3 Fun Dutch Road Trip Ideas for 7 - 10 Days

Awesome Trips for Exploring the Netherlands in Your Motorhome

Embarking on a Dutch road trip is the perfect adventure for anyone wanting to explore the heart and soul of the Netherlands. From the vibrant fields of tulips that seem to dance in the breeze to the historic cities where every cobblestone tells a story, a road trip here offers endless discoveries. Whether you’re drawn to the tastes of local cheese and wine, captivated by the rich tapestry of art and culture, or eager to dive into outdoor activities amidst stunning landscapes, the Netherlands has a route just for you. So, buckle up and let’s journey through the countryside, cities, and coastlines that make a Dutch road trip unforgettable.

*All of our Dutch road trip ideas have driving times and rough mileage covered, but of course this all depends on your exact route and places that you visit. These are rough guesstimates to give you an idea and help you plan your Dutch road trip. 

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Getting to the Netherlands from the UK

Travelling to the Netherlands  from the UK by ferry is a popular option for those bringing their motorhomes or vehicles, offering a straightforward crossing.

We always take the Harwich to Hook of Holland route, because that is the one that is close to Norfolk and Suffolk. It works for us after we have said good bye to family and friends before we commence that years travels. 

(If you decide that you want closer to home road trips for 7 days, look at our Road Trip in Norfolk and Road Trip in Suffolk suggestions. We will pop a link at the end of this article too, to save you coming back here!)

These are the primary routes and methods for taking a ferry from the UK to the Netherlands to start your fun themed Dutch Road Trip.  The final option we touch on for completeness is the catching the Euro Tunnel to Calais (35 minutes) and then driving up towards the Netherlands if you prefer the faster crossing or just dislike ferry crossings.

DFDS Ferry from Newcastle to Amsterdam

Operator: DFDS Seaways

Journey Time: Approximately 15-16 hours

Details: This route connects the northeast of England with the Netherlands, landing in Ijmuiden, which is conveniently close to Amsterdam. It’s a popular choice for those starting from northern England or Scotland, offering overnight travel with a range of onboard amenities. The bonus of overnight travel is you don’t lose a day of your trip. 

Pet Policy: Pets can travel on this route.  If you are a cat owner and travelling with your cat in the van, they can stay securely in the vehicle, but dogs are not allowed to stay in the motorhome. There are specific pet-friendly cabins available and they have kennels for dogs. These do get booked up, so recommend that you book in advance. 

Stena Line Ferry from Harwich to Hook of Holland

Operator: Stena Line

Journey Time: About 6.5-7 hours for the day crossing and 9 hours overnight.

Details: Ideal for those closer to London or the southeast of England, this route offers both day and night crossings. The Hook of Holland port provides easy access to Rotterdam and the rest of the Netherlands. This is our preferred route, it has always been super quick and easy to access. No traffic queues or anything to worry about. 

Pet Policy: Stena Line allows pets to travel in special pet cabins or pet kennels. Pets are not allowed to stay in vehicles or in kennels on board. You must book a pet ticket in advance, and certain conditions apply. Book in advance as the pet cabins are limited.

P&O Ferry from Hull to Rotterdam

Operator: P&O Ferries

Journey Time: Approximately 11 hours

Details: This overnight ferry route connects Hull, in the East Riding of Yorkshire, England, directly with Rotterdam Europoort, one of the largest ports in the world, located just outside of Rotterdam, Netherlands. It’s another convenient gateway for travellers coming from the north of England or other parts of the UK, looking to start their Dutch adventure without the need to drive through the UK to southern ports.

Pet Policy: P&O Ferries allows pets on the Hull to Rotterdam route. Pets are not able to stay in the vehicle for the duration of the journey. You can book them into onboard kennels, if available but you can not check on them during the crossing. There are only 6 pet friendly cabins, so advance booking for pets is required, and there are additional charges.

We found that the cost of joining the Camping & Caravanning Club (CCC) was more than offset when we booked our ferry crossing tickets using the CCC online booking. If you use the ferry even once a year, it is definitely worth joining the CCC.

Planning Tips for your Dutch Ferry Crossing

When time is limited and you are planning a road trip that you only have 7 days to complete, time is of the essence, so these motorhome road trip tips will help keep you on track when related to your ferry crossing.

Book in Advance: Ferry routes can get booked up, especially in peak travel seasons, so it’s wise to book your tickets as early as possible.

Check Vehicle Requirements: Make sure your motorhome meets the size and weight restrictions for the ferry. Also, be aware of any additional charges for larger vehicles.

Arrive Early: Check-in times can vary, but arriving at least 90 minutes before departure is generally recommended.

Onboard Facilities: Overnight ferries often offer cabins, dining options, and entertainment, making the journey more comfortable. The daytime ferry allows you to have a variety of seating arrangements from the free seats (that’s where we sit!), to first class lounges, pre-booked meals in the restaurants or cabins to relax and lay down in. You can’t stay in your motorhome when you cross. They lock all the doors.

Travelling With Your Dog or Cat

We have detailed the things to check for travelling with your dog or cat on the ferry. There are common themes, so we thought we would pull these together in one easy to read section. 

As we saw from looking at all the pet options, each ferry company has specific rules regarding pet travel. Before you book your trip, check their policy to understand the requirements. Some ferries allow pets to stay in the vehicle depending on what type of pet it is. Others provide kennels, and a few have pets in the passenger areas or cabins, albeit very limited numbers.

Make sure you have the necessary documentation required by the ferry company (or train) and also be sure to book in a vets appointment before hand. Only you know how your pet travels, so they could get sea sick/motion sickness. Get them some medication to help which you can give before the crossing. Also, avoid feeding your pet before the crossing as this should reduce any sickness they might have. 

It is better to turn up early than be there at the last minute as this will allow you to exercise your pet before hand if appropriate and run off any surplus energy! If you are having to put your pet in the kennels, it can really help them if you take blankets or toys that they are familiar with. These known smells and objects will help to comfort them or make the space less stressful for them.

If you have a cat that you are leaving in the motorhome/campervan, make sure you have left it well ventilated and not too warm. You won’t be able to visit your pet during the crossing, so be sure they are firmly secured and not able to escape.

These tips will help make your  ferry crossing for your Dutch road trip a more pleasant and stress-free experience for your pet. It’s all about preparation, thinking ahead and making sure their needs are met throughout the journey.

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Eurotunnel Le Shuttle – Motorhome Travel Details

We don’t cover the euro tunnel in great detail because we think that the ferry is the best option when considering road trips in the Netherlands. However – here is information about the ‘Chunnel’ as you may wish to consider this as part of your planning.  The actual crossing is very quick! 

Height and Length Restrictions: The Eurotunnel accommodates vehicles of various sizes, including motorhomes. However, pricing is based on the length and height of the vehicle, so it’s essential to provide accurate dimensions when booking. Motorhomes over 1.85 meters in height are considered high vehicles, and those over a certain length may incur additional charges.

Weight Restrictions: If your motorhome is over 3.5 tonnes you need to contact them first before booking your ticket. 

Booking: It’s advisable to book your crossing in advance, especially during peak travel periods. You can book online, and you’ll need to specify the type and dimensions of your motorhome.

Check-in: Ensure you arrive at least 45 minutes before your departure (but no more than 2 hours early) to allow for check-in and any necessary security checks.

Onboard the Shuttle: During the crossing, you’ll stay with your vehicle in the well-ventilated shuttle carriages. There are no onboard facilities like toilets during the short crossing, so use the terminal facilities before boarding.

Traveling with Pets: The Eurotunnel is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring dogs, cats, and ferrets on your trip. Pets need their own ticket, and you must comply with the Pet Travel Scheme requirements, including microchipping, vaccinations, and documentation.

For a little more insight into the pros and cons of taking the Eurotunnel from Folkestone we have taken the key ones for comparison purposed. This may help you make some travel decisions.

Advantages of Taking the Eurotunnel with a Motorhome:

  • Speed: With a crossing time of just 35 minutes, it’s the fastest way to cross the Channel with your vehicle if you live in the southern parts of England.
  • Frequency: Up to four departures an hour at peak times mean you can find a crossing that suits your schedule.
  • Ease of Use: Driving your motorhome onto the shuttle is straightforward, and the staff are on hand to assist with any questions. If you are over 1.85m you have to go on the single deck train. 

Disadvantages of Taking the Eurotunnel with a Motorhome:

  • Delays: You can get massive delays when travelling on the eurotunnel, mostly in the peak holiday times. Traffic queues can be horrendous. You can also find that passport control and checks can cause delays. We recommend travelling as early or as late as possible to avoid this as much as possible.
  • Location: Whilst the idea of being in France in 35 minutes is fabulous, the train only leaves from Folkestone. This is the far south east of England. If you put travel times on top the hours start to add up. From Liverpool the extra driving is 5.5 hours. From Edinburgh it is 8.5 hours. Norwich – 3 hours, Devon is 4.5 hours. You get the picture. It really depends on your starting location to know if this is viable for you. 

You will have to drive the other side too, to get to the Netherlands. It doesn’t make sense to do this for us, which is why we haven’t covered it in any detail. If using the shuttle is part of the excitement you had in mind for your trip, why not check out our 5 Easy Road Trip Ideas in Northern France . Those trips would probably be better suited if your time is more limited. They are all 7/8 days or less in duration.

After the Eurotunnel:

Once in Calais, you’re well-placed to head to the Netherlands. The drive typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to the Dutch border, depending on traffic and your exact destination. Major routes to consider include the A16/E40 from Calais, transitioning to the A25/E42 towards Belgium, and then the A16/E19 or A27/E42 towards the Netherlands, depending on your final destination and whether you want to pay for tolls or not.

Travelling via the Eurotunnel with a motorhome can offer a blend of speed and convenience depending on your starting location. Its kind of cool to do that 35 minute crossing and feel your holiday has already begun!  

These useful links help you with aspects of planning your road trip if you are not going in a motorhome but need to rent a car and places to stay. 

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What Has The Netherlands Got To Offer for a Road Trip?

Taking a road trip in the Netherlands offers a unique and enriching travel experience, thanks to the country’s compact size, excellent infrastructure, and diverse landscapes.  The thing we really love is that you don’t have the awful traffic that can be experienced if you are crossing to France! You roll up and roll on. And also, when you get there, because the Netherlands is relatively small, it is easy to see a lot of the country in a short amount of time. You can drive from north to south or east to west in just a few hours, allowing you to explore multiple regions and attractions without spending long days on the road.

From vibrant cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht with their museums and galleries, to historical towns like Delft and Maastricht, you can easily immerse yourself in Dutch culture and heritage

A road trip in the Netherlands is not just about moving from one place to another; it’s about experiencing a diverse, open, and welcoming country that’s rich in history, nature, and culture. It’s an ideal destination for travellers seeking a mix of urban and rural, historical and modern, relaxation and adventure.

*All of our Dutch road trip ideas have driving times and rough mileage covered, but of course this all depends on your exact route and places that you visit. These are rough guesstimates to give you an idea and help you plan your Dutch road trip. 

Springtime Flowers, Cheese and Wine Route

Total Distance

135 miles / 218 km approx

Duration

7 -10 day roadtrip

Drive Time

4 hours approx

This themed Dutch road trip takes in the wonderful world of flowers, Dutch tulips, delicious Dutch cheese and some great wine tasting opportunities. To make this an ‘any time of year’ road trip in the Netherlands, you can switch out  tulips for botanical gardens. We have made note of the best botanical gardens which fit on this Dutch road trip to save you time. 

If you want to see the tulips on your road trip in the Netherlands, the best time to do this trip is from mid March to mid May.  If you want to enjoy the gorgeous 7 million tulips in bloom in Keukenhof Gardens, this is the only time the gardens are open. The optimum Dutch tulip time, based on the last few years, is the last 2 weeks in April. This can change depending on the weather. 

Flowers Wine and Cheese Dutch Road Trip route shown on a map.
The flowers, cheese and wine Dutch road trip.

Gouda is perhaps the most famous Dutch cheese, known for its rich, creamy texture and mild to sharp flavour depending on its age. Edam, with its distinctive red wax coating, is milder, slightly salty, and nutty, making it a popular choice for snacks and sandwiches. Leyden, on the other hand, is flavoured with cumin seeds, offering a unique taste that sets it apart from its more traditional counterparts.

Dutch cheese markets, such as those in Alkmaar and Gouda, still celebrate the historical trading practices with ceremonial cheese weighing and lively auctions. These markets provide a fantastic cultural experience, showcasing the deep-rooted traditions of cheese production and trade in the Netherlands.

In recent years, Dutch winemakers have embraced sustainable practices, focusing on organic and biodynamic methods, which reflect a growing global trend towards environmentally friendly wine production. Wine tours and tastings are becoming increasingly popular among both locals and tourists, eager to discover the unique flavours of Dutch wines. Although you won’t be getting the fine vineyard tours in April and May,  vineyards like Amsteltuin vineyard just outside Amsterdam does fantastic tastings which start from May until September.

Day 1-2: Rotterdam Kaasmakers & Gouda  Cheese
  • Theme Focus: Cheese Markets and Dairy Farms
  • Visit the historic cheese markets in Gouda to see traditional cheese trading. Explore local dairy farms to learn about the cheese-making process. In the Rotterdam Kaasmaker you can even make your own butter. 

Day 2-4: Keukenhof & Lisse – Flowers

  • Theme Focus: Tulip Fields, Keukenhof Gardens
  • Start with the vibrant Keukenhof gardens to immerse in the world of tulips. The surrounding fields in Lisse offer endless photo ops with their stunning tulip arrays.
  • Look at our Weekend Visit to the Dutch Tulip Fields itinerary to give you details on how to spend some time around Lisse and Keukenhof Gardens. 
Day 5: Alkmaar 
  • Theme Focus: Cheese Markets & Organic Wine
  • The famous cheese market is held at the square every Friday from the last Friday in March to the last Friday in September. It is the oldest and the biggest of the cheese markets in the Netherlands. There are plenty of cheese shops if you don’t make market day.
  • Visit the cheese museum! Yes, it tells you everything you need to know about making cheese, from the cow to the block that sits on your dining table! 
  • Stop for some Organic wine tastings at the Zwirs Family Vineyard, a place working towards sustainable farming, not just wine making but orchards and vegetables too. 

Day 6: Edam & Volendam

  • Theme Focus: More Cheese and Dutch Culture
  • Wrap up your trip in Edam, famous for its cheese. Nearby Volendam offers a glimpse into traditional Dutch fishing village life, complete with more delicious cheese tasting opportunities. You can visit them both in one day. 

Day 7-8: Amsterdam Area – Wine Tasting and Botanical Garden

  • Theme Focus: Wine Bars and Vineyards with Botanics!
  • Spend time in Amsterdam and its surroundings, exploring cosy wine bars that feature Dutch and international wines. 
  • Make a trip to The Chateau Amsterdam, an urban Winary. A unique place that makes wine, with their vineyards spread around Europe. 
  • Visit the Hortus Botanicus, the oldest botanical gardens in the world, dating back to 1638. These gardens house over 6000 tropical and indigenous plants and trees.
  • NOTE – Be aware of the congestion zones around Amsterdam.

The Art, Culture and History Trail

Total Distance

116 miles / 186km approx

Duration

7 -10 day roadtrip

Drive Time

3 hours approx

We planned this Dutch road trip around architecture, art and historical places to visit. These are all of Damo’s favourite things so it was easy to think back at some of the amazing places we visited.  You do need to be conscious of the LEZ’s on this trip and should plan your campsites accordingly, using public transport or bikes to get around. That adds an element of fun anyway, we think. Remember, you can download our free Road Trip Planner if you want use this to help you plan your road trip.

Historical Road Trip route around the Netherlands shown on a map.
The historical road trip route around the Netherlands

On this fabulous road trip around the Netherlands, we start in Rotterdam. It is an ideal starting place which forms a nice circular route around some of these bigger cities. There are so many wonderful places to visit and some fabulous galleries and architecture, you really will fill your boots with this roadtrip route.

Day 1-2: Rotterdam – Modern Architecture

  • Theme Focus: Innovative Buildings and Art
  • Discover Rotterdam’s modern architecture, such as the Cube Houses, and visit the Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen for its vast art collection.

Day 3-4: Utrecht – Medieval Charm

  • Theme Focus: Ancient History and Art
  • In Utrecht, climb the Dom Tower and stroll through the ancient city centre. 

Day 5-7: Amsterdam – Art and History

  • Theme Focus: Museums and Historical Sites
  • Dive into Amsterdam’s rich history and art scene, visiting the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, and Van Gogh Museum. Enjoy the city’s canals and historic architecture.

Day 8-9: The Hague & Delft – Politics and Ceramics

  • Theme Focus: Dutch Politics and Delftware
  • In The Hague, explore the Mauritshuis museum and Binnenhof. Delft awaits with its famous blue pottery and historical connections to Vermeer.

If you are spending time in Amsterdam, consider buying the iAmsterdam city card, which gives you access to loads of cultural museums and art galleries, discounts on meals and free transport tickets. Check to see what takes your fancy - you can even find a 3 day cultural itinerary to follow on their page.

Outdoor Adventure Trail

Total Distance

332 miles / 534km approx

Duration

7 -10 day roadtrip

Drive Time

8.5 hours approx

We really focused on the outdoor element on this trip.  With lots of hiking, biking and kayaking, it really is a beautiful trip. For Giethoorn, if you are going in peak season, I recommend that you get your boat trip in early in the day. We went in our own kayak early in the morning, which was beautiful and peaceful. In the peak season, it would remind me of the canals of Venice, with head to tail boating queues! 

Outdoor and Active Dutch Road Trip map with all the stops and the route to take

This trip starts more to the middle of the Netherlands, so either approach it on the way home, or head straight there after getting off the ferry from Rotterdam or the Hook of Holland. You could even mix it in with elements of the other 3 road trips! The Netherlands is really geared up for outdoor living. 

Day 1-2: Veluwe National Park – Hiking and Biking

  • Theme Focus: Nature Exploration
  • Start your adventure in the Veluwe, the largest national park in the Netherlands, which offers expansive heathlands, sand dunes, and forests. It’s perfect for hiking, cycling, and even horseback riding.
  • Visit the Kröller-Müller Museum within the park, which combines art with nature.

Day 3-4: Giethoorn & Weerribben-Wieden National Park – Canoeing and Boating

  • Theme Focus: Water Activities
  • Head to Giethoorn, known as the “Venice of the North,” where you can explore its beautiful waterways by canoe or electric boat.
  • Nearby Weerribben-Wieden National Park offers more extensive waterways, ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, set amidst peatlands and reed beds.

Day 5-6: Wadden Sea – Mudflat Hiking and Island Hopping

  • Theme Focus: Unique Coastal Experience
  • Experience mudflat hiking in the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This unique activity involves walking across the sea floor at low tide.
  • Consider a day trip to one of the Wadden Islands for cycling, beach activities, and exploring quaint villages.

Day 7-8: Limburg – Cycling and Vineyard Tours

  • Theme Focus: Hills and Vineyards
  • Finish your outdoor adventure in the hilly province of Limburg, known for its excellent cycling routes through picturesque landscapes.
  • Visit a few vineyards to relax after your active days. Limburg’s unique climate makes it one of the few Dutch provinces suitable for wine production, offering a nice tie-in to your previous themes.

Book your ferry to Texel in advance and your campsite. The ferry tickets cover a motorhome up to 6.5 metres long and then you pay for each meter over. The ticket covers your vehicle and the passengers in it (up to 9 passengers). If you don't have a campsite booking, you may be refused boarding, as the campsites get booked up and wild camping is illegal in the Netherlands.

Our Top FAQ's on Dutch Road Trips:

Where can I park my motorhome overnight in the Netherlands?

In the Netherlands, motorhomes can park overnight at designated camper spots, known as ‘camperplaats’. Wild camping is not permitted, so it’s important to use official sites or campsites.

The country boasts a variety of excellent campsites, from beachfront spots in Zeeland to forest retreats in Drenthe. Many offer full facilities, including electric hookups, water, and waste disposal. Popular choices include Camping De Pampel in Veluwe and Camping Janse in Zeeland.

Major cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam have LEZs to improve air quality.  Even some of the smaller towns have LEZs, there are 15 zones in 12 cities at our last time of counting. Check your motorhome’s emission standards before you travel. Information and required permits can be obtained from city websites.

The Netherlands does not have many toll roads, but there are a few exceptions, such as the Westerschelde Tunnel. Generally, motorways are free of charge for motorhomes.

Follow speed limits (usually 130 km/h on highways, lower in urban areas), use the rightmost lane on multi-lane roads, and be mindful of cyclists, especially in urban areas. For all the driving requirements in the Netherlands, check out our ‘Rules for Driving in the Netherlands‘. 

It is the same requirements for driving in the Netherlands as it is in the UK. A standard European Category B driving license is sufficient for motorhomes under 3.5 tons. For vehicles over this weight, a Category C1 license is required.

The Keukenhof Gardens for spring tulips, the Hoge Veluwe National Park for nature and art, Giethoorn for its waterways, and the Wadden Sea islands for their beaches and wildlife.

Many campsites and public camper spots offer water and disposal facilities. Apps and websites like Campercontact or Park4Night provide locations and details.

Late spring to early autumn (May to September) is ideal, offering pleasant weather and the chance to see the Netherlands in bloom. However, summer is peak tourist season, so book campsites in advance.

Steer clear of these Dutch road markings. Parking in these areas is prohibited. Look out for the blue ‘P zone’ signs which tell you that you can park there. You will need to pay for this parking using cash or cards at the parking meters. 

Our Best Dutch Road Trip Ideas To Play With!

Our journey through the Netherlands comes to an end, but the memories of our Dutch road trip will linger long after. We’ve tasted the rich flavors of local delicacies, stood in awe of masterpieces both natural and crafted by human hands, and challenged ourselves with outdoor adventures in some of the most breathtaking landscapes the country has to offer. 

These road trip ideas are just the beginning of what you can discover in this diverse and welcoming land. So, pack your bags, set your itinerary, and hit the road for your own Dutch adventure. The beauty of the Netherlands awaits to unfold before you, one road at a time

If you want to take some of our ideas, play around and update it to fit your needs, our road trip planner is an invaluable resource. Available for download, it is a great tool  which will help make sure you have thought about the key things. It will help ensure your road trip through the Netherlands is a personal exploration that resonates with your sense of adventure and curiosity. 

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All Our Road Trip Inspirations

As fulltime nomadic adventurers, we create road trips especially for you. We do the ground work, so you don’t have to.

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