Europe’s Best Road Trips with GoTravelDaily
Packed with ancient history, sophisticated cities, cultural treasures, fine food, and even finer art, Europe offers an embarrassment of riches that caters to all types of travelers. This beautiful region, characterized by rugged coastlines, rolling country fields, and mighty mountains, provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable road trips.
Best Italy Road Trip: World Heritage Wonders
The route: Start – Rome; finish – Venice
Length: 14 days, 870 km/540 miles
Italy’s rich history is complemented by iconic monuments and masterpiece-laden cities, offering an epicurean paradise renowned worldwide. Gorgeous landscapes, including snowcapped peaks and pristine coastlines, beckon to adventurers. This journey highlights UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa, while also uncovering hidden gems along the way.
Best France Road Trip: Champagne Taster
The route: Start – Reims; finish – Le Mesnil-sur-Oger
Length: 3 days, 85 km/53 miles
France is a treasure trove known for its iconic monuments and exquisite cuisine. This journey through the Champagne region invites travelers to savor its illustrious vineyards. Moreover, it offers immersive experiences that highlight family-friendly activities, culinary delights, and historical explorations.
Best Great Britain Road Trip: Mountains and Coasts of Britain
The route: Start and finish – London (via Edinburgh and Cardiff)
Length: 21 days, 1815 km/1128 miles
Great Britain offers a plethora of unforgettable experiences, from the rugged peaks of Scotland to the quaint villages of England and the dramatic Welsh coast. This journey combines history and breathtaking landscapes, showcasing everything from quaint country lanes to vibrant cities rich in culture.
Best Ireland Road Trip: The Long Way Around
The route: Start – Dublin; finish – Ardmore
Length: 14 days, 1300 km/807 miles
Ireland captivates with its stunningly wild landscapes and rich culture. This route allows you to experience both bustling cities and quiet villages, offering a perfect blend of nature and history. The magical scenery includes rugged coastlines and captivating peninsulas, providing a feast for the eyes.
Best Spain Road Trip: Northern Spain Pilgrimage
The route: Start – Roncesvalles; finish – Santiago de Compostela
Length: 5-7 days, 678 km/423 miles
Spain dazzles with its spectacular beaches, historic architecture, and impeccable dining options. This journey invites travelers to experience the Camino de Santiago, exploring regional charm while indulging in scrumptious local seafood and attending vibrant flamenco shows.
Best Portugal Road Trip: Douro Valley Vineyard Trails
The route: Start – Porto; finish – Miranda do Douro
Length: 5-7 days, 358 km/222 miles
Portugal’s picturesque landscapes blend medieval architecture with stunning coastlines, making it an ideal destination for road trippers. This route highlights the renowned wine region of Douro Valley, renowned for its terraced vineyards and scenic beauty.
Best Germany Road Trip: The Romantic Road
The route: Start – Würzburg; finish – Neuschwanstein & Hohenschwangau Castles
Length: 10 days, 350 km/218 miles
This enchanting road trip embodies Germany’s fairy-tale charm, featuring storybook villages and stunning medieval towns. Travelers will be treated to a glimpse of iconic castles and captivating countryside throughout the journey.
Best Switzerland Road Trip: The Swiss Alps
The route: Start – Arosa; finish – Zermatt
Length: 7 days, 612 km/382 miles
Switzerland combines breathtaking natural beauty with a seamless travel experience. This trip through the majestic Alps offers stunning views, quaint villages, and unforgettable adventures like hiking and skiing.
Best Austria Road Trip: Grossglockner Road
The route: Start – Salzburg; finish – Bregenz
Length: 5-7 days, 644 km/401 miles
Austria provides the perfect setting for road trips with stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Explore Alpine passes, visit castles, and indulge in local culinary delights as you navigate through this beautiful country.
This article has been curated to inspire your next European road trip, enabling you to explore diverse landscapes and experience the unique cultures of each country along the way.