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

On day 2, you will wake up in Amsterdam with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Amsterdam before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across the Netherlands and Germany.

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

Immerse yourself in Amsterdam’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at This Is Holland. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Rijksmuseum, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Van Gogh Museum, an extraordinary museum. For a change of scene, check out Vondelpark, known for its romantic features.

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.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Amsterdam's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of the Netherlands to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Amsterdam has them.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café Oporto, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, 't Aepjen also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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!

On day 3 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 Cologne in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Cologne, where you will stay for 1 night.

Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences. Whether you decide to explore Amsterdam on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge is the first of them. Lindt Chocolate Museum is your next stop. This interesting museum is one of the best-rated sights in Amsterdam.

Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Old Market. This visually striking public square is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Cologne Cathedral.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Cologne. 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.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Cologne. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany.

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.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at The Grid Bar after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Toddy Tapper for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Legends Bar & Terrasse is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

As the night falls in Cologne, 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.

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany. Today's main destinations are Düsseldorf in Germany, 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 Düsseldorf. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf. This worthwhile boardwalk is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Rheinpromenade, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out Burgplatz, one of the most worthwhile places to see in Cologne. This public square is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen. Wander around and soak in the visually striking atmosphere this art gallery offers. Then, head to Hofgarten, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your day. Finally, visit the up-and-coming Königsallee, the last of our attraction recommendations for today.

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.

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 Düsseldorf. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Brewery Schumacher, a popular restaurant in Düsseldorf. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Düsseldorf at Brewery im Füchschen, 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 The ASH Düsseldorf. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Düsseldorf tonight.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Engelchen offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Bar Cherie is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Auberge Rock Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Arnhem in the Netherlands. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Amsterdam, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Düsseldorf, including a park, a zoo, and a museum. Start your day with a visit to Park Klarenbeek. This beloved park is a must-visit in the city. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Royal Burgers' Zoo, which may be one of the most gorgeous places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Düsseldorf on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Country Residence Museum Jachthuis Sint Hubertus, an often recommended museum in the city.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Amsterdam.

As the sun dips under the horizon, 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. 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.

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.

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

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