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

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Experience the Netherlands like never before on this 7-day relaxed road trip, traversing through Amsterdam, Zaandijk, Edam, Volendam, Monnickendam, Utrecht, Gouda, Rotterdam, Kinderdijk, and The Hague. This self-drive vacation offers a tranquil journey through the heart-stopping beauty found in the Netherlands.

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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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Anne Frank House
VondelparkVan Gogh MuseumRijksmuseumSarphatiparkDe Pijp
Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse SchansSaint Nicholas ChurchVolendam MuseumMuseum de Speeltoren
Museum SpeelklokDom Tower of UtrechtZocherparkSaint-John ChurchGouda Cheese Experience
Diergaarde BlijdorpErasmusbrugMarkthal ToursUnesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk
Peace PalaceMauritshuisBinnenhof
Dam Square

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Day 1

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, CAU Steak Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center 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.

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 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
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 14 min

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

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.

Today’s itinerary in Amsterdam covers several incredible sights, including a park and a museum. Start your adventure at Vondelpark. This impressive park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the instagrammable 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 top-rated museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Sarphatipark, where you can take in eye-catching features. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

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 lovely dining experience at Eye Film Museum, 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 Ambassade, 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 Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Amsterdam tonight.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars 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.

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 3

Day 3

  • Amsterdam
  • More

Drive 69 km, 1 hour 26 min

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

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.

Get ready for an exciting day in Amsterdam. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a handicraft store, a church, and a museum. Begin your adventure at Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans. This is an often recommended handicraft store you should not miss. Another must-see is Saint Nicholas Church, an up-and-coming church in Amsterdam.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Volendam Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Museum De Speeltoren, another of the village’s up-and-coming attractions.

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

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.

Savor the flavors at Café Loetje, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Moon beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider d'Vijff Vlieghen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Amsterdam tonight.

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.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Bar Bitterbal. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Twenty Third Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Louis Bar provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Zaandijk can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in the Netherlands!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Amsterdam
  • 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 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 Utrecht. By the end of the day, you’ll drive in the direction of the town of Gouda, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 2 nights.

A blend of fun adventures, picturesque spots, and history-rich sites await you in Amsterdam on today’s itinerary. First up is the beloved museum, Museum Speelklok. Afterward, continue to Dom Tower Of Utrecht, a monument every traveler should visit.

As you explore Amsterdam’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Zocherpark. This beloved park is an essential stop. Following that, head to Saint-john Church, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Don’t forget to stop by Gouda Cheese Experience, an increasingly popular museum in the city.

In the town of Gouda, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in the Netherlands.

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 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.

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.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Barbier Gouda, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

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

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Gouda
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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.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. Start at the well-known Diergaarde Blijdorp, a breathtaking zoo in Gouda. Next, go to Erasmusbrug.

After visiting Diergaarde Blijdorp and Erasmusbrug, have a stroll along Gouda's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Markthal Tours. This breathtaking food market offers a unique experience. Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

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

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Restaurant Bij Ons, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Grand Café Central? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Bagels & Beans as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Gouda.

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

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

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Gouda
  • Amsterdam
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Drive 103 km, 1 hour 48 min

  • Peace Palace
  • Mauritshuis
  • Binnenhof
  • More

Day 6 of your self-drive tour in the Netherlands is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Amsterdam 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.

Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots in the charming city of Gouda. Your adventure starts at Peace Palace, an intriguing local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is Mauritshuis. This locally renowned museum is known for its culturally significant appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Gouda's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Binnenhof. This breathtaking historical landmark offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable.

Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in the Netherlands at Amsterdam. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.

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 Amsterdam.

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.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Amsterdam. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Bar Mokum, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, De Zotte provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in the Netherlands!

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Day 7

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, De Negen Straatjes. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip. Browse boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Dam Square. This interesting public square is a popular place to see in the city.

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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