Relaxed 7-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Gouda

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Channel in Amsterdam Netherlands houses river Amstel landmark old european city spring landscape.
 Amsterdam, the Netherlands - October 14, 2021: Canals and typical dutch architecture
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - SEPTEMBER 25, 2017: The Rijksmuseum Amsterdam museum area with the words IAMSTERDAM in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Amsterdam, Netherlands. The Keizersgracht (Emperor's) canals and bridges at night.
Traditional Dutch windmills with canal close the Amsterdam, Holland
Beautiful Groenburgwal canal in Amsterdam with the Soutern church (Zuiderkerk) at sunset in summer.
Canal in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam in summer
Traditional old buildings and tulips in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Amsterdam, Netherlands. Museum ( Rijksmuseum ). The building of the XIX century. Flying over the rooftops of the city, Aerial View
photo of view of Royal Palace at the Dam Square in Amsterdam, Netherlands. No people in Dam Square in Amsterdam, Netherlands.
photo of view of Hermitage of Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
photo of view of Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
photo of view of the National Museum Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Photo of Pays-Bas Gouda Hôtel in Gouda in the Netherlands by Calips
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Explore the Netherlands and discover its unique charm on this 7-day relaxed road trip through Amsterdam, Zaandijk, Edam, Volendam, Monnickendam, Utrecht, Gouda, Rotterdam, Kinderdijk, and The Hague. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in the Netherlands at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Amsterdam, Zaandijk, Edam, Volendam, Monnickendam, Utrecht, Gouda, Rotterdam, Kinderdijk, and The Hague. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Amsterdam and 2 nights in Gouda. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in the Netherlands.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in the Netherlands. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Amsterdam, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across the Netherlands and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across the Netherlands with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in the Netherlands.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in the Netherlands. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Rijksmuseum. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Van Gogh Museum.

Traveling leisurely through the Netherlands means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Anne Frank House. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Vondelpark. Get close to the spectacular Dam Square and the wonderful Diergaarde Blijdorp. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through the Netherlands's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in the Netherlands.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in the Netherlands. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through the Netherlands's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the the Netherlands.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through the Netherlands. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in the Netherlands. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in the Netherlands and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in the Netherlands today!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Anne Frank House
VondelparkVan Gogh MuseumRijksmuseumSarphatiparkDe Pijp
Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse SchansSaint Nicholas ChurchVolendam MuseumMuseum de Speeltoren
Museum SpeelklokDom Tower of UtrechtZocherparkSaint-John ChurchGouda Cheese Experience
Diergaarde BlijdorpErasmusbrugMarkthal ToursUnesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk
Peace PalaceMauritshuisBinnenhof
Dam Square

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Amsterdam - Arrival day
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  • Anne Frank House
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Your relaxed road trip through the Netherlands starts when you reach the incredible city of Amsterdam, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Amsterdam and begin your adventure in the Netherlands.

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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, CAU Steak Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Amsterdam tonight.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in the Netherlands.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Excalibur Café is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Rosalia's Menagerie, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Café Hill Street Blues. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the Netherlands. Enjoy your first taste of Amsterdam as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Amsterdam
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 14 min

  • Vondelpark
  • Van Gogh Museum
  • Rijksmuseum
  • Sarphatipark
  • De Pijp
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Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Amsterdam, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in the Netherlands are extraordinary.

De Pijp is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Amsterdam, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the widely recognized Vondelpark, a serene park in Amsterdam. Next, go to Van Gogh Museum.

After visiting Vondelpark and Van Gogh Museum, have a stroll along Amsterdam's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Rijksmuseum. This respected museum offers a unique experience. Sarphatipark is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about the Netherlands. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in the Netherlands and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of the Netherlands. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Amsterdam, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Eye Film Museum, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Ambassade, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Oporto, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, 't Aepjen provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across the Netherlands.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Amsterdam
  • More

Drive 69 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse Schans
  • Saint Nicholas Church
  • Volendam Museum
  • Museum de Speeltoren
  • More

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip across the Netherlands, you’ll explore the area around Amsterdam, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Amsterdam will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of the Netherlands.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Whether you decide to explore Amsterdam on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this history-steeped handicraft store before continuing your journey. Saint Nicholas Church is your next stop. This worthwhile church is one of the best-rated sights in Amsterdam.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Volendam Museum. This heritage-rich museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Museum De Speeltoren.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Amsterdam and your accommodation.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Amsterdam has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Café Loetje, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Moon, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at d'Vijff Vlieghen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Amsterdam. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Bitterbal, known for its lively atmosphere. Twenty Third Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Louis Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in the Netherlands!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Amsterdam
  • Gouda
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Drive 88 km, 1 hour 58 min

  • Museum Speelklok
  • Dom Tower of Utrecht
  • Zocherpark
  • Saint-John Church
  • Gouda Cheese Experience
  • More

Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in the Netherlands is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Gouda for 2 nights.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Amsterdam. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Museum Speelklok is the perfect place to start. This museum is one of the most increasingly popular places to visit in Amsterdam. Next, head to Dom Tower Of Utrecht, an underrated monument, known for its respected features.

In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Zocherpark. This instagrammable park is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Saint-john Church and Gouda Cheese Experience. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Gouda. Staying in the town enhances your laid-back road trip experience in the Netherlands by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Gouda has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the town.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Prego!, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Verhage Gouda is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Swing Gouda. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Gouda tonight.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Gouda’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in the Netherlands.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Barbier Gouda, a prime location for a drink.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in the Netherlands!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Gouda
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Drive 99 km, 2 hours

  • Diergaarde Blijdorp
  • Erasmusbrug
  • Markthal Tours
  • Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Gouda and visit amazing attractions in Rotterdam and Kinderdijk destinations, just outside of the town. You still have 1 night left in Gouda. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Gouda today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Diergaarde Blijdorp. This breathtaking zoo will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Erasmusbrug and learn what makes this enchanting monument unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Markthal Tours. After exploring the food market, head to Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk. This underrated historical landmark is a highlight in Gouda.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Gouda.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of the Netherlands. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Gouda, explore the town like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Bij Ons, a popular restaurant in Gouda. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Gouda at Grand Café Central, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Bagels & Beans. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Gouda tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Gouda and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across the Netherlands.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Gouda
  • Amsterdam
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Drive 103 km, 1 hour 48 min

  • Peace Palace
  • Mauritshuis
  • Binnenhof
  • More

Day 6 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of the Netherlands will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in the Netherlands, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. The first attraction of today is Peace Palace. This increasingly popular palace is a culturally significant place to see in Gouda. Continue your discovery at Mauritshuis, a photogenic museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Gouda, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Binnenhof. This underrated historical landmark offers an awe-inspiring encounter with Gouda. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Gouda.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in the Netherlands at Amsterdam. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of the Netherlands. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Amsterdam, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Gartine, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Spirit Amsterdam offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss FuLu Mandarijn. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Amsterdam.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Mokum, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, De Zotte offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in the Netherlands!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Amsterdam - Departure day
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  • Dam Square
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in the Netherlands is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Amsterdam.

On your last day in the Netherlands, take time to indulge in shopping at Amsterdam’s popular marketplace, P. C. Hooftstraat. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. If you’re in the mood for luxury shopping, high-end stores await you.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Dam Square. This popular public square is a popular place to see in the city.

Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Amsterdam or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Amsterdam and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in the Netherlands is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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