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

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in the Netherlands and Germany has in store for you! You will be staying in Amsterdam for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Don’t miss De Pijp today, a must-see neighborhood 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.

Your adventure in Amsterdam is only getting started when you visit This Is Holland, an increasingly popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Rijksmuseum.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Amsterdam's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Van Gogh Museum. This eye-catching museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Vondelpark is also worth visiting.

As the sun sets, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Amsterdam. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in the Netherlands in a new light.

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

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café Oporto, known for its inviting atmosphere. Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, 't Aepjen provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take in the ambiance of Amsterdam as this 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 multi-country road trip to look forward to!

On day 3 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence Cologne in Germany. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Cologne, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

After soaking in Amsterdam’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Cologne, Germany. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 56 min. When you arrive in Cologne, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge, an underrated sightseeing destination in Cologne. This well-known museum is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, Old Market is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most visually striking public square in the region. Next, continue your sightseeing at the top-rated Cologne Cathedral and discover what makes this church unique.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely meal at SAVOY Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Café Reichard. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cologne tonight.

Continue your lively evening at The Grid Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Toddy Tapper is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Legends Bar & Terrasse ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany, you'll get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation 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 Düsseldorf, where you will stay for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Düsseldorf, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Cologne to Düsseldorf may take around 46 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Düsseldorf, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, a locally appreciated boardwalk known for its romantic features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Rheinpromenade, an underrated boardwalk.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Burgplatz and uncover the details of this romantic public square. Make sure to also explore Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen, a locally appreciated art gallery. For your last stop, consider Hofgarten, a mesmerizing park that many travelers find worth the detour.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Brewery Schumacher, a top-rated dining destination in Düsseldorf. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Brewery im Füchschen, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The ASH Düsseldorf. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Düsseldorf this evening.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Engelchen, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Bar Cherie offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Auberge Rock Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe. The highlights of today include Arnhem in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam, your home for 1 night.

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

Arnhem’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Düsseldorf behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 31 min. Arnhem welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Park Klarenbeek and explore the instagrammable features. Next, make your way to Royal Burgers' Zoo, another highlight in Arnhem.

Set your GPS to Ede and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ede beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Country Residence Museum Jachthuis Sint Hubertus, a curiosity-inducing museum in Ede. Explore its breathtaking features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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.

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 Amsterdam.

Savor the flavors at Café Loetje, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Moon beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider d'Vijff Vlieghen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Amsterdam tonight.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Bar Bitterbal. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Twenty Third Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Louis Bar, another top-rated bar in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Amsterdam as this 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 multi-country road trip to look forward to!