Best Places to Visit in Europe This Summer
Looking ahead to summer adventures? We’re looking at the best places to visit in Europe and the steps to planning a successful road trip.
With longer and warmer days finally here, your mind might be wandering to where your next adventure will be. We’re here to help give you some inspiration for your summer road trip preparation with our round-up of the best places to visit in Europe.
Read on to find out more!
Germany
The UK is well connected to Germany with the option to travel through France, Belgium, or Holland. Experience beautiful scenery, impressive architecture, and of course traditional German cuisine!
There is a range of different driving routes you can take including The Romantic Road, The Volcanic Trail, and The Alpine Route.
The Romantic Road
Take in some of Germany’s best historical landmarks across this 350km route along the Bavaria and Baden-Wurttemberg regions. During the drive, you can visit the medieval town that inspired the Disney classic film, Pinocchio. As well as one of Europe’s most famous attractions, Neuschwanstein Castle.
The Volcanic Trail
When you think of Germany, you might not think of volcanoes. But along this 280km route, you can take in around 350 eruption sites and explore the volcanic history of the country.
The Alpine Route
Soak up the crisp Alpine air on this 450km route along the south of the country to the Austrian border near Salzburg. With mountain ranges, vast lakes, and ski resorts, you’ll never run out of photo opportunities.
Fun fact
Germany is steeped in automotive history. In Stuttgart alone, you will find the Mercedes-Benz and Porsche Museum. It’s a place not to be missed if you are a car enthusiast!
Italy
Pizza, pasta, and beautiful scenery, what’s not to love about Italy? If you are travelling by ferry or the channel tunnel from the UK, there are a lot of routes available to drive to Italy.
Along the way, you can travel through France, Germany, or Switzerland, and soak up the full European experience.
Some of the best driving routes include:
Amalfi Coast
The Amalfi Coast is renowned for stunning pastel coloured buildings and scenic views. Covering just 46 miles, experience the charming towns of Amalfi, Positano, and Sorrento.
The Tuscan countryside
This 130-mile route will take you through the heart of the Tuscan countryside from Florence to Orvieto. During your drive, you can expect medieval towns, and the chance to take in Florence’s renaissance architecture.
The Dolomites
If mountain views are more your thing, then you won’t want to miss The Dolomites. This 78-mile route takes in the beautiful mountain range in Northern Italy. It's also the perfect place to enjoy spectacular outdoor walking.
Fun fact
The stunning city of Modena is not only known for its food and architecture, but also the home of Ferrari. Learn more about the history of the iconic car manufacturer and Enzo Ferrari by visiting the two museums in Modena and Maranello.
Sweden
If you are looking to venture further afield, Sweden is a great choice that is accessible from the UK.
From rolling countryside to sandy beaches, and rich heritage, Sweden offers something for everyone.
Some of the best road trip routes include:
The Wilderness Road
Visit one of Sweden’s most renowned alpine wilderness areas on this 310-mile route. Take in the sights of sparkling lakes and rivers, before reaching Stekenjokk plateau. At 879m above sea level, it’s the country’s highest altitude paved road and the perfect place to capture incredible views.
Arctic road trip
Drive one of the most northernly roads in Sweden on this breathtaking 82-mile route to the Norwegian border. With beautiful mountain views and picturesque lakes, you’ll also pass through Abisko National Park.
Sodarasens Park to Copenhagen
This short hour-and-a-half drive lets you take in the culture of two countries. Starting at Sodarasens National Park, you’ll travel across the iconic Oresund Bridge to the Danish capital, Copenhagen. It’s a great way to experience rugged landscapes and cosmopolitan city sights.
Fun fact
Visit Gothenburg and you will also find the World of Volvo. Take a tour behind the scenes and see what really happens on a car production line.
How to prepare for a summer road trip
You might be wondering how to plan a safe road trip and the answer. It’s all in the preparation. For some helpful tips, read our article on preparing for your summer escape.
You’re ready for summer, now make sure your car is
So, you’ve planned your road trip and prepared everything you need. Now it’s time to check that your car is ready for adventure. At Vertu Motors, we can help you do exactly that with our Summer Check.
With three packages to choose from, you can tailor your package to your needs and wave goodbye to any road-trip anxiety.