One-Week the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Leeuwarden, Den Helder, Hoorn, and The Hague and surrounding area

Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Select dates
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
All inclusive app
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Experience the freedom of the open road in the Netherlands as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Amsterdam, Leeuwarden, Earnewâld, Sneek, Den Helder, Anna Paulowna, Amstelveen, Muiden, Zaandijk, Hoorn, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Lisse.

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 3 nights in Amsterdam, 1 night in Leeuwarden, 1 night in Den Helder, 1 night in Hoorn, and 1 night in The Hague. 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, Leeuwarden, Earnewâld, Sneek, Den Helder, Anna Paulowna, Amstelveen, Muiden, Zaandijk, Hoorn, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Lisse, 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!

Read more

Itinerary summary

See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize

Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Dam Square
Hortus Botanicus AmsterdamRijksmuseumVan Gogh MuseumVondelparkDe Pijp
Anne Frank HouseArtisNEMO Science Center
Fries MuseumAquazoo FrieslandDe Alde Feanen National ParkWaterpoort
Estate HoenderdaellHet Amsterdamse BosMuiderslotWooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse Schans
Diergaarde BlijdorpErasmusbrugCube Houses
MauritshuisLouwman MuseumKeukenhof
Negen Straatjes

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day 1

Day 1

  • Amsterdam - Arrival day
  • More
  • Dam Square
  • More

Welcome to Amsterdam, the perfect starting point for your road trip in the Netherlands! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Amsterdam's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

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 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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Excalibur Café, known for its inviting atmosphere. Rosalia's Menagerie is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Café Hill Street Blues provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Read more
Day 2

Day 2

  • Amsterdam
  • More

Drive 10 km, 1 hour 24 min

  • Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam
  • Rijksmuseum
  • Van Gogh Museum
  • Vondelpark
  • De Pijp
  • More

Day 2 of your road trip across the Netherlands promises a magnificent time exploring Amsterdam. You have 1 night left in Amsterdam. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.

One of the most iconic places you can visit today in Amsterdam is De Pijp. Allow yourself some time to explore this neighborhood and discover its unique quirks. You'll also find many of the best sightseeing spots nearby.

Discover a day packed with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in Amsterdam. Begin your sightseeing with Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam. This captivating botanical garden is one of the top attractions in the city. Proceed to Rijksmuseum, another must-visit attraction.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Amsterdam, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Van Gogh Museum. This widely recognized museum is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Vondelpark, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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.

Experience shopping bliss at Amsterdam as you explore De Negen Straatjes. Take a leisurely stroll through unique boutiques and shops, where local treasures are waiting to be found. Beyond shopping, De Negen Straatjes offers more options, including unique attractions, key services, and vibrant events.

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.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Amsterdam by reserving a table at Flore. Renowned for its 2-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of contemporary and creative french cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Ciel Bleu, renowned for its delectable creative dishes. This distinguished 2-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore Restaurant 212, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite creative menu. With a 2-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Amsterdam.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café Oporto, known for its inviting atmosphere. Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, 't Aepjen provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in the Netherlands!

Read more
Day 3

Day 3

  • Amsterdam
  • Leeuwarden
  • More

Drive 145 km, 2 hours 14 min

  • Anne Frank House
  • Artis
  • NEMO Science Center
  • More

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in the Netherlands. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Amsterdam. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Leeuwarden, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s route brings fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Anne Frank House. This spectacular museum is an instagrammable place to see in Amsterdam. Continue your discovery at Artis, a picture-perfect zoo with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Amsterdam, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Nemo Science Center. This interesting science center offers a picture-perfect encounter with Amsterdam. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Amsterdam.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Leeuwarden. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Leeuwarden. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Start your culinary exploration in Leeuwarden by securing a reservation at Bistro Aragosta. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of french cuisine. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Efeze, a popular restaurant in Leeuwarden. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Bebida's, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of De Toeter, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Café De Rus Leeuwarden likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

Read more
Day 4

Day 4

  • Leeuwarden
  • Den Helder
  • More

Drive 147 km, 2 hours 19 min

  • Fries Museum
  • Aquazoo Friesland
  • De Alde Feanen National Park
  • Waterpoort
  • More

Dive into day 4 of your remarkable road trip in the Netherlands. Today you will explore Leeuwarden, Earnewâld, and Sneek, 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 Den Helder. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Today's adventure in Leeuwarden promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at Fries Museum. This photogenic museum is a highlight of any visit in the city. Next, head over to De Alde Feanen National Park, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing attractions, known for its eye-catching features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Waterpoort. This picture-perfect monument is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to take a stroll around the area.

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

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Den Helder's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Visrestaurant/Café Neptunus, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Robuust offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Witte Raaf. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Den Helder.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in the Netherlands!

Read more
Day 5

Day 5

  • Den Helder
  • Hoorn
  • More

Drive 186 km, 2 hours 46 min

  • Estate Hoenderdaell
  • Het Amsterdamse Bos
  • Muiderslot
  • Wooden Shoe Workshop of Zaanse Schans
  • More

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Anna Paulowna, Amstelveen, Muiden, and Zaandijk. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hoorn, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Prepare for a day full of fun adventures, natural wonders, and scenic views. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Hoenderdaell Zoo. This worthwhile wildlife reserve is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Het Amsterdamse Bos, one of the town’s best highlights.

Next, check out Muiderslot, one of the most beloved places to see in Den Helder. This castle is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans. Wander around and soak in the photogenic atmosphere this handicraft store offers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Hoorn, 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 in Hoorn. 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.

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in Hoorn by booking a table at HAVN. This popular restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Himalaya Restaurant Hoorn, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Wout's Beer House, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Café 't Kroegie. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Barrels Pub & More, another top-rated place in the area.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in the Netherlands!

Read more
Day 6

Day 6

  • Hoorn
  • The Hague
  • More

Drive 143 km, 2 hours 13 min

  • Diergaarde Blijdorp
  • Erasmusbrug
  • Cube Houses
  • More

On day 6 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 Rotterdam. In the evening, you’ll end up in The Hague, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots. Start at the notable Diergaarde Blijdorp, an eye-catching zoo in Hoorn. Next, go to Erasmusbrug.

After visiting Diergaarde Blijdorp and Erasmusbrug, have a stroll along Hoorn's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Cube House. This gorgeous art installation offers a unique experience.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in The Hague. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.

As you explore more of The Hague, 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.

Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in The Hague by securing a table at Publique. An esteemed Bib Gourmand restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Calla's, famous for its scrumptious creative french dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover De Basiliek, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in The Hague. Located in the heart of the city, this Bib Gourmand-awardee is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Café De Stad, known for its inviting atmosphere. Café Happy End is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gekke Geit provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in the Netherlands.

Read more
Day 7

Day 7

  • The Hague
  • Amsterdam
  • More

Drive 73 km, 1 hour 21 min

  • Mauritshuis
  • Louwman Museum
  • Keukenhof
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in the Netherlands. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - The Hague and Lisse. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Amsterdam. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting Mauritshuis, a prime spot to begin your journey. This visually striking museum is sure to impress. Next on your list is Louwman Museum, another must-visit landmark and notable museum renowned for its eye-catching features.

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

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café Loetje, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Restaurant Moon, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at d'Vijff Vlieghen. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Bar Bitterbal is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Twenty Third Bar, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Louis Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

Read more
Day 8

Day 8

  • Amsterdam - Departure day
  • More
  • Negen Straatjes
  • More

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 Negen Straatjes. This well-known street is a popular place to see in the city.

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

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

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’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!

Read more

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in the Netherlands

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.