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

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Amsterdam in Autumn
Channel in Amsterdam Netherlands houses river Amstel landmark old european city spring landscape.
Relaxed 7-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Gouda
Relaxed 7-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Gouda
Relaxed 7-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Gouda
Relaxed 7-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Gouda
Relaxed 7-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Gouda
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Discover stunning scenery and hidden gems on this 7-day relaxed road trip in the Netherlands! Amsterdam, Zaandijk, Edam, Volendam, Monnickendam, Utrecht, Gouda, Rotterdam, Kinderdijk, and The Hague await with vibrant culture and lasting memories as you unwind on this self-drive vacation.

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in the Netherlands, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 4 nights in Amsterdam and 2 nights in Gouda, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in the Netherlands.

Your journey starts in Amsterdam, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 7-day relaxed road trip in the Netherlands to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in the Netherlands already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Rijksmuseum and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Van Gogh Museum.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this the Netherlands road trip itinerary for 7 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in the Netherlands.

If you want to make your 7-day relaxed self-drive tour in the Netherlands even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in the Netherlands includes 6 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 7 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 7-day relaxed self-drive road trip in the Netherlands today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day1

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. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

When you're ready for some downtime, make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Amsterdam. Make yourself at home and unwind 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a highly-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider CAU Steak Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 an excellent 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 on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in the Netherlands. Enjoy your first taste of Amsterdam as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day2

Day 2

  • Amsterdam
  • More

Drive 14 km, 1 hour 14 min

  • Vondelpark
  • Van Gogh Museum
  • Rijksmuseum
  • Sarphatipark
  • De Pijp
  • More

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!

A top thing to do today is to explore De Pijp, a must-see neighborhood in Amsterdam. It's the perfect starting point for touring the top attractions in the area.

Visiting Vondelpark is always a good idea. This widely recognized park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the history-steeped wonders of Van Gogh Museum, a must-see museum in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Rijksmuseum. This impressive museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sarphatipark, where you can take in mesmerizing features.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across the Netherlands by joining a traveler-approved tour in Amsterdam. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Amsterdam that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in the Netherlands more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Amsterdam to find the best options for you!

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 delightful dinner at Eye Film Museum, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Restaurant Ambassade? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Palmyra Syrian Restaurant as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Amsterdam.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Café Oporto is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is 't Aepjen. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day3

Day 3

  • Amsterdam
  • Zaandijk
  • Edam
  • Volendam
  • More

Drive 69 km, 1 hour 26 min

  • Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse Schans
  • Saint Nicholas Church
  • Volendam Museum
  • More

On day 3 of your relaxed road trip in the Netherlands, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Amsterdam and visit amazing attractions in Zaandijk, Edam, Volendam, and Monnickendam, just outside the city. You still have 1 night left in Amsterdam, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Set your GPS to Zaandijk and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 24 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Zaandijk beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans. Spend some time admiring the photogenic features of the handicraft store before you continue to your next stop.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Zaandijk and set your GPS to Edam. 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 19 min. Upon reaching Edam, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Saint Nicholas Church, an often recommended church known for its historic features.

Set your GPS to Volendam and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Volendam beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Volendam Museum and explore the instagrammable features.

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

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.

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.

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 enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Bitterbal, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Twenty Third Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Louis Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Amsterdam as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in the Netherlands!

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Day4

Day 4

  • Amsterdam
  • Utrecht
  • Gouda
  • More

Drive 88 km, 1 hour 58 min

  • Museum Speelklok
  • Dom Tower of Utrecht
  • Zocherpark
  • Saint-John Church
  • Gouda Cheese Experience
  • More

Day 4 of your easy, relaxed road trip through the Netherlands lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Utrecht. By evening, drive toward the Gouda, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

Gouda’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Utrecht behind. This drive usually takes around 40 min. Gouda welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Museum Speelklok, an intriguing museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Dom Tower Of Utrecht, where you can soak in the picture-perfect surroundings.

Next, explore Zocherpark, yet another frequently visited place to see in the area.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Amsterdam, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Gouda. This drive usually takes around 52 min.

Saint-john Church is an increasingly popular church we recommend visiting today. Discover its stunning features before continuing your self-guided tour to Gouda Cheese Experience, a photogenic museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

In Gouda, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in the Netherlands.

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Gouda, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the town.

Keep the evening going at Barbier Gouda, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in the Netherlands. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in the Netherlands tomorrow with new energy.

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Day5

Day 5

  • Gouda
  • Rotterdam
  • Kinderdijk
  • More

Drive 99 km, 2 hours

  • Diergaarde Blijdorp
  • Erasmusbrug
  • Markthal Tours
  • Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk
  • More

On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across the Netherlands, you’ll explore the area around Gouda, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Gouda will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of the Netherlands.

When you’ve had your share of Gouda, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rotterdam. Your travel time is around 27 min.

Spend your afternoon discovering Diergaarde Blijdorp, a locally renowned zoo known for its visually striking features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Erasmusbrug, a captivating monument.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Markthal Tours and uncover the details of this instagrammable food market.

Set your GPS to Kinderdijk and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kinderdijk beckons with new experiences!

When you're ready for some sights, head to Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk, an intriguing historical landmark in Kinderdijk. Explore its UNESCO world heritage-listed features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

Exploring the food culture in Gouda 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 town.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Restaurant Bij Ons, a popular restaurant in Gouda. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Gouda at Grand Café Central, 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 Bagels & Beans. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Gouda tonight.

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

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in the Netherlands!

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Day6

Day 6

  • Gouda
  • The Hague
  • Amsterdam
  • More

Drive 103 km, 1 hour 48 min

  • Peace Palace
  • Mauritshuis
  • Binnenhof
  • More

On day 6 of your laid-back road trip adventure in the Netherlands, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, The Hague. This car ride takes around 7 min.

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Peace Palace and explore the respected features. Next, make your way to Mauritshuis, another highlight in The Hague. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Binnenhof, an instagrammable historical landmark.

Continue your laid-back road trip in the Netherlands as you make your way to Amsterdam. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

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 dining experience at Gartine, 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 Spirit Amsterdam, 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 FuLu Mandarijn. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Amsterdam tonight.

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.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Mokum is an excellent place to start. You could also check out De Zotte, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day7

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’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in Amsterdam.

Make the most of your final day in the Netherlands by visiting Amsterdam’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Kalverstraat. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Dam Square, a symbolic public square before you head out.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 7 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in Amsterdam, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

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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Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
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Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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