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

On day 2, you will wake up in Amsterdam with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 3 nights left in Amsterdam before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across the Netherlands and Germany.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Amsterdam is De Pijp. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at This Is Holland. This often recommended flying theater is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rijksmuseum, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Van Gogh Museum, one of the most top-rated places to see in Amsterdam. This museum is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Vondelpark. Wander around and soak in the romantic atmosphere this park offers.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Amsterdam's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of the Netherlands to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Amsterdam has them.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Eye Film Museum, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Ambassade offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic 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.

Take in the ambiance of Amsterdam as this vacation 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 road trip to look forward to!

Greet day 3 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Amsterdam for your remaining 2 nights 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 Utrecht in the Netherlands.

Don’t miss Oude Gracht in Utrecht today, a must-see street that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time to explore its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in Amsterdam. Begin your sightseeing with Nederlands Spoorwegmuseum. This popular museum is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Nijntje Museum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Amsterdam, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Dom Tower Of Utrecht. This underrated monument is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find St Martin's Cathedral, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Amsterdam. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Bitterbal, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Twenty Third Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Louis Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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.

Wake up to day 4 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 Düsseldorf in Germany. With 1 night left in Amsterdam, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Begin your adventure at Tritonenbrunnen In Düsseldorf. This is a locally appreciated well you should not miss. Another must-see is Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen, an increasingly popular art gallery in Amsterdam.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Burgplatz. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Rheinpromenade, another of the city’s locally appreciated attractions.

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

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Mokum. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to De Zotte, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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.

Today’s itinerary in Amsterdam covers several incredible sights, including a museum, a church, and a public square. Start your adventure at Lindt Chocolate Museum. This well-known museum is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Museum Ludwig, a must-see museum in the city.

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 Cologne Cathedral. This top-rated church offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Old Market, where you can take in visually striking features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

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. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Enjoy a delicious meal at SAVOY Hotel, a highly-rated dining destination in Cologne. If you're eager to try something different, consider Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Café Reichard. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cologne this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, The Grid Bar offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Toddy Tapper is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Legends Bar & Terrasse is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Take in the ambiance of Cologne as this vacation 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 road trip to look forward to!

On day 6 of your European tour in the Netherlands and Germany, you’ll start and end your day in Bonn, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Cologne for 2 nights more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Bonn in Germany to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Cologne on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Rheinaue is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing park before continuing your journey. Poppelsdorf Palace is your next stop. This curiosity-inducing palace is one of the best-rated sights in Cologne.

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 Botanical Garden, Bonn. This serene botanical garden is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Holy Name Church and Beethoven-haus Bonn. If time allows, end your day with Kirschblüte, a stunning street that offers a memorable conclusion to your exploration.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Cologne. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Germany in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Mongo's Restaurant Köln, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Vietnamski restorant "Kuchi Mami", 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 RheinZeit. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Soul Bar Cologne. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Dorint Hotel Am Heumarkt Köln offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Die Wohngemeinschaft • Café • Bar • Hostel • Theater, another top-rated bar in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Cologne as this vacation 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 road trip to look forward to!

Greet day 7 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Cologne 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 Koblenz in Germany.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Cologne, featuring family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, a well-known castle in the city. Then, head to Schloss Koblenz and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking palace.

There are many interesting places to see in Cologne, and when you are ready for more, go to Rheinanlagen Koblenz. This is one of the city’s most frequently visited enchanting spots of interest. After exploring the boardwalk, visit the often recommended Seilbahn Koblenz - Talstation. Not far away, you'll also find Deutsches Eck. This monument is a masterful highlight in Cologne.

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Cologne's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Germany to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Cologne has them.

Make sure to reserve a table at Limani, an iconic dining spot in Cologne. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Funkhaus Cafe-Bar-Restaurant, a popular restaurant in Cologne. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of The hanging gardens of Ehrenfeld, a hidden gem nestled in Cologne. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Suderman, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

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!

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Maastricht in the Netherlands. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Maastricht, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Get ready for an exciting day in Cologne. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a cave system, a park, a historical landmark, a church and much more! Begin your adventure at Caves Zonneberg. This is an underrated cave system you should not miss. Another must-see is North Caves Maastricht Underground, an increasingly popular cave system in Cologne.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Stadspark. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Helpoort, another of the city’s increasingly popular attractions. We recommend continuing your self-guided tour at Basilica Of Our Lady, a culturally significant place of interest in the city. If time allows, add Basilica Of Saint Servatius to your itinerary. This underrated church offers the perfect finishing touch to your day in Cologne.

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

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 Maastricht’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

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 gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Maastricht tonight.

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

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

On day 9 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany, 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 to see in Rotterdam in the Netherlands. In the evening, you’ll end up in Rotterdam, where you will stay for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views in the charming city of Maastricht. Your adventure starts at Erasmusbrug, an interesting local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Maritime Museum Rotterdam. This underrated maritime museum is known for its visually striking appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Maastricht's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Markthal Tours. This noteworthy food market offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Cube House is also worth visiting.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Rotterdam.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Rotterdam boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of the Netherlands.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Harvest Cafe & Bakery, a top-rated dining spot in Rotterdam. If you're in the mood for something new, try Little V Rotterdam, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Dudok. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Rotterdam.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Mendoza. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Wunderbar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, De Witte Aap provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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!