Highlights
- Café-hop in the charming historic center of Maastricht
- Go on a self-guided hike on the trails around Epen
- Enjoy an e-bike tour of the National Landscape of Zuid-Limburg
- View ancient cave paintings outside Valkenburg
- Take in sweeping countryside views from Valkenburg Castle
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Tour the Riverside City of Maastricht | Maastricht |
| Day 2 | Cycle Through the National Landscape of Zuid-Limburg | Epen |
| Day 3 | Enjoy a Free Day in the Countryside | Epen |
| Day 4 | See Cave Paintings & a Castle in Valkenburg | Valkenburg |
| Day 5 | Depart Amsterdam - End of Trip |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Tour the Riverside City of Maastricht
Welcome to the Netherlands! Your adventure begins in Maastricht. On the border with Belgium, not far from France, Maastricht is located on the banks of the Maas River. After checking into your hotel, you will go on a self-guided walking tour to see the highlights of the center, including the picturesque Sint-Servaas Bridge, the stunning churches of Onze-Lieve-Vrouwebasiliek and Basiliek van Sint-Servaas, and the famous Vrijthof Square with its many cafés, shops, restaurants, and bars.
Day 2: Cycle Through the National Landscape of Zuid-Limburg
A guided e-bike tour through the hills will bring you to one of the prettiest landscapes in the country today. Between Maastricht, Kerkrade, and Geleen lies the National Landscape of Zuid-Limburg. With forests, streams, and gently rolling hills, the land has a long history of human occupation, thanks to its fertile soil. That history is reflected in the many beautiful timber frame farmhouses, castles, monasteries, villages, and hamlets that seamlessly blend in with the green countryside. Take a picnic and enjoy a journey through this peaceful region. You'll end up at a country hotel near Vaals and Epen where you will spend the next two nights of the trip.
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Day 3: Enjoy a Free Day in the Countryside
Today is free to enjoy as you like! The hotel staff will provide you with maps of the region's hiking trails and bike paths. After exploring more of the countryside on foot or e-bike, take your time savoring regional Dutch specialties. Then relax at the hotel before moving on to Valkenburg aan de Geul on day four.
Day 4: See Cave Paintings & Castles in Valkenburg
After breakfast, go for a short walk in the hills. Then you'll travel to the small town of Valkenburg aan de Geul. The place has long been popular with travelers who come to see the area's mines and cave paintings that date back to the days of the Romans. Head to the regal Schaloen Castle and the ruins of Valkenburg Castle, which offers excellent views over the surrounding landscape. Similar to Maastricht, Valkenburg has some great restaurants. Enjoy a leisurely dinner in one of them on the last night of the trip.
Day 5: Depart Amsterdam - End of Trip
This morning, it’s time to bid farewell to the Netherlands. Head to the Amsterdam airport or train station to make your way to your next destination. Safe travels!
More Netherlands Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to the Netherlands? Check out these other Netherlands itineraries, with outdoor adventures, cultural trips, and best-of tours to hit the highlights.
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