How to plan a road trip in Europe | An Ultimate Guide
Are you thinking about taking a road trip to Europe this summer and have no idea How to plan a road trip in Europe? There are so many places to see and things to do, but before you can even start planning, you need to know what route you want to take. You might be tempted to follow the well-worn tourist path around the continent, but if you’re looking for a more unique experience, try exploring some of the less-traveled corners of the continent. In this article, we’ll give you tips on how to plan your perfect European road trip.
How to plan a road trip in Europe
Choosing the right car
When planning your European road trip, you’ll want to choose the right car. Not only will this affect your travel experience, but it can also affect the cost of your trip. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a car for your trip:
- How many people will be in the car?
- What type of scenery will you be seeing?
- How much luggage will you be carrying?
- How long will the trip be?
Here are some tips to help you choose the right car for your European road trip:
- Choose a car with a large enough trunk.
- Make sure the car has air conditioning and a CD player.
- Check whether the car has a manual or automatic transmission.
- Make sure there is plenty of fuel in the tank.
- Choose a car that is comfortable for everyone in the family.
Planning your route
When planning your road trip through Europe, make sure to account for the following:
- Size of the country
- Highways and roads
- Transportation options
- scenic routes to take
- Accommodation
- Food and drink options
Consider the size of each European country before beginning your route. The smaller countries, in particular, can be traversed in a single day by car or train, making them great bases from which to explore further afield. For long trips, consider taking your time and exploring different parts of each country – road trips can be rewarding in that way! The main highways and roads in each country are well marked, but it’s always worth checking out alternative routes if they appeal to you.
There are typically lots of good scenic routes to be taken, as well as towns and villages with charming medieval architecture or stunning coastal resorts. And don’t forget about food and drink – there’s nothing like winding your way along winding mountain roads to sample some delicious regional cuisine! Finally, remember that accommodation is often scarce outside of larger cities. Try to book as early as possible if you want to find something good near the center of town. And last but
Driving on the Left
If you’re planning a road trip in Europe, one of the first things you’ll want to do is decide on your destination. Once you have a few leads, getting started on the logistics of your trip can be a breeze.
One of the most important things to remember when planning a road trip in Europe is that driving on the left is standard procedure. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the driving regulations for each country you’ll be visiting so you don’t get behind the wheel feeling confused and frustrated.
Another thing to keep in mind when planning your European road trip is to plan ahead. Make sure to have all of your driver’s licenses, passports, and rental car paperwork ready before you hit the open road. And if you’re hitting up several different cities over the course of your journey, make sure to pack lots of clothes and snacks – it’s easy to get caught without anything to eat when you’re on the go!
Packing for your Road Trip
When planning your road trip to Europe, it’s important to think about what type of traveler you are. Do you want to stay in one place for a while and explore every nook and cranny, or do you want to hop from destination to destination? And if you’re looking to see a lot of different countries, what kind of vehicle do you need?
If your idea of a good time is hitting the open road and seeing as many sights as possible in a short amount of time, you’ll want to pack light. Just make sure that whatever you take with you is versatile – camping gear, a biker jacket, and an air mattress will come in handy if you end up pulling over on the side of the road for the night.
If your primary goal is to see as much as possible in a shorter amount of time, then think about packing heavier items. You may not need as many Sleeping bags or tents because most places you’ll be visiting have hotels that can accommodate tourists.
Also, plan your route ahead of time so that you can avoid traffic jams and get to your destinations as quickly as possible.
- Whatever packing strategy works best for you
- Visas and Entry Requirements to European Countries
- As a traveler heading to Europe, one of the most important things to bear in mind is your visa requirements.
Different countries in Europe have different visa requirements, but all require a valid passport and travel document. Visa applications can typically be made at your nearest embassy or consulate. Here are the basics for each of the countries in our roundup:
Austria:
Austria does not require a visa for citizens of most countries, including the United States. However, visitors must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay and must have a return ticket. Additionally, citizens of Kosovo, Lichtenstein, San Marino, and Ukraine are not required to obtain a visa for stays up to 90 days.
Belgium:
Citizens of most countries do not require a visa for visits of up to 90 days. However, visitors from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East should consult with the Embassy or Consulate prior to traveling as some restrictions may apply. For example, visitors from Egypt and Morocco must carry a valid passport and proof of hotel reservation. Visitors from Algeria, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, and Libya are required to obtain a visa prior to travel.
Eat Like a Local in Europe
When planning your road trip through Europe, consider what regional cuisine you’d like to try. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty Italian meal, some German sausage, or a Welsh cawl (a lamb and vegetable stew), be sure to research the regional dishes and find restaurants that serve them.
Of course, no trip to Europe is complete without sampling some of the region’s most famous wines. Whether you’re looking for an affordable wine flight or a full-blown wine country tour, there’s sure to be a wine destination that appeals to your taste.
And finally, don’t forget to take in some of the beautiful European scenery while you travel. From the shores of Greece to the rolling hills of Austria, there are plenty of scenic areas to explore when planning your trip. So pack your bags and get ready to enjoy some of the best food, wine, and scenery Europe has to offer!
Conclusion
Planning a road trip across Europe can be a daunting task, but by following these tips, you’ll be able to make the trip go as smoothly as possible. Whether you’re looking to explore some of the smaller villages off the beaten path or want to see some of the famous landmarks in each city, our suggestions will help you fill your itinerary with things that interest you. Be sure to take advantage of our tips on How to plan a road trip in Europe, pack light, and avoid tourist traps so that you can truly enjoy your time away from home.
