5-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in the Netherlands and Germany With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Cologne

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Amsterdam. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

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.

Amsterdam is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and historic treasures! Start at Dam Square, a popular public square that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Rijksmuseum, enchanting visitors with its eye-catching appeal. Continue your exploration at Van Gogh Museum. This museum is one of the city’s most top-rated spots.

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

Visit P. C. Hooftstraat in Amsterdam for an unforgettable shopping experience. Browse unique and luxurious stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what P. C. Hooftstraat has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Amsterdam’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 delicious meal at Eye Film Museum, a highly-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Ambassade, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Oporto, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, 't Aepjen provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Cologne in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne, your home for 1 night.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Amsterdam, featuring fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, a curiosity-inducing sightseeing destination in the city. Then, head to Lindt Chocolate Museum and soak in the ambiance of this instagrammable museum.

There are many interesting places to see in Amsterdam, and when you are ready for more, go to Museum Ludwig. This is one of the city’s most often recommended historic spots of interest. After exploring the museum, visit the widely recognized Cologne Cathedral. Not far away, you'll also find Heinzelmännchenbrunnen, Köln - Edmund Renard. This sculpture garden is a noteworthy highlight in Amsterdam.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Cologne. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Cologne. If you're in the mood for something new, try Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Café Reichard. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Cologne.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Grid Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Toddy Tapper is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 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 Düsseldorf in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Amsterdam, where you will stay for 1 night.

Schloss Benrath is must-visit palace and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Königsallee, a beloved street, located just a leisurely stroll away.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Cologne. When you're ready, let your sightseeing route take you to the frequently visited Rheinpromenade. If you’re looking for more, Burgplatz is also a frequently visited attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Amsterdam. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Café Loetje, a popular restaurant in Amsterdam. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Amsterdam at Restaurant Moon, 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 d'Vijff Vlieghen. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Amsterdam tonight.

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

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