Are you wanting to have one of the best road trips but can’t decide where to go? Europe is the perfect answer. The continent is home to some of the most beautiful and inspiring places, from historical landmarks to natural wonders.
A road trip in Europe will allow you to discover its hidden gems, breath-taking views, and picturesque villages. Whether you prefer small towns or big cities, there’s a journey that will take your breath away just about anywhere in Europe. Here are the top 10 best road trips in Europe:
Quick Links
Norway: Tromso to Oslo
Of all the countries that we have travelled to in our motorhome, across Europe and the UK, norway is by far our favourite. There has been no country that has quite compared.
If you are looking to explore Norway in all its glory, then a road trip from Tromso to Oslo is the perfect way to do it. Norway is a country full of stunning landscapes, with its vast fjords, towering mountains, and majestic glaciers.
On a road trip from Tromso to Oslo, you can take in the breathtaking beauty of Norway in all its forms. Beginning in Tromso, you can drive along the coast, taking in the stunning architecture and scenery of the coastline.
Tromso is a great starting point for your road trip, as it is a gateway to the Arctic and is home to some of Norway’s most amazing experiences. From the beautiful midnight sun to the Northern Lights, you can explore the amazing natural beauty of Norway right here in Tromso.
Continue your Norway road trip and drive along the coast, taking in the majestic views of Norway’s fjords and mountains. You can also take a ferry from Tromso to the Lofoten Islands, where you can explore the beautiful villages and towns, as well as the stunning scenery.
The Lofoten Islands are one of the most amazing places we have ever been in the whole world and if you have the time to incorporate these islands into your road trip, we can’t recommend it enough.
After exploring the Lofoten Islands, you can drive inland towards Oslo. Along the way, you can explore the beautiful countryside of Norway, with its rolling hills and snow-capped mountains. Make sure to visit some of Norway’s amazing national parks, such as Jotunheimen, where you can take in the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Norway.
Finally, you can arrive in Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital city. Here, you can explore the city’s many attractions, such as the Opera House and the Vigeland Park. You can also take in the amazing culture of Norway, with its bustling art scene, lively nightlife, and delicious cuisine.
A road trip from Tromso to Oslo is the perfect way to explore Norway and take in the amazing beauty of the country in all its forms. Whether you are looking for stunning natural landscapes or vibrant city life, Norway has it all. From Tromso to Oslo, your journey through Norway is sure to be an unforgettable one.
Italy: Rome to Venice
Italy is one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world, and a road trip from Rome to Venice is a great way to experience the best of what this beautiful country has to offer. The journey from Rome to Venice is a long one, but it’s filled with many beautiful sights and experiences along the way.
The perfect Italian road trip starts in Rome, one of the most famous capital cities in not just Europe, but the world, and a city that is steeped in history and culture. From the ruins of the Colosseum to the beauty of the Sistine Chapel, Rome is a city that has something for everyone. Visit some of the many highlights of Rome including The Trevi Fountain, The Pantheon and the Vatican Museums. Be sure to take some time to explore the city and soak up the atmosphere.
From Rome, head to Siena. This enchanting medieval city is in the heart of, in our opinion, the most beautiful region of Italy, Tuscany.
Another wonderful place to stop and visit whilst you’re in the Tuscany region are the Saturnia hot springs which are definitely a must-do activity on any Italian road trip. They are the perfect place to relax and soak in the rolling countryside.
If you’d like more information on the Saturnia hot springs, you can find out everything that you need to know here – Saturnia Hot Springs – A Hidden Gem In Tuscany Italy
From Siena, the road trip will take you to Florence, a city of art and culture. The stunning architecture of the city is sure to take your breath away and the delicious food you can find here will make your journey even more enjoyable. Make sure to take in the beauty of the Duomo and the Ponte Vecchio Bridge.
From Florence, the journey will take you to Verona, a city steeped in history and romance. As the setting of Romeo and Juliet, Verona is a very romantic city, and you can take a stroll through the cobbled streets and get lost in time.
As you continue your road trip, you will find yourself in the picturesque city of Bologna. This city is home to the oldest university in the world and the delicious food here will make your journey even more enjoyable, Bologna really is a foodies paradise.
Finally, the road trip will take you to Venice, a city of canals and bridges. Take a romantic gondola ride through the city and marvel at the beautiful architecture. Once you have explored the city, you will be ready to head home with many wonderful memories of your Italy road trip.
For a lot more information on van life in Italy and the best places to visit, you can check out our comprehensive guide right here – Van Life Italy Guide – The Ultimate Italy Road Trip
Scotland: The NC500
One of the ultimate road trips in Great Britain, and one of our favourite ones ever, is the NC500 in Scotland. We were completely wowed from start to finish and if you’re going to do any road trip in the UK, we think you need to make it this one.
Scotland is one of the most beautiful places to explore in the United Kingdom. The NC500 is a road trip that takes you around the country’s northern coast and is the perfect way to experience its natural beauty.
The NC500 is a 516-mile route that covers the best of Scotland’s stunning landscapes and charming villages. It is considered one of the best road trips in Europe and is popular with tourists and locals alike. If you want to experience the NC500 in its full glory, it is best to do so on a campervan or motorhome.
This way, you can drive at your own pace, stopping at any of the many scenic spots along the way. The route takes you through the rugged Highlands, where you can explore the dramatic coastlines and take in views of the stunning lochs.
You can also visit some of Scotland’s most famous landmarks, such as the Old Man of Storr, the Corrieshalloch Gorge, and the iconic Eilean Donan Castle. On your NC500 road trip, you can also experience the local culture and hospitality of Scotland.
You can enjoy traditional Scottish cuisine and get to know the locals who live in the villages along the route. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as hiking, cycling, and kayaking.
The NC500 is one of the most iconic road trips in Scotland, and with a campervan or motorhome, you can truly experience the best of Scotland. From the stunning coastlines to the charming villages and friendly locals, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So, if you’re looking for an adventure in Scotland, the NC500 is the perfect place to start.
If you’re thinking of having your own NC500 adventure and you want to know more about some of the sights to see along the way, then you can check out some of our other blog posts here – Scotland – Three As A Bird – Van Life Travels
Spain: Barcelona to Madrid
Are you looking for an amazing road trip experience? Look no further than a trip from Barcelona to Madrid in Spain. This amazing road trip will give you the best of both worlds, from the stunning beaches of Barcelona to the bustling city of Madrid. This route is one of the most popular in the whole of Spain, and it offers a great way to explore the culture, food, and attractions of both Barcelona and Madrid.
The two cities are relatively close together, with Madrid being only 400 miles away from Barcelona.
Whether you want to take a leisurely drive or a more adventurous route, Spain has everything to offer. From the stunning beaches of Barcelona to the bustling city of Madrid, you’ll be able to take in some of the best sights that Spain has to offer.
The most popular route is to take the A-2, the main highway that connects the two cities. This route is the fastest, but it does not offer much in terms of sightseeing opportunities. An alternate route is to take the N-II, which offers a more scenic drive with plenty of stops for pictures.
Spain is a country that’s as diverse and magical as it is vast. Along the way, travellers will see a variety of landscapes, including the vineyards of La Mancha, the snow-covered mountains of the Pyrenees and the rolling hills of Castilla y León.
Starting in Barcelona, you can explore the Catalan capital’s many attractions and famous sights. A must-see is the iconic Sagrada Familia, the awe-inspiring basilica designed by Antoni Gaudi. Barcelona also has some great beaches, and plenty of places to enjoy some delicious tapas. This city is famous for a lot of things, including its architecture, food, and the most famous street in the city, Las Ramblas.
Once you’ve experienced all Barcelona has to offer, it’s time to hit the road and make your way to Madrid. Along the way, you’ll pass through some beautiful scenery and some interesting towns and villages. Stop off in Zaragoza to visit the city’s stunning cathedral, or take a detour to Valencia to explore the city’s incredible old town. Make sure to stop off in the ancient city of Toledo as well, to admire its impressive architecture and get a glimpse of its rich history.
Finally, you’ll arrive in Madrid, the Spanish capital, where you can explore the many attractions and activities the city has to offer. This city is home to some of the world’s best museums, including the Prado Museum, the best place to see the works of the great Pablo Picasso. Madrid is also famous for its nightlife.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous route, you can opt for a scenic drive through the mountain ranges and small towns of central Spain. No matter which route you take, there are plenty of things to do along the way.
Stop in the small villages and explore their unique culture. Take a break in the countryside and enjoy a picnic. Or, visit some of the famous landmarks, like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona or the Prado Museum in Madrid.
A road trip from Barcelona to Madrid in Spain is sure to be an unforgettable experience. With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and interesting landmarks, there’s so much to see and do. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely drive or a more adventurous route, Spain has something to offer everyone. So, why not embark on a road trip from Barcelona to Madrid in Spain?
To finish your road trip in style, head to the city of San Sebastian to indulge in the tastiest tapas.
When it comes to road trips, it doesn’t get much better than a trip from Barcelona to Madrid. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to explore some of Spain’s most iconic cities and attractions, as well as some lesser-known towns and villages. And, with the incredible food and culture of both Barcelona and Madrid, you’re sure to have an unforgettable road trip.
Germany: Berlin to Munich
Germany is a great destination for a road trip, and its two biggest cities – Berlin and Munich – make a perfect combination. Berlin is the country’s capital, so it makes sense to begin your journey in this vibrant and exciting metropolis.
A great way to get acquainted with the city is to take a guided tour; this will be a great introduction to the city’s attractions, such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag and the East Side Gallery. From Berlin, you can hit the autobahn and head south towards Munich. You’ll pass through some stunning countryside, with plenty of opportunities to stop off and explore the towns and villages along the way.
Make sure to take some time out to visit some of the historical sites, such as the city of Leipzig, or visit the beautiful Bavarian Alps. Once you’ve arrived in Munich, you’ll be able to experience some German culture, such as the famous Hofbräuhaus beer hall, the Marienplatz square and the Olympiapark. You should also make time for a visit to the Residenz, the former palace of the Bavarian royal family.
No Germany road trip would be complete without a visit to the city of Berlin. This exciting city is full of life and culture, and there’s plenty to do and see. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion trends, historical sites or just a great night out, Berlin has something for everyone. After indulging in the culture, history, and beer of Berlin, you can make your way to the Bavarian Alps, where you can enjoy the fresh air and see the snow-capped mountains.
From its stunning architecture and art galleries to its famous beer gardens and traditional festivals, Munich is a must-see destination. So why not experience the best of Germany – from Berlin to Munich – on an unforgettable road trip? You’ll get to see some of the country’s most iconic cities and experience the unique culture of each place. And who knows, you might even find a new favourite destination along the way!
Switzerland: Zurich to Geneva
Switzerland is a country of breath-taking beauty and stunning landscapes, making it a top tourist destination for people from around the world. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or an adventure of a lifetime, a road trip from Zurich to Geneva is the perfect way to explore the best of what Switzerland has to offer.
Start your road trip in Zurich, the capital of Switzerland. From Zurich, make your way to Geneva, the home of the United Nations. A road trip in Switzerland will take you through breath-taking views, charming towns, and the Rhine Falls. You can also visit the famous Swiss chocolate town of Lindt and the Alpine village of Engelberg.
Zurich is a vibrant city, full of life and culture. From the famous Bahnhofstrasse shopping street to the cobblestone alleys of the Old Town, Zurich offers something for everyone. The city is home to some of the best restaurants, shops and attractions in the country, making it the perfect starting point for your Switzerland road trip.
From Zurich, your journey will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes in Switzerland. You’ll drive through rolling hills, dotted with quaint villages and picturesque vineyards. You’ll also drive through the stunning Swiss Alps, one of the most awe-inspiring mountain ranges in the world.
Once you arrive in Geneva, you’ll be greeted by the city’s stunning Lake Geneva. Here you can take a boat ride, enjoy some of the city’s best restaurants, or simply take a stroll along the lakefront. Geneva is full of culture and history, with sights like the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain and the Maison Tavel, the oldest house in the city.
No matter what your interests are, a road trip from Zurich to Geneva is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.
France: Paris to Marseille
France is an amazing country to explore, particularly by car. A road trip from Paris to Marseille is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences one can have in France. It’s a great way to explore the beautiful countryside of France and experience its diverse culture.
The first stop on the road trip from Paris to Marseille is the mesmerizing city of Paris. It’s the perfect place to start the journey, with its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Louvre. There are plenty of attractions to explore in Paris, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Latin Quarter, and the Champs-Elysees.
The next stop on the road trip is Bordeaux. This is a city rich in history and culture and is also one of the most important wine-producing regions in the world. From Bordeaux, you can continue the road trip to the stunning city of Toulouse, which is known for its red brick architecture and the Canal du Midi.
Continuing the journey, the next stop is Avignon. This is a charming city that is home to the Palace of the Popes and the famous Pont d’Avignon.
From Avignon, you can make your way to Aix-en-Provence, which is known for its vibrant art scene and its lavender fields.
Finally, you will arrive in Marseille, the second-largest city in France. This city is known for its lively waterfront, its beautiful beaches, and its vibrant nightlife. There are plenty of things to do in Marseille, from visiting the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica to exploring the old port.
A road trip from Paris to Marseille is a great way to explore the beauty, culture, and history of France. With its stunning cities, captivating scenery, and diverse culture, it’s an unforgettable experience. France is a country that will always hold a special place in your heart and a Paris to Marseille road trip is the perfect way to explore this beautiful country.
Ireland: The Wild Atlantic Way
There is no better way to explore Ireland than by taking a road trip along The Wild Atlantic Way. This scenic route, which runs along the west coast of Ireland, spans over 2,500 kilometres and showcases the country’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.
Ireland is a country of rolling hills and rugged coastline, and the Wild Atlantic Way offers you unparalleled views of the entire landscape.
You can start your journey from the port city of Cork, and make your way along the coast, taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean as you go. As you drive along the Wild Atlantic Way, you will pass through some of the most iconic Irish towns and cities – including Kinsale, Galway and Donegal.
The Wild Atlantic Way is not just about the scenery – it is also a journey of culture and history. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the country’s most fascinating historical sites, such as the Cliffs of Moher.
These impressive cliffs rise up to 214 metres above the Atlantic Ocean and provide visitors with stunning views of the coast and the Aran Islands in the distance.
Other must-see stops include the Ring of Kerry and the Dingle Peninsula, both of which feature picturesque coastlines and numerous archaeological sites.
When taking a road trip along The Wild Atlantic Way, visitors can also explore the charming towns and villages that dot the route. From the hustle and bustle of Galway City to the quaint fishing village of Doolin, there is something to suit all tastes.
In addition, you can enjoy traditional Irish music, sample some of the country’s finest food, and taste some of its most famous beers.
There are numerous opportunities to take part in activities such as surfing, kayaking, and fishing. Hikers will also find plenty of trails to explore, with spectacular views of the coastline.
No trip to Ireland is complete without a road trip along The Wild Atlantic Way.
This incredible journey is sure to provide you with an unforgettable experience, with its stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and vibrant culture. From Cork to Donegal, you will be captivated by the beauty of Ireland, and your journey along The Wild Atlantic Way will be one that you will never forget.
Slovenia: Kranjska Gora to Ljubljana
Slovenia is one of our favourite countries in the whole of Europe that we have road tripped in. Before we went to Slovenia, we didn’t know much about the country and so we didn’t know what to expect, but to say that we were blown away is an understatement.
If you’re looking for a road trip to take in the region of Slovenia, then the journey between Kranjska Gora and Ljubljana is a great choice.
Kranjska Gora, meaning ‘Mountain of the Crane’ in English, is a small town in north-western Slovenia. It is situated in the Julian Alps at the confluence of two rivers and is a popular destination for skiing and hiking.
From Kranjska Gora, you can begin your journey to the capital of Slovenia, Ljubljana. The drive from Kranjska Gora to Ljubljana is a journey of around 90 kilometres, which can be completed in about two hours.
An impressive journey, you’ll be able to enjoy stunning views of the Julian Alps and Lake Bled. The route takes you past the picturesque towns of Bled, Radovljica, and Kamnik, where you can take the opportunity to stop and explore.
Once you reach Ljubljana, there’s plenty to keep you busy. This beautiful city is the cultural heart of Slovenia and is home to a wealth of attractions. From the charming old town to the city’s many museums, galleries, churches, and parks, there’s something for everyone.
You can also take a boat trip on the Ljubljanica River or enjoy some of the city’s best restaurants and bars.
The road trip from Kranjska Gora to Ljubljana is a great way to explore the region of Slovenia. You’ll be able to take in the stunning scenery of the Julian Alps, enjoy the picturesque towns of Bled, Radovljica, and Kamnik, and then explore the vibrant city of Ljubljana.
If you’d like more detail on the 10 best things to do in Slovenia, you can check out our blog post here – 10 Must-Do Activities In Slovenia That Will Amaze You
Tips for driving in Europe
- The most obvious tip for driving in Europe, is to drive on the right hand side!
- If you are driving in France, you will need the driving kit for France, which includes a hi-vis vest, warning triangle, first aid kit and more.
- Don’t forget your UK stickers, and angles morts stickers if your campervan or motorhome is over 3.5 tonnes.
- Adjust your headlights ready for driving on the right hand side of the road
- Check that your vehicle insurance and breakdown cover is valid in Europe
Conclusion
Europe is a continent full of historical landmarks, beautiful architecture, breath-taking nature and some of the best road trips in the world. It’s no surprise that it’s a popular destination for both long term travellers and short term holidaymakers.
If you’re looking for the perfect road trip, there are plenty of options for you to choose from. Whether you prefer ancient cities, modern metropolises, or something in between, Europe has it all. With so many options, the hardest part will be choosing which road trip to go on.
Keep up with our full-time van life travels over on our YouTube channel! If you enjoy our videos, please give us a thumbs up and subscribe to our channel – Three As A Bird – Vanlife Travel – YouTube
You can take a look at some of our other van life posts which include lots and lots of hints and tips on all things van life here – Van Life – Travel Information, Hints, Tips and Advice
If you’d like to follow more of our adventures or keep up to date with our travel hints and tips, please join our Facebook group, we’d love to connect with you all! –https://www.facebook.com/groups/309295536220437
Also, if you have Pinterest, please give us a follow for your van life travel inspiration! –https://pin.it/770Cq1Q
I love everything about travel, from seeing new places, learning about new cultures and trying new foods! I believe that travel is one of the best forms of education you can get, I have learnt so much about myself and about the world from travelling all over. Travel is something I feel so passionately about, and I love the fact that we are now lucky enough to have this opportunity to do what we love as much as we can, it’s a dream come true.
Before we started travelling, I worked in local government in administration. I had been in this job for several years and had reached a complete brick wall where I was so fed up, but didn’t know what else to do. The only thing I knew that I wanted to do was to travel, and had wanted to do that for many years.
There were hundreds and hundreds of places on my wishlist that I wanted to go to, and I knew that going on a weeks holiday maybe twice a year if we were lucky wasn’t going to cut it.
After being in lockdown due to the Covid pandemic, and working from home staring at the same 4 walls every day, 2021 seemed like the perfect time for us to take the risk to finally do what we had dreamed of for so long.
It was a hard decision to completely change our lives, but so far it has been the best decision we have ever made!
Leave a Reply