Driving vacation offers excitement and adventure in many ways. Whether cross-country driving or exploring a city for the first time, it’s liberating to discover a new place on a road trip with family or friends. If you need ideas on where to drive in Europe, refer below, as we’ve narrowed down a list of the best European countries for driving vacations.
Scotland
With scenic roads winding their way through dramatic landscapes past gentle lochs, historic cities, and vast sea, Scotland is a country perfectly made for driving holidays. The North Coast 500 is the most popular route for driving vacations in Scotland, and it’s easy to see why. This road takes you through ancient castles and windswept beaches, with many opportunities to stop and discover fascinating Scottish attractions, including the famous Loch Ness. Depending on your pace and the number of stops you’ll make, you can tackle the 560-mile route for 5 to 10 days.
France
One of the best ways to discover France is on a driving vacation. Almost all regions in the country can be reached by road in a day, with opportunities to stop and soak up the views, swim in the idyllic seas, or discover stunning vineyards and charming riverside villages.
Driving through Normandy will provide you with one of the country’s most picturesque regions and a fascinating area to discover. You can explore the 88-mile route from Caen to Utah Beach with France Just For You, creating an ideal adventure trip for all. Great for history buffs, the drive takes you through war museums, where you’ll learn more about the events leading to the Nazi occupation.
Iceland
Iceland is one of those European countries perfect for a driving holiday. The island’s main road, called the “Ring Road”, will take you to the country’s top attractions, such as the Dyrhólaey cliffs, Skógafoss waterfalls, and Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon. It’s 825 miles long, with many spectacular sights along the way.
Your journey starts in Reykjavík and loops the island in a full circle, taking you back to Reykjavík after a few days, depending on the number of stops you’ll make. There are also plenty of activities to enjoy along the road, such as whale watching, relaxing in geothermal pools, and hiking through majestic waterfalls.
Belgian
Belgian is compact, making it an ideal destination for a driving vacation. Your driving holiday will take you to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, medieval towns, picturesque coastal villages, and vibrant modern cities brimming with culture and history.
Brussels, the capital, would be the perfect starting point for your driving vacation in Belgian. Drive to picturesque cities like Durbuy, which is about 125 km away. Durbuy is a city well-suited for outdoor adventures, such as hiking and mountain biking. The drive will take you through idyllic villages, rolling green hills, and other stunning sights worth a stop. If you want to extend your driving experience, a trip to the Belgian Grand Prix is an excellent way to do so. Be sure to get your tickets though, as this is one event that always sells out quick!
Italy
Given its extensive network of well-maintained roads weaving past snow-capped peaks, stunning coastlines, rolling farmlands and vineyards, pretty little towns, and scenic lakes, Italy is one of Europe’s best destinations for a driving vacation.
The drive from Florence to Orvieto is a great option for those who want to discover Italy’s beautiful medieval cities. Passing through historical sights and rolling vineyards, it’s a two-day driving adventure ideal for history buffs and wine enthusiasts.
