Private Tour of The Hague, Delft and Rotterdam with Lunch

Exploring the Netherlands Beyond Amsterdam: A Private Tour of The Hague, Delft, and Rotterdam

If you’re visiting the Netherlands and looking for a way to experience more than just Amsterdam, this private tour covering The Hague, Delft, and Rotterdam might be just what you need. It promises a full day of sightseeing, culture, and history, all wrapped into one smoothly coordinated experience. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve dug into the details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what makes this trip appealing—and what to watch out for.

What I really like about this tour is how it offers a well-rounded glimpse into different facets of Dutch life—from the regal and political scenes in The Hague, the charming, artsy streets of Delft, to the modern, bustling harbor of Rotterdam. Plus, it includes lunch and all the transfers—which make for a seamless day. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the price, which is a bit higher than some group tours, but is justified given the private, personalized approach and the extensive itinerary. This experience suits travelers who prefer a more intimate, flexible day with a knowledgeable guide, especially if you’re keen to explore multiple cities without the hassle of organizing transport.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experience tailored to your pace and interests.
• Includes lunch and all transfers, making it a hassle-free way to see three cities.
• Expert guide provides insightful commentary, enriching the experience.
• Visiting iconic sites and hidden gems in each city.
• Flexible start or end points, even from locations like Amsterdam.
• Good value for those wanting an all-in day of exploring without the crowds.

What the Tour Offers: An In-Depth Breakdown

This full-day private tour packs in a lot, covering three very different Dutch cities with a local guide who’s passionate about sharing their knowledge. The itinerary is designed to give you the best highlights of each city, offering a balanced mix of history, culture, and modern architecture.

Starting in The Hague: Political Heart and Royal Roots

The tour kicks off in The Hague, the political capital of the Netherlands, where the focus is on the country’s governance and royal heritage. You’ll meet your guide at the Mauritshuis, home to Vermeer masterpieces. Seeing those world-famous paintings—some created in Delft—immediately sets a tone of artistic appreciation. Our guide’s storytelling about the Mauritshuis’s history made it easy to visualize the importance of this museum.

Next, you’ll stroll around the Binnenhof & Ridderzaal, the seat of Dutch politics. The guide’s quick overview of its significance helps you understand the political landscape of the country. Then, on to Het Plein, where the statue of Willem van Oranje—the father of the nation—reminds you of the Dutch struggle for independence and the monarchy’s lineage, linking past and present.

The Hofvijver pond, right in front of the parliament buildings, offers lovely photo opportunities as your guide shares amusing stories about this scenic spot. Not far away, you’ll find the Thorbecke Monument, associated with the Dutch constitution—another nod to the nation’s political history.

Walking along Lange Voorhout, dubbed the “Champs-Élysées of The Hague,” you’ll pass embassies, art museums, and royal buildings, giving you a taste of the city’s elegance. The Grote Kerk (Big Church) provides a beautiful backdrop, with the quirky detail of a stork statue on top adding a whimsical touch.

A visit to Johan de Witt’s statue is notable, especially given the historical fact that he was famously attacked and, quite dramatically, eaten by a mob—a reminder of the turbulent political past.

Entering Delft: From Artistic Roots to Historical Charm

After soaking in The Hague, the tour transitions to Delft, a city famed for its blue pottery, historic buildings, and Vermeer connection. The first stop in Delft is the Maria van Jessekerk, the city’s first Catholic church, built on the spot where Vermeer used to live, linking art, history, and local lore.

Next, you’ll see the Nieuwe Kerk, the second-highest church in the Netherlands, where members of the royal family are buried. The guide explains why royalty chose Delft—a story of tradition and status tied to the city. The Stadhuis Delft, with parts dating back to the 13th century, anchors the city’s medieval past. Its history as both town hall and prison adds to its intrigue.

The Old Church, located in Delft’s beer brewing district, is another highlight. Its skewed structure is visually striking, and your guide likely has some fun facts about its age and why it leans. The Museum Prinsenhof, former residence of Willem van Oranje, is a key stop for understanding Dutch independence. The guide’s storytelling about Vermeer’s background and the significance of the site enriches your visit.

Nearby, you’ll find the Gemeenlandshuis van Delfland, a decorated building with a story to tell about Delft’s civic importance, and the Armamentarium, showcasing Delft’s role during the Dutch Golden Age, with a glimpse of the Delft Chamber of the Dutch East India Company.

The walk along Delft’s old canals offers picturesque views and contextualizes the city’s historic prosperity. The tour ends at Delft Railway Station, where a private vehicle (or train) takes you onward to Rotterdam.

Discovering Rotterdam: Modern Marvels and Vibrant Life

Arriving in Rotterdam, the city’s bold architecture and lively vibe shine through. The City Hall on Coolsingel stands as a nod to tradition, while the Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk—a medieval church that survived the WWII bombing—connects past and present.

The Markthal is a must-see—its design is eye-catching, and inside, you’ll find an impressive array of food stalls, plus a massive artwork ceiling. Our guide’s mentions of local specialties and the art on the ceiling add flavor to the visit.

Next, you’ll explore the Cubic Houses, an inventive housing project from the 70s. Living in those? Not sure how practical it is, but it’s definitely fun to look at. The Witte Huis, the first skyscraper in Europe, gives you a sense of Rotterdam’s pioneering spirit.

The tour concludes at the Oude Haven, the Old Harbor, now a lively spot with ships and cafes. Here, you can relax, take photos, or enjoy a drink on one of the terraces, with the city’s modern and historic sides blending seamlessly.

What We Think: Value, Flexibility, and Unique Experiences

This tour offers more than just ticking boxes. The private format means you’re not stuck with a big group, and the guide’s knowledge makes each stop more meaningful. Reviews praise the friendly and well-prepared guides, with Robin standing out for his humor and depth of information. One reviewer notes, “Robin was right on time and very well prepared,” reinforcing the professionalism involved.

While the price of around $552 per person might seem steep for some, it includes lunch, tickets to a Cubic House, and all transport, which can add up if you’re trying to do this independently. For travelers who value comfort and personalized attention, this can be well worth the investment. Plus, the flexibility to start in The Hague or Rotterdam and the option for hotel pickup adds convenience.

The pace is yours to set, which is a big plus for those who prefer to linger at favorite spots or move quickly through less interesting parts. The tour’s length—around 8 hours—fits comfortably within a full day, giving you a lot of insights without feeling rushed.

Insights from Travelers

Many reviewers highlight the smooth transitions between cities—whether by train or car—and the delicious lunch in Delft, which adds to the experience. Someone mentioned that the tour even lasted a bit longer than expected, which suggests the guide’s flexibility and enthusiasm. The tour is described as a “personal experience” that delves into the cities’ histories and modern attractions, making it especially appealing for those who want a rundown without the hassle of planning each detail.

Practical Details: What You Should Know

• The tour starts at 8:45 am, with pickup options available if you choose that add-on.
• It covers both walking and driving, with stops at major landmarks and some time for photos and exploration.
• The group size is limited to your private group, ensuring a personalized experience.
• The price includes all fees and taxes, so no hidden costs.
• You’ll need a moderate physical fitness level—some walking is involved, but it’s manageable.
• The tour ends in Rotterdam’s Old Harbor, but you can ask for recommendations to extend your day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for culture lovers, history buffs, and those who prefer a private, flexible tour over crowded group excursions. It’s also perfect if you want a comprehensive day exploring three very different Dutch cities without juggling logistics yourself. If you’re traveling with a partner, friends, or a family that appreciates a mix of art, history, and lively cityscapes, you’ll find this tour very rewarding.

However, if your main goal is a quick overview or you’re on a tight budget, you might want to consider other options. But for those looking to maximize a full day with minimal hassle, this tour offers a lot of value.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if I want to visit only one city?
No, this tour covers three cities in one day, so it’s best if you want to see all three. If you prefer just one city, look for a dedicated tour.

Can I start the tour from somewhere other than The Hague or Rotterdam?
Yes, you can choose your start point, including options like in Amsterdam, which makes it flexible for your travel plans.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers all tickets, lunch, private transportation, and guide services. It’s an all-in-one package to keep things simple.

Is there a lot of walking involved?
There is some walking at each stop—like in the historic centers and parks—but it’s generally manageable for most travelers with moderate fitness.

How is the lunch?
Lunch in Delft is included and is generally well-reviewed for being tasty and convenient, giving you energy for the rest of the day.

What transportation is used between cities?
Transfers are done either by train or car, depending on the schedule and group size, providing comfort and efficiency.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s private, there’s room for some flexibility in the pacing and stops, but the main itinerary is quite comprehensive.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 8 hours, which includes all visits, transfers, and meals.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not specifically aimed at children, nothing in the itinerary is inherently unsuitable for older kids, and the engaging stops make it a good option for families traveling with teenagers.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance, giving you peace of mind if your plans change.

All in all, this private tour offers an engaging way to see three very different Dutch cities in a single day. With a knowledgeable guide, flexible options, and inclusive features like lunch and tickets, it makes for a comfortable and enlightening experience. Whether you’re into art, history, or modern architecture, you’ll find plenty to enjoy—and plenty to remember—on this trip.