road trip app europe

Apps for Road Trips in Europe: Your Ultimate Guide

Road trips are a great way to explore Europe’s diverse landscapes, cultures, and cuisines. But, planning a road trip can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating unfamiliar roads, finding the best routes, and discovering hidden gems along the way.

Fortunately, there are several apps for your road trip that can help make the planning process easier and the trip as a whole, more enjoyable.

Essential Apps For Navigation

When planning a road trip in Europe, having reliable navigation apps is essential. Here are three types of apps that can help make your journey smoother.

The Best Apps For Offline Maps & GPS

Even if you have a data plan, there may be areas where you don’t have internet access. That’s where offline maps and GPS apps come in handy.

These apps allow you to download maps and use GPS without an internet connection.

Some popular apps in this category include Maps.me , HERE WeGo , and Sygic .

The Best Live Traffic Updates Apps

Traffic can be unpredictable, especially in busy cities. Live traffic update apps can provide real-time information on traffic conditions, accidents, and road closures.

This allows you to plan your route accordingly and avoid delays.

Some popular apps in this category include Google Maps , Waze , and TomTom .

The Top Route Planning Apps

Planning your route ahead of time can save you time and make your journey more enjoyable. Route planning apps can help you find the best route based on your preferences, such as scenic routes or avoiding tolls.

Some popular apps in this category include Roadtrippers , ViaMichelin , and RouteXL .

Overall, having a combination of these types of navigation apps can help ensure a smooth and stress-free road trip in Europe.

Accommodation & Booking Apps

Travelling around Europe can be exciting and fun, but finding the perfect accommodation can be a daunting task.

Fortunately, there are several apps available to help make the process easier.

Here are some of the best accommodation and booking apps for your European road trip.

The Best Apps For Finding Hotels & Hostels

When it comes to finding hotels and hostels, there are several apps to choose from.

One of the most popular is Booking.com , which offers a wide range of options for all budgets.

The app allows you to filter your search by price, location, and amenities, and it also provides reviews from previous guests.

Another great option is Hostelworld , which is specifically designed for backpackers and budget travellers.

The app offers a large selection of hostels, guesthouses, and budget hotels, and it allows you to book directly from your phone.

The Best Apps For Finding Camping & Caravan Sites

If you prefer camping or caravanning, there are also several apps to help you find the perfect spot.

One of the best is Campercontact , which offers a database of over 27,000 campsites across Europe.

The app allows you to filter your search by location, price, and facilities, and it also provides reviews from other campers.

Another great option is Park4Night , which is designed for motorhome and campervan travellers.

The app offers a database of over 100,000 locations, including campsites, parking areas, and wild camping spots. It also provides reviews and photos from other users.

The Top Apps For Last-Minute Hotel Deals

If you’re travelling on a budget, last-minute deals can be a great way to save money on accommodation.

One of the best apps for this is HotelTonight , which offers discounted rates on hotels and hostels that have unsold rooms.

The app allows you to book up to a week in advance, and it offers a range of options for all budgets.

Another great option is LastMinute.com , which offers last-minute deals on hotels, flights, and activities.

The app allows you to filter your search by location, price, and star rating, and it also provides reviews from previous guests.

Overall, these apps can help make finding the perfect accommodation for your European road trip much easier. Whether you’re looking for a budget hostel or a luxury hotel, there’s an app out there to suit your needs

On-the-Road Essentials

When embarking on a road trip in Europe, it’s important to have the right apps to make the journey smoother. Here are some essential apps to consider:

The Best Petrol Station Locator Apps

One of the most important things to keep in mind during a road trip is to make sure you have enough fuel to get to your destination.

Fortunately, there are several apps available that can help you locate petrol stations along your route. Some of the popular ones include PetrolPrices , Fuelio , and GasBuddy .

These apps provide up-to-date information on petrol prices, station locations, and amenities such as restrooms and convenience stores.

The Top EV Charging Point Finder App

For those driving electric vehicles, finding charging points can be a challenge. However, there are several apps available that can help you locate EV charging stations along your route.

Some of the popular ones include Zap-Map , ChargeMap , and PlugShare . These apps provide information on charging station locations, availability, and charging speeds.

The Best Apps To Contact Emergency Services Abroad

In case of an emergency, it’s important to have access to emergency services such as police, ambulance, and fire services.

Fortunately, there are several apps available that can help you locate emergency services along your route.

Some of the popular ones include Emergency + , SOS EU , and ICE (In Case of Emergency). These apps provide up-to-date information on emergency service locations and contact numbers.

By using these essential apps, road trippers can have a smoother and stress-free journey across Europe.

Entertainment & Leisure Apps

Travelling long distances can be tedious, but with the right entertainment and leisure apps, road trips in Europe can be enjoyable and memorable.

Here are some apps that can keep you entertained and relaxed throughout your journey.

The Best Travel Apps For Music & Podcasts Streaming

Music and podcasts are great ways to pass the time during a long drive.

Spotify , Deezer , and Tidal are some of the popular music streaming apps that offer a vast library of songs and playlists.

For those who prefer podcasts, TuneIn Radio and Pocket Casts are apps that offer a wide range of podcasts on various topics.

The Best Travel Apps For Audiobooks & eBooks

Audiobooks and eBooks are perfect for those who love reading but get car sick while reading in a moving vehicle.

Audible , Kobo , and Google Play Books are some of the apps that offer a wide selection of audiobooks and eBooks that can keep you engaged throughout your journey.

The Best Travel Apps For Games & Activities

Road trips can be fun for the whole family, especially if you have some games and activities to keep everyone entertained.

Apps like Heads Up! and Trivia Crack offer fun and interactive games that can keep the whole family engaged.

For those who prefer more relaxing activities, apps like Calm and Headspace offer guided meditation and mindfulness exercises that can help you relax and destress during your journey.

Overall, these entertainment and leisure apps can make your road trip in Europe more enjoyable and memorable. So, download them before hitting the road and have a blast!

Practical Tools For Travellers

The best currency converter apps.

Travelling across Europe means dealing with different currencies, which can be confusing and time-consuming. However, there are many currency converter apps available that can help you with this task.

These apps provide real-time exchange rates, making it easy to convert currencies on the go. Some of the popular currency converter apps for road trips in Europe include XE Currency , Currency Converter Plus , and Oanda Currency Converter .

The Best Language Translation Apps

Travelling to countries with different languages can be challenging, especially if you don’t speak the local language.

Fortunately, there are many language translation apps available that can help you communicate with locals. These apps can translate text, voice, and even images.

Some of the popular language translation apps for road trips in Europe include Google Translate , iTranslate , and TripLingo .

The Most Accurate Weather Forecast Apps

Weather can play a crucial role in your road trip, especially if you are planning outdoor activities. It’s essential to have accurate weather information to plan your trip accordingly.

There are many weather apps available that can provide real-time weather forecasts for your destination. Some of the popular weather apps for road trips in Europe include AccuWeather , Weather Underground , and The Weather Channel .

Overall, having these practical tools on your phone can make your road trip in Europe more enjoyable and stress-free.

Our Must Have Road Trip Apps For Europe

Below is our full list of recommended apps to cover all bases on your European road trip. You can also find our top Europe road trip tips to make sure you are extra prepared for your upcoming journey.

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Essentials & Unexpecteds: 25+ Of The Best Apps For Traveling In Europe

Planning to travel to europe make sure to download these apps before you go.

Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a frequent visitor, travel in Europe can be an amazing experience. But having the right apps can make your trip so much easier…and even help you save a ton of money. Knowing which ones are the best apps for traveling in Europe can be overwhelming, so here’s a list of the apps I end up using nearly every time I travel to Europe.

About Jason Robinson // The Nomad Experiment

This site participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and other affiliate programs and may earn from qualifying purchases. You’re never charged more, but it helps out little by little! Check out “Privacy” in the top menu if you need to know more!

And get ready…there are apps on here you won’t see on other lists! Like an app perfect for finding local-led tours and adventures!

Whether you’re looking to speak the language, save money on accommodations, eat like a foodie, or just be a more conscious traveler, there’s an app on this list that can help. Enjoy!

Mapping Apps for Europe

Maps.me can make navigating Europe a breeze and many travelers swear by it. It can be used offline, meaning you don’t need to worry about finding yourself in a remote area with no phone signal or wifi access.

The app uses OpenStreetMap data, updated daily by its community of contributors, to help you find your way around foreign cities or rural areas without relying on Google Maps or similar applications. 

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The Citymapper App

The Citymapper app has won both App Of The Year awards and Editor’s Choice awards on Apple and Android platforms. It provides an easy-to-use platform that allows users to plan their journey in advance, get real-time updates on route changes and find the best way to get to their destination. The app also tracks estimated arrival times and provides warnings of delays or congestion.

The Citymapper app is available across all major US cities and major cities in Europe including London, Paris, Berlin, Amsterdam, Barcelona and more.

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Google Maps

Google Maps is one of the most popular navigation apps out there. And Google has recently released some incredible updates that will make using Google Maps even easier.

Plus, there’s the option to save favorite places so you’ll never forget where you parked or what restaurant you had dinner in. And if you’re really OK with giving them all your data and details, you can even search for places you ate at months or years in the past.

Also, the Google Map app does a great job for the intricate subway/metro systems in major cities around Europe. Just make sure you download offline maps to make sure you have access to navigation when you’re traveling where you might not have a cell signal!

READ NEXT: Step-By-Step: How To Fuel Your Wanderlust With Google Maps Saved Lists

Phone & Texting Apps for Europe

Google Fi Cellular

I’ve used Google fi for cellular both in the US and while traveling internationally since I went nomadic years ago. The biggest reason is that my bill throttles down if I don’t use data (but caps on the high end), so my monthly average bill is around $50 throughout the year.

But the bigger reason is that having a Google fi native phone means that I don’t have to deal with buying and using SIM cards when I go to a new country. That’s a huge pain in the ass that I get to avoid!

Add to that simple Wi-Fi calling (which saves on data) and Google Fi is a no brainer unless you have super deep pockets to pay for expensive, all-in international calling plans.

READ NEXT: UPDATED: 18 Safe Traveling Tips For Newbies—Stay Safe & Reduce Anxiety

WhatsApp has pretty much taken over the game sofar as texting while in Europe, and around the world, since it’s used by over 2 billion people in over 180 countries across the globe.

What makes WhatsApp so unique is its use of end-to-end encryption that ensures only authorized parties can view the content being sent. This feature provides users with a high level of security when it comes to their conversations and media exchanges, different than other providers.

You can add groups, make video calls and phone calls over Wi-Fi…and all for free. And they have a desktop app so you can jump seamlessly back and forth from your phone.

Join the email list to stay in the loop on new releases!

Translation& language apps for europe.

Google Translate

Google Translate is definitely “old reliable” as far as free apps for translating go. While English is often fairly easy to use in touristy cities when traveling in Europe, you’re just being a more friendly traveler when you try to use a little of the local language.

You can save favorite phrases and quickly switch from language to language, since the app supports 100+ languages, and that is expanding all the time.

One of the best features I use all the time is using the camera to capture text in Google Translate, which instantly translates it into whatever language I choose. Especially useful for understanding signs or menus!

Simply type what you want to say or copy and paste it into the iTranslate app, then select your target language. The iTranslate app will then automatically translate it for you. And if you don’t know how to pronounce something, it has an audio feature that reads out translations in different languages. Another great travel app alternative to the Google ecosphere.

Currency & Money Apps for Europe

Currency Plus

Did you know that there are 29 different currencies used throughout the 50 European countries? Yeah, if you think you’ll be able to get by with just one conversion, you’re sadly mistaken.

I would use GlobeConvert app (below), but I run an android phone, so I use Currency Plus. I love that I can actually see multiple conversations at once, since this can help in the now, but also help me decide where to go next when I see a great conversion rate for USD! 

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GlobeConvert Currency & Units (iOS only)

This beautiful app allows you to quickly convert between different currencies and units of measure from all around the world since it supports over 160 different currencies.

The user interface is incredibly simple and straightforward and it’s one of the most beautiful currency converter apps available. The app also works offline, meaning that you don’t need an internet connection to access its features! With GlobeConvert’s Currency & Units app, navigating through Europe has never been simpler!

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Do you use apps like Venmo to transfer money between friends or family around the US? Well, you’re likely to be out of luck with doing the same thing with money in Europe, as they seem to be overwhelmingly using the Revolut app. That alone easily makes it one of the best travel apps for Europe.

You can transfer some good ol’ USD into your account, then convert and transfer to other people in different currencies while you travel through Europe.

Budgeting Apps for Europe

Trail Wallet

This is one of the OG apps that I swore by back when I was just a baby nomad. Unfortunately, it’s only available on iOS. But if that’s you, I highly recommend checking it out. Trail Wallet helps travelers organize spending while they’re on the road while giving some fun, positive reinforcement.

The interface is lighthearted and easy to use, but the depth of details is solid so you can stay on budget or at least know where you went wrong and where you need to tighten up.

READ NEXT: Staying On Budget…Travel? You Need The “Trail Wallet” App!

Trabee Pocket

If you follow The Nomad Experiment on Instagram, you probably know that I currently use the Trabee Pocket app for budgeting literally every day of my life…going on 4 years now.

Setting up categories and creating budgets is simple, and adding an item when you spend literally takes less than 10 seconds, so it’s really easy to stay on top of spending. You can even track in multiple currencies that all iron out to your home currency in your final number overviews.

The graphs and breakdowns of categories are really where the Trabee Pocket app shines though, since you can deep dive each one for really granular understandings of your spending.

The Splitwise App is one of the best travel apps out there, period. It makes organizing and splitting expenses with friends so much easier. Splitwise allows users to record expenses from multiple trips, group them together by date or destination, and split them evenly or according to individual contributions.

It even allows for different percentages of splits. You can even use it for shared bills like rent or utilities.

We used the Splitwise app when I had 3 friends meet me for different stints in Portugal. After everyone was done, we hit the “settle up” button and it automagically money transfer the right amounts to the right people. Super easy!

Explore Portugal Travel Guides

Porto Travel Guide | Sintra Travel Guide | Guimaraes Travel Guide | Aveiro Travel Guide

Transportation: Buses, Trains, & Flight Apps for Europe

The Rome2Rio app is almost always where I start my transportation searches, then I may jump over to some of the other apps listed below. Whether you’re looking for flights, trains, buses, or ferries, Rome2Rio has it all for pretty much any destination in Europe you could look for.

Enter your starting point and destination into the search bar and the Rome2Rio app will present you with a range of possible travel routes, from many different modes of transportation.

You can then compare fares and journey times so you can choose the option that fits your plans. In addition to offering great prices on travel tickets, Rome2Rio also provides detailed maps of each route.

This app is great for simply getting an idea of how to get from one place to the next and any and all modes of transportation you could take. When you’re ready, you can even click through to buy the actual tickets for your chosen route!

READ NEXT: What The Heck Is The Schengen Zone? How U.S. Passport Holders Travel Europe For Months On End

Flixbus is one of the fastest-growing bus networks in Europe, and as of this writing, they operate in over two dozen countries. The Flixbus app makes it easy to find and book affordable bus rides, keeping your tickets digitally.

Most buses say that they come with free Wi-Fi so you can stay connected along the way.

Of course, this is almost always a crap shoot, and you should never depend on Wi-Fi actually being available on any budget bus line!

BlaBlaCar (& Bus)

BlaBlaCar & Bus offers bus routes around over 20 countries across Europe—predominantly in western Europe—and the app allows you to compare prices, check timetables, and book tickets for bus travel throughout their many routes.

Travelers have access to thousands of destinations all accessible through the app. Keep reading to see how BlaBlaCar shook up the ride-sharing industry and became a great ride-sharing option for getting around major European cities.

The Omio app is a one-stop shop for booking your European train tickets since it is an aggregator for the many different train operators throughout Europe.

Not only does the Omio app allow you to search for the best deals on trains in over 30 countries in Europe, but you can also book bus and flight tickets too. This means that you can easily compare prices across different modes of transport without having to open multiple apps or websites.

Plus, if you’re flexible with dates then there are often great discounts available through the Omio app – perfect if you’re trying to save some money on your next adventure!

The Trainline app covers specifically train and bus journeys all over the United Kingdom and Europe. It features 270+ railway and bus companies for 45 countries and claims to be “Europe’s leading train and bus app.” Trainline even has a Loyalty Points system that rewards customers with points when they book trips or purchase upgrades.

Transportation: Car-Shares & Taxis Apps for Europe

Free Now & Uber

Travelers in Europe now have a choice between two major players: Free Now and Uber. Both offer passengers an easy way to get around in different cities; however, there are some distinct differences between the two companies. 

The most notable for the Free Now app is that prices are set by both the driver and the company itself, depending on factors such as distance traveled and time of day.

And the Free Now app also pools taxi drivers into the mix, which extends the offerings past what Uber can with only “company” drivers.

Rides through the Free Now app are now available in more than 100 European cities.

Unlike traditional rental car companies or bus tours, the BlaBlaCar app allows users to search for rides from people already planning trips in their own cars. 

Users create profiles with their preferred destinations and add certain details about themselves that other users will see before deciding whether or not to accept them as passengers.

The benefit of this BlaBlaCar approach is that travelers can often find rides faster and cheaper than they would elsewhere, all while getting to know locals along the way.

So it’s a great app for saving time and money in Europe while getting to know people and the culture a bit deeper. Plus, since drivers get extra money for having passengers on board, so it’s a win-win situation. 

Adventure, Tours & Excursion Apps for Europe

Get Your Guide

The Get Your Guide app and website are easily a couple of the most easily navigable and customer-friendly sources I’ve used for finding highly rated and unique, local adventures.

And Get Your Guide’s platform was founded on using local guides, so your travel experience is genuine and there’s more money put back into the local economy as opposed to into big businesses that may not have local roots.

READ NEXT: Prague Travel Guide — Travel Tips & The Best Things To Do In Old Town Prague And Beyond

For travel in Europe—or anywhere really—you should really spend some time on Get Your Guide seeing all of the options they have!

Accommodation Apps for Europe

Hostelworld

My personal go-to for booking great hostel options with in-depth reviews. Keep in mind that hostels aren’t just for a dorm bed in a room with others, they’re also a place for private rooms and ensuite bathrooms, etc.

The Hostelworld app allows you to filter accommodation options on these specifics so you can choose what you’re most comfortable with. So any way you look at it, Hostelworld is one of those travel apps that will save you time and money if you like to travel on a budget.

You can also create hostel wish lists and add hostels from around the world to your favorites so you can plan to go visit them on future trips.

RELATED: The Best Hostels I’ve Stayed At…& More Importantly Why They Make The List Hostel Guide 101 – Answers To The Questions You’re Asking

The Booking app and site offer an easy way to find and compare many kinds of accommodations, from homestays to hotels and everything in between. They have over 800,000 properties available across 35 languages, so there are a lot of options with great filtering options for your specific tastes.

The Booking app is a great app to use if you want to save money compared to some of the higher-priced accommodation options on platforms like Airbnb.

Food & Restaurant Apps for Europe

Too Good To Go

The concept of the Too Good To Go app is simple: you search for nearby restaurants, purchase a discounted meal before closing time, then pick up your order using their contactless payment system. You never know what type of meal will be available; it could be anything from freshly prepared dishes or delicious bakery treats.

I used this app dozens of times while living in Portugal, both day and night, since many restaurants had meals available between their midday rushes.

Not only are these meals priced lower than usual, but they also help reduce the amount of food being wasted each year – so you get a guilt-free dinner and an environmental win.

And these aren’t scraps or waste; the meals or offerings are often as top-notch as if you would have ordered them at regular menu prices during the peak food rush!

RELATED: 2 Months in Queretaro, Mexico: My Favorite Centro Restaurants & Food…for $2-20USD/meal!

The Happy Cow app is a must-have for any vegetarian or vegan going on a Europe trip. It’s easy to use and allows users to search for nearby restaurants that specialize in plant-based meals.

You can also filter your search by price range or type of cuisine so that you’ll know exactly what kind of food you’re getting before you choose.

The Happy Cow app currently has over 86,000 listings for vegetarian and vegan restaurants just in European countries!

Other Helpful Apps Apps for Travel in Europe

Austrian Post CardStudio

This app allows you to use your own photos and personalized messages to create and send postcards for around €2… all digitally & on the go.

The fact that you can use your own photos, choose the layout, and even have a customized stamp (with your picture on it) is just really neat. Guess this is a sign of the times!

And you can do it from anywhere in Europe. While I’m a big fan of handwritten notes or postcards, I’m terrible at actually sitting down and writing them…and then getting them in the mail. I mean, simply going to a post office in another country with other languages and currencies just adds to the nausea.

Thanks to Leah Michelsen for suggesting the Austrian Post and Treecard Apps!

Leah Michelsen // Guest Contributor

Treecard App

The simplest win for this app is that for every 10,000 steps you track while you’re walking…

…they’ll “fund the planting of a real tree in one of 35+ biodiversity hotspots” worldwide.

That alone is worth opening the app and tracking steps. But the Treecard App also encourages users to switch to green energy providers or invest in renewable energy projects when possible, allowing them to contribute even more towards reducing climate change. They even have a wooden debit card that plants a tree for every $50 spent from it.

You’ve probably heard of the Meetup App, but maybe you never thought about using it in your travels. I use the Meetup app all the time since I travel solo and usually want to meet people living in the places I travel.

I pop open the app, scan hundreds of events, and soon enough I’m surrounded by other locals and world travelers.

Game nights, bar crawls, free tours. You name it, there’s a meetup for it, whether you’re at home or all the way over exploring big cities throughout Europe.

No matter where you are headed when you travel in Europe, having access to these apps will definitely make your trip easier, and potentially cheaper. Let me know in the comments if there are apps that should be added to the list and I’ll check them out!

And please share this article with your Europe travel crew!

Safe Travels! — Jason

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About Jason Robinson

Jason is the author of “The Beginner Traveler’s Guide To Going Nomad,” as well as the voice behind the words and the eye behind the lens for The Nomad Experiment. “Planning to travel at some point” wasn’t actually getting the job done, so nearing 40 he decided to make it a priority, nomatter how scary that was. A few years later— through the pandemic and a type 1 diabetes diagnosis at age 42 —now living a life of nomadic travel, he’s speaking out to encourage others of any age, or with any serious medical diagnosis, to live an unconventional life.

Travel Planning Tips

Figure out where you are going & how are you getting there… I suggest using at least 2 to 3 different travel search sites. Start with Skyscanner or Orbitz or Booking  … or whatever aggregator site you prefer. Then when you see what airlines to use, check their respective sites for better deals or rewards flights.

Figure out where you’re going to stay… If you’re interested in hostels, search Hostelworld or Hostelling International. For longer-term or more private digs, look at Airbnb , VRBO, or you can look for hotel rooms in the links from the search engines listed above. 

Get comprehensive travel insurance, or in the least, travel medical insurance if internationally… Especially with Covid not going anywhere, get covered. Start with an insurance aggregator like Insure My Trip, or with SafetyWing,   World Nomads , or another. Then decide what is important to you; trip cancellation, baggage coverage, medical, or all of the above. And get a yearly evacuation plan, since you’ll have to get home after your emergency! 

Need more resources? Click here!

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One Comment

super useful article! thanks! i’d also highlight ATM Fee Saver – a fellow traveller recommended to me! Very unique it shows ATM fees and withdrawal limits in 30-35 countries. helps calculate my atm fees with a calculator also and gives some handy tips and tricks! probably worth adding to your list!

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• Post author: Maxime
• Post comments: 1 Comment
• Post last modified: February 17, 2022
• Reading time: 4 mins read

Traveling with a car has been quite a different experience compared to our previous trips. We quickly need to adapt to this new lifestyle and we noticed that a few apps made our life easier and cheaper. We decided to share with you what we think are the essential apps for a road trip in Europe.

How to find a place to sleep during your road trip in Europe ?

Couchsurfing

Always our favorite option to find a place to stay. Having a car even opens up more possibilities as we could even stay with more remote hosts at times.

When we can’t find any host and we don’t feel like camping, we often use Booking.com. To me, that’s the most complete lodging app and usually cheaper than other apps. Since you are traveling with a car I’d suggest to widen the search to the whole state/province as you may find a nice accommodation at a discount price and off-the-grid (I like that).

How to navigate from one point to another ?

Waze has a lot of advantages in terms of navigation. First and foremost, it warns you before any speed camera. It also updates you live on potential delays on your planned route. There’s also an option to choose a toll-free road or to see how much the toll road would cost you.

How to find a free parking spot near your destination ?

Quite a lot of travelers are updating this app with their own experience. It’s dedicated to camper vans, and the point is to share with others safe places to park your van and sleep overnight. We’ve been using it mostly to find free parking to visit cities and sometimes to find a quiet spot to sleep in our car.

How to find the cheapest gas around ?

During your road trip in Europe gas will be one of the major expenses of your trip. You can save a lot if you do it smartly. We recommend to download apps with frequently updated prices in order to plan your gas stop accordingly.

The price difference between gas stations makes it totally worth it. During our road trip in Spain we noticed a difference of more than 20 cents per liter. When filling the tank of an average car, it could represent a difference of 10 to 15 euros each time.

What to visit on the way to your next destination ?

TripAdvisor

The answer to this question could be very different depending on what your interests are and how you like to travel. We don’t like TripAdvisor much, but we still use the app because it’s a good way to find less known attractions in smaller places. When we drive from a point A to a point B we are generally not really aware of what we can visit in-between, and so we are using TripAdvisor to get an idea.

How to communicate with locals ?

Usually English should be fine in most locations during your road trip in Europe, but if it’s not the case these apps could be quite useful !

Duolingo is a free language-learning app. Don’t expect to become fluent but it’s a great app to get some basics of the language you will travel in. There are about 50 languages available.

iTalki is a platform where I teach French, and it’s a great way to connect with a local teacher through Skype. It is definitely be a great place to learn a language before traveling.

Google Translate

Of course Google translate will work just fine, you can even download a few offline languages in order to be ready even when you can’t connect to the internet.

How to make a few bucks and meet interesting people ?

BlaBlaCar is a long distance ridesharing service, connecting drivers with empty seats to people traveling around. If you have an empty seat during your road trip in Europe you can post your trip offer a few days before on BlaBlaCar. specify how much you charge for the trip. It works relatively well in some countries such as France, and much less in others such as Italy.

And you ? Share with us how was your road trip in Europe! Are there other apps you use for your road trips?

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great list, also i can recommend checking out this app: ATM Fee Saver. it gives a list with ATMs and their fees and limits for withdrawing cash. it really helps saving money while being abroad 🙂 i loved it

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25 of the Best Apps for Traveling in Europe

Scott Keyes

September 19, 2023

Gone are the days when going on an international trip meant lugging around a big guidebook or printing out dozens of pages of information, maps, phrases, and directions. Nowadays, there’s a travel app for just about everything, from making restaurant reservations or booking last-minute museum tours to hiring taxis or checking train schedules. Many are free, and some can be used offline to avoid data charges.

Here we’ve collected a list of some of the best apps for European travel, including several that are useful on other continents, too.

Best Travel Apps for Transportation in Europe 

The model for the ridesharing app Cabify is very similar to Lyft and Uber, though Cabify is only available in two European countries—Portugal and Spain. You can share details of your journey to let friends know when you’ll arrive, and even customize your ride by identifying musical and climate control preferences.

2. FREE NOW

The emphatically named FREE NOW (yes, it’s in all caps) was once known as mytaxi, which should give you an idea of what the app does. Calling itself “Europe’s largest taxi app,” FREE NOW offers taxi booking in nine European countries. It’s similar to a ridesharing app, except that this one is for taxis, allowing travelers the convenience of paying for rides through the app instead of cash.

With so many ways to get around Europe, it might be overwhelming to compare them. Omio (formerly GoEuro) makes it simple by showing you all your transportation options—trains, planes, and buses—so you can easily see which solution makes the most sense for you. Book your tickets right through the app, and then either print your tickets or save the mobile version on your smartphone.

4. Rome2rio

Not only will Rome2rio give you your public transit options between any two destinations on earth, you’ll also get information on driving. From the main results page, where you see the approximate travel times, routes, and costs of each transportation option, you can then drill down and get more details on your favorite—and there’s a link to book tickets, too.

>> Read our guide to using Rome2rio

Trains may be one of the best ways to get around much of Europe, but plenty of destinations aren’t served by rail. That’s where coach buses come in. Flixbus connects cities in more than 25 countries throughout Europe with regular coach service, and passengers can book easily through the app. There’s free WiFi on board and the drivers even have snacks and drinks you can buy during the trip.

6. BlaBlaCar

BlaBlaCar is basically what hitchhiking in the 21st century looks like—you’re not standing on a roadside hoping for a ride, you’re screening potential carpooling partners through an app and arranging a trip in advance. If someone else is already driving that way, you can join them, share expenses, and have some company. The network covers more than 15 European countries and now also includes a bus service called BlaBlaBus in five countries.

7. Bike Share Buddy

Exploring a new place on two wheels is both fun and efficient, and the proliferation of bike sharing definitely helps make it easier. Travelers don’t always know the ins and outs of a given city’s particular bike sharing program—but Bike Share Buddy solves that problem. The handy app shows you the locations of bike sharing stations in more than 45 countries (many of which are in Europe), even indicating how many bikes are available at each one.

8. Eurail/Interrail Rail Planner

The tried-and-true Eurail Pass now has a tech component. The Eurail/Interrail Rail Planner allows you to search train schedules throughout Europe to plan your rail travel itinerary. You can even filter to see only the trains that work with your pass. And because the Eurail Pass is the equivalent of a ticket, booking on the app is only for the additional reservations you’ll need on top of the pass you already have.

Gett makes it easy for travelers to book rides with London’s famous black taxis. The app is also available in Bristol, Coventry, and Manchester in England, and Edinburgh and Glasgow in Scotland. Using Gett means you don’t need to wait in taxi lines or hail a taxi on the street, and you can schedule a ride in advance.

10. Eurostar

Speedy Eurostar trains whisk you back and forth from the UK to mainland Europe via the Channel Tunnel, and the Eurostar app makes booking and storing train tickets easy and convenient. The app tracks purchases so frequent travelers can earn loyalty perks, and even features some TV programs through Amazon video to watch during the trip with free on-board WiFi.

11. DB Navigator

Germany’s national train service, Deutsche Bahn, is revered for its efficiency—so it’s not surprising that the app is, too. The DB Navigator app, like the website, includes not just real-time German train schedules but also train schedules all over Europe. You can book train tickets (for German trains only) through the app, check in for your trip, and even see where on the train platform you need to stand to be near the car where you’ve reserved a seat.

12. Trainline

Despite what the name might make you think, this app is about more than just trains. Trainline is a booking app for trains and buses in Europe—including the UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain—helping travelers secure the sometimes-sizeable discounts that come with advance bookings. The app even lets you search for route options that will specifically go through (or avoid) certain cities to better tailor your journey.

>> Read our guide to train travel in Europe

13. citymapper.

The powerful and popular Citymapper app, available in nearly 20 cities in Europe, combines public transit maps for buses, subways, and trams with real-time schedules, transit status updates, and even car and bike sharing information. You can also find out which exit to take from a subway station. It’s all in one handy place to make city navigation a piece of cake—for residents and travelers alike.

14. Scooterino

While the Scooterino app’s usefulness is limited (it’s only for Rome), it’s so well-suited to getting through the busy city’s notorious traffic just like an Italian that it’s worth mentioning. Scooterino is ridesharing via scooter, giving you a chance to zip through the Italian capital on the back of a scooter without needing to do any of the driving or knowing your way around. Find out the rough cost of a trip before you book and pay your driver through the app, just like other ridesharing services.

The Best Travel Apps for Translation and Conversion in Europe 

15. google translate.

Google’s handy online translation is available in an app, which helps you translate between 103 languages. There are several ways to enter the word or phrase you want to translate, from typing on the keyboard or handwriting to speaking into the microphone and even translating text in real-time using the phone’s camera. The number of languages supported by each method (aside from using the keyboard) varies, but it’s still overall a powerful tool. What’s more, Google Translate now works in any app with “Tap to Translate.”

16. TripLingo

The TripLingo app covers the basic translation needs most travelers have—through typing on the keyboard, speaking into the microphone, or using the phone’s camera—but it’s also got educational tools. The app includes a phrasebook as well as audio language lessons, as well as specific etiquette, safety, and culture tips to help travelers feel more comfortable in unfamiliar places. There’s even a built-in currency converter and tip calculator.

17. GlobeConvert

The minimalist GlobeConvert makes conversion easy, no matter what you’re trying to convert. Quickly switch currency, temperature, weight, distance, and much more into the unit of measurement you understand best. Save the conversions you use frequently, like US dollars to euros or fahrenheit to celsius, to make the process even more convenient. The app will even automatically fill in one of the currency fields based on your geotagged location. GlobeStudio, the makers of GlobeConvert, have other useful apps for travelers, too, including one that details tipping guidelines for the country you’re in.

>> Read our tips for getting around when you don't know the language

The best travel apps for things to do and see in europe .

No matter where you want to go in the world, or what you want to do, Viator probably has a tour (or seven) that will suit. To make it easier to find and book tours on the go, Viator’s app brings the catalog to your phone—even finding what’s near you based on your location. You can book same-day tours in some cases, find tours that help you avoid long entrance lines, and tickets booked through the app are saved on your phone. 

19. SANDEMANs New Europe

SANDEMAN has been giving free tours in a growing list of cities for more than a decade, and now covers 17 European cities. Each basic city tour is free—the idea being that each traveler tips the guide based on how useful, entertaining, or educational they thought the experience was. There are also several other paid tour options in each place. So, if you enjoy the free tour, you can book another one right away with the app.

20. TripDoc

Any travel lover who is constantly accumulating recommendations for future (potential) adventures—from friends, TV shows, magazines, etc.—knows how annoying it is to finally take a trip and not remember where you put all those little notes. Enter TripDoc, a guide to any city in the world that you create by adding pinpoints to city maps. Save notes about each tip to help jog your memory (such as a specific recommended dish at a restaurant or who gave you the tip). Then, when you're visiting a city saved in your TripDoc library, the map will show you where those recommended spots are in comparison to where you are. No more substandard meals because you're hungry only to find out later that a restaurant your friend told you about was just around the corner.

21. Rick Steves Audio Europe

Bring everyone’s favorite Euro-geek on your European trip with the Rick Steves Audio Europe app. Choose the destinations you’ll be visiting and the information you’ll want to have on hand—including plenty of travel tips and an excellent selection of free audio guided tours—and download them to your device when you have WiFi. Then, it’s all available offline so you don’t have to worry about data charges while traveling.

22. Spotted by Locals

When you’re not fortunate enough to have friends all over the world, Spotted by Locals is a good alternative. Locals populate the database with personal tips for the city they live in and love, giving travelers a chance to explore beyond the usual list of sights and restaurants. The goal, besides helping travelers enjoy trips, is to ease the burden of overtourism on some places while promoting others that may not get their fair share of traveler love. The app’s maps and tips are all available offline, and new tips are constantly being added.

23. TripScout

TripScout curates articles and videos from more than 1,200 publishers, local experts, bloggers, and influencers and puts them all in one place. Every recommendation is mapped to a point of interest—a shop, restaurant, monument, etc.—so when you find one you like, just click and add it to your itinerary.

The Best Travel Apps for Places to Eat in Europe 

24. the fork.

What started as “La Fourchette” (French for “The Fork”) became TripAdvisor’s The Fork in 2014. Now, instead of focusing just on restaurants in a few European countries, The Fork allows diners to search for and book tables at thousands of restaurants across nine European countries. Filter your search based on dietary restrictions or average price per person, see your options by neighborhood, and—at some restaurants—take advantage of special offers if you book through The Fork.

25. Happy Cow

Finding vegetarian and vegan restaurants around the world is made easier with the Happy Cow app. The listings cover more than 180 countries, and after browsing the options and saving ideas to your trips, you can access the information offline when you’re out and about. Refine your searches to places that are vegetarian, completely vegan, or just have vegetarian options on the menu.

Bonus: Going

Before you travel in Europe, you’ve got to travel to Europe, and Going can help you get there for less. Every day, we send members amazing flight deals—up to 90% off regular prices—to Europe and other destinations around the world, including the US. 

Our team of Flight Experts spends hundreds of hours every week searching for deals, and when we find a great deal, we send it to our members, along with all the information they need to find and book the deal directly with the airline or on a site like Kayak or Priceline. And when we say great deal, we mean great, like $383 roundtrip nonstop from San Francisco to Paris or $394 roundtrip nonstop from Chicago to Iceland.

We don’t send deals for ultra-last-minute flights, deals with limited availability, or flights that require a bunch of long layovers. We don’t take any commissions when you book a deal we send, so our only goal is to send you a deal you’ll love. On average, our members save $550 per ticket off regular prices.

Check out our list of the best flight booking apps and join Going for free to get amazing cheap flight deals delivered right to your inbox.

Founder & Chief Flight Expert

Published September 19, 2023

Last updated December 21, 2023

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The Best Travel Apps for Europe: Don’t Leave Home Without These Must-Downloads!

Last Updated: October 25, 2023

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One of the most important things to do before you travel abroad is ensuring you have all the best travel apps you need for your trip. Below, you’ll find my top recommendations. 

Whether you need to book transportation, organize your itinerary, find cheap food, or pack your suitcase, I promise you my friend, there’s an app for that.

SO, if you have a Europe trip planned soon, bookmark this page, grab a coffee and get ready to download your thumbs off.

Below, you’ll find a curated list of the BEST travel apps for Europe that will make your life a million times easier abroad…

Which of course means less time crying and more time stuffing your face!

Best of all, the travel apps in this list are mostly free.

Not into reading? Catch a video version of this guide here.

Save this list of Europe Travel Apps for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

Download for iOS | Download for Android

TripIt is a magical app that organizes your hotel bookings, flights, tickets and all in one place… the best thing is, it does it automatically through scanning your inbox for confirmation emails.

If you’re planning a long trip with multiple stops, hotels, modes of transport, etc. to worry about, then TripIt is a great tool for organizing everything in one neat place. Although the automatic import can sometimes be finicky, all you need to do is forward emails to [email protected] and it detects all the information automatically from there.

2. Google Maps

Odds are 99% of you already have Google Maps downloaded on your phone, but it really is one of the most helpful apps out there for travelling.

I love to use it for not just navigating, but for also saving places I’m interested in. Whenever I find a cool cafe, attraction or spot I want to visit somewhere, I star it on my Google Maps so that way when I’m in a city exploring, I can easily see worthwhile spots that are nearby.

I also like to use it to find food, cafes, attractions near me through search. Saving maps for offline use is a huge perk of this app as well, and here’s a cool trick: you can easily save a spot for offline use by typing in OK Maps.

Maps.me is another good app with offline maps but I prefer a Google Maps because I’m more used to it.

When travelling around Europe, you have a lot of options in terms of how to get from one place to the other. Between trains, planes and buses, the choices are pretty overwhelming, BUT Omio is a great app that allows you to search and compare different transportation options all in one place and even sort the options by what’s cheapest, fastest, and by time.

This is one of the handiest apps you can use while planning your trip and while I love flight apps like Google Flights or Skyscanner , Omio just covers more ground in terms of options so this is definitely one to keep on your phone.

4. Google Translate

If you’re travelling in a foreign country where you don’t speak the language, having the Google Translate app is an absolute must.

Of course, when you are connected to the Internet, you can use it to search up translations in a bunch of different languages but what you should also do is save the languages you’ll be encountering most for offline use. This way, with data or without, you can translate phrases here and there which will come in very handy. Another little known tool is the image scan translation tool which you can use to translate things like signs and menus.

Another great translation app is SayHi and its main focus is voice translations so you can have a way to connect with locals in a destination even if you don’t speak the language.

All you have to do is select the language you’re speaking, the language you’re translating to and speak into it. Then a voice will read a translation out loud. I’ll be honest, the translations aren’t always perfect, but it helps you get your point across and can be a great way to break the ice if you have trouble being understood.

Click here to sign up for a FREE card!

Download app for iOS | Download app for Android

If you want a functional debit or credit card to use when you’re in Europe that charges you no foreign transaction fees, then you need to look into Revolut . I’ve been using them for years!

Making an account takes minutes, it can all be done on your phone, and then you get a free card shipped to you within a few days. With it, you’re able to top up your card and transfer money between currencies at the interbank exchange rate which means lots of potential savings, and a separate card you can use for payments and even ATM withdrawals. The app is also great for tracking your expenses, quick money transfers within Europe and they even have premium cards that come with perks like travel insurance and lounge access.

If you’re travelling long term in Europe or even coming here as an expat, this is an amazing service you need to take advantage of. Click here to learn more.

7. Splitwise

If you’re travelling with another person or a group of people, Splitwise is an app that will 1000% save your friendships, relationships, marriages, whatever.

It’s a finance app that allows you to input expenses as you go, so if you paid for hotels and your friend got flights, or you got lunch and your friend got coffees, you can have an accurate record of who paid for what so nobody is bitter about paying more or owing someone lots of money. It also takes out the stress of doing the math, or the awkwardness of going full loan shark, so it’s amazing, I highly recommend it.

If packing stresses you out, first of all – check out my article on Packing Tips , but also if you need help creating easy Packing Lists, Packr is an amazing app that lets you input your destination, your dates, trip details and then it magically creates a packing list for you based on weather forecasts and what kind of activities you’ll be doing.

You can change the quantity of items, add items, and if you pay for the premium version, you can also customize lists a lot more and even integrate it with TripIt! If you get packing anxiety, this is a great app to have.

9. GetYourGuide

Browse the regular GetYourGuide website here

If you’re a fan of tours, attractions and activities, one handy app to download is GetYourGuide which is an aggregator for different activities that has great selection in Europe. From walking tours and skip-the-line-tickets to experiences like cooking classes, you can book and pay all through the app which takes the hassle out of finding a good activity. I like to vet them based on reviews! They also have a best price guarantee so if you can find a place that does the same tour for cheaper, they’ll pay you the difference which is pretty amazing.

10. PolarSteps

If you want an easy way to log your travels and keep a journal of your trip in a seamless way, PolarSteps is a great travel tracking app that automatically records your trips for you by syncing with your phones location and camera roll.

This means you can easily keep track of your travels, edit stops, add photos, write down little notes, all within one easy app. At the end of your trip, you can even order a pretty photo book based on your trip info too, which would make a great souvenir!

11. Too Good to Go

If you are on more of a budget and want to save some money on food, one great app to download for your Europe trip is called TooGoodToGo, a wonderful app that aims to reduce food waste by selling the leftover food from restaurants for really cheap.

You basically hop on the app, which is live in many major European cities, and you can place orders with different restaurants to pick up meals at certain hours for less than 5 bucks.

You don’t usually get to pick what you get, but it’s a great way to eat affordably and help keep good, edible food out of the landfill.

12. HotelTonight

Sometimes in travel, you want to be spontaneous or you’re forced to be spontaneous because something has gone wrong.

HotelTonight is a great app for these moments.

They curate cheap last minute hotel deals for the day-of so you can get very cheap stays with last-minute notice.

They also do this thing called the daily drop where there’s one very especially cheap deal for that day, so it’s a good app to keep on your phone in case you get stranded somewhere and need to find a place to stay.

13. Booking.com

Booking.com is another great accommodation app to have on your phone. My favourite thing about Booking is they have a lot of great hotels with lax cancellation policies so if your plans aren’t set in stone but you want a place to stay just in case, you can easily reserve a spot and then cancel.

Many places let you cancel up to the day before with no penalty, so it’s a very handy app with great functionality and allows you to browse a lot of hotels at once.

I book 90% of my hotels through them and have never had an issue.

14. FreeNow

If you expect to be taking taxis at some point during your Europe trip, a great app you should download is called FreeNow, formerly known as MyTaxi.

It works very similarly to Uber or Lyft except the main difference is you use it to order an actual taxi, and you can pay either in-person or with the app.

This is awesome because it can help you avoid taxi scams which are unfortunately very common in major European cities, and it also allows you to easily hail a taxi wherever you are.

15. City Mapper

If you’re visiting some major cities during your Europe trip, like London, Paris, Rome, Brussels, and dozens more, odds are you’ll be able to use City Mapper, an amazing free transport/map app that is great.

It helps you find the best way from Point A to Point B in a city with different options including public transport, walking and cycling.

I find it’s often more accurate than Google Maps in some cities, and the best part is you can save journeys for offline use or even use aspects of the app online, which is PERFECT for cities like London where you get zero service underground.

16. WiFi Map

In terms of necessities when you travel, I would say the order would go water, food, and then WiFi. If you don’t have access to data during your trip, then WiFi is this precious little life source that you will be scouring the streets for like some Internet-deprived zombie.

WiFi map is an awesome app that crowdsources information about WiFi networks and passwords so you can open it up and see at a glance where there is WiFi near you, and even passwords to certain networks!

Sure this information is all crowdsourced so there’s the potential for outdated passwords, but it’s very handy to see at least where you might be able to get some free WiFi.

The app is free but the ads can be a little distracting, so there’s also a premium version if you want it.

17. Rick Steves Audio Europe

If you’ve ever turned on a TV or walked into the travel section of a bookstore, odds are you know Rick Steves.

If you don’t, he’s kind of like an OG Europe travel wizard who has been writing guidebooks and filming TV shows about Europe since I was… probably a fetus.

SO, the point is Rick Steves knows his stuff and he also has a very delightful speaking voice and a great app where you can download self-guided tours and other fun audio files to listen to.

18. XE Currency

Conversion rates can be really confusing, especially when you visit multiple countries in Europe because contrary to popular belief, not everybody is on the euro…. so to avoid any surprises, or to avoid getting scammed, be sure to download the XE currency app on your phone, which will give you a quick and easy way to make currency conversions without stressing out.

19. GlobeTips

Download for iOS

If tipping culture really freaks you out, then this simple app is a great one to keep in your pocket because it allows you to quickly take a peek at general norms for tipping in your current country, and even has a built in tip calculator that you can use to figure out a fair tip or a great tip based on your bill.

Its free version is functional but you can choose to unlock a pro version for full detailed tipping guides.

20. Happy Cow

While veggie and vegan options are rapidly growing all around Europe, sometimes it can still be a challenge to find good plant-based options when you travel.

Happy Cow is an app that makes it easier, and although it’s a paid app, it aggregates a lot of reviews and restaurant listings to help you find places to eat abroad as a vegetarian or vegan.

All my veggie friends swear by it, so if food is a priority for you when you’re in Europe, be sure to download it!

Did I Miss Any of Your Favourite Europe Travel Apps?

Let me know in the comments so I can add more app recommendations to the list.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

5 thoughts on “The Best Travel Apps for Europe: Don’t Leave Home Without These Must-Downloads!”

Thanks for the great app suggestions!

Hi, Wow!! What a lot of wonder app information. We’re heading to Italy so all of these will be very useful. Thank you so much and safe travels.

hi there – great article. Thought I’ll also share – I came across this app ATM Fee Saver – it gives atm fees and withdrawal limits in some 30-40 countries and all major countries of Europe, it was super helpful, much needed these days. Helped me calculate my own fees also for my amount. Never seen anything like this before – should defo be on your list also, it will helps lots of other international travellers like me!!!

Wow! Excellent curation of some of the wonderful app. As we are about to start our trip to Europe this has been very handy. Just what we wanted. Thanks for all the efforts

You’re welcome! So happy you found it helpful!

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The Only 12 Apps You Need for Traveling to Europe

Traveling to Europe have become almost impossible without assistance of various travel apps. And while choosing the right apps can be very overwhelming, these 12 apps is all you need to feel like a local when traveling Europe.

Gone are the days when guide books and maps were occupying much-needed space in your luggage when traveling to Europe. Together with extra weight, constant feeling of worry and anxiety also disappears way before your adventure starts. Nowadays, the travel apps permanently replace the old travel supporting materials making your travels easier, more convenient, and most important stress-free. However, with the new apps appearing almost every months, it’s getting harder to choose the right ones for traveling to Europe. As Europe attracts more and more travelers, it becomes the biggest target for the new travel apps.

I’m not the most tech-savvy person. Moreover, I don’t like the idea of letting the travel apps control my plans. And yet, when traveling to Europe, I alway use a handful of travel apps. Not too many, just enough to book all my flights, rides, sightseeing activities, and find the best vegan food. Saying that, here are the apps I use for my European travels.

HERE ARE THE ONLY 12 APPS YOU REALLY NEED WHEN TRAVELING TO EUROPE:

The best travel apps for transportation in europe.

1. Google Flights

First thing first, you need to book your flight to Europe. Google Flights is one of the first apps I came across when planning my European travels. I still use it majority of the time. In fact, I can search for greater deals elsewhere and come back and book my flight through Google Flights. I guess, you can call it a love from the first use. On top of helping you to pick the best deals, Google Flights gives you the most affordable prices a few months in advance. Thus, indirectly it even plans the best time for your European travel.

2. Skyscanner

Similar to Google Flights, Skyscanner is one of the best apps to book your flights to Europe. Moreover, it can suggest you the cheapest flight from your destinations. Although, I still prefer planning majority of my trips to Europe with Google Flights, Skyscanner comes in handy as the second best option. This travel app is especially useful when you’re not sure where to go. In that case you can simply enter the word “everywhere” in your final destination line. The app will give a list of the best places to travel to starting with the cheapest. With Skyscanner, I was able to find a flight from Los Angeles to Dublin for $230.

When it comes to traveling in Europe, Omio is one of my go-to travel apps. Formerly GoEurope, Omio suggests the best routes and transportation options from trains to planes, and buses. It even helps you with booking local trips such as a ride from a city center to the airport. Once stumbled upon this travel app when planning our yearly trip to Europe, I can’t stop using it.

Uber is one of the travel apps that is not limited to only traveling to Europe. Nevertheless, it’s very useful especially when you’re not in a hurry to use public transportation. This ride sharing app helps with fast, reliable, and cheaper than regular taxi rides in minutes any time of the day. 

5. FREE NOW (mytaxi)

Unfortunately, you can’t always rely on Uber when traveling in Europe as some counties restrict or prohibit Uber services. In that case turn to FREE NOW, once known as mytaxi. Just as Uber, FREE NOW offers effortless taxi booking. It covers over 100 European cities making traveling here more convenient. Moreover, in some countries that allow booking taxi services from both Uber and FREE NOW, the latter offers slightly better deals.

6. Google Map

Nowadays, you hardly see travelers exploring Europe with old-fashioned maps. Instead, you see them peering at their phones from time to time or following directions provided by Google Map app. Regarded as one of the best travel apps, this popular application provides the best routes for traveling in Europe by car, train, bicycle, and even on foot. Make sure to download offline maps before your European trip in case your Internet connection is slow or absent.

7. Citymapper

Citymapper is another powerful app to use when traveling to Europe. It combines public transit maps for buses, trams, and subways with real-time schedules and offers transit status updates. Be sure to save your routes to the app to use it when WiFi is unavailable.

The Best Travel Apps for Communication and Conversion in Europe

8. Google Translate

Google apps make traveling to Europe so much easier and convenient. Even when it comes to such a big issue as communicating in different languages, Google is ahead of the game with its Google Translate app. The app intends to help you translating between over 100 languages. You can either type the word or phrase or speak it into the microphone in order to get it translated. Google Translate even enables translating text in real-time using the phone’s camera.

Read more: How Do You Actually Learn a New Language?

9. GlobeConvert

With different currencies and physical units, GlobeConvert is one of your best apps to use when traveling through different countries in Europe. This simple app converts over 160 currencies and more than 350 physical units.

The Best Travel Apps for Booking Your Activities when Traveling in Europe

When traveling in Europe, you want to see as much as possible and visit as many places as you can. Unfortunately, finding appropriate guided tours can be overwhelming at times. Viator’s app solves this problem and gathers the best guided or self tours in the area for you to choose from. You can even book same-day tours like I did in Amsterdam . This app is a great way to take away the hustle from your European travel plans.

11. Booking

Although Booking or booking.com is better known for booking accommodation, it offers some great options for discounted tours and trips when traveling in Europe. Similar to Viator, this app has tours that suit everybody. Moreover, after booking a hotel through this company, Booking emails you list of things to see and do in your new city with a discount rate up to 15%. I couldn’t pass on these offers and saved enough for additional two tours when traveling in the Netherlands and Ireland .

The Best Travel Apps for Places to Eat when Traveling in Europe

12. HappyCow

Traveling in some parts of Europe can be a real issue for vegan and vegetarian. But not that often if you use HappyCow app. The listings cover well over 100 countries. You can refine your searches to places that are strictly vegan, vegetarian, or both.

You may also enjoy:

Unfading treasures of the vatican, travel vision board: travel goals for 2018, how to spend 4 days in amsterdam, 10 essentials to pack for your next alaska road trip.

hi there, thanks for the reco on Omio, super helpful. Ill share with you another app that was super useful to me – its called ATM Fee Saver – helps in many countries to find the fee free ATMs or cheaper ATMs available. Could see the atm fees and withdrawal limits and calculated fees with what looked like an easy calculator inside the app. Was a life saver as ATM fees abroad can really add up! You can try it out!

I will. Thank you!

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The Best Road Trip Apps That Help You Find Cheap Gas, Avoid Traffic, and More

Download these before you hit the highway.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Carmen Martínez Torrón/Getty Images

Technology has revolutionized the way we travel in countless ways. Paper maps and GPS navigation systems have been replaced by Google and Apple Maps, old-school CDs by music streaming services, and guidebooks by apps that can notify road-trippers of roadside attractions in real time. One thing is certain: the smartphone has made road trips infinitely easier and, arguably, cheaper.

Whether you need a digital road trip planner to map out your next journey or something to help you avoid traffic jams, here are 11 of the best road trip apps to download ahead of your next adventure.

Roadtrippers

Roadtrippers is one of the most practical and popular road trip planning apps out there. Maybe you want to see national parks or the quirkiest roadside attractions. Perhaps you want to stop for the night at an iconic or underrated hotel. You can plan your stops right in the app, adding up to three waypoints for free or 150 with a Roadtrippers Premium account. There are also Basic and Pro memberships that allot you 20 and 50 waypoints per trip, respectively. The higher-tier memberships allow you to collaborate with friends and family and use navigation. The app features lodging, sights, outdoorsy destinations, restaurants, activities, shopping, fuel, and more all around the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

The app is free, but you have to upgrade to a membership plan to enjoy all the bells and whistles. The Basic plan costs $40 a year, the Pro plan $50 a year, and the Premium $60 a year. It's available on iOS and Android .

Google Maps

Every road-tripper needs a trusty navigation app in their arsenal, and Google Maps is consistently one of the most — if not the most — downloaded in the U.S. every year. Its dominance can be attributed to how comprehensive its data is, which allows it to generate the very best directions based on distance, road conditions, and traffic patterns.

Google Maps gives you route options and provides accurate estimates of how long it takes to get from A to B. Plus, you can plot several waypoints along your route — be it a mid-morning coffee stop or a hotel for overnighting (you can see reviews right in the app).

Google Maps is free and available on iOS and Android .

Waze is another one of the top navigation apps. With real-time updates that help you avoid traffic jams, construction, and more, it will have you navigating new cities and unfamiliar streets like a seasoned local. It's perhaps a little more proactive than Google Maps in changing up a route when problems arise, and that means Waze users should prepare for their drive to be a little unpredictable.

No one wants to spend hours sitting in traffic instead of exploring, so the fact that Waze collects data from other drivers to streamline the driving experience is a huge help. The app is free and available on iOS and Android .

Paying for fuel can eat up a good chunk of your road trip budget, but GasBuddy can save you a few bucks. The app crowdsources up-to-date fuel prices for more than 150,000 gas stations around the U.S. and Canada. The app also tells you how recent the submission is so you know whether it's outdated.

GasBuddy is not just helpful for finding cheap gas but also for finding gas stations in general (and parking), which can be difficult in foreign territory. The app is free and can be downloaded on iOS and Android . While using it, be a good road-tripper and submit gas prices you see as you travel.

Roadside America

Barry Winiker/Getty Images

The offbeat and kitschy roadside attractions you can find throughout the U.S. are often some of the most delightful parts of a road trip. The Roadside America app helps you find the most unique attractions worth stopping for, like the large sculpture of a cartoon mouse holding a cheese platter in Plain, Wisconsin — where else? — or the decidedly odd larger-than-life-sized three-way electrical plug that rests on a lawn in Philadelphia. The app features museums, murals, tours, quirky restaurants, and photo ops.

Roadside America costs $3 to download, which gets you access to one region in the app. You can purchase more regions for $2 or get access to all of the U.S. and Canada for an extra $7. The app is available only on iOS .

iExit Interstate Exit Guide

Knowing where to stop for road trip snacks, a drive-through latte, or a public restroom can be challenging with all the exit signs whizzing by at 70 mph, but iExit Interstate Exit Guide takes the guesswork out of it. The app will list which exits are coming up on your route, what's there, and what they offer — including food, lodging, fuel, and even hospitals. It pulls fuel prices from OPIS (the Oil Price Information Service) and displays Yelp reviews for businesses.

The app is free to download. Find it on both iOS and Android .

HotelTonight

Even if you've planned out all your stops ahead of time, you might find that you need to pull over for a night unexpectedly. Driving is tiring, and unplanned naps can be life-saving. HotelTonight can help you find accommodations in a pinch. The app offers day-of deals on unsold rooms, and the user-friendly interface means you can book a discounted room in minutes. There are well over 1,000 properties to choose from in cities all over the world, from Mexico City to Jakarta (in case you happen to take your road-tripping global).

It's free to download and available on iOS and Android .

If staying in a tucked-away A-frame cabin, a yurt, or a private guest house in someone's garden is more your travel style than bouncing between hotels, then Airbnb is the ticket. On the Airbnb app, you can search properties (millions in the U.S. alone) on a map and read reviews before you book, which you can do in advance or at the last minute.

The app features not just vacation homes but also activities, so if you're keen to experience a city like a local you can do so via a pottery class or a guided walking tour, for example.

The Airbnb app is free. You can download it on iOS or Android .

Patchareeporn Sakoolchai/Getty Images

Travelers who dream of camping out under the stars should download The Dyrt , a free app that helps you find tent, RV, and cabin sites across the U.S. One of the top camping apps on iOS and Android , it has more than a million registered users who submit reviews, pictures, and tips. On The Dyrt, you get real intel on campsites and a built-in community that makes camping on a road trip especially fun and safe. You can even book some of the campsites right on app.

The app is free, but there's a premium version for $36 a year that allows you to plan trips and search campsites while offline — convenient for remote regions.

What is a road trip without a perfect playlist? Whether you're keen to create a soundtrack of nostalgic singalongs, modern pop songs, or music inspired by your destination, you'll find even the most obscure tunes on Spotify , a catalog of more than 100 million tracks. When you tire of Taylor Swift, you can turn to podcasts or an audiobook to keep you company. Road trips are a great opportunity to delve into a docuseries like "Serial," an all-time favorite.

Spotify is free to download and listen to, but the ad breaks are annoying and streaming can chew through your phone data. A better option is to purchase a premium membership for $11 a month. It's ad-free and you can download music to listen to offline. The Spotify app is available on iOS and Android .

Electric vehicles are increasingly commonplace and great for more environmentally friendly road-tripping. The problem is often finding charging stations, as most EVs can go 100 to 300 miles before they need to be plugged in. PlugShare lists 700,000 charging stations across North America, Europe, and beyond. Users share their reviews of the stations, helping to guide EV drivers to the best, fastest, and most reliable charging spots.

PlugShare is free and available to download on iOS and Android .

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The 10 Best Road Trip Planner Apps for 2024

Save time, money, and energy with these apps so you can focus on the fun instead

• University of Ontario
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We love road trips! Planning them can be fun but, let's be honest, also stressful. The right road trip planner apps can take some of that stress away by helping you plan, organize, and manage travel before and during your trip. We've researched and tested these apps to help give you peace of mind so that you can spend more time enjoying your trip.

The Ultimate Map App for Planning Your Route: Roadtrippers

Access to free and convenient travel guides.

Share-ability so friends can join in on the planning process and suggest places to visit.

The app can use up the battery life of your device quickly. Take a car USB charger with you.

Built for travelers, Roadtrippers helps you create your route while allowing you to discover great places as you plan it out. Add a new place to your itinerary to work it into your trip.

The app features an easy-to-use interface. In addition to covering the U.S., it also covers Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

Download For:

Automate Your Trip Planning and Organization: Google Travel

Automatic trip organization via Gmail integration. 

Offline access so you can see your trip information even when you don't have an internet connection.

Limitations with customizing some day trips exactly the way you want.

You can count on Google to make your trip planning a breeze. Pre-constructed day plans are available for hundreds of the world's most popular destinations, which you can customize to your liking.

It's one of the most versatile travel planner apps out there, giving you one convenient place to see your hotel, rental car, and restaurant bookings.

Find and Book a Last-Minute Place to Stay: Hotels.com

A fast, easy-to-use booking feature.

For every 10 nights you book through Hotels.com, you get one night free, provided it's the average daily rate of those 10 nights.

No option to easily cancel if you change your mind.

Whether your road trip itinerary changed, or you haven't decided on a place to stay yet, Hotels.com can help you find a place and book it when you're on the go, even when it's super last-minute. You can sort and filter hotels, see the amenities they have to offer, compare prices, and catch a glimpse of how many rooms are available.

This is the app you'll want to have handy if you want to see in-depth hotel details at a glance and need to find a place to crash ASAP without breaking the bank.

Find Local Restaurants, Read Reviews, and Make Reservations: OpenTable

Lots of great filter options and suggestions.

Access to gorgeous, high-quality images of menu items and informative reviews from other users.

Reported problems and inconveniences with their built-in reward system.

Searching for specific restaurants is more difficult than simply looking at what's around in the area.

Deciding on a place to eat in a new area is quick and hassle-free with OpenTable. See what's nearby, filter restaurants by cuisine, see photos of what's on the menu, make reservations, and get personalized recommendations based on your preferences.

OpenTable is known to be one of the top  location-based food apps  available, so you know you can trust its information when you're dying for something to eat.

Navigate Like a Local: Waze

Hands-free navigation with voice commands.

Alerts-only mode for road hazards and police.

Share up-to-date ETA with friends.

Spotify and Apple Music widgets get in the way.

Cluttered maps can be confusing.

Higher battery usage than Google Maps.

Waze  is a community-driven travel app that shows you the shortest possible route to your destination. Like Google Maps, Waze makes real-time adjustments for traffic jams and other obstacles—but Waze is often more accurate since it caters specifically to drivers.

The app syncs with your Google Calendar and can tell you when you should leave for appointments based on traffic. There's also a cool option to record your own voice and use it for directions .

Know Exactly When and Where to Make a Pit Stop: iExit Interstate Exit Guide

Access to detailed summaries of what's at the next exit (including gas prices at nearby gas stations).

Search for the next 100 exits from your location.

The app can only be used on major U.S. exit-based highways.

No offline access, so you'll use your data plan while you're on the road.

Making a pit stop for food, gas, or a bathroom break is easy when you have the iExit app. Using your device's GPS, the app offers helpful suggestions for when and where to stop based on your location along the highway.

Whether you're looking for well-known franchises like Starbucks and Walmart to convenient amenities like free Wi-Fi and truck or trailer parking, this app has you covered.

Find the Cheapest Fuel Nearby: GasBuddy

An in-app gas payment feature.

Opportunity to save 10 cents per gallon on your first fill-up and five cents per gallon on every fill-up after.

The app can take up a lot of data and battery life as it runs in the background.

GasBuddy is an app specifically designed to find nearby gas stations and save money on gas. Use it to find the cheapest gas in your area and filter gas stations by amenities like car washes, restaurants, and bathrooms.

It's the app you want to have if you're serious about finding the cheapest gas around. Information comes from users like you, so you have the most up-to-date prices.

Download For :

Never Forget an Item: PackPoint Premium Packing List

Access to a built-in library of items to pack with the ability to add or remove items as needed. 

An elegant, intuitive app interface.

Can't input multiple destinations for a single trip.

Not a free app.

PackPoint helps you make sure you have everything you need based on where you're going and what you're doing. In addition, the app takes into consideration the length of your trip and the expected weather conditions. Perhaps best of all, this app turns a mundane chore into something that's actually quite fun.

Find Out Where to Park and How Much It Will Cost: Inrix ParkMe

ParkMe is the only app that also includes street parking and parking meter rates where available, in addition to parking lots.

Real-time updates on available parking spots.

Rates and hours may be inaccurate in some areas.

ParkMe claims to be the world's largest and most accurate parking database. It allows you to purchase your parking spot through the app and compare prices across parking providers to help you save more money.

If you're road tripping around major cities in the U.S., Canada, or Europe, this app can be a huge help. You can even compare parking options and prices so that you always get the best deal.

Automate Your Itinerary: TripIt

Automatically creates itineraries from your inbox.

Widget displays trip details on your home screen.

Annoying amount of alerts by default.

If you're planning a trip, you'll likely have a lot of confirmation emails for hotels, appointments, restaurants, and attractions. TripIt syncs with your inbox and uses that information to compile an itinerary so that you don't have to scramble for it.

The free version is fine for road trips, but if you ever fly, the premium version gives you the option to upgrade seats and track reward miles.

In addition to your phone, laptop, and tablet, other travel tech essentials include chargers, headphones, travel adapters, cameras, luggage trackers, and off-grid communications

Yes. You can use Google Maps as a trip planner through the “Places” and “My Maps” features. Both the Google Maps website and app let you save locations to lists and get directions.

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15 Best Road Trips In Europe For Your Bucket List

June 30, 2020 //  by  Follow Me Away //   Leave a Comment

Planning the best European road trip possible with so many fantastic countries and routes to choose from can be a daunting task. To help you out, we’ve put together this collection of the 15 best road trips in Europe that you definitely won’t want to miss.

From the volcanoes and glaciers of Iceland and the castle ruins of Scotland to the colorful streets of Italy and the Roman ruins of Croatia, each country has an abundance of spectacular experiences to offer.

It’s impossible to go wrong when choosing a road trip around Europe from this list. You’ll find architectural masterpieces in France and magical landscapes in Norway, and both will take your breath away.

We hope you’ll get the same thrill driving around this remarkable continent as we have. So pack up your bags, download your Europe road trip planner apps, and let the adventures begin!

Don’t forget to check out our Detailed Road Trip Packing List so you don’t forget any essentials for your trip!

Tools To Use For Planning Your Europe Road Trip

Europe road trip planner apps will be crucial for optimizing your adventurous vacations around the continent.

Whether you’re driving the remote winding roads of Iceland’s Westfjords or navigating a compact car through Italy’s narrow streets, these apps will be extremely helpful as you road trip Europe.

We have these downloaded on our own smartphones to use each time we embark on a new road trip around Europe.

Let’s say you’re planning an Iceland Ring Road trip and want to carefully map out ahead of time where you’ll be able to get gas along the route and how much of a dent it will put in your wallet. GasBuddy is perfect for that.

Or maybe you’re tackling a Germany road trip with a handful of your closest friends and don’t want to deal with the headache of determining who owes who how much money. Splitwise has you covered.

Whether you’re tracking the weather or finding the perfect Kindlebook to pass the time, be sure to take advantage of these apps to make your Euro road trip as easy and seamless as possible.

How To Use Google Maps To Plan Your Road Trip

If there’s any one Europe road trip planner app you’ll want to make sure you have pulled up and ready to go, it has to be Google Maps .

When you plan a road trip in Europe through Google Maps, you’ll have nearly everything you need to know for the trip in one place.

Google Maps allows you to mark every stop along the route and tells you how long it will take you to drive from place to place.

The app also allows you to color code, which can be used any number of ways from separating different types of activities by color, marking attractions, hotels, and restaurants in different colors, or collaborating as a group and contributing your own suggestions in a different color than the rest of your adventure team.

And if you’re going to be out in the middle of nature far from the strong cell phone reception of the city, you can download maps ahead of time to access them offline as you road trip Europe and its more remote locations.

However you choose to use the app, it can be an integral part of your planning process to allow you to sit back and be in the moment when the actual trip begins.

15 Best Road Trips in Europe

Iceland road trip highlights.

• Seljalandsfoss
• Reynisfjara Black Sand Beach
• Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon

Iceland is easily the best European road trip if you’re looking for an entire trip spent basking in a uniquely beautiful natural landscape. Iceland’s nature is magical, powerful, and varies drastically throughout the country.

One day you might be walking the rim of a volcanic caldera and the next you could be bathing in a natural geothermal hot spring with snow lacing the edges of the pool.

From the northern lights to the midnight summer sun and natural hot springs to glacier lagoons, Iceland is wildly inspiring and stunning at every turn. Adventure lovers can’t help but fall in love with the land of fire and ice.

If you have a week or two to explore we suggest driving the full Iceland Ring Road around the country, hitting nearly all of Iceland’s most jaw-dropping sites.

If you’re limited on time, consider taking a South Coast road trip from Reykjavik to the glacier lagoon and back or sticking to the famous Golden Circle route .

Whatever route you choose, you’re sure to return home in awe of nature’s ability to create such remarkable masterpieces. Iceland is a true natural wonderland.

Scotland Road Trip Highlights

• Kilchurn Castle
• Isle of Skye

This particular road trip in Europe will take you to the beautiful country of Scotland in the northern part of the United Kingdom.

Scotland is home to fluffy, adorable highland cows, an endless string of striking castles, plenty of picturesque lochs, and so much more. It has rightfully earned its place among the best road trips in Europe.

Have you ever dreamed of castle hopping or capturing Kilchurn Castle, one of the most photographed castles in all of Scotland, with your very own camera? There’s an entire stretch of mountainous landscape between Glasgow and Glencoe where you can do just that.

Are you fascinated by the history of the Jacobite Rising and excited to visit the Culloden Battlefield east of Inverness that is memorialized in the TV show Outlander ? Or perhaps you’ve decided that despite the obvious tourist traps, you absolutely have to visit Loch Ness, home of the legendary monster.

This Scotland road trip takes you from one intriguing location to the next including the famous Isle of Skye with its Fairy Pools and rugged mountains.

Edinburgh, the capital, is no slouch either, offering its own castle, panoramic views, and charming architecture. Though Scotland is also known for its moody weather, don’t let that deter you from enjoying the abundance of wonders this road trip around Europe has to offer.

Tuscany Road Trip Highlights

• Val d-Orcia countryside
• Pisa (Leaning Tower of Pisa and Tunnel Di Pini)

If you’re looking to explore one of the most beautiful regions of Italy, a Tuscany road trip is the best European road trip for you.

You’ll be happy to know that in addition to the alluring sites and landscapes of Tuscany, you’ll begin and end your road trip in Florence where the statue of David, Boboli Gardens, and Duomo await you.

After reveling in the sites of Florence, prepare to be swept off your feet as you enter Tuscany with its rolling countryside, delectable wine, stunning views from the coast, and ancient cities.

This road trip can easily be tailored to your time limitations. If you have a week to soak it all in, plan on spending a day or two at many of the locations to get the full scope of their charm and beauty.

The route can technically be driven in about 8 hours so if you’re limited to a day or even half a day you can pick and choose the stops you’re most drawn to and save the rest for a return trip!

Tuscany is truly magical with its sunsets over sprawling hills of green, tree tunnel, wineries, castles, and churches. This is the kind of memorable road trip Europe has to offer, and we have no doubt it will not disappoint.

Ireland Road Trip Highlights

• Ring of Kerry
• Dingle Peninsula
• Cliffs of Moher

We’ve been fortunate enough to have explored Ireland extensively and it’s one of our favorite places to visit. The Emerald Isle is sure to come through for you as one of the best road trips in Europe you’ve ever been on.

You’ll be starting your road trip in Dublin, the largest city in the Republic of Ireland, but we suggest making it just a brief stay before venturing out to see the magic beyond.

The itinerary will take you through tourist hot spots like the famous Cliffs of Moher as well as lesser-known gems off the beaten path such as Westport and Achill Island.

As you plan your road trip through Ireland , start daydreaming about the imposing Rock of Cashel ruin perched on a hill surrounded by roaming sheep, the flow of the beautiful Toc Waterfall in Killarney, and the mountainous landscapes of Glenveagh National Park, because these wonders are all on your itinerary.

If you have the time, we suggest heading up to Northern Ireland as well to admire the castles, beaches, and cliffs of the Causeway Coast.

If you have a week or less you’ll want to adapt this itinerary to your schedule by only doing the upper or lower half, or picking and choosing the stops that most appeal to you. If you’re fortunate enough to have a couple of weeks to explore, you should be able to tackle the whole trip and not feel rushed.

UK Road Trip Highlights

The UK consists of England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, all of which contain more than enough culture and history for you to digest in one trip.

If you’re a Jane Austen fan, a Manchester United or Manchester City die-hard supporter, or have always dreamed of standing in the middle of the two concentric circles that make up the mysterious prehistoric monument, Stonehenge, then a UK road tri p might just be the best road trip in Europe for you.

We’ve laid out an itinerary for you that will begin in London where you can take in the iconic London sites such as Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, and the Tower of London. Not a bad way to start off a road trip.

The rest of your journey will take you to the stunning cliffside views in Dorset, the Roman baths and hot springs in Bath, the castles in the Cotswolds , and beyond.

Excited to explore the courtyards and buildings of Edinburgh Castle, marvel at the stained-glass windows in the towering York Minster, or hike the mountains in Scotland’s Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park? You can do all of that too.

Your UK road trip is full of historical sites, architectural masterpieces, and sweeping landscapes that take your breath away. Feel free to adjust this itinerary how you see fit and enjoy immersing yourself in the UK!

Germany Road Trip Highlights

• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Roman Ruins In Trier
• Brandenburg Gate
• Museum Island
• Nuremberg Christmas Market

Remember the fairytale castle you’ve seen on puzzle boxes and postcards? That’s Neuschwanstein castle and it’s on your Germany road trip itinerary along with a handful of other stunning castles.

But the fun doesn’t stop there. Many parts of Germany are graced with the most beautiful natural landscapes. You’ll stare at your reflection in dreamy lakes, admire the vibrant fall leaves in the forests, and stare in awe as the Alps create a picturesque backdrop.

Germany also has a wildly vast array of architectural wonders spanning many different time periods, from the Roman ruins in Trier and medieval castles in the Mosel Valley to the Gothic cathedral Frauenkirche in Munich and Stuttgart’s city library.

Germany is always good for festive activities as well whether it’s consuming large quantities of beer at Oktoberfest or drinking Glühwein and buying your fair share of ornaments at the Nuremberg Christmas Market.

These joyful experiences are balanced with more sobering ones as well such as visiting the Dachau concentration camp, the Nazi party rally grounds, or the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. Though emotionally trying, these stops are important as a reminder of Germany’s dark past and an affirmation that it will not be repeated.

With so much to do, see, and learn, you’ll find that Germany is among the best road trips in Europe.

Italy Road Trip Highlights

An Italy road trip will take you through some of the most fantastic sweeping views whether it’s the rolling hills of Val d’Orcia, the dreamy reflections in the Lago di Braies, or the coastal views from Cinque Terre.

There’s no shortage of attractive architecture as well. You’ll visit the impressive Roman Coliseum and will be blown away by the Milan Cathedral, while also admiring the vibrant collection of buildings that make up so many charming Italian towns.

Throw in delicious food, hot springs, and picturesque hikes as well and you have yourself a truly enviable Euro road trip.

Whether you’re planning a romantic honeymoon, an outdoor adventure trip in the Dolomites, or just want to explore a beautiful country, Italy will be there for you with the best Europe road trip to fit your needs.

Be aware that driving in Italy is not always the easiest. Most cars are manual and you’ll definitely want a compact car to navigate the narrow Italian streets.

Parking can be tough to find in Cinque Terre, and you won’t be driving in Venice. There’s also parking fees and many tolls.

Despite these difficulties, it’s worth it to rent a car to explore this magical country on your own terms.

Switzerland Road Trip Highlights

• Lauterbrunnen

If you’re looking for the quintessential image of natural beauty, Switzerland is the best European road trip for you. This stunning country has the majestic mountains and pristine lakes of your dreams.

The natural beauty combined with winding mountain roads makes for a road trip experience for the books.

Staring at the famous Matterhorn mountain peak draped in snow with a steaming cup of coffee in your hand is enough to make you giddy with joy, but we’re telling you that you can ski, hike, boat, raft, and mountain bike on top of that. What more could an adventure lover ask for?

Your Switzerland road trip will lead you from dazzling sunsets over the curving Lake Zurich and panoramic views from the rotating cable car to the Titlis Glacier to Italian-like charm in Lugano and the 72 waterfalls of Lauterbrunnen.

The country is truly a nature lover’s paradise. Beyond that, the major cities are full of architectural beauty including the historic churches in Zurich and the famous clock tower in Bern.

And if all that’s not enough, you’re sure to find the most excellent chocolate, particularly if you take the Chocolate Flavors Tour in Geneva.

Regardless of how much time you have to complete all or parts of this road trip, you’ll be in for the adventure of a lifetime on this enviable Euro road trip. The relatively small size of the country means that even a few days will be enough to see a significant portion of the stops on this itinerary.

France Road Trip Highlights

• Mont St. Michel
• Loire Valley

Naturally, this Europe road trip will begin and end in Paris. Though the City of Light is swarming with tourists, it has to be included on a France road trip with its iconic locations such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre and the Notre Dame Cathedral.

But when you’re done taking your obligatory tourist photos, it’s time to hop in the car, because the beauty of a road trip is having the liberty to see all of France, including its charming small towns and beautiful natural landscapes.

There’s something for everyone in France whether you’re a foodie, an adventure seeker, or a history buff.

Our itinerary takes you from the home of impressionist painter Claude Monet in Giverny and the vineyards lining the riverbanks of the Loire Valley to the Roman ruins of Lyon and the largest freshwater lake, Lac du Bourget in Chambéry.

The French towns run deep with history as well as some of the most interesting architecture you’ve ever seen. A basket of pastries and a spoonful of cream never hurt anyone either.

Alter this itinerary based on however much time you have available during your trip. Then load up the car and prepare to have this spectacular country knock your socks right off.

Norway Road Trip Highlights

• Kjeragbolten Hike
• Hardangervidda National Park

If you’re looking to fjord hop, hike, and see sweeping landscapes from epic viewpoints, Norway might just be the best European road trip for you.

Norway is the stuff of dreams for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Its fjords are magical and its mountains are majestic, though exploring its impressive landscape is not for the faint of heart.

The country is full of some of the most rewarding hikes, but to reach your final destination often requires a heart-pumping grind. We recommend sticking to one hike a day so as to not completely exhaust yourself for the rest of your Norway road trip .

And let us tell you, the rest of the trip is equally thrilling from the only surviving cathedral from the Middle Ages in Stavanger to the Vøringsfossen Waterfall in Hardangervidda.

You can kayak on a fjord or relax at the lake. It truly feels like the world is your oyster as you make your way through this beautiful country.

With so many mountains and fjords to maneuver around, exploring Norway will require a lot of driving, but a road trip is the best way to have the most complete experience. Not to mention the views along the way from the car aren’t too shabby either.

Germany’s Romantic Road Highlights

• Würzburg Residence
• Rothenburg ob der Tauber
• Harburg Castle

Germany’s Romantic Road covers 261 miles of Bavarian beauty through vineyards, majestic mountains, and fairytale castles from Würzburg to Füssen.

The route was once a major trade route in the Middle Ages, though today it has succeeded in becoming a major tourist hotspot. Despite its popularity, it still maintains its old-world romantic charm securely landing it among the best road trips in Europe.

You can begin your Romantic Road trip from either end or take it in sections to make a day trip out of it.

If you’re looking to end your trip with a particularly spectacular bang however, we suggest saving Neuschwanstein castle for last, leaving the image of the idyllic castle that inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty castle lingering in your mind as you head home.

From the UNESCO World Heritage Site Würzburg Residence and the enchanting medieval architecture of Rothenburg ob der Tauber to the vibrant half-timbered houses of Dinkelsbühl and the picturesque mountains and lakes of Schwangau, this Romantic Road trip will take you to some of Germany’s most stunning architectural beauties and natural landscapes.

The route is rich in history and abundant in excellent food and wine. And it is relentless in its charm and beauty.

If you have the time, give yourself at least a few days to soak in the Romantic Road and maximize your experience on this winner of a Euro road trip.

Northern Italy Road Trip Highlights

This Northern Italy road trip will have you calling “O Romeo, Romeo, wherefore art thou Romeo” from Juliet’s balcony in Verona and riding a gondola through the Venice waterways as you explore some of the most beautiful sites the country has to offer.

It’s nearly impossible to choose highlights for this road trip in Europe, because every stop is magical.

From the towering cathedral in Milan and the colorful towns of Cinque Terre to the Dolomite Peaks and the charm of Lake Garda, there’s no shortage of things to do and see in Northern Italy that will have you longing to come back for more.

Are you madly in love and dreaming of romantic days in charming cities? Check out two of Italy’s most famous cities of love, Venice and Verona.

Are you anxious to get your legs moving on an unforgettable hike? Take a six-mile trek for the best views of the iconic “three peaks” of the Dolomite mountains.

Our road trip guide gives you an idea of what you can do on your Northern Italy road trip but by all means feel free to adjust the itinerary to fit your time constraints and interests.

Westfjords Road Trip Highlights

• Raudasandur
• Krossneslaug Hot Springs

If you love driving, the Westfjords in Iceland might just be the best European road trip for you. You’ll spend a significant amount of time in the car as you wind your way up and around each fjord.

The good news is, all along your route you’ll be witnessing some of the most picturesque scenes imaginable.

There are small lacy waterfalls at every turn, majestic mountains, and vast stretches of pristine ocean. If you’re looking to escape the large tourist crowds, the Westfjords is definitely the place to go.

Fairly remote and often impossible to reach in the winter, it calls out to the more adventurous explorers as well as those just seeking a little peace and quiet while surrounded by the unique beauty of their natural environment.

Your Westfjords road trip will take you to geothermal pools with the most incredible views, a red sand beach (an unusual find in Iceland), and one of Iceland’s most impressive waterfalls.  You might even be lucky enough to find yourself face to face with some goofy looking but undeniably cute puffins as well.

Set aside at least 3 days if not more for your Westfjords road trip. Because so much time is spent in the car hopping from fjord to fjord, you’ll want to have plenty of time to experience each stop along the way.

Croatia Road Trip Highlights

• Plitvice Lakes

Have you ever imagined yourself vacationing on the Dalmatian Coast, leaping into the sparkling, clear waters of the Adriatic Sea? We don’t blame you.

If you’re looking for a magical summer swimming and relaxing along the water with impressively intact Roman ruins just a stone’s throw away, then Croatia is the best road trip around Europe for you.

Croatia is arguably more impressive than Italy when it comes to ancient ruins. From the Diocletian Palace in the heart of Split to the Pula amphitheater, the country is full of impressive Roman architecture.

Your Croatia road trip will take you through charming historic towns, to idyllic national parks draped with waterfalls, to beachside restaurants with delicious seafood, and cafes with hot chocolate so rich and thick that every other hot chocolate will seem inferior afterwards.

If you’re looking to take part in Dubrovnik’s New Year celebrations, walk the stalls at Zagreb’s Christmas market, escape the high season crowds and prices, or see the Plitvice Lakes in all their frozen glory, then the winter is the ideal time to visit.

There’s a reason though that the summer is the high season, because the restaurants, cafés, and shops are all open, and the towns are buzzing with summer excitement. You’ll also experience plenty of sun and excellent swimming conditions.

In other words, an ideal vacation.

Spain Road Trip Highlights

Did we hear tapas bars, stunning beaches, and flamenco? This must be a Europe road trip through the vivacious country of Spain.

From small towns to happening cities all rich in culture and history, Spain has so much to offer those who’ve chosen to navigate its roads.

On this Spain road trip, you’ll marvel at the impressive coastline in San Sebastian, admire Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia cathedral in Barcelona, bring your taste buds to life with paella in Valencia, and immerse yourself in history at Cartagena’s Roman amphitheater.

Spain also has an abundance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the aqueduct in Segovia and the Mezquita mosque-cathedral in Córdoba.

You can rest assured we’ve also included one of the most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country, the Alhambra in Granada. The stunning palace with its fortress walls, gardens, and intricate architectural design attracts tourists from all over the world.

You could easily spend weeks road tripping the country, but no matter how much time you have to soak up the country’s beauty, you’ll no doubt leave with a full heart, full belly, and a hunger to come back for more.

We’re thrilled you’ve chosen to embrace adventure and road trip in Europe. Whether you’re gazing up at a fairytale castle along Germany’s Romantic Road or driving through the rolling countryside of Tuscany you’ll no doubt experience the road trip of a lifetime.

These are easily 15 of the best road trips in Europe, so pack your bags, load the car, and start exploring! If you have any questions or have Europe road trip stories of your own you’d like to tell, please feel free to leave a message in the comments section below.

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European road trips: 15 of the best journeys across the continent

Sep 13, 2022 • 13 min read

Coasting through Italy's Dolomites Mountains © Artur Debat / Getty

In light of the recent travel chaos at airports across Europe, there has never been a better time to buckle up and explore Europe’s legendary landscapes by road.

Lonely Planet's new Epic Road Trips of Europe book  is the perfect inspiration to get out there and explore Europe by road. The new book offers a gorgeous collection of routes, gathered from contributors around the world. Enjoy the unique freedom a road trip allows while exploring Europe's wondrous landscapes, delicious regional food and drink and fascinating local culture and history. 

From ancient ruins to some of the world's best wine, here's a first look at the new essential European road trip companion guide.  

Ancient ruins and coastal views

The Peloponnese, Greece

Start: Ancient Corinth End: Nemea Distance: 395 miles (635km)

History and legend collide on this mountainous peninsula where you’ll find classical temples, Mycenaean palaces, Byzantine cities and Venetian fortresses. Combined with dramatic peaks and deep gorges that give way to turquoise seas and deserted beaches, it makes a glorious spot for a road trip. In the northeast corner of the peninsula sits Ancient Corinth, a mostly Roman city, home to Jason of the Argonauts, stealer of the Golden Fleece. From here, you can take a route that combines historic, fortified cities with beaches and some of Greece’s most interesting wineries. Head for the sanctuary of Zeus at Nemea, hilltop Mycenae or coastal Epidavros with its 4th-century-BC theatre, one of the best preserved ancient Greek structures in the country. Then loop by the mountaintop Byzantine city of Mystras, ancient Olympia, home to the original games, and the Lousios Gorge where you’ll find the cliffside Prodromou Monastery.

The best sustainable tourism experiences in Greece

The Costa Brava, Spain

Start: Girona End: Girona Distance: 118 miles (190km)

Mixing Greek and Roman ruins with medieval towns, the eccentricities of Salvador Dalí and a wild and rugged coast, Spain’s Costa Brava makes a fascinating, eclectic destination for a road trip. Begin   by exploring Girona’s hilly medieval core with its web of alleys and Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque churches. From here it’s an easy trip to Besalú, its strikingly well-preserved medieval streets fanning out around the handsome 11th-century Pont Fortificat (Fortified Bridge). Heading east to Figueres things get decidedly more bizarre at the Teatre-Museu Dalí , a fittingly trippy tribute to the local hero and Surrealist artist. Dalí spent his later life nearby in Port Lligat near Cadaqués , a whitewashed village with a pretty harbor and bohemian vibe. South along the coast are the extensive ruins of the Greek city Empúries and its later Roman neighbor, while inland is Castell de Púbol, a 14th-century castle that was Dalí’s gift to his wife and muse, Gala.

5 spectacular road trips around Spain

Hvar, Croatia

Start: Hvar Town End: Jelsa Distance: 22 miles (35km)

Fought over by the Illyrians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Venetians, Hvar has long been a sought-after destination. Medieval walls topped by an imposing Spanish fortress enclose the Old Town, whose marble streets are lined with elaborate Gothic and Renaissance palaces. In high summer, Hvar attracts a party-hard international jet set, but outside the peak it’s a magical place that acts as the perfect gateway to crystalline waters and quiet villages. Head for Stari Grad on the north coast, a quieter town set on a horseshoe bay, to visit Stari Grad Plain , a Unesco Cultural Landscape whose stone walls and terraces of olives and grapes were laid out by the ancient Greeks. Drive backcountry roads through a patchwork of lavender and rosemary to discover isolated beaches and hidden coves, colorful former fishing villages such as Vrboska or Jelsa, and some of Croatia’s best wineries.

The 7 best road trips in Croatia for fans of history and epic coastlines

Captivating lakeside drives

Lake Ohrid to Lake Prespa, North Macedonia

Start: Ohrid End: Oteshevo Distance: 34 miles (55km)

Lake Ohrid is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in the world, straddling the border between North Macedonia and Albania . Despite its Unesco status and being home to a multitude of endemic species, it remains remarkably unvisited. Begin in the ancient, picturesque city of Ohrid, continuously occupied since Neolithic times. Its Grecian theatre, recently rediscovered and restored, hosts an arts festival each summer. As you drive south you pass fortresses and monasteries, teetering dramatically above the water. Leave Lake Ohrid on a series of switchbacks climbing up through Galičica National Park, where at the road’s highest point a trail leading farther up offers a view across both lakes. Descend to the tranquil Lake Prespa in time for dinner, stopping at one of the many small restaurants in Oteshevo that serve fish landed straight from the lake.

North Macedonia: how to explore this little-known gem

Annecy, France

Start: Annecy End: Annecy Distance: 25 miles (40km)

Lake Annecy found fame in Paul Cézanne’s Le Lac d’Annecy painting, a post-Impressionist masterpiece that captures all the beauty, grandeur and violence of the landscape here. But nothing beats seeking out that drama yourself. It takes just a lazy day’s driving to travel its circumference, along glimmering blue water with snowcapped Alps behind. Base yourself   in Annecy and explore the gorgeous Old Town and lively markets before setting off. Impressive Château Menthon is well worth visiting and has guided tours throughout the summer months. Stop at Talloires for lunch – it has a fine selection of restaurants and good swimming beaches – and then,   if you’ve still got the energy, hike one of the many trails that wind up to the peaks that surround the lake. Finish back in Annecy for a sunset drink with panoramic views across the water at the Hotel Belvédère.

The 12 best beaches in France

Finnish Lakeland

Start: Varkaus End: Anttola Distance: 86 miles (138km)

A quarter of the Finnish Lakeland region is water – there are at least 55,000 lakes here, making it the largest lake district in Europe. To drive in this area is to lose all distinction between the water and the road. From Varkaus, it’s less than an hour’s drive to the Järvisydän spa , offering every type of soaking and sweating you can imagine. It’s not all about relaxing though – as you drive across this watery landscape there is ample opportunity for swimming and canoeing, fishing and boat trips, or, in winter, skating and snowshoeing. Finland’s ‘Right to Roam’ means that camping is permitted just about anywhere, but the hotels might still tempt you. The Ollinmäki Wine Farm, just outside Anttola, has villas, fabulous food, homemade wine and nearby lakes for a final road trip dip.

Finland’s best road trips: lakes, Lapland and local delicacies (think reindeer)

Drives around Mediterranean islands

North Coast Gozo, Malta

Start: Ramla Bay End: Dwejra Distance: 10 miles (16km)

Gozo is the second-billed island in the Maltese archipelago, but for scenic appeal it easily rivals Malta proper. A drive along Gozo’s north coast reveals one of the country’s least built-up corners. Begin with a dip at Ramla Bay , a wide and largely wild beach not to be confused with the resort of the same name on the main island. Once you’ve brushed off its characteristic orange sand, take a coastal drive through the small harbor of Marsalforn, beyond which the route passes a surreal landscape of seaside salt pans. The road gets gravelly after it ducks round the inlet of Wied il-Għasri , but stick with it if you can along the clifftops to reach Wied il-Mielaħ, a natural sea arch to replace the famous Azure Window that collapsed in 2017. The location of the latter still makes a fitting trip finale, with sunset views beside the Dwejra Inland Sea.

Malta’s best diverse and delicious eating and drinking experiences

Mount Pantokrator Circuit, Corfu, Greece

Start: Pyrgi End: Pyrgi Distance: 41 miles (66km)

Mount Pantokrator is the highest point in Corfu (2972 ft/906m), and a lap of its flanks brings generous mountain and coastal views as you round the northeast corner of the island. Start in Pyrgi village and proceed north and clockwise if you want to get the climbing done early. From Pyrgi the road zigzags up past olive groves through the villages of Spartylas and Strinylas. Here you can drive east on a road up to the summit of Pantokrator itself (a car with a nimble turning circle is an advantage) where there’s a small but richly decorated monastery under a rather unfortunate communications mast. Return to the coast at the resort town of Acharavi, and head east as the road snakes round lushly wooded bays and charming villages such as c and Kalami, with views towards Albania just two miles across   the water.

10 incredible Greek hiking trails you can tackle right now

Lipari Loop, Italy

Start: Lipari Town End: San Salvatore Distance: 17 miles (28km)

Lipari is the middlemost of the Aeolian Islands , and as you drive the encircling main road, each of the other volcanic islands puts in an appearance on the horizon. Lipari Town is reached by car ferries and faster hydrofoils from Sicily , and heading out north the route is a palm-lined corniche running along a yacht-filled bay. From the road skirting the shingle beach at Canneto , you’ll have views towards the islands of Panarea and – half-concealed behind it – the ever-smoking cone of Stromboli. Past the pumice quarries at Lipari’s northeast corner, twin-peaked Salina lumbers into view, and after that, more distant Filicudi and Alicudi, if summer haze doesn’t obscure them. Last to appear as you turn the southwest corner is Vulcano. It’s visible from the main road, but for a close-up, end your drive at the viewpoint beside the Geophysical Observatory in San Salvatore, at Lipari’s southern tip.

Planning your first trip to Italy

Europe's best vineyard drives

Douro Valley, Portugal

Start: Porto End: Miranda do Douro Distance: 222 miles (358km)

Portugal kept this one up its sleeve for a long time, but oenophiles have finally clocked on to the romance – and increasingly outstanding wines – of the Douro Valley . The world’s oldest demarcated wine region (in 1756, for the record) is a real beauty, with mile after mile of twisting, terraced vineyards that rise sharply from the Douro River. Its true heart is the Alto Douro (Upper Douro), a Unesco World Heritage Site. The drive kicks off in the grand port lodges of Porto , gradually inching east to the Spanish border. En route expect to find an abundance of historic wine estates – Quinta Nova and Quinta do Crasto are names to remember. And you’ll want to linger at the Casal de Loivos lookout, where the gasp-eliciting view over the vines is the Douro reduced to postcard format. Allow five days to a week to do the drive justice.

Why the Azores are Europe's secret islands of adventure

Lavaux Vineyards, Switzerland

Start: Lausanne End: Château de Chillon Distance: 25 miles (40km)

Easily doable in a day trip from Geneva , this short but sublime drive takes in the Unesco World Heritage-protected Lavaux vineyards , which stagger up from the northern shores of Lake Geneva in a series of sheer, stone-walled terraces that beggar belief. The road trip along Rte 9 begins in the higgledy-piggledy French-speaking city of Lausanne and takes in pretty lakeside towns like Vevey before swinging southeast to Montreux (of summer jazz festival fame) and Château   de Chillon , an extraordinary 13th-century fortress, brought to world attention in 1816 in Lord Byron’s poem ‘The Prisoner of Chillon’. Painters William Turner and Gustave Courbet subsequently immortalized the castle on canvas. In the vineyards, pause at a cave to taste beautiful Chasselas white wines that are crisp, minerally and usually only produced on a small, artisanal scale. Lavaux Vinorama in lakeside Rivaz whisks you through the region’s 300 wines and offers insightful tastings.

The 7 most scenic road trips in Switzerland

Chianti Road, Italy

Start: Florence End: Siena Distance: 44 miles (71km)

Toscana simply doesn’t get more bella than this classic drive on the SR222 through Chianti country. Linking two great medieval cities, the road meanders languorously through gently rolling countryside striped with cypress trees, olive groves and vines. After an art and architectural feast in Florence , it’s time to head south to Siena , crowned by its magnificent cathedral   and 12th-century Piazza del Campo . In between are honey-colored hill towns, where life revolves around the town square, and is punctuated by the chiming of the campanile. Stop by enotecas (wine shops), open for tastings of the region’s revered red wines, including Chianti Classico, a sangiovese-dominated drop. The road   is technically drivable year-round but is perhaps at its most photogenic during the late springtime eruption of poppies and other wildflowers.

The art of the Italian meal

On tap at the source: the best European beer routes

Trappist beers of Belgium

Start: Westmalle End: Vleteren Distance: 347 miles (558km)

Explore Belgium while tasting beers from Trappist breweries, where monks have been creating flavourful beers for centuries before the contemporary focus on craft beer. Begin northeast of Antwerp at Café Trappisten , where Westmalle beers are matched with cheeses also made by monks from the adjacent Westmalle Abbey . Heading south through Brussels , beers from the Rochefort Brewery are partnered at local cafés with venison from the nearby Ardennes region. It’s then a 50 mile (80km) drive further south to Orval for their bottle-conditioned beer, a favorite of many craft brewers around the world. To the northwest, a quick spin of the wheels through France brings you to Scourmont Abbey , the base for Chimay. At the Poteaupré Inn at the Espace Chimay visitor center, try the Chimay 150, originally brewed in 2012 to celebrate the brewery’s 150-year anniversary. From here, it’s then a two-hour drive north to Vleteren, to end the trip with some excellent beers from Westvleteren.

Is Belgium the best destination in Europe for road trips? These 7 drives suggest so

Southeast Ireland suds explorer

Start: Dublin End: Cork Distance: 236 miles (380km)

Guinness in Dublin and Murphy’s in Cork are two of Ireland’s most renowned breweries, and linking these heavyweights is this itinerary visiting up-and-coming craft breweries in between. After touring Guinness’ historic St James’s Gate brewery, continue south for a hoppy Wildfire red ale from Wicklow Wolf Brewery , before making the 20-minute drive along the Irish Sea to the Wicklow Brewery. Sunday roast for lunch is always a good time to visit the brewery’s Mickey Finn’s pub. Continue through a patchwork of farmland to YellowBelly Beer in County Wexford . YellowBelly’s seasonal brews include unusual sours and farmhouse ales, while the Gallow’s Hill barley wine, found west at the Dungarvan Brewing Company, is ideal in cooler months. Complete a hop-fuelled Irish journey with a pint of Murphy’s stout at the Shandon Arms in Cork.

20 of the best pubs in Ireland for pints, music and the time of your life

German beer loop

Start: Cologne End: Düsseldorf Distance: 1130 miles (1818km)

Beer has been brewed in Germany for three millennia. It’s a major part of the country’s culture, with many regional styles. Begin with a delicate straw-colored kölsch in the shadow of Cologne Cathedral before heading southeast to Bamberg , home of interesting rauchbiers made with smoked malt. South, near the border with Austria , Munich is famous for its golden Helles lagers and the annual Oktoberfest beer festival, while to the north, in former East Germany, the traditional beer style of Leipzig is gose, a tart beer flavored with salt and coriander. Nearby, Berlin is famous for Berliner Weisse beers, refreshingly low in alcohol, and often spiked with berry syrup. To the southwest, via Hanover and Saxony , Düsseldorf is the heartland of copper-colored altbiers – the name translates to ‘old beer’, as this is one of Germany’s most historic brews.

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Europe Road Trip – 24 Incredible Routes

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The Best Road Trips in Europe

Europe is perfect for an epic road trip! From the rolling fields of Tuscany and the soaring mountains of the Sierra Nevada to the beaches of the South of France and the mighty Alps, you can find a European road trip route to suit your taste and travel style.

Whether you’re road tripping in Europe for a week, a month, or a year, our top Europe road trip itinerary ideas will give you plenty of inspiration to get on the road.

We have lived on the road in Europe for over five years, and in our Europe trip planner, we share our top routes and itineraries, ideas about what do to and see, and accommodation recommendations. If you’ve got wheels there’s a European road trip here for you!

Europe Road Trip Planner

We have traveled every single one of these European roads in and on a variety of vehicles! Whether you ride a motorbike, drive Europe by car or you’re traveling in a motorhome or RV, you’ll find some of the best Europe road trip ideas here.

If you’re on a flying visit and or want a 3 month Europe road trip , we have the best Europe road trip itineraries for you. Our road trip planner Europe includes specific road trip routes, amazing hotel recommendations, and insider travel tips to help you plan a driving holiday in Europe.

RELATED POST: Why We Think These Are the Best Driving Roads in Europe

Are you planning to rent a car in Europe? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip through Europe.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in France. We recommend Auto Europe for their large range of fully equipped vehicles, competitive pricing, and great customer service. Use the Park4Night app to find overnight spots and campsites, and sleep on a high mountain pass, next to a beautiful lake, or in a wildflower meadow.

Europe Road Trip Map

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Europe . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

• Get the Travel Guides
• Lonely Planet Austria
• Fodor’s Vienna and the Best of Austria
• DK Eyewitness Austria
• Read Related Posts
• Austria Travel Guide
• Austria Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips
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• How to Visit Innsbruck in Summer

Vienna to Innsbruck Road Trip

Vienna – graz – hallstatt – salzburg – zell am see – mayrhofen – innsbruck.

• May-October

We recommend starting your two week Austrian road trip in Vienna and concluding the itinerary in Innsbruck.

As you leave Vienna, beautiful and quaint Austrian towns and villages will greet you as you travel south toward the foodie city of Graz, the next major stop on your Austrian itinerary. From here, it’s north to Hallstatt, a small, alpine village situated on the western shores of Hallstätter See, also known as Hallstatt Lake, that offers iconic views and outdoor experiences. 

Next up is Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We recommend leaving enough time in your itinerary to explore the Baroque architecture of the city and visit the Salzburg Fortress for stunning panoramic views. From Salzburg, head to Zell am See, a charming mountain town surrounded by the unforgettable mountain peaks of the Alps. 

Zell am See is the perfect spot from which to drive the spectacular Glossglockner high alpine pass, a mountain road that twists and bends itself along the Alps mountains, providing panoramic scenery and an unforgettable experience.

Your journey will continue on to Mayrhofen, a popular skiing destination known for its vibrant nightlife, unrivaled winter sports, and stunning alpine scenery. 

Finally, finish your Austria road trip in Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol region. This Austrian city is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and is home to several impressive landmarks. Innsbruck is the perfect place to end your road trip and reflect on the stunning beauty of Austria.

• Driving the gorgeous mountain roads, when you feel like you’re on top of the world!
• Listening to Mozart in Salzburg, his birthplace and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Walking out 1,48 feet onto the Hallstatt World Heritage Skywalk for breathtaking views of the Hallstätter See.

Where to Stay

Vienna ⇒ Jaz in the City Vienna for its city center location, modern interior, and funky bar.

Salzburg ⇒   Altstadthotel Wolf-Dietrich  for its old town setting, luxury spa, and fantastic breakfast.

Innsbruck ⇒ Hotel Grauer Bär for its perfect downtown location, light and stylish rooms, and excellent customer service.

• Lonely Planet France
• DK Eyewitness Road Trips France
• Fodor’s Essential France
• France Travel Guide
• France Road Trip – 13 Amazing Itineraries
• South of France Road Trip: Route, Highlights & Tips
• Route Napoleon: A Historic French Road Trip
• Normandy Road Trip: Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary
• Motorhoming in France: Your Complete Touring Guide
• Driving to France from UK: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know

Route des Grandes Alpes: An Epic French Road Trip

Loire valley road trip.

Orleans – Blois – Tours – Angers – Nantes

Centre-Val de Loire is a landlocked region, located to the southwest of the French capital Paris. As the name suggests this region is all about the magnificent river Loire. Just four to five hours from Calais to the capital of Orleans, and three from Paris, this region is a popular holiday region and makes an ideal destination for a road trip.

This is a real France bucket list trip. Fine historical cities and towns, many of which stand on the banks of the Loire, offer superb Renaissance religious buildings and architecture and of course, the fabulous and extravagant chateaux the region is best known for.

Follow this Loire Valley road trip between famous cities and marvel at the natural wonders, opulent architecture, charming towns, and breathtaking castles of one of France’s best-loved regions.

You’ll visit the many chateaux on the route, including the famous Chateau de Chambord and Chateau de Villandry, and explore the Loire’s historic towns, learning about French history, architecture, and culture and you go.

Discover Joan of Arc’s legacy in Orleans and take a ride on a giant machine elephant in Nantes as you take in the beautiful Loire landscape.

• Taking a vineyard tour to taste the delicious white wines, like Vouvray, Pouilly-Fume, and Sancerre, which are produced here.
• Visiting the world-famous Chateau Chenonceau, the only castle on the Loire built by women.
• Watching the iconic steampunk elephant strutt its stuff at Machines de L’Ile on the Ile de Nantes, an urban island in the Loire river.

Orléans ⇒   Empreinte Hotel & Spa for its riverbank location, beautiful bathrooms, and private spa.

Tours ⇒ Château Belmont  for its wonderful grounds, stylish bedrooms, and excellent restaurant.

Nantes ⇒ Okko Hotels Nantes Château   for its city center location, cool decor, and private parking.

Pyrenees Road Trip

Lourdes – cauterets – gavarnie – arreau – bagnares-de-luchon.

• May-September

This is a Pyrenees road trip and hiking tour all in one. With four easy-to-moderate classic Hautes-Pyrenees hikes en route plus an extra in Spain just over the border and some of the most spectacular mountains on the map of Europe at your feet, this is an amazing route. 

One of our go-to happy places, get our detailed seven day Pyrenees hiking tour guide, including an interactive map of hikes and the suggested route.

• Taking a dip in the crystal clear waters of the beautiful Lac de Gaube on a hot summer’s day.
• Braving the nail-biting drive up the Pic du Midi and the incredible views from the Col du Tourmalet.
• Standing at the top of Pic de la Pahule with the entire Pyrenees mountain range at your feet.

Lourdes ⇒ Villa L’Orante  for its commanding views, beautiful bathrooms, and delicious homemade breakfasts.

Gavarnie ⇒ Hotel Le Taillon  for its location, views, and hearty mountain food.

Bagnares-de-Luchon ⇒ Le Castel d’Alti   for its elegant decor, heated jacuzzi and pool, and live music in the bar.

South of France Road Trip

Lyon – st croix du verdon – aups – cassis – aix-en-provence – bezier – carcassonne – toulouse.

• avoid July & August

A road trip in France is one of the best ways to see this beautiful country, and because France is so accessible, this is an easy 2 week Europe road trip from UK and the rest of Europe

Start in the foodie city of Lyon, a five hour drive south of Paris , before using the historic Route Napoleon to travel south. It’s one of the  best drives in Europe , free and incredibly scenic.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is a gorgeous little town and worth a stop before you take a jaunt around the stunning Gorge du Verdon.

Try some  wild swimming in the Lac de Sainte-Croix here before making your way to Aups for their authentic farmers market and Provencal vibe.

Stop at Cassis to explore the Calanques, huge gashes in the coastal cliffs, often only accessible by boat. Take a day trip out for a picnic and an idyllic afternoon of soaking up the sun and snorkeling.

Head north to the vibrant and pretty French city of Aix-en-Provence and spend an evening strolling through the charming squares and winding alleys of this elegant and cultured city.

Next up is the drive east across the hauntingly beautiful and off-the-beaten-track Camargue, before arriving at Bezier, famous for the nine locks of the Midi Canal.

Move on to Carcassonne, dipping into the Pyrenees en route to see the incredible Peyrepertuse Castle, before spending a few days marveling at La Cite, the Disneyesque medieval citadel of Carcassonne. 

The pink city of Toulouse is your last stop and what a road trip destination it is! Head into the old town for great food, live music, and a typically Occitan atmosphere of noise, heat, and fun. 

• Walking through the fragrant iconic lavender fields of Valensole in Provence (June is the best month).
• Kayaking to hiffen beaches in the stunning Calanques National Park from Cassis.
• Discovering the atmospheric UNESCO World Heritage site of the medieval citadel in Carcassonne.

Lyon ⇒ Mob Hotel Lyon for stylish design, contemporary dining, and live DJ sets.

Aix-en-Provence ⇒   Le Pigonnet  for its beautiful location and luxury with a touch of glamour.

Carcassonne ⇒ Hotel de la Cite   for the Citadel location, traditional character, and spa.

• Lonely Planet Germany
• The Rough Guide to Germany
• DK Eyewitness Germany
• Germany Travel Guide
• Six Unmissable Germany Road Trip Routes
• Deutsche Märchenstraße: Germany’s Fairy Tale Road
• Romantic Road Germany: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Deutsche Alpenstrasse: Route, Map & Highlights
• Motorhome Germany: Complete Touring Guide
• Driving from UK to Germany: Best Routes, Costs & Tips

The Fairy Tale Road

Frankfurt – steinau – marburg – kassel – gottingen – hamelin – bremen.

This central to north Germany road trip from Frankfurt does not technically start in the city, but Frankfurt is the perfect place to fly into and pick up a rental car. If you’re spending the night, make sure you visit the South Bank, where you’ll find an eclectic selection of restaurants, bars, and clubs.

The Fairy Tale route, or Deutsche Märchenstraße , offers travelers a series of charming towns, half-timbered buildings, castles, beautiful parks, and museums, most of which reference one fairy tale or another from the story collection of the Brothers Grimm .   

The starting town of Steinau an der Strasse is straight out of their fairy tales, complete with typical half-timbered houses, twisting cobbled alleys, and the turreted Schloss Steinau which overlooks the whole town. Visit the Brüder Grimm Haus and Museum Steinau, both of which showcase the works of the brothers.

Take the back roads to Marburg and enjoy the gorgeous landscapes and slower pace for a few hours. Marburg’s altstadt is full of medieval houses and the hilltop Landgrafenschloss, a dramatic castle holding exhibits on sacred art and local history.

From Marburg, head to Kassel, where the Brothers Grimm spent their teenage years whilst working as librarians for the King of Westphalia, Jerome Bonaparte, the younger brother of the infamous Napoléon. Make sure to visit the Brüder Grimm Museum, and the Schloss und Bergpark Wilhelmshöhe, a tranquil green space and the largest hill park in all of Europe.

Gottingen is home to the University of Gottingen, where the Grimm Brothers once served as professors. Make for the traditional and atmospheric central market square, where the statue of Ganseliesel, the little goose girl of German lore, is one of the most kissed statues anywhere in the world. It is said that the kisser is rewarded with good luck, but maybe post-virus this practice will change!

Hameln (or Hamelin) is next up and one of the most famous fairy tale destinations in Europe. Hameln is the home of the Pied Piper, or Rattenfänger, who rid the town of rats in 1284, only to be cheated out of his payment.

The Pied Piper returned to Hameln a year later and lured away all the children. The story is re-enacted in the town center every Sunday between May and October and is a fantastic spectacle. The Weser Renaissance architecture of the Rattenfängerhaus and the Hochzeitshaus makes a fitting historic backdrop for the streets which are thronged with locals dressed the part, stalls selling food, and live music playing. 

Finally, on to the Hanseatic city of Bremen, your final stop. Good places to visit in Bremen include the traditional Marktplatz, which is located in the city’s charming altstadt, the 600-year-old Rathaus or town hall, the Roselius-Haus Museum, and the stunning St. Petri Dom, the 11th century gothic cathedral.

Another landmark can be found in the city’s central town square – a statue of the Bremen musicians and heroes of the Brothers Grimm story, ‘The Town Musicians of Bremen’.

• Watching the lively re-enactment of Hameln’s Pied Piper luring away visiting children.
• Exploring the altstads of towns en-route, where half-timbered houses and cobbled streets are common.
• Indulging in northern Germany’s hearty and tasty cuisine, like wurst , Germany’s delicious sausages, Bremer klaben , a yeasty cake of candied fruit and nuts, and kluten , a delicious dumpling.

Frankfurt ⇒ Kempinski Hotel Frankfurt Gravenbruch  for its proximity to the airport and city center, fantastic spa, and beautiful surroundings.

Marburg ⇒ The Vila Vita Rosenpark  for its central location, excellent regional restaurant, and stylish bedrooms.

Bremen ⇒ Atlantic Grand Hotel   for its perfect riverside location, bike rental from reception, and ultra-stylish bathrooms.

Southern Germany Road Trip

Wurzburg – rothenburg – ludwigsburg – burg hohenzollern – fussen – oberammergau – linderhof – munich – chiemsee.

This route follows parts of southern Germany’s famous Romantic Road and the Deutsche Alpenstrasse and has a good mix of Alpine views, historic schloss and castles, and typical Bavarian towns and villages.

As you head south, enjoy the views of the magnificent Alps ahead.

You could rush around in a week but we think ten to fourteen days gives you enough time to visit a few other places of interest when you’re all castled out!

Visiting in the summer will provide you with sunshine and clear skies but if you can do this route in winter, then you’ll be rewarded with some of the best Christmas markets in the world, fairytale snowy landscapes, and schloss decorated for the festive season.

More of a palace than a castle, the  Wurzburg Residence  is a huge Baroque palace. Beautiful inside, the real draw here is the gardens, laid out in a typically formal French style.

From here, head to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, a fairytale Bavaria town packed with medieval architecture, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets.

Next up is  Ludwigsburg Residential Palace  one of the largest Baroque palaces in Germany. Its sumptuous interiors, with gold leaf and painted ceilings, are on a similar scale to Versaille, and the Palace Theatre is pretty impressive. 

Schloss Lichtenstein  is a pretty little Neo-Gothic castle built in the romantic style. It may not have the scale of other castles but it’s charming and quirky, with amazing views.

Hohenzollern Castle  does have the scale, along with grandeur, Rapunzel towers, and a long royal history. It’s one of the most magical castles to visit in Germany . 

Hohenzollern Palace (also known as Sigmaringen Castle) sits 50km to the southeast, can be seen on the horizon for miles around, and is a real  hidden gem in Germany .

Our next stop is the daddy of German castles, Neuschwanstein. Just outside Fussen, in the village of Schwangau, Neuschwanstein is a truly stunning Cinderella-esque schloss built by the fascinating historical figure of King Ludwig II, who ruled Bavaria in the 19th century.

If you have time when  visiting Neuschwanstein Castle , take a walk out to Marienbrucke bridge where you can take the perfect images of the castle, the earlier the better! This castle gets very busy every day through the year, so make sure you  book tickets online  before arriving.

Next up, take in Oberammergau, home of the famous once-in-a-decade Passion Play. There is also a fantastic  public spa  here, which may be just the thing after a few days of driving. The Germans know how to do a spa and this is one of the best we’ve visited.  

If you’ve time to spare,  visit the Zugspitze , you’re only an hour away from Germany’s highest mountain in the northern Alps . This natural wonder is easy to summit, with the help of the cogwheel train and cable car; it is absolutely worth the detour, and the views are stunning. 

The next stop is  Linderhof Palace , our favorite of the German schloss. This beautifully symmetrical and elegant palace is arguably King Ludwig’s finest creation. Check out the grottos in the landscaped grounds; they’re pretty special!

Finally, drive on to Munich for the Nymphenburg Palace, one of the premier royal palaces in Europe with magnificent interiors and gardens. Spend a day discovering Munich  and if you’re  road tripping in autumn , you could also take in Oktoberfest, Munich’s famous beer festival. 

Herrenchiemsee Palace  is the last stop on this Bavaria road trip. Known as the ‘Bavarian Versaille’, this palace is in a beautiful location on Herreninsel, the largest island on the Chiemsee lake.

• Discovering the pretty medieval houses and architecture of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
• Admiring King Ludwig’s before-their-time building innovations at his fairytale castles .
• Taking fantastic images of Neuschwanstein from Marienbruck at dawn, when the light is perfect and you’ll have the bridge to yourself. 

Rothenburg ob der Tauber ⇒ Hotel Reichs-Kuchenmeister  for its altstadt location, traditional Bavarian decor, and fabulous breakfast!

Oberammergau ⇒   Mammhofer Suites  for their family-run hospitality, central location, and kitchen access for self-catering.

Munich ⇒ Roomers Munich  for stylish design, superb customer service, and an excellent restaurant.

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to France.

• Lonely Planet Greece
• The Rough Guide to Greece
• DK Eyewitness Greece: Athens and the Mainland
• Motorhome & Campervan Greece – Complete Guide

Mainland Greece Road Trip

Athens – delphi – galaxidi – nafpaktos – parga – meteora – mount olympus – thessaloniki.

The beautiful landscape of mainland Greece is dotted with ancient Greek monuments and temples, UNESCO World Heritage sites, hot springs, roadside churches, lemon trees overhanging the roads, and traditional tavernas where you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

This trip hits all the big highlights of Greece, taking you from the modern yet historic capital city to the most charming coastal towns before exploring the mountainous interior, all on one road trip.

You’ll visit the most important archaeological site in Greece, Ancient Delphi, and be in awe of the gravity-defying monasteries in Meteora, before making your pilgrimage to the most mythical of all sites in Greece, Mount Olympus.

• Looking across the magnificent landscape of Meteora, to capture that once-in-a-lifetime iconic image.
• Sipping a carafe of chilled Greek rose on the harbourside in Parga.
• Taking the hike up to the Acropolis in Athens in the early morning, before the crowds arrive.

Ancient Delphi ⇒ Fedriades Delphi Hotel , for its perfect location and fantastic Greek breakfast.

Parga ⇒ Villa Coralli apartments for its perfect location overlooking Krioneri Beach and 200m from the center of town.

Thessaloniki ⇒ Plaza Hotel in Ladadika, for its beachside location close to all the major attractions.

Peloponnese Road Trip

Athens – corinth – kalavryta – olympia – kalamata – the mani – sparta – nafplio – mycenae – athens.

This two week Peloponnese itinerary and road trip starts in the capital city of Athens. Spend a day or two in this incredible city, which is both ancient and edgy.

As you head west from Athens towards Ancient Corinth, you’ll cross the Corinth Canal, which splits the Corinth Isthmus, the narrow strip of land between mainland Greece and the Peloponnese, and joins the Aegean and Ionian Seas, it’s worth making a stop to see what was a major feat of engineering back in the day.

Home to the legendary Jason of the Argonauts, of Golden Fleece fame, Ancient Corinth was one of the largest and most important cities of Greece, with a population of 90,000 in 400 BCE. The Romans demolished Corinth in 146 BCE before building a new city in its place in 44 BCE, which became the provincial capital of Greece.

Next up, head to Kalavryta, known officially as the place where the Greek War of Independence started when Greece revolted against the Turks in 1821, and where 500 souls were massacred by the Nazis in World War Two. The latter event is depicted in the Museum of the Kalavryta Holocaust, a moving tribute to those residents and the story of the struggle between Greek partisans and the occupying forces.

The Diakofto-Kalavryta Railway is a vintage rack and pinion railway between the two towns. The route is incredibly scenic, passes through seven tunnels, and twists along the dramatic Vouraikos Gorge, clinging to its narrow ledge over the churning rapids below – make sure to fit this into your visit before moving on to Ancient Olympia.

The birthplace of the Olympic Games, Ancient Olympia is where the Games took place every four years, for over 1100 years! The Olympic Flame is still lit here for the modern Games. This beautiful, shady archaeological site is incredibly evocative – wandering through the ruins, it’s easy to imagine the ripped athletes and excited spectators of its heyday, amongst the magnificent temples and athletic facilities.

Our route has two options at this point – head inland for spectacular scenery and mountain passes, or take the coastal route around the middle peninsula of the Peloponnese through the wild and rugged Messinian Mani, with picture-perfect Kardamyli and the colorful harbor of pretty Gythio awaiting.

Your final stop is Nafplio, often called the most romantic city in Greece, and blessed with pretty streets, elegant neoclassical architecture, and interesting independent shops, bars, and tavernas.

• Hiking the incredible Vouraikos Gorge from Kalavryta to Diakofto, and admiring the limestone formations along the route.
• Driving the 59km Langada Pass across the Taygetos Mountains from Kalamata to gory Sparta and the Byzantine capital of Mystras.
• Walking along the Cave of the Lakes boardwalk to view the incredible rock formations and thirteen crystal clear subterranean pools formed by millennia of mineral deposits.

Athens ⇒ The Athens Gate Hotel for its central location, Acropolis view, and stylish decor.

Kalamata ⇒ Messinian Icon Hotel & Suites for its spa and pools, sea views, and large, bright rooms.

Nafplio ⇒ Amymone and Adiandi for its perfect location, gorgeous decor, and homemade Greek breakfast.

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

• Lonely Planet Iceland
• The Rough Guide to Iceland
• DK Eyewitness Top 10 Iceland
• Iceland Road Trip – 26 Epic Things to See & Do
• One Day Reykjavik Itinerary – Map, Tips & Guide
• South Coast Iceland: 18 of the Best Things to Do & See

The Golden Circle Road Trip

Reykjavik – thingvellir national park – geysers of haukadalur valley – gullfoss waterfall – reykjavik.

• June-September

Close to Iceland’s capital city of Reykjavik , the Golden Circle is easily the most touristy thing to do in the land of fire and ice, and traditionally the first stop on Iceland’s Ring Road, so it can get very busy, especially in peak season.

Start early if you can, and hop onto the Iceland ring road (route 1), which takes you first past the Reykjavik waterfront, and then out to the three stops on the Golden Circle. It’s a short drive away from Reykjavik, and should only take about 40 minutes to get to the first stop, Þingvellir National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Located right in Þingvellir (or Thingvellir) National Park , you can walk through the middle of the large area where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates have been splitting apart over the course of the centuries. This is one of the coolest things to do while you’re visiting the Golden Circle.

Don’t miss the other attractions in the national park where the Continental Divide is located. It’s home to Iceland’s first Parliament, where chieftains formed the first laws and court proceedings at what is known as the Lögberg, and has lots of trails and beautiful nature to explore if you have the time. You can even go snorkeling at Silfra, and see the divide in the tectonic plates underwater!

The next stop, about 60 kilometers from Þingvellir, is the two geysers at Haukadalur . These geysers are easy to visit because they erupt very regularly, so you’ll definitely see at least one eruption while you’re there. Strokkur is the larger of the two, but don’t get too close as the water really is boiling hot!

The last stop on the Golden Circle is the Gullfoss waterfall, just one of Iceland’s incredible waterfalls, of which there are 10,000!  The waterfall, located at the end of the Hvítá River, is absolutely gigantic and produces beautiful rainbows and light prisms from every angle.

There are viewing places galore here. A concrete path makes it easy to see the waterfall at various points, though there are clearly marked signs and ropes warning you where you should stop, as it can be very windy and slippery the closer you get to the edge.

After you’ve finished seeing Gullfoss, it’s about an hour and a half drive back to Reykjavik to complete the circle. There are add on’s which aren’t traditional Golden Circle stops, but you may want to take a lovely warm bath at the Blue Lagoon just outside the city, enjoy a slightly more natural thermal experience at the Reykjadalur Hot Spring Thermal River, or head to the Kerid Crater if you’re in an off-road vehicle.

♥  Spending an hour lounging in the Reykjadalur Hot Springs whilst taking in the incredible scenery. ♥ Standing at the continental divide where Europe becomes North America, and being in awe of Iceland’s geology. ♥  Doing the Golden Circle in reverse and getting to Gullfoss before the crowds arrive.

Reykjavik ⇒ Sand Hotel for its city center location and Icelandic character and design.

• Lonely Planet Ireland
• DK Eyewitness Ireland
• The Rough Guide to Ireland
• Wild Atlantic Way: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• One Day in Dublin – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• Motorhoming in Ireland – A Complete Guide

Wild Atlantic Way Road Trip

Co. donegal – co. sligo – co. mayo – co. galway – co. clare – co. limerick – co. kerry – co. cork.

From Co. Donegal to Co. Cork and passing through counties Leitrim, Sligo, Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick, and Kerry, the Wild Atlantic Way winds down the intricate coast of western Ireland and the edge of Europe.

Taking in the must-sees of Malin Head, the Killarney National Park, the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula, this is a truly epic Ireland road trip covering many of the Emerald Isle’s most beautiful spots .

This huge trip from the north to the south of Ireland is best done with time on your side. Three weeks is just about enough, four weeks or longer will give you time to explore more and perhaps participate in some activities along the way.  

If this is too long for you, then pick out one of the six regions that appeal the most and take a couple of weeks to cover that specific area. You can find out more about these from the official  Wild Atlantic Way  website.  

The Bay Coast stretches south from Erris to Galway Bay and takes in the wild beauty of Connemara, the incredible 365 islets of Clew Bay, pretty Georgian Westport, dramatic Downpatrick Head, and medieval Galway, our favorite city in Ireland .

There’s plenty of things to see and do in Ireland if you love wide open spaces, wilderness, and raw nature, one of the reasons we adore this bit of the Wild Atlantic Way.

A great alternative is to  road trip from Dublin to Galway , traveling the southern half of the Wild Atlantic Way in a huge circle, and visiting Waterford, Dingle, and Cork on the way.

Dublin is a great place to start your road trip with an easily accessible international airport and lots of car rental choices.  

• Watching the rollers crashing from the savage beauty of Malin Head in Co. Donegal.
• Tapping your foot, sipping a pint of Guinness, and enjoying a hooley (live traditional Irish folk music) in Galway.
• Taking the steep and winding road to Dunquin Pier on the Dingle Peninsula for a memorable photo opportunity.

Westport Co. Mayo ⇒ Knockeranny House Hotel and Spa  for sublime Clew Bay views, Irish hospitality, and elegant dining.

Rossnowlagh Co. Donegal ⇒ The Sandhouse Hotel and Marina Spa  for its stunning beachfront location, contemporary decor, and excellent spa.

Glengarriff Co. Cork ⇒ Eccles Hotel and Spa  for its snug and traditional decor, a superb restaurant specializing in local seafood, and proximity to the pretty village and harbor.

• Lonely Planet Italy
• Fodor’s Essential Italy: Rome, Florence, Venice & the Top Spots in Between
• T he Rough Guide to Italy
• Italy Travel Guide
• The Ultimate Bucket List Italy Road Trip
• Northern Italy Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips

Great Dolomites Road: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!

• Tuscan Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• A Bucket List Amalfi Coast Road Trip
• Sicily Road Trip – Itinerary, Tips & Map
• Beautiful Puglia – A Road Trip Itinerary

Dolomites Road Trip: Explore the Best of Northern Italy

• Motorhoming in Italy: Your Complete Guide
• Driving to Italy from UK – Routes & Tips

Amalfi Coast Road Trip

Sorrento – positano – amalfi – ravello – salerno.

• avoid July-August

The Amalfi Coast road, the SS163, is a 50km spectacular stretch of tarmac, hugging the cliffs and coves of the Tyrrhenian Sea, and is surely one of the best driving roads in Europe.   

Like the roads around Portofino and the Cinque Terre, this is a car route only and the road is permanently closed to motorhomes and RVs.

In a car or on a bike, it is best driven early in the morning in the months of April, May, October, and November due to the monstrously high amount of traffic in the peak months.

You can do the entire road in a day and stop in Ravello for lunch, but two or three days will give you longer to enjoy the glorious views and pretty towns en route.

Start from easily accessible Sorrento and head south across the peninsula until you get to the coast at San Pietro. Your first view of the glistening sea and this epic road are pretty special, prepare to be wowed.

Stop at Positano, the quintessential coast road town and the image on a thousand travel magazine covers. Take a wander through the maze of steep streets, pastel-painted stacked houses, and steps to find charming hotels and restaurants alongside chic independent boutiques. 

Next up is Amalfi itself. This hugely popular holiday resort is the largest town along the coast road. The pretty seafront, with its cafes and glamorous boutiques, gives this town a great vibe.

Head west on foot to Spiaggia del Fornillo from Amalfi, a long stretch of soft sandy beach perfect for an afternoon’s relaxing.

Ravello has to be one of the most romantic villages in Italy and is right up there on our list of favorite places in Europe. Perched high above the sea and overlooking immaculate terraced slopes full of vines, Ravello is home to lush Mediterranean planting and charming sun-dappled squares, and has to be one of the best spots in Southern Italy .

The 20km round-trip detour to Ravello from the main coast road is so worth taking. Visit Villa Rufolo, host to beautifully landscaped and dramatic gardens with superb sea views.

On to Salerno and the end of the Amalfi Coast road, or turn around and drive it again! 

• The glorious coastal views from the gardens of Villa Rufolo in Ravello.
• Taking a Limoncello tour and tasting this delicious local liquor where it’s made.
• Watching the fiery sun sink into the Tyrrhenian Sea at the end of a perfect day.

Positano ⇒ Hotel Marincanto  for its stunning cliff-hugging position, beautifully decorated rooms, and hands-on owners.

Ravello ⇒ Hotel Villa Maria  for its romantic dining terrace, old-world Italian charm, and fabulous breakfasts.

Vietri sul Mare ⇒ Palazzo Suriano  for its fragrance-filled terraced gardens, excellent homemade breakfasts on the terrace, and gorgeous decor.

Puglia Road Trip

Taranto – gallipoli – santa maria di leuca – lecce – ostuni – alberobello – bari.

Puglia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is a beautiful place for a 7 day road trip in Europe. With Trulli houses, a fabulous sandy coastline, and whitewashed villages, there is a lot to see and do here.

The abundance of fresh, local produce means you will eat and drink well on this road trip! We spent an  amazing seven days exploring beautiful Puglia  and fell in love with the region.

• Visiting the UNESCO Trulli houses at Alberobello for an other-world experience.
• Discovering Gallipoli’s atmospheric, oh-so-Italian old town and castle.
• Finding a salumeria (deli) and enjoy the local specialties over a lazy lunch.

Gallipoli ⇒ Palazzo Presta for its fabulous old town location, eclectic design, and excellent service.

Lecce ⇒ La Fiermontina Urban Resort for its contemporary art and sculpture, outdoor pool set in an olive grove and gorgeous rooms.

Alberobello ⇒ Tipico Resort for its superb location, fabulous breakfast and for being a Trulli!

Sicily Road Trip

Catania – syracuse – ragusa – agrigento – marsala – palermo – cefalu – taormina.

A coastal road trip around Sicily can take a few weeks or a few months, there is so much to see. From ancient, immaculately preserved temples to modern and vibrant cities like Palermo , via jaw-dropping natural wonders, this rich and diverse island is a world away from anywhere you’ve ever been before. 

Read our detailed guide to  road-tripping eclectic Sicily , which includes an itinerary along the island’s coastal ring road, and start planning your trip!

• Taking a hike above the clouds to the summit of Mount Etna and look deep into the rumbling magma below. 
• Being awed by the ancient Valley of the Temples in Agrigento.
• Wandering the charming historic back streets of Ortigia, the old town of Syracuse.

Syracuse ⇒ Hotel Gutkowski for lovingly crafted and unique interiors, beachcomber chic, and a cool roof terrace.

Palermo ⇒ BB22  for its perfect piazza location, a cozy home-from-home feel, and palazzo style.

Taormina ⇒ Hotel Villa Ducale  for spectacular views, a relaxed vibe, and legendary cocktails!

Tuscany & Umbria Road Trip

Pisa – lucca – florence – san gimignano – siena – arezzo – cortona – pienza – montepulciano – assisi – spoleto.

• avoid August

Italy is a gorgeous country for a road trip , no area more so than Tuscany and Umbria, which are easily accessible by car from the UK and Europe. The rolling fields of vines and golden wheat, studded with tall cypress trees and creamy stone villas are iconic.

This is a truly epic journey packed full of culture, great food, wine, and fantastic roads. There is much to see and lots of interesting places to stop between the main route destinations, make sure to do your research before leaving home!

Pisa in northern Italy is a great place to start this road trip. The leaning tower is a bit cliched but has to be seen. Lucca is perfect to explore on foot, with narrow lanes opening onto charming piazzas lined with historic buildings.

Florence is the jewel in Tuscany’s crown. A surprisingly compact city with the imposing Duomo at the center, a must-see. Book well in advance for anything to do with the Duomo, it’s strictly ticketed and you won’t be able to buy a ticket on the day.

You’ll probably want at least two days in Florence to see everything at a manageable pace, although you can see Florence in a day if you plan well. Leaving Florence is the time to set your sat nav to ‘no autostrada’ and get off the beaten track in the Tuscan countryside …yes, it may take a little longer but it will be worth it!

San Gimignano, famous for its thirteen towers, sits high on a hill south of Florence. Between April and September, this thriving hill village is busy with tourists visiting the churches, palazzos, independent shops, and restaurants.

Onwards to Arezzo and then Cortona, one of the oldest and most scenic hill towns in Tuscany. Pienza is a delightful village and has perfect, interesting streets for wandering and admiring the 15th century architecture.

The drive through the  Val d’Orcia  from Pienza to Montepulciano on the SP146 is like driving through a film set! Sweeping curves, rolling vineyards, and photo opportunities at every bend; this is quintessential Tuscany.

From Montepulciano , follow the road around the tranquil Lake Trasimeno to Assisi, our favorite Umbrian destination. The imposing Basilica of St Francis can be seen hugging the hillside for miles around. Your last stop is the gorgeous hill town of Spoleto, stuffed with monuments, churches, and other historic buildings.

For us, this has got to be one of the best European road trips we have taken; for the fabulous ride (we did it on a motorbike, highly recommended!), the stunning landscapes, and the beautiful Italian hospitality.

• Taking the breathtaking drive through the Val d’Orcia to Montepulciano with photo opportunities galore and a glass of local red waiting for you!
• Discovering Siena’s perfectly laid out, beautiful fan-shaped Piazza del Campo.
• Climbing the dome of the Duomo in Florence for spectacular views, inside and out!

Florence ⇒ AdAstra Suites  for their stunning location, classy and interesting decor, and magnificent terrace.

Montepulciano ⇒ Palazzo Carletti  for attention to detail, gorgeous frescoed interiors, and central location.

Assisi ⇒   Nun Assisi Relais and Spa  – for its lavender-filled gardens, incredible Roman spa, and fabulous restaurant.

• Lonely Planet Norway
• Fodor’s Essential Norway
• The Rough Guide to Norway
• Norway Road Trip – Three Unmissable Routes
• Atlantic Road Norway: Absolutely Everything You Need to Know!
• Driving to Norway from UK – Routes & Tips
• One Day Oslo Itinerary – Map, Guide & Tips
• Campervanning in Norway – Tips, Routes & Destinations
• Flåm Norway: Visitor Guide & Tips

West Coast of Norway Road Trip

Bergen – loen – geiranger – trollstigen – kristiansund – trondheim – jektvik – bodo – tromso.

Taking in the iconic sights of Norway ‘s west coast, this route will take you through tunnels, over fjords, along the Atlantic Ocean Road, and the infamous Trollstigen Mountain Road.

This is a route for those that love the journey more than the destination; it’s all about the road – even getting to Norway is a road trip in itself!

Start in  beautiful Bergen , the city surrounded by seven fjords and seven hills. There are lots of things to do here, including visiting the lively Vagen harbor in Bergen’s old quarter, Bryggen.

From Bergen, take the E39 motorway north to Loen where you’ll find the awesome new  Loen Skylift  which takes you to the top of Mount Hoven for spectacular views of the white-blue Jostedalsbreen glacier.

If you prefer to get to the top under your own steam, then take the via Ferrata up and the zip-line down! Is sea-level activity more your thing? Then head for glacial Lake Lovatnet where you can swim and kayak.

At Hellesylt, you’ll take the ferry through Geirangerfjorden to Geiranger itself before picking up the RV63, the Trollstigen Mountain Road. Incredibly beautiful, this road was opened in 1936 and includes eleven hairpin bends and a 9% incline. Stop at the Ornesvingen viewing point for incredible vistas and again at the top to admire the Stigfossen waterfall.

Once you reach Andalsnes, head west and then drive north on the E39 to Vevang, and the start of the Atlantic Ocean Road, which runs across seven bridges and follows the islands between them like a silver ribbon. If you want to visit picture-perfect  Alesund  on the way, take a slight detour and head south on the E39 instead of north – if you have a few extra days, you won’t regret it!

Next up is Trondheim, Norway’s original capital city before you head to Jektvik. You can either take the E6 Arctic Highway all the way or around 80km north of Trondheim, and just after Steinkjer, pick up the FV17 and take in the glorious landscape and coastal views from the magnificent Kystriksveien Coastal Route.

This Atlantic road route will add a fair few kilometers, two days, and six fjord ferries to your journey, but the detour will be worth it if you have the time. You’ll cross into the Arctic Circle at 66 degrees, on the ferry between Kilborghavn and Jektvik.

At Bodo, you can get a ferry out to the  Lofoten Islands  if you are making this a longer trip. Perfect for hikers and nature lovers, Lofoten has become Norway’s go-to place for adventure – you can even  swim with Orca whales  here! 

Mount Romvik, outside Bodo and with minimal light pollution, is a good place to see the Northern Lights.

Otherwise, keep on trucking to  Tromso , Norway’s party city. From here, you can head on to Nordkapp where the sun never drops below the horizon from mid-May to the end of July.

Hauntingly beautiful but incredibly busy, you may prefer the true northernmost point of continental Europe at Knivskjelodden, an 18km hike away and inaccessible to vehicles.

You could also take a ferry to Svalbard and visit the polar bears, catch the  Hurtigruten ferry  back to Bergen or Oslo , or get on a flight to pretty much anywhere in the world. Wherever you end up, it will take you a while to forget what is surely one of the best road trips in Europe.

• Driving the thrilling and impressive Trollstigen Road from Geiranger to Andalasnes
• Crossing the Arctic Circle into the land of the midnight sun and Northern Lights.
• Following the Kystriksveien Coastal Route and see the real coastal Norway of fishing villages and subsistence agriculture.

Bergen ⇒ Det Hanseatiske Hotel  for its harbourside location, dining options, and cozy decor.

Narvik ⇒ Narvik Mountain Lodge  for its truly spectacular location, traditional log cabin style, and amazing coastal views.

Tromso ⇒ Scandic Ishavshotel  for its harbor location, fabulous breakfasts, and excellent customer service.

Western Fjords Road Trip

Stavanger – preikestolen – kjeragbolten – trolltunga – flam – bergen.

This is an outdoor enthusiasts’ adventurous road trip ! If you’ve ever looked at those amazing images of people perched on tongues of rock, sheer cliffs, or precipitously balanced boulders whilst gazing out over stunning blue fjords, then this is the road trip for you. We did this Norway route by campervan , and it’s got to be one of our favorite travel experiences!

You’ll start in the pretty and typically Norwegian city of Stavanger before heading off to  hike to Preikestolen  (Pulpit Rock) which is 4km and can be done in half a day with an early start.

Next up is the  Kjeragbolten  hike, the site of a giant boulder wedged in a crevasse 1084m above Lysefjorden, where you can also base jump. This is a longer hike at 10km and you will need a full day to complete it.

Both hikes can get busy and you may have to wait if you want the obligatory photo, so allow plenty of time. If you’re not a confident hiker, consider taking a guided hike, you’ll learn lots on the way.

Everywhere you drive in Norway, you are surrounded by mountains, fjords, and waterfalls. The scenery is simply spectacular, with new thrills around each bend in the road. Route 13 from Stavanger to Odda is known as the Ryfylke National Scenic Route, one of Norway’s eighteen official touring routes designated for their stunning scenery and tourist-friendly infrastructure.

As you drive through Norway you will motor through tunnels and need to get a ferry to cross a fjord. Allow several hours drive time longer than Google Maps suggests; this is a full day drive and you should start early.

Your next stop is Odda, for the infamous Trolltunga (literally Troll’s Tongue) one of the best hikes in the world. The most challenging of the three, this hike is 20km distance across mainly flat terrain but can be tricky underfoot with changeable weather.  Hiking Trolltunga  is not for the faint-hearted or unprepared but is an absolute must-do on your Norway road trip.

Take a few day’s downtime in Flam, a small village right at the top of the beautiful Aurlandsfjord. Surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and water this is a playground for hikers, water sports enthusiasts, and mountain bikers.

From Flam, you can drive to Bergen or take the spectacular Flamsbana railway there, considered one of the most spectacular train rides in the world.

• Taking the incredible Flam Railway to Myrdal and cycle the Rallar Road.
• Standing on the edge of the Troll’s Tongue with the world at your feet.
• Discovering the imposing and dramatic Lysefjorden by boat.

Stavanger ⇒   Sola Strand Hotel  for the breathtaking beachfront location and a modern spa.

Odda ⇒   Vikinghaug Apartments for their amazing fjord views and the post-Trolltunga bath!

Flam ⇒ Flåmsbrygga Hotel   for its superb central position, cozy traditional decor, and micro-brewery.

• Lonely Planet Portugal
• DK Eyewitness Portugal
• The Rough Guide to Portugal
• Road Trip Portugal – Two Incredible Itineraries
• Driving from Lisbon to Porto: Itinerary, Route & Tips
• Driving to Portugal from UK – Routes & Tips
• Campervanning in Portugal: Complete Guide

Atlantic Coast Road Trip

Porto – coimbra – nazare – sintra – lisbon.

Portugal is a tiny country but it packs one hell of a punch. This Portugal road trip itinerary can be managed in five days, but seven gives you the opportunity to revel in the cities of Porto and Lisbon and enjoy a beach stop en route.  

You could easily drive from Lisbon to Porto as a 7 day road trip in Europe from UK if you fly into Porto and out of Lisbon, or vice versa. One-way car rental is possible from either airport.

Porto is a lively and fun city, intimate and friendly. There’s a lot to do in  Porto  but walking over the mighty Douro river on the iconic Luis I Bridge to Vila Nova de Gaia and the historic port lodges, has to be top of the list.

Head south from here to the  less-traveled city of Coimbra , Portugal’s ancient capital. Stacked on the banks of the river Mondego, the Moorish old town is dramatic and atmospheric. This is a great place to stop at a bar for authentic live fado or Portuguese guitar music.

Halfway between Coimbra and Lisbon, take a short detour to Nazare on Portugal’s Silver Coast. Known for its monster waves and daredevil surfers, this is a great place if you like huge beaches and dramatic landscapes.

Heading south, Sintra, in the mountains of the same name, is a love-it-or-hate-it kind of place. Home to Portuguese royalty for centuries, the lush landscape is dotted with pastel-colored palaces, villas, and houses.

You can also take a  day trip to Sintra from Lisbon  if you’d prefer to base yourself in the city. Visit and decide for yourself!

Finally to wonderful Lisbon for picture-postcard panoramas and fabulous food!  This most Portuguese of cities serves up fantastic bacalhau, pastel de nana, and port from the Douro Valley. Head for the exotic Tropical Botanical Gardens and stroll amongst giant banana plants before visiting the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos, a haven of peace amongst the bustling city.

If you want to stretch your week in Portugal, you’ll find the beautiful Algarve region just three hours south of Lisbon. This stunning part of Portugal is famous for its incredible beaches and perfect climate. Make for the charming town of Lagos and stay at  Vivenda Miranda , a beautifully restored boutique hotel.

• Taking a port wine tour and tasting in one of Porto’s historic port wine lodges.
• Heading to a fado bar to hear the traditional and haunting music of Portugal played live.
• Tasting hundreds of delicious foods at the Mercado de Ribeira, Lisbon’s buzzy food hall.

Porto ⇒ Flores Village Hotel and Spa for its central location, roof-top bar views, and stylish design.

Coimbra ⇒ Sapientia Boutique Hotel  for the perfect location, stylish design, and warm hospitality.

Lisbon ⇒ Valverde Hotel for its gorgeous interiors, walkable location, and courtyard pool.

• Lonely Planet Spain
• DK Eyewitness Road Trips Spain
• The Rough Guide to Spain
• Spain Travel Guide
• Six of the Best Road Trips in Spain
• The Perfect Andalucia Road Trip: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• North Spain Road Trip: Itinerary, Route & Tips
• Madrid in One Day – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• One Day in Barcelona – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide
• Driving from UK to Spain – Routes & Tips
• Motorhoming in Spain: Your Complete Guide

Andalucia Road Trip

Marbella – ronda – cadiz – jerez de la frontera – seville – cordoba – granada.

Andalucia epitomizes Spain for most visitors; vibrant, colorful, and passionate. This itinerary will take you to the major cities of Andalucia, bringing Spain alive.

If you’re looking for a longer holiday, it’s perfect for a 3 week European road trip itinerary with a bit of beach time thrown in,  even if you visit in winter .

This is a perfect road trip to start and finish in Malaga. Fly in, hire a car, and within a few hours, you can be on the beaches of the Costa del Sol, enjoying year-round sunshine.

In Marbella, spend a day soaking up the sun and visiting the charming old town. Make for  Taberna Casa Curro Marbella  where you’ll find great tapas and fruity Spanish wine.

Head north to Ronda and the stunning mountains of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. If you have a few extra days, now is the time to visit the atmospheric cities of Cadiz and Jerez de la Frontera.

Your next stop is  Seville , a city almost too good to be true, and everything you ever through Seville would be.

Cordoba  is home to the breathtaking Mezquita, or mosque-cathedral, started by the Moors and finished by the Spanish conquistadors in the sixteenth century. Seeing this alone would make a visit to Cordoba worthwhile.

Pass through Antequera and learn the local legend of the  Lovers Rock  before making your way high into the Sierra Nevada to Granada and the famous Alhambra. Make sure you book your  priority tickets online  at least three months in advance, this ancient palace of kings sells out quickly.

• Visiting the beautiful  La Casa del Rey Moro  in Ronda for unrivaled views of the Puenta Nuevo.
• Watching steamy live flamenco in Seville’s atmospheric Barrio Santa Cruz.
• Being wowed by the incredible Moorish architecture of the Mezquita in Cordoba.

Marbella ⇒ Amare Beach Hotel  for its fun adults-only vibe and glamorous beach club. 

Seville ⇒ Casa del Poeta  for the beautifully renovated interiors, Barrio Santa Cruz location, and roof-top views to die for.

Granada ⇒ Hotel Santa Isabel la Real  for cozy rooms, spectacular Alhambra views, and a really special cooked breakfast.

Northern Spain Road Trip

San sabastian – bilbao – comillas – oviedo – ribadeo – a coruna – santiago de compostela.

• April-October

This Spanish road trip will take you through the beautiful and lush, aptly named Green Spain, hugging the north coast along the Bay of Biscay.

From the border with France and through the regions of the Basque Country, Cantabria, Asturias, and Galicia, you’ll see some of the most picturesque landscapes in Spain, enjoy amazing food, and crisscross the famous  Camino de Santiago .

Start in San Sabastian, a sophisticated city with a renowned restaurant scene, famous for seafood and pintxos (pronounced pinchos), which are similar to tapas.

Take a  gastronomic tour  for the best experience. Eat your fill and head west to Bilbao, home of the incredible  Guggenheim museum . The building itself is a work of art, with beautifully curved and sweeping architecture.

Head west, making sure to stop at the  cave of El Castillo  to see the 35,000-year-old drawings there.

Continue along the coast to the stunning Santillana del Mar, known as the town of the three lies; not holy (santi), flat (llana) or by the sea (del mar) .

This medieval town is beautifully preserved and worth a wander before you make your way to Comillas, further along the coast. Traditionally low-rise, you’ll find a pretty beach, a tiny fishing port, and a charming cobbled old center here.

Don’t miss El Caprichio, a Gaudi-designed villa.  If you have a few extra days, head into the  Picos de Europa , the small but perfectly formed mountain range.

Oviedo is the next stop and the starting point of the lesser-known Camino Primitivo (the oldest Camino). This compact and elegant city is another foodie delight, with a lively gastronomic scene.

Home to Spanish cider (who knew?), you’ll find traditional sidrerias along Calle Gascona, known as cider boulevard.   Visit in September for  Fiestas de San Mateo , a live theatre and music spectacular. If you go in October, you’ll be in the middle of the Asturias apple harvest.

A Coruna is up next, passing by the spectacular Playa de Las Catedrales en route. There is so much to do in A Coruna, a dynamic city that is home to a busy modern port, a relaxed beachfront resort, and an atmospheric old town.

The seafood here is some of the freshest and finest in Spain, with seafood tapas being a specialty. Take a walk out to the Tower of Hercules, the least-looking lighthouse we have ever seen!

Finally, you’ll reach  Santiago de Compostela , the end point of the famous Camino de Santiago, and your last stop. As you enter the town, you’ll see pilgrims covering the final few miles into one of the most beautiful cities in Spain, proudly displaying their vieira, the scallop shell badge that you’ll have seen along your route .  

Twisting alleys, dramatic squares, and historic religious buildings make up this labyrinth of a city, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are too many must-sees to list so consider a  walking tour with a local  to make the most of the time you have in this gorgeous city.

• Eating delicious  pintxos straight from the bar in the Basque Country. 
• Walking along the boardwalks at Playa de Las Catedrales and marvel at the extraordinary natural arches.
• Exploring the cathedral in Santiago de Compostela and make the climb to Las Cubiertas , the cathedral roof, for incredible views of the city and landscape beyond.

San Sebastian ⇒ Lasala Plaza Hotel  for a big dose of glamour, sea views, and a cool rooftop pool.

Oviedo ⇒ Barcelo Oviedo Cervantes  for its laid-back vibe, modern decor, and smooth service.

Santiago de Compostela ⇒ Parador De Santiago de Compostela  for its history, traditional decor, and HUGE breakfast buffet.

Switzerland

• Fodor’s Essential Switzerland
• Rough Guide to Switzerland
• DK Eyewitness Switzerland  
• Switzerland Road Trip: The Best Itinerary + Map & Tips
• One Day in Zurich – Itinerary, Map, Tips & Guide

Road Trip to the Alps

Zurich – bern – lausanne – geneva – montreux – nendaz – zermatt – interlaken – lauterbrunnen – grindelwald – furka pass – lucerne – zurich.

This two week Switzerland summer road trip will take you on a spectacular, circular drive through Switzerland’s iconic landscapes covering roughly 1000km south across western Switzerland to Geneva before heading east towards Zermatt and eventually back north to Zurich.

Starting in Zurich, your first stop will be Bern, found within the curves of the Aare river. Bern is the capital city of Switzerland and is known for its 12th century architecture that forms the old town or Alstadt . Your visit to Bern would be incomplete without exploring Lake Brienz, just north of the Alps, which offers breathtaking mountain views and is considered one of the most beautiful places in Switzerland .

After your trip to Bern, begin traveling south to Lausanne, Geneva, and Montreux, visiting Lac Léman en route. 

The following stretch of your trip will provide unrivaled views of Les Diablerets as you head towards Zermatt where you will be met with the iconic Matterhorn, a mountain in the Swiss Alps.

At this point, your road trip starts the route east taking you to Interlaken, Lauterbrunnen, and Grindelwald where hiking, mountain views, waterfalls and plenty of exciting adventures await.

As you leave Grindelwald, make sure you save time for the Furka Pass as you head to Lucerne. Our Swiss road trip itinerary will continue north to our initial starting point, the city of Zurich.

• Driving the incredible Alps passes of Furka and Susten, high in the picturesque Bernese Highlands.
• Taking one of the many cog-wheeled trains or cable cars into the big mountains that Switzerland is famous for.
• Exploring the incredible Jungfraujoch from Lauterbrunnen, an absolutely epic day trip!

Zurich ⇒ Placid Hotel Design & Lifestyle for its very cool interiors, accessible location, and free bikes to help you explore the city.

Geneva ⇒ Hotel Mon Repos  for its excellent location, beautifully decorated rooms, and comfy beds.

Lauterbrunnen ⇒ Hotel Schützen Lauterbrunnen for its Swiss chalet style, cozy restaurant and terrace, and friendly service.

United Kingdom

• Lonely Planet Great Britain
• DK Eyewitness Great Britain
• Rough Guides Make the Most of Your Time in Britain
• United Kingdom Travel Guide
• UK Road Trip – 18 Unmissable Routes
• Eight Incredible Scotland Road Trips
• North Coast 500 Route Planner + Highlights, Map & Tips
• Road Trip England – 10 of the Best Routes
• Wales Road Trip – A Stunning Route & Itinerary
• A South England Road Trip to Dorset & The New Forest
• Cornwall Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Causeway Coastal Route: The Best Road Trip In Ireland?
• Belfast in A Day: Itinerary, Map & Tips
• Atlantic Highway: An Epic Devon & Cornwall Road Trip

Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland

Derry-londonderry – port rush – bushmills – cushendun – carrickfergus – belfast.

The wild and unspoiled  Antrim Coast  in Northern Ireland is made for a road trip. Peppered with fascinating places to see and exciting things to do, this route will appeal to outdoor adventurers.

If you are a  Game of Thrones fan , there are lots of  places along this route  which featured in the show or book a tour to find them all.

Start in the walled city of Derry-Londonderry, one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe and the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland. The walls, which are around 1.5km in circumference, form a walkway around the inner city and provide a unique promenade to view the layout of the original town.

From here head north on the coast road, past the magnificent and unmistakable mountain of Binevenagh, and stop at Benone beach for a bracing walk along the sands. Don’t miss the Mussenden Temple perched on the cliff edge at the easternmost point of the beach.

Make your way to the pretty seaside town of Port Rush for a local ice cream and local craft shopping before meandering along the coast to Bushmills, home of the whiskey distillery. This is the perfect starting point for the gloriously breathtaking Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s first UNESCO site.

As you head west, make sure to stop at the picture-perfect harbor of Ballintoy and test yourself at the Carrick-a-rede rope bridge.

Take in the conservation village of Cushendun, steeped in character and folklore before heading on to Carrickfergus Castle. This imposing Norman castle stands on the northern shore of Belfast Lough and is one of the best-preserved medieval structures on the island of Ireland.

Belfast is your final stop; don’t miss the fantastic Titanic Quarter, historic Crumlin Road Gaol, and the buzzing nightlife of the Cathedral Quarter. Check out this detailed post for more  things to do in Belfast .

If you have longer, start in Belfast and head in the opposite direction. From Derry-Londonderry head across the border into raw and wild Co. Donegal and pick up the Wild Atlantic Way. This makes for a great island of Ireland 2 week road trip in Europe.

• Discovering the Giant’s Causeway, a truly spectacular natural wonder.
• Crossing the iconic Peace Bridge in Derry-Londonderry and then walking the ancient city walls.
• Taking a black cab mural tour in Belfast for a unique cabbie’s take on local politics and the troubles.

Londonderry ⇒ Bishop’s Gate Hotel for its perfect location, fascinating history, and tasteful decor.

Bushmills ⇒ The Bushmills Inn Hotel  for its homely peat fires, great Irish breakfast, and proximity to the Giant’s Causeway.

Belfast ⇒ Ten Square Hotel  for its superb central location, fantastic grill restaurant, and contemporary decor.

Norfolk Road Trip, England

Norwich – wroxham – winterton – cromer – hunstanton – sandringham – king’s lynn.

• Distance 175km
• Duration 5-7 days
• Drive Time 3 hours

This delightful coastal road trip will take you through the county of Norfolk to the Norfolk Broads, old-fashioned English seaside resorts, and onto the beautiful and unspoiled North Norfolk Coast .

Summer road trips in the UK are best if you want sunshine, but visit the UK in winter for more cost-effective travel and you’ll enjoy incredible beaches, big skies, and perfect solitude, especially when you road trip in Norfolk , England.

From the historic and pretty city of Norwich , head east towards Wroxham, the self-styled capital of the Broads. The dramatic landscapes and raw natural beauty of the Norfolk Broads were created when peat digs flooded in the 14th century.

This area is now a national park and a haven for wildlife and birds. Take a Broads cruise, hire a boat, or head off for a long walk along towpaths and through fields, where seeing flapping sails in the river is an everyday occurrence.

Nearby is the loud and bright town of Great Yarmouth , a traditional bucket and spade destination, with great nearby beaches and lots to do – you certainly won’t get bored here!

From the Broads, head east to explore the pretty towns and incredible beaches of the Norfolk coast . Winterton-on-Sea is a perfect place to see seal pups in the winter. Further north is the popular seaside town of Cromer, renowned for its lively pier.

From Cromer make a short detour south to the stunning Jacobean  Blickling Hall , home of Anne Boleyn.

Continue along the coast road to Blakeney and practice your crabbing skills from the harbor. Make a stop at the beautiful and huge Holkham Beach, where the ending of ‘Shakespeare in Love’ was filmed.

Onwards from here to Hunstanton, another bucket and spade destination , which is close to the medieval and Hanseatic port town of King’s Lynn . 

From here it’s a short drive to  Sandringham , home of the Queen. There are lots of things to do here, including visiting the house, gardens and country park.

If you have time, head to 12th century  Castle Rising  before making your way to the Hanseatic town of Kings Lynn. The town’s heritage is reflected in the fine merchants’ houses which stretch down to the river between cobbled lanes and the elegant Custom House that overlooks the harbor.

• Walking on Holkham Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
• Traditional, delicious and fresh fish and chips from No 1 Cromer .
• Discover the stunning historic estates of Blickling Hall and Holkham Hall.

Norwich ⇒ The Georgian Townhouse   for its informal vibe, lively bar and restaurant, and contemporary decor.

Thornham ⇒  The Lifeboat Inn  for its romantic retreat-style location, open fires, and really seriously good pub grub.

King’s Lynn ⇒ Bank House  for its prime location, Grade II exterior, and go-to, lively brasserie.

North Coast 500 Road Trip, Scotland

Inverness – wick – john o’groats – durness – lochinver – ullapool – applecross.

• Distance 830km
• Duration 2-3 weeks
• Drive Time 12 hours

A favorite of motorhomers and campervanners, this iconic Scottish road trip is a 516 mile route that wends its way around the spectacular north coast of Scotland, starting and ending in Inverness. 

Passing through the remote and wild landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and the spectacular west coast, the North Coast 500 route delivers dramatic roads with spectacular views and is one of the must-do road trips in the United Kingdom .

• Hiking to beautiful  Sandwood Bay Beach , for the incredible sight of the Am Buachaille sea stack, a remnant of when the Highlands and North America were connected, millions of years ago.
• Whale watching from Gairloch, where you might also see porpoise, dolphins, and sharks, as well as seals, otters, puffins, and maybe white-tailed eagles. 
• Driving Bealach na Ba, the legendary Applecross Pass, and one of the best (but also most dangerous) roads in the UK.

Inverness ⇒ Kingsmills Hotel  for its traditional Scottish decor, lively bar, and spa.

Wick ⇒   Mackays Hotel for its award-winning service, great restaurant, and ideal location.

Gairloch ⇒   Shieldaig Lodge Hotel  for its wonderful lochside location, traditional hunting lodge style, and seriously good breakfast.

Snowdonia to the Brecon Beacons, Wales

Snowdonia – portmeirion – barmouth – new quay – pembrokeshire – gower peninsula – mumbles – brecon beacons.

• Distance 256km
• Drive Time 7 hours

Small but perfectly formed, the glorious country of Wales is a road tripper’s dream. With soaring mountains and valleys, miles of golden sands, craggy headlands, and some incredible roads, head to Wales for an adventurous and eclectic road trip.

Start your road trip itinerary in the spectacular Snowdonia National Park, or Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri in Welsh, in north Wales for drama, huge skies, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Perfect as a base for a few days, Betws-y-Coed is a typical mountain town in a beautiful valley, full of companies offering outdoor adventures, shops selling outdoor gear, and pubs and restaurants full of hikers talking about the day’s activities.

Your next stop is Portmeirion, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful places in Wales. Portmeirion is best known for Portmeirion Pottery (now made in Stoke-on-Trent) and its role in the 1960’s cult TV show The Prisoner . Look beyond the obvious though and enjoy local walks, tropical gardens, and interesting architecture.

Families with love Barmouth and its location on the west coast has to be one of the most beautiful in Wales. Steeped in a history rich with connections to the shipping and slate industries, this is a good old-fashioned seaside resort with a west facing beach ideal for sea swimming and watersports. 

Head south through coastal mid-wales to the vibrant seaside town of New Quay, following the Coastal Way along the length of Ceredigion Bay. Popular with tourists for its picturesque harbor and sandy beach, New Quay is an ideal base for water sports like sailing, stand-up paddle, kayaking, and canoeing – you’ll find lots to pack in for a couple of days.

Next up is Pembrokeshire, famous for its rough cliffs, huge beaches, and remote islands. The coast of Pembrokeshire offers limitless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and is one of the most stunning places in the UK. 

Pembrokeshire boasts that it invented coasteering, and it’s an activity you must try. The sport of jumping from land to sea, cliff scrambling, and swimming between rocks will stretch you mentally and physically but give you hours of fun. There is also lots of opportunity for swimming, paddling and generally messing about on the water.

Your next stop is the spectacular Gower Peninsula in south Wales, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty famous for its breathtaking coastline, 30 or so unspoiled beaches and coves, and coastal walking, including the gorgeous Rhossili Beach and the dramatic Worm’s Head, whose long ridged back rises straight from the sea.

Stop at Mumbles, a traditional seaside town, and walk along the bustling prom, where rollerbladers weave between pedestrians, and ice-cream parlors tempt.

Make a detour to the infamous Top Gear road, the Black Mountain Pass, as you head into the Brecon Beacons, or Bannau Brycheiniog in Welsh, for more fantastic hiking, especially if you tackle Pen y Fan, and incredible views.

• Driving the Black Mountain Pass and the Gospel Pass through the Brecon Beacons.
• Paddleboarding at the Blue Lagoon at Abereiddy in Pembrokeshire.
• Visiting the puffins and wildlife of Skomer Island.

Snowdonia ⇒ Ty Gwyn Hotel in Betws-y-Coed for its great location, friendly welcome, and traditional decor.

New Quay ⇒  Rooms @ The Dolau Inn for its location close to the beach, cozy rooms, and Welsh hospitality.

Pembrokeshire ⇒   Heywood Spa Hotel in Tenby for its luxury facilities, comfortable rooms, and great location.

European Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for planning a European road trip.

• Search for affordable flights to Europe with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Europe with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Europe with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in Europe with Rentalcars.com
• Best for ferries around Europe are Ferryhopper
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Indie Campers
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in Europe

• Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know
• How to Plan a Road Trip – Your Complete Guide
• 19 Helpful Long Distance Driving Tips
• Road Trip on a Budget: 36 Tips to Save Money in Europe
• The Best Printable Road Trip Checklists
• 150+ Road Trip Songs: Your Ultimate Driving Playlist
• Podcasts for Road Trips: 26 to Keep You Entertained
• Road Trip Snacks: 32 Ideas for Your Next Trip
• 113 Road Trip Quotes to Inspire Your Next Trip
• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Europe. If you’re traveling to Ireland , your passport must remain valid for the duration of your stay (UK citizens do not need a passport to visit Ireland, which is in the Common Travel Area).
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit for driving in Europe . You can check whether you need an IDP here .
• Most of Europe drives on the right, except the United Kingdom which drives on the left.
• Most European countries, especially those with mountains, have rules about snow tires and snow chains. Make sure you check these rules if you’re taking a road trip to Europe in colder weather.
• You may want to consider carrying an  electronic toll pass  for the duration of your European road trip itinerary. These devices deduct the toll fees from a credit card automatically, meaning you don’t have to stop at a booth or barrier.
• Many cities across Europe have low emissions zones, which can be easy to stray into accidentally.  The Urban Access Regulation in Europe  website has information on a country and city-by-city basis, to help you plan your trip. They also share links for purchasing LEZ and ULEZ stickers online.
• Make sure you’re aware of the specific rules for each European country that you intend to visit. Some have obscure rules about driving in flip-flops or eating road trip snacks at the wheel! You can find more information about the rules of the road and what to carry in your vehicle  here .
• Although it is strongly advised, you are not required to have breakdown cover. UK registered vehicles may be able to add this to an existing policy or take out a policy for the duration of the trip. If you’re hiring a car to road trip around Europe, make sure to check breakdown arrangements with the car rental company.

Looking for more Europe itinerary ideas? Check out these top posts…

Stelvio Pass: The Best Mountain Road in Italy?

Spain Road Trip: 8 Amazing Routes for an Epic Trip

Croatia Road Trips: Five Incredible Routes

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Europe Trip Planner

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Europe throughout the year

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4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Road Trip - Europe 4+

A classic hidden object game, designed for ipad.

• 4.6 • 820 Ratings
• Offers In-App Purchases

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Description.

Enjoy this game for FREE – or unlock ALL Original Stories games with unlimited play by signing up for a GHOS Subscription! Take an unforgettable road trip across the beautiful landscapes of Europe. Find over 1,700 hidden objects and solve fun puzzle minigames on your virtual vacation. Plus, play your way with multiple game modes! Hidden Object Modes included: - Word - Riddle - Scramble - Missing Vowels - Silhouette - Sequence Master 5 unique puzzle minigames, including: - Match 3 - Mahjong - Block Slide - Spot the Difference - Tile Swap * Beautiful hi-resolution hidden object scenes * Hours of fun and relaxing gameplay * Bonus puzzles and minigames * Sometimes challenging but never frustrating! *NEW!* Enjoy all GameHouse Original Stories with a subscription! As long as you’re a member, you can play all of your favorite story games. Relive past stories and fall in love with new ones. It’s all possible with a GameHouse Original Stories subscription. Subscribe today! More about GameHouse Original Stories subscriptions: - You can subscribe to unlock and remove advertisements from this game and all other GameHouse Original Stories games - GameHouse Original Stories offers a choice of two subscriptions: monthly and yearly - Monthly subscriptions will be charged at $9.99/month* - Yearly subscriptions will be charged at $89.99/year* - You will be able to access all GameHouse games for the duration of your subscription - Payment will be charged to your iTunes Account at confirmation of purchase - Subscriptions automatically renew unless auto-renew is turned off at least 24-hours before the end of the current period - Account will be charged for renewal up to 24-hours prior to the end of the current period - Subscriptions may be managed by the user, and auto-renewal may be turned off by going to the user's Account Settings after purchase - No cancellation of the current subscription is allowed during the active subscription period - Any unused portion of a free trial period, if offered, will be forfeited when the user purchases a subscription to that publication, where applicable * Prices are equal to the value that "Apple's App Store Matrix" determines is the equivalent subscription price in $USD By using GameHouse Original Stories, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy. Terms of Service: https://www.gamehouseoriginalstories.com/static/terms-of-service.html Privacy Policy: https://www.gamehouseoriginalstories.com/static/privacy-policy.html

Version 2.0

THANK YOU! A big shout out for supporting us! If you haven't done so already, please take a moment to rate this game – your feedback helps make our games even better! What's new in 2.0? - General SDKs Update

Ratings and Reviews

820 Ratings

Fun Hidden Object Game

I am a Gamehouse Club subscriber. Love this hidden object game. The levels are challenging and you don’t have to worry about having to buy in app gems or coins to progress. Would love to see more games like this.

Developer Response ,

Thank you for the awesome review!!! Do share the game on your social media pages as well.

Just one thing…

I like the game but there are some items that are hidden behind the list of items at the bottom and there doesn’t seem to be a way to remove it or move the screen around to get to it.

Thank you for your review. Are you having trouble with the game? Send us a message from within the game or send an email to [email protected] and we can help you resolve it.

Great game… but how to reset to play again?

I paid for no ads & I loved this game but now that I beat it I can’t figure out how to reset it and play again/change setting to timed??? Is it possible? If not then disappointed :(

Send us a message from within the game as soon as you can and we'll get this sorted. In the main menu, tap on the 'support' button, this will bring up the FAQs. On the top right tap on the 'contact us' button to send us a message.

App Privacy

The developer, GameHouse , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Used to Track You

The following data may be used to track you across apps and websites owned by other companies:

• Identifiers

Data Linked to You

The following data may be collected and linked to your identity:

• Contact Info
• User Content
• Diagnostics

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

English, Dutch, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish

• Full Game $9.99
• GameHouse Subscription Monthly $9.99
• Buy location Dublin $0.99
• Buy location Lisbon $0.99
• Buy location London $0.99
• Buy location Paris $0.99
• Buy location Flam $0.99
• GameHouse Subscription Yearly $89.99
• Buy location Reykjavik $0.99
• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

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Easily plan a European rail trip with Eurail Planner

Our free app makes it easy to plan and book everything you need for your trip around Europe.

Plan the best route across Europe and see your eurotrip come to life.

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Get inspired by these popular Eurail routes. Each trip can be booked as a standard package or you can customize it and request a quote using our route planner.

Buy your Eurail pass

Whether you want to explore one country, several, or all of Europe there is a Eurail pass to suit your travel needs.

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Wander With Alex

Hit the Road with Ease: 10 Helpful Road Trip Planning Apps

Posted: August 6, 2023 | Last updated: August 6, 2023

Road trips are “in” this year. Whether you need a travel packing list, the cheapest gas price, or a toilet finder, there’s “an app for that!” Using a road trip planner app is a convenient way to store all your essential travel plans all in one place. Below we’ll explore ten useful apps that can help you stay organized, budget, and find your way around.

1. Roadtrippers (Route Planning)

Roadtrippers is a robust road trip planner app with many useful features. Not only can you plan out your entire trip, but you can also use the app to navigate. The app allows you to mark your planned stops easily and suggests things for you to do along the way. You can estimate how much you’ll spend on gas, book hotels and tours, and get traffic updates. Roadtrippers Plus has even more features, allowing you to create itineraries and download pre-made trip guides.

2. PackPoint (Packing List)

A road trip packing list can help you keep track of your belongings before, during, and after travel. It’s the best way to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything essential. But rather than keep track of a paper checklist, why not use an app? PackPoint is a travel packing list app that allows you to create custom packing lists for free. You can categorize your list and even see what the weather is like at your destination. The premium version also allows you to link to your TripIt itinerary! 

3. TripIt (Itineraries)

TripIt is a mobile itinerary app that allows you to compile your road trip or travel plans all in one place. You can send your travel confirmation emails to the app, add things like photos and PDFs, email your itinerary to someone else, and even sync your trip to your calendar. TripIt Pro has additional features such as trip reminders, a rewards program tracker, “go now” reminders, and a host of flight-related tools. If you love itineraries, you’ll love this road trip planner app!

4. Waze (Traffic & Directions)

Waze is a GPS navigation and live traffic app that helps you get where you need to go. Not only does it help you get to your destination, but it allows users to input information such as road hazards, construction sites, and police sightings.

Another popular feature of the app is its rerouting tool. When the app notices traffic back up ahead, it will notify you of the situation and offer alternative routes. Waze has also added features such as a speedometer, a gas finder, a parking garage/lot finder, and it will even sync with your music and podcast apps.

5. Google Maps (Destination Finder)

Suppose you’re directionally changed, like me. Using Google Maps to get around a new city is a game changer. The app isn’t just for driving navigation and can be used when getting around on foot or by bike. And if your location history has been enabled, the app will even give you destination recommendations based on places you’ve previously visited. In addition, Google Maps will let you share your location and download maps offline if you know you’ll have spotty service.

6. GasBuddy (Best Gas Prices)

GasBuddy is a fuel savings app that uses your location to help you locate cheap gas. You can also sign up for a free Pay with GasBuddy card to save even more at the pump. Here’s how it works.

Once you receive the card in the mail, you will connect it to your bank account. Next, you’ll use the app to unlock deals. Then, when you are ready to fill up, you use your GasBuddy card instead of your debit card. When you do this, you’ll receive up to 25 cents off per gallon, and if you upgrade to their premium account, you can get up to 40 cents off per gallon. The GasBuddy card works at 95% of gas stations in the U.S.

Additionally, if you want to save even more on gas, you can participate in their Shop Your Way program. Use the app to shop for their retailers, and they will apply more gas discounts to your card.

7. Flush (Toilet Finder)

The Flush restroom finder app is genius! All you have to do is open the app, and it will display public restroom options near you. The app also tells you if the bathroom is handicap accessible, if there is a fee, and even lets you know if a key is required. And this app isn’t just for those in the U.S.; it helps you find toilets worldwide!

8. Trabee Pocket (Budget Tracker)

The Trabee Pocket app was designed specifically for tracking your spending while traveling. The app allows you to enter pre-trip costs, add on-the-go costs, categorize your purchases, and show you how much you’ve spent via a pie graph. And if you don’t want to hold on to your paper receipt, you can take photos and upload them to the app.

When your road trip is over, you can export your expense detail to a PDF or even a CSV file that you can open in Microsoft Excel. This simple-to-use expense tracker is great for budget-conscious road-trippers looking to watch their spending!

9. HotelTonight (Last-Minute Stays)

If you’re looking for last-minute hotel deals, HotelTonight is your app. Perfect for road trips, this app is ideal for those who decide, unplanned, that they want to stay the night in town before moving on to their next destination. So how does it work?

HotelTonight partners with hotels to help them fill up their unreserved rooms. In return, they can offer deep discounts to get those rooms filled. And although the app advertises last-minute accommodations, you can also book stays up to 100 days in advance. Be careful, though! Because these are great deals, you likely won’t get a refund for a cancellation or the ability to request a different type of room.

10. Guide Along (Audio Tours)

Guide Along , formerly known as GyPsy Guide, is a GPS-narrated audio tour app that will give you information about your current location. While driving or walking, the app will suggest local tips and tell you about all the things there are to do and see around you. It’s a personal tour guide at your fingertips! The app lets you download and play tours offline if you know you’ll have bad cell service in an area.

Final Thoughts

There are tons of road trip planner apps, so be sure to research and find the apps that best fit your needs. It’s always a good idea to test out your apps before your trip so you’re not fumbling around while driving. Enjoy your vacation, and be safe out there!

This article originally appeared on Wander With Alex . Photo Credit: [@scanrail/DepositPhotos]

More Articles From Wander With Alex

• How to Spot Vacation Rental Scams and How to Avoid Them
• Vacation Vibes: 13 Travel Tips for a Relaxing and Stress-Free Trip

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More From Forbes

5 travel apps every traveler should download.

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Downloading the best travel apps can be the key to a successful trip

Have apps, will travel. We rely on apps for pretty much every facet of life, and when you’re on the road, having a few travel apps queued up can help save stress, time and money, and make your trip so much better in very simple ways.

Beyond your standard airline, railroad, hotel chain and fast food apps, here are five travel-specific apps every traveler should download on their smartphone before heading out.

Top 5 Travel Apps

Google maps.

If you’re not using Google Maps to do more than navigate your trip, you’re not using it right. Google Maps is an essential part of any trip in 2024, for so many reasons. Firstly, you can download offline maps before you go, an extremely helpful resource if you don’t have service and need to find your way (you know, since no one has paper maps anymore). Google Maps can also help you plan a route with multiple stops, add starred and flagged places your network recommends and use AI to help with travel searches. Google Maps can help you find your parked car, find gas stations and so much more. Free to download in Apple App Store and Google Play.

Hikers, this one’s for you. Hikers of all levels can find hiking routes, long walks and camping sites via AllTrails , which offers peer-rated reviews of each spot, rankings and a level of easy, moderate or hard. Depending on your activity preference, AllTrails can also recommend spots for mountain bikers, wheelchair users, runners, hikers with dogs and more. A free version is comprehensive, but avid hikers may want to sign up for a subscription to AllTrails+, which offers even more details about your outdoor activity, including air quality, satellite weather, pollen, light pollution and user heatmaps. Free to download in Apple App Store and Google Play.

A smartphone can be an essential hiking tool, especially when you're out of town.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, hotel tonight.

Spontaneous travelers should download Hotel Tonight for last-minute bookings, often at a discount. The hotel app offers flash deals, as well as the ability to book stays in advance or for multiple nights and it’s perfect for procrastinators who just need a place to crash. It’s also great for flight delays, unexpected stop overs or road trips with no specific route in mind. Planners can also favorite specific properties before they travel to check nightly deals. Regular users will earn perks and steeper discounts after multiple bookings. Free to download in Apple App Store and Google Play.

If you’re traveling with your dog in tow, the BringFido app is a must have. The user-sourced and ranked database offers listings of accomodations, restaurants, events, activities and more that are dog-friendly in towns and cities across the United States and beyond. The app is great for playing a dog-friendly itinerary or finding a dog-friendly brewery or fenced in park on the go. Users can also post their favorite spots and leave tips for other dog visitors and their owners. Free to download in Apple App Store and Google Play.

Travel is so much better with a dog, especially when you know where to take your four legged travel ... [+] buddy.

Itinerary lovers, this one’s for you. TripIt is perfect for those organizing a major getaway or organizing a bunch of small trips that you just can’t possibly remember all the details for (flights, hotels, car rental, etc.) The free app aggregates all the plans in your email, stores confirmation numbers and will send alerts to remind you to leave for the airport, check in to your next accomodation, head to your dinner reservation and more. It’s like a personal assistant in your pocket, that can also track your rewards points, help with flight compensation and more. A free version is sufficient, but $49 for a year of TripIt Pro earns you extra benefits like airport navigation, baggage claim info and potential reimbursement, and the ability to upload 25 documents. Free to download in Apple App Store and Google Play.

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Created by yablonsky - August 20th 2013

Rome, Italy

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Madrid, Spain

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Tell us about a great road trip in Europe – you could win a holiday voucher

Tell us about your favourite trip – the best tip wins £200 towards a Coolstays break

Few things beat the sense of freedom of the open road. Whether it’s an epic motorcycle ride along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way or a leisurely pootle around the Italian lakes by car, a road trip is a brilliant way to explore a country at your own pace, enjoying varied scenery and discovering less-known spots en route. We’d love to hear about your favourite journeys in Europe – where did you go and what made it so special? The best tip will win a holiday voucher.

If you have a relevant photo, do send it in – but it’s your words that will be judged for the competition .

Keep your tip to about 100 words

The best tip of the week, chosen by Tom Hall of Lonely Planet , will win a £200 voucher to stay at a Coolstays property – the company has more than 3,000 worldwide. The best tips will appear in the Guardian Travel section and website.

We’re sorry, but for legal reasons you must be a UK resident to enter this competition.

The competition closes on 15 April at 9am

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