One-Week the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Gouda and Delft
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Description
Explore the best of the Netherlands on a 8-day road trip! Uncover hidden gems and experience the rich culture firsthand as you journey through Amsterdam, Zaandijk, Haarlem, Utrecht, Gouda, Rotterdam, Delft, The Hague, Lisse, Leiden, Volendam, and Monnickendam. This road trip itinerary in the Netherlands seamlessly combines exploration with relaxation.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in the Netherlands takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. 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 got 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, accommodation, 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!
Itinerary summary
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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 in Amsterdam for 3 nights and explore the best things to see and do, 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, or just 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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? CAU Steak Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Amsterdam.
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 to the start of your 8-day road trip in the Netherlands!
Day 2
- Amsterdam
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Drive 8 km, 58 min
- Rijksmuseum
- Van Gogh Museum
- Vondelpark
- De Pijp
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Amsterdam for 2 nights more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
De Pijp is one of the highlights of today. Take your time exploring this iconic neighborhood in Amsterdam, which offers a perfect blend of history and culture. Plus, it's close to many must-see landmarks in the city.
Today’s itinerary in Amsterdam covers several incredible sights, including a museum and a park. Start your adventure at Rijksmuseum. This widely recognized museum 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 Vondelpark. This impressive park offers an enriching experience.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. The Netherlands is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Amsterdam. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Make sure to reserve a table at Eye Film Museum, an iconic dining spot in Amsterdam. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Ambassade, a popular restaurant in Amsterdam. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Palmyra Syrian Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Amsterdam. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Café Oporto, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, a bar catering to every mood and preference. 't Aepjen likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in the Netherlands!
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
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On day 3 of your road trip in the Netherlands, you’ll start and end your day in Amsterdam, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the city. Since you will return to Amsterdam for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Zaandijk and Haarlem to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Amsterdam, including a handicraft store, a museum, and a church. Start your adventure at Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans. This intriguing handicraft store is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Teylers Museum located in Amsterdam for an enchanting atmosphere.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of The St. Bavo Church In Haarlem. Its picture-perfect features will captivate you. After the church, continue your tour of the village with a visit to Frans Hals Museum. This museum has an instagrammable appeal.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Amsterdam.
As you explore more of Amsterdam, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Café Loetje, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Moon offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss d'Vijff Vlieghen. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Amsterdam.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Bitterbal after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Twenty Third Bar, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Louis Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in the Netherlands!
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
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in the Netherlands. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Utrecht and Gouda. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Gouda. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Amsterdam today. One of the most worthwhile attractions included on the itinerary is Dom Tower Of Utrecht. This instagrammable monument will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Museum Catharijneconvent and learn what makes this photogenic museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the intriguing Gouda Cheese Experience. After exploring the museum, head to Saint-john Church. This increasingly popular church is a highlight in Amsterdam.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Gouda. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the town.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Gouda. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the town, it's often a good idea to reserve a table 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 savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Barbier Gouda, where the evening is just getting started.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in the Netherlands!
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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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable road trip in the Netherlands. Today you will explore Rotterdam and Delft, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Delft. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.
Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the up-and-coming Markthal Tours, a picture-perfect food market in Gouda. Next, go to Maritime Museum Rotterdam.
After visiting Markthal Tours and Maritime Museum Rotterdam, take time to explore Gouda's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to De Porceleyne Fles. This eye-catching museum offers a unique experience. Nieuwe Kerk Delft is another noteworthy stop.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Delft. Delft offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Delft's best restaurants.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at LEF Restaurant & Bar Delft, a popular restaurant in Delft. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Delft at Charcoal, 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 Heinde Delft. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Delft tonight.
Keep the evening going at Café-cocktailbar Luna, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to 't Proeflokaal, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is De Botanie, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in the Netherlands!
Day 6
- Delft
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Drive 34 km, 1 hour 21 min
- Scheveningse Bosjes
- Peace Palace
- Mauritshuis
- Binnenhof
- Scheveningen
- Zeeheldenkwartier
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At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Delft, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
A visit to Scheveningen in The Hague is a must on the agenda today. This neighborhood is full of hidden gems and character, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, you’ll be close to some of the city’s most famous sights. Don’t forget to check out Zeeheldenkwartier as well, a neighborhood that adds another layer to your exploration.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Delft, featuring fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Scheveningse Bosjes, an often recommended park in the city. Then, head to Peace Palace and soak in the ambiance of this breathtaking palace.
There are many interesting places to see in Delft and when you are ready for more, go to Mauritshuis. This is one of the city’s most notable spots. After exploring the museum, visit the worthwhile Binnenhof.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Delft and your accommodation.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Delft's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Dine in style at Hampshire Hotel Delft Centre | Overnachten, Arrangementen en Zakelijk, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Believe food & wines by les copains boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Bij Harry. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Delft.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Café De Oude Jan, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Doerak is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Locus Publicus also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Relax and reminisce about your day in the Netherlands and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- Delft
- Amsterdam
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Drive 176 km, 3 hours 6 min
- Keukenhof
- Hortus botanicus Leiden
- Volendam Museum
- Paard van Marken
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On day 7 of your road trip in the Netherlands, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Lisse, Leiden, Volendam, and Monnickendam. In the evening, you’ll end up in Amsterdam, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today's adventure in Delft promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Keukenhof. Then, enjoy Hortus Botanicus Leiden, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Volendam Museum, one of the town’s most increasingly popular attractions, known for its history-steeped features.
If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Paard Van Marken. This enchanting lighthouse is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Amsterdam, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
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 and reflect on the day's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Gartine, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Spirit Amsterdam? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at FuLu Mandarijn as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Amsterdam.
To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Bar Mokum after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to De Zotte, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in the Netherlands.
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, we recommend visiting Dam Square, a symbolic public square before you head out.
As your final day in the Netherlands unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Amsterdam's best shopping area, De Negen Straatjes. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to the Netherlands. Browse through boutiques to find unique and stylish fashion pieces to take home.
Before you conclude your road trip in the Netherlands, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Amsterdam.
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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