One-Week the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Gouda and Delft
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in the Netherlands as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Amsterdam, Zaandijk, Haarlem, Utrecht, Gouda, Rotterdam, Delft, The Hague, Lisse, Leiden, Volendam, and Monnickendam.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in the Netherlands takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Amsterdam, 1 night in Gouda, and 2 nights in Delft. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in the Netherlands. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Amsterdam, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover the Netherlands on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in the Netherlands. Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Anne Frank House, learn more about the unique Keukenhof, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Vondelpark.
As you hit the open road and drive through Amsterdam, Zaandijk, Haarlem, Utrecht, Gouda, Rotterdam, Delft, The Hague, Lisse, Leiden, Volendam, and Monnickendam, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of the Netherlands. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in the Netherlands.
Throughout your road trip in the Netherlands, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in the Netherlands.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in the Netherlands fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in the Netherlands today!
Travel details
Set your travel details to find the best price
Flights
Compare and choose from the best flights to Amsterdam
Car
Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
- More
- Anne Frank House
- More
Welcome to Amsterdam, the perfect starting point for your road trip in the Netherlands! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Amsterdam's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Amsterdam is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Anne Frank House, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Amsterdam. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Amsterdam, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try CAU Steak Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Amsterdam.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Excalibur Café, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Rosalia's Menagerie offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Amsterdam. Café Hill Street Blues is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in the Netherlands!
Day 2
- Amsterdam
- More
Drive 8 km, 58 min
- Rijksmuseum
- Van Gogh Museum
- Vondelpark
- De Pijp
- More
Day 2 of your road trip across the Netherlands promises a magnificent time exploring Amsterdam. You have 2 nights left in Amsterdam. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
De Pijp is a fantastic place you can explore today in Amsterdam. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Amsterdam-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.
Amsterdam is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at Rijksmuseum, an extraordinary museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Van Gogh Museum, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Vondelpark. This park is one of the city’s most astonishing spots.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. The Netherlands is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you explore more of Amsterdam, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Dine in style at Eye Film Museum, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Ambassade boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Amsterdam.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Oporto, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, 't Aepjen offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in the Netherlands.
Day 3
- Amsterdam
- More
Drive 84 km, 1 hour 40 min
- Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse Schans
- Teylers Museum
- The St Bavo Church in Haarlem
- Frans Hals Museum
- More
At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Amsterdam, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures in the charming village of Amsterdam. Your adventure starts at Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans, a locally appreciated local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Teylers Museum. This often recommended museum is known for its photogenic appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Amsterdam's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to The St. Bavo Church In Haarlem. This historic church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Frans Hals Museum is also worth visiting.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Amsterdam and your accommodation.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Amsterdam. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Savor the flavors at Café Loetje, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Moon beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider d'Vijff Vlieghen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Amsterdam tonight.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Bitterbal. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Twenty Third Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Louis Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in the Netherlands!
Day 4
- Amsterdam
- Gouda
- More
Drive 99 km, 1 hour 44 min
- Dom Tower of Utrecht
- Museum Catharijneconvent
- Gouda Cheese Experience
- Saint-John Church
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in the Netherlands. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Utrecht and Gouda. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Gouda, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Amsterdam promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Dom Tower Of Utrecht. This culturally significant monument is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Museum Catharijneconvent, another inviting attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Gouda Cheese Experience, one of the city’s most intriguing attractions, known for its history-steeped features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Saint-john Church. This historic church is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Gouda, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Gouda. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Prego!, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Verhage Gouda? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Swing Gouda as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Gouda.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Barbier Gouda, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in the Netherlands!
Day 5
- Gouda
- Delft
- More
Drive 47 km, 1 hour 15 min
- Markthal Tours
- Maritime Museum
- Royal Delft
- Nieuwe Church
- More
On day 5 of your road trip in the Netherlands, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Rotterdam and Delft. In the evening, you’ll end up in Delft, where you will stay for 2 nights.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Gouda, including a food market, a maritime museum, a museum, a church and much more! Start your adventure at Markthal Tours. This worthwhile food market is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Maritime Museum Rotterdam located in Gouda for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of De Porceleyne Fles. Its eye-catching features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Nieuwe Kerk Delft. Visitors usually appreciate the culturally significant features of this church.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Delft. Delft offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Delft. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely meal at LEF Restaurant & Bar Delft, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Charcoal is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Heinde Delft. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Delft tonight.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café-cocktailbar Luna, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, 't Proeflokaal offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Delft. De Botanie is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Relax and reminisce about your day in the Netherlands and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- Delft
- More
Drive 34 km, 1 hour 21 min
- Scheveningse Bosjes
- Peace Palace
- Mauritshuis
- Binnenhof
- Scheveningen
- Zeeheldenkwartier
- More
On day 6 of your road trip in the Netherlands, you’ll start and end your day in Delft, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Delft for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience The Hague to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Scheveningen is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in The Hague, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city. Be sure to also visit Zeeheldenkwartier, a neighborhood that showcases another side of The Hague.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Scheveningse Bosjes. This worthwhile park is a romantic place to see in Delft. Continue your discovery at Peace Palace, a culturally significant palace with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Delft, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Mauritshuis. This popular museum offers a heritage-rich encounter with Delft. Next, make your way to Binnenhof to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Delft.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Delft.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Delft. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hampshire Hotel Delft Centre | Overnachten, Arrangementen en Zakelijk, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Believe food & wines by les copains? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bij Harry as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Delft.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Café De Oude Jan, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Doerak offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Locus Publicus. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in the Netherlands!
Day 7
- Delft
- Amsterdam
- More
Drive 176 km, 3 hours 6 min
- Keukenhof
- Hortus botanicus Leiden
- Volendam Museum
- Paard van Marken
- More
Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in the Netherlands. Today you will explore Lisse, Leiden, Volendam, and Monnickendam, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Amsterdam. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Delft is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Keukenhof, an impressive garden that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Hortus Botanicus Leiden, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Volendam Museum. This museum is one of the town’s most curiosity-inducing spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Delft at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Paard Van Marken.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Amsterdam. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Amsterdam's best restaurants.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Gartine, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Spirit Amsterdam, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at FuLu Mandarijn. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Mokum, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, De Zotte is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in the Netherlands!
Day 8
- Amsterdam - Departure day
- More
- Dam Square
- More
Day 8 of your road trip in the Netherlands is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Amsterdam before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Dam Square, an eye-catching public square before you head out.
As your final day in the Netherlands unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Amsterdam's best shopping area, De Negen Straatjes. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to the Netherlands. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
Before you conclude your road trip in the Netherlands, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Amsterdam.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café Orloff Amsterdam, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Winkel 43 offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Bistrot Neuf.
You’ll then say farewell to Amsterdam. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in the Netherlands!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in the Netherlands
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.