Top 8 road‑trip itineraries to explore by car in Europe

1) Amalfi Coast – Italy (Amalfi Drive, SS163)

Why it’s a must‑see

One of the world’s most scenic coastal roads, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A spectacular mix of dramatic cliffs, pastel villages, Mediterranean cuisine and turquoise sea views.

Ideal duration: 2 to 4 days
Approximate distance: 60–80 km (one way)
Best season: April–June, September–October
Highlights: Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Praiano, Fiordo di Furore
Why we love it: Dramatic cliffs, pastel villages, Mediterranean cuisine.

Car2Europe Tips:

• Avoid July and August (traffic & parking challenges).
• Park outside historic centers and use local shuttles.
• Combine with Pompeii and the Sorrento Coast.

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2) Loire Valley Castles – France

Why it’s a must‑see

A journey into the French Renaissance: majestic castles, landscaped gardens, vineyards, and charming riverside towns

Ideal duration: 3 to 5 days
Distance: 250–400 km depending on loops
Best season: April–October
Highlights: Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise, Villandry, Cheverny
Why we love it: Renaissance heritage, gardens, gastronomy (wine & cheese).

Car2Europe Tips:

• Start in Blois or Tours; follow the Loire River.
• Book major castle visits in advance.
• Perfect for families with cycling breaks on the Loire à Vélo route.

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3) Romantic Road – Germany (Romantische Straße)

Why it’s a must‑see

Germany’s most iconic road trip: medieval towns, timber‑framed houses, castles and lush countryside.

Ideal duration: 3 to 6 days
Distance: ~350 km (Würzburg → Füssen)
Best season: May–October, magical winter in December (Christmas markets)
Highlights: Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl, Neuschwanstein
Why we love it: Medieval towns, castles, forests.

Car2Europe Tips:

• Take time to stroll through historic centers.
• Combine with Bavarian castles and Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

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4) Douro Valley – Portugal (Wine Route)

Why it’s a must‑see

Terraced vineyards, river cruises, wine estates and stunning viewpoints—the Douro is one of Europe’s most enchanting wine regions.

Ideal duration: 2 to 4 days
Distance: ~250–350 km round trip from Porto
Best season: May–October (harvest in September)
Highlights: Peso da Régua, Pinhão, viewpoints (São Leonardo, Casal de Loivos), quintas
Why we love it: Vineyard terraces, river cruises, wine tastings.

Car2Europe Tips:

• Scenic winding roads (N222): drive slowly!
• Book a quinta visit (port wine & local cuisine).
• Combine with Porto and Guimarães.

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5) Fjord Route – Norway (West)

 Why it’s a must‑see

Majestic fjords, waterfalls, glaciers and legendary scenic routes—Norway is an open‑air masterpiece.

Ideal duration: 6 to 10 days
Distance: 800–1,200 km depending on variations
Best season: June–August (mountain roads open)
Highlights: Geirangerfjord, Nærøyfjord, Trollstigen, Aurlandsfjellet, Sognefjellet
Why we love it: Spectacular fjords, waterfalls, scenic roads.

Car2Europe Tips:

• Some roads/ferries are seasonal: check openings.
• High costs: plan accommodation and fuel in advance.

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6) Adriatic Coast – Croatia

 Why it’s a must‑see

Crystal-clear waters, UNESCO‑listed towns, and sun-kissed islands create the perfect Mediterranean road trip.

Ideal duration: 5 to 9 days
Distance: 500–900 km depending on stops
Best season: May–June, September
Highlights: Dubrovnik, Split, Zadar, islands (Hvar, Korčula)
Why we love it: Crystal-clear sea, fortified towns, national parks.

Car2Europe Tips:

• Add Plitvice or Krka National Parks for lakes and waterfalls.

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7) Galician Atlantic Coast – Spain (Costa da Morte & Rías)

Why it’s a must‑see

Wild nature, dramatic cliffs, lighthouses, seafood gastronomy and authentic coastal villages.

Ideal duration: 3 to 6 days
Distance: 300–600 km
Best season: May–September
Highlights: Santiago de Compostela, Finisterre, Muxía, Cíes Islands, Ribeira Sacra
Why we love it: Lighthouses, cliffs, seafood, authentic atmosphere.

Car2Europe Tips:

• Unpredictable weather: bring a windbreaker.
• Combine with Ribadeo and the Cathedrals Beach.

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8) Tulips & Canals – Netherlands

Why it’s a must‑see

A postcard-like springtime journey through flower fields, windmills, canals and traditional Dutch villages.

Ideal duration: 2 to 4 days
Distance: 200–400 km loops around Amsterdam/Leiden
Best season: Mid-April to early May (blooming season)
Highlights: Keukenhof, tulip fields (Bollenstreek), Zaanse Schans, Giethoorn
Why we love it: Spring colors, windmills, water villages.

Car2Europe Tips:

• Respect private fields; park only in authorized areas.
• Add The Hague, Haarlem, Utrecht for variety.

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Why Choose Car2Europe?

1. Freedom and Flexibility
Travel at your own pace, without schedule constraints. Explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and create your own itinerary.

2. Extensive European Network
Car2Europe operates in many European countries, making pick-up and drop-off easy wherever you go.

3. Vehicles for Every Need
Whether traveling as a couple, family, or group, we offer comfortable, economical, or premium vehicles for every type of trip.

4. Transparent and Competitive Rates
No hidden fees: our offers include insurance, 24/7 assistance, and unlimited mileage for peace of mind.

5. Safety and Support
Comprehensive coverage and assistance available throughout Europe to ensure your safety and comfort.

6. Personalized Experience
Our experts help you design a tailor-made itinerary with local recommendations to optimize your road trip.