6-Day the Netherlands Road Trip from Amsterdam traveling east to Den Helder, and Leeuwarden
Description
Included
Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through the Netherlands. Explore the diverse landscapes and local cultures of Amsterdam, Amstelveen, Den Helder, Luttelgeest, Sneek, Earnewâld, Leeuwarden, Apeldoorn, and Arnhem. Pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for an unforgettable journey!
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in the Netherlands takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 3 nights in Amsterdam, 1 night in Den Helder, and 1 night in Leeuwarden. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in the Netherlands. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Amsterdam, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover the Netherlands on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in the Netherlands. Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Amsterdam, Amstelveen, Den Helder, Luttelgeest, Sneek, Earnewâld, Leeuwarden, Apeldoorn, and Arnhem, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of the Netherlands. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in the Netherlands.
Throughout your road trip in the Netherlands, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in the Netherlands.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in the Netherlands fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in the Netherlands today!
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Amsterdam - arrival day
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
- More
- Dam Square
- More
Say hello to Amsterdam! Your exciting road trip through the Netherlands is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Amsterdam for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!
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 Dam Square or 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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Amsterdam. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider CAU Steak Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Excalibur Café is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Rosalia's Menagerie, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Café Hill Street Blues. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in the Netherlands!
Day 2 – Amsterdam, and Amstelveen
- Amsterdam
- Amstelveen
- More
Drive 37 km, 1 hour 54 min
- This is Holland
- NEMO Science Museum
- Hortus Botanicus
- Rijksmuseum
- Het Amsterdamse Bos
- More
On day 2 of your road trip in the Netherlands, you’ll start and end your day in Amsterdam, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Amsterdam for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Amsterdam, and Amstelveen to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Journey into the unknown at This Is Holland, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable flying theater has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 9,685 reviews.
When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Nemo Science Center is a recommended place to visit. This science museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 31,426 reviews. Based on recent data, the attraction hosts 502,990 visitors per year.
Another must-see attraction in Amsterdam is Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 10,686 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Amsterdam offers an experience you will remember.
Rijksmuseum is another popular stop on travelers' itineraries in Amsterdam. This national museum promises memorable moments of exploring. Other travelers have rated this attraction 4.6 out of 5 stars in 93,402 reviews. Each year, approximately 2,700,000 people travel to visit Rijksmuseum.
When you’ve had your share of Amsterdam, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Amstelveen. Your travel time is around 17 min.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Het Amsterdamse Bos. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 16,926 visitors.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Amsterdam.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Amsterdam's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Set out on a gastronomic journey in Amsterdam by reserving a table at Flore. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary, and creative french cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ciel Bleu, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Restaurant 212, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Amsterdam.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Oporto, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, 't Aepjen provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in the Netherlands.
Day 3 – Amsterdam, and Den Helder
- Den Helder
- Amsterdam
- More
Drive 102 km, 2 hours 4 min
- Anne Frank House
- Van Gogh Museum
- Vondelpark
- ARTIS
- More
On day 3 of your road trip in the Netherlands, 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 in Amsterdam. In the evening, you’ll end up in Den Helder, where you will stay for 1 night.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Anne Frank House. This museum typically receives around 1,195,456 visitors every year and is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 65,913 reviews.
Continue your journey at Van Gogh Museum. This art museum is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 86,536 travelers from near and far. Approximately 2,161,160 people come to this place of interest every year to enjoy a unique experience in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam is also the home of Vondelpark. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 51,706 visitors.
You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Artis. A total of 1,400,000 people explore this attraction every year. Rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 31,710 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Den Helder. Den Helder offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Den Helder. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Visrestaurant/Café Neptunus, an iconic dining spot in Den Helder. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Robuust, a popular restaurant in Den Helder. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Witte Raaf, a hidden gem nestled in Den Helder. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in the Netherlands!
Day 4 – Den Helder, Luttelgeest, Sneek, Earnewâld, and Leeuwarden
- Leeuwarden
- Luttelgeest
- Súdwest-Fryslân
- Earnewâld
- More
Drive 229 km, 3 hours 13 min
- De Orchideeën Hoeve
- Waterpoort
- De Alde Feanen National Park
- Aquazoo Friesland
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your road trip in the Netherlands. Today, you will make 4 stops and experience some of the highlights of Luttelgeest, Sneek, Earnewâld, and Leeuwarden. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leeuwarden, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Luttelgeest’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Den Helder behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 28 min. Luttelgeest welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Pantropica (voorheen De Orchideeën Hoeve). This extraordinary zoo has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,813 visitors.
When you’ve had your share of Luttelgeest, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sneek. Your travel time is around 30 min.
Make Waterpoort one of your first sightseeing stops in Sneek. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,520 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Leeuwarden, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Leeuwarden's best restaurants.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Leeuwarden by securing a table at Bistro Aragosta. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional french menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Efeze, another premier location with a delectable menu.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bebida's, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, De Toeter offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café De Rus Leeuwarden provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in the Netherlands.
Day 5 – Leeuwarden, Apeldoorn, Arnhem, and Amsterdam
- Amsterdam
- Apeldoorn
- Arnhem
- More
Drive 267 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Apenheul
- Netherlands Open Air Museum
- Burgers' Zoo
- More
On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Apeldoorn, and Arnhem. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Amsterdam, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
When you’ve had your share of Leeuwarden, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Apeldoorn. Your travel time is around 1 hour 35 min.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Apenheul Primate Park. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 17,919 visitors.
Arnhem’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Apeldoorn behind. This drive usually takes around 29 min. Arnhem welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Netherlands Open Air Museum. This extraordinary national museum has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,800 visitors. Each year, around 524,188 people visit this remarkable site to admire its features and learn more about it.
Next, make your way to Royal Burgers' Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 35,556 reviews.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Amsterdam, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Amsterdam's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Loetje, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Moon, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at d'Vijff Vlieghen. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Bitterbal, known for its lively atmosphere. Twenty Third Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Skylounge Amsterdam offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Say good night to Amsterdam and look forward to another great day of your road trip in the Netherlands!
Day 6 – Amsterdam - departure day
- Amsterdam - Departure day
- More
- De 9 Straatjes
- More
Day 6 of your road trip in the Netherlands is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Amsterdam before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in the Netherlands and go on a shopping spree in Amsterdam’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in the Netherlands.
Make Negen Straatjes one of your first sightseeing stops in Amsterdam. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,365 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.
Before you conclude your road trip in the Netherlands, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Amsterdam.
If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Spirit Amsterdam, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Amsterdam. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in the Netherlands!
Similar travel packages
Explore other unique escapes in the Netherlands
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.