Relaxed 7-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Arnhem

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Description

Explore the Netherlands and discover its unique charm on this 7-day relaxed road trip through Amsterdam, Amstelveen, Rotterdam, The Hague, Lisse, Kaatsheuvel, Drunen, Arnhem, Ede, and Apeldoorn. 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, Amstelveen, Rotterdam, The Hague, Lisse, Kaatsheuvel, Drunen, Arnhem, Ede, and Apeldoorn. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 5 nights in Amsterdam and 1 night in Arnhem. 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 Efteling. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Rijksmuseum.

Traveling leisurely through the Netherlands means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Van Gogh Museum. 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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Dam Square
VondelparkVan Gogh MuseumRijksmuseumArtisThis is Holland
Het Amsterdamse BosAnne Frank HouseDungeon AmsterdamNEMO Science CenterThis is Holland
Cube HousesDiergaarde BlijdorpMauritshuisKeukenhofThis is Holland
EftelingBaron 1898The Loonse and Drunense Duinen National ParkThis is Holland
Netherlands Open Air MuseumRoyal Burgers' ZooHoge Veluwe National ParkApenheul Primate Park
Negen StraatjesThis is Holland

Personalize your itinerary

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Day 1

Day 1 – Amsterdam - arrival day

  • Amsterdam - Arrival day
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  • Dam Square
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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 4 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 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.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Amsterdam.

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 satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in the Netherlands.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Excalibur Café, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Rosalia's Menagerie provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Café Hill Street Blues offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Amsterdam

  • Amsterdam
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Drive 14 km, 58 min

  • Vondelpark
  • Van Gogh Museum
  • Rijksmuseum
  • Artis
  • This is Holland
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Amsterdam, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in the Netherlands are extraordinary.

Begin your adventure at Vondelpark. This is an extraordinary park you should not miss. Another must-see is Van Gogh Museum, an extraordinary museum in Amsterdam.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Rijksmuseum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Artis, another of the city’s notable attractions. This Is Holland is a truly remarkable place to visit in Amsterdam.

Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about the Netherlands. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in the Netherlands and ensure the experience of a lifetime.

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 city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Make sure to book a table at Eye Film Museum, a popular restaurant in Amsterdam. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Amsterdam at Restaurant Ambassade, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Amsterdam tonight.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Amsterdam and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Café Oporto, known for its lively atmosphere. Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, 't Aepjen offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in the Netherlands!

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Day 3

Day 3 – Amsterdam and Amstelveen

  • Amsterdam
  • Amstelveen
  • More

Drive 37 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • Het Amsterdamse Bos
  • Anne Frank House
  • Dungeon Amsterdam
  • NEMO Science Center
  • This is Holland
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in the Netherlands continues on day 3, 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 Amsterdam and beyond. With 2 nights left in Amsterdam, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Amsterdam, featuring a visually striking, a historic, a symbolic, and a breathtaking. Start at Anne Frank House, an extraordinary museum in the town. Then, head to Dungeon Amsterdam and soak in the ambiance of this eye-catching haunted house.

There are many interesting places to see in Amsterdam and when you are ready for more, go to Nemo Science Center. This is one of the town’s most notable spots.

Amstelveen’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Amsterdam behind. This drive usually takes around 27 min. Amstelveen welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Het Amsterdamse Bos is a well-known park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Amsterdam.

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 city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Café Loetje, a top-rated dining spot in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood for something new, try Restaurant Moon, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at d'Vijff Vlieghen. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Amsterdam.

As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Amsterdam. The bars in Amsterdam make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Bar Bitterbal, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Twenty Third Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Louis Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in the Netherlands!

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Day 4

Day 4 – Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Lisse

  • Amsterdam
  • Rotterdam
  • The Hague
  • Lisse
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Drive 180 km, 3 hours 9 min

  • Cube Houses
  • Diergaarde Blijdorp
  • Mauritshuis
  • Keukenhof
  • This is Holland
  • More

On day 4 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Amsterdam and visit amazing attractions in Rotterdam, The Hague, Lisse, and Amsterdam 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.

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 Rotterdam may take around 1 hour 14 min. Upon your arrival in Rotterdam, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cube House. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the art installation before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Diergaarde Blijdorp. This notable zoo is a traveler-favorite in the city.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rotterdam and set your GPS to The Hague. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 24 min. Upon reaching The Hague, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Begin your journey at Mauritshuis and explore the eye-catching features.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Amsterdam and your accommodation.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Gartine, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Spirit Amsterdam offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, FuLu Mandarijn is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Amsterdam.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Amsterdam’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in the Netherlands.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bar Mokum, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of De Zotte, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in the Netherlands!

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Day 5

Day 5 – Amsterdam, Kaatsheuvel, Drunen, and Arnhem

  • Amsterdam
  • Kaatsheuvel
  • Drunen
  • Arnhem
  • More

Drive 205 km, 2 hours 51 min

  • Efteling
  • Baron 1898
  • The Loonse and Drunense Duinen National Park
  • This is Holland
  • More

Day 5 of your self-drive tour in the Netherlands is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Arnhem for 1 night. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in the Netherlands.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Amsterdam and set your GPS to Kaatsheuvel. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 1 hour 23 min. Upon reaching Kaatsheuvel, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Efteling is a globally renowned amusement park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its picture-perfect features before continuing your self-guided tour to Baron 1898, a stunning amusement park that’s well-regarded in the area.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Drunen. This car ride takes around 18 min.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to The Loonse And Drunense Duinen National Park, a curiosity-inducing national park that draws visitors from near and far.

You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Arnhem in this laid-back road trip in the Netherlands. You'll stay here for 1 night.

Exploring the food culture in Arnhem offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Arneym, a top-rated dining spot in Arnhem. If you're in the mood for something new, try Goed Proeven, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Trattoria & Pizzeria Così Arnhem. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Arnhem.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Arnhem and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. The Pegasus Arnhem is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Davo Bar Arnhem, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Het Barretje No. 15. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in the Netherlands!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Arnhem, Ede, Apeldoorn, and Amsterdam

  • Arnhem
  • Ede
  • Apeldoorn
  • Amsterdam
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Drive 139 km, 2 hours 26 min

  • Netherlands Open Air Museum
  • Royal Burgers' Zoo
  • Hoge Veluwe National Park
  • Apenheul Primate Park
  • More

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 Arnhem. 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.

A blend of a breathtaking, a picture-perfect, a respected, and a serene await you in Arnhem on today’s itinerary. First up is the captivating museum, Netherlands Open Air Museum. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Royal Burgers' Zoo. A visit to this zoo is an enriching experience for all.

Set your GPS to Ede and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Ede beckons with new experiences!

Begin your journey at Het Nationale Park De Hoge Veluwe and explore the romantic features.

After soaking in Ede’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 29 min. When you arrive in Apeldoorn, it's time to take a break from the road.

Apenheul Primate Park is an interesting zoo we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its peaceful features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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.

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 lovely meal at Café Orloff Amsterdam, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Winkel 43 is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bistrot Neuf. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Amsterdam tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Amsterdam.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Nightbar The Bottle, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Cafe Bar The Pint offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Cafe The Barrel. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in the Netherlands!

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Day 7

Day 7 – Amsterdam - departure day

  • Amsterdam - Departure day
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  • Negen Straatjes
  • This is Holland
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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.

As your final day in the Netherlands unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Amsterdam's best shopping area. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to the Netherlands.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Amsterdam is the remarkable Negen Straatjes. This street and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 12,365 visitors.

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.

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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