road trip france amsterdam

Netherlands to France Road Trip: the Classic Europe Trip

Recom. Days

Freelance writer for Indie Campers, currently trying to find herself in Indonesia but without much luck. Enjoys exploring weird and wonderful world cuisine — the less identifiable, the better.

Netherlands to France Road Trip Itinerary: Amsterdam to Paris

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Do you harbour a secret dream to drop everything, climb aboard a campervan, and set off journey across the continent—say, on a Netherlands to France road trip?

Europe, with so much fascinating culture, history, and breathtaking nature crammed into its square metres, is one of the best continents for a cross-country road trip. This itinerary takes in some of the best of Northwest Europe.

Starting in Amsterdam, a favourite for travelers with its laid-back, fun-loving personality, set off east into Belgium. Here you’ll take in three of the country’s major cities, each totally unique. First, the ultra cool and creative Antwerp.

Then the underrated charms and fantastic beer of Ghent. And third, impossibly picturesque Bruges. And to round it all off? Paris. The ultimate finale.

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Amsterdam: it’s just as awesome as you imagined

Starting your Netherlands to France road trip in Amsterdam is a real risk. There’s so much fun to be had here there’s every danger you might never leave. 

With its canals and wonky timbered buildings, it’s a photographer’s dream. And for culture lovers, there’s museums dedicated to everything from Van Gogh to fluorescent art. And for those just here to treat themselves, there are restaurants, bars, and cafes for every taste and mood.

Hire a bike to explore the old town or hop aboard one of the free ferries to see the city from a different angle. Head to the Jordaan to explore quirky art galleries.

And when night falls, move on to a bruin café and put away a few pints in the cosiest of drinking dens. Or, for a touch of sleaze that only Amsterdam could pull off with such charm, wander through the Red Light District. Because it’s not Amsterdam without a dash of debauchery.

from Amsterdam depot

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Rijksmuseum

Culturally significant history and art museum.

Anne Frank Huis

Former home now dedicated to famous diarist.

A'DAM Lookout

Viewing platform with Europe’s highest swing.

Farm-to-table dining in a early 20th century greenhouse.

Try the hearty local speciality called Stamppot.

Pannenkoekenhuis Upstairs

Tiny quirky cafe serving only pancakes.

Amsterdam City Camp

Overnight motorhome parking short ferry ride from city.

Antwerp: art, diamonds, and fashion, darling

If Brussels is like Belgium’s sensible, straightlaced daughter, then your next destination on this road trip from the Netherlands to France is its too-cool-for-school sister.

Stylish and sophisticated Antwerp is a mecca for fashionistas and party lovers, not to mention dealers in diamonds - 80% of the world’s diamonds are traded here each year. Enjoy innovative meals in sharp, modern restaurants, peruse elegant boutiques in Nationalestraat, soak up the sparkles in the Diamond District, and at night, catch a show at de Singel arts centre.

Beginning with the Grote Markt, the old town’s main square, stroll the city’s medieval heat and find a charming cafe from which to people watch. Visit the extravagant Gothic masterpiece that is the cathedral and spot the Rubens on display inside.

Fancy something more contemporary and cool? Head to MoMu, the city’s Fashion Museum. And when your feet are tired, relax with a drink and a view of the meandering River Scheldt. Life could be worse, right?

from Amsterdam

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Diamondland

Huge diamond showroom.

Museum Aan de Stroom

Striking contemporary museum all about Antwerp.

De Koninck Brewery

Enjoy a tour, tasting session, or even a workshop.

Two Michelin-starred restaurant in a renovated church.

Trendy bakery with delicious croissants, bread, and pastries.

Graanmarkt 13

Concept store with restaurant serving vegetarian food.

Parking Sint-Michielskaai

Free, uncovered, walking distance of center.

Camping Het Veen vzw

30 minute drive from Antwerp.

Get off the beaten path with a stop in Ghent

We’re not sure why Ghent hasn’t got more tourists descending on its picturesque streets. But we’re glad they don’t. All the more for you to enjoy on your Netherlands to France road trip. 

Ghent offers the perfect recipe for an up-and-coming holiday destination. Beautiful historic architecture, a buzzing student population, a trendy post-industrial edge - and, for you boozehounds, the highest concentration of top-quality beer bars in all of Belgium.

Wander the mostly pedestrianized city-centre. Discover Graffiti Street, canvas for the city’s artists to make their mark. Stroll the Gravensteen area, with its galleries, antique shops, and great restaurants.

Make sure to catch a glimpse of one of the world’s most famous paintings, Adoration of the Mystic Lamb by Jan and Hubert van Eyck - on display at St-Baafskathedraal. And end the day in a cafe on the gorgeous Graslei quay, watching the city reflected back at you in the waters of the River Lys.

from Antwerp

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Het Gravensteen

Imposing 10th century castle complete with moat.

Museum of contemporary art.

Kouter Flower Market

Enjoy the floral display at this market on Sundays.

Intriguing decor, serves Italian influenced dishes.

De Superette

Bakery and restaurant in quiet backstreet.

Brewery and restaurant in former industrial building.

François Laurentplein

Uncovered parking 20 minute walk from center.

Camping Groeneveld

20 minutes drive from Ghent center.

Embrace your inner princess in breath-taking Bruges

Do you believe in fairytales? You will once you arrive in Bruges. This last stop in Belgium on your Netherlands to France road trip is swiped straight from a storybook - one featuring princesses, knights on horseback, and possibly a dragon too.

Think cobbled lanes, Gothic churches, gabled houses, and white swans gliding down winding canals. To truly feel the part, consider seeing the sights from atop a horse-and-carriage.

Wander the UNESCO-listed centre, surrounded by a moat. For great views, ascend the Belfry in Markt Square. Check out Michelangelo’s Madonna and Child in the Church of Our Lady. Refuel on some crispy, salty frietjes, or fries, and rehydrate with a witbier.

Or go one step further and check out the Frietmuseum, the world’s only museum dedicated to fries. Explore the countless chocolate shops or relax at the Lake of Love (no joke, that’s really what it’s called). And later perhaps catch a show at the contemporary performing arts centre, Concertgebouw.

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Kantcentrum

Lace Center, where you can buy lace and watch it being made.

De Halve Maan

Brewery tours and tastings.

Groeninge Museum

Early Flemish art.

Den Gouden Harynck

Michelin starred dining in secluded location.

Fairytale-like restaurant in former farmhouse.

Bistro Den Amand

Traditional Belgian food with local feel.

Augustijnenrei 11

Centrally located uncovered parking.

Camping Memling

Short walk from Bruges.

Paris, the perfect way to say goodbye

All the clichés hold true. Paris really is magical. Romantic. Unbelievably fashionable. Although there’s also a psychological condition known as Paris Syndrome, experienced mostly by Japanese tourists who arrive and freak out to find Paris doesn’t quite meet their expectations.

In our view, it’s so much better for being slightly gritty, edgy, and hectic. So continue on to your final destination of this road trip from the Netherlands to France. You’ll certainly end on a high.

Choose your pick of the thousands of sights to see. Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame, the Louvre - the list goes on. Or just wander the city’s gorgeous boulevards, relax by the river, or enjoy some retail therapy in the elegant boutiques or chaotic flea markets.

Find the neighbourhood you like best, from village-like Montmartre to the mansions of the Marais. Pick up campervan supplies at a boulangerie or fromagerie. And, when evening comes, find a seat outside a cafe and watch life go past. Paris was made for people-watching.

from Bruges

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Center Pompidou.

20th-century museum designed with an intriguing inside-out effect.

La Seine Musicale

Schönes Zentrum für darstellende Künste auf der Île Seguin.

Jardin des Plantes

Amazing botanical gardens.

Restaurant Gill

Two Michelin-starred dining with high-quality ingredients.

French cooking in 16th-century Gothic mansion.

La Couronne

Traditional Normandy cuisine in France’s oldest inn.

Place du Pantheon

Uncovered parking at 15-min walk from Notre Dame.

Bastille Saint Antoine

Underground car park, max height 2.90m.

Camping Les Nénuphars

Peaceful camping 20 minutes from Rouen.

Embark on an unforgettable road trip

15 Best France Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Driving Tips!)

Chock full of storybook-worthy villages, beautiful castles, and incredibly epic and diverse nature–from the Alps to the beaches of the Riviera to the lavender fields of Provence and the cliffs of Etretat and beyond–it’s not hard to understand why taking a France road trip tops so many bucket lists around the world.

Throw in excellent roads, a great travel infrastructure, and enough exciting places to see that you could spend a lifetime traversing it without turning over every stone, there’s no doubt that a road trip through France is an amazing way to see the country.

We’ve rounded up the best France road trip itinerary ideas here, covering all corners of the country–plus included important France driving tips you’ll need to know before setting off!

Table of Contents

Logistical Tips for Driving in France

Other france road trip tips, 15 of the best road trips in france.

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Rent the smallest car you can.

Especially if you’re coming from the USA like us, you’ll likely find French roads–especially in small villages and in the countryside–are smaller than what you’re used to.

Save on gas, rental costs, and stress while driving in France by renting the smallest car you can manage to fit yourselves and your belongings into.

We recommend searching for your (tiny) rental car through Discover Cars , which will allow you to sift through all your options and choose the right car for you based on price, the reputation of the company that is renting it, and the terms of the rental contract.

Book your rental car for your France road trip today!

Plan on renting a manual, or prepare to pay.

Like the rest of Europe, manual cars are the norm in France.

If you only drive automatic, you’ll absolutely be able to find a car to rent for your France road trip… but be prepared to plan ahead (especially if you’re traveling during the busy season when the cars get reserved quickly), and to pay extra fees for the privilege.

Always carry cash… just in case. 

While you can generally pay tolls (and they are pricey–budget accordingly!) with a Visa or Mastercard in France, you never know when you’re going to need cash for gas or small restaurants.

When taking a driving in France, it’s best to always have some Euros with you–and don’t forget to carry small coins for bathroom fees!

Plan your parking in advance.

This especially applies overnight–ie, look for hotels that include parking or have a plan for parking listed–but also during day trips. 

For example, our trip to Cassis would have been much easier if we had researched the parking situation beforehand and paid to reserve a spot in one of the parking garages in town.

For hotels, we use Booking.com and ideally look for places using the “free parking onsite” filter.

Depending on where you are going during your road trip in France, though, free parking may not be possible–in that case, carefully check and see what hotels have reasonably-priced parking nearby.

A hotel that is an extra 20 Euros/night may end up being an excellent deal if there’s inexpensive parking nearby!

Strongly consider purchasing extra insurance.

Driving on unfamiliar roads in a foreign country is always going to be an exercise in risk-taking.

While driving in France is typically perfectly safe, if you’re not used to driving in congested urban environments or driving abroad, we’d recommend that you strongly consider purchasing additional CDW (collision damage) insurance for your vehicle–though going through the rental agency is often the most expensive place you can buy this coverage.

Check first to see if your credit card covers it (and in France specifically–not just in your home country), and if they don’t, some insurance policies do.

Get a quote to insure your France road trip today!

Not all gas stations are self-service.

We’ve come across both self-service and attendant-provided gas stations in France–when you pull up to get gas, take a quick look around to see what the other drivers are doing before jumping out of your car!

An International Driver’s Permit isn’t required. 

Unlike in Italy, an International Driver’s Permit isn’t required to rent a car or drive in France (though you do, of course, need to be licensed to drive–for example, driver’s licenses from our home country of the USA are valid for driving in France as a tourist).

However, if your license is written in something other than English or French, or you just want to make any potential communication easier, you may want to consider getting one anyway.

Your life will be easier if you buy a French SIM card.  

This assumes your phone is unlocked, of course, but seriously: getting a local SIM card before taking off on your road trip in France will make your life so much easier!

Having access to everything from a GPS to restaurant reviews is a huge benefit of traveling in the modern age, and bringing those tools along with you as you explore France by car is a fantastic idea.

You can absolutely purchase a local SIM card once you arrive, but if you want to get everything set up before you go, you can also purchase a France SIM card at home in advance.

Pack toilet paper.

Rest stops along highways in France will generally have toilets, but toilet paper is far from guaranteed–best to bring your own just in case.

I usually carry a pack of these with me in my purse when I travel, and they’ve come in handy more than once when driving in France.

Brush up on your French.

Ubiquitous advice for traveling in France, I know, and not exclusive to a road trip in France, but I promise that at least being able to ask for (and follow) simple driving directions in French–not to mention reading basic road signs–will make your France road trip much better!

The first rule of road trips in France: leave room for spontaneity!

One of the best things about taking a road trip in France is that no matter how carefully you plan, no matter how much research you do, you’re still bound to show up in the country and be blown away by something you had never heard of before.

So, just roll with it… and leave room for new discoveries.

I’m a big planner myself, so I get the urge to organize every. last. detail. 

… But during our own trips exploring France by car, I’m also so glad that we randomly decided to spend extra time in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, that we gave Port Miou a chance when we saw photos of how lovely it was, that we delayed our departure from Annecy because its market was coming to town, and that we ended up cutting Roussillon from our Luberon Valley trip because we simply weren’t ready to say goodbye to Goult.

In other words: sketch an outline of your days and nights, yes, but be open to changes. Those stops may just end up being some of your favorite stops during your France road trip!

Pay attention to market days (and show up early).

Visiting local markets in all of France’s adorable villages is one of my favorite parts of taking a road trip in France: with a car, there’s no need to worry about managing train times or having to skip the tiniest villages.

If at all possible, aim to visit towns on their market days. Depending on the town, this is generally one, two, or three times a week. Many villages have a small daily market, with larger markets on certain days–those are the ones to aim for.

Also: show up early! Early in the morning is the absolute best time to visit markets on your France road trip. You’ll get to experience both the smallest crowds and also have your pick of the best products before they potentially sell out for the day.

Pack a picnic on travel days.

All those markets full of delicious bread, cheese, meat, and produce that you pass each day? Those are your future lunch!

Double up on practical purchases and fun experiences in France by using market days to stock up on picnic materials to use during your days spent driving in France.

Rest stops in France are plentiful along the highways (look for the signs for “aires”), and are generally very clean and well-stocked, with some even including restaurants.

Don’t change locations every day.

Packing your bags, checking in and out of a hotel, loading the car, unloading the car… all of these things may not seem like much, but by the fifth or sixth day in a row, you’ll be incredibly tired of doing it.

These kinds of transitions eat up way more of each day of your France road trip than the estimated driving time between whatever two towns you’re visiting–so do yourself a favor and limit the number of times you swap lodging.

Instead, set up a series of bases for at least a few days each, and use your rental car to take day trips from there.

For example, we used Avignon as a base to visit the Luberon Valley and Alpilles, and Aix-en-Provence as a base to visit Cassis!

Focus primarily on smaller towns & natural attractions.

Don’t get me wrong–we adore France’s cities, but places like Paris, Lyon, and Nice don’t require a car to visit–quite the opposite. A car is a hindrance there!

One of our France driving tips is to focus on the smaller towns, beautiful countryside, dramatic castles, and endless natural highlights (beaches, lakes, mountains–you choose!) that make up this incredibly diverse and beautiful country.

If you hope to include any of France’s major cities as part of your itinerary, we recommend visiting them at the beginning or end of your trip and only renting your car when you’re ready to leave and head to smaller towns.

The slow pace is part of the fun.

Often, the best memories from a trip are the ones where you let go of the long wish list of towns and villages you hope to see, the markets you want to visit, and the tourist sights you can’t miss and just. breathe.

I learn this again virtually every time I go to France: some of my best memories in the country are of the day we did literally nothing but walk around Colmar and admire how beautiful it was, the day we lounged in Paris’ Luxembourg Gardens all afternoon, the days we’ve sat at outdoor cafes for hours because the sunshine and people-watching felt too good to leave behind, and the long, leisurely lunch we ate in Goult .

Each and every one of those memories is something we exchanged for missing out on a piece of sightseeing or photo-taking or research we had planned to do–something that seemed important at the time.

I wouldn’t trade those memories for anything.

Write down where you go.

Sure, no one is going to forget visiting Nice or Aix-en-Provence… but that tiny town with the cute fruit stand you passed through that one afternoon? Yeah, that name will fade almost immediately.

You’ll want to remember the names of all the small villages you visited, pretty beaches you swam at, cozy restaurants you ate at, and hiking trails you conquered long after your France road trip is finished, so write them down as you go!

Jeremy loves to star the places we visit on Google maps, and I keep my own record in my One Line a Day journal that I’ve been keeping daily for years (and highly recommend!).

Alsace Wine Route

From Arzo of Arzo Travels

A  fun road trip to take is from Strasbourg to Colmar (or the other way around) which is also known as the Alsace Wine Route .

Especially in the summer months (or early fall), it is a beautiful drive with scenic window views and many beautiful towns, villages, and cities along the way.

The Alsace Wine Route is one of the most famous road trips in France and besides being a beautiful place, it has a lot about…well, you guessed it, wine. 

Start your trip in Strasbourg (which is not officially part of the Alsace wine route), the beautiful main city in the region, and explore what it has to offer, including lots of half-timbered houses and many medieval buildings, and then plan in time for stops like Obernai, Ribeauville, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim.

These are all beautiful little villages, though Riquewihr is probably the prettiest of all. 

Then it is time to end your tour in Colmar where you can end your road trip and explore one of the cutest towns in the country.

If you are a wine drinker, you can visit the vineyards along the way and try out some of the local wines in the wineries or restaurants. They are supposed to be some of the best wines in the country!

Driving Distance

170km or 105 miles.

Recommended Road Trip Length

3 days is the absolute minimum for this road trip. 4 or 5 days are the better options if you do not want to rush and like to do some wine tasting.

Marseilles to Nice

From Chrysoula of Travel Passionate

After exploring Marseilles , why not head eastwards along the gorgeous coastal road to Nice? The drive is best done at a leisurely pace over a few days so you can savor the delights of Provence and the Cȏte d’Azur. 

The coastal road has many spectacular views and the first is as you leave Marseilles. Les Calanques are dramatic, sheer-sided coastal inlets that have been carved through the limestone and they can be found between Marseilles, Cassis , and La Ciotat. 

A little further on you will be tempted by the seven beautiful sandy beaches of La Croix Valmer.

The first main stop is St Tropez, a favorite with the international jet-set in the sixties. It is still popular for its beaches and nightlife. Those ‘in the know’ explore Port Grimaud- the Crêpes au Chocolat (chocolate pancakes) and cider are worth sampling. 

Cannes is another famous city, loved by the super-rich and known for its international film festival. Antibes lies close to Nice and is a delightful old town with ramparts and once Picasso’s home. 

There will be many other detours inland to make to Domaines (wineries) to sample the area’s superb rosé and villages like Maximin-Le-Sainte- Baume with its famous basilica and Grasse (north of Cannes) is world-famous for its perfume industry. 

St Paul de Vence is loved by painters and writers. When you arrive in Nice, you will be able to park the car and leave it, as there is a large traffic-free zone in the center.

235 km or 146 miles.

Suggested Road Trip Length

It takes around 3 hours to drive between Marseille and Nice but if you really want to enjoy the area explore Marseille, Nice and a few towns between I suggest you spend around 4 to 5 days on this South of France road trip.

The Champagne Route

From Jane and Duncan from To Travel Too

Without a doubt, France’s Champagne Route is one of the most popular driving tours in the country.

When driving the  Champagne Route of France there are several routes to consider, including Massif Saint Thiery Route the northern route starting from Reims, Marne Valley Route from Epernay, and the Cote des Blancs Route from the south of Epernay. There are also others, or you can mix and match to create your own France road trip route!

If you only want to visit some of the major towns you can start from Troyes and head to Epernay, then onto Reims.

There are many small towns and villages around the Champagne region to visit.  The routes will take you past beautiful chateaux, quaint villages, churches, and many champagne houses.

The major champagne houses such as Mercier and Moet Chandon can be found in Epernay and in Reims you can visit Veuve Clicquot, Mumm, Taittinger and many smaller boutique champagnes houses as well.

The best months to visit are between May and October.

The Champagne region is easy to travel to from Paris.  The journey from Paris to Reims is only 45 minutes and from Paris to Epernay 1 hour 10 minutes.

The distance from Troyes to Epernay is 112 km or 70 miles, and Epernay to Reims is 29 km or 16 miles.

You can visit either town on a day trip and visit some of the Champagne Houses within walking distance of the train station.  The ideal time to enjoy all that the Champagne region has to offer is between 5 – 7 days.

The Opal Coast

From Nichola of Globalmouse Travels

Paris to Normandy Road Trip

The following Paris to Normandy road trip is ideal for those looking to escape the city for a few days to a natural and verdant environment.

From Paris, go north to Mont Saint Michel (4-hour drive), where you should stay for at least 1 night. Consider taking the toll-free road which adds 30 minutes to your driving time, but gives you the chance to drive through Normandy’s charming villages and countryside. 

Once you’ve checked into your hotel, walk, bike, or take public transportation to the island that is Mont Saint Michel. When visiting Mont Saint Michel during low tide, go onto the island, grab a spot along the high stone wall and witness the rising of the tide as the sea surrounds the island, isolating it from the mainland.

The next day, drive east to Étretat. Consider spending half a day to a full day here.

While Giverny may have been home to impressionist painters, Étretat was their inspiration. Étretat sits on the Normandy coast and is home to where grayish-white limestone cliffs meet the untamed blue sea. The cliff tops are paved with dirt paths and staircases making them accessible for walking, hiking, and sight-seeing.

On your way back to Paris from Étretat, stop in Honfleur to aimlessly walk through the port and old town. The various architectures are beautiful in their own right: the medieval old town and the port with its tightly packed, vertical, colorful buildings. When you’ve finished exploring Honfleur, it’s an estimated 2.5-hours drive to Paris.

This road trip from Paris through Normandy and back can be comfortably done in 3 days. 

The French Alps from Chamonix

From Whitney of Designs for Travel

One of the most incredible road trips in France is through the Frech Alps.  With the beautiful green mountains (or white in the snowy season), aqua blue lakes, and quaint chalets, the Frech Alps is one of the most picturesque areas in Europe. 

This Frech Alps road trip is a loop that starts and ends in the popular adventure town of Chamonix.  The closest major airport is Geneva, Switzerland.

Start in Chamonix, a beautiful resort town at the base of Mont Blanc.  It’s one of the best places to ski in the winter, but I recommend taking this trip in the summer, where you can take a gondola to the top, and enjoy the panoramic views and do some hiking. 

The next stop on this road trip is 1 hour and 20 minutes west, to the gorgeous alpine town of Annecy .  The pristine lake, river, cobbled old town, pastel cottages, and medieval chateau make Annecy a must-see town in the Alps. 

From here, head east to Le Grand Bornand, another beautiful alpine resort town.  Drive back to Chamonix for a raclette dinner, which is sure to be a favorite meal.

After visiting France, if you have more time, you can drive south to Italy to continue your road trip.

130 miles, 210 kilometers.

This road trip itinerary can easily be done in 3 days and if you have more time, a week is even better!

Gorges du Verdon + Valensole Plateau Road Trip

From Elisa of France Bucket List

This 2-day road trip in Southern France covers the Verdon National Park and some of the best  lavender fields in Provence . This French road trip starts in the city of Aix-en-Provence, and it takes two days. Aix-en-Provence is the quintessential Provencal city with many interesting things to see and do. Ideally, take one day or two to visit Aix-en-Provence before hitting the road.

From Aix-en-Provence, drive to Valensole, a pretty small town world-known for its lavender fields. Enjoy these never-ending seas of ‘blue gold’- it is not only beautiful to see, but it also smells very good!

Back to the road, drive to the Verdon National Park and stop at Esparron de Verdon and Lac Quinson de Verdon, two small lakes with absolutely no crowds. At Lac de Quinson, you can rent a kayak or an electric road and explore the Gorges du Verdon from the water.

Spend the night at Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a picturesque hilltop village with the label ‘most beautiful villages in France’.

Day two visits Lac Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon. This is the main lake in the area, and the perfect place to relax on the beach and have a picnic with a view. In the afternoon, visit the hilltop village of Aiguines, which is less touristy than Moustiers and with a more local atmosphere.  Have an alfresco dinner in one of the two restaurants on the main square before driving back to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for the last night of this road trip.

270 km, 168 miles.  

This road trip lasts two days. Add one or two more days if you want to visit Aix-en-Provence.

Bordeaux + France’s West Coast

From Kat of Wandering Bird

If you’re looking for a mixture of beautiful sandy beaches, cities, and dramatic scenery, head for the west coast of France. 

You can begin your trip almost anywhere along the coast, but let’s start in the major hub of Bordeaux. Here you can hire a car or camper van and set off on your adventure, but take a day or two first to explore this beautiful city.

If you only have one day, focus your time on the Cathedral and the mirror pool (you’ll need to wake up very early to nab photos here without the crowds).

Once you leave the city, you have some choices to make. Do you want wine, sea, or one of the most incredible natural wonders you’ve ever seen?

Bordeaux is surrounded by vineyards and they are all worth visiting. If you’re  touring France in a motorhome , you can even stay overnight at many of the vineyards (no worrying about drinking and driving!)

If you want to be wowed, head to Arcachon and the jaw-dropping Dune du Pilat. This natural wonder is the largest sand dune in Europe, standing at around 106m high and runs for nearly 3km. Walking up it is not for the faint-hearted!

Lastly, if you want to see more of the beautiful Atlantic coastline, head up to Île de Ré. This stunning island has some beautiful beaches and is a great place to witness the incredible sunsets you find on the French coast. 

From Dune du Pilat to Île de Ré (past Bordeaux), this driving trip in France is 276 km or 172 miles.

You can drive from Dune du Pilat to Île de Ré in under 3 hours if traffic is clear.

However, we recommend at least a day in Bordeaux, a day near the dune and Arcachon, and a day on Ile de Re, so allow at least 3/ 4 days for your trip. 

Calais to the Pyrenees Loop

From Jenny of TraveLynn Family

For those located in the UK, Calais is an obvious starting point for a France road trip as it’s a short crossing from Kent, either on the ferry or Eurotunnel. This Calais to the Pyrenees road trip  itinerary does a big loop down to the Pyrenees via the Auvergne and Perpignan, then back up again via Bayonne, Île d’Oléron, and the Loire Valley, returning to Calais.

Between each stop is about 4 to 5 hours of driving, although do note that this is along tolled roads (which can add up, but they are very efficient).

Staying at campsites, this summer itinerary steers away from main tourist sites and explores the French countryside, rather than the cities. It is advisable to take a bike to explore each stop further using the many cycle lanes and marked tracks. And don’t forget to pack your swimsuit , as there are lots of opportunities for a dip to cool off after a day of exploring.

From the peaceful wooded valleys of the Auvergne to the Catalan charm of the Western Mediterranean; the majestic peaks of the Pyrenees to the fashionable beaches of the Basque country; and the idyllic fishing villages of Ile d’Oléron to the chateaux of the Loire Valley steeped in history; each stop is notably distinct from the other, providing a true cross-section of cultures and landscapes across the French countryside.

2005 miles 0r 3225 kilometers (using toll roads).

The French Alps From Grenoble

From Sasha of The Alternative Travel Guide

149  km / 92 miles.

Recommended Trip Length

Gorges du Tarn

Gorges du Tarn  offers one of the most scenic landscapes in Southern France, which makes it the perfect destination for a road trip. This loop road trip will take you along the rivers Tarn and La Jonte in the Causses and Cévennes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The trip starts and ends in Millau, a sleepy Medieval town, famous for the tallest bridge in the world – the Millau Viaduct. After visiting the bridge, head to the hamlet of Peyre, which is literally glued to the rocks – a fine example of the so-called ‘ troglodyte ’ villages. The area abounds in this type of dwellings, where the backside is carved into the rocks and only the façade is at street level.

After Peyre, head upstream the Tarn all the way to Florac. The dramatic gorge, cut by the Tarn, is dotted with a string of cute little villages and hamlets: Les Vignes, La Malène, Hauterives, Saint-Chély-du-Tarn, Sainte-Enimie, Prades, Castelbouc, Ispagnac.

At Les Vignes make a detour (11 km/ 7 miles) to Point Sublime for the most breathtaking views of the gorge. At La Malène, you can take a boat tour on the Tarn with the famous flat-bottom boats of Les Bateliers.

Another village that deserves more attention is Sainte-Enimie. Together with Peyre, it’s included on the official list of the Most Beautiful Villages in France.

From Florac, take D16 across Causse Méjean and visit the incredible cave, Aven Armand. Afterward, take D986 to Meyrueis and continue downstream La Jonte, following D996 and Gorges de la Jonte. The last stop on this road trip, before you return to Millau, are the twin towns of Le Rozier and Peyreleau.

215 km or 135 miles.

Although you can cover the whole distance in one day, I highly recommend that you do this in at least 3 or 4 days. The best time to do the trip is in the summer – between June and September, as in the low season as most places will be closed.

Cannes to Saint-Tropez

From Elena of Passion for Hospitality

The Côte d’Azur, or the French Riviera , is one of the most breathtaking coastlines, lined with picturesque cosmopolitan coastal towns and villages, golden beaches, rich nature scenes, the southeast corner of France has been blessed by natural beauty.

Driving from Cannes to St. Tropez is definitely a good way for those seeking to discover the gems of the French Riviera while enjoying a relaxed hustle-free little trip. 

To get the most out of the road-trip make sure to start early in the morning from Cannes. The first stop is Theoule-sur-Mer, a small medieval town located on the Golfe de La Napoule. Enjoy breathtaking views of the bay La Pointe de l’Aiguille or grab a delicious coffee and croissant before departing for the next destination, the resort town of St. Raphael.

We recommend enjoying lunch by the harbor’s restaurants and later, losing yourself around the narrow streets of the colorful old town. The last stop before reaching St. Tropez, where an overnight stop is recommended, is Saint Maxime, a quiet small village which landscape has inspired and continues to do so for many artists and writers.

Depending on your budget there are many different accommodations options, from simple cozy apartments by the beach, to luxurious resorts. 

Alongside the coastal road, there are many little spots scattered, where drivers could take a quick stop to admire the dazzling views, take a few photographs or stretch their legs. 

85 kilometers / 53 Miles 

It is an hour and a half car trip from one city to the other. With the short and one overnight stop, we recommend 2 days enough for this trip.

Toulouse to Andorra Loop

From Ucman of BrownBoyTravels

The tiny sovereign state of Andorra is a mere 190km from Toulouse and makes a perfect road trip back and forth which can be easily done over a weekend. 

Leaving Toulouse in the early morning, you will head in the southwestern direction to the highway. If you want a more scenic route head to Lacroix-Falgarde. The small rural roads will eventually lead you towards the Pyrenees. The Pyrenees appear shortly and the midi- Pyrenees towns and villages take over.

They are perfect for a coffee break or if you are going slowly, for a lunch break. These quaint little villages and towns offer a great insight into the southern french style of life. The streets are neatly trimmed and the everblooming shadow of Pyrenees mountain range dominates everything ever so lovingly.

The drive here is quite easy and simple but that changes significantly when you reach the mountain range. The roads become narrow and the sharp turns take over. The elevation also increases quite dramatically, make sure to take a break to pop your ears. 

The drive is really beautiful here especially in winter with the snow but also quite dangerous, black snow is a real threat here so drive with caution. 

If you drive fast you can cover this entire distance from Toulouse to Andorra La Vella in 3-4 hours but I’d recommend taking a day and going slow to enjoy the scenery. (Make sure to bring your passport although most of the time there are no border checks).

It is quite easy to drive around in Andorra from the ski slopes of Encamp to the quaint little town of Ordino or if you just want a relaxed weekend the beautiful spas of Andorra la Vella. If you like shopping, Andorra offers duty-free shopping , there something for everyone here.

The road trip to Andorra from Toulouse is a memorable and easy France driving trip.

120 miles or 190 kilometers.

2-3 days is enough to enjoy this France road trip itinerary.

Brittany Road Trip in France

From Victoria of Guide Your Travel

This driving route will be between 800 and 100 kilometres, 500 – 620 miles.

Montpellier to Toulouse Loop

Finally, you should head 100 km to Toulouse. Toulouse is nicknamed “la Ville Rose” – the pink city – because so many of the buildings are made from pinkish bricks. Important sites to visit are Basilique Saint-Sernin, the largest romanesque church in Europe. It also has more relics in the crypt than any other church in France, many of which are from Charlemagne (9th century).

You should also spend time at Place du Capitole and the square in front of it. Some parts of the building date back to the 12th century. It has beautiful frescos and offers tours.

Montpellier – Carcassonne – Toulouse is 245 km or 150 miles.

It would take about 3 hours to drive this France road trip route straight through without stopping. However, to truly enjoy each location, I would give yourself a minimum of 5 days.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

10 thoughts on “15 Best France Road Trip Itinerary Ideas (+ Driving Tips!)”

hello 🙂 just finished reading your ” escape clause” and i found some great tips so just like to thank you for that first of all. I’m planning on travelling to France by car from west Yorkshire in the UK for a 10 day holiday in total, we would start of by a 5 hour drive to dover then get the ferry crossing to Calais and carry on from there. we will have a 3 year old and a 1 year old too with us so we want to see plenty of beaches and coastal scenery. i wondered if you could maybe point us in the right direction on places to visit/stay ( ideally 2 different locations on family friendly campsites with lodges or tents) and go off on day trips from there if that makes sense 🙂 look forward to hearing back from you guys iain

Hi Iain! Unfortunately, we haven’t had a chance to spend much time in northwestern France (we were supposed to this year, but alas, 2020 had other plans). I can tell you our personal wish list in that general corner of France, though, includes all the major hits: Etretat, Le Havre, Honfleur, Lille, Rouen, and if you get that far south, of course, Mont Saint-Michel. Etretat is ideal for the coastal scenery you mentioned!

Wish we had more detail to offer, but there are some stunning places up that way!

Staggering beauty here Kate. Wow. France surprises me with its range. Definitely a worthy spot for a serious road trip. Fabulous images guys!

thank you for this! we are planning visit in aug/sept 2022 x 21d staring our in paris and heading toward bordeaux, the sw coast, basque, french pyrenees, and andorra. Wasn’t sure how to finish up the loop back to paris but I would love to incorporate provence. I also love your focus on gorges! I just started following you on IG and will look out for more inspiration!

Thanks so much, Leigh! Sounds like an incredible trip.

We’re toying with a trip to Basque Country and/or Bordeaux ourselves this spring–it never stops being difficult to narrow down our options!

Hope you guys have a wonderful time!

Very good coverage of driving tours in France. One suggestion for drivers I don’t recall was mentioned. After you pick up your car rental stop somewhere and invest in materials to clean your windshield. We have driven thousands of miles on many car trips and estimate that most of the time gas stations don’t have squeegees, sponges, paper towels, or even water available. Well worth the small cost. France is a large agricultural country and bugs abound.

Thanks so much. Very useful

Happy to help!

Hello Kate. I am planning my trip to France. It is our first trip to France. We will fly from New York to Paris and we want to explore France as much as we can within 9 days. We want to rent car and use train if we need. My plan is to start from Paris and go to other nice places including small towns/villages and end up in south and fly back to US from other south city. We need your advice please. Thank you in advance.

With 9 days, the first thing I’d do is narrow down what general region of France you want to visit, as you can access a wide variety of beautiful small towns in that time!

Normandy and Provence are both popular regions for first-time visitors to France, though it sounds like you’re most likely wanting Provence. For Normandy, you might drive right from Paris, and for Provence, you’d likely want to take a train to Aix-en-Provence and then pick up a car. This itinerary covers Provence: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/south-of-france-itinerary/

If you want to stick very close to Paris, consider the Loire Valley.

Other options could include the Bordeaux area (we love St. Emilion: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/saint-emilion-france/ ) or Burgundy ( https://www.ourescapeclause.com/things-to-do-in-dijon-france/ ).

You obviously can’t cover all of that, but narrowing down where you want to go will be the first step. France has lifetimes worth of villages to explore. 🙂

If you’re wanting to fly home from the south of France, you’ll want to look at flights from Bordeaux (in the west) or Nice, Marseille, Lyon, or Toulouse (in the east).

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7 top road trips to see the best of France

Dec 17, 2023 • 6 min read

Experience the best bits of France with these classic French driving routes © Justin Paget / Getty Images

France’s winding cobbled lanes and tree-lined rural roadways offer a straight shot into the heart of the country. Incredible countryside vistas merge into unique and highly wanderable villages, castles and coastlines that will etch your journey into your memories.

Grab a set of wheels and hit the road to embrace the best of this magnificent country. Here is a starter kit of fantastic road trips in France – drive on the right and embark on your own perfect French adventure.

1. Wine villages in Burgundy

Best road trip for wine and architecture Chablis–Beaune; 200km (124 miles), allow 2-3 days

Begin this wine journey in Chablis in the département of Yonne , leaving ample time to taste the seven grands crus (premium vineyards) of this well-known winemaking region. Then connect up with the exquisite Route des Grands Crus , which links many of central Burgundy’s most acclaimed vineyards.

You’ll meander through the vine-carpeted countryside from Gevrey-Chambertin to Puligny-Montrachet , exploring some of the most storied vineyards in the world. Enjoy detours into venerable wine-growing villages whose melodious names – engraved on labels or whispered during a romantic dinner – make oenophiles swoon. 

Pair your wine tasting with some of the country’s most memorable Romanesque architecture – for example, the grand Cathédrale Saint-Lazare d'Autun – and you’ll uplift both body and soul.

Planning tip:  When in Beaune , the town around which the vineyards circle, don’t miss the magnificent Hôtel-Dieu des Hospices de Beaune in the old city, with its exquisite 15th-century altar painting by Rogier van der Weyden.

2. Castles of the Loire Valley

Best road trip for grand châteaux Chinon–Chambord; 189km (118 miles), allow 2-3 days

The extravagant castles along France’s longest river have been the backdrop for royal intrigue for centuries. From warring medieval potentates to the kings and queens of Renaissance France, a parade of powerful men and women has left its mark on the lush Loire Valley.

This drive links up France’s most magnificent collection of castles, ranging from austere medieval fortresses such as Château de Langeais to ostentatious royal pleasure palaces such as Chambord .

Detour:  You can stop along the way and rent a bike to cycle when the weather is fair – don’t miss the graceful arches of Château de Chenonceau reflected in the Cher River near Tours.

3. Across the French Alps

Best road trip for dramatic scenery and family adventures Annecy–St Véran; 363km (225 miles), one week

France’s section of the Alps provides an incomparable setting for a summer road trip (from mid-June to mid-September, when mountain passes are snow-free). This Alpine drive combines awesome splendor with the charms of time-worn mountain culture.

Curve through the heart of the French Alps from Annecy , perhaps France’s prettiest lakeside city, to the slopes of 4808m (15,774ft) Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest peak. Then head over the high mountain pass of Col de l’Iseran to reach Bonneval-sur-Arc, a charming Alpine village, and St Véran – France's highest village.

Planning tip:  Amongst all these high points, take regular breaks to hike, mountain bike, white-water raft and ride vertigo-inducing cable cars.

4. Dordogne villages and markets

Best road trip for food and fortifications Monpazier–Domme; 96km (60 miles), 1-2 days

The Dordogne holds two special distinctions – it's the home of many of France's top culinary delights, as well as being a land of fortified villages. Serenity may reign now, but during the Middle Ages, the area was often a battleground because the Dordogne River marked an important strategic frontier between English and French forces during the Hundred Years War.

The region’s châteaux and defensive walls remain – most distinctive of all are bastide towns such as Monpazier, encircled by fortified walls and protected by sturdy ramparts. Each village has a central market square, so if you time your drive right, you can hit a weekly market and sample the local specialties.

Sarlat-la-Canéda is famous for its market, but small villages such as Issigeac are sleeper hits. Over in the village of St Cyprien, you can indulge in another of the Dordogne’s great gastronomic gems – the perle noire of the Périgord, aka the black truffle. Wrap up with a turn along the windy road leading up to amazing panoramic views at Domme.

5. The D-Day Beaches

Best road trip for WWII history Caen–Utah Beach; 142km (88 miles), 1-2 days

On this drive through Normandy , you’ll explore the events of D-Day, when Allied troops stormed ashore to liberate Europe from Nazi occupation in 1944. From war museums to landing beaches, it’s a fascinating and sobering experience. Before you hop in the car, spend some time at the Caen-Normandie Mémorial to get a full D-Day overview.

Several driving routes through the region connect the main battle sites. Look for signs for "D-Day-Le Choc" in the American sectors and "Overlord-l’Assaut" in the British and Canadian sectors.

Planning tip:  Maps of the D-Day beaches are widely available, and local tourist offices have created a helpful e-booklet outlining it all.

6. South of France and the Côte d'Azur

Best road trip for stunning coastline Cannes–Monaco; 62km (39 miles), one day minimum

Cruising the  Côte d'Azur is as dazzling and chic as road trips get. From glamorous Cannes to lively  Nice via the corkscrew turns of the Corniches, then on to the millionaire's playground of Monaco , this is a drive you'll remember forever. Filmmakers, writers, celebrities and artists have all had their hearts stolen by this glittering stretch of coastline – by the end of this trip, you'll understand why.

Aim to avoid the July and August high season when the roads are jammed. If you want more of the south, Provence offers an embarrassment of road trips – from the charming hilltop-perched villages of the Luberon to Arles and the Camargue with its salt flats and flamingos.

7. Breton coast loop

Best for rugged Celtic coastlines and fine seafood St Malo–Vannes; 642km (399 miles), one week

Devote a week to this sea-salty drive to fully experience the region's serene coastal towns, dramatic storm-lashed headlands and the world’s greatest concentration of megalithic sites.

Start at fortified St Malo and loop the entire coast of Brittany , standing on the precipice of the cliffs of the Pointe du Raz , walking through the profusion of prehistoric megalithic sites at Carnac, and wrapping up with a trip to the foodie paradise that is medieval Vannes.

Top tip for driving in France

France's toll road autoroutes are seductive shortcuts, but be aware that the scenery is much more magnificent on the smaller roads and the highways are packed with large trucks and virtually invisible speed-trap cameras. You'll have a gentler, more rewarding drive off the toll routes. 

The Via Michelin website  gives you the cost of routes with or without using toll roads. 

This article was first published September 2020 and updated December 2023

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Best road trips in Amsterdam, the Netherlands

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

• Updated on: April 13, 2022

This article may contain affiliate links.  For more information, please see our disclaimer  here.

Table of Contents

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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Netherlands Road Trip From Amsterdam: Route & Places to See

• April 26, 2024

From a first glance, the Netherlands (also known as Nederland) does not seem like the most exciting country to take a road trip through. It’s really flat, there are no major lakes , no thrilling alpine roads , or panoramic valleys. So, is exploring the Netherlands by car even worth it? Without a doubt!

To uncover the many hidden gems and underrated destinations beyond Amsterdam is exactly the reason why you should go on a Netherlands road trip. By only visiting the popular Netherlands’ capital, you’re missing out on a ton. From UNESCO sites, cheese headquarters, coastal boardwalks, and countless towns thriving among canals, the Netherlands leaves a lot on the table for a solid road trip.

In this guide, you’ll find tips, where to go in the Netherlands, and a one-week itinerary for a road trip from Amsterdam .

⏱ Short on time? Skip ahead to the full list of places to visit in The Netherlands by car.

The Best Time to Visit the Netherlands

• How Many Days Should You Spend in the Netherlands?

Is Driving in the Netherlands as a Tourist Difficult?

Renting a car in the netherlands.

• Map of Route

Road Trip From Amsterdam Itinerary

Full list of places to visit in the netherlands by car, map of netherlands road trip highlights, packing for a nederland road trip.

There’s no point in sugarcoating the fact that the Netherlands is not a paradise when it comes to weather. The winters tend to be cold and dark with nonstop chances of rain . Summers hold mildly warm temperatures , are mostly sunny but there is still (you guessed it), chances of rain.

The Netherlands is unique in terms of its geographical positioning which contributes to the possibility of experiencing all four seasons in just one day . It is no surprise that small talk in the Netherlands is heavily centred around the weather and its lovable unpredictability . Now knowing this, how can one possibly rely on the best time to visit the Netherlands? The answer can be tricky but will most likely just depend on how lucky you are. 

For Nice(ish) Weather

For visiting the Netherlands at the peak of excitement, plan a trip for spring which extends from April to June . The country emerges from a dreary period of weather and everyone rushes outdoors to embrace the sunshine and flowers in bloom. Naturally, the summer months of July and August will bring the most daylight, high temperatures and agreeability to being outdoors. Still, keep in mind that average July temperatures don’t tend to exceed 24°C / 75°F.

For Cheaper Accommodation & Less Crowds

Since Dutch weather is so uncertain, visiting the Netherlands can equally be experienced in the winter and fall as it is in the spring and summer. We took our road trip in the Netherlands during November , knowing hotels and guesthouse prices would be much cheaper. We ended up enjoying the same amount of sunny days as rainy days!  Grab a good raincoat, umbrella and don’t be afraid to get out there .

How Many Are Days Needed for a Netherlands Road Trip?

Compared to its neighbours and larger powerhouses like Germany and France, the Dutch nation is small and comprised of only 41,543 km². A quarter of the country is either at or below sea level which means you’re not left with much! However, for a road trip, the small size of the Netherlands is absolutely ideal.

Driving from the north end to the south end can even be accomplished in three hours . It is the only country we’ve ever been to where you can visit three major cities, all within one hour of each other.

A road trip in the Netherlands doesn’t have to be long since you can reach many of the highlights by staying in just a few areas. With less long haul drives , you can spend more time actually enjoying the best places to see in the Netherlands. A tour of the country can be accomplished in one week.

Of course, you can always spend more time if you don’t want to stick to a tight schedule and have the luxury of a longer visit. But realistically, the top places to visit in the Netherlands by car can fit into a one week itinerary .

The logistics of the Nederland transportation and shipping industry is a wonder on its own. Its reputation for transport is not a well known fact but it is truly an astounding aspect of the country. In one year, lorries transport over 550 million tons of goods throughout the Dutch nation. All of this, simply cannot be executed on substandard roads with poor infrastructure. What does this mean for travellers? The roads are terrific .

Without a doubt, the Nederland has the most superior motorway system we’ve ever experienced in all of Europe. It may even be better than many areas of the United States. Getting from one major point to another using the highway is unbelievably easy. Driving in the Netherlands as a tourist is not difficult whatsoever, regardless of where you are from.

There are two aspects of driving in the Netherlands that can be less straightforward, but still not challenging for an average driver. Exploring the Netherlands countryside and visiting big cities will require more attentive driving as you navigate narrower and older roads. For navigation, relying on Google Maps is an accurate way to get around the Netherlands during your Dutch road trip.

A Netherlands road trip itinerary for one week can be accomplished by anyone, regardless if you’re visiting with your own car or renting a car. For travellers flying into Amsterdam, this is the best place to pickup a rental car. By starting in Amsterdam , you can complete an efficient road trip loop and end your trip where you started.

A road trip from Amsterdam can begin either before or after you’ve had the chance to spend one or two days in Amsterdam city. The best reason for renting a car from Amsterdam is that you’ll find the most options and availability. There is also the convenience factor of picking up and dropping off a car rental directly at the airport.

One Week Road Trip From Amsterdam

Map of netherlands road trip route.

Day 1: Amsterdam

Spend the perfect one day in the picturesque, unique and capital city of the Netherlands. Amsterdam may be touristy, but in our opinion, still one of the most charming cities in Europe and worth witnessing, despite the crowds. Read our guide on the top highlights and must-see places to visit in Amsterdam .

Day 2: Amsterdam to Thorn

After exploring the big city, pickup your rental car in Amsterdam, either from the town centre or at the airport. If you’re not experienced with driving abroad, it’s best to rent a car from the airport so you can avoid driving in the centre of Amsterdam.

Set off from Amsterdam and to the picture perfect city of Utrecht , just 45 minutes away. Utrecht is an underrated alternative to Amsterdam with a medieval town center, colorful store shops, outdoor markets and a major canal system. It is not a small town, but not overwhelmingly big and can be enjoyably explored within a couple of hours.

Next, drive from Utrecht through South Holland until you reach De Groote Peel National Park (1hr and 45 minutes from Utrecht), one of many Dutch nature reserves dedicated to preserving the landscape and its wetlands. It is a free attraction where you’ll have a lovely hike, come across Highland cattle and an assortment of wood carved creatures.

Depart De Groote Peel National Park and drive to the flawless town of Thorn (40 minutes away) where you won’t find one leaf out of place. The town of Thorn is a place that reminds us of a scene from the The Truman Show. It is among the most manicured and proper neighbourhoods we’ve ever walked through.

Day 3: Thorn to Kinderdijk

Departing from Thorn, head towards the direction of Tilburg (1 hour drive), a city that’s prominently known for Dutch textiles . If you’re itching to make a stop at a museum, Tilburg is the perfect place and has multiple museums dedicated to its textile industry.

If you’re traveling as a family (or simply enjoy animals), stop at the marvelous Beekse Bergen Zoo Park in Tilburg. It is the ideal road trip destination because it is a drive through wildlife park where camels, giraffes, and other horned animals come straight to your car windows. We’ve experienced a handful of these with our daughter, but this one still tops our list.

Up next is Kinderdijk (1 hour from Tilburg), the best place in the Netherlands to see windmills . It’s recommended to take your time to experience the historic site of Kinderdijk, assuming the weather agrees.

Known for its celebrated 18th-century windmills, Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage site and among the country’s most popular attraction. You can enjoy the impressive man-made landscape along the perfectly paved pedestrian and bike paths . There is no shortage of photo opportunities, and you can even tour inside a windmill during certain hours.

Day 4: Kinderdijk to Delft

From Kinderdijk, drive a short distance to the city of Rotterdam . This metropolis is a modern, dynamic and vibrant city which also happens to be an insanely vital seaport . Rotterdam is not just an important transportation hub for Europe but the entire world in regards to trade.

Being a port city, we had biased thoughts about Rotterdam but after we actually wandered through it, our minds were completely changed. Rotterdam is definitely a must-do stop on any Netherlands road trip itinerary.

Delft sits just 15 minutes north of the bustling centre of Rotterdam, but it’s an entirely different world. The quaint village of Delft is beautifully defined by its traditional style, flowing with canals, cafes, and boutique shops. In fact, Delft resembles a miniature golf version of Amsterdam. The canals that run through every street make them feel that much more monumental, since the city is petite. The town is romantic and reminiscent of an illustration from a fairy tale.

Day 5: Delft to The Hague

As the third largest city in the Netherlands, The Hague is famously known as the international city of Peace and Justice. The Hague is a city that’s most appreciated through small details and should not be judged by its cover. Every restaurant, shop, and bar is beaming with design , mindfulness, and intent to make everything as appealing as possible. Storefronts and even common streets were meticulously curated and decorated.

It is home to amazing museums and art galleries such as the Mauritshuis and the Louwman Museum which holds the world’s oldest private car collection. The Hague is also an excellent destination for foodies , where you’ll find no shortage of different cuisines to refresh your gouda-drenched palate.

Located just outside of The Hague city centre, is the coastal destination of Scheveningen Strand . This gem is a classic beach destination on the North Sea with a pedestrian promenade, kitschy food vendors and a ferris wheel. We wouldn’t hesitate to say that the Scheveningen Strand atmosphere is similar to that of Coney Island but 10 times cleaner.

Day 6: The Hague to Haarlem

The route from The Hague to the North Province of the Netherlands takes just under 40 minutes. Among the shoreline, you’ll come across the sand dunes of Noordwijk , an important site for any history fans. Noordwijk hosts part of The Atlantic Wall, Germany’s coastal fortification in WWII . Visitors can actually walk through parts of the landmarks and enter the museum for intriguing artefacts and to learn a thing or two.

Next, venture off to the city of Haarlem , located just 30 minutes west of Amsterdam. Haarlem is a scenic wonder and defined by its magical cobblestone streets, quintessential Dutch energy, medieval architecture, and historic gable-style homes. It is also a center for flower-bulb production, which feeds one of the most popular attractions in the entire country – tulip fields!

Day 7: Harleem to Edam

On the last day of a week-long Netherlands road trip, make a stop in the northern town of Alkmaar . While Alkmaar looks like it’s out of the way, the trek is unquestionably worth it, especially if you love cheese. Often known as the cheese capital of the Netherlands, Alkmaar has earned its nickname with a long history of cheesemaking that has shaped its heritage and culture. Who wouldn’t be proud of that?!

From Alkmaar, take the route east towards Markermeer Lake where you can enjoy a meal at De Lunch in the small village of Volendam . This enchanting hamlet is a historic fishing hub , which has more recently been transformed into a colorful marina serving some of the best seafood in The Netherlands.

If you still feel like you haven’t had enough cheese before leaving The Netherlands, stop in Edam for a visit to Kaasmarkt Edam. This market is entirely dedicated to cheese and the town’s renowned dairy contribution to the world. It’s also a fantastic place to buy a (vacuum-sealed and airline-approved) souvenir .

Still not sure of your exact Netherlands road trip route? Reference the full list of places to visit and put together the most suitable itinerary based on your interests and timeline.

• De Groote Peel National Park
• Hilvarenbeek
• Tilburg (Beekse Bergen Park)
• Nationaal Park De Biesbosch
• Scheveningen Strand
• Netherlands Open Air Museum
• Het Nationale Park De Hoge Veluwe

Umbrella – A compact and water repellent umbrella which you can easily carry around for unexpected showers.

Versatile Raincoat – Functionality is important but so is staying somewhat fashionable while walking through towns and taking many photos.

Rain Boots – Black rain boots that go with anything and allow you to walk anywhere.

Hat – A waterproof bucket hat that eliminates the need to carry around an umbrella and is easy to keep in your purse.

Socks – Wool socks are water resistant and keep your toes toasty.

Waterproof Backpack – A spacious travel bag that’s still compact enough to easily haul around in potential rainfall.

Stroller Cover – If you’re travelling with a young child, a rain and wind cover for a stroller will undoubtedly come in use!

Netherlands Road Trip Travel Resources

Affiliate Disclaimer: Please note that some links found in our posts are affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

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Three ways to get from Amsterdam to Paris

From tips on snagging affordable train fares to the best road trip pit stops, we’ve got you covered..

From its world-renowned cuisine and cutting-edge fashion to its stunning architecture and jaw-dropping art, there is something for everyone in Paris . Whether your plans include cultural institutions like the Louvre Museum , Arc de Triomphe , and the Eiffel Tower , par example , or you have no agenda whatsoever other than to lean into the cafe culture, there’s romance, history and fun to be found on both banks.

Getting to Paris from a major hub like Amsterdam is relatively easy, making for the ideal two-stop jaunt to Europe. Here, the top three ways to get from Amsterdam to Paris, whether you're short on time or looking to extend the journey.

Amsterdam to Paris by train

If you are looking for the fastest and most efficient way to get to Paris from Amsterdam, the train is your best option. Unlike flying, you don’t have to worry about arriving hours before your flight to check bags or go through winding security lines. Plus, the train offers comfortable seats with Wi-Fi, and if booked in advance, it’s usually reasonably priced: $38 in advance to $149 or more if you’re booking day-of. There are 11 direct trains from Amsterdam to Paris each day, and the ride takes 4.5 hours on average for a standard train with stops.

However, if you take the Thalys—the only train that provides a nonstop direct ride from Paris to Amsterdam—you can shave off about an hour from your trip. Thalys departs from Amsterdam via Centraal Station to Paris Nord every two hours, tickets cost $110 to $240, and the journey takes just three hours and 23 minutes. Sure, it costs more, but it’s fast, generally on time, and the service is excellent. Plus, in addition to Wi-Fi, each Thalys train offers individual power outlets, and you can take two items of luggage and one piece of hand luggage with you (read more about their luggage policy here ).

As for booking, both Rail Europe or Trainline are easy-to-use and reliable platforms. With Rail Europe, you will typically find more direct trains and routes, and they offer three levels of classes: economy, comfort, and premier. Trainline provides direct trains (standard or first-class), too, but keep in mind that the cheaper the ticket the more stops you’ll be subject to. Pro-tip: Whichever train you choose, make sure to check that the size of your bags will fit on the train, and store your smaller luggage above your seat so that you can keep an eye on your items.

Amsterdam to Paris by plane

Hopping on an airplane between the two cities costs between $70 to $270 and while the flight itself is short—around an hour and 20 minutes—air travel typically takes just over four hours if you factor in getting to and through the airports on a good day. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is one of the busiest airports in Europe, so if you do decide to fly, you’ll want to arrive at least two hours before your flight to allow for plenty of time to check in and get through security. All of that said, the savvy traveler is likely going to opt for the train based on speed and efficiency if the price is approachable.

If you do choose to fly, know that there are eight direct flights every day from which to choose. Be sure to compare prices across the airlines—Air France, KLM, Lufthansa, easyJet, and British Airways—to find the most competitive rate for your travel day.

Amsterdam to Paris by road

If you’re looking for the best bargain deal to get from Amsterdam to Paris, then a bus is the way to go. A bus trip from Amsterdam to Paris costs between $26 and $35, and takes approximately six to seven hours to make the 317.5-mile journey. FlixBus operates a bus from Amsterdam to Paris frequently throughout the day, while BlaBlaCar Bus also services this route four times a day.

Driving yourself is faster—between 5.5 to 6.5 hours on the road—but it can be tricky if you have to rent a car one-way. Most Netherlands-based car rentals won’t allow a one-way trip from Amsterdam to Paris, and if they do, it’s pricey. If you still have your heart set on making the drive, contact your rental agency of choice in advance to make the arrangements. Enterprise, Alamo, Hertz, and Sixt are all popular rental car agencies in the Netherlands.

If you do drive, make the most of it with some spectacular detours. Some of the most well known cities between Amsterdam and Paris that deserve an overnight stay are Brussels , Bruges , Marne-la-Vallee , Antwerp , Rotterdam , Ghent , Lille , Ieper (Ypres) , Utrecht , and Arras . Family-friendly stops along your journey to Paris include the Efteling theme park and Walt Disney Studios Park .

If you're looking to whittle down the detours, Brussels sits at the halfway point and is the most popular city on the route, offering wonderful museums, stunning architecture, great places to eat and shop, amazing street art, and a vibrant nightlife scene. If you hit the city center hungry, try Fin de Siècle for hearty Belgian classics and a goblet of Chimay.

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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