6-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam traveling east to Den Helder and Leeuwarden
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Description
Escape the ordinary with this exciting 6-day road trip through the Netherlands. Explore the diverse landscapes, lively cities, and beyond. 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. Marvel at the remarkable Anne Frank House, learn more about the unique Vondelpark, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dam Square.
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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
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- Dam Square
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Welcome to Amsterdam, the perfect starting point for your road trip in the Netherlands! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Amsterdam's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
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.
Find your way to your hotel in Amsterdam. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in the Netherlands. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Amsterdam, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? CAU Steak Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Amsterdam.
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.
Raise a toast to the start of your 6-day road trip in the Netherlands!
Day 2
- Amsterdam
- Amstelveen
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Drive 37 km, 1 hour 54 min
- This is Holland
- NEMO Science Center
- Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam
- Rijksmuseum
- Het Amsterdamse Bos
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On day 2 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Amsterdam, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Amsterdam and Amstelveen. You still have 1 night left in Amsterdam.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Amsterdam. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await. This Is Holland is the perfect place to start. This flying theater is one of the most underrated places to visit in Amsterdam. Next, head to Nemo Science Center, a well-known science center, known for its breathtaking features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam. This eye-catching botanical garden offers a unique experience that is highly recommended. Meanwhile, Rijksmuseum adds its own distinct charm to your journey.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Amsterdam, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Amstelveen may take around 17 min. Upon your arrival in Amstelveen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Savor the rest of your day by heading to Het Amsterdamse Bos, a locally renowned park that draws visitors from near and far.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Amsterdam.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Amsterdam. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Amsterdam by securing a table at Flore. An esteemed 2-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional contemporary and creative french menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Ciel Bleu, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 2-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Restaurant 212, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite creative cuisine in Amsterdam. Located in the heart of the city, this 2-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for creative cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Oporto. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook 't Aepjen, another top-rated bar in the area.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in the Netherlands!
Day 3
- Amsterdam
- Den Helder
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Drive 102 km, 2 hours 4 min
- Anne Frank House
- Van Gogh Museum
- Vondelpark
- Artis
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in the Netherlands. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Amsterdam. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Den Helder, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
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 Anne Frank House, an impressive local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Van Gogh Museum. This astonishing museum is known for its respected appeal.
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 Vondelpark. This masterful park offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Artis is also worth visiting.
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.
As you explore more of Den Helder, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Visrestaurant/Café Neptunus, a highly-rated dining destination in Den Helder. If you're eager to try something different, consider Robuust, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Witte Raaf. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Den Helder this evening.
Head back to your accommodation in Den Helder and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in the Netherlands!
Day 4
- Den Helder
- Luttelgeest
- Súdwest-Fryslân
- Earnewâld
- Leeuwarden
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Drive 229 km, 3 hours 13 min
- De Orchideeën Hoeve
- Waterpoort
- De Alde Feanen National Park
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Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in the Netherlands. Today you will explore Luttelgeest, Sneek, Earnewâld, and Leeuwarden, 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 Leeuwarden. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Den Helder, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Luttelgeest. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 28 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Head to Pantropica (voorheen De Orchideeën Hoeve), an interesting botanical garden in Luttelgeest. Explore its awe-inspiring features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sneek. This drive usually takes around 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Spend your afternoon discovering Waterpoort, a curiosity-inducing monument known for its breathtaking features.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Earnewâld. This drive usually takes around 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Take your self-guided tour to De Alde Feanen National Park, a worthwhile national park that everyone visiting Earnewâld should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leeuwarden. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Leeuwarden's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary journey in Leeuwarden by reserving a table at Bistro Aragosta. Renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, it offers an exceptional french menu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Efeze, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bebida's, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. De Toeter is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Café De Rus Leeuwarden is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in the Netherlands!
Day 5
- Leeuwarden
- Apeldoorn
- Arnhem
- Amsterdam
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Drive 267 km, 3 hours 35 min
- Apenheul Primate Park
- Netherlands Open Air Museum
- Royal Burgers' Zoo
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in the Netherlands. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Apeldoorn and Arnhem. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Amsterdam. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
After soaking in Leeuwarden’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Apeldoorn. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 35 min. When you arrive in Apeldoorn, it's time to take a break from the road.
Apenheul Primate Park is a well-known zoo we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picturesque features before continuing your self-guided tour.
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.
Netherlands Open Air Museum is a captivating museum we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to Royal Burgers' Zoo, an awe-inspiring zoo that’s well-regarded in the area.
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.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Amsterdam's best restaurants.
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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Bar Bitterbal, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Twenty Third Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Louis Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in the Netherlands!
Day 6
- Amsterdam - Departure day
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- Negen Straatjes
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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.
Make the most of your final day in the Netherlands by visiting Amsterdam’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing P. C. Hooftstraat. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in the Netherlands. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
Immerse yourself in Amsterdam’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Negen Straatjes. This romantic street is sure to ignite your curiosity.
Before you conclude your road trip in the Netherlands, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Amsterdam.
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!
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