Traveling across Europe by car is one of the most immersive and rewarding ways to experience its rich variety of cultures, landscapes, and history. Whether you’re drawn to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, the dramatic Swiss Alps, or the charming countryside of Scotland, a well-planned road trip through Europe offers it all.
In this guide, we reveal the top 10 scenic European drives you won’t want to miss.
1. Amalfi Coast Road, Italy
Frequently rated among the best roads in Europe, the Amalfi Coast stuns with cliffside villages, azure waters, and vibrant towns like Amalfi and Positano. This iconic stretch along the Tyrrhenian Sea offers the perfect blend of luxury and leisure. It’s ideal for couples or families seeking a scenic route steeped in culture and beauty.
Route: Sorrento to Salerno | Duration: 1–2 days | Distance: ~50 km | Best time to travel: May to October | Highlights: Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, panoramic cliffside views.
2. Romantic Road, Germany
A true fairytale route, the Romantic Road weaves through southern Germany from Würzburg to Füssen. With medieval towns, baroque churches, and the majestic Neuschwanstein Castle, it’s one of the best European road trips for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Route: Würzburg to Füssen | Duration: 3–5 days | Distance: ~400 km | Best time to travel: Spring to early autumn | Highlights: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, Neuschwanstein Castle
3. Route des Grandes Alpes, France
This legendary route spans from Lake Geneva to Nice, crossing multiple high-altitude alpine passes. From Col de l’Iseran to Col du Galibier, this route delivers jaw-dropping views and adrenaline-packed turns—a must for experienced drivers and nature lovers.For outdoor adventurers, consider stopping at Parc National de la Vanoise along the way.
Route: Lake Geneva to Nice | Duration: 4–6 days | Distance: ~700 km | Best time to travel: June to September | Highlights: Col de l’Iseran, Col du Galibier, alpine lakes and passes
4. Ring of Kerry, Ireland
This 179-km loop around the Iveragh Peninsula offers some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe. With sweeping coastal roads, ancient ruins, and traditional Irish pubs, the Ring of Kerry is a classic road trip route for a relaxed yet scenic experience.
Route: Circular route starting and ending in Killarney | Duration: 1–2 days | Distance: ~179 km | Best time to travel: April to September | Highlights: Skellig Michael, Muckross House, coastal views
5. Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
Europe by road doesn’t get much more spectacular than this.The Grossglockner route takes you through the heart of the Austrian Alps, with panoramic views of glaciers and the country’s highest peak. It’s a favorite for photographers and driving enthusiasts alike.
Route: Bruck to Heiligenblut | Duration: 1 day | Distance: ~48 km | Best time to travel: May to October | Highlights: Pasterze Glacier, Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe viewpoint
6. Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania
Dubbed by many as one of the best driving routes in Europe, this dramatic highway carves through the Carpathian Mountains with a mix of tunnels, viaducts, and sweeping switchbacks. Featured on Top Gear, it’s one of the most scenic driving roads in Europe, perfect for the adventurous at heart .Don’t miss a stop at Balea Lake, a stunning glacial lake at the highest point.
Route: Bascov to Cârțișoara | Duration: 1 day | Distance: ~150 km | Best time to travel: July to September | Highlights: Balea Lake, Vidraru Dam, mountain tunnels
7. Trollstigen, Norway
A marvel of engineering and nature, Trollstigen (“The Troll’s Ladder”). This serpentine mountain road includes hairpin bends and cascading waterfalls, with a breathtaking viewpoint that showcases Norway’s dramatic landscapes.
Route: Åndalsnes to Geiranger (via Trollstigen) | Duration: 1 day | Distance: ~100 km | Best time to travel: June to August | Highlights: Stigfossen Waterfall, Trollstigen viewpoint, Geirangerfjord
8. North Coast 500, Scotland
Scotland’s answer to the world’s great road trips, the NC500 winds around the northern Highlands. It features ancient castles, remote beaches, rugged cliffs, and charming villages. If you’re driving across Europe and crave wilderness, this is one of the top European road trips to consider. For a cultural stop, explore Dunrobin Castle, one of Scotland’s most iconic stately homes.
Route: Inverness circular route | Duration: 5–7 days | Distance: ~830 km | Best time to travel: May to September | Highlights: Smoo Cave, Bealach na Bà pass, castles and beaches
9. Douro Valley, Portugal
A hidden gem for wine lovers, this UNESCO-listed region is known for its terraced vineyards, the Douro River, and charming wine estates. With mild curves and picturesque scenery, it’s among the most relaxing routes in the Mediterranean.
Route: Porto to Barca d’Alva | Duration: 2–3 days | Distance: ~225 km | Best time to travel: September to October (harvest season) | Highlights: Peso da Régua, Pinhão, vineyard tours, river views
10. The Basque Loop, Spain & France
This cross-border route blends the best of Spanish and French Basque culture, cuisine, and coastline. From the lively beaches of San Sebastián to the elegance of Biarritz, it’s perfect for those interested in culinary exploration and cultural stops while driving across borders in Europe. Plan a visit to the Douro Museum to deepen your appreciation of the region’s viticulture.
Route: San Sebastián to Biarritz (looping through inland towns) | Duration: 2–4 days | Distance: ~300 km | Best time to travel: May to October | Highlights: Hondarribia, Biarritz, coastal drives, Basque cuisine
Why Are Road Trips in Europe Unforgettable?
Travelling across Europe by car allows you to discover hidden villages, scenic viewpoints, and local flavors at your own pace. With excellent infrastructure, the continent offers countless road trip opportunities, making it easy to customize your own European trip route. Whether you’re after the most epic roads in Europe or simply the freedom to wander.
Tips for the Best Road Trip Through Europe
- Map your route: Choose the best travel route based on your interests—whether you crave the elegance of the French Riviera, the vineyards of Portugal, or the grandeur of the Alps. For inspiration, explore our luxury chauffeur destinations across Europe.
- Border crossings: Travelling across borders is seamless within the Schengen Area, but we ensure all your documents and formalities are managed with professionalism and discretion.
- Pick the right ride: With our fleet of luxury vehicles—including Mercedes-Benz E-Class, V-Class, and Sprinter Vans—you can travel in comfort and style, whether solo, with family, or on a corporate itinerary.
So, which of these great European road trips will you explore first? Let our experienced chauffeurs take the wheel while you sit back and enjoy the ride. Your next bespoke journey across Europe starts with Chauffeurs & Services—where every road leads to excellence.
