12-Day the Netherlands Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Amsterdam to Haarlem, The Hague, Rotterdam, and Utrecht and surrounding area

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your road trip in the Netherlands. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 places, which are Zaandijk and Haarlem. At the end of the day, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Haarlem, where will spend 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Zaandijk, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Amsterdam to Zaandijk may take around 24 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Zaandijk, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Wooden Shoe Workshop Of Zaanse Schans, a beloved handicraft store that everyone visiting Zaandijk should see.

Set your GPS to Haarlem and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Haarlem beckons with new experiences!

Frans Hals Museum is an up-and-coming museum we recommend visiting today. Discover its history-steeped features before continuing your self-guided tour to Museum Haarlem, a photogenic museum that’s well-regarded in the area.

Next, stop by The St. Bavo Church In Haarlem, a picture-perfect church.

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

Haarlem 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 Haarlem.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Ratatouille Food & Wine, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bistro La Plume is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Anne&Max Haarlem. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Haarlem tonight.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Cafe Stiels, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Proeflokaal In Den Uiver offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Haarlem. Café Studio is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road 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 Bloemendaal. With 1 night to stay in Haarlem, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

When you’ve had your share of Haarlem, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Aerdenhout. Your travel time is around 11 min.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Elswout, an intriguing park in Aerdenhout. Explore its standout features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’ve had your share of Aerdenhout, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Overveen. Your travel time is around 6 min.

Savor the day by heading to Zuid-kennemerland National Park, a worthwhile national park that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’ve had your share of Overveen, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bloemendaal. Your travel time is around 8 min.

Thijsse's Hof is an up-and-coming botanical garden we recommend visiting today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

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

Haarlem 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 Haarlem.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Vascobelo V-bar Haarlem, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Restaurant De Zeeuw offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Spaarne66 is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Haarlem.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Café Koops B.v., ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Uiltje Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Cafe De Lange Heer provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in the Netherlands.

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

Grote Of Sint-jacobskerk makes a great addition to your morning plans. This locally appreciated church is a breathtaking place to see in The Hague.

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

After soaking in The Hague’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Delft. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 19 min. When you arrive in Delft, it's time to take a break from the road.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Nieuwe Kerk Delft, an up-and-coming church in Delft. Explore its culturally significant features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Town Hall Of Delft. This curiosity-inducing city hall is a top recommendation in the area.

When you’re ready to explore more, De Porceleyne Fles is an excellent choice. Spend some time discovering what some claim to be the most respected museum in the region.

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

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

Don’t miss out on dining at LOSH Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in The Hague. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Buitenhof Herring Stall, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Saray Restaurant Den Haag. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in The Hague this evening.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting American Bar after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Café 't Achterom, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Coffeeshop Dizzy Duck also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Relax and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, including Rotterdam. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your chosen hotel in Rotterdam, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of The Hague, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Rotterdam. Your travel time is around 31 min.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the city's best attractions, visit Maritime Museum Rotterdam, a worthwhile maritime 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 Markthal Tours and admire its instagrammable features.

When you’re ready, continue to Cube House, an interesting art installation beloved by locals and tourists alike. Don't miss out on Nieuwe Delftse Poort - Cor Kraat, another highlight of the area that promises a memorable visit.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Harvest Cafe & Bakery, a highly-rated dining destination in Rotterdam. If you're eager to try something different, consider Little V Rotterdam, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dudok. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Rotterdam this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Mendoza, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Wunderbar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, De Witte Aap offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

Greet day 8 of your road trip in the Netherlands with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You have 1 night to stay in Rotterdam, so get ready to make the most of your time in the region. On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Kinderdijk and Rotterdam.

Awaiting your discovery is the locally renowned Erasmusbrug, a visually striking monument in Rotterdam. Next, go to Kunsthal.

After visiting Erasmusbrug and Kunsthal, have a stroll along Rotterdam's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Diergaarde Blijdorp. This awe-inspiring zoo offers a unique experience.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Rotterdam and set your GPS to Kinderdijk. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Kinderdijk, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk, a locally appreciated historical landmark that everyone visiting Kinderdijk should see.

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

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Tiki's, a popular restaurant in Rotterdam. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Rotterdam at Pho Hanoi, 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 Pol Rotterdam. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Rotterdam tonight.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Café Van Zanten stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Café Labru offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Wijnbar Janssen En Van Dijk is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 9 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 48 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Utrecht beckons with new experiences!

Set out on a self-guided sightseeing tour at Rietveld Schröder House and explore the symbolic features. Next, make your way to Centraal Museum, another highlight in Utrecht. When you’re done exploring the museum, continue to Dom Tower Of Utrecht, a stunning monument.

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.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Belgisch Biercafé Olivier Utrecht, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try FLFL Utrecht? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Broadway American Steakhouse as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Utrecht.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kaasbar Utrecht, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Café Derat offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Body Talk provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in the Netherlands!

On day 10 of your road trip, you'll get the chance to experience Apeldoorn. At the end of the day, you'll drive back to Utrecht, where you still have 1 night left to stay.

Whether you decide to explore Apeldoorn on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

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

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Utrecht, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Apeldoorn. This drive usually takes around 55 min.

Our first attraction recommendation in Apeldoorn is Het Oude Loo, an underrated castle that draws attention for its visually striking features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to National Museum Paleis Het Loo, a breathtaking palace that stands out in the city.

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 Apenheul Primate Park, a notable zoo that offers a unique experience.

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

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 meal at Restaurant De Markt, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Seafood Bar is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Koffie & Ik. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Utrecht tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Café De Stad, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Mr. Finch is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Café De Zaak ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Your itinerary for day 11 of your road trip in the Netherlands includes 2 stops and features some of the highlights of Zuideinde and Giethoorn. At the end of the day, enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam, where you'll spend 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Utrecht, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Zuideinde. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 31 min.

Savor the day by heading to Giethoorn Center, a beloved sightseeing destination that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Museumboerderij 't Olde Maat Uus, where you can soak in the visually striking surroundings.

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.

Savor the flavors at Café Loetje, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Moon beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider d'Vijff Vlieghen. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Amsterdam tonight.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Bar Bitterbal, known for its lively atmosphere. Twenty Third Bar is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Louis Bar offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.

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