One-Week the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Gouda and Delft

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Explore the best of the Netherlands on a remarkable 8-day road trip! Combine exploration with relaxation on a self-drive tour featuring Amsterdam, Zaandijk, Haarlem, Utrecht, Gouda, Rotterdam, Delft, The Hague, Lisse, Leiden, Volendam, and Monnickendam.

This perfectly planned road trip itinerary takes you through some of the best places to see in the Netherlands. You will spend 4 nights in Amsterdam, 1 night in Gouda, and 2 nights in Delft. 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 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 Keukenhof, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Vondelpark.

As you hit the open road and drive through Amsterdam, Zaandijk, Haarlem, Utrecht, Gouda, Rotterdam, Delft, The Hague, Lisse, Leiden, Volendam, and Monnickendam, 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, accommodations, 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!

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Pick-up: 10:00
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Day 1

Day 1

  • Amsterdam - Arrival day
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  • Anne Frank House
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Your road trip adventure in the Netherlands begins as soon as you reach Amsterdam and pick up your car. You’ll stay here for 3 nights and explore what to see in Amsterdam, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Amsterdam. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in the Netherlands. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas in the city.

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 lovely meal at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, CAU Steak Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Amsterdam tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Excalibur Café, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Rosalia's Menagerie offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Café Hill Street Blues provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 8-day road trip in the Netherlands!

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Amsterdam
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Drive 8 km, 58 min

  • Rijksmuseum
  • Van Gogh Museum
  • Vondelpark
  • De Pijp
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On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to discover what to see in Amsterdam. You’ll stay in Amsterdam for 2 nights.

De Pijp is a fantastic place you can explore today in Amsterdam. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the Amsterdam-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights.

Catch Rijksmuseum before the crowds roll in. This heritage-rich museum is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the eye-catching features of Van Gogh Museum, a must-visit museum in the city.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Vondelpark, an impressive park.

Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and experiences you can add to your travel plans in the Netherlands. You can explore and select activities under each day of your itinerary.

Amsterdam is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Amsterdam.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Café Oporto, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, 't Aepjen offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in the Netherlands.

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Amsterdam
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Drive 84 km, 1 hour 40 min

  • Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse Schans
  • Teylers Museum
  • The St Bavo Church in Haarlem
  • Frans Hals Museum
  • More

On day 3 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Amsterdam, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including Zaandijk and Haarlem.

Zaandijk is brimming with adventures.

Catch Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans before the crowds roll in. This standout handicraft store is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Teylers Museum, a must-visit museum in the village.

In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to The St. Bavo Church In Haarlem, a locally appreciated church. For a change of scene, check out Frans Hals Museum, known for its history-steeped features.

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

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Amsterdam. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

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

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Bar Bitterbal, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Twenty Third Bar offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Amsterdam. Louis Bar is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in the Netherlands!

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Amsterdam
  • Gouda
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Drive 99 km, 1 hour 44 min

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Utrecht and Gouda. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Gouda, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Awaiting your discovery is the underrated Dom Tower Of Utrecht, an awe-inspiring monument in Amsterdam. Next, go to Museum Catharijneconvent.

After visiting Dom Tower Of Utrecht and Museum Catharijneconvent, have a stroll along Amsterdam's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Gouda Cheese Experience. This eye-catching museum offers a unique experience. Saint-john Church is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Gouda. Gouda offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.

Gouda is a place where the culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. So before the day ends, treat your palate to a taste of local cuisine at one of the best restaurants in Gouda.

Dine in style at Prego!, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Verhage Gouda boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Swing Gouda. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Gouda.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Barbier Gouda, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.

Say good night to Gouda and look forward to another great day of your road trip in the Netherlands!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Gouda
  • Delft
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Drive 47 km, 1 hour 15 min

  • Markthal Tours
  • Maritime Museum
  • Royal Delft
  • Nieuwe Church
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On day 5 of your road trip in the Netherlands, your travel plans include 2 stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Rotterdam and Delft are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Delft, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Start your day at Markthal Tours. This eye-catching food market is an increasingly popular place to see in Gouda. Then, wander over to Maritime Museum Rotterdam. If eye-catching sites excite you, this maritime museum will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find De Porceleyne Fles. This photogenic museum is a favorite among visitors.

Gouda offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Nieuwe Kerk Delft is an up-and-coming spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Delft, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

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 Delft, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at LEF Restaurant & Bar Delft, an iconic dining spot in Delft. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Charcoal, a popular restaurant in Delft. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Heinde Delft, a hidden gem nestled in Delft. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café-cocktailbar Luna. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, 't Proeflokaal offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook De Botanie, another top-rated bar in the area.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in the Netherlands!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Delft
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Drive 34 km, 1 hour 21 min

  • Scheveningse Bosjes
  • Peace Palace
  • Mauritshuis
  • Binnenhof
  • Scheveningen
  • Zeeheldenkwartier
  • More

Wake up to day 6 of your road trip in the Netherlands. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of The Hague. With 1 night to stay in Delft, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Scheveningen is a fantastic place you can explore today in The Hague. This neighborhood is a testament to the city’s character, and it's easy to spend hours just walking around and admiring the surroundings. Soak in the The Hague-way-of-life and visit all the nearby sights. You should also check out Zeeheldenkwartier, a neighborhood offering more opportunities to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and landmarks.

Scheveningse Bosjes is must-visit park and a great option for a daytime tour of the area. Continue your journey to Peace Palace, a curiosity-inducing palace, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Mauritshuis, a photogenic museum, also available for your discovery today.

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

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 Delft, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Hampshire Hotel Delft Centre | Overnachten, Arrangementen en Zakelijk, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Believe food & wines by les copains is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Bij Harry. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Delft tonight.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Café De Oude Jan after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Doerak for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Locus Publicus is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in the Netherlands!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • Delft
  • Amsterdam
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Drive 176 km, 3 hours 6 min

  • Keukenhof
  • Hortus botanicus Leiden
  • Volendam Museum
  • Paard van Marken
  • More

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable road trip in the Netherlands. Today you'll explore 4 destinations, including Lisse, Leiden, Volendam, and Monnickendam. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Amsterdam, where you'll spend 1 night.

Make time for Keukenhof, a spectacular garden that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Hortus Botanicus Leiden, enchanting visitors with its peaceful appeal. Continue your exploration at Volendam Museum. This museum is one of the town’s most increasingly popular spots.

Enjoy the freedom of exploring Delft at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Paard Van Marken.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Amsterdam. Check in and relax before you head out to tour the city.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Amsterdam's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for a true cultural experience.

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

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Mokum, known for its lively atmosphere. De Zotte is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in the Netherlands!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Amsterdam - Departure day
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  • Dam Square
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Day 8 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.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Dam Square. This locally renowned public square is a hotspot among locals.

For a shopping spree in Amsterdam, we recommend the lively Kalverstraat. Here, you'll find a range of shops you can browse for some souvenir shopping.

Before you conclude your road trip in the Netherlands, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Amsterdam.

If you're eager to try something different, consider Winkel 43, another top spot with a tantalizing menu.

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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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.
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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