Five of the best road trips in Europe

As Brits increasingly opt for destinations closer to home due to the ongoing uncertainty caused by the US-Iran conflict, they are being reminded of the delights of a European road trip.

Google searches in the UK for “Majorca holiday packages”, “last minute holidays to Greece” and “cheap all inclusive holidays to Spain” have increased by 900% in the last three months, underlining tourists’ desire to remain within Europe.¹

“Given the unpredictable nature of current international travel, British holidaymakers are understandably reluctant to venture too far from home,” explains Sean Doolan from car hire excess insurance provider insurance4carhire.

“But while a package deal to a European hotspot can be convenient, it doesn’t provide the same sense of freedom and adventure that comes from a leisurely car journey through some of the Continent’s most scenic countries.”

To help explorers in search of breathtaking scenery and cultural attractions find the perfect route to match their taste, insurance4carhire has put together the following list of five options.

1. North Coast 500, Scotland

Launched in 2015 to allow tourists to view the Scottish Highlands in one continuous loop, the 516-mile NC500 starts and finishes in Inverness. Highlights include Eas A’Chual Aluinn, Britain’s highest waterfall, and Sandwood Bay, its most remote mainland beach. Fans of castles are spoilt for choice, from the rugged ruins of Ardvreck Castle to the French-style Dunrobin Castle.

2. Braga to Faro, Portugal

This 430-mile journey takes in the range of delights that Portugal has to offer, whether it’s the picturesque city of Porto or the unspoilt beaches of the Algarve. You’ll also get to sample Lisbon’s culinary and cultural treats, as well as the nightlife of towns like Faro and Albufeira.

3.Côte d’Azur, France

Beginning in glamorous Monaco, the next stop on this 98-mile tour of the southern coast of France is Nice, famed for its vibrant Old Town and scenic promenade. From there, you continue to Cannes, where you can test your credit card on the Boulevard de la Croisette, before arriving in Saint Tropez, a magnet for celebrities and home to some of the Riviera’s best beaches.

4. Dubrovnik to Pula, Croatia

Once you’ve explored the medieval city of Dubrovnik, head north along the coast to top up your tan on the beautiful beaches at Markarska and Bol. Once you’ve explored the ancient Roman city of Split, you’ll want to see the striking sunset at Zadar and finally wind down with a few days in Pula at the end of your 465-mile trip.

5. Lofoten Island, Norway

Beginning in the southern tip of the island at Å, this 80-mile jaunt combines mountains and white sand beaches, taking you through the charming fishing villages of Reine and Henningsvaer until you reach Svolvær, the capital. Best of all, from May to September, you can enjoy the surreal experience of 24-hour daylight and the midnight sun.

“Although a cheap deal to a popular European resort certainly has its attractions,” continues Sean, “travellers seeking more than just sun, sea and sand should consider hiring a car and exploring all that their host nation has to offer at their own pace.”

^{1. Data sourced from Google’s Keyword Planner on 24 April 2026. Searches for the phrases “Majorca holiday packages”, “last minute holidays to Greece” and “cheap all inclusive holidays to Spain” had increased by 900% in the preceding three months.}