A road trip means traveling at your own pace, pulling over whenever something catches your eye, and letting the journey be just as exciting as the destination. Detours aren’t mistakes; they’re part of the adventure. The real question is: what’s on your playlist?
From the icy landscapes of Iceland’s Ring Road to the golden beaches of Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, we’ve picked 10 of the most beautiful European road trips that deserve a spot on your travel bucket list.
Amalfi Drive, Italy
A drive along the Southwestern edge of Italy’s Neapolitan Riviera can be challenging with its narrow roads and sharp bends, but a rewarding vista comes with every twist and turn. It’s no wonder the entire coast is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You should start in Sorrento, where views of Mount Vesuvius welcome you, then finish at the historic city of Salerno, which has super train lines if you’re looping back.
The drive can be done in a few hours, but you’ll want to take it slow and soak in the towns, beaches, and hikes to spread this trip over up to a week. If you crave the pleasant weather but want to beat the crowds, visit in the late spring or early autumn.
Where to Stay
Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria, Sorrento
For a five-star experience to start your trip, consider Excelsior Vittoria. Not only do visitors consistently review this hotel highly online, like the 4.8 average from over 2,000 travelers on TripAdvisor, but it’s also been spotlighted by some prestigious publications like Vogue.
Excelsior Vittoria has sweeping ocean views, a boutique spa, and some popular restaurants on site, one of which is Michelin-starred.
Palazzo Avino, Ravello
Palazzo Avino, or the Pink Palace of Ravello to the locals, is a serene spot if you’re stopping over in Ravello. It’s a boutique hotel with just 43 rooms and suites, and some have breathtaking views of the coast’s fishing villages.
Take a break from exploring and enjoy the spa, dip in the pool outside while overlooking the ocean and mountains, or eat at the Michelin-starred Rossellinis Restaurant.
Ring Road, Iceland
Pack your thermals because Iceland is up next. You should set aside at least seven days to explore the country on the Ring Road. Most folks begin their journey at the capital and loop back. It’s your choice which way you go; either way, you’ll see iconic spots like the Blue Lagoons, Skógafoss Waterfall, and Húsavík for whale watching.
The summer is best for easier driving in better weather, but it would be busier and more expensive. Visiting in late spring or early autumn means you’ll beat the crowds. If you’re brave enough, the winter months are the quietest, but the driving conditions can be trickier.
Where to Stay
The Reykjavik EDITION
In downtown Reykjavik, by the Old Harbor port, proudly sits the five-star hotel The Reykjavik EDITION. Whether seeking sanctuary after a long week or two of traveling around Iceland or wanting to pamper yourself before you set off on your adventure, this hotel could be a good fit.
It’s a Marriott hotel, so expect top-tier comfort. You can taste some fine cuisine without leaving the hotel, plus there is a rooftop bar, where you’ll sip on cocktails while soaking up some fantastic views.
Hotel Rangá, Hella
Hotel Rangá is a prime location for those traveling the Ring Road. The vibes here are cozy, and the lodge-like structure immerses you in the culture. In 2020, it won the Best Resort Hotel in Iceland and Europe and has received high praise from visitors.
You might even spot the Northern Lights here; it’s remote, which means limited light pollution. The restaurant serves tasty food with fresh, local ingredients. If you opted for a suite, you could soak in the hot tub.
But the best part of this hotel is the observatory, which is perfect for peering into Iceland’s clear night skies.
Romantic Road, Germany
They don’t call it the Romantic Road for nothing. It’s like driving through a fairytale. You’ll experience medieval towns, charming countryside villages, and rolling vineyards.
Most people drive from North to South, starting with Würzburg, in Franconia, and ending in Füssen, at the foot of the Bavarian Alps, right near Neuschwanstein Castle. But there’s no reason you can’t flip it and start in Füssen.
The sweet spot for this trip is to take it leisurely in seven days, though it can be done in just three if you’re rushing and up to 10 days if you want to linger in some of the wine regions, which is understandable.
The landscape changes with the seasons, and so do the crowds. Summer is the busiest, but you’ll enjoy vibrant festivals and warmer weather. Germany is famous for its Christmas markets, so that a winter break could be a nice choice.
Where to Stay
Meiser SPA Resort, Fichtenau-Neustädtlein
Meiser SPA Resort has received thousands of positive reviews online and was spotlighted by the Michelin Guide.
It’s a prime spot in Fichtenau-Neustädtlein, just outside Dinkelsbühl, for those traveling through the Romantic Road. If you want to unwind, the spa offers some relaxing treatments.
Other Meiser Hotels include the Meiser Design Hotel, Meiser Altstadt, and Meiser Rosenstuben Hotel, all of which are on the Romantic Road.
Hotel Sonne, Füssen
In the heart of Füssen, Hotel Sonne is a delightful surprise. From the outside, it looks like a traditional Bavarian inn, but if you step inside, you’ll find a chic contemporary space with an upscale but cozy vibe.
It recently secured a spot in Germany’s TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Top 25 Hotels. To top off your stay here, you can indulge in the Moroccan-style wellness area with saunas and relaxation areas.
Albanian Riviera
If you’re craving golden sands and warm swims in the ocean, the Albanian Riviera road trip might be a good fit. June to August brings hot sunshine, but a month either side will mean you’ll beat some of the crowds. Most travelers start with Vlorë in the North and finish at Ksamil.
You could easily spend a week or more traveling here to enjoy the beaches and visit the villages. Some hiking trails reward you with some fabulous views.
Along the way, you’ll stop at some iconic spots like Llogara National Park, Gjipë Beach, and Butrint National Park. But bear in mind that you’ll need to be confident on the roads, as the drive can be challenging in places.
Where to Stay
Yacht Hotel, Vlorë
One way to relax on the beach is by staying at a hotel with its own private spot, like the Yacht Hotel. It was featured in a recent Times article and earned the top spot on their list of the Best Hotels in Albania.
It has some sensational views of Vlorë Bay, whether you’re looking out of your room or enjoying the food at the restaurant. Depending on your mood, you might indulge in a massage on the private beach or hire a kayak and paddleboard.
Hotel Porta, Ksamil
Hotel Porta is another place to stay if you’d like somewhere with a private beach. It has a range of rooms and suites available, and you can opt for one with glorious views of the Ionian Sea. There’s a convenient beach bar and restaurant, but the rooftop pool is not to be missed.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
While we’re on the subject of beaches, a road trip on the Dalmatian Coast is another top contender, though it’s more spread out than the Albanian Riviera.
Many begin at Dubrovnik, but plenty fly into Zadar or Split and start their journey from there.
How much time you spend on this trip is up to you. But you could easily spend a couple of weeks if you want to take detours, island hop, and soak up everything the Dalmatian Coast has to offer.
If you want a quieter visit, you’ll still get plenty of sunny weather out of season in May or June. But during peak season, you’ll experience some lively nightlife and festivals.
Where to Stay
Hotel Bastion, Zadar
Hotel Bastion is in an ideal spot for those traveling through on their road trip. For history buffs, the hotel is built on the remains of a 13th-century Venetian medieval fortification, and it’s listed on UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The Times recently named Hotel Bastion one of the Best Hotels in Zadar and one of the best for history lovers. It features a restaurant serving traditional local dishes and a spa for those needing to switch off for a while.
Hotel Excelsior, Dubrovnik
You don’t have to look far to find top-tier hotels in Dubrovnik. However, one in particular that receives thousands of positive reviews online and praise from major publications like Forbes is Hotel Excelsior.
Along with sweeping vistas of the Adriatic, this five-star stay also overlooks the Old Town, just a few minutes from the medieval fortress walls. Head to the terrace and enjoy some fine dining to make the most of the ocean views, or visit the spa for some relaxation.
North Coast 500, Scotland
The North Coast 500 is Scotland’s answer to Route 66, except you can expect scenic highlands, castles, whisky distilleries, and some dramatic coastal cliffs.
You’ll start at Inverness; where you go from there is up to you. Most travelers head east before returning to Inverness and taking the big circular route. Spending around a week on this trip seems to be the sweet spot; it gives you plenty of time to hike, explore villages, and soak in some of Scotland’s most famous landscapes.
Plan your visit between May and September to take advantage of the longer and warmer days. The roads can get icy in the winter, but if you want solitude, you won’t see many crowds during this period.
Where to Stay
Ness Walk Hotel, Inverness
Ness Walk Hotel could be the starting or finishing destination of your adventure. It’s a five-star, award-winning retreat on the banks of the River Ness.
A range of excursions is available here, like dolphin watching on the Moray Firth, a Loch Ness cruise, and an Inverness Castle experience, to help you explore. Torrish, the hotel’s restaurant, offers quintessential Scottish cuisine and unspoiled views of the River Ness.
Glenmorangie House, Tain
The five-star Glenmorangie House sits on the northeast coast, is easily accessible for NC500 travelers, receives a near-perfect score on Google reviews, and has earned a Michelin Key. The hotel is moments from the Glenmorangie Distillery for those who want to toast to their Scottish voyage.
It’s not just about the whisky here; you’ll enjoy fresh, local food at the communal dining table and try some award-winning Scottish cuisine.
Alsace Wine Route, France
Alsace Wine Route is every wine lover’s dream, but it’s also got some stunning landscapes, charming towns, mountain backdrops, and rolling vineyards. You’ll start north from Marlenheim, near Strasbourg, and go down to Thann, near Mulhouse.
You can usually take this route with plenty of exploring in about five days, but you could stretch it to a week if you have any detours in mind. Autumn is the golden season, so September to October is prime time to visit for grape harvest, colourful vineyards, and plenty of wine festivals.
Where to Stay
L’Esquisse Hotel & Spa, Colmar
In the heart of Colmar is L’Esquisse & Spa, which sits within the green surroundings of the Champ de Mars Park. Not only has it received praise from the Michelin Guide, but it’s also home to the two-Michelin-Starred restaurant JY’s. The spa features a steam room, sauna, jacuzzi, indoor heated pool, and a fitness center for guests to enjoy.
Hôtel & Spa À la Cour d’Alsace, Obernai
Obernai is one of Alsace’s most charming medieval towns. Hôtel & Spa À la Cour d’Alsace is just steps from the market square and is an ideal base for exploring the town and other nearby villages.
Before stepping inside, you’ll see a 15th-century building, but inside is a refined blend of history, comfort, and contemporary décor; Condé Nast Traveler summed it up perfectly in a recent review.
You can enjoy French cuisine at Gail’s Vault, plus relax with some downtime at the hotel’s wellness area.
View some wineries for a stay and drinks.
Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast
Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast road trip stretches from Varna to Burgas, covering about 230 miles. Along the way, you’ll discover sandy beaches, ancient towns, and lively resorts without the Mediterranean price tag.
While it’s possible to make this trip in three or four days, you’ll miss out on time for beach days and sightseeing, so you should ideally look at a week or so. You could even combine visits to Romania and Turkey and spend a few weeks on the road. It’ll be hot here in the summer, meaning it’s busier. For fewer crowds, May and September are better options.
Where to Stay
Graffit Gallery Hotel, Varna
If you’re seeking five-star stays while you travel, Graffit Gallery Hotel could be your answer. It’s a modern, urban-chic stay in the city center. Over the years, it has collected many awards, such as Bulgaria’s Leading Boutique Hotel in 2021.
A restaurant and café are on site, but the real showstopper is the indoor pool, which overlooks the city. The pool is in the hotel’s wellness center, which also includes a sauna, relaxation room, and gym.
Grand Hotel & Spa Primoretz, Burgas
You’ll complete your road trip in Burgas, and what better way to relax than with a luxury stay? Grand Hotel & Spa Primoretz has received thousands of positive reviews on Google and plenty highlight its spa and wellness area.
It includes an indoor pool, saunas, steam baths, a salt lake, a Hammam, and a Vichy shower. The hotel also features restaurants and bars serving cuisine from around the globe.
Basque Country, Spain
There’s no official route through the Basque Country, like some of our other trips, but you may fly into Bilbao and begin your journey there, or plenty of travelers start in San Sebastián.
The Basque Country is relatively small so you can flesh out your trip with stops at fishing towns like Bermeo and Getaria and sights like Gaztelugatxe, the rocky islet featured in Game of Thrones.
For a complete coastal trip, you’ll ideally need around a week, but if you want to explore the French Basque Country, too, you’ll need a couple of weeks or more. The weather is pleasant even outside of the summer, so late spring and early autumn are good options for a quieter visit.
Where to Stay
Gran Hotel Domine, Bilbao
Overlooking the Guggenheim Museum is Gran Hotel Domine, which means Hotel the Artist. It’s consistently rated highly online, and Forbes tells readers why to visit this hotel.
Plenty of rooms and suites are available, and some have spectacular views of the museum opposite. For local cuisine, you can enjoy food from Olio, but head to The Rooftop for a lighter bite and drinks and to soak up the city’s skyline. To top off your stay, a visit to the wellness clinic for a treatment will help with any tiredness from traveling.
Hotel María Cristina, San Sebastián
For a real iconic stay, consider Hotel Maria Cristina. It’s been welcoming guests since 1912, and Condé Nast Traveler named it the best hotel in San Sebastián for history. It’s also won the Condé Nast Readers’ Choice Awards on more than one occasion, most recently in 2024.
If you want to stay in the hotel for food, two restaurants serve Spanish cuisine and an Asian restaurant.
Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania
Last but certainly not least is the Transfăgărășan Highway. It’s legendary for its winding switchbacks, alpine scenery, and remote castles, like Poienari Fortress, the real ‘Dracula’s Castle’.
It’s a much shorter trip than some of our other mentions, as it’s only 93 miles long, but you’ll need time for hikes, lakes, and castle visits, so you’ll need a few days.
Planning your visit carefully is essential, as most of the route is only accessible from late June to the end of October, depending on the weather. High-altitude sections are closed off outside of these months.
Where to Stay
Hotel Subcarpati, Curtea de Argeș
Hotel Subcarpati is a popular choice for travelers entering or leaving the Transfăgărășan Highway, which is often highlighted in the many Google reviews.
On site is the Bistro Subcarpați, which has a diverse menu, including Angus beef produced in Transylvania and a good selection of wine. If you stay here after your journey, the spa is the perfect cure for sore muscles from hiking.
Piscul Negru Hotel, Transfăgărășan
En route is Piscul Negru Hotel, which sits between Pitești and Sibiu. Nestled at the foot of the mountains, it’s an ideal spot for exploring. The Piscul Negru waterfall is only a 15-minute walk away from the hotel.
Climb the hotel’s watchtower, where you can enjoy views, bring food from the restaurant, or prepare some yourself. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating to make the most of the setting, along with traditional and locally sourced food.
Europe’s Most Scenic Road Trips | Top 10 Driving Routes
Road trips are about more than just getting from A to B; they’re about the freedom to stop and explore. Europe has it all: castles, vineyards, coastlines, and volcanic landscapes. The only thing left to do is pack your bags, grab your snacks, set up your playlist, and hit the open road.
- Amalfi Drive, Italy – UNESCO-listed coast with dramatic views and charming towns.
- Ring Road, Iceland – Volcanoes, waterfalls, lagoons, and Northern Lights.
- Romantic Road, Germany – Fairytale castles, vineyards, and medieval towns.
- Albanian Riviera – Golden beaches, national parks, and Ionian Sea views.
- Dalmatian Coast, Croatia – Dubrovnik to Zadar with islands, history, and nightlife.
- North Coast 500, Scotland – Highlands, whisky distilleries, castles, and cliffs.
- Alsace Wine Route, France – Vineyards, wine festivals, and mountain backdrops.
- Bulgaria’s Black Sea Coast – Varna to Burgas with sandy beaches and ancient towns.
- Basque Country, Spain – Bilbao, San Sebastián, fishing villages, and coastal hikes.
- Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania – Epic switchbacks, alpine lakes, and Dracula’s castle.
