One-Week Road Trip in the Netherlands and Germany from Amsterdam to Cologne, Hamburg, and Enschede

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in the Netherlands and Germany begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Amsterdam in the Netherlands. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Amsterdam for 2 nights.

Catch an early flight to the Netherlands to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Amsterdam before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Amsterdam today.

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 hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Amsterdam. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Box Sociaal, a distinguished dining establishment in Amsterdam. It has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 2,162 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Amsterdam is Restaurant Ambassade. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 769 happy diners.

Gartine stands out as a local favorite in Amsterdam. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 678 customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Proeflokaal Arendsnest. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,048 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous SkyLounge Amsterdam. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 6,266 customers.

Excalibur Café cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 3,047 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.6 out of 5 stars average rating.

Your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands and Germany has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Amsterdam. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

As the sun sets on day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Amsterdam's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of the Netherlands to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Amsterdam has them.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Winkel 43. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Amsterdam has received a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from around 10,504 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, The Pantry should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Amsterdam, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,646 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Restaurant Moeders. This highly regarded restaurant in Amsterdam has earned a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 3,647 satisfied guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Amsterdam. At Lost in Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,918 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Red Light Bar, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 2,612 reviews.

Bar-B Burgers ‘N’ Beers is also one of the best places in Amsterdam where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,912 customers.

Celebrate day 2 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 4 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Kaatsheuvel in the Netherlands and Brühl in Germany. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cologne. Cologne will be your home for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Kaatsheuvel, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Amsterdam to Kaatsheuvel may take around 1 hour 25 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Brühl today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Phantasialand. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 89,377 visitors and attracts around 1,750,000 curious travelers annually.

Set your GPS to Cologne and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 29 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Cologne beckons with new experiences!

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Cologne. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in Cologne. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Le Moissonnier Bistro. Holding an impressive 1 Michelin-star rating and a remarkable menu, Le Moissonnier Bistro consistently impresses both foreign and local guests, earning praise for its exceptional french and seafood cuisine.

Another renowned restaurant is Ox & Klee, one of the best Bib Gourmand 2-star Michelin fine dining venues in Cologne. Take your pick from the modern and creative menu, where each dish is a masterpiece meticulously crafted to delight your senses.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable dining experience at Zur Tant in Cologne. With its prestigious 1-Michelin star rating, the menu is crafted to delight your palate and take you on a culinary journey. This acclaimed restaurant serves classic dishes that have garnered numerous reviews from satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Toddy Tapper, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Toddy Tapper has charmed many with its 4.9 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 590 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln captures hearts with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 6,484 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Gilden im Zims, another local party gem in Cologne. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 5,823 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Cologne as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany, 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 to see in Cologne in Germany. In the evening, you’ll end up in Hamburg, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Something that makes Cologne the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding catholic cathedral, Cologne Cathedral. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 69,905 visitors and gets around 5,000,000 visits every year.

The famous Cologne Zoological Garden is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Cologne's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 30,118 travelers have rated this incredible zoo and travel destination an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Set your GPS to Solingen and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Solingen beckons with new experiences!

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Solingen, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Hamburg may take around 4 hours 13 min. Upon your arrival in Hamburg, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you arrive, take a break from the road to indulge in some sightseeing.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Hamburg. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Hamburg. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Germany in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Make sure to book a table at The Table Kevin Fehling, a 3 Michelin star restaurant and a Bib Gourmand dining venue in Hamburg. This local gem’s delectable creative and international cuisine is sure to leave a lasting impression. The Table Kevin Fehling is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Treat yourself to culinary excellence at 100/200 Kitchen, offering a Bib-Gourmand awarded dining experience. With its 2 Michelin star rating, it caters to the most discerning palates. The incredible creative and modern cuisine at 100/200 Kitchen has earned praise globally.

If you're in the mood for something different, consider reserving a table at Haerlin. This celebrated dining spot in Hamburg is renowned for its sumptuous meals and creative french and classic menu. Countless patrons sing this Bib Gourmand restaurant's praises, adding to its 2 Michelin-star prestige.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Le Lion • Bar de Paris. This bar is among the most recommended in the region, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,224 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Das Feuerschiff LV 13. This popular bar in Hamburg is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,935 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love NAGEL Restaurant und Kneipe. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. NAGEL Restaurant und Kneipe has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,360 reviews.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in the Netherlands and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Hamburg to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the region center, or simply just relaxing.

Wake up and see what day 5 of your great European road trip in the Netherlands and Germany has in store for you! You will be staying in Hamburg for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Hamburg today.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Hamburg’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Reserve your spot at Schifferbörse Restaurant, a popular local restaurant in Hamburg. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,559 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Caramba Especial during your stay in Hamburg. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, by 2,219 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Schönes Leben Speicherstadt, a popular local gem in Hamburg. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,728 satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to THE MADISON Hotel Hamburg, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, THE MADISON Hotel Hamburg has charmed many with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,785 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Brooklyn Burger Bar, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Brooklyn Burger Bar captures hearts with its 4.3 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 2,481 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker, another local party gem in Hamburg. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,537 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in the Netherlands and Germany! Enjoy your evening in Hamburg to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the region center, or simply just relaxing.

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands and Germany, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Hamburg in Germany and Enschede in the Netherlands. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Enschede, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Miniatur Wunderland. This outstanding museum and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 87,297 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Miniatur Wunderland is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating St. Michael's Church is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This church and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,173 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing road tunnel, Elbe Tunnel. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,570 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated St. Pauli Piers, an outstanding museum, is one place you should visit while in Hamburg considering its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,128 travelers.

Enschede’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Hamburg behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 34 min. Enschede welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Enschede. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Enschede’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in the Netherlands and Germany.

Don't forget to book a table at Steakhouse El Gaucho, a well-known eatery in Enschede. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 1,314 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Frank & Charlie while exploring Enschede. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 685 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Saloon Mexicaanse & Argentijns steakhouse restaurant, a popular restaurant in Enschede. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 585 discerning diners.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Rocks, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 793 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is De Beiaard. It is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,331 customers.

Molly Malone Irish Pub is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 989 customers.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your multi-country journey across the Netherlands and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 4 vibrant destinations - Rhenen in the Netherlands. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Amsterdam. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rhenen. This car ride takes around 1 hour 30 min.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rotterdam. This car ride takes around 1 hour 12 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Lisse. This car ride takes around 45 min.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Amsterdam of your choice.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy lively vibes in central Amsterdam. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands and Germany.

Reserve your spot at Blue Amsterdam, a popular local restaurant in Amsterdam. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,965 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Restaurant Olijfje during your stay in Amsterdam. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, by 2,640 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Dabka, a popular local gem in Amsterdam. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,591 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit The Cottage, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, The Cottage has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,252 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at De Brabantse Aap, a crowd-favorite. Around 1,736 customers have rated their experience at De Brabantse Aap an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub belongs to the list of the best bars in Amsterdam, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,501 bar-goers.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Amsterdam before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across the Netherlands and Germany. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

As your final day in the Netherlands unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in Amsterdam’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of the Netherlands.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Get a last taste of the Netherlands’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Amsterdam and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across the Netherlands and Germany.

The time has come to say farewell to Amsterdam for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in the Netherlands and Germany with fond memories. Safe travels!