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Vacation by car

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Book a Vacation by Car: Explore Europe in Your Own Car

A vacation by car gives you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. You decide when to leave, where to stop along the way and how much luggage to bring. From a relaxing vacation in the Netherlands to a road trip through France or Spain, Leisure Time offers vacation homes, villas and other accommodations for vacations by car in the Netherlands and across Europe.

A vacation by car is also ideal for families, couples and dog owners. You can travel at your own pace and have a car available at your destination to explore beaches, cities, nature reserves and attractions.

Looking for a vacation home for your next vacation by car? Explore the Leisure Time selection and find an accommodation that suits your travel group, destination and preferences.

Why Choose a Vacation by Car?

Traveling by car gives you plenty of freedom. You are not tied to a flight schedule or baggage restrictions, and you can easily make stops along the way. This makes a vacation by car suitable for both a short getaway and a longer trip through Europe. 

With your own car, you can also visit different places during your vacation. For example, you can easily combine a day at the beach with a visit to a historic city, nature reserve or local market. 

A vacation by car is especially appealing if you: 

  • like to set your own travel pace; 
  • want to bring plenty of luggage; 
  • are traveling with children; 
  • are going on vacation with your dog; 
  • want to visit several places during one vacation; 
  • are looking for a vacation home or villa as a base for exploring the area.

Vacation by Car with Children

Going on vacation by car with children? A vacation home or villa provides a comfortable base for the whole family. You can take breaks whenever needed along the way, and once you arrive, you have the freedom to plan day trips at your own pace. 

A stay at a vacation park, for example, can be convenient if you are looking for child-friendly facilities and activities close to your accommodation. If you prefer more privacy and space, you can choose a vacation home or villa. 

Traveling by car also gives you plenty of flexibility once you arrive. You could spend the morning at the beach, visit a village or city in the afternoon and end the day at your own vacation home. 

Tip: Traveling with young children? Plan plenty of breaks along the way and check the route, traffic conditions and any toll roads in advance.

Vacation by Car to France

France is a popular destination for a vacation by car. The country offers a wide variety of landscapes and vacation destinations, from the French coast and countryside to mountains, vineyards and historic cities. 

Depending on the type of vacation you are looking for, you could choose an accommodation: 

  • on the French coast; 
  • in southern France; 
  • in the French countryside; 
  • in a wooded area; 
  • near a city or popular attraction. 

A vacation home, villa or other accommodation provides a convenient base for exploring the surrounding area by car. 

Looking for sun and beaches? Southern France and the Mediterranean coast are interesting options. If you prefer peace, nature and plenty of space, rural areas and smaller French villages may be a good choice. 

👉 Explore all vacation homes in France

Road Trip to Spain

A road trip to Spain combines the journey with a stay in a sunny vacation destination. Spain is a large country, offering many different options for a vacation by car. 

You can choose to stay on the coast, in a vacation home inland or near a Spanish city. 

With your own car, you can easily discover different sides of the area during your vacation. For example, you can: 

  • spend a day at the beach; 
  • visit a historic city; 
  • go hiking in nature; 
  • explore local villages and markets; 
  • take a road trip along the coast; 
  • enjoy the local cuisine. 

For a longer drive to Spain, be sure to consider the travel distance. For some travelers, it can be more comfortable to plan one or more overnight stays along the way. This way, the journey itself becomes part of the vacation. 

👉 Explore all vacation homes in Spain

Vacation by Car with Your Dog

Going on vacation with your dog? Traveling by car can be a practical choice. You can take breaks more easily along the way and bring your dog with you without depending on flights or train connections. 

At Leisure Time, you will find accommodations where you and your dog can enjoy a vacation in the Netherlands and various destinations throughout Europe. 

When choosing an accommodation, don't just check whether dogs are allowed. Consider the surroundings as well. A property near nature, walking trails or a dog-friendly beach can be especially convenient if you plan to spend plenty of time outdoors with your dog. 

What should you consider when vacationing with your dog? 

Before you leave, check: 

  • whether dogs are allowed at your chosen accommodation; 
  • whether there is a maximum number of dogs; 
  • whether additional fees apply; 
  • which rules apply to dogs at your destination; 
  • which documents and vaccinations, if any, are required; 
  • whether dogs are welcome on beaches, in nature reserves and at restaurants. 

For international travel, it is a good idea to check the current pet entry and travel requirements in advance. 

👉 Explore all pet-friendly vacation homes

Vacation by Car in the Netherlands

You don't have to drive far for a great vacation. The Netherlands is also ideal for a vacation by car. From the coast and the Veluwe to Limburg and the Wadden Islands, you will find a wide variety of landscapes and activities throughout the country. 

A vacation in the Netherlands has the advantage of often involving shorter travel times. That means you have more time to enjoy your vacation itself. 

For example, choose a vacation home near: 

  • the Dutch coast; 
  • nature reserves; 
  • lively cities; 
  • cycling and hiking trails; 
  • amusement parks and other family activities. 

A vacation by car in your own country is therefore suitable for both a weekend getaway and a longer vacation. 

👉 Explore all vacation homes in the Netherlands

How to Prepare for Your Vacation by Car

Good preparation can make a long drive much more comfortable. Before you leave, check not only your route but also your car and the practical details of your accommodation. 

1. Check your car 

Check the tire pressure, tire tread, lights, fluids and windshield wipers. For a longer international trip, it is a good idea to have your car checked in advance if maintenance is due. 

2. Plan your route 

Check your route in advance and take busy traffic periods, road construction, toll roads and possible alternative routes into account. Plan enough breaks for longer drives. 

3. Check the traffic rules 

Traffic rules can vary from country to country. Before you leave, check the rules that apply in the countries you will be driving through and staying in. This may include required safety equipment, low-emission zones, tolls and road vignettes. 

4. Check your accommodation 

Before you leave, find out what time you can check in, where you will collect the key and whether there are any specific arrival requirements. After a long drive, it is convenient to be able to go straight inside when you arrive. 

5. Make your car comfortable 

Bring plenty of drinks and snacks and make sure important items are easy to reach. If you are traveling with children or a dog, plan extra stops for some movement and fresh air.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's) About Vacations by Car

What is a vacation by car? 

A vacation by car is a vacation where you travel to your destination in your own car and often use the car during your stay to explore the surrounding area. You can take a vacation by car in the Netherlands or drive to another European destination. 

What are good destinations for a vacation by car? 

Popular destinations for vacations by car include the Netherlands, France, Belgium, Germany, Luxembourg, Austria, Italy and Spain. The right destination for you depends mainly on your preferred travel time, the type of vacation you want and your travel group. 

Is a vacation by car suitable for families with children? 

Yes. Traveling by car makes it easier to take breaks and bring luggage. You also have more flexibility when planning day trips at your destination. A vacation home or vacation park can be a practical accommodation option for families. 

Can you travel abroad by car with your dog? 

Yes, but the requirements for traveling with a dog vary by country. Before you leave, check the current rules for bringing pets into and through the countries you will be traveling in. 

What should I bring on a vacation by car? 

In addition to your regular vacation luggage, it is a good idea to bring important travel documents, any required safety equipment, a phone charger, drinks and enough food for the journey. Also check in advance what is required in the countries you will be driving through.

Find Your Vacation Home for a Vacation by Car

From a vacation home in the Netherlands to a villa in France or an accommodation in Spain, Leisure Time offers a variety of accommodations for vacations by car. 

Choose your destination, find an accommodation that suits your travel group and make the journey itself the beginning of your vacation. 

Explore the Leisure Time selection and find your next vacation accommodation for a relaxing vacation by car in the Netherlands or elsewhere in Europe.

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