road trip across europe cost

Europe Road Trip Costs

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A reader asked me to post about our European road trip costs, so we collected the data, saved every receipt and collected all the information you need on driving around Europe for almost 2 weeks into this post. We have petrol ( diesel) costs for all of the European countries we visited, road toll charges, vignette costs and regulations as well as hotel, some food and attraction prices. You’ll see that travelling by road in Europe is an expensive business. Italy, in particular, cost us a lot with high road tolls and high fuel costs but it was fun and we saw some highlights of Europe along the way. We drove through Romania, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, France and finally the UK, to London, we took 12 days and it is most certainly cheaper to fly than to drive across Europe. We hope you find all our hard work in collecting these costs and prices for a European road trip useful. We were driving a large 4×4 diesel truck, so prices are for diesel and our apologies for not documenting every meal or snack, but we got the big expenses.

We have converted major costs into US dollars and have given totals in that currency. There are links to posts covering the destinations and attractions we mention in more detail.  We have other posts on driving accross Europe ( see our related posts at the bottom of the page) and a Europe travel blog and guide here. This post may contain affiliate links, they cost you nothing extra should you choose to use them. They pay for us to run the World Travel Family website.

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Requirements for Driving in Mainland Europe

Certain items are required by law when driving in Europe. Check local requirements and regulations for each country you visit.

• Fluorescent jackets in case of break down.
• A reflective warning triangle
• Stickers to redirect headlights
•  Breathalyzer kit
• A good GPS or map app
• Car seats for children

Daily Costs and Road-Trip Route

Day 1. driving from romania to hungary.

We left home early enough to take a leisurely drive south-west into Hungary. I’d packed sandwiches for an in-car brunch so we could escape earlier and without morning kitchen mess. The border crossing was uneventful other than a compulsory breathalyzer test. We arrived in Hungary’s Hortobagy National Park in the mid-afternoon, giving the boys time to visit a luxurious swimming pool and thermal spa just footsteps away from our hotel while mum worked on scheduling for her bloggers’ help group.  We found dinner, above, at the only restaurant in town and it was good. We used the Trip Advisor app to find a dining recommendation, and we booked our hotel a few days in advance. The hotel below had a good family suite with 4 beds, and breakfast included. It was a great location for setting out to explore the National Park the next morning.

We Drove From:   Breb, Maramures Romania to   Hortobágy National Park, Hungary

Approx Distance: 240Km

Approx Drive Time: 4 hours

Fuel: Starting on an empty tank, we filled up in Romania, cost approx 75 L of diesel 305 Ron  ( 79 US $)

Breakfast: Peanut butter sandwiches prepared the night before and brought from home.

Lunch: MacDonald’s drive through! Cost 47 Ron

Dinner:  2 pizzas, 2 soups, 4 very nice Hungarian beers, 2 soft drinks. Cost 6,600 HFL

Admissions: Swimming pool and thermal spa for the boys and Chef.  4,150 HFL

Road Charges: Romania requires a vignetta it’s cheap at 5 Euros per week for major roads only. We mostly don’t need one. Hungary requires a vignetta also and they’re really good at catching people who fail to buy one ( they caught me!) but you can buy online in advance. 11 Euros for 7 days.

Extras: 3 Ice Creams in Hungary. We brought bottled water from home. 600HFL

Hotel: 65 UK Pounds per night breakfast included. (72 Euros, 85 US $ ) See the hotel here.

Day 2. Driving Within Hungary

After an OK European breakfast of cold meats, cheese, tomatoes, cucumber and scrambled egg, we packed up early to make the most of our time in Hortobagy National Park. This is a unique grassland and wetland reserve and well worth your time. Our planned highlight was the Mata Stud horsemanship and antique breeds tour which you can see in full by clicking through below. We highly recommend making a visit, you’ll see why if you view the images from the post. We drove south, a short drive today, to arrive on the shores of Lake Balaton, Hungary’s inland sea and a top local vacation destination, before sunset.

We Drove From: Hortobágy National Park, Hungary   ( click through to discover the heritage breeds and incredible horsemanship we discovered there) to Lake Balaton, Hungary.

Approx Distance: 285km

Fuel:   None bought.

Breakfast: Included in last night’s hotel, an OK cold buffet, coffee eggs.

Lunch: We skipped lunch in favour of in-car gas station snacks.

Dinner: 23000HGF at the best restaurant on Lake Balaton ( a Trip Advisor recommendation), it wasn’t great.

Admissions: 19000 HGF for Hortobagy’s Mata Stud attraction with rare breeds and horsemanship displays.

Road Charges: 11 euros for a week of access to Hungary’s roads.

Extras : Gas station snacks.

Hotel: 57 Euros/night no breakfast. ( $67 US) Find it using our special search box, top of the page.

Day 3: From Hungary to Slovenia

Chef’s birthday! So a fancy breakfast in a Lake Balaton waterside café ( it was considerably better than dinner!) before a quick Pokémon hunt around the lake and hopping in the car to head for Slovenia, our only new country of this trip. For a birthday treat we picked a beautiful Airbnb apartment in a stunning location. The free-flowing wine from our hosts’ own vines made our afternoon rather enjoyable. Dinner at a local restaurant and a quick supermarket stop for breakfast foods concluded our day. This apartment had a washing machine, so great, all clothes washed and hung out on our balcony in the Slovenian sunshine.

We Drove From: Siofok, Lake Balaton to the northern Slovenian wineries .

Approx Distance: 280km

Approx Drive Time: 4hours

Fuel: Filled up in Hungary 23,000 HFL ($89 US)

Breakfast: Breakfast in a cafe on Lake Balaton, 4 coffees, 2 juice, 2 ham and eggs, 1 ham/cheese toast. ( Mum shares with Boo usually)

Lunch: Drinks and munchies from a fuel station

Dinner: Big dinner out, enchiladas, mussels, tagliatelle, pork steak, wine, smoothies etc.

Admissions: none.

Road Charges: Slovenia vignette bought at border. 15 euros for a 7 day pass.

Extras: 2 loads of laundry at our Airbnb, included in price. Wine, free.

Hotel: AirBnb in vineyard.

Day 4: Driving Within Slovenia

A full day in Slovenia visiting Ljubjiana on the way to our next Airbnb, another fantastic apartment that we can’t recommend highly enough and again, sensational for even large families. Ljubiana was pretty, but our new dairy farm home was the biggest treat today. We toured the milking shed and learned a lot about dairy production. Dinner was home cooked from the local supermarket.

We Drove From: Near Ptuj to Ljubljana and towards Lake Bled to stay at a dairy farm AirBnb .

Approx Distance: 120 km

Approx Drive Time: 2.5 hours

Fuel: none bought.

Breakfast: Bread, cheese, tomatoes and yogurt from local supermarket.

Lunch: Coffee and cakes in Ljubljana.

Dinner: Bread, cheeses, salami, fruit, wine at our Airbnb. Bought breakfast foods too, total cost 30Euros

Admissions: none

Road Charges: no extra.

Extras: none

Hotel: Airbnb on a dairy farm 40 Euros

Day 5:  In Slovenia, Driving to Lake Bled

We Drove From: Our AirBnb to Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj  and back. We needed a quieter day to plan and catch up with work.

Approx Distance: 160km

Approx Drive Time: 3 hours

Fuel: Filled tank @ 1.14 Euro a litre. 65 Euros ($76 US)

Breakfast: See dinner costs last night.

Lunch: sandwich from shop.

Dinner: 20 Euros at supermarket

Road Charges: 15 euros for a 7 day pass in Slovenia

Hotel: Same AirBnb as last night. 40 Euros. ($47 US)

Day 6: Driving to Venice from Slovenia

We Drove From: Prase, Slovenia to Venice, to Monsa Italy

Approx Distance: 504 Km

Approx Drive Time: 6 hours

Fuel: None bought today but prices in Italy are 1.34 Euros / litre plus

Breakfast: Supermarket food from yesterday

Lunch: 11 euros in Venice for 3 ice creams and 1 drink.

Dinner: 20 euros from the local supermarket

Road Charges: 60 Euros in tolls across Italy today alone.

Extras: 60 Euro for ferry tickets to Venice , 14 Euros for car parking

Hotel: 99 Euros $117 USD Breakfast included.

Day 7: Driving From Italy to France via the Mont Blanc Tunnel

Our hotel in Monsa was nice, modern and sleek with 2 interconnecting rooms and a buffet breakfast. Breakfast was OK but the Italians love cake for breakfast, there was little else other than yet more pastries and some sloppy scrambled egg. At least the coffee was good, a decent Americano not an egg cup of espresso. We drove north west towards the mountains, the snows of the Alps were visible for most of the day but once we started the approach to Mont Blanc the views were breathtaking. Almost as breathtaking as the fees to use Italy’s roads and the fuel prices. Italy hurts your wallet and I would’t choose this route again.  Switzerland is even worse, so that leaves Germany and much as we dislike driving on German autobahns, cost would sway our decision making. The views of Mont Blanc were worth the hundreds of dollars in road tolls, particularly from the French side, there’s not much to see from the Italian side. The Mont Blanc Tunnel is hugely expensive. But we were in France , in Chamonix, more beautiful scenery and countryside as we headed north on slightly cheaper roads to our overnight stop, half-way to Paris. We’d picked an older privately owned hotel in a small town on a river. The hotel had lots of quirks but the town was cute and there was a great boulangerie patisserie next door.

We Drove From: Monza, via the Mont Blanc tunnel to France.

Approx Distance: 425 km

Fuel: 10 Euros @ 1.34 Euros / litre, 40 Euros @ 1.65 Euros /litre in Italy. 40 Euros @ 1.32 Euros/ l France. Total 90 Euros  ($106 US )

Breakfast: Included in hotel.

Lunch: sandwiches from service station. 11 euros.

Dinner: Pizzas and drinks at local restaurant 56 euros.

Road Charges: 32 Euros in Italy, 44 Euros for Mont Blanc tunnel and 10 Euros in France.

Hotel: 75 Euros plus 5 Euros parking. $94 USD. No breakfast.

Day 8: Driving in France, to North of Paris

Pain au chocolate for breakfast, yum! I had to use my French for the first time since school and grabbed a fresh baguette to munch in the car as we headed north towards Paris. A big drive but we got there early to enjoy hotel room comfort and good wi-fi. This hotel had a garden full of baby white bunnies, goats and a pot bellied pig. It’s a great place for families. We grabbed stinky cheese, wine, fruit and cured meats from the local supermarket. Food prices were incredibly low.

We Drove From: Pont D’Ain France to just north of Paris, near Charles de Gaul Airport.

Approx Distance: 505 km

Fuel: 80 euros @ 1.32 Euros / Litre ($94 US)

Breakfast: 9 euros on coffee and pain au chocolate

Lunch: service station sandwiches 11 Euros. MacDonald’s @ 23 Euros

Dinner: 15 euros at the local supermarket

Road Charges: 32 Euros across the whole of France

Hotel: 85 euros per night no breakfast $98 USD

Day 9: Drive to and from Parc Asterix

Read about our big day out at Parc Asterix in the post below. Highly recommended and superb rollercoasters for my teen and tween.

We Drove From: Parc Asterix , full day, we were guests of the park.

Approx Distance: 10km

Approx Drive Time: 20 minutes

Fuel: none bought today.

Breakfast: 7 euros for coffee and pain au chocolate

Lunch: In the theme park, various snacks and very expensive bottled water,

Dinner: supermarket 20 euros

Admissions: None, we were guests of the park.

Road Charges:

Hotel: 85 Euros per night, no breakfast.

Day 10: Driving into Paris

Driving into Paris was easier and quicker than taking the train for us. We didn’t need to stay there long, Boo just wanted to see the ” big pointy thing” and the car park we found online was near Notre Dame, so we saw the cathedral before walking along the Seine and accross the city to the Eiffel Tower. It was a long walk and we had to get the bus back to the car park. Frogs legs and snails were consumed and today was the day I quit carbs, coffee and wine ready for my return to running back in the UK. Another night in the hotel above.

We Drove From:  Our hotel north of Paris to a car park near Notre Dame Cathedral and back

Approx Distance: 70km

Approx Drive Time: 3.5 hours

Fuel: none bought today

Breakfast:  12 euros for two adults

Lunch: 33 euros

Dinner:  22 euros from supermarket

Admissions:  None

Road Charges: 1.60 euros

Extras: 9.80 Euros crepes. 16 Euros car park. 8 Euros bus ( we walked too far to the Eiffel Tower so got the bus back to Notre Dame.)

Hotel: 85 Euros per night no breakfast.

Day 11: Driving from Paris to the Somme Valley Battlefields

We picked another Premiere Classe hotel in the Somme Valley. We arrived fairly early so took the afternoon and evening to explore this area. A post about this is on it’s way. This was another highlight and highly recommended.

We Drove From: North of Paris to the Somme Vally and battlefields .

Fuel:  77 euros @ 1.12 Euros litre ($90 USD)

Breakfast:   fruit

Lunch: 33 Euros, MacDonalds

Dinner:  21 Euros at supermarket

Hotel:  65 Euros per night no breakfast. $77 USD

Day 12 Driving to London from France, via Ferry to Dover

An early start to push through to Calais and our waiting ferry. By now eager to get to London and see our favourite couple of cats. We always enjoy these ferry crossings, they are cheap and expensive fish and chips are served by cheery chaps with strong British regional accents. It’s a family tradition to have fish, chips and mushy peas on the ferry and the kids always look forward to it, it’s good to be back home.

We Drove From: The Somme Valley, to Calais for the ferry, to Dover and on to London.

Approx Distance:  111km to Port of Calais then Port of Dover to House sit   115km (73 miles) Total 226.

Approx Drive Time:   4 hours driving plus 90 minutes on the ferry.

Fuel:   none bought today

Breakfast: fruit from the supermarket yesterday.

Lunch: On the ferry, fish and chips x 2 @21 Euros

Dinner: at home

Admissions:  none

Road Charges:  7.90 euros

Extras: ferry 60 Euros

Hotel: None. Arrived at our base in London

Total Europe Road Trip Costs and Daily Averages

Total Fuel Cost:  $534

Total Hotel Cost:  $893 USD

Total Road Tolls:  $244 USD

It’s interesting that fuel was a comparatively minor cost compared to hotels. It’s very obvious that flying would be very much cheaper, we normally pay around $40 each to fly Romania to London. If we take the direct route through Germany, France and Belgium we make this drive in 3-5 days, fuel costs are less and of course there are fewer nights in hotels, but this trip was at least partially holiday for us. It’s obvious from the above that costs are much lower in Romania, Hungary and Slovenia, the lower hotel prices for the two Airbnbs we used don’t indicate that Airbnbs are cheaper, they simply reflect lower acommodation costs generally in Slovenia. However, the two Airbnbs we used were superb and we recommend signing up for Airbnb (join via our link here for a special credit) . So I hope this gives you an idea of how much to budget for a trip like this, we spent between $100 and $200 per day, which really isn’t too bad at all. Hope this helps.

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Alyson Long

Air asia carry on – bags for air asia size regulations, visiting the somme battlefields, a must-do in france, 11 thoughts on “europe road trip costs”.

This is by far the best articulated blog on a road trip across Europe. I know now how to plan my trip. Thank you so much for your help. I cannot wait to whiz past the beautiful country roads of Europe.

This is a fantastic resource Alyson. Thanks so much. I want to visit Slovenia even more now. It looks spectacular!

I loved it, even though it has me itching to get over there and explore Europe some more! It was fun seeing all the costs, especially since our trips over there have all the extra $$$ tacked on due to the longhaul flight!

This is so useful, alyson! also, dang i always (since i dont drive) forget the diff in fuel costs of US vs EU! 75L = ~20gallons is 50 USD!

Thank you for this. Taking a roadtrip next year and the road tolls are my biggest fear, particularly in Italy. I really need to factor them in to my planning in advance. All accommodation is paid for in advance.

Well, we’re glad we only boked 2 or 3 days in advance with the hotels because twice we changed our plan, we had an extra day in Slovenia and an extra day in Paris. I think you need to keep some wriggle room in case of sickness or things coming up. We had the ferry booked in advance, it’s much cheaper that way than just turning up, but we knew that whatever happened we could get there, we could drive through the night if necessary.

We can’t drive through the night unfortunately, I have MS and fatigue is an issue, as is stress. Also wiith 7 of us finding last minute accommodation is near impossible at a reasonable price. I’ve paid £30pn for accommodation for all of us for 7 weeks. It’s almost cheaper than being at home. I much prefer having the uncertainty removed. I backpacked before children and while I liked the freedom, I never really enjoyed having to find places to stay and that was before children!! I love how we all travel differently and our experiences are invaluable to others xx

Yes, even on this Europe trip, which was EXPENSIVE! It’s still cheaper than being at home and paying a mortgage and bills. 30 pounds per night is very, very low for Europe, nice work! I don’t think there are any in the post above for that price, not even the Airbnbs in Slovenia, it’s just under $40 US. We rarely see that in Europe, sometimes in Romania and Hungary. All of yours are under 11 though, D at 13 is always a 3rd adult now. But I”m still surprised you pulled that off! Well done 🙂

Hi, can I ask, do you have your own car, as you didn’t mention car hire.. Can you tell me is it possible to hire a car to drive around Europe.. Or is it too hard crossing countries?

We had our own car each time for this trip, yes. But we’ve sold it. Generally if you return / pick up at the same place within the Eu it’s possible. But pick up in France, drop off in Romania….you’ll either be stung big time in costs and insurance or it just won’t be possible.

Hi there. Just read this entire article, very nice! I would also like to road trip across Europe, with my family. I wanted to rent a car for parts of it, and then use the train. I thought originally that it would be nice to pick up in one country and drop in another, but looks like I’ll stick to same countries! Cheers!

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Epic Europe road trip across 47 countries

Have you ever wondered what is the most efficient way to visit all the countries in Europe by road? The answer is this epic European road trip that takes you to 47 countries in geographical Europe , and almost all of the European Union, whoa! 

Unfortunately, it skips the Faroe Islands, Greenland and Iceland which you can easily do on a roadtrip either on a group tour , or independently.

If you were to drive this amazing road trip across Europe in one go, without stopping and without sleeping, it would take about 364 hours or 16 days to cover the route, and you would drive almost 27,000 kilometers.

But you wouldn’t go on this once in a lifetime European road trip and just drive through, you would want to stop, probably several times every day, to explore some of the most beautiful, heritage-rich, fascinating and delicious parts of the continent. You may even consider hiring a motorhome for your journey so that you can really take your time. 

Realistically, we would recommend completing this epic European road trip in probably a year, but 6 months would be enough to do justice to most of the key highlights.

We planned this road trip with a very cool and addictive app (yep, we stayed up till 2am playing with it!) called Roadtrippers which not only lets you plan a road trip but also shows you all the points of interest, accommodation & restaurants, photo spots, attractions, and more on the map. Use our bonus coupon code BTR5QTP for $5 off. Check out this list of gifts for road trippers to get all the gadgets you need.

Epic European road trip by the numbers

• Almost 27,000km of roads.
• Approximately 364h of driving time without stops.
• Over $1,600 in fuel spent.
• 47 countries, including 25 European Union members, Kosovo (which we count as an independent country despite the lack of recognition by the UN), the 3 countries in the Caucasus, Turkey and Russia, both of which are partially in Europe and mostly in Asia. Only 3 island countries would be missing, Malta, Cyprus and Iceland.
• More than 200 UNESCO sites would be within 50km of the itinerary.

In this unforgettable European road trip you will explore well-known but no less amazing cities such as Barcelona , Prague, London and Rome , and other up and coming ones such as Ljubljana, Bruges, Girona , Kiev, Tirana or Tbilisi. 

Of the 400 UNESCO listed sites in Europe , this road trip will get you within 50km to more than half of the continent’s most fascinating heritage, from Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia to Switzerland’s stunning mountain train journeys such as the Glacier Express or lesser known spots in tiny countries such as Andorra .

More standouts include medieval Kotor , Salzburg and Dubrovnik, the Vatican City, Santiago de Compostela’s Cathedral, Brussels’ Grand Place, Budapest Castle, Mostar Old City, Casa Batllo , Lake Ohrid, and many more.

You could add about 100 more UNESCO sites if you take a detour to explore southern Italy and Sicily , central Spain or Germany , a country that is only bordered on this itinerary. 

It is also a great road trip for foodie lovers with stops in San Sebastian for pinchos and tapas, in Bologna for parmesan cheese and mortadella, in Lyon for refined French food, Copenhagen for forward-looking Nordic food and in Porto for seafood and codfish.

The route does not just cover mainstream destinations but will also take you to the lesser known parts of the continent such as the tiny country of Liechtenstein (one of the least visited countries in the world despite being located in the middle of Europe), Croatia’s Istria, Romania’s Transilvannia, and historical sites such as Chernobyl. 

European road trip essentials 1. Roadtrippers : Create the itinerary and navigate with points of interest marked along the way with Roadtrippers , such a cool app. Get it, it’s a no brainer. 2. Visas : We highly recommend iVisa , they are prompt and professional and offer lots of services. A Schengen visa gives you access to 25 countries, others have their own system, Russia will be the trickiest. 3. Car rental : Our choice is Rentalcars.com which aggregates car rental companies across the world. Make sure you can take the car across the border and check additional insurance and permits. Or buy a car and sell it at the end. 4. Travel insurance : Do not leave the house without, really, don’t. We recommend World Nomads or SafetyWing who include coverage for COVID-19 since August 2020. 5. Accommodation : Use Booking.com they offer free cancellation charge if your plans change. 6. Tours : An efficient way to see cities in a short period of time is to get a day tour. We love and use Getyourguide which allows you to cancel tours up to 24h in advance.

So where does this incredible road trip across all of Europe and the Caucasus take you? Let’s explore the main stops.

1. Dublin, Ireland

Your journey starts in the capital of Ireland, beautiful Dublin. Being the birthplace of Guinness beer, you’ll definitely need to taste the dark stout in one of Dublin’s 1,000 pubs like Temple Bar or The Brazen Head , Ireland’s oldest pub. 

If you plan on driving after your visit, just go to the Guinness Storehouse where you can dive into the 250+ year history and have a bite to eat. Jameson Whiskey also has its home in Dublin. 

Peer into Ireland’s Emigration history at World Travel Awards winner EPIC to see what it means to be Irish beyond the border. If you have some time left over pop into Dublin Castle which dates back to 1204 and has guided tours.  Ireland is also home to many great thinkers such as Oscar Wilde, Bram Stoker and Samuel Beckett and is even one of UNESCO’s Cities of Literature . Visit Trinity College where they all got their start.

2. London, United Kingdom

Next on your European road trip is the capital of the UK, London! With a rich history and loads of activities to take part in, you can experience art at museums like the Tate Modern or The National Gallery , have fun on the London Eye , learn something new at Speaker’s Corner in Hyde Park , have a pub lunch overlooking the river Thames, or try and see the Queen at Buckingham Palace . 

If you aren’t for visiting tourist sites like Big Ben , the Tower of London , Westminster Abbey or the bohemian Soho district, you can always try something a little different and experience one of these unique things to do in London like eating jellied eel or take a somber stroll around Highgate Cemetery. Make sure to make a stop at Borough Market for a super good vibe with loads of fresh produce and delicious meals!

3. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Leaving the island and riding north-east, you’ll soon get to friendly Amsterdan in the Netherlands. This bustling city is so much more than hash brownies, tulips and windmills as you’ll experience on a bike after parking your car. 

Cruise along the canals at your own pace and visit the best tourist attractions in Amsterdam like Rijksmuseum , Van Gogh Museum , the artsy district of Jordaan, or dine way up high at A’dam Lookout .

A must-visit is Ann Frank’s House , where you will learn how this brave soul lived through a treacherous time. Apart from the multitude of historic sights, Amsterdam is also home to hip and up-and-coming neighbourhoods like gentrified Westergas and creative Zaandam’s Hembrugterrein. Walk the cobbled streets of De Negen Straatjes (‘The Nine Streets’) for some boutique retail therapy. 

4. Brussels, Belgium

As the administerial centre of the EU, Belgium’s capital can be viewed as quite a stringent place. Yet when you pass the iconic little boy peeing into the fountain at the Manneken Pis, you get a sense for the city’s lightheartedness. It’s this mix that makes it a fascinating place for all types of tourists. 

There is spectacular architecture like the Grand Place , Notre Dame Du Sablon , or the Instagrammable Atomium . See arts and culture at the Musee des Beaux-Arts d’Ixelles or Musee Constantin Meunier and gorgeous nature at Park Malou, Parc Georges Henri or Parc Du Cinquantenaire. 

But you cannot leave Brussels without going on a beer tasting tour while diving mouth-first into their famous fries and mussels. 

5. Luxembourg

Luxembourg is one of the smallest countries in the world and most of the top places to visit in Luxembourg are all concentrated in the city center. This makes it a great day stop for your European road trip. Start slow by perusing the Old Quarter in Luxembourg City which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site , as the night nears, take in a show at the legendary Philharmonic of Luxembourg .

Then make your way to any of the multitude of castles in the country (there are 130 in total) from Luxembourg Fortress to Vianden Castle . The castles you choose to explore will depend on the amount of time you have and whether you’d like to include a bit of nature on your visit or not. 

For nature we suggest the Mullerthal region where you’ll find Schiessentümpel Waterfall. You can even camp there for the night along the river Sûre in your car or spa at Mondorf-les-Bains if that’s more your style.

6. Liechtenstein

While an unlikely candidate, Liechtenstein is actually one of the least visited countries in the world . The main reason is because it’s a landlocked country, sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria, without an airport. This means it’s perfectly reachable by car, great for your European road trip!

A fun fact about Liechtenstein is that it hasn’t had a murder since 2014 and is therefore one of the safest countries in the world. As it’s so small, you can see the entire country in a day from castles like Vaduz , Burg Gutenberg or Obere Burg to jaw-dropping nature (400km network of hiking trails!) and even eat at a Michelin-awarded traditional Restaurant Torkel . This is a popular winter Europe road trip pit stop for ski fanatics.

7. Bern, Switzerland

The city where Einstein started dabbling in physics and the older enclave being awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1983, Bern is a thriving city with a deep history and stunning sites. In fact you can visit Einstein’s former residence or the museum constructed in his name . 

If you’re a fan of treasure hunts, you could try to find all 11 Renaissance fountains in the centre of Old Bern. Saunter around the Rosengarten , take in the views at Gurten mountain, or see the symbol of Bern (and Toblerone ) at Bärengraben (Bear Pit) or BärenPark (Bear Park). 

With a rich culture, Bern has loads of great artsy festivals to take part in year round from the Summer and Winter Jazz Festivals to the Buskers Festival to July’s Gurtenfestival . If you miss the festivals, don’t worry, there’s more art at the Kunstmuseum (Museum of Art) which contains 51,000 pieces! The fascinating Zytglogge , a medieval clock tower with moving puppets, is always a fun stop over. 

If you’d like to go beyond the capital and are a fan of skiing or being pampered, I would suggest making a stop at either Andermatt or St. Moritz (stay for the night at Chedi, Andermatt ). Or change your mode of transportation and hop on the Glacier Express which connects St. Moritz with Zermatt and is a truly once in a lifetime experience.  

8. Central France

Traveling south from Switzerland (with a possible stop in Geneva before crossing the border), you’ll be cruising the central part of France passing by two exquisite regions: Lyon and Bordeaux. 

Lyon is steeped in a 2,000 year history and is the capital of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. It is also considered the foodie capital of France so you should make sure to eat your way around the city. 

Witness the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules and venture into Vieux (Old) Lyon with the largest renaissance old quarters in Europe. But don’t miss the modern Confluence district on the Presqu’île peninsula with its elegant bistros and upscale apartments.

There are museums of all kinds from fine art at Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon to the Institut Lumière , an ode to the famed brothers who spearheaded the modern cinema. The architecture will leave your jaw agape, so be sure to pass by the Fourvière Basilica and Lyon Cathedral. 

Making your way toward the Bay of Biscay you’ll end up in one of the most praised wine regions in the world, Bordeaux. Wine enthusiasts better get a designated driver, because this stretch of your Europe road trip is bound to be the most fueled by alcohol. 

The choices of wineries to visit can be a bit overwhelming, so it’s best to first visit the spectacular ode to wine, La Cité du Vin. This is a mammoth 3,000sqm building with a 55m tower that looks like a giant decanter. It has around 10 hours of audiovisual info all about the history and future of the grape. You’ll also be able to get help picking which wineries to visit. 

Beyond wine, there are open spaces (Quais de Bordeaux, Jardin Public), shopping streets (Rue Sainte-Catherine), ancient architecture (La Grosse Cloche, Porte Cailhau, Bordeaux Cathedral) and so much more!

Those wanting to stop by Paris should do so after Luxembourg, as this is the quickest route to the capital and you will only be venturing further south from here. Read our Parisian articles to get more insight about the City of Love:

• Best Paris Bistros
• Autumn In Paris, A Perfect Weekend For Two
• Rooftop Bars In Paris With The Ultimate Best Views Of The City
• 5 Markets In Paris To Bargain-hunt
• Adorable Places For A Beautiful Picnic In Paris From Rivers To Gardens
• Secret Gardens In Paris To Find Romance And Nature

9. Northern Spain

Reaching the Bay of Biscay with a possible hangover, you’ll surely just want to take it easy on the beach. This is where San Sebastián comes in. Also known as Donostia, San Sebastián is a resort town hidden in Spain’s mountainous Basque Country and is known for Playa de la Concha and Playa de Ondarreta. 

Playa means beach, and beach is what you will get, although not the kind of warm beach you find on the Mediteranean! Bring a sweater, even in the summer months San Sebastian can be pretty chilly.

Not only will you find beautifully soft sand, but also picturesque bayfront promenades, cobblestone roads of old town (Parte Vieja), upscale shopping, vibrant pintxo bars and world-class restaurants. 

San Sebastian is one of Spain’s foodie capitals along with Barcelona and Madrid and the Basque Country where it is located, has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other part of the country.

Think three-starred Arzak and Akelarre , one-starred Kokotxa and Mirador de Ulía or famous Nerua in the Guggenheim Bilbao. Or just have a picnic at Miramar Royal Palace ( Palacio de Miramar ) if your wallet is feeling a bit light. 

Taking the most epic coastal drive, you’ll enter one of Spain’s most spiritual centres at Santiago de Compostela. This is the end of the famed Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route as well as the capital of northwest Spain’s Galicia region. Legend has it that the apostle St. James was buried in what is today the UNESCO-listed old town. 

Even if you aren’t religious, you’ll find a spiritual resonance in the idyllic Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque buildings, particularly the remarkable Pórtico de la Gloria . The Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela , Praza do Obradoiro and Monastery of San Martiño Pinario are all epic and within walking distance. 

10. Coastal Portugal

Grab your surfboards because you are entering a country with some of the best waves in the world. Even if you don’t know how, Portugal is a great place to learn how to surf. It’s also a burgeoning place for digital nomads so you’re sure to bump into other European road trippers here on your journey. 

The three standout places you’re going to pass on the coastal route are Porto in the north, Coimbra in the center and Lisbon at the south. Porto is known for its dessert wine which you will know as Port. But beyond the sweet aperitif Porto offers stately bridges, the medieval Ribeira (riverside) district with cobbled streets and cafes, and grand designs from baroque São Francisco Church to the palatial Palácio de Bolsa .

Travel down to the coast and you’ll end up at the riverfront city of Coimbra. It is famous for its historic University of Coimbra that houses a baroque library, the Biblioteca Joanina with a gorgeous 18th-century bell tower. You can set foot around the city’s old town to take in the calm atmosphere and visit the 12th-century Romanesque cathedral Sé Velha.

Drive south from the old capital (Coimbra) to the new one, Lisbon. This hilly coastal city has some spectacularly romantic views, particularly at sunset from São Jorge Castle where the pastel-colored buildings blend with the pink and purple hues of the setting sun. 

Nature blends seamlessly with historic buildings in Lisbon, so make sure to pass along the Torre de Belém , the Golden Gate-like Ponte 25 de Abril suspension bridge, and the Padrão dos Descobrimentos . Try to take a day trip to the protected Tagus Estuary. You can ride trams throughout the city and then relax on the beaches of Cascais, Costa da Caparica, or Estoril. 

11. Southern Spain

Now it’s back into Spain where you’ll witness a very different vibe and even peer over into Africa. The south of Spain is spectacular as you travel through Seville, Gibraltar, Granada, Valencia and finishing in Barcelona.

Seville is the capital of Andalusia and has a rich Moorish heritage which is evident in the colourful tiles, the lobed arches and the iconic Giralda tower . 

This is the place to experience the stereotypically Spanish cultural activities – flamenco, tapas and toros (although we strongly oppose bullfighting and you should too). Spring is a particularly festive time to visit with Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the lively Feria de Abril ( Seville Fair ). Or just to stroll along the banks of the Guadalquivir. 

Before you leave the area, consider a day trip to Morocco which you can take from Tarifa . Go on a guided tour which is usually cheaper than buying a ferry ticket, and add a new continent, just for the day. 

Gibraltar may be geographically located in Spain, but it was actually ceded to Britain in 1713 and remains a British Overseas Territory. This means that while Euros are accepted, the main currency is the British Sterling. 

Moorish architecture and the Rock of Gibraltar are the two most famous sites. Europa Point at the most southern tip of Gibraltar is where you can glance into Morocco, an entirely different continent. Try not to visit on a Sunday as most places on Main Street will be closed. 

Laying at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains is Granada, best known for its pristine examples of medieval architecture, particularly the Alhambra from the Nasrid dynasty . UNESCO-listed La Alhambra is massive and needs a full day to explore properly, especially to see the Generalife gardens . 

From past to future, you’ll then venture forth to Valencia, known for its City of Arts and Sciences . This futuristic structure, reminiscent of Zaha Hadid’s Heydar Aliyev Center in Azerbaijan or Dongdaemun Design Plaza in Seoul , Contains a planetarium, oceanarium and interactive museum. 

As Valencia is a coastal city, you can also set your towel down in one of its beaches including those in the Albufera Park, which is actually a wetlands reserve with a lake and walking trails. This is also a fantastic place to try out authentic paella. 

Your last stop over in Spain will be the capital of Catalunya, Barcelona. There is too much to do in Barcelona and we have written about it extensively as it is our Editor-in-Chief’s home. 

If you’re looking for things to do in Barcelona on this leg of your European road trip, here is a massive list of articles you can save, from the best of Gaudi to the top wineries to some brilliant ideas for day trips…

Barcelona guides:

• A local’s guide to one day in Barcelona
• Barcelona itinerary – Where a Barcelonian would take you in 4 days
• Epic and fabulous, the best things to do in Barcelona
• The most unusual things to do in Barcelona – unique activities to cool places
• Where to stay in Barcelona – Best areas and luxury boutique hotels
• The Best Rooftop Terraces in Barcelona to watch the sunset
• Gaudi Barcelona most incredible sights
• Guide with Sagrada Familia tickets, sights, history and other info
• A local’s guide to seeing Casa Batlló inside and out
• A local’s guide to La Casa de les Punxes
• Tips to Prepare for your Camp Nou Tour
• A local’s tips for visiting Barcelona Bunkers del Carmel

Wineries near Barcelona & Food:

• Weekend wine escape from Barcelona – includes full itinerary
• Top wineries near Barcelona to visit – Best wine and cava tours
• Poblet Monastery in Conca de Barbera: How the church brought back wine
• How to make the most of your Familia Torres Winery visit
• Visiting Cava Codorniu Spain’s oldest family-run business
• Albet i Noya – the pioneer in organic winemaking in Spain
• A day out of Barcelona taking the Cava Llopart 1887 Gran Reserva Tour
• Learning about Kosher wines at Celler de Capcanes
• Disfrutar Restaurant, elBulli’s legacy freshly carried on
• Review of Lasarte, Barcelona’s first 3 Michelin star restaurant
• Review of ABaC Restaurant Barcelona
• Gaig Restaurant Barcelona: Traditional Catalan fine-dining since 1869
• The Proximity Food Movement in Barcelona – Beyond Organic 

Day trips from Barcelona:

• Perfect day trips from Barcelona for everyone as told by a local
• Things to do in Sitges where to eat and best beaches
• How to get from Barcelona Airport to Sitges? (and from Sitges to Barcelona Airport)
• Guide to Siurana, a legendary village on Priorat’s mountains
• Day trip to Montserrat from Barcelona by a local
• Things to do in Girona + 1 day itinerary

12. Andorra

Just like Luxembourg and Liechtenstein, Andorra is another one of the smallest countries on the planet. Landlocked between Spain and France, it’s a hidden secret that will add some spice to your Europe road trip. The “country in the Pyrenees mountains” is all about beautiful nature in any season. 

There are ski slopes to hit in winter, gorgeous hiking trails in summer and a variety of activities for everything in between. Topping the list is the Caldea spa complex that leverages the natural hot springs in the area to provide an entertainment destination with hydrotherapy and wellness in mind. 

We have written a complete guide to Andorra where you can explore all of the best things to do from savoring rustic food to a list of all the museums to the best places to go shopping and the top hotels to stay at. 

13. Southern France

Crossing the border, you’ll again venture into France, this time exploring the coastal cities along the Gulf of Lion from Languedoc to Provence all the way into Italy. 

Start at Montpellier, an underrated city with a rich history, beautiful architecture and bustling boutiques and sidewalk cafés among magnificent squares. It even has its own Arc de Triomphe . 

Montpellier’s lively vibe is attributed to some 60,000 students that call it home. Sip some Languedoc-Roussillon wines with delicious Mediterranean-inspired cuisine or climb the 658m Pic Saint-Loup. You may want to explore Toulouse, known as “The Pink City” due to its terra-cotta bricks, as it is another lively and gorgeous destination for a European road trip. 

After Montpellier, you can choose to explore the more popular port city of Marseille and Nice along the French Riviera, both in the Provence region, if you like more touristy and cosmopolitan destinations. The former is hailed for the epic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde and the latter pays homage to native artists Henri Matisse and Marc Chagall . 

It’s time to join the rich and famous in another one of the smallest countries in the world, Monaco. In fact, Monaco is the second smallest country after the Vatican and is only 2sqkm. Like Andorra and Liechtenstein, Monaco is a principality, meaning that a monarchy governs, currently ruled by Prince Albert II of the Grimaldi family.

The most well-known area in Monaco is its capital city, Monte-Carlo, synonymous with James Bond, Casinos, F1 and the rich and famous (because of its tax status). Expect a multitude of yachts docked at the ports along this country in the French Riviera housing all the beautiful people of the world. 

For more, check out our guide to Monaco . 

15. The Vatican

From the second smallest to indeed the smallest country in the world and the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Church which is home to the Pope. 

Like Lesotho in South Africa , the Vatican is surrounded by the Italian capital, Rome. So if you’re visiting Rome, the Vatican is a must. Your time at the Vatican will be spent viewing ancient buildings, seeing historic art pieces and taking in the spirituality of Catholicism. 

Standouts include Michelangelo’s work on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel , St. Peter’s Basilica which is the world’s largest basilica of Christianity, Renaissance art treasures at the Vatican Museums , Castel Sant’Angelo , Saint Peter’s Square and Gardens of Vatican City .

16. Rome, Italy

Buongiorno, you’ve reached the “beautiful country”! You’ve explored the Vatican and had your spiritual fix, so now it’s time to venture into the capital of Italy, Rome. While it wasn’t built in a day, you can try to see it all in 24 hours but we recommend spending much longer, Rome needs to be enjoyed not rushed. 

Ancient landmarks like the Colosseum , the Pantheon , the Roman Forum and the Arch of Constantine should all leave you speechless. 

Gaze at the famed Trevi Fountain as you pay homage to Federico Fellini’s La Dolce Vita or “take a little time for yourself…live dangerously” at the Spanish Steps like Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck did in Roman Holiday . Then support the local artists and street vendors at Piazza Navona. 

What next? 

Eat, eat and eat some more by exploring all the Michelin-starred restaurants of Rome (there are around 20!). 

You can then ride directly up into San Marino, which we explore next, or you have the option for going south into Naples and then Sicily to take a detour around the Italian coast and see some of the most famous parts of the country which have recently reached Instagram stardom (Amalfi Coast, Capri, etc.). 

The beaches in Favignana, off Sicily

In Sicily you can hike up an active volcano at Mount Etna , explore the best Sicilian food , visit the Godfather filming locations like Savoca , or relax in the quaint towns of Syracuse or Taormina and its Ancient Greek Theater . Here’s an extensive travel guide to Sicily for those who want to set out into the island. 

17. San Marino

San Marino is a hilly microstate on and around Mount Titano that’s completely surrounded by north-central Italy. It’s as if time has stood still in this ancient republic, with much of its historic architecture still intact. 

The capital, sharing the same name as the microstate, is most well known for its medieval walled old town and narrow cobblestone streets. Once a year in July there’s even a Medieval Days festival which is a spectacle as the entire town dresses up and celebrates their history. 

At the top of Titano’s peaks sits The Three Towers which date back to the 11th century and are great viewpoints. If you have a drone, this would be the place to fly it! 

You may want to pop into foodie heaven Emilia-Romagna or Venice to see the iconic canals and the colorful glass island of Murano before moving onto Slovenia. 

18. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Well done, you’ve made it into central Europe! 

Start in Slovenia, a really beautiful country known for its mountains, ski resorts and lakes. Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana (say “loo-blee-ana”) is a university city with epic green spaces. Tivoli Park is the first of these spaces that you’ll want to explore. It’s a well manicured park where you can take a break and wander to your heart’s content. 

Cross over the iconic Tromostovje (Triple Bridge) and visit a few of the outdoor cafes that dot the Ljubljanica River. Then get cultured at one of the many museums like the National Museum of Slovenia or the Museum of Modern Art .

55km north-west from the capital is the epic Lake Bled, the iconic blue lake with Bled island at its center that houses the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary (Cerkev Marijinega vnebovzetja). This is closer to the Austrian border though, so you may want to visit it later in your journey as you’re now going down to Croatia. 

19. Zagreb & Split, Croatia

While Croatia is quite large, you’ll be sticking to the south-west so that you can easily make it into Bosnia & Herzegovina and then Montenegro. This area is also the most well-catered for tourists due to its gorgeous beaches. 

Starting in the capital of Zagreb, you’ll get to stretch your feet as you explore the quaint Tkalčićeva Street with its outdoor cafes and car-free Jelačić Square in Lower Town which also has museums, shops and parks. Upper Town is more focused on Austro-Hungarian architecture like Zagreb Cathedral and St. Mark’s Church.

Quirkier travelers can visit the Museum of Broken Relationships which is dedicated to breakups. Make sure to get a licitar, a traditional honey dough cookie in the shape of a heart and is Zagreb’s symbol. There’s no real to-do in Zagreb so let your feet guide you.

Moving onto the more touristy sites, you’ll venture on down to the coastal cities of Zadar and Split. Zadar, on the Dalmatian coast, is most well known for its Roman and Venetian ruins such as St. Anastasia’s Cathedral and the Church of St. Donatus. 

Split on the eastern shore of the Adriatic Sea has some really beautiful beaches that get super packed in summer. The entire city center is like visiting a giant Roman palace, still going strong after 1700 years with additions and restorations. Game of Thrones fans will know all about Diocletian’s Palace, which is also UNESCO listed . 

20. Mostar & Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Moving onto your next country in the Balkans, Bosnia & Herzegovina came into the public eye in the 90s due to the Bosnian War. Today it’s a lively off-the-beaten track destination that is safe for visitors to soak in the diverse culture. 

Unlike tourist-heavy Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina is yet to have a tourist boom and therefore makes for a great destination for those who like a more intimate experience. 

You can start your journey in Mostar before heading into the capital of Sarajevo. Mostar is a quaint city that’s known for its iconic UNESCO-listed Stari Most (Old Bridge) surrounded by mountains and greenery. Explore the alleyways on foot and find some hidden gems before walking up the hills for some panoramic views. 

Previously war-torn Sarajevo is now completely restored to its former glory where east meets west – think Vienna paired up with Istanbul. While not too touristy, it still caters for foreigners with information booths and guides to the many churches, mosques, museums, amazing cafes and vibrant nightlife. 

Stroll through the cobbled streets of Baščaršija and look out for the 100 “Sarajevo Roses” which commemorate those who lost their lives in the war. A walking tour is a must! And you should definitely educate yourself on the Bosnian War before heading into the country. Read up more about it here . 

21. Kotor, Montenegro

Back to the coast, you’ll head to the south of gorgeous Montenegro . This is the best place to go in the Balkans for sun, sand and sea as it’s way less packed than neighbouring Croatia. 

The quaint UNESCO-listed fortified city of Kotor is a great place to have a moment of respite as you wander through the cobblestone roads or perhaps walk up to St. George Fortress for a spectacular view of the idyllic bay below.

You could also choose to explore some of the many picture perfect beaches of Montenegro , take a day trip to the uber luxurious and iconic Aman Sveti Stefan , or make your way to the humble oceanside towns of Rose, Perast or Ulcinj. Montenegro also has a very unique local cuisine which is always fresh and super delicious.

22. Tirana, Albania

Similar to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Albania has a difficult and tumultuous past. After the fall of long term and extremely paranoid dictator, Enver Hoxha, the country has tried to rebuild itself as a center for arts and the freedom of expression. 

You’ll see graffiti all around the country, particularly in the capital of Tirana, where it is encouraged to turn the dreary blocklike buildings into a sign of hope for the future. 

The Bunk’Art museums in Tirana are a perfect example of this change, where underground bunkers built by the Hoxha regime were converted into exhibition and learning spaces. 

Beyond the beautiful Tirana, there is so much to see in Albania, from idyllic Albanian beaches to gorgeous castles (look for Rozafa, Prezë and Kruje Castles), or ancient architecture in Berat , Durres and the Greek ruins at Archeological Park of Apollonia – a UNESCO heritage site .

Need some more help? I have written articles on fun facts about Albania , the best food in Albania , as well as a complete travel guide to Albania and things to do in Tirana . 

23. Ohrid, North Macedonia

Before venturing into the Land of the Gods, you’ll be making a stop at the sleepy resort city of Ohrid, Macedonia. You’ll come back to the capital of Macedonia, Skopje, a bit later in the journey. 

This is your chance to completely relax from the frantic sightseeing and driving – wine glass in hand, platter of cheese and cold cuts in front of you, while gazing deep into the vast expanse of UNESCO-listed Lake Ohrid . 

If you can get off the view, take a stroll in Old Town, a boat tour around the lake or walk along the ancient Somoil’s Fortress and picturesque St. John the Theologian Church for more epic views. 

24. Thessaloniki, Greece

Cruising into Greece, you’re going to stay in the north, stopping halfway at Thessaloniki. This port city, straddling the Thermaic Gulf of the Aegean Sea, is a glimpse into the country’s past. 

You can see Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman remains, particularly if you venture into the upper town of Ano Poli . While parts of the city were destroyed in the Great Fire of 1917 , some ruins remain like Roman Emperor Galerius’ 4th-century palace. Munch on local street food koulouri Thessalonikis and pop open a local wine from the nearby Naousa appellation .

25.  Istanbul & Ankara, Turkey

You’re now on one of the longest stretches on your trip which is from Greece through Turkey and onto Georgia. You can space out your long drive by stopping first at energetic Istanbul and then in Ankara, the cosmopolitan capital. 

Istanbul is the confluence of East meets West, of Europe and Asia, all in one. The fantastically fascinating Old City will give you a glimpse into the past. 

Explore the Sultanahmet district which houses the Roman-era Hippodrome (think chariot races), Egyptian obelisks, the epic Blue Mosque and the jaw-droppingly beautiful Byzantine Hagia Sophia . Don’t miss the Grand Bazar for some local delights. 

Ankara is more about the present and has a thriving performing arts scene. This is your chance to dress up and go to the Opera, Ballet or see a show at the Presidential Symphony Orchestra . Before the show make sure to visit the grand Anıtkabir , the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the first President of the Republic of Turkey.

26. Tbilisi, Georgia

After a very long drive through the Turkish countryside, you’ll finally cross the border to Georgia, which was once part of the Soviet republic. Today, due to providing 365-day visas on arrival, Georgia has become a digital nomad hotspot if you need to get some work done or meet like-minded travelers. 

Georgia is famous for its black sand beaches, the quaint Caucasus Mountain villages and Vardzia, a sprawling cave monastery dating to the 12th century. 

Yet you’ll be stopping in the capital landlocked city of Tbilisi where you can wander through the maze-like cobblestoned roads of old town or hike up the scenic Narikala Fortress to see the blend of art nouveau buildings, Soviet Modernist structures and Eastern Orthodox churches. 

27. Sheki & Baku, Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan, known as the Land of Fire and the birthplace of crude oil, is a place where East meets West, where Asia and Europe are both present but do not dominate, at once modern and a well-preserved history. 

Make a culinary pitstop in Sheki, a small but gorgeous historic town on the ancient Silk Road route. You can taste some of the best local Azerbaijani food like piti and halva in a Caravanserai before moving onto the capital. 

In Baku you will experience some of the most luxurious hotels in Azerbaijan like the Fairmont Baku Flame Towers , modern architecture like Zaha Hadid’s Heydar Aliyev Center , and ancient natural wonders like the volcanoes. 

Little known fact about Azerbaijan , it has 45% of the world’s mud volcanoes! For a closer look, read my article on the top things to do in Baku and Azerbaijan . 

28. Yerevan, Armenia

Yerevan, Armenia’s capital, is your next stop on this epic European road trip. The imposing Soviet-era architecture will astound you and its history will amaze. Make a stop at the Matenadaran library , where you will find thousands of ancient Greek and Armenian manuscripts. 

Then head over to the vibrant Republic Square to watch the musical water fountains. Learn a bit more about Armenia’s past at the History Museum of Armenia with artefacts dating back to 3500 BC.

Note on feasibility : The itinerary considers that you return to Georgia from Armenia and then enter Russia by crossing the disputed territory of Abkhazia, however, at the time of writing, that is not possible. Instead, you should leave Georgia to the north at Kazbegi and enter Russia at Vladikavkaz and then retake the route. Thank you to Alastair Gill for pointing this out.

29. Sochi, Russia

As you may know, Russia is absolutely massive. In fact, at 17 million sqkm it’s the largest country in the world , by far. 

To put it in perspective, the 2nd largest country, Canada, stands at just under 10 million sqkm. In order to fit Russia into your road trip of Europe, you can travel to Sochi, along the Black Sea and far from the capital Moscow . Sochi is around the same distance between Armenia and the Ukraine. 

You may know Sochi best as the home to the 2014 Winter Olympics, but in summer it’s also a popular beach resort destination. The 1,937sqkm Forested Sochi National Park is a must for nature lovers. Interested in ditching the car and catching the train? I’d definitely recommend either the Golden Eagle on a once in a lifetime trans-Siberian journey .  

Note on safety and feasibility of this portion : At the time of writing, the itinerary passes through the disputed territory of Crimea. Entering Crimea from Russia is possible but, if you plan to continue driving into Ukraine, as shown in this itinerary, you would be entering Ukraine illegally. Likewise, crossing from Russia into Ukraine is currently difficult given the security situation. The safest and easiest way to drive from Russia into Ukraine involves driving farther north on the border between the two, possibly near Kharkiv or Sunny and then driving down to Odessa to continue with the itinerary. Thank you to Alastair Gill, Igor Gakalo and Justin Golden for share their experience.

30. Odessa & Kiev, Ukraine

Traveling along the Black Sea, you’ll cross the border over into the port city of Odessa. You’ll get to relax on one of the many beaches or watch a performance at the Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater. 

Film fanatics will tick an activity off their bucket list as they climb the iconic Potemkin Stairs, immortalized in The Battleship Potemkin . Saunter along Primorsky Boulevard with monuments and mansions.

Next up is Kiev, an important industrial, scientific, educational and cultural center of Eastern Europe. It’s a pedestrian-friendly city with amazing public transport and a metro. So you can visit all the most beautiful monuments quite easily. 

Marvel at Eastern Orthodox Christianity’s most important landmark Pechersk Lavra , which is a complex of churches, bell towers and subterranean caves and contains a host of UNESCO heritage sites . Look up to see notable monuments like Maidan Nezalezhnosti or The Motherland Monument and then finish with a stroll in Hryshko National Botanical Garden .

Before crossing the border to Minsk, you should make a stop in Chernobyl, an historical destination where you can learn about humanity’s flaws, particularly the nuclear power plant accident from 1986 . 

You will need to go on a tour of the abandoned city in a hazmat suit, but it is safe due to stringent precautions. It is a sobering experience and definitely one that will stay with you. Learn more about Chernobyl from the recent HBO docuseries.  

31. Chișinău, Moldova

Adding Moldova to your European road trip will have you taking a bit of a detour. Instead of going straight from Odessa in the south to Kiev up north, you can make a pit stop in Chișinău between the two. 

The capital of Moldova is an up and coming destination, but still one of the least visited in Europe . It’s a pedestrian-friendly city where you can soak up the local culture at Piata Centrala, Stephan the Great Central Park or Valea Morilor Park. There are also a few landmarks to spot like the neoclassical Nativity Cathedral or the dome-topped Chișinău’s Cathedral Park.

32. Minsk, Belarus

Belarus is definitely not one of the most sought after European road trip destinations, but it surely has its own charm. At first it may seem like there is not much to do in the capital city of Minsk, but the attractions could keep you busy for about 2-3 days. 

Like most post Soviet Union countries, one of the top things to do in Minsk is to admire the Soviet architecture, particularly walking along Independence Avenue. 

Main structures include the Central Post Office , Palace of the Republic , Nyamiha Shopping Center, the National Academic Bolshoi Opera and Ballet Theatre and even an incredible Soviet bas-relief above a KFC. 

There’s also a quaint Old Town, shopping at a GUM (department) store, visiting Mir and Nesvizh Castles , and checking out the hip cafes and street art near trendy Kastrychnitskaya street. 

33. Vilnius, Lithuania

Another city where you can find astounding architecture is Lithuania’s capital Vilnius , a UNESCO heritage center . Architectural styles from all periods can be found here. And did you know you can go on a hot air balloon ride over the city? Amazing.

Strolling along the cobblestoned streets of Old Town you’ll come across the beautiful baroque Gate of Dawn and Basilian Monastery, neoclassical Vilnius Cathedral and Gothic St. Anne’s Church (and so so much more!). 

Get your green fix at Bernardine Park , open air museum Europos Parkas or atop the Hill of Three Crosses for panoramic views. Shop local at Hall Market and explore the multitude of museums.

34. Riga, Latvia

From one capital to the next, this time you’ll be visiting Latvia’s Riga, the largest city in the three Baltic states. 

You may be a bit tired of perusing all the amazing buildings of Vilnius, and Riga is just the right place as it’s a youthful city with a pumping nightlife, hipster eateries and thriving alternative scene. Maybe you’ll take home a bottle of Riga Black Balsam , a bitter but slightly sweet liqueur made in oak barrels.

Before partying it up, take in the old centre of Vecrīga, with its maze-like streets filled with restaurants, museums and nightspots, Medieval churches and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site . 

But of course, there is more than enough architecture too to keep you happy from the vibrant House of the Blackheads to the world’s largest collection of Art Nouveau buildings, particularly those by “Riga’s Gaudí”, Mikhail Eisenstein . 

35. Tallinn, Estonia

Your final Baltic State before crossing over to Northern Europe is another cultural hub right on the Black Sea. Tallinn is for creatives. 

Starting at Telliskivi Loomelinnak (Creative City) where you’ll find Fotografiska (home to fine-art photography), venture onto PROTO Invention Factory for a look into the history of inventions and then end off at Kumu Art Museum which won European Museum of the Year in 2008. 

Cafe hop as you pass ancient monuments like Kiek in de Kök , Gothic-structured Town Hall or 13th-century St. Nicholas Church.

36. Helsinki & Rovaniemi, Finland 

Take the 2 hour ferry ride across the Gulf of Finland where you’ll end up in its capital, Helsinki. You can continue your cultural adventure by taking a walk along the Mannerheimintie, with its multitude of institutions like the National Museum , grand Parliament House and Kiasma contemporary art museum. 

Temppeliaukio Church is out of this world (think Auroville in Pondicherry or Iglesia El Rosario in El Salvador ) and Suomenlinna , a giant maritime fortress spread across seven islands, is man-made marvel. Red-bricked Uspenski Cathedral is also stunning.

In Helsinki, take the option of a ferry ride to St. Petersburg and avail of the 3 day free visa option to explore Russia’s grandest city. 

You wouldn’t want to leave Finland without making a trip to Rovaniemi. Why? Because it’s the official home of Santa Claus! 

That’s right, the capital of Lapland is also home to one of the most beloved figures. There’s Santa Claus Village , SantaPark , Santa Claus Office and even Santa Claus Reindeer where you can meet the friendly helpers. Beyond all things Santa there is also lots to do from Arktikum Science Museum , Rovaniemi Art Museum , and of course Angry Birds Park !

Rovaniemi is also your chance to experience an authentic Finnish sauna, munch of some pulla (Finnish cardamom bread), and glimpse the Northern Lights. 

37. Stockholm, Sweden

Journey down the coast of Sweden along the Gulf of Bothnia all the way down to the Baltic Sea where you’ll find the capital, Stockholm. What many travelers to Stockholm might not know is that the capital city actually encompasses 14 islands with over 50 bridges. So the best way to see it all is to hop on the various ferries or sightseeing boats between the islands. 

Like most large European cities, Stockholm has its own old town called Gamla Stan which stands out for its cobblestone streets and ochre-colored buildings. 

Notable sites here include the 13th-century Storkyrkan Cathedral (make sure to go inside), the Swedish monarch abode Kungliga Slottet Royal Palace and the Nobel Museum (about the history of the Nobel Prize ). 

Get your Mama Mia on at the ABBA Museum , learn about all things nautical at the acclaimed Vasa Museum , or be more contemporary at Moderna Museet . Fashionista’s shouldn’t miss a visit to Södermalm (home to Greta Garbo) for “fika” (Swedish coffee break), boutique shopping, and massive photography gallery, Fotografiska . 

38. Oslo, Norway

Take in the gorgeous scenic landscapes of Swedish as you travel across the country into Norway. Shortly after crossing the border, you’ll arrive at the capital of Oslo. 

Here you’ll find vast green spaces and plenty of museums to explore. Nature is a key part of life in Oslo, so this is a great chance to get out and moving as you won’t want to miss the epic scenery of the forests, walking trails and mountains – all easily accessible by public transport if you want to take a break from driving. 

Take a coastal stroll on the Bygdøy Peninsula which has, apart from astounding natural scenery, 5 national museums including the Viking Museum . Saunter around Frogner Park which has some 212 sculptures from artist Gustav Vigeland (as well as an eponymous museum ). 

Another major artist with a dedicated museum is Edvard Munch . Learn all about sliding down snow at the Holmenkollen Ski Museum & Tower or see a show at Oslo Opera House . Make your journey complete with a tranquil trip around the Oslofjord.

We would also recommend you add 3 more weeks to your trip and explore the rest of Norway. Check out this website with 18 scenic routes in Norway .

39. Copenhagen, Denmark

Your epic European road trip continues back into Sweden with an extensive leg of the journey down into Malmö (where you should try their famed kebabs), crossing the epic Øresund Bridge and ending up in Denmark’s capital of Copenhagen. One glimpse at this beautiful city and you’ll see where famed fairytale author Hans Christian Andersen got his inspiration. 

Copenhagen has something for literally anyone from amusement parks ( Tivoli Gardens ) to trendy pedestrian streets (Strøget) to Michelin-starred cuisine (23 stars to 16 restaurants in 2020) to arts and culture galore. A short 10km ride to Lyngby-Taarbæk Kommune you’ll find the oldest amusement park in the world called Dyrehavsbakken (“The Deer Pasture’s Hill”), also known as Bakken (“The Hill”).

Rent a bike and do as locals do, explore different areas from Christiania, an old commune, the historic waterfront of Nyhavn and of course the Little Mermaid statue. 

If you can, leave your car in Copenhagen and traverse the waters into the tiny island territory of the Faroe Islands – where the roofs are covered in grass , the sheep outnumber the people and the views are epic. This might inspire you to take a trip…

40. North and East Germany

Catch another ferry from Lolland in Denmark to Fehmarn in Germany. The Fehmarn Belt connecting these two destinations through an 18km underwater tunnel has also been approved , so keep on the lookout for its opening. 

You will be traveling the North of Germany through such cities as Hamberg, Bremen, Münster, Dortmund, down to the tip of the Rhine, then onward through several states from Lower Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt and Brandenburg which encompasses the capital of Berlin.

Here is where startup owners mingle with vegans, artists and hipsters, Berlin is the center of art and creativity in Germany and well worth a couple of days. 

While we only border Germany, you can feel free to venture into the country and explore as much or as little as you would like. Cruise straight through as fast as you can on the Autobahn blaring Kraftwerk ,enjoy sausages and beer and just take it all in.

41. Warsaw & Wrocław, Poland

After speeding on the Autobahn and living it up in hedonistic Berlin, it’s time to take it a bit slow as you enter Poland’s capital of Warsaw. 

Warsaw is a city to reflect on the atrocities of the Nazi invasion and the aftermath of World War II by visiting the many monuments dedicated to the mass destruction of the city and the people in it. Yet, like a flower through the cracks, the city has been restored to its former glory – a far cry from the rubble of the 1940s. 

Old Town and Łazienki Park are particularly beautiful and the many museums will keep you intrigued, like POLIN , Warsaw Uprising Museum or the Copernicus Science Centre (Poland is the birthplace of the famed mathematician who found the sun to be the centre of our universe). Make a pit stop at Wrocław on the Oder River, particularly the Market Square for some more culture, art and elegant architecture.

42. Prague, Czech Republic

Crossing over to the center of the Czech Republic, Prague is a beautiful city to go around on foot while exploring the unique baroque buildings, Gothic churches and the stunning medieval Astronomical Clock. 

It’s a place where art and creativity is thriving from puppetry to jazz, and was also home to writer Franz Kafka (he used to live in Golden Lane) and father of modern psychoanalysis Sigmund Freud . There’s even a statue of him hanging from a pole in Old Town.  

Sip some world famous Czech pivo (beer) while gazing at the Vltava river or go the full nine yards by taking a tour of the Czech Beer Museum Tour where you can bottle your own beer. Don’t forget to taste some pork knuckle and pickled cheese before exploring the thriving nightlife. 

43. Salzburg & Vienna, Austria

Cross yet another border and you’ll be in the birthplace of Mozart , Salzburg. It is known for having the best-preserved baroque architecture in the old town centre in Europe, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site . If you have time visit The Eagles Nest in nearby Berchtesgaden, Germany for an amazing hike and epic views of the Bavarian Alps. 

Vienna is the next stop on your epic road trip of Europe, home to the United Nations and the cultural, economic and political center of Austria. It’s known as one of the most livable cities in the world and has a rich history of artists, intellectuals, culture and music. So there will be more than enough to keep you busy for a few days.  

44. Bratislava, Slovakia

Right on the border of both Austria and Hungary is Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava. So it’s an easy choice to stop here between the two countries. 

Get your hiking shoes because this beautiful city has many nature trails on offer through vineyards, the Little Carpathian mountains, and overlooking the breathtaking Danube river. From fairytale castles ( Bratislava & Devin) to sky blue cathedrals to the revitalised Eurovea district , there is surprisingly a lot to take in when visiting Bratislava. 

45. Budapest, Hungary

Roll along the north of Hungary until you reach the Danube, which bisects Hungary’s capital Budapest. Interesting fact about Budapest is that it’s actually not one, but rather 3 unified cities. 

They are Buda and Óbuda on the west bank of the Danube and Pest on the east bank. Many consider Budapest to be one of the most beautiful cities in Europe and will be a surprising standout of your Europe road trip. 

If you don’t know where to start in this gem, try the UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Buda Castle Quarter and Andrássy Avenue. Peruse the gorgeous Parliament Building along the banks of the Danube, or Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica before descending into the infamous Faust Wine Cellars under Buda Castle. Then relax your muscles with a dip in the Széchenyi Thermal Baths or the Gellért Baths . 

46. Transylvania and Bucharest, Romania

While Transylvania is usually associated with Dracula, Gothic fortresses and churches and baroque buildings, it’s not as spooky as Bram Stoker makes it out to be. 

Most of your Transylvania itinerary will be centred around the castles like Bran , Peleș and Corvin , the UNESCO World Heritage Site of colorful Sighișoara and exploring the Turda Salt Mine are equally impressive. 

But it is a rather large region of around 102,834 sqkm, so there’s a lot to cover. Hop over to the trendy student area of Cluj-Napoca for a taste of Romanian cool, explore the medieval walls and towers of Sibiu on foot or ski at Poiană Brașov.

Keep going south-east until you reach the capital of Bucharest. Once home to Vlad the Impaler and communist despot Nicolae Ceaușescu , it’s now in a boom with highrise towers and sleek glass facades. 

There is still a glimpse of the past among the newer lofty towers. Bucharest has the world’s biggest parliamentary building Palace of Parliament standing at 365,000 sqm and 1,100 rooms. Take a romantic stroll at Cișmigiu Gardens, the cobblestone streets of Lipscani (Old Town) and glimpse a replica of Paris’s Arcul de Triumf, an ode to its former nickname “Paris of the East”. 

47. Sofia, Bulgaria

Walking through the capital of the Balkan nation of Bulgaria is like taking a time machine back to almost 2,000 years ago. 

Witness Sofia’s history of outside occupation through the Greek, Roman, Ottoman and Soviet landmarks. The city’s history is deep and complicated where mosques have been converted into churches and monolithic soviet structures overshadow newly formed boulevards. 

While you can’t dip in, the Central Mineral Baths is a very photogenic spot with an informative museum. Adventurous travelers can ascend the 2,200m Vitosha Mountain. 

48. Skopje, North Macedonia

Coming back into North Macedonia, this time you’ll be visiting Skopje, the country’s capital and largest city. 

While being the center of politics, culture, economics, and academics, it is an ancient city dating back to 4000 BC with Neolithic remains at the old Kale Fortress. Probably the best thing to do in Skopje is to stroll along the Vardar river and do some quirky architecture and statue spotting (trust us there is a lot of that!). 

After all the walking, get some fuel at the old bazaar where you can also delve more into the culture of Skopje and visit the fort at the top of the hill. Then continue on to find some really quirky brutalist architecture and sip some thick coffee at the hipster Debar Maalo area. 

49. Pristina, Kosovo

Pristina might not be the most popular or well-known city in Europe, but once you start strategizing a trip here, you’ll notice that there is indeed a lot to do. 

One unique fact about Albania concerns Kosovo where 92.9% of the population is actually ethnic Albanian and Muslim. 

This ethnic differentiation between Muslim Kosovar people and the rest of Orthodox Serbia, the official UN country Kosovo belongs to has been the focus of tension for decades and tragically ended in the terrible Kosovo War . 

Sadly, because Kosovo has not been recognised as an independent country by the UN, these tensions continue and mean that parts of the country are under the supervision of the United Nations Peacekeeping Forces . But fret not, traveling in Kosovo is very safe and attacks are rare.

Back to pristina, many of the things to do in the capital are interlinked with Albanian culture.  For example, you can taste some Albanian Rakia , see sculptures of Skanderbeg like the ones in Tirana , and pay homage to the devout spiritual leader at the Cathedral of Saint Mother Teresa (who was ethnically Albanian). 

You can socialise over a thick Turkish coffee, witness the medieval UNESCO Site in Gračanica or see one of the world’s ugliest buildings – the Kosovo National Library . 

To truly enjoy the most beautiful parts of Kosovo, take a detour to Peje and Prizren, two beautiful mountain villages where traditional architecture and rich Ottoman heritage have been preserved, they are real gems.

50. Belgrade, Serbia

You’ve been around the continent and visited almost every country and your final epic European road trip destination is Serbia’s capital, Belgrade. 

Belgrade is one of the oldest cities in Europe and has a tumultuous past of war and upheaval. It’s possibly this turbulent past that’s created it’s free-spirited present, particularly on the Bohemian avenue of Skardarlija and in the frequent splavovi (party boats) along the Danube and Sava.  You can end your monumental road trip of Europe with a bang in Belgrade by partying the night away. After sobering up, take in your final views from the Beogradska Tvrđava fortress , stroll around in deep thought at what you’ve accomplished at Kalemegdan Park and then jump into the water at Ada Ciganlija island.

• Check if you need a visa, get help processing it at iVisa .
• Never ever leave without travel insurance. Get affordable coverage from World Nomads or long term insurance from Safety Wing .
• I find all of my flights on KAYAK . Check their Deals section too.
• Search for all your transportation between destinations on the trusted travel booking platform Bookaway .
• I book all my day trips and tours via GetYourGuide , they are the best and their tours are refundable up to 24h in advance.
• Get USD35 off your first booking with Airbnb .
• Compare hotels EVERYWHERE at HotelsCombined and book with Booking.com .
• Compare car rental prices at Rentalcars.com

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How To Road Trip Around Europe

by Jason Moore

Note from Jason: This is a post by Joanna Moore .

Last May my girlfriend and I packed up our house in Nottingham, England, piled our belongings into our car, and headed south to Harwich ferry terminal.

We’d given up our rental contract, gotten rid of most of our possessions, and moved into our car. The plan? To road trip around Europe for a few months.

As we were driving through the pouring rain to the port, I turned to my girlfriend and said, “what on earth are we doing?” Since she doesn’t have a driving licence, and despite the fact that I’m a terrible driver, it was me who was going to have to drive us through the Netherlands and Germany the next day.

Apart from getting to Berlin for a conference and visiting a few friends in various parts of the continent, we had no plan for the trip. We were clueless about how to road trip around Europe.

But of course we learned quickly. We made a ton of mistakes. We were grateful for some belongings and wished we hadn’t bothered bringing others. We got into a routine and figured out how to live on the road quite comfortably.

Now it’s time to pass on everything we learned, so that you too can travel around Europe while living in your car, perhaps without making quite as many mistakes as we did!

What This Guide Will Cover

This guide covers all the basics on how to road trip around Europe. While it is focused on Europe, it will be useful for anyone planning to live in their car or go on an extended road trip.

• Choosing your car
• Packing and preparing the car
• Checking the rules of the road
• Planning your route
• Finding places to sleep
• Keeping clean
• Traveling on a budget

Choosing Your Car

Size And Model

If you don’t already have a car, the first thing you’ll want to do is ask yourself whether comfort or budget travel is more important to you. My girlfriend and I had slept in a tiny Toyota Yaris before and, while we had no trouble sleeping, we had no desire to be that cooped up for longer than a few nights at a time.

If you’re traveling alone or you don’t have a ton of cash to spend on gas, I’d recommend looking at estates, as they’re quite long. If comfort and space are important to you, I’d suggest getting a people carrier like our Ford Galaxy. Make sure the seats are removable, so that you can lie down.

What you look for in a car will depend on you, your driving experience, and the type of trip you’re going on.

Whereas in the UK, most cars are manual, and that’s all I’d ever driven, we decided to go for an automatic, because we wanted to make the driving as simple as possible. Driving on the other side of the road and understanding unfamiliar road signs was going to be tricky enough, without having to switch gears at the same time.

Look for a car with tinted windows, so that you can sleep and keep your stuff in the car without anyone noticing. The car we ended up with didn’t have tinted windows, so we bought tinting paper from the internet and stuck it in ourselves. It looked a bit scrappy but it did the trick.

You could also hang up black curtains or material (and we did use some of those too, because we never actually finished putting the tinting up!), but know that they might make people peer into your car in the daytime, wondering what’s behind them.

You can see how bad our tinting was, but it did the trick!

Age And Reliability

While we did want a car that didn’t have too many miles on it, this wasn’t a huge deal to us because our plan, should our car die, was to abandon ship and come up with an alternative way to travel. That said, we were lucky and got one with just under 80,000 miles on it.

If your car is going to be your only option, make sure it’s the most reliable car you can afford. We bought a beaten up family car, but we liked that it was scratched and scruffy, because we figured no one would look twice at it, let alone consider stealing it.

Of course, you should follow the normal instructions for buying a car, especially if it’s second hand. If you’re not confident examining it yourself, get a friend to do it or pay an expert to do it.

You could buy your car abroad, and we did consider this because, driving a British car in Europe, our controls were going to be on the wrong side. However, we decided that we’d rather deal with the buying in our own language and bought our car from a guy down the road!

It’s also a good idea to get your car serviced by a garage before you leave, to give yourself some peace of mind. Our car needed a new door lock, new tyres, and new internal fittings, so plan to spend some money on this.

Packing And Preparing The Car

We had lots of plans to do up our car and turn it into the ultimate mobile home, but life happened and we never got round to it. By all means, go all out and convert your car into a fully fledged living space, but you’ll manage perfectly fine by just following the advice below.

Get Used To The Car

I literally could not drive our car when we first got it, so I was glad that we bought it a few months before we need it. Get plenty of practice of driving your car and getting to know how it works.

It would have been good to have known, when we got a flat tyre on the highway on the border between Austria and Germany, that our car did have a spare tyre. It would also have been useful to have known how to change a tyre. We were completely fine, but this information would have saved us a bit of time and worry. Get to know your car before you go.

What To Take

I’m not going to provide a full list of the items you should take with you, as this will differ for everyone. But I will give you a list of the things that made our lives much, much easier.

We actually took an exercise bench with us to serve as a shelf. It essentially doubled the amount of space we had for our belongings. We had it pushed up against the back of the two font seats and we put boxes of stuff both below and on top of it. Genius!

Try to split your belongings into categories and have a box per category. I referred to one of our boxes as “the bathroom” and another as “the kitchen.”

By keeping everything in its place, you’ll keep the car tidy and you’ll never struggle to find anything.

Likewise, I’d recommend having an easily accessible “important documents folder.”

We wanted one simple rug to cover the whole of the floor of the car, just to keep things nice in there. But we found that normal rugs were pretty expensive and the wrong size.

The perfect solution turned out to be one of those play rugs for children with a town mapped out onto it. It was the perfect size and it wasn’t too thick, so it didn’t make us too warm at night.

We used a yoga mat each as a bed. The first night was a bit uncomfortable but after that it was fine. That’s all you need.

Quilt And Pillows

You could use sleeping bags, but having a regular duvet made us feel more at home in the car.

Obviously, you’ll want regular adapters, so you can plug your electronics in while you’re abroad, but make sure to pack a cigarette lighter to USB adapter too, particularly if you’ve got an iPhone. These are great because they allow you to charge your phone while you’re driving.

If you’re lucky, you’ll have a sat nav that comes with one of these.

Choosing between a map and a sat nav is personal preference, but we took a sat nav with us. We felt like we should take a map with us to be on the safe side but in the end we didn’t.

Although we came to hate our TomTom (called Thomas when it was misbehaving), it did get us round Europe, so we can’t really complain.

One thing we discovered early on was that there’s not much you can do in a car.

Our Kindles made the whole trip much more enjoyable, because reading was pretty much the only thing we could do to relax, and it would have been a pain to have taken a whole stack of books.

Card With Free Cash Withdrawals Abroad

Before you go, work out how you’re going to withdraw money abroad. Your options will depend on where you live and where you’re going, but if you’re from the UK and you’re going to Europe, I’d recommend opening an account with Metro. Their debit card was a great little find and allowed us to take out money for free.

Rain Deflectors

Rain deflectors are basically strips of plastic that serve as mini roofs to stop the rain from getting in when you’ve got the windows open.

We bought these so that we could keep the windows slightly open at night (so they wouldn’t steam up and give us away to passersby) without anyone seeing that they were open.

Rain deflectors from inside the car

Few Clothes

We didn’t take many clothes at all but we still had too many. When you’re living in the car, you don’t end up changing your clothes every single day. We tended to sleep in our clothes too, so we didn’t get through very many of them.

If you’re super concerned about being clean, go ahead and take more clothes, but most people won’t need more than a couple of pairs of shorts/pants/skirts, one jacket, and about three t-shirts.

Our best buy of the trip was our rucksacks. We were able to fit everything into them that we needed to take with us whenever we left the car (laptops, phone leads, water, food, camera, Kindles, spare jackets, purses, passports, etc.), and we kept them packed, so we could grab ‘n’ go.

There’s no need to get fancy here at all. Our rucksacks are relatively small, with external pouches for drinks, a front zipped pocket, and two compartments inside. Find one that suits your needs.

We also bought gym bags and kept everything we needed for the gym in those too.

Light Laptops With Long Battery Life

Before we set off, I had a huge Dell that was slow and heavy. Buying a used Macbook was the best thing I could have done. It meant I could carry my laptop in my rucksack and use it without a problem when wall sockets were in short supply.

Europe-wide Guide Book

Over the years I’ve had so many country-specific guidebooks but my well-worn Europe on a shoestring by Lonely Planet has always beaten them all.

This was the second Europe-wide trip I’d done, and having one book that covers everywhere you want to go saved us so much space.

Protein Powder

My girlfriend and I both lift, so getting enough protein to keep us growing without access to a kitchen was going to be difficult. We took huge bags of protein powder with us and drank them with (generally warm) water. It was gross but we both put on muscle while traveling.

If you’re not into lifting, you won’t need as much as we did, but one shake a day could be a good way to get some protein into your diet. Likewise, you might want to look into taking supplements.

Tinned food will be your friend, so make sure you can get into it by taking a tin opener with you.

Take a set of cutlery (whether plastic or metal) each. You might want a plastic plate and a few other bits and bobs, but we managed without.

Make sure you know where you’re going. Driving around Slovenia, desperately trying to recognise something that would lead me to the farm I used to live on because I hadn’t brought the address with me wasn’t my finest moment.

Just to be prepared. We didn’t take these with us, so when I managed to leave the car lights on overnight and drain the battery, I had to walk to a gas station and shell out quite a bit for some leads to get us back on our way.

The view from inside the car

Checking The Rules Of The Road

Of course, make sure you’re fully insured before you set off. Insurance was our first big hurdle. We’d planned to travel for up to five months, but all the quotes we got were for a few thousand pounds. No way.

Our solution was to get a regular insurance policy that would allow us to go abroad for one month at a time for a total of three months in one year, popping back across the English Channel a few times. In the end, we only did one month in mainland Europe, so this wasn’t an issue.

If you’re from a mainland European country, you might have more options than we did.

Breakdown Cover

Don’t forget to get breakdown cover. Being able to just phone someone and wait for help when we broke down in Austria was the easiest thing ever.

Before you set off, find out what each country requires you to have in your car. This guide gives an overview of what you’ll need. Each European country has different rules, so what you need to get will depend on where you’re going.

We didn’t know where we’d end up going, so we got the most commonly needed things (reflective jacket, GB sticker, warning triangle, first aid kit, fire extinguisher, spare headlight, breathalyser), and planned to look up each country’s rules as and when we needed to. You can get kits with most of these things in.

If you’re from the UK, you’ll need some stickers to make your headlights beam in the opposite direction too.

Sleeping In Your Car

In some countries, it’s illegal to sleep in your car. You could look this up beforehand or stay ignorant and hope that if a police officer notices you, they take pity on you.

Each night we decided what we’d say if we were questioned. Usually the plan was to say that we were driving to whichever friend’s house we were going to next, and that I’d gotten tired and thought it safer to have a nap than continue. If we weren’t going anywhere in particular, we’d say we were sleeping in campsites but had gotten lost.

Some countries and cities require you to have and display special passes and stickers to drive in them.

Particularly in the East, you’ll find that, as you approach the next country, you’ll see signs urging you to pull over and buy a vignette.

This is a sticker that allows you to drive in a particular country for a certain number of days. They’re only about €20 each, but it’s worth factoring them into your budget.

Some European cities have low emission zones that you need a sticker for too. You can order these from your own country before you leave, but we found out about them too late and had to go from gas station to gas station in Germany, trying to find someone to issue us one.

Again, these cost a few Euros, although we got ours for free (no idea why). If you don’t want the cost or hassle of getting one, simply avoid the affected cities.

Planning Your Route

I’m a big planner, so when I did InterRail, my friends and I booked every single hostel for our trip before we even set off.

This time, we decided to do the opposite. Apart from going to a conference in Berlin, we had no plans. The plans we did make changed pretty much on a daily basis.

One day, we were in Klagenfurt, Austria, planning on staying there for a week or so. The next day, we arrived in Germany, having driven through Salzburg, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland, just because.

And while it was fun being so free, it didn’t make any sense, gas-wise. This approach was not at all efficient, so if you’re on a budget, figure out how to squeeze as much out of your route as possible, or just stick to one part of Europe.

The Best Roads

I was very nervous about driving abroad, but I actually ended up preferring it to driving in the UK.

In most of the countries we went to, the motorways only had two lanes and you’d only see another car every minute or so. It was so easy and peaceful.

The busiest roads were the Netherlands and Germany. Along with Vienna, they’re the only places we got stuck in traffic.

For whatever reason, our sat nav failed to tell us when we were approaching a toll road, so we wasted more money this way. If you’re tight on money, look these up before you go or make sure your sat nav will do that for you.

Driving on the Slovenian/Italian border

Finding Places To Sleep

Sometimes finding somewhere to sleep is a nightmare but, after a while, you get pretty good at it.

Residential Areas

Your best bet is to try and blend in on a normal residential road or housing estate with no parking restrictions. Avoid main roads and deserted back alleys.

Street Lights

It’s a good idea to keep your car under a street light, to discourage thieves. That said, the light can stop you from getting to sleep, so experiment with different distances and positions.

We read that sleeping near churches is a great way to deter vandals and to be close to help, should you need it. We never tested this idea out, but feel free to try it!

Affluent Neighbourhoods

Before we drove to a new city, my girlfriend would look up the different neighbourhoods and find a few “good” neighbourhoods that were within walking distance of the city center.

We just felt safer sleeping outside big and well-kept houses than we would have if we’d stayed somewhere shady-looking.

If you end up parking on a slope or hill, make sure you sleep with your head on the highest bit and your feet on the lowest bit. You don’t want all your blood ending up in your head!

Switch It Up

We tended to stay in the same spot for one or two nights. In Edinburgh, we ended up staying outside some random guy’s house for about a week and I think he got suspicious of us towards the end, so we simply moved a bit further up his road.

Be quiet, keep lights off once you get into your car at night, and try not to draw attention to yourself.

Keeping Clean

Sometimes you’ll find a parking spot close to an alleyway or somewhere private where you can relieve yourself, but don’t count on this. Park near to a McDonald’s or other cafe and go to the toilet as soon as you wake up and just before you go to sleep.

Try not to drink anything in the last hour before you go to bed. One skill you’ll develop while living in your car is the ability to sleep even when you need a wee!

If you’re a guy, you’ll probably be fine. Girls, we tried Shewees and I’m just going to say “no comment.” We also tried Peebols, which are essentially resealable bags. We only used them when we were desperate because we didn’t particularly like keeping bags of pee in the car overnight, but these were great. Stock up!

Washing Yourself

We used gyms and showered in them every other day or so. Look for gyms with free trial passes and cheap rates for one day passes.

McFit is a great option because they have gyms across Europe. Either join this gym or take advantage of its free trial.

The first time we went to a McFit, we were just let in without providing any details about ourselves, so we went again in our next city. This time they took a few details. We went again somewhere else and they took quite even more details, but they didn’t seem to notice that we’d had free passes before. Finally, in Münster, Germany, they did notice that we’d been to more than one gym, but they didn’t mind.

If they question you, tell them you’re considering moving to a few European cities and you’re checking them all out. I felt a bit bad about this but it saved us a lot of money!

Otherwise, we took hand sanitizer with us and used sinks.

Washing Your Clothes

The obvious way to wash your clothes as you travel in the car is to visit laundromats. Unfortunately, whenever we wanted one, we couldn’t find any. So we washed our clothes when we visited friends and one night when we stayed in a hostel.

If you’re desperate, you could wash your clothes in the sinks of cafe bathrooms, but I’d recommend holding out for a hostel, friend’s house, or laundrette if you can.

There’s no need to resort to washing in lakes!

You’re probably not going to be able to eat the best diet while you’re living in your car, unless you’ve got a lot of money to spend on eating out. We accepted that we probably wouldn’t be able to drink enough water each day and that we’d have to do the best we could with what we could find.

When I did InterRail in 2008, my friends and I lived on bread and Nutella. Tasty but very unhealthy.

This time, we ate tinned tuna and vegetables, bread, cereal, protein shakes, and peanut butter. Again, not great, but it is possible to sneak some veggies and protein into your diet if you make a conscious effort to do so.

Despite the fact that we went to McDonald’s every day to use the internet, we didn’t really eat fast food. If you’re using fast food restaurants for their wifi, buy drinks instead.

Drinks actually turned out to be quite problematic for us. We figured we’d be able to top up our water bottles from sinks but we were rarely sure that the water was drinkable. Instead, we had to buy bottles of water from supermarkets, which was expensive.

Traveling On A Budget

While we worked out rough costs before we started our trip, we weren’t very careful or thorough about this at all. We also haven’t worked out how much we did spend, simply because we would probably be horrified!

But don’t let that put you off. Knowing the mistakes we made, you should be able to save yourself a lot of money and do the trip much cheaper than we did.

Work As You Go

Your best option for funding your trip is to get paid to travel . Our trip was only possible because I work online.

The easiest way to work online is to freelance on somewhere like Elance or to become a virtual assistant. This is relatively easy to do. In fact, my girlfriend picked up an editing job a few weeks into our trip, entirely by accident. Simply head to Elance or contact your favorite bloggers to see if they’re hiring.

Working by a lake with my laptop and rucksack

Plan For Problems

By far the biggest expense for us was our car. Aside from actually buying and preparing it, we had to shell out for quite a few mishaps.

• Insurance (£800)
• Breakdown cover (£100)
• Full service, new tyres, new door lock, internal fittings
• New tyre in Austria/Germany
• Air con fix in Slovenia

Reducing Costs

You could avoid and reduce a lot of these costs by buying a smaller and newer car than ours (ours was a 1999 car) and by planning ahead.

A great way to save money is by staying in the same place for longer, since it’s mostly the actual travel (the gas) that costs you once you’ve got your car.

Keep your food costs down by finding the items and brands with the lowest cost per 100g and by buying from supermarkets like Aldi and Lidl.

Besides keeping the car going, our biggest unforeseen expense was water. Take lots of empty bottles with you and fill up on free water whenever you can find it, whether that’s at a gym, from a water fountain, at a friend’s house, or from a bathroom sink with drinkable water.

It goes without saying that if you’re really tight on money, you should try not to spend money on attractions and in tourist areas. Aim to get a feel for the places you’re visiting by wandering around them rather than by going to museums, etc.

If you’re there more for the experience than to see particular places, visit towns and the countryside rather than cities.

We’d only been to Berlin, Prague, and Vienna when we decided to stop visiting tourist hotspots and to just see what we came across. It’s amazing the events and places you come across when you’re not looking for anything in particular.

Be Flexible

Your trip is about having a good time and seeing Europe. If you find yourself getting stressed, remind yourself why you’re there. There’s no point cutting your expenses right down if doing so is making you miserable.

We planned to spend three to five months road tripping around Europe. By the end of our first month abroad, when it was time to pop home because of our 30-day insurance policy quirk, we were running low on both money and energy. We liked the idea of continuing our trip but we also couldn’t really be bothered anymore.

Rather than pushing on, we decided to road trip around the UK instead. After a few weeks of that, we suddenly decided we wanted to settle down somewhere. That same day, we went home.

Don’t let yourself feel restricted by your plans. Do what you want to do.

Take Your Shoes Off

Take your shoes off whenever you get into your car. If possible, keep them in a particular place too. That way, you’ll keep all your stuff clean and you’ll feel comfier in your portable home.

Plan Your Escape

Know what you’d do if someone tried to get in during the night.

We decided that we’d stay quiet and try to peer out if we weren’t sure what was going on, and hope whoever was bothering us went away. If we thought someone was trying to break in and we had time, I’d jump into the front and start driving. If it were too late, we’d grab our rucksacks and run away.

I kept the car keys in the pocket of the door I slept next to, so that, if someone were to try and break into the car while we were sleeping, I’d be able to grab them, hop into the front, and drive away.

It probably won’t happen but it’s good to have a plan.

Know Yourself

Know what you need to function properly. If you’re grouchy when you eat poorly, prioritize your nutrition. If being spontaneous freaks you out, plan a little. If you can’t stand the idea of being a little smelly, book into a hotel every couple of days.

My girlfriend and I are both introverts, and we both found it hard to feel like we could properly relax in our car, because we were always in public. Reading was a nice escape, but we could have done with more sheets to cover the windows with at times.

If you’re traveling with someone else, do your best to understand them and their needs. My girlfriend and I don’t argue much but we definitely argued a fair bit on our road trip! Try to see their point of view, compromise, and talk.

Reading in the shade in Slovenia

Appreciate It

A day or two after we moved back into our parents’ houses, my girlfriend and I set off again. Being back in a house felt like too much. There was too much time, too much space, too much food to eat, too many options. It was boring and we hated it!

We stayed in the car again while we looked for somewhere to live and then moved into a shared house. After the freedom of living out of our car, living with other people and with so much of their stuff everywhere was really stressful.

We only lasted three months in that house before we left again and moved into a small, unfurnished apartment. Finally, we’ve got very little in the way of belongings, furniture, and space again!

Living in a car has changed the way I live in a house or apartment, and I’m glad for that.

But every now and then I long for the days when we’d wake up, hop into the front seats, and just drive. Whenever I look out of the window and see our car sitting there, I miss the simplicity and freedom of our road trip.

It’s a cliché, but road tripping around Europe in your car probably will change you.

While you’re out there, you’ll get sick of lukewarm protein shakes and your lack of opportunities to pee, but appreciate it.

It’s an awesome way to get to know yourself, your traveling companion, and the world. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.

Want more? Listen to this podcast about how to travel Europe on the cheap .

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10 comments.

Such a nice article. Loved reading it. This increased my desire to do a road trip in Europe and UK. All the best for your upcoming trips and adventures. Cheers… Pradeep

Thanks for checking it out Pradeep, and glad to hear the article helped!

Jason, amazing article, thank you so much for your detailed writing.

Any information on non-european residents buying a car to travel around Europe in?

This is something I’m looking into – hope to have more for you soon!

Interesting Article Jason and very nicely written.

I was wondering if you can recommend a road trip guide for Sweden–>Denmark–>Germany–>Netherlands–>Belgium–>France–>Switzerland–>Germany–Denmark–>Sweden.

I am interested in driving to above countries while starting and ending in Sweden as I live there. The trip can stretch up to 1 month max! But the main thing is I need to know the must see roads / sceneris / cities on the way!

Build it around the activities you love!

What a great read! got ys excited now,hopefully be setting off to start our trip from St Malo in a few months with no plans apart from surfing and getting into adventures!

Thanks All the best Guy&Iza

Sounds like an awesome trip! Thanks for checking out the site.

Fantastic, and useful post. Thank you. Its very inspiring, and comforting to read about your experience. The tips are worth their weight in gold – so practical and honest.

I plan on going on a month long drive through Europe, too, but it’ll be with out four children, so it’ll be quite the different road trip!

Your post will make things a little easier, I think.

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• MULTI-ACTIVITIES

How to Plan a Europe Road Trip – The Essential Guide

NURAN LAST UPDATED: 20 APRIL 2023 ROAD TRIP

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Want to take your kids on a road trip on your own?

Need some help with the planning and preparation for your endeavour?

Don’t know what’s required for a road trip to Europe (from the UK)?

As with any other trip or holiday, first you need to set your travel dates as well as a travel budget . They will ultimately define the length of your road trip as well as your route.

A road trip is anything from a day to a year or beyond; with one or multiple destinations.

The advice and practical tips I provide in this article can be applied to any road trip and adjusted where necessary.

Investing time and effort into the planning and preparation phase of your road trip will result in a smooth execution .

Where would you like to go and what would you like to see and do ?

SET YOUR TRAVEL DATES

When do you want to embark on your road trip?

If you have school-age children, you will want to stick to school holidays. Check your school’s term dates well in advance so that you can start planning as early as is possible.

If you are planning a summer road trip , start thinking about your destinations at the beginning of the year and planning in earnest around March or April. 

There is nothing wrong with planning a road trip at the last minute – as long as you are up for the challenge, that is!

I planned my first solo road trip with my kids – which took us across Europe over a 7-week period – barely 3 weeks in advance. It was a last-minute idea so I didn’t have much choice.

Since we were mostly visiting and staying with friends and family, the actual challenge was planning a route so that I wouldn’t zig-zag across Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic but would manage to drive in a loop instead.

It all worked out perfectly in the end, but I highly recommend planning a road trip well in advance.

Nowadays, I start planning our big summer road trips 4-6 months before we leave. 

They take us across multiple European countries over a 6-week period. However, we also undertake shorter trips nearer to home in the UK.

DEFINE YOUR TRAVEL BUDGET

How much money will you have available to spend on your road trip?

Saving up for it in good time will enable you to have the best possible experience.

Your biggest expenses will be accommodation, food, attractions and activities, and the inevitable car fuel costs . And not to forget the gear and equipment as well as insurance policies that you will need to purchase before your trip. 

Budget-wise, everyone will have different priorities. Mine are wholesome nutrition, attractions and activities, accommodation and fuel costs; in this order.

Self-catering will keep food costs down, so consider booking accommodation which is equipped with a kitchenette.

Also, devouring your own packed lunches will not only save you money, but it will also allow for greater flexibility in planning your days out.

Fun Fact & Top Tip: As we discovered on our very first summer road trip, you must budget for (almost daily!) ice cream . It’s fascinating how you can gauge the cost of living of a place based on the price for a scoop of ice cream! 

Because we crave adventure, I am content with the extra energy and time it takes to prepare packed lunches so we can splurge on outdoor activities instead. They add up very quickly when you have adventurous kids!

PLAN YOUR ROUTE

Pick your destinations.

Once you have determined your travel dates and budget, let’s plan your route! While this appears to be a daunting task at first, it’ll soon become the most rewarding.

Pick a region or a country you are intrigued to visit and jot down all the places you would love to explore. Getting a vague idea is sufficient at this stage as you will unearth all there is to see and do during the Brainstorming Process that will follow.

Brainstorm What To See & Do

Now that you have decided which country or region to explore, next up is finding out all about the sights and attractions in the area as well as along the way.

Over the past few years we have sought out the great outdoors in various regions of the Alps, the Scottish Highlands, Snowdonia and England and (re)discovered our love for the mountains.

The following travel guide books have shaped our epic road trips:

• Rough Guides’ travel guide
• Cicerone’s invaluable walking guide which I think publish the best walking guide books out there!

• DK Eyewitness’ travel guide
• Lonely Planet’s travel guide
• Marco Polo’s Pocket Guide for Salzburg and surroundings.

Snowdonia: 

• Snowdonia – North walking guide
• Snowdonia – South walking guide
• Scotland The Best – you’ll only ever need one travel guide! I commend how this travel guide is structured – listing everything worthwhile seeing, doing or experiencing with a star rating for exceptional recommendations.  From insider information about the best scenery – such as awe-inspiring hiking trails or spectacular waterfalls – to recommendations for best restaurants, accommodation and even campsites. Whatever you’ll be looking for, it’s in there. (And if it’s not in there, then it’s probably not worth exploring.)
• Scotland the Best 100 Places for some visual inspiration.

I planned our entire 6-week road trip to the Scottish Highlands with these two travel guides, including our tour of the North Coast 500.

• The Rough Guide to the North Coast 500 looks like a great resource for anyone wanting to explore the North Coast 500 (which wasn’t yet available during our road trip; so I haven’t read it.)

While devouring travel guides, make a list of everything that sounds or looks vaguely interesting. You can go overboard here as you will narrow it down later on.

Top Tip: Jot down all the places and natural attractions in Google Maps. This will make your life easier once you set out to create your plan for each day of your road trip.

How to create a map displaying your points of interest?

Log on to your gmail.com account and go to: Maps, Menu, Your Places, Maps, Create Map, Give your map a Title and Save. Search a place in the Search bar, and click Add to Map. Repeat the last step for every point of interest.

Once you have compiled a list of things to see and do , group them in categories (a bit of organisation goes a long way here!).

At this stage, you will need to take into consideration what you are logistically and physically capable of achieving, not least if adventuring solo with kids.

For example, I really want to go on a Via Ferrata hiking trip with my kids, but I can’t simply select a route and go for it. So, this will involve deeper research as well as result in hiring a local guide.

For visiting towns and cities , I create categories such as: Museums, Castles, Churches, Special Sights, Sight-seeing Tours, Culture & Architecture, Restaurants, Playgrounds, Parks.

For the great outdoors , the categories divide into these: Hiking Trails, Gorges/Waterfalls, Caves, Lakes, Mountain Peaks, Parks & Valleys, High Alpine Roads/Mountain Passes, Rock Climbing, Water Sports, Cycling, Local Festivals, Water Parks & Wild Swimming, Other.

Categorising everything will come in handy especially when you are trying to remember whether a place on your list is indeed a mountain or actually a lake!

Next, you will need to narrow it all down based on your deeper research.

There are two ways of doing this.

Either by erasing the items from your list that you don’t want to visit or by prioritising them instead. I do the latter.

Once you have finalised your destinations, simply join the dots. Here, it is wise to avoid driving in zig-zags to preserve precious time and resources.

Working out your ideal route may require some juggling around if you have many destinations to cover. Don’t get hung up about this as you will inevitably deviate from your draft when booking your accommodation or uncovering new information.

If you are lucky enough to travel by campervan or motorhome, you’ll be more flexible and spontaneous about your exact route. In this case, make sure to check out camp sites along your intended route unless you are visiting a country where wild-camping is permitted.

Top Tip : When driving in mountainous areas, make sure you take the driving times provided by your  SatNav system with a pinch of salt. As a rule of thumb, multiply it by 1.5x to 2x to obtain a more realistic result.

Book your accommodation

At times, booking your accommodation will determine your route especially during busy seasons or if you leave it too late. Therefore, it is important to plan ahead and book your accommodation in a timely manner. If you are planning to visit friends or family on your trip, inform them as early as possible of your intentions so that the both of you can plan ahead accordingly.

Our experience: I had to move dates around on several occasions due to accommodation issues. 

The most extreme scenario ensued when I gave up altogether at trying to book accommodation in the Scottish Highlands.

I had left it too late by attempting to make bookings in June for a trip in August. Although I was able to snap up what must have been the last place on the Isle of Skye, I had less luck and energy to keep on searching for more than 10 other places across the country.

In the end, I decided to buy a car roof box and a smaller tent so that we could camp instead. Although we had the most amazing time in Scotland, I do not recommend camping on a road trip if you plan on moving on every few days.

You simply spend too much time camping rather than road tripping. So, unless you want to camp (and even if you do want to camp), make sure you book all your accommodation as far in advance as possible.

Get Your Car Ready For A Road Trip

Car essentials.

Tackling these vital points will ensure a smooth and safe road trip. Do not set off before you (and your car!) are ready.

1. Perform a car health-check

At least two weeks before your road trip, get a car health-check performed at your garage.

Inform them that you are planning a road trip as well as the approximate mileage you intend to cover.

Advise them to also check the profile on your tyres to ensure they are set to last for the entirety of your journey.

They will carry out the necessary checks and advice on anything that needs fixing before the trip.

This is an absolute must and will give you peace of mind for your trip ahead.

2. Get an EU car travel kit (if applicable)

Carrying an EU car travel kit is compulsory in most European countries.

It contains items such as a warning triangle, hi-vis vest and more. The AA provides a handy PDF guide for a compulsory kit.

Whereas AA’s Euro Travel kit can be purchased here .

If travelling via France, you are also required to carry breathalysers with you.

You can either get some French NF Certified breathalysers here or get a complete French Travel Kit here which already contains breathalysers.

3. Get A Head Lamp Beam Converter Kit (if applicable)

When travelling to mainland Europe, the legal requirement is to ‘ not dazzle oncoming drivers’ rather than specifically to adjust/convert the headlamp beam pattern. Without adjustment the dipped beam will dazzle oncoming drivers and this could result in a fine.’

In the Travel Kits mentioned above, these are already included. 

Alternatively, you can get a pair here.

4. UK Magnetic Plate (if applicable)

From 28 September 2021, you need a UK sticker instead of a GB sticker. If you are embarking on a European road trip from UK and do not have a UK sign on your license plate, you will need a UK sticker on the rear of your car.

UK stickers are included in most EU Travel Kits – if not, you can get a magnetic UK plate here.

More information can be found on the government website.

5. First Aid Kit

While carrying a first-aid kit is compulsory in some European countries, it is recommended in others and not required in few. The useful PDF document by the AA mentioned above provides further details on most European countries.

Even if this isn’t a requirement in the country you are travelling to, I highly recommend to always carry one. AA’s Standard First Aid Kit can be purchased here .

6. Keep an electric tyre inflator in the car

Owning an electric tyre inflator can be a life-saver. If you lose tyre pressure and aren’t anywhere near a petrol station, having one (or not) can make (or break) your day.

Some break-down kits – such as this and this one from the AA – already contain tyre inflators. Hence, check before purchasing. I have been using this tyre inflator for the past few years and it has saved our day on more than 5 occasions. 

 7. Keep a torch in the car

This is a top tip I recommend to everyone.

Rather than listing a thousand reasons when you might need one, I’ll list only one: You never know when you’ll need one – so just take one with you (and let me know when it came in handy).

I highly recommend investing in a top quality torch – you can’t go wrong with Ledlenser which I’ve been using for several years now.

 8. Fill-up screen wash

Even if your screen wash was filled up during the car health check-up at the garage, double-check and refill it if needed.

9. Check kids’ car seats

Kids grow fast. Therefore it’s vital to ensure that their car seats will last them for the duration of your road trip; or upgrade them if necessary.

10. Upgrade car insurance and roadside assistance cover (if applicable)

Before setting off on a road trip abroad, you will need to upgrade your car insurance policy as well as roadside assistance cover to cover the relevant additional countries unless they are already included in your policy.

These covers need to commence from the first day of your trip and last until the last day. In order to be on the safe side – in case of any delays on your return journey – consider extending them for an additional day or two past your planned return date.

11. Driving license, car registration documents, insurance & roadside assistance details

Don’t forget to take your driving license, car registration documents, insurance & road-side assistance details with you. Have them handy at all times.

Leave a hard copy in the car and do not solely rely on storing contact numbers on your mobile phone. They need to be easily accessible in case of an incident.

Now that the UK has left the EU , please note that UK motorists need a car insurance ‘green card’ to drive in Europe in addition to their Certificate of Motor Insurance and the log book (V5C) for the vehicle. More information can be found on the UK government website .

It’s not a disaster if you forget to pack a non-essential item; but possessing a “healthy” car , the relevant documents and a compulsory travel kit are vital for your safety and thus an epic road trip !

Car non-essentials (that make life easier)

1. fit a roof box.

Whether you need a roof box or not will depend on how big your car is and how much you intend to pack. It is a very handy travel kit to own as you practically double your boot space.

Our experience: While we managed without a roof box on our first summer road trip in 2016, we bought one for our trip to the Scottish Highlands the following year.

I had left it too late to book accommodation. Hence, we had to take more stuff because I decided that we would camp instead.

Made by the world’s biggest car-rack brand, I highly recommend this roof box . Be aware that they come in different sizes so make sure to pick a suitable one for your car.

When buying a roof box, you will also need to acquire some roof bars. Simply enter your UK car registration number here to find suitable ones for your car.

Depending on the roof box and accessories you choose, you will need to budget about £500 for the luxury of having extra storage space.

One thing to note when travelling with a roof box is the additional height it adds to your car. Keep this in mind when booking your Channel crossing via train or ferry. A roof box will also limit access to some parking garages but this is only an issue in cities.

2. Fit a cycle carrier

Taking bikes on a road trip; why not?! They’ll be great fun to experience some local adventures en route. 

However, if you plan to cycle only once or twice during your road trip, you’ll be better off renting bikes onsite rather than dragging them along.

When looking into bike racks, bear in mind that there a three types available: 

• Roof mounted
• Rear mounted
• Tow bar mounted

For more information, check out this article by Cycling UK .

I highly recommend Thule’s roof bike racks of which we have two (soon to add a third).

A list of all top quality Thule bike racks can be found here .

3. Organise back seats to keep kids entertained

Keeping the kids’ stuff organised in the back seats will keep them content and save your sanity. I find these back seat car organisers indispensable (and they are also great at preventing dirty shoes being rubbed off on the back of the seats).

They come in a pack of two perfect for two little adventurers.

Obtain travel insurance before your trip

Make sure to obtain travel insurance cover in time for your road trip. You will also need to verify that your policy covers any extreme sports that you plan to undertake. (Rock-climbing and rafting, for example, are defined as extreme sports in some policies).

Corresponding with the car insurance and roadside assistance covers highlighted above, also consider extending your travel insurance cover for an additional day or two past your planned return date. This will ensure that you are covered in case of any delays on your return journey.

Book Channel crossing either via Eurotunnel or by ferry (if applicable)

Driving to mainland Europe…? Make sure to book your Channel crossing on time. Popular travel dates sell out months in advance.

I prefer taking the Eurotunnel simply because it’s fast and straight-forward (and also because I get sea-sick!).

During the 35-minute journey, you stay in your car and then get off in Calais, France to continue your trip (on the right side of the road!). Toilets are available on-board. It’s super quick and hassle-free.

Top Tip: If you arrive too early for your check-in – check with the staff whether you can get on an earlier train. Chances are that you’ll be offered to continue on your journey sooner. 

FINAL WORDS

Wherever you are off to and whatever you are up to, a bit of (OK, “ proper” ) planning and preparation will go a long way.

So, do invest some time and energy into it before your road trip so that you can reap the rewards while on the road and make the most wonderful and lasting memories with your kids .

Happy Planning!

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9 of the best road trips in Europe

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• best-road-trips-europe

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 13.03.2024

If you've got wheels, wanderlust and a spot of time, a road trip in Europe offers the chance to see the continent at a relaxed pace. From the sunny shores of Portugal to the dungeons of Dracula's castle in Transylvania in Romania , the following itineraries can be easily combined, shortened or altered to suit your wayfaring tastes. Here are 9 of the best road trips in Europe.

1. From the glamour of Paris to the glorious grit of Berlin (France to Germany)

2. surf and sun in the basque country and beyond, 3. the arctic fjords from bergen to trondheim (norway), 4. the unexplored east: bucharest to vienna (romania to austria), 5. to portugal and beyond.

• 6. High-altitude adventure on Germany's Alpine Road

7. Godly beaches and ancient highways in Greece

8. london to edinburgh and the highlands, 9. the secret shores of sicily and calabria, planning your european road trip.

Leaving Paris , cruise through the gentle hills of Champagne and Reims to the quaint capital of Luxembourg City, and explore the small country’s many fairy-tale castles.

Trier , Germany’s oldest city, is less than an hour’s drive north-east, where ancient Roman baths and basilicas stand marvellously intact.

Spend a night in the medieval village of Bacharach in Riesling wine country, before wandering the riverside streets of Heidelberg . Onward to Nuremberg , and then to Leipzig for a strong dose of hot caffeine with your Cold War history, classical music and cake. Make sure to check out the complete guide to the UNESCO world heritage sites in Germany to visit some of the palaces and gardens , industrial heritage sites or historic town centres along the way.

Detour to Dresden , restored after the ruinous bombing in WWII, before ending in one of Europe’s coolest cities: the creative paradise of Berlin .

For a longer trip, start in London and take the ferry or channel tunnel to France , transforming this road trip into a pilgrimage between Europe’s holy trinity of artistic hubs.

• Best for: Culture vultures looking for bragging rights.
• How long: 1–2 weeks.
• Insider tip: If you’re driving in France, you’ll legally need to keep safety equipment in your car (a reflective vest and hazard signal). Additionally, be prepared with a cash or credit card to pay the French road tolls on the way.

Panoramic aerial view of Trier featuring the famous Trierer Dom © S-F/Shutterstock

Begin in Bilbao , where the surrounding beaches boast world-class surf, then drive along the Atlantic to San Sebastian : watersports wonderland and foodie heaven. From there venture south through the rugged wilderness of the Pyrenees to Pamplona . Climb the Roncesvalles Pass before looping back to the coast. Or continue along the Bay of Biscay to the attractive seaside resort of St-Jean-de-Luz.

Travellers with a little extra money lining their pockets will be happy to spend days lingering on boho beaches in Biarritz, while those looking for gargantuan swell can do no better than the surfer hangouts in Hossegor.

Finish the trip northward in Bordeaux – the Pearl of the Aquitaine – where café-strewn boulevards and world-class wines are your trophies at the finish line.

Bilbao to Bordeaux

• Best for: Sun-seeking surfers and foodies.
• How long: 1 week.
• Insider tip: Check seasonal surf forecasts before you go, and look into coastal campsites if you're on a budget.The Basque roads beg for a convertible – or a colourful camper van with surfboards strapped to the roof.

Biarritz City and its famous beach © Boris Stroujko/Shutterstock

Kick off in the city of Bergen , on Norway’s southwest coast, and make way past mighty fjords to Voss and the colossal Tvindefossen waterfall. Then check the world's longest road tunnel off your to-do list, a cavernous 24.5km route under the mountains.

Catch a quick ferry across the Sognefjord and carry on to the Fjaler valleys, a land of glaciers and snowy mountain peaks, to the waterside towns of Stryn or the mountain village Videster.

Work your way northward to the well-touristed towns of Geiranger, down the death-defying hairpin turns of Trollstigen (literally “The Troll Path”).

After the descent, ferry across the Eresfjord to Molde and Kristiansund. For the final stretch, drive the iconic Atlantic Road with its roller-coaster-style bridges, and conclude with some well-deserved downtime upon the still waters and stilted homes of Trondheim .

Bergen to Trondheim

• Best for: Thrill seekers and landscape junkies.
• How long : 5–7 days.
• Insider tip : This route is best tackled from late spring to early autumn. If you plan on road tripping during Norway’s winter months, be sure to check online ahead of time for road closures due to snow and ice.

The idyllic surroundings of Stryn in Norway © Mikolajn/Shutterstock

Start from Bucharest , travelling northward through the Carpathian mountains to Transylvania, and make a mandatory stop at Bran Castle (claimed to be the old stomping grounds of Dracula himself).

Take the Transfagarasan mountain road, one of the most scenic routes in the world, towards the age-old cities and countless castles of Sibu, Brasov and Sighisoara. Then set course to the unexplored architectural gems of Timisoara.

Carry on towards the tranquil hot springs and hip ruin pubs of bustling Budapest, and be prepared to stay at least a few days. Depart for Bratislava – a capital full of surprises – from where it's only an hour further to the coffeehouses and eclectic architecture of Vienna .

• Best for: Anyone looking for a break from the conventional tourism of western Europe.
• How long: 7–12 days.
• Insider tip: Exercise caution when driving through tunnels. Though the weather outside may be fine, tunnels are often slippery.

Bran (Dracula) castle in Transylvania, Romania © Kanuman/Shutterstock

Start in Braga , before driving south to the medieval town of Guimarães , a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then it’s onward to the breathtaking "second-city" of Porto , though it's nothing less than first-rate. Check here for the best places to stay in Porto .

Drive east to the vineyards and steep valleys of Penafiel and Amarante before hitting the coastal road to the vast white beaches of Figueira da Foz - among the best beaches in Portugal . From here it’s on to Peniche, Ericeira and then Lisbon : the country's vibrant capital that's on course to beat out Berlin for Europe’s coolest city. Check out the best areas to stay in Lisbon as well as the best places to eat to match your taste.

Drive south to Sagres , Arrifana and Carrapateira. After soaking up the sun on the picturesque shores of the Algarve, wrap this road trip up in the Mediterranean dreamland otherwise known as Faro .

If you’ve still got itchy feet when you reach Faro, take the ferry from nearby Algeciras in Spain to Morocco . Imagine the satisfaction of parking your ride in the desert village of Merzouga, before exploring the Sahara – that's right, it would feel awesome.

• Best for: Beach bums and oenophiles.
• How long: At least 10–14 days.
• Insider tip: As Portugal is among the more affordable destinations in Western Europe, this can be an especially great trip for travellers on a budget . 

Oliveira Square, Guimarães © Patricia Henriques Barros/Shutterstock

6. High-altitude adventure on Germany's Alpine Road

The Alpenstrasse, or Alpine Road, is your ticket to a bonafide Bavarian odyssey: a safe route through the unforgettable vistas of Germany 's high-altitude meadows, mountains, crystal-clear lakes and cosy village restaurants. Start lakeside at Lindau on the Bodensee and head to Oberstaufen for a therapeutic beauty treatment in the country’s “Capital of Wellness”.

Venture eastwards to the Breitachklamm gorge, where the river Breitach cuts through verdant cliffs and colossal boulders. Carry on to the town of Füssen – famous for its violin makers – stopping along the way at any quaint Alpine villages you please. The iconic Neuschwanstein Castle , the same structure that inspired Walt Disney to build his own version for Cinderella, isn’t far off either - one of those places even more beautiful in winter.

Speaking of winter, hit the slopes of Garmisch-Partenkirchen for some serious skiing if the season’s right. Stop at Benediktbeuern on your way to the medieval town of Bad Tölz, then up through the stunning wilderness scenes of the Chiemgau Alps before ending in the regional capital of Munich . If you’re missing the mountain roads already, carry on to Salzburg in Austria and stop in the ice caves of Werfen on the way.

Lindau to Oberstaufen

• Best for: Outdoorsy types.
• How long: 5–8 days.
• Insider tip: Give your road trip an extra purpose and pack your skis or snowboard. Garmisch-Partenkirchen ski season starts early December and ends early May. In the summer months, you can go hiking or climbing instead.

Church in Benediktbeuern © FooTToo/Shutterstock

Start in Athens and take the coastal roads south through the Athenian Riviera to Sounion, situated at the tip the Attic peninsula. Watch a sunset at the Temple of Poseidon, then drive northward through mythic mountains to the fortress of Kórinthos before posting up in the legendary city of Mycenae (home of Homeric heroes).

If you’re craving a luxurious seaside stay, look no further than the resort town of Nafplio. If not, carry onwards through the unforgiving landscapes to Mystra, the cultural and political capital of Byzantium.

Want more? Then it’s on to Olympia, sporting grounds of the ancients, and the mystic ruins of Delphi. Loop back towards Athens, approaching the city from the north.

• Best for: Sun-worshippers,and anyone who’s ever read Homer or watched overly action-packed flicks such as Troy and 300 .
• How long: 5–10 days, though it’s easy to trim a version of this road trip down to a long weekend.
• Insider tip: If you’re parking in central Athens keep an eye out for coloured parking spaces – these are reserved for locals, so if you park here you’ll get a ticket.

Aerial view of Nafplio city in the summer © Olga Kot Photo/Shutterstock

Leave the hectic pace of England ’s capital London behind. Make for Oxford, home of the world’s oldest English-language university, and a place of storied pubs where the likes of J.R.R Tolkien and Lewis Carrol regularly wet their whistles.

If you’ve got the time, it’s a quick drive to the cottages of the Cotswolds - check our guide to the prettiest villages to visit . If not, cruise up to Stratford-Upon-Avon, birthplace of Shakespeare.

Take the two-and-a-half-hour drive north to Manchester for a city fix and watch a football match. Carry on north to the Lake District National Park, one of the most beautiful places in England . Drink in the scenery that inspired England’s finest romantics, then head across the Yorkshire dales to the quirky medieval lanes of York, founded by the Romans nearly 2000 years ago.

From there it's north again past tiny villages to the majestic wonders of Edinburgh . If you’re craving the rugged comforts of the highlands go to Stirling, Inverness, or the Western Isles – worth the drive indeed. And if you are going by electric car, check out this great guide to plan your electric car road trip in Britain .

London to Inverness

• Best for: Locals that want to feel like foreigners, and foreigners that want to feel like locals.
• How long: 5–10 days.
• Insider tip: Destinations like Stratford-Upon-Avon and York (not to mention London) are true tourist hotspots in the summer. Plan your road trip for spring or autumn and you’ll enjoy the beautiful scenery along with fewer crowds.

Catbells  in The Lake District © Michael Conrad/Shutterstock

Hit the gas in the Sicilian capital of Palermo, the biggest historic centre in Italy after Rome and arguably the country’s most chaotic metropolis.

Adventure onwards along the Tyrrhenian coast to the golden sands of Cefalù – a great holiday spot for families, with a mellow medieval town centre to boot.

Get to the island’s heartland and the ancient city of Enna. Surrounded by cliffs on all sides, and built atop a massive hill, you'll feel as though you've walked on the set of Game of Thrones . Head southeast to the shores of the Ionian Sea and dock in Siracusa, once the most important in the western world while under ancient Greek rule with much of its historic architecture intact.

Then it’s up to Catania for a trip to molten Mount Etna, the tallest active volcano on the entire European continent.

Finish the trip in Messina, or ferry across into the Italian province of Calabria where rustic mountain villages, friendly locals and the idyllic sands of Tropea and Pizzo await – refreshingly devoid of foreigners.

Sicily to Pizzo

• Best for: Anyone looking for a truly authentic Italian experience, and of course, hardcore foodies.
• How long : 6–12 days.
• Insider tip: Remember that southern Italy can get very hot in July and August. Avoid the heat of the day with a leisurely lunch (go easy on the wine if you’re driving!) and travel in the early morning or evening instead.

Cefalù on a beautiful day with clear skies © Cezary Wojtkowski/Shutterstock

Planning for the perfect trip to Europe can take hours of research. Why not allow us to take can of the planning and booking, allowing you to make the most of your trip? Our tailor made trips are created by local travel experts and are completely customised to your preferences.

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Europe Travel by Car: How to Plan Your Europe Road Trip in 2023

Looking for a guide on how to plan your Europe travel by car? Our ultimate guide provides essential tips, must-visit destinations, and cross-border regulations for your travel needs.

Europe is a continent that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It is a place that is best explored at your own pace, with the freedom to stop whenever you want to take in the breathtaking views and landmarks along the way. And what better way to do that than by planning a road trip across Europe?

Europe travel by car allows you to experience the charm of small towns, countryside landscapes, and other hidden gems often missed when traveling via public transport or plane. One of the key advantages of embarking on a Europe road trip is the ability to see more than one country during your travels.

You can explore different cultures and cuisines while driving from one country to another. The continent has an excellent network of roads and highways connecting major cities and smaller towns and villages.

With good planning and organization, you can cover several countries in a single trip or spend more time exploring one particular region in depth. Moreover, Europe travel by car offers flexibility in terms of timing – you can decide when to start your journey or make stops along the route without being bound by transportation schedules.

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Table of Contents

A Guide on How to Plan Your Europe Travel by Car

The unparalleled joy of self-driving vacations in Europe cannot be overstated. The freedom of the open road, the ability to stop and explore at will, and the chance to take in breathtaking scenery are all key reasons why Europe travel by car is an experience unlike any other.

For adventurers who yearn for a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beauty of this fascinating continent, a road trip across Europe is a must. Key advantages of exploring Europe by car include giving travelers complete control over their itinerary.

You can choose your own pace, make impromptu stops, and even change your route as you go along. Road trips in Europe also allow travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture at their own leisurely pace; whether it’s sampling regional wines or indulging in local cuisine, there’s no better way to get a true sense of European life than by hitting the open road.

And with so many picturesque towns and hidden gems scattered throughout the continent, something new and exciting is always waiting to be discovered on a Europe road trip. Of course, planning a successful European road trip requires careful preparation.

One of the most critical aspects is thorough route planning. This means considering factors such as distance, driving hours per day (and taking breaks!), and ensuring you have time for stops at top European sights and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Choosing the right vehicle for your adventure is important; do you want to rent or bring your own? Will you need something fuel-efficient or with all-wheel drive?

Getting proper documentation sorted out beforehand is also crucial – remember insurance! With so many things to consider before embarking on an epic tour across Europe by car, it’s essential to plan carefully but leave some room for spontaneity, too — after all, isn’t that what makes travel fun?

The unparalleled joy of self-driving vacations in Europe

The unparalleled joy of self-driving vacations in Europe is something that every traveler needs to experience at least once in their lifetime. There’s just something special about hitting the open road and exploring the stunning scenery, quaint villages, and vibrant cities that make up this incredible continent. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that Europe travel by car has become increasingly popular over the years.

One of the biggest advantages of embarking on a Europe road trip is its freedom and flexibility. Unlike other modes of transportation, you can decide where you go, how long you stay there, and what route you take.

This allows you to fully immerse yourself in each destination without feeling rushed or constrained by schedules or tour groups. Plus, with so many hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path locations waiting to be discovered all across Europe, having your own set of wheels gives you access to places that might otherwise be difficult (if possible) to reach via public transportation or walking tours.

Another major perk of Europe travel by car is the sense of adventure it provides. Whether navigating winding mountain roads or cruising along scenic coastal highways, every turn can bring a new surprise or breathtaking view.

Plus, there’s something undeniably satisfying about reaching a destination after tackling a challenging drive – it feels like an accomplishment in its own right! So if you’re looking for an unforgettable way to experience Europe, consider hitting the road on your next vacation – who knows what amazing sights (and memories) await!

Key advantages of exploring Europe by car

Exploring Europe by car is one of the most exhilarating experiences a traveler can undertake. There are several key advantages to a road trip in Europe, including the freedom to travel at your own pace, the ability to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations, and the flexibility to adjust your itinerary. With some planning, a European road trip can be an unforgettable adventure.

One of the biggest advantages of traveling by car in Europe is the freedom it allows. Unlike train or bus travel, driving gives you complete control over your schedule and allows you to stop and explore at your leisure.

Whether you want to detour through the picturesque countryside or spend an extra day in a charming small town, having your own vehicle means you can do so without worrying about missing connections or adhering to strict schedules. Additionally, European road trips offer unparalleled flexibility when deciding how long you want to stay in each destination; if you fall in love with a particular place along the way, there’s no need to rush off before you’re ready.

Another advantage of exploring Europe by car is that it allows visitors access to some truly exceptional destinations that might be challenging (or even possible) to reach via public transportation. From tiny hilltop villages in Tuscany and hidden beaches on Croatia’s coast, driving gives travelers access to hidden gems that other tourists may never see.

Not only does this make for a more immersive travel experience, but it also means that visitors have opportunities for unique and unforgettable experiences they might not otherwise get. And if adventure is what you seek – exploring remote roads across rugged mountain ranges or winding coastal highways – there’s no better way than taking an epic road trip across Europe.

Essential Tips for Planning a European Road Trip

Planning a European road trip requires careful preparation to maximize your adventure. Before starting your journey, consider the best times of year to visit Europe and key factors like distance, driving hours, and stopovers.

Best times of the year for a road trip across Europe

The best times of the year for a road trip across Europe vary depending on your preferences and priorities. If you’re looking for mild weather and fewer crowds, spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are ideal. The landscapes are lush and colorful during these seasons, creating great photo opportunities.

The roads are less congested so you can enjoy your Europe road trip more leisurely. However, if you prefer long days of sunshine and warm temperatures that allow you to swim in the sea or visit outdoor attractions such as parks or beaches, then summer (June to August) is your best bet.

This is also peak season for European tourism, so expect higher prices and larger crowds on popular routes. Conversely, if you’re on a budget or want to avoid touristy areas altogether, winter (December to February) can be a good option — as long as you don’t mind driving in snow or rain.

Some regions may also have limited opening hours during this time of year due to weather conditions. Ultimately, the best time of year for a road trip in Europe depends on what type of experience you’re looking for.

Do you prioritize comfortable weather or empty roads? Are there any cultural festivals or events that interest you?

Plan around those factors while being open-minded enough to adapt your itinerary. Remember: flexibility is key when it comes to road trips across Europe!

The importance of thorough route planning

A Europe road trip can be the ultimate adventure for travelers looking to experience the continent’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and diverse cultures. To make the most of your journey, thorough route planning is essential.

1. Considering factors such as distance, driving hours, and stopovers

When planning a road trip through Europe, several factors must be considered. The first and most essential factor is the distance between your starting point and destination.

While it may be tempting to cover as many countries as possible in one trip, realistically, you must account for driving hours before making any concrete plans. In Europe, the roads are generally excellent, but traffic can be unpredictable.

Plan your route carefully to avoid traffic jams and other delays that could hinder your journey. Depending on how long you plan to travel each day, consider scheduling stopovers to rest or explore some of the beautiful towns in Europe.

This will help break up the long drives and make them more enjoyable for everyone involved in the trip. These small towns offer a glimpse into local culture; they have cafes with delicious food and drinks, cozy accommodations with comfortable beds, and breathtaking views of European landscapes.

Another aspect that you might overlook when planning a road trip in Europe is the duration of driving hours each day. Long drives can be tiresome for everyone involved; therefore, scheduling enough time for breaks during those days when you’re planning to drive long distances is crucial.

When driving around Europe by car, it’s best to aim for no more than four hours of driving per day for everyone’s safety and comfort level. All in all, when considering factors such as distance, driving hours, and stopovers during a European road trip, ensure that you strike a balance between exploring new places while still enjoying yourself without feeling stressed out or exhausted from extended periods on the road each day of your adventure through this fascinating continent!

2. Inclusion of top European sights and off-the-beaten-path destinations

When planning your road trip through Europe, you’ll want to include both the must-see destinations and some off-the-beaten-path gems. Of course, the top European sights are popular for a reason – stunning architecture, rich history, and breathtaking views.

But feel free to venture away from the tourist crowds and discover some of Europe’s hidden treasures. Among the top European sights that should be on every road trip itinerary are Paris ‘ Eiffel Tower, Rome’s Colosseum, Barcelona’s Park Güell, London’s Big Ben and the Tower Bridge, and Amsterdam’s canals.

These iconic landmarks offer a glimpse into Europe’s rich cultural heritage and are to be noticed. However, it is important to manage your time wisely to fit in other lesser-known destinations along your route.

Some off-the-beaten-path destinations worth considering include:

• Romania’s painted monasteries in Bucovina or visiting the Carpathian Mountains for some hiking.
• Slovenia’s Lake Bled and its surrounding Julian Alps provide ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as rafting.
• Liechtenstein’s quaint villages with their charming castles.
• Croatia’s stunning Plitvice Lakes National Park.
• Portugal’s Algarve region is famous for its beaches and seafood cuisine.
• Iceland’s famous Route 1 road trip offers vistas of glaciers, waterfalls, hot springs, and hiking opportunities.

These unique locations offer a different perspective on Europe travel by car – one that is less crowded with tourists but no less impressive.

Choosing the right vehicle for the journey

Choosing the right vehicle is crucial to planning a road trip in Europe. When deciding between rental and personal vehicles, assess the pros and cons of each option.

1. Car rental versus bringing your vehicle

When planning a Europe road trip, one of the first decisions is renting or bringing your vehicle. Both options have pros and cons, so carefully consider what will work best for you. If you rent a car, you can access various vehicles depending on your needs.

Rental companies typically offer cars in all sizes and models, from compact cars for solo travelers or couples with little luggage to larger SUVs or minivans for families or groups traveling with more gear. Additionally, rental cars come equipped with necessities such as insurance and GPS navigation systems.

However, renting a car can be expensive and additional fees can add up quickly, especially if you plan on crossing borders between countries during your Europe travel by car. Make sure you fully understand the rental agreement before signing any contracts.

On the other hand, bringing your vehicle can save money on rentals and give you more flexibility in selecting your route. This option is particularly appealing if you already own an appropriate, comfortable vehicle for long-distance drives.

Plus, having a familiar car can make navigating unfamiliar territory easier and less stressful during Europe road trips. However, driving long distances can cause wear and tear on the vehicle, which may require repairs.

Additionally, certain regulations, such as emissions standards, may prevent non-European vehicles from entering some European cities or countries. Be sure to research these regulations before planning your journey through Europe by car.

2. Selecting the right size, fuel efficiency, and comfort level

When planning your Europe road trip, selecting the right size, fuel efficiency, and comfort level for your vehicle is essential. The size of your car will depend on how many people you are traveling with and what kind of luggage you have.

It’s best to rent a car that is just the right size. You want a car that comfortably fits everyone and their luggage without feeling cramped or uncomfortable.

Additionally, smaller cars are more fuel-efficient than larger ones, saving you gas money during European road trips. Fuel efficiency is another important factor to consider when renting or bringing your car for an extended Europe travel by car journey.

Most rental companies offer cars with good gas mileage, but it’s always wise to double-check before signing on the dotted line. Furthermore, consider choosing a diesel-powered vehicle as they tend to have better fuel economy than gasoline-powered vehicles, which can help keep costs down if you drive long distances throughout your trip.

Comfort level should also be considered when selecting a European road trip vehicle. Consider how much time you’ll spend in the car each day and what amenities are important during those long drives.

Features like air conditioning, comfortable seats, and Bluetooth connectivity are all things that can make a big difference in making your road trips in Europe more enjoyable and less stressful. Pack some pillows or neck rests for added comfort during those extended journeys!

Preparing for long drives

Preparing for a long drive is crucial for a road trip in Europe. Adequate rest is important before hitting the road.

1. Adequate rest

One of the most important things to consider when planning your Europe road trip is ensuring enough rest. Driving for long hours can be exhausting, especially if you’re visiting multiple destinations in a short amount of time. While trying to cram as much sightseeing as possible into your itinerary is tempting, taking breaks and giving yourself time to unwind is crucial.

Invest enough time for rest stops and overnight stays when planning your road trip. It’s a good idea to plan out your driving routes carefully so that you can stop at interesting places along the way, such as scenic viewpoints or charming towns.

Avoid driving for more than 4-5 hours per day, and aim to arrive at your destination with plenty of time before sunset. This will allow you to explore each place and truly appreciate what makes it unique.

Another important aspect of getting enough rest on a Europe road trip is choosing comfortable accommodations. While it may be tempting to save money by staying in budget-friendly hotels or hostels, remember that getting a good night’s sleep is key to enjoying your travels.

Consider splurging on cozy bed-and-breakfasts or charming guesthouses with comfy beds and plush linens. This will ensure you feel rested and refreshed each day during your Europe travel by car and help create lasting memories of your journey across this fascinating continent.

2. Smartphone apps and navigation systems for seamless travel

One of the most critical aspects of planning road trips in Europe is ensuring that your navigation system is up-to-date and efficient. Whether you plan on using an app on your smartphone or a dedicated GPS device, having reliable directions can make or break your journey. Numerous options exist, from free apps like Google Maps to paid services like TomTom.

Google Maps is an excellent option for those who prefer to travel light and avoid carrying multiple devices. It offers real-time traffic updates, so you can reroute if needed, and has a wealth of information about restaurants, gas stations, and attractions.

You can also download maps in advance to use offline if you don’t have access to data while traveling. On the other hand, TomTom is designed specifically for driving and offers more advanced routing options than most mobile apps.

It also has voice-guided turn-by-turn directions that work even in areas with limited or no data coverage. When choosing which navigation system to use for your Europe road trip, consider cost, ease of use, the accuracy of maps and directions provided, and any extra features that may be important to you (e.g., traffic updates).

3. Ensuring proper vehicle documentation and insurance coverage

Before starting your Europe road trip, you must ensure proper vehicle documentation and insurance coverage. This can be especially important if you’re renting a car rather than bringing your vehicle. Check with the rental company to see what documentation they require for the car, such as a valid driver’s license and proof of insurance.

It’s also crucial to understand the rental agreement fully, including any restrictions or fees for cross-border travel. Regarding insurance coverage, you’ll want to ensure adequate protection in case of an accident or theft.

Most rental companies offer basic insurance coverage as part of the rental agreement, but more is needed, depending on your needs. Consider purchasing additional coverage, such as collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection, for added peace of mind during your Europe travel by car.

If you’re bringing your vehicle from home, ensuring all your documentation is up-to-date and valid for international travel is important. This includes valid driver’s licenses, registration documents, and proof of insurance covering international travel.

Check with your auto insurance provider before leaving home to verify that you have adequate coverage for European road trips. With proper vehicle documentation and insurance coverage, you can relax and enjoy Europe’s stunning scenery on your road trip adventure!

Advice on traveling with children and pets

Traveling with children and pets is an exciting way to create unforgettable memories on your Europe road trip. However, planning and making the necessary arrangements is essential to ensure a comfortable and stress-free journey for all. Here are some tips for traveling with children and pets on a Europe travel by car:

When traveling with kids, plan your itinerary accordingly. Make frequent stops along the way, as it can be challenging for young children to sit in a car for long periods.

Pack plenty of snacks, water, and entertainment options like books, games, or tablets to keep them occupied. Also, consider investing in a backseat organizer or tray table to hold items such as drinks, toys, or coloring supplies within reach.

Proper preparation is key for pets traveling with you on your Europe travel by car adventure. Prioritize their safety by securing them in a pet carrier or harness that attaches to the seat belt during transit.

Bring their bowls to ensure they can access fresh water and food during the trip. Additionally, stop frequently so they can take bathroom breaks and stretch their legs—remember to clean up after them each time.

Traveling with children and pets requires extra planning but can be incredibly rewarding. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to bond with loved ones while exploring new sights during European road trips!

Must-Visit European Destinations by Car

One of the best things about Europe travel by car is the ability to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations often missed by traditional tourists.

Scenic European Road Trips

You’ll be spoiled for choice if you dream of scenic European road trips. Europe’s enchanting landscapes, from the rugged coasts of Croatia to the vineyards of France’s Alsace region, provide picturesque backdrops that are perfect for a road trip. Here are some of our top picks for scenic European road trips that will take your breath away.

1. The Coastal Gems of Croatia: From Zagreb to Dubrovnik

The scenic coastal road trip from Zagreb to Dubrovnik is a must-do for anyone exploring Croatia by car. This picturesque route spans over 600 kilometers of beautiful coastline and stunning landscapes that will take your breath away.

The journey starts from the capital city of Zagreb, where you can visit the famous St. Mark’s Church, the Museum of Broken Relationships, and other charming spots before hitting the road. Traveling south towards Dubrovnik, you’ll be treated to some of Europe’s most beautiful coastal views.

One of the highlights of this road trip is the Plitvice Lakes National Park. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a collection of 16 turquoise-colored lakes that cascade into each other through a series of waterfalls and cascades.

Walking along wooden footbridges and trails, you’ll feel like you’re in an enchanted forest straight out of a fairy tale. Wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water, as this park can get crowded during peak season.

Along with Plitvice Lakes National Park, there are several charming towns worth stopping at, such as Split, Zadar , and Ston, where visitors can experience more than just natural beauty but also soak in Croatia’s rich culture and history. Overall, this road trip provides an unforgettable experience for lovers of nature and architecture on their Europe travel-by-car adventure.

The stunning coastal views and ancient architecture make it a must on any Europe road trip itinerary. So pack your bags, grab your camera, rent a car, or bring your vehicle – get ready for an amazing adventure through one of Europe’s most beautiful countries!

2. Navigating the Picture-Perfect Villages of Cotswolds, England

You must mention the Cotswolds in England to talk about Europe travel by car. This region boasts some of the most picturesque villages in the world, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone going on a Europe road trip.

Driving through the Cotswolds, you will be amazed by the scenic views of thatched-roof cottages, rolling hills, and historic market towns. One notable village in the Cotswolds is Bourton-on-the-Water.

This quaint village is often called “the Venice of the Cotswolds” due to its lovely low bridges that cross over River Windrush. Visitors can stroll along its idyllic streets, take a boat ride down River Windrush, or visit one of its many tea rooms for some classic English scones and tea.

Another village worth visiting is Bibury, which was once described as “the most beautiful village in England” by William Morris. Here, you can explore Arlington Row – a cluster of 14th-century weavers’ cottages preserved over time.

One thing to note while exploring the Cotswolds on your Europe road trip is that some roads are narrow and winding – typical of English country lanes – so it’s important to take caution while driving. However, these roads allow drivers to experience quintessential British countryside driving firsthand!

3. Italian Romance: Tuscany’s Sun-Kissed Tuscan Roads

When planning your Europe road trip, no itinerary is complete without a stop in Tuscany. The region’s sun-kissed Tuscan roads are a quintessential part of any Italian road trip and offer an unbeatable combination of stunning scenery, delicious food, and rich culture.

From the rolling hills of Chianti to charming hilltop towns such as San Gimignano and Montepulciano, driving in Tuscany is an unforgettable experience. One must-visit spot along Tuscany’s sun-kissed Tuscan roads is the medieval city of Siena.

This enchanting town is home to some of the best-preserved architecture in Italy and has a rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries. The main square, or Piazza del Campo, hosts the famous Palio horse race yearly and is a must-see attraction in Siena.

Drive through the heart of town before stopping at one of its many cafes for an authentic Italian coffee experience. Take time to explore Siena’s narrow winding streets lined with boutique shops selling local goods like olive oils and wines from vineyards across Tuscany while enjoying Italian culinary delights such as tagliatelle al ragù or bistecca alla Fiorentina along with your favorite glass of Chianti wine!

4. Chasing Waterfalls and Fjords in Norway: The Atlantic Ocean Road

If you want to make your Europe travel by car even more spectacular, Norway’s Atlantic Ocean Road is a must-visit destination. This stunning 8.3 km road is built on an archipelago of small islands, bridges, and causeways, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding fjords.

One of the highlights of this route is the Storseisundet Bridge, which curves dramatically over the water and gives the impression that you’re driving straight into the sea. It’s an unforgettable sight that’s sure to leave you awestruck.

As you drive along this road, stop at one of the many viewpoints to fully appreciate all its beauty. Be prepared for sudden weather changes as well – it can go from sunny skies to foggy conditions in minutes here!

So watch your surroundings as you experience one of Europe’s most iconic road trips. But it’s not just about scenic views – plenty of outdoor activities and adventures are in store for Europe travel by car enthusiasts.

Take a hike at one of Norway’s national parks nearby or go fishing and kayaking in the fjords. You might even spot some seals or whales if you’re lucky!

If traveling during winter, snowmobiling across snow-covered trails with stunning mountain views is popular among tourists visiting Norway during winter months; however, be aware that conditions can be harsh and dangerous at times due to strong winds and heavy snowfall. All said and done, if breathtaking natural beauty coupled with thrilling adventures is what you seek on your next Europe travel by-car adventure, Norway’s Atlantic Ocean Road should be on your bucket list!

5. Fairy Tale Castles and Vineyards in Germany’s Romantic Road

The Romantic Road is the quintessential Europe road trip, showcasing the very best of Bavaria. This route spans 350 kilometers from Würzburg to Füssen and passes through picturesque towns, scenic routes, and amazing landscapes. This is a must-visit location if you are looking for a fairytale experience on your Europe travel by car.

One of the highlights of this route is the Neuschwanstein Castle in Hohenschwangau. This castle has inspired many Disney movies, and its architecture will awaken you.

Another stunning stop on your Europe road trip is Würzburg’s Residenz Palace, which was built in the baroque style in 1744 by Prince-Bishop Johann Philipp Franz von Schönborn. The palace has 360 rooms and beautiful gardens as perfect picnic spots.

Additionally, you’ll find vineyards lining the hillsides along this route which produce famous German wines such as Riesling or Müller-Thurgau. Take a break from driving to sample local wines at one of their vineyards, or visit Rothenburg ob der Tauber, where they offer an excellent wine-tasting experience and medieval charm.

Pro tip:  When visiting Germany’s Romantic Road during your Europe travel by car, drive through it slowly so you can take in all its beauty at a leisurely pace. You’ll also get to interact with locals who are always eager to share their stories about their town’s history and culture with visitors on road trips in Europe!

Lesser-Known European Treasures

Looking for some lesser-known European destinations to explore on your next Europe road trip? Look no further! Here are some hidden gems that you absolutely can’t miss.

1. Traversing the Transfagarasan Road in Romania

Traversing the Transfagarasan Road in Romania is a dream come true for many lovers of Europe who travel by car. This 56-mile-long road is perched high in the Carpathian Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The twisting and turning road was built as a military route in the 1970s, but today it’s considered one of the most beautiful roads in Europe.

The journey along Transfagarasan Road starts at either Cartisoara or Curtea de Arges, accessible from Romania’s capital, Bucharest . Once you’ve started driving, you’ll soon find yourself immersed in nature, with rolling hills on one side and steep drops on the other.

You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of waterfalls cascading down mountainsides and alpine meadows brimming with wildflowers. There are various lookout points along the way where you can pause to take stunning photos or soak up the beauty around you.

Plenty of hiking trails will take you further into nature if you’re feeling adventurous. But be warned – this road requires good driving skills due to its winding nature and frequent hairpin turns!

2. Exploring Spain’s Wild North: Costa de la Muerte

Regarding European road trips, Spain may not be the first country to come to mind. However, exploring Spain’s wild north is worth considering if you want a less touristy and more authentic experience.

One of the hidden gems of this region is Costa de la Muerte, which translates to “Coast of Death.” Don’t let the name fool you, though – this coastal route boasts stunning views and historic towns that are well worth a visit. Located in the province of A Coruña in Galicia, Costa de la Muerte stretches about 200 kilometers along the Atlantic Ocean.

Driving along this scenic route will take you through quaint fishing villages like Muxía and Fisterra (Finisterre in Spanish), which ancient Romans believed to be the end of the world. You can also explore charming towns like Camariñas, where traditional lace-making is still practiced today.

One of the most memorable sights on this Europe road trip is the impressive lighthouse at Cape Finisterre, which marks the westernmost point of mainland Europe. Standing atop its cliffs at sunset is an experience you will remember sometime soon!

3. Discovering Ireland’s Ancient East on the Boyne Valley Drive

The Boyne Valley Drive is a must-visit destination for anyone embarking on a road trip in Ireland. Follow the 225 km route, starting from Dublin and heading north to the rural hinterlands of Meath and Louth counties.

The drive will take you through breathtaking landscapes encapsulating Ireland’s rich heritage, including ancient ruins, prehistoric tombs, monasteries, and castles. One of the highlights of this beautiful drive is the Newgrange passage tomb which dates back to 3200 BC. This impressive site is older than both Stonehenge and Egypt’s pyramids!

As you approach Newgrange, you’ll be greeted by an imposing grass-covered mound that houses underground chambers. Book a guided tour well in advance during your visit, as it can get busy during the peak season.

Your guide will take you through the narrow passageway leading into the heart of Newgrange, where you’ll marvel at its impressive structure while learning about its fascinating history. The site also features an informative visitor center that details the intricacies of Neolithic life in Ireland.

Another road trip highlight is Trim Castle – one of Ireland’s most impressive medieval fortresses in County Meath. This imposing castle was built by Hugh de Lacy in 1173 and served as a strategic stronghold during numerous battles throughout Irish history.

Upon arrival at Trim Castle, stop by its visitor center and pick up an audio guide for context on its tumultuous past before embarking on your self-guided tour. You’ll stroll around its grounds while exploring its many towers, walls, and fortifications that offer stunning views across much of County Meath.

4. Unlocking the Secrets of Switzerland’s Klausen Pass

The Klausen Pass in Switzerland is a hidden gem that should be on every intrepid traveler’s Europe road trip itinerary. With its winding roads, stunning vistas, and awe-inspiring mountain views, the Klausen Pass is a must-see destination for anyone who wants to experience the best of what Switzerland offers.

Driving along the Klausen Pass is like driving through an Alpine postcard. The road snakes through a mountainous landscape filled with towering peaks, lush green valleys, and sparkling lakes.

Along the way, you’ll pass charming Swiss villages straight out of a storybook. Some notable stops on this stretch include the town of Linthal and Lake Klöntal.

Be sure to take plenty of breaks to soak in the stunning scenery and snap some photos along the way! One of the highlights of driving along Klausen Pass is witnessing hairpin turns as you snake your way up and across mountains.

It’s not for faint-hearted drivers; however, it’s worth it for those who love an adventurous drive while on their Europe travel by car journey! The road surface is excellent but narrow at certain points where two cars can barely pass each other (and sometimes not at all).

There are plenty of lookout points where you can stop to catch your breath or have a picnic lunch while admiring the jaw-dropping views. This destination might be an off-the-beaten path, but it’s worth every effort to get there because it offers an unforgettable Europe road trip experience.

5. Savoring French Gastronomy and Nature in Alsace’s Wine Route

If you enjoy French cuisine and wine, a visit to Alsace’s Wine Route is a must-do during your Europe road trip. Located in eastern France, the region boasts more than 170 km of beautiful vineyards that produce some of the world’s most renowned white wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris.

The route begins in Marlenheim and winds through picturesque villages such as Obernai, Ribeauville, and Colmar. In addition to tasting delicious wines at local cellars and vineyards along the way, you can also indulge in plenty of traditional Alsatian dishes such as tarte flambée (a thin-crust pizza-like dish with onions, cream, and bacon), choucroute (a hearty plate of sauerkraut with various types of meat) and backoff (a slow-cooked casserole with lamb, beef, and potatoes).

The charming towns on the route are dotted with cozy restaurants serving up these local specialties alongside glasses of crisp white wines – perfect for taking a break from driving during your Europe travel by car adventure. Make sure to save some room for dessert, too – try kugelhopf (an almond cake) or Bretzel d’Alsace (soft pretzels coated in coarse salt).

Navigating Cross-Border Rules and Regulations

Navigating Cross-Border Rules and Regulations If you plan to take your car on a European road trip, it’s important to understand the cross-border rules and regulations of driving through multiple countries.

Understanding European rental car agreements and restrictions

Understanding European Rental Car Agreements and Restrictions When planning your Europe road trip, knowing what you’re getting into with rental car agreements and restrictions is essential.

First, choose a reputable rental car company that offers transparent agreements without hidden fees. Before signing, you should read the entire contract to understand the terms and conditions, including the rental period, pickup and drop-off locations, fuel policy, insurance coverage, and mileage limits.

Many rental car companies have age restrictions for drivers. In most European countries, the minimum age for renting a car is 21-25 years old.

Some companies may charge additional fees for younger drivers or require them to hold a valid driver’s license for at least two years. Also, if there are multiple drivers in your group, ensure that each person is listed in the agreement to avoid any issues if you get stopped by police or involved in an accident.

Additionally, be aware of any cross-border restrictions when traveling between countries during your Europe travel by car. Some rental car companies may not allow their vehicles to cross specific borders or charge extra fees.

It’s best to check beforehand to plan your route accordingly and avoid any surprises along the way. With adequate preparation and research into rental agreements and restrictions across Europe, travel by car can be an enjoyable, stress-free experience!

Cross-border fees and insurance coverage

Cross-border fees and insurance coverage are important for planning a Europe road trip. When renting a car, many companies impose restrictions on which countries the vehicle can be driven to and what fees apply when crossing borders. Some rental companies might not allow their vehicles to be driven to certain countries, while others will charge an additional fee for the privilege.

Before embarking on your road trip in Europe, it is crucial to read carefully through the rental agreement and consult with the rental company about any cross-border requirements. Another important consideration is ensuring that you have adequate insurance coverage in case of an accident or damage to the vehicle.

Most rental companies offer basic insurance coverage as part of their package, but this may only cover some things. Additional protection can be purchased during booking or pickup time, including collision damage waiver (CDW) or theft protection (TP).

However, it is important to carefully read through all additional coverage options, as some items, like personal liability, may already be included in your regular travel insurance policies. You must also understand what documentation is required regarding proof of insurance when driving across borders in Europe.

Necessary driving permits, including the International Driving Permit (IDP)

When planning a Europe road trip, having the necessary driving permits for each country you plan to visit is essential. The International Driving Permit (IDP) is a document that validates your driver’s license and allows you to drive in over 150 countries worldwide legally.

In Europe, an IDP, along with your original driver’s license from your home country, is often required by law. It’s important to note that the IDP does not replace your driver’s license but rather complements it.

To obtain an IDP, you must contact the authorized organization in your home country that issues them. In most cases, this is the automobile association or club.

You must provide proof of identity and residency and two passport-sized photos. There is also usually a small fee for processing the application.

Once issued, an IDP typically lasts one year from the issue date. It’s important to check if an IDP is required in each country you plan to visit during your Europe travel by car adventure before departing on your road trip.

Some countries may also require additional permits or paperwork, such as proof of insurance or vehicle registration documents. It’s always better to be prepared beforehand than face unnecessary complications or fines on the road!

Adhering to local traffic laws and speed limits

Driving laws and speed limits vary depending on the country you visit in Europe, so it is essential to familiarize yourself with the rules before starting your road trip. Most European countries have similar traffic laws, but there are some differences to be aware of.

For instance, driving on the right side of the road is standard in most European countries, except for the United Kingdom and Ireland, where drivers operate on the left. You must also pay attention to speed limits, which can change frequently in certain areas.

Lower speed limits are enforced in some cities, like Paris and Barcelona . Therefore it’s important to watch for any posted speed limit signs or check beforehand what a particular area’s speed limit is.

Also, many European roads have automated cameras installed to monitor drivers’ speeds and issue fines automatically if you exceed the limit. This means that staying within the legal driving norms while on your Europe road trip will help you avoid getting into trouble with local police or receiving hefty fines that could ruin your travel budget.

Tips for handling road tolls and transportation fees

Handling road tolls and transportation fees can be a hassle on a Europe road trip. However, you can save time and money with some preparation and knowledge.

Here are some tips to help you navigate the different fees you might encounter while driving in Europe. Firstly, it’s important to know that different countries have different systems of charging tolls.

For example, you might come across toll booths and electronic tags that automatically charge your account in France. In Italy , there are often tickets issued at the entrance that must be paid upon exit.

Do your research before entering a country to know what to expect and plan accordingly. Also, remember that some areas may require permits or special passes for certain vehicles, such as buses or campervans.

Another tip is to use technology to your advantage. Many GPS systems have features that alert drivers when they’re approaching a toll plaza or even provide alternate routes to avoid them altogether.

Furthermore, apps like TollGuru or Toll Collect (depending on the country) allow you to calculate your journey’s cost and plan accordingly. Keep track of your expenses by keeping receipts and noting any charges incurred during your drive.

This way, when it comes time to settle up at the end of your Europe travel by-car adventure, you’ll have all the information needed for accurate accounting. These tips make handling road tolls and transportation fees easy on your next European road trip!

So, why should you plan a Europe travel by car?

As we end our ultimate guide to Europe travel by car, it’s worth reflecting on the importance of good planning. Careful preparation can make all the difference, whether embarking on a weeks-long road trip or just a weekend getaway. Spending extra time mapping out your route, researching destinations and attractions, and ensuring that you have all the necessary documentation can help ensure smooth sailing (or driving!) throughout your trip.

Of course, one of the most important aspects of planning a successful Europe road trip is maintaining an open mind. While it’s wise to have some basic plans ahead of time – such as a rough itinerary and lodging reservations – it’s also important to remain flexible and adaptable.

After all, some of the most memorable experiences can happen when you least expect them! So while it’s okay to have a general idea of where you want to go and what you want to see while on your road trips in Europe, feel free to stray from your planned path if something piques your interest.

Who knows? You may discover hidden gems that are even more amazing than what was on your original itinerary!

Plan your trip to Europe: Monthly breakdown

• Europe in January
• Europe in February
• Europe in March
• Europe in April
• Europe in May
• Europe in June
• Europe in July
• Europe in August
• Europe in September
• Europe in October
• Europe in November
• Europe in December

Plan your trip to Europe by season

• Winter in Europe: Top 21 Winter Destinations in Europe
• Spring in Europe: Top 15 Spring Destinations in Europe
• Summer in Europe: Top 14 Best Summer Destinations in Europe
• Autumn in Europe: Top 15 Fall Destinations in Europe

Europe by Experience

• Northern Lights Holiday: Top 10 Destinations to Spot Aurora Borealis
• Where to See the Midnight Sun: Top 8 Places Where the Sun Never Sets
• 25 Beautiful Castles in Europe That Would Inspire Your Wanderlust
• 30 BEST Fairytale like Towns in Europe (That Will Tickle Your Wanderlust)
• Top 20 Cheapest Countries in Europe to Visit for Budget Travelers
• Top 10 BEST Destinations for New Year’s Eve in Europe
• Christmas in Europe: Top 15 MAGICAL Ideas for Christmas
• 26+ Best National Parks in Europe You Must Check Out!
• Top 25 Best European Foods You Must Try!
• Top 15 Best Road Trips in Europe
• 30 BEST Places to Visit in Europe
• 26 Most Romantic Destinations in Europe
• Top 10 Party Destinations in Europe to Experience

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Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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The Real Cost of a European Road Trip

As much as I adore traveling by train in Europe, there’s nothing like having the flexibility of a car when you’re exploring a new region. So when my mom and sister flew over to Europe to visit me, we decided to renting a car was the only logical option for our week-long trip around France and Spain.

And unsurprisingly, it wasn’t cheap.

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Renting a car with Hertz

We rented a car from Hertz for $300 USD  for one week via autoeurope.com which offered the cheapest price. We specified that we wanted a larger car with an automatic transmission.

We ended up being very pleased with the car: a roomy, brand-new Peugeot mini-van with a built-in GPS (SUCH a lifesafer).

At first the car freaked us out a bit as it ran on diesel fuel and sounded like a dump truck, but once my mom got used to the roaring engine we felt very comfortable with the car and were especially pleased with its built-in GPS. (It made my job as the navigator so much easier!) And as my mom is a lifetime mini-van driver, I know she felt safer driving a larger vehicle.

We opted not to purchase travel insurance as it cost almost 300 euros extra (more than the car rental itself!) That was perhaps imprudent, but as nothing happened to the car it was the right choice for us.

Overall I was very pleased with both the car and customer service we received from Hertz.

The roads are impeccably well-maintained in France. There’s not a billboard or pot-hole in sight, and the interior of France is actually eerily empty and rural. Driving was easy and we didn’t have any problems with aggressive drivers.

Costs on the Road:

Toll costs:  100 euros ($130 usd).

The toll-booths:  Warning- the tolls in Europe are finicky and expensive. None of the toll-booths would accept my French debit card because they mysteriously didn’t take Maestro. And because the toll-booths only accept chip-in cards  we weren’t able to use our American cards either! We quickly learned to keep a lot of cash in the glove box (especially coins), as some of the tolls cost up to 20 euros. If you are road-tripping in Europe, carry lots of cash (at least 50 euros in smaller bills at all times.)

Gas costs:  200 euros ($260 USD)

Gas costs:  We filled up several times during our trip, as well as filled the tank up completely before dropping the car back off at Hertz in Paris. Considering we drove from Paris to Spain and back, a grand total of more than 1,100 miles (1,900 kilometers), I was pleased with the amount we paid for gas (around $260 USD)- I had assumed this cost would be much, much worse.

Our journey began  Paris , took us down the French Atlantic cost in  La Rochelle  and  Biarritz  and continued all the way to  San Sebastián , Spain. On the way back up we spent two nights in  Sarlat and then returned to Paris.

The unforeseen costs:

The biggest unforeseen cost of our trip didn’t have to do with driving, but I was shocked at how expensive it is to travel with three people as opposed to two. When booking hotels online, there was often not an option to book for three people so we simply showed up to the hotels and explained our predicament. What often happened was an added cost of about 50 euros a night- ugh.

The v iews from the car in beautiful Basque Country.

The total cost: $690 USD (for just car costs alone!)

Rental ($300 USD), Tolls ($130 USD) Gas ($260 USD)

Trip regrets: I made the rookie mistake of planning way  too fast of a trip;  because of the ridiculous amount of destinations I wanted to see, we ended up driving for five hours every other day. I also regret only staying one night in Biarritz which ended up being our favorite place on the trip. Overall we clocked 20 hours of driving in one-week which was needless to say, excessive.

Also, the trip ended up being too expensive . Hotels, meals and driving all add up quickly, especially when you’re paying in euros. Towards the end of the trip we were stressing out over our finances- we had drained my mom’s checking account, so I cashed in almost 600 of my own euros. Ouch.

Trip highlights:  Despite some stresses, the trip was amazing. Not only did I have the chance to see my family after months apart, it was wonderful showing my 13-year old sister Europe for the first time. Renting a car was definitely the right choice- I loved being able to pull over and stop in little towns on a whim, as well as journey to activities that would have been a hassle on public transportation. Plus, when you’re road tripping in France, you can make pit-stops at 16th century châteaus if you so choose.

Though it can be pricey, road-tripping in Europe is an incredible experience I would recommend to most travelers.

Important info:  If you’re not used to driving a manual car, definitely request a car with an automatic transmission in advance. Most cars in Europe are manual so it’s important to ask ahead of time. We had a great rental experience with autoeurope.com . It was the cheapest car rental site we could find but the service and car itself were great. Keep A LOT of cash on you; Europe has many cash-only tolls. I would recommend keeping at least 50 euros in smaller bills and coins in the car. Even if you opt out of the car rental insurance, it’s important to have insurance of some kind. I’ve used World Nomads for years and highly recommend it.

Have you ever taken a European road trip?

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About Ashley Fleckenstein

Ashley is a travel and lifestyle blogger who lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Since college she has au paired in Paris, backpacked the world solo, and lived in Uganda. Her work has been featured by Buzzfeed, Forbes, TripAdvisor, and Glamour Magazine.

41 thoughts on “The Real Cost of a European Road Trip”

Great post! I’m not at all surprised by the costs. I lived in France and remember my friends complaining about the toll costs. We rented a small car (diesel as well) in Sarlat to visit some of the nearby castles. I agree with you about the freedom, but we had quite the adventure getting around! The GPS wasn’t working correctly, so we ended up taking some very small roads that felt more like long driveways. The positive side, like you said, is that we saw some sites that definitely are not on the average tourists’ agenda.

We went down lots of roads like that in Dordogne too! But yes, a car can definitely help you “get off the beaten path” as Lonely Planet would say :)

When I was living in Italy, my parents came to visit and we too rented a car cause how else could you see Rome, Florence, Venice, Verona, Naples and Capri over a week…its hard when they are there for such a short time and you just want to see so much! But anyway I too was shocked by the cost of tolls. We didn’t have a GPS (sadly) and the car was stick (which luckily my dad had learned to drive on but hadnt in like 30 years) so we got turned around quite a bit and at one point had to pay almost 40 Euros at one toll booth….INSANITY!

Anyway, Great post as usual! What a great girls week!

Wow, almost 40 euros! I had no idea the tolls were so bad in Italy as well! I once did a road-trip around Sardinia and I don’t think we paid a single toll.

When I visited San Sebastian last year, I also initially thought it would be best to rent a car to get around to see other villages and cities… but also quickly found how expensive and often inconvenient it could be. So after two day trips we returned the car and found it was actually possible to take pretty cheap and efficient public transport everywhere… to Pamplona, Bilbao, and even city buses to the tiny towns like Getaria. The tourist information office gave us schedules and everything we needed to know! Sadly I think these days roadtrips, like the old Eurorail pass, are not as practical…

I would love to explore Basque Country like that, you’re lucky! And I found that Eurail was impractical in Spain and Portugal because you had to pay to reserve the tickets anyway- what a rip-off!

When my boyfriend and me travelled to Scotland last fall, we opted to use Public Transportation instead of renting a car. The latter would have been a lot more practical, but because we’re young drivers we would have to pay so much more than the usual rate and we couldn’t really justify that. I do believe though, that renting a car is a great option if you’ve got a couple of people and can split the cost and you want the independence of going everywhere you want, whenever you want! :) xx

That can be a problem when you’re under 25, which is why my poor mother had to do all the driving! Trains and buses are what I usually take though, and they are great in their own right as well :)

Interesting post! I’ve never really considered renting a car in a foreign country before, but I could only imagine that Europe would be expensive. I guess those tolls get put to good use since the roads are well kept! I wonder what the cost would have been if you’d chosen trains/buses instead… any idea?

The reason we went with the rental is because it was actually cheaper than the train- 3 last minute train tickets to the south was going to cost 900 euros!

Haven’t had to deal with tolls so much driving around Germany/Austria/Switz – can’t believe how much that added up – nuts!

That’s lucky, and I bet the views were even better!

These tips will be a great help to anyone planning a similar vacation. Most people forget how much the toll costs are (in Italy as well) – if I remember correctly I paid about 100 € through France from the German to the Spanish border last time. Ugh!

I can totally believe that, ugh, what a drag!

Interesting post! I find the cost of road trips so difficult to estimate. We have our own car in Japan, and I think the costs in terms of gas and tolls is pretty comparable to Europe. We’re constantly trying to work out whether it’s cheaper to drive or take the train when we travel around. Although as you mentioned, the flexibility of having a car is big points in the favour of road trips over other forms of transportation – sometimes that makes it worth the extra money.

I’ve heard the trains are super expensive in Japan, but it seems like almost everything is pricey there! But it’s a country I’m hugely interested in visiting, so I think I’d try to afford it regardless :)

This is a great tip for all road trippers out there. Thanks also for sharing your adventure now I know what to expect on my scheduled road trip.

I’m glad you found it useful, James! Have a wonderful time on your trip :)

sweet, I’d love to go to such trip of my own :)

The convenience of going exactly where you want, when you want, usually wins out for me – we rent cars on European vacations. Especially for getting to small rural areas, it just saves so much time and hassle!

I think in the future I will definitely choose a car over public transit- the freedom and flexibility is great, as you said!

I’ve done a week-long road trip in France and I totally agree that the costs add up quickly. Although my friend and I only stayed at camp grounds and drove our own car, the tolls alone were super expensive. I’d always recommend having a large amount of coins ready for tolls — and if possible (and not in a hurry!) to choose the rural roads over the highways.

The tolls shocked me too! And definitely, lots of small change and bills is a huge lifesaver.

The tolls really are ridiculous, aren’t they? Our 4 hour trip to paris is a little over 30 euros in tolls just ONE WAY. And the roads are nice, but a lot of them out where I am aren’t perfect. There are cracks and uneven sections of tar. I’d say the toll prices were the biggest shock to driving in France. The the biggest happy surprise for my husband who realized driving from New York to Florida costs next to nothing in tolls! But then I put it in perspective and realize I get a dental x-ray, cleaning and exam for 50 euros and suddenly the tolls don’t seem that bad. ;-) Glad u had a nice trip!

True, there’s definitely good and bad in France. Personally I love how cheap wine, cheese and bread are here- way more important to me than gasoline!

I’m doing a road trip in Belgium and Holland and I need to get ready for the price shock :)

Ah it might definitely be pricey, but hopefully the tolls won’t be too bad!

My mom and I rented a car and drove around Portugal for two weeks. The roads were in terrific shape and outside of Lisbon, practically empty. We were only able to rent a manual transmission so luckily mom knew how to drive it. We didn’t take the insurance either but scratched up one side on a concrete pile-on trying to squeeze in a parking space. Whoops! That was a costly mistake. But we only had to buy one tank of gas and there weren’t many tolls so it really wasn’t so bad. We loved the experience and would definitely do it again!

I definitely would too! But there were some seriously stressful moments so I totally know what you mean- next time I’m definitely going to buy insurance though because you never know!

Fab post, I am a frequent visitor to France (Brittany mostly) & find its really go expensive in the last few years…..I still love it though!! Nice route, I drove from st malo to Spain a few years back & came back via the dordogne which I love.

Ah, Brittany is BY FAR the region of France I want to see most! It looks incredible. What a great trip you had!

Ashley, just what I was looking for! This has given me a better idea. I’m about to make a roadtrip Paris-Lyon-Provence-Cannes-Nice-Montecarlo. We are expecting to spend around 345 USD for 3 days just in rental car, tolls and gas. Am I way too far from reality? Is just one way! What would you suggest me? We are 5 people. :)

You might want to add a few hundred dollars to the budget just in case! But it sounds like a great trip, happy travels!

You have summarized everything very well. Me and my wife wants to take a trip of Europe starting from Saudi Arabia. I have my own car. We plan to start it from Turkey via Egypt (as Syria is a battle field and cant do road trip from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Turkey) and visit Greece, Hungry, Austria, Italy, Spain, France, Portugal, Switzerland, Netherlands, Germany, and UK. In your opinion which will be cheaper, road trip or EURAIL pass. Can you please tell the estimated cost of food and 2 or 3 star hotel per day so I may plan my budget accordingly. Thanks

Wow that sounds like an amazing trip! I’d love to visit so many of those countries. I would guess that a 2 or 3 star hotel in Europe would cost about 100-150 euros… but I’m not completely sure because I often stay in hostels!

Hi Ashley, Happened upon your information. Great help and as we are doing a road trip Paris to Milan,Veronia,Venice,Florence (Tuscony) to Rome, your comments are very helpful. First time travellers to Europe very ignorant of times and distances,tolls and fuel costs. It doesn’t seem to matter how much planning we do it still seems to be a WING it thing. We are going in September, did you book ahead well in advance for you accomodation or leave it to a few days before . We don’t really know where we will be from day to day. What would you recommend.

Kym. Australia.

Hi Kym, we actually booked only a week in advance I believe and the prices were cheap for the rental! I would recommend booking the hotels far in advance so you can get the best rates/options. But if you want to wing it that can be a fun option too. I´d also highly recommend apartment rental sites like Airbnb. Have a great trip!

Nice post.. but I have bumped on a site earlier that did not satisfies with Hertz car rental service. Hmmm..

Thanks Ashley! My Friend and I were thing of driving around the coast of spain & France. We didnt think of tolls. No plans just wing it. I think we will have to have a re think about our budget. Emma – Australia

Hi Emma! Don’t worry, it really can be done on the cheap- though those tolls did get a bit old! :)

Omg, this road fees are huge :/

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The 12 best and most beautiful road trips in Europe

Fill up the tank, load up the tunes and get behind the wheel. The best road trips in Europe are waiting

If you’re anything like us, incredible road trips will be high on your bucket list. You simply can’t beat the feeling of speeding down the road, loading up the tunes and having your main character moment (whether you’re the one behind the wheel or not). 

The best part? Europe alone is home to a number of incredible road trips, from the mountainous views of Iceland to the deserts of Tirana. Pick your favourite road trip playlist or a cracking podcast, load up on snacks and hit the road. Here are the best road trips in Europe. 

RECOMMENDED: ⛰️ The best city breaks in Europe for 2024 🗺 The most underrated travel destinations in Europe 🏛️ The best museums and galleries in the world 🎨 The world’s exhibitions worth travelling for

John Bills is a writer for Time Out Travel. At Time Out, our travel guides are written by experts all over the world. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines . 

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Best road trips in Europe

1.  Iceland Ring Road

Iceland makes an appearance on any self-respecting list of travel experiences. The Iceland Ring Road encircles the entire nation, covering 1,333 kilometres of road, a distance that can be traversed in 12 or 13 hours, depending on speed. Truth be told, you should take a week or so to do it properly, stopping to take in the majestic scenery that only Iceland can produce. Sigur Rós made a video of the whole thing backed by some typically gorgeous music, so head to a well-known internet video streaming site and start making plans. 

2.  Epirus, Greece

Driving around the winding mountain roads of Zagori sounds like a dream, right? These serpentine roads aren’t the easiest, but they are well worth it; think lakes, monasteries, stunning mountain villages and animals that are very much in charge of the place. There are several possible routes, so you might as well just get that driving licence sorted and let your whims do the rest.

3.  Pula to Dubrovnik, Croatia

If anyone tells you that Croatia is still a hidden gem, you should stop listening to them. Hrvatska gets mega busy throughout the summer, but spring and autumn remain brilliant times to visit, and what better way to explore the coast than by driving all the way down it? Start at Pula and snake your way down the coast to Dubrovnik, breaking up the 709km with stops in Rijeka, Zadar, Split and wherever else. Heck, you could even nip inland to explore the magical Plitvice Lakes National Park, and extend the last leg by heading into Bosnia and Herzegovina to see Mostar, Kravice waterfall and Blagaj for yourself.  

4.  Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania

You can also call it the DN7C if you’d prefer. The Transfăgărășan is a stunning mountain road that traverses Romania’s Carpathian Mountains, the second-highest in the country but arguably the best known. Every spectacular second of the 150 kilometres offers up stunning views. The speed limit is 40km/h because of the relatively fragile ground, but going slow makes it easier to enjoy the surroundings. Bâlea Lake is pretty much at the top, and it doesn’t get much more beautiful than that. 

5.  Atlantic Road, Norway

Not all road trips need to be multi-day marathons. Sometimes, going out for a few hours of gorgeous driving interspersed with views (and a picnic, you gotta have a picnic) is all that is needed. Norway ’s Atlantic Road snakes around the west coast of the country, covering just 8.3km but encapsulating the old ‘quality over quantity’ cliche perfectly. The road has been described as the world’s most beautiful car journey, and we aren’t about to disagree.

6.  Tallinn to Tirana

Somehow, someway, Eastern Europe remains criminally misunderstood. The vague geographic notion doesn’t tell half the story, so why not drive from the north of the east to the south and see for yourself? From Estonia on the Baltic to Albania on the Med lies a conveyor belt of fascinating nations with beauty around every corner. It would take around 34 hours to drive the 2,945km without stopping, but you’d also need to be a cyborg. Head through the Baltic states before heading central into Poland , Czechia and onwards. 

7.  Autobahn, Germany

If you’re interested in an incredible European road trip, the chances are you’re already very aware of the Autobahn. Germany and all things automobiles go together like magnet and steel – hurtling down the Autobahn is one of Europe’s great behind-the-wheel experiences. You can’t actually go as fast as you like on this famous road, so pay attention to the various limits, lest you end up in serious bother. Start in Cologne and head north through Bremen and Hamburg before snaking back down to Berlin , covering more than 500km in the process.

8.  Northern Lakes, Italy

Okay, now we’re really entering the world of dreams. The magnificent lakes in the north of Italy have been big business for a long old while, but how about an extravagant road trip taking in as many of them as possible? You can start this one pretty much from the moment you land in Milan , picking up a rental and heading to Lake Maggiore and setting up shop before heading east through Lake Como, Lake Garda and all the rest. Take as much time as is humanly possible, you’re going to want to savour these spots. 

9.  Edinburgh to London, United Kingdom

You could tackle the entire length of Great Britain, starting at John o’Groats and driving 1,407km down to Land’s End, but the  very northern tip of Scotland isn’t the most accessible place. Instead, make a grand journey between the capitals of Scotland and England , starting in Edinburgh and heading south through the Lake District , the cities of the north, the meat of the Midlands and more. Just 647km sit between the two, so be sure to make this itinerary a winding one.

10.  Vienna to Belgrade

Europe has no shortage of great rivers, but the diversity of the Danube makes it the continent’s finest. The second longest in Europe, the Danube runs through four capital cities (Belgrade, Budapest , Bratislava and Vienna ), so why not get behind the wheel and hit up all four? Start in the latter and weave your way towards bouncing Belgrade, treating yourself to a night out in one of the continent’s most exciting cities as a treat. Better yet, if you have the time, why not follow the entire length of the river?  

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The Ultimate 3 week European Road Trip Itinerary 2024

Are you looking to Spend 3 or more weeks exploring Europe ?

If that’s the case, this is the guide for you!

No matter if you are travelling by Car, Rail or Bus, this Ultimate 3 week European road trip itinerary will give you the best taste of Europe.

From crystal-clear waters to stunning architecture, you won’t want to miss out on these tourist destination hot spots.

Imagine yourself exploring different cultures and eating the best dishes Europe has to offer – all while taking in wonderful views of unique cities!

Whether this is your first time abroad or you’re an experienced traveller, our three-week itinerary will show you why travelling around Europe is a must!

By the end of this article, you will feel confident and ready to book your trip to Europe.

So let’s get started and help you plan the ultimate holiday!

🚨Before we jump in, I’m always asked what the best car rental company to use is in Europe. And for so many reasons, I always use and recommend DISCOVER CARS They are always happy to help which makes booking and using a rental car become so stress-free. I also love how they compare every single company available so you get the best deal each and every time!

🚗 CHECK OUT DISCOVER CARS HERE

Don’t forget to get your Free Key Phrase Guide Below so you can explore Europe with ease ⬇️

The Best 3 week European Road Trip Itinerary Route

To get a taste of all Europe has to offer, these are the best destinations to add to your 3 week European road trip itinerary.

This Route will allow you to see a lot in a small amount of time. This will work out around 2-3 days in each place. For a more relaxed 3 week European road trip itinerary, (with more time in each place) limit your trip to 5/6 countries.

Guides to Inspire and Plan your 3 week European road trip

Europe’s Best Trips: 40 Amazing Road Trips

Lonely Planet’s Where To Go When Europe

The New York Times 36 Hours Europe

How much does it cost to travel to Europe for 3 weeks?

This completely depends on your budget. For a daily budget, I would set aside €50 PP for accommodation, food and site seeing.

However, this doesn’t include travel insurance, flights and other transport options.

It’s easy to budget for a 3-week European road trip itinerary if you use comparison sites for hotels and flights.

You can also plan a European road trip itinerary to include cheaper Countries to visit if you are on a budget.

To save serious amounts of money when booking your Europe adventure, use the guide below⬇️

How to plan a 3 week European road trip itinerary

With so many Countries, routes and languages, it can be hard to know how to start planning your 3 week European road trip itinerary.

The best start is to set a budget, select a few places you don’t want to miss and go from there.

Europe is easy to explore in 3 weeks so don’t stress. From experience, not everything goes to plan.

There can be flight delays, strikes and protests so the best advice is to leave some time in your 3 week European road trip itinerary to account for these (fingers crossed none of these happen during your European trip).

✈️ To make the planning process easier and stress-free, Click Here for a Step by Step Guide.

The best places to visit in Europe in 3 Weeks

Europe has so many amazing places to visit, no matter how much time you have.

I do recommend packing a good travel pillow for your drive so you can be comfortable!

And like I’m sure you have heard a million times, it does matter what you want to see and do during your trip.

To help you have the ultimate taste of Europe, here are the best places you should visit during your 3 weeks in Europe.

Ready? let’s start exploring some of the best places to visit in Europe⬇️

Poland is one of the places you never hear much of when people start planning a 3 week European getaway.

But it should be!

With its location smack bang in the middle of Europe, vibrant Cities and idyllic natural landscapes, it’s somewhere you can’t miss on your 3-week European road trip itinerary.

Here are a few places in Poland to add to your itinerary:

✔️ Krakow- this is one of the best places to stay in Poland

✔️ Tatra Mountains

✔️ Bialowieza Forest

✔️ Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum

Auschwitz is a place everyone needs to visit at least once in their lifetime. Click here to learn more about visiting Auschwitz and other Holocaust sites in Europe.

If you want to learn more about Auschwitz and other holocaust sites or get ready for visiting these places, this book list will help you.

Poland is an incredibly beautiful place to visit with so much history and great things to do.

It is probably not one of the most popular destinations in Europe to visit so is an amazing way to get a true taste of Europe, without the crowds.

Want to add somewhere amazing to your 3 week European road trip itinerary?

Well, Czechia is the spot for you. No matter if you visit in the Summer or Winter, you will find it impossible not to fall in love with this destination .

Czechia/ Czech republic is a place that deserves to be on any Europe itinerary.

With great beer and lots to do, I guarantee this is a place you will love and want to visit again and again!

Here are a few places in Czechia to add to your itinerary:

✔️ Prague Castle

✔️ Charles Bridge

✔️ Prague Astronomical Clock

✔️ Lennon Wall

Personally, I think no visit to Europe is complete without visiting this destination. Its people, food and history make this a must visit all year round !

Slovakia is full of unique traditions, rich cultures and untouched views.

You will be drawn in by the amazing things you can do here. Make sure it’s added to your itinerary for a few days you won’t forget.

Here are a few places in Slovakia to add to your itinerary:

✔️ Bratislava Old Town

✔️ St Elizabeth’s Cathedral (Dóm Svätej Alzbety)

✔️ Zelené pleso

Looking for the most Postcard worthy views? Well, Why not throw in some thermal baths and amazing food too?

Hungary is the perfect place for a culture vulture wanting to try some of the best food in Europe.

Make sure you add Hungary to your European trip itinerary. It is one place you really don’t want to skip.

Here are a few places in Hungary to add to your itinerary:

✔️ Széchenyi Thermal Bath

✔️ Hungarian Parliament Building

✔️ Buda Castle

✔️ Széchenyi Chain Bridge

✔️ Faust Wine Cellar

Austria is always a great stop-off location on any Europe Adventure .

With so much great food to try and amazing buildings to explore, adding Austria to your itinerary will not leave you disappointed.

Here are a few places in Austria to add to your itinerary:

✔️ Cafe Central in Vienna

✔️ Explore Salzburg

✔️ Sigmund Freud museum Vienna

✔️ The Dancing Horses

✔️ Schönbrunn Palace

✔️ Vienna museum quarter

No Trip to Europe would be complete without sampling the sites of Italia.

Known for its incredible food , Historical sites and amazing wine , adding Italy to your 3 week European getaway will be the best decision you make!

Here are a few places in Italy to add to your itinerary:

✔️ Explore the Historical sites of Rome

✔️ See the Last Supper in Milan

✔️ Book a Helicopter tour

✔️ Taste some Local Wine in Lake Garda

✔️ Visit the Duomo Cathedral in Milan

✔️ Spend a day or two in Venice, the City of Canals

Why Should you add France to your 3 week itinerary?

Well from Countryside to Coast, France is a great place to add to any Europe Itinerary for the Countless things you can see and do.

No matter what you love doing on a trip, France has you covered.

Just make sure you take a travel cooler with you so you can enjoy amazing snacks on the go!

Here are a few places in France to add to your itinerary:

✔️ Mont saint Michel

✔️ The sites of Paris

✔️ D-Day Beaches

✔️ The French Riviera

✔️ Honfleur

Beer, Castles and Currywurst. These are a few of the things that make Germany an awesome stop on a trip to Europe.

Here are a few places in Germany to add to your itinerary:

✔️ Brandenburg Gate

✔️ Neuschwanstein Castle

✔️ Reichstag Building

✔️ Visit Rakotzbrücke Bridge

FAQs about exploring Europe

I’m sure you have a few more questions you need to answer before booking your getaway to Europe. To help you out, these are the most frequently asked questions about driving and visiting Europe:

Three weeks seems like a short amount of time to explore Europe – after all, the continent has so much to offer! But if you plan carefully, it is definitely possible to get what feels like a comprehensive experience around the region within this amount of time!

This will depend on what you want to see and do. In terms of seeing amazing sites, the UK is full of amazing road trip destinations like Snowdonia and Cornwall . But for an all-round destination full of incredible sites and easy roads to navigate, you should hire a car in Iceland .

Hiring a car is the best way to visit multiple places across Europe during one trip. Thanks to the Geography of many countries, you can get to a few countries in just a few days.

Europe has plenty to offer its first-time visitors! If you are not very confident in navigating it alone, I highly recommend booking a group tour to take the stress away. But if you are ready for adventure, try renting a car or booking the train to see Europe at your own pace!

I hope this post was useful! To help you have the best trip, here are some most useful articles:

What Do You Need To Know About Driving In Europe In Winter? The Complete Guide

Everything You Need To Know About Renting A Car In Lithuania

The Best Places To Stay In Gozo Without A Car: The Ultimate Guide

The Ultimate Luxury Car Hire Options In France For Your Next Getaway

What Is The Best France Driving Kit? Complete Checklist & Requirements Guide

The Ultimate Gran Canaria Road Trip: Best Places To Stay & Things To Do

What Should I Know Before Renting A Car In Greece?

Road trip gifts: Ultimate gift ideas for all travel lovers

📍 3 week European road trip itinerary sign-off: Europe has so many amazing places for you to explore. Use this guide to create the ultimate 3 week European road trip itinerary to see the very best the continent has to offer.

Lowri Thomas is the founder of Many Other Roads. She lives and travels in Europe and has explored more than 40 countries. She is joined on her travels with her dog Scout and they explore Europe mostly by road. Born in Wales, she also shares the best things to do in Wales, UK and beyond. She helps over 50,000 people per month plan epic Europe adventures and road trips.

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Travelmath provides an online cost calculator to help you determine the cost of driving between cities. You can use this data to figure out a budget for a road trip. The driving calculation is based on the average fuel efficiency of your vehicle, and you can change the gas mileage in mpg or L/100 km to match your exact make and model. Gas prices are automatically estimated based on current fluctuations, and again you can adjust these to fit your local gas station prices. Both U.S. and international units are available to make the calculations easier to use, and the output is given for both one-way and round trip travel routes.

Check the driving distance for your planned route, and see if the total driving time requires an overnight stay. If it's a long trip, you may want to research some hotels along the way . Or compare whether it's better to fly or drive to your destination.

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