Embarking on an epic European road trip is a dream for many travelers. With its rich history, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes, Europe offers countless opportunities for adventure and exploration. To make the most of your journey, you’ll want to plan carefully, ensuring that you have the best Europe car rental and have looked into the best tours in Europe. To help you get started, we’ve compiled a list of 10 must-see destinations for your European road trip. Buckle up and let’s hit the road!
Discover the Wonders of Europe by Car
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Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline in Southern Italy, known for its picturesque villages, dramatic cliffs, and azure seas. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Amalfi Coast offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and Italian charm. Highlights include the towns of Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, each with its own unique character and appeal.
Related Read: Most Beautiful Abandoned Places in Europe
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Ring of Kerry, Ireland
The Ring of Kerry is a 179-kilometer-long circular route in County Kerry, Ireland, showcasing the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As you wind your way through the lush green countryside, you’ll encounter ancient ruins, historic castles, and quaint villages. Don’t miss the chance to stop at Killarney National Park, home to Ireland’s highest mountain range, the McGillycuddy’s Reeks.
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Romantic Road, Germany
The Romantic Road is a 350-kilometer-long route in southern Germany, connecting the historic cities of Würzburg and Füssen. The route is famous for its fairy-tale castles, medieval towns, and picturesque countryside. Be sure to visit Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, and the medieval walled city of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
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Route des Vins d’Alsace, France
The Route des Vins d’Alsace, or Alsace Wine Route, is a 170-kilometer-long journey through the wine-producing region of Alsace in northeastern France. The route winds through charming villages, vineyards, and rolling hills, showcasing the region’s unique blend of French and German influences. Don’t miss the chance to sample Alsatian wines, such as Riesling and Gewürztraminer, at local wineries.
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Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania
The Transfăgărășan Highway is a spectacular 90-kilometer-long road in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania. Built as a strategic military route, the highway now attracts travelers for its incredible scenery and hairpin turns. Highlights include the dramatic Vidraru Dam, the eerie ruins of Poenari Castle, and the breathtaking views from the top of the mountain pass.
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North Coast 500, Scotland
Scotland’s North Coast 500 is a 516-mile-long route around the northern coast of the country, showcasing its rugged beauty and fascinating history. The route begins and ends in the city of Inverness, passing through remote fishing villages, historic castles, and stunning landscapes. Highlights include the dramatic cliffs at Cape Wrath, the white sand beaches of Achmelvich, and the ancient ruins of Ardvreck Castle.
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La Route des Grandes Alpes, France
La Route des Grandes Alpes is a 684-kilometer-long journey through the French Alps, connecting Lake Geneva with the Mediterranean Sea. The route takes you through some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in Europe, with stunning views and challenging twists and turns. Along the way, you’ll encounter charming alpine villages, glacial lakes, and some of the highest mountain passes in Europe. Key stops include Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe, and the picturesque town of Annecy, known as the “Venice of the Alps.”
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Trollstigen, Norway
Trollstigen, or the Troll’s Ladder, is a dramatic, winding mountain road in the heart of the Norwegian fjords. The 20-kilometer-long route features 11 hairpin bends, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains, waterfalls, and valleys. At the top, you’ll find a visitor center with panoramic views of the route and the Stigfossen waterfall. Nearby, you can explore the iconic Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the picturesque town of Åndalsnes.
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Picos de Europa, Spain
The Picos de Europa, or Peaks of Europe, is a mountain range in northern Spain, offering a wealth of outdoor activities and stunning landscapes. A popular road trip route through the area is the Ruta del Cares, which takes you through deep gorges, alpine meadows, and charming villages. Be sure to visit the medieval town of Potes, the Covadonga Lakes, and the Fuente Dé cable car, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Related Read: Best Winter Destinations in Europe
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Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a 48-kilometer-long scenic route in the Austrian Alps, offering access to some of the most impressive alpine landscapes in Europe. The road winds its way up to the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe visitor center, which offers panoramic views of the Grossglockner, Austria’s highest peak, and the Pasterze Glacier. Along the way, you’ll find numerous hiking trails, mountain huts, and opportunities for wildlife spotting, including ibex and marmots.
Conclusion
These 10 must-see destinations offer a taste of the incredible diversity and beauty that Europe has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to dramatic coastlines, picturesque villages, or rugged mountain landscapes, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for your epic European road trip. So, pack your bags, rent a car, and embark on the journey of a lifetime.
