Your ultimate European road trip travel planner

Discover how to create the perfect European road trip travel planner, full of must-visit locations and unforgettable sights. From Greece to Scotland, we cover our top picks for a European road trip from the UK, along with everything you need for a hassle-free European road trip.

 

Everything needed for the best European road trips

Before hitting the road, you should make sure you have everything you’ll need for a great European road trip. We’ve put together an essential checklist for your next trip:

• International Driving Permit (IDP): these are required for many European countries and are a legal requirement to be able to drive whilst abroad. Not all countries require an IDP, so you should check the requirements for the country you are visiting before you leave. You can use the IDP checker on the government website.
• Car insurance: you should make sure you have the correct level of cover before you leave for your trip. UK law requires that your motor insurance includes third party cover when driving in the European Union. Dayinsure offers short-term European car insurance for those taking a trip to Europe*.
• GPS or an offline map app: with roaming costs surging and mobile signal sometimes being temperamental abroad, it’s a good idea to invest in a GPS or offline map app. This way you’ll be able to know where you are, even without signal, and not get lost or accidentally stray from your road trip route.
• First-aid and vehicle safety kit: some road trip routes will take you through less travelled roads with fewer amenities stops, so it’s always good to plan ahead for these situations should anything happen. Making sure you have a first-aid kit and emergency safety kit for any potential accidents or breakdowns will give you peace of mind on your trip.
• Weather-proof clothing and layers: It’s well known in the UK that weather can be extremely changeable, so you should be prepared no matter what may greet you on your road trip. It’s a good idea to take coats or warmer layers just in case you’re met with inclement weather on your trip.
• Money/travel cards: many small shops and toll roads will prefer cash to card, so it’s important that you go away prepared with some of the local currency. It’s also worth making sure you have a card that won’t charge you extra fees on any transactions abroad.

 

Greece: The Peloponnese

A peninsula in southern Greece, the Peloponnese is home to stunning sights with historic and mythological appeal.  Ideally beginning and ending in Athens, your road trip will bring you through various Greek cities, including Olympia. The itinerary that you choose will depend on how long you spend at each stop, but we recommend taking this road trip in around 7-10 days.

Highlights:

• Athens: the capital of Greece, this city offers a lots of different landmarks and ancient buildings to visit. From the Acropolis and the Parthenon to the Panathenaic Stadium, the venue of the first modern Olympic Games, you’ll be spoilt for choice deciding where to spend your time.
• Mycenae: one of the most important archaeological sites in Greece, Ancient Mycenae was home to Agamemnon, the leader of the Greek forces during the Trojan War. Here you can find impressive ruins dating back to the early Bronze Age.
• Epidaurus: home to the Ancient Theatre of Epidaurus, this amphitheatre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its incredible architecture. It’s one of the best-preserved ancient theatres in the world.
• Nafplio: this romantic coastal city is home to a Bourtzi fortress and offers incredible views over the harbour at sunset.
• Mystras: another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this Byzantine city is well-renowned for its well-preserved ruins.
• Mani Peninsula beaches: Kardamyli is one of the most beautiful villages in the Mani Peninsula and is home to a number of incredible beaches.
• Olympia: birthplace of the Olympic Games, the main attractions in Olympia are of course centred around the ancient Olympic Games. This city is home to sites such as the Stadium at Olympia, the Temple of Zeus and the Archaeological Museum of Olympia.

Need to know:

The total driving distance of this route depends on the specific places visited, but a 10 day trip around the Peloponnese can cover around 515 miles. On this route, you’ll discover an array of gorgeous beaches, mountain backdrops and unique villages.

 

Italy: Florence to the Amalfi Coast

Italy is high on the list when it comes to some of the best road trips in Europe. From Renaissance Florence across Tuscany’s rolling hills to coastal Amalfi, this road trip route offers some of the most incredible scenery and food experiences available.

Highlights:

• Florence: the capital of Italy’s Tuscany region is well known for its part in the Italian Renaissance. One of the most famous sights in the city is the Duomo, a domed cathedral which is one of the largest churches in the world.
• Siena: you can find many traditional markets throughout this road trip, with some of the best found in Siena’s Piazza del Campo. Just outside the city you can also explore rustic farmhouses and vineyards.
• Orvieto: situated on a rock cliff, this small city is full of artistic charm and home to some ancient caves and idyllic countryside. It also has a variety of unique shops to explore making it a great stop on your route.
• Rome: One of the most popular tourist destinations in Italy, Rome has a lot to offer. With must-see sights like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi Fountain and Vatican City, you really are spoilt for choice. If you want to experience a lesser-known sight, visit the Savello Park, also known as the Orange Garden, at Aventine Hill for a little escapism.
• Naples: home to the ancient ruins of Pompeii, this historic city isn’t one to miss. The vibrant city centre has a deep history of art and architecture, with many major landmarks including a 13^th century castle and the beautiful chapel Cappella Sansevero.
• Amalfi: situated below steep cliffs on Italy’s southwest coast, this town was traditionally the seat of a powerful maritime republic. It’s known for its coastal boat trips and idyllic beaches making it the perfect place to relax.
• Sorrento: It’s worth ending your trip at Sorrento as this marks the end point of the main Amalfi coast roads. Sorrento offers a variety of things to do and see, as well as being home to many restaurants serving delicious local food.

Need to know:

At around 350 miles long, this Italian road trip takes in some must-see cities, and you can easily adapt your itinerary to suit your schedule. You may struggle to drive around some of the busier cities along the route, like Rome, so it can be a good idea to stay just outside the city and take public transport into the main attractions.

 

Scotland: the North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 road trip is one of the best road trips Europe has to offer. With beautiful coastlines, historic sites, delicious local food and stunning Scottish wildlife along the route, there’s something for everyone.

 Highlights:

• Inverness: the start and end point of the NC500, there’s a lot to see and do in Inverness. It’s the largest city and cultural capital of the Scottish Highlands, with its Old Town featuring 19^th century Inverness Cathedral and an indoor Victorian Market where you can buy local food and crafts.
• Applecross: home to one of the NC500’s most famous roads, Bealach na Bà winds through the mountains of the Applecross peninsula providing breathtaking views for your journey.
• Ullapool: a hub for outdoor activities, Ullapool is a must stop for the adventurers. From hiking to mountain biking, you can even take a multi-day canoe expedition from nearby. Ullapool is also home to a ferry terminal which connects the mainland to Stornoway for those wanting to visit the Outer Hebrides.
• Durness: the most north-westerly village on the Scottish mainland, you can find many water sports and boat tours from here. You can even experience zip-lining at Golden Eagle Ziplineat Ceannabeinne beach near Durness.
• John o’ Groats: a very popular spot for tourists, home to the famous signpost signalling the ‘end’ point of mainland Britain and the most northerly point in Scotland. The village is also a great spot for coastal walks and relaxing beaches.
• Dornoch: home to the world-renowned Royal Dornoch Golf Club, this stop on the second half of the NC500 route is a great location for bird watching and wildlife spotting, with chances of seeing seals, otters and even dolphins nearby.

Need to know:

With 516 miles of breathtaking Scottish scenery to explore, this route starts and finishes in Inverness. It is best enjoyed over at least a 5-7 day period to be able to experience all there is to offer at a relaxed pace.

For a full breakdown on the North Coast 500 road trip route, including an interactive map, take a look at our comprehensive guide.

 

The Iceland Ring Road

Iceland’s iconic Ring Road is a full circle around the island, ideally given 7-10 days to fully explore. Starting and finishing in Reykjavik, every turn reveals stunning scenery, from waterfalls and glaciers to volcanoes and black beaches. You won’t want to skip out on this road trip.

Highlights:

• Reykjavik: Iceland’s capital and largest city, Reykjavik is home to lots of different tourist attractions. You can spot whales and puffins on a wildlife tour, explore Viking history at the Saga Museum and visit the geothermal seawater Blue Lagoon Spa which is about a 50 minute drive outside of the city.
• The Golden Circle: this popular tourist attraction encompasses three of Iceland’s best natural attractions, Thingvellir National Park, Geysir Geothermal Area and Gulfoss Waterfall. Thingvellir National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where tectonic plates meet, Geysir Geothermal Area is home to the Strokkur geyser which erupts every few minutes, and Gullfoss Waterfall is an incredible two-tiered waterfall which is often voted as one of the most beautiful in Iceland.
• Vik: home to a variety of popular sights and attractions, Vik is a great place to stop and explore. Here you can find the famous Reynisfjara black sand beach and sea stacks. You can also visit ice caves and explore glaciers on snowmobiles through local tours.
• Kirkjubæjarklaustur: another Icelandic village that is home to a variety of exciting sights and attractions, there’s lots to see here. Diamond Beach is just a short drive from the village of Kirkjubæjarklaustur. Also known as Breiðamerkursandur, this is a black sand beach where icebergs from the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon wash ashore, providing a unique and incredible sight.
• Höfn: a quaint fishing town, known for its delicious seafood and stunning surroundings, this is the main hub of south eastern Iceland. From here you can experience ice cave tours, see Vatnajökull Glacier, and admire the art on display at Svavarssafn Museum.
• Egilsstaðir: this is the largest town in east Iceland, and home to the popular geothermal Vök Baths. From here you can also hike to the impressive Hengifoss waterfall and explore Studlagil Canyon.
• Mývatn: also known as the Northern Lights Capital of Iceland, its dark skies and minimal light pollution make it a great spot to view the Northern Lights. There are several tours operating from this area that will take you to the best places to see the Lights from.
• Akureyri: whilst you can find popular Icelandic attractions like waterfalls and spas in this city, it is also known as a great ski and snowboarding location. You can find cross-country ski trails at Hlíðarfjall ski resort located just outside the town.
• Snæfellsnes: this peninsula is a part of western Iceland well-known for its diverse and dramatic landscapes. It’s home to glaciers, mountains, coastal cliffs and even lava fields.

Need to know:

Also known as Route 1, this circular route is 821 miles long connecting most of the inhabited areas of Iceland. Summer (June-August) is ideal for this road trip, with better weather conditions and longer daylight hours than in other months. This Icelandic road trip can also be split into sections – the north, south, east and west. Whichever areas you choose to visit, you’re sure to experience a great road trip in this part of Europe.

 

For more road trip inspiration, take a look at our pick of underrated UK road trips.

 

Why take a European road trip?

There are many reasons to take a European road trip, here are a few of our top picks:

• Road networks: Europe is well-suited to road trips thanks to its well-connected roads. You can cross over multiple borders in short distances, experiencing completely different cultures, cuisines and landscapes. The Schengen Area allows for smooth travel between a number of EU countries without needing to stop for passport checks.
• Culture: you can experience a very different culture not far from home. Road tripping around Europe, instead of flying to your destination, also allows you to stop off and find hidden gems off the beaten path that you might not have otherwise known existed. European culture is diverse and taking a road trip on the continent will allow you to see as much of it as possible.
• Scenery: road tripping gives you the chance to fully immerse yourself in the scenery of a location. From stunning beaches to dramatic mountains, you can truly appreciate the European scenery around you when driving through countries on the continent.
• Pace and flexibility: whether you want to take it slow and steady or speed run the route, road tripping allows you to take your itinerary at your own pace. There are lots of incredible points you’ll want to see on all the European road trips listed above; road tripping makes it much easier to simply stop off at these locations that you may struggle to reach on public transport.

 

Why choose to insure with us…

Your European road trip is in safe hands with Dayinsure. Here’s why so many road trippers choose to ensure they’re fully covered for their European road trip with us:

• Instant cover for European trips: you can add our comprehensive European car insurance to your policy* quickly and be ready to drive away in minutes.
• Flexible policies: our policies are flexible and can easily fit around your schedule or itinerary. With cover available from 1 hour to 30 days you can only pay for what you need.
• Handy app: by using our app, you can save money on your policy and easily stay in control of your cover whilst on the road.
• Excellent Trustpilot rating: rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, our customer service team is here to help when you need it!
• Refer a friend: sharing the driving with your friend? When you refer a friend and they purchase a policy, you’ll both receive a £10 gift voucher.

 

Get European car insurance with Dayinsure

Ready to road trip? Whether you’re planning a relaxing drive through Italy or a more adventurous sight-seeing trip through Iceland, make sure you’ve got the right cover for your trip. Take out our flexible short-term car insurance to cover you on your next road trip.

 

*Dayinsure offers European third party only cover (minimum compulsory requirements) as standard on our Aviva and Mulsanne policies. On our Aviva retail policies, we offer comprehensive European cover at an additional cost. Journeys must start and end in the UK (the vehicle must not be exported)