While bikes and canals may be the country’s signature, there’s no better way to explore it all than by car. The Netherlands is compact, scenic, and easy to navigate, making it the perfect country to explore behind the wheel. Whether you’re into windmills and cheese or modern art and beach vibes, this 7-day itinerary shows you how to make the most of your Dutch adventure with your rental car straight from the airport and onto the road.
Tip: Read until the end to discover local recommendations!
Day 1: From Schiphol to Amsterdam
🚗 20 minutes’ drive
After landing at Schiphol Airport, pick up your rental car and kick off your Dutch adventure. Even though you’ll have a car, we recommend spending the first hours in Amsterdam on foot — the historic center is compact and easy to explore.
What to see: Visit the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum, take a scenic canal cruise, or grab a coffee in the trendy Jordaan district. If you’re short on time, a walk through the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) offers a perfect mix of shops, cafés, and photo opportunities.
Parking tip: Driving in the center can be tricky due to narrow streets, bikes, and limited parking. Use a P+R (Park + Ride) facility like P+R Zeeburg or P+R RAI — it’s affordable and includes public transport tickets to the city center.
Day 2: Amsterdam to Utrecht
🚗 45 minutes’ drive
In the morning hop back in the car and drive to Utrecht, one of the Netherlands’ most charming and underrated cities. With its medieval architecture, laid-back atmosphere, and unique canal wharfs, Utrecht offers the perfect blend of history and local culture.
What to see: Climb the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the country, for panoramic views. Then, visit the Museum Speelklok for a quirky look at self-playing instruments, or check out Centraal Museum for art and history lovers. Wander through hidden courtyards and independent shops in the Museumkwartier.
Parking tip: The historic center has limited parking, so your best bet is to use one of the city’s P+R locations, like P+R Westraven or P+R De Uithof. They offer cheap day rates and tram access into the city.
Day 3: Utrecht → Hoge Veluwe National Park → Giethoorn
🚗 2–2.5 hours total
Drive east to the Hoge Veluwe National Park, one of the most beautiful natural areas in the Netherlands — a mix of heathlands, forests, and sand dunes. It’s also home to the Kröller-Müller Museum, which holds an impressive Van Gogh collection.
After some nature and culture, continue north to Giethoorn, a car-free fairytale village of thatched-roof cottages and quiet canals. Rent a whisper boat or walk the scenic footpaths.
Parking tip: For the Hoge Veluwe, there are multiple entrances with parking lots (like Otterlo and Hoenderloo). You can park here and continue into the park by bike or foot. Entry is ticketed (includes access to bikes). In Giethoorn, cars aren’t allowed in the old village. Park at Parking Giethoorn Zuid or Dominee Hylkemaweg, both just a short walk from the center.
Day 4: Giethoorn to Groningen
🚗 1.5 hours
Head further north to Groningen. This city is a youthful, creative city with a strong local identity. It’s walkable, bike-friendly, and full of personality. Check out the Groninger Museum, shop at local design boutiques, and enjoy the buzzing energy of the town squares. It’s also a great base to explore the lesser-known north.
Parking tip: Use Q-Park Ossenmarkt or Forum parking near the city center. Groningen is very walkable once you’re parked.
Day 5: Friesland & The Frisian Lakes
🚗 1–1.5 hours
Spend the day in Friesland, known for its own language, laid-back pace, and watery landscapes. The Frisian Lakes are perfect for sailing, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing in peaceful lakeside towns like Sneek or Langweer.
Try this: Frisian sugar bread (suikerbrood) with coffee — a local favorite.
Parking tip: Smaller towns offer free or low-cost parking, often near marinas or village centers.
Day 6: Afsluitdijk → Haarlem → The Hague
🚗 2.5–3 hours
Cross the Afsluitdijk, a 20-mile dam over the sea — a masterpiece of Dutch engineering with a view. Make a stop in Haarlem for indie shops and the Frans Hals Museum, then continue to The Hague, home of the Dutch government and a surprising beach scene. Take a walk on the Scheveningen Pier or visit the Peace Palace.
Parking tip: In Haarlem try P+R Haarlem Spaarnwoude or De Kamp Garage near the center. In The Hague Use Interparking Museumkwartier for city sights, or Strandweg Parking for the beach. Trams also connect both areas quickly.
Day 7: The Hague to Rotterdam → Return to Schiphol Airport
🚗 2 hours total
End with a modern twist in Rotterdam. This city is the Netherlands’ modern architectural hotspot, rebuilt after WWII with a bold, futuristic vibe. It’s perfect if you want a fresh, lively take on Dutch culture. Try a ride in a watertaxi or check out the Markthal for local bites. Then cruise back to Schiphol Airport for your return — with your camera roll and snack bag full.
Parking tip: Use central garages like Q-Park Weena or Markthal Parking. The city’s great public transport and water taxis make getting around easy.
Good to Know: Driving in the Netherlands
- Distances are short. You can cross the entire country in under four hours.
- No toll roads (except a few small tunnels).
- Your US driver’s license is valid; there is no need for an international permit.
- Speed limits: 100 km/h (62 mph) on highways during the day, 120–130 km/h (75–81 mph) at night.
- Fuel: Gas stations are plentiful and usually self-service with card payment.
- Parking: Look for P+R (Park + Ride) options in big cities for cheaper, easier parking.
Bonus: Must eats
Dutch cuisine may be simple, but it packs a punch of comfort, tradition, and surprises. No Dutch road trip is complete without trying these local favorites:
- Haring (Herring): Best enjoyed fresh between May and July. Eat it the traditional way — raw, with onions and pickles, held by the tail — or tucked into a soft bun.
Eet smakelijk! - Drop (Licorice): Sweet or salty, soft or hard — this black candy is a national obsession. You’ll find it everywhere.
- Stroopwafel: Thin waffles with warm, gooey caramel inside. Find them fresh at markets or let one melt over your coffee for the ultimate treat.
- Cheese: Gouda is just the beginning. Try aged Beemster, cumin-spiced Leidse kaas, or sample regional cheeses at local markets or farms.
- Bitterballen: Crispy meat-filled snacks, perfect with mustard. You’ll spot them on every café menu.
- Poffertjes: Mini pancakes with powdered sugar and butter — warm, fluffy, and addictive.
- Fries with mayo: Dutch-style fries are thick, golden, and best with mayo or peanut sauce. Look for them in paper cones at snack bars.
- Kibbeling: Crispy battered fish bites served with garlic sauce — a seaside favorite.
Final Tip
Whether you’re in a countryside village or a trendy urban neighborhood, the beauty of the Netherlands is in the details — and the freedom to discover them at your own pace. A rental car gives you flexibility, letting you combine must-sees with hidden treasures along the way. You may also choose to pick up or return your car to a different branch. Be sure to arrange this upfront in one of our branches.
Ready to explore beyond postcards?
