DAY 1 - Departure from the United States

Friday March 6th, 2026

• Flight: Aer Lingus EI 100
  Depart Newark Liberty International Airport (Terminal B) at 5:45 PM
  Arrive at Dublin Airport (Terminal 2) at 5:15 AM on March 7
  Flight Duration: 6 hours 30 minutes

• Flight: Aer Lingus EI 602
  Depart Dublin Airport (Terminal 2) at 6:15 AM
  Arrive at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (Terminal 1) at 8:55 AM
  Flight Duration: 1 hour 40 minutes

You’ll arrive in the Netherlands on the morning of March 7, ready to begin your Dutch adventure.

DAY 2 - Delft

Saturday March 7th, 2026 | D

8:55 am – Arrival in Amsterdam & Transfer to Delft

Hotel Check-in: Westcord Hotel Delft

• Upon arrival, the group is greeted by an English-speaking assistant and transferred by coach from Schiphol Airport to your hotel in Delft
  
• The assistant distributes your 3-day public transportation passes

Mid-Morning:

• Check in at Westcord Hotel Delft
  
• Time to settle in and refresh after travel (early check-in is subject to hotel availability. If rooms are not ready, the group can store their luggage until rooms are ready. 

Afternoon:

• Free time for personal lunch (under own arrangements).
  
• 2:30 PM:  Guided Walking Tour of Historic Delft
  Duration: Approximately 2 hours

Led by a professional English-speaking guide, this walking tour offers a deep dive into the rich artistic, cultural, and political history of the city of Delft—an enchanting town known for its picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and connection to Dutch royalty and the artist Johannes Vermeer.

Highlights of the Tour:

• Market Square (Markt):
  The central square of Delft and one of the largest in Europe, the Markt is lined with charming cafes, boutique shops, and iconic historical buildings. Here you’ll see:
  • City Hall (Stadhuis): A stunning Renaissance-style building dating back to the 17th century.
    
  • Opportunities for photos, shopping, or tasting local Dutch treats like stroopwafels or poffertjes.

• Oude Kerk (Old Church):
  Dating back to the 13th century, this Gothic church is notable for its leaning tower and beautiful stained-glass windows.
  • It is the final resting place of Johannes Vermeer, the famed Dutch Baroque painter.
    
  • Other prominent Dutch figures, such as naval heroes and scientists, are also buried here.

• Nieuwe Kerk (New Church):
  Situated at the opposite end of the Market Square, this church was built in the 14th century and is renowned for its soaring tower.
  • It serves as the burial place of the Dutch Royal Family, including members of the House of Orange-Nassau.

• Delft Canals & Bridges:
  As you walk through the town’s cobbled streets, you’ll pass charming canals and arched bridges that have inspired artists for centuries. Your guide will share stories about daily life in the Golden Age and how Delft’s architecture and layout reflect its trading and artistic past.

  This tour provides historical context while immersing you in the atmosphere of one of the Netherlands’ most beloved towns. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended.

Evening:

• 3-course welcome dinner at the hotel

Overnight at Westcord Hotel Delft

DAY 3 - Cultural Exploration in Delft

Sunday March 8th, 2026 | B

Morning:

• Breakfast at the hotel
  
• Visit to Vermeer Centrum and Delft University of Technology
  (Please note: These visits are under the faculty arrangements)

Afternoon:

• Self-guided visit to TU Delft or leisure time
  

Evening:

• Overnight at Westcord Hotel Delft

DAY 4 - Royal Delft Experience & Leisure

Monday March 9th, 2026 | B

Morning:

• Breakfast at the hotel

10:00 AM
Duration: Approximately 2–2.5 hours

Step into the world of Dutch artistic tradition with a guided visit to Royal Delft—the last remaining original Delftware factory from the 17th century. This experience is a unique opportunity to explore the craftsmanship behind the iconic blue-and-white porcelain that has made Delft famous around the world.

What to Expect:

• Guided Factory Tour:
  Learn about the rich history of Delft Blue ceramics and the centuries-old techniques still used in the production today. During the guided tour, you will walk through the factory’s museum and working studios, witnessing artisans hand-painting intricate designs and firing ceramics in traditional kilns.

• Historical Collection:
  View an extensive collection of Royal Delft pieces ranging from early antique vases and plates to modern interpretations. Highlights may include reproductions of pieces designed for the Dutch Royal Family and collaborations with contemporary artists.

• Tile Painting Workshop (DIY):
  After the tour, you’ll roll up your sleeves and channel your inner artist in a hands-on tile painting workshop. Under the guidance of a professional instructor, you’ll use cobalt-based paint to create your own ceramic tile, replicating the traditional motifs or designing your own.
  • No artistic experience is required—step-by-step instructions are provided.

This visit provides both cultural enrichment and a memorable creative activity, ideal for individuals and groups alike. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or simply curious about Dutch traditions, Royal Delft offers a captivating and personal experience.

Evening:

• Overnight at Westcord Hotel Delft

DAY 5 -

Tuesday March 10th, 2026

DAY 6 -

Wednesday March 11th, 2026

DAY 7 -

Thursday March 12th, 2026

DAY 8 -

Friday March 13th, 2026