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

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

As you explore Zaandijk’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

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

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans, a beloved handicraft store that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Haarlem. This car ride takes around 28 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Frans Hals Museum, an often recommended museum in Haarlem. Explore its visually striking features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, The St. Bavo Church In Haarlem. This often recommended church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Teylers Museum is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most visually striking museum in the region.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Ratatouille Food & Wine, a top-rated dining spot in Haarlem. If you're in the mood for something new, try Bistro La Plume, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Anne&Max Haarlem. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Haarlem.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cafe Stiels, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Proeflokaal In Den Uiver provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Café Studio offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing 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 still have 1 night to spend in Haarlem, there’s no need to rush. Experience Aerdenhout and Overveen to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Haarlem and set your GPS to Aerdenhout. 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 11 min. Upon reaching Aerdenhout, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Aerdenhout is Elswout, a curiosity-inducing park that draws attention for its idyllic features.

Overveen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Aerdenhout behind. This drive usually takes around 6 min. Overveen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Zuid-kennemerland National Park and explore the mesmerizing features.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Overveen, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Aerdenhout to Overveen may take around 6 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Overveen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Kennemerland National Park, an up-and-coming national park known for its eye-catching features.

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

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.

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.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Koops B.v., known for its lively atmosphere. Uiltje Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Cafe De Lange Heer offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Utrecht, where you have 1 night left to stay.

When you’ve had your share of Utrecht, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Gouda. Your travel time is around 40 min.

Savor the day by heading to Goudse Hout, a worthwhile park that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Gouda Cheese Experience, where you can soak in the instagrammable surroundings.

Next, explore Saint-john Church, yet another often recommended place to see in the area. After the church, make time to go to Museum Gouda. This heritage-rich museum is well worth the visit.

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

Utrecht is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Utrecht.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant De Markt, a top-rated dining destination in Utrecht. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Seafood Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Koffie & Ik. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Utrecht this evening.

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

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in the Netherlands!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in the Netherlands. Today you'll explore 1 destination, including Rotterdam. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Rotterdam, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Utrecht, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rotterdam. Your travel time is around 55 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Maritime Museum Rotterdam. Spend some time admiring the historic features of the maritime museum before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Markthal Tours. This worthwhile food market is a traveler-favorite in the city.

If you're keen to see more, continue to Cube House. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the art installation. Next, take your journey to Nieuwe Delftse Poort - Cor Kraat, an often recommended monument.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Rotterdam, 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 Rotterdam's best restaurants.

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.

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

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Wake up to day 8 of your road trip in the Netherlands. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Kinderdijk and Rotterdam. With 1 night to stay in Rotterdam, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Erasmusbrug makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally renowned monument is a visually striking place to see in Rotterdam. Continue your discovery at Kunsthal, a visually striking art gallery with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Rotterdam, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Diergaarde Blijdorp. This captivating zoo offers a stunning encounter with Rotterdam. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Rotterdam.

Kinderdijk’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rotterdam behind. This drive usually takes around 30 min. Kinderdijk welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk, an underrated historical landmark that everyone visiting Kinderdijk should see.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Tiki's, a popular restaurant in Rotterdam. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rotterdam at Pho Hanoi, 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 Pol Rotterdam. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rotterdam tonight.

Keep the evening going at Café Van Zanten, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Café Labru, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Wijnbar Janssen En Van Dijk, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

On day 9 of your road trip in the Netherlands, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Delft are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Delft, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Delft. This car ride takes around 19 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to De Porceleyne Fles, an often recommended museum in Delft. Explore its historic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Nieuwe Kerk Delft. This intriguing church is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Town Hall Of Delft is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most breathtaking city hall in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the beloved Old Church and discover what makes this church unique. If you’re up for one more stop in the city, head to Prinsenhof, a respected museum many travelers find the visit worthwhile.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Delft. Check in and relax before you head out to tour 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 Delft, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

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

Cap off your dinner by heading to Café-cocktailbar Luna, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. 't Proeflokaal is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, De Botanie is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in the Netherlands.

Your itinerary for day 11 of your road trip in the Netherlands includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Lisse and Leiden. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Delft, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Lisse. This drive usually takes around 40 min.

Keukenhof is a widely recognized garden we recommend visiting today.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Leiden. This drive usually takes around 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Rijksmuseum Van Oudheden, a curiosity-inducing museum that everyone visiting Leiden should see. Next, head to Hortus Botanicus Leiden. This romantic botanical garden is one of the most intriguing attractions in the region.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Amsterdam. Amsterdam offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Amsterdam is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Amsterdam.

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.

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

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