Road trip in Europe: itineraries, tips, and advice for travelling by car across the continent
There's something deeply liberating about turning the key in the ignition, having no fixed plan, and letting the road guide you. The European road trip is one of the most popular ways to travel, and for good reason: the continent offers extraordinarily varied landscapes, easy-to-cross borders, and often magnificent roads. Here's everything you need to know to plan yours.
Why take a road trip in Europe?
Total flexibility: you leave when you want, you stop where you want. No train schedules to keep, no suitcases to haul through airports. The car also gives you access to villages and landscapes otherwise out of reach, far from the classic tourist circuits.
Three inspiring itineraries
The Atlantic coast (2 weeks)
From San Sebastián to Lisbon along the coast. The Spanish Basque Country, the beaches of Asturias, the Douro vineyards, the Corrubedo dunes in Galicia, and finally the light of Lisbon.
The Alps and Dolomites (10 days)
Annecy, Mont Blanc, the Italian lakes, the Dolomites at sunset. A breathtaking mountain loop for lovers of the great outdoors.
The Balkan route (3 weeks)
Slovenia, Croatia, Montenegro, Albania. Wild landscapes, still-unspoilt coastlines, and a very reasonable cost of living. Europe as few people still see it.
Practical tips
A few checks before hitting the road:
- Check the mandatory motorway vignettes in each country you cross (Switzerland, Austria, Slovenia…)
- Bring a debit card with no foreign transaction fees
- Download offline maps for areas with poor network coverage
- Book your accommodation ahead in high season, especially in touristy areas
Conclusion
A European road trip is prepared so it can be lived in freedom. Whether you're a couple, a group of friends, or a family, the road has something to offer everyone. And if you need help building your tailor-made itinerary, we're here.