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European Road Trips
Europe is a continent rich in history, culture, and diversity. One of the best ways to explore its beauty is getting in a vehicle and setting out on some European road trips. With its vast network of highways and scenic routes, Europe offers a plethora of options for travelers seeking adventure on the open road.
With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide on the perfect road trip. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 6 great European road trips to inspire your next adventure. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to experience the best of what Europe has to offer.
Interested in US road trips? Click here to see our top picks for the US.
The Classic Route: The Romantic Road
The Romantic Road in Germany is one of the most popular European road trips. The 350-kilometer route stretches from Würzburg to Füssen. It takes travelers through some of the most charming and picturesque towns in Germany.
The route is lined with castles, vineyards, and historic towns that date back to the Middle Ages. Some of the most popular stops along the way include Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, and Nördlingen. These towns are known for their well-preserved medieval architecture and are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Other highlights of the Romantic Road include the cities of Würzburg, Augsburg, and Füssen. Würzburg is known for its baroque architecture and is home to the stunning Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Augsburg is one of the oldest cities in Germany and is known for its well-preserved Renaissance architecture. Füssen is located at the end of the Romantic Road and is the gateway to the Bavarian Alps. This is one of the best European road trips for those who love history and romance.
The Romantic Road is best experienced in the summer months when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, it can be crowded during this time, so travelers may want to consider visiting during the shoulder season. The route is also accessible by train and bus. Of course, driving, our preferred method, allows travelers to stop at their leisure and take in the stunning scenery.
The Scenic Route: The Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast road, the SS163, is a 50km spectacular stretch of tarmac, hugging the cliffs and coves of the Tyrrhenian Sea. This slither of gravity-defying road runs from the Sorrento peninsula to Salerno, twisting and winding its way past pastel-painted villages and the most incredible views. The road is narrow, with many hairpin turns, but the views are worth it.
Driving the Amalfi Coast is a popular bucket list item for many travelers. The road is not for the faint of heart, but it is an unforgettable experience. The views are breathtaking, and the towns along the way are charming and picturesque.
One of the most famous towns on the Amalfi Coast is Positano, with its colorful houses and winding streets. Other towns worth visiting include Amalfi and Ravello. Ravello is perched high above the coast and offers stunning views of the sea.
When driving the Amalfi Coast, it’s important to take your time and enjoy the journey. There are plenty of places to stop and take in the views, and many restaurants along the way offer delicious Italian cuisine. It’s also a good idea to start early in the day to avoid crowds and to be able to find parking. This is one of the European road trips you do not want to miss.
The Historical Route: The Berlin Wall Trail
The third of six European road trips we are recommending is the historical treasure of the Berlin Wall Trail. The Berlin Wall Trail is a unique and fascinating road trip that takes visitors through the history of Germany’s division. This trail follows the former location of the Berlin Wall, which divided the German capital for nearly 30 years. It offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to explore the remnants of the former border installations.
The trail is approximately 160 kilometers long and is divided into 14 sections. Each section offers a different perspective on the history of the Berlin Wall and the events that led to its fall. Visitors can choose to explore the entire trail or select specific sections based on their interests and time constraints.
Some of the must-see locations along the trail include the East Side Gallery, which features a series of murals painted on the remains of the Berlin Wall, and Checkpoint Charlie, the famous crossing point between East and West Berlin during the Cold War. The trail also takes visitors through the Berlin Wall Memorial and the Brandenburg Gate, two iconic landmarks that played a significant role in Germany’s history.
Traveling along the Berlin Wall Trail is a unique experience that offers visitors a chance to learn about Germany’s past and how it has shaped the country’s present. It is a perfect road trip for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to explore the rich heritage of Germany.
The Gastronomic Route: The Champagne Route
Among all the European road trips, The Champagne Route is a must-do road trip for any wine lover. This 170-mile route takes you through the heart of the Champagne region, where you’ll find some of the world’s most famous champagne houses. The route runs from the city of Reims to the village of Epernay, passing through picturesque villages, rolling hills, and scenic vineyards.
Along the way, visitors can tour some of the most famous champagne houses in the world, such as Moët et Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger. These tours offer a chance to learn about the process of making champagne, from grape to bottle. Visitors can also sample some of the finest bubbly available and purchase bottles to take home.
But the Champagne Route is not just about champagne. Visitors can also indulge in the region’s delicious cuisine, which includes local specialties such as andouillette (a type of sausage), chaource cheese, and the famous biscuit rose de Reims. The route is dotted with charming restaurants and cafes, where visitors can enjoy a leisurely meal and take in the stunning views.
One of the highlights of the Champagne Route is the city of Reims, which is home to the stunning Reims Cathedral. This gothic masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was the traditional site of the coronation of French kings. Visitors can also explore the city’s historic center, which is filled with beautiful architecture and charming cafes.
The Champagne Route is one of the best European road trips for those who love wine, food, and history. You could complete the route in a few days. But there is a good possibility you’ll want to take your time and savor all the region offers.
“La route de 3,5km entre Champagne et Fontaine en plein champ” by Flikkersteph -5,000,000 views ,thank you! is licensed under CC BY 2.0
The Island Route: The Ring Road in Iceland
The Ring Road, also known as Route 1, is a national road that circles Iceland. It is the perfect road trip for those who want to experience Iceland’s stunning natural beauty. The route is approximately 1,332 kilometers long and takes about 8-10 days to complete.
The Ring Road connects all the major towns and attractions in Iceland. Some of the highlights include the Blue Lagoon, the Glacier Lagoon, the Golden Circle, and the Vatnajökull National Park. Along the way, visitors can witness the beauty of Iceland’s waterfalls, black sand beaches, volcanoes, hot springs, glaciers, and other geological wonders.
Driving the Ring Road is a unique experience. Visitors can enjoy the freedom of the open road and the flexibility to stop and explore at their own pace. The road is well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it suitable for all types of vehicles. However, It is important to note that weather conditions can change quickly in Iceland. Therefore, it is essential to check the weather forecast and road conditions before embarking on the journey.
There are plenty of accommodation options along the Ring Road, ranging from camping sites to luxury hotels. Visitors can also enjoy local cuisine and cultural experiences in the towns along the way. We recommend booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak season.
Overall, the Ring Road is one of the must-do road European road trips for those visiting Iceland. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Iceland and create unforgettable memories.
“driving along the Ring Road in north Iceland” by Anosmia is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
The Wild Route: The Transfagarasan Highway
The Transfagarasan Highway in Romania is one of the most scenic and thrilling of all the European road trips. This 151 km (94 miles) long road runs through the Fagaras Mountains and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
Built in the 1970s as a military route, the Transfagarasan Highway has become a worldwide tourist attraction. The road features hairpin turns, steep drops, and breathtaking vistas, making it a must-visit destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.
Driving the Transfagarasan Highway is an experience like no other. The road is open from June to October, and during this time, visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery, fresh mountain air, and the thrill of driving on one of the world’s most epic mountain roads.
There are several stops along the way where visitors can take in the views, snap photos, and explore the surrounding area. One of the most popular stops is Balea Lake, a glacial lake located at an altitude of 2,034 meters (6,673 feet). Visitors can take a cable car to the Balea Waterfall, hike along the lake, or simply relax and enjoy the view.
Overall, the Transfagarasan Highway is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Romania. Its stunning views, thrilling twists and turns, and unique history make it one of the most unforgettable European road trips.
“Wide view over the northern Transfagarasan” by Horia Varlan is licensed under CC BY 2.0
A Final Word on European Road Trips
Europe is a continent full of diverse landscapes, cultures, and histories. Embarking on European road trips is probably the best way to experience it all. This only scratched the surface of a few of the numerous possible European road trips you could opt to go on. We didn’t even cover the stunning coastlines of the French Riviera or the rugged Scottish Highlands. This list is really only start. And if you embark an any of the 6 aforementioned European road trips, you will be off to a very good start! Of course, there are many more European road trips to discover, each with its own unique charm and appeal. While on your road trip, don’t forget to stop at some of the mesmerizing European Castles.
Hopefully, you were inspired by this list of European road trips. Leave a comment if you have taken any of these trips and feel free to send this to someone who you want to go on one of these European road trips with!
