Maybe you already know it: the feeling of freedom when you turn over the car keys and know that a new adventure awaits you. What could be better than a road trip across Europe, taking in several holiday destinations by car can explore without worrying about time? Discover our top 5 holiday destinations for perfect car holidays in Europe! And let's be honest, who doesn't dream of such trips?
Discover our top 5 areas for the best car holidays
Going on holiday by car or motorhome is not only practical, but also an adventure in itself. It allows you to enjoy spectacular landscapes, charming villages and delicious food along the way! We think it's a great way to discover more of Europe. And the biggest advantage? Your journey begins the moment you close the front door behind you.
Whether you opt for a beach holiday, an active trip through the mountains or a cultural road trip, by car you set the pace. Get inspired by these 5 fantastic areas and discover your options!
1. The ultimate Alpine crossing for nature and adventure lovers
Who says you have to travel far for impressive destinations? With just a few hours' drive, you can already see a completely different landscape. Imagine driving past beautiful green hills as the Alps slowly approach. This route is a dream for nature lovers and adrenaline junkies.
Start your journey in Germany, where you can admire the fairytale Neuschwanstein castle. That castle, by the way, looks straight out of a Disney movie. From there, head towards Austria, where charming mountain villages like Innsbruck await you. Finish in Italy, where the Dolomites welcome you with beautiful views!
Tip: Try the Stelvio Pass in italy. Yes, it is challenging with its 48 hairpin bends, but the views are absolutely worth it.
2. Discover the charm of the Champagne region in France
Another ideal area for a road trip is the Champagne region in France! Just a few hours' drive from the Netherlands, you will find hills with vast vineyards, picturesque villages and small wine farms. It is a paradise for epicureans. Start your trip in Reims, the bustling capital of champagne. Visit the imposing cathedral where French kings were crowned for centuries and then dive into the centuries-old cellars of famous champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon or Pommery.
Continue your route to Épernay, where you will find the famous Avenue de Champagne. Here you can enjoy tastings and learn more about the Champagne production process. But the Champagne region offers more than bubbles. Take a drive to picturesque villages like Hautvillers, birthplace of champagne pioneer Dom Pérignon, and enjoy views of picturesque valleys and charming vineyards.
For nature lovers, a trip to the Montagne de Reims regional natural park is highly recommended. Here you can hike or cycle through forests and past vineyards, with the bonus of the ‘faux de Verzy’. These are mysterious twisted trees found nowhere else. Whether you come for the champagne, the nature or the atmosphere, the Champagne region is always a good idea! Read more about this cool place in our guide to the Champagne region, France.
3. A fairytale road trip through the Baltic States
For those looking for a mix of nature and ancient cities, a road trip through the Baltic States is a must. The Baltic States consists of three countries: Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania. Start in Vilnius, Lithuania, where you'll drive through cobbled streets and find medieval churches. Then cross the border into Latvia and stop in Riga, famous for its beautiful Art Nouveau buildings. Then conclude in Tallinn, Estonia. This city feels like a fairytale, with city walls and towers that take you right back to the Middle Ages.
Tip: Along the way, you will find abandoned castles and vast natural areas. For example, take time to explore Gauja National Park in Latvia, perfect for a short hike or a picnic.
4. An unforgettable road trip through Norway's fjords
We go a little further north with a road trip to the Norwegian fjords. Start your adventure in Germany, where you take the ferry to Norway in Kiel. Via the Oslofjord you sail into Oslo, once declared the ‘Greenest Capital in Europe’. Then continue towards Bergen, where you can take the cable car to the top of Mount Ulriken. There you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of sea, islands, mountains and the famous fjords.
Just a stone's throw from Bergen, you will find the Sognefjord, Norway's longest and deepest fjord. Whether you drive along its shores or take to the water in a kayak, nature is sure to leave an impression here. Another must is a ride on the Flåmsbana, one of the steepest train routes in the world. During the 20-kilometre train ride, you will see the most spectacular views such as beautiful waterfalls and rugged mountain landscapes.
Prefer even more adventure behind the wheel? Then follow the Trollstigen, a more than 100-kilometre route full of hairpin bends, waterfalls and steep ridges - like driving through a fairytale landscape!
5. Discover the sunny charm of the Mediterranean
If you are more of a sun worshipper, a road trip along the Mediterranean is your thing. Start in Nice, where you can walk along the famous Promenade des Anglais. From there, follow the coast to Spain, with stops in cities such as Girona and eventually Barcelona. Along the way, don't forget to stop at the smaller coastal towns for delicious food and unique views. These places are often less touristy!
Tip: The city of Girona is a paradise not only for foodies, but also for people who love Game of Thrones. In fact, Girona is one of the filming locations, so a nice extra for fans!
Why road trips across Europe are so magical
A road trip across Europe is no ordinary holiday; it is a unique experience that shows you that you don't have to cross oceans for cool travel. It doesn't matter whether you drive a luxury SUV, a camper van or a trusty old station wagon, it's all about the moments along the way. A spontaneous stop at a viewpoint, a local market where you stock up on fresh cheese and bread, ...or simply enjoying the ever-changing landscapes!
We hope this information inspires or helps you plan your car holidays! If you have any questions or comments, you can always send us a message via Instagram.
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