11-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in the Netherlands and Germany With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Cologne, Maastricht, and Rotterdam

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in the Netherlands and Germany has in store for you! You will be staying in Amsterdam for 3 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore De Pijp, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Amsterdam. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.

Enjoy all that This Is Holland has to offer. This is an intriguing flying theater you should not miss. Another must-see is Rijksmuseum, an astonishing museum in Amsterdam.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Van Gogh Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Vondelpark, another of the city’s top-rated attractions.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Amsterdam’s local cuisine.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Eye Film Museum, a top-rated dining spot in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Ambassade, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Amsterdam.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café Oporto. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, 't Aepjen provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip through the Netherlands and Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Utrecht in the Netherlands. With 2 nights left in Amsterdam, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Oude Gracht is a fantastic place you can explore today in Utrecht. This street 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 Utrecht-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

When you’ve had your share of Amsterdam, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Utrecht. Your travel time is around 49 min.

Savor the day by heading to Nederlands Spoorwegmuseum, a well-known museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Nijntje Museum, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Next, explore Dom Tower Of Utrecht, yet another frequently visited place to see in the area. After the monument, make time to go to St Martin's Cathedral. This breathtaking church is well worth the visit.

Before this day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of the Netherlands's delectable cuisine at one of Amsterdam's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enjoy the local nightlife or unwind with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

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.

Keep the evening going at Bar Bitterbal, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Twenty Third Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Louis Bar, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Greet day 4 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. On today's agenda, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Düsseldorf in Germany. You will return to Amsterdam for your remaining 1 night in the city later today.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Amsterdam and set your GPS to Düsseldorf, Germany. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 37 min. Upon reaching Düsseldorf, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Tritonenbrunnen In Düsseldorf is a locally appreciated well we recommend visiting today.

Next, stop by Burgplatz, a visually striking public square. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Rheinpromenade, a romantic and truly unique boardwalk.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Amsterdam. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in the Netherlands in a new light.

Savor the flavors at Gartine, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Spirit Amsterdam beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider FuLu Mandarijn. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Amsterdam tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Mokum, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. De Zotte is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the night falls in Amsterdam, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany. Today's main destinations are Cologne in Germany, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Amsterdam, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cologne, Germany. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to Germany. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 6 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Lindt Chocolate Museum, an interesting museum known for its photogenic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Museum Ludwig, an up-and-coming museum.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Cologne Cathedral and uncover the details of this symbolic church. Make sure to also explore Old Market, an interesting public square.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Cologne of your choice.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Cologne.

Have a fantastic dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Café Reichard is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Cologne.

Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

On day 6 of your European tour in the Netherlands and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Bonn, but spend most of the time exploring beyond the city, including Bonn in Germany. Cologne remains your base for 2 nights more.

Bonn is brimming with adventures.

Set your GPS to Bonn and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 32 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Bonn beckons with new experiences!

Spend your afternoon discovering Rheinaue, a captivating park known for its stunning features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Poppelsdorf Palace, an increasingly popular palace.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Botanical Garden, Bonn and uncover the details of this romantic botanical garden. Make sure to also explore Holy Name Church, an intriguing church. For your last stop, consider Beethoven-haus Bonn, an instagrammable museum that many travelers find worth the detour.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Cologne. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami" is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at RheinZeit. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Soul Bar Cologne after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Take in the ambiance of Cologne as this day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your multi-country road trip to look forward to!

Wake up to day 7 of your extraordinary road trip through the Netherlands and Germany. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Koblenz in Germany. With 1 night left in Cologne, seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Koblenz. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 19 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress and explore the picture-perfect features. Next, make your way to Schloss Koblenz, another highlight in Koblenz. When you’re done exploring the palace, continue to Rheinanlagen Koblenz, a visually striking boardwalk.

Nearby, you will also find Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation. This often recommended tramway is a top place to see in the area. Lastly, head to Deutsches Eck, a picture-perfect monument that is perfect for some final exploring in the city.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Cologne’s local cuisine.

Don’t miss out on dining at Limani, a top-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Suderman, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in the Netherlands and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Cologne to the fullest!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 8 of your multi-country journey across the Netherlands and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in Maastricht in the Netherlands. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Maastricht where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Maastricht, the Netherlands and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Maastricht beckons with new experiences!

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Caves Zonneberg, an intriguing cave system that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to North Caves Maastricht Underground and admire its scenic features.

When you’re ready, continue to Stadspark, an increasingly popular park beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Helpoort, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Basilica Of Our Lady, a heritage-rich place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Maastricht’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Maastricht’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in the Netherlands and Germany.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Bistrot-Bar 't Wycker Cabinet, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Café Local, lekker eten en drinken in Maastricht is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Onglet. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Maastricht tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Mr. Smith, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Café Duke offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Maastricht. Bar Brutal is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 9 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in Rotterdam in the Netherlands. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rotterdam, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Rotterdam, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Maastricht to Rotterdam may take around 2 hours 13 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Rotterdam, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Rotterdam is Erasmusbrug, a well-known monument that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Maritime Museum Rotterdam, a photogenic maritime museum that stands out in the city.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Markthal Tours, a locally appreciated food market that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Cube House, a nearby art installation, highly recommended by other travelers.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Rotterdam. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the sun sets on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey at Rotterdam's top restaurants and eateries. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Harvest Cafe & Bakery, a highly-rated dining destination in Rotterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider Little V Rotterdam, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dudok. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rotterdam this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Mendoza, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Wunderbar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out De Witte Aap. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!