europe family road trip from uk

Travel Vixta

Our 8 day Europe road trip plan from UK – Amsterdam, Soltau, Bruges

I have exciting news – we are going on a mini 8 day family road trip to Europe!  It’s all been very last minute as we weren’t sure if we’d be going away this summer, but we’ve decided to go for it!  In this blog post I will share our European road trip travel itinerary and tips on how to plan a driving holiday in Europe.  There are lots of things you need to plan in advance and I’ll share exactly what we’ve been planning and booking before we go on our last minute family road trip.

This year we have been saving like maniacs as Ben is leaving his employed job mid-July to go self-employed as a handyman so we were unsure at first if we would be able to go away for a week before his full-time self-employment commences.

Well, we decided to go for it.  We are *just* going to meet our 10k emergency fund savings target before he finishes work and I think a well-deserved week off is a great idea before he gets immersed in self-employment.  Our savings have been our main focus this year as he’s leaving work several months earlier than we first planned so we’ve not gone on any week long family holidays for over one year, even though we were so tempted!

We also want to see Ben’s Gran.  I don’t think we’ve been for two years now.  Ben’s Gran lives in Germany and is 94!  She’s now in a care home and we haven’t visited since she’s moved into the care home.  I definitely think we should go now and not wait another year.

As we have the Mazda Bongo which we purchased last June and have only ever spent a maximum of two nights in a row camping in it, we thought it would be fun to do a mini European road trip (and perhaps crazy as we’ve never been away more than one night in the van with the kids!)

The flights for us to go to Germany are always around £150-£200 each !  So we were also hoping it would be a cheaper way of travelling to Ben’s Gran and we can stop in European cities on the way there and the way back to make it more of a holiday and adventure rather than just a family visit.

Our budget idea was around £1000 for the whole trip including food and activities, but I think we might go a little over this.  I think we were being a bit adventurous trying to do it for £1000 especially as we needed breakdown cover, travel insurance and a car travel kit so we can legally drive in France and other European countries.  Of course if we already had all these items then it would have been much cheaper and our next road trip will be cheaper because we have them!  If we can do this trip for less than £1500 then I think that’s pretty impressive and we’ll be trying to keep costs as low as possible!

So far we have spent £600 on accommodation, European breakdown cover, a travel car kit, travel insurance, ferry crossings, campsites and an Airbnb!  We have three more nights to book accommodation and then food, fuel and activities.  The breakdown cover (£142) can be used for one year so it’s not just for this trip and we already hope to do a few European trips over the next year including visiting Ben’s brother who lives in Portugal!

We were originally hoping to do a 7 day road trip to Europe, but we’ve no added one extra day as we were trying to cram too much into a week.  So we’ll be doing an 8 day Europe road trip.

Our 8 day Europe road trip itinerary

Here’s a look at our road trip travel itinerary for 8 days from the UK to Europe:

Day 1 – Travel to Dover from Gloucestershire.  Ferry from Dover to Dunkirk.  Travel from Dunkirk to Amsterdam, Netherlands.  Camp for two nights at Camping Vliegenbos .

Day 2 – Explore Amsterdam: hoping to do an Amsterdam boat tour that’s child friendly and visit Vondelpark .

Day 3 – Travel from Amsterdam to Soltau, Germany.  This is where Ben’s Gran lives. We haven’t arranged accommodation yet, but we will stay for three nights.  We wanted to camp in the camper carpark at South Sea Camp as we’ve been there for a day before and it’s an amazing place, but the car park pitches are not available to book.  You simply turn up and we have no idea if there will be a space.  If it were just Ben and I then we’d risk it, but I think with two young kids in tow it would be better to have something booked.  Holiday Paradise also looks good.  Ben’s uncle is away on holiday so we may stay at his house.  We do need to arrange what we’re doing ASAP.

Day 4 – Day in Soltau.  Visit Ben’s Gran.  I’m unsure what times we can see Ben’s Gran, so we need to call and find out.  Once we know then we can plan what we want to do around the visiting times.  This is also Ben’s birthday!  Happy birthday Ben!

Day 5 – Day in Soltau.  Visit Ben’s Gran and some local attractions in Soltau.

Day 6 – Travel from Soltau, Germany to Bruges in Belgium.  This is the longest drive we have at around 6 hours 10 minutes.  Stay for two nights in Bruges. We have booked an Airbnb that’s only a few kilometres from the city centre at only £60 per night!

Day 7 – Explore Bruges and maybe go to the beach!

Day 8 – Travel from Bruges to Dunkirk to get the ferry back to Dover.  Travel home.

European towns and cities we will visit on our 8 day road trip

Countries we will drive through on our european road trip.

• Netherlands

To do list for planning a family European road trip

Organising this trip has meant we’ve had a lot of outgoings before we even get going.  There are also outgoings that are not transport or accommodation.

Here’s a list of everything we’ve planned before our European road trip:

I checked our passports are in date and they are all fine.  The first to run out is one of the kid’s passport’s in 2021 so we have a couple of years before we need to buy a new passport.

EHIC (European Health Insurance Card)

The EHIC is still valid until 31 st October 2019.

“A valid EHIC gives you the right to access state-provided healthcare during a temporary stay in another European Economic Area (EEA) country or Switzerland.”

We have ours and you can order them here if you need one: https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/apply-for-a-free-ehic-european-health-insurance-card/

Travel insurance

We got our travel insurance through Travel Supermarket on TopCashback .  We got an annual policy for £55 with insurefor.com and will get almost £15 cashback.

It’s for four of us for a year and includes a pre-existing medical condition, so you can probably find something much cheaper if you have no medical conditions to declare.  One Sure Insurance have a cheapest travel insurance price guarantee so check them out.

European breakdown cover

We really struggled to find European breakdown cover as our Mazda Bongo is 24 years old!  Most policies will only cover cars up to 10 or 15 years old!

After some internet research we finally found that LV= would offer cover for older vehicles.  Phew!

They also have a cashback offer so we’ll get around £10 cashback as we booked from here: https://www.topcashback.co.uk/ref/victoriasully/lv-britannia-rescue

Car travel kit for France

We’ve never driven in Europe before, well Ben might have years ago for work, but we haven’t since being together.

There are lots of rules and regulations, especially in France.  There are some items you legally must have in the car.  Failure to present these items if stopped by the police will result in an immediate on-the-spot fine.

The items you need to pack for the car travel kit are:

• Headlamp converters
• Warning triangle
• Spare bulbs
• Hi-Viz vests for each passenger
• Breathalysers
• You must have a GB sticker on the vehicle

There’s a great website and checklist here that explains everything: https://www.drive-france.com/checklist/

I managed to order a France car travel kit from eBay that comes in a bag for £23.50.  I also ordered two extra Hi-Viz vests for the children for £4.50.

We’ll be keeping the car travel kit bag in the passenger foot well so we can present it easily if we are stopped.

Car documents

It’s also important to carry pretty much all car documents when driving in France and abroad.  You may need to present them if pulled over by the police.

Here’s what’s needed:

• Driving licence
• V5 log book
• MOT certificate

Ferry crossings UK to France

I expect lots of the ferry crossings will get really booked up in the summer holidays so we have booked both our outward and return ferry tickets.  We chose to go with DFDS and have a flexible ticket so we can go on the ferry before or after our ticket time if we need to.

It was cheaper for us to go to Dunkirk rather than Calais and saves us around 37 minutes road travel time each way.

There is a cashback offer for DFDS Seaways, but at the time we booked there wasn’t an offer for Dunkirk, only Calais.  Here’s their page if you want to check for cashback offers: https://www.topcashback.co.uk/ref/victoriasully/dfds-seaways

Accommodation

One of my favourite things to do when I travelled to California for five weeks with an ex-boyfriend was just to find accommodation as we travelled.  I loved the sense of freedom and adventure with no set plans and just choosing where we stayed as we went along.  If it were just Ben and I going then we could be more flexible like this, but as we have a four year old and a seven year old and it’s the school summer holidays, it’s sensible for us to book places to stay in advance!

Luckily campsites are nice and cheap and so we have booked one campsite so far in Amsterdam at 50 Euros per night.  We have also booked an Airbnb which gives us two nights in Bruges in our own private flat with two double bedrooms for only £60 per night!

We will also arrange our Soltau accommodation before we go.

Again, we usually just make things up as we go, but it’s going to be the school summer holidays so we don’t want to be disappointed.  We know where we’re travelling to and when and we will be looking into booking some city tours before we leave just to make sure we get to do the ones we like the look of.

Documents folders

I will take see-through documents folders in my day backpack so we have everything to hand should we need it or if we get stopped by the police on the road.

I always pack these and make sure I have everything well in advance of travelling.

Here are the document folders I pack:

• Travel documents folder – Passports, travel insurance certificate, accommodation details and booking references, ferry booking documents
• Car documents folder – Driving licences, v5 log book, insurance certificates, MOT certificate, breakdown cover

That’s everything we have checked and planned in advance of our road trip to Europe.  Once we have arranged accommodation for Soltau in Germany then all we need to buy plenty of snacks and food that does not need refrigerating for the journey.  The night before we go we will pack our clothes, towels, toiletries and electronics and we are good to go!  We’ll be packing as minimally as possible.

Find some great packing advice and road trip advice in these blog posts:

Best vegan road trip food ideas (with no fridge)

Packing a suitcase tips

How to pack minimally for your summer holiday

How to pack light for a family road trip

How to make a road trip with the whole family stress free

Your ultimate guide of how to survive a long car journey with kids

How to save money on family travel

How to get the cheapest train tickets

Please take a moment to share 🙂

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)

One thought on “ Our 8 day Europe road trip plan from UK – Amsterdam, Soltau, Bruges ”

This is a really nice idea for a trip! Lots to see and do.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from travel vixta.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Family travel adventures

European family road trip itinerary: England to Italy

• smudgedpostcard
• 16th January 2020
• Holiday ideas , Italy , My holidays , Road Trips

Table of Contents

Why take a European family road trip?

There’s a lot to be said for short flights and quick transfers for getting you swiftly away from the humdrum of everyday life to your family holiday destination. However, there are so many interesting places to explore between A and B if families are willing to embrace the journey in between. We spent four weeks on our European family road trip with our two boys aged seven and five. It was a luxurious length of time which gave us the chance to really enjoy travelling and spending time together learning about different destinations in Europe.

If you’re looking for route ideas – whether to drive predominantly through France or cut through Switzerland, I’ve written all about the various ways of driving to Italy from the UK .

A European road trip with kids is quite an education. We travelled through the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Italy, Austria and Germany. That’s a lot of languages, flags, cuisines, cultures and history to be introduced to. We crossed bridges, explored historic cities, shopped in local markets, slept in a variety of farms, hostels, campsites and hotels. We drove over mountain passes, swam in lakes, rivers, the sea and countless swimming pools. We spent days hiking, climbing and cycling and met some very interesting and hospitable people along the way.

We also argued. We got tired, we got lost and we got very hot. Sometimes we needed a bit of space from one another. We also found plenty of grim service stations and some pretty unremarkable towns and we ate in one or two dubious restaurants. Our road trip wasn’t perfect but it was a refreshing change from airports, car hire firms and luggage restrictions. Interestingly, despite it being the height of the holiday season, we didn’t get stuck in any major traffic jams.

Tips on European road trips with kids

We had a few hiccups along the way but overall our European family road trip was a success. From our first hand experience, here are some tips to make a family road trip in summer time as enjoyable as possible:

• Avoid driving on a weekend. We planned our route so that our big driving days (particularly the drives over the Alps which friends in Switzerland had warned us about) were not on Saturdays or Sundays as we’d heard the roads would be busy. As a result, we didn’t come across any traffic jams. The drive from Calais south through France can be busy with British holidaymakers so combined with the possible threat of Brexit-related hold ups in southern England (which of course didn’t come to pass) we avoided northern France altogether by sailing to the Hook of Holland.
• If your ultimate destination is the Med, try to be creative with your route to avoid very long driving days. We found the Harwich to Hook of Holland ferry crossing worked brilliantly as the departure at 11pm meant my other half was able to go to work on the day we set off on holiday. The ferry docks at about 7am so you can knock off plenty of miles before lunchtime.
• If you’re planning to travel to Calais, consider taking an evening crossing or tunnel and find a cheap place to stay near Calais. By doing this (and depending on where in the UK you’re based), you should hopefully avoid rush hour traffic in the UK. You then have a whole day ahead of you to cover quite a bit of distance on the continent.
• Not everyone has the luxury of taking more than two weeks off work in the summer but if you are able to stretch your time away from work, you can spend more time on the journey and have fewer long days in the car. We only had one really long day of five hours driving, all of the other days were shorter.
• Research interesting stops to ensure the journey really is part of the holiday. The fairy tale villages in the Alsace region of eastern France are perfect for an overnight stop while the lakes of Switzerland are a rewarding break after hours in the car. On our trip, we drove through the Netherlands and Luxembourg: windmills, romantic castles and stunning forest scenery were some of the highlights for us on the first leg of the journey.
• Ensure you have an endless supply of snacks in case you get stuck in traffic at the wrong moment. We enjoyed sampling local biscuits, different country’s seasonal fruits and of course taste-testing crisps in each destination.

What to take on a European family road trip

• Audio books: we didn’t hear a peep out of our seven year old for long stretches of the drive as he was immersed in Roald Dahl and Michael Rosen.
• Top Trumps: these card games are brilliant for road trips and for occupying hungry children before dinnertime. If there’s nowhere to burn off pent up energy, these cards are a great distraction.
• Packing cubes: until I had these I thought they were a bit of a waste of money. However, they are really practical for family holidays: each member of the family has one or two cubes which they can sling into a drawer when you reach your destination. We packed the cubes directly into our car which saved on space and made everything much easier to locate.
• Insulated water bottles: some of my family don’t like drinking warm water which has been sat in a hot car all day so these are essential for fussy drinkers.
• A decent cool box: we did quite a bit of self catering and picnicking so it was useful to have a cool place to store left over food and lunch.
• Plenty of sun hats and sun cream: sometimes it was hard to locate a hat or bottle of cream when we’d been out for a day. They had a habit of ending up in a bag buried deep in the boot of the car so it was helpful to have spare sets of both these items.

Our family road trip itinerary through Europe

We travelled approximately 2,300 miles or 3,700 kilometres (by car and train), slept on four ferries and one train, stayed in two campsites, one youth hostel, four hotels and two farms. And we visited four car museums…

This is the road trip route we took:

The best bits of our European family road trip

Of all the destinations on our driving holiday across Europe, we loved the Swiss Alps and the Italian Dolomites the best along with swimming in the rivers of Corsica. Our most memorable meal was at a tiny restaurant in the village of Caprino Veronese near Lake Garda and our favourite swim was a daily dip in the Solenzara River during our week in Corsica.

Although our car was pretty full of stuff, we managed to buy lots of bottles of wine from local vineyards which we came across. Our favourite discovery was a little place off a dusty road on our final day in Corsica, the Clos d’Orlea near Aleria.

The best drives on our family road trip through Europe

• The roads through the forests of the Luxembourg Ardennes are beautiful: quiet, traditional and very green despite the heatwave of 2019.
• We loved Corsica’s stunning mountainous interior: empty narrow roads pass gorges and rocky passes, there are tiny settlements in very remote places.
• The roads through the vineyards of Piedmont’s Langhe wine region offer sweeping views of hillsides covered in vines and hilltop medieval villages.
• Driving up and over the mountains in the Parco Nazionale Appennino Tosco Emiliano took us through lovely scenery.
• The drive from the Dolomites down into Austria took us through some lovely villages of timber-framed houses and streets clearly built for horse and cart rather than car…

Here’s an overview of what we got up to on our European family road trip:

Day 1: Stenalink from Harwich to the Hook of Holland

Days 2 – 4: luxembourg stopover.

Driving time:

• Hook of Holland to Wiltz 3.5 hours, 350 kilometres

Days 5 – 8: Switzerland hiking adventure

• Wiltz to Zurich 5.5 hours, 500 kilometres
• Zurich to Bristen 1.5 hours, 100 kilometres
• Bristen to Bellinzona via the Gotthard Pass 2 hours, 120 kilometres

Days 9 – 12: Driving from Switzerland to northern Italy

• Bellinzona to Cellarengo (near Alba) via Lake Lugano and the Alfa Romeo Museum 3.5 hours, 280 kilometres

One of the main places I wanted to incorporate into our European family road trip was the north Italian region of Piedmont. The cuisine is fantastic in this part of Italy and it’s the home of the Slow Food movement. Piedmont is packed with vineyards and there are some lovely little towns to explore as well as a fantastic regional capital: Turin.

The drive from Bellinzona into Piedmont is a great route with plenty of interesting places to stop. We had a morning wander around the village of Morcote on Lake Lugano. We had planned to spend longer at the lake but a combination of factors (running out of Swiss Francs and a fierce thunderstorm) meant we ended up on the motorway to Italy sooner than expected. If the weather had cleared up we would have stopped at Lake Como but as the grey skies continued we found a convenient detour: the Alfa Romeo Museum just north of Milan.

We were spoilt with home cooked food, local wine, a lovely swimming pool and a host of attractions on our doorstep.

During our stay, we visited several wineries, explored the elegant streets of Alba and enjoyed driving through one of Italy’s most picturesque landscapes. We also had a brilliant day out in Turin , exploring the sights of the city which were made famous (for us at least) through the 1969 film the Italian Job.

Visiting Italy with kids? Read my complete guide to Italy for families

Days 13 – 19 Corsica with kids

• Cellarengo to Savona / Noli 2 hours, 180 kilometres
• Bastia to Solenzara via Le Pont de l’Enfer 2.5 hours, 125 kilometres

We drove from our agriturismo south to the little seaside town of Noli for an afternoon swim and dinner. This is a great place to wile away a few hours before the overnight Corsica ferry as it’s only 15 minutes from the Savona ferry port.

We used Corsica Ferries for our overnight trip to Bastia. We travelled with them about 10 years ago on the same route and we concluded not a great deal had changed in the intervening years. The boat felt rather old, the cabins were rather tired looking and the queuing and boarding system was typically Italian in its frantic last minute bun fight style. However, there was an outdoor soft play area next to the terminal so the kids were able to burn some energy with a spot of moonlight playing while we waited to board.

When you’ve had a bad night’s sleep on a ferry and your nerves are a little frayed, there’s nothing quite like a refreshing dip in a Corsican mountain river. After breakfast in Bastia, we drove to le Pont de l’Enfer. Despite the ominous name (it translates as Hell’s Bridge), this was a little piece of heaven: a cool shady river with huge rocks for clambering on, deep isolated pools for leaping into and a lovely restaurant hidden away in the woods where we had a delicious meal.

Along with Piedmont, Corsica was my other key destination of the trip. This French island has incredible beaches, a mountainous interior and some beautiful medieval towns to explore. The cuisine is a mix of French and Italian with lots of stewed or grilled meats in the mountains and plenty of seafood on the coast. Due to the incredible heat we experienced during our stay on Corsica, we were quite lazy about finding good places to eat: we often ended up at the first pizzeria we came across so we didn’t experience the best of what Corsica has to offer from a culinary perspective. It’s worth doing a bit of research before you travel if food is a key part of your holiday priorities.

We based ourselves for a week at Sole di Sari camping village in Solenzara on the south east coast of Corsica: chalets and safari tents dotted along the banks of the Solenzara river.

Days 20 – 22 Fast cars in Maranello and Modena, Italy

• Solenzara via Corte to Bastia 2.5 hours, 156 kilometres
• Savona via the Parco Nazionale dell’Appennino Tosco Emiliano to Maranello 5 hours, 305 kilometres

Our final day in Corsica involved one last swim and some impromptu wine tasting. We took the scenic route from Solenzara back up to Bastia by winding our way through the mountainous interior to the old capital of Corsica: Corte. I’d love to return to the centre of island in cooler weather and explore some of the hiking trails as the scenery is stunning.

We drove to Bastia in time for dinner at the Old Port and were luck enough to get a table overlooking the harbour at the pizzeria Lavezzi, if you’re looking for a family-friendly restaurant in Bastia, this little place is a good bet. Unfortunately, after that we endured a rather grim ferry crossing with Corsican Ferries: we travelled on a creaking, rattling old ferry which swayed as if in a storm despite the weather looking pretty promising as we set sail. I’ll definitely reconsider using Corsican Ferries in the future if they do not upgrade their ships.

The Enzo Ferrari museum was, predictably, a homage to the great man while the actual Ferrari museum was rather dark and serious, a destination for the die hard Ferrari fan.

Days 23 – 26 Family fun at Lake Garda, Italy

• Maranello via Mantua to Rivoli Veronese, Lake Garda two hours, 150 kilometres

After overdosing on red cars we headed north towards Lake Garda. There are so many towns of note to visit in this part of northern Italy that I found it hard to narrow down a place to break our journey. We opted for Mantua as it’s setting is so impressive, surrounded on three sides by artificial lakes created in the 12th century as a means of defence, the entrance to the city takes some beating.

Days 27 – 29 luxury and hiking in the Dolomites, Italy

• Rivoli Veronese to Obereggen two hours, 160 kilometres

After a morning coffee in San Zeno di Montagna which offers particularly lovely views over Lake Garda, we headed to the final destination of our European family road trip: the Dolomites.

We treated ourselves to a rather luxurious stay at the family-friendly Hotel Maria in the village of Obereggen. Our stay  in the Val d’Ega region of the Dolomites was one of the favourite parts of the trip for all of us. We did a brilliant 12 kilometre bike ride from the hotel over to Lake Carezza and enjoyed hiking and rock climbing. The boys had their first taste of doing a via ferrata and they are now keen to spend more time in the mountains after this little taste of adventure.

Although the Val d’Ega region is not as well known as some of the others parts of the Dolomites, I would highly recommend it for families hoping to introduce children to mountain holidays. From Obereggen a chair lift takes you up to some excellent walking trails which even the most reluctant little hiker would enjoy. If you’re considering a summer mountain holiday have a read of my post about visiting the Dolomites with kids .

Day 30 Motorail from Innsbruck to Dusseldorf

• Obereggen to Innsbruck: two hours, 140 kilometres

After our four night stay in Obereggen, we drove to Innsbruck for what we had hoped would be another highlight: an overnight train trip through to Düsseldorf in Germany, cutting out around one thousand kilometres of driving.

With so many details to sort out on a 4 week European road trip with kids, I had been a little bit disorganised with this part of the itinerary. Due to some sort of oversight on my part, we ended up booking the overnight train for the four of us but only booking beds for three of us as our five year old didn’t have to pay.

I have travelled all across China by rail (successfully and comfortably) and I’ve also taken a car to Nice by rail from Calais overnight which was supremely relaxing (sadly this route no longer exists). Our journey from Innsbruck to Dusseldorf however was rather bumpy and the train felt like it was lurching off the tracks. As a result, I had a rather sleepless night as I worried about the boys being tossed from their narrow bunks and also worried about myself being hurled from the vertiginous top bunk.

Days 31 – 32, Industrial Germany, the Netherlands and home

• Düsseldorf via Duisburg and Rotterdam to Hook of Holland 3.5 hours, 270 kilometres

What to do after a bad nights sleep on a train? Visit an industrial leisure park. There are so many interesting places to visit in this part of Europe that we’ll definitely take the Stenalink ferry crossing to the Hook of Holland again. On this occasion, we spent a morning exploring the Duisburg Nord Landscape Park located about half an hour north of Dusseldorf.

Our final stop of the trip was a late afternoon visit to Rotterdam. We loved wandering through the city and taking in the architecture: the Erasmus Bridge and the Cube Houses. The Market Hall with its foodie stalls was fun to explore and we enjoyed evening drinks by the canal before finding a quick bite to eat in one of the many pavement restaurants. Rotterdam was an enjoyable city to dip into and we’d like to return there for a longer visit.

• Holiday ideas

Family holidays with teenagers: 15 summer holiday ideas

• 5th September 2024

• Travel gear

Best travel toys for kids to take on a long car journey

• 25th June 2024

The best places for snorkelling Europe

• 18th June 2024

51 Things to do in Sicily with Kids

• 10th June 2024

50 brilliant things to do in Cornwall with kids

• 25th March 2024

40 of the Best Beach Towns in Europe for 2024

• 26th February 2024

16 thoughts on “ European family road trip itinerary: England to Italy ”

This sounds amazing. I much prefer travelling by road or rail to flying. You miss so much when you board a plane! It seemed to work for you, with all these hidden gems you managed to unearth on your travels. I do like the sound of the Parco Nazionale dell’Appennino Tosco Emiliano. That’s one I’ve bookmarked for the future. And although I’ve seen the Dolomites in winter, I’ve never been in summer. I’d really like to go….

Thanks. Your skiing posts have me tempted with winter in the mountains… just can’t decide whether I’m ready to take the kids skiing!

This sounds awesome! I hated road trips as a kid because they were so boring. But I’ve come to enjoy them as an adult. #farawayfiles

Me too! I just hope my kids continue to enjoy them…

How incredible to have four weeks to travel across Europe! Our kids are starting to ask us for more sustainable travel options so I can see us doing more train travel in the future. I’d love to see Corsica and Lake Garda in particular. Your tips are so useful too. This is such a helpful blog post. Must have taken you ages to put it together! Fabulous share for #farawayfiles

Thanks Clare. It was quite fun putting it together and useful to have it as a record of our trip. We’re planning to buy some sort of electric car in the not too distant future so that the road trips can continue. I’d love to travel by train more but my other half is somewhat reluctant!

Goodness, what a road trip adventure. Piedmont is definitely somewhere I fancy visiting, and Innsbruck is on my radar for this year. I see your idea of souvenirs is the same as mine! #farawayfiles

Road tripping is the best way to see soooo much more than you would flying! We love to drive everywhere and this year we drove from Germany to England/Scotland, but we even drove 2 weeks around the Balkans also from Germany and back! I’d loev to see Corsica and those mountains are spectacular! #FarawayFiles

Wow, that’s a lot of miles! Definitely drive around Corsica, it’s stunning in the interior.

Sounds exhausting but fun. Shame about the mishap with the overnight train but I guess these things happen #farawayfiles

This sounds like my perfect trip. It’s certainly one I’d have great fun planning! I loved walking in Corsica a few years back but I’m not sure I’d trust my car to get us there! #farawayfiles

I’d love to go walking in Corsica, but definitely not in August!

That sounds like an epic road trip. I did shorter road trips with my family in Spain and central Europe over the course of several months and it was a great education for the kids (and parents). You gave a number of useful tips that should be useful for anybody planning such an adventure.

I’d love to explore Spain by car, there’s so much history in the interior of the country.

We love a road trip, not driven to Italy yet might have to show this to Mr CW

Well, I can highly recommend doing this, or a version of it!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Our 13 Best European Road Trips For Families

Are you looking for the best European road trips for families?

Europe has so much to offer, and not only for backpackers. Europe is perfect for family holidays. And the great thing about Europe, compared to North America, is the distance between towns and countries. That makes Europe a great place for a family road trip . So today, we’re sharing with you our best European road trips with family.

My husband and I have lived in Europe for more than 3 years and we did so many amazing trips. Now, it’s time to see what the old continent has to offer to families.

Here are a few of the best European road trips for families to inspire you to hit the road with your kids.

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you .

1. Provence, France

Provence is a beautiful place to discover , and the best way to explore is by going on a road trip . What makes it especially great for families is the outdoor activities and hikes you can do along the way.

PROVENCE, FRANCE ROAD TRIP SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 7 days 🇫🇷 European country: France 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Avignon → Aix en Provence → Cassis ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: Interactive 3D treasure hunt in Avignon and boat visit to the Calanques in Cassis.

If you want a fun itinerary, visit Avignon, Aix en Provence, and Cassis on a 7-day Provence road trip . This road trip starts in Avignon, where you can visit the famous Palais de Papes.

The kids can participate in the interactive 3D treasure hunt , followed by a lovely lunch on the terrace.

For a fun afternoon activity, you can rent a canoe or kayak and do the descent on the River Rhone . Make sure to take water and wear a cap on hot days. From Avignon, go to Aix-en-Provence and hike up the Sainte Victoire Mountain  or book a bike tour.

There’s a more leisurely hike, so younger kids may also manage this. If it gets too much, you can just enjoy the view and have a lovely picnic.

Finally, you could head to Cassis, where lots are going on. We suggest taking the little train through the town, where you can see the main sights; our kids loved waving to all the passersby.

We also really enjoyed taking the boat to visit the Calanques and finally ending our day on the beach with ice cream. 

👉🏼 Book your Provence, France Tours here!

2. Normandy Coast, France

The country of France has many beautiful locations that are worth visiting, and the Normandy coast is one of the best road trips in Europe for families .

Normandy is a popular destination because of its wide range of attractions. There are numerous WWII sites located throughout Normandy if you are looking for an educational adventure in addition to exploring the area.

A ten-day family road trip along the Normandy coast would be a perfect amount of time to explore and participate in some fun attractions.

NORMANDY COAST, FRANCE ROAD TRIP SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 10 days 🇫🇷 European country: France 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Dunkirk → Belgium (Bruges & Plopsaland de Panne) → Honfleur → Caen → Courseulles sur Mer → Arromanches les Bains → Pointe du Hoc → Mont Saint Michel ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: WWII sites and the panoramic view of Mont Saint Michel

Start in Dunkirk by walking the famous beach, check out Operation Dunkirk and learn about the historic evacuation, and then head to the bunkers in Bray-Dunes to see the German fortifications still standing along the ocean.

From Dunkirk, you can take a couple of day trips across the border into Belgium . Spend a day exploring Bruges and another letting the kids go wild at Plopsaland de Panne , one of the best theme parks in all of Europe.  

Drive along the coast to the beautiful port town of Honfleur and walk around the Vieux Port , admiring the colorful houses and enjoying a meal next to the water.

Drive into Caen for some of the best museums in France and continue on to the D-Day landing beaches and their museums for an unbelievable educational and historical experience in Courseulles sur Mer.

Spend a couple of days in Arromanches les Bains , roaming the remaining pieces of the temporary harbor still on the beach. Walk along the boardwalk and take in a movie at the 360-degree Cinema.

Head to nearby Pointe du Hoc and let the kids run through the craters in the ground left by bombs from WWII and see the staggering terrain that the American troops successfully overcame on D-Day.

End your Normandy road trip by visiting the famous Mont Saint Michel . Skip the tour bus and walk along the pathway; it is a beautiful area allowing everyone to stretch their legs while admiring the panoramic view of Mont Saint Michel .

The Normandy coast has something for everyone, making it an ideal family road trip destination.

👉🏼 Book your Normandy Coast, France Tours here!

3. Dordogne, France

The Dordogne is a beautiful area to visit with the family. This French department is located in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, in southern France , and it is best explored on a road trip.

Bisected by the rivers Dordogne and Vézère , the Dordogne is a land of amazing nature, medieval towns and castles, and intriguing prehistoric sites , perfect for exploring with kids of all ages.

The rivers are the place of fun water activities , while most historic sites offer kid-friendly attractions and treasure hunts in addition to the more classic visits.

This  5-day Dordogne road trip explores the most interesting sites of the Périgord Noir , which is Dordogne’s most visited area . This French road trip combines outdoor activities and sightseeing , and it is perfect for kids as driving distances are never too long.

DORDOGNE, FRANCE ROAD TRIP SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 5 days 🇫🇷 European country: France 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Saint-Léon-sur-Vézere → Saint Amand-de-Coly → Lascaux caverns → Sarlat-la-Canéda → Dordogne Valley (Beynac, La Roque Gageac, Château de Castelnaud) ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: Exploring the medieval villages and castles of the Dordogne Valley.

Day 1: Visit the lovely towns of Saint-Léon-sur-Vézere and Saint Amand-de-Coly . The two villages are lovely, and they have a good size to explore on foot. Saint Amand-de-Coly is listed as one of the most beautiful villages i n France!

Day 2: Visit the famous Lascaux caverns on a guided tour ( book your tickets here ) , with free time in the afternoon to explore the neighboring village of Montignac or for a short hike in the Vézère Valley .

Day 3: Visit the medieval city of Sarlat-la-Canéda . Sarlat is the capital of Périgord Noir , and it is famous for being the place with the highest concentration of historical buildings per square meter!

Day 4: Explore some of the medieval villages and castles of the Dordogne Valley . We recommend the villages of Beynac and La Roque Gageac, and Château de Castelnaud , with many activities for children,

Day 5: Book a kayak tour or Canoeing through the Castles in the Dordogne River or a more classic boat tour.

👉🏼 Book your Dordogne, France Tours here!

4. Rome to Florence, Italy 

If you’re keen on visiting Italy, a road  to Florence is definitely one of the amazing family road trip ideas. This road trip will allow you to explore Italy’s best-hidden gems and spectacular countryside scenery.

Plus, you’ll also get to taste delicious local wine and see world-famous monuments . How much better can it get?

It only takes about 3.5 hours to drive from Rome directly to Florence. However, there are plenty of incredible towns and attractions in between these two cities that you can easily make a 7-day road trip out of it.

ROME TO FLORENCE, ITALY ROAD TRIP SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 7 days 🇮🇹 European country: Italy 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Rome → Orvieto → Assisi → Cortona → Arezzo → Siena → Pisa → Florence ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: Visiting world-famous monuments and tasting local wine.

Spend your first 2 days in Rome . Be sure to see the Vatican, the Colosseum, and the Trevi Fountain,  or unleash your skills and participate in a pasta-making class . Then, on day 3, drive from Rome to Orvieto , a beautiful town with tons of vineyards for delicious wine tasting.

Afterward, move on to Assisi , an important pilgrimage site home to the stunning Basilica of St. Francis . You can easily visit both Orvieto and Assisi in one day.

On day 4, drive to Cortona , a small town oozing with history. It was also featured in the popular film Under the Tuscan Sun. Then, drive to Arezzo to see some beautiful Roman ruins.

On day 5, drive to Siena , home to a magnificent Duomo and the most beautiful square in Tuscany . Soak in the history there before moving on to Pisa to see the famous Leaning Tower . 

Go to Florence afterward, and spend the last two days of your 7-day road trip there. Don’t miss the stunning Piazzale Michelangelo, which offers incredible city views.

A road trip from Rome to Florence will have you glued to the car window for all the stunning countryside scenery. Keep in mind that to rent a car in Italy , you will need an international driver’s permit .

👉🏼 Book your Rome and  Florence Tours , Italy here! 

5. Lake Garda, Italy

One of the best European road trips with family is around Lake Garda in Northern Italy . It’s the largest lake in Italy, and it is a very beautiful place. This was the first trip we did when I was pregnant with my oldest son. Great memories.

Around the lake, you can find many small and lovely villages. Furthermore, there are lots of mountains and beautiful landscapes.

Also, the total length of a trip around the lake is about 160 kilometers . And the distances between the villages are short. So, there are a lot of stops along the way.

This is especially great when doing a road trip as a family. Plus, some of the villages have historic structures, which is great to see with kids as well.

Furthermore, to make your trip to Lake Garda better, you can listen to songs on a road trip playlist .

GARDA LAKE, ITALY ROAD TRIP SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 3 days 🇮🇹 European country: Italy 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Peschiera del Garda → Desenzano del Garda via Sirmione → Limone Sul Garda → Riva del Garda ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: Exploring the small and lovely villages around Lake Garda.

You can start your road trip in Peschiera del Garda . This is a wonderful town that is easily accessible from the city of Verona. You can find many shops in this town , and there’s a historic Venetian fortification that is great to see.

From Peschiera del Garda , you can go to Desenzano del Garda via Sirmione . Sirmione is a beautiful town that you can find on a peninsula .

Here, you can also see an amazing historic castle . Desenzano del Garda is also beautiful, and you can stay here for the first night.

On the second day, you can drive to Limone Sul Garda . This is a village with very colorful buildings that is wonderful to see. While driving here, you can enjoy views and stop at various small villages. Or book a guided tour to enjoy Limone Sul Grada .

On the last day of this road trip, you can go to Riva del Garda before returning to Peschiera del Garda.

Along the way, Malcesine and Bardolino are worth checking out too! 

👉🏼 Book your Lake Garda, Italy Tours here!

6. Southern Spain Road Trip 

Southern Spain , in particular the province of Andalucia , is a great destination for a family road trip.

Not only is the region famous for stunning ancient cities, worthy of exploring, but also for some of Europe’s most beautiful beaches . Spain is also an incredibly family-orientated country , so families are well-catered for.

Also, the roads in Andalucia are well maintained, with plenty of service stops to plan regular breaks for food, drinks, and, importantly, to use the bathroom. This is great to know, especially when renting a car in Spain .

SOUTHERN SPAIN ROAD TRIP SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 7 to 10 days 🇪🇸 European country: Spain 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Seville → Cadiz → Tarifa → Marbella → Ronda → Malaga or Granada ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: Exploring ancient cities and enjoying Europe’s most beautiful beaches.

This week-long road trip starts in Seville and finishes in Granada . It combines some of the region’s best beaches and historic cities. The route is approximately 600km , with a driving time of around 8 hours in total .

Although this route is doable in 7-10 days , you might want to allow more time, especially if you have very young children in tow, and stretch it into a two-week Andalucia road trip instead and stop for longer at each destination. 

Begin in the UNESCO city of Seville and the historical center . Some of the highlights here are the Alcazar and exploring the streets of Barrio Santa Cruz .

From Seville, head south towards the coastal city of Cadiz . This city has a nice mix of seaside charm and a family-friendly beach , as well as Roman ruins and pretty cobblestone streets dotted with plenty of shady plazas. 

Continue the beach theme along the coast, heading southeast, first to Bolognia Beach to climb the gigantic dunes and then onto Tarifa , the most southern part of Spain.

Tarifa is famed for wind sports , so if you’re traveling with action-loving teenagers, then they will love some of the water activities that happen here.

Continue following the coast along to Marbella. If you have time on your route, you can also stop off for a day trip to Gibraltar .

In Marbella , you’ll find the pretty old central town , twinned with a lively beach scene . The beaches here are very family-friendly, with abundant amusement parks , boat hire, and entertainment along the seafront.   

From Marbella, head towards Ronda  to see the impressive Puente Nueve, straddling the gorge . If you’re choosing a more extended road trip and have an adventurous streak, then do the Caminito del Rey walk .

From Ronda, you have two options, either head to Malaga to enjoy more beach time with kids or go straight to Granada. In Granada , allow a couple of days to do the city justice and not forget the majestic Alhambra . 

👉🏼 Book your Andalucia, Southern Spain Tours here!

7. Gran Canaria Island, Spain

Gran Canaria , a small island in the Atlantic , has been dubbed a miniature continent due to its variety of microclimates and landscapes.

Even though you could drive around Gran Canaria in about three hours, you should spend a few days exploring it properly.

And this is best done on a road trip while enjoying nature and staying at campsites. Hiking families will find some great hikes on Gran Canaria that can be done with kids.  

GRAND CANARIA ISLAND, SPAIN ROAD TRIP SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 12 days 🇪🇸 European country: Spain 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Las Palmas de Gran Canaria → Maspalomas → Palmitos Park → Tamadaba Natural Park ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: Exploring the variety of microclimates and landscapes on the island.

Day 1 – 3, north-eastern Gran Canaria

Start in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria , the capital city of the island. Then head to La Isleta and El Confital for an amazing rocky beach and great hikes .

Afterward, go inland to see one of the oldest pines on the island, the 240-year-old Drago de Pino Santo . Don’t miss Cueva de Cuarto Puertas, a complex of caves in the town of Telde.

Day 4 – 6, south-eastern Gran Canaria

You must go to Pico de las Nieves , the highest point on the island, for some great hikes or try the 6.8 km trail near Tejeda, Gran Canaria . This trail takes only 2 h and 27 min. Great for people who love to explore nature. Then head down to Maspalomas, where it’s best to spend a few days enjoying the natural sand dunes and the beach. You can even go for a camel ride here .

Day 7 – 9, south-western Gran Canaria

Visit the Palmitos Park . It’s a botanical garden, aviary, and zoo. Also,  Parque Natural de Pilancones is ideal for bike rides. Don’t miss the natural reserve of Guigui for some beautiful scenery.

Day 10-12, north-western Gran Canaria

Tamadaba Natural Park is great for hikes and trails among pines and cliffs with great ocean views. Pop over to Charco Azul for some waterfalls and a picturesque pond. Go to Rural de Nuble Park for some spectacular views.

And visit the Reserva Natural Especial de los Tilos . Here you will find gorgeous hikes through a laurel forest by a river.

👉🏼 Book your Gran Canaria Island, Spain Tours here!

8. EN2 – Route 66, Portugal

One of the best family road trips Europe has to offer is the Estrada Nacional 2 or EN2 road in Portugal . Dubbed Portugal’s Route 66 and the longest in the country , this road that runs from the far north of the country to the far south is 739km long (459 miles).

Starting in Chaves in the district of Vila Real in the north and ending in Faro in the Algarve, this route is a great  Europe road trip with kids.

The country changes with each passing kilometer, and there are some great things to do along the way with kids. There is even a fun passport to get from any of the Tourist offices along the route.

Just make sure to remember to get it stamped along the way.

The trip can be completed in a few days, depending on how well the kids travel by car and how long they want to spend at each stop.

EN2 – ROUTE 66, PORTUGAL ROAD TRIP SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 4 days 🇵🇹 European country: Portugal 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Chaves → Viseu → Coimbra → Evora → Faro ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: Experiencing the “Portuguese Route 66”, a journey through the heart of the country’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.

Day 1 : Start in Chaves . Visit the thermal springs and public park close to the start of the EN2. Then travel south to Peso da Régua, where you can visit the Douro Museum to learn all about the winemaking industry of the area , or continue to Viseu ,  where you can visit a cathedral, churches, museums , and parks .

Day 2 : Drive south from Viseu to Lousã, where there is a s mall wildlife park, ideal for kids . There is also a small castle above the town or a river beach to stop at if visiting in summer. You could visit the Serra da Estrela Natural Park if you stop overnight. If not, continue to Abrantes.

Day 3 : Visit the castle in Abrantes overlooking the River Tagus before heading south to Evora, stopping in Mora to visit the freshwater aquarium .

The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and you should visit the cathedral, Roman Temple, and for older kids, the Chapel of Bones . Just outside of town is the Almendres Cromlech stone circle.

Day 4 : The longest day of driving, finish your road trip in Faro . There are many towns in the Alentejo to stop for lunch and to stretch your legs.

End your time either in Faro itself, or stay in any of the towns along the Algarve coast.

9. Road Trip through Southern Portugal

One of the best European road trips for families is the stunning southern region of Portugal, the Algarve . Start your 7-day road trip to Faro , where the only international airport is.

ROAD TRIP THROUGH SOUTHERN PORTUGAL SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 7-days 🇵🇹 European country: Portugal 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Lisbon → Alentejo → Lagos → Albufeira → Faro ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: Discovering the beautiful beaches, historic towns, and delicious cuisine of Southern Portugal.

There are lots of things to do in Faro , so you should stay at least one day there. Start off by visiting the Moorish castle to learn about the history.

The rest of the day, you can walk around the old town and walk the Ludo Trail or a Segway Tour in Ria Formosa Natural Park , where you might spot flamingos!

Next, head to Carvoeiro town . Stay two days and relax at the beach, take a boat trip, or rent kayaks to see the astounding Benagil Cave . Walk the Carvoeiro Boardwalk to Algar Seco and explore the rock formations and caves.

There is even a natural pool, but it is not recommended to let the kids swim in it as underwater currents can get very strong coming through under the rocks. From here, you can also hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail all the way to Marinha Beach.

Continue your road trip to Lagos , where you can spend a couple of days exploring stunning beaches and the old fort, and take the trip to the jaw-dropping rock formations at Ponta da Piedade .

There you can walk along the boardwalk or take a boat trip. Make sure you also visit Sagres cliffs and watch the surfers ride the waves from above. If you want to take surf classes , Lagos is also a great place for that.

For the last couple of days, head back east on the coast past Faro to the quaint coastal town of Tavira . There you can take a small tourist train over to Barril Beach on Tavira Island in Ria Formosa Natural Park .

At Barril Beach, there is a unique anchor cemetery that is fun to see for the whole family. You can also take a boat trip to another part of Tavira Island .

The town is also wonderful to walk around, exploring the remains of Tavira Castle and the Camera Obscura .

👉🏼 Book your Southern Portugal Tours here in Algarve!!

10. North Wales, England Road Trip

North Wales is a great place to start a UK road trip. Begin your journey in Snowdonia National Park , which offers incredible views of mountains, lakes, and waterfalls.

NORTH WALES, ENGLAND ROAD TRIP SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 5-7 days 🇬🇧 European country: Wales (Note: North Wales is in Wales, not England) 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Chester → Snowdonia National Park → Llandudno → Conwy → Caernarfon ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: The rugged beauty of North Wales, with its majestic mountains, historic castles, and picturesque coastal towns.

If you don’t want to climb the highest mountain in Wales, take the Snowdon Mountain Railway to see spectacular views of  Welsh scenery from the summit. 

Next, travel to Conwy to see the beautiful medieval castle and visit some independent shops. You will fall in love with the beautiful scenery of this little town.

In less than 20 minutes, you can drive to the Great Orme headland . Again, you won’t need to climb there as you can use the cable car or park your car at the top. 

On your way to Anglesey Island, which takes just one hour’s drive, stop at Aber Falls and hike to one of the best waterfalls in North Wales. This walk is very easy and takes only 30 minutes.

Then, go back on the road and follow the North Wales Expressway to visit the biggest Welsh island.

There are plenty of beautiful sandy beaches on Anglesey Island . Newborough Beach or Traeth Mawr are great places to relax during your European road trip with your family.

Make sure to spend at least one day driving around the island, as it is one of the most beautiful spots in North Wales.

 Don’t miss Portmeirion , located one hour drive from Anglesey Island. You will not find anything like this anywhere in the country. This little town looks more like Italy than Wales. I suggest booking a  Portmeirion, Snowdonia & Castle Tour .

The Italian village became one of the best-hidden gems in North Wales . Sub-tropical gardens and colorful buildings are lovely to see in the rainy Welsh climate.

👉🏼 Book your North Wales, England Tours here!

11. Northern Ireland

One of the best road trips for families worldwide can be found somewhere in Ireland . It’s called  Northern Ireland.

The scenery is beautiful, between the lush green landscapes and coastline. Plus, the people are so friendly! From National Parks to museums, there’s also no shortage of fun things to do for a Northern Ireland road trip itinerary . 

NORTHERN IRELAND ROAD TRIP SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 5-7 days 🇬🇧 European country: Northern Ireland 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Belfast → Causeway Coastal Route → Giant’s Causeway → Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge → Derry ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: The stunning landscapes and historic sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Giant’s Causeway.

When planning a Northern Ireland road trip, Belfast is the best place to start to experience the city before driving up the coastline. Belfast is a great, walkable city with several restaurants, and the Titanic Museum is one of the highlights. 

From Belfast, Carrickfergus is a coastal town that’s about an hour north of the city. The focal point of Carrickfergus is the beautiful castle, which has a fun section for families and amazing views.

If you’re visiting Carrickfergus with kids , you can’t miss Marine Gardens . It’s a huge playground with a pirate ship play structure and several play areas for kids of all ages. 

From Carrickfergus, the route along Causeway Coast has the most amazing views. The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Giant’s Causeway are two of the highlights along the coast.

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is in the town of Ballintoy , and it’s an old fisherman’s bridge 100 feet above the water that has the most beautiful views of the coast.

Giant’s Causeway is like a huge, natural playground for kids. It’s filled with basalt rocks of varying heights and a fun story to go along with it. 

While road-tripping along the Causeway Coast, be sure to stay in one of several villages to get a local feel for Northern Ireland.

Cushendall and Bushmills both have great options for places to stay while you’re sightseeing in Northern Ireland. 

👉🏼 Book your Northern Ireland Tours here!

12. Turkey: A Road Trip between Europe & Asia

The country of Turkey combines the traditions of two continents. It thus offers diverse experiences for the whole family.

The family will start the 10 days Turkey itinerary in the cultural capital of Istanbul before venturing to the region of Cappadocia .

TURKEY: A ROAD TRIP BETWEEN EUROPE & ASIA SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 10-14 days 🇹🇷 European country: Turkey 🚗 Suggested itinerary: Istanbul → Troy → Ephesus → Cappadocia → Antalya ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: The blend of European and Asian cultures, with its rich history, diverse landscapes, and vibrant cities.

Your family will also be visiting the coastal city of Antalya , the unique landscape of Pamukkale, and the ancient ruins of Ephesus. This road trip provides something for everyone with adventure, culture, history, and relaxation.

In Istanbul, you will be exploring both the European side and Asian sides of the city. It’s the only city in the world to sit on two different continents.

Spend the first 3 days in Istanbul , immersing the family in the great architecture, like the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, and the eye-catching souvenir shopping in the grand bazaar.

If fussy food taste isn’t an issue, take a daytime food tour. For something subterranean, go underground to the hauntingly beautiful Basilica Cistern . 

Grab your car at the Istanbul airport and make your way toward the otherworldly region of Cappadocia .

A highlight of the trip for the whole family, you will spend the next 3 days discovering unique rock formations and picturesque valleys and indulging in a jaw-dropping hot air balloon ride at sunrise.

Next, take the scenic drive to Antalya on the turquoise coast. Explore the old town and spend the day at the famous Konyaalti Beach . Try your hand at paragliding over the scenic shores.

Leave the Mediterranean Sea for more medicinal waters. Explore the Pamukkale thermal pools , known to heal many bodily conditions. End your road trip at the ruins of Ephesus just outside of the small town of Selcuk.

Either drop your car at the Izmir airport and fly home or drive back to the Istanbul airport to avoid pesky ‘ different drop off ’ fees.

👉🏼 Book your Istanbul, Turkey Tours here!

13. The Ultimate Best European Road Trip With Your Family

A 6-week European Road Trip , starting in the Northeast in Germany , then to the Southeast and back, ending in The Netherlands.

Covering 10 countries in total. Families will have a blast since this is a perfect way to introduce different cultures and food to kids, and there are plenty of different activities to be done on the route.

THE ULTIMATE BEST EUROPEAN ROAD TRIP WITH YOUR FAMILY SUMMARY: ⏰ Recommended road trip time: 3-4 weeks 🇪🇺 European country: Multiple (covering various countries in Europe) 🚗 Suggested itinerary: This comprehensive road trip covers multiple countries and highlights across Europe. ⭐ Main highlight of the road trip: An epic journey across Europe, exploring diverse cultures, historic landmarks, and natural wonders.

The first week you’ll be in Germany, starting in Hamburg . Go on a (self-)guided tour of this Hanseatic city . Then head South and visit Sinsheim , with its auto & Technik museum.

All those cars and planes with slides are fun for kids. End your week in Füssen with the Neuschwanstein Castle (the Disney castle).

The second week is in Austria , with lots of outdoor opportunities. Go hiking in the mountains and walk on Highline 179, a cool suspension bridge.

After Austria comes a week in Slovenia , go  swimming in Lake Bled, hike the Vintgar Gorge, and wander around Ljubljana. End your week in Ptuj with a visit to the castle.

After Ptuj, Zagreb in Croatia is not that far away. There’s so much to see and do in Croatia . Your fourth week will be packed. After Zagreb, visit Zadar, Krk island and Pula . All beautiful old cities to explore, but don’t forget to go for a swim in the sea.

The fifth week is for Italy and Switzerland . Explore Trieste and go hiking in the Dolomites. Stare at the beautiful mountain vistas at St. Moritz and sample cheese at the Emmentaler Schaukäserei .

Week 6 is devoted to France, Luxembourg, Belgium, and The Netherlands . Feel like a knight at castle Haut-Kœnigsbourg, see the changing of the guards in Luxembourg-city, go kayaking on the river Ourthe and explore Maastricht, one of the most beautiful Dutch cities.

GETTING READY FOR A EUROPE ROAD TRIP?

🚗 RENT YOUR CAR: You can rent a car directly from the airport you arrive at. I recommend you compare pricing on  DiscoverCars  or  Expedia . Or maybe you want to rent a campervan to explore Europe even more. 📱 GET YOUR INTERNATIONAL eSIM CARD : Airolo offers great deals for international eSIM cards when you travel outside your country of residence. 🚗 LEARN HOW TO DRIVE IN EUROPE : Before heading to Europe, why not take a quick online tutorial by Tripiamo ? Learn more here . 🎟️ BOOK YOUR TOURS : Viator  and  Get Your Guide  are two great websites for finding fun and unique tours around the world. It can help you make a memorable  bucket list trip . 👌 LEARN A FEW WORDS IN THE LOCAL LANGUAGE : Rosetta Stone is a great app for learning a new language. 📱 DOWNLOAD A FEW APPS: The  GoWhee app  has unique recommendations for kid-friendly activities, lodging, and restaurants.  AllTrails  is our go-to app for looking at trail reports and seeing if the trail is kid-friendly.

FAQ: Best European Road Trips With the Family

When should you plan a family road trip in europe.

The weather and climate change from country to country across the continent, but the summer months are usually great weather-wise. Some southern countries may get pretty hot, like Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

But summer is also when there are more tourists and kids are out of school, so there are more people and higher prices. My favorite time to visit Europe is in May or September.

The weather is usually great but not too hot, and it’s not too crowded. If you plan on traveling during the winter months, try to go to Southern countries like Spain, Italy, and Portugal.

What is the best way for a family to travel around Europe?

When you’re traveling with younger kids, I recommend renting a car. Renting a car has lots of advantages. Not only does a rental car provide the comfort of having your own space during travel, but it also gives the family more freedom in planning routes and stops during your family trips to Europe.

How do I plan a European road trip?

Planning a European road trip can be a thrilling and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Decide on your route and budget: Before planning, decide where in Europe you want to go and how much you are willing to spend.
• Choose your vehicle: After deciding where you’re going and how much money you have to spend, it’s time to pick out your mode of transportation. If you plan on staying in one area for a while, consider renting a car or campervan to explore conveniently and more freely.
• Book accommodations: Once you have chosen your route and mode of transportation, it’s time to book accommodations along the way. Look into hotels, hostels, Airbnb, or camping sites, depending on what fits best into your budget and needs for each area.
• Research tourist attractions: Make sure to research local attractions before arriving at each destination to experience all the hidden gems along the way!
• Get travel insurance: Purchase travel insurance before departing! This will give you peace of mind knowing that unexpected events (like medical emergencies) are covered during your travels abroad.

Final Thoughts: Best European Road Trips With the Family

Road trips are a great way to explore new cultures and have memories that will last for a lifetime.

Our 13 Best European Road Trips For Families will allow families of all ages to experience something extraordinary.

Whether it’s visiting the canals of Amsterdam in the Netherlands, catching breathtaking views of Italy’s Cinque Terre coast, or taking a tour of Switzerland’s Berner Oberland region, these unique road trips give travelers the freedom to create their adventures and discover hidden gems at their own pace.

With so much history and culture to explore, embark on one or more of our 13 best European road trips for families today!

Which of those European family road trips would you do?

Related Articles

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like to read the following articles:

• An Ireland Itinerary 7 Days for the Entire Family
• 5 Best Destinations for Visiting Spain with Toddlers
• Spain Itinerary: A 14 Days Family Adventure

Piccolo Explorer

London Days Out | Family Travel

Europe Road Trips with Kids

Planning a family road trip to Europe from the UK? Over the past eight years, we have crossed to the continent several times, driving from London for holidays in France, Switzerland and Italy. In this post, I will share tips for planning to travel to Europe by car and ideas for Europe road trips with kids.

Table of Contents

Crossing England to France

The main options to cross the English Channel to travel between England and France by car are to travel on a ferry boat or to take the Le Shuttle passenger shuttle.

Eurotunnel Le Shuttle

The easiest and fastest way to travel between England and France is to take the Le Shuttle (previously Eurotunnel Le Shuttle) from Folkestone to Calais. The car shuttle ride takes only takes 35 minutes.

We have travelled on Le Shuttle for each of our Europe family road trips, including several car trips with our dogs. Each time we found the process of travelling on Le Shuttle easy and seamless from start to finish.

It is easy to book with Le Shuttle and manage your booking online, including make any changes to your booking and add passenger details. There are three main types of ticket options for Le Shuttle: Standard (non-refundable), Standard Refundable and Flexiplus.

Le Shuttle also has special ticket offers for day trips, overnight stays and short stays. Standard Refundable one-way ticket prices with Le Shuttle start from £150 per vehicle, while Flexiplus one-way ticket prices start from £274 per vehicle. Check the latest Le Shuttle ticket prices

Since our family road trips to Europe are always during peak periods – bank holiday weekends, half term breaks and school holidays – we have found it worth the extra charge to book Flexiplus tickets. With Le Shuttle Flexiplus , you can turn up at anytime on your booked travel day and have priority for boarding once you are past border controls.

The Flexiplus Lounges at Le Shuttle Folkestone and Calais terminals are located after border control. The lounges offer complimentary food and refreshments, including wraps, sandwiches, soup, fresh fruit, snacks and desserts.

Ferries from Dover to Calais are usually the cheapest option to cross between England and France. Ferry crossings take around 1 hour 30 minutes to arrive at Calais.

There are several ferry boat options from Dover to Calais, such as P&O Ferries and Direct Ferries. Ferry boats typically offer facilities on board such as duty free shopping, restaurants and toilets. Trip costs on P&O Ferries for one car and up to 9 people start from £63 for one way and £126 for return.

Check the latest P&O Ferries ticket prices

Driving in the EU Requirements

When planning a UK to Europe road trip, make sure that you are up to date on the latest government advice. The best resources for UK drivers in Europe are: GOV.UK Driving in the EU , AA Driving in Europe and Green Flag Essential Checks Europe .

Compulsory equipment requirements for a driving holiday in Europe include an UK identifier (on your number plate or a UK sticker), headlamp beam converters, a first aid kit, a warning triangle and high-visibility jacket. We have the AA Euro Travel Kit which contains all of the essential items for driving in Europe.

If you are travelling on Le Shuttle, then you can also purchase an AA Euro Travel Kit, or any of the required items, at the AA Travel Shop at Folkestone Terminal  or at the Flexiplus Lounge.

With so many exciting destinations to explore, road trips are one of the best ways to travel Europe with children. In this section, I will share ideas for Europe road trips with kids from our family holidays driving to Europe from UK.

France Road Trips

Disneyland paris.

Disneyland Paris is a popular destination for day trips and road trips from UK to Europe. We have planned several road trips to Disney Paris through the years. Disneyland Paris is an easy 3 hour 30 minute drive from the Le Shuttle or ferry terminals of Calais, France.

There are plenty of accommodation options around Disneyland Paris, many a short shuttle bus away from the theme parks. The closest on-site Disney Paris hotel is Disneyland Hotel , which is located at the Disneyland Park entrance and re-opened on 25 January. Disney Hotel New York – the Art of Marvel and Disney Newport Bay Club on Lake Disney are a 10 to 15 walk to the theme park entrances.

Val d’Europe is a convenient area to stay in near Disneyland Paris, offering a wide array of hotels, aparthotels and Airbnb flats within steps of shops, restaurants and other facilities. Hotel L’Elysee and Staycity Aparthotels are highly rated accommodation options in Val d’Europe for visiting Disneyland Paris.

On our most recent road trip to Disneyland Paris, we stayed at a lovely pet-friendly house in Lésigny. The Airbnb was tucked away in the south-eastern Paris suburbs, about a 20 minute drive from Disneyland Paris. I share more about the Airbnb near Disneyland Paris in our 2022 Disneyland Paris Trip Report .

Read on for tips and inspiration for planning a trip to Disneyland Paris ;

Best Restaurants at Disneyland Paris

Guide to Disneyland Paris Attractions

Review: Disney Hotel New York – Art of Marvel

Review: Disney Newport Bay Club

Disneyland Paris Trip Report 2022

Disneyland Paris Trip Report 2021

French Alps

The French Alps is a top Europe road trip destination for family summer holidays. If you are traveling to France from UK by car, the French Alps towns of Annecy, Chamonix are about a 8 to 9 hour drive from the port city of Calais, France.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (or simply Chamonix) is one of best destinations for a French Alps summer road trip, with a variety of places to stay, plenty of shops and facilities in the town centre and so much to do for the whole family.

While it’s best known as a winter sports destination, Chamonix-Mont-Blanc (or simply Chamonix) also makes a fantastic base for enjoying mountain adventures in the summer. Families can enjoy hiking, lake swimming, mountain biking, road cycling and more in Chamonix and the surrounding area. Highlights for our family holidays in Chamonix in summer include enjoying family-friendly hikes and visits to Merlet Animal Park .

Find tips for visiting Chamonix, along with inspiration for things to do in Chamonix in summer in this post: Visiting Chamonix in the Summer

Morzine , located at the heart of the Portes du Soleil area is another popular destination for a family holiday in the French Alps. The charming alpine village and resort of Morzine offer top-notch facilities, great restaurants and a summer programme of family events and activities.

We keep coming back to Morzine in the summer for the wide range of outdoor activities the resort and surrounding area offers. Between the alpine walking and hiking trails, treetop adventure parks, an equestrian centre, an aquatic centre and much more, there is plenty to do for families in Morzine.

One of our favourite places to visit is the nearby Lake Montriond, a picturesque alpine lake that offers a wide range of activities, from recreational water sports to hiking excursions.

Annecy , one of the most picturesque towns in France, is a centrally located in the Rhone-Alps region. You can easily combine a visit to Annecy with Morzine or Chamonix on a French Alps road trip, since it is about 1 to 1 hour 30 minutes drive away. Known for its stunning lake surrounded by mountains and the picturesque canals that wind through its medieval centre, Annecy has been nicknamed the “Venice of the Alps”.

Swimming, sailing, water skiing are popular water activities at Lake Annecy, considered the purest lake in Europe thanks to conservation efforts. Summer mountain activities at Annecy include hiking, biking, canyoning and paragliding. The historic center of Annecy is also a pleasure to explore, with one of the top sights being the Palais de l’Ile, built on a natural rocky island in the 12th century.

Read on for tips and inspiration for planning a French Alps road trip with kids ;

Best Family Hikes in the French Alps

Guide to Visiting Morzine in Summer

Guide to Visiting Chamonix in Summer

La Bourgeoise Samoëns Hike, French Alps

Grand Balcon Sud Chamonix Hike

Parc de Merlet, Les Houches in the French Alps

Alsace Christmas Markets

One of the best European destinations with kids, the Christmas markets in the Alsace region of France are typically open from late November to late December. Alsace cities and towns to visit for their outstanding Christmas Markets are Strasbourg, Colmar, Kaysersberg, Eguisheim, Riquewihr and Ribeauvillé.

On a Europe Christmas road trip, we stayed in the historic town centre of Colmar to visit the Alsace Christmas Markets. Situated in northeast France, Colmar is near the border with Germany and 45 minutes from Strasbourg, the Alsatian region capital.

Colmar makes a convenient base for exploring the Alsace Christmas Markets since the town is a short drive, between 20 to 30 minutes, from the picturesque villages and medieval towns of Kaysersberg, Riquewihr and Eguisheim.

If you have time to, it is also a great experience to head into the surrounding vineyards of the Alsace region to visit the local wineries. On our Europe Christmas road trip, we visited one of the wineries,  Maison Gustave Lorentz , which is about 30 minutes drive from Colmar. Make sure to check the opening hours, since many wineries are only open during certain days of the week depending on the time of year.

Read on for more tips and inspiration for visiting the Alsase Christmas Markets;

Colmar France Christmas Markets Guide

Switzerland Road Trips

With its stunning natural beauty, Switzerland is an excellent destination for Europe road trips with kids. We planned a Switzerland road trip over October half term to Zermatt, Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald in the Swiss Alps.

Note that to drive in Switzerland, your car must have a special toll sticker, or vignette (sticker or e-vignette). The vignette costs CHF 40 and can be purchased online or at customs upon entering the country. You can find more details or buy a vignette on the Swiss government website .

If you are planning an October road trip to the Alps, do keep in mind that there are limited mountain transport options and some restaurants close for a few weeks until the start of the winter season. In the Swiss Alps, for example, the gondola transport from Grindelwald to Männlichen is typically closed from the last week of October.

For our October half term road trip to Switzerland, the first place we stayed in was Zermatt , located in the Valais region. We then drove north to our Airbnb in Wilderswil, a small village on the outskirts of Interlaken to explore the Jungfrau Region .

Zermatt Valais

Zermatt is a car-free village. If you are travelling by car to Zermatt, you will need to park your car in the neighboring village of Täsch, which is 5km away. Options for parking in Täsch are at the train station, Matterhorn Terminal, or at private car parks.

We booked a parking space in advance at Taxi Christophe , a covered parking lot in Täsch. Taxi Cristophe also arranges the taxi transfers and e-taxis to and from Zermatt. The taxi transfer dropped us off at a taxi station at the entrance of Zermatt. An e-taxi then picked us up moments later and brought us as close as possible to our Airbnb flat.

The highlight of our short stay in Zermatt over October half term was taking the Gornergrat Railway for the 35 minute cogwheel train ride to the top of Gornergrat (3100m). Gornergrat Railway is open year round, with four stops along the way with various options for hiking or snowshoeing

From Gornergrat, we hiked to Riffelsee, which is an easy downhill walk that takes about 30 minutes. Riffelsee is an alpine lake at 2770m offering stunning reflection views of the Matterhorn peak. It is then a short walk up from the lake to Rotenboden station, the next stop on the Gornergrat Railway back to Zermatt.

Jungfrau Region

A popular destination for a Swiss Alps road trip, the Jungfrau region has so much to offer for outdoor activities, stunning natural beauty and tourist attractions. Located in the Bernese Oberland, the Jungfrau region includes the Jungfrau massif, the Lauterbrunnen Valley, Mürren, Gimmelwald, Grindelwald and Interlaken.

The highlights of the Jungfrau part of our Switzerland road trip were exploring Lauterbrunnen, taking the cable car to the mountain village of Mürren and hiking along the Jungfrau Eiger Walk to Kleine Scheidegg.

To visit Mürren (1650m), and enjoy the amazing views overlooking the Lauterbrunnen valley, there is a cable car from the Stechelberg station, which is a 5 to 10 minute drive from Lauterbrunnen village. The brilliant Allmendhubel “Flower Park” playground (1932m) is a short funicular ride away from Mürren. (Note that the Allmendhubel playground is only open from July through early October.)

The following day we drove to Grindelwald, where we took a cable car to Eigergletscher. From there, we walked down to Kleine Scheidegg, following the Jungfrau Eiger Walk, a 2km hike which offers stunning views of the Eiger.

We had lunch at Bergrestaurant at the Kleine Scheidegg station, which I can recommend, before returning to Eigergletscher to take the cable car back to Grindelwald. Another option to get between Eigergletscher and Kleine Scheidegg is to take the Jungfraubahn train that runs hourly. Usually there is also a train that operates between Grindelwald and Kleine Scheidegg, however, this was closed for maintenance when we visited.

For our stay in the Jungfrau region, we chose a pet-friendly Airbnb rental in Wilderswil that was a comfortable size for our family. The Airbnb had a grill, outdoor patio dining area and garden space with beautiful mountain views. Wilderswil was also conveniently located for exploring the nearby valleys of Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald.

Pet Travel to Europe

One of the reasons why we love planning road trips is that we can bring our dogs on our family holidays to Europe. Rex and Reya, our German Shepherds, have come with us on Europe road trips to the French Alps , Alsace, Switzerland and Fano Italy .

I have found most places we have visited in France, Switzerland and Italy to be very welcoming to dogs. We haven’t had issues finding pet-friendly Airbnbs, even if it does narrow down the selection. I always check that dogs are allowed before making a restaurant reservation and, generally, most restaurants are dog-friendly.

When planning to travel with a pet to Europe, it is important to speak to your vet about your specific travel requirements well ahead of your trip. Requirements vary by country and you may need to start preparing for your pet to travel weeks in advance. The best resource for up to date information on travelling with your pet is GOV.UK Taking Your Pet Abroad .

Europe Travel Inspiration

I hope you have found this post on planning a road trip in Europe with kids helpful! Find more tips, ideas and inspiration for travelling Europe with children in our travel guides;

Top Things to do in Fano Italy

Tips for Visiting Granada Spain with Kids

Hike to Lago d’Arpy, Aosta Valley, Italy with Kids

Morzine France in Summer Guide

Chamonix France in Summer Guide

Where to Eat in Disneyland Paris

Pin for Later – Best Europe Road Trips with Kids

You May Also Like

Our Visit to the Waikiki Aquarium

Disney Crystal Palace Character Meal Review

Disney Newport Bay Club Disneyland Paris Hotel Review

Privacy Policy

Europe Road Trip – 24 Incredible Routes

This post may contain affiliate links, from which we earn an income. Click here to read our affiliate policy.

The Best Road Trips in Europe

Europe is perfect for an epic road trip! From the rolling fields of Tuscany and the soaring mountains of the Sierra Nevada to the beaches of the South of France and the mighty Alps, you can find a European road trip route to suit your taste and travel style.

Whether you’re road tripping in Europe for a week, a month, or a year, our top Europe road trip itinerary ideas will give you plenty of inspiration to get on the road.

We have lived on the road in Europe for over five years, and in our Europe trip planner, we share our top routes and itineraries, ideas about what do to and see, and accommodation recommendations. If you’ve got wheels there’s a European road trip here for you!

Europe Road Trip Planner

We have traveled every single one of these European roads in and on a variety of vehicles! Whether you ride a motorbike, drive Europe by car or you’re traveling in a motorhome or RV, you’ll find some of the best European road trip ideas here.

If you’re on a flying visit and or want a 3 month Europe road trip , we have the best Europe road trip itineraries for you. Our road trip planner Europe includes specific road trip routes, amazing hotel recommendations, and insider travel tips to help you plan a driving holiday in Europe.

RELATED POST: Why We Think These Are the Best Driving Roads in Europe

Are you planning to rent a car in Europe? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip through Europe.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Europe. We recommend Motorhome Republic for their large range of fully equipped vehicles, competitive pricing, and great customer service. Use the Park4Night app to find overnight spots and campsites, and sleep on a high mountain pass, next to a beautiful lake, or in a wildflower meadow.

Europe Road Trip Map

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Europe . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Austria
• Fodor’s Vienna and the Best of Austria
• DK Eyewitness Austria
• Read Related Posts
• Austria Travel Guide
• Austria Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Driving in the Alps: Top Tips & Best Routes
• How to Visit Innsbruck in Summer

Vienna to Innsbruck Road Trip

Vienna – graz – hallstatt – salzburg – zell am see – mayrhofen – innsbruck.

• Distance: 615km
• Duration: 10-14 days
• Drive Time: 9 hours
• When: May – October

We recommend starting your two week Austrian road trip in Vienna and concluding the itinerary in Innsbruck.

As you leave Vienna, beautiful and quaint Austrian towns and villages will greet you as you travel south toward the foodie city of Graz, the next major stop on your Austrian itinerary. From here, it’s north to Hallstatt, a small, alpine village situated on the western shores of Hallstätter See, also known as Hallstatt Lake, that offers iconic views and outdoor experiences. 

Next up is Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We recommend leaving enough time in your itinerary to explore the Baroque architecture of the city and visit the Salzburg Fortress for stunning panoramic views. From Salzburg, head to Zell am See, a charming mountain town surrounded by the unforgettable mountain peaks of the Alps. 

Zell am See is the perfect spot from which to drive the spectacular Glossglockner high alpine pass, a mountain road that twists and bends itself along the Alps mountains, providing panoramic scenery and an unforgettable experience.

Your journey will continue on to Mayrhofen, a popular skiing destination known for its vibrant nightlife, unrivaled winter sports, and stunning alpine scenery. 

Finally, finish your Austria road trip in Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol region. This Austrian city is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and is home to several impressive landmarks. Innsbruck is the perfect place to end your road trip and reflect on the stunning beauty of Austria.

• Driving the gorgeous mountain roads, when you feel like you’re on top of the world!
• Listening to Mozart in Salzburg, his birthplace and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Walking out 1,48 feet onto the Hallstatt World Heritage Skywalk for breathtaking views of the Hallstätter See.

Where to Stay

Vienna ⇒ Jaz in the City Vienna for its city center location, modern interior, and funky bar.

Salzburg ⇒   Altstadthotel Wolf-Dietrich  for its old town setting, luxury spa, and fantastic breakfast.

Innsbruck ⇒ Hotel Grauer Bär for its perfect downtown location, light and stylish rooms, and excellent customer service.

• Lonely Planet France
• DK Eyewitness Road Trips France
• Fodor’s Essential France
• France Travel Guide
• France Road Trip – 13 Amazing Itineraries
• South of France Road Trip: Route, Highlights & Tips
• Route Napoleon: A Historic French Road Trip
• Normandy Road Trip: Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary
• Motorhoming in France: Your Complete Touring Guide
• Driving to France from UK: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know
• Route des Grandes Alpes: An Epic French Road Trip

Loire Valley Road Trip

Orleans – Blois – Tours – Angers – Nantes

• Distance: 350km
• Duration: 1 week
• Drive Time: 6 hours
• When: year-round

Centre-Val de Loire is a landlocked region, located to the southwest of the French capital Paris. As the name suggests this region is all about the magnificent river Loire. Just four to five hours from Calais to the capital of Orleans, and three from Paris, this region is a popular holiday region and makes an ideal destination for a road trip.

This is a real France bucket list trip. Fine historical cities and towns, many of which stand on the banks of the Loire, offer superb Renaissance religious buildings and architecture and of course, the fabulous and extravagant chateaux the region is best known for.

Follow this Loire Valley road trip between famous cities and marvel at the natural wonders, opulent architecture, charming towns, and breathtaking castles of one of France’s best-loved regions.

You’ll visit the many chateaux on the route, including the famous Chateau de Chambord and Chateau de Villandry, and explore the Loire’s historic towns, learning about French history, architecture, and culture and you go.

Discover Joan of Arc’s legacy in Orleans and take a ride on a giant machine elephant in Nantes as you take in the beautiful Loire landscape.

• Taking a vineyard tour to taste the delicious white wines, like Vouvray, Pouilly-Fume, and Sancerre, which are produced here.
• Visiting the world-famous Chateau Chenonceau, the only castle on the Loire built by women.
• Watching the iconic steampunk elephant strutt its stuff at Machines de L’Ile on the Ile de Nantes, an urban island in the Loire river.

Orléans ⇒   Empreinte Hotel & Spa for its riverbank location, beautiful bathrooms, and private spa.

Tours ⇒ Château Belmont  for its wonderful grounds, stylish bedrooms, and excellent restaurant.

Nantes ⇒ Okko Hotels Nantes Château   for its city center location, cool decor, and private parking.

Pyrenees Road Trip

Lourdes – cauterets – gavarnie – arreau – bagnares-de-luchon.

• Distance: 1095km
• Drive Time: 3 hours
• When: May – September

This is a Pyrenees road trip and hiking tour all in one. With four easy-to-moderate classic Hautes-Pyrenees hikes en route plus an extra in Spain just over the border and some of the most spectacular mountains on the map of Europe at your feet, this is an amazing route. 

One of our go-to happy places, get our detailed seven day Pyrenees hiking tour guide, including an interactive map of hikes and the suggested route.

• Taking a dip in the crystal clear waters of the beautiful Lac de Gaube on a hot summer’s day.
• Braving the nail-biting drive up the Pic du Midi and the incredible views from the Col du Tourmalet.
• Standing at the top of Pic de la Pahule with the entire Pyrenees mountain range at your feet.

Lourdes ⇒ Villa L’Orante  for its commanding views, beautiful bathrooms, and delicious homemade breakfasts.

Gavarnie ⇒ Hotel Le Taillon  for its location, views, and hearty mountain food.

Bagnares-de-Luchon ⇒ Le Castel d’Alti   for its elegant decor, heated jacuzzi and pool, and live music in the bar.

South of France Road Trip

Lyon – st croix du verdon – aups – cassis – aix-en-provence – bezier – carcassonne – toulouse.

• Distance: 1030km
• Duration: 2-3 weeks
• Drive Time: 15 hours
• When: avoid July and August

A road trip in France is one of the best ways to see this beautiful country, and because France is so accessible, this is an easy 2 week Europe road trip from UK and the rest of Europe

Start in the foodie city of Lyon, a five hour drive south of Paris , before using the historic Route Napoleon to travel south. It’s one of the  best drives in Europe , free and incredibly scenic.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a gorgeous little town and worth a stop before you take a jaunt around the stunning Gorge du Verdon.

Try some  wild swimming in the Lac de Sainte-Croix here before making your way to Aups for their authentic farmers market and Provencal vibe.

Stop at Cassis to explore the Calanques, huge gashes in the coastal cliffs, often only accessible by boat. Take a day trip out for a picnic and an idyllic afternoon of soaking up the sun and snorkeling.

Head north to the vibrant and pretty French city of Aix-en-Provence and spend an evening strolling through the charming squares and winding alleys of this elegant and cultured city.

Next up is the drive east across the hauntingly beautiful and off-the-beaten-track Camargue, before arriving at Bezier, famous for the nine locks of the Midi Canal.

Move on to Carcassonne, dipping into the Pyrenees en route to see the incredible Peyrepertuse Castle, before spending a few days marveling at La Cite, the Disneyesque medieval citadel of Carcassonne. 

The pink city of Toulouse is your last stop and what a road trip destination it is! Head into the old town for great food, live music, and a typically Occitan atmosphere of noise, heat, and fun. 

• Walking through the fragrant iconic lavender fields of Valensole in Provence (June is the best month).
• Kayaking to hiffen beaches in the stunning Calanques National Park from Cassis.
• Discovering the atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage site of the medieval citadel in Carcassonne.

Lyon ⇒ Mob Hotel Lyon for stylish design, contemporary dining, and live DJ sets.

Aix-en-Provence ⇒   Le Pigonnet  for its beautiful location and luxury with a touch of glamour.

Carcassonne ⇒ Hotel de la Cite   for the Citadel location, traditional character, and spa.

• Lonely Planet Germany
• The Rough Guide to Germany
• DK Eyewitness Germany
• Germany Travel Guide
• Six Unmissable Germany Road Trip Routes
• Deutsche Märchenstraße: Germany’s Fairy Tale Road
• Romantic Road Germany: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Deutsche Alpenstrasse: Route, Map & Highlights
• Motorhome Germany: Complete Touring Guide
• Driving from UK to Germany: Best Routes, Costs & Tips

The Fairy Tale Road

Frankfurt – steinau – marburg – kassel – gottingen – hamelin – bremen.

• Distance: 660km
• Duration: 7 days
• Drive Time: 10 hours

This central to north Germany road trip from Frankfurt does not technically start in the city, but Frankfurt is the perfect place to fly into and pick up a rental car. If you’re spending the night, make sure you visit the South Bank, where you’ll find an eclectic selection of restaurants, bars, and clubs.

The Fairy Tale route, or Deutsche Märchenstraße , offers travelers a series of charming towns, half-timbered buildings, castles, beautiful parks, and museums, most of which reference one fairy tale or another from the story collection of the Brothers Grimm .   

The starting town of Steinau an der Strasse is straight out of their fairy tales, complete with typical half-timbered houses, twisting cobbled alleys, and the turreted Schloss Steinau which overlooks the whole town. Visit the Brüder Grimm Haus and Museum Steinau, both of which showcase the works of the brothers.

Take the back roads to Marburg and enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and slower pace for a few hours. Marburg’s altstadt is full of medieval houses and the hilltop Landgrafenschloss, a dramatic castle holding exhibits on sacred art and local history.

From Marburg, head to Kassel, where the Brothers Grimm spent their teenage years whilst working as librarians for the King of Westphalia, Jerome Bonaparte, the younger brother of the infamous Napoléon. Make sure to visit the Brüder Grimm Museum, and the Schloss und Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a tranquil green space and the largest hill park in all of Europe.

Gottingen is home to the University of Gottingen, where the Grimm Brothers once served as professors. Make for the traditional and atmospheric central market square, where the statue of Ganseliesel, the little goose girl of German lore, is one of the most kissed statues anywhere in the world. It is said that the kisser is rewarded with good luck, but maybe post-virus this practice will change!

Hameln (or Hamelin) is next up and one of the most famous fairy tale destinations in Europe. Hameln is the home of the Pied Piper, or Rattenfänger, who rid the town of rats in 1284, only to be cheated out of his payment.

The Pied Piper returned to Hameln a year later and lured away all the children. The story is re-enacted in the town center every Sunday between May and October and is a fantastic spectacle. The Weser Renaissance architecture of the Rattenfängerhaus and the Hochzeitshaus makes a fitting historic backdrop for the streets which are thronged with locals dressed the part, stalls selling food, and live music playing. 

Finally, on to the Hanseatic city of Bremen, your final stop. Good places to visit in Bremen include the traditional Marktplatz, which is located in the city’s charming altstadt, the 600-year-old Rathaus or town hall, the Roselius-Haus Museum, and the stunning St. Petri Dom, the 11th century gothic cathedral.

Another landmark can be found in the city’s central town square – a statue of the Bremen musicians and heroes of the Brothers Grimm story, ‘The Town Musicians of Bremen’.

• Watching the lively re-enactment of Hameln’s Pied Piper luring away visiting children.
• Exploring the altstads of towns en-route, where half-timbered houses and cobbled streets are common.
• Indulging in northern Germany’s hearty and tasty cuisine, like wurst , Germany’s delicious sausages, Bremer klaben , a yeasty cake of candied fruit and nuts, and kluten , a delicious dumpling.

Frankfurt ⇒ Kempinski Hotel Frankfurt Gravenbruch  for its proximity to the airport and city center, fantastic spa, and beautiful surroundings.

Marburg ⇒ The Vila Vita Rosenpark  for its central location, excellent regional restaurant, and stylish bedrooms.

Bremen ⇒ Atlantic Grand Hotel   for its perfect riverside location, bike rental from reception, and ultra-stylish bathrooms.

Southern Germany Road Trip

Wurzburg – rothenburg – ludwigsburg – burg hohenzollern – fussen – oberammergau – linderhof – munich – chiemsee.

• Distance: 790km
• Drive Time: 11 hours

This route follows parts of southern Germany’s famous Romantic Road and the Deutsche Alpenstrasse and has a good mix of Alpine views, historic schloss and castles, and typical Bavarian towns and villages.

As you head south, enjoy the views of the magnificent Alps ahead.

You could rush around in a week but we think ten to fourteen days gives you enough time to visit a few other places of interest when you’re all castled out!

Visiting in the summer will provide you with sunshine and clear skies but if you can do this route in winter, then you’ll be rewarded with some of the best Christmas markets in the world, fairytale snowy landscapes, and schloss decorated for the festive season.

More of a palace than a castle, the  Wurzburg Residence  is a huge Baroque palace. Beautiful inside, the real draw here is the gardens, laid out in a typically formal French style.

From here, head to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a fairytale Bavaria town packed with medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets.

Next up is  Ludwigsburg Residential Palace  one of the largest Baroque palaces in Germany. Its sumptuous interiors, with gold leaf and painted ceilings, are on a similar scale to Versaille, and the Palace Theatre is pretty impressive. 

Schloss Lichtenstein  is a pretty little Neo-Gothic castle built in the romantic style. It may not have the scale of other castles but it’s charming and quirky, with amazing views.

Hohenzollern Castle  does have the scale, along with grandeur, Rapunzel towers, and a long royal history. It’s one of the most magical castles to visit in Germany . 

Hohenzollern Palace (also known as Sigmaringen Castle) sits 50km to the southeast, can be seen on the horizon for miles around, and is a real  hidden gem in Germany .

Our next stop is the daddy of German castles, Neuschwanstein. Just outside Fussen, in the village of Schwangau, Neuschwanstein is a truly stunning Cinderella-esque schloss built by the fascinating historical figure of King Ludwig II, who ruled Bavaria in the 19th century.

If you have time when  visiting Neuschwanstein Castle , take a walk out to Marienbrucke bridge where you can take the perfect images of the castle, the earlier the better! This castle gets very busy every day through the year, so make sure you  book tickets online  before arriving.

Next up, take in Oberammergau, home of the famous once-in-a-decade Passion Play. There is also a fantastic  public spa  here, which may be just the thing after a few days of driving. The Germans know how to do a spa and this is one of the best we’ve visited.  

If you’ve time to spare,  visit the Zugspitze , you’re only an hour away from Germany’s highest mountain in the northern Alps . This natural wonder is easy to summit, with the help of the cogwheel train and cable car; it is absolutely worth the detour, and the views are stunning. 

The next stop is  Linderhof Palace , our favorite of the German schloss. This beautifully symmetrical and elegant palace is arguably King Ludwig’s finest creation. Check out the grottos in the landscaped grounds; they’re pretty special!

Finally, drive on to Munich for the Nymphenburg Palace, one of the premier royal palaces in Europe with magnificent interiors and gardens. Spend a day discovering Munich  and if you’re  road tripping in autumn , you could also take in Oktoberfest, Munich’s famous beer festival. 

Herrenchiemsee Palace  is the last stop on this Bavaria road trip. Known as the ‘Bavarian Versaille’, this palace is in a beautiful location on Herreninsel, the largest island on the Chiemsee lake.

• Discovering the pretty medieval houses and architecture of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
• Admiring King Ludwig’s before-their-time building innovations at his fairytale castles .
• Taking fantastic images of Neuschwanstein from Marienbruck at dawn, when the light is perfect and you’ll have the bridge to yourself. 

Rothenburg ob der Tauber ⇒ Hotel Reichs-Kuchenmeister  for its altstadt location, traditional Bavarian decor, and fabulous breakfast!

Oberammergau ⇒   Mammhofer Suites  for their family-run hospitality, central location, and kitchen access for self-catering.

Munich ⇒ Roomers Munich  for stylish design, superb customer service, and an excellent restaurant.

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to France.

• Lonely Planet Greece
• The Rough Guide to Greece
• DK Eyewitness Greece: Athens and the Mainland
• Greece Road Trip: Incredible Routes for the Best Trip
• One Day in Athens – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• Motorhome & Campervan Greece – Complete Guide

Mainland Greece Road Trip

Athens – delphi – galaxidi – nafpaktos – parga – meteora – mount olympus – thessaloniki.

• Distance: 947km
• Duration: 2 weeks
• Drive Time: 13 hours

The beautiful landscape of mainland Greece is dotted with ancient Greek monuments and temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites, hot springs, roadside churches, lemon trees overhanging the roads, and traditional tavernas where you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

This trip hits all the big highlights of Greece, taking you from the modern yet historic capital city to the most charming coastal towns before exploring the mountainous interior, all on one road trip.

You’ll visit the most important archaeological site in Greece, Ancient Delphi, and be in awe of the gravity-defying monasteries in Meteora, before making your pilgrimage to the most mythical of all sites in Greece, Mount Olympus.

• Looking across the magnificent landscape of Meteora, to capture that once-in-a-lifetime iconic image.
• Sipping a carafe of chilled Greek rose on the harbourside in Parga.
• Taking the hike up to the Acropolis in Athens in the early morning, before the crowds arrive.

Ancient Delphi ⇒ Fedriades Delphi Hotel , for its perfect location and fantastic Greek breakfast.

Parga ⇒ Villa Coralli apartments for its perfect location overlooking Krioneri Beach and 200m from the center of town.

Thessaloniki ⇒ Plaza Hotel in Ladadika, for its beachside location close to all the major attractions.

Peloponnese Road Trip

Athens – corinth – kalavryta – olympia – kalamata – the mani – sparta – nafplio – mycenae – athens.

• Distance: 818km

This two week Peloponnese itinerary and road trip starts in the capital city of Athens. Spend a day or two in this incredible city, which is both ancient and edgy.

As you head west from Athens towards Ancient Corinth, you’ll cross the Corinth Canal, which splits the Corinth Isthmus, the narrow strip of land between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese, and joins the Aegean and Ionian Seas, it’s worth making a stop to see what was a major feat of engineering back in the day.

Home to the legendary Jason of the Argonauts, of Golden Fleece fame, Ancient Corinth was one of the largest and most important cities of Greece, with a population of 90,000 in 400 BCE. The Romans demolished Corinth in 146 BCE before building a new city in its place in 44 BCE, which became the provincial capital of Greece.

Next up, head to Kalavryta, known officially as the place where the Greek War of Independence started when Greece revolted against the Turks in 1821, and where 500 souls were massacred by the Nazis in World War Two. The latter event is depicted in the Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust, a moving tribute to those residents and the story of the struggle between Greek partisans and the occupying forces.

The Diakofto-Kalavryta Railway is a vintage rack and pinion railway between the two towns. The route is incredibly scenic, passes through seven tunnels, and twists along the dramatic Vouraikos Gorge, clinging to its narrow ledge over the churning rapids below – make sure to fit this into your visit before moving on to Ancient Olympia.

The birthplace of the Olympic Games, Ancient Olympia is where the Games took place every four years, for over 1100 years! The Olympic Flame is still lit here for the modern Games. This beautiful, shady archaeological site is incredibly evocative – wandering through the ruins, it’s easy to imagine the ripped athletes and excited spectators of its heyday, amongst the magnificent temples and athletic facilities.

Our route has two options at this point – head inland for spectacular scenery and mountain passes, or take the coastal route around the middle peninsula of the Peloponnese through the wild and rugged Messinian Mani, with picture-perfect Kardamyli and the colorful harbor of pretty Gythio awaiting.

Your final stop is Nafplio , often called the most romantic city in Greece, and blessed with pretty streets, elegant neoclassical architecture, and interesting independent shops, bars, and tavernas.

• Hiking the incredible Vouraikos Gorge from Kalavryta to Diakofto, and admiring the limestone formations along the route.
• Driving the 59km Langada Pass across the Taygetos Mountains from Kalamata to gory Sparta and the Byzantine capital of Mystras.
• Walking along the Cave of the Lakes boardwalk to view the incredible rock formations and thirteen crystal clear subterranean pools formed by millennia of mineral deposits.

Athens ⇒ The Athens Gate Hotel for its central location, Acropolis view, and stylish decor.

Kalamata ⇒ Messinian Icon Hotel & Suites for its spa and pools, sea views, and large, bright rooms.

Nafplio ⇒ Amymone and Adiandi for its perfect location, gorgeous decor, and homemade Greek breakfast.

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

• Lonely Planet Iceland
• The Rough Guide to Iceland
• DK Eyewitness Top 10 Iceland
• Iceland Road Trip – 26 Epic Things to See & Do
• One Day Reykjavik Itinerary – Map, Tips & Guide
• South Coast Iceland: 18 of the Best Things to Do & See

The Golden Circle Road Trip

Reykjavik – thingvellir national park – geysers of haukadalur valley – gullfoss waterfall – reykjavik.

• Distance: 226km
• Duration: 1 day
• Drive Time: 4 hours
• When: June – September

Close to Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik , the Golden Circle is easily the most touristy thing to do in the land of fire and ice, and traditionally the first stop on Iceland’s Ring Road, so it can get very busy, especially in peak season.

Start early if you can, and hop onto the Iceland ring road (route 1), which takes you first past the Reykjavik waterfront, and then out to the three stops on the Golden Circle. It’s a short drive away from Reykjavik, and should only take about 40 minutes to get to the first stop, Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Located right in Þingvellir (or Thingvellir) National Park , you can walk through the middle of the large area where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates have been splitting apart over the course of the centuries. This is one of the coolest things to do while you’re visiting the Golden Circle.

Don’t miss the other attractions in the national park where the Continental Divide is located. It’s home to Iceland’s first Parliament, where chieftains formed the first laws and court proceedings at what is known as the Lögberg, and has lots of trails and beautiful nature to explore if you have the time. You can even go snorkeling at Silfra, and see the divide in the tectonic plates underwater!

The next stop, about 60 kilometers from Þingvellir, is the two geysers at Haukadalur . These geysers are easy to visit because they erupt very regularly, so you’ll definitely see at least one eruption while you’re there. Strokkur is the larger of the two, but don’t get too close as the water really is boiling hot!

The last stop on the Golden Circle is the Gullfoss waterfall, just one of Iceland’s incredible waterfalls, of which there are 10,000!  The waterfall, located at the end of the Hvítá River, is absolutely gigantic and produces beautiful rainbows and light prisms from every angle.

There are viewing places galore here. A concrete path makes it easy to see the waterfall at various points, though there are clearly marked signs and ropes warning you where you should stop, as it can be very windy and slippery the closer you get to the edge.

After you’ve finished seeing Gullfoss, it’s about an hour and a half drive back to Reykjavik to complete the circle. There are add on’s which aren’t traditional Golden Circle stops, but you may want to take a lovely warm bath at the Blue Lagoon just outside the city, enjoy a slightly more natural thermal experience at the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River, or head to the Kerid Crater if you’re in an off-road vehicle.

• Spending an hour lounging in the Reykjadalur Hot Springs whilst taking in the incredible scenery.
• Standing at the continental divide where Europe becomes North America, and being in awe of Iceland’s geology.
• Doing the Golden Circle in reverse and getting to Gullfoss before the crowds arrive.

Reykjavik ⇒ Sand Hotel for its city center location and Icelandic character and design.

• Lonely Planet Ireland
• DK Eyewitness Ireland
• The Rough Guide to Ireland
• Wild Atlantic Way: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• One Day in Dublin – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• Motorhoming in Ireland – A Complete Guide

Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip

Co. donegal – co. sligo – co. mayo – co. galway – co. clare – co. limerick – co. kerry – co. cork.

• Distance: 2600km
• Drive Time: 37 hours

From Co. Donegal to Co. Cork and passing through counties Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick, and Kerry, the Wild Atlantic Way winds down the intricate coast of western Ireland and the edge of Europe.

Taking in the must-sees of Malin Head, the Killarney National Park, the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula, this is a truly epic Ireland road trip covering many of the Emerald Isle’s most beautiful spots .

This huge trip from the north to the south of Ireland is best done with time on your side. Three weeks is just about enough, four weeks or longer will give you time to explore more and perhaps participate in some activities along the way.  

If this is too long for you, then pick out one of the six regions that appeal the most and take a couple of weeks to cover that specific area. You can find out more about these from the official  Wild Atlantic Way  website.  

The Bay Coast stretches south from Erris to Galway Bay and takes in the wild beauty of Connemara, the incredible 365 islets of Clew Bay, pretty Georgian Westport, dramatic Downpatrick Head, and medieval Galway, our favorite city in Ireland .

There’s plenty of things to see and do in Ireland if you love wide open spaces, wilderness, and raw nature, one of the reasons we adore this bit of the Wild Atlantic Way.

A great alternative is to  road trip from Dublin to Galway , traveling the southern half of the Wild Atlantic Way in a huge circle, and visiting Waterford, Dingle, and Cork on the way.

Dublin is a great place to start your road trip with an easily accessible international airport and lots of car rental choices.  

• Watching the rollers crashing from the savage beauty of Malin Head in Co. Donegal.
• Tapping your foot, sipping a pint of Guinness, and enjoying a hooley (live traditional Irish folk music) in Galway.
• Taking the steep and winding road to Dunquin Pier on the Dingle Peninsula for a memorable photo opportunity.

Westport Co. Mayo ⇒ Knockeranny House Hotel and Spa  for sublime Clew Bay views, Irish hospitality, and elegant dining.

Rossnowlagh Co. Donegal ⇒ The Sandhouse Hotel and Marina Spa  for its stunning beachfront location, contemporary decor, and excellent spa.

Glengarriff Co. Cork ⇒ Eccles Hotel and Spa  for its snug and traditional decor, a superb restaurant specializing in local seafood, and proximity to the pretty village and harbor.

• Lonely Planet Italy
• Fodor’s Essential Italy: Rome, Florence, Venice & the Top Spots in Between
• T he Rough Guide to Italy
• Italy Travel Guide
• The Ultimate Bucket List Italy Road Trip
• Northern Italy Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Great Dolomites Road: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!
• Tuscan Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• A Bucket List Amalfi Coast Road Trip
• Sicily Road Trip – Itinerary, Tips & Map
• Beautiful Puglia – A Road Trip Itinerary
• Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy
• Motorhoming in Italy: Your Complete Guide
• Driving to Italy from UK – Routes & Tips

Amalfi Coast Road Trip

Sorrento – positano – amalfi – ravello – salerno.

• Distance: 70km
• Duration: 2-3 days
• Drive Time: 2-3 hours

The Amalfi Coast road, the SS163, is a 50km spectacular stretch of tarmac, hugging the cliffs and coves of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and is a bucket list Italy road trip experience. 

Like the roads around Portofino and the Cinque Terre, this is a car route only and the road is permanently closed to motorhomes and RVs.

In a car or on a bike, it is best driven early in the morning in the months of April, May, October, and November due to the monstrously high amount of traffic in the peak months.

You can do the entire road in a day and stop in Ravello for lunch, but two or three days will give you longer to enjoy the glorious views and pretty towns en route.

Start from easily accessible Sorrento and head south across the peninsula until you get to the coast at San Pietro. Your first view of the glistening sea and this epic road are pretty special, prepare to be wowed.

Stop at Positano, the quintessential coast road town and the image on a thousand travel magazine covers. Take a wander through the maze of steep streets, pastel-painted stacked houses, and steps to find charming hotels and restaurants alongside chic independent boutiques. 

Next up is Amalfi itself. This hugely popular holiday resort is the largest town along the coast road. The pretty seafront, with its cafes and glamorous boutiques, gives this town a great vibe.

Head west on foot to Spiaggia del Fornillo from Amalfi, a long stretch of soft sandy beach perfect for an afternoon’s relaxing.

Ravello has to be one of the most romantic villages in Italy and is right up there on our list of favorite places in Europe. Perched high above the sea and overlooking immaculate terraced slopes full of vines, Ravello is home to lush Mediterranean planting and charming sun-dappled squares, and has to be one of the best spots in Southern Italy .

The 20km round-trip detour to Ravello from the main coast road is so worth taking. Visit Villa Rufolo, host to beautifully landscaped and dramatic gardens with superb sea views.

On to Salerno and the end of the Amalfi Coast road, surely one of the best driving roads in Europe .

• The glorious coastal views from the gardens of Villa Rufolo in Ravello.
• Taking a Limoncello tour and tasting this delicious local liquor where it’s made.
• Watching the fiery sun sink into the Tyrrhenian Sea at the end of a perfect day.

Positano ⇒ Hotel Marincanto  for its stunning cliff-hugging position, beautifully decorated rooms, and hands-on owners.

Ravello ⇒ Hotel Villa Maria  for its romantic dining terrace, old-world Italian charm, and fabulous breakfasts.

Vietri sul Mare ⇒ Palazzo Suriano  for its fragrance-filled terraced gardens, excellent homemade breakfasts on the terrace, and gorgeous decor.

Puglia Road Trip

Taranto – gallipoli – santa maria di leuca – lecce – ostuni – alberobello – bari.

• Distance: 465km
• Drive Time: 7 hours

Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is a beautiful place for a 7 day road trip in Europe. With Trulli houses, a fabulous sandy coastline, and whitewashed villages, there is a lot to see and do here.

The abundance of fresh, local produce means you will eat and drink well on this road trip! We spent an  amazing seven days exploring beautiful Puglia  and fell in love with the region.

• Visiting the UNESCO Trulli houses at Alberobello for an other-world experience.
• Discovering Gallipoli’s atmospheric, oh-so-Italian old town and castle.
• Finding a salumeria (deli) and enjoy the local specialties over a lazy lunch.

Gallipoli ⇒ Palazzo Presta for its fabulous old town location, eclectic design, and excellent service.

Lecce ⇒ La Fiermontina Urban Resort for its contemporary art and sculpture, outdoor pool set in an olive grove and gorgeous rooms.

Alberobello ⇒ Tipico Resort for its superb location, fabulous breakfast and for being a Trulli!

Sicily Road Trip

Catania – syracuse – ragusa – agrigento – marsala – palermo – cefalu – taormina.

• Distance: 840km
• Drive Time: 12 hours

A coastal road trip around Sicily can take a few weeks or a few months, there is so much to see. From ancient, immaculately preserved temples to modern and vibrant cities like Palermo , via jaw-dropping natural wonders, this rich and diverse island is a world away from anywhere you’ve ever been before. 

Read our detailed guide to  road-tripping eclectic Sicily , which includes an itinerary along the island’s coastal ring road, and start planning your trip!

• Taking a hike above the clouds to the summit of Mount Etna and look deep into the rumbling magma below. 
• Being awed by the ancient Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
• Wandering the charming historic back streets of Ortigia, the old town of Syracuse.

Syracuse ⇒ Hotel Gutkowski for lovingly crafted and unique interiors, beachcomber chic, and a cool roof terrace.

Palermo ⇒ BB22  for its perfect piazza location, a cozy home-from-home feel, and palazzo style.

Taormina ⇒ Hotel Villa Ducale  for spectacular views, a relaxed vibe, and legendary cocktails!

Tuscany & Umbria Road Trip

Pisa – lucca – florence – san gimignano – siena – arezzo – cortona – pienza – montepulciano – assisi – spoleto.

• Distance: 500km
• When: avoid August

Italy is a gorgeous country for a road trip , no area more so than Tuscany and Umbria, which are easily accessible by car from the UK and Europe. The rolling fields of vines and golden wheat, studded with tall cypress trees and creamy stone villas are iconic.

This is a truly epic journey packed full of culture, great food, wine, and fantastic roads. There is much to see and lots of interesting places to stop between the main route destinations, make sure to do your research before leaving home!

Pisa in northern Italy is a great place to start this road trip. The leaning tower is a bit cliched but has to be seen. Lucca is perfect to explore on foot, with narrow lanes opening onto charming piazzas lined with historic buildings.

Florence is the jewel in Tuscany’s crown. A surprisingly compact city with the imposing Duomo at the center, a must-see. Book well in advance for anything to do with the Duomo, it’s strictly ticketed and you won’t be able to buy a ticket on the day.

You’ll probably want at least two days in Florence to see everything at a manageable pace, although you can see Florence in a day if you plan well. Leaving Florence is the time to set your sat nav to ‘no autostrada’ and get off the beaten track in the Tuscan countryside …yes, it may take a little longer but it will be worth it!

San Gimignano, famous for its thirteen towers, sits high on a hill south of Florence. Between April and September, this thriving hill village is busy with tourists visiting the churches, palazzos, independent shops, and restaurants.

Onwards to Arezzo and then Cortona, one of the oldest and most scenic hill towns in Tuscany. Pienza is a delightful village and has perfect, interesting streets for wandering and admiring the 15th century architecture.

The drive through the  Val d’Orcia  from Pienza to Montepulciano on the SP146 is like driving through a film set! Sweeping curves, rolling vineyards, and photo opportunities at every bend; this is quintessential Tuscany.

From Montepulciano , follow the road around the tranquil Lake Trasimeno to Assisi, our favorite Umbrian destination. The imposing Basilica of St Francis can be seen hugging the hillside for miles around. Your last stop is the gorgeous hill town of Spoleto, stuffed with monuments, churches, and other historic buildings.

For us, this has got to be one of the best European road trips we have taken; for the fabulous ride (we did it on a motorbike, highly recommended!), the stunning landscapes, and the beautiful Italian hospitality.

• Taking the breathtaking drive through the Val d’Orcia to Montepulciano with photo opportunities galore and a glass of local red waiting for you!
• Discovering Siena’s perfectly laid out, beautiful fan-shaped Piazza del Campo.
• Climbing the dome of the Duomo in Florence for spectacular views, inside and out!

Florence ⇒ AdAstra Suites  for their stunning location, classy and interesting decor, and magnificent terrace.

Montepulciano ⇒ Palazzo Carletti  for attention to detail, gorgeous frescoed interiors, and central location.

Assisi ⇒   Nun Assisi Relais and Spa  – for its lavender-filled gardens, incredible Roman spa, and fabulous restaurant.

• Lonely Planet Norway
• Fodor’s Essential Norway
• The Rough Guide to Norway
• Norway Road Trip – Three Unmissable Routes
• Atlantic Road Norway: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!
• Driving to Norway from UK – Routes & Tips
• One Day Oslo Itinerary – Map, Guide & Tips
• Campervanning in Norway – Tips, Routes & Destinations
• Flåm Norway: Visitor Guide & Tips

West Coast of Norway Road Trip

Bergen – loen – geiranger – trollstigen – kristiansund – trondheim – jektvik – bodo – tromso.

• Distance: 2120km
• Drive Time: 30 hours

Taking in the iconic sights of Norway ‘s west coast, this route will take you through tunnels, over fjords, along the Atlantic Ocean Road, and the infamous Trollstigen Mountain Road.

This is a route for those that love the journey more than the destination; it’s all about the road – even getting to Norway is a road trip in itself!

Start in  beautiful Bergen , the city surrounded by seven fjords and seven hills. There are lots of things to do here, including visiting the lively Vagen harbor in Bergen’s old quarter, Bryggen.

From Bergen, take the E39 motorway north to Loen where you’ll find the awesome new  Loen Skylift  which takes you to the top of Mount Hoven for spectacular views of the white-blue Jostedalsbreen glacier.

If you prefer to get to the top under your own steam, then take the via Ferrata up and the zip-line down! Is sea-level activity more your thing? Then head for glacial Lake Lovatnet where you can swim and kayak.

At Hellesylt, you’ll take the ferry through Geirangerfjorden to Geiranger itself before picking up the RV63, the Trollstigen Mountain Road. Incredibly beautiful, this road was opened in 1936 and includes eleven hairpin bends and a 9% incline. Stop at the Ornesvingen viewing point for incredible vistas and again at the top to admire the Stigfossen waterfall.

Once you reach Andalsnes, head west and then drive north on the E39 to Vevang, and the start of the Atlantic Ocean Road, which runs across seven bridges and follows the islands between them like a silver ribbon. If you want to visit picture-perfect  Alesund  on the way, take a slight detour and head south on the E39 instead of north – if you have a few extra days, you won’t regret it!

Next up is Trondheim, Norway’s original capital city before you head to Jektvik. You can either take the E6 Arctic Highway all the way or around 80km north of Trondheim, and just after Steinkjer, pick up the FV17 and take in the glorious landscape and coastal views from the magnificent Kystriksveien Coastal Route.

This Atlantic road route will add a fair few kilometers, two days, and six fjord ferries to your journey, but the detour will be worth it if you have the time. You’ll cross into the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees, on the ferry between Kilborghavn and Jektvik.

At Bodo, you can get a ferry out to the  Lofoten Islands  if you are making this a longer trip. Perfect for hikers and nature lovers, Lofoten has become Norway’s go-to place for adventure – you can even  swim with Orca whales  here! 

Mount Romvik, outside Bodo and with minimal light pollution, is a good place to see the Northern Lights.

Otherwise, keep on trucking to  Tromso , Norway’s party city. From here, you can head on to Nordkapp where the sun never drops below the horizon from mid-May to the end of July.

Hauntingly beautiful but incredibly busy, you may prefer the true northernmost point of continental Europe at Knivskjelodden, an 18km hike away and inaccessible to vehicles.

You could also take a ferry to Svalbard and visit the polar bears, catch the  Hurtigruten ferry  back to Bergen or Oslo , or get on a flight to pretty much anywhere in the world. Wherever you end up, it will take you a while to forget what is surely one of the best road trips in Europe.

• Driving the thrilling and impressive Trollstigen Road from Geiranger to Andalasnes
• Crossing the Arctic Circle into the land of the midnight sun and Northern Lights.
• Following the Kystriksveien Coastal Route and see the real coastal Norway of fishing villages and subsistence agriculture.

Bergen ⇒ Det Hanseatiske Hotel  for its harbourside location, dining options, and cozy decor.

Narvik ⇒ Narvik Mountain Lodge  for its truly spectacular location, traditional log cabin style, and amazing coastal views.

Tromso ⇒ Scandic Ishavshotel  for its harbor location, fabulous breakfasts, and excellent customer service.

Western Fjords Road Trip

Stavanger – preikestolen – kjeragbolten – trolltunga – flam – bergen.

• Distance: 687km
• Duration: 7-10 days
• Drive Time: 14 hours

This is an outdoor enthusiasts’ adventurous road trip ! If you’ve ever looked at those amazing images of people perched on tongues of rock, sheer cliffs, or precipitously balanced boulders whilst gazing out over stunning blue fjords, then this is the road trip for you. We did this Norway route by campervan , and it’s got to be one of our favorite travel experiences!

You’ll start in the pretty and typically Norwegian city of Stavanger before heading off to  hike to Preikestolen  (Pulpit Rock) which is 4km and can be done in half a day with an early start.

Next up is the  Kjeragbolten  hike, the site of a giant boulder wedged in a crevasse 1084m above Lysefjorden, where you can also base jump. This is a longer hike at 10km and you will need a full day to complete it.

Both hikes can get busy and you may have to wait if you want the obligatory photo, so allow plenty of time. If you’re not a confident hiker, consider taking a guided hike, you’ll learn lots on the way.

Everywhere you drive in Norway, you are surrounded by mountains, fjords, and waterfalls. The scenery is simply spectacular, with new thrills around each bend in the road. Route 13 from Stavanger to Odda is known as the Ryfylke National Scenic Route, one of Norway’s eighteen official touring routes designated for their stunning scenery and tourist-friendly infrastructure.

As you drive through Norway you will motor through tunnels and need to get a ferry to cross a fjord. Allow several hours drive time longer than Google Maps suggests; this is a full day drive and you should start early.

Your next stop is Odda, for the infamous Trolltunga (literally Troll’s Tongue) one of the best hikes in the world. The most challenging of the three, this hike is 20km distance across mainly flat terrain but can be tricky underfoot with changeable weather.  Hiking Trolltunga  is not for the faint-hearted or unprepared but is an absolute must-do on your Norway road trip.

Take a few day’s downtime in Flam, a small village right at the top of the beautiful Aurlandsfjord. Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and water this is a playground for hikers, water sports enthusiasts, and mountain bikers.

From Flam, you can drive to Bergen or take the spectacular Flamsbana railway there, considered one of the most spectacular train rides in the world.

• Taking the incredible Flam Railway to Myrdal and cycle the Rallar Road.
• Standing on the edge of the Troll’s Tongue with the world at your feet.
• Discovering the imposing and dramatic Lysefjorden by boat.

Stavanger ⇒   Sola Strand Hotel  for the breathtaking beachfront location and a modern spa.

Odda ⇒   Vikinghaug Apartments for their amazing fjord views and the post-Trolltunga bath!

Flam ⇒ Flåmsbrygga Hotel   for its superb central position, cozy traditional decor, and micro-brewery.

• Lonely Planet Portugal
• DK Eyewitness Portugal
• The Rough Guide to Portugal
• Road Trip Portugal – Two Incredible Itineraries
• Driving from Lisbon to Porto: Itinerary, Route & Tips
• Driving to Portugal from UK – Routes & Tips
• Campervanning in Portugal: Complete Guide

Atlantic Coast Road Trip

Porto – coimbra – nazare – sintra – lisbon.

• Distance: 400km
• Duration: 5-7 days

Portugal is a tiny country but it packs one hell of a punch. This Portugal road trip itinerary can be managed in five days, but seven gives you the opportunity to revel in the cities of Porto and Lisbon and enjoy a beach stop en route.  

You could easily drive from Lisbon to Porto as a 7 day road trip in Europe from UK if you fly into Porto and out of Lisbon, or vice versa. One-way car rental is possible from either airport.

Porto is a lively and fun city, intimate and friendly. There’s a lot to do in  Porto  but walking over the mighty Douro river on the iconic Luis I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and the historic port lodges, has to be top of the list.

Head south from here to the  less-traveled city of Coimbra , Portugal’s ancient capital. Stacked on the banks of the river Mondego, the Moorish old town is dramatic and atmospheric. This is a great place to stop at a bar for authentic live fado or Portuguese guitar music.

Halfway between Coimbra and Lisbon, take a short detour to Nazare on Portugal’s Silver Coast. Known for its monster waves and daredevil surfers, this is a great place if you like huge beaches and dramatic landscapes.

Heading south, Sintra, in the mountains of the same name, is a love-it-or-hate-it kind of place. Home to Portuguese royalty for centuries, the lush landscape is dotted with pastel-colored palaces, villas, and houses.

You can also take a  day trip to Sintra from Lisbon  if you’d prefer to base yourself in the city. Visit and decide for yourself!

Finally to wonderful Lisbon for picture-postcard panoramas and fabulous food!  This most Portuguese of cities serves up fantastic bacalhau, pastel de nana, and port from the Douro Valley. Head for the exotic Tropical Botanical Gardens and stroll amongst giant banana plants before visiting the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a haven of peace amongst the bustling city.

If you want to stretch your week in Portugal, you’ll find the beautiful Algarve region just three hours south of Lisbon. This stunning part of Portugal is famous for its incredible beaches and perfect climate. Make for the charming town of Lagos and enjoy the laid-back holiday vibes.

• Taking a port wine tour and tasting in one of Porto’s historic port wine lodges.
• Heading to a fado bar to hear the traditional and haunting music of Portugal played live.
• Tasting hundreds of delicious foods at the Mercado de Ribeira, Lisbon’s buzzy food hall.

Porto ⇒ Flores Village Hotel and Spa for its central location, roof-top bar views, and stylish design.

Coimbra ⇒ Sapientia Boutique Hotel  for the perfect location, stylish design, and warm hospitality.

Lisbon ⇒ Valverde Hotel for its gorgeous interiors, walkable location, and courtyard pool.

• Lonely Planet Spain
• DK Eyewitness Road Trips Spain
• The Rough Guide to Spain
• Spain Travel Guide
• Six of the Best Road Trips in Spain
• The Perfect Andalucia Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• North Spain Road Trip: Itinerary, Route & Tips
• Madrid in One Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• One Day in Barcelona – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• Driving from UK to Spain – Routes & Tips
• Motorhoming in Spain: Your Complete Guide

Andalucia Road Trip

Marbella – ronda – cadiz – jerez de la frontera – seville – cordoba – granada.

• Distance: 600km

Andalucia epitomizes Spain for most visitors; vibrant, colorful, and passionate. This itinerary will take you to the major cities of Andalucia, bringing Spain alive.

If you’re looking for a longer holiday, it’s perfect for a 3 week European road trip itinerary with a bit of beach time thrown in,  even if you visit in winter .

This is a perfect road trip to start and finish in Malaga. Fly in, hire a car, and within a few hours, you can be on the beaches of the Costa del Sol, enjoying year-round sunshine.

In Marbella, spend a day soaking up the sun and visiting the charming old town. Make for  Taberna Casa Curro Marbella  where you’ll find great tapas and fruity Spanish wine.

Head north to Ronda and the stunning mountains of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. If you have a few extra days, now is the time to visit the atmospheric cities of Cadiz and Jerez de la Frontera, two of our favorite places in Spain .

Your next stop is  Seville , a city almost too good to be true, and everything you ever through Seville would be.

Cordoba  is home to the breathtaking Mezquita, or mosque-cathedral, started by the Moors and finished by the Spanish conquistadors in the sixteenth century. Seeing this alone would make a visit to Cordoba worthwhile.

Pass through Antequera and learn the local legend of the  Lovers Rock  before making your way high into the Sierra Nevada to Granada and the famous Alhambra. Make sure you book your  priority tickets online  at least three months in advance, this ancient palace of kings sells out quickly.

• Visiting the beautiful  La Casa del Rey Moro  in Ronda for unrivaled views of the Puenta Nuevo.
• Watching steamy live flamenco in Seville’s atmospheric Barrio Santa Cruz.
• Being wowed by the incredible Moorish architecture of the Mezquita in Cordoba.

Marbella ⇒ Amare Beach Hotel  for its fun adults-only vibe and glamorous beach club. 

Seville ⇒ Casa del Poeta  for the beautifully renovated interiors, Barrio Santa Cruz location, and roof-top views to die for.

Granada ⇒ Hotel Santa Isabel la Real  for cozy rooms, spectacular Alhambra views, and a really special cooked breakfast.

Northern Spain Road Trip

San sabastian – bilbao – comillas – oviedo – ribadeo – a coruna – santiago de compostela.

• Distance: 775km
• When: April – October

This Spanish road trip will take you through the beautiful and lush, aptly named Green Spain, hugging the north coast along the Bay of Biscay.

From the border with France and through the regions of the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia, you’ll see some of the most picturesque landscapes in Spain, enjoy amazing food, and crisscross the famous  Camino de Santiago .

Start in San Sabastian, a sophisticated city with a renowned restaurant scene, famous for seafood and pintxos (pronounced pinchos), which are similar to tapas.

Take a  gastronomic tour  for the best experience. Eat your fill and head west to Bilbao, home of the incredible  Guggenheim museum . The building itself is a work of art, with beautifully curved and sweeping architecture.

Head west, making sure to stop at the  cave of El Castillo  to see the 35,000-year-old drawings there.

Continue along the coast to the stunning Santillana del Mar, known as the town of the three lies; not holy (santi), flat (llana) or by the sea (del mar) .

This medieval town is beautifully preserved and worth a wander before you make your way to Comillas, further along the coast. Traditionally low-rise, you’ll find a pretty beach, a tiny fishing port, and a charming cobbled old center here.

Don’t miss El Caprichio, a Gaudi-designed villa.  If you have a few extra days, head into the  Picos de Europa , the small but perfectly formed mountain range.

Oviedo is the next stop and the starting point of the lesser-known Camino Primitivo (the oldest Camino). This compact and elegant city is another foodie delight, with a lively gastronomic scene.

Home to Spanish cider (who knew?), you’ll find traditional sidrerias along Calle Gascona, known as cider boulevard.   Visit in September for  Fiestas de San Mateo , a live theatre and music spectacular. If you go in October, you’ll be in the middle of the Asturias apple harvest.

A Coruna is up next, passing by the spectacular Playa de Las Catedrales en route. There is so much to do in A Coruna, a dynamic city that is home to a busy modern port, a relaxed beachfront resort, and an atmospheric old town.

The seafood here is some of the freshest and finest in Spain, with seafood tapas being a specialty. Take a walk out to the Tower of Hercules, the least-looking lighthouse we have ever seen!

Finally, you’ll reach  Santiago de Compostela , the end point of the famous Camino de Santiago, and your last stop. As you enter the town, you’ll see pilgrims covering the final few miles into one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, proudly displaying their vieira, the scallop shell badge that you’ll have seen along your route .  

Twisting alleys, dramatic squares, and historic religious buildings make up this labyrinth of a city, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are too many must-sees to list so consider a  walking tour with a local  to make the most of the time you have in this gorgeous city.

• Eating delicious  pintxos straight from the bar in the Basque Country. 
• Walking along the boardwalks at Playa de Las Catedrales and marvel at the extraordinary natural arches.
• Exploring the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela and make the climb to Las Cubiertas , the cathedral roof, for incredible views of the city and landscape beyond.

San Sebastian ⇒ Lasala Plaza Hotel  for a big dose of glamour, sea views, and a cool rooftop pool.

Oviedo ⇒ Barcelo Oviedo Cervantes  for its laid-back vibe, modern decor, and smooth service.

Santiago de Compostela ⇒ Parador De Santiago de Compostela  for its history, traditional decor, and HUGE breakfast buffet.

Switzerland

• Fodor’s Essential Switzerland
• Rough Guide to Switzerland
• DK Eyewitness Switzerland  
• Switzerland Road Trip: The Best Itinerary + Map & Tips
• One Day in Zurich – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Grand Tour of Switzerland: The Best Road Trip in Europe?

Road trip to the alps, zurich – bern – lausanne – geneva – montreux – nendaz – zermatt – interlaken – lauterbrunnen – grindelwald – furka pass – lucerne – zurich.

• Distance: 991km
• Drive Time: 17 hours

This two week Switzerland summer road trip will take you on a spectacular, circular drive through Switzerland’s iconic landscapes covering roughly 1000km south across western Switzerland to Geneva before heading east towards Zermatt and eventually back north to Zurich.

Starting in Zurich, your first stop will be Bern, found within the curves of the Aare river. Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is known for its 12th century architecture that forms the old town or Alstadt . Your visit to Bern would be incomplete without exploring Lake Brienz, just north of the Alps, which offers breathtaking mountain views and is considered one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland .

After your trip to Bern, begin traveling south to Lausanne, Geneva, and Montreux, visiting Lac Léman en route. 

The following stretch of your trip will provide unrivaled views of Les Diablerets as you head towards Zermatt where you will be met with the iconic Matterhorn, a mountain in the Swiss Alps.

At this point, your road trip starts the route east taking you to Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Grindelwald where hiking, mountain views, waterfalls and plenty of exciting adventures await.

As you leave Grindelwald, make sure you save time for the Furka Pass as you head to Lucerne. Our Swiss road trip itinerary will continue north to our initial starting point, the city of Zurich.

• Driving the incredible Alps passes of Furka and Susten, high in the picturesque Bernese Highlands.
• Taking one of the many cog-wheeled trains or cable cars into the big mountains that Switzerland is famous for.
• Exploring the incredible Jungfraujoch from Lauterbrunnen, an absolutely epic day trip!

Zurich ⇒ Placid Hotel Design & Lifestyle for its very cool interiors, accessible location, and free bikes to help you explore the city.

Geneva ⇒ Hotel Mon Repos  for its excellent location, beautifully decorated rooms, and comfy beds.

Lauterbrunnen ⇒ Hotel Schützen Lauterbrunnen for its Swiss chalet style, cozy restaurant and terrace, and friendly service.

United Kingdom

• Lonely Planet Great Britain
• DK Eyewitness Great Britain
• Rough Guides Make the Most of Your Time in Britain
• United Kingdom Travel Guide
• UK Road Trip – 18 Unmissable Routes
• Eight Incredible Scotland Road Trips
• North Coast 500 Route Planner + Highlights, Map & Tips
• Road Trip England – 10 of the Best Routes
• Wales Road Trip – A Stunning Route & Itinerary
• A South England Road Trip to Dorset & The New Forest
• Cornwall Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Causeway Coastal Route: The Best Road Trip In Ireland?
• Belfast in A Day: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Atlantic Highway: An Epic Devon & Cornwall Road Trip

Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

Derry-londonderry – port rush – bushmills – cushendun – carrickfergus – belfast.

• Distance: 185km

The wild and unspoiled  Antrim Coast  in Northern Ireland is made for a road trip. Peppered with fascinating places to see and exciting things to do, this route will appeal to outdoor adventurers.

If you are a  Game of Thrones fan , there are lots of  places along this route  which featured in the show or book a tour to find them all.

Start in the walled city of Derry-Londonderry, one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe and the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland. The walls, which are around 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town.

From here head north on the coast road, past the magnificent and unmistakable mountain of Binevenagh, and stop at Benone beach for a bracing walk along the sands. Don’t miss the Mussenden Temple perched on the cliff edge at the easternmost point of the beach.

Make your way to the pretty seaside town of Port Rush for a local ice cream and local craft shopping before meandering along the coast to Bushmills, home of the whiskey distillery. This is the perfect starting point for the gloriously breathtaking Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s first UNESCO site.

As you head west, make sure to stop at the picture-perfect harbor of Ballintoy and test yourself at the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge.

Take in the conservation village of Cushendun, steeped in character and folklore before heading on to Carrickfergus Castle. This imposing Norman castle stands on the northern shore of Belfast Lough and is one of the best-preserved medieval structures on the island of Ireland.

Belfast is your final stop; don’t miss the fantastic Titanic Quarter, historic Crumlin Road Gaol, and the buzzing nightlife of the Cathedral Quarter. Check out this detailed post for more  things to do in Belfast .

If you have longer, start in Belfast and head in the opposite direction. From Derry-Londonderry head across the border into raw and wild Co. Donegal and pick up the Wild Atlantic Way. This makes for a great island of Ireland 2 week road trip in Europe.

• Discovering the Giant’s Causeway, a truly spectacular natural wonder.
• Crossing the iconic Peace Bridge in Derry-Londonderry and then walking the ancient city walls.
• Taking a black cab mural tour in Belfast for a unique cabbie’s take on local politics and the troubles.

Londonderry ⇒ Bishop’s Gate Hotel for its perfect location, fascinating history, and tasteful decor.

Bushmills ⇒ The Bushmills Inn Hotel  for its homely peat fires, great Irish breakfast, and proximity to the Giant’s Causeway.

Belfast ⇒ Ten Square Hotel  for its superb central location, fantastic grill restaurant, and contemporary decor.

Norfolk Road Trip, England

Norwich – wroxham – winterton – cromer – hunstanton – sandringham – king’s lynn.

• Distance: 175km

This delightful coastal road trip will take you through the county of Norfolk to the Norfolk Broads, old-fashioned English seaside resorts, and onto the beautiful and unspoiled North Norfolk coast .

Summer road trips in the UK are best if you want sunshine, but visit the UK in winter for more cost-effective travel and you’ll enjoy incredible beaches, big skies, and perfect solitude, especially when you road trip in Norfolk, England.

From the historic and pretty city of Norwich , head east towards Wroxham, the self-styled capital of the Broads. The dramatic landscapes and raw natural beauty of the Norfolk Broads were created when peat digs flooded in the 14th century.

This area is now a national park and a haven for wildlife and birds. Take a Broads cruise, hire a boat, or head off for a long walk along towpaths and through fields, where seeing flapping sails in the river is an everyday occurrence.

Nearby is the loud and bright town of Great Yarmouth , a traditional bucket and spade destination, with great nearby beaches and lots to do – you certainly won’t get bored here!

From the Broads, head east to explore the pretty towns and incredible beaches of the Norfolk coast. Winterton-on-Sea is a perfect place to see seal pups in the winter. Further north is the popular seaside town of Cromer , renowned for its lively pier.

From Cromer make a short detour south to the stunning Jacobean  Blickling Hall , home of Anne Boleyn.

Continue along the coast road to Blakeney and practice your crabbing skills from the harbor. Make a stop at the beautiful and huge Holkham Beach, where the ending of ‘Shakespeare in Love’ was filmed.

Onwards from here to Hunstanton , another bucket and spade destination, which is close to the medieval and Hanseatic port town of King’s Lynn . 

From here it’s a short drive to  Sandringham , home of the Queen. There are lots of things to do here, including visiting the house, gardens and country park.

If you have time, head to 12th century  Castle Rising  before making your way to the Hanseatic town of Kings Lynn. The town’s heritage is reflected in the fine merchants’ houses which stretch down to the river between cobbled lanes and the elegant Custom House that overlooks the harbor.

• Walking on Holkham Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
• Traditional, delicious and fresh fish and chips from No 1 Cromer .
• Discover the stunning historic estates of Blickling Hall and Holkham Hall.

Norwich ⇒ The Georgian Townhouse   for its informal vibe, lively bar and restaurant, and contemporary decor.

Thornham ⇒  The Lifeboat Inn  for its romantic retreat-style location, open fires, and really seriously good pub grub.

King’s Lynn ⇒ Bank House  for its prime location, Grade II exterior, and go-to, lively brasserie.

North Coast 500 Road Trip, Scotland

Inverness – wick – john o’groats – durness – lochinver – ullapool – applecross.

• Distance: 830km

A favorite of motorhomers and campervanners, this iconic Scottish road trip is a 516 mile route that wends its way around the spectacular north coast of Scotland, starting and ending in Inverness. 

Passing through the remote and wild landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and the spectacular west coast, the North Coast 500 route delivers dramatic roads with spectacular views and is one of the must-do road trips in the United Kingdom .

• Hiking to beautiful  Sandwood Bay Beach , for the incredible sight of the Am Buachaille sea stack, a remnant of when the Highlands and North America were connected, millions of years ago.
• Whale watching from Gairloch, where you might also see porpoise, dolphins, and sharks, as well as seals, otters, puffins, and maybe white-tailed eagles. 
• Driving Bealach na Ba, the legendary Applecross Pass, and one of the best (but also most dangerous) roads in the UK.

Inverness ⇒ Kingsmills Hotel  for its traditional Scottish decor, lively bar, and spa.

Wick ⇒   Mackays Hotel for its award-winning service, great restaurant, and ideal location.

Gairloch ⇒   Shieldaig Lodge Hotel  for its wonderful lochside location, traditional hunting lodge style, and seriously good breakfast.

Snowdonia to the Brecon Beacons, Wales

Snowdonia – portmeirion – barmouth – new quay – pembrokeshire – gower peninsula – mumbles – brecon beacons.

• Distance: 256km

Small but perfectly formed, the glorious country of Wales is a road tripper’s dream. With soaring mountains and valleys, miles of golden sands, craggy headlands, and some incredible roads, head to Wales for an adventurous and eclectic road trip.

Start your road trip itinerary in the spectacular Snowdonia National Park, or Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri in Welsh, in north Wales for drama, huge skies, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Perfect as a base for a few days, Betws-y-Coed is a typical mountain town in a beautiful valley, full of companies offering outdoor adventures, shops selling outdoor gear, and pubs and restaurants full of hikers talking about the day’s activities.

Your next stop is Portmeirion, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places in Wales. Portmeirion is best known for Portmeirion Pottery (now made in Stoke-on-Trent) and its role in the 1960’s cult TV show The Prisoner . Look beyond the obvious though and enjoy local walks, tropical gardens, and interesting architecture.

Families with love Barmouth and its location on the west coast has to be one of the most beautiful in Wales. Steeped in a history rich with connections to the shipping and slate industries, this is a good old-fashioned seaside resort with a west facing beach ideal for sea swimming and watersports. 

Head south through coastal mid-wales to the vibrant seaside town of New Quay, following the Coastal Way along the length of Ceredigion Bay. Popular with tourists for its picturesque harbor and sandy beach, New Quay is an ideal base for water sports like sailing, stand-up paddle, kayaking, and canoeing – you’ll find lots to pack in for a couple of days.

Next up is Pembrokeshire, famous for its rough cliffs, huge beaches, and remote islands. The coast of Pembrokeshire offers limitless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and is one of the most stunning places in the UK. 

Pembrokeshire boasts that it invented coasteering, and it’s an activity you must try. The sport of jumping from land to sea, cliff scrambling, and swimming between rocks will stretch you mentally and physically but give you hours of fun. There is also lots of opportunity for swimming, paddling and generally messing about on the water.

Your next stop is the spectacular Gower Peninsula in south Wales, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty famous for its breathtaking coastline, 30 or so unspoiled beaches and coves, and coastal walking, including the gorgeous Rhossili Beach and the dramatic Worm’s Head, whose long ridged back rises straight from the sea.

Stop at Mumbles, a traditional seaside town, and walk along the bustling prom, where rollerbladers weave between pedestrians, and ice-cream parlors tempt.

Make a detour to the infamous Top Gear road, the Black Mountain Pass, as you head into the Brecon Beacons, or Bannau Brycheiniog in Welsh, for more fantastic hiking, especially if you tackle Pen y Fan, and incredible views.

• Driving the Black Mountain Pass and the Gospel Pass through the Brecon Beacons.
• Paddleboarding at the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy in Pembrokeshire.
• Visiting the puffins and wildlife of Skomer Island.

Snowdonia ⇒ Ty Gwyn Hotel in Betws-y-Coed for its great location, friendly welcome, and traditional decor.

New Quay ⇒  Rooms @ The Dolau Inn for its location close to the beach, cozy rooms, and Welsh hospitality.

Pembrokeshire ⇒   Heywood Spa Hotel in Tenby for its luxury facilities, comfortable rooms, and great location.

European Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for planning a European road trip.

• Search for affordable flights to Europe with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Europe with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Europe with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Europe with Rentalcars.com
• Best for ferries around Europe are Direct Ferries
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in Europe

• Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know
• How to Plan a Road Trip – Your Complete Guide
• 19 Helpful Long Distance Driving Tips
• Road Trip on a Budget: 36 Tips to Save Money in Europe
• The Best Printable Road Trip Checklists
• 150+ Road Trip Songs: Your Ultimate Driving Playlist
• Podcasts for Road Trips: 26 to Keep You Entertained
• Road Trip Snacks: 32 Ideas for Your Next Trip
• 113 Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Your Next Trip
• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Europe. If you’re traveling to Ireland , your passport must remain valid for the duration of your stay (UK citizens do not need a passport to visit Ireland, which is in the Common Travel Area).
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit for driving in Europe . You can check whether you need an IDP here .
• Most of Europe drives on the right, except the United Kingdom which drives on the left.
• Most European countries, especially those with mountains, have rules about snow tires and snow chains. Make sure you check these rules if you’re taking a road trip to Europe in colder weather.
• You may want to consider carrying an  electronic toll pass  for the duration of your European road trip itinerary. These devices deduct the toll fees from a credit card automatically, meaning you don’t have to stop at a booth or barrier.
• Many cities across Europe have low emissions zones, which can be easy to stray into accidentally.  The Urban Access Regulation in Europe  website has information on a country and city-by-city basis, to help you plan your trip. They also share links for purchasing LEZ and ULEZ stickers online.
• Make sure you’re aware of the specific rules for each European country that you intend to visit. Some have obscure rules about driving in flip-flops or eating road trip snacks at the wheel! You can find more information about the rules of the road and what to carry in your vehicle  here .
• Although it is strongly advised, you are not required to have breakdown cover. UK registered vehicles may be able to add this to an existing policy or take out a policy for the duration of the trip. If you’re hiring a car to road trip around Europe, make sure to check breakdown arrangements with the car rental company.

Looking for more Europe itinerary ideas? Check out these top posts…

Road Trips from London: The 6 Best Routes to Explore

Road Trip Belgium: Fall In Love With Europe’s Hidden Gem

Stelvio Pass: The Best Mountain Road in Italy?

Spain Road Trip: 8 Amazing Routes for an Epic Trip

Croatia Road Trips: Five Incredible Routes

Love it pin it.

About The Author

Izzy Nicholls

6 thoughts on “europe road trip – 24 incredible routes”.

Hi Jim Your plans sound really exciting! I’ve emailed you regarding UK and European motorhome routes, hope you have a great summer!

My wife and I are planning to do just what you to have done this summer. Is it possible to get a map of where you went (routing). This is so we can coordinate it with your blogs. Be blessed in everything you do.

Hey Harve great to hear from you, sounds like your plans are coming on nicely. Good luck and maybe we’ll see each other on the road some day!

Thanks for providing this great planning resource guide! A great way to spend a cold February afternoon with a glass of wine in hand… dreaming of trips to come. Fingers crossed for early Fall 2021 or sooner. We have purchased a new camping car and what great inspiration you have provided. Harve in the USA.

Hi Kanika Thanks for your comment. Give a road trip a go, you might be surprised by how much you enjoy it, let us know how you get on! Izzy

I personally don’t like road trips but will surely try this adventure as well, after reading your blog I got quiet motivated about it and would love to try, will share this with my friends and family as well

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• About Emily
• About This Blog
• Personal Posts
• My Travel Stories
• Central America
• North America
• South America
• Tours and Activities
• Transport and Travel
• Packing Tips
• Travel Gear
• Travel Fashion and Beauty
• Work with me

7 Amazing European Road Trips for a Flight-Free Trip from the UK

• Last Updated 3 March 2024

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Take a look at my privacy policy for more information.

Dreaming about an overseas escape, but not too keen on the idea of airports and packed planes right now? Why not plan a flight-free trip instead? With so many gorgeous European road trips to choose from, there are some pretty amazing adventures out there. 

With ferry crossings and the super-convenient Eurotunnel le Shuttle, you can pack up the car and be on the continent in no time! All the incredible European road trips in this post can be started from the UK, so you don’t have to go anywhere near a flight.

If you’re not sure where to start with planning a trip like this, speak to an expert like the amazing folks at Original Travel. They recently launched The Voyageurs Collection – a carefully-curated portfolio of itineraries to help you create the perfect tailor-made trip. They have some fabulous road trip ideas to get you inspired. More info at the end of this post. 

This is a sponsored post with Original Travel. However, all words and opinions are my own (as always). 

Remember that travel to certain destinations may not be advisable at this time, so this is more of an inspirational post for now. Also, Government rules for quarantining after travel are subject to change. Keep an eye on the news and always check the latest advice before travelling. 

7 Iconic European Road Trips

1 – from paris to berlin….

…and every disco I get in! ( Really hoping you know that song and I don’t just sound like a weirdo!) 

This European road trip actually starts in Calais after crossing on the Eurotunnel le Shuttle, but I think my title is catchier! From there, it’s a short hop to Paris , where you can spend a couple of days exploring the city of l’amour before embarking on an epic road trip. 

Cruise through the hills and vineyards of the Champagne region of France before heading into tiny, landlocked Luxembourg with its many fairy-tale castles. Crossing into Germany, there are several routes you can take to reach the capital. Perhaps through the medieval village of Bacharach in the heart of Reisling wine country, or up through historic cities like Cologne and Hanover. 

2 – Northern Spain

One of my favourite European road trips is this route along Spain’s all-too-often overlooked Northern Coast . You can take a direct ferry from Portsmouth to Bilbao, in the heart of the fascinating Basque Country region. Or, take le Shuttle and drive down through France first in order to extend your trip. 

Follow the coast through rugged Cantabria and the beautiful, secluded beaches of Asturias. Call in at picturesque fishing villages, or detour inland to visit the historic city of Oviedo. 

The final stop, Santiago de Compostela, is also the endpoint of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. So be sure to visit the stunning cathedral, which has been welcoming pilgrims for centuries. 

3 – Italian Lakes

A couple of years ago I took a bus tour from Dover to Lake Garda and discovered one of the most incredible road trips in Europe. Leaving from Dover, you can take the ferry or le Shuttle across to Calais, then descend down through France and into Switzerland. 

Crossing the Alps is a particular highlight, especially if you take the Furka Pass in Switzerland. One of the highest mountain roads in the Alps, the road – which featured in the James Bond film Goldfinger – is full of hairpin bends as it winds up and down the mountainside. 

Once you cross the border, try to plan a detour to Italy’s gorgeous Trentino region . Both Venice and Verona are also within driving distance of the Lakes. As well as the more famous Lake Garda, you also have Lake Como, Lake Maggiore, Lake Lugano, and countless other smaller lakes to explore. 

4 – Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

At an epic 2,500km, Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way runs from Derry all the way down the western coastline. The easiest way to start this European road trip from the UK is to take a ferry across to Dublin or Rosslare and head west from there. Ferries run from Fishguard, Holyhead, Birkenhead and Liverpool, so you have plenty of choice! 

Get ready for an incredible coastline of windswept headlands and hidden coves. Stop off at Galway for culture and colourful houses, or head into Killarney National Park for hiking and adventure. 

5 – Spain to Morocco

Did you know you can drive all the way to Africa from the UK? To get started, you can hop across to Calais, or take a ferry from Portsmouth to Ouistreham, then drive down through France and into the south of Spain. Alternatively, you can take a ferry to Bilbao and start your road trip in Spain. 

Either way, you’ll want to head down through Spain to Gibraltar, stopping off in quaint countryside towns or historic cities like Valladolid and Seville . A short ferry ride across the Strait of Gibraltar will land you in Tangier on the Moroccan Coast. From there, you could drive along the coast to Casablanca, down into Marrakech. Depending on how much time you have, you could even push across the Atlas Mountains and down to Merzouga on the edge of the Sahara Desert. 

6 –  Bruges to Amsterdam

Looking for culture, history, and canals? A road trip from the UK to Amsterdam could be perfect! It’s surprisingly easy to drive to Belgium via le Shuttle: Calais to the border is just a 40-minute journey. 

Stop off in Bruges and Ghent to get your waffle fix in Belgium, or detour down to Brussels to explore the country’s capital. Cross into the Netherlands to visit the windmills of the famous Kinderdijk and the lively culture of nearby Rotterdam.

Try to plan a stop at the beautiful, lesser-known city of Utrecht before reaching your final destination. Then spend a few nights in Amsterdam to make the most of the canals, culture, and impressive museums of one of the most iconic cities in Europe! Don’t forget to load up on all the best Amsterdam souvenirs at the city’s cute indie shops and markets before heading home.

7 – The Troll Path, Norway

If you’re looking for adventure, the Trollstigen (“Troll Path”) in Norway is the European road trip for you! Reaching it from the UK means driving up through Germany and Denmark via Calais, so it’s a long trip – but worth it!

From Hirtshals in northern Denmark, you can catch a ferry to Kristiansand in southern Norway. From there, journey up through the fjords to the stunning UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord region on Norway’s western coast. 

High in the snow-covered mountains, the Troll Path is a vast, zig-zagging road known as one of the most exciting drives in Europe. It has a steep incline, multiple hairpin bends, and in some places the road is only wide enough for a single car. So this road is not for the faint-hearted! 

Legend has it that trolls roam the mountains by night, so keep an eye out for them! As well as for the numerous photo opportunities as you cruise along this epic mountain road. 

Be sure to stop off in the village of Flåm en route to the Troll Path to explore the incredible Aurlandsfjord region as well. And if you want to extend your trip even further, you could make your way up north to Tromsø to explore the Artic Circle!

Original Travel can Plan your European road trip!

If these trips sound right up your street, but you’re not sure where to start with planning, get an expert to help you. Original Travel is a luxury tour operator that specialises in creating tailor-made holidays across the globe. This isn’t like booking an off-the-shelf package holiday. Instead, they work with you to create your dream itinerary. So you get to plan the perfect holiday – with none of the hard work! 

And with the new, carefully-curated portfolio from The Voyageurs Collection, you have more ways than ever to plan your flight-free holiday. More importantly, both Original Travel and The Voyageurs Collection are offering lots of additional services at the moment, to help reassure you about booking during these tricky times.

These include an improved airport experience, as well as travel insurance that covers Coronavirus. So you can book your flight-free trip to Europe with confidence. I’ve got first-hand experience using Original Travel to plan my trip to Rome , so I know just how good the service is. And in these uncertain times, having an expert on hand to help you plan your holiday can only be a good thing! 

Where are your favourite European road trips? Share in the comments!

Related Posts

Beyond a tour: casa batlló’s technological symphony unveiled.

• Last Updated 5 September 2024

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, I earn a small commission (at no extra…  Read More » Beyond a Tour: Casa Batlló’s Technological Symphony Unveiled

Marella Explorer Review: Everything You Need to Know

• Europe , Reviews
• Last Updated 27 August 2024

An in-depth review of the Marella Explorer cruise ship from TUI, covering every aspect of the ship – with photos…

How to get from Piraeus Cruise Port to Athens

• Last Updated 27 July 2024

Here’s how to get from Piraeus cruise or ferry port to Athens city centre (and back) by metro, bus or taxi…

4 thoughts on “7 Amazing European Road Trips for a Flight-Free Trip from the UK”

3 female travelers from US but will be in London on October 12. Looking to travel to Milan, Rome and Paris, but open to other destinations. We don’t have any fixed itinerary, except the dates of London arrival and departure. Can u help us plan our trip? If u have a planned trip on those days (Oct 12-22) we will be glad to join. Thanks

Hi Athena. Thanks for getting in touch. I don’t really offer a trip planning service as I’m not a travel agent, I’m a blogger and writer so this was more of an inspirational kind of article. But I wish you luck with the planning and hope you have a great time!

Hi, we are a family of 3, toddler 2 years old. Would you recommend that road trip to the Italian lakes? We are planning to do it in easter. How many days do we need from London?

Hi Catherine. Thanks for commenting! I’ve never travelled with a toddler myself – and I guess every child is different! Have you done road trips with them before? If you feel confident that you can do it then I’d say go for it :)

You can drive from London to Dover and take the ferry/eurotunnel to Calais. From Calais to Lake Garda is about 12 hours total drive time, so I think how many days you spend doing it depends on you and how many hours you want o spend driving per day. You could do London to somewhere like Reims or even Metz on the first day, then Reims to Basel perhaps on the second day (4.5 hours drive) then Basel to Lake Garda on day 3 (5 hours drive). That way you spend each night in a new country too. But really I’d say spend some time looking at Google maps, thinking about how many hours you want to be in the car each day, maybe thinking about any places you particularly want to see. Then choose the route that suits you.

Hope that helps :)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Home take me
• Travel Guides
• Itineraries
• Travel Tips
• North America
• About me learn more
• Contact get in

Europe Road Trip from The UK – A Magical 10 Day Motorhome Itinerary!

Last Updated on 7 November 2022

*This post may contain affiliate links , which means that if you decide to make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you! This allows me to continue bringing you valuable content for free and any purchases you make via these links are gratefully appreciated. Please refer to my Disclosures for more information.*

Fancy an enchanting road trip to some magical towns and cities.

Motorhome, RV, Campervan… call them what you will, but jumping in one and hitting the autobahns for a road trip through Europe is one of the best ways to explore the continent! They are literally homes on wheels that allow you the freedom to go (nearly) anywhere your heart desires. And what better contenders for a 10 day driving holiday to Europe than Germany and Belgium? On this Europe road trip from the UK, you will visit 2 of Belgium’s most charming cities and 6 of Germany’s most beautiful small towns (including a real hidden gem) which make for some of the most unique places to visit in Europe! So you can expect a complete overdose of storybook charm, but who could ever get bored of these uniquely enchanting settings, ay?

Tip: There are various opportunities for cycling on this Europe road trip itinerary. So be sure to strap your bicycles to the back of your motorhome otherwise you’re going to miss out on some real good stuff!

Note: Just because this is a motorhome itinerary, there’s nothing stopping you from using this if you’re looking for car road trip ideas for Europe. Instead of staying in the campsites, just book yourself into a hotel for each of the overnight stops.

Road trip to Europe itinerary overview

Tip: When you’re road tripping in Europe, to avoid unexpected charges set your satnav to avoid toll roads if this option is available to you. Or do your research beforehand so you know where they are!

Spanning ~1,650km (~1025 miles), beginning and ending in the French port of Calais (which is very accessible from the UK) and broken down into manageable chunks for daily driving, this campervan route around Europe will take you to some stunning cities in Belgium and beautiful medieval towns in Germany near the Rhine, Moselle and beyond across 10 days. And to avoid backtracking and effectively utilise your time on the continent, it’s a fairly circular route (just like this 7 day motorhome itinerary for Scotland )!

Note: This European road trip route includes both on and off site options for overnight parking. On site means on a campsite where there are facilities. Always check which months these are open as some campsites close off peak, and pre-book if possible. Off site means not on a campsite, so there may be no facilities, and availability cannot be guaranteed. Do your own research prior to departing for up to date information.

Know before you go

Always  check the entry requirements  for the country you are visiting to see if you will need a Visa to enter, and that you have enough validity left on your passport.

Always have a  good level of travel insurance  for every international trip. This is a non-negotiable part of any trip abroad, as the unexpected can happen.

When is the best time to visit Western Europe?

Western Europe is a year-round destination. But dependent on your personal preferences, there may be some times that are better to visit than others. For example, during the European summer holidays which span from around late June-August, prices may be inflated and roads can be busier. During this time, it is advisable to book everything you need to in advance, and give yourself extra time to get from A to B. If you don’t want to find yourself stuck in traffic on a hot summers day, perhaps avoid these months. May-early June and September can be good options for a road trip of Europe.

Tip : Visiting Europe off peak is one of the top tips on how to travel cheaper in Europe !

Can you drive from the UK to Europe?

Yes, absolutely. Although not across the channel unless you’ve got a super villain car-boat hovercraft type vehicle. The best way to reach Europe from the UK by road is to get the ferry from Dover or the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais in France. There are other ports that you can use to reach various countries in Europe (e.g. France, Belgium or The Netherlands) which may be easier if you live in other parts of the UK, like Poole, Portsmouth, Hull, or Newhaven.

Tip: Research ferry prices and don’t assume that the port closest to you has the cheapest fares. Sometimes it works out cheaper to drive to a UK port that’s a little bit further from you (like Dover, because of the frequency of crossings available)!

What currencies do I need?

The currency in United Kingdom is the  Great British Pound (£) – you will probably inevitably have this already as this is a road trip itinerary for Europe from the UK, unless you are using this as an add on for a United Kingdom itinerary!

The currency in France (where you will arrive), Belgium and Germany is the Euro (€) .

Day 1 of Europe road trip from UK

Get outbound ferry from the port of dover, uk, to calais, france, and then drive to antwerp in belgium, useful information for day 1.

Total distance: Calais to Antwerp is ~204km (~127 miles) Overnight stop: Camperpark Vogelzang , Antwerp (kind of like a grassy parking area for motorhomes that’s well located to explore Antwerp)

Morning itinerary for Day 1

Arrive at the Port of Dover, UK, and embark on the 1.5 hour journey across the English Channel to Calais, France. Once you reach solid continental ground, drive ~204km (~127 miles) to Antwerp, Belgium. Antwerp is the capital of the diamond trade and is much more than just an industrial port side city – it’s a cosmopolitan place boasting a maze of medieval architectural delights! Park up at Camperpark Vogelzang which will be your first overnight stop on this road trip through Europe from the UK.

Tip: As a general rule, early morning ferry crossings (I’m talking before 7.00am) are usually cheaper than one’s that depart at a more humane time. So if you want this trip to be kinder to your wallet, rise and shine early! I always book with P&O Ferries from Dover to Calais (and vice versa), but DFDS operate this route too.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 1

After lunch, jump on your bicycle and use the extensive network of cycle paths to navigate your way into the city centre. Spend your afternoon sightseeing in Antwerp – trundle the pretty cobbled streets of the Old Quarter, see the 16th century guild houses which line the Great Market Square (Grote Markt), and wander the renowned Antwerp docks! Once you’re all tired out from exploring, head back to camp and settle in for an early evening (it’s likely to have been a long day)!

Tip: If you don’t have any bicycles with you (which I highly recommend you do because there’s some fantastic cycling opportunities on this motorhome itinerary for Europe), you can use public transport to get from Camperpark Vogelzang into the city centre.

Day 2 of Europe road trip from UK

Antwerp, belgium to linz am rhein, germany, useful information for day 2.

Total distance: ~261km (~162 miles) Overnight stop: Wohnmobilstellplatz am Rhein , Linz am Rhein (GPS coordinates are 50° 33′ 44″ N 7° 16′ 48″ E or search the name on Google Maps) – off site parking on the side of the River Rhine a stone’s throw from the Old Town, limited parking spaces, train nearby so can be noisy

Morning itinerary for Day 2

Today you will travel from Belgium across to German soil – the land famous for beer, Bratwurst, cuckoo clocks and lederhosen’s! Rise and shine early this morning and hit the road bound for Linz am Rhein, Germany. Linz am Rhein is a charming town located on the banks of the roaring River Rhine, and is the first of the most beautiful small towns in Germany you will visit on this road trip through Europe! Aim to reach Wohnmobilstellplatz am Rhein by lunchtime, so you have the whole afternoon for exploration!

Tip : There are only a small number of campervan spaces at Wohnmobilstellplatz am Rhein, so you might want to have a plan B just in case you can’t park. Each time I’ve visited there’s been vacant spaces, but failing to plan is planning to fail as they say.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 2

After you’ve refueled with food, spend some time wandering the cobbled streets of Linz am Rhein. The Old Town is full of half-timbered wonky buildings that are adorned with striped shutters, and has its own pretty little market square decorated with fountains. You’ll also find some unique shops and quaint cafes here too. And don’t miss The Neutor – a preserved tower of the old city wall fortifications which rises high above the town. After an afternoon strolling, retire back to your motorhome for dinner with a view over the busy River Rhine!

Tip: There’s a Linz in Austria too, so make sure you include the ‘am Rhein’ bit. Otherwise your journey from Antwerp is going to be hundreds of miles longer!

Day 3 of Europe road trip from UK

Linz am rhein to bacharach, germany, useful information for day 3.

Total distance: ~87 km (~54 miles) (follow the River Rhine) Overnight stop : The motorhome parking area adjacent to and managed by Sonnenstrand Campsite in Bacharach (just set your satnav for Sonnenstrand Campsite)

Morning itinerary for Day 3

Today, you will continue your journey down the mighty River Rhine and visit another of Germany’s magical towns. And there’s no need to get up at the crack of dawn today (unless you want too, of course) because the distance you’ll cover is much less compared to yesterday’s mammoth drive! After breakfast, enjoy the scenic route alongside the River Rhine, passing many vineyards and towns on the way (if you take the route through Koblenz and via Boppard you’ll pretty much follow the river the whole way). When you arrive in Bacharach, park up at the hard standing motorhome parking area adjacent to Sonnenstrand Campsite.

Tip : Many of the campsites in this itinerary were found using the Camperstop book , which is like the bible of European campsites and off-site parking spots and a trip planning tool I can’t plan travel without.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 3

This afternoon, spend some time wandering the quaint town of Bacharach. As you enter via the walls that conceal Bacharach, a medieval Old Town will unravel before your eyes. Full of half-timbered wonky buildings, cobbled streets, and crafty shops, Bacharach is a charming place to spend your afternoon. Wander up through the vineyards to Postenturm Tower for spectacular views over the town and Rhine valley. And afterwards, jump on your bicycles and head north alongside the river, following the flat paths to the nearby town of Oberwesel and then Sankt Goar (if you’re feeling energetic).

Day 4 of Europe road trip from UK

Bacharach to rothenburg ob der tauber, germany, useful information for day 4.

Total distance : ~255 km (~159 miles) Overnight stop : Any of the allocated motorhome parking areas surrounding Rothenburg ob der Tauber (P2 or P3) – these are equipped with toilets and electric hook up

Morning itinerary for Day 4

Today calls for another early start, so after breakfast hit the road bound for Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is perhaps one of the most famous stops on the renowned Romantic Road – (one of the most well loved and best road trips in Europe)! This fairytale settlement has one of Germany’s best preserved medieval Old Towns, so it will come as no surprise that it’s a busy little place! It’s the most southerly point of Germany you’ll reach on this road trip around Europe, before you head west tomorrow and after start making your way back north. Park up at P2 or P3 (Rothenburg’s allocated parking areas for motorhomes) and get yourself settled in.

Tip: It can be good to try and get an early start on your daily driving, so you can maximise your time exploring each place of an afternoon. Plus, the roads are usually quieter in the mornings (aside from the work rush hour). But if you get tired, be sure to pull over for a rest.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 4

This afternoon is your chance to step into a real life children’s storybook and enjoy some sightseeing in Rothenburg ob der Tauber. The Old Town is purely enchanting and is bound to captivate your imagination, and visiting is definitely one of Europe’s bucket list experiences! Go wherever your curiosity takes you but be sure not to miss walking around the city walls for picturesque vistas across the terracotta roofs that fill the Old Town! Take another wander after sunset once the many tour groups have departed and calm prevails, before heading back to your van!

Tip: Rothenburg ob der Tauber has some year-round Christmas shops which sell some of the most beautiful festive decorations you’ll ever see, like Kathe Wohlfahrt . If you’re a Christmas fanatic (like me) you’ll definitely want to visit one of these!

Day 5 of Europe road trip from UK

Rothenburg ob der tauber to ladenburg, germany, useful information for day 5.

Total distance : ~176 km (~109 miles) Overnight stop: Wohnmobilstellplatz Ladenburg

Morning itinerary for Day 5

Today it’s time to head off the beaten path, and drive west across to a little settlement called Ladenburg. It might not be one of Germany’s most well known historic towns, and you may have never heard of it before. But sometimes places like these turn out to be real hidden gems, and Ladenburg is no exception to the rule. So on morning 5 of your Europe road trip from the UK, head from Rothenburg ob der Tauber to Wohnmobilstellplatz Ladenburg. Wohnmobilstellplatz Ladenburg is a quiet spot beautifully situated just outside the quaint town of Ladenburg in amongst the fields, with easy access to an abundance of flat cycle paths.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 5

After lunch, spend your afternoon enjoying the peace and quiet of Ladenburg. Wander the through the medieval Old Town, where the streets are lined with half-timbered wonky houses, cobble stones, statues, fountains, and little independent shops. Be sure not to miss the market square, with St Gallus Church in the backdrop. After you’ve strolled through Ladenburg, jump on your bicycle and enjoy the flat cycle paths that crisscross the fields (it’s a cyclers paradise). Navigate your way south by following the Neckar River to the University famed town of Heidelberg. Then, after you’ve enjoyed a bit of Heidelberg and seen the The Karl Theodor Bridge, cycle back to camp!

Day 6 of Europe road trip from UK

Ladenburg to cochem, germany, useful information for day 6.

Total distance: ~174 km (~108 miles) Overnight stop: Moselle riverside parking (GPS coordinates: 50° 9′ 10″ N 7° 10′ 6″ E)

Morning itinerary for Day 6

After breakfast, depart from Ladenburg north through Germany to Cochem. Cochem is a beautiful town located alongside the Moselle River, and is surrounded by rolling vineyards. One of Germany’s best loved medieval towns, Cochem is overlooked by Cochem Castle and has a perfectly preserved and pedestrianized Old Town, hidden away behind fortified walls and gates. It’s a stunning place to stop on any European road trip given its indisputably picturesque location.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 6

Once you’ve found your overnight stop, enjoy some lunch with a view. Then, wander into Cochem to explore the Old Town, and be sure to head up to the castle for spectacular views down through the Moselle too. Cochem is another prime location for some cycling, given the abundance of flat paths which span the Moselle River, so dedicate some time to this before settling in for the evening!

Tip: There are various spots that allow overnight parking for motorhomes in Cochem should you not be able to get into the one listed above, as the town is another well loved stop on motorhome routes through Europe.

Day 7 of Europe road trip from UK

Cochem to monschau, germany, useful information for day 7.

Total distance: ~111 km (~69 miles) Overnight stop: Campsite Perlenau , Monschau

Morning itinerary for Day 7

Today, continue north up through Germany to the tiddly town of Monschau which lies very close to the border with Belgium (and a short drive to The Netherlands too). As the distance from Cochem to Monschau is a bit shorter at than some of the other distances you have driven, you can afford to leave a little later if you wish to enjoy the serenity of the Moselle River a bit longer. Head towards Campsite Perlenau in Monschau which will be your overnight stop tonight.

Afternoon itinerary for Day 7

Once you’re parked up and settled in, wander or cycle into Monschau. Monschau is crammed full of traditional half-timbered houses, little shops, and cobbled streets, and is a sociable town with many quaint cafes. Immerse yourself in the magical aura of the town for the afternoon, as this is the last German town you will visit on this road trip to Europe from the UK! Perhaps sit for a while and soak up the medieval atmosphere which permeates the narrow streets, whilst enjoying a cold German beer!

Day 8 of Europe road trip from UK

Monschau to bruges, belgium, useful information for day 8.

Total distance : ~249 km (~155 miles) Overnight stop: Parking Kanaaleiland , Bruges (GPS coordinates: 51° 11′ 44″ N 3° 13′ 35″ E)

Morning itinerary for Day 8

On Day 8, it’s time to wave goodbye to Germany and hop over the border back into Belgium. As you are nearing the end of your Europe road trip from the UK, it’s time to work your way back towards the Port of Calais in France. But before it all comes to a sad end, visit the the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bruges. Bruges is a city in Belgium that is world renowned for it’s beauty – think canals, horse and carts, cobbled-streets, Gothic architecture, museums, red bricked medieval step roofed houses, Belgian waffles, and an overload of chocolate shops!

Tip: Slow and steady wins the race when you’re driving a motorhome through Europe, especially if it’s a larger one. Keeping a steady speed on the autobahns can be more economical on your fuel tank and therefore should save you some money!

Afternoon itinerary for Day 8

Park up at Parking Kanaaleiland – a designated parking area in Bruges for motorhomes, with electric hook up. Parking Kanaaleiland is a stone’s throw from Bruges, so it’s only a short walk before you can spend some time uncovering the magic of the city. Grab a map from one of the tourist information centres and spend this afternoon wandering the many canals, lakes and squares of the city. Enjoy a Belgian waffle before heading back to your campervan for the evening, when you can figure out the things you want to see in Bruges tomorrow!

Day 9 of Europe road trip from UK

Spend the whole day in bruges, useful information for day 9.

Total distance: N/A – spend today in Bruges Overnight stop : Parking Kanaaleiland, Bruges (the same as overnight on Day 8)

Itinerary for Day 9

As Bruges is such a stunning place and a fairly large city, Day 9 of this 10 day road trip through Europe from the UK is designated to spending the whole day there. If you need to shorten this itinerary to a 9 day one, you could cut this day and head back to Calais for your ferry this morning. But I would strongly recommend you allocate yourself one whole day to explore the city, and stay overnight again at Parking Kanaaleiland. After all, Bruges makes for one of the best city breaks in Europe in it’s own right! Here are some suggestions for things to do in Bruges on Day 9:

• Unleash the bicycles from the back of the van and head off across the cobbles, exploring both the inner and outer canals
• Take a boat ride around the canals
• Visit a museum or a chocolate shop
• Find one of the windmills of Bruges
• Stroll Minnewater Lake
• Explore the historic centre of Bruges and lose yourself in the many narrow lanes that join onto the main streets

Tip: Make sure you have a bicycle lock with you. There are an abundance of places you can lock your bike up in Bruges, if you wish to stop and take a wander.

Day 10 of Europe road trip from UK

Drive from bruges to the port of calais, france, for return ferry to dover, uk, useful information for day 10.

Total distance : ~113 km (~70 miles) Overnight stop : N/A – you have reached the end of your 10 day Europe road trip from the UK

Itinerary for Day 10

You have reached Day 10 of your 10 day motorhome itinerary for Europe and it’s time to return back to the UK. As with your outbound trip, it’s usually cheaper to get an early morning ferry from Calais to Dover. Bruges is very accessible to Calais, making it a good place to stay the night before your return journey home. You can stay in Calais overnight on Day 9 if you wish to be even closer to the Port of Calais. This is down to your personal preference, and Bruges makes for a lovely place to end your trip!

Tip: If you decide to follow this road trip itinerary for Europe and stay overnight in Bruges on Day 9, make sure you give yourself ample time to get to Calais for your return ferry home the next morning. The journey time usually takes less than 2 hours if traffic is light!

Europe road trip itinerary summary

There are many great campervan routes around Europe you can take, but this one is perfect if you are departing from the UK and only have 10 days to spare. You will visit some enchanting towns and cities, in all of their half-timbered glory (you might have guessed by now that this is a key component of any quintessential German town)! The continent is really well equipped for the road trip lifestyle, and it’s great transport links make it a fantastic destination for a Europe road trip from the UK!

Pssst… sharing’s caring! Pin this post using one of the images below, so you can find it easily later!

The Scrapbook Of Life

Posts by The Scrapbook Of Life

You Might Also Like

12 Absolute Best Things To Do In Tirana, Albania 

5 Days In Slovenia Itinerary [No Car] – Magical Lake Bled & Ljubljana!

Europe In A Campervan – 11 Things You Must Know Before Your First Trip

Ljubljana Airport To Lake Bled By Bus – Easy Guide With Photos

3 Days In Krakow – Very Best Krakow Itinerary [Eat, See & Do] + Exact Cost!

Krakow Airport To Old Town By Train – Simple Step By Step Guide & FAQs

3 Days In London – An Itinerary For The Perfect Weekend Break + FAQs

17 Unique Places To Visit In Europe You Must See!

We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar
• Skip to footer

The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

Most Scenic Road Trips in Europe: 16 Epic Routes

13 October 2023 · In: Europe , Road Trip

Are you looking for the  most beautiful and scenic road trips in Europe ? Adventure lovers, you have come to the right place! This article walks you through  16 road trip ideas to add to your bucket list  for an unforgettable holiday, whether you are travelling for 7 days or 2 weeks.

Europe is a breathtaking destination  which has much to offer! From quaint villages and stunning natural landscapes to emblematic historical sites and tasty local cuisine, you will find  plenty of things to do and places to see  on a European road trip in both summer and winter.

Born near Paris and living in Manchester in the UK,  I consider Europe my home , continually exploring it and discovering something new. Each country has something exceptional to offer, and I am always surprised by their  cultural diversity . 

So, are you ready to discover the  top 16 Europe road trips that you must experience ? Let’s get started! And, of course, let me know in the comments below if you have any other suggestions 🙂

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, please  read our full affiliate disclosure .

16- Vienna to Innsbruck, Austria

Overview: 16 epic european road trips.

1- Iceland Ring Road 2- North Coast 500, Scotland 3- The Loire Valley, France 4- The Romantic Road, Germany 5- Pula to Dubrovnik, Croatia 6- The Atlantic Coast, Portugal 7- The Tuscan Countryside, Italy 8- The Atlantic Road, Norway

9- The Peloponnese region, Greece 10- Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland 11- Andalusian Escape, Spain 12- Montenegro Loop 13- London to Edinburgh, UK 14- Baltic States Route 15- Into the Wilderness, Finland 16- Vienna to Innsbruck, Austria

Best Europe road trips – Map

16 breathtaking road trip routes in Europe

Here are 16 road trips to inspire your next European adventure. Each of these routes is easily accessible by car, campervan or motorbike. But also be sure to check road conditions, especially during the winter months, and book your accommodation in advance.

Best car rental options

Looking for the best car rental deals for your road trip in Europe?

Check out Rentalcars.com to search and compare which one is best for you. From affordable to luxury, they make it easy to choose and have a great selection of rental agents.

1- Iceland Ring Road

⏰  Duration : 7-10 days 📆  When to go : summer (June-August) 

The Iceland Ring Road, also known as  Route 1 , is the main route  that circles the entire island  and connects most of the major towns and attractions, making it an ideal road trip route for exploring the country.

This incredible road offers one of the  most famous and scenic drives  in the world, where you will be able to experience the best of Iceland through its  breathtaking landscapes , including glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, hot springs, black sand beaches and more!

Iceland is one of my favourite countries, and I never get tired of it. It is also the  perfect place for a road trip  due to its Ring Road forming a complete loop around the island,  accessible any time of the year , although I would be careful and focus on the South in winter.

READ MORE: 9 Perfect Days in Iceland: Ring Road Itinerary

ITINERARY 

Here is an example of a  7-day itinerary  covering the most iconic natural wonders in Iceland:

Day 1: Reykjavik

• Start your road trip in Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland.
• Discover the main attractions and sites, including Hallgrímskirkja Church, Harpa Concert Hall and the downtown area.
• Bathe in the  Blue Lagoon , a relaxing geothermal spa.

Day 2: Golden Circle

Explore the Golden Circle , which includes three highlights:

• Thingvellir National Park: walk (or swim) between tectonic plates and visit Lake Thingvallavatn.
• Geysir Geothermal Area: see the still active and erupting Strokkur Geyser and its hot springs.
• Gullfoss Waterfall: admire the stunning waterfall.

Day 3: South Coast

Head to the south coast and visit attractions such as:

• Seljalandsfoss Waterfall: walk behind the waterfall.
• Skogafoss Waterfall: climb to the top for panoramic views.
• Reynisfjara Beach: discover the black sand beach and its basalt columns.
• Vik: stop to discover this charming town.

Day 4: Vatnajökull National Park

Explore Vatnajökull National Park:

• Skaftafell: hike to Svartifoss waterfall or take a  glacier hike  (I highly recommend it! In winter, you can also join an  ice cave tour ).
• Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon: marvel at the floating icebergs.

Day 5: East Fjords

• Take the day to travel through the picturesque East Fjords, stopping at fishing villages and enjoying scenic views.
• Visit Seydisfjordur, a lovely hidden town with colourful houses.

Day 6: North Iceland

• Visit Dettifoss, the most powerful waterfall in Europe.
• Travel north to visit places like Húsavík (known for  whale watching ) and Goðafoss Waterfall.
• Explore the town of Akureyri, the second-largest city in Iceland.

Day 7: Northwest Iceland and back to Reykjavik

• Explore the Snæfellsnes Peninsula and its dramatic landscapes.
• Return to Reykjavik.

RING ROAD MAP

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

2- North Coast 500, Scotland

⏰  Duration : 5-7 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September) 

The North Coast 500 (NC500) is one of the most scenic driving routes in the UK , taking you on a circular journey through some of the  most picturesque and remote parts  of the northern Scottish Highlands. It is a fantastic way to explore the  beauty and rich heritage  of the country.

This popular route covers around 500 miles (805 kilometres) of stunning scenery, rugged coastlines, historic sites and charming villages. Some of its highlights include the wild  Torridon Mountains , the fairytale-like  Dunrobin Castle  and the secluded  Cape Wrath .

This road trip itinerary is also perfect for nature lovers! You will find  many outdoor activities  possible, such as hiking, cycling and wildlife spotting. In addition, the area is known for  birdwatching and stargazing  due to its low light pollution. And in winter, you might be lucky enough to  see the Northern Lights !

Here is an example of a  7- day itinerary  covering the main highlights of the North Coast 500:

Day 1: Inverness

• Start your road trip in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands.
• Visit Inverness Castle and stroll along the River Ness.
• Explore the nearby Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns.

Day 2: Ullapool

• Drive to Ullapool, a picturesque fishing village.
• Along the way, stop at the Rogie Falls and Corrieshalloch Gorge.
• In Ullapool, enjoy fresh seafood and walk along the harbour.

Day 3: Durness

• Head north along the coast, passing through the spectacular scenery of Assynt.
• Stop at Ardvreck Castle and the Bone Caves.
• Visit Smoo Cave near Durness.

Day 4: Thurso

• Continue to drive along the north coast to Thurso.
• Explore the stunning beaches of Balnakeil and Sandwood Bay.
• Visit the Castle and Gardens of Mey.

Day 5: John O’Groats and Wick

• Drive to John O’Groats, the northernmost point of mainland Britain.
• Visit Duncansby Head and its distinctive sea stacks.
• Head south to Wick and explore the town, including the Old Pulteney Distillery.

Day 6: Dingwall

• Leave the north coast and head south to Dingwall.
• Along the way, visit the Black Isle, known for its picturesque villages and dolphin-watching opportunities.
• Explore the town of Dingwall and its surrounding areas.

Day 7: Return to Inverness

• Drive back to Inverness and complete the North Coast 500 loop.
• Along the way, consider visiting the historic town of Beauly and the Beauly Priory.
• Return to Inverness, where you can spend your final evening exploring, shopping or relaxing.

3- The Loire Valley, France

⏰  Duration : 5 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September) 

The Loire Valley, located in central France, is a  picturesque and historic region  known for its magnificent castles, vineyards, picturesque villages and beautiful countryside. It is the ideal place to learn more about the  rich culture and history of France .

Not only a paradise for history and architecture enthusiasts, this road trip itinerary is also a delight for food, wine and nature lovers. It offers a  perfect blend of cultural, culinary and natural experiences  that make it a popular destination for travellers from around the world.

I feel lucky to say that  I was born in the Loire Valley , more precisely in Orleans. I loved the area and its cultural landmarks. It always felt great to be in the countryside whilst still being close to major cities like Paris. I am sure you will love exploring the many castles (châteaux) – a  great location for families with children !

READ MORE: Most Scenic Road Trips in France: 12 Epic Routes

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering some of the most famous châteaux and attractions in the Loire Valley:

Day 1: Tours

• Start your road trip in Tours, a city in the heart of the Loire Valley.
• Explore its historic Old Town with half-timbered houses and Place Plumereau.
• Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
• Take a walk along the banks of the Loire.

Day 2: Château de Villandry and Château d’Azay-le-Rideau

• Drive to Château de Villandry, famous for its superb Renaissance gardens.
• Continue to Château d’Azay-le-Rideau, a fairytale castle set on an island in the Indre River.

Day 3: Château de Chambord and Château de Cheverny

• Visit the iconic  Château de Chambord , a masterpiece of the French Renaissance.
• Explore its massive double-helix staircase and its vast garden.
• Head to Château de Cheverny, famous for its elegant interiors and well-preserved furniture.
• If you have time, you can also discover the pretty village of Cheverny and its vineyards.

Day 4: Château de Chenonceau and Amboise

• Visit the elegant  Château de Chenonceau , spanning the Cher River.
• Explore the stunning gardens and galleries of the castle.
• Drive to the town of Amboise, where you can visit Château d’Amboise and Clos Lucé, the former home of Leonardo da Vinci.
• Spend the evening exploring the quaint streets of Amboise.

Day 5: Wine tasting and back to Tours

• Enjoy a wine-tasting experience at a local vineyard in the Vouvray or Montlouis-sur-Loire wine region.
• Return to Tours in the afternoon.
• Spend your last evening in Tours sampling local cuisine and wine.

LOIRE VALLEY MAP 

4- The Romantic Road, Germany 

⏰  Duration : 4-5 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September) 

The Romantic Road (Romantische Straße) in Germany is one of the  most famous and scenic tourist routes , taking you through charming villages, historic towns and beautiful countryside. You will embark on a journey filled with  medieval architecture, stunning landscapes and a feeling of romance . 

The road stretches for around 350 kilometres (220 miles) through the  southern part of Germany,  near the border with Austria, and is a great way to immerse yourself in  German history and culture  as you come across many influential landmarks.

And for any  food lover  out there, you have come to the right place! The region along the Romantic Road is known for its  delicious Bavarian cuisine , including sausages, sauerkraut, schnitzels and pretzels. And do not forget to try  local beers and wines , such as Franconian wine.

READ MORE: Bavaria Road Trip: Epic 1-Week Itinerary

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering some of the most iconic stops along the Romantic Road:

Day 1: Würzburg

• Start your road trip in Würzburg, a city known for its stunning Residenz Palace.
• Explore the Residenz and its beautiful gardens.
• Take a stroll through the Old Town.
• Enjoy a glass of Franconian wine at a local wine tavern.

Day 2: Rothenburg ob der Tauber

• Drive to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Germany.
• Explore its charming streets and walk along the city walls.
• Visit the Town Hall and St. Jacob’s Church.
• Try a Schneeball, a local pastry speciality.

Day 3: Dinkelsbühl and Nördlingen

• Head to Dinkelsbühl, another picturesque medieval town along the Romantic Road.
• Explore its well-preserved city walls and the Cathedral of St. George.
• Relax in the charming market square.
• Continue to Nördlingen, a town located in a meteorite crater. 
• Visit the Daniel Tower for panoramic views.

Day 4: Augsburg

• Drive to Augsburg, one of the oldest cities in Germany.
• Visit its historic Old Town, home to the Augsburger Dom and the Fuggerei, the oldest social housing complex.
• Explore Maximilianstraße and its beautiful Renaissance buildings.

Day 5: Füssen and Neuschwanstein Castle

• Head to Füssen, a pretty town located at the foot of the Bavarian Alps.
• Visit Hohes Schloss.
• Explore the picturesque streets of the town.
• Do a quick detour to  Neuschwanstein Castle , the iconic fairytale castle.
• Take a guided tour of the castle or enjoy the views from Marienbrücke (Mary’s Bridge).
• Return to Füssen to end your road trip.

ROMANTIC ROAD MAP 

5- Pula to Dubrovnik, Croatia

⏰  Duration : 7-10 days 📆  When to go : spring (May-June) & autumn (September-October)

A road trip from Pula to Dubrovnik in Croatia is an adventure you should not miss, as it takes you  along the stunning Adriatic coast  through historic towns and beautiful landscapes. The country has become an increasingly  popular tourist destination  in recent years, and you will understand why!

The perfect  blend of natural beauty  (from the coastline to national parks),  historic monuments and vibrant culture  make Croatia a diverse and attractive destination for travellers looking to explore the Adriatic coast and immerse themselves in  European history and lifestyle .

Stretching for over 1,700 kilometres, the coastline of Croatia is  ideal for a road trip under the sun with friends , with its thousand islands, crystal-clear waters, pebble and sandy beaches and traditional coastal towns.

READ MORE: 20 Best Summer Destinations in Europe

Here is an example of a  7-day itinerary  covering the main highlights of a road trip from Pula to Dubrovnik:

Day 1: Pula

• Start your road trip in Pula.
• Explore its Roman heritage, including the well-preserved Pula Arena, Temple of Augustus and Arch of the Sergii.
• Relax on one of its beautiful beaches.

Day 2: Rovinj

• Continue south to Rovinj, one of the most charming towns of Istria.
• Wander its cobblestone streets, visit the St. Euphemia Church and explore the Old Town.
• Enjoy fresh seafood at a local waterfront restaurant.

Day 3: Poreč

• Head to Poreč, known for its UNESCO-listed Euphrasian Basilica and historic Old Town.
• Explore the basilica complex and its Roman heritage.

Day 4: Zadar

• Leave Istria and continue your road trip south to Zadar.
• Explore its Old Town, including the Sea Organ and the Greeting to the Sun installations.
• Visit St. Donatus Church and the Roman Forum.

Day 5: Šibenik

• Drive to Šibenik, a historic town known for its impressive St. James Cathedral.
• Explore the cathedral and the charming Old Town.
• Take a boat trip to nearby islands or Krka National Park .

Day 6: Split

• Head to Split, the second-largest city in Croatia.
• Explore Diocletian’s Palace , a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Stroll through the historic Old Town.
• Enjoy the lively atmosphere along the Riva promenade.

Day 7: Dubrovnik

• Continue your road trip south to Dubrovnik.
• Walk on the city walls and admire panoramic views of the Old Town .
• Visit iconic attractions like the Rector’s Palace, Sponza Palace and Onofrio’s Fountain.
• Relax on Banje Beach.
• Take a cable car ride to Mount Srđ for even more breathtaking views.

PULA TO DUBROVNIK MAP

6- The Atlantic Coast, Portugal

⏰  Duration : 8-10 days 📆  When to go : spring (April-May) & autumn (September-October)

Are you ready to explore the  stunning Atlantic coast of Portugal ? A road trip from Porto to Faro will allow you to experience the  diverse landscapes ,  historic towns  and  most   beautiful beaches  of the country. 

Vibrant and culturally rich, Portugal is also known for its  delicious cuisine and warm hospitality , making it an  ideal destination for solo travellers  (by car or campervan). I experienced it alone for a few days in May and always felt safe. I mostly stayed in hostels and met many other travellers along the way.  

Whether you are discovering historic landmarks, relaxing on the beach, hiking along the coast or savouring local cuisine, Portugal has  something to offer every type of traveller . And there is no better way to experience it all than a road trip from Porto to the Algarve.

Here is an example of a  9-day itinerary  offering a great mix of cultural, historical and natural attractions as you road trip from Porto to Faro:

Day 1: Porto

• Start your road trip in Porto, the second-largest city in Portugal.
• Explore the historic Ribeira district along the Douro River.
• Visit Livraria Lello, Clerigos Tower and Porto Cathedral.
• Enjoy a wine-tasting tour in the nearby Douro Valley .

Day 2: Aveiro

• Drive south to Aveiro, often called the “Venice of Portugal” due to its picturesque canals.
• Take a moliceiro boat ride along the canals.
• Explore the colourful houses of its historic centre.

Day 3: Coimbra

• Visit the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest in Europe.
• Explore the Joanina Library, Royal Palace and Coimbra Cathedral.
• Stroll through the medieval streets of the city.

Day 4: Tomar

• Drive to Tomar, home to the Convent of Christ, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Explore the Templar Castle and its intricate Manueline-style architecture.

Day 5: Óbidos and Nazaré

• Visit the charming medieval town of Óbidos with its well-preserved city walls.
• Enjoy a stroll through its narrow streets and visit the Óbidos Castle.
• Drive to Nazaré, known for its impressive waves and beautiful beach.

Day 6: Batalha and Alcobaça

• Explore the Batalha Monastery, another UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Visit the Alcobaça Monastery, known for its spectacular Gothic architecture.

Day 7: Lisbon

• Spend a full day exploring Lisbon.
• Visit historic neighbourhoods like Alfama, Bairro Alto and Belém.
• See the Jerónimos Monastery, Belém Tower and the Monument to the Discoveries.
• Enjoy a traditional Portuguese meal and Fado music in the evening.

Day 8: Faro

• Drive to Faro, the capital of the Algarve region .
• Explore its historic Old Town with its medieval walls and charming streets.
• Visit the Faro Cathedral and stroll through Jardim Manuel Bivar.
• Relax on the nearby beaches.

Day 9: Algarve Beaches

• Spend this day exploring the beautiful beaches of the Algarve.
• Consider visiting Praia da Marinha, Praia de Benagil and Praia da Rocha.
• Enjoy water activities like swimming, snorkelling or kayaking tours.
• Or explore traditional villages such as Carvoeiro and Ferragudo.

PORTO TO FARO MAP

7- The Tuscan Countryside, Italy

⏰  Duration : 5-6 days 📆  When to go : spring (April-May) & autumn (September-October)

For any Italy lover out there, you will love this itinerary! A road trip through Tuscany offers a  fantastic mix of picturesque landscapes, medieval towns and excellent cuisine . I experienced it for a few days in March and absolutely loved it. Tuscany has an incredible atmosphere that will  transport you back in time .

Located in central Italy, Tuscany is a  scenic and culturally rich region  renowned for its winding cypress-lined roads, historic villages, Renaissance art treasures, wine production and culinary delights. You guessed it, you will not run out of  things to do . 

In addition, a road trip through Tuscany will be an excellent way to immerse yourself in  Italian culture  and enjoy a blend of  artistic exploration, gastronomic pleasures and relaxation  in a stunning and peaceful setting.

READ MORE: Tuscany Road Trip Guide: Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  offering a taste of the best that Tuscany has to offer:

Day 1: Florence

• Start your road trip in Florence , the capital of Tuscany.
• Explore its historic centre, including the Florence Cathedral, Giotto’s Bell Tower and the Uffizi Gallery.
• Tour the  Galleria dell’Accademia  to admire the sculpture of David by Michelangelo.
• Take a walk across the Ponte Vecchio bridge.

Day 2: Siena

• Drive to Siena, a beautiful medieval town.
• Explore the Piazza del Campo, its main square.
• Visit the Siena Cathedral and the Torre del Mangia.
• Get lost in its narrow streets and alleys.

Day 3: Val d’Orcia and Montalcino

• Explore the beautiful Val d’Orcia region, known for its rolling hills and iconic cypress trees.
• Drive to Montalcino, famous for its  Brunello di Montalcino wine .
• Visit vineyards for wine tasting and explore the town.

Day 4: San Gimignano and Volterra

• Head to San Gimignano, famous for its medieval towers.
• Explore the town and enjoy the views from the Torre Grossa.
• Drive to Volterra, known for its Etruscan heritage and medieval architecture.
• Visit the Volterra Cathedral and the Guarnacci Etruscan Museum.

Day 5: Pisa and Lucca

• Drive to Pisa.
• Visit its iconic  Leaning Tower of Pisa , Pisa Cathedral and Baptistery.
• Continue to Lucca, a charming walled city.
• Explore its historic centre, and walk or cycle along the city walls. 
• Stop at its San Martino Cathedral.
• Return to Florence.

TUSCAN COUNTRYSIDE MAP

8- The Atlantic Road, Norway

The Norwegian Atlantic Road, also known as Atlanterhavsveien, is a  breathtaking drive in Norway  taking you along the rugged coastline of the country, passing over islands and bridges  with spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean . 

With many charming towns and cultural attractions along the way, it is often considered one of the  most scenic drives  in the world, offering a unique and exhilarating experience for travellers seeking to explore the  coastal beauty of Norway  and its  dramatic landscapes .

Whether you are a photo enthusiast, a nature lover or simply looking for an unforgettable (and short) road trip, the Atlantic Road is a  must-visit destination ! Hop on your car or campervan and enjoy.

READ MORE: Norwegian Fjords Cruise: Complete Winter Guide

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  for exploring the Norwegian Atlantic Road and the surrounding area: 

Day 1: Ålesund

• Start your road trip in Ålesund, a picturesque coastal town known for its Art Nouveau architecture.
• Explore its historic district and climb to Aksla Viewpoint for panoramic views.
• Visit the Ålesund Aquarium to learn about local marine life.
• Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Molde and Bud

• Drive to Molde, another scenic coastal town.
• Explore its beautiful gardens and Molde Cathedral.
• Head to the fishing village of Bud.
• Stop at viewpoints along the way to admire the dramatic coastline.
• Visit Bud and discover its historic charm.

Day 3: Atlantic Road and Kristiansund

• Drive along the Atlantic Road, a highlight of your trip, with its iconic bridges and breathtaking views.
• Make stops at different viewpoints and islands along the way.
• Arrive in Kristiansund, a coastal town known for its colourful houses and vibrant cultural scene.
• Explore its city centre and visit the Kirkelandet Church.

Day 4: Geiranger via the Trollstigen

• Drive to Geiranger, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a detour to the famous Trollstigen mountain road.
• Experience the hairpin bends and spectacular landscapes of Trollstigen.
• Explore the  Geirangerfjord  and go on a boat trip.
• Visit the Dalsnibba viewpoint.
• Hike or take a scenic drive to see the Seven Sisters Waterfall and the Bridal Veil Waterfall.

Day 5: Return to Ålesund

• Return to Ålesund.
• You might have time for some last-minute shopping or a final meal before heading home.

ATLANTIC ROAD MAP

9- The Peloponnese Region, Greece

⏰  Duration : 5-7 days 📆  When to go : spring (May-June) & autumn (September-October)

Located in southern Greece, the Peloponnese is a  historically and culturally rich region  separated from the Greek mainland by the Gulf of Corinth. It is a  fascinating peninsula  known for its ancient history, archaeological sites, beautiful coastlines and picturesque towns. 

Venturing on a road trip through the Peloponnese region offers an ideal mix of  history, culture, stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities . It is a captivating destination if you are interested in exploring ancient ruins, enjoying coastal activities and  immersing yourself in Greek heritage .

And if you are a  food lover , you will also love tasting the culinary delights of the area! The Peloponnese is known for its  delicious Mediterranean cuisine , where you can savour local dishes like pastitsio, grilled lamb, fresh seafood, olives and feta cheese. 

If you would like to extend your trip to the Greek islands, check out this article: 15 Best Things to Do in Santorini, Greece .

Here is an example of a  7-day itinerary  covering some of the highlights of the Peloponnese region:

Day 1: Athens to Corinth

• Start your road trip in Athens, the capital of Greece.
• Visit the  Acropolis  and explore the historic Plaka neighbourhood.
• Drive to Corinth, known for the ancient Corinthian Acropolis and Temple of Apollo.

Day 2: Epidaurus and Nafplio

• Visit the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, known for its exceptional acoustics.
• Explore the Sanctuary of Asclepius and the Epidaurus Museum.
• Continue to Nafplio, a charming seaside town.
• Explore its historic Old Town and visit the Palamidi Fortress.

Day 3: Mycenae and Nemea

• Head to Mycenae, home to the famous Lion Gate and the Treasury of Atreus.
• Explore the archaeological site and the Mycenae Museum.
• Drive to Nemea, a wine region famous for its Agiorgitiko red wine.
• Visit a local vineyard for a wine-tasting experience.

Day 4: Olympia

• Drive to Olympia, the site of the ancient Olympic Games.
• Explore its  archaeological sites , including the Temple of Zeus and the ancient stadium.
• Visit the Olympia Archaeological Museum.

Day 5: Messene and Kalamata

• Visit the ancient city of Messene, known for its well-preserved ruins.
• Explore its Ancient Theatre and city walls.
• Drive to Kalamata, a coastal town known for its olives and olive oil.

Day 6: Mani Peninsula

• Drive to the rugged Mani Peninsula, famous for its unique stone tower houses.
• Explore picturesque villages like Kardamyli and Areopoli.
• Visit the Diros Caves on a boat tour through underground caverns.

Day 7: Monemvasia

• Visit Monemvasia, a medieval fortress town on a small island.
• Explore the narrow streets and Byzantine churches.
• Enjoy panoramic views from the upper town.
• Return to Athens.

PELOPONNESE REGION MAP

10- Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

⏰  Duration : 7-10 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September) 

The Wild Atlantic Way is a  spectacular coastal route in Ireland , stretching along the west and northwest coasts of the country. It is renowned for its  rugged and dramatic landscapes , quaint villages, historic sites and the raw beauty of the Atlantic Ocean.

It offers a fascinating journey, allowing you to experience the  wild beauty of the west coast of Ireland . From impressive cliffs to pretty fishing towns and unique cultural experiences, a road trip on this iconic road will provide you with  unforgettable   memories ! 

Whether you are driving the entire route or exploring specific sections, exploring the Wild Atlantic Way is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in  Irish natural beauty, culture and history . 

Here is an example of a  10-day itinerary  covering some of the most spectacular parts of the Wild Atlantic Way:

Day 1: Ring of Kerry

• Start your road trip by exploring Kerry, one of the most famous scenic routes in Ireland.
• Drive the Ring of Kerry, stopping at viewpoints and attractions like Muckross House and Torc Waterfall.
• Visit the town of Killarney and its national park.

Day 2: Dingle Peninsula

• Drive to the Dingle Peninsula, known for its stunning scenery and traditional Irish culture.
• Explore the town of Dingle and taste fresh seafood.
• Drive the Slea Head Drive for breathtaking coastal views.

Day 3: Loop Head Peninsula and Kilkee

• Drive to Loop Head Peninsula, a hidden gem on the Wild Atlantic Way.
• Explore the Loop Head Lighthouse and take in the coastal views.
• Continue to Kilkee and relax on its sandy beaches.

Day 4: The Cliffs of Moher and Burren 

• Continue to the Cliffs of Moher, one of the most iconic natural attractions in Ireland.
• Drive to the Burren region, famous for its unique limestone karst landscape.
• Visit the Poulnabrone Dolmen and explore the walking trails of the Burren.

Day 5: Galway

• Head to Galway, a bustling city on the western coast.
• Explore its lively Latin Quarter and listen to traditional Irish music in local pubs.

Day 6: Connemara Peninsula and Clifden

• Drive to the Connemara Peninsula, known for its spectacular landscapes.
• Stop at the charming fishing village of Roundstone.
• Visit Kylemore Abbey, a beautiful castle and abbey located in the Connemara wilderness.
• Explore the stunning landscapes of Connemara National Park.
• Continue towards Clifden.

Day 7: Explore Westport

• Drive to Westport, a picturesque town with colourful buildings.
• Spend a full day exploring Westport.
• Tour Westport House and Gardens.
• Enjoy outdoor activities like cycling the Great Western Greenway or climbing Croagh Patrick.

Day 8: Achill Island and Sligo

• Head to Achill Island, known for its stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs.
• Explore Keem Bay and Keel Beach, and take a scenic drive around the island.
• Leave Achill Island and drive to Sligo to explore the town.
• Enjoy the stunning landscapes that inspired the poet W.B. Yeats.

Day 9: Donegal

• Continue north to Donegal.
• Make a detour to the beautiful Glencar Waterfall.
• Explore the wild beauty of Slieve League Cliffs, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.
• Visit the charming village of Donegal.

Day 10: Derry

• Drive to Derry (also known as Londonderry), Northern Ireland.
• Explore the historic city walls and learn about its troubled history.
• Take a walk along the Peace Bridge.
• And if you have time, head to the iconic Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

WILD ATLANTIC WAY MAP

11- Andalusian Escape, Spain

⏰  Duration : 7-10 days 📆  When to go : spring (April-May) & autumn (September-October)

Andalusia (Andalucía in Spanish) is a  vibrant and culturally rich autonomous community  located in southern Spain. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, historic towns, Moorish architecture, flamenco music and dance and rich cultural heritage.

Whether you are exploring the historic streets of  Cordoba , admiring the Alhambra in  Granada  or lounging on the beach in  Cádiz , Andalusia offers plenty of experiences  for all travellers and ages . 

The region is also perfect for a road trip thanks to its  diversity and wealth of sites and attractions , from some of the most famous cities in Spain, such as  Seville , to the wide range of landscapes and historical landmarks, including  Roman ruins, Gothic cathedrals and Renaissance palaces .

Here is an example of a  7-day itinerary  covering some of the most iconic locations and attractions in Andalusia:

Day 1: Seville

• Start your road trip in Seville, the capital of Andalusia.
• Explore its historic city centre.
• Visit the Alcazar,  Seville Cathedral  and the Giralda Tower.
• Stroll along the banks of the Guadalquivir River and watch a traditional Flamenco show.

Day 2: Cordoba

• Drive to Cordoba, known for the beautiful Mezquita.
• Explore the Mezquita and the historic Jewish Quarter.
• Visit the Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos and stroll along the Roman Bridge.

Day 3: Granada

• Head to Granada and visit the  Alhambra , a stunning palace and fortress complex.
• Explore the Generalife Gardens and the historic Albayzín neighbourhood.
• Visit the Monastery of Saint Jerome.
• Relax in a tapas bar and enjoy the local cuisine.

Day 4: Ronda

• Continue towards Ronda, a picturesque town perched on the edge of a deep gorge.
• Visit the Puente Nuevo and the Plaza de Toros.
• Explore the charming Old Town.

Day 5: Jerez de la Frontera

• Head to Jerez de la Frontera, known for its sherry wine.
• Visit a sherry bodega for a wine-tasting experience.
• Discover the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art.

Day 6: Cádiz

• Drive to Cádiz, a historic port city.
• Explore the Old Town and visit the Cádiz Cathedral.
• Relax on La Caleta beach.

Day 7: Seville

• Return to Seville.
• Spend your last day in Seville, doing some last-minute shopping or visiting any attractions you missed.

ANDALUSIAN ESCAPE MAP

12- Montenegro Loop

Montenegro is a small yet  incredibly picturesque country  located in southeastern Europe, in the  Balkans . It is known for its diverse landscapes, rugged mountains, pristine coastline along the Adriatic Sea and quaint historic towns.

The combination of  natural beauty, cultural heritage and outdoor adventure  of Montenegro makes it an attractive destination for road trippers looking to explore a  lesser-known corner of Europe .

Whether you are seeking relaxation on the  Adriatic coast , hiking in the  mountains  or immersing yourself in  history and culture , Montenegro has something for everyone. And if you are adventurous, try yourself at  white-water rafting or mountain biking .

Here is an example of a  7-day itinerary  covering some of the most popular destinations and attractions in Montenegro:

Day 1: Podgorica

• Start your road trip in Podgorica, the capital of Montenegro.
• Explore its main landmarks, including Millennium Bridge and Gorica Hill.
• Try local specialities like Njeguški pršut (smoked ham) and seafood risotto.

Day 2: Lake Skadar

• Drive to Lake Skadar, the largest lake in the Balkans.
• Take a  boat trip  on the lake to explore its natural beauty and birdlife.
• Visit the picturesque village of Virpazar.

Day 3: Cetinje and Lovćen National Park

• Head to Cetinje, the historic royal capital of Montenegro
• Visit the Cetinje Monastery and the King Nikola Museum.
• Continue to Lovćen National Park and hike to the Njegos Mausoleum for stunning views.

Day 4: Budva

• Continue to Budva, known for its beautiful beaches and historic Old Town.
• Explore its historic centre and visit the Citadel.
• Relax on one of its sandy beaches.

Day 5: Kotor

• Drive to Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage city.
• Explore its Old Town and climb the city walls for panoramic views.
• Visit the Maritime Museum to learn about local maritime history.
• Discover the lovely Tryphon’s Cathedral.

Day 6: Durmitor National Park

• Head to Durmitor National Park, famous for its spectacular scenery.
• Drive along the picturesque Bay of Kotor.
• Visit the charming coastal town of Perast and take a boat to the  Our Lady of the Rocks  islet.
• Explore the town of Žabljak and the nearby Black Lake.
• Consider hiking the Tara River Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in Europe.

Day 7: Return to Podgorica

• Return to the capital city of Podgorica.

MONTENEGRO LOOP MAP

13- London to Edinburgh, UK

A road trip from London to Edinburgh is the perfect opportunity to explore the  diverse landscapes, historic landmarks and beautiful countryside  of England. You will have the chance to uncover hidden gems and  picturesque villages  that are worth the detour. 

Whether you enjoy the cosmopolitan atmosphere, hiking through scenic national parks or delving into the rich history of the country, England offers a  wide range of experiences for all travellers .

And do not forget to sample  traditional English cuisine  along the way, including dishes like fish and chips, roast dinners, pies and the famous English breakfast. England is also known for its  afternoon tea tradition  and beers in  cosy pubs .

READ MORE: London to Edinburgh Drive: 20+ Best Stops

Here is an example of a  5-day itinerary  covering the best stops and detours for an unforgettable adventure through the UK:

Day 1: Cambridge

• Start your road trip from London and drive to Cambridge.
• Explore the historic University of Cambridge, including King’s College Chapel and the picturesque Backs.
• Discover the city from the water by  punting on the River Cam .
• Admire the beautiful Mathematical Bridge.

Day 2: York

• Drive to York, a city rich in history.
• Stop at the Peak District National Park, known for its dramatic limestone valleys.
• Discover York Minster and walk along the medieval city walls.
• Explore the Shambles, a picturesque shopping street.
• Visit the York Art Gallery and the Castle Museum.

Day 3: Durham

• Continue north to Durham.
• Stop at the charming town of Whitby and visit its Abbey.
• Discover Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Explore the charming city centre.
• Discover Durham Dales and walk to High Force waterfall.

Day 4: Alnwick

• Head to the town of Alnwick. 
• Pass through Newcastle-upon-Tyne and see its historic Tyne Bridges.
• Visit Alnwick Castle and its beautiful gardens.
• Explore the nearby Alnwick town centre.

Day 5: Edinburgh

• Continue to Edinburgh, crossing the Scottish border.
• Visit the town of North Berwick along the way.
• Explore  Edinburgh Castle , the Royal Mile and Holyrood Palace.
• Hike to Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views.
• Tour the National Museum of Scotland or the Royal Yacht Britannia.

LONDON TO EDINBURGH MAP

14- Baltic States Route

The Baltic States, also known as the Baltic countries or simply the Baltics, are a  group of three countries located in Northern Europe  along the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea, which include  Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania .

If they share a common history, geographic proximity and cultural ties,  each has a unique identity  and something different to offer. That is why a road trip through the Baltics is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the  rich heritage of Northern Europe .

From  stunning and well-preserved cities  such as Riga or Vilnius to  breathtaking national parks  and protected areas, the Baltics are the ideal holiday destination whether you are into culture, art or nature. 

Here is an example of a  7-day itinerary  covering many of the major attractions and cities in the Baltic States:

Day 1: Tallinn, Estonia

• Start your road trip in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia.
• Explore its Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Visit historic landmarks like Toompea Castle and Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.

Day 2: Riga, Latvia

• Cross the border into Latvia and head to Riga, the Latvian capital.
• Explore its  Old Town , known for its Art Nouveau architecture.
• Visit attractions like Riga Castle and St. Peter’s Church.
• Take a relaxing walk along the Daugava River.

Day 3: Jurmala, Latvia

• Drive to Jurmala, a seaside resort town on the Baltic Sea.
• Relax on its sandy beaches and enjoy its pretty wooden architecture.
• Explore Dzintari Forest Park and Majoru Promenade.

Day 4: Kaunas, Lithuania

• Head to Kaunas, the second-largest city in Lithuania.
• Visit the Rundale Palace, a magnificent Baroque palace en route to Kaunas.
• If you have time, also drive to the Hill of Crosses, a unique and spiritual site with thousands of crosses.
• Explore Kaunas Old Town, the Pazaislis Monastery and the Ninth Fort.

Day 5: Vilnius, Lithuania

• Continue your journey to Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania.
• Stop in Trakai and discover  Trakai Island Castle  on Lake Galvė.
• Explore Vilnius Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Visit attractions like Gediminas Tower and the Cathedral of Vilnius.
• Sample Lithuanian cuisine at a local restaurant.

Day 6: Tartu, Estonia

• Drive back north to Tartu, the second-largest city in Estonia.
• Visit the University of Tartu and the Estonian National Museum.
• Explore its charming Old Town and stroll along the Emajõgi River.

Day 7: Tallinn, Estonia

• Return to Tallinn to conclude your Baltic States road trip.
• If time allows, explore any remaining parts of Tallinn or do some last-minute souvenir shopping.

BALTIC STATES MAP

15- Into the Wilderness, Finland

⏰  Duration : 7-10 days 📆  When to go : spring & summer (May-September)

A road trip from Helsinki to Inari in Finland will take you through some of the  most beautiful landscapes of the country , including forests, lakes and the magical Arctic region, providing the opportunity to learn about  Sámi culture  and experience the  unique beauty of the far north .

Often referred to as the Land of a Thousand Lakes, Finland is a  haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts . Additionally, the country boasts a unique  blend of modernity and cultural traditions , making it an appealing destination for a scenic road trip.

And although it is easier to drive in Finland in spring and summer, I would also recommend doing this itinerary  in winter  to discover the best of the country and the Arctic region under a white coat, which includes  skiing, dog sledding and catching the Northern Lights . 

READ MORE: Travel Guide to Lapland, Finland in Winter

Here is an example of a  10-day itinerary  allowing you to experience a diverse range of Finnish landscapes and cultures as you make your way from Helsinki to Inari:

Day 1: Helsinki

• Start your road trip in Helsinki , the capital of Finland.
• Explore its top attractions, including Senate Square, Helsinki Cathedral and Suomenlinna Fortress.
• Experience a traditional Finnish Sauna at Löyly.

Day 2: Porvoo

• Drive to Porvoo, a charming historic town known for its well-preserved wooden houses.
• Explore its Old Town and visit Porvoo Cathedral.
• Stop at Café Fanny and try their cinnamon buns.

Day 3: Lahti

• Continue your journey to Lahti, known for its beautiful lakes and outdoor activities.
• Visit the Sibelius Hall and Lahti Harbour.
• Explore the nearby Lake Vesijärvi.

Day 4: Jyväskylä

• Drive to Jyväskylä, a city surrounded by lakes and forests.
• Discover the architecture of Alvar Aalto, including the Muurame Church and the Alvar Aalto Museum.
• Explore the Jyväskylä Harbour.

Day 5: Kuopio

• Head to Kuopio, known for its picturesque lakeside setting.
• Visit Puijo Tower for panoramic views and explore the Kuopio Market Square.
• Relax by Lake Kallavesi.

Day 6: Oulu

• Drive to Oulu, a coastal city with a vibrant cultural scene.
• Explore the Oulu Market Square and visit the Oulu Art Museum.
• Relax on Nallikari Beach.

Day 7: Rovaniemi

• Continue your journey north to Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland.
• Visit the Arctic Circle and the Santa Claus Village.
• Explore the Arktikum Science Museum and Pilke Science Centre.

Day 8: Saariselkä

• Drive to Saariselkä, a winter sports resort in the Lapland region.
• Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and mountain biking.
• Explore the Urho Kekkonen National Park.

Day 9: Ivalo and Inari

• Continue north to Ivalo and Inari, which are close to each other.
• Visit the Siida Sami Museum in Inari and explore the beautiful surroundings.
• Experience the unique culture and traditions of the Sámi people.

Day 10: Explore Inari 

• Spend your last day exploring around Inari.
• Take a boat trip on Lake Inari.
• Drive the scenic Kaamasentie road.

HELSINKI TO INARI MAP

Austria, located in the heart of Central Europe, is known for its rich  cultural heritage , stunning  Alpine landscapes ,  picturesque towns  and a high standard of living. And that is why a road trip from Vienna to Innsbruck is an excellent way to discover everything the country offers!

With its perfect blend of  historical landmarks ,  charming historic cities  such as Salzburg and the  ideal setting of the Alps , Austria has become a popular destination for travellers seeking  outdoor adventures with a dose of cultural experiences . 

Whether you are exploring the spectacular palaces and museums, skiing in the Alps or indulging in Austrian cuisine, Austria provides a  diverse range of activities and attractions  for an unforgettable road trip.

Here is an example of a  7-day itinerary  providing a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty and historical sites along your road trip from Vienna to Innsbruck:

Day 1: Vienna

• Start your road trip in Vienna , the capital of Austria.
• Explore the main attractions, including  Schönbrunn Palace , St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace.
• Stop at a traditional restaurant to sample a Wiener Schnitzel.

Day 2: Melk and Dürnstein

• Drive to Melk and visit the magnificent Melk Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Continue to Dürnstein, a charming town located on the banks of the Danube River.
• Explore the medieval streets of Dürnstein and enjoy the views.

Day 3: Krems and Wachau Valley

• Head to Krems, another picturesque town along the Danube.
• Explore its historic centre and visit the Gozzoburg Castle.
• Drive through the Wachau Valley, known for its vineyards and pretty villages.

Day 4: Linz

• Drive to Linz, the third-largest city in Austria.
• Explore the Hauptplatz and visit the Ars Electronica Center.
• Take a stroll along the banks of the Danube.

Day 5: Salzburg

• Drive to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and a city rich in history.
• Explore its historic Old Town and visit Hohensalzburg Fortress.
• Take an unforgettable  Sound of Music tour .

Day 6: Zell am See

• Drive to Zell am See, a beautiful Alpine town located on the shores of Lake Zell.
• Enjoy water sports, hiking or take a scenic boat ride on the lake.
• Explore the charming town centre.

Day 7: Innsbruck

• Drive to Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, known for its breathtaking Alpine backdrop.
• Explore its historic Old Town and visit the Golden Roof.
• Take a cable car to the Nordkette mountain range.

VIENNA TO INNSBRUCK MAP

Shop the printable road trip planner

Plan and create an unforgettable European road trip!

Tips for reducing your impact on a road trip

Are you looking forward to your amazing road trip? I understand! Road trips are a fantastic way of travelling as they allow us to move freely and discover many incredible places at our own pace. However, they can also have negative environmental impacts. That is why considering our carbon footprint and adopting  eco-responsible habits  is essential.

READ MORE: How to Plan an Epic (Eco-Friendly) Road Trip

Here are some sustainable tips on making your Europe road trip more eco-friendly and having a positive impact on the places you visit:

Prepare your route in advance 

I know getting lost on a road trip can feel fun and exciting, but when trying to minimise your footprint, it is best to plan your route to avoid unnecessary travel. In addition, the shorter the distance you travel, the less fuel you will use and the less harmful emissions you will produce. Tip: Get offline maps to stay on track even if you lose signal. 

Plan your meals

Another great way to reduce your impact on the road is to plan your meals. Throughout your journey, try to find local restaurants or eco-friendly facilities. You can try the local cuisine or wander through local markets and buy fresh produce. 

Make your trip plastic-free

As you might know, plastic packaging is a significant environmental issue and causes concerns for wildlife and the preservation of natural landscapes. Therefore, avoid plastic as much as possible and bring reusable items instead. Choose eco-friendly alternatives, like reusable tote bags, cutlery, plates, etc. Tip: you can also buy  filtered water bottles  to refill your water anywhere. 

Check your car and drive smoothly

Make sure your vehicle is in the best possible condition for the road: check the engine, oil level and tyre pressure before your trip. In addition, use the available features in your car, like cruise control, to help you maintain your speed and reduce excess emissions. And even better, drive an electric vehicle if possible! (Or a bike for the most courageous).

Leave a place better than you found it

Aim to live by the principle: leave no trace. And even better, leave a place better than you found it. For example, dispose of your litter appropriately and pick up any trash you encounter. Be respectful of the land and do not drive over protected areas. And finally, stay on the marked trails when hiking, as going off can be dangerous for flora and fauna. 

Adopt a responsible attitude towards wildlife

Be mindful of your surroundings and adopt a responsible attitude towards wildlife, on land and in the sea. Do not come close to, feed or touch animals and corals. Remember that you are only a guest in their home.

Always respect the local heritage

Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful and try to learn a few local words!

More inspiration for your green vacation:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World

Eco-friendly gear you might love:

• 10 Best Sustainable Backpacks for Travel & Hiking
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs
• 8 Best Filtered Water Bottles for Travel & Hiking

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

Europe travel planning guide + tips

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your European road trip stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink in most European countries. But I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in any European country is easy and is a great way to explore freely. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation on a Europe road trip is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable hostels to luxury resorts.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner to reach any European cities. It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

The best road trip planner app I recommend you download on your phone is Roadtrippers . It will help you build your perfect itinerary with the top stops along the way.

And you, what is your favourite road trip in Europe ? Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

• Share on Twitter Share on Twitter
• Share on Facebook Share on Facebook
• Share on Pinterest Share on Pinterest

You will also love

STAY INSPIRED

Join our community today to receive exclusive travel tips & behind-the-scene stories that will inspire your next adventures, directly to your inbox. Can't wait to see you inside ♡

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Where to Stay in the Algarve: 8 Best Areas

Follow the journey.

On the Blog

• Privacy Policy

Become an insider!

And receive exclusive travel tips & behind-the-scene stories ♡

Copyright Lucie Charpentier © 2024 · Theme by 17th Avenue

Join our Adventure: Get all my insider tips for motorhoming & road trips

15 essential Europe road trip tips you need to know

Are you planning a driving holiday in Europe ? Concerned about driving through Europe or wondering where the best locations are?

I get it- European road trips can feel intimidating – especially if you’ve never done it before! I remember the first time we set off from the UK- the list of things we needed seemed never-ending and there was so much confusing information out there.

After two years of travelling around Europe in our motorhome , we’ve become pretty good at figuring out what’s needed and how to find out important information. And today we’re sharing that all with YOU! 

Here are 15 essential Europe Road Trip tips you need to know before you go!

NOTE: We love to road trip Europe in our Motorhome, but we’ve also spent some time exploring by motorbike, car (and one memorable occasion on a bus *shudder*.)  Most of the tips below apply to ALL vehicles you can road trip with, even if I say motorhome.

JUMP AHEAD TO...

Europe Road Trip Tip ESSENTIALS- Check your paperwork

Before you leave, you MUST check your paperwork is in order. Yes, I know it’s boring… but it will only take you 20 minutes and it’s a lot easier than being turned away at the border!

• Check your passport is in date and has at least 6 months left to run before expiry.
• Check your vehicle insurance covers Europe and for how long. Make sure it is fully comprehensive (some providers only offer 3rd party cover in Europe.)
• Check your breakdown cover covers Europe. If not, consider extending it. 
• Health/ Travel insurance for each person travelling, plus EHIC cards if you have them. Repatriation cover is a great idea- it can cost thousands to bring someone back to the UK if you need to.
• You need to carry your REAL vehicle logbook, not a copy. If it is a hire vehicle, you need a signed letter giving permission for it to go to Europe.
• You also need an MOT (in date!) and driving licenses for everyone who will be driving. You only need to carry the pink card part. 
• If you are taking a trailer, you need to provide proof of its EU certification.

Driving in Europe – what age do you have to be?

You need to be aged at least  18  to drive in Europe and at least  21 years old if you want to hire a car. And remember to check the weight of the motorhome before you rent it- anything over 3.5 tonnes may require you to have additional categories on your driver licence.

European Road Trip tips after BREXIT

Are you planning to drive in Europe after BREXIT? If so, this post has everything you need to know, including rule changes, potential visa requirements, travelling with pets and more.

You will also probably need an International Driving Permit – here’s everything you need to know.

Driving in Europe Requirements

Yep, you need to bring some extra stuff with you when you road trip in Europe, no matter which country you are visiting.

Check here for a full list of all the essential motorhome accessories you need to carry in Europe.

Each country has a list of specific items too, such as a vignette for Switzerland or a low emissions sticker in France.

Do your research carefully in order to avoid large fines. This post will help you find out what you need to carry!

Road Trip to Europe- Is it better to go by Ferry or Tunnel?

This is a personal decision, but consider a couple of factors:

• The tunnel is definitely cheaper, especially if you book in advance and go outside of ‘peak’ times. It’s also considerably quicker.
• HOWEVER, if you are travelling to the west of France, or from the west of the UK, it’s a LONG drive, which can take up a large portion of your holiday. For this reason, if we have only a week to explore France, we often take the ferry.
• Pets are easy to take on the tunnel, but they could be in the car less time if you take the ferry and get a pet cabin (Portsmouth to Le Havre with Brittany Ferries) Again, for this reason, we often take the ferry with our puppy , as it cuts down the time he’s in his travel crate for.
• Think about the weather. In winter, there’s a higher chance of storms; not fun on a boat. In summer the queues through the tunnel are horrendous, so we avoid them if we possibly can.

There really is no right answer, so plan out your journey and do whatever works best for you!

Europe Road Trip tips- where to stay

Where should you stay on your road trip? This depends entirely on what you like to do!

For Motorhomes/ Caravans

• Are you hoping to relax, soak in some sunshine and let the kids play on the beach? You’ll probably find a campsite easier and more relaxing, but they do get pricey (and full!) in high season.
• Do you enjoy moving around every few days and seeing different areas within a country? Look for aires (France) , Sostas (Italy) or Stellplatz (Germany). These are approved Motorhome parking areas , often with facilities for freshwater and waste disposal, which are offered first-come, first served for a small fee (often 5-10€) Most towns and villages have these throughout Europe
• Prefer to be completely away from it all? Consider wild camping- either with a motorhome or a tent. This is one of our favourite ways to travel- we love the freedom. Bear in mind the legalities- you can’t just park wherever you like! You will also need to collect and find somewhere to safely dispose of all your rubbish- that’s a beginner tip for camping which everyone should know. But we’ve met some wonderful people whilst wild camping and stayed in some breath-taking spots.

Here’s how to create a PERFECT road trip itinerary – using Google maps!

For cars/ motorbikes

If you’re not camping, you have plenty of other options. You can rent an AirBnB for a week or a couple of nights before moving on.

You can rent a hotel room or an actual B and B (although this can get expensive once you have older children.)

Before getting our Motorhome, we loved B and B’s, as the owners were generally friendly and could tell you all the best places to visit in the area!

Driving in Europe- Be Sensible about Safety

Nobody likes to think about it, but a little caution can save a lot of heartache. We follow these simple rules when we road trip:

• Keep your passports well hidden and ideally don’t leave them in the vehicle unattended, even in a campsite.
• Don’t bring much jewellery. It’s just one less thing to worry about. 
• Don’t advertise when you are going to be leaving the motorhome all day (although this can be tough, especially when we roar off on our motorbikes!)
• Never leave your vehicle unattended in a wild camping spot. If we are going for a bike ride, we park in a campsite. Unless we are in Norway , which is possibly the safest place in the whole of Europe! 
• Carry a set of spare keys and keep them separate from your other keys.
• 112 can be dialled from anywhere in Europe in an emergency. 
• Also, consider safety while driving- especially while driving in heavy rain.

European Road Trip Tips- Electronics

Phones/ ipad.

Check your mobile contract to ensure you won’t be charged high fees for using your phone abroad. The biggest thing to look at is data- we regularly use the internet to look up places to stay as we travel, so we made sure to get a package which included free data use in Europe with our motorhome wifi .

Also, Motorhome Sat Navs can use a lot of data if you get the settings wrong, so be sure to get one for use in Europe.

TOP TIP-  Beware of using your phone on the ferry- the network charges are EXPENSIVE!

Lastly, it is illegal in many European countries to use a headset whilst driving, even with a hands-free kit. It needs to be on speakerphone in your car. 

If you rarely use the internet whilst travelling, you might not need additional internet. However, we work from the road, either writing blog posts, uploading videos or communicating with Mr WB’s clients.

We also love to look up things to do in the local area, so we have several ways of getting internet as we travel

Bank charges

This is something we didn’t think about until after our first European road trip- which meant that we paid a fee on every single bank transaction we used in France!

We have now switched to an account which doesn’t charge for foreign payments and if you travel regularly it might be worth looking at.

Your bank might need to know that you’re going abroad, especially if you don’t go regularly. Otherwise, you run the risk of them blocking your transaction.

Many banks accept notice over online banking. I think our bank has just given up and accepts that we travel all over the place without any warning! 🙂 

Travelling to Europe with Pets

We travel back and forth to Europe monthly with our puppy, Mac. It’s not complicated, and it doesn’t cost much more than it would without a pet.

Pets (cat, dog or ferret) need:

• a pet passport (read how to get one HERE) – These might end after BREXIT- stay up to date on the latest rule changes here
• rabies vaccination (and a blood test to prove the vaccination has worked post-BREXIT)
• Dogs also need a worming tablet administered by a vet between 1-5 days of your return to England. 

Take this into account when you are travelling back with a dog. Most vets near the British border are used to ‘walk-ins’ and will do their best to fit you in, but others may not have an appointment for a day or two so try to book in advance if you can.

Also, make sure your pet is secured in the vehicle- it is no longer ok for them to be sitting in the back untethered. If the police see a ‘loose’ animal in a vehicle they will stop and could fine you.

European Road Trip Tips- Fines

Talking of fines, in most places in Europe, it is perfectly legal for the Police to stop you on the side of the road and demand instant payment if you are caught speeding (or breaking any other rule).

They accept cash (or occasionally cheque- in their currency!), and if you do not have it they will drive you to the nearest cashpoint to extract the correct amount. They also don’t give change- I know someone who was fined 90€, only had 5 x 20€ on them… and had to go get 10€ change!

Driving in Europe- Tolls

Tolls are a fact of life whilst travelling in Europe, especially if you want to use major roads. Ideally, you want your motorhome to be under 3m tall (any higher puts you as a Cat 4 commercial vehicle)- this is one of the biggest reasons we downsized our motorhome to a lower profile one.

Carry cash for the tolls, or get a toll pass if you’re planning to travel regularly. We use eMovis, which sends us a bill at the end of the month for whatever you’ve used and allows us to speed through the ‘fast-lane’ at the toll booths- very satisfying in summer when the queues are crazy long!

Europe Road Trip tips- what food to bring?

You don’t need to bring a lot of food with you- people in Europe eat amazing food and trying local delicacies is part of the fun.

However, I always try and bring enough food to last a day or so, so we don’t have to find places to shop en-route if we don’t want to.

Keep things simple- cooking in a small space can be tricky, especially if there’s a few of you. If you have kids (or husbands!), you might want to bring a few things you know they’ll eat on the journey to keep them happy. You can read more about our meal planning & ideas HERE

I hope you know feel much more prepared to deal with your European Road Trip! Let me know where you end up- and if you see us out on the road, be sure to say hi!

Planning a Road Trip?? These posts might help:

– I want to learn how to plan a Road Trip

– HELP! I need to stop rattles in my Motorhome (or Camper!!)

– I want to explore Europe by Road

– Inspire me with INCREDIBLE Road Trip itineraries

Want to save this list for later? Here’s the pin. Enjoyed this post? We’d love it if you shared it on Facebook, Twitter or Pinterest. Thank you!

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

Sharing is caring!

Similar Posts

France trip- 7 historical places in France (you HAVE to visit!)

17 Spectacular Castles in Southern Germany you NEED to visit

Panoramic Mont Blanc Cable Car Ride, Chamonix

Angles Morts Stickers- Does Your Motorhome or Camper Need one?

Red / White Reflective warning signs for motorhomes- do you need one?

Kiel canal with a motorhome!

A wonderful blog full of useful information. Funny you mention Norway being the ‘safest country in the world’. After traveling to 23 countries around Europe, the only place we had an issue was in Norway. Our credit card got hacked! It could have happened earlier, however it was discovered when in Norway and we’d been traveling through the Scandinavian countries for four months prior to this.

Oh no! That’s rubbish, so sorry to hear that. I hope you got it all back! I guess nowhere is perfect 🙁

Newbies planning our first trip to Europe and finding your website is our go-to for research – thankyou. Tried to download the ‘Tips for Travel’ but didn’t get the e-mail verification links – thought you may want to know, its not a complaint.

Hi Diana, so pleased you find the website useful. Sorry you’re having issues with the PDF- I’ll email it to you now. Let me know if you don’t get an email! 🙂

Same for me – I didn’t receive the email with checklist. Please would you sent it me to?

Hmmm- I think there’s an issue for people already on my mailing list. I’m looking into it but in the meantime if anyone else doesn’t receive it please let me know.

My friends and I are finally planning our long overdue road trip to Europe, been talking about it since high school, seems like finally it’s gonna happen. Your post was very useful, thank you so much for all the tips and tricks, much appreciated! 🙂

Excellent- hope you have a great time.

Essential tips for road tripping through Europe! Make the most of your European adventure with these insights.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Our Two Week Europe Roadtrip Campervan Itinerary – Switzerland, Italy + Slovenia

Two weeks in europe.

This past May/June, we spent two weeks travelling from the UK through Europe with the goal of ending up in Slovenia (before sadly, heading home). I’ve wanted to visit Slovenia for SO long, but to me, it always needed more than just a long weekend trip to the capital, Ljubljana, as there’s so much more to explore in the country. So, we decided to head there in the campervan instead.

We didn’t know if we’d be pushing it to head down there in just a few days, and yes, some of the drives from each place were around 4hrs long, with the average being about 2.5hrs of driving each day. But it was so worth it, and we got to see everything we wanted!

We’ve shared more in depth posts about each place we visited which you can find here , but I thought we’d recap it for anyone just wanting a quick read!

Day 1 – Vianden, Luxembourg

We got a late night ferry from the UK, arrived at 2am to our campsite nearby and woke the next morning with a 4hr drive to Vianden in the north of Luxembourg. We arrived late afternoon after a late start recovering from the tiring day we’d had finishing the van the day before and arriving so late that morning.

The town was filled with quaint, pastel coloured buildings that we wandered the streets for a while exploring, before heading up to the viewpoint on the chairlift. We definitely recommend that, where you can see both views of the town below, and Vianden Castle. If you have time, you can take a walk over to the castle too! We headed back down, had some drinks at a bar by the river while we found a campsite for the night.

Day 2 – Colmar, France

The second day saw us driving 3.5hrs south into France to visit the old Alsacian towns of Colmar and Eguisheim. We spent the first part of the afternoon exploring Little Venice, before heading to explore more of the Old Town and stopping for some lunch. It’s such a cute little town to explore, lined with the river and definitely worth a stop.

Afterwards, we drove 10 minutes outside of the town to visit the old cobble-stone village of Eguisheim. Built in a circular style, the village was filled with colourful wooden beamed houses, just like Colmar but on a much smaller scale. We definitely preferred it over Colmar, and although it’s not in Provence, reminded us of a real life Beauty and the Beast style village!

Day 3 – Interlaken, Switzerland

The drive from Colmar to Interlaken was one of the easiest and most scenic drives of the trip, passing through hundreds and hundreds of tunnels (don’t Switzerland love their tunnels?!). It was also the most expensive 24hrs of the trip, and although it was so beautiful to explore, we couldn’t wait to leave because we just hadn’t budgeted for that level of spending haha!

We headed straight for Grindelwald, and took the (super expensive) cable car up to First. We hung around for a little while, admiring the views and watching all the activities you could do up there, wishing we had the $ to afford some of them, like the karting down the mountain, but we just stuck to the only free one up there of the cliff walk. The views were nice, but I actually preferred them from below the mountain, filled with ski shacks and greenery, with towering mountains all around!

Day 4 – Bellagio, Lake Como

We headed into Italy on the 4th day, and those Italian roads and drivers are insane! We took the winding cliff and lakeside roads from Como to Bellagio, where we explored the town, treated ourselves to some gelato, and found a cute little campsite for the evening with a traditional trattoria with it’s own private beach area at the side of the lake where we settled down for the evening with a freshly baked proper Italian pizza, while we watched the sun set.

We didn’t really do much this day, but the views were amazing, and that campsite and pizza were honestly so good! It was a nice chilled day after all the walking we’d been doing the previous few days.

Day 5 – Sirmione, Lake Garda

This was one of my favourite stops of the trip, and somewhere that I’m dying to head back to at some point to see more of, because we just didn’t have long enough to see all of the things that we wanted to in the day that we spent there. Ideally we’d have spent 2-3 days driving along the lake, but with the two weeks that we had we could only really stop at one town.

So we chose Sirmione, as it’s one of the larger towns with so much history and so much to see. From beaches to swim in the warm lake water (and thermal springs), to old castles and ancient ruins to wander around. We spent a good few hours here, and then had the most chilled evening spent parked up for the night in the carpark right on the shore of the lake!

Day 6 – Lago di Braies, The Dolomites, Italy

Day 6 was another chilled day headed north from Lake Garda to Lago di Braies in the Dolomites of Italy. We got stuck in major traffic just outside of Garda because of a huge accident, but we finally arrived in Lago di Braies (also known as Pragser Wildsee) in the afternoon. Sadly, half of the lake was closed off for filming so the famous boathouse wasn’t open and we were quickly shuffled away by security so that filming could start.

By the time we walked to the far end of the lake, which was closed due to safety reasons from landslides, they’d shut off a whole other section of the lake for filming as we were headed back so we didn’t have the best experience here. That along with mega expensive parking for the campervan left us in a pretty bad mood about the whole thing. But, we found a campsite and spent the evening having a good clean up of everything, got all of our clothes washed and just chilled in the van with the rain rolling in.

Day 7 – Tre Cime di Lavaredo

So we kind of did a huge detour on the whole trip because I really, really wanted to head to Lago di Braies, and the Tre Cime di Lavaredo, which was a good few hours north of the rest of the journey. But it was SO worth it. Tre Cime di Lavaredo turned out to be our favourite stop of the entire trip, and a night that we’ll never forget. And we *almost* didn’t head up there because we found out that morning while researching about it, that the road to the carpark was a toll road and would cost us €45 for the campervan!

We headed up anyway, and man was that road steep! I hated it, but the views from the top were amazing and I’m so glad we did it. We headed straight out to do the circular walk, which is actually pretty flat for the most part, but as the trail had only opened 5 days before we arrived, the snow hadn’t been cleared on the second part of the trail yet, and so to me, it was too dangerous to traverse the tiny slushy path that everyone else had made to get across, so we turned back. The views were incredible though, and you can stay overnight in the carpark, so we did just that to get our moneys worth! We couldn’t get over those views!

Day 8 – From Italy to Slovenia

Not every day goes to plan while you’re travelling right? Well, our day driving from The Dolomites of Italy to Slovenia didn’t quite go to plan. The roads up there in the Dolomites are insane, so the journey took double the amount of time than Google told us, but we did drive past some amazing views! It was crazy hot and humid and we were so over driving for the day. We headed to the coast of Slovenia, but as we arrived at Koper, they were shutting all the roads off into the main town faster than we could get in, so we scrapped that idea and headed to Piran instead.

Well that was a disaster too, because Slovenia is not very campervan/motorhome friendly, and all the parking was height barriered or full. So we scrapped that and headed to an aire that we found at the Marina. Well, go read the blog post to see how that one turned out haha!

Day 9 – Predjama Castle & The Soca Valley

We headed back inland to explore more of Slovenia, and our first stop was to Predjama Castle. An old castle built into a huge cliff face and cave system. It was definitely worth a stop, and although we were unsure of whether to go inside the castle, because of mixed reviews online, we’re so glad we did (get the audio guide – it’s free)!

We then headed to somewhere I’ve been dying to visit for years! The Soca Valley. Just look at the colour of that river! We found a campsite right by the river, chilled out for a while and then went for a short walk to the Slop Kozjack waterfall, which passes right by the river. Definitely worth stopping by if you get the chance!

Days 10 + 11 – Lake Bled

This was the main reason we headed to Slovenia on this roadtrip! Ever since I first saw photos of the tiny island sitting in the middle of the lake, I knew we had to go there. It definitely didn’t dissapoint! We spent the afternoon walking around the lake (it’s only 6km) and taking in all of the views, before crashing for the night. It was SO hot and humid that we basically just didn’t want to move!

The next day, we hired a row boat and paddled out to the famous island. What an experience that was haha! There’s not much to do on the island, but it’s well worth a little paddle out and around it if you have time. There’s quite a bit to do at Lake Bled, so you can easily spend a couple days here.

Day 11 – Ljubljana

After hiring a rowboat to paddle out to Bled Island, we hopped in the van and drove to the nearby train station to head to Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana (pronounded Loo-blee-ah-nah). Being a city, we knew parking the van would be difficult, so we decided the best and easiest option would be to head there on the train. It only took an hour, and Shane got a nice rest from driving (he fell asleep). We arrived to torrential rain and the worst thunderstorm we’d ever seen.

It eased off after a while of hiding under the train platorms, so we headed out in search of food and sights. It’s such a lovely city to explore, and being so small, it really doesn’t feel like you’re in a city centre at all. We didn’t get to see everything we wanted though, as we found our missing cat (she was missing for just over a year), and my mum called to confirm it was her. So we cut our day there short and headed back to the van to make a start on heading home early to see her! So after this point the trip was a bit of a rush, with long, long driving days. But we would have had a few extra days exploring Austria and Germany.

Days 12-14 – Hallstatt, Neuschwanstein + the Journey Home

So ideally, day 12 would have been us driving from Lake Bled to Hallstatt in Austria, exploring the town for a couple hours, heading up the gondola and then taking a slow drive towards a campsite near Neuschwanstein. But instead, we drove to Hallstatt, couldn’t find parking, gave up and headed towards Neuschwanstein and just chilled for the afternoon/evening.

Day 13 was spent at Neuschwanstein Castle and the nearby town of Fussen. We loved the exterior of the castle, but honestly, the inside was a letdown. Save your money and go for a hike in the woods surrounding the castle to get the best views instead, as you can access all of the surrounding area for free (you only need to pay car parking). Fussen was such a lovely little town, filled with pastel buildings! I wish we could have stayed longer, but we had a long 8hr drive back to Luxembourg that evening, ready for our drive back to Calais the next morning for our ferry that afternoon!

So, that’s our entire two week itinerary. You can read the full posts on each day for more detail. We absolutely LOVED the trip, and although we had to cut the trip short (which we were SO ok with), we wished that we had those extra few days to see more of Austria and Germany.

I created a little Google Map below, which you can open to see the trip in more detail, including details of each campsite/parkup we stayed at throughout the trip, all of the places we visited for sightseeing and the entire journey. Just open it up for more details, or you can even save it to your own maps for future reference!

We’ll be doing a full Q&A post soon, answering loads of questions about the trip, like how much it cost us, where we loved the most, which country was the most accomodating for campervans (and which wasn’t). So, if you have any questions you want us to answer, just leave us a comment below and we’ll include it in the post!

Where’s your favourite roadtrip you’ve done in your van so far?

Watch all of the Vlogs!

You Might Also Like...

A Weekend of Wild Camping in Wales

Europe Roadtrip Day 4: Interlaken to Bellagio, Italy

North Wales – Point of Ayr Lighthouse and Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

No comments, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Should I build a Campervan?

Van Conversion - Building the Kitchen

This is why fall is the best time to explore Europe on a road trip

Sponsored by

Sep 3, 2021 • 6 min read

Driving is a great way to see the Swiss Alps © swissmediavision/Getty

Europe has an embarrassment of riches, from the incomparable art and architecture to the spectacular scenery and the finest food and wine. And a lot of it is supremely accessible by car, if you know the best routes to take.

Fall is one of the best seasons to take a road trip through this stunning continent with its smaller crowds, mild temperatures and warm beautiful tones transforming the scenery. Here's our pick of the best European road trips you should start planning now.

Editor's note: during  COVID-19 , be sure to check local travel restrictions before departure and always follow government health advice.

Driving the Romantic Rhine Valley

Where: Düsseldorf, Germany to Mainz, Germany Route: Düsseldorf – Cologne – Bonn – Remagen – Koblenz – Braubach – Boppard – St Goar – Loreley – Kaub –Bacharach – Rüdesheim – Mainz Length: 5–7 days, 146 miles/235km

After traversing powerhouse riverside cities Düsseldorf , Cologne and Bonn , watch epic scenery unfold as Germany’s Romantic Rhine Valley carves between towering cliffs clad in forest and capped by castles, to delightful Mainz. History and wine lovers will love getting up close to the Rhine’s mightiest sights, hike through its loftiest vineyards and discover hidden treasures and romantic hideaways.

The idyllic Boppard is one of the Romantic Rhine’s prettiest towns while Rüdesheim, offers the chance to escape the crowds by hiking into the picturesque vineyards. The weather is best April to October, but July and August can be a bit crowded.

Touring the Swiss Alps

Where: Arosa, Switzerland to Zermatt, Switzerland Route: Arosa – Vals – Disentis Abbey – Andermatt – Engleberg – Giessbachfälle – Grindelwald – Lauterbrunnen – Schilthorn – Kandersteg – Altesch Glacier – Zermatt Length: 7 days, 380 miles/612km

This zigzagging trip is the A to Z of Switzerland’s astounding alpine scenery, with majestic peaks, formidable panoramas, cable-car rides and local charm. Perfect for families who love the outdoors this trip full of soul-stirring views visits five cantons via hairpin bends, valley highways, tunnels, and passes. In Andermatt, don’t miss hiking to the sparkly Lai da Tuma , the source of the Rhine.

Stop at the Aletsch Glacier, a seemingly never-ending 23km-long swirl of ice with deep crevasses that slice past thundering falls, jagged spires of rock and pine forest. Access the glacier from picture-postcard Fiesch where you can ride a cable car  from the village. Finally, take the train to car-free Zermatt and the pop-up-book effect of the one-of-a-kind Matterhorn . 

Visiting the graceful Italian Lakes

Where: Stresa, Italy to Bergamo, Italy Route: Stresa – Verbania – Cannobio – Varese – Como – Bellagio – Tremezzo – Varenna – Bergamo  Length: 5–7 days, 132 miles/213km

Writers from Goethe to Hemingway have lavished praise on the Italian Lakes , dramatically ringed by snow-powdered mountains and garlanded by grand villas and exotic, tropical flora. Formed at the end of the last ice age, and a popular holiday spot since Roman times, the Italian lakes have an enduring natural beauty.

At Lago Maggiore the palaces of the Borromean Islands lie like a fleet of fine vessels in the gulf, their grand ballrooms and shell encrusted grottoes once host to Napoleon and Princess Diana, while the siren call of Lago di Como draws Arabian sheikhs and Hollywood movie stars to its discreet forested slopes. 

Crossing the French Riviera 

Where: Cannes, France to Èze, France Route: Cannes – Antibes & Juan-les-Pins – St-Paul de Vence – Nice – La Grande Corniche – Roquebrune-Cap-Martin – Menton – Monaco – Èze Length: 4 days, 68 miles/110km

French road trips just don’t get more glamorous than this: cinematic views, searing sunshine, art history aplenty and the Mediterranean around every turn. Cruising the Côte d’Azur is a top French road trip. From film town Cannes to down-to-earth Nice, via the corkscrew turns of the Corniches and into millionaires'  Monaco , it’s a drive you’ll remember forever.

Filmmakers, writers, celebs and artists have all had their hearts stolen by this glittering stretch of coastline: by the end of this trip, you’ll understand why. Try to avoid the dreadful summer traffic in July and August, but any other time is a dream. 

Roving La Rioja wine region

Where: Logoroño, Spain to Laguardia, Spain Route: Logroño – Nájera – San Millán de Cogolla – Santo Domingo de la Calzada – Haro – Briones – Elciego –Laguardia Length: 2–4 days, 87 miles/140km

Learn all about the gift of the grape on this quiet road trip through vine-studded countryside. Head out in September or October and along the way you can visit wine museums and bodegas and admire stunning architecture. La Rioja is home to the best wines in Spain and on this short and sweet road trip along unhurried back roads you’ll enjoy gorgeous vine-striped countryside and asleep-at-noon villages of honey-colored stone.

But the real interest is reserved for food and drink. Logroño for example is gaining a culinary reputation to rival anywhere in Spain while in sunset-gold Briones you’ll find Dinastía Vivanco that offers several floors on the history and culture of wine and the various processes that go into production. 

Seeing the best chateaux of the Loire 

Where: Chinon, France - Chambord, France Route: Chinon – Lageais – Villandry – Azay-le-Rideau – Chenonceaux – Amboise – Blois – Cheverny – Chambord Length: 5 days, 118 miles/190km

For centuries, France’s longest river has been a backdrop for royal intrigue and extravagant castles. From warring medieval warlords to the kings and queens of Renaissance France, a parade of powerful men and women have left their mark on the Loire Valley. The result is France’s most magnificent collection of castles.

This trip weaves nine of the Loire Valley’s most spectacular and sublimely beautiful châteaux, ranging from austere medieval fortresses such as the Forteresse Royale de Chinon , where Joan of Arc first met Charles VII, to ostentatious royal pleasure palaces like Château du Chambord , with its double-helix staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci. The stretch between Chenonceau and Chambord takes in the true classics. Go in May and June for good cycling weather or July for the gardens.

Road tripping along the Danube

Where: From Passau, Germany to Vienna, Austria Route: Passau – Engelhartszell an der Donau – Linz – St Florian – Mauthausen Memorial – Melk – Dürnstein –Krems an der Donau – Sift Göttweig – Vienna Length: 2–4 days, 182 miles/293km

If you’re looking for a short but vibrant summer trip, follow the Danube from Passau , Germany to the majestic Austrian capital of Vienna . Immortalized in the stirring Blue Danube waltz by Austrian composer Johann Strauss II, this magnificent river ripples with the reflections of green forests, hilltop castles, and ribbons of vineyards, particularly on its prettiest stretch, the Wachau , between Melk and Krems an der Donau .

Along the river’s course are plenty of surprises too, including the cutting-edge city of Linz and two monasteries – Engelhartszell an der Donau and Stift Göttweig – producing respectively, sublime beer and wine. 

You might also like:

France’s most stunning road trips    Now's the time to plan a fall road trip to these national parks    I would drive 500 miles: road-tripping the Scottish Highlands   

Article first published in February 2020, and last updated in September 2021

This article was first published Feb 17, 2020 and updated Sep 3, 2021.

Sponsored by Car-2-Europe

As a travel entertainment and inspirational media outlet, we sometimes incorporate brand sponsors into our efforts. This activity is clearly labeled across our platforms.

This story was crafted collaboratively between Car-2-Europe and Lonely Planet. Both parties provided research and curated content to produce this story. We disclose when information isn’t ours.

With sponsored content, both Lonely Planet and our brand partners have specific responsibilities:

Brand partner

Determines the concept, provides briefing, research material, and may provide feedback.

Lonely Planet

We provide expertise, firsthand insights, and verify with third-party sources when needed.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Jan 27, 2021 • 4 min read

There are new requirements for driving between the UK and Europe. Here's what you need to know about the post-Brexit rules of the road.

Sep 17, 2024 • 12 min read

Sep 11, 2024 • 7 min read

Sep 10, 2024 • 7 min read

Sep 10, 2024 • 5 min read

Sep 9, 2024 • 4 min read

Sep 5, 2024 • 5 min read

Sep 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Aug 21, 2024 • 10 min read

Aug 16, 2024 • 9 min read

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Fitness & Wellbeing
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance Deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Climate 100
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Wine Offers
• Betting Sites

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Eight of Europe’s best road trips to try in your lifetime

Scenic routes for seeing the continent by car, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts

Get simon calder’s travel email, thanks for signing up to the simon calder’s travel email.

Europe offers a vast array of cities, attractions and natural wonders; but outside its metropolises, some of the continent’s most beautiful landscapes are easily missed if you just fly in and out.

From the dramatic coasts of Ireland to the waterfall-pocked inlands of Iceland, from the German Alps to the banks of the Danube, some of Europe’s highlights are best viewed by taking the time to pass through them.

As well as giving travellers access to our neighbours’ best bits, road trips also enable visitors to wrap several different regions into one trip; and, with the absence of land border checks between Schengen countries , it’s usually easy to travel around much of the continent without encountering unnecessary red tape.

Numerous bucket-list road trips await just a quick hop over the Channel, offering the chance to sample several destinations or even countries in a cheaper and more efficient way.

Whether you want to traverse the length of Portugal or see the best cities along the Croatian coast, there’s a trip for you; we’ve rounded up some of the best below.

Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Considering that you can drive from the far north of Ireland to the far south in around eight hours, you’d be forgiven for not believing that the country contains a winding coastal route that is 1,600 miles long. However, the Wild Atlantic Way is just that; 2,600 kilometres of coastal road that stretches from the Inishowen Peninsula in the north to Kinsale in the south. The Way is divided into 14 stages, with notable (potential) stops in Donegal Town, Galway , Kilkee and West Cork , among others.

Along the way you’ll see some of Ireland’s most stand-out scenery and important natural landmarks. Beaches are in abundance, with Tulland Strand and Barleycove Beach among some of the finest on the route. Other natural highlights include the Slieve League Coast (home to some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe), the Erris section, (characterised by spectacular rock formations such as Downpatrick’s Head) and the Cliffs of Moher (one of the country’s most-visited sites). The city highlights are Galway and Cork, before finishing in Kinsale, a charming harbour town with colourful storefronts.

Rome to Naples (via the Amalfi Coast), Italy

The roads that wind around the Amalfi Coast are some of the most picturesque in the whole of Italy . However, the distance – even if you hug the coast rather than use the Amalfi Drive road – is only a few hours of driving, so it fits better as a part of an itinerary. For a longer trip, begin in Rome and head to Naples via the coast; you’ll witness all the amazing views while also getting an in-depth look into two of the country’s most important cities. After at least a couple of nights in the Eternal City , drive straight to Salerno, an ancient port city just southeast of Naples.

After some time in Salerno, you’ll want to set off towards Pompeii. While the site of one of history’s most famous tragedies is only 30 minutes away by car, take the long route that hugs the Amalfi Coast. You’ll head towards Cetara, before continuing along the coast to places such as Ravello, Torca or Castellammare di Stabia. This circuit is only 75 miles of driving, but it takes over four hours (a testament to its winding coastal roads).

The time should be split over several days; you can easily stay in towns like Positano, Sorrento and Amalfi for two days each, so the choice of where to go before Pompeii is up to you. When you’re done with the frozen-in-time ruins, Naples is only another 30 minutes away.

Read more on Europe travel :

• Best Eurostar destinations to visit in 2023
• The UK’s best road trips
• Best European holiday destinations to visit by train

Iceland Ring Road, Iceland

Iceland’s ‘ring road’, officially known as Þjóðvegur 1 , is an 820-mile route that begins and ends in the capital, Reykjavik . While it is primarily a major route for transporting goods, it has become well-used by tourists who want an easy way to see several of the country’s most impressive natural sites , as well as cities including Akureyri . It’s mainly an inland road, though it covers portions of the coast in the south and southeast of the country. It should take around seven days if you want to take in the majority (this is the time taken on organised tours though, with opportunities to see waterfalls, glaciers, mountains and even the aurora borealis, you may want to extend your trip).

Main sights on the Ring Road include the Thingvellir National Park, the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon, the Dyrholaey cliffs and a host of other natural landmarks. Your evenings are best spent in towns and cities – Reykjavik deserves a couple of nights at least – while there are also expeditions to see the Northern Lights if you visit at the right time .

Dubrovnik to Pula, Croatia

This route (roughly 465 miles long) takes in a large section of the Croatian (and Dalmatian) coast, and where better to start than the medieval walled city of Dubrovnik . Characterised by its limestone-paved squares and Gothic and Baroque architecture, the Old Town (a Unesco Heritage Site) is home to cobbled streets lined with dozens of restaurants, bars and cafes, while the surrounding coast has several beaches to give you a relaxing start to your trip.

Your first stops will likely be Split – just over two hours away – and then Zadar , two Venetian- and Roman-influenced port cities. Rijeka and Pula are sensible choices for the last stops on your journey; Pula is home to a well-preserved Roman amphitheatre and temple that reflect its proximity to Italy, and if you fancy it you could even extend your trip with a three-hour drive (or three-and-a-half-hour ferry journey) from here to Venice.

Bilbao to Menton, France

This route starts in Bilbao on the northern coast of Spain , crossing through southern France just above the Pyrenees and finishing on the southern Riviera coast. The Spanish section is short but sweet; as well as experiencing Bilbao’s laid-back, Basque hospitality, you’ll get to sample San Sebastian’s beaches and world-renowned cuisine before crossing the border into Biarritz. Your next destination will likely be the terracotta-clad Toulouse , before carrying on to Montpellier or Marseille (or both). Both Avignon and Aix-en-Provence lie before Marseille , and while each are worth visiting in their own right, you would be ill-advised to skip France’s second city.

Nice is the final city on the route, and it is here in the capital of the Riviera that dramatic coastal views return to the journey. From here you can follow any of the three ‘Corniches’ cliff roads; the 18-mile ‘Corniche Inferieure’ to Menton has the best destinations, with potential stops at Villefranche-sur-Mer, Monaco and Roquebrune-Cap-Martin.

Braga to Faro, Portugal

This journey clocks in at around 430 miles, with roughly seven hours of driving if you take the recommended routes. This may seem like a small amount, but Portugal’s variety of must-see places will quickly eat up your time. Braga, a lively university city, is the starting point, but Porto is the first notable stop on your Portuguese odyssey. Set along the banks of the Douro River and climbing up the hills, Porto is surprisingly accessible and affordable considering its status as Portugal’s second city; enjoy some time relaxing by the river or crossing over its bridges to get a panoramic view of the city.

On leaving Porto, you’ll travel towards Lisbon . You may want to take a day in between to stop in Aveiro, Portugal’s answer to Venice. When you tire of its network of canals and streets lined with colourful buildings, carry on to the capital, where you’ll need at least two nights to visit its range of culinary and cultural attractions.

As you tire of busy cities, you’ll be glad to head towards the Algarve. Long stretches of white sand and sea will greet you there, as well as plenty of opportunities to enjoy nightlife in towns such as Albufeira and Faro.

Vienna to Belgrade

This 380-mile route along the Danube is centred around three cities – Vienna, Budapest and Belgrade – but can be extended by either starting in Prague (an extra 205 miles) or heading to Zagreb after Belgrade (another 245 miles). It starts in the Austrian capital; after spending a few days in the opulent city, you’ll quickly enter northern Hungary before reaching the town of Gyor, a Baroque city that serves as the ‘capital’ of the north of the country. From here, you can head to Budapest straight away or follow the Danube more closely to the city of Komarom, which sits opposite the Slovakian town of Komarno. Budapest is only one hour further on.

After visiting the Széchenyi thermal baths and Buda Castle, taking a river cruise along the Danube and snapping some photos of the country’s Parliament Building, you can leave Budapest in the direction of Belgrade (potential stops along the way include the Hungarian town of Kecskemet or Subotica and Novi Sad in Serbia).

The Serbian capital is a lively and vibrant city, with drastically varied architecture shaped by a long history that includes Habsburg and socialist influences and more recent Nato bombings during the Kosovo conflict of thee 1990s. The Old Town is the heart of the city; Knez Mihailova is the main street, where 19th-century buildings house a range of cafes, shops and stalls. Other attractions include the Kalemegdan Park and Fortress, the Savamala district and museums such as the National Museum of Serbia.

Vienna to Geneva (via Munich)

Another journey that starts in Vienna, this trip takes you west towards Germany and Switzerland on a 640-mile route that includes some of the most picturesque cities on the continent. The first stop is Salzburg, a scenic city backed by a section of the German Alps that also lies on the banks of the Salzach River. The Unesco-protected ‘Old City’ is the main part of the city, where you can find attractions including the birthplace of Mozart and the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Munich will be your next destination. The Bavarian capital’s reputation precedes it due to its annual Oktoberfest celebrations. Instead of skyscrapers and towers, you can expect Gothic churches, 19th-century town squares and limestone city halls; instead of Berlin’s more modern, trendy atmosphere, on the whole you’ll experience more of the ‘traditional’ Germany. Kitsch culture is a good example, perfectly preserved in the form of cuisine and going-out habits that include visiting large beer halls, oompah bands and beer gardens.

Entering Switzerland, your first stop will be Zurich, where a bustling financial district blends with old-school charm to create a sophisticated lakeside destination. You’ll then move on to Bern, the small, idyllic Swiss capital surrounded by the Aare River. Both cities offer dozens of potential activities, including cruises along the water, several museums and walks through elegant districts, for example the Bahnhofstrasse or Bern’s Old Town.

Your last stop will be Geneva, the famous lakeside city that is now home to one of the UN’s four major offices. Another charming city that benefits from its lakeside location, take advantage of its numerous walks, viewpoints and squares before settling by the water for sunset.

Read our reviews of the best hotels in Europe

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre