CCD Main Tour plus Paris Extension

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Wednesday September 25: Overnight Flight

Departure from the United States.

Day 2, Thursday September 26: Haarlem

Arrive in Amsterdam, meet your Encore Tour Manager and transfer to your hotel in nearby Haarlem this afternoon. This evening's highlight is a traditional Indonesian Rijsttafel feast, a dining experience reflecting the historic connection of the Dutch with Indonesia. (D)

Day 3, Friday September 27: Haarlem

Amsterdam is a honeycomb of picturesque canals guarded by tall mansions of the 17th-century burghers. Your expertly guided walking tour winds its way through the heart of the city. This afternoon, participate in an interactive cooking class to learn the art of Dutch cuisine! Optional independent activity: Attend an evening performance of Bruckner's Second Symphony, with Andrew Manze conducting the Concertgebouw Orchestra (subject to availability). You may order tickets at https://www.concertgebouworkest.nl/en at various prices. Tickets are already on sale, so please purchase tickets ASAP after registering for the tour. (B, L or D)

Day 4, Saturday September 28: Haarlem

This morning, take an excursion to Zaanse Schans to see working windmills dating from the 17th century, then on to the colorful, historic fishing village of Volendam. Return to Amsterdam where this aftenroon you'll rehearse for tonight's debut concert performance. Venue options include Westerkerk Church, De Duif, or Vondel Church. (B,D)

Day 5, Sunday September 29: Haarlem

This morning is yours to explore Amsterdam at your own pace. Interact with vendors at the famed Albert Cuyp street market, wander the the food hall and multi-functional cultural complex of De Hallen in Oud West Amsterdam or visit Rembrandt's final resting place at Westerkerk. You may wish to visit one of the many museums in Amsterdam, such as the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, or the Rijksmuseum. A more extensive list of sights, with ticket prices and links, is available on the CCD website under Touring:communitychorusofdetroit.com. Rejoin your group this afternoon for your recital performance, in conjunction with Ed Maki-Schramm performing on the world-renowned Müller organ at St. Bavo Church, played by Handel and Mozart (pending approval). (B,D)

Day 6, Monday September 30: Bruges

Today's excursion brings you south to the city of Delft where you'll have a behind-the-scenes tour to see how the world-famous pottery is made, with a visit to the factory. You will perform an afternoon recital in Delft today! Continue to the charming city of Bruges where you will check into your next hotel and have dinner together, followed by an evening canal ride. (B,D)

Day 7, Tuesday October 1: Bruges

Your morning walking tour highlights the winding canals, ornate houses, and medieval cobbled streets of a city that is often called the "Venice of the North" and was once a wealthy hub for merchants and traders. Visit the two beautiful squares, Burg and Markt, and see the whitewashed houses and garden of the Begijnhof. This afternoon, rehearse for the choir's next concert performance which will take place at a local venue, such as St. Salvator Church and Belfry Tower or similar. (B,D)

Day 8, Wednesday October 2: Bruges

This morning, visit the stunning city of Ghent which you'll have time to explore with your Tour Manager. This afternoon, return to Bruges to visit the Mini Harp Museum and attend a concert performed by harpist Luc Vanlaere! (B,D)

Day 9, Thursday October 3: Bruges

Today, visit a local chocolatier where you will learn about the process of making some of the world's most famous chocolates - and taste the delicious treats! This afternoon, perform your next recital in Bruges. (B,D)

Day 10, Friday October 4: Paris

Check out of your hotel this morning and depart for France. Visit the enchanting town of Reims, where today you'll have your final afternoon recital of the tour at a local venue, such as Notre Dame de Reims. Then enjoy a delicious group lunch and champagne tasting at a local vineyard in Reims. Continue to Paris, the City of Light, where you will check into your hotel and enjoy a gala dinner together! (B,L,D)

Day 11, Saturday October 5: Paris

Bid farewell to your friends who have opted to return to the US today, as you begin your more independent travel time in Paris. Meet a local guide this morning who will take you on a sightseeing tour of the city, showing you the Arc de Triomphe, Napoleon's final resting place at Les Invalides, and the Gothic wonder of Notre Dame. This afternoon, explore the city using your unlimited public transportation card, valid on the Paris Metro and all city buses. You may wish to book entrances to Paris venues in advance, such as the Louvre, Opera Garnier, Musee d'Orsay, Eiffel Tower, Ste. Chapelle, or other breathtaking sites, and optional individual advance-booking details will be provided closer to the tour. In addition, our Tour Manager can assist you with other suggestions and arrangements during your stay in Paris. (B)

Day 12, Sunday October 6: Paris

Explore the wonders of Paris on your own today. (B)

Day 13, Monday October 7: Paris

Enjoy more individual time in Paris on this final full day of your visit. Tonight, rejoin your group for a special, farewell dinner together! (B,D)

Day 14, Tuesday October 8: Departure

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the United States. (B)