The 4 best road trips in Europe

From the majestic Pyrenees mountains to the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland or a tour of Iceland, we’ve listed the best 4 road trips in Europe.

Why not rent a car and explore the fantastic sights of Europe by road? You can pick up at one location and drop off at your destination, saving you a round trip.

France to Spain – Montpelier to Barcelona via Andorra

This trip starts in Montpelier, where you should spend some time exploring the historic city with its fabulous architecture and botanical gardens. Then start your journey and head for the French city of Perpignan where the Pyrenees form a backdrop to the views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The next part of the drive towards Andorra takes you through the beautiful Catalan Pyrenees, where stopping off for lunch in one of the small villages is a must. Continue the journey to cross the border into Andorra just before the Pas de la Casa. 

The principality of Andorra is perfect for a ski or mountain hike stop-off and the ideal place to spend a couple of days surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery.

On the drive from Andorra to Barcelona take a detour to view the historic landmarks such as Sant Miquel del Fai and the Abbey of Monserrat.

Complete your journey in the vibrant city of Barcelona, where you can marvel at Gaudi’s artwork, visit the famous football stadium and stroll along La Rambla.

Ireland – the Wild Atlantic Way

This road trip from Cork to Derry/ Londonderry promises a panoramic drive along some of Ireland’s most beautiful coastline. Beginning in the buzzing city of Cork in southern Ireland, the trip takes you through the dramatic scenery of Kerry and on to the traditional Irish city of Limerick, with its history and culture. 

Take a detour to Blarney Castle where you can kiss the famous stone and then follow the route towards the Cliffs of Moher. The rugged coastline along the way offers some fantastic walks and is the perfect place to break your journey. Then drive on to Mayo and explore the sandy beaches and take a trip to the island of Achill if time allows. 

Next on this incredible road trip is a stop at Mullaghmore Head, north of Sligo, where the roaring Atlantic waves crash on the shore and demonstrate the power of Mother Nature.  The route twists and turns through Donegal towards Slieve League, home to Europe’s highest sea cliffs and offering magnificent views out to sea. Then continue up the coastline until you reach your final destination, Londonderry.

Southern Italy – Naples to Sicily

If discovering the countryside and coastlines of southern Italy is on your bucket list a road trip is the way to do it. 

Starting in the city of Naples, a couple of days here is worth it to explore the squares and catacombs and experience traditional Italian life. From here you can visit Mount Vesuvius, mainland Europe’s only active volcano, and the ancient ruins of Pompeii.

Your next destination is the Amalfi Coast, with its colourful villages perched high on the cliff tops and the crystal-clear Mediterranean Sea. The narrow, twisting roads are not for the faint-hearted, but the views are worth it. 

Continuing along the coastline will take you through several pretty little towns, such as Agropoli and Sapri, which are great places to stop in for an authentic Italian lunch. For a change of scenery take a detour inland to the Cilento and Tuscan-Emilian Apennine national parks before heading back to the coast and south to Messina.

From here you take the car ferry to Sicily, where you can explore this magnificent island by car, taking in the capital Palermo, visiting Mount Etna and stopping off at the many coastal villages and sandy beaches.

Iceland – circle the island

For something a little different why not take a road trip around Iceland? This Nordic country is a popular choice for those who want the freedom of a road trip and an unforgettable experience.

From the capital Reykjavik, you start your adventure by following the Golden Circle through the Thingvellier National Park, where you’ll experience the eerie sight of geysers erupting and the mist of the hot springs. Driving along the south coast takes you past waterfalls towards the dramatic rock formations of Black Beach Reynisfjara. 

Then head north towards the East Fjords and the mystifying Lake Lagarfljót, where you may spot the legendary creature that lives in the water. More waterfalls and canyons line the route until you reach Snaefellsjökull National Park, with its mystical glacier. 

On the way back to Reykjavik stop at the Deildartunguhver hot springs to rejuvenate before completing the Golden Circle.

Europe is full of amazing road trips, and these are only 4 of the best. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore the open road at your leisure.