A road trip around Amsterdam, between Holland and Utrecht
Getty Images Plus
From the canal cities of Holland to the provinces of Guelders and Utrecht, here are our must-see destinations when taking a road trip around Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands.
From Amsterdam to The Hague, the canals and flower fields of Holland
One of Europe’s most vibrant cities, Amsterdam makes a fantastic starting-off point for exploring the rest of the Netherlands. The riveting Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, the Bloemenmarkt (flower market), the leafy Begijnhof (beguinage), the historic districts of Jordaan and Nieuwe Zijde… the city is bursting with fascinating points of interest and places to eat, shop and drink. Stay at least two days if you can!
Then take a detour via Haarlem, west of Amsterdam. Its old canals lined with historic monuments are well preserved souvenirs of its former life as a major trading port. The next stop on your road trip is The Hague, where its small but perfectly formed historic centre is awash with stunning period buildings, trendy boutiques and first-rate museums. En route, following the N206, look out for the sprawling fields filled with tulips, the iconic national symbol of the Netherlands. Visiting in spring? Be sure to stop at Keukenhof, a kaleidoscopic showcase of Dutch horticulture. Late March to early May is the best time to go and admire the country’s most famous bulb bursting into bloom.
Delft and Rotterdam, the gems of Holland
Around 10 miles from The Hague, Delft is known for being the birthplace of the Baroque painter Vermeer and one of the most charming cities in the Netherlands. Criss-crossed by quaint canals bordered by leafy quays, this sleepy town is a dream to wander around and admire its typical gabled buildings, modestly sized squares and markets.
A totally different ambience awaits you in Rotterdam, about the same distance away as The Hague but in the opposite direction. In Europe’s largest port, you won’t find traditional gabled buildings but bold and bombastic architecture, a fascinating maritime museum and a much younger and more dynamic vibe that won’t fail to energise you. When heading out of the city, stop for a selfie in front of the 19 Kinderdijk Windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage site, standing proudly on the canalside.
From Utrecht to Het Loo, the best of nature and culture in the Dutch countryside
Beyond Utrecht, its adorable cobbled streets as medieval as you get, the narrow roads wind through stunning rural landscapes all the way to the De Hoge-Veluwe National Park. When you arrive, park up and grab one of the bikes available to use free of charge at the entrance. Cycle past lakes, deciduous forests, peatland, ponds and heather fields stretching to the horizon. A highlight of your road trip!
The last leg before returning to the Dutch capital: the majestic Het Loo Palace and Museum, the royal family’s summer residence flanked by sumptuous gardens. Factor in a half-day to get to fully admire the Baroque facades of the exquisite palace, visit the royal apartments and take a leisurely stroll around the superb grounds.
On your return journey, the enchanting medieval city of Amersfoort makes for a delightful detour before heading back to the bustle and buzz of Amsterdam.
We suggest you plan 8-10 days to make the most of this 223-mile road trip departing from Amsterdam.
In the Dutch capital, ditch the car and use public transport and bikes for a far more fun and practical way to explore the city!
Feel like getting away from it all?
See our suggestions for novel trips and must-see places to visit near your home or holiday destination.