One-Week the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Gouda and Delft
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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!
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Day 1
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
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- Anne Frank House
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Your road trip adventure in the Netherlands begins as soon as you reach Amsterdam and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Amsterdam for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.
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.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Amsterdam. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in the Netherlands. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
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 delicious meal at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a highly-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider CAU Steak Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.
Continue your lively evening at Excalibur Café, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Rosalia's Menagerie is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café Hill Street Blues ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in the Netherlands!
Day 2
- Amsterdam
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Drive 8 km, 58 min
- Rijksmuseum
- Van Gogh Museum
- Vondelpark
- De Pijp
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Amsterdam. You’ll stay in Amsterdam for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
De Pijp is a neighborhood that stands out as one of the must-see places in Amsterdam. Take a moment to explore its distinct atmosphere, and don’t miss the popular sightseeing spots just a short walk away.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Rijksmuseum. This impressive museum is a respected place to see in Amsterdam. Continue your discovery at Van Gogh Museum, a heritage-rich museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Amsterdam, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Vondelpark. This extraordinary park offers a mesmerizing encounter with Amsterdam. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Amsterdam.
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.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Café Oporto, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Amsterdam. 't Aepjen is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Say good night to Amsterdam and look forward to another great day of your road trip in the Netherlands!
Day 3
- Amsterdam
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Drive 84 km, 1 hour 40 min
- Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse Schans
- Teylers Museum
- The St Bavo Church in Haarlem
- Frans Hals Museum
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Greet day 3 of your road trip in the Netherlands with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Amsterdam for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Zaandijk and Haarlem.
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, an up-and-coming local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Teylers Museum. This curiosity-inducing museum is known for its history-steeped 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 respected church offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Frans Hals Museum is also worth visiting.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Amsterdam.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Amsterdam. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Café Loetje, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Moon? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at d'Vijff Vlieghen as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Amsterdam.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Bitterbal, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Twenty Third Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Louis Bar offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in the Netherlands!
Day 4
- Amsterdam
- Gouda
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Drive 99 km, 1 hour 44 min
- Dom Tower of Utrecht
- Museum Catharijneconvent
- Gouda Cheese Experience
- Saint-John Church
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in the Netherlands. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Utrecht and Gouda. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Gouda. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Amsterdam, including a monument, a museum, and a church. Start your day at Dom Tower Of Utrecht. This picture-perfect monument is a frequently visited place to see in Amsterdam. Then, wander over to Museum Catharijneconvent. If heritage-rich sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Gouda Cheese Experience. This respected museum is a favorite among visitors.
Amsterdam offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Saint-john Church is an often recommended spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Gouda. Gouda offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
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.
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.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Barbier Gouda after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in the Netherlands!
Day 5
- Gouda
- Delft
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Drive 47 km, 1 hour 15 min
- Markthal Tours
- Maritime Museum
- Royal Delft
- Nieuwe Church
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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.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Whether you decide to explore Gouda on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Markthal Tours is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this picture-perfect food market before continuing your journey. Maritime Museum Rotterdam is your next stop. This increasingly popular maritime museum is one of the best-rated sights in Gouda.
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 De Porceleyne Fles. This eye-catching museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Nieuwe Kerk Delft.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Delft. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
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.
Savor the flavors at LEF Restaurant & Bar Delft, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Charcoal beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Heinde Delft. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Delft tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café-cocktailbar Luna is an excellent place to start. You could also check out 't Proeflokaal, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is De Botanie. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Head back to your accommodation in Delft and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in the Netherlands!
Day 6
- Delft
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Drive 34 km, 1 hour 21 min
- Scheveningse Bosjes
- Peace Palace
- Mauritshuis
- Binnenhof
- Scheveningen
- Zeeheldenkwartier
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On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Delft, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
One of the most iconic places you can visit today in The Hague is Scheveningen. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby. You can also explore Zeeheldenkwartier, a neighborhood that offers a glimpse into local life and culture.
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Scheveningse Bosjes. This curiosity-inducing park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Peace Palace, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Mauritshuis, one of the most well-known places to see in Delft. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Binnenhof. Wander around and soak in the picture-perfect atmosphere this historical landmark offers.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Delft and your accommodation.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Delft's best restaurants.
Dine in style at Hampshire Hotel Delft Centre | Overnachten, Arrangementen en Zakelijk, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Believe food & wines by les copains boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bij Harry. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice 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.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in the Netherlands!
Day 7
- Delft
- Amsterdam
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Drive 176 km, 3 hours 6 min
- Keukenhof
- Hortus botanicus Leiden
- Volendam Museum
- Paard van Marken
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in the Netherlands. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Lisse, Leiden, Volendam, and Monnickendam. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start your adventure at Keukenhof. This widely recognized garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Hortus Botanicus Leiden, a must-see botanical garden in the town.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Volendam Museum. This worthwhile museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Paard Van Marken, where you can take in visually striking features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Amsterdam, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Amsterdam's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Gartine, a top-rated dining spot in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood for something new, try Spirit Amsterdam, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at FuLu Mandarijn. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Amsterdam.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Mokum, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to De Zotte. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub, another top-rated place in the area.
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 8
- Amsterdam - Departure day
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- Dam Square
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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, begin at Dam Square. This interesting public square is a popular place to see in the city.
As your final day in the Netherlands unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Amsterdam's best shopping area, P. C. Hooftstraat. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to the Netherlands. Explore high-end stores offering an exquisite selection of luxury items.
Before you conclude your road trip in the Netherlands, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Amsterdam.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Winkel 43, another premier location with a delectable menu.
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!
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