Popular Road Trip Routes in Europe
Europe offers drivers thousands of kilometers of highways, roads, and scenic routes connecting historic cities, national parks, and coastal regions. When planning a trip, it is important not only to choose a route that gets you to your destination but also one that makes the journey itself an experience. Some roads in Europe are famous for their breathtaking views, others for their historical significance or engineering marvels.
This guide will help you find routes worth exploring, whether you are looking for a fast and efficient way to get from point A to B or a scenic road full of spectacular views. Each route includes key details such as distance, seasonal availability, and must-see highlights.
Popular Road Trip Routes in Europe
Europe offers drivers thousands of kilometers of highways, roads, and scenic routes connecting historic cities, national parks, and coastal regions. When planning a trip, it is important not only to choose a route that gets you to your destination but also one that makes the journey itself an experience. Some roads in Europe are famous for their breathtaking views, others for their historical significance or engineering marvels.
This guide will help you find routes worth exploring, whether you are looking for a fast and efficient way to get from point A to B or a scenic road full of spectacular views. Each route includes key details such as distance, seasonal availability, and must-see highlights.
Alpine Scenic Routes
Route des Grandes Alpes (France)
One of the most beautiful mountain roads in Europe, stretching across the French Alps from Lake Geneva to the French Riviera. The route passes through several of Europe’s highest mountain passes, including the famous Col de l’Iseran.
- Distance: approximately 700 km
- Highest point: Col de l’Iseran (2,770 m)
- Best time to visit: June to September (many passes are closed in winter)
- Highlights: Annecy, Chamonix, Briançon, Nice
Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse (Austria)
This famous alpine road winds through the Austrian Alps and offers spectacular views of Austria’s highest peak, Grossglockner. It is a favorite among cyclists, motorcyclists, and car enthusiasts during summer.
- Distance: 48 km
- Highest point: 2,504 m
- Best time to visit: May to October (closed in winter)
- Highlights: Heiligenblut, Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, Zell am See
Breathtaking Coastal Routes
Amalfi Drive (Italy)
One of the most stunning coastal roads in the world, winding along Italy’s Amalfi Coast, offering dramatic views of cliffs, the turquoise sea, and charming villages.
- Distance: approximately 50 km
- Best time to visit: April to October (very crowded in summer)
- Highlights: Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, Ravello
Costa Brava Coastal Road (Spain)
This road follows Spain’s Costa Brava coastline from Barcelona toward the French border, providing breathtaking sea views, hidden coves, and picturesque fishing villages.
- Distance: 200 km
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn (high tourist traffic in summer)
- Highlights: Barcelona, Tossa de Mar, Begur, Cadaqués
Historic and Cultural Routes
Romantische Strasse (Germany)
Germany’s famous “Romantic Road” connects medieval towns, castles, and picturesque villages in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. Ideal for history and culture lovers.
- Distance: 350 km
- Best time to visit: Spring and autumn (outside peak tourist season)
- Highlights: Würzburg, Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Augsburg, Neuschwanstein Castle
North Coast 500 (Scotland, UK)
Scotland’s famous route follows the northern coastline, offering incredible views of the Highlands, castles, lakes, and dramatic cliffs.
- Distance: 830 km
- Best time to visit: May to September
- Highlights: Inverness, John o’Groats, Ullapool, Applecross
Nordic and Wild Routes
Atlantic Road (Norway)
One of Norway’s most iconic roads, stretching across small islands connected by impressive bridges. This route is considered one of the world’s most beautiful scenic drives.
- Distance: 8.3 km
- Best time to visit: May to September (strong storms in winter)
- Highlights: Kristiansund, Averøy, Bud
Ring Road (Iceland)
A circular highway that loops around Iceland, allowing travelers to explore volcanoes, waterfalls, glaciers, and geothermal springs.
- Distance: 1,332 km
- Best time to visit: June to September (some sections may be impassable in winter)
- Highlights: Reykjavík, Vik, Jökulsárlón, Akureyri
Central European Road Trips
Transfagarasan Highway (Romania)
One of Europe’s most spectacular mountain roads, cutting through the Fagaras Mountains in the Carpathians. The route is known for its winding curves, tunnels, and stunning landscapes.
- Distance: 90 km
- Highest point: 2,042 m
- Best time to visit: June to October (closed in winter)
- Highlights: Curtea de Argeș, Bâlea Lake, Sibiu
Šumava Panorama Road (Czech Republic)
A scenic route passing through Šumava National Park, offering beautiful views of forests, rivers, and historic villages.
- Distance: 120 km
- Best time to visit: Year-round, best in autumn
- Highlights: Kvilda, Modrava, Lipno
Tips for Planning a Road Trip
Check current traffic restrictions and mandatory vehicle equipment for each country before departure.
Plan fuel stops in countries with lower fuel prices, such as Slovenia or Poland.
If traveling to mountain regions, verify whether winter tires or snow chains are required.
Book accommodations in advance, especially when traveling in peak season.
Whether you’re seeking breathtaking landscapes, historical landmarks, or engineering marvels, Europe offers an incredible variety of scenic routes to explore. Planning your trip carefully will ensure a smooth and unforgettable road trip experience.