11-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Haarlem, Utrecht, and Rotterdam

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Amsterdam for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

De Pijp is a fantastic place you can explore today in Amsterdam. This neighborhood 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 Amsterdam-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views in Amsterdam. Begin your sightseeing with Begijnhof. This underrated historical landmark is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Rijksmuseum, 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 Van Gogh Museum. This famous museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Vondelpark, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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, Kalverstraat. Enjoy a leisurely exploration of unique stores where locals shop. Don’t forget to browse souvenirs and local specialties that make perfect gifts for your loved ones. Beyond shopping, Kalverstraat offers plenty of options, including primary services, unique landmarks, and community events.

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.

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.

Continue your lively evening at Café Oporto, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, 't Aepjen ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in the Netherlands.

On day 3 of your exciting self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Zaandijk and Haarlem. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Haarlem, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Amsterdam, featuring fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans, a locally appreciated handicraft store in the village. Then, head to Frans Hals Museum and soak in the ambiance of this visually striking museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Amsterdam, and when you are ready for more, go to The St. Bavo Church In Haarlem. This is one of the village’s most underrated picture-perfect spots of interest. After exploring the church, visit the underrated Teylers Museum.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Haarlem, 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 Haarlem. 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 Ratatouille Food & Wine, a highly-rated dining destination in Haarlem. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bistro La Plume, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Anne&Max Haarlem. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Haarlem this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Cafe Stiels offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Proeflokaal In Den Uiver is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Café Studio is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 4 of your road trip in the Netherlands, you’ll start and end your day in Haarlem, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Haarlem for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Aerdenhout, Overveen, and Zandvoort to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Today’s itinerary in Haarlem covers several incredible sights, including a park, a national park, and a museum. Start your adventure at Elswout. This increasingly popular park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the eye-catching wonders of Zuid-kennemerland National Park, a must-see national park in the village.

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 Zandvoorts Museum. This worthwhile museum offers an enriching experience. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Haarlem. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Make sure to reserve a table at Vascobelo V-bar Haarlem, an iconic dining spot in Haarlem. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant De Zeeuw, a popular restaurant in Haarlem. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Spaarne66, a hidden gem nestled in Haarlem. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in the Netherlands.

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 Utrecht. In the evening, you’ll end up in Utrecht, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Today’s agenda in Haarlem includes a museum, a monument, and a church. Nijntje Museum is must-visit museum and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Museum Speelklok, an often recommended museum, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Dom Tower Of Utrecht, a picture-perfect monument, also available for your discovery today.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Belgisch Biercafé Olivier Utrecht, a popular restaurant in Utrecht. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Utrecht at FLFL Utrecht, 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 Broadway American Steakhouse. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Utrecht tonight.

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

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

Greet day 6 of your road trip in the Netherlands with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Utrecht 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 Gouda.

Today's adventure in Utrecht promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Museum Gouda. This heritage-rich museum is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Saint-john Church, another symbolic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Gouda Cheese Experience, one of the town’s most up-and-coming attractions, known for its standout features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Van Bergen Ijzendoornpark. This scenic park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurant De Markt, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Seafood Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Koffie & Ik. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Utrecht tonight.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in the Netherlands!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in the Netherlands. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Rotterdam. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Rotterdam, which will be your home away from home for 3 nights.

Today's adventure in Utrecht promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Diergaarde Blijdorp. This instagrammable zoo is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Erasmusbrug, another culturally significant attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Maritime Museum Rotterdam, one of the city’s most frequently visited attractions, known for its heritage-rich features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Cube House. This stunning art installation is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Markthal Tours, an increasingly popular food market, and take a stroll around the area.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at Harvest Cafe & Bakery, a top-rated dining destination in Rotterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Little V Rotterdam, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dudok. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rotterdam this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mendoza, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Wunderbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, De Witte Aap offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rotterdam, where you'll stay for 2 nights more.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Rotterdam, including a historical landmark, a museum, a monument, a church and much more! Start your day at Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk. This breathtaking historical landmark is a locally appreciated place to see in Rotterdam. Then, wander over to Dordrechts Museum. If historic sites excite you, this museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find The Court Of Netherlands. This culturally significant museum is a favorite among visitors.

Rotterdam offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Lange Ijzeren Brug is a curiosity-inducing spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm. When you’re done at the monument, don’t forget to check out the awe-inspiring Dordrecht Minster Or Church Of Our Lady. Take a moment to appreciate the fascinating details of this underrated church.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Rotterdam. 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 Tiki's, a top-rated dining destination in Rotterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Pho Hanoi, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pol Rotterdam. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Rotterdam this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Van Zanten, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Café Labru offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Wijnbar Janssen En Van Dijk provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in the Netherlands!

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rotterdam, where you'll stay for 1 night more.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots await you in Rotterdam on today’s itinerary. First up is the worthwhile church, Grote Of Sint-jacobskerk. Afterward, continue to Prinsenhof, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Rotterdam’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Town Hall Of Delft. This intriguing city hall is an essential stop. Following that, head to Nieuwe Kerk Delft, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by De Porceleyne Fles, a locally appreciated museum in the city.

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

As you explore more of Rotterdam, 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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Brasserie Pierre, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Loetje Rotterdam Centrum? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at BRAM'S Gourmet Frites as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Rotterdam.

Keep the evening going at The Rumah, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

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

Dive into day 10 of your remarkable road trip in the Netherlands. Today you will explore Lisse and Leiden, 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 Amsterdam. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites in the charming town of Rotterdam. Your adventure starts at Keukenhof, an extraordinary local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Museum Boerhaave.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Rotterdam's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Burcht Van Leiden. This visually striking castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Hortus Botanicus Leiden is also worth visiting.

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.

Dine in style at Café Loetje, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Moon boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out d'Vijff Vlieghen. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Amsterdam.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Bitterbal, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Twenty Third Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Louis Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in the Netherlands.