The best routes for traveling by car in Europe
Europe offers a plethora of stunning destinations that can be best explored by car. From the scenic mountain ranges of the Alps to the sun-kissed coastlines of the Mediterranean, Europe has something to offer for every type of traveler. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best routes for traveling by car in Europe. Here’s a list of the article author’s, Jeff Vertes, favorite places in Europe:
- The Romantic Road, Germany
- The Amalfi Coast, Italy
- The Atlantic Road, Norway
- The Ring Road, Iceland
- The Transfagarasan Highway, Romania
- The Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
- The Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
The Romantic Road, Germany
The Romantic Road is a 400-kilometer-long route that takes you through picturesque towns and villages in southern Germany. The route starts in Würzburg and ends in Füssen, taking you through the stunning countryside of Bavaria. Some of the highlights of the route include the medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, the Neuschwanstein Castle, and the charming city of Augsburg.
The Romantic Road is one of the most scenic drives in Germany, stretching for 400 kilometers from Würzburg in the north to Füssen in the south. The route passes through charming medieval towns and villages, rolling hills, vineyards, and scenic countryside. It is a popular tourist destination and is often considered one of the best ways to experience the traditional German culture and architecture.
Some of the highlights of the Romantic Road include the charming medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, which is known for its well-preserved town walls, half-timbered houses, and cobblestone streets. Another highlight is the city of Augsburg, which is famous for its museums, galleries, and historical buildings.
The Romantic Road also passes through the beautiful Franconian wine region, where visitors can stop at local vineyards to sample some of the world-renowned wines produced in this area. Additionally, visitors can also explore the stunning Neuschwanstein Castle, which is located at the southern end of the Romantic Road.
The best time to travel along the Romantic Road is during the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is warm and pleasant. However, it is also the busiest time of year, so visitors should be prepared for crowds and should book accommodations and attractions in advance.
Overall, the Romantic Road is a must-see destination for anyone interested in exploring the traditional German culture and architecture, and is a popular route for those who want to experience the scenic countryside and charming towns of southern Germany.
The Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline in southern Italy that is best explored by car. The route takes you through the charming towns of Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The road is narrow and winding, but the scenery makes it well worth the effort.
The Amalfi Coast is a stunning stretch of coastline in southern Italy, located in the Campania region. It extends for about 50 kilometers along the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula and is dotted with picturesque towns and villages, each offering its unique charm and beauty.
The Amalfi Coast is best explored by car, as the road winds its way along the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. The route takes you through charming towns like Sorrento, Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, where visitors can explore the narrow streets, colorful buildings, and stunning scenery.
Some of the highlights of the Amalfi Coast include the stunning views from the panoramic road that winds along the cliff edge, the picturesque fishing village of Positano, and the historic town of Amalfi, which is home to the impressive 9th-century Cathedral of Saint Andrew.
The Amalfi Coast is also famous for its cuisine, particularly its seafood dishes and lemon-based desserts. Visitors can stop at local restaurants to savor the fresh seafood and local specialties, such as the lemon-infused limoncello liqueur.
The best time to visit the Amalfi Coast is during the spring and early summer months, from April to June, when the weather is mild, and the crowds are not yet at their peak. However, it’s also a popular destination in the summer months, from July to September, when the weather is hot and sunny, and visitors can enjoy swimming and sunbathing at the beautiful beaches.
Overall, the Amalfi Coast is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the stunning coastline of southern Italy, and it’s a popular route for those who want to experience the charm and beauty of the region’s towns and villages.
The Atlantic Road, Norway
The Atlantic Road is a 8.3-kilometer-long road that takes you along the rugged coastline of Norway. The road is a feat of engineering, with eight bridges connecting small islands and islets. The route offers stunning views of the Norwegian Sea and is a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching.
The Atlantic Road is a scenic route in Norway, spanning 8.3 kilometers along the Atlantic coast, between the towns of Kristiansund and Molde. The road is known for its stunning views, picturesque bridges, and fishing opportunities.
The Atlantic Road features eight bridges that connect several small islands and islets, giving visitors the impression of driving on water. The most famous of these bridges is the Storseisundet Bridge, which appears to arch over the water like a roller coaster.
Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Norwegian Sea, rocky cliffs, and traditional fishing villages. The road passes through the Hustadvika, a notorious stretch of coastline known for its treacherous waters, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and fishing.
The Ring Road, Iceland
The Ring Road is a 1,332-kilometer-long route that takes you around the perimeter of Iceland. The route offers stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes. Some of the highlights of the route include the Gullfoss waterfall, the Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and the Blue Lagoon.
The Transfagarasan Highway, Romania
The Transfagarasan Highway is a 90-kilometer-long road that takes you through the stunning Fagaras Mountains in Romania. The road is known for its hairpin turns and spectacular views of the mountains. The route is only open from June to October due to heavy snowfall in the winter.
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a 48-kilometer-long road that takes you through the Hohe Tauern National Park in Austria. The road offers stunning views of the Grossglockner mountain, the highest peak in Austria. The route is only open from May to October due to heavy snowfall in the winter.
The Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
The Causeway Coastal Route is a 200-kilometer-long route that takes you along the rugged coastline of Northern Ireland. The route offers stunning views of the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, as well as the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the Dunluce Castle.
Conclusion
Europe offers a wide range of stunning destinations that can be best explored by car. Whether you’re looking to explore the mountains of Austria or the coastline of Italy, there’s something for every type of traveler. Just remember to always drive safely and enjoy the journey.
