Relaxed 7-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Gouda
Description
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Description
Explore the Netherlands and discover its unique charm on this 7-day relaxed road trip through Amsterdam, Zaandijk, Edam, Volendam, Monnickendam, Utrecht, Gouda, Rotterdam, Kinderdijk, and The Hague. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in the Netherlands at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Amsterdam, Zaandijk, Edam, Volendam, Monnickendam, Utrecht, Gouda, Rotterdam, Kinderdijk, and The Hague. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 4 nights in Amsterdam and 2 nights in Gouda. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in the Netherlands.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in the Netherlands. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Amsterdam, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 7-day journey across the Netherlands and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across the Netherlands with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in the Netherlands.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in the Netherlands. This relaxed road trip features the stunning Rijksmuseum. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Van Gogh Museum.
Traveling leisurely through the Netherlands means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Anne Frank House. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Vondelpark. Get close to the spectacular Dam Square and the wonderful Diergaarde Blijdorp. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through the Netherlands's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in the Netherlands.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in the Netherlands. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through the Netherlands's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the the Netherlands.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through the Netherlands. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 6 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 7 days of your self-drive road trip in the Netherlands. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 7-day vacation in the Netherlands and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in the Netherlands today!
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Day 1
- Amsterdam - Arrival day
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- Anne Frank House
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Your relaxed road trip through the Netherlands starts when you reach the incredible city of Amsterdam, where you'll stay for 3 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Amsterdam and begin your adventure in the Netherlands.
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.
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.
Dine in style at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, CAU Steak Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Amsterdam.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Amsterdam and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Excalibur Café after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Rosalia's Menagerie, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Café Hill Street Blues also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the Netherlands. Enjoy your first taste of Amsterdam as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Amsterdam
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 14 min
- Vondelpark
- Van Gogh Museum
- Rijksmuseum
- Sarphatipark
- De Pijp
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Day 2 of your relaxed road trip through the Netherlands means 24 hours of making the best memories in Amsterdam. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Amsterdam. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Amsterdam!
At the top of the list of things to do today is to explore De Pijp, a neighborhood that captures the true essence of Amsterdam. Take your time to uncover its best sides and enjoy its proximity to many of the area’s best attractions.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. 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. Vondelpark is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this noteworthy park before continuing your journey. Van Gogh Museum is your next stop. This top-rated 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 Rijksmuseum. This history-steeped museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Sarphatipark.
The Netherlands makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, the Netherlands also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Amsterdam has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Eye Film Museum, a highly-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider Restaurant Ambassade, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Amsterdam and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
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.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in the Netherlands!
Day 3
- Amsterdam
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Drive 69 km, 1 hour 26 min
- Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse Schans
- Saint Nicholas Church
- Volendam Museum
- Museum de Speeltoren
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On day 3 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Amsterdam and visit amazing attractions in Zaandijk, Edam, Volendam, and Monnickendam destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Amsterdam. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites. The first attraction of today is Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans. This beloved handicraft store is a photogenic place to see in Amsterdam. Continue your discovery at Saint Nicholas Church, a picture-perfect church with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Amsterdam, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Volendam Museum. This underrated museum offers an instagrammable encounter with Amsterdam. Next, make your way to Museum De Speeltoren to add another highlight to your day. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Amsterdam.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Amsterdam.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of the Netherlands. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Amsterdam, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Dine in style at Café Loetje, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Moon boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out d'Vijff Vlieghen. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Amsterdam.
A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Amsterdam.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Bar Bitterbal, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Twenty Third Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Louis Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in the Netherlands!
Day 4
- Amsterdam
- Gouda
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Drive 88 km, 1 hour 58 min
- Museum Speelklok
- Dom Tower of Utrecht
- Zocherpark
- Saint-John Church
- Gouda Cheese Experience
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Day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour in the Netherlands is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Gouda for 2 nights.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Amsterdam, featuring family-friendly attractions, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites. Start at Museum Speelklok, an intriguing museum in the city. Then, head to Dom Tower Of Utrecht and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking monument.
There are many interesting places to see in Amsterdam, and when you are ready for more, go to Zocherpark. This is one of the city’s most often recommended mesmerizing spots of interest. After exploring the park, visit the intriguing Saint-john Church. Not far away, you'll also find Gouda Cheese Experience. This museum is a historic highlight in Amsterdam.
You’ll be staying at the incredible town of Gouda in this laid-back road trip in the Netherlands. You'll stay here for 2 nights.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Prego!, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Verhage Gouda is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Swing Gouda. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Gouda tonight.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
Continue your lively evening at Barbier Gouda, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Gouda!
Day 5
- Gouda
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Drive 99 km, 2 hours
- Diergaarde Blijdorp
- Erasmusbrug
- Markthal Tours
- Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in the Netherlands continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of the Netherlands and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Gouda and beyond. With 1 night left in Gouda, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.
Today’s agenda in Gouda includes a zoo, a monument, a food market, a historical landmark and much more! Diergaarde Blijdorp is must-visit zoo and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Erasmusbrug, a popular monument, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Markthal Tours, a stunning food market, also available for your discovery today.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Gouda and your accommodation.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in the Netherlands, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Gouda.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Bij Ons, a highly-rated dining destination in Gouda. If you're eager to try something different, consider Grand Café Central, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Bagels & Beans. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Gouda this evening.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Gouda and take the pulse of the town’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in the Netherlands!
Day 6
- Gouda
- Amsterdam
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Drive 103 km, 1 hour 48 min
- Peace Palace
- Mauritshuis
- Binnenhof
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Day 6 of your easy and relaxed road trip through the Netherlands gives you the opportunity to travel leisurely and experience more than one place in one day. You will start your day by exploring some of the best sights in the city of The Hague. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the city of Amsterdam, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 1 night.
Gouda is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a palace, a museum, and a historical landmark. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the curiosity-inducing Peace Palace and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Mauritshuis, a standout museum that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Binnenhof, one of the city’s most intriguing spots that you shouldn’t miss.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Amsterdam. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in the Netherlands by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Amsterdam, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Gartine, a top-rated dining spot in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood for something new, try Spirit Amsterdam, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at FuLu Mandarijn. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Amsterdam.
Experience the amazing nightlife in Amsterdam and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Mokum, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out De Zotte, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Soak in the unique atmosphere of Amsterdam as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip through the Netherlands with a toast. Cheers to a memorable leisurely self-drive holiday in the Netherlands!
Day 7
- Amsterdam - Departure day
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- Dam Square
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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip in the Netherlands is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Amsterdam.
On your last day in the Netherlands, take time to indulge in shopping at Amsterdam’s popular marketplace, Kalverstraat. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Dam Square, a photogenic public square before you head out.
Unwind and look back at the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Amsterdam or just grab something light to keep you going.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Winkel 43, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Amsterdam and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 7-day relaxed road trip in the Netherlands is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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