Hands up, who loves a Europe road trip?!
There’s something pretty special about taking a road trip with some awesome tunes, the summer breeze in your hair and adventure on your mind. On road trips in Europe, you may see fairytale towns, magical castles, beautiful beaches, old cities, rolling hills or snow-capped mountains.
There is no better way to quickly get to know a country than to road trip around it.
The best road trips are those which evolve as you go. With a few must-sees on your list but the freedom and time to stop whenever somewhere inspires you. On previous Europe road trips, I’ve driven over a river and spotted kayaks and within half an hour, I was out on the water myself. Bliss.
A few of my favourite ever road trips have been in Europe. I’ve driven through Italy, along Croatias coastline, along Iceland’s ring road and I’ve circumnavigated Sicily, one of Europe’s most beautiful islands on a spectacular Italian road trip.
I’m always looking for inspiration for more road trips in Europe and so I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to tell us about their favourite trips.
But first, I’d love to tell you more about my personal favourite European road trips..
What you can expect from this article…
- 1 15 Awesome Road Trips in Europe…
- 1.1 A Road Trip in Iceland
- 1.2 A Road Trip In Sicily
- 1.3 A Road Trip in Croatia, Pula to Makarska
- 1.4 A Road Trip in Scotland
- 1.5 A Road Trip in Northern Spain
- 1.6 A Road Trip in Sardinia, Italy
- 1.7 A Road Trip in The Czech Republic
- 1.8 A Road Trip Through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia
- 1.9 A Roadtrip Through Sweden
- 1.10 A Road Trip In Southern Spain
- 1.11 A Road Trip to Donegal, Ireland
- 1.12 A Road Trip in Georgia
- 1.13 A Road Trip in Poland
15 Awesome Road Trips in Europe…
A Road Trip in Iceland
Iceland Highlights
- Kirkufellsfoss
- Snaefellsness Peninsula
- Jokulsarlon Lagoon
- Godafoss waterfall
- Seljalandsfoss
- Skogafoss
- The Blue Lagoon Spa (yes it’s worth the hype…)
Duration 8-12 days
When to Go March-September is the best time to visit Iceland for a road trip. Iceland is beautiful at all times of the year but if you’re driving the full ring road it would be best to avoid winter when the road conditions are unpredictable.
Why You Should Go
Iceland is like nowhere you’ve ever seen, it could almost be it’s own planet. It is seriously stunning.
It’s also a lot easier to travel around Iceland on a road trip than you’d imagine. The weather is not so extreme as you might think and it’s very easy to get around – there’s only one main road so you can’t get lost!
Whilst Iceland is pricey, there are also ways to see Iceland on a budget so don’t let this put you off!
It’s one of the safest countries with very low crime rates making it a great Europe road trip for solo travellers. I felt safe at all times.
Some of the most beautiful scenery requires venturing a bit further than most tourists manage and a road trip is the only way to see places like Kirkjufellsfoss – Iceland’s most photogenic waterfall.
Recommendations
The Blue Lagoon is best visited just before sunset so you can see it in daylight and at night when it’s all lit up – it’s spectacular.
Visit the ‘secret waterfall’ by hopping over the fence behind the Skogafoss museum and following the stream. It was my favourite waterfall and barely any visitors were there.
A Road Trip In Sicily
Sicily’s Highlights
- Mt Etna
- Taormina
- Cefalu
- Favignana
- Zingaro Nature Reserve
- The Valley of the Temples
- Ragusa
Duration 10-14 days
When to go The Shoulder seasons would be best when it’s not too hot or too busy. April, May or September would be best.
Why You Should Visit
When you take a road trip in Sicily, you will be blown away by the incredible scenery. Beautiful secluded coves, turquoise oceans, ramshackle old towns with beautiful architecture.
There is so much to see and do in Sicily from visiting old amphitheatres to taking coastal hikes, visiting quaint villages and exploring ancient monuments. Sicily is also a great location for foodies. It’s known to have some of the best food in the whole of Italy.
Sicily is one of the best road trips in Europe if you are looking for a good mix of town, coast and countryside.
Recommendations
I’d recommend staying at Turismo Rurale when you visit Cefalu. With its rural setting with ocean views and a gorgeous pool to relax by, it would be easy to stay here for the duration!
Favignana (opens in a new tab)” href=”https://www.theglobetrottergp.com/10-day-sicily-itinerary/” target=”_blank”>Favignana is an absolute must-see. Hire a bike and spend the day cycling around this beautiful little island which has been compared to the Caribbean.
A Road Trip in Croatia, Pula to Makarska
As Told by Nina Ragusa from whereintheworldisnina.com
Croatia’s Highlights
- Pula Arena
- Plitvice Lakes
- Zadar’s Old Town
- Zip lining in Omis
- Makarska Beaches
Duration 7 Days
When to go It would be best to go during Croatia’s shoulder season, around May-June or September-October
Why you should go
Croatia is an incredible place to visit and is much more than just a beach destination. When you road trip
Despite what some may think, Croatia is incredibly easy to road trip with well-maintained roads, signs and plenty of scenery to entertain you along the way.
If I had to choose a place to spend more time in, it would be Omis. This underrated town is actually teeming with adventure. Kayaking, canyoning, zip lining, rock climbing… There’s SO much to do here, I could have
Recommendations
Plitvice Lakes will be crowded but the hype is worthy and you should definitely make it there, just go as early as possible. Also, don’t pass up on Omis even though it’s not a “popular and well known” town, it’s worth it if you love outdoor adventures.
A Road Trip in Scotland
By Michael Rozenblit of TheWorldWasHereFirst.com
Scotland’s Highlights
- Edinburgh
- Cairngorms National Park
- Inverness
- Orkney
- Isle of Skye
- The Trossachs
Duration 2-3 weeks
When to go June to September is the best time to go as temperatures are mild and days are long.
Why you should go
A road trip through Scotland is undoubtedly one of the best ways to experience this country as it gives you the ultimate freedom to explore!
Scotland and the Highlands and Islands, in particular, have some of the most dramatic and spectacular landscapes that you will find anywhere in the world.
Visiting by car allows you to easily get off the beaten path and stop at unique viewpoints, hike a multitude of paths and wild camp in remote locations.
For the history buffs there is also a lot of fascinating history to learn, spanning time from Neolithic villages to Medieval wars which have been wonderfully preserved.
Recommendations
Make sure to stop by a whisky distillery to learn more about the unique drink and the different types that exist throughout Scotland.
A Road Trip in Northern Spain
By Talek Nantes of TravelswithTalek.com
Northern Spain Highlights
- Gastronomy in Oviedo
- Beaches of Gijon
- Nature and hiking in Picos de Europa National Park
- Old Town in Aviles
Duration 7 days
When to go Our trip took place in the summer but anytime except winter is a great time to visit.
Why you should go
Asturias in northern Spain is a stunning collection of culture, cuisine and nature.
Our road trip began and ended in Oviedo, the capital of Asturias. This city is bursting with medieval history, art galleries and neighbourhoods specializing in gastronomy and local traditions.
From there we visited
Next stop was Gijon, an ancient city on the north coast facing the Bay of Biscay. We drove across the northern coast facing the Bay of Biscay for some excellent beach time and seafood.
We stayed at 2-star hotels and for one night in Gijon we splurged and stayed at Parador Gijon in a 100-year-old converted mill.
Asturias is still flying below the radar in terms of tourism, but not for long.
Recommendations
Parador Gijon in Gijon for a lovely stay in a renovated old mill. Also, h
A Road Trip in Sardinia, Italy
By Claudia Tavani of MyAdventuresAcrossTheWorld.com
Sardinia Highlights
- Tharros archaeological site
- Monte Prama Giants museum in Cabras
- Baunei
- Nuoro Ethnographic Museum
Duration 4 days
When to go Any time of the year, but preferably in the spring or fall
Why you should go
This road trip isn’t just incredibly scenic, crossing some of the most incredible landscapes of Sardinia. It also goes to some of the prettiest villages on the island, and to a bunch of places where visitors can get a good understanding of the local history and culture.
Among the highlights, there’s visiting Tharros Archaeological Site, on the Sinis peninsula. The site, which shows layers of various civilizations including the Phoenician, the Punic and the Roman one, is right by the sea, so the views are splendid throughout the visit.
Monte Prama giants were one of the most sensational archaeological discoveries in Sardinia.
The Ethnographic Museum in Nuoro has an incredible exhibit through which it’s possible to learn more about the millenary cultures of Sardinia.
This road trip is perfect for history and culture junkies.
Recommendations
I loved staying at Bia Maore hotel in Baunei. Don’t skip taking a Sebadas seminar in Nuoro if you care to know the secrets to make one of Sardinia’s traditional desserts.
A Road Trip in The Czech Republic
By Maria Hasse of EuropeUpClose.com
Czech Republic Highlights
- UNESCO Sites in Prague
- Pilsen
- Český Krumlov
- Vysočina region
- Kutna Hora
Duration 8 days
When to go Best to go in May/June or September/October to avoid crowds
Why you should go
The Czech Republic is such an amazing country. Unfortunately, most people (over 90%) only see Prague!
That means, if you go on a road trip around the Czech Republic, you are very likely to have most of the places for yourself. Exceptions are Prague, Český Krumlov, and Kutna Hora (at least during the day), as those are popular day trip destinations.
On this road trip, you can see 6 UNESCO sites that are absolutely incredible. My favorite was the church of St John of Nepomuk on Zelená Hora in Žďár nad Sázavou. I still can’t believe that I was the only one there!
Recommendations
If you go in the summer, I highly recommend adding a day or two to Český Krumlov. The region is absolutely stunning and you can add in some hiking or a kayaking tour on the river.
If you are a foodie, I recommend doing a food tour in Prague to discover more about Czech food and beer. And when you are in Pilsen, add a Beer Spa to your visit!
A Road Trip Through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia
By Karolina Klesta of karolinapatryk.com
Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia Highlights
- Vilnius
- Hill of Crosses
- Ninth Fort
- Riga
- Salaspils
- Turaida Castle
- Tallinn
Duration 14 days
When to go May-October
Why you should go
The best road trip in Europe is the magical journey through Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia as it is jam-packed with unique sights and scenery that will blow your mind.
A must-see on this Baltic road trip is the vibrant capital of Lithuania, Vilnius. Visit the Hill of Crosses next, a pilgrimage site with 2,000 wooden crosses of various shapes and sizes.
Next on the list is the Ninth Fort which brings about an emotional journey through the dark times of Lithuania as you walk pass the museum’s colourful glass-stained walls and exhibits.
In Latvia, you can’t miss visiting its capital, Riga. You may find yourself haunted by the past as you visit the Salaspils concentration camp only to be relieved by the fairytale-like atmosphere of the Turaida Castle.
Next stop is Tallinn in Estonia, where the charming cobblestone streets and churches of the Old Town will take your heart away. Venture into the Danish King’s Gardens and dark hooded monk statues will make your heart skip a beat.
Recommendations
Stay at the Gallery Park Hotel & SPA in Riga and Park Inn by Radisson Meriton in Tallinn.
A Roadtrip Through Sweden
By Melissa of ParenthoodAndPassports.com
Sweden Highlights
- Gothenburg
- Bohus Fortress
- Smögen
- Weather Islands
- Fjallbacka
- Grebbestad
Duration 1 week
When to go May-August
Why you should go
The West Sweden coast is rugged and scenic, and if you are looking for relaxation, there is possibly no better place in all of Europe.
Not easily accessible by train, this area of Scandinavia is best experienced as a road trip.
While you should certainly take time to explore Sweden’s second largest city, Gothenburg, the real magic of West Sweden lies in the small fishing villages and uninhabited islands.
In the town of Smögen, colourful fishing boats line the wooden boardwalk, making for a picturesque seaside stop.
Spend a night on the rocky Weather Islands. The archipelago is mostly uninhabited, which gives you a chance for meditation, reflection, and relaxation.
Recommendations
Need a little luxury to help you relax? Spend a day or two at the TanumStrand Resort in Grebbestad. Regardless of the season or the weather, you can take a dip in the resort’s large indoor pool, complete with a water slide and spa
A Road Trip In Southern Spain
By Christina Román of ExploreNowOrNever.com
Southern Spain Highlights
- Barcelona
- Sevilla
- Córdoba
- Ronda
- Granada
- Nerja
Duration 14 days
When to go Spring or fall for best weather (
Why you should go
Andalusia is an amazing opportunity to see incredible Moorish architecture and palaces, scenic white villages (Pueblo Blancos) clustered on cliffs, and crystalline beaches on the Mediterranean.
We started our road trip in Beautiful Sevilla, where we toured the incredible Alcázar palace (dating from first century AD!) and Sevilla Cathedral, where Christopher Columbus is buried.
On a day trip to Córdoba, you can see the “mosque-in-a-cathedral-built-on-a-mosque” that is the magnificent Mezquita.
With its stunning gorge in the centre of town, Ronda makes a great base for seeing Andalusia’s white hill towns.
It’s a drive of a lifetime into the hills of Southern Spain through picturesque villages, leafy forests, and herds of goats.
Also, the Alhambra Palace in Granada is one of the most visited sites in Europe, for good reason. It’s a one-of-a-kind Moorish palace with intricate, colourful tile and carved scalloped facades everywhere.
And finally, Nerja is a beautiful little beach town on the Med, in case you need a vacation from your vacation.
We sandwiched this road trip between a train trip to Barcelona on both ends of our trip, but with more time, that would also be a beautiful drive.
Recommendations
We loved staying at the central, affordable and beautiful Hotel Posada del Toro in Granada and cliffside Casa Palacio VillaZambra in Ronda during our two weeks in Spain. There’s no better view at sunset!
A Road Trip to Donegal, Ireland
By Teresa Gomez of BroganAbroad.com
Donegal Highlights
- The Wild Atlantic Way
- Slieve League
- Dunfanaghy Beach
- Malin Head.
- Gleveagh National Park
- The Pre-Celtic fort of Grianan of Aileach.
Duration 3-4 days
When to go May-September when there is a higher chance of getting good weather and the days are longer.
Why you should go
Donegal is the northernmost county in Ireland and a bit out of the way, which means it is totally unspoiled and largely ignored by most visitors to Ireland.
Malin Head is the start of the Wild Atlantic Way, which takes you along one the wildest and most spectacular stretches of coast you will ever see.
Make sure you climb to the top of Slieve League, some of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, for breathtaking views.
Recommendations
If you have time, go horse riding on Dunfanaghy Beach and feel the freedom of the open sandy road ahead and the wind in your hair. And don’t forget to try the local seafood at Cove Restaurant in Portnablagh. Truly mouthwatering!
A Road Trip in Georgia
By Rahma Khan of TheSaneAdventurer.com
Georgia Highlights
- Sulphur Baths of Tbilisi
- Paragliding at Gaudauri Mount
- Kazbegi
- Borjumi Central Park
Duration 5 days
When to go April to October when the weather is bright and sunny
Why you should go?
Georgia in Eastern Europe is a hidden gem which is often overlooked by the travelers.
The country is home to some of the oldest churches and cathedrals in Europe, with breathtaking natural beauty and the remains of the Soviet war.
The best way to explore the beauty of Georgia is to go on a road trip because the pit stops in between the cities in Georgia, walking by the never-ending lonely rivers and unexplored green mountains
I absolutely loved the paragliding experience at
Recommendations
I recommend hiking to the Trinity Church on the Mt. Kazbegi in the town of Kazbegi. It is a short and easy hike of just two to three hours but walking through the alpine trees with snow-capped mountains in the surrounding is an incredible experience to have during the road trip.
Also, to get the panoramic views of the green mountains in Kazbegi, stay at the Rooms Hotel Kazbegi. It is the best hotel to stay in Kazbegi and the views from the hotel room are definitely not to be missed!
A Road Trip in Poland
From Dhara from NotAboutTheMiles.com
Poland Highlights
- Warsaw Old Town UNESCO World Heritage site
- Black Madonna in Czestochowa
- Krakow’s beautiful architecture and large medieval square.
- Auschwitz
- Wroclaw’s Old Town
- The medieval town of Torun, a UNESCO site
- Gdansk for the European Solidarity Movement and a beautiful Old Town.
Duration 10-14 days
When to go May and September, the shoulder season months, when weather is nice and crowds are less.
Why you should go
Every city on this itinerary for Poland is picturesque. Their colorful facades and gorgeous architecture will have you reaching for your camera every few minutes!
Each place comes with a rich history. You will be moved deeply when you visit Auschwitz. You will be cheered by the resilience of the Polish people and the love and care with which they rebuilt their cities from the ashes and rubble of World War II.
You will love sampling the delicious local cuisine, from the traditional pierogis to mouthwatering desserts like Polish doughnuts and cheesecake.
And finally, you will be surprised by how affordable it still is to visit Poland. But go soon, because Poland is rapidly becoming a sought-after European destination, and prices will inevitably go up!
Recommendations
Don’t miss the Monument to the Heroes of the Warsaw Ghetto in Warsaw. You will find it very moving. And reserve an afternoon to enjoy the beautiful facades of the Old Town in Gdansk on a walking tour. Don’t forget your camera!
Hopefully, you got plenty of inspiration here for road trips in Europe! Which Europe road trip would you take? Tell us in the comments below! Or have you been on another road trip we need to consider? I’d love to hear from you!
Need more Europe travel inspiration? Read these next…
- The Ultimate Europe Bucket List
- 5 of the best Italian Road Trips
- The Best City Breaks for Couples in Europe
- The Best Festive Destinations in Europe
Or Read these Road Trip Itineraries…
- An 8 Day Iceland Ring Road Itinerary
- 3 Day Amalfi Coast itinerary
- The Ultimate 10 day Sicily Itinerary
- A 2 Week New Zealand South Island Itinerary
- A 1 Week New Zealand North Island Itinerary
- 4 South America Itineraries
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