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

Germanythe Netherlands
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Set off on an exciting multi-country adventure lasting 6 days. The journey covers the Netherlands and Germany, showcasing stunning scenery at every stop.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 3 nights in the Netherlands and 2 nights in Germany.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of the Netherlands, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Amsterdam and begin your adventure from there. Explore Amsterdam, Arnhem, and Ede, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Germany. Immerse yourself in the allure of Cologne and Düsseldorf, where every street tells a story.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Cologne’s Cologne Cathedral. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 6-day self-drive adventure in the Netherlands and Germany. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in the Netherlands and Germany.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Amsterdam

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Anne Frank House
This is HollandRijksmuseumVan Gogh MuseumVondelparkDe Pijp
Cologne Rodenkirchen BridgeCologne Chocolate MuseumOld MarketCologne Cathedral
Rheinuferpromenade DüsseldorfRheinpromenadeBurgplatzK20, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-WestfalenHofgartenKönigsallee
Park KlarenbeekRoyal Burgers' ZooCountry Residence Museum Jachthuis Sint Hubertus
Dam Square

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Amsterdam - Arrival day
  • More
  • Anne Frank House
  • More

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in the Netherlands and Germany begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Amsterdam in the Netherlands. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Amsterdam for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to the Netherlands to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Amsterdam before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Amsterdam is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Anne Frank House, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Amsterdam. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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. 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 meal at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, CAU Steak Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Amsterdam tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Excalibur Café, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Rosalia's Menagerie is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café Hill Street Blues ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands and Germany has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Amsterdam
  • More

Drive 21 km, 1 hour 11 min

  • This is Holland
  • Rijksmuseum
  • Van Gogh Museum
  • Vondelpark
  • De Pijp
  • More

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.

De Pijp is a fantastic place you can explore today in Amsterdam. This neighborhood 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 Amsterdam-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites in the charming city of Amsterdam. Your adventure starts at This Is Holland, an up-and-coming 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 heritage-rich museum offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Vondelpark is also worth visiting.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Amsterdam’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Don’t miss out on dining at Eye Film Museum, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Ambassade, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

Keep the evening going at Café Oporto, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is 't Aepjen, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Take in the ambiance of Amsterdam as this vacation 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 road trip to look forward to!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Amsterdam
  • Cologne
  • More

Drive 288 km, 3 hours 42 min

  • Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge
  • Cologne Chocolate Museum
  • Old Market
  • Cologne Cathedral
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across the Netherlands and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Cologne in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Cologne where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Amsterdam today. One of the most underrated attractions included on the itinerary is Cologne Rodenkirchen Bridge. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Lindt Chocolate Museum and learn what makes this instagrammable museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the captivating Old Market. After exploring the public square, head to Cologne Cathedral. This spectacular church is a highlight in Amsterdam.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at SAVOY Hotel, a popular restaurant in Cologne. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cologne at Radisson Blu Hotel, Cologne, 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 Café Reichard. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Cologne tonight.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting The Grid Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Toddy Tapper, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Legends Bar & Terrasse also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Cologne
  • Dusseldorf
  • More

Drive 50 km, 1 hour 25 min

  • Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf
  • Rheinpromenade
  • Burgplatz
  • K20, Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen
  • Hofgarten
  • Königsallee
  • More

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.

Start by visiting Rheinuferpromenade Düsseldorf, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking boardwalk is sure to impress. Next on your list is Rheinpromenade, another must-visit landmark and curiosity-inducing boardwalk renowned for its romantic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Cologne by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Burgplatz. This history-steeped public square is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Cologne experience. We also recommend visiting Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-westfalen, an often recommended art gallery. Nearby, you'll also find Hofgarten, ready to add charm to your journey. End your self-guided sightseeing tour with a stop at Königsallee and wrap up your day with its romantic appeal.

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

As the sun sets on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Düsseldorf's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Germany 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, Düsseldorf has them.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Brewery Schumacher, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Brewery im Füchschen offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The ASH Düsseldorf. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Düsseldorf.

Keep the evening going at Engelchen, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Bar Cherie, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Auberge Rock Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Dusseldorf
  • Amsterdam
  • More

Drive 252 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • Park Klarenbeek
  • Royal Burgers' Zoo
  • Country Residence Museum Jachthuis Sint Hubertus
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of 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.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the frequently visited Park Klarenbeek, a serene park in Düsseldorf. Next, go to Royal Burgers' Zoo.

After visiting Park Klarenbeek and Royal Burgers' Zoo, have a stroll along Düsseldorf's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Country Residence Museum Jachthuis Sint Hubertus. This historic museum offers a unique experience.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Amsterdam. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Loetje, a highly-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Moon, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at d'Vijff Vlieghen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Bitterbal, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Twenty Third Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Amsterdam. Louis Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Amsterdam - Departure day
  • More
  • Dam Square
  • More

On day 6 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Amsterdam before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across the Netherlands and Germany. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Dam Square. This captivating public square is a popular place to see in the city.

Get a last taste of the Netherlands’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Amsterdam and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across the Netherlands and Germany.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Spirit Amsterdam, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

The time has come to say farewell to Amsterdam for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 6-day European road trip in the Netherlands and Germany with fond memories. Safe travels!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in the Netherlands

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.