Road Trip from London to Amsterdam
This incredible cross-country road trip is just what you’ve been looking for if you want to go by road to some of the most charming towns and large cities in Europe! Amsterdam is a vibrant, vibrant city in continental Europe that can be reached by crossing the English Channel from London, the well-known capital of England.
It will take ten hours to travel the 440 miles from London to Amsterdam using the ferry or Eurotunnel across the English Channel. The White Cliffs of Dover, Rotterdam, Brussels, Antwerp, the Hague, Calais, Dunkirk, Gent, and Bruges are among the notable locations.
Keep on to discover the finest routes, must-see locations, places to stay, and the ideal time to set off on this spectacular road trip. There are plenty of other fascinating towns with deep history and breathtaking natural beauty to see along the way.
How long will it take to travel from London to Amsterdam?
| Route | Distance | Driving time |
| The Ferry route | 280 miles | 7 hours 30 min |
| The Tunnel route | 420 miles | 9 hours 40 mn |
If you take the Tunnel Route, which involves driving via the Channel Tunnel to cross the English Channel, the distance between London and Amsterdam will be 420 miles.. If no stops are made, the total driving time for this route is nine hours and forty minutes.
Although you would not pass by as many of the Tunnel Route’s fascinating sites, choosing to cross the channel by ferry would still get you to Amsterdam faster because it would only take you seven hours and thirty minutes to drive the 280 miles.
Even though you could complete this road trip in a single day, we advise allowing two to three days so that you have plenty of time to visit the several fascinating cities and stunning scenery along the way.
Ideal road trip route from London to Amsterdam
Which route you choose will depend on the destinations and points of fascination you want to see as well as how long you want to spend on the road trip. Both routes offer stunning natural landscapes and culturally and historically significant cities.
The Tunnel Route will pass the historic city of Sevenoaks. You have the option to divert to the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which would add approximately an hour to the journey, and to Folkestone Eurotunnel Terminal.
After passing through the tunnel, you will reach France, and you might decide to stop in one of the numerous charming medieval cities of Belgium, which is in northern France., and the Netherlands, like Bruges and Calais.
Ferries from England’s East Coasts pass the Dedham Vale Area of Natural Outstanding Beauty to Harwich, a port town with a medieval city core.
You will arrive in the Netherlands via the Hook of Holland after riding the Stena Line ferry over the channel.The car trip continues to Amsterdam from there, passing Rotterdam and The Hague.
If you want to take a road trip to see some of the most picturesque towns and big cities in Europe, this spectacular cross-country road trip is exactly what you need, Amsterdam is a vibrant, vibrant city in continental Europe that can be reached by crossing the English Channel from London, the well-known capital of England.
It will take ten hours to travel the 440 miles from London to Amsterdam, using the ferry or Eurotunnel across the English Channel. Calais, Dunkirk, Gent, Bruges, and other notable locations.
There are many more fascinating cities with deep history and breathtaking natural beauty to discover along the journey, so continue reading to learn about the finest routes, fantastic places to visit, where to stay, and the best time to embark on this unforgettable road trip.
The Tunnel Route
To reach the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, use route A3 south of London. If not, travel through the lovely, ancient town of Sevenoaks by following the M25 out of the London region, then merge onto the A2 to head towards Dunkirk.
After that, you might choose to visit the coastal White Cliffs of Dover before proceeding to Folkestone to board the Eurotunnel.
Before continuing on Highway A16 to Belgium, why not stop in Calais for some French cheese or a glass of juice after the tunnel?
Before landing in Brussels, Belgium’s capital, take a tour of Bruges, often known as “The Venice of the North,” or Ghent, another lovely Belgian city. Take the E19 to Antwerp, then continue on to the Netherlands.
Before moving on to Rotterdam, The Hague, and finally, Amsterdam, if you have time, take a boat tour in the gorgeous De Biesbosch National Park, which is located near the historic city of Dordrecht.
The Ferry Route
Travel east on Highway A13 toward Colchester from London. Marvel at Colchester Castle or explore this historic town known for its Victorian architecture.
To get to Harwich, follow the instructions, but stop along the route at the Dedham Vale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which is home to ethereal meadows and old-growth forests.
Before boarding a ferry at the Stena Lines Ferry Terminal in Harwich, stroll through the city’s historic core. Rotterdam is only a short drive from The Hook of Holland, where you will arrive in the Netherlands.
Before taking the A4 to The Hague, spend some time exploring Rotterdam’s rich cultural heritage and modern architecture. If you want to take a detour, drive up beyond Leiden to Amsterdam and stop at the well-known Scheveningen Beach for a peaceful break.
Ideal Places to stop between London and Amsterdam
Both route options provide an abundance of compelling sights, ranging from world-renowned museums, beaches, and natural areas to medieval town centers and architecture. You may wish to extend your journey by taking some time to explore them and making a few stops.
We’ve picked some of the best spots to spend the night along with options for things to do and places to see while you’re there.
Discover the medieval Bruges
The inspiringly beautiful and medieval Belgian city of Bruges is located approximately midway along the Tunnel Route. The most famous feature of Bruges is its historic city center, which is lined with stunning cathedrals, churches, and museums, as well as tiny canals and winding streets.
Numerous well-known sites are worth seeing, such as the stunning Church of Our Lady, which has the second-highest brick spire in the world, and the Belfry of Bruges, which is the city’s most notable landmark and a bell tower from the 13th century that offers breathtaking city views.
To gain an appreciation of the city’s renowned lace-making craft, you might also like to visit the Lace Center or Lace Jewel or take a stroll along the Rozenhoedkaai and other lovely canals located in the medieval town center.
The Boutique Hotel ‘t Fraeyhuis, which is close to the picturesque Minnewater Lake, is a great choice for a relaxing stay in this fascinating city. The lovely hotel is also near the scenic canals and the historic town center.
You will adore this picture-perfect boutique hotel’s elegantly furnished rooms. The hotel has a great restaurant with a terrace with breathtaking views if you wish to take in the lovely surroundings of this fantasy location.
The highway that will take you farther on your adventure the following day is near to the motel. All of the city’s major sites and attractions, including the Basilica of the Holy Blood and the Bruges Concert Hall, are easily accessible on foot. There are also some great restaurants close by.
Discover Rotterdam’s rich culture and elegant architecture
Rotterdam, a lovely, large city with many interesting buildings, museums, and local attractions to see, is situated roughly two-thirds of the way along the Ferry Route. As the biggest seaport in Europe, Rotterdam is renowned for its cutting-edge architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
Spend some time at the Euromast Observation Tower for breathtaking views of this modern yet ancient city, or stop by the Erasmus Bridge to see the Kop van Zuid, an area with several incredibly tall skyscrapers.
Visit Arboretum Trompenburg, a stunning botanical garden a few miles from the city center, for a little time in nature.
There is a lot to see and do in Rotterdam, and the hotel The James Rotterdam offers a very comfortable place to stay the night. This contemporary hotel is situated in the center of Rotterdam and offers lavish, cozy rooms.
Major landmarks including the World Trade Centre Rotterdam, Euromast, and the city hall, Stadhuis Rotterdam, are all within 15 minutes’ walk from the James Rotterdam. It is also adjacent to well-known shopping avenues and excellent dining options.
The Maritime Museum of Rotterdam and the Museum Boijmans van Beuningen are two of the many institutions that are close to the site. The hotel has convenient parking, so you can leave your car there and start exploring.
Places to stay when you reach Amsterdam
With so much to do and so many fascinating sights to see in Amsterdam, you’ll want to book a room in the heart of the city to make the most of your time there. Near the center of Amsterdam, by the Singel Canal, is the charming Hotel Estheréa.
The hotel offers lovely bathrooms and roomy, cozy accommodations. The hotel offers a fantastic breakfast and parking.
The most well-known sites, including Madame Tussaud’s, Dam Square, and the Royal Palace, are all easily accessible on foot from the hotel. The main commercial avenues of Amsterdam are also nearby, as are a number of excellent restaurants and cafés.
Places to see on a road trip from London to Amsterdam
This road trip offers an amazing array of sights and activities as it travels through some of Western Europe’s most modern and culturally diverse regions. For your inspiration, we have compiled a list of some of the most striking choices.
The Tunnel Route
1. Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, UK- In this magnificent natural environment, take in some of England’s most breathtaking countryside landscapes.
2. Sevenoaks, UK- Situated in lush, green Kent, this medieval English town boasts some gorgeous buildings, parks, and gardens.
3. The White Cliffs of Dover, UK- Before you enter the Eurotunnel, take a moment to see the White Cliffs of Dover and take in the breathtaking seaside scenery.
4. Calais, France- Before you enter the Eurotunnel, take a moment to see the White Cliffs of Dover and take in the breathtaking seaside scenery.
5. Bruges, Belgium– This ancient city’s charming waterways and stunning old structures have earned it the nickname “The Venice of the North.”
6. Ghent, Belgium- The ancient heart of Ghent, which is today a bustling student city, is worth exploring.
7. Brussels, Belgium- The capital of Belgium, one of the hubs of the EU government and a culturally diverse city with a diverse population, offers a wealth of sights and activities.
8. Antwerp, Belgium- Another charming Belgian city is Antwerp, where you can stroll through the various cobblestone streets or sample Belgian beer in the great square.
9. National Park de Biesbosch, The Netherlands- Take a boat tour in this gorgeous wetland area just outside of the lovely city of Dordrecht if you get the chance. Beautiful tiny rivers and a wealth of birds may be found at Biesbosch.
The Ferry Route
1. Colchester, UK- Colchester is renowned for its Victorian-style buildings. The medieval locations of St. Botolph’s Priory and Colchester Castle are also open for visits.
2. Dedham Vale AONB- Take a walk in this lovely natural setting, which consists of fens, meadows, and old forests, if you have the time.
3. Harwich, UK – Explore Harwich’s historic district, which is renowned for its architectural history, or walk along the waterfront and take in the lighthouses.
Both Routes
1. Rotterdam, The Netherlands – In this coastal city, you may take in the breathtaking modern architecture, historic structures, and Europe’s biggest port.
2. The Hague, The Netherlands – The Hague is a great place to visit because of its stunning ancient buildings and sandy beaches, the most well-known of which is Scheveningen.
3. Leiden, The Netherlands- Leiden is home to the oldest university in the Netherlands as well as a number of fascinating museums, restaurants, and cafés.
Ideal time to go on a road trip from London to Amsterdam
With its proximity to the sea, Amsterdam is a popular year-round vacation spot. Any time of year is a good time to explore its lovely parks and ancient streets.
In the summer, you’ll love spending time beside Amsterdam’s numerous canals and rivers, while before Christmas, you might appreciate the Christmas markets and the winter atmosphere. However, you should be ready for the fact that winter temperatures can occasionally drop to freezing.
The streets of Amsterdam will be particularly crowded during the summer months of June through August when temperatures can rise to 30 degrees Celsius. Therefore, you may decide to travel to Amsterdam in different seasons if you want to avoid the busiest crowds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my car to Amsterdam from the UK?
Additionally, you can drive your own car to Amsterdam and take a ferry or LeShuttle across the channel. This guide to driving in Europe examines the routes you must travel and offers some useful driving advice.
Where to stop between Amsterdam and London?
The best cities between Amsterdam and London. Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, Rotterdam, Ghent, Lille, Ieper (Ypres), Canterbury, Utrecht, and Hastings are the best cities between London and Amsterdam. The most visited city along the route is Brussels. London is five hours away, and Amsterdam is two hours away.
Is there a ferry from the UK to Amsterdam?
From the UK, you can take a ship to Amsterdam. The trip typically takes 15 hours and 45 minutes, and the Newcastle to Amsterdam ferry sails roughly 12 times a week.
Is Amsterdam expensive to visit?
Indeed, it’s a costly European city, and high tourism has driven up costs. But keep in mind that there’s a reason it’s a well-liked destination for gap-year students and travelers. You may visit the Netherlands’ capital on a shoestring and experience all aspect of its culture and food that your well considered budget allows.
What is Amsterdam most known for?
The Rijksmuseum, the state museum showcasing artwork from the Dutch Golden Age, the Van Gogh Museum, the Amsterdam Museum, the Stedelijk Museum, which features contemporary art, the Concertgebouw concert hall, the Royal Palace of Amsterdam, and the Dam Square are some of the city’s primary attractions.
What is the best season to visit Amsterdam from London?
Given the weather, people, and events, spring (March to May) or fall (September to October) are typically the ideal times to visit Amsterdam from London; spring is especially popular for the tulip season.
For more details, kindly visit http://www.amsterdam.net
