Europe, with its rich tapestry of cultures, landscapes, and history, offers some of the most memorable road trips in the world. From the rugged coastlines of Ireland to the serene vineyards of France, each journey across this diverse continent promises a unique experience.
Whether you’re drawn to the architectural marvels of ancient cities, the breathtaking beauty of mountain ranges, or the tranquility of remote villages, these European road trips are perfect for exploring the continent’s hidden gems at your own pace. Buckle up and get ready to discover the road trips you must experience at least once in your lifetime.
1. Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is not just a drive; it’s an experience that immerses you in the grandeur of the Austrian Alps. This iconic route, stretching for 30 miles (48 km), offers stunning views of Austria’s highest peak, the Grossglockner, standing at 3,798 meters (12,461 feet).
As you ascend the winding road, you’ll pass through Hohe Tauern National Park, home to a variety of wildlife, including marmots and golden eagles. Several vantage points along the way offer stunning views of the Pasterze Glacier, Austria’s longest glacier. With 36 hairpin bends and a maximum elevation of 2,504 meters (8,215 feet), this road trip is a thrilling adventure for those who love mountain driving.
2. Andalusia, Spain
Andalusia in southern Spain is a region steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for a road trip. Start your journey in Seville, a city known for its flamenco dancing, Gothic architecture, and vibrant festivals.
From there, drive to Córdoba to explore the stunning Mezquita, a mosque-cathedral that reflects the city’s rich Islamic heritage. Continue to Granada, home of the Alhambra, a breathtaking palace and fortress complex with intricate Moorish architecture. Don’t miss a visit to Ronda, a town perched dramatically on a cliffside, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. This road trip combines urban exploration with the beauty of Andalusia’s rolling hills, olive groves, and sun-drenched landscapes.
3. Ring of Kerry, Ireland
Ireland’s Ring of Kerry is a 111-mile (179 km) circular route around the Iveragh Peninsula, offering some of the most stunning coastal scenery in the country. Starting and ending in the town of Killarney, the route takes you through lush landscapes, rugged coastlines, and quaint seaside villages.
Along the way, you can visit Killarney National Park, home to Ireland’s only native herd of red deer and the picturesque Torc Waterfall. The road also passes through the charming towns of Kenmare and Cahersiveen, as well as the beautiful beaches of Derrynane. An extension of the route, the Skellig Ring, provides views of the Skellig Islands, the filming location for parts of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”.
4. Northern Lakes, Italy
Italy’s northern lakes region is known for its stunning natural beauty, and a road trip here allows you to explore some of the country’s most scenic spots. Begin your journey at Lake Maggiore, where you can visit the elegant Borromean Islands and the charming town of Stresa. Proceed to Lake Como, renowned for its striking mountain scenery and opulent villas, a significant number of which belong to celebrities.
The lakeside towns of Bellagio and Varenna offer picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere. Finally, head to Lake Garda, Italy’s largest lake, where you can explore the medieval town of Sirmione and enjoy water sports or simply relax on the beaches. This road trip is perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty combined with a touch of Italian elegance.
5. Peloponnese, Greece
The Peloponnese Peninsula is a treasure trove of ancient history, stunning landscapes, and charming villages. Start your road trip in Corinth, where you can visit the ancient ruins of the Temple of Apollo and the Corinth Canal, a marvel of 19th-century engineering. Drive to the ancient city of Mycenae, where you can see the famous Lion Gate and the Tomb of Agamemnon.
Continue to Epidaurus, known for its ancient theater with exceptional acoustics, and then head to Nafplio, one of Greece’s most romantic towns. The journey through the Peloponnese also takes you to the UNESCO-listed archaeological site of Olympia, the birthplace of the Olympic Games, and the stunning coastal town of Monemvasia, often referred to as the “Gibraltar of the East.” The road trip ends in the medieval city of Mystras, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding plains.
6. Atlantic Road, Norway
People often describe Norway’s Atlantic Road as the world’s most beautiful car journey, and it’s understandable why. This short but spectacular 5-mile (8.3 km) route connects a series of islands and islets along the west coast of Norway. The road features several dramatic bridges that curve over the ocean, offering stunning views of the surrounding fjords and mountains.
The journey is particularly exhilarating during stormy weather when waves crash against the bridges. Along the way, you can stop at small fishing villages, explore the surrounding nature reserves, and even try your hand at deep-sea fishing. The Atlantic Road is a testament to Norway’s engineering prowess and its natural beauty.
7. Austria to Serbia
For a road trip that combines history, culture, and scenic beauty, consider following the course of the Danube River as it winds its way from Austria to Serbia. Start in Vienna, Austria’s grand capital, where you can explore the historic Hofburg Palace, the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, and the vibrant Naschmarkt. Continue to Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital, which is known for its medieval old town and impressive Bratislava Castle.
Next, head to Budapest, Hungary’s stunning capital, where you can relax in the famous thermal baths and take a cruise on the Danube River. The journey ends in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, a city with a rich history and a lively nightlife scene. This road trip offers a unique opportunity to explore four capital cities along one of Europe’s most important rivers.
8. North Coast 500, Scotland
Scotland’s North Coast 500, often referred to as “Scotland’s Route 66,” is a 640-mile (1030 km) route that takes you through the rugged and remote landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. Starting and ending in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, the route offers stunning coastal views, towering mountains, and serene lochs. Highlights include the picturesque village of Applecross, the white sandy beaches of Achmelvich Bay, and the historic Dunrobin Castle.
The journey also takes you past the iconic Bealach na Bà, one of the highest roads in the UK, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The North Coast 500 is a road trip for those who want to experience Scotland’s wild beauty and rich history.
9. Porto to the Douro Valley, Portugal
Portugal’s Douro Valley is one of the oldest wine regions in the world, and a road trip here offers breathtaking views of terraced vineyards and historic wine estates. Starting in Porto, a vibrant city known for its stately bridges and port wine production, the route follows the Douro River as it winds its way through the valley.
Along the way, you can visit charming towns like Pinhão, where you can take a boat cruise on the river or visit one of the many wine estates for a tasting. The Douro Valley is particularly beautiful in the autumn, when the vineyards turn golden and red. This road trip is a must for wine lovers and those who appreciate stunning landscapes.
10. Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania
A road trip through the Baltic nations offers a journey through a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Start in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, where you can explore the medieval old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the impressive Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Continue to Riga, the capital of Latvia, known for its Art Nouveau architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
The journey then takes you to Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, where you can visit the historic Vilnius Cathedral and the Hill of Three Crosses. Along the way, don’t miss a visit to the Curonian Spit, a narrow sand dune peninsula that separates the Curonian Lagoon from the Baltic Sea, and the picturesque Saaremaa Island, known for its lighthouses and windmills.
11. Ring Road, Iceland
Iceland’s Ring Road, also known as Route 1, is an 820-mile (1,334 km) route that encircles the entire island, offering a comprehensive tour of the country’s most impressive natural sites. Starting in the capital, Reykjavik, the route takes you to some of Iceland’s most famous landmarks, including the Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, the black sand beaches of Vik, and the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon.
The road also passes through the town of Akureyri, known as the capital of the North, and the stunning Lake Mývatn area, famous for its geothermal activity. The Ring Road is a perfect way to experience Iceland’s diverse and dramatic scenery, from volcanoes and glaciers to hot springs and fjords.
12. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most picturesque regions, with roads that wind through cliffside villages and offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Begin your journey in Rome and drive south towards Naples, where you can visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii and the lively streets of Naples.
Continue along the Amalfi Coast, where you’ll pass through charming towns like Positano, with its colorful houses cascading down the cliffs, and Ravello, known for its beautiful gardens and historic villas. The road also offers breathtaking views of the sea and the rugged coastline, making it one of the most scenic drives in Italy.
13. Postojna to Ljubljana, Slovenia
This Slovenian road trip takes you from the underground wonders of the Postojna Cave to the vibrant capital city of Ljubljana. Start your journey in Postojna, where you can explore the famous Postojna Cave, one of the world’s largest karst caves, and the nearby Predjama Castle, built into the cave’s mouth.
From there, drive to Ljubljana, a charming city with a lively café culture, a picturesque old town, and a stunning hilltop castle. Along the way, you can stop at the Kocjan Caves, another UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its impressive underground canyon.
14. Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
The Dalmatian Coast is widely recognized for its pristine waters, historic towns, and breathtaking natural splendor. Start your road trip in Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the “Pearl of the Adriatic,” where you can walk along the ancient city walls and explore the historic old town.
From there, drive to Split, home to the magnificent Diocletian’s Palace, and continue to Krka National Park, where you can see the beautiful Skradinski Buk waterfall. The journey also takes you to Zadar, known for its Roman ruins and unique sea organ, and ends at Plitvice Lakes National Park, a stunning series of lakes and waterfalls.
15. Furka Pass, Switzerland
For those who love mountain driving, the Furka Pass in Switzerland is a must. This 43-mile (70 km) route takes you through the Swiss Alps, offering spectacular views and an exhilarating driving experience. The pass is normally open between June and October and is one of the highest paved roads in Europe, reaching an elevation of 2,429 meters (7,969 feet).
The road winds its way through the mountains, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and glacial streams. The James Bond movie “Goldfinger” also made the Furka Pass famous, featuring Bond’s Aston Martin DB5 racing along the winding road.
16. Sicily, Italy
Discover the rich culture, history, and cuisine of Sicily with a road trip around the island. Start in Palermo, the island’s capital, where you can explore the vibrant markets, stunning churches, and historic palaces. From there, drive to Marsala, known for its sweet wine, and continue to Agrigento, home to the Valley of the Temples, one of the most significant archaeological sites in Italy.
The journey also takes you to the ancient city of Syracuse, where you can explore the Greek Theater and the beautiful island of Ortigia, and ends in Taormina, a charming town with stunning views of Mount Etna, Europe’s highest active volcano.
17. Alsace Wine Route, France
The Alsace Wine Route is a dream for wine lovers, offering a journey through one of France’s most picturesque regions. Starting near Strasbourg, the route takes you through a series of charming villages and renowned wine-producing towns, including Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, and Eguisheim.
Vineyards producing some of France’s finest wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris, line the route. Along the way, you can visit wine cellars, taste local specialties, and enjoy the region’s beautiful scenery, which includes rolling hills, half-timbered houses, and medieval castles.
18. Braga to Faro, Portugal
This road trip takes you through the heart of Portugal, from the lively university city of Braga to the sunny Algarve region. Start your journey in Braga, known for its historic churches and vibrant cultural scene, and drive south towards Porto, where you can explore the city’s historic center and enjoy a glass of port wine.
Continue to Aveiro, known as the “Venice of Portugal” for its canals and colorful boats, and then head to Lisbon, the country’s capital, where you can explore the historic neighborhoods of Alfama and Bairro Alto. The journey ends in Faro, the gateway to the Algarve, where you can relax on the beautiful beaches and enjoy the region’s warm climate.
19. Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Austria
This grand European road trip covers some of the continent’s most historic and picturesque cities. Start in Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, where you can explore the medieval old town, the iconic Charles Bridge, and the impressive Prague Castle.
From there, drive to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, known for its medieval old town and vibrant cultural scene. Continue to Budapest, Hungary’s stunning capital, where you can relax in the famous thermal baths and take a cruise on the Danube River. The journey ends in Vienna, Austria’s grand capital, where you can visit the historic Hofburg Palace, the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, and the vibrant Naschmarkt.
20. The Argyll Coastal Route, Scotland
The Argyll Coastal Route is a 124-mile (200 km) drive that takes you through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. Starting from Loch Lomond, the largest lake in Great Britain, the route follows the coastline to Fort William, offering stunning views of lochs, mountains, and rugged coastlines.
Along the way, you can visit the historic town of Inveraray, home to the impressive Inveraray Castle, and the picturesque village of Oban, known as the “Gateway to the Isles.” The route also passes through Glencoe, one of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes, where you can hike in the mountains or simply enjoy the stunning views.
21. Normandy, France
A road trip through Normandy offers a blend of history, culture, and stunning coastal scenery. Start your journey in Rouen, a city known for its medieval architecture, including the stunning Rouen Cathedral, and its association with Joan of Arc. From there, drive to the coastal town of Honfleur, known for its picturesque harbor and historic buildings.
Continue to the D-Day landing beaches, where you can visit the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer and the impressive Pointe du Hoc. The journey ends at Mont Saint-Michel, an iconic island commune that rises dramatically from the sea, offering one of the most stunning sights in France.
22. Edinburgh to London, United Kingdom
For a road trip that takes you from Scotland’s capital to England’s capital, start in Edinburgh and head south through the Scottish Borders and into England. The journey takes you through the Lake District, a region known for its stunning landscapes and literary connections, where you can visit the homes of famous writers such as William Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter.
Continue through the cities of northern England, including Manchester and York, before heading into the Midlands and finally arriving in London. Along the way, you can explore historic sites, enjoy the beautiful countryside, and experience the vibrant cities of the UK.
23. Epirus, Greece
Epirus, located in the rugged mountain region of northern Greece, offers a road trip through some of the country’s most stunning and remote landscapes. Start your journey in Ioannina, a city known for its beautiful lake and historic castle, and drive through the mountains to the traditional villages of Zagori.
The journey takes you past the Vikos Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world, and the beautiful Voidomatis River, where you can go rafting or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Continue to Metsovo, known for its traditional architecture and delicious local cheeses, and end your journey in Arta, home to the famous stone bridge and the ruins of an ancient theater.
24. Romania, Serbia, and Bulgaria
This road trip through Eastern Europe takes you on a journey through some of the region’s most stunning landscapes and historic sites. Start in Bucharest, the capital of Romania, where you can explore the impressive Parliament Palace and the historic old town.
From there, drive to Sibiu, a charming city in Transylvania known for its medieval architecture and cultural festivals. Continue to Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, where you can visit the impressive Kalemegdan Fortress and enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife. The journey ends in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, where you can explore the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the historic Boyana Church.
25. French and Italian Riviera
Experience the glamour of the French and Italian Riviera with a road trip through some of the most famous coastal destinations in Europe. Start your journey in Nice, where you can stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and explore the vibrant old town.
Continue on to Monaco, the tiny principality known for its luxurious casinos and stunning harbor. From there, drive to the Italian Riviera, where you can visit the picturesque town of Portofino and the charming villages of the Cinque Terre. The journey ends in Genoa, a historic port city known for its beautiful architecture and delicious cuisine.
26. Bilbao, Spain, to Menton, France
This road trip takes you on a journey through the scenic regions of northern Spain and southern France, offering a mix of cultural and natural delights. Start your journey in Bilbao, a city known for its modern architecture, including the famous Guggenheim Museum, and its vibrant cultural scene.
From there, drive through the Basque Country and the Pyrenees, stopping in charming towns like San Sebastián and Pamplona. Continue into southern France, where you can visit the historic city of Carcassonne and the beautiful region of Provence. The journey ends in Menton, a picturesque town on the French Riviera known for its beautiful gardens and mild climate.
27. Austria, Germany, and Switzerland
This road trip takes you on a journey through some of Europe’s most picturesque cities and stunning landscapes. Start your journey in Vienna, where you can explore the grand palaces, historic churches, and vibrant cultural scene of Austria’s capital.
From there, drive to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, and continue to Munich, the capital of Bavaria, known for its beer gardens, historic architecture, and lively festivals. The journey then takes you into Switzerland, where you can visit the cities of Zurich, Bern, and Geneva, each offering its own unique charm and stunning surroundings.
28. Amsterdam to Giethoorn, the Netherlands
For a short but sweet road trip, start in the bustling capital of Amsterdam and travel north to the serene village of Giethoorn. Famous as the “Venice of the North,” Giethoorn is a car-free village accessible only by boat or foot.
Along the way, you can stop in charming Dutch towns like Edam and Volendam, where you can sample local cheeses and explore the traditional Dutch way of life. The journey offers a perfect blend of urban exploration and rural tranquility, making it a wonderful option for a relaxing road trip.
29. Autobahn, Germany
No list of European road trips would be complete without mentioning Germany’s Autobahn. Famous for its sections with no speed limit, the Autobahn offers a thrilling driving experience for those who love speed. Start your journey in Cologne, where you can visit the impressive Cologne Cathedral and explore the vibrant city center.
From there, drive north through Bremen and Hamburg, stopping to explore the historic towns and scenic countryside along the way. The journey ends in Berlin, Germany’s capital, where you can visit the iconic Brandenburg Gate, the Berlin Wall Memorial, and the vibrant neighborhoods of the city.
30. The Romantic Road, Germany
Germany’s Romantic Road is one of the most scenic and culturally rich routes in Europe, winding through medieval towns, fairytale castles, and lush vineyards. Start your journey in Würzburg, a city known for its baroque architecture and the stunning Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From there, drive south through the picturesque towns of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, and Nördlingen, each offering a glimpse into medieval Germany with their well-preserved city walls and historic buildings.
The journey culminates in Füssen, near the Austrian border, where you can visit the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, a masterpiece of 19th-century architecture that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle. Along the way, you’ll pass through rolling hills, dense forests, and charming villages, making the Romantic Road a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Conclusion
These European road trips offer a diverse array of experiences, from the stunning natural landscapes of the Alps and the Amalfi Coast to the rich cultural heritage of cities like Vienna, Prague, and Budapest. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, there’s a perfect road trip waiting for you in Europe. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the beauty of this incredible continent. Each of these routes offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Europe, with opportunities to explore its history, culture, and natural wonders at your own pace.
