Two-Week Relaxed the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to The Hague, Rotterdam, and Utrecht

On day 2 of your leisurely self-drive tour across the Netherlands, you’ll go deep into Amsterdam, where you'll stay for 3 nights, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Amsterdam, and meet locals along the way!

A top thing to do today is to explore De Pijp, a must-see neighborhood in Amsterdam. It's the perfect starting point for exploring the top attractions in the area.

A blend of family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures await you in Amsterdam on today’s itinerary. First up is the increasingly popular flying theater, This Is Holland. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Rijksmuseum. A visit to this museum is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Amsterdam’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Van Gogh Museum. This widely recognized museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Vondelpark, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about the Netherlands. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in the Netherlands and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night 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.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in the Netherlands!

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Amsterdam and visit amazing attractions in Zaandijk and Haarlem destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 2 nights left in Amsterdam. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Zaandijk. This car ride takes around 24 min.

Take your self-guided tour to Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans, an intriguing handicraft store that everyone visiting Zaandijk should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Bakery Museum "the Gecroonde Duyvekater '. This eye-catching museum is one of the most curiosity-inducing attractions in the region.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Haarlem, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Zaandijk to Haarlem may take around 27 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Haarlem, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Head to Teylers Museum, an underrated museum in Haarlem. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next sight, The St. Bavo Church In Haarlem. This intriguing church is a top recommendation in the area.

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

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Amsterdam has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Café Loetje, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Restaurant Moon is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at d'Vijff Vlieghen. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Amsterdam tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Amsterdam and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Bar Bitterbal stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Twenty Third Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Louis Bar is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in the Netherlands!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in the Netherlands continues on day 4, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of the Netherlands and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Amsterdam and beyond. With 1 night left in Amsterdam, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

A top thing to do today is to explore Haarlemmerstraat, a must-see street in Lisse. It's the perfect starting point for exploring the top attractions in the area.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Lisse, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Amsterdam to Lisse may take around 43 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Lisse, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Keukenhof, an extraordinary garden that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Lisse, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Leiden. This drive usually takes around 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Naturalis Biodiversity Center, an often recommended museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue on to Museum Volkenkunde, where you can soak in the instagrammable surroundings. Next, explore Burcht Van Leiden, yet another underrated place to see in the area.

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

When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in the Netherlands, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Amsterdam.

Make sure to reserve a table at Gartine, 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 Spirit Amsterdam, 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 FuLu Mandarijn, a hidden gem nestled in Amsterdam. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Amsterdam’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in the Netherlands.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Mokum after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to De Zotte, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Amsterdam!

On day 5 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in the Netherlands. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in the Netherlands.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Leiden, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Amsterdam to Leiden may take around 50 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Leiden, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Your self-guided tour starts at Pieterskerk, a worthwhile church that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey. Next, head to Hortus Botanicus Leiden and admire its eye-catching features.

After soaking in Leiden’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: The Hague. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 25 min. When you arrive in The Hague, it's time to take a break from the road.

Head to Mauritshuis, a captivating museum in The Hague. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in The Hague. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in the Netherlands by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around The Hague, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Café Restaurant Rootz, a popular restaurant in The Hague. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of The Hague at Bleyenberg, 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 Gastropub Van Kinsbergen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in The Hague tonight.

Experience the amazing nightlife in The Hague and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café De Stad after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Café Happy End for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Gekke Geit is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in the Netherlands!

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip through the Netherlands means 24 hours of making the best memories in Rotterdam. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Rotterdam. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Rotterdam!

Rotterdam is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots! Start at Diergaarde Blijdorp, a locally renowned zoo that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, enchanting visitors with its heritage-rich appeal. Continue your exploration at Kunsthal. This art gallery is one of the city’s most intriguing spots.

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

The Netherlands makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, the Netherlands also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of the Netherlands. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Rotterdam, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Tiki's, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Pho Hanoi is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Pol Rotterdam. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Rotterdam tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Rotterdam.

Continue your lively evening at Café Van Zanten, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Café Labru is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Wijnbar Janssen En Van Dijk ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across the Netherlands.

On day 9 of your relaxed road trip across the Netherlands, you’ll explore the area around Rotterdam, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Rotterdam will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of the Netherlands.

When you’ve had your share of Rotterdam, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Kinderdijk. Your travel time is around 30 min.

Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk is an up-and-coming historical landmark we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Kinderdijk, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Utrecht may take around 54 min. Upon your arrival in Utrecht, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take your self-guided tour to Nijntje Museum, a locally appreciated museum that everyone visiting Utrecht should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Utrecht Observatory. This breathtaking astronomical observatory is one of the most up-and-coming attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Nederlands Spoorwegmuseum, a heritage-rich museum, popular among locals as well as travelers.

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

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Rotterdam, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brasserie Pierre, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Loetje Rotterdam Centrum offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss BRAM'S Gourmet Frites. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Rotterdam.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Rotterdam.

Continue your lively evening at The Rumah, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in the Netherlands!

On day 10 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Rotterdam and visit amazing attractions in Utrecht destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Rotterdam. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

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 take advantage of the nearby must-see sights located nearby.

Rotterdam’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Utrecht behind. This drive usually takes around 51 min. Rotterdam welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Begin your journey at Museum Speelklok and explore the standout features. Next, make your way to Dom Tower Of Utrecht, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the monument, continue to St Martin's Cathedral, a majestic church.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of the Netherlands. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Rotterdam, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

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

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Rotterdam.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Utrecht can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in the Netherlands!

Day 11 of your self-drive tour in the Netherlands is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Utrecht for 3 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in the Netherlands.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Arnhem allows for both.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rotterdam and set your GPS to Arnhem. 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 1 hour 21 min. Upon reaching Arnhem, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Park Klarenbeek and explore the mesmerizing features. Next, make your way to Netherlands Open Air Museum, another highlight in the city. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Royal Burgers' Zoo, a visually striking zoo.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Arnhem, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Ede may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Ede, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your self-guided tour starts at Kröller-müller Museum, a worthwhile museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Utrecht in this laid-back road trip in the Netherlands. You'll stay here for 3 nights.

Exploring the food culture in Utrecht offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Savor the flavors at Belgisch Biercafé Olivier Utrecht, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, FLFL Utrecht beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Broadway American Steakhouse. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Utrecht tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Utrecht.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Kaasbar Utrecht is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Café Derat, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Body Talk. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Utrecht as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through the Netherlands with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in the Netherlands!

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in the Netherlands continues on day 12, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of the Netherlands and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Utrecht and beyond. With 2 nights left in Utrecht, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

After soaking in Utrecht’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Arnhem. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 56 min. When you arrive in Arnhem, it's time to take a break from the road.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is John Frost Bridge. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the historical landmark before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Sonsbeek Park. This often recommended park is a traveler-favorite in the city.

Set your GPS to Ede and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ede beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Het Nationale Park De Hoge Veluwe. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the national park before you continue to your next stop.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Nijmegen, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Ede to Nijmegen may take around 51 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Nijmegen, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take your self-guided tour to Kronenburgerpark, an intriguing park that everyone visiting Nijmegen should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Saint Stephen's Church, Nijmegen. This symbolic church is one of the most underrated attractions in the region.

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

After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant De Markt, 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 The Seafood Bar, 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 Koffie & Ik. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Utrecht tonight.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

Keep the evening going at Café De Stad, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Mr. Finch, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Café De Zaak, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in the Netherlands!