Minnewater Park, the Begijnhof (courtyard of the Beguins – secular nuns), the city's medieval street, and finishing at the Belfry of Bruges.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
This afternoon is free for independent exploration. You may enjoy visiting the Museum of Flemish Primitives (also known as the Groeninge Museum). The group leader will also be happy to make suggestions. We’ll then return to Ghent via motorcoach.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
8
Delft, Birthplace of Vermeer
Location:
Amsterdam
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Park Plaza Vondelpark
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 140 miles total; approximately 3 hours, with stops for field trips throughout the day. Walking about 3 miles throughout the day; cobblestones and uneven pavement, stairs without railings.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we will board the motorcoach and begin our transfer to Amsterdam. On our way, we will drive through Rotterdam to admire the architecture. We will stop in Delft, the birthplace of Vermeer, for an expert led walk to learn about the history of this charming city and its influence on the Dutch master himself.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Enjoy some free time to explore on your own before we meet at a predetermined time and location to continue our transfer to Amsterdam. After check-in, take some time to freshen up and relax before we gather for dinner.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
9
Amsterdam Canal Cruise & City Walk, Free Time
Location:
Amsterdam
Meals:
B
Stay:
Park Plaza Vondelpark
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; less than 1/2 hour during group activities. Walking about 3 miles, approximately 3 hours; uneven pavement, unavoidable stairs and cobblestones in the city. Extent/duration of walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After setting out from the hotel via tram, we’ll begin with a relaxing canal cruise to soak in Amsterdam’s historical city center from the water. Then we will enjoy an expert-led city walk to admire and learn about the architecture of Amsterdam. We’ll see the National Monument, the Royal Palace, the New Church, and the many different styles of houses that the city is famous for.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most in Amsterdam. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. You might like to visit the Amsterdam Historical Museum or the Anne Frank House.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
10
The Hague, Mesdag, Vermeer & Rembrandt
Location:
Amsterdam
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Park Plaza Vondelpark
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 70 miles, approximately 1.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 3 miles total throughout the day; cobblestones and uneven pavement; unavoidable stairs, some without railings; periods of standing in museum.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will start the day with an expert-led bus field trip to The Hague, the legal capital of the world, with its many legal institutions and the seat of the Dutch Parliament. On our journey, we will pass the Peace Palais, which houses the International Court of Justice, and the Parliament buildings. We will stop at the Museum Panorama Mesdag to see the “Panorama of Scheveningen” by Hendrik Willem Mesdag.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Carrying on, we will go on an expert-led field trip through the Maurits House Museum to see famous Dutch paintings from Johannes Vermeer and Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn. This museum is the home of such famous Dutch paintings as Vermeer's “View of Delft” and “Girl with a Pearl Earring.”
Dinner:
At a local restaurant in The Hague.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
11
Rijksmuseum, 18th-Century Art
Location:
Amsterdam
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Park Plaza Vondelpark
Activity Note
Getting on/off public transportation; less than 1/2 hour during group activities. Walking about 3 miles, approximately 3 hours; uneven pavement, unavoidable stairs, and cobblestones; periods of standing in museum. Extent/duration of walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
An art historian will join us at the hotel and give a lecture on art in the Golden Age. Afterwards, they will lead us on a field trip to the Rijksmuseum, a wonderful representation of Dutch history and art. We’ll see some of the art that was discussed in the morning lecture, such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. The rest of the morning is free time for independent exploration. You may continue exploring the museum on your own. The tickets are valid for the day, but re-entry is not allowed. Or, if you are interested in visiting the Van Gogh Museum, this would be a good opportunity to do so. Tickets must be booked in advance for a specific time slot.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Time for independent exploration through the early afternoon. In the late afternoon, we’ll meet back at the hotel and gather in our meeting room to listen to an art historian give a lecture about art in the 18th and 19th centuries.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
12
Haarlem, Frans Hals Museum
Location:
Amsterdam
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Park Plaza Vondelpark
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 30 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking about 3 miles throughout the day; uneven pavement, unavoidable stairs and cobblestones; periods of standing in museum.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Arriving via motorcoach, a local expert will introduce us to the city of Haarlem during a walking field trip. We will walk to the Frans Hals Museum where we will discover the paintings of Frans Hals, and other Old Masters from the Golden Age, with a staff member.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Enjoy some free time in Haarlem before we gather at a predetermined time and location to board our motorcoach and return to Amsterdam. Later in the afternoon at the hotel, we will settle in for a lecture on modern art from the 19th and 20th centuries given by an art historian.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
13
Kröller-Müller Museum, Free Time
Location:
Amsterdam
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Park Plaza Vondelpark
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 112 miles, approximately 2 hours total riding time. Walking about 3 miles throughout the day; pavement, some unavoidable stairs; periods of standing in museum. Extent/duration of walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Transferring via motorcoach, we’ll take a field trip to the Kröller-Müller Museum to see the Van Gogh and Mondrian exhibit. While here, we will be led by a staff member through the museum, which owns the second largest collection of Van Gogh paintings in the world, as well as many French impressionist paintings.
Lunch:
On your own at the Kröller-Müller Museum.
Afternoon:
Free time. You might like to view the Garden of Statues of The Kröller-Müller Museum.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
14
Program Concludes
Location:
Amsterdam
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
24 Meals
12 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
8 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Oct 24, 2025 - Nov 06, 2025
- Apr 25, 2025 - May 08, 2025 (Brussels to Amsterdam)
- May 16, 2025 - May 29, 2025 (Brussels to Amsterdam)
- Sep 12, 2025 - Sep 25, 2025 (Brussels to Amsterdam)
- Sep 26, 2025 - Oct 09, 2025 (Brussels to Amsterdam)
- Oct 24, 2025 - Nov 06, 2025 (Brussels to Amsterdam)
Participant Reviews
Based on 30 Reviews
Sort By:
Marvelous! Enjoyed it immensely.Great immersion into art.Ronald,was particularly helpful,great guide!
— Review left October 2, 2024
This trip is a major lifetime experience.
— Review left September 15, 2024
This art program was enjoyed by the many participants with art/art history backgrounds, also by the few participants like me to whom everything was new.
— Review left September 15, 2024
A whirlwind tour of a center of culture. I could see myself repeating it in the future.
— Review left July 5, 2024
I learned SO much about Flemiah art on this trip. I really liked all the places we visited, even though I had been to most of them before. Group leader and experts were all outstending. I'm so glad I went. After I got home, I signed up for RS Spanish Art trip in the fall.
— Review left June 16, 2024
With a lifelong interest in painters and art history I loved this tour. It focused on the classics of western two dimensional art which was fine enough, but another really fun part was the free time when I went to see contemporary art. The trip to the Kroller muller museum in the countryside was great, they have a lot of contemporary sculpture on their beautiful grounds.
— Review left June 16, 2024
If you love art history and want to see an amazing grouping of Old Masters, this is the trip for you. I had wanted to see the Ghent Altarpiece for 50 years, and we had plenty of time to see it in person and also parts under restoration at the Museum. Road Scholar engaged an amazing art historian to teach us in Amsterdam, take us to the Rijksmuseum and provide us with multiple lectures. If you love art, you will enjoy this trip.
— Review left June 14, 2024
Got a great overview of the development of art of the low countries.
— Review left October 27, 2023
I am still making up my mind as to whether the art and museums (magnificent) were worth the discomfort and inadequate meals. So far it's a draw.
We were left to our own devices for more meals than I would have preferred. At one scheduled group meal, I and another traveler were left waiting for our plates - the restauranteur had miscounted the number of orders and two of us got our plates noticeably later than the others.
I may be influenced by having gotten covid, perhaps partly due to being cold, damp and hungry. But the art was magnificent.
As a single traveler, it was not easy to find meals by myself, and Belgian waiters were reluctant to give separate checks to groups of singles.
— Review left October 9, 2023
A wonderful trip. Glad I got to participate.
— Review left June 12, 2023
This is a great program if you like being good people who share your interests, art, food, new cultural experiences, chocolate and learning. What more can one want?
— Review left June 11, 2023
This program is packed with Art History and provides exceptional guidance, lectures, personal guided tours (using Whisper electronic devices in Museums). Every day was a feast for the eyes and it is quite amazing the number of cities covered, Museums included (some of which would not be easily reached if not for the coach and planning) I can't imagine wasting a moment without the careful planning, transportation arranged, wonderful lectures and tours. The flight was the worst ever, the weather was good/bad, but the program itself is something I'll continue to cherish as I continue to study and read about this very important part of the world
— Review left October 9, 2022
If you’re looking for more than an introduction to the art history of Belgium and the Netherlands, this tour will not disappoint. Beautifully orchestrated to lay before you a broad perspective on this region and its fascinating art collections.
— Review left October 4, 2022
Great program, if you love art and art history this program is for you, you will not be disappointed!
— Review left October 2, 2022
I enjoyed a wonderful trip to Belgium and the Netherlands. The lectures, guides, museum visits and outings to many places in both countries were very enjoyable. Our guide Carmen was wonderful. She was great in making last minute changes when necessary to ensure that we had the best trip ever! I highly recommend this trip!
— Review left July 6, 2022
I have just gotten back from this wonderful trip! The itinerary was perfect for me for I have painted in oil for the past 12 years, painting in the technique of underpainting and glazing, as the Old Masters did. It was a very special trip for me to go to these museums I have heard so much about and be able to see the works of Vermeer, Rembrandt, Rubens, Hals, Steen, Bruegel the Elder and so many more. A side day trip to an old preserved Dutch village on the sea was an added bonus and we all loved it. Our program was very well guided by our program leader Carmen, who not only is a native of Amsterdam who was extremely familiar with the area, but also a very kind person who made sure we were comfortable and enjoying the program. Our other guides were very knowledgeable with one being so skilled in his presentations, (Max) that I think he should have his own TV show! And I got to see the Anne Frank house in my free time, which was really a lifelong dream for me. In addition to many canal rides and going to the Dutch village, I would add one more relaxing day learning about Dutch people, habits, lifestyles, etc. My only complaint was the hotel food for our dinners. Very heavy on beef/meat. From Jennie
— Review left June 29, 2022
This tour is an awesome opportunity to see and learn about wonderful art and culture whether you are new or experienced in art! However, I would caution you to believe the level of activity needed on this trip and be prepared!!!
— Review left June 29, 2022
This is a wonderful trip for people who wish to learn about Flemish art.
The art historians and docents were, for the most part, not only very knowledgeable but able to impart great enthusiasm. Christine, the art historian in Ghent, discussed the Ghent Altarpiece so eloquently! Max, the art historian in Amsterdam, was a great story-teller and had an infectious energy. I particularly appreciated their discussions on some of the lesser known artworks by artists who are not renown but were nevertheless talented. It introduced a pool of artists that I’d like to learned more about.
The opportunity to examine the masterpieces up close was a real treat! It was a bit disappointing that the Ghent Altarpiece was kept away from visitors at a slight distance behind plexiglass enclosure. That, plus its size, made it more difficult to see parts that Christine highlighted in her lecture. However, it was made up by the close access of “Madonna with Canon van der Paele”. A breathtaking piece that fully displayed the magic Jan van Eyck could create with his paintbrush! Seeing the masterpieces in person evoked in me a stronger appreciation for these masters’ genius than reproductions.
Our tour leader, Carmen, was able to adapt quickly to any unexpected situations, making sure the solution would work for everyone in the group. Very thoughtful!
The two hotels we stayed at were both conveniently located. Some in the group were lucky to get river-view rooms at Ghent River, while some others, including myself, had the inner rooms. The issue with the inner rooms was a choice had to be made between privacy and natural light, since they faced patio/parking area that allowed people to walk right up to the windows and peer in. Not all rooms had all the same amenities. Park Plaza also had a similar issue with some rooms being brighter and better than others.
Overall, I would give the program content, the tour leader, and experts, a 5 but accommodation a 4.
— Review left June 27, 2022
I loved participating in this program. I learned so much about the art and history of the Low Countries and got to see so many different cities. The hotels were wonderful. The food was amazing and there was so much of it! I highly recommend this program.
— Review left June 27, 2022
If you're interested in the history and art of Belgium and The Netherlands, this program provides an excellent introduction.
— Review left June 24, 2022
If you like art, this is a wonderful trip. I learned so much which added to my enjoyment of seeing the actual paintings. And I learned that seeing a reproduction is not comparable with seeing the actual art work. They are so much more beautiful in person. The instructors and museum guides were very knowledgeable. Our group guide was excellent. And staying in only 2 towns, traveling from them to other sites was very nice.
— Review left June 24, 2022
I loved this trip! We stayed one week in Belgium, and one in the
Netherlands, and we really got a feel for each country. I loved being based in Ghent the first week, and exploring Belgium from there. Then we stayed near the Vondelpark in the Netherlands which was another great location. We got to see so many paintings in both countries. We also had some outstanding lecturers including: Max, Feddie ( in Rotterdam, and Robert in Belgium. Carmen was a fantastic leader who helped us so much along the way.
This was my third RS trip. My last trip was to Italy, and this trip complements that one perfectly. Road Scholar makes me feel like a better educated human being, after I complete my journeys. Thank you Road Scholar!
Nancy
— Review left June 12, 2022
I enjoyed the museum visits in various small cities with a guide and met a group of people I would not have met in my everyday life course. We all appreciated the art and good food; everyone in the group was friendly and courteous.
Rate above outstanding rating:
1. Carmen, the team leader, caught the problematic situations quickly and tried to compensate for whatever she could to accommodate. She is an asset to the RS and future RS participants.
2. Museum guides in Brussels (Joe) and Amsterdam (Max) are excellent art historians.
Rate below average rating:
1. Ghent River Hotel: The air conditioner in the room didn't work well.
2. Ghent River Hotel: dinner menu could improve.
3. Lecturer in Ghent: Her presentation skills could improve.
4. Ascension Day in Bruges, Belgium: We didn't have seats to watch the parade. So it was impossible to see.
5. Royal Delft Museum visit: the objective of the visit was not clear.
I wish I had:
1. A list of various good restaurants in town.
2. Fewer dinners at the Ghent River Hotel.
Overall, it was a great trip with good people. [4 stars!]
— Review left June 4, 2022
One-star. Heartbreaking, dismal and disappointing with a lot of missing content, day trips structured so that we were in cities on days when their museums were closed although important sights elsewhere were open. It seems as if the organization has collapsed in the Netherlands and at the "RS Europe office" one of the leaders referred to.
I did NOT experience this with my extremely well-run RS trip in France Oct. 2021 where there still seems to be a strong, highly functioning organization in place.
I very sadly do not recommend this program for 2022. Perhaps they will be back on track in 2023 with this formerly wonderful itinerary and experience.
— Review left May 16, 2022
I recently completed the first offering of this tour since the CoVid 2 year interruption. This trip itinerary has been adversely affected by the losses of the CoVid years. Whereas hotels were of good quality and location, daily content was often not as described in itinerary and final packet. 50% of art history specialty lectures were missing, all those of the first week. 2 field trips to museums, Bruges/Groeninge & Haarlem/Hals were absent content since trip was made on a Monday when museums were closed. And, the group expressed general dissatisfaction with half the included dinners, all the one’s at hotel in Amsterdam and one local restaurant in Ghent which was an inappropriate selection, Amadeus All You Can Eat Ribs which seemed to be temporally related to illness in at least one group participant.
This has been a long running tour and highly sought after in the past. I would recommend that anyone interested wait a year or two for this program to be rehabilitated.
Andrea, May 2022
— Review left May 15, 2022
I write this review with mixed feelings. This trip gave me the opportunity to travel again. I visited excellent museums, gained new knowledge via lectures and tour guides, and connected with other travelers. I was very impressed with our leaders, Nemanja and Carmen.
Because of Covid, there were some changes in our schedule and personnel, but I did not find these changes difficult. On day #1 a museum staff and a walking guide had to cancel because of Covid. This is when the trip took a turn.
In our group of 18, there were 5-6 who complained incessantly about the schedule changes, even though Nemanja diplomatically explained the situation. From our first day-- to the last, this group complained or should I say ranted. It was difficult.
In spite of this situation, I will continue to make Road Scholar my choice for group travel!
Judy Diehl
— Review left May 15, 2022
This trip was a terrible disappointment. I know there are post-pandemic challenges but Road Scholar should have cancelled this trip because they were not prepared and the program planning was awful. We missed two major art museum visits because Road Scholar scheduled our tour on the one day of the week when the museum was closed. The schedule could have been arranged so we would see all of the museums that were in the program. When we called Road Scholar to ask if the problem could be corrected (there was time to re-arrange two days late in the trip so this did not happen a second time), they told us they could do nothing yet our trip leaders told us that Road Scholar was responsible.
This was my 10th Road Scholar trip and I had so many great memories of traveling with RS. But after this experience I do not plan to travel with Road Scholar in the near future.
— Review left May 15, 2022
We couldn't have been happier with our recent Road Scholar trip to Ghent and Amsterdam for the art, history and culture. The leaders were fabulous, well organized and the other participants were easy going and interesting.
— Review left October 6, 2019
A thorough & fascinating look at Dutch & Flemish art, art history and culture with enjoyable visits to a variety of picturesque cities.
— Review left June 28, 2019
This itinerary is perfect for tracing how art in the Low Countries developed from the late medieval time in Flanders through the Dutch Golden Age, while spending enough time in both Belgium and Holland enjoy their separate characters.
— Review left June 11, 2019