Year-round road trips in Europe | from winter to summer

Collaborative Post | From the snow-covered peaks of the Alps to sun-drenched Mediterranean coastlines, Europe is a kaleidoscope of seasonal experiences.

With the channel tunnel being such a convenient entryway to the continent, we invite you to explore the many scenic drives of Europe.

Year-round road trips in Europe (Photo by Ries Bosch on Unsplash)

Road trip preparation

Driving to Europe in your car or perhaps even a campervan? Before we get down to the fun part of getting inspiration, there are a few important preparation issues to put on your to-do list:
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• Obtaining an international driving permit: Some European countries require you to carry one of these. They differ according to which country you’re travelling to. So if you’re heading to several countries, there’s a chance you might need more than one.

 

• First aid kit for Europe: It’s a good idea to carry one of these in your car anyway, but in some European countries it’s a legal requirement. Check if you need to acquire one before you set off!

 

• Appropriate European vehicle insurance: Don’t go unless you have an insurance policy that cover you for Europe. Sharing driving responsibilities with someone whose car you don’t usually drive? Get a short-term insurance policy that only covers you for the days you need it.

​And now for the fun part…

Winter wonderlands (November - February)

Provided you’re confident driving in challenging conditions (think all-season tyres and snow chains), there are some breathtaking European countries ripe for winter explorations.

There’s the Alps, which run through France, Monaco, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Slovenia and Slovenia. 

Then there’s Scandinavia. The drive to Denmark from Dover is estimated to take about 13 hours without breaks, so this is more one for the seasoned long-distance driver! Logistically, you may find it easier to fly into one of the Scandinavian countries and then hire a car from there.

The Baltic regions are also beautiful in winter and tend to have a lower cost of living.

Springtime flower routes (March - May)

What could be more refreshing than driving past European fields as they come alive with the first flowers of spring?

The Dutch tulip route is famous and it’s well worth doing. Search for the Bollenstreek Flower Map to guide you past all the main tulip and hyacinth fields that brighten the Netherlands at this time of year.

Or follow the Route des Grandes Alps from northern France right down to the sunny south coast. After winter, the high Alpine passes should no longer be covered in snow. The views are spectacular, and the heat isn’t yet out of control.

Summer beach drives (June - August)

Let’s face it, the main part of Europe that attracts tourists in summer is the Mediterranean! As long as your car has a solid AC system or climate control, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t take a road trip adventure there.

Italy is a wonderful country for a summer road trip, as long as you avoid the busiest times in August. Tuscany is much-loved for its medieval towns and famous rippling hills.

If you don’t mind a few mountain roads, the Dolomites also make for a spectacular drive.
Italy also had a lot to do with the popularisation of ice cream, and the superior quality is evident when you stop at any Italian gelateria after a long day’s drive. It’s second to none!

Autumn foliage journeys (September - October)

You really should treat yourself to a road trip through an autumnal European destination at some point in your life.

There’s the Black Forest in Germany, a blend of colourful deciduous trees and evergreen conifers. Cruising past the forest’s lakes and seeing the vivid autumn colours reflected back at you is a special experience.

Closer to home, the Scottish highlands are also an impressive drive in early autumn. Set against Scottish pine backdrop and perhaps a loch or two, it’s a rewarding drive.

Seeing Europe from the road is an authentic way to enjoy the seasons. Certain parts of Europe really come into their own when particular seasons hit. Knowing where to go and when is key!


Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.