11-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Haarlem, Utrecht, and Rotterdam

Day 2 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Amsterdam has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in the city and use the provided itinerary to discover what to see in Amsterdam.

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.

Make a stop at Begijnhof. This frequently visited historical landmark is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Rijksmuseum located in Amsterdam for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Van Gogh Museum. Its history-steeped features will captivate you. After the museum, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Vondelpark. Visitors usually appreciate the detailed features of this 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.

For an unforgettable shopping experience, visit Kalverstraat, the top shopping destination in Amsterdam. Browse local shops and stores, each offering delightful surprises. Find unique souvenirs or items to take home. After shopping, explore what Kalverstraat has to offer, including attractions, essential services, and vibrant community activities.

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

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Eye Film Museum, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Ambassade offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Palmyra Syrian Restaurant. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Amsterdam.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Café Oporto. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Lost In Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook 't Aepjen, another top-rated bar in the area.

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

Dive into day 3 of your remarkable road trip in the Netherlands. Today you'll explore 2 destinations, including Zaandijk and Haarlem. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Haarlem, where you'll spend 2 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Amsterdam, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Zaandijk. This drive usually takes around 24 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans. Spend some time admiring the heritage-rich features of the handicraft store before you continue to your next stop.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Haarlem. This car ride takes around 28 min.

Savor the day by heading to Frans Hals Museum, a locally appreciated museum that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to The St. Bavo Church In Haarlem, where you can soak in the symbolic surroundings.

Next, explore Teylers Museum, yet another beloved place to see in the area.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Ratatouille Food & Wine, a highly-rated dining destination in Haarlem. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bistro La Plume, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Anne&Max Haarlem. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Haarlem this evening.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Cafe Stiels. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Proeflokaal In Den Uiver, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Café Studio provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in the Netherlands!

Wake up to day 4 of your road trip in the Netherlands. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Aerdenhout, Overveen, and Zandvoort. With 1 night to stay in Haarlem, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

As you explore Aerdenhout’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the village.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Haarlem and set your GPS to Aerdenhout. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 11 min. Upon reaching Aerdenhout, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Spend your afternoon discovering Elswout, a worthwhile park known for its standout features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Aerdenhout and set your GPS to Overveen. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 6 min. Upon reaching Overveen, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Our first attraction recommendation in Overveen is Zuid-kennemerland National Park, a worthwhile national park that draws attention for its stunning features.

It’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Zandvoort may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Zandvoort, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Zandvoorts Museum, a locally appreciated museum in Zandvoort. Explore its photogenic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

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

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

Dine in style at Vascobelo V-bar Haarlem, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Restaurant De Zeeuw boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Spaarne66. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Haarlem.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Café Koops B.v., a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Uiltje Bar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Cafe De Lange Heer provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 5 of your road trip in the Netherlands, your travel plans include 1 stop at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in the region. Utrecht are on today's agenda. In the evening, you’ll end up in Utrecht, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Set your GPS to Utrecht and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 51 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Utrecht beckons with new experiences!

Nijntje Museum is a worthwhile museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its instagrammable features before continuing your self-guided tour to Museum Speelklok, an eye-catching museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Dom Tower Of Utrecht, a standout monument. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit St Martin's Cathedral, a picture-perfect and truly unique church.

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

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

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Belgisch Biercafé Olivier Utrecht, a popular restaurant in Utrecht. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Utrecht at FLFL Utrecht, 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 Broadway American Steakhouse. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Utrecht tonight.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Kaasbar Utrecht, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Café Derat, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Body Talk likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Utrecht, where you have 1 night left to stay.

After soaking in Utrecht’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Gouda. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 42 min. When you arrive in Gouda, it's time to take a break from the road.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the town's best attractions, visit Museum Gouda, an intriguing museum that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Saint-john Church and admire its picture-perfect features.

When you’re ready, continue to Gouda Cheese Experience, an often recommended museum beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Van Bergen Ijzendoornpark, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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

Utrecht 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 Utrecht.

Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant De Markt, a top-rated dining destination in Utrecht. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Seafood Bar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Koffie & Ik. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Utrecht this evening.

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

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

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 1 place, which are Rotterdam. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Rotterdam, where will spend 3 nights.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rotterdam. This car ride takes around 50 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Diergaarde Blijdorp, a captivating zoo that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Erasmusbrug and admire its culturally significant features.

When you’re ready, continue to Maritime Museum Rotterdam, a curiosity-inducing maritime museum beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Cube House, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit. Not far away, you’ll also find Markthal Tours, a noteworthy place to see that you won’t regret spending some extra time discovering.

After soaking up all the sights on today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head to your accommodation in Rotterdam. Rotterdam 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 Rotterdam. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine.

Savor the flavors at Harvest Cafe & Bakery, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Little V Rotterdam beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Dudok. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rotterdam tonight.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Mendoza, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Wunderbar, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, De Witte Aap provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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

On day 8 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Kinderdijk and Dordrecht. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Rotterdam, where you still have 2 nights left to stay.

Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Kinderdijk.

Set your GPS to Kinderdijk and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kinderdijk beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Kinderdijk is Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk, a locally appreciated historical landmark that draws attention for its breathtaking features.

Set your GPS to Dordrecht and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 22 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Dordrecht beckons with new experiences!

Dordrechts Museum is a frequently visited museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its heritage-rich features before continuing your self-guided tour to The Court Of Netherlands, a standout museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by Lange Ijzeren Brug, a photogenic monument. While you’re nearby, don’t forget to visit Dordrecht Minster Or Church Of Our Lady, a monumental and truly unique church.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Tiki's, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Pho Hanoi offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Pol Rotterdam is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Rotterdam.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Café Van Zanten, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Café Labru offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Wijnbar Janssen En Van Dijk. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

On day 9 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Rotterdam, where you still have 1 night left. You'll spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate city, including The Hague and Delft.

The Hague is brimming with adventures.

The Hague’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rotterdam behind. This drive usually takes around 33 min. The Hague welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Savor the day by heading to Grote Of Sint-jacobskerk, a locally appreciated church that draws visitors from near and far.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Delft, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from The Hague to Delft may take around 19 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Delft, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Spend your afternoon discovering Prinsenhof, a worthwhile museum known for its standout features. Next, continue your sightseeing at Town Hall Of Delft, a frequently visited city hall.

If you're starting to feel hungry, this is a great time for a break at a nearby restaurant or cafe. When you're ready for more, stop by Nieuwe Kerk Delft and uncover the details of this picture-perfect church. Make sure to also explore De Porceleyne Fles, a beloved museum.

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

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Rotterdam. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Savor the flavors at Brasserie Pierre, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Loetje Rotterdam Centrum beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider BRAM'S Gourmet Frites. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Rotterdam tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Rumah. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, including Lisse and Leiden. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Amsterdam, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Leiden and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 27 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Leiden beckons with new experiences!

Our first attraction recommendation in Leiden is Museum Boerhaave, a worthwhile museum that draws attention for its standout features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to Burcht Van Leiden, a romantic castle that stands out in the town.

Time flies when you're having fun! But don't forget to stop for a bit to eat and drink between your adventures. When you're rested and recharged, head to Hortus Botanicus Leiden, an underrated botanical garden that offers a unique experience.

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.

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.

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.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Bar Bitterbal, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Twenty Third Bar. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Louis Bar, another top-rated place in the area.

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