Great Routes for a European Road Trip

Taking a road trip is probably the best way to explore Europe. The infrastructure is perfect for it and you can make as many stops as you want to, depending on your own interest. The scenery is also beautiful and the trip itself will be a pleasure.

As is the case with any road trip, it's best to take time to prepare and make sure that you have the proper paperwork and an emergency kit ready in case you experience car trouble. This will buy you peace of mind and allow you to enjoy the trip.

Paris to Berlin

A trip from Paris to Berlin with a short stop in Luxembourg is a great way to spend a week if you're interested in the long and complex history of the two countries. The hills of the Champagne region are also beautiful and calming scenery that will make the trip itself a breeze.

Trier is one of the cities along the way and it's a German city that too often gets overlooked. It's home to ancient Roman baths or at least their ruins that you shouldn't miss. Keep in mind that the French and German traffic laws are a bit different from each other and that there's some emergency gear you need to have while in France. International driving permits issued by IDA are a must in both countries.

Basque Country and the Coastline

A trip alongside the Atlantic coastline is one of the most beautiful routes you can take in Europe. When it comes to visiting Europe by car, most imagine a ride alongside ancient ruins, beautiful countryside, and a chance to explore a rich cultural heritage. It can be just that, but a trip along the Basque countryside also means beautiful beaches, surfing, and diving stops.

One-week long trip from Bilbao to Bordeaux is the best way to go. Make sure to find out what the seasonal forecast is for the region if you plan to stop and surf since bad weather can spoil your plans.

Drive Along Arctic Fjords

Start your trip in Bergen and move northward to experience the majestic Norwegian fjords. This will get you to pass the Tvindefossen waterfall as well and while you're there you can go through the world's longest tunnel - 24.5 km pass through the mountain.

Once you go through the Sognefjord on a ferry you'll find yourself in the land of mountains covered in snow and pristine glaciers. This is a shorter trip and with the right stops it can be completed in 7 days, but it's also the one where the ride itself is the best part since it takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in Europe.

Exploring Eastern Europe

When making plans for a road trip in Europe, Eastern Europe too often gets overlooked. It's a shame since the countryside is beautiful, the area is packed with rich history and diverse cultures, and the infrastructure is perfect.

A road trip from Romania to Austria takes about 7 to 10 days and it goes through the beautiful Carpathian Mountains to Transylvania. While you're there, make sure to stop at the actual count Dracula castle. Another stop you shouldn't miss is the hot springs around Bucharest since they are a welcome rest after a few days behind the wheel.

Across the Highways of Greece

A road trip through Greece takes you across the ancient country and allows you to explore both its history and its beautiful and pristine beaches. Stop at the Temple of Poseidon and continue up north until you reach the ancient city of Mycenae, the home of Homeric heroes.

The trip can be completed in a long weekend but it would be a shame to do so since you need at least 7 to 10 days to make all the stops. If you plan to loop back and finish up your trip in Athens where it started, make sure to follow the local traffic regulations since there are areas reserved for locals only.

A Trip From Sicily to Calabria

Rome gets the most attention from tourists visiting Italy but you'll find Palermo to be equally fascinating and chaotic if you start your trip in it. Make your way along the Tyrrhenian coast and stop at Cefalu which is a hot spot for tourists.

The ancient city of Enna is at the heart of the island and should be your next stop. The trip should also include a visit to Etna, the only active volcano in Europe. After that, you can take a ferry into Calabria, which resembles the picturesque idea of Italy much more than rough and beautiful Sicily.