9-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Haarlem, Utrecht, and Zwolle and surrounding area

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Amsterdam has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Amsterdam by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Set aside time today to explore De Pijp, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day.

Amsterdam is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Magere Brug, an increasingly popular monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Rijksmuseum, enchanting visitors with its history-steeped appeal. Continue your exploration at Van Gogh Museum. This museum is one of the city’s most astonishing spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Amsterdam at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Vondelpark.

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.

Bring home unique finds from Amsterdam's bustling shopping hub, De Negen Straatjes. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique boutiques and stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, De Negen Straatjes offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Amsterdam's best restaurants.

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.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café Oporto, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, 't Aepjen is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in the Netherlands!

On day 3 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 Zaandijk and Haarlem. In the evening, you’ll end up in Haarlem, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start your adventure at Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans. This often recommended handicraft store is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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 Frans Hals Museum. This locally appreciated museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to The St. Bavo Church In Haarlem, where you can take in picture-perfect features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Teylers Museum and Amsterdamse Poort. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Haarlem. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of Haarlem, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Ratatouille Food & Wine, a top-rated dining destination in Haarlem. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bistro La Plume, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Anne&Max Haarlem. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Haarlem this evening.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Cafe Stiels, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Proeflokaal In Den Uiver, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Café Studio provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Head back to your accommodation in Haarlem and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in the Netherlands!

Wake up to day 4 of your extraordinary road trip in the Netherlands. With 1 night left in Haarlem, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Haarlem is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders! Start at Elswout, a locally appreciated park that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Zuid-kennemerland National Park, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Kennemerland National Park. This national park is one of the village’s most locally appreciated spots.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Haarlem. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Vascobelo V-bar Haarlem, a highly-rated dining destination in Haarlem. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant De Zeeuw, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Spaarne66. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Haarlem this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café Koops B. V. After your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Uiltje Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Cafe De Lange Heer is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in the Netherlands!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in the Netherlands. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Utrecht. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Utrecht. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Haarlem, including a botanical garden, a museum, a park, a monument, a church and much more! Start your day with a visit to Utrecht Botanic Gardens. This curiosity-inducing botanical garden is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Nijntje Museum, which may be one of the most instagrammable places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Haarlem on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Zocherpark, an up-and-coming park in the city. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for Dom Tower Of Utrecht and St Martin's Cathedral.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Utrecht. Utrecht 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 Utrecht. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Belgisch Biercafé Olivier Utrecht, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try FLFL Utrecht? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Broadway American Steakhouse as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Utrecht.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kaasbar Utrecht, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Café Derat, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Body Talk likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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.

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Utrecht, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Utrecht, including a museum, a church, and a park. Start your day at Museum Gouda. This historic museum is a curiosity-inducing place to see in Utrecht. Then, wander over to Saint-john Church. If symbolic sites excite you, this church will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Gouda Cheese Experience. This historic museum is a favorite among visitors.

Utrecht offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Van Bergen Ijzendoornpark is an often recommended spot in the town that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the park, don’t forget to check out the peaceful Goudse Hout. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this curiosity-inducing park.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Utrecht's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant De Markt, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? The Seafood Bar offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Koffie & Ik. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Utrecht.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café De Stad, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Mr. Finch offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café De Zaak provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in the Netherlands!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Zuideinde and Giethoorn. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Zwolle, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Utrecht today. One of the most up-and-coming attractions included on the itinerary is Museumboerderij 't Olde Maat Uus. This respected museum will help you start your sightseeing on top.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the beloved Giethoorn Netherlands.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Zwolle, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Zwolle. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Bistro De Buik Van Parijs, a top-rated dining destination in Zwolle. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Bluefinger Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Dublin House. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Zwolle this evening.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Jack's Music Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Café De Hetebrij is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, 't Proeflokaal Van Zwolle is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

Relax and reminisce about your day in the Netherlands and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in the Netherlands. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Ede, Laren, and Blaricum. 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.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. The first attraction of today is Het Nationale Park De Hoge Veluwe. This well-known national park is a romantic place to see in Zwolle. Continue your discovery at Singer Laren, a photogenic art gallery with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Zwolle, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Schaapskooi Blaricummerheide. This beloved farm offers a picturesque encounter with Zwolle. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Zwolle.

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.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Amsterdam's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to reserve a table at Café Loetje, an iconic dining spot in Amsterdam. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Moon, a popular restaurant in Amsterdam. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of d'Vijff Vlieghen, a hidden gem nestled in Amsterdam. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Bar Bitterbal after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Twenty Third Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Louis Bar is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in the Netherlands!