Trip participants: two adults, three teenage daughters, 10 year old son.
We'll be in Amsterdam for a couple of days in late May followed by 4.5 days in Paris. The trip planner we're using suggested a few tours that I was curious about…basically are they worth it paying for a guide, would we enjoy this, etc.
First in the Netherlands:
Second: The Montmartre area in Paris
Third, Versailles tour:
The question: would either of the Paris tours be easy to do ourselves? Would a guided tour in an area like this be worth it? Cool?
None of the household has ever been to either city so we don't really have a basis on which to measure if something is needed or not.
Thanks in advance!!!
We'll be in Amsterdam for a couple of days in late May followed by 4.5 days in Paris. The trip planner we're using suggested a few tours that I was curious about…basically are they worth it paying for a guide, would we enjoy this, etc.
First in the Netherlands:
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Zaanse Schans Windmill Village with Cheese Tasting & Clog Factory
Duration: 3.5 hours
Why People Love It
Discover the charming windmill village of Zaanse Schans and fully enjoy the typical Dutch culture on this trip filled with cheese, clogs, and windmills.
Highlights
Witness and capture images of operational windmills
Discover the process of crafting Dutch cheese at an authentic farm
Observe skilled traditional artisans crafting clogs and other items
Roam around the scenic village, admiring its green-painted houses
Enjoy a guided tour led by a knowledgeable guide for a personalized experience
Description
After you arrive, your guide will lead you on an introductory tour of the town. You'll have the chance to visit a Wooden Shoemaker's Shop, where they'll offer a live demonstration of crafting wooden shoes. Following that, you'll experience a demonstration at an authentic Dutch Cheese Farm. You can taste as much cheese as you want at the shop!
Once you're ready to explore Zaanse Schans independently, your guide will share more insights about the village's uniqueness, local history, and culture. They'll also provide insider recommendations for activities and destinations. With this information, you're all set to embark on your self-guided exploration before returning to Amsterdam.
Second: The Montmartre area in Paris
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All Inclusive Food & History Tour of Montmartre with Local Guide
Duration: 3.5 hours
Why People Love It
Savor Parisian delights and uncover Montmartre's secrets on an all-inclusive food journey with a local expert!
Highlights
Explore Montmartre on foot and enjoy Parisian delicacies as you go
Local expert will share anecdotes and teach you about the city and its culinary history
The tour can be carried out in French or English
All food is included and guests are welcome to BYOB
Description
Join a local food expert for an all-inclusive mouth-watering Paris food tour. Indulge in at least five stops to savor an array of Parisian specialties, including the delicious charcuterie, the world-famous macarons, authentic French cheeses, and savory French crpes.
Your menu is carefully crafted to highlight seasonal and local ingredients, giving you the tastiest Parisian culinary experience!
Your local guide will not only introduce you to the best food spots in the city but also share the rich history of Montmartre, a neighborhood steeped in culture, art, and tradition.
Third, Versailles tour:
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In the morning, meet your private, fully licensed guide at the Palace of Versailles.
Follow your guide as he/she takes you inside this iconic palace and through the King's State Apartments to witness its grandeur. With a fun-filled game booklet in hand, discovering the Palace of Versailles and learning about the Kings of France has never been so much fun for the children. Once outside, you will enjoy a guided visit of the Palace's gardens. After lunch, hop on your bicycles and let your guide take you to the other parts of the area, including the Trianon and Queen Marie Antoinette's Hamlet. This visit of Versailles will surely be one of the highlights of your family vacation in Paris.
Duration: approximately 6 hours.
The question: would either of the Paris tours be easy to do ourselves? Would a guided tour in an area like this be worth it? Cool?
None of the household has ever been to either city so we don't really have a basis on which to measure if something is needed or not.
Thanks in advance!!!