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

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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!

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Itinerary summary

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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

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Amsterdam - Arrival day
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  • Dam Square
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Say hello to Amsterdam! Your exciting road trip through the Netherlands is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Amsterdam for 2 nights before you continue your adventure!

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.

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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Café restaurant van Kerkwijk, a top-rated dining destination in Amsterdam. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider CAU Steak Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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 a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Amsterdam this evening.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Excalibur Café, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Rosalia's Menagerie. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Café Hill Street Blues, another top-rated place in the area.

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 10 km, 1 hour 24 min

  • Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam
  • Rijksmuseum
  • Van Gogh Museum
  • Vondelpark
  • De Pijp
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Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Amsterdam for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

Don’t miss De Pijp in Amsterdam today, a must-see neighborhood that offers a glimpse into the city’s vibrant character. Take your time exploring its best features, and enjoy the convenience of nearby top-rated landmarks.

Today’s itinerary in Amsterdam covers several incredible sights, including a botanical garden, a museum, and a park. Start your adventure at Hortus Botanicus Amsterdam. This locally renowned botanical garden is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the visually striking wonders of Rijksmuseum, 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 Van Gogh Museum. This astonishing museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Vondelpark, where you can take in detailed features.

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.

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.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Flore in Amsterdam by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 2-star Michelin status, Flore offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious contemporary and creative french menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Ciel Bleu, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Restaurant 212, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional creative menu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Café Oporto. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, 't Aepjen provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Amsterdam
  • Leeuwarden
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Drive 145 km, 2 hours 14 min

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in the Netherlands. Today you will explore Amsterdam, 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 Leeuwarden. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Amsterdam is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and history-rich sites! Start at Anne Frank House, a famous museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Artis, enchanting visitors with its instagrammable appeal. Continue your exploration at Nemo Science Center. This science center is one of the city’s most locally renowned spots.

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

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.

Begin 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. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant Efeze boasts a menu that's sure to impress.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bebida's, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, De Toeter is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Café De Rus Leeuwarden also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

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

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Leeuwarden
  • Den Helder
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Drive 147 km, 2 hours 19 min

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Leeuwarden, Earnewâld, and Sneek. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Den Helder, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your adventure at Fries Museum. This is an increasingly popular museum you should not miss. Another must-see is Aquazoo Friesland, an intriguing zoo in Leeuwarden.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to De Alde Feanen National Park. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Waterpoort, another of the city’s underrated attractions.

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

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Den Helder's best restaurants.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Visrestaurant/Café Neptunus, a popular restaurant in Den Helder. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Den Helder at Robuust, 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 Witte Raaf. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Den Helder tonight.

Head back to your accommodation in Den Helder and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in the Netherlands!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Den Helder
  • Hoorn
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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 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 Anna Paulowna, Amstelveen, Muiden, and Zaandijk. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hoorn, where you will stay for 1 night.

Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, natural wonders, and breathtaking views in Den Helder. Begin your sightseeing with Hoenderdaell Zoo. This up-and-coming wildlife reserve is one of the top attractions in the town. Proceed to Het Amsterdamse Bos, another must-visit attraction that enhances the town’s allure.

As you wander through the inviting streets of Den Helder, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Muiderslot. This beloved castle is a traveler-favorite. Not far away, you’ll find Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans, another key site on your sightseeing itinerary.

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 you explore more of Hoorn, 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 symphony of flavors at HAVN in Hoorn by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, HAVN delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Himalaya Restaurant Hoorn? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Wout's Beer House, known for its inviting atmosphere. Café 't Kroegie is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Barrels Pub & More provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in the Netherlands.

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Hoorn
  • The Hague
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Drive 143 km, 2 hours 13 min

  • Diergaarde Blijdorp
  • Erasmusbrug
  • Cube Houses
  • More

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your road trip in the Netherlands. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Rotterdam. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in The Hague. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting Diergaarde Blijdorp, a prime spot to begin your journey. This stunning zoo is sure to impress. Next on your list is Erasmusbrug, another must-visit landmark and notable monument renowned for its culturally significant features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Hoorn by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Cube House. This awe-inspiring art installation is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in The Hague. The Hague 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 The Hague. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Have a memorable dining experience in The Hague by booking a table at Publique, renowned as a Bib Gourmand restaurant presenting an exceptional modern menu. For a different culinary experience in The Hague, Calla's shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious creative french cuisine. This 1-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, De Basiliek is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in The Hague. This Bib Gourmand awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.

Keep the evening going at Café De Stad, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Café Happy End, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Gekke Geit, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in the Netherlands!

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Day 7

Day 7

  • The Hague
  • Amsterdam
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Drive 73 km, 1 hour 21 min

  • Mauritshuis
  • Louwman Museum
  • Keukenhof
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your road trip in the Netherlands. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of The Hague and Lisse. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Today’s route brings family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. The first attraction of today is Mauritshuis. This popular museum is a heritage-rich place to see in The Hague. Continue your discovery at Louwman Museum, a respected museum with stories to tell.

As you stroll around The Hague, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this city so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Keukenhof.

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

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Amsterdam. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Make sure to reserve a table at Café Loetje, 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 Moon, 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 d'Vijff Vlieghen, a hidden gem nestled in Amsterdam. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

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

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Amsterdam - Departure day
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  • Negen Straatjes
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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 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, 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.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Spirit Amsterdam, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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