Morning: Today we go south to visit the city of Delft, the historic birthplace of the ruling House of Orange-Nassau and famous for its Blue Porcelain. The city is also the former home of Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675), the remarkable painter known for his local landscapes and scenes of home life. We will learn about him at the Vermeer Centre. Then we will have time to walk around the main square, visit some of the stores selling Blue Delft ware, and have lunch.
Afternoon: After lunch, we will proceed to the nearby city of Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port. It is called the Gateway to Europe because it is where three important European rivers meet (the Rhine, Meuse, and Scheld). Known for scientific research, design, and cutting-edge architecture, its city center was obliterated by bombs during the Second World War. Erasmus, the famous philosopher, was born here in the fifteenth century.
Evening: This evening we will take a boat tour of Ij Bay, Amsterdam’s port, the fifth busiest in Europe. After, you are free to enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in the port area.