Planning a road trip across Europe is a dream for many travelers. Europe is home to some of the world’s most spectacular roads that offer unforgettable experiences. These twisty roads offer some of the best driving experiences, but on top of that you have opportunity to explore diverse landscapes, charming towns, and iconic landmarks at your own pace. From winding coastal routes to scenic mountain passes. Here’s the guide to the best roads in Europe for perfect road trip:
1. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
For those seeking alpine beauty and adventure, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road (Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse) in Austria is a must-visit destination. This spectacular mountain pass traverses the Hohe Tauern National Park, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and lush alpine meadows. With a series of hairpin bends and elevation changes, the road provides a thrilling driving experience amidst breathtaking natural scenery. Along the way, travelers can stop at scenic viewpoints, visit the Kaiser Franz Josef Glacier, and explore charming alpine villages such as Heiligenblut and Fusch.
One of the greatest aspects of Grossglockner is its proximity to the famous Stelvio Pass and Brenner Pass, situated along the borders of Switzerland-Italy, and Austria-Italy, respectively. Three is better than one, right?
The Grossglockner is, at 3,798 metres above the Adriatic, the highest mountain in Austria and the highest mountain in the Alps east of the Brenner Pass
2. The Amalfi Coast Road, Italy
Stretching along the picturesque coastline of southern Italy, the Amalfi Coast Road (SS163) is a scenic marvel known for its dramatic cliffs, azure waters, and charming seaside villages. Starting in Sorrento and winding its way to Salerno, this narrow coastal road offers breathtaking views at every turn, with highlights including the colorful town of Positano, the historic Amalfi Cathedral, and the quaint fishing village of Ravello. To avoid crowds, we recommend visiting the Amalfi Coast Road off-season (spring and fall offer good weather and less crowded roads)
The Amalfi Coast Road is around 50 kilometers (30 miles) long.
3. The Atlantic Road, Norway
Dubbed as one of the world’s most scenic drives, the Atlantic Road (Atlanterhavsveien) in Norway is a breathtaking coastal route that winds its way through a series of small islands and bridges along the Norwegian coastline. Spanning 8.3 kilometers, the road offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, dramatic cliffs, and crashing waves, creating a mesmerizing backdrop for an unforgettable road trip. Highlights along the route include the iconic Storseisundet Bridge, the picturesque fishing village of Bud, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.
The atlantic road is connected to mainland via a series of small islands and islets spanned by a total of eight bridges
4. The Transfagarasan Highway, Romania
Built as a strategic military route, the Transfagarasan Highway is a winding mountain road that traverses the spectacular Fagaras Mountains in Romania. Famous for its hairpin bends, steep gradients, and breathtaking vistas, this epic road trip route offers a thrilling driving experience on stunning alpine scenery. Highlights along the route include the iconic Balea Lake, the towering Vidraru Dam, and the historic Poenari Castle, known as the real-life Dracula’s Castle. The Transfagarasan Highway is best enjoyed during the summer months when the road is fully open and weather conditions are favorable.
The Bâlea Lake is a glacier lake situated at 2,034 m (6,673 ft)
5. The North Coast 500, Scotland
For those seeking rugged beauty and remote wilderness, the North Coast 500 (NC500) in Scotland is the ultimate road trip adventure. Stretching 500 miles along the northern coast of Scotland, this scenic route showcases some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes, including rugged coastline, pristine beaches, and windswept moors. Travelers can explore historic castles, charming villages, and ancient ruins along the way, while also enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Highlights of the NC500 include the dramatic cliffs of Cape Wrath, the mystical Fairy Glen, and the iconic Eilean Donan Castle.
The Kylesku Bridge in north-west Scotland that crosses the Loch a’ Chàirn Bhàin in Sutherland
A road trip across Europe offers a unique opportunity to explore diverse landscapes and cultures along the way. Whether you’re cruising along the winding roads of the Amalfi Coast or the alpine beauty of the Grossglockner, the driving experience will be something you never forget. What is the best road in the world in your opinion? Head out to our Instagram tell us!
