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The Best 14 Day Netherlands Road Trip 2024 + Maps and Tours

• Updated on: April 13, 2022

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The Dutch love road trips, so it’s no surprise that The Netherlands is a great place to hit the road. It’s one of the best ways to see the country, and with proper planning it can work out to be pretty cheap. Whether you bring your own vehicle, hire a motorhome, or even cycle, there’s tons to discover outside of Amsterdam.

Since we’re both from the Netherlands, we’ve spent a fair amount of time on the roads, visiting our favorite cities and sites. In this article, we’ll imagine our perfect Netherlands road trip that’ll help you discover the culture and hidden gems of our country.

So, strap yourself in and let’s get started!

Netherlands Road Trip: The Basics

Before we start our journey, let’s take a look at some of the basics, such as how much you can expect vehicle rental to cost, as well as your options when it comes to exploring the Netherlands.

Bringing Your Own Vehicle

It’s easy to bring your own vehicle from mainland Europe and the UK. This is a cost effective way of enjoying your Netherlands road trip , especially if you own a campervan/motorhome. There’s no vignette to worry about, and you can legally drive on Dutch roads with ease. British vehicles will need to put headlamp adjusters on, and you can buy these on the ferry. Click here to check the actual petrol prices.

Renting a Vehicle

While the cost of renting a vehicle in the Netherlands may not be the lowest globally, it’s far from prohibitive. Renting a small to medium-sized car typically falls in the range of €20 to €40 per day, providing you with the independence to experience the country’s charm at your leisure. Opting for a motorhome can cost between €70 and €150 per day, with prices usually lowering for longer-term rentals, though they may rise during peak season. One significant advantage of having a rented vehicle is the ability to freely explore numerous wonderful places to visit in the Netherlands by car, making your trip truly unique.

Car Rental Deal: Click here to get the best car rental prices in the Netherlands

The Dutch are crazy about cycling and it’s one of the best ways to see the country. With a wealth of cycle networks and special bike lanes throughout both the towns and the countryside, it’s a safe and enjoyable way to see the Netherlands. Bike rental typically costs €10-€40 per day, or €50-€150 per week. Or, you can always bring your own.

Know the Rules of the Road

It’s important to know the local laws if you’re planning a road trip. While rules in the Netherlands are pretty similar to most other European countries, there are some things that might not be obvious to visitors from further afield. Here’s a breakdown of the most important:

• Drive on the right, overtake on the left. 
• It is compulsory to carry a driving license, car registration papers and insurance documents in the car (Dutch, EU and international driving licenses are accepted).
• Mobile phones may only be used with a hands-free system while driving. Even holding a mobile while driving a vehicle is considered an offense. 
• Seatbelts are compulsory in the front and rear of the vehicle. 
• Drivers should pay particular attention to cyclists, who may ride two abreast.
• Unless otherwise signposted, vehicles coming from the right have priority.

It’s also compulsory to carry hi-vis vests for each passenger and a warning triangle to be used if you break down and have to stop at the side of the road. In addition, it’s advisable to carry spare bulbs for all external lights, a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit.

It’s worth bearing in mind that most rental vehicles will be equipped with these items. You can find the full list of rules right here.

Let’s Hit the Road!

With the basics out of the way, it’s time to delve into our dream Netherlands road trip! We’ll assume that you’re starting and ending your trip in Amsterdam, where you’ll find plenty of rental companies. The following round-trip takes in some of the best sites in the Netherlands and should take around 14-days.

Along the way, you’ll soak up the authentic Netherlands culture with visits to the awesome Dutch windmills, old-fashioned villages, and much more. This trip won’t cover the entire country, but showcases the most iconic sights!

How many days do I need to see the Netherlands?

As a lot of tourists just stay in Amsterdam city, please make some more time to explore the real countryside of the Netherlands as it’s really worth it. I know this may sound weird from a local, but really the country has so much to offer. Not all of you would have 14 days to spend in the Netherlands, but try at least to spend between 5 and 7 days to explore nature, beaches, typical Dutch villages, windmills, cities and to learn more about the culture by taking a tour. 

Video: Road Trip Netherlands inspiration

Day 1: Amsterdam & Muiderslot Castle

• Distance: 20 km
• Travel time: 25 minutes
• Route: Open in Google Maps

Day one is an easy one to help you soak up the capital city, while taking your wheels out for a quick spin to check that everything is okay. Amsterdam is full of great things to do, from museums and art galleries, to the iconic Amsterdam Canals . You can either spend the whole day exploring the city, or drive out to the nearby Muiderslot Castle.

The castle is a beautiful example of medieval architecture showcasing over 700 years of history, set in stunning grounds. Home to a variety of exhibitions and collections, there are guided tours and activities to enjoy. When you’re done, you can either return to Amsterdam for the evening, or camp out at the castle .

Tour recommendation Amsterdam

As we both lived in this amazing city we can tell you, Amsterdam has so much to offer! As we can’t pick one favourite tour we have some recommendations for you. So you can make the best out of your trip to Amsterdam. Check my favourite activities to do in Amsterdam.

Where to stay in Amsterdam

Day 2: amsterdam – the hague.

• Distance: 65 km
• Travel time: 55 minutes

Day 2 is another relaxing day with just a short distance to cover. Spend the morning indulging in Amsterdam’s cafe culture, before hitting the coast road to The Hague. In Dutch we say Den Haag, which is also the name you will see on the signs. The route takes in both Bloemendaal and Zandvoort beaches So, if you fancy a day and evening at the beach rather than in the city, you can always stop at either one at the end of day 1. Both are sandy with a vibrant local scene that takes in cafes, bars, and live music.

If you’re visiting between the end of March and the beginning of May, it’s worth dropping by Keukenhof to see the famous tulips . You can easily spend half a day taking it all in, before heading south once again to The Hague.

If not, continue straight to The Hague, and enjoy everything the small city has to offer, such as Binnenhof (the Dutch parliament buildings), and Madurodam — a miniature replica of the Netherlands. You can also enjoy Scheveningen and Kijkduin beaches, both of which are more or less within the city limits. 

Tour Recommendation The Hague

Discover the international capital of peace and justice during a 2.5 hour during bike tour . During this trip you will discover a wide diversity from the nice architecture of the city, the old Dutch buildings, shopping areas and last both not least the beach. If this is something you would like check this tour here .

Where to stay in The Hague

Day 3 & 4: the hague – rotterdam.

• Distance: 30 km

This is another short drive, so you can either enjoy a leisurely morning in The Hague seeing the sights you missed the day before, or head to Rotterdam to spend the entire day in the city. The road passes through Delft, a small university town home to beautiful churches, canals, great pubs, and museums. Delft is also famous for its blue pottery. If you’re into this, you might like to check out the Royal Delft factory where you can see master painters at work or join a painting workshop yourself.

Rotterdam is a great city that is worth staying at least a full day and night in, so if time allows, consider staying 2 nights. You can explore the famous Rotterdam Harbour, the largest in Europe, and home to the incredible Euromast . The city has an amazing night-life and cafe culture, as well as museums, tours, and adrenaline inducing activities.

From Rotterdam, you can also drive out to the windmills of Kinderdijk, about 30 minutes away. The small village showcases a number of iconic 18th century windmills, plus a network of canals and pumping stations. It’s a pleasant afternoon out, and you can return to Rotterdam later to enjoy the nightlife. Don’t forget to check out my guide Things to do in Rotterdam.

Tours Recommendation The Hague

Discover the Delft Blue factory from the 17th century in Delft. Check out this tour: The Royal Delft Experience .

Tours Recommendation Rotterdam

Rotterdam is the place we met and lived together for several years, it’s one of our favourite cities in the Netherlands. The architecture and the harbour or 2 unique items in the city, but there is so much more. Ready for a nice activity during your visit? Check out here some nice tours you can do.

Where to stay in Rotterdam

Day 5: rotterdam – middelburg.

• Distance: 105 km
• Travel time: 1 hour 10 minutes

After a few shorter drives, we’ll now start seeing more of the country, as we head south towards Middelburg, the historic capital of Zeeland province. Along the way, there are plenty of beaches to check out. Brouwersdam and Renesse beaches are among the best, home to sand dunes and some of the best surfing spots the country has to offer.

Next up is Delta Park Neeltje Jans , an amusement park with a difference. The Delta Works is a series of construction projects in the Southwest of the Netherlands, consisting of numerous dams, locks, storm barriers, and levees. Each element is designed to protect a large part of the Netherlands from the sea. But, rather than just building boring barriers, a series of Delta Parks were created to provide education and entertainment.

Delta Park Neeltje Jans is one of the biggest and the best, and you can explore the delta, marvel at the sights in the aquarium, splash out in the aqua park, and enjoy a water safari boat trip. There’s also the exciting Hurricane Machine, where you can experience winds of up to 133 kilometers per hour!

Once you’ve dried off, head south to Middelburg, a small city steeped in tradition and slightly off the main tourist trails. Explore the twisty alleys, stroll along the canals, and stay in a historic boutique hotel. Alternatively, if you’d prefer a night under canvas, there are plenty of campsites in the surrounding area.

Where to stay in Middelburg

Bonus day: middelburg – efteling  .

• Distance: 130 km
• Travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

This is an optional day for thrill seekers looking to enjoy the largest theme park in the Netherlands. At 130km, the drive takes around an hour and 20 minutes from Middelburg, passing through the farms and villages of the southern part of the Netherlands. That leaves plenty of time to enjoy a good breakfast in one of Middelburg’s rustic cafes.

The Efteling is home to roller coasters and a wealth of thrilling rides for adventure seekers, as well as some more tame options for the little ones. There’s truly something for everyone, and with restaurants and accommodation, you can really make a day of it. Besides the official hotels, you’ll find guesthouses and campsites aplenty nearby.

If theme parks aren’t your thing, you could travel instead directly to Utrecht, which is around 170km from Middelburg.

Where to stay in the Efteling area

Day 6 & 7: efteling – utrecht or middelburg – utrecht.

• Distance: 72 km or 170km
• Travel time: 55 minutes or 2 hours
• Route: Open in Google Maps or Google Maps

The next stop is Utrecht, a beautiful ancient university town known by locals as the lively beating heart of Holland. From Efteling it’s around 75km directly, or an extra 20km if you stop off at Loevestein Castle.

This medieval castle is situated in a stunning nature reserve, surrounded by rivers and lakes, and is home to a wealth of wildlife. There are also tours through the medieval museum, which showcases a number of interesting exhibitions.

After the castle, drive through more scenic Dutch countryside for another 60km before reaching Utrecht. There’s lots to see in this small university city, and if time allows, it’s worth spending an entire day. It has a lively vibe, and is famous for its historic center, wharf cellar bars along the canals, and the iconic Dom Church. A calm oasis compared to Amsterdam, it’s a great place to soak up some Dutch culture before driving on.

Tour recommendation Utrecht

Utrecht is well known as the city in the centre of the Netherlands and the canals. Check out the tours this place has to offer and let this city surprise you.

Where to stay in Utrecht

Day 8: utrecht – kampen.

• Distance: 95 km

Day 8 is for nature lovers, and though the distance is quite far, it’s broken up by visits to 2 of the most stunning national parks in the Netherlands . Enjoy breakfast in Utrecht before driving the short distance to Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park. Here you can enjoy hiking or cycling through vast woodlands, discovering ancient castles, and relaxing in a place that feels a million miles from the city, despite being just 30-minutes away!

Next up is Hoge Veluwe National Park, home to sprawling heathlands, looming sand dunes, and shady woodlands. There are even more chances for hiking or cycling through surreal scenery where you might come across beautiful wildlife. You’ll find plenty of campsites, hotels, and guest houses in these regions, so if you want to stay longer, it’s easily done.

If not, the next stop is the river town of Kampen, around 65km north on a road that takes you through moody woodlands and even more relaxing countryside. Kampen is a small town well off the tourist track, though you’ll find plenty of accommodation and things to do. Home to beautiful historic canalside houses, friendly cafes and restaurants, it’s another great place to relax after a long day on the road.

Look out for historic sailing ships along the river, or take a walking tour to discover the more than 500 historic monuments scattered throughout the town. Again, if you prefer to camp, there are plenty of options in the surrounding area.

Day 9: Kampen – Giethoorn – Weerribben

• Distance: 75 km
• Travel time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Day 9 is another easy day, leaving you plenty of time to explore to your heart’s content. The next destination is Giethoorn & Weerribben, known as the Venice of the Netherlands. You can either drive straight there, or drop by Weerribben-Wieden National Park. Consisting of lakes, ponds, and canals, this stunning swampland is a great place for kayaking or boating. Keep your eyes peeled for otters and cormorants, among other wonderful wildlife.

You can rent boats in Giethoorn, so it’s best to head there first and then spend the day on the water. There are also a number of other nice towns and villages that are worth dropping by, such as Hasselt, close to Kampen. 

Giethoorn is also a great base for exploring the Drenthe province, which is home to the iconic ‘Hunebedden’. Hunebeds are prehistoric tombs built by the Funnelbeaker people using huge boulders. Drenthe is home to 52 ancient hunebeds, all within a 30km radius. You’ll find 3 near to Giethoorn, which are named with letters and numbers. The three you find closeby are Dolemen D52, D53, and D54 (there’s a nice teahouse next to the last 2, aptly named ‘Theehuis ‘t Hunebed’). But you’ll discover more on the next leg of the journey!

Day 10: Giethoorn – Weerribben – Bourtange

• Distance: 206 km
• Travel time: 2 hour 30 minutes

Day 10 is a day of exploration. As you’ll be driving mostly through the Drenthe region, there are plenty of Hunebeds to discover. The largest, D-27, is located in Borger, which is also home to the Hunebedden centre, where you can learn more about these fascinating monuments.

Today’s destination is the fortified city of Bourtange, located on the border with Germany in the Groningen province. A stop at Assen is a nice place for lunch, and the surrounding area is filled with hunebeds!

Bourtange is a restored star-shaped fortress town that dates back to 1580. Immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere, stay the night in the historic barracks, catch a historic reenactment, explore one of the 4 museums, or simply stroll along the canals. There’s no shortage of accommodation in and around the town, including 2 campsites that are within walking distance from the historic center.

Day 11: Bourtange – Holwerd

• Distance: 120 km
• Travel time: 1 hour 45 minutes

From Bourtange, it’s time to return to the coast, or more specifically, the Wadden Sea, an area of stunning natural beauty. There are around 50 Islands in the Wadden Sea, but the first 5 Dutch islands are some of the most interesting. Each has its own atmosphere and vibe, and it’s worth checking them all out if you can. To get there you can either loop around the coast (a slightly longer route), or inland via Groningen. A nice place to stop for a coffee in this city is in front of the centuries-old Martinitoren clock tower.

The 3 islands that are easiest to visit with a vehicle are Ameland via the car ferry at Holwerd , Terschelling via the car ferry at Harlingen , and Texel via the car ferry at Den Helder . There are numerous sailings per day on each line. You’ll find a ton of campsites and other accommodation around all of these towns, so you can explore the islands with ease.

We suggest heading to Holwerd and sailing to Ameland. Ferry crossings run pretty much every hour and take 20–50 minutes. If you like, you can stay on the island, or return the same day and head for Harlingen, ready to visit Terschelling island.

Some Wadden Island activities include mud-flat walking, relaxing on gorgeous beaches, and indulging in local delicacies, in particular fresh seafood and fish.

Day 12: Holwerd — Den Helder — Texel Island

• Distance: 125 km
• Travel time: 2 hours 15 minutes

To explore Texel Island, it’s worth taking your time, as there’s lots to do. From Holwerd, it’s around 110km to Den Helder, where you can take the ferry which runs pretty much every 30-minutes throughout the day.

Before you get there though, you’ll cross the Afsluitdijk, a major dam and causeway that has been protecting the Netherlands from raging seas for the past 90-years. The views over the edge are great, and it’s a nice place to witness nature clashing with human ingenuity.

If you arrive in Den Helder early enough, it’s worth catching the ferry to Texel to spend the day exploring and indulging in local delicacies, such as Texel lamb and the locally brewed Texel Skuumkoppe beer. There are places to stay on the island, or you can return to the mainland to stay in Den Helder.

Where to stay in Texel

Day 13: den helder – marken.

• Distance: 85 km

After enjoying the island lifestyle, it’s time to head back inland. Today’s drive takes us back towards Amsterdam, but not before exploring some more of the smaller villages and towns first. Heading south, the first stop of the day is Alkmaar, the city of cheese. For cheese lovers, it’s a must and you’ve got to catch the world-famous historical cheese market every Friday (March through September).

But there’s more to Alkmaar than just cheese — though a visit to the cheese museum is recommended! This historical town has a charming center, bustling cafe culture, and excellent restaurants. There are also some other great museums, such as the Beer Museum and the Beatles Museum. It’s a nice place to stay the night as well, though if you’d like to move on, the day is still young.

Today’s destination is the quaint fishing village of Marken, which is reached by driving along a thin sliver of land to the island. It’s rustic and charming, with a few choices for accommodation and a cosy harbour-side tavern and restaurant. Alternatively, there are several other fishing villages nearby, such as Monnickendam where you can dine on a fishing boat, or Volendam, a beautiful village filled with narrow streets and a bustling harbour.

Day 14: Marken – Zaanse Schans – Amsterdam

• Distance: 50 km

After indulging in stunningly fresh seafood, it’s time to hit the road again. This last day of driving is short and easy, eventually returning to Amsterdam. But first, you can’t visit the Netherlands without checking out the windmills of historic Zaanse Schans.

Located on the banks of the river Zaan, Zaanse Schans will take you back in time to the 18th and 19th centuries. Besides the iconic windmills, there’s also a historic, functioning bakery, a cheese factory, a pewter foundry, and a wooden clog warehouse where you can see how they’re made. You can hire a bike and cycle the cobbled streets, visit the museums, or relax on a sunny terrace.

From Zaanse Schans, it’s just over 20km back to Amsterdam, where you can discover the exciting nightlife of the city if you didn’t already get a chance to.

Tour recommendation Zaanse Schans

Step back in the 17th and 18th centuries during a visit to the Zaanse Schans. As there are so much nice tours there we picked our favourites for you. Click here to check the tours.

Best time to visit Netherlands

While each season in the Netherlands nature offers something unique, autumn (September-November) is our favorite time of year. The trees transform into a kaleidoscope of autumn colors, and it’s a spectacular sight to witness. Moorlands reach full bloom to create purple landscapes, and the leaves dazzle with shades of orange, red, and yellow. 

And the weather provides the perfect temperature to unwind without being drenched in sweat or clutching heavy winter gear. Autumn is a magical time to go hiking in Utrecht due to the breathtaking spectacle produced by Mother Nature. Check out my  Best Time To Visit The Netherlands Guide  for more detailed weather information.

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Road Trip from London to Amsterdam

If you're looking for a road trip to see some of Europe's metropolitan cities and most picturesque towns, this amazing cross-country road trip is just the one you have been looking for! You will travel from London, the iconic capital of England, across the English Channel, into mainland Europe and the vibrant, colourful city of Amsterdam.

The 440-mile road trip from London to Amsterdam will take 10 hours to drive, crossing the English Channel via ferry or Eurotunnel. Notable stops are Calais, Dunkirk, Gent, Bruges, the Hague, Rotterdam, Brussels, Antwerp and The White Cliffs of Dover.

There are many more fascinating towns with rich histories and awe-inspiring natural beauty to explore along the way, so read on to discover the best routes, amazing places to visit, where to stay and the best time to set off on this unforgettable road trip.

How far is Amsterdam from London, and how long will the road trip take?

The road trip from London to Amsterdam will be 420 miles long if you follow the Tunnel Route, which will take you across the English Channel via Channel Tunnel. This route will take 9 hours and 40 minutes to drive without accounting for any stops.

If you choose to cross the channel by ferry, you will cover a shorter driving distance at 280 miles, which will take 7 hours and 30 minutes to drive, making this a faster way to reach Amsterdam, though you would not travel via as many exciting attractions as on the Tunnel Route.

Although you could drive this route in one day, we recommend taking 2-3 days for this road trip, to allow enough time to stop at the many fascinating cities and beautiful natural areas along the way.

Best road trip route from London to Amsterdam

With culturally and historically interesting cities, as well as beautiful natural scenery to see on either route, the choice of which route to take depends on which landmarks and attractions you would like to see and how much time you wish to spend on the road trip.

The Tunnel Route will take you through the historic city of Sevenoaks, with an option to make a detour to Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that will add about an hour to the drive, and to Folkestone Eurotunnel Terminal near Dover.

After crossing the channel via the tunnel, you'll reach France and may then stop over at the many picturesque, medieval cities of northern France, Belgium, and the Netherlands, such as Calais and Bruges.

The Ferry Route takes you to the East Coasts of England, past Dedham Vale Area of Natural Outstanding Beauty, to Harwich, a port town with a historic city centre.

You'll cross the channel with the ferry (operated by Stena Line) and reach the Netherlands via The Hook of Holland. From there, the road trip takes you past Rotterdam and The Hague to Amsterdam.

The Tunnel Route

If you want to make a detour to Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, take highway A3 south from London. Otherwise, follow M25 out of the London area to drive through Sevenoaks, a beautiful, historic town, and join the A2 to drive towards Dunkirk.

From there, you may wish to make a stop at The White Cliffs of Dover overlooking the sea, before heading on to enter the Eurotunnel at Folkestone.

After the tunnel, why not have a sip of wine or a taste of French cheese in Calais, before continuing on Highway A16 towards Belgium?

Visit Bruges, “The Venice of the North”, or Ghent, another picturesque Belgian city, before entering Brussels, the capital of Belgium. From there, take route E19 to Antwerp and The Netherlands.

If you have time, take a boat tour in the stunning De Biesbosch National Park, right by the historic city of Dordrecht, before continuing on to Rotterdam, The Hague, and finally, Amsterdam.

The Ferry Route

From London, take Highway A13 east towards Colchester. Visit this historic town known for its Victorian architecture or marvel at Colchester Castle.

Follow signs towards Harwich but do make a stop along the way at Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a place of mystic meadows and ancient woodlands.

In Harwich, take a walk in the historic city center before you enter a ferry at the Stena Lines Ferry Terminal. You'll reach The Netherlands at The Hook of Holland, from where it is a short drive to Rotterdam.

If you have time, explore Rotterdam and its modern architecture and rich culture before heading up the A4 to The Hague. If you'd like to make a detour, visit the famous Scheveningen Beach for a relaxing break and drive up past Leiden to Amsterdam.

Best places to stop between London and Amsterdam

Both route options include many enthralling attractions, from medieval town centres and buildings to world-renowned museums, beaches, and natural areas, so you might want to take some time to explore these and have a stopover or two to extend your trip.

We have selected some favourite places to stay overnight, with recommendations for what to do and where to visit during your stay.

Explore the medieval Bruges

Situated about halfway along the Tunnel Route, Bruges is an inspiringly picturesque and historic Belgian city. Bruges is most known for its medieval city centre which is full of small canals, narrow streets, and beautiful cathedrals, churches and museums.

There are lots of famous landmarks worth visiting, including the beautiful Church of Our Lady, with the second-highest brick spire in the world, and the Belfry of Bruges, a 13th-century bell tower and the most prominent landmark in Bruges, from where you have amazing views over the city.

You may also enjoy taking a walk along the Rozenhoedkaai and other beautiful canals found in the historic town centre or visiting the Lace Center or Lace Jewel to get an appreciation for the craft of lace making the city is famous for.

For a comfortable stay in this captivating city, we can recommend Boutiquehotel 't Fraeyhuis , located just a stone's throw away from the scenic Minnewater Lake. The beautiful hotel is also close to the old town centre and right by the romantic canals.

You will love the tastefully decorated rooms of this postcard-perfect boutique hotel. If you want to admire the beautiful surroundings of this fairytale setting, the property boasts a fantastic restaurant with a terrace that features stunning views.

The hotel is close to the highway taking you further on your journey the next day. It is within a short walk of all the main landmarks and attractions of the city, such as Bruges Concert Hall and the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and you'll also find lovely restaurants nearby.

Explore modern architecture and rich culture in Rotterdam

Located about two-thirds of the way along the Ferry Route, Rotterdam is a pleasant, big city, with lots of interesting buildings, museums, and local attractions to explore. Rotterdam is known as Europe's largest seaport and as a place of modern architecture and rich cultural life.

Take time to visit the Erasmus Bridge, from where you may admire the Kop van Zuid, an area of many impressively tall skyscrapers, or visit the Euromast Observation Tower for stunning views over this historic yet modern city.

For a moment in nature, make a trip to Arboretum Trompenburg, a beautiful botanical garden a few miles from the city centre.

With much to see and do in Rotterdam, you'll find a very comfortable overnight stay at the hotel The James Rotterdam . This modern hotel has luxurious, comfortable rooms, and it is located in the heart of Rotterdam.

The James Rotterdam is close to popular shopping streets and fantastic restaurants, and it is within 15 minutes' walk from major attractions, such as the World Trade Centre Rotterdam, Euromast, and the city hall, Stadhuis Rotterdam.

Many museums are also located near the property, including the Maritime Museum of Rotterdam and Museum Boijmans van Beuningen. There is convenient parking available at the hotel, so you can leave your car behind as you set off to explore.

Where to stay when you reach Amsterdam

With so much to do and many enthralling attractions to explore in Amsterdam, you'll want to stay somewhere central to enjoy your stay. Hotel Estheréa is a charming hotel located by the Singel Canal close to the heart of Amsterdam.

The hotel has spacious, comfortable rooms with wonderful bathrooms. Parking and an amazing breakfast are available at the hotel.

The hotel is within a short walking distance of the most popular attractions such as the Royal Palace, Dam Square, and Madame Tussaud's. Close by, you'll also find the major shopping streets of Amsterdam, and a range of fantastic restaurants and cafés.

Things to see on a road trip from London to Amsterdam

This road trip, traversing some of the most culturally rich, and modern, areas of Western Europe, has an amazing variety of things to do and see along the way. We have collected some of the most impressive options here for your inspiration:

• Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, UK - Enjoy some of the most beautiful countryside landscapes that England has to offer in this glorious natural area.
• Sevenoaks, UK - This historic English town is located in beautifully green Kent, and has some lovely buildings, parks and gardens to admire.
• The White Cliffs of Dover, UK - If you have a moment, pop over to The White Cliffs of Dover before entering the Eurotunnel, to admire this striking landscape by the sea.
• Calais, France - You may wish to enjoy some French wine or cheese in Calais or explore its sandy beaches and cliffs along the seaside.
• Bruges, Belgium - This medieval city is called “The Venice of the North” due to its picturesque canals and beautiful, historic buildings.
• Ghent, Belgium - It is worth having a walk around in the medieval center of Ghent, now also known as a vibrant student city.
• Brussels, Belgium - There is much to see and do in the capital of Belgium, also one of the central cities of the EU administration and a place of rich culture and many nationalities.
• Antwerp, Belgium - Antwerp is another delightful Belgian city, where you might enjoy tasting Belgian beer at the central square or walk along the city's many cobblestone streets.
• National Park de Biesbosch, The Netherlands - If you have a chance, do take a boat tour in this stunning wetland area just outside of the beautiful city of Dordrecht. Biesbosch is full of birdlife and gorgeous little waterways.

• Colchester, UK - Colchester is known for its Victorian architecture. You may also visit the medieval sites of Colchester Castle and St. Botolph's Priory.
• Dedham Vale AONB - If you have time, take a walk in this beautiful natural area that includes ancient woodlands, meadows, and fens.
• Harwich, UK - Visit the old part of Harwich, known for its architectural heritage, or admire the lighthouses or take a walk by the seaside.

Both Routes

• Rotterdam, The Netherlands - You may admire the stunning modern architecture as well as old buildings and Europe's largest port in this seaside city.
• The Hague, The Netherlands - The Hague is a lovely location to explore due to its gorgeous historic architecture as well as the sandy beaches, of which Scheveningen is the most famous and well worth a visit.
• Leiden, The Netherlands - You'll find many interesting museums, restaurants, and cafés in Leiden, as well as The Netherlands' oldest university.

Best time to go on a road trip from London to Amsterdam

Amsterdam, situated close to the sea, is known as a lovely destination to visit all year round. Its historic streets and beautiful parks are worth exploring at any time of the year.

Before Christmas, you may enjoy the Christmas markets and the winter atmosphere, whereas, in the summer, you'll enjoy spending time by the many canals and waterways of Amsterdam. However, winter temperatures are sometimes freezing, and you'll need to be prepared for that.

In the summer, between June and August, the streets of Amsterdam will be especially crowded with temperatures reaching 30 degrees Celsius. Thus, if you wish to avoid the thickest crowds, you may choose to visit Amsterdam during other seasons.

Winters in Amsterdam can get cool, with temperatures below zero degrees Celsius during the months December-February. Snowfall can be expected during these months.

However, the city's many historic landmarks, museums, canals and parks all remain open throughout the year, and in winter you'll at least experience slightly less tourist crowds than in the busiest summer months.

Spring and autumn can be lovely times to visit Amsterdam, due to moderate temperatures and slightly fewer tourists than in the busy summer months. However, take into account that in the autumn especially it often rains a lot.

Amsterdam hosts some amazing festivals and events all year round. You may want to consider these when planning the timing of your road trip.

King's Day, on the 27th of April, is always a feast to see, with orange colours being showcased everywhere, and all Dutch cities turning into sites of street and market festivals. Holland Festival in June is the biggest performing arts festival in the country, and Amsterdam Gay Pride at the end of July is a vibrant event that usually gathers large crowds.

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Travelling to the Netherlands - Travel hub

• Angie de Sousa

The Netherlands offers an enchanting mix of scenic landscapes and cultural richness. With Amsterdam’s iconic canals, sprawling tulip fields, and historic windmills, it captivates visitors. The country’s art scene, highlighted by masterpieces from Van Gogh and others, adds depth to its allure. Additionally, its commitment to cycling enhances the experience, making exploration both accessible and enjoyable. Travelling to the Netherlands was our first trip abroad in our motorhome. 

If you want to read all the driving rules and regulations that apply to visiting the Netherlands, our ‘Driving in the Netherlands’ post will help you understand all the essentials you need to take with you, the speed limits, drink drive rules and more.

This handy Netherlands travel guide will give you all the practical and essential information that you need to help you prepare and plan for your epic road trip visiting the Netherlands.

Netherlands Travel Hub - Jump to...

Key fast facts for travelling to the netherlands.

Dutch is the official spoken language in the Netherlands

The currency is the Euro, as used across much of mainland Europe.

The Netherlands is part of the Schengen and will count as part of you 90 days travel.

Netherlands is in the Central European Timezone (CET), which is GMT +1.

ATM & Credit Cards

ATM's are available everywhere and all credit cards accepted

Plugs and Voltage

Type F is used in the Netherlands (earthed round pin). 230 standard voltage and 50 Hz.

KPN is amongst the best coverage for mobile phone providers when visiting the Netherlands.

UK travellers need a passport. ETIAS travel authorisation required from 2025. Apply online. 90 day limit.

Female Travel

Safe for female travellers, including night time. Be more cautious around red light areas.

EHIC will cover basics. You should get travel insurance.

Motorhome Parking

Campsites are plentiful. Wild camping is prohibited when visiting the Netherlands with 500 euro fines.

Dutch Roads

Roads when travelling in the Netherlands are similar to other European countries.

Best Travel Months

April to October are the warmer months, although it is never really cold.

LPG Available

Loads of places do LPG at the pumps in the petrol stations.

Amsterdam International Airport

Motorhome/ Car Insurance

All insurance companies should cover you for 3rd party in EU.

Not essential - but nice to show appreciation (10%) . Free tours - you should tip according to your happiness.

Emergency Numbers

Dialing Code - +31 Emergency - 112

Must be microchipped. Must have Rabies injection. Animal Health Certificate. Consult your vet if outside the EU.

Local Foods

Stroopwafel Poffertjes Erwtensoep Cheese! Bitterballen

Why Visit The Netherlands?

The Netherlands is a country in north-western Europe and is known for its flat landscape, extensive canal systems, tulip fields, windmills, and cycling routes. It consists of 12 provinces, including the well-known areas of North Holland and South Holland, and shares borders with Germany to the east, Belgium to the south, and the North Sea to the northwest. This geographical location makes it great for a road trip in its own right, or the start of a longer road trip in mainland Europe or further afield. 

The capital city, Amsterdam is famed for its historic homes, the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, and its Red Light District. Amsterdam is a great city to visit, with easy access via public transport from several of the campsites outside the city. We stayed in a campsite which was an easy 20 minute ride in.

The Hague, as well as being the city which holds the seat of the Dutch government and the International Court of Justice, is an intriguing city of gothic style architecture, fascinating bars and plenty of canals to meander along, with a strong cafe vibe as you would expect. 

Dutch Culture

Dutch culture is rich and diverse, known for its tolerance and liberal policies. The Netherlands has a long history of artistic achievement, with figures like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh being central to the Dutch Golden Age of painting.

The Dutch educational system and healthcare services are among the best globally, reflecting the country’s high quality of life. Environmental sustainability and innovation are also key priorities, with the Dutch leading in green technologies and flood management systems, crucial for a country much of which is below sea level.  

The Netherlands is one of the cleanest, well kempt places that we have visited.  The cycle paths are just fantastic. This really is the place to take you bikes and explore. With 33,000km of cycling paths and statistically every Dutch person owning 2 bicycles, you really should bring your bikes with you – or at least rent one for the day to explore.

Download our Handy Road Trip Planner

Use our handy ready made PDF planner to help you plan your trip. We created a 9 day planner to use to plan a 1 week trip. Simply print out more copies for each week of your travels. Capture everything you need from your start and end points to where you will stay. There is space to write all the things you want to see and more. Plenty of room for jotting down notes as you plan too. 

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When to Visit for your Holiday in Netherlands

Arguably the best time to visit the Netherlands is April to October, when the weather is warmer. July and August are the peak months for visitors, as is the case in most of Europe, but each season has its own offerings for a visit to this wonderful neighbour of the UK, one which we feel is often overlooked. 

Netherlands in Spring

Visiting the Netherlands in spring is a captivating experience, as the country awakens with vibrant colours and lively energy. This season is famous for its breath-taking tulip fields, blooming in a rainbow of colours, best seen in April and May. 

Cycling through the countryside or exploring the Keukenhof Gardens, one of the world’s largest flower gardens, offers a unique way to experience the Dutch landscape’s natural beauty. Spring in the Netherlands is also filled with cultural events and festivals, making it an ideal time to immerse yourself in Dutch culture and enjoy the mild, pleasant weather.

Netherlands in Summer

Travelling to the Netherlands in summer offers long, sunny days perfect for exploring. Enjoy vibrant city life, lush countryside, and sandy beaches. Holidays in Holland during this season mean experiencing lively festivals, open-air markets, and relaxed bike rides along the canals. Expect a blend of cultural richness and natural beauty.

August is a good month for festivals in Amsterdam; Gay Pride, an LGBTQ+ event  where there is a fantastic canal parade. Grachten-festival, a classical music parade held along the historic canals.

Netherlands in Autumn

Autumn in the Netherlands is cosy, with crisp air and colourful leaves. It’s great for visiting Amsterdam’s museums and cosy cafes. Make a special beeline to the Hoge Veluwe National Park to see the stunning fall foliage and wildlife. The park also houses the Kröller-Müller Museum, perfect for art lovers. Cities like Utrecht and Maastricht also offer charming streets and autumnal vibes, ideal for exploring.

Netherlands in Winter

Winter in the Netherlands transforms the country into a picturesque, frosty wonderland. Cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht dazzle with festive lights and cozy markets, perfect for experiencing Dutch holiday cheer. Ice skating on natural canals becomes a magical possibility, especially in the picturesque countryside. 

Don’t miss the chance to explore the Christmas markets, especially in Maastricht, known for its vibrant atmosphere and unique gifts. The Netherlands also hosts various winter festivals and events, adding to the season’s charm. For a truly special experience, visit the Deventer Dickens Festival, where the city turns into a Victorian-era scene right out of a Charles Dickens novel. 

With fewer tourists, winter offers a more intimate glimpse into Dutch life and culture. The cold, shorter days are perfectly suited for museum visits, with the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum being must-visits, offering a warm refuge filled with art and history.

Why is the Netherlands Often Called Holland?

The Netherlands is often called Holland due to a historical mix-up. Originally, Holland referred to two provinces in the west of the country, North Holland and South Holland, which were the most economically developed and influential areas during the Dutch Golden Age. These provinces played a significant role in the country’s maritime and trading success, which brought them prominence on the international stage. 

Over time, the name “Holland” became synonymous with the entire country, especially in foreign languages. Despite this, the correct name for the nation comprising 12 provinces is the Netherlands, while “Holland” technically only refers to those two provinces. The Dutch government has been working to encourage the use of “the Netherlands” to represent the country as a whole, reflecting its diverse regions beyond just Holland.

The History of the Dutch Tulips

Tulips have a fascinating history in the Netherlands, dating back to the 16th century. They were first introduced to the Dutch from the Ottoman Empire and quickly became a symbol of wealth and status among the Dutch elite. The rarity and beauty of tulips led to what is known as “Tulip Mania” in the early 17th century, a period during which tulip bulbs were traded for incredibly high prices, and their market eventually crashed in 1637, in one of the first recorded economic bubbles.

Despite this, tulips became deeply ingrained in Dutch culture and economy. The Netherlands went on to perfect the art of tulip cultivation, becoming the world’s leading producer of tulip bulbs. Each spring, the Dutch countryside bursts into vibrant colours, with tulip fields attracting visitors from all over the globe. The Keukenhof Gardens, one of the world’s largest flower gardens located in Lisse, becomes a focal point for tulip admiration, showcasing millions of flowers in spectacular displays. 

Today, tulips are synonymous with the Netherlands, symbolizing the country’s horticultural prowess and reflecting its historical ties to this beautiful flower.

The History of Cheese in the Netherlands

Cheese has a long and storied history in the Netherlands, dating back over 2,000 years. The Dutch have been making cheese since Roman times, and by the Middle Ages, Dutch cheeses were already famous across Europe. The cool, moist climate of the Netherlands provided ideal conditions for dairy farming and cheese production, leading to a thriving cheese industry.

Two of the most famous Dutch cheeses, Gouda and Edam, originated in their namesake towns during the Middle Ages. These cheeses became highly sought after, not only for their taste but also for their ability to age well and travel long distances without spoiling, making them valuable export products.

The tradition of cheese markets, where farmers and traders would come together to buy and sell cheese, became a staple of Dutch culture. Some of these historic markets, like those in Alkmaar, Gouda, and Edam, still operate today as tourist attractions, preserving the traditional way of cheese trading.

The Netherlands is now one of the largest cheese exporters in the world, known for its wide variety of cheeses ranging from the mild to the very mature. Dutch cheese-making methods and recipes have been refined over centuries, contributing significantly to the global cheese industry and making cheese an integral part of Dutch culinary and cultural heritage.

Netherlands / Dutch Itineraries and Information

Spending a weekend amidst the breathtaking beauty of the Dutch Tulip Fields, particularly around the Keukenhof area, is an experience that encapsulates the essence of spring in the Netherlands. The Keukenhof Gardens, located in Lisse, serve as the vibrant heart of Holland’s tulip obsession

All the essential rules of the road that you need to know about driving in Netherlands; Including the speed limits in a motorhome, the mandatory items to carry in the van, winter driving and drink driving rules and regulations.

Let us take you to the best cities in the Netherlands, so easy to get to from the UK, both in your motorhome or if you choose to fly. All of these cities are great to explore for a long weekend or put together to explore for a longer period of time.

Traditional Foods in the Netherlands

When you are travelling in the Netherlands, what kind of foods do you think of eating? Probably not much further than stroopwafel and cheese! But we found out that there are quite a few local dishes to try when looking for local food on our visit to the Netherlands. 

The Dutch food is mostly characterised by its simplicity, heartiness, and use of local ingredients.  We will start  with stroopwafel, just in case you are not familiar with it (you really need to change that!):

Savoury Foods

Bitterballen : Deep-fried, breaded balls filled with a mixture of beef or veal ragout. Often served as a bar snack with mustard.

Dutch Cheese : The Netherlands is famous for its cheese, like Gouda, Edam, and Leyden, which are enjoyed worldwide. Try and visit the markets – they really are worth going to as well as being great fun.

Erwtensoep : A thick pea soup made with split peas, pork, and vegetables, traditionally eaten during the colder months.

Stamppot : A comfort food made by mashing potatoes with vegetables like kale, sauerkraut, or endive. It is served with smoked sausage or meatballs.

Sweet Foods

Stroopwafels : Sweet treats made from two thin layers of baked dough with a caramel syrup filling in the middle, often enjoyed with coffee or tea. These are just so delicious and you can also buy them in the supermarkets in packets. Just yum! 

Poffertjes : Small, fluffy pancakes made with yeast and buckwheat flour, usually served with powdered sugar and butter. Again, another delightful food to try which is simply delicious and sold in the little cafe’s everywhere.

Essential phrases for your Dutch Travel

It is always useful to have a handful of core phrases to get by in the restaurants, cafe’s and when shopping. It brings joy to everyone when people make just a little bit of effort to speak the host nations language. 

So for your visit to the Netherlands these are the phrases you need to know:

• Hello – Hallo
• Goodbye –   Tot ziens (or ‘Dag’ for a more casual goodbye)
• Thank you – Dank je
• The bill please – De rekening, alstublieft
• Have a good day – Een fijne dag verder
• Have a good evening – Een fijne avond verder
• Can I park my motorhome here please? – Mag ik mijn camper hier parkeren, alstublieft?

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Netherlands Itinerary One Week: the Ultimate Netherlands Road Trip Route Map

by Drifter Planet | Apr 12, 2018 | Netherlands , Most Popular Blog Posts , Road Trips

Are you planning to visit Europe this summer and not sure which country to spend most of your time in? We highly recommend the Netherlands. It is the land of old school windmills, waffles, Gouda, tulips, bicycles, canals and is one of the most liberal countries in the world.

Gouda Cheese and a bicycle – typical sight in the Netherlands (CC0) via Pixabay

The Dutch love their bicycles and literally all the destinations in this lovely country are bicycle friendly. However, exploring the entire Netherlands on a bicycle may be a little too extreme for many, so our first tip for you is to use a rental car .

Depending on how you plan, you can pick up your car at the start of your journey in Amsterdam and drive your way around the country.

We’ve created a one-week itinerary for you to explore the Netherlands on your own by car. Depending on your pace of traveling, you can make this journey in 5 days or 7 days or even 14 days.

When San and I travel, we usually travel slow and spend a long time in each destination to get a feel of it. However, if you’re short on time, you don’t have to stay overnight.

Here’s the itinerary for one week Netherlands road trip

Amsterdam, the city of sins.

Amsterdam Looks Stunning at Night

Amsterdam is not just one of the most visited cities in Europe, but in the entire world. It is famous for its canals, narrow houses. It is also infamous for its coffeeshops , red light district but we actually think the city has so much more than that.

Amsterdam has some of the best museums in Europe, the food scene is amazing, and the city also has a crazy nightlife . Even though I have spent lots of weekends in Amsterdam , it is more than just a weekend city break.

Amsterdam for couples is super romantic, and you will have fun discovering the lovely city with your partner. While you’re here, don’t miss Amsterdam-Noord .

Because of its liberal nature, some people also call Amsterdam the city of sins. It is very easy to reach Amsterdam from any part of the world by catching a flight to Schiphol Airport, or by train or bus from most of Europe.

Spend a day in Amsterdam and be sure to read our travel tips , which will help you save money here. Go for a canal cruise, admire the narrow buildings or see some interesting art. Do keep in mind that parking charges in Amsterdam are very expensive, so it makes sense to rent a car after you’ve already spent a day here. Be sure to check out our amazing itinerary for Amsterdam for ideas.

While you’re in Amsterdam, you  can  rent your own bike  and cycle around at your own pace . If you’re not very confidant about cycling in Amsterdam and want to brush up on your skills, then I have handpicked a few cycle tours for you that you can check out:

• Amsterdam 3 hour bike tour:  Bike ride through Amsterdam’s  prettiest streets and hidden gems.
• Amsterdam 2 hour bicycle tour : Cycle through Jordaan, Red light district, Rijkmuseum, etc.
• 2.5 hours Amsterdam Sightseeing Tour by Bike:  Cycle through the Museum square, pass by the Vondel park, Anne Frank house, Wester Church Tower and the red light district
• Windmills, Cheese and Clogs : 3 Hour Countryside Bike Tour to the outskirts of Amsterdam
• 2 hour bike tour of Amsterdam city : Cycle through the city, cross the skinny bridge and pass by most of the famous attractions. Stop for a drink at Vondel Park
• 3 Hour guided tour of historical Amsterdam : Available in English, German and French

If you arrive in Amsterdam without a booking, you may just get the biggest shock when you find how expensive the rooms (and even hostels are). You can check our curated list of places to stay in Amsterdam for every budget.

If you plan in advance, you can find a decent place to stay here which is affordable. From here, you can pick up your rental car and move to the next destination.

Lisse, the largest garden in the world

From Amsterdam 45 minutes, 35 kilometers

Keukenhof Garden in Lisse near Amsterdam – Netherlands Itinerary One Week (CC0) via Pixabay

We did mention that the Netherlands is famous for its tulips. One of the main tulip attractions in Holland is the Keukenhof Garden which is at Lisse, an idyllic little town. This garden has over 800 varieties of tulips. In 32 hectares you can find artworks, events, flower shows, inspiration gardens and much more. The Keukenhof is one of the largest gardens in the world and will give you an experience you’ll never forget. You don’t really need to stay here for the night but you can directly visit the next destination on the itinerary.

Here are some of the top tours that I have handpicked for you so that you can skip the line and enjoy the beauty of these colorful tulips:

• Amsterdam to Keukenhof ONE DAY Round Trip + Tulip Garden Entry Ticket + Multi Lingual Tour
• Amsterdam to Keukenhof 5 Hour Round Trip + Tulip Garden Entry Ticket + Multi Lingual Tour + Cruise on Lake
• Amsterdam to Keukenhof Half Day Round Trip + Tulip Garden Entry Ticket and Tour
• Amsterdam to Keukenhof 6 Hour Round Trip + Tulip Garden Entry Ticket with Tour + Diamond Factory Tour
• Amsterdam to Keukenhof One Day Round Trip + Tulip Garden Entry Ticket  + A’Dam Tower Lookout Entry
• Amsterdam to Keukenhof 8 Hour Round Trip + Tulip Garden Entry Ticket  + Windmills + Clog Maker + Cheese Farm + A’Dam Tower Lookout Entry

Please note, that the Keukenhof Garden isn’t always in full bloom. Usually the best time to visit this place is in April, but we recommend you check the local tourism website before you go. Here’s an amazing guide which will tell you the best way to do the Tulip Fields in the Netherlands .

On your way to the next destination – Kinderdijk, you can consider making a stop at Den Haag. It is much cheaper and relaxed in comparison to Amsterdam. Here’s a guide to free things to do in Den Haag .

Suggested: The Ultimate Europe Itinerary and Best Places to visit in Europe

Kinderdijk, old famous mills

From Lisse 1 hour and 15 minutes, 85 kilometer

Kinderdijk windmills – Netherlands Itinerary for one week (CC0) via Pixabay

The mill complex in Kinderdijk is quite a unique sight. The Netherlands is partly under sea level. These mills with pumps combined with the dikes at the sea dries a big part of the land so people can live there. If they would let nature run its course, 40% of the Netherlands would be flooded! For nearly a thousand years, the Dutch have been smartly dealing with the surrounding water using wind and steam energy to keep the Netherlands above water. It’s really impressive to see these nineteen big windmills from the UNESCO World Heritage.

Veluwe, heathlands that changes by season

From Kinderdijk 1 hour and 14 minutes, 110 kilometers

Veluwe – Forest destination in the Netherlands (CC0) via Pixabay

The Veluwe is a beautiful nature reserve to drive through. Expect so see shifting sands, beautiful forests, colorful heathlands, sheep and gently flowing streams. Apart from the natural beauty, Veluwe also has museums, historic towns, culinary enjoyment.

Giethoorn, little Venice

From Veluwe 1 hour and 10 minutes, 110 kilometers

Giethoorn – Little Venice in the Netherlands – One week Itinerary (CC0) via Pixabay

Giethoorn , also called Dutch Venice, is perhaps the prettiest destinations in the Netherlands. This typical Dutch town shows perfectly how Dutch people love to work with and at the water. Sail in a typical ‘Punter’ boat at the little canals through the bush, reedlands, past the old farms and under the many old wooden bridges.

Want to visit Giethoorn on a day trip from Amsterdam?

If you don’t have a rental and and would still like to visit Giethoorn, then why not make a day trip from Amsterdam? You can check out this tour that will take you from Amsterdam to Giethroon and it also includes boat rides in both Amsterdam and Giethoorn.

Book your transport from Amsterdam to Giethroon

The Wadden Sea Islands

From Giethoorn 1 hour, 80 kilometers (depends on which island)

Choose one of the five Wadden Sea Islands to leave the crowds behind you. Time to relax and de-stress. The trip on the boat is already an impressive experience. Take a close look at the ‘Wad’, and if you’re lucky you’ll spot a group of chilling seals. Take a long walk on the beach or go ‘Wad-walking’ and find treasures in the sand and mud. On one of the Islands, Vlieland, your car is not allowed. But obviously you don’t need your car there, when you want to enjoy and relax in the nature. You can park your car at the harbor.

Schiermonnikoog – The Wadden Sea Islands in the Netherlands (CC0) via Pixabay

The Dutch Wadden Sea Islands, Schiermonnikoog (pictured above), Ameland, Terschelling, Vlieland and Texel, are the five pearls of the North of the Netherlands. They are all worth the visit because they differ a bit from another; each Island has its own style and culture. Read more about the differences between the Dutch Islands .

Cross the Afsluitdijk

Afsluitdijk pier – the Netherlands itinerary one week (CC0) via Pixabay

This 32 kilometers long dike connects two parts of the Netherlands is an important traffic link between the two provinces. This exceptional feat of civil engineering is an amazing system that controls the water level on both sides of the dike and protects the Dutch from floods. At the middle of the Afsluitdijk there’s a viewpoint. Take your time to soak up the view.

Volendam, A fisher village

From The Wadden Sea Islands 1 hour and 20 minutes, 120 kilometers (depends from which island)

The adorable fishing village Volendam in the Netherlands – CCO via Pixabay

A typical Dutch food is ‘Hollandse nieuwe haring’ or Dutch raw herring with onions. You eat it by holding the fish by the tail and allowing it to gradually slide into your mouth. You may like it or not, but you have to try this raw herring!

Herring is not the only special thing in Volendam. This charming village is characteristics with small houses, canals and drawbridges and the most idyllic view. Dress up in a typical Volendams costume and have your picture taken. Don’t forget to visit the wooden shoe factory! It will complete your outfit. These wooden shoes are called klompen in Dutch or you can just call them clogs.

Try Dutch Clogs – Wooden Shoes – Itinerary for the Netherlands – (CCO) via Pixabay

Volendam has a relaxing and friendly atmosphere. Eat at the nicest restaurants at the waterfront. Try Dutch stroopwafels, speculaas cookies, try mini pancakes called ‘poffertjes’ or eat some more fish! As the Dutch say: ‘lekker’! What do you find the tasties?

Hope you enjoyed our suggested Netherlands itinerary for one week. This trip can also be done without a car, but we recommend you rent one so that you’re not dependent public transportation. Moreover, the highways in The Netherlands are easy to drive and free to use. Also the secondary roads are good to ride, and they take you along the prettiest villages and stunning countryside views. You can stop wherever you want (as long as you’re not on the highway) and enjoy the view.

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17 Comments

Nice post, quite a helpful one.

Good to know 🙂 Are you visiting the Netherlands soon?

Wow thanks. This information was so helpful!

Thank you! Hope you enjoy your visit. 🙂

This is a very nice article. We would like to go the first week of Sept. I have never driven in Europe, I am up for the challenge – but would parking be a problem outside the city. We also considered train travel.

Parking outside the city is way easier to park than it would be inside the city. Driving in The Netherlands is easy

I would like to avoid picking up the rental car in Amsterdam City. I am thinking of spending the first day in Amsterdam (without car)- so I can explore the Amsterdam city on bicycle and foot – and then have a rental car from the second day. Where is the best place to pick up the rental car? Thanks

Actually Amsterdam’s airport is a little outside the city and perhaps you can pick it up from there after you’re done exploring the city. Alternatively, you can also pick it up from the nearby Utrecht or Den Haag (the hague). You can check and compare the prices here for different rental companies –> http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/8050934/type/dlg/https://www.autoeurope.com/

After a 2 week trip(bicycle) in Belgium, 4 of us are looking to rent a car in Brussels and travel thru the Netherlands for 5-7 days and departing for home out of Amsterdam. What are must see & do destinations to see by rental car & bikes?

I am planning a visit in Netherlands at the end of November for 6 o 7 days. I am going to start my trip from Amsterdam. If I will go with above plan what all places I should plan my night stay, so that I can book hotel in advance. Also I am not expert in Driving, so what is the best feasible option to conveyance.

hi Sonal and Sandro, i’m very grateful to find such a detailed blog like yours. Love you guys 🙂 anyway, i’m going to visit the Netherlands in 13th April. Before i decide what to do in each cities, this is my itinerary plan Amsterdam – The Hague – Rotterdam – Utrecht – Amsterdam (will spend 1 day in each city). I’m traveling solo and it’ll be my first trip to Europe. Could you share some of your opinions on my itinerary ? Would love to hear you reply my comment 🙂 Thanks a lot!

hi arness, me and 2 of my friends are also planning a trip from april 13th for a week stay in netherlands! im supposed to be the head planenr for the trip and its giving me a bit of a headache to be honest since its my first trip to europe. anyway, it would be nice to share info if possible to build the iterinary. we are also favoring the Ams-Rot-Rot-Ams route. we are still mulling over the transport if we’ll do it by car or by train

Hi… Thanks for the nice post. I am visiting Amsterdam in third week of April 2019. I have 3.5 days in Amsterdam and will be staying at clinknoord hostel. Can I cover Kinderdijk, Alsmer market and Lisse tulip gardens in a single day by buying regional pass. Can you suggest any other site that is not that touristy. I will be witnessing kings day celebrations on 27th April. So possible days are 25th or 26th April… Thanks Ajay

Thank you for the information I’d consider adding a picture of your route on a map that we can understand the driving distances between each point. Now it’s required to go to Google Maps every time I want to check out the location of a place.

Hi Hezi, what a wonderful idea. I have done it and added a google maps route map in this post on top, hope it helps. We have another post with a different suggested itinerary for the Netherlands .

This article isn’t especially clear about where/which towns you recommend to sleep in for the stay. That would also be helpful to know.

Well narrated … wish I had this information earlier.. I love Netherland and been there four times … still look forward to visit again … would like to add Madurodam, Delft, and Hague too…

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Hello Travelers!

Namaste, Guten Tag! I'm Sonal from India, living in Germany and exploring Europe. I've been writing about my travels since 2015. I often travel alone (and sometimes with family of 3).

I love European city breaks, nature, adventure, hiking to viewpoints, Yoga, and road trips. I have a knack for creating the most amazing travel itineraries and in-depth destination guides which will help you make the most of your trip.

Not sure where to start? Start with some of my most popular posts .

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Last Updated on January 26, 2023 by Drifter Planet

The Open Road Travel

• May 7, 2022

Road Trip From London To Europe (Amsterdam)

Updated: Dec 5, 2022

A road trip from London to Europe, or more specifically Amsterdam , takes you through 4 different countries.

A road trip from London to Amsterdam starts in the UK and goes through France, Belgium, and the Netherlands. Along the way, you'll experience a range of the different landscapes, architecture, food, and languages Europe has to offer.

If you want to plan your own exciting road trip from London to Europe or London to Amsterdam, then I highly suggest reading on.

A Road Trip From London To Europe (Amsterdam): How Far Is It, How Long Will It Take To Get There & What Is The Best Route?

A road trip from London to Europe can mean many things as the United Kingdom is, of course, a part of Europe. To drive from London to mainland Europe, it can cover as little as 70 miles, depending on your starting location.

Begin by joining the M25 at the closest point and follow it to junction 3. You will then join the M20 where it begins and follow it to Junction 11A, where you will exit to Eurotunnel Le Shuttle.

The Eurotunnel undersea rail tunnel trains will then take you across the English Channel from Folkstone in England to Calais in France.

For those after a more complete European experience, will are now going to outline a road trip from London to Amsterdam as well. This will take you through 4 different European countries, giving you a taste of each of their cultures.

The best route for a road trip from London to Amsterdam will cover just over 330 miles and take around 6-7 hours to complete, depending on where in London you start from. The start of the route will also be identical to what we have outlined above.

Once you exit the Eurotunnel onto Avenue De France, you'll merge onto European Route E40, the longest highway in Europe. You will then follow this into Belgium, until you reach the outskirts of the city of Ghent.

Exit onto European Route E17 and head north until the road ends just outside Antwerp. You will the briefly head east on European Route E34, before switching to European Route E19 and going north.

Just after passing into the Netherlands, head east on A58 for a short way, then go north on A27. When you reach De Biezen, change onto the A2 and follow it north the rest of the way to Amsterdam.

Best Time For A Road Trip From London To Europe

The best time for a road trip from London to Europe depends on what you are going for.

While the summer months of July and August generally have the highest temperatures and are ideal for outdoor activities, this is a popular time for tourists and, as such, attractions will be busier and accommodation can be pricier.

Meanwhile, going later in the year, from late November to the end of December, means you will get to enjoy the magical Christmas events and markets that are popular throughout Europe.

Best Places To Stop On A Road Trip From London To Amsterdam - Bruges

At around 6-7 hours, a road trip from London to Amsterdam can be completed in a single day. However, you will more than likely want to make a few stops along the way, to break up the journey and give you plenty of time to enjoy the sights and attractions.

If you plan to make an overnight stop, the best place to stop on a road trip from London to Europe is Bruges. A historic city and charming destination, Bruges is a place you won't want to miss and one you may want to consider spending a night or two during your trip.

Known locally as Brugge, Bruges is famed for its iconic canals, picture-perfect cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and chocolate shops. Situated in north-western Belgium, in the province of West Flanders, Bruges is the capital and largest city of the region.

The main square in the heart of the old town is the most popular spot in the city and has been used as a marketplace since 958. Restaurants, cafes, and pretty stepped gable buildings circle the square, making it a romantic location to explore or relax in.

The main attraction of the square is the majestic belfry tower, which dates back to the 13th century. The medieval bell tower is one of the city’s most prominent features, and its steep, narrow staircase of 366 steps can be climbed to enjoy the views, if you feel brave enough.

The square even has horse drawn carriages if you fancy a tour of the beautiful city, while boat cruises along its many canals are ideal for those who want to explore Bruges by water.

Bruges can get busy during the summer months and at weekends so, if you want to avoid the crowds, try visiting midweek. During the Christmas period, there are also plenty of markets selling decorations, mulled wine, and other festive goods, dotted around the city.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Bruges – Hotel Aragon

Situated on a cobblestone street in the historic centre of Bruges, Hotel Aragon is a relaxed hotel with spacious, warmly decorated rooms and apartments.

All rooms offer modern furnishings with city views and a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi, minibars, and coffee and tea facilities. Upgraded rooms also have seating areas and balconies, while suites offer a fully equipped kitchen and TVs in each bedroom.

Every morning, a breakfast buffet with a range of hot and cold dishes, fresh delicacies, and various baked goods is served in the breakfast room. There is no restaurant at the hotel but there are several restaurants and cafes in the main square, which is just a 5-minute walk.

There is a charming bar at Hotel Aragon where you can sit and enjoy a Belgian beer. Parking is also available on site, which, of course, you will need while on a road trip.

Top Attractions On A Road Trip From London To Europe

To make the most of your journey and to give yourself a bit of a rest, you may want to make a few stops at some of the top attractions on a road trip from London to Europe.

There are countless locations to choose from across the 4 countries you will be travelling in but I’m going to give you a few options to help you make the most of your road trip from London to Amsterdam.

Dunkirk is the northernmost town in France and third largest port in the country. It is perhaps best known for the legendary battle that occurred here during World War II.

In 1940, the evacuation of French and British soldiers from the beaches and harbour of Dunkirk was carried out, under heaving fire from the occupying Nazi forces.

Visit the Dunkirk War Museum to learn more about this historic event and discover a collection of weapons, uniforms, and more, all housed in Bastion 32, which was the headquarters for the French and Allied forces during the Battle of Dunkirk.

The town isn’t only for history enthusiasts though, as with its family friendly sandy beaches and stunning scenery along the coastline, Dunkirk can make a great destination to stop at during your trip.

If you visit from January to March, a colourful carnival takes place in the town. Thousands of revellers take to the streets of Dunkirk to march, dance, and sing in costume for what is described as France’s maddest carnival.

With marching bands playing loudly, traditional foods and drinks being served, and celebrators dressed in extravagant outfits, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

The Belgian city of Ghent is one of the country’s oldest cities. Unlike Bruges, Ghent is a lesser-known destination and as such, is not overrun with tourists.

However, this does not mean there aren’t many attractions for visitors to discover and Ghent too is full of medieval buildings and pretty canals. The city also boasts great places to eat, museums, a thriving nightlife, and more.

Meanwhile, there is the stunning, medieval Gravensteen Castle, which is definitely worth a visit if you decide to make a stop in Ghent. Dating from 1180, the castle housed several Counts of Flanders and is still known as the ‘Castle of the Counts’.

Today, the castle is a museum and a major landmark in the city. Tour the castle to learn about the gruesome goings-on that took place there over the years and view its unique collection of torture equipment.

Not only does Ghent have historic attractions to discover, but it is also a city of culture.

If you’re into street art, Ghent has plenty of that, especially in Werregarenstraatje in the centre of Ghent, which is a graffiti tolerance zone. You can even take a street art tour to get a look at some of the impressive art located all over the city.

Antwerp is a Belgian port city situated on the River Scheldt and is the second-largest metropolitan region in the country, after Brussels.

Antwerp is also known for its famed diamond industry and the city frequently attracts international traders seeking diamonds of the highest quality.

The city was at one time the most important trading and financial centre in Western Europe, due to its location on the river connecting to the North Sea.

Antwerp is a trendy city, a hotspot for hipsters, and has in recent years gained a reputation as a fashion and clubbing centre. It is full of chic bars and cafes, modern art exhibitions, and even festivals.

However, Antwerp does also have some cultural and historic attractions. For example, the house and studio of the legendary Baroque painter Sir Peter Paul Rubens is located in the city and has been turned into a museum.

You can admire his paintings all over town, but the museum, Rubenshuis, contains the most famous collection of works by Rubens and helps you get an insight into his life in Antwerp.

Another museum, Plantin-Moretus, has been given the UNESCO World Heritage status and here you will find the world’s oldest printing press, once used by 16th-century printers Christophe Plantin and his son, Jan Moretus.

Breda is a city in the Southern Netherlands, around 6 miles from the Belgian border. It has wonderful, historic buildings, cultural attractions, and many green, open spaces, which is great for when you feel like you need to stretch your legs after all the driving.

If a leisurely walk is what you’re after, Mastbos, located just a couple of miles to the south of Breda, is the perfect spot for you. This stunning, ancient woodland offers many trails for walkers and cyclists and is beautiful to visit at any time of the year.

One particular walking route will take you past the fifteenth-century Bouvigne Castle (Kasteel Bouvigne). Sitting on a man-made lake, this fairy tale castle has lovely gardens, which are open to the public, an orchard, and a collection of sculptures.

Breda, like most of the destinations we have already mentioned, is a great location for history enthusiasts. There are many museums to visit in the city, as well as historic monuments to gaze at.

The Grote Kerk (Church of Our Lady) is one of these impressive monuments and it is perhaps the most important structure and landmark of the city.

The church, built in Gothic style, has a rich history spanning more than 750 years and is worth a visit if you decide to stop in Breda.

Utrecht is situated in the centre of the Netherlands and is around 22 miles (35 kilometres) southeast of the capital, Amsterdam.

Utrecht is known for its historic city centre and beautiful tree-lined canals, and absolutely should be a stop on a road trip from London to Amsterdam. It is a peaceful city with a small-town atmosphere, and somewhere you will really get a feel of quintessential Dutch life.

One of the city's top attractions is the famed Dom Tower, which has sat in the historic centre for over six hundred years. At just over 112 metres high, it is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. Visitors can walk up the tower’s 465 steps to enjoy an incredible view of the city.

For something fun and unique that will entertain those of all ages, look no further than Museum Speelklok. Situated in the heart of Utrecht, this exciting museum will take you into the world of self-playing musical instruments, music boxes, and clocks.

Moving figures and cheerful tunes play from the instruments that range from tiny music boxes to huge Dutch street organs.

And if you happen to be travelling with young children, just a two-minute walk away from Museum Speelklok is Nijntje Museum. Here, children can discover the fun world of Nijntje, the famous rabbit character who is known as 'Miffy' outside of the Netherlands.

Utrecht also has a castle. Although it's around a 20-minute drive from the city, this shouldn’t be a problem, as it is in the same direction you will be heading to your end destination Amsterdam, so you can visit it on your way out of town.

De Haar Castle is the biggest castle in The Netherlands and ranks among the top twenty most visited Dutch museums. With its towers, turrets, and moats, the castle is magical and the surrounding parks and gardens are just as beautiful.

That concludes our guide to planning the perfect road trip from London to Europe (Amsterdam). Hopefully, some of the places mentioned have piqued your interest and you now have some ideas of where you want to visit on the way.

That that you have planned the perfect route and travel itinerary to ensure every minute of your journey is filled with exciting things to see and do, all that's left is to start getting things booked. That way, you can look forward to experiencing it for yourself as soon as possible.

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London to Amsterdam drive

London to amsterdam road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from London to Amsterdam. If you're planning a road trip to Amsterdam, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start in London drive for about 1.5 hours

11:35 am   Canterbury stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:35 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

2:09 pm   Calais (France) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:09 pm drive for about 1 hour

day 1 driving ≈ 4.5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Ypres drive for about 53 minutes

10:53 am   Bruges stay for about 3 hours and leave at 1:53 pm drive for about 1 hour

3:04 pm   Antwerp stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:04 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

5:28 pm   Utrecht stay for about 1 hour and leave at 6:28 pm drive for about 33 minutes

7:00 pm  arrive in Amsterdam eat at Bar Bukowski stay at Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark

day 2 driving ≈ 4 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Canterbury   (12 answers) Calais (France)   (8 answers) Ypres   (2 answers) Bruges   (132 answers)     Brugge   (5 mentions)     Belgium, Brugges   (2 mentions)     questions about Bruges:         where should one stay in Bruges ? which area ?         short trip to belgium Antwerp   (57 answers)     MAS   (6 mentions)     Red Star Line Museum   (5 mentions)     Rubenshuis   (3 mentions)     ModeMuseum   (3 mentions)     Antwerpen   (2 mentions)     questions about Antwerp:         Best free things to do in Antwerp?         What is your favorite restaurant in Antwerp? Utrecht   (35 answers)

Where's the best place to stay in Amsterdam?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Amsterdam .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark , which was mentioned 9 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Amsterdam? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Amsterdam?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Bar Bukowski , which was mentioned 10 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Amsterdam? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Amsterdam?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Amsterdam. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Amsterdam.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Amsterdam to London drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from London to Amsterdam . Or get a full London to Amsterdam flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know London well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about London!

More info on this route:

road conditions from London to Amsterdam

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

How to make the most of a road trip through The Netherlands

When innovation meets tradition, and where a countryside riddled with tulips and windmills compete with skyscrapers of the big cities, that’s when you get The Netherlands. A country known for its art and visionary architecture, there’s really no substitute for this country of wonder and imagination.

Here, we’ll guide you through The Netherlands and give you a route that’ll take you through the best of this amazing country. But remember, the trip is yours! Take a detour or veer off the beaten track and make this journey entirely your own. 

Starting off in Rotterdam, the first thing to know is that it’s a hub of design and architecture. With the beautiful glass-arch food market Markthal, the giant chrome dome of Boijmans Van Beuningen and the unique neighbourhood of Centrum, the artsy types won’t be going hungry here. If you’re in the mood, try one of the city’s many microbreweries, where they of course serve new and artisanal takes on classic cuisines. 

Located right next to Rotterdam, The Hague also boasts a great scene for design and architecture. It also serves as the main hub for the country’s government and the International Court of Justice. The city’s main cultural draw is Mauritshuis, where the works of Rembrandt, Vermeer and Fabritius clad the inner walls. Beyond Mauritshuis, be sure to check out Gallery Row, where contemporary and classic designs meet in a spectacle of art. For the beach goers, the Hague’s coastal scene is just as great as it’s art. The pristine beach of Scheveningen is where you can enjoy a picnic and watch the Atlantic waves roll in. 

Travelling north from The Hague we end up in Amsterdam. The capital city of The Netherlands, and by far the most famous, Amsterdam is a city absolutely teeming with things to do. Take a leisurely walk (or bike) through the cosy streets riddled with shops and hidden gems, soak up the Dutch culture at the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh-museum, have a relaxing picnic at the green expanse of Vondelpark, take a quintessential canal tour of the city’s iconic waterways, visit the Anne Frank Museum and learn about the horrors, and resistance, of the German occupation during the second world war at the Verzetsmuseum, or just take a breather and have a bite to eat at one of the city’s many cafés and restaurants. In short, when you arrive in Amsterdam there’s really nothing you can’t do.

Going further northwest from Amsterdam, across the spectacular Afsluitdijk causeway, we arrive in Groningen. This city is a student mecca, with over 40 000 students living and learning in this vibrant and youthful city. When it comes to nightlife, Groningen has almost no equal. There are no closing times here, which means that no matter the time of day you can always count on the bars being open.

Even though Groningen is mainly a student city with a wonderful nightlife, there’s still a lot for those looking for a calmer vacation. Visit the Groninger Museum, have a coffee at Prinsentuin Gardens, shop for lunch at the Vismarkt Farmers Market or wander around the streets of Binnenstad District and discover your favourite new café or restaurant. 

You can’t have a road trip through The Netherlands and not visit the gorgeous tulip fields that fills the countryside with colour and fragrance. To do this, head southwest from Groningen and steer towards the area of Flevoland. Here you’ll find vast swaths of fields filled with tulips in red, purple, yellow, white, and pink as well as windmills that will make you think you stepped into a postcard. There’s not much to do here but letting the views speak for themselves.

For a city getaway, drive just a bit further south to the city of Utrecht.  

Utrecht is a city with a deep heritage harking back to the height of the Roman Empire, over 2000 years ago. As such, there’s a ton of history to be seen and experienced here. For the best view of the city, head up the 465 winding steps of the Domtoren Church. Standing at 112 meters, this 14th century cathedral is revered in Utrecht. Head down the steps and go even further, into the underground DOMunder exhibit, where you can relive the city’s ancient history. For a classic Dutch experience, look no further than to the Canals Area where little streets filled with cafés, restaurants and shopping are complemented by beautiful waterways. 

A short drive east of Utrecht lies the beautiful city of Nijmegen. This is The Netherlands’s oldest city, and with a medieval city centre juxtaposed with an modern urban feel, Nijmegen is a must-see for anyone keen on exploring what the Netherlands is all about.

Visit the sprawling square of Grote Markt, where open-air markets are held on Saturdays and Mondays. When the markets aren’t open, you can always rely on the abundance of cafés and restaurants that are shadowed by the impressive medieval church Stevenskerk, located just a few blocks away. For shopping, look no further than to the oldest shopping street in the Netherlands; Lange Hezelstraat.

If you’ve had enough sightseeing, make one last stop. Go to the MuZIEum just a few minutes south of Stevenskerk. At this one-of-a-kind museum, there is nothing to look at. No masterworks of Van Gogh or Rembrandt. No centuries old furniture or swords. There is, in fact, nothing. At the MuZIEum, you’ll be able to experience what it’s like to be blind, with a full one hour-tour in complete darkness. You can also book a tasting where you’ll have a meal in the dark, relying solely on taste and smell to figure out what you’re actually eating. 

Quick Facts

Distance from amsterdam to groningen.

You should expect a two hour drive from Amsterdam to Groningen depending on traffic

Distance from Groningen to Nijmegen

Expect a three hour drive from Groningen to Nijmegen, if you’re passing through Flevolands tulip fields on the way. 

Distance from The Hague to Amsterdam

From The Hague, you should expect a one hour drive to Amsterdam, but feel free to take the road less travelled up the coastline to Amsterdam!

Try the local cuisine

Even though Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Nijmegen are hubs for excellent high-end restaurants, don’t be afraid to try the local cuisine! Usually, that’s where the country expresses itself the best. 

Selected destinations for this guide

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2 Weeks in the Netherlands: A Complete 14 Day Itinerary

Wondering how to spend two weeks in the Netherlands? Well, you’re in the right place!

The Netherlands is a fantastic little country that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty with cultural heritage. It is known for its open landscapes, traditional windmills, tasty cheese, and bright tulips.

We spent two weeks in the Netherlands and loved the culture, quaint towns, and laid-back vibe . Honestly, it is one of our favorite countries in all of Europe!

For over 10 years, we have designed awesome road trip itineraries in Italy, Malta, Greece, Belgium, France, Hungary, Slovakia, the Czech Republic, Namibia, Japan, and the Netherlands.

We know exactly how to make your 14-day Netherlands itinerary unforgettable.

Drive times are short, highways are in excellent condition , and you can explore the country at your own pace. This is especially important for people who travel with chronic pain and fatigue like I do.

In this post, we share how to spend 2 weeks in the Netherlands so you can choose and customize your own adventure . We go over the best towns to visit, things to do, drive times, and ideas on where to stay.

So, whether you have 10 or 14 days in the Netherlands, this post will help you craft your own perfect itinerary .

Grab a glass of wine, sit back, and let’s plan your Netherlands adventure!

Why Visit the Netherlands?

Umm, did we mention how tasty the cheese is?

Seriously, though… the Netherlands is a great destination to experience a new culture, wander historic towns , immerse yourself in museums , dine in trendy cafés, and discover an outdoor lifestyle .

We found the Dutch people to be very friendly and welcoming. They have a strong sense of community, value equality, and over 90% speak English . Kind of ideal, right?

Located in northwestern Europe, the Netherlands is bordered by Germany and Belgium. It is relatively small and can be explored in a short amount of time.

They have excellent infrastructure that connects major cities with the many adorable Dutch towns .

Trains are efficient and safe. Highways are paved and easy to navigate . And there is an extensive network of well-maintained cycling paths.

Plus, a Netherlands road trip can easily be combined with other European destinations, as trains are efficient and affordable . Germany, Belgium, Denmark, France, Luxembourg, and even the UK can be easily accessed by train.

Flight prices are very affordable too. You could easily catch a direct flight to Malta for a relaxing vacation . The choices are endless.

2 Weeks in the Netherlands – Map

Day 1-4: Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most interesting and beautiful cities in Europe. From iconic buildings and intricate canals to museums and trendy cafés, Amsterdam is the whole package.

We recommend spending at least 4 days in Amsterdam on your Netherlands road trip to soak up as much of the city as possible.

With 4 Days You Can: ✔️explore charming neighborhoods ✔️visit iconic museums ✔️rent a bicycle or hop on a canal cruise   ✔️dine in trendy cafes and cozy pubs ✔️indulge in Dutch delicacies

✅ HELPFUL TIP: When planning a trip , we always schedule at least 2 days in the first location before starting any road trip. This allows time to relax after an international flight and address any pain, pick up supplies for the trip, and enjoy the town.

Getting to Amsterdam

Make your way to Amsterdam Central Station , in the heart of Amsterdam. The easiest way to get there from Schiphol Airport is by train, taxi, or private transfer.

There is a bus from Schiphol Airport, but it does not take you directly to the historic center.

🚄 TRAIN: NS Dutch Railways Train, Cost: 6.90€ – 20min 🚕 TAXI: Cost: 40–60€ (depending on traffic) – 20min 🚌 BUS: Amsterdam Express 397 from Schiphol Plaza to Amsterdam Elandsgracht (not Central Station) Cost: 6.50€ – 30min

You can take a private transfer to Amsterdam for a more comfortable ride. Get Transfer offers competitive rates from various drivers, allowing you to select the cheapest option available.

🚓 Need a Transfer from Amsterdam Airport? ➡️ Book your Private Transfer here !

Getting Around Amsterdam

Much of Amsterdam’s historic center is pedestrian only . You may need to walk a short distance with your luggage, depending on your hotel’s location. The taxi will drop you off as close as possible.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: If you plan on staying in Amsterdam for an extended period or using it as a base to explore nearby towns, then consider booking accommodations closer to Central Station.

Your feet will be your primary mode of transportation during your 4 days in Amsterdam.

Make sure you have a good pair of walking sandals or runners to support your neck and back.

👉I like these runners because they are comfortable and offer excellent support.

Amsterdam has an efficient transportation system with access to many historic sights and museums. We found the trams in the city safe and comfortable. 🚃 Amsterdam Tram Map 🚌 Amsterdam Bus Map

Things to Do in Amsterdam

Alright, onto the good stuff. Get ready to explore this historical, amazing city!

Whether it’s renting a bicycle, cruising the canals, visiting world-class museums, eating a ton of cheese, or discovering its unique charm, Amsterdam will not disappoint!

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Most of the sights are wheelchair friendly. But keep in mind that the historic center has cobblestone streets and some small staircases, depending on where you visit.

Day 1: Historic Center, Canals & Markets

✔️ Amsterdam Centrum: Get lost in the historic center, admire 17th-century canals, Flemish architecture, and discover the cute shops.

✔️ Nieuwmarkt: Known for its historic buildings, lively market, delicious food, and its proximity to Chinatown and De Waag.

✔️ Rembrandt House Museum: The 17th-century house where Rembrandt lived, admire his paintings, and learn about his artistic process.

✔️ Canal Cruise: Hop on a canal cruise and take in the city’s beautiful architecture, charming bridges, and historic landmarks.

👉Admire Amsterdam with an onboard bar & local guide with this award-winning evening canal cruise!

Day 2: History & Lights

✔️ Anne Frank House: Visit the historical site where Anne Frank hid during the Nazi occupation of World War II and where she wrote her diary.

👉 Join a walking tour of the Jewish Quarter with the Anne Frank guided tour!

✔️ Electric Ladyland: This is the world’s 1 st museum of fluorescent art, featuring exhibits of glowing minerals, artworks, and installations.

✔️ The Dam: A lively square is home to the National Monument, Royal Palace, and New Church, with street performers, cafes, and shops.

✔️ Red Light District: It’s controversial, mysterious… and yes, safe for tourists. The narrow streets, red-lit windows, and entertainment options offer a distinct experience unique to Amsterdam.

👉Experience Amsterdam’s Red Light District & cafe culture with this award-winning private tour!

Day 3: Museums & Markets

✔️ Van Gogh Museum : ACheck out the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works, including his iconic paintings “Sunflowers” and “Starry Night”.

👉Buy your Van Gogh entrance ticket here!

✔️ Rijksmuseum: A treasure of Dutch art and history, with an extensive collection of masterpieces including Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid.”

👉Buy your Rijksmuseum entrance ticket here!

✔️ Leidseplein: Known for its vibrant nightlife, this square has fantastic restaurants, trendy bars, clubs, and theaters worth exploring.

✔️ Bloemenmarkt: Along Singel Canal, you will find the world’s only floating flower markets, a cherished part of the city’s heritage since 1862.

Day 4: Neighbourhoods & Beer

✔️ Heineken Experience: Learn the history and brewing process of this world-famous beer, interact with exhibits, and enjoy a beer tasting.

👉Buy your Heineken Experience ticket here!

✔️ Albert Cuyp Market: Soap up the atmosphere, do some shopping, and indulge in some Dutch delicacies like Stroopwafels and Bitterballen.

✔️ De Pijp Neighborhood: This iconic district is known for its bohemian vibe, beautiful parks, cultural diversity, and culinary delights.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Respect your body’s limits. I try to limit myself to 2 major sights per day. This helps extend my energy, does not add to my pain, and fits perfectly with my travel style.

Additional Things to Do

Depending on your time and interests, here are a few more museums and experiences you may want to add to your Netherlands itinerary.

✔️ Lord in the Attic: A clandestine Catholic church in a canal house attic. ✔️ Nemo Science: Interactive scientific exhibits & experiments. ✔️ National Maritime: A great collection of ships, artifacts, and exhibits. ✔️ Moco: Contemporary art that blends art, activism, and culture. ✔️ Stedelijk: Collection of modern art that spans several art movements. ✔️ FOAM Photography: Contemporary & historical photographs.

Neighborhoods & Parks

✔️ Vondelpark: Popular park offers an escape from the city with activities.    ✔️Amsterdamse Bos: City’s largest park with cherry blossoms & a pond. ✔️The Jordaan: A bohemian district with historic charm & vibrant art scene. If it’s snowing in Amsterdam, visit Café Chris for a Brown Bar experience. ✔️ Indische Buurt: Laid-back vibe with Middle Eastern bakeries, cafes & hipster bars.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: If it’s snowing in Amsterdam during your visit, head to Café Chris for a traditional Brown Bar experience.

Bicycle & Cafe Tours

✔️ Bicycle Tours: Experience the local cycling culture with a bike tour, and discover the city’s charm with a local guide.

👉This award-winning Bicycle Tour takes you around Amsterdam’s highlights and hidden gems.

✔️ Ganja Tour: For cannabis enthusiasts, explore famous coffee shops, and learn about the history, and culture of legal marijuana in Holland.

👉Visit Amsterdam’s museums & best coffee shops with this certified Cultural Ganja Tour .

Amsterdam City Pass

You may want to consider the Amsterdam City Pass if you want to see as much as possible in a limited time frame.

It includes entrance to museums, attractions, public transportation, and more. Passes range from 24 – 120 hours.

We chose not to purchase the City Pass. I travel with chronic pain and fatigue , so cramming in as many sights as possible in one day will only add to my pain. Not to mention, waste our money.

And I’m not in love with either of those ideas.

Plus, we prefer the freedom to let our hearts wander in a new place. You never know what little hidden gems you might discover.

Have difficulty walking? Struggle with chronic pain or fatigue? 🧑‍🦽Why not rent a wheelchair? Yes, you can rent a wheelchair for your Amsterdam visit or for your entire two weeks in the Netherlands. 👉 Amsterdam Wheelchair Rental 👉 Netherlands Wheelchair Rental

Where to Stay in Amsterdam

📍 Monet Garden Hotel Amsterdam : Inspired by Monet, this boutique hotel offers artistic ambiance and modern comfort. In an excellent location, it has beautiful rooms and a tranquil garden. ➡️ Book your stay at Monet Garden Hotel Amsterdam now!

📍 Boutique Hotel View : Built in a traditional house on a canal, this hotel is close to attractions with quiet, cozy well-decorated rooms and a helpful, attentive staff. It has a steep staircase. ➡️ Book your stay at Boutique Hotel View now!

Day 5-6: Volendam

DRIVE TIME: Amsterdam–Volendam (27 min – 23.7km/14.7 miles) TRAIN TIME: Amsterdam–Purmerend–Volendam (29 min)

The easiest way to get from Amsterdam to Volendam is by rental car.

⛔There is no direct train . You will need to take the train to Purmerend Station and then, a 7km bus ride to Volendam

Over the next two days, you will explore the seaside village of Volendam. Just north of Amsterdam, it famous sits on the shores of Markermeer Lake, connected to the North Sea.

Volendam offers visitors a glimpse into the country’s maritime heritage and the slower traditional Dutch lifestyle .

It has a quaint harbor, colorful wooden houses, and a busy waterfront lined with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes to enjoy.

Volendam is famous for its traditional Dutch culture , including its clothing. Many local women still wear colorful dresses, lace bonnets, and clogs on special occasions.

Things to Do in Volendam

Unwind from the chaos of Amsterdam and take in the seaside views and relaxed vibe Volendam is known for. 

Day 5: Volendam & Marken

✔️ Volendam Village: Wander charming streets, admire traditional houses, watch fishermen work, and indulge in delicious fresh seafood.

✔️ Volendam Museum: Learn about local history and traditions with exhibits of traditional costumes, fishing artifacts, and photographs.

✔️ Boat Tour to Marken: Hop on a boat tour to the nearby island of Marken. Enjoy the landscape and explore the quaint village of Marken.

👉Sail your way to Marken with this regularly timed Express and Sheltered Boat Tour!

Day 6: Volendam Area

✔️ Zaanse Schans: This town is known for its preserved windmills, historic buildings, and open-air museum to learn traditional Dutch clog making.

✔️ Edam: This cheese-making town is just 6 minutes from Volendam. Walk to the historic center and visit the Edam Cheese Museum.

✔️ Cheese Tasting: Of course, this is on the list! Visit a local cheese shop or market to sample/purchase a variety of cheeses, including Edam & Gouda.

✔️ Windmill , Cheese Tasting & Clog-Making: Tour the Zaanse Schans windmills, participate in a clog-making workshop & visit a cheese farm to sample and learn about the country’s rich cheese-making traditions.

👉Experience Dutch traditions with a small group on this award-winning Windmill & Cheese Tour!

Where to Stay in Volendam

📍 Marinapark Volendam : Next to the marina, these modern, spacious rooms are quiet and have harbor views. There is a restaurant, bar, delicious breakfast, and indoor swimming pool. ➡️ Book your stay at Marinapark Volendam now!

📍 Volendam Old Bridge Residence : In a historic building, this hotel combines traditional with modern comforts. Centrally located with parking. Rooms are quiet with comfortable beds. ➡️ Book your stay at Old Bridge Residence now!

Day 7-9: Leiden, Delft & The Hague

Although most people stay in The Hague, we recommend staying in Delft for this part of your Netherlands itinerary.

Just like the Maltese town of Mdina , Delft is one of our all-time favorite European towns!

Smaller than the Hague, Delft offers a small-town feel that everyone should experience on their Netherlands road trip.

And with Delft’s proximity to The Hague, you get a more relaxed stay without the hustle and bustle. Sounds perfect, right?!

⛔You could stay in Leiden. But it is a university town and maybe a little student-heavy, depending on the time of year you visit. But if that’s your thing, then it is a fantastic option too.

We provide accommodation choices later in the post.

Day 7: Leiden

DRIVE TIME: Volendam–Leiden–Delft: 1 hour 22 min (89 km/55 miles) TRAIN TIME: Volendam–Delft: 1 hour

Today on your Netherlands itinerary, you will visit Leiden as you drive to Delft. It’s the perfect way to see this beautiful town without backtracking.

⛔If you are taking the train, then head straight to Delft so you don’t have to drag your luggage around longer than necessary. Leiden can be explored the following day.

Use the Netherlands Train Website to help plan your trip.

Leiden is a lovely town and a must when spending two weeks in the Netherlands. As a university town, it has a more youthful vibe too.

This colorful town is home to numerous museums, quaint shops, boat restaurants , and inner courtyards to explore.

The historic center of Leiden has the highest number of waterways and bridges of any town in the Netherlands, making for an exceptionally beautiful visit.

Things to Do in Leiden

From museums and churches to delightful cafes, this town has more than enough to keep you busy for a day. 

✔️ De Valk Windmill Museum: Wander through windmills and learn about the engineering, history, and role they played in the Netherlands.

✔️ Rapenburg Canal: Enjoy Leiden’s most beautiful canal with a coffee on a terraced café, or a romantic evening stroll.

✔️ Pieterskerk: A magnificent 14th-century Gothic church is one of the oldest in Holland and houses iconic paintings like The Last Supper.

✔️ Hooglandse Kerk: This impressive medieval church is a significant landmark known for its imposing tower and intricate stained glass.

👉Need a Tour around Leiden that hits it all?? ➡️ Book your Private Tour Here

If you have the time, consider the following:

✔️ Boat Trip to Katwijk: Soak in the beauty of the Dutch landscapes along the route to Katwijk, a beautiful seaside resort town.

✔️ Naturalis Museum: Interact with scientists and learn about the natural world through plant, animal, fossil, and rock exhibits.

✔️ Botanical Gardens: Relax among the diverse flora and fauna in Holland’s oldest botanical garden.

Day 8: Delft

No need for transportation today , as Delft is your base.

Time to explore Delft, one of the best towns to visit in the Netherlands . This town is seriously adorable! Make sure your camera is fully charged.

Delft is a picturesque, historic city renowned for its charming canals , preserved medieval architecture , and iconic blue and white Delftware ceramics.

It holds historical significance to Holland, as it is the birthplace of renowned painter Johannes Vermeer and the production center of Delftware , the distinctive blue and white pottery.

Delft was our absolute favorite town during our two weeks in the Netherlands. It quickly captured our hearts for its peaceful ambiance and undeniable beauty.

Things to Do in Delft

Here are a few of our favorite things to do. Or just start walking and discover Delft’s charm on your own.

✔️ Market Square (Markt): This lively town square hosts some fantastic markets, especially on Thursday & Saturday, selling fresh produce, flowers, local delicacies, and more.

✔️ City Hall: A lovely Renaissance–style building that serves as the ceremonial center of the city.

✔️ Nieuwe Kerk: This church serves as the resting place of Dutch Royal Family and highlights the heritage of Delft with gorgeous architecture.

✔️ Oude Kerk: An impressive church known for its striking tower, stained glass windows, and the tomb of Dutch master painter Johannes Vermeer.

Energy for a museum or two? Consider the following:

✔️ Royal Delft Museum: Learn the history of the iconic Delftware, the traditional craftsmanship and artistry behind these exquisite hand-painted porcelain pieces.

✔️ Vermeer Centruum Delft: A collection of exhibits showcasing the life and work of renowned painter Johannes Vermeer. A must for any art lover!

✔️ Lambert van Meerten Museum:  Housed in a restored 19th-century mansion with an extensive collection of decorative arts and antiquities.

👉 What about a photography tour around Delft? ➡️ Book your Photography Tour Here

Where to Stay in Delft

📍 Hotel Johannes Vermeer Delft : This is a unique stay in the heart of Delft on a quiet, canal street. With elegant, Dutch-inspired décor, spacious rooms, friendly staff, bar, and optional breakfast. ➡️ Book your stay a Hotel Johannes Vermeer Delft now!

📍 Hotel Arsenaal Delft : Centrally located, this stunning 4-star hotel has a quiet courtyard, bar, and parking. Rooms are spacious, impeccably decorated with wooden beams, and amazing views. ➡️ Book your stay at Hotel Arsenaal Delft now!

Day 9: The Hague

DRIVE TIME: Delft–The Hague: 24 min (12.6 km/7.8 miles) TRAIN TIME: Delft–The Hague: 16 min

Today, you make your way to The Hague, on the coast of the North Sea.

The train is easy and efficient if you plan to stick to the city center. However, the drive along the coast and surrounding countryside is very memorable.

The Hague, also known as Den Haag, is the political and administrative capital of the Netherlands . It is a vibrant city that blends historic charm with modern design.

It is home to numerous international organizations , including the International Court of Justice. There is also an impressive array of cultural attractions, green spaces, and a medieval castle to visit.

The Hague is one of the few Dutch cities on your Netherlands road trip with a beautiful coastline, sandy beaches, seaside resorts, and a lovely waterfront promenade.

Things to Do in The Hague

With its fascinating history and international significance, your visit to The Hague will be anything but dull.

✔️ Mauritshuis Museum: An impressive collection of Golden Age Dutch masterpieces, including Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring”.

✔️ Peace Palace: Visit the International Court of Justice, a stunning Neo-Renaissance building that is a landmark of peace and international justice.

✔️ The Hague Tower: Head to the top of this modern, distinct skyscraper for fantastic panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.

✔️ The Binnenhof: A historic complex serves as the seat of the Dutch Parliament and includes the 13th-century Binnenhof Castle.

👉 Looking for tours that include the Binnenhof? ➡️ Check out this short list on Viator

A few additional highlights in The Hague.

✔️ Madurodam Model City: Wander through this miniature model of meticulously crafted replicas of Holland’s historic sites and landmarks.

✔️ Beach & Promenade: Lined with luxurious hotels, fine dining, and charming cafes, the Promenade is perfect for a leisurely walk.

✔️ Kunstmuseum: An extensive collection of Dutch & international art in a modern building, including art by Mondrian, Van Gogh, and Picasso.

Day 10-12: Rotterdam & Dordrecht

For the next 3 days, you will explore Rotterdam, Dordrecht, and the Kinderdijk windmills.

We recommend Rotterdam as your base . It has the best variety of accommodations, including historic hotels with balconies , which we will provide later.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: As Rotterdam is so close to Delft, you may choose to extend your stay in Delft and visit Rotterdam and Dordrecht as day trips. This is completely doable by car or train.

Extending your stay in one location is an excellent way to spend less money while traveling .

Day 10-11: Rotterdam

DRIVE TIME: Delft–Rotterdam: 21 min (15.8 km/9.8 miles) TRAIN TIME: Delft–Rotterdam: 15 min

The train is efficient and an excellent transportation choice for your two weeks in the Netherlands.

Driving your rental car is also very straightforward and enjoyable . Just make sure to stay to the right and allow people to pass, a common courtesy in Holland.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Consider every aspect of train travel before booking your ticket. As someone with hidden disabilities , dragging my suitcase to/from the station and waiting on a chilly platform is not ideal. Do what is best for you and your body.

Sometimes overlooked, we think Rotterdam is worth visiting . As the second largest city in the Netherlands, it has a fantastic mix of historic and contemporary sights.

Known for its innovative modern architecture , the city is full of iconic landmarks, futuristic buildings, and striking skyscrapers making Rotterdam’s skyline unique.

We combined our Netherlands with a trip to Belgium . Rotterdam is the best entry point into Belgium if you want to extend your holiday.

As a melting pot of diversity , Rotterdam has a vibrant cultural and culinary scene with an excellent variety of restaurants , markets, street food, shopping, and entertainment.

Not to mention, fantastic museums, galleries, theatres, and music venues to enjoy. So let’s dive in.

Things to Do in Rotterdam

Get ready for interesting sights and experiences on your visit to Rotterdam.

Day 10: Rotterdam

✔️ St. Lawrence Church: One of the few landmarks from pre-World War II, the church stands as a testament to Rotterdam’s history and resilience.

✔️ Cube House: Peek inside this architectural marvel designed by Piet Blom. These yellow, tilted cubes serve as an unconventional residential complex.

✔️ Markthal: With its colorful interior and horseshoe design, this indoor market sells fresh produce, international delicacies, and local specialties.

✔️ Canal Hot Tug: Explore the city’s waterways, bustling harbors, iconic bridges, and impressive skyline with a guided tour, or the unique HotTug.

👉 Hot Tug not your thing, why not try an electric boat? ➡️ Book an Electric Boat tour here?

Day 11: Rotterdam

Today you discover the city’s alternative artsy side.

✔️ REMASTERED: Actively participate in this interactive art experience that uses augmented and virtual reality to blur the boundaries of art.

✔️ Depot Boijmans van Beuningen: The first publicly accessible art depot with artwork not currently on display and behind-the-scenes of a museum.

✔️ Euromast Tower: Ride the panoramic elevator 185 meters to the top for stunning views of Rotterdam’s skyline. You can even dine up here!

✔️ Erasmus Bridge: Check out the striking design of this sleek bridge that resembles a white harp or a swan in flight, you be the judge.

Looking for more activities?

✔️ Delfshaven: Walk the cobblestone streets alongside the canals and admire beautifully preserved 17th-century buildings that line the waterfront.

✔️ Koopgoot: This underground pedestrian street is a popular shopping destination in the heart of Rotterdam.

✔️ Food Tour: Discover Rotterdam’s culinary gems, meet passionate food artisans, and indulge in delicious and unforgettable flavors.

Where to Stay in Rotterdam

📍 Hotel Van Walsum : This historic property is full of character. Rooms have comfortable beds, bright windows, and high ceilings. Friendly staff, onsite parking, and breakfast in the outdoor garden. ➡️ Book your stay a Hotel Van Walsum now!

📍 The James Hotel Rotterdam : This stylish boutique hotel is a quiet refuge in the city with modern rooms, king beds, and rainfall shower. There is a fitness center, private parking, and elevator. ➡️ Book your stay a The James Hotel Rotterdam now!

👉 Check out the Best Rotterdam Hotels with Balcony !

Day 12: Kinderdijk & Dordrecht

DRIVE TIME: Rotterdam–Kinderdijk: 24 min (23.8 km/14.8 miles) TRAIN TIME: Rotterdam–Kinderdijk–Dordrecht: 30 min each portion

You can get to the windmills of Kinderdijk by car or waterbus.

⛔The train is over an hour and includes 2 exchanges. And that is just one way! So, that’s a hard no thanks.

With frequent departures and short travel times, the Waterbus offers a convenient and enjoyable alternative to driving. There are direct routes from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk and Dordrecht.

So, whether you drive or take the waterbus, relax, and soak up the Dutch countryside on the way.

Kiderdijk is a small village known for its iconic windmills , located just outside the village.

These 19 windmills date back to the 18th century and were built to manage water levels and prevent flooding in the region. They stand as a symbol of Dutch engineering and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

The area can get busy with tourists, especially during high season. We recommend arriving early in the morning to avoid the crowd.

👉 Want amazing photos of Kinderdijk? ➡️ Join a Kinderdijk Photography tour here!

DRIVE TIME: Kinderdijk–Dordrecht: 15 min (13.4 km/9.6 miles)

Known as the “Venice” of Holland , Dordrecht is a well-preserved medieval city , full of art and history.

Time to wander around its narrow streets, pretty canals, and beautiful historic buildings.

Dordrecht’s waterfront location , with its scenic harbors and riverside promenades, adds to the city’s allure. It offers visitors a delightful blend of cultural experiences, natural beauty , and a relaxed atmosphere.

Things to Do in Dordrecht

✔️ Groothoofdspoort: This historic gate, known for its towers and Gothic-Renaissance architecture, is a prominent symbol of the city’s history.

✔️ Dordrecht Museum: An impressive collection of Dutch paintings from the 17th century for art lovers, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

✔️ The Hof: This tranquil and picturesque courtyard is in the heart of the city and surrounded by beautiful old houses and the 13th-century Hof Church.

✔️ Dordrecht Grote Kerk: This magnificent 14th-century medieval church is considered one of the most impressive in all of the Netherlands.

👉 Craving something a little different? ➡️ Try this private pub tour of Dordrecht!

Day 13-14: Gouda & Utrecht

TRAIN TIME: Rotterdam–Utrecht: 37 min DRIVE TIME: Rotterdam–Utrecht: 54 min (61.9 km/38.5 miles)

The final stop on your 2 weeks in the Netherlands will be the adorable towns of Gouda and Utrecht.

We recommend visiting Gouda on your way to Utrecht , to avoid backtracking.

Your last 2 nights will be spent in Utrecht , as it is a shorter distance to the airport for your departure later. As usual, accommodations are listed below.

⛔If you are taking the train, then head straight to Utrecht so you don’t have to drag your luggage around.

Both towns have direct lines from Rotterdam . Gouda can be explored the following day.

Use the Netherlands Train website to help plan your trip.

Day 13: Gouda

Ahhh… Gouda, another amazing town to visit on your Netherlands itinerary.

Gouda offers an entertaining, authentic Dutch experience with its beautiful square, historic architecture , and traditional cheese market . So, yes… be prepared to sample a lot of tasty cheese today!

We found Gouda’s charming canals , wonderful museums, interesting shops, cozy streets , and quiet parks , a welcomed change of pace from busy Rotterdam.

After your visit, make your way to Utrecht to check into your hotel for the next 2 nights.

Things to Do in Gouda

With a full day of markets, cheese, and churches, Gouda is bound to steal your heart too.

✔️ Gouda’s Markt: This square is packed with cafes, shops, the Gothic-style City Hall and the Stadhuis Museum to learn about Gouda’s history.

✔️ Cheese Market: From April to August, check out the Gouda Cheese Market, held on Thursday mornings. The size of the cheese wheels is insane.

✔️ St. John’s Church: Constructed in 1280, it is the longest church in Holland at 123 meters, with an impressive interior and stained glass windows.

✔️ Cheese Tasting: Learn the process and ingredients that turns cheese into a rainbow of colors with a cheese tasting at most shops around town.

👉 Want the full cheese-tasting experience? ➡️ Check out this tour & museum visit!

Day 14: Utrecht

The captivating town of Utrecht will be the last stop on your 2 weeks in the Netherlands. Honestly, this town is a stunning blend of old-world charm and youthful energy.

Utrecht is known for its thriving arts and music scene and hosts various festivals throughout the year.

With cute cafes, trendy boutiques, and a fantastic culinary scene, it is the perfect place to base yourself for 2 nights.

And like most towns on your Netherlands road trip, the medieval center is surrounded by picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and stunning architecture.

Things to Do in Utrecht

Here are the must-see attractions while in Utrecht.

✔️ Dom Tower: Visit the tallest church tower in the country, a symbol of Utrecth, and climb to the top for amazing views of the city.

✔️ Canals of Utrecht: We enjoyed strolling with a coffee along the picturesque canals, lined with trendy shops and cafes.

✔️ Utrecht Cathedral: Marvel at its Gothic design of Holland’s most stunning church and explore the interior of this architectural masterpiece.

👉 Want to explore Utrecht from the water? ➡️ This kayak tour should be a splash!

Where to Stay in Utrecht

📍 Park Plaza Utrecht : This stylish hotel is close to the center with spacious, tastefully decorated rooms and comfortable beds. There is a breakfast buffet, restaurant, paid parking, and a gym. ➡️ Book your stay a Park Plaza Utrecht now!

📍 Hotel Beijers : This gorgeous, historic hotel is full of Dutch charm in a quiet central location. Beautiful, elegant rooms, with comfortable beds, and courtyard/city views. Breakfast is available. ➡️ Book your stay a Hotel Beijers now!

Visa Requirements for the Netherlands

The Netherlands is part of the European Union. If you are from the EU, UK, USA, Canada, or Australia, you will not require a visa for entry.

If you are a non-EU visitor, you must present the following to the Netherlands customs upon arrival:

✔️ PASSPORT: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure date.

✔️ VISA: The Netherlands is part of the Schengen Agreement, so if you are from Canada or the US, you may enter and stay for up to 90 days. This is true for both tourist and business purposes. Check here for more info.

✔️ HEALTH INSURANCE: For those not traveling from the countries listed above, you will require travel insurance to enter the Netherlands. You must purchase it before you leave for your trip.

👉 Need travel insurance? ➡️ SafetyWing offers great prices and excellent coverage!

How to Get to the Netherlands

Most travelers arrive in the Netherlands by international flight to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS).

As the third largest airport in Europe, Airport Schiphol connects Amsterdam with major international destinations around the world. There are many direct flights from Canada, the US, and Australia.

To find the best deals on international and domestic flights, we recommend using WayAway .

They make it easy to search a variety of dates, and locations, so you can find the best and cheapest flight options available .

It searches multiple flight airlines to find the best deals out there. It is not an online travel agency, there are no service fees , and the website is incredibly simple to use.

Once you decide on a flight, WayAway directs you to the actual provider’s website , so you can view all the info, read the necessary fine print, and make an informed decision on your travel plans.

➡️ Find the Best Flights with WayAway ✔️compares airlines ✔️offers the best rates ✔️plus 10% cashback Book Now with WayAway

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Again, Amsterdam airport is huge! So, if you travel with chronic pain and fatigue, you can request assistance when booking your ticket. Check out more tips for surviving air travel here!

How to Get Around the Netherlands

The Netherlands is a relatively small country, which makes it easy to get around and explore. It’s known for its efficient and well-developed network of trains, buses, and roadways.

The best method of transportation for your 2 weeks in the Netherlands will depend on your needs, preferences, and budget.

🚗Rental Car

Driving is the ideal option if you want more flexibility and freedom to explore. With a rental car, you can get off the beaten path and explore rural areas and smaller towns.

The highways and roads are safe and well-maintained with excellent signage. Keep in mind that parking can be challenging and expensive in major cities.

🚗 Need a rental car? Check availability & prices: ➡️ Reserve your rental car here !

⛔ Do not rent a car in Amsterdam. The city is flat, very walkable, with many sights in the historic center. Plus, parking is expensive and difficult. Save yourself the money & headache. Rent your vehicle when you are ready to explore the rest of Holland.

The Dutch rail system is highly reliable and covers the entire country. It connects cities and towns frequently and offers comfortable, spacious seats.

It’s an excellent option for traveling longer distances quickly, and ideal if you just want to sit back and enjoy the scenery. But keep in mind, that trains are always not cheap.

👉 Check availability & prices 🚅Reserve your train ticket to Antwerp now!

It is important to research the costs of train tickets to each destination when planning your trip .

🚴‍♂️Bicycle

Obviously, this option is not for everyone… including me. But, Holland is famous for its cycling culture . Bicycling is a common mode of transportation for both short and long distances.

The country has an extensive network of well-maintained bicycle paths, making it safe and convenient to explore cities, towns, and rural areas on two wheels. To each their own!

Renting a Car in the Netherlands

Want to explore as many towns as possible, get lost in the beautiful countryside or drive along the coast? Then renting a car is the best choice for your Netherlands road trip.

Not only is it an efficient mode of transport, but renting a car gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace , and in a comfortable, air-conditioned car . This is especially important if you travel with chronic pain and fatigue, as I do.

✅ HELPFUL TIP: Renting a car has changed the way we now travel . It has significantly removed a large portion of my pain because I don’t need to waste my energy walking to/from train stations with my luggage. Something to consider when planning your trip.

We strongly recommend purchasing a GPS before you go.

You will want to download the map of the Netherlands into the GPS for your road trip before your arrival. That way, all maps are ready to go!

Booking a Tour in the Netherlands

If you are not a fan of planning all your own activities or want to spend less time in the car, then consider booking a tour for part of your trip.

👉 Benefits of Joining a Tour: ✔️Learn interesting history and facts from a local guide ✔️Unique experiences only a local would know ✔️Support the local community ✔️Worry-free transportation between sights ✔️Removes the stress of planning every activity ✔️Unique experiences only a local would know ✔️A safe, exciting way to meet other travelers

For those with chronic pain, fatigue, or reduced mobility , joining a larger tour group has its challenges. It can be tough to keep pace with the group or fully engage in all activities.

That is why opting for a private guide is an appealing choice for us when we wish to explore specific sights. There is greater flexibility as we can customize our schedule to accommodate my pain and limitations.

We like to use Viator or GetYourGuide for local tours. We included some awesome suggestions in the Things to Do section of each place.

👉 Want to browse tour options in the Netherlands? ➡️ Check out these amazing tours!

FAQ: 2 Weeks in the Netherlands

How many days is sufficient for the netherlands.

We recommend at least 7 days to gain a greater appreciation for what the Netherlands has to offer beyond Amsterdam. This time allows you to spend 3 days in Amsterdam and then explore the adorable towns we highlighted here and immerse yourself in Dutch culture.

What are the best months to visit the Netherlands?

The best months to visit the Netherlands are April to October. The weather is mild, and temperatures are pleasant, especially during the summer months. Tulips are the most colorful in spring and the foliage in autumn is beautiful.

How much money do you need for a week in the Netherlands?

The Netherlands is not a cheap destination and may be challenging for a budget traveler. We recommend having a healthy budget of 100€ per person per day. For mid-range travelers like ourselves, we would plan on at least 700€ a week per person.

How long can a Canadian visit the Netherlands?

Canadian citizens can visit the Netherlands for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. Of course, a valid passport with 3 months remaining is required.

Is it expensive to stay in the Netherlands?

The cost of visiting the Netherlands will depend on the time of year you travel, type of accommodation, and activities. Amsterdam and Utrecht have higher accommodation and dining costs compared to smaller towns. Overall, Holland is a moderately expensive destination. We found it comparable to our 12-day Malta vacation .

Final Thoughts: 2 Weeks in the Netherlands

I know… that was a lot. Hopefully, we provided you with the best itinerary possible so you can craft your own amazing two weeks in the Netherlands!

From exhilarating Amsterdam and modern Rotterdam to seaside Volendam and picture-perfect Delft, this country has a lot to offer.

You honestly can’t help but get swept up by the windmills and relaxed by the laidback vibe throughout this amazing country. The people are welcoming, the towns adorable, and the cheese… utterly delicious!

We hope you found our 14-day itinerary for the Netherlands helpful! Let us know if you have any questions… otherwise, enjoy your journey!

Read More on the Netherlands

11 Beautiful Small Towns in the Netherlands to Visit Is the Netherlands in Germany? But Seriously… Does it Snow in the Netherlands? & 13 Things to Do in Winter 2024 Netherlands and Belgium Itinerary: The Ultimate 14-Day Trip How to Survive Air Travel with Chronic Pain & Fatigue in 2023

The West Netherlands Road Trip: The Best of the Randstad

Recom. Days

Freelance travel writer and road trip enthusiast based in York, UK. When Hannah isn’t climbing mountains or hopping overseas on an adventure, you can find her at home with her crazy puppy Red.

The 20 most beautiful road trips in Europe

Written by Maartje

We love road trips . Driving through impressive landscapes and spontaneous stops in the most beautiful places, make up for the ultimate travel experience. We are lucky enough to live in Europe, one of the best parts of the world for the most scenic road trips. To uncover the most beautiful road trips on our continent, we’ve asked the some of the world’s leading travel bloggers to help create the the ultimate European road trip bucketlist.

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The 20 best road trips in Europe

#1 exploring croatia.

by Maggie from The World Was Here First

One of the best road trips you can take in the entirety of Europe is a drive from Zagreb to Dubrovnik, Croatia. Taking you through some of the most iconic highlights of Croatia, it is particularly good to do this in your own vehicle as it allows you to be a lot more flexible while also making it easier to get slightly off the beaten path.

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Some of the highlights of this road trip include stopping at the incredible Plitvice Lakes National Park , sampling award-winning cheese on Pag Island, strolling along the seaside promenade and listening to the sea organ in Zadar and taking in the incredible Diocletian’s Palace in Split. 

The drive from Croatia’s capital city to Dubrovnik takes you through incredibly diverse landscapes and can allow you to detour to numerous islands or nature parks, as well. If you really want to be able to experience all you can on this road trip, then planning to spend about a week (or more) can be a fantastic idea. 

Leaving Zagreb, plan to spend at least one night near Plitvice Lakes, another night or two near Zadar, and a couple of nights in Split before finally ending up in beautiful Dubrovnik. If you want to go for longer, you could optionally add on a detour to Istria from Zagreb or hop from island to island after visiting Split.

All in all, driving from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is one of the best ways to experience some of the highlights of Croatia and is an excellent way to see this incredible country.

#2 The Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland

by Cath from Travel Around Ireland

Following the west coast of Ireland, the Wild Atlantic Way is a 2500km touring route and is one of the best road trips in Europe to take. Whether you start at Malin Head in County Donegal in the North, or at the Old Head of Kinsale in County Cork in the South, you will see some of the most rugged and beautiful landscape Ireland has to offer.

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To try and enjoy as much of the Wild Atlantic Way, it is advisable to take a minimum of 7 days if you want to cover the entire 2500km. Or you could spend more time on one section. There are over 160 official discovery points along the route, and it would be impossible to see them all in one week.

Along the route, from north to south, places you should stop at include Slieve League in Donegal, spectacular cliffs that rival their more famous southern counterparts. In the Sligo section it is worth visiting Glencar waterfall and viewing Benbulbin, with its unmistakable flat summit.

In Mayo, a visit to Achill Island is a must and Keem Bay to see if you can spot any basking sharks from up high. County Galway is all about the wilds of Connemara before you should visit one of the natural wonders of Ireland, the Cliffs of Moher in Mayo.

In Kerry, a visit to Dingle followed by a drive along part of the Ring of Kerry are unmissable before completing the trip at Kinsale. Towns to stay in would include Donegal, Westport, Galway, Tralee, Kenmare and Kinsale.

#3 Lake Geneva in Switzerland

by Paul from The Two That Do

Lake Geneva, the largest lake in central Europe is one of the continent’s most luxurious regions. Overlooked by the peaks of the Alps to the south this has long been a favoured destination for health retreats and recuperation. The deep blue waters of the lake under summer sun the perfect environment to renergise.

200 km of roads hugging the majestic lake on one side, snow topped Alps and lush hillsides the other therefore make for an ideal road trip.

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Starting in Geneva this is a city that itself makes for a perfect weekend destination. Where the charming old town and artisan suburb of Carouge meet the modernity of CERN.

Just an hour east from Geneva lies the delightful city of Lausanne. Home to the International Olympic Committee and its own old town region an overnight stay at one of its many chic hotels or guesthouses is a must. A visit to the Olympic Museum perched proudly on the lake shore also warrants at least an afternoon of your time.

Continuing east through vineyards lies Montreux, home to the world famous jazz festival and the glorious, floral lined promenade to the fairy tale medieval Chillon Castle.

Our next stop is Évian, in the south of the Lake. Part of the Haute-Savoie region of France this town offers tantalising cheeses and wines as well as the famous spa waters. Understated compared to its Swiss cousins Évian is one of Lake Geneva’s smaller gems.

From Evian the return drive to Geneva and end to your 5 days in the stunning Lake Geneva region is just one hour. You will no doubt return with a warm glow and healthier complexion.

#4 The North Coast 500 of Scotland

by Kathi from Watch Me See

The North Coast 500 is one of the most  popular places to visit in Scotland  – and for good reason! This 500-mile loop road trip around the far northwestern Highlands takes in dramatic mountain scenery, pristine coastline, sandy beaches and rich local history. 

Starting and finishing in Inverness, most people take between 5 and 8 days to follow the entire NC500 route. Any shorter, and I recommend focussing on one area of the region because there is a lot to discover. 

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The route begins with a beautiful journey from Inverness to Strathcarron by the sea and onwards over the thrilling Bealach na Ba mountain pass to Applecross – not a road for first-time drivers or campervans! From there, the NC500 hugs the coastline and leads through the beautiful areas like the Torridon mountains or Beinn Eighe National Nature Reserve and through scenic villages like Shieldaig and Gairloch. 

From Ullapool, the route continues through the mountain scenery of Wester Ross and offers frequent stops at scenic beaches like Achmelvich, Oldshoremore and Sango Sands near Durness. The road trip leads around the northern most tip of mainland Britain (Dunnet Head and John O’Groats) before turning back south towards the Black Isle and Inverness.

Along the way, there are ample opportunities to visit Scottish Castles (Ardvreck and Dunrobin to name just two), stop for activities like boat trips, kayaking, hiking or canyoning, and indulge in local seafood.

It’s a perfect road trip to see the best of Scotland in one week.

#5 The Italian Amalfi Coast

by Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

The Amalfi Coast  offers travelers one of the best road trip experiences in the world, with the winding coastal routes passing by azure Italian waters, with colorful, quaint towns teetering below. While the zig-zagging roads and sheer cliff drops are not for the faint of heart, the panoramic vistas, and charming villages more than make up for the somewhat nerve-wracking routes!

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Ideally, you’ll want to spend around one to two weeks exploring the Amalfi Coast, so you are able to give yourself plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere of each destination en route and can split up the driving with lots of photo opportunities.

The Amalfi Coast spans from Positano in the west all the way to Vietri sul Mare in the east, with towns such as Ravello, Praiano, and, of course, Amalfi along the way. While you don’t have to stay overnight in each of these towns, I would recommend stopping at each one to compare and contrast it to the last if nothing else! Each town and village is truly picture-perfect so you’ll never be disappointed that you made a stop.

While much of the joy of the Amalfi Coast is driving the picturesque route and soaking up the scenery, enjoying Italian cuisine, reclining on warm beaches, swimming in harbors, and taking short hikes out of the villages are all a great idea too!

I recommend planning to stay in Positano, Amalfi and Vietri sul Mare at the very least and perhaps also adding in stops at Sorrento, Pompeii, and Naples too if you have time.

#6 Southern Spain

by Emily from Wander-Lush

With well-kept highways, affordable rentals and fuel, and relatively short drive times, Spain is the perfect location for a European road trip. If you’re looking for a good mix of culture, history and nature, I highly recommend focusing on Spain’s southern Andalusia region.

You can see a good chunk of the area in as little as 10 days. Add a few extra days if you want to go hiking in The Alpujarra or kick back on the Costa del Sol.

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Andalusia is an autonomous region that’s quite culturally distinct from the rest of the country. Ruled by the Moors from the 8th to the 15th centuries, it boasts incredible architecture and a brilliant food scene. The region also holds some of Spain’s most beautiful natural landscapes within its boundaries, including the southern coastline and the stunning central Sierra Nevada mountains.

It’s Andalusia’s history-soaked cities that are its real claim to fame. Granada, home to The Alhambra, and Cordoba, with its Mezquita, are must-visits. The region’s biggest city and capital, Seville, is another highlight. Set aside at least two full days to see the Alcazar and Plaza de España, watch a Flamenco performance, and eat your body weight in Secreto Iberico. Smaller cities including Cadiz and Jerez de la Frontera, and  Spanish villages  such as Ronda, with its incredible gorge and stone bridge, should also feature on your itinerary.

Narrow lanes are common throughout Spain and can be a challenge to navigate, plus street parking in the bigger cities can be an issue. For these reasons, I highly recommend hiring the smallest car available.

#7 From the UK to the island of Corsica

by Annabel from Smudged Postcard

If you have a good chunk of annual leave, a road trip from the UK to Corsica takes in some really incredible parts of Europe.

From the UK, hop on the overnight ferry from Harwich to Hook of Holland. A good overnight stop is Luxembourg: either the rural Ardennes or perhaps the capital, depending on your preference.

It’s a five hour drive from Luxembourg to Switzerland where there are wonderful mountain and lakeside stops to distract weary drivers for a few days. If wine is your thing, cross the border into northern Italy and spend a few days exploring the vineyards of Piedmont, home to the delicious Barolo, among many others.  If you fancy a city break without tourist crowds, a day trip to Turin  is great fun.

There are overnight ferries to Corsica from the Ligurian port of Savona. If time allows, stop at charming Noli for a swim before dinner. The next day, you’re in Corsica: enjoy swimming in rivers and visiting beaches. Ensure you head inland to the mountains, there are some stunning mountain drives.

From Corsica, take an overnight ferry back to Italy: perhaps to Livorno if you fancy visiting Pisa and Florence. From there, head north to the Italian lake district before heading over the Alps into Austria and then north to Germany. Highlights on route might include Innsbruck and Munich. Serious drivers will relish taking to the autobahns in Germany. Back into the Netherlands, Rotterdam is a great place to enjoy dinner before hopping back on the ferry to the UK.

Allow a month to do this route justice.

#8 From Lisboa to Porto in Portugal

by Marie from A Life Without Borders

aking in the main highlights of central Portugal, a ten day Lisbon to Porto road trip explores the two largest cities of Lisbon and Porto, plus 9 epic stops in between.  Discover UNESCO World Heritage sites, traditional whitewashed villages, majestic forests and seaside towns as you travel through some of the country’s most beautiful scenery.

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Starting in the capital of Lisbon, experience incredible azulejo-clad architecture, breathtaking viewpoints, lively nightspots and fantastic cuisine before heading northwest to the colourful town of Sintra.  With its fairy-tale castles and the mysterious underground tunnels and wells, you’ll soon see why this UNESCO site is so popular with visitors.

Next up is the medieval town of Obidos, where you’ll walk the ancient city walls.  Further north, visit Alcobaca and Batalha for their magnificent, historic monasteries, before making a quick stop for the caves of Grutas de Mira de Aire.

Head back to the coast, to spend a day or two getting to know the traditional fishing village of Nazare.  Home to giant waves, white sandy beaches, and fantastic seafood, don’t miss a ride on the historic funicular for spectacular views.

Explore the Bucaco Forest, a beautiful spot to immerse yourself in nature, before continuing on to the seaside towns of Costa Nova and  Aveiro .  Known as the “Venice of Portugal,” don’t miss a ride on a traditional painted boat on Aveiro’s famed canals.

End your trip in Porto to get a taste for the country’s artistic side, including its epic museums and street art – and of course, drink port at one of the city’s many cellars.

#9 Italian Apulia

by Anda from Travel For A While

One of my favorite regions in Italy and an ideal one for a road trip is Apulia . Prepare to discover white cities hanging above the sea, fairy-tale houses, and endless olive groves. I suggest spending a week on the road, but of course, you can adapt the itinerary to fit your time frame.

My itinerary to explore Apulia starts in Bari. You can rent a car right at the airport and head south to Polignano a mare, our first stop. The town is built on a spectacular cliff. Have your swimsuit ready or, if you’re not a swimmer, try a boat tour of the grottoes beneath the city. Next stop, Monopoli, a 15 minutes drive south, a white city by the sea. Visit the castle and admire the beautiful churches and piazzas. Carpe Diem is a great B&B to spend the night.

Day two will take you to fairy-tale town, Alberobello, famous for the conic-roof buildings called ‘trullo’- a Unesco World Heritage site. If you’re on a family trip, you might want to visit the Zoo Safari in Fasano on your way to Alberobello. For a complete experience, spend the night in a restored trullo, like Romantic Trulli .

On day three, make your way to Locorotondo for a couple of hours, then to the elegant Martina Franca, a beautiful baroque city.

Next stop, Ostuni, a white town on a hill in the middle of the olive groves. Spend the night at Masseria Moroseta, a beautifully restored old farm.

Discover Lecce, another baroque city and one of the most spectacular Italian cities I ever saw. If time allows, make your way to Gallipoli-an island town in the Ionian Sea.

As you head back, plan to spend one night in Bari and explore the Old City.

#10 Lapland in Northern Finland

by Alexander from Engineer On Tour

How about a road trip to the far north of Finland ? Many know that Lapland is an outstanding place for tourism. Many limit themselves only to Rovaniemi, the region’s capital, which is a bit unfortunate. As people of Lapland say, you haven’t seen it, if you haven’t been to the very north.

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Yes, you can do all the tourist activities in Rovaniemi, but there are crowds of tourists. In my opinion, smaller towns and villages are more authentic and provide better value. But to see those in one trip – you have to drive. Public transportation isn’t well-developed in Lapland. Here is a proposed itinerary for winter.

Start in Rovaniemi. You may rent your car there, but you can also move it on a train from Helsinki. A unique thing to do in Rovaniemi its Santa Claus Village. Santa could work as a comedian, he entertains you well and will set you in the mood for further trip.

Next, take a car and go to Levi. It is one of the best places for snowmobiles. You will see all the postcard-like frozen trees on the hills. We also found some of the best restaurants that specialize in reindeer cuisine.

Next, go up north and visit Hetta. It has one of the best husky farms. They will take you for long husky safari and show hundreds of dogs. Also, it is far in the north and you have way a better chance to see the northern lights.

The next spot is Inari. It is one of the major Saami towns and the center of their culture. Make sure you visit their museum and reindeer farm. And as usual, check night for aurora.

After this, you may go down to Kemijärvi. It is a chill and quiet place, with beautiful nature. Good for a day’s rest. It is the last station at the Finnish railroad. There you can put your car back to train (or drive to Rovaniemi)

The whole trip should take around 5 days. 

#11 Calais to the Spanish Pyrenees

by Jenny from Peak District Kids

For those of us in the UK, Calais is an obvious starting point for a European road trip as it’s a short crossing from Dover. No need to hire a car, just bring your own! From Calais, the possibilities are endless across Europe, but last summer we drove from Calais down to the Spanish Pyrenees and back again. It was an incredible trip.

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As it was summer, we wanted to steer away from tourist crowds and find hidden gems off the beaten track. Our route, which is detailed in our France road trip itinerary, included the lush forests of Vaubarlet, the Mediterrean coast of Languedoc-Roussillon with it’s distinct Catalan vibe, the craggy peaks of the Spanish Pyreness, the glitzy Biarritz Region, the windswept sandy beaches of Ile d’Oléron, and the chateaux and tree-lined avenues of the Loire. Each destination notably distinct from the other, providing a true cross section of cultures and landscapes across France.

We stayed either four or five days at each location, and the trip took us thirty days in total. It was about a four to five hour drive between each location and we used the toll roads (which can add up, but they are very efficient).

We camped along the way, bringing our camping gear from home, and self catered. The French campsites in particular are exceptional, with bakeries, restaurants and swimming pools on site; just ensure you book in advance, especially in the high season. 

#12 Transylvania in Romania

by Maria & Katerina of It’s All Trip To Me  

One of the best road trips you can enjoy in Europe is definitely a scenic drive across the stunning Transylvania region in Romania. With gorgeous countryside, countless castles and the most picture-perfect medieval towns, Transylvania is every road-trip lover’s dream come true. 

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For the optimal experience, a road trip across Transylvania should last at least seven to ten full days. This way, there’ll be plenty of time to enjoy a full itinerary that includes all major points of interest in the region while taking it quite slow and making time to get acquainted with local culture, savour authentic food and stop to marvel at nature’s wonders along the way. 

Speaking of itineraries, you will most probably start your road trip from Bucharest, Romania’s vibrant capital and then follow a circular route that includes stops at Transylvania’s quaintest towns and must-see attractions. A sample itinerary should look like this: Bucharest – Brasov – Viscri – Sighisoara – Biertan – Sibiu – Bucharest with in between stops at world renowned castles, UNESCO listed towns and, of course, the scenic Transfagarasan Highway.

The most impressive castles to visit in Transylvania include Bran Castle, Rasnov Fortress, Rupea Fortress, Corvin Castle as well as the fortified churches in Viscri and Biertan. As far as picturesque towns are concerned, Sighisoara, Brasov and Sibiu are absolutely unmissable. Yet, the ultimate highlight of any road trip across Romania is taking in the beauty of the Transfagarasan Road, a thrilling mountain pass that has been awarded the title of the best road in the world by no other than Top Gear. 

#13 The island of Cyprus

by Stephanie from History Fangirl

Many people just come to Cyprus to stay in Paphos, but there are so many great things to do in Cyprus that you really do need to get out and explore. A great way to see Cyprus is by car, and a Cypriot road trip is a perfect antidote to just experiencing Cyprus as a fly-and-flop.

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I would suggest spending one to two weeks on your trip. Start by flying into Larnaca and picking up your car. Enjoy a half-day in the city, seeing the best of Larnaca before moving onto Nicosia, Cyprus’s divided capital. Dedicate at least a day here (but there’s enough to do for far more than that!), including a trip over the border into North Nicosia / Lefkosia.

From Nicosia, head to Agia Napa for a day lounging on Nissi Beach and exploring the town. This is a resort area of the country and a perfect introduction to Cyprus’s beaches. After Agia Napa, spend a day or two driving through the Troodos mountains and seeing the UNESCO World Heritage protected churches. Many of these are by appointment only or open only on certain days, so plan your itinerary for your visits carefully!

After the mountains, head to Limassol to see ancient ruins and Richard the Lionheart’s Cyprus legacy. This is also a great place to see ancient Greek sites. Additional stops include a day at Aphrodite’s beach and at least two days in Paphos, one to see the UNESCO Site and other important archeological sites and another day to relax at Paphos’s beaches and beach bars. Fly out of Paphos relaxed and enriched!

#14 A 7 day road trip in Montenegro

by Cassie from Cassie The Hag

From coastal roads to mountainside tracks including a jaw-dropping stretch of 25 hairpin bends, Montenegro is a great place to go for a roadtrip. From a 4 day drive along the coast to a 2-week trip appreciating the great outdoors of the five Montenegrin National Parks, there are many options.

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On a 7 day Montenegro road trip itinerary , you have time to see many of the best and varied places in the region. Begin at the capital Podgorica, where you can pick up a car, and drive to Lake Skadar. At Lake Skadar, the Bend Lake viewpoint (named ‘Pavlova Strana’) is a must-see. Next, drive to Durmitor National Park and spend at least two days driving around the mountains. In this area, must-sees include the Black Lake, Tara Bridge and Tara Canyon. If you have time, you could also go hiking – Bobotuv Kok is the tallest mountain the region – or check out turquoise Piva Lake. 

The winding dirt roads from Mt Lovcen via Cetinje make for another beautiful drive. Lovcen National Park is home to amazing views over the Bay of Kotor and the beautiful Mausoleum of Petar Njegos. The final stretch of road from Lovcen back to Kotor is certainly the most impressive – each of the 25 hairpin bends has breathtaking, panoramic views over the bay.

Finally, you can relax in historical Kotor! In Summer, you can go swimming or head further along the coast for the beautiful beaches. Any time of the year it is lovely to explore the Old Town.

#15 The Golden Circle in Iceland

by Nicole from Nicole LaBarge Travel Blog

If you’re visiting Iceland for the first time, then going on a Golden Circle day trip is a must since this route is the best way to experience the stunning and dynamic natural landscape of Iceland. Going on the Golden Circle will show you the geothermal activity of Iceland, the beautiful waterfalls in Iceland and the beauty of the National Parks.  Add on the Blue Lagoon and you have a perfect itinerary for Iceland.

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Not to be confused with the Ring Road which goes all the way around Iceland, the Golden Circle is a day trip to some of the most popular spots near Reykjavik.  The Ring Road drive takes a good 6 days to drive around Iceland and stop along the way.  Some people even take longer on this drive whereas the Golden Circle is a day trip from Reykjavik and there are several tour companies that offer a tour of the Golden Circle as well.

You can explore the Golden Circle of Iceland in winter or summer, this popular driving route will take you through the southern portion of the island, where you will experience such iconic natural wonders as Gullfoss Waterfall, Geysir Geothermal Field, and Thingvellir National Park.

The Golden Circle is 237 kilometers long and can be driven in as little as three and a half hours.  Most people take the entire day to complete this drive because you will want to pull over constantly and take photos!

#16 Western Norway

by Radka from Real Camp Life

Western Norway will surprise you by its incredible scenery. On this 5 to 7 days road trip, you will drive along deep fjords, cross high mountains and mountain plateau, admire majestic waterfalls and taste the most delicious apple cider from local Norwegian farmers. 

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The best place to start the trip is in Bergen, where you should reserve at least a day for exploring the traditional wooden houses of Bryggen and taking the funicular to Mount Fløyen to enjoy the views over the city. From Bergen drive west to the villages of Gudvangen and Flåm, where you should jump on a boat to explore the UNESCO-protected Nærøyfjord. The next day continues via Geilo to Eidfjord. On this stretch, you will drive the scenic route through the Hardangervidda mountain plateau. The highlight of the day is the hike to the foot of the 182 meters tall Vøringsfossen waterfall. 

If you want to, you can spend the next day hiking to Trolltunga, the most famous rock cliff in Norway. Beware, it is not an easy hike, but the views to the Ringedalsvatnet lake thousand meters below you are definitely worth the sweat.

Take it easy the following day, as you will probably be sore in your legs. There is a beautiful stretch of the National scenic route Hardanger lying ahead of you. You will drive on a small narrow road through beautiful orchards and picturesque villages along the Sørfjorden. Spend a night in a historic hotel in Utne and reward yourself with tasty apple most and cider from the local farmers before you drive back to Bergen.

#17 Alsace Wine Route Road Trip

by Elisa from France Bucket List

Alsace is a historical region in eastern France, in the French region of Grand Est. Alsace is a great area to explore, world-famous for its wines and picturesque towns, and also with a beautiful nature and interesting history. During the last centuries, Alsace was disputed by France and Germany and the region changed of hands many times. This is why visitors can see many German influences in Alsace, especially in its architecture and gastronomy.

One of Alsace’s tourist attractions is  the Wine Route of Alsace  which explores its wines but also the cutest villages in Alsace. One could be drinking wine and sightseeing in the area forever but we recommend at least 3 days, dedicating one full day for Strasbourg.

The trip starts in Strasbourg, where the car is not necessary. The capital of Alsace and Grand Est is an interesting city to explore, with beautiful sights like La Petite France or the cathedral. Apart from an excellent gateway to the Alsatian countryside, it is a great introduction to Alsace’s culture and traditional food.

Day 2 takes us to Colmar (75km, 45 minutes), the prettiest town in Alsace but also the most crowded with. You can use half-day for exploring the town and its canals and book a wine tasting tour in the afternoon. In the evening, be sure to taste the local cuisine paired with some Alsatian wines.

Day 3 can be used to explore two more small villages or just one village plus a wine tasting tour. If you prefer more sightseeing than wine, we recommend Kaysesberg and Eighisheim, both located at less than 20 km from Colmar.

Extend your Alsace Wine Tour as you please, perhaps with more Alsatian villages or a hike in the Vosges.

#18 Western France: Paris, Loire Valley and Mont St Michel

by Anne from Pretraveller

The road trip from Paris to the Loire Valley via Versailles Palace, the Normandy landing beaches from World War II and Mont St Michel is an amazing way to spend a week during your time in France.  Ideally you should plan at least 7 days to explore along this route, you can easily also shorten or lengthen this time to suit your interests.

Day 1 is to drive to Versailles Palace and spend the whole day exploring – you will need it!  Then stay in either Versailles or Giverny for the night.  Day 2 you will explore Monet’s Garden, then drive on to Rouen to explore and visit the Joan of Arc Museum.  Then drive onto Honfleur, your overnight seaside stop .

Day 3 is for exploring the World War II Normandy Landing Beaches, which stretch 80 miles / 130km from Honfleur to Cherbourg.  Day 4 is a shorter day to visit the World War 2 Museum in Caen, as well as to see the Bayeaux Tapestry before driving on the world famous Mont St Michel and staying overnight in the area.

Day 5 is for an early visit to Mont St Michel before the tourist buses arrive, then to drive to the Loire Valley.  Head to Angers and from there you have a multitude of chateaux to visit – so choose wisely!  There are also many markets, shopping and other activities readily available in the Loire Valley, so plan to spend at least two full days to explore.

From there on Day 7 you can either drive back to Paris via the spectacular Chartres Cathedral, or alternatively drop your car off in Tours and catch the TGV train to your next destination.

#19 Roadtrip in the Netherlands

by Nichola from Globalmouse Travels

The Netherlands is one of our favourite countries to visit as a family, it has it all, some great child-friendly activities, wonderful food and a fantastic welcome. Our trip takes in two weeks in the Netherlands which could easily be lengthened or shortened depending on how much time you have available to you.

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Start in busy Amsterdam with its canal side walks and interactive museums including the NEMO, Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. Pause for thought at the Anne Frank house, enjoy pancakes everywhere and shop in some of the unique artisanal shops that line the streets. After this head out of the capital for time in the countryside at one of the lovely Landal Parks which can be found throughout the country. These are perfect to get in some time cycling, breathing the fresh Dutch air and really relaxing. If you’re visiting the Netherlands with kids these are ideal for some real quality family time.

When you’re ready to head on, vibrant Utrecht is a wonderful next stop. This is my favourite of the Dutch cities as it’s so picturesque but not as touristy as Amsterdam can sometimes feel. Spend time here rowing along the canal, visiting the simply wonderful Speelklok Museum and stopping for frites.

On your way to Rotterdam stop off at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Kinderdijk where a selection of beautiful, old windmills creak proudly in the wind and give an insight in to another world. Spend a few days in quirky Rotterdam with its modern art, creative buildings and fun restaurants.

Finally head to the beach on the north coast at Scheveningen to watch the waves crash. Take in the beautiful setting at one of the beachside restaurants here and reflect on how much more there is to see in the Netherlands and how a return trip will be essential.

#20 A castle road trip in Germany

Last year we had our (in law) parents’ dog at Easter and the three of us made an incredible road trip through Germany. We started in Maastricht , the most southern Dutch city and close to the German border. We explored picturesque villages nearby and had a tour in the Dutch cave system where famous art works were stored in a secret safe during the Second World War.

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After this first stop in the Netherlands we continued our road trip in Germany, all the way to the southern border with Austria. Because our white dog friend was with us, we decided to make many hikes in the scenic German forests. Big highlights were Schloss Neuschwanstein near the Austrian border with beautiful mountain views, the picturesque Burg Eltz and Hohenzollern high up a hill.

Our road trip took around 5 days, but you can easily spend much longer in this area, exploring the Black Forest, picturesque villages and even more castles. It was definitely a trip to remember. Especially because our dog friend passed away not long after and this road trip were some amazing last memories together.

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Top 5 road trips in the netherlands, dutch road trip ideas for your next self-drive adventure.

From flower routes through the historic bulb fields, along canals lined with windmills, to the port cities with their pretty harbours and even a cheese fest, taking in the medieval markets in Gouda and Edam, there is so much variety in store on a Netherlands road trip. Most of the routes we have listed for you are signposted. But you can also use navigation addresses to design your own journey across our favourite areas.

No1. Delta Works, Zeeland

Starting with the longest in our selection, this 310-kilometre route connects the sites of the 13 Delta Works in the Netherlands – a breath-taking scheme of civil engineering. This is great highway drive taking in beautiful views of the area of the Delta Works – 3 locks, 6 dams and 4 storm surge barriers – which make up the Netherlands’ largest flood defence scheme.

Besides the Delta Works, Zeeland is perfect for a day of touring. The beautiful fishing villages and centuries-old port towns such as Goes   give you the change to immerse yourself in the Dutch landscape.

No2. The Veluwe

The Veluwe region has been voted the finest area of scenic beauty in the Netherlands. Starting out from Arnhem , you can take a day to enjoy this vast wilderness. The hilly area of forest and heathland is particularly magical in spring and autumn. During your road trip through The Veluwe, which is in the province of Gelderland, you can explore nature at the National Park de Hoge Veluwe, visit the Kroller Moller museum or take in the 17th Century Paleis Het Loo in Apeldoorn. During your road trip, make sure you take time off for some hiking to explore this beautiful region.

No 3. The Salland route along Deventer and Zwolle

Within easy reach of Utrecht , the Salland Route starts in Deventer and ends in Zwolle. This scenic route takes you past beautiful churches, castles, mills and farmhouses. On a clear day, you can even see The Veluwe from the Holterberg nature reserve. It is a perfect route to take in a picnic stop along the way with the chance to explore the small villages of Raalte, Olst, Heerde and Wapenveld, among others.

No4. South Limburg

A large part of South Limburg consists of the hilly Mergelland region, with its half-timbered houses and vineyards. Setting out from Maastrict  the drive takes in a number of picturesque villages and towns. Valkenburg is always a must with the ruins of the castle on the Heunsberg, the Wilhelmina Tower and the town caves. Other hotspots such as Cadier en keer, Gulpen (where you can visit the Gulpener brewery), the three countries point and Klimmen are also worth a visit. This is a region famed for its Christmas shopping including the underground Christmas market in the caves of Valkenburg.

No5. Friesland

Friesland gets attention especially in winter when there is speculation about a possible Elfstedentocht. The Elfstedentocht is a nearly 200-kilometre ice skating tour on natural ice. The Elfstedentocht is also fun to do by car. Besides this cultural heritage, Friesland also has around 50 castles, canals and mansions. Setting out from the provincial capital Leeuwarden  the 89-kilometre, 6-castles route is not to be missed.

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5 of the best road trips to take in the Netherlands

May 14, 2024 • 7 min read

Explore more of the Netherlands by car (or bike) with these top driving routes © Karl Hendon / Getty Images

Beyond the Netherlands ’ biggest and best-known cities, a patchwork of farmland, fields, villages and towns laced by canals, polders, dykes and windmills unfolds across the flat, low-lying Dutch landscapes.

These road trips will give you a taste of the Netherlands’ exquisite scenery, age-old traditions and ingenious innovations. With state-of-the-art roads, driving is an ideal way to make spontaneous stops and discoveries. The country’s short distances and extensive cycling paths offer the option to hop off or even swap out the car completely and travel these routes by bike.

Ready to explore the Netherlands? Here are the places that should be on your agenda  

1. Through the bulb fields

Best road trip for colorful photo ops Haarlem–Leiden; 64km (40 miles); allow one day

Time it right to travel through a kaleidoscope of color on this glorious route, which takes in the best of the Bollenstreek bulb-growing region. Leaving the cobbled streets and gabled buildings of  Haarlem , you’ll soon pass open fields and flower farms. On the northwestern edge of pretty Lisse, the  Keukenhof Gardens put on showstopping displays of blooms (some 7 million) during spring.

Throughout the year, you can visit Keukenhof’s castle gardens free of charge, and find out more about the Netherlands’ national flower at Lisse’s Museum De Zwarte Tulp (Museum of the Black Tulip). Turning west takes you to coastal Noordwijk, with its white-sand dunes roamed by fallow deer, foxes, speckled green sand lizards and a cacophony of birdlife. From here, it’s a half-hour drive south to historic  Leiden , hometown of Rembrandt as well as the Hortus Botanicus Leiden , the Netherlands’ oldest botanic gardens.

Planning tip: Tulip season runs from around mid-March to mid-May, when the Keukenhof Gardens are open (book tickets in advance). This route is also lovely during the dahlia flowering season from mid-August to mid-October. Check the Bollenstreek’s  flower map to see what’s in bloom, and for flower fields that you can enter (the map also flags production fields, which you can capture from outside instead).

Want to explore the tulip fields by bike? Here's how to do it

2. The Dutch cheese route

Best road trip for cheese lovers Gouda–Alkmaar; 126km (78 miles); allow one to two days

Feast on delectable Dutch cheese along this route linking the Netherlands’ trio of historic cheese towns.

Charming, canal-woven Gouda has been the center of the surrounding valley’s cheese trade since the Middle Ages. A recreated cheese market takes place in front of the historic waag (weighing house) weekly in spring and summer. If you miss it, you can learn about Gouda’s cheese history at its interactive Cheese Experience .

North past lush pastures and the spinning windmills of traditional working village  Zaanse Schans , swing by the former fishing village of Volendam, with cheese producers that you can visit on its southern edge. Endearingly kitschy old-time attractions like traditional Dutch national costume dress-ups line Volendam’s boat-filled waterfront. Just north again, Edam is a treasure with cobbled streets, hand-operated drawbridges, and warehouses (in its 17th-century heyday, there were over three dozen shipyards here). Discover production techniques and taste samples at Edam’s cheese purveyors, and/or catch the town’s engagingly re-enacted weekly summer cheese market .

A half-hour-or-so drive northwest through classic polder landscapes, Alkmaar was awarded weighing rights after repelling occupying Spanish troops in 1573 by opening the locks and flooding the area with seawater. It too holds a recreated cheese market weekly in spring and summer, when porters bring in cheeses for inspection by white-smocked dealers then whisk them off to be weighed. A refreshing place to finish is the Nationaal Biermuseum in the old De Boom brewery, with a canal-side tasting room.

Detour: To sample sheep and goats milk cheeses at producer Kaasboerderij Wezenspyk on the bucolic island of Texel , continue some 40 minutes north of Alkmaar to port town Den Helder and catch a 20-minute car ferry ( prebook in high summer).

Pick the right time for your visit to the Netherlands with our seasonal guide

3. Hanseatic League route

Best road trip for medieval architecture and history Doesburg–Elburg; 138km (86 miles); allow one to two days

Hanseatic history lingers in the medieval streets along the Netherlands’ eastern river, the IJssel. Back when Amsterdam and Rotterdam were still small villages, these nine historically linked cities were part of the powerful league of northern European merchant guilds and market towns, which dominated trade from the 13th to the 15th centuries.

Begin in fortified Doesburg, famed for mustard that’s been produced and traded here since 1457 (mustard soup is a local speciality) and the Netherlands’ oldest public house and one-time weighing house, the 1478 Stadsbierhuys de Waag. Pass through apple orchards and strawberry farms en route to Zutphen (aka Torenstad, the “town of towers”) and on to Deventer, with its striking  Gothic hall-church built between 1450 and 1525. Head to Hattem, then splendid Zwolle, bounded by a star-shaped canal and city walls. Travel through maize fields and dairy pastures to Hasselt and on to Kampen’s ensemble of medieval gates, houses and towers, on the lower reaches of the IJssel.

End your journey in Elburg, with its small, square-shaped historic center. This fortified former fishing town once sat on the shoreline of the Wadden Sea, before the early 20th-century construction of the Netherlands’ longest dyke, the 32km (20 mile) Afsluitdijk, creating the freshwater IJsselmeer lake. Across the water at the lake’s southern end lies the Netherlands’ newest province, Flevoland, reclaimed in the 1950s and ‘60s.

4. On the trail of Van Gogh

Best road trip for art lovers Zundert–Hoge Veluwe National Park; 195km (121 miles); allow one to two days

Once you’ve seen the world’s greatest collection of Vincent Van Gogh’s works at Amsterdam’s  Van Gogh Museum , it’s rewarding to delve deeper into the artist’s early life and works on this pilgrimage through varied and little-visited countryside.

Start in Zundert, where Vincent was born on March 30, 1853 and spent his earliest years. Vincent’s father was a vicar at Zundert’s squat, red-brick Dutch Reformed church – look for the bronze monument of Vincent and his brother Theo out front. Zundert hosts the world’s largest flower parade on the first Sunday of September. A 20-minute drive north through fields ablaze with dahlias in late summer is the town of Etten-Leur, where Vincent had his first studio; the Van Gogh Church here highlights his artistic beginnings and holds a copy of the 1881 document first registering him as an artist.

Approaching Eindhoven ’s rural northeastern edge, amid crop fields of maize, sugar beets and potatoes, is the small village of Nuenen. It’s here that Vincent began producing art in earnest. Appearing in several of his works are the Opwetten Watermill (now a restaurant) and 1884-built De Roosdonck (still a working windmill). Nuenen’s Van Gogh Roosegaarde cycle path twinkles after dark like his iconic starry nights.  

Flower and fruit farms and forested nature reserves skirt the edge of Arnhem to this trip’s showpiece. Within the rambling Hoge Veluwe National Park , amid sculpture-studded gardens, the  Kröller-Müller Museum 's exceptional collection of Van Gogh’s works is second in the world only to his eponymous museum in Amsterdam.

5. Friesland’s Elfstedentocht (Eleven cities tour)

Best road trip for getting off the beaten track Leeuwarden–Leeuwarden; 225km (140 miles); allow two days

Part of Frisian tradition for centuries, the 1909-founded Elfstedentocht ice-skating tour along frozen canals, rivers and lakes is the world’s largest on natural ice. These days it holds near-mythical status, as it’s only able to take place when the ice is thick enough, which is increasingly rare due to the warming climate. The last tour was 1997 but hopes remain high every year. This driving loop traces its route as it takes in all 11 of Friesland ’s historic cities.

From the provincial capital Leeuwarden , with its Roman heritage and herringbone brick streets, travel through green polder grassland grazed by black-and-white Holstein-Friesian cattle to Sneek, guarded by its fairy-tale early 17th-century defensive gate the Waterpoort. Next up is IJlst, followed by the moated, fortified city of Sloten. Continue to windswept Stavoren on the shores of the IJsselmeer lake, then Hindeloupen, with its narrow streets, wooden bridges and sea captains’ houses. Travel to Workkum and onward to Bolsward. From Harlingen on the Wadden Sea, continue past fields of wheat, potatoes and flax to reach Franeker and Dokkum, before wrapping up back in Leeuwarden.

Detour: Along the Friesland coast, across the Wadden Sea’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed intertidal zone of mudflats, the crescent-like chain of  Frisian Islands can be accessed by ferry from Harlingen.

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10-Day Road Trip to the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany

Description

Pack your bags and hit the road for the ultimate 10-day Euro trip extravaganza! This multi-country adventure through the the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany guarantees unforgettable experiences at every stop.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 3 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 4 nights in the Netherlands, 2 nights in Belgium, and 3 nights in Germany.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of the Netherlands, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Amsterdam and begin your adventure from there. Explore Amsterdam, Lisse, Rotterdam, Enschede, Arnhem, Haarzuilens, and Vleuten, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of Belgium. Immerse yourself in the allure of Antwerp, Boom, Brussels, Laeken - Laken, and Koekelberg, where every street tells a story.

Continuing your journey, you'll step into the captivating realm of Germany. This country's charm is boundless, and you'll be impressed by the wonders of Brühl, Cologne, Solingen, and Hamburg.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Antwerp’s Museum aan de Stroom and Brühl's iconic Phantasialand. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 10-day self-drive adventure in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Personalize your itinerary, day 1 – amsterdam - arrival day.

• Amsterdam - Arrival day

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, 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.

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 sun sets on day 1 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.

Reserve your spot at Box Sociaal, 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 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 2,162 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Restaurant Ambassade during your stay in Amsterdam. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 769 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Gartine, 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 4.8 out of 5-star rating from 678 satisfied guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Proeflokaal Arendsnest, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Amsterdam. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, backed by 3,048 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular SkyLounge Amsterdam, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Excalibur Café, one of the top-rated bars in Amsterdam, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 3,047 satisfied customers.

Your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, 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.

Experiences

Day 2 – amsterdam.

Drive 7 km, 1 hour 3 min

• Rijksmuseum
• Van Gogh Museum
• Anne Frank House

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany has in store for you! You will be staying in Amsterdam for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

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, Belgium, and Germany by rewarding yourself with a taste of Amsterdam’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.

Don't forget to book a table at Winkel 43, a well-known eatery in Amsterdam. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 10,504 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit The Pantry while exploring Amsterdam. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 3,646 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Restaurant Moeders, a popular restaurant in Amsterdam. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,647 discerning diners.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Lost in Amsterdam Lounge Cafe & Cocktail Bar, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,918 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Red Light Bar. It is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 2,612 customers.

Bar-B Burgers ‘N’ Beers 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 1,912 customers.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Day 3 – Amsterdam and Brussels

Drive 260 km, 4 hours 1 min

• Diergaarde Blijdorp
• MAS - Museum aan de Stroom
• Provinciaal Recreatiedomein De Schorre

On day 3 of your multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, 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 Lisse in the Netherlands and Antwerp in Belgium. In the evening, you’ll end up in Brussels, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Lisse. This drive usually takes around 43 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Rotterdam. This car ride takes around 44 min.

Antwerp’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Rotterdam behind. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 18 min. Antwerp welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

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

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Brussels. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Barge is the restaurant to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 1-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature organic meals.

Elevate your dining experience at a 2-star Michelin restaurant in Brussels, La Villa Lorraine by Yves Mattagne. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature modern and classic dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Brussels you shouldn’t miss is Bozar Restaurant. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 2-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s modern french and creative menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Delirium Café, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Delirium Café has charmed many with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 18,478 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Poechenellekelder, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Poechenellekelder captures hearts with its 4.6 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 2,331 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Monk, another local party gem in Brussels. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,758 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Take in the ambiance of Brussels 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!

Day 4 – Brussels

Drive 20 km, 1 hour 2 min

• Grand-Place
• Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert
• St Michael and St Gudula Cathedral, Brussels
• Elisabeth Park

Day 4 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Brussels. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Brussels’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, Belgium, and Germany.

Make sure to book a table at The Lobster House, a popular restaurant in Brussels. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of food lovers. Its commitment to culinary excellence is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,528 satisfied guests.

Do not miss the opportunity to dine at Café Walvis during your stay in Brussels. This popular dining spot boasts a tantalizing menu, earning a remarkable rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, esteemed by 2,654 satisfied guests.

Savor the flavors of Pasta Divina, a renowned dining destination in Brussels. Offering a menu that's sure to please, it has a gained 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,190 satisfied guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned La Porte Noire, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Brussels. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, backed by 1,483 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Bar Des Amis, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Brussels Beer Project // Dansaert Brewery, one of the top-rated bars in Brussels, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,046 satisfied customers.

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

Day 5 – Brussels and Cologne

Drive 240 km, 3 hours 21 min

• Mont des Arts - Kunstberg
• Brussels Park
• Autoworld Brussels
• Cinquantenaire
• Phantasialand

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. Today's main destinations are Brussels in Belgium and Brühl in Germany, 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 Cologne. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Mont des Arts - Kunstberg. This outstanding square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 14,649 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Mont des Arts - Kunstberg is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Brussels Park is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This urban park and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,267 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing automobile museum, Autoworld Brussels. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 9,782 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Cinquantenaire, an outstanding square, is one place you should visit while in Brussels considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 35,271 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Brühl, 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 Brussels to Brühl may take around 2 hours 9 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated amusement park and attraction in Brühl — Phantasialand. About 89,377 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brühl, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Cologne. This drive usually takes around 29 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

As the sun sets on day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Cologne's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Germany 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, Cologne has them.

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Le Moissonnier Bistro, a local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious 1 Michelin-star rating and impressive menu, Le Moissonnier Bistro consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional french and seafood cuisine.

Also highly recommended is Ox & Klee, one of the best 2-star Michelin establishments in Cologne. Take your pick from the modern and creative menu, which has consistently earned Ox & Klee high ratings and praise from satisfied guests. This top-rated Bib Gourmand restaurant promises a culinary experience you will remember.

Experience the best local flavors while in Cologne and reserve a table at the 1-star Michelin restaurant, La Cuisine Rademacher. Its delectable modern french offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Toddy Tapper, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Cologne. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars, backed by 590 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Gaffel am Dom I Kölsches Brauhaus und Wirtshaus I Brauhaus Köln, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to Gilden im Zims, one of the top-rated bars in Cologne, with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 5,823 satisfied customers.

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

Day 6 – Cologne and Hamburg

Drive 436 km, 5 hours 22 min

• Cologne Chocolate Museum
• Cologne Cathedral
• Burg Castle

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 6 of your multi-country journey across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Cologne in Germany. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Hamburg where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Cologne, including the outstanding Cologne Chocolate Museum. Having an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 36,704 reviews, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Cologne is also home to the captivating Cologne Cathedral, a local catholic cathedral considered one of the highlights of the city. About 69,905 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 5,000,000 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Cologne, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Solingen may take around 34 min. Upon your arrival in Solingen, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Solingen and set your GPS to Hamburg. 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 4 hours 13 min. Upon reaching Hamburg, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Hamburg. 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.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the region of Hamburg boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Germany.

Indulge in an exquisite Bib Gourmand dining experience at The Table Kevin Fehling. Renowned for its prestigious 3 Michelin-star rating and an array of mouthwatering dishes, The Table Kevin Fehling consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional creative and international cuisine.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the region, Le Lion • Bar de Paris. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,224 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Das Feuerschiff LV 13. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,935 customers.

NAGEL Restaurant und Kneipe cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 2,360 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.4 out of 5 stars average rating.

As the night falls in Hamburg, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Day 7 – Hamburg

Drive 25 km, 1 hour 1 min

• St Michael's Church
• Planten un Blomen
• Tierpark Hagenbeck

On day 7, you will wake up in Hamburg with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Hamburg before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Hamburg. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Schifferbörse Restaurant, a distinguished dining establishment in Hamburg. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 3,559 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Hamburg is Caramba Especial. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 2,219 happy diners.

Schönes Leben Speicherstadt stands out as a local favorite in Hamburg. 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 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,728 customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the region, THE MADISON Hotel Hamburg. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,785 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Brooklyn Burger Bar. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 2,481 customers.

Irish Pub in the Fleetenkieker cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 1,537 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.4 out of 5 stars average rating.

Day 8 – Hamburg and Enschede

Drive 321 km, 4 hours 28 min

• Miniatur Wunderland
• Elbe Philharmonic Hall
• St. Pauli Piers
• Elbe Tunnel

On day 8 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in the Netherlands, Belgium, 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 place travelers keep coming back to in Hamburg is the magnificent Miniatur Wunderland. Around 87,297 visitors have rated this excellent museum and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Elbe Philharmonic Hall on this leg of your adventure in Germany. This attraction is a well-known concert hall that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 77,649 travelers.

The remarkable St. Pauli Piers is known to be one of the best places to visit in Hamburg, and its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,128 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into Hamburg by exploring the captivating Elbe Tunnel. With a stellar average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 34,570 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your Hamburg exploration list!

After soaking in Hamburg’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Enschede, the Netherlands. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 3 hours 34 min. When you arrive in Enschede, it's time to take a break from the road.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Enschede’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Enschede. 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, Belgium, and Germany.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Steakhouse El Gaucho. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Enschede has received a 4.8 out of 5-star rating from around 1,314 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Frank & Charlie should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Enschede, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 685 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at The Saloon Mexicaanse & Argentijns steakhouse restaurant. This highly regarded restaurant in Enschede has earned a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 585 satisfied guests.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Rocks, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Rocks boasts an impressive 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 793 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at De Beiaard, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. De Beiaard has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,331 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Molly Malone Irish Pub. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5-star from 1,331 customers.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Day 9 – Enschede and Amsterdam

Drive 208 km, 3 hours 7 min

• Netherlands Open Air Museum
• Royal Burgers' Zoo
• Castle De Haar

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 4 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Arnhem in the Netherlands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Amsterdam, your home for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Arnhem. This car ride takes around 1 hour 9 min.

Set your GPS to Haarzuilens and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 55 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Haarzuilens beckons with new experiences!

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Castle de Haar. This outstanding château and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 17,504 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Castle de Haar is worth pages in your travel diary.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Haarzuilens and set your GPS to Vleuten. 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 Vleuten, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Something that makes Vleuten the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, Máximapark. This local gem has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,016 visitors.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Amsterdam.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Amsterdam’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, Belgium, and Germany.

Don't miss out on experiencing Blue Amsterdam, a renowned dining spot in Amsterdam. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,965 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Restaurant Olijfje while immersing yourself in Amsterdam. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,640 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Dabka, a beloved dining establishment within Amsterdam. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,591 satisfied customers.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at The Cottage. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 1,252 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at De Brabantse Aap. This popular bar in Amsterdam is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,736 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Stone's Café Bar & Nightclub has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,501 reviews.

Day 10 – Amsterdam - departure day

• Amsterdam - Departure day
• Negen Straatjes

On day 10 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, Belgium, and Germany. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

On your last day in the Netherlands, take time to indulge in shopping at Amsterdam’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of the Netherlands. Each store here is brimming with unique finds.

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, Belgium, 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 10-day European road trip in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany with fond memories. Safe travels!

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Motorhoming & Campervanning in the Netherlands- The Ultimate Guide

Planning to tour the Netherlands with a motorhome or campervan? There are some essential things you need to know before your trip, including important paperwork and kit to bring with you. Here’s everything you need to know about campervanning or motorhoming in Holland.

Don’t forget to  grab your FREE motorhoming in Europe checklist  below to help you stay organised and remember everything you need.

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Motorhoming in Holland- or is it the Netherlands??

Ok, let’s start with the obvious- what’s the difference between calling it ‘Holland’ or calling it ‘the Netherlands’?

It’s a little bit like the difference between the UK and GB- ‘Holland’ only refers to part of the country (and a small part at that), whereas ‘the Netherlands’ refers to the entire Kingdom (yep, it still is Kingdom of the Netherlands)

So, if you’re planning a trip around the country, you’ll need to say ‘the Netherlands’. Having said that, many people (including us at times!) still incorrectly refer to it as Holland, so I’ll use the terms interchangeably throughout this post.

Campervanning in the Netherlands- why you should go!

The Netherlands are known for several things- canals, clogs, tulips, windmills and being flat. Oh, and you’ve probably heard of Amsterdam, especially the red light district. If you follow the news, you’ll definitely have heard of the Hague.

But there’s a lot more to the country than that- it’s full of beautiful countryside, ridiculously pretty towns, delicious food and a lot of history. This is also the place to bring your bicycles- most of the country is perfect for enjoying on 2 wheels.

I have Dutch god-parents, so I grew up visiting the country and exploring it on road trips with my family. I’ll be honest, many of my memories of the country involve Poffertjes (small Dutch pancakes served warm with butter and icing sugar)- we’ll get to those shortly!

It’s also not a big country and it’s easy to see a lot in a week, especially if you’re travelling by motorhome.

Planning to take your motorhome to Europe?

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GEAR – If you need any motorhome gear for touring Europe, here’s what we recommend.

When to go motorhome touring in the Netherlands

The Netherlands has a climate very similar to the UK- it’s on roughly the same latitude as Norwich or Wales. The best time to plan a motorhome trip is from Spring (mid-April) to Autumn (probably around mid-October), but rain can happen at any time.

If you want to see the tulips, go between mid-March and mid-May (obviously, exact times vary), but this time is also very popular with tourists.

On the 27 April, there is a National holiday called King’s Day. Expect a LOT of orange clothing, orange hair and events happening all over the country. The Dutch Royal Family are known for making surprise visits to unexpected places, so keep your eyes peeled! (Although, be honest, would you recognise them??)

July and August are the busiest months for tourists and there can be big queues for the peak attractions, so avoid those if you can. Having said that, it’s the best time to enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches along the north coast. There’s a party on ‘Flag Day’ (when the first herring are brought in). There’s also the North Sea Regatta, Holland’s biggest sailboat race, and the Scheveningen International Fireworks Festival, held during August, which is well worth a visit.

During Autumn, the weather is perfect for road trips, without having to fight through the worst of the tourists. Make time to visit the Nijmegen Kunstnacht art festival- a huge gathering of artists of all varieties.

In the winter, there’s a lot more rainfall and it can be cold, damp and dreary. Again, much like southern England, there are no mountains (although there are hills), so don’t expect much snow (although it does happen occasionally.) But there are several light festivals which happen around the country, including the Amsterdam Light Festival (one of the largest in the world) and also Glow Eindhoven and Candle Night, Gouda. Also, many of the canals freeze in winter and it’s possible to ice-skate on them (but please only do this with permission in case the ice isn’t as thick as you thought!)

Motorhome Holidays in the Netherlands – Where to go

Before we dive into planning your motorhome or campervan tour, let’s look at some of the best places to visit.

Highlights of a Netherlands road trip include:

• Giethoorn – the village with no roads. Yes, I know that’s weird for a road trip destination, but it’s magical
• Keukenhof Gardens to see the tulips and hyacinths
• Volendam – one of our favourite villages in Holland (and it’s got a GREAT motorhome aire nearby)
• Nijmegen- the oldest city in the Netherlands
• Amsterdam- but do NOT drive into the city!
• Madurodam – a model village of the Netherlands and well worth a stop
• Windmills in Kinderdjik

Of course, there are plenty of other places to explore too.

If you enjoy reading books before you visit a place, here are some great suggestions:

See more fun and practical motorhoming books we recommend reading

Planning a driving route from UK to Netherlands

So, how do you get to the Netherlands from the UK with a motorhome, campervan or even a caravan?

Using the Eurotunnel

By far the easiest way is the Eurotunnel. Normally, I’m all about the pros and cons of ferry vs tunnel , but in this instance, no matter where you’re driving from in the UK, the tunnel is the best choice. There is also a ferry from Dover to Calais if you’re unable to use the tunnel, but it takes longer to cross.

Once you’re across to France, you can drive from Calais, through Belgium and to the Netherlands is just 3 hours (it’s about 280km).

New to motorhome or camper travel in Europe? You might find these posts helpful:

See all our Europe motorhoming posts here

NEED GEAR? If you need any kit or essentials for motorhoming in Europe, here’s what we recommend and where to find it

Harwich to Holland Ferry

There is also a ferry which goes directly to the Hook of Holland (which I think is where a lot of the name confusion comes from!) from Harwich, with Stena Line. You can take your motorhome or camper on board and it takes about 7 hours. If you’re travelling with a dog or cat, there are kennels on board you can book them into, but they can’t come into your cabin.

Hull to Rotterdam Ferry

For anyone in Scotland of the North of England, there is also a ferry from Hull to Rotterdam with P & O Ferries. This takes about 12 hours and again has cabins and pet kennels onboard.

Other motorhome and campervan routes into Holland

Of course, if you’re not starting in the UK, there are plenty of ways to get to the Netherlands. We’ve entered from Germany several times, and also after exploring Belgium.

There are no border controls if arriving by road- you just drive straight in!

Hiring a motorhome to tour the Netherlands

If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can easily fly into the Netherlands and hire one. Just make sure to ask how to get from the airport to the rental agency- not all of them are at the airport itself and you might need to book a taxi.

Don’t forget, it is YOUR responsibility to make sure the vehicle has the required safety equipment. The on-the-spot fines apply to you as the driver, not the company. Check in advance with the company what kit they will provide with the vehicle and what you will need to bring.

Take a list of what is legally required with you and check it off one by one as you are given the handover. Do not drive until you are happy you comply with the local laws.

Make sure you have proof that you can take the vehicle across a border into another country if that’s what you’re planning to do. Read the article below for other things to check as well before you agree to hire.

Want to rent a vehicle for your road trip?

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• Discover incredible deals for motorhome/ camper rentals
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READ: 10 essential questions to ask before you rent a motorhome

Parking in the Netherlands for motorhomes and campervans

The Dutch are pretty welcoming and accommodating for motorhomers and campervanners. They have aires around the country for cheap or even free overnight motorhome stopovers.

You’ll find a lot of free daytime parking options outside of the cities, but near attractions you’ll need to pay and display. Make sure you do this- the wardens are vigilant! Be sure to only park in appropriate spots- avoid any kerbs painted black and white or yellow.

Also, you may need to mark the time you parked or use a parking timer. You can often get one free from a Tourist Information Office (VVW).

As with most countries in Europe, you have four options when it comes to where to park your motorhome or camper overnight:

• Motorhome campsites
• Approved motorhome overnight parking places/ aires
• Free approved overnight parking spots
• Motorhome wild camping spots (not really tolerated)

Motorhome Parking in Amsterdam

There are so many wonderful things to do in Amsterdam and we highly recommend taking the time to visit, but for your sanity, and the sake of those around you, please don’t try to drive your motorhome in Amsterdam. Parking is VERY limited and there are lots of rules and restricted zones. There are plenty of places to park up around the city and use the train system or public transport to get in and out. There are several good motorhome campsites around the city too.

Motorhome Campsites in the Netherlands

Wild camping is not very welcome in the Netherlands, so we prefer to use campsites or aires whenever we visit with our motorhome.

Every campsite we’ve been to so far has been extremely clean and well-equipped. As we always travel outside of peak season, we find them using our ACSI CampingCard so we can get discounted rates.

Nearly every pitch has had electric hook-up, a fresh drinkable water tap and often even a TV aerial socket! Read our review about the best 12v motorhome TVs and how to choose.

Our favourite campsite in Giethoorn was technically called an aire, but it had proper toilets and a washing machine (even though I fell out with the machine after it stole all my money!) But the parking by the marina was just beautiful.

Aires in Netherlands

Like much of Europe, the Netherlands provides approved overnight stopover parking for motorhomes and campervans called Aires. If you’re used to motorhoming in France , you might be less impressed with the aires in Holland- many of them were away from the attractions and relied on you having bicycles or an alternative vehicle with you to get anywhere, or using public transport.

READ MORE: Learn how we find and use  aires and approved free overnight motorhome stopovers across Europe

One of the things we loved about motorhoming in Holland is how many marinas and waterways there are. As boat owners, we love looking at other boats, and many of the marinas allow you to stay overnight on their car park (you can find them using the link above). Of course, these are just car parks- there are rarely any access to facilities, but it’s a lovely location to spend the evening.

You cannot book motorhome aires in the Netherlands- it’s first-come, first-served, so if you’re visiting at peak time you might feel happier booking a campsite so you’re assured of somewhere to stay.

It’s always worth investing in a book of aires, as well as an online app- just in case you find yourself without internet in your motorhome (or without a wifi signal). Of course, the downside with any book is that it goes out of date, but don’t worry if it’s only a year or two out- most information about aires won’t change too much

RELATED: 39 Practical or fun motorhome books we recommend

Wild camping in the Netherlands for motorhomes and campers

There are some places in Europe which state that wild camping is not tolerated, and then blindly ignore it if you’re discrete, and others which are more vocal about it not being welcome- like the Netherlands

For that reason, we’ve only ever wild camped for one night in Holland- and that was only after asking the warden if it was ok. If you have a stealth campervan, you might be more inclined to chance it, but with a motorhome, I’d say find an aire or campsite unless you’re in the middle of nowhere.

If you are interested in learning how to wild camp/ stay off-grid with your motorhome or campervan, grab your free checklist and our complete guide below:

Motorhome wild camping guides for the UK & Europe

For information on how to find good wild camping places, WHAT to do when you’re there and how to stay safe, check out our step-by-step guide for motorhome wild camping in the UK and Europe, complete with database of 250+ overnight spots we’ve stayed with our motorhome.

Don’t forget to grab your free wild camping checklist here

Motorhome and campervan service points in Netherlands

There are motorhome service points around the country, but not as many as you might be used to when motorhoming in Spain , France or even Italy. We tended to stay at aires or campsites where we could use their facilities, instead of stopping at designated service points en-route.

Campervanning in the Netherlands- security

We highly recommend paying extra attention to your  motorhome security  when travelling in the Netherlands. You might even wish to fit an  extra camper habitation door lock  and never leave your vehicle unattended in an unsecured area.

READ MORE: Top tips for protecting your van at home or on the road

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Motorhoming in Holland- what gear do you need to carry?

Just like  motorhoming in France , there are certain things you MUST carry with you in your motorhome or campervan whilst touring the Netherlands.

Don’t forget, if you are driving through France and Belgium to get to Holland, you need all the kit required by those countries as well.

Things you need to drive in the Netherlands- safety gear

The Netherlands are surprisingly relaxed about safety gear you legally have to carry in your vehicle. However, as you need to drive through France, Belgium and/or Germany to get there, you need to carry these items as a minimum:

• Hi-vis reflective jackets  – not as strict as in France, but you must wear them on the side of the road or hard shoulder or risk being fined.
• Warning triangle
• Headlight beam converters – must be fitted before you drive in Europe. Some vehicle allow you to adjust the beam automatically so you won’t need these.
• UK sticker attached to the back of vehicle or reg plates (and trailer if you have one)
• Crash helmets are compulsory for motorbikers and passengers

TOP TIP:  Buy these essentials for driving in the Netherlands in advance. One of the cheapest places is on  Amazon . If you wait until you’re at the ferry/ tunnel, you could spend THREE times as much!

Road trip accessories you MIGHT need when campervanning in the Netherlands

The following kit are things you might choose to carry in your car, motorhome, caravan or campervan when you are  planning your road trip  in the Netherlands

NOTE: There is no rule regarding winter tyres for the Netherlands- the winters don’t get bad enough for that. Of course, if you do happen to be driving in heavy rain or snow, please drive appropriately

• First aid kit  – not compulsory in Holland (unlike many countries in Europe). Find out what we carry in our  European first aid kit here
• Spare bulbs for all lights in the vehicle
• Fire extinguisher
• Blanket- useful if your passengers get cold! (Did you know you can buy a  12v heated blanket?  It’s amazing!)
• Water and snacks- just in case you run into traffic or breakdown somewhere remote.
• Epic road trip and motorhoming logbook to record and remember your epic adventures!

When driving in the Netherlands what documents do you need to carry?

If you’re driving in Holland, you need to carry the following documents:

• Passport (or identity card)
• Valid Driving licence (check it is in date!)
• Motorhome Insurance  documents- check you are covered for driving in Europe
• Breakdown cover
• Vehicle V5 logbook (which must show your correct address)
• Vehicle must be legally taxed and MOT’d
• Trailer certification
• Green card (if needed- get from your vehicle insurer)
• International Driving Permit if required
• Personal travel insurance
• European Claim Form (from your insurer)

Do I need an international driving permit to drive in the Netherlands?

Most UK citizens do not need an IDP to drive in the Netherlands, as long as you have a card driving licence issued in the UK (in date, of course!)

You might need one if you have:

• a paper driving licence only
• a licence issued in Gibraltar, Guernsey, Jersey or the Isle of Man

(If you do need an IDP, here’s an  in-depth guide on how to get an International Driving Permit  and which one(s) you need from a UK post office.

Motorhome touring in the Netherlands- Other useful things you might need

We’ve been  touring Europe in our motorhome  for several years. We’ve tried all sorts of kit- some useful, some not so much.

Here is a list of things we highly recommend when motorhoming in Holland, but which are NOT essential:

• Motorhome WiFi – learn our favourite way to get internet on the road
• Toll pass (see below)
• TV- If you’d like  TV in your motorhome or camper , here’s how to get it.
• Motorhome sat-nav – get one you can enter your motorhome dimensions into, like these
• Motorhome security camera – this thing is GOLD for allowing us to go exploring and leave the van for a short time.
• Solar panel- perfect if you want to wild camp in Spain with your motorhome
• Inverter- a  motorhome wild camping essential
• An  awesome road trip playlist!

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Driving tips for the Netherlands

If you’re planning a Dutch road trip, here are some essential things to know:

• The Netherlands drives on the right, overtakes on the left
• 18 is the minimum age to drive a car, camper or motorhome (and only with a legal licence) You may need to be 25+ before you can hire
• Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants of a vehicle and pets must be restrained
• Speeds are in km/h, not mph (you might want to change the setting on your sat-nav)
• Road surfaces are generally pretty good
• Avoid cities if you’re driving in a motorhome- many of them are too crowded and the streets are just not cut out for large vehicles. Park outside and use public transport to get in.
• All road signs are in blue (not just the motorways)
• The Netherlands has strict drink driving limits. The legal limit is 0.05% (0.02% for drivers with less than 5 years experience and moped drivers up to 24 years old.)
• Dash-cams are allowed without restriction

One of the biggest differences you will face when driving in the Netherlands compared to the UK and much of Europe are the cyclists.

In the Netherlands, the vast majority of road used are on a bicycle. Cycle paths are everywhere, including part of nearly every road. Do NOT use the cycle lane as an extension of your lane- you will be shouted at and/ or fined. Also, cyclists are allowed to ride two side-by-side.

Cyclists and mopeds have priority at many junctions. If there is a yellow diamond sign, you have priority over other vehicles. If there isn’t one of these signs, or there is one with a black line through it, you no longer have priority, traffic from the right does – this is usually on roundabouts and residential areas.

Trams, cyclists and mopeds have right of way in almost every situation. If you’re not sure, assume that they are and let them go. Expect them to appear from any direction and try to cross the road in front of you, even without a proper pedestrian crossing.

Traffic lights

Like much of Europe, traffic lights in the Netherlands have no ‘amber’- they go straight from red to green. Be careful when turning right at traffic lights- pedestrians or cyclists crossing the road have priority over you.

Having said that, at some places a yellow flashing arrow may appear as a warning that it’s about to go red (usually if you’re waiting to turn at a junction.) Flashing yellow means that you should proceed with caution. A red arrow indicates that the driver proceeding in that direction must stop.  

Speed Limits in the Netherlands

Road safety is very important in the Netherlands and they take a dim view of speed- especially anyway near residential or school areas. The pace of life is slower and it’s common for many people to drive well below the speed limit.

Cars, motorhomes and campers under 3.5 tonnes:

• 130 km/h (80 mph) on motorways (Autosnelweg) (minimum speed 60km/h)
• 100km/h (62mph) on major roads and Expressways (Autoweg)
• 60-80km/h on regional roads (out of town)
• 50 km/h (31 mph) in built-up areas

As you enter a town (passing the yellow sign) the speed limit of 50kph applies (unless otherwise stated) until you are leaving the town and pass a yellow sign with a red line through it.

Motorhomes and Campervans weighing over 3.5 tonnes:

• motorways 80 km/h (50 mph)
• major out-of-town roads 80 km/h (50 mph)
• built-up areas- 50 km/h (31 mph)

Motorhomes or cars with trailers or caravans (over 750kg)

Speed Cameras in the Netherlands

There are many speed cameras in the Netherlands- not all of them signed. Be sure to turn off any radar detector or device which tells you about a camera- they are illegal in Holland.

There are plenty of fuel stations along most routes and unleaded and diesel are widely available. There are fewer options are you go further North and East, so be sure to fill up regularly. Diesel is often cheaper in The Netherlands than in Germany, so fill up before crossing the border.

Petrol is called Ongelood (95 / 98) (also Euro 95 and Super 98)

Diesel is called… diesel

LPG is available at many petrol stations. They use the British connector and are often self-service, although you may need to ask the attendant to turn it on for you.

Just be aware that many places do not accept visa or mastercard, even debit cards. If you don’t have a Maestro, you’re going to want to carry cash (Euros).

READ MORE: How we find LPG in Europe

Tolls/ Vignettes

There aren’t either in the Netherlands- all roads are free.

Restricted Zones

Many cities in the Netherlands have restricted zones, where you can’t drive in without a permit. Our advice is to avoid driving into any cities- park up on the outskirts and use public transport.

Learn more about how to find restricted zones across Europe

Driving in the Netherlands- what to do in the event of a road traffic accident

You should have a European Claim Form provided by your insurer before you leave. In the event of an accident, all parties complete and sign the form at the scene and then send a copy to your insurer for assessment.

What to do at the scene:

• Stop your vehicle immediately but safely- out of the flow of traffic if possible.
• If a vehicle is blocking the road, use hazard lights and put the red warning triangle 30 metres from the scene to warn approaching traffic
• Name and address of all the people involved in the accident
• Vehicle registration numbers of all parties
• Insurance company details of all parties
• Take photos of damage using a camera, GoPro or phone

For more details, read our step-by-step guide on dealing with a road traffic accident in Europe

Motorhome Touring in Holland itinerary idea

Here’s a 7 day road trip itinerary we did on one of our first trips to the Netherlands with our motorhome.

• Day One- drove into Holland and stayed at Jachthaven Westergoot in Dordrecht.
• Day Two- Visit the Kinderdjik windmills (although, be warned if you’re towing or a long motorhome- we had serious trouble parking) and then on to Madurodam and the Hague
• Day Three- Explore the Hague and surrounding area. Rotterdam is also worth a visit if you have time but might need its own day
• Day Four- Amsterdam. If you don’t want to go into the city, go to Volendam – we loved it there and the motorhome parking was great and near the beach. Again, if you have time, do both.
• Day Five- drive to Giethoorn Village . We took the bridge over the E22, but honestly, the southern route might have had more to see.
• Day 6- visit Giethoorn- well worth spending a day relaxing here. Don’t miss the ice cream!
• Day 7- drive out and start motorhoming in Germany (or back to the UK, if you must)

More useful things to know when campervanning in Netherlands

Emergency Numbers:  112 will get you everything

Capital City: Amsterdam

Language : Dutch, but English is widely spoken to an excellent standard (as are Flemish and German). The Dutch will love you trying to speak their language, but they are also aware that us mere English mortals can’t make those sounds!

Currency : Euro

Bank Cards : Paying by card in Holland is a pain, frankly. They only like Maestro and Visa/ Mastercard are often not accepted, even if they’re debit cards. If you don’t have a Maestro, you can still withdraw cash from ATMs but you’ll struggle to pay in shops and restaurants with a Visa, Mastercard or Amex. You can read more here

Timezone : GMT+1 (or one hour ahead in BST)

Mobile Phone and Internet  : It’s usually possible to use your UK phone and data in the Netherlands, but do check with your provider. If not, SIM cards are widely available and a cheap option for phone calls.

Tipping : Service is usually included in a restaurant, but do check. It’s common to tip other services, like taxi drivers

Shops : Unlike much of Europe, shops in the Netherlands don’t often close for lunch. Most are open every day from around 9 a.m. until 5.30 p.m. On Monday mornings, shops may not open until noon.

Many towns and cities have a shopping night where shops stay open until late, around 9 p.m. This is often on a Thursday. Many big supermarkets are open until 10pm.

Every Dutch city has its own rules for Sunday shopping hours. In most big cities, supermarkets are open until around 5.30 p.m on a Sunday.

Visa requirements : The Netherlands is in the Schengen zone, so you probably have a maximum of 90 days if you are not an EU resident. Learn more about the changes for driving in the EU after BREXIT.

Borders: There are no formal border crossings if you are driving into the Netherlands

Telephone country code : +31

Touring the Netherlands with a dog

The Netherlands is very pet-friendly. They are allowed almost everywhere, including public transport and in many bars, cafes and restaurants. They are not often allowed in museums.

Now that BREXIT has happened and the UK pet passport scheme is no longer valid, you will need to get an Animal Health Certificate before you leave the UK.

READ MORE:  How to get a UK Animal Health Certificate after BREXIT

You will need to get a worming treatment done by a registered vet before you leave Spain, or between 24 hours and 5 days before re-entering the UK.

More tips for travelling with a dog:

• The most useful dog road trip accessories
• How to keep a dog cool while travelling

See all our dog travel and road trip tips

Using a drone in the Netherlands

You are allowed to take and fly your drone in the Netherlands, but there are some rules you need to follow.

READ MORE: What’s the best travel drone (and how to choose)

Drones and similar remote-controlled flying devices must be kept at least a minimum 150m from people, vehicles and buildings that are not connected with the drone operator. Flying must happen in daylight only and up to a maximum height of 120m. Never fly closer than 5km to airports. The drone must always remain within the sight of the operator. If you want to film or photograph a person, you must first get their permission.

Please check for local regulations and military or other special restricted areas where all the aforementioned activities are forbidden by law.  Here are current government rules .

Other posts you might find useful:

• Unmissable road trip ideas for Europe
• Essential motorhome checks to do before you travel

See all our Europe motorhome travel tips and ideas

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Last update on 2024-06-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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UK Road Trip Itinerary Planner | The 7 Best Routes

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: January 29, 2024

If you love to take to the wheel and you’ll be visiting the UK at some point in the future, then you need to find the perfect UK road trip itinerary! This UK road trip planner aims to help you pin down the ideal 1 week, 10 day or 2 week UK road trip itinerary to follow during your visit. 

Featured in this guide are 7 of the best road trip routes in the UK. Whether you want a 10 days in England itinerary, would rather spend a week in Wales or have 10 days to discover Scotland, this post showcases the very best that the UK has to offer. 

Don’t plan a road trip in the UK without reading this first! From the Scottish Highlands to the sunny south coast of England and wild, unspoiled Wales, here are seven of the best UK road trip itineraries. But first, a few pointers on how to use this guide.

Cherry-picking

Pace yourself, the great british weather, driving in the uk, 1. the cotswolds and the south of england, 2. wonderful wales, 3. the english countryside, 4. the south to north circular, 5. capital to capital (london to edinburgh), 6. devon and cornwall, 7. bonnie scotland, which uk road trip itinerary will you follow, how to use this uk road trip itinerary planner.

You could follow these itineraries over whatever period of time you have at your disposal, but we’d say you need at least a week.

A fortnight means you can spend more time in each place, while ten days means having to rush around a little less than when you have only 7 nights to spare. 

The key thing to remember here is that it’s your UK road trip, not ours! So you can of course cherry pick where you want to go and leave out anywhere that doesn’t really interest you. 

If you think about it, doing that means you could fit in two of these itineraries, back-to-back, over a fortnight. Rather than just one. Having said that…

A holiday is all about having fun. Or at least it should be. For that reason, we urge you not to try to pack too much in. Pace yourself and you might just enjoy yourself a whole lot more. 

When you’re not sure about where you really want to go, ask yourself this. Would you be really disappointed if you missed out on visiting this place? Or are you not really all that bothered? If you’re not feeling the love and aren’t too fussed about it, then is it really worth spending the time and money on going there? 

Wherever you go, be prepared for the weather to take over. British people often seem to talk about little else. Whether you’re in northern Scotland, west Wales or central England, the maritime climate of the British Isles means that the weather can be very changeable. 

Dress in layers, take along a packable rain jacket and an umbrella, pick the right footwear and you’ll be prepared for anything. 

Before you draw up that UK road trip map, you’ll need to think about driving around the country. Booking car hire before you go is always advisable, especially if you want a particular kind of vehicle. Such as an automatic – cars with manual transmission are still the norm in the UK. 

In the UK they drive on the left. Cars are thus right hand drive. Meaning that the steering wheel is on the right hand side of the car. If you’re from North America, Europe or any other area that drives on the left, then this may feel very different from what you’re used to!

Roads in the UK are generally well-maintained. Signs measure distances in miles rather than kilometres. In the interests of safety, it’s a good idea to look at the Highway Code before you set off, as this will familiarise you with the rules of the road in the UK.

We recommend preparing to drive in the UK with Tripiamo which is the most comprehensive guide for Americans driving abroad.

Their guides include instructional videos and interactive 360-degree driving tours and will teach you everything you need to know about driving abroad, from reading road signs to avoiding fines. Drive safely and confidently in the UK with the help of Tripiamo.

7 best UK road trip itineraries

This suggested road trip itinerary for the UK commences in Oxford. If you make all the stops, you’ll visit the Cotswolds, Bath, Salisbury, Stonehenge , Portsmouth, Winchester, Brighton, Dover and Canterbury. 

• Heathrow/Oxford -> The Cotswolds -> Bath -> Salisbury & Stonehenge -> optional Portsmouth and/or Winchester -> Brighton -> Dover -> Canterbury 

Depending on whether you want to embark on your road trip right away or spend some time in London first, you can collect a hire car for this Cotswolds and southern England road trip either at Heathrow Airport or in Oxford.

Don’t bother trying to drive in central London – it’s congested, expensive and almost completely devoid of any parking whatsoever!

Here’s where to stop when you want to explore the Cotswolds and the south of England. As well as five of the best things to do in each of these locations.

If you choose to begin in Oxford , this historic and academic city has lots to offer. It’s packed with very old buildings, including the many colleges making up the prestigious University of Oxford. Some of these were featured in the Harry Potter movies . 

Oxford also offers the Ashmolean Museum, which focuses on art and archaeology. You can also take a river cruise on the Thames, which is a lovely way to see the city. The Oxford Botanic Gardens and Arboretum are also well worth a look. 

• Oxford University and city walking tour
• Ashmolean Museum of art and archaeology
• Sightseeing river cruise on a small electric boat
• Harry Potter tour of Oxford filming locations
• Oxford Botanic Gardens & Arboretum

If you’re spending time in southern England, then you must visit the Cotswolds . This designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is all greenery and honey-toned local stone, and dotted with appealing towns and villages. 

Stow-on-the-Wold and Bourton-on-the-Water are the two most popular spots, but there are so many villages you can visit. Check out the 10 best Cotswolds villages in this post, or use the suggestions below.

Find things to do and places to stay in the Cotswolds in our complete guides.

• Stow-on-the-Wold Market town with traditional pubs and antique shops
• Bourton-on-the-Water On the River Windrush with honey-toned stone buildings
• Lacock Home to Harry Potter filming locations and beautiful, ancient buildings 
• Bibury Timeless village where you can find photogenic and historic Arlington Row
• Painswick The Queen of the Cotswolds with Rococo gardens and a grand churchyard

Bath is a spa city in the west of England. It’s world famous for its original Roman Baths, handsome Georgian architecture and the Bath bun. Other top places to visit in Bath include Pulteney Bridge and the luxurious Thermae Bath Spa. 

Discover a Bath itinerary , where to stay and what to do in our Bath guides.

• City walking tour with Roman Baths entry
• Pulteney Bridge
• Thermae Bath Spa
• The Royal Crescent 
• Bath Bun at Sally Lunn’s Historic Eating House and Museum

Salisbury & Stonehenge

So many visitors to the UK want to see Stonehenge. The mysterious stone circle can be found close to Salisbury , making it easy to visit both. 

Salisbury is a small city with a magnificent cathedral, a good museum and a bi-weekly market. You can also enjoy views of the city from Old Sarum, two miles away. 

• Stonehenge World Heritage Site
• Salisbury Cathedral and the Magna Carta
• Salisbury Charter Market | Tuesdays and Saturdays
• The Salisbury Museum | Stonehenge and local archaeology
• Old Sarum | Deserted hilltop ruins with panoramic city views

Portsmouth – optional

An optional trip to Portsmouth will particularly appeal to anyone interested in maritime history. The city is home to the historic dockyard, the Mary Rose and HMS Victory. Other sights to see include the Spinnaker Tower, and you can shop at the Gunwharf Quays outlet centre too. 

• Spinnaker Tower
• Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
• The Mary Rose
• HMS Victory
• Gunwharf Quays | Outlet shopping

Winchester – optional

Like Salisbury, Winchester is a small cathedral city. There’s an interesting military museum here. Other places to visit include the Winchester Science Centre, the Great Hall and Winchester College.

• Winchester Cathedral
• The Royal Green Jackets Museum
• Winchester College
• The Great Hall
• Winchester Science Centre and Planetarium

Brighton makes a great day trip from London – or you can stay over as part of a road trip around the UK. With a grand pier and a pebble beach, Brighton is Britain’s most popular city by the sea. 

Things to do here include shopping at The Lanes, seeing the Royal Pavilion and going on the i360. The Seal Life Centre is also popular with families. 

• British Airways i360
• The Lanes | Cafes, shops, pubs, boutiques and restaurants
• Brighton Palace Pier
• The Royal Pavilion
• Sea Life Brighton

Dover 

Dover is best known for the iconic white cliffs, but there are other attractions here too. These include St Margarets Bay beach, Dover Castle, the Fan Bay Deep Shelter and the Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery.

• White Cliffs of Dover
• Dover Castle
• St Margarets Bay beach
• Dover Museum and Bronze Age Boat Gallery
• Fan Bay Deep Shelter

Canterbury is the capital of Kent, the county known as the Garden of England. The cathedral here is a draw, and the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, the leader of the Church of England. 

You can also explore Westgate Gardens here, and visit Howletts Wild Animal Park or The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge with the kids.

• Canterbury Cathedral
• Westgate Gardens
• Official guided walking tour
• Howletts Wild Animal Park
• The Beaney House of Art and Knowledge 

Our wonderful Welsh itinerary begins in Oxford, in England, before heading via the Cotswolds to Bath. You can find out what to do in those locations under the Cotswolds and South of England itinerary above. Or read on to discover all that Wales has to offer. 

• Heathrow or Oxford -> The Cotswolds -> Bath -> Cardiff (optional) -> Brecon Beacons -> Barmouth -> Porthmadog -> Snowdonia -> Caernarfon -> Anglesey -> Llandudno -> Chester -> Liverpool (optional) -> Peak District -> Stratford -> Oxford/Heathrow

Cardiff is the cool capital of Wales. Top things to see here include Cardiff Castle, Bute Park, the Principality Stadium and home of Welsh rugby, and the National Museum. You can also take a Doctor Who walking tour of the city!

• Cardiff Castle
• Principality Stadium
• National Museum
• Doctor Who walking tour

Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons)

Bannau Brycheiniog, formally known as the Brecon Beacons, is the ideal place for outdoor sorts to stretch their legs. As well as hiking, you can cycle, try watersports, stargaze or do some rock climbing here.

• Mountain biking
• Watersports
• Rock climbing

The seaside town of Barmouth in northwest Wales is a pretty place to explore. Here you can spend time at Barmouth Beach, walk over Barmouth Bridge, see the harbour, discover Old Barmouth or hike the Taith Ardudwy Way. 

• Barmouth Beach
• Barmouth Harbour
• Taith Ardudwy Way hiking trail
• Old Barmouth
• Barmouth Bridge

Porthmadog is also a coastal town in Gwynedd. Things to do in this Welsh destination include visiting Black Rock Sands, two miles from town. You can also see the harbour village of Borth-y-Gest, Criccieth Castle, take a ride on the famous Blaenau Ffestiniog railway and spend time in the I talianate village of Portmeirion.  

• Blaenau Ffestiniog railway
• Black Rock Sands beach
• Borth-y-Gest village
• Criccieth Castle
• Portmeirion village

Snowdonia ( Eryri )

This mountainous part of northwest Wales is home to Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), Wales’s highest mountain.

The area is popular among hikers, and also known for the historic Snowdon Mountain Railway. Apart from exploring Eryri (Snowdonia National Park), taking a train ride and conquering the peak, you can also visit the National Slate Museum or go to Harlech beach and castle.   

• Scale Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon)
• National Slate Museum
• Snowdon Mountain Railway
• Harlech Castle and beach
• Eryri (Snowdonia National Park)

Caernarfon is known for its majestic castle, but there are other absorbing places to visit in this royal Gwynedd town. These include Gypsy Wood Park, the Beacon Climbing Centre and the picturesque village of Beddgelert. You can also find the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum at the castle. 

• Caernarfon Castle
• Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
• Gypsy Wood Park
• Beacon Climbing Centre
• Beddgelert village

Anglesey is an island off the northwest coast of Wales. It offers the mediaeval capital of Beaumaris, historic sites and beautiful beaches.

You can also see the Menai Suspension Bridge built by Thomas Telford, trek the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path, head to Llanddwyn Island and beach, or explore Plas Newydd House and Gardens.

• Mediaeval Beaumaris
• Menai Suspension Bridge
• Llanddwyn Island
• Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path
• Plas Newydd House and Gardens

Llandudno is a popular Welsh resort town . It has everything you’d expect from a British seaside spot, including a pier, gaming arcades, beaches and more. Here you can also add the Great Orme Tramway, North Shore Beach, Great Orme Mines and Rhiwledyn nature reserve to your to-do list. 

• North Shore Beach
• Great Orme Tramway
• Llandudno Pier
• Great Orme Mines
• Rhiwledyn nature reserve

Chester is a historic city with many Roman remains. It’s actually in England, but just a short hop over the border. Things to do here include shopping at The Rows, seeing the Roman walls and amphitheatre, visiting Chester Racecourse – which is the oldest in the UK – and ancient Chester Cathedral. 

• Roman walls
• Chester Cathedral
• The Rows shopping
• Chester Racecourse
• Roman amphitheatre

Liverpool – optional

There is so much to see and do in Liverpool . The most famous band in the world bar none came from the English city in northwestern England, and you can trace the tale of their success by visiting The Beatles Story or taking a Magical Mystery tour by bus. 

Two cathedrals, a major football stadium with a museum and the River Mersey are also musts. You can also find more things to do and places to stay in our Liverpool articles. 

• River Mersey sightseeing cruise
• Beatles Magical Mystery bus tour
• Liverpool Football Club stadium and museum
• Anglican and Catholic cathedrals
• The Beatles Story

Peak District

The Peak District National Park is another of those outdoor spaces that offer so much scope for active people. Here you can hike or bike, or follow the Pennine Bridleway on horseback. 

Visit the lovely spa town of Buxton, too, and don’t miss out on trying a Bakewell pudding in the town of the same name. This sweet treat is more widely known as a Bakewell tart, but locally is always called Bakewell pudding!

Discover where to stay in the Peak District here

• Horse riding
• Hiking the trails
• Try Bakewell pudding in Bakewell

Stratford-upon-Avon

The birthplace of William Shakespeare – the most famous playwright who ever lived – is a pretty town on the banks of the Avon river. Packed with historic and literary attractions, things to do here include seeing a play performed by the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). 

You can also visit Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford , plus Anne Hathaway’s thatched, half-timbered cottage, or go to Stratford Butterfly Farm and the MAD (Mechanical Art & Design) Museum.

• Shakespeare’s birthplace
• Stratford Butterfly Farm
• Anne Hathaway’s cottage
• Royal Shakespeare Theatre 

England is known as “this green and pleasant land”, so seeing the countryside can be a real highlight of touring the UK. While our itinerary includes a few cities, they are small and picturesque picks that complement the countryside. 

Places to include are the Peak District, Yorkshire, the Lake District and the Cotswolds. See the above itineraries, too, for a more in-depth look at locations already featured in this guide.

• Heathrow -> Cambridge -> Peak District -> York and Yorkshire -> Lake District -> Liverpool -> Chester -> Cotswolds (and Bath) -> Salisbury/Stonehenge -> Heathrow 

Academia and punting along the River Cam are what spring to mind when anyone thinks of Cambridge . You can tour the colleges here, including King’s, and also absorb all the history on a guided walking tour. The Fitzwilliam Museum of Art and Gin Laboratory are also popular.  

• University of Cambridge tour
• The Fitzwilliam Museum
• Punting on the Cam
• Cambridge Gin Laboratory
• Historic walking tour

York and Yorkshire

The city of York and the large northern county of Yorkshire have so much to offer visitors from the UK and overseas. Head to the city for history and urban beauty, or go to the Yorkshire dales and moors to see swathes of unspoiled countryside. 

If you do visit York, don’t miss the Minster, or wandering among the shops and cafes of The Shambles. The Chocolate Story is also great for fans of the sweet stuff (and who isn’t?)

You can also find out what to do in Yorkshire and where to stay in York in our guides.

• York Minster
• Yorkshire Moors
• The Shambles | Cafes, restaurants and shops
• Yorkshire Dales
• York’s Chocolate Story

Lake District

The Lake District in Cumbria is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The area is known for its dramatic bodies of water, and it is dotted with historic market towns. The Lakes also has literary associations, a thriving foodie scene and lots of camping shops. 

Things to do include sampling sticky toffee pudding (it was invented here), discovering the history of Peter Rabbit author Beatrix Potter, walking to Aira Force waterfall and visiting Lake Windermere. 

Discover where to stay in the Lakes and the best towns and villages in our Cumbria articles

• Lake Windermere
• The World of Beatrix Potter
• Aira Force waterfall.
• Try sticky toffee pudding
• Beatrix Potter tour with lake cruise

There is so much to see and do in Liverpool . The most famous band in the world bar none came from the city in northwestern England, and you can trace the tale of their success by visiting The Beatles Story or taking a Magical Mystery tour by bus. 

• Heathrow/Oxford -> Cambridge -> Lincoln -> York and Yorkshire -> Whitby -> Durham -> Northumberland Coast then via Hadrian’s Wall to Lake District -> Yorkshire Dales -> Peak District -> Cotswolds -> optional Bath/Salisbury/Stonehenge -> Heathrow 

Lincoln is a little off the beaten track when it comes to British cities, but it’s a place with so much to offer. The cathedral and castle here are incredible, as are the galleries and museums.

We recommend The Museum of Lincolnshire Life and The Usher Gallery art museum, and a stroll up Steep Hill, which will lead you to the castle via shops, cafes and pubs. 

• Lincoln Cathedral
• Lincoln Castle
• The Usher Gallery
• The Museum of Lincolnshire Life

Fish and chips, colourful beach huts, Whitby Abbey, a fascinating insight into science during Victorian times and the Captain Cook Memorial Museum all await in Whitby. 

Much of the scampi consumed in the UK is caught in the waters here, so sampling fish or seafood and chips is de rigueur. Look out for goths, too, Whitby being a favoured hangout among lovers of black attire and white makeup. 

You can also find more places to go in Whitby here .

• Whitby Abbey
• Fish and chips
• Beach huts at West Cliff beach
• The Museum of Victorian Science
• The Captain Cook Memorial Museum

Durham can be somewhat overlooked, but it’s a delightful and compact university city in the north of England. The castle and cathedral are both outstanding.

Other attractions to visit include Hall Hill Farm, the Oriental Museum at Durham University, and a wander along the banks of the River Wear. 

• Hall Hill Farm
• Durham Cathedral
• Oriental Museum
• Durham Castle
• Walk along the banks of the River Wear

Northumberland

Northumberland is England’s hidden coastal gem. It also has more castles than any other county. Think windswept, near-deserted beaches, cliff-top castles and rolling countryside, and you get the idea.

There are some breathtaking buildings to visit, such as Cragside in Rothbury and the castles. The Alnwick Garden is also well worth your time. 

Also discover the best places to stay and top coastal cottages in Northumberland

• Bamburgh Castle
• Alnwick Castle
• Alnwick Garden
• Northumberland coast

Hadrian’s Wall

The Hadrian’s Wall site of Vindolanda features Roman remains, and is one of the key spots to visit when travelling between Northumberland and Cumbria. The Roman fort at Birdoswald is also worth stopping for. You can also follow various trails in the area, or drop into the Roman Army Museum. 

• The Chesters Trail
• Roman Army Museum
• The Corbridge Trail
• Birdoswald Roman fort

• London -> pick up car at Heathrow -> Cotswolds and Stratford -> Peak District  -> York and Yorkshire -> Durham -> Northumberland -> Edinburgh 

Also, discover the best places to stay and top coastal cottages in Northumberland

Scotland’s capital city is steeped in history, has swathes of glorious Georgian architecture, and scenic parks and squares. There’s also world-class dining and shopping, and the mediaeval Royal Mile. Also not to be missed are Edinburgh Castle and the New Town. You could also take a Harry Potter walking tour or a city tour by hop-on, hop-off bus.

Also find the best ghost tours of Edinburgh , top Edinburgh tips , and great Edinburgh accommodation options

• Edinburgh Castle
• Hop-on, hop-off bus tour
• Royal Mile | The Old Town
• Magical Harry Potter walking tour
• New Town | Elegant Georgian architecture

If you want to explore the sun-drenched (well sometimes) southwest of England, check out our southwest corner road trip itinerary here . 

For 10, 14 and 18-day Scotland road trip itineraries, click here . 

Whether you want to drive around the UK for a week, ten days, a fortnight or longer, we hope this guide has inspired you to visit this glorious land.

With so much to see and do yet relatively short distances between places, you really can pack a lot into a short time when visiting the UK.

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Welcome to the Netherlands

A small country that’s big on culture and nature

The Netherlands: fiercely independent, open-minded and full of pleasant surprises. Visit our amazing country and discover all the wonderful things it has to offer. Admire the groundbreaking architecture in our green cities, follow in the footsteps of the Dutch Masters or unwind in one of our many beautiful nature reserves. You’re cordially invited to immerse yourself in Dutch culture and truly feel like a local.

Cycling Lifestyle – How the Dutch spend their lives on bikes

Everyone cycles in the Netherlands – everywhere and all the time. Read our special cycling stories, meet cycling pioneers, and hop on a bike yourself to experience the Netherlands like a local.

Celebrate freedom in the Netherlands

Delve into the story of 80 years of Dutch freedom - from commemoration to celebration.

Vincent van Gogh: shaped by the Dutch countryside

Explore the beautiful Dutch landscape that led Vincent van Gogh to become one of the greatest painters of all time. Follow in his footsteps and experience the natural beauty of Brabant and Drenthe.

Wander around our national parks

Explore the Dutch national parks

With so many national parks, the Netherlands has something for everyone. Here are our top tips.

Explore our cities like a true local

A European Capital of Culture

The small city in the north that packs a big cultural punch.

A forward-looking medieval city

With its medieval city centre, Amersfoort is quite photogenic. Stroll the picturesque streets, enjoy great food at unique restaurants, shop till you drop or go on a cultural treasure hunt.

The most original city in the Netherlands

Rotterdam is a dynamic city with its own unique character. Find out why the city is well worth a visit.

State-of-the-art architecture in our youngest city

The newest city in the Netherlands might just surprise you with all it has to offer. ‘Ally’ is an open-air museum of modern architecture.

An old city that is young at heart

The beautiful city of Groningen brings young and old together and has something to offer for everyone.

Let’s go outside!

The Netherlands will be more colourful than ever in the coming months! Experience our thriving nature, get a breath of fresh air by the peaceful Wadden Sea or experience groundbreaking architecture in our vibrant cities. Wherever we may host you this spring, we will make sure you always feel welcome.

Things to do in spring

Wadden: Every island is unique

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The Netherlands in 7 stories

Dutch Masters

Dutch heritage

Water in the Netherlands

Nature in the Netherlands

Cycling in the Netherlands

Blooming Netherlands

Travel sustainably.

Did you know: The train is a great way to explore the Netherlands. You’ll be guaranteed to have the wind at your back! Read more

Travelling to the Netherlands

Although the Netherlands is a small country, its international connections are great, with several sustainable ways to find your way to our country. We have listed all the options for you so you can decide which mode of transport suits you best.

Transport in the Netherlands

If you come to the Netherlands, there is one thing you can be sure of and that is excellent public transport. Because whether you set off by train, bus, tram or metro, you can get around the whole country in a sustainable and pleasant way. Check out all the available options here.

Practical tips

How do you pack your suitcase as sustainably as possible? How does contactless payment work in the Netherlands? And how do you go about checking in on public transport? You will find the answers to these questions (and many more!) in this overview of practical tips for your holiday to the Netherlands.

How to enjoy a sustainable holiday in the Netherlands!

During your trip, you naturally want to experience all kinds of special things. But how do you keep your carbon emissions limited at the same time? At least these stories make one thing clear: responsible travelling certainly doesn't have to go at the expense of having fun. On the contrary!