Europe Road Trip: An Expedition Through History, Culture & Adventure!

Join us on an unforgettable expedition across Europe as we uncover breathtaking vistas, iconic sites, and hidden treasures on the ultimate road trip adventure.

Travel with us to experience the beauty and diversity of Germany, Austria, and Italy! From the majestic Alps to historic European cities, this memorable road trip offers stunning scenery, rich heritage, delightful cuisine, and thrilling experiences around every corner!

Optimal Times for a European Road Trip

Europe boasts a rich tapestry of climates, ranging from the sweltering heat of southern nations to the perpetual snow of the north—some areas even stretch into the Arctic Circle!

Our European road trips are set in the temperate regions of Western Europe, where you can experience well-defined seasons, including warm summers, cool winters, and moderate rainfall throughout the year.

In summer, temperatures are pleasantly warm, typically hovering between 68 °F and 86 °F (source: weatherbase.com). Winters, while cooler, usually remain above freezing and are rarely severely cold.

Having traveled extensively by car in Europe, we believe that May to June and September to October represent the ideal times for road trips, as the weather is delightful, tourist attractions are less crowded, and better travel deals are available.

If possible, steer clear of July and August, as these months see many Europeans take summer breaks. Roads become congested, businesses may close, and popular attractions can be overwhelmed with visitors.

Ideal vehicles for your European road trip

Opt for a dependable and comfortable rental car to enhance your road trip experience in Europe, focusing on fuel efficiency. If you plan to cover long distances, ensure there's ample space for passengers and luggage—nobody enjoys being cramped for hours. However, keep in mind that some of the most picturesque towns have narrow streets with limited parking for larger vehicles.

For summer road trips, choose a rental car equipped with air conditioning. A GPS is also a wise choice, although sometimes the most memorable moments come from getting a bit lost along the way.

Be sure to understand the various laws and traffic regulations of the countries you’ll be driving through. This includes specific rental car features like child safety seats and winter tires, which may not just be advised but mandatory depending on the season and your location.

Additionally, securing reliable insurance for your rental vehicle is essential!

Calculate your road trip budget

Before you finalize your itinerary, it’s beneficial to estimate the costs associated with road-tripping in Europe. Here’s a breakdown of expenses, drawn from comparisons among numerous travel providers to assist you in budgeting:

*Estimation based on numbeo.com as of June 2024

In addition, you'll need to factor in your flights from the U.S., as well as expenses for meals, sightseeing, and a few souvenirs here and there.

What are your options for getting to Europe from the U.S.?

From Frankfurt, you have the choice of catching a domestic flight to Munich or opting for the more straightforward option of taking the train.

At the end of your road trip, you can conveniently fly out directly from Milan.

European road trip: the ultimate 2-week itinerary

Day 1: Munich (stay for one night)

Munich serves as the capital of Bavaria and ranks as Germany’s third-largest city. Nestled along the Isar River, just north of the Bavarian Alps, it boasts centuries-old architecture, outstanding museums, and stunning palaces like the magnificent 17th-century neo-classical Nymphenburg Palace.

Marienplatz is the heart of the city and features the iconic Glockenspiel, a clock tower that showcases a mechanical display of jousting knights and dancing peasants. The square is surrounded by many historic structures, including the New Town Hall and the Old Town Hall.

If you can't experience Munich during Germany's most famous festival, you can still soak in the Oktoberfest atmosphere and traditional Bavarian beer at Hofbräuhaus, a legendary beer hall that's been welcoming patrons for over 400 years.

Accommodation in Munich: The Nyx Hotel Munich by Leonardo Hotels is just an hour’s drive from Munich International Airport and conveniently located for your further travels. The nearby U-Bahn can take you to the city center in about 20 minutes.

Days 2 & 3: Füssen (stay for two nights)

Distance from Munich: 76 miles - approximately 1.5 hours

Füssen is a delightful Bavarian town located right at the Austrian border, making it an excellent base for exploring the region's castles.

Before reaching Füssen, your drive from Munich will take you along the renowned Romantic Road, arguably the most famous scenic route in the world. You'll pass through Landsberg am Lech, followed by Schongau, Peiting, and the charming villages of Rottenbuch, Wildsteig, and Steingaden.

This region of Bavaria is known as Pfaffenwinkel, celebrated for its beautiful pilgrimage churches and monasteries. The name itself derives from the local dialect for priests, or Pfaffen, translating to ‘priest’s corner’.

On day three, dedicate your time to exploring the famous nearby castles that are a must-see on any Germany road trip. Don't miss the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, renowned for its fairytale spires and breathtaking mountain scenery, as well as Linderhof Palace, the most modest of King Ludwig II's residences, situated near the picturesque village of Oberammergau, known for its rare Passion Play.

Recommended accommodation in Füssen: Hotel Sonne, conveniently located in the city center and equipped with its own parking facilities.

Days 4 & 5: Grainau (two nights)

Distance from Füssen: 35 miles - about an hour's drive

Grainau is a charming little German town, unassuming yet stunning, thanks to its dramatic mountain backdrop at the base of the German Alps.

Revered as ‘the top of Germany’, Zugspitze reaches an impressive 9,718 feet, making it the tallest peak in the country, and summiting it is an adventure you won't want to miss!

There are two exciting routes to the summit: take the state-of-the-art, world-record-breaking Zugspitze cable car or opt for a scenic ride on the historic cogwheel train from Grainau to the Zugspitze Glacier, followed by the Gletscherbahn cable car to the top. Why not try ascending one way and descending the other?

Upon reaching the summit, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views encompassing over 400 mountain peaks across Germany, Austria, Italy, and Switzerland.

As you make your descent, you'll be treated to the stunning view of the deep turquoise waters of Eibsee below. The best vantage points of the summit are from the lake's opposite shore, where you can rent a bike to cycle the path, take a leisurely 4.5-mile stroll around the lake, or hire a paddleboard or canoe for those unforgettable photos.

Where to stay in Grainau: Hotel am Badersee offers a beautiful lakeside setting along with excellent amenities.

Day 6: Innsbruck (one night stay)

Distance from Grainau: 41 miles - about a one-hour drive

On day six, you’ll venture deep into the Austrian Alps to the stunning city of Innsbruck, the capital of western Tyrol.

The city center is a visual delight, featuring Baroque churches alongside the Imperial Palace, which reflect the city’s rich history. Be sure to see the Golden Roof, a balcony adorned with over 2,500 gilded copper tiles, as well as the Hofburg, a historic palace complex that once housed the Habsburgs.

For an exhilarating experience, take the Muttereralmbahn cable car to 5,250 feet and ride one of the downhill mountain go-karts down a dedicated track back to the base. It’s not for the timid, but it’s a blast!

Remember, the Muttereralmbahn operates only from late May to late October, so plan accordingly.

Where to stay in Innsbruck: Hotel Maximilian - Stadthaus Penz is a charming, family-run establishment located in the heart of the city.

Days 7 & 8: Canazei (two nights)

Distance from Innsbruck: 87 miles - approximately 2.5 hours

A new day brings a new country! Today, you’ll venture into Italy and the stunning Dolomite mountains—get ready for an unforgettable drive!

Starting from Bolzano, take the Great Dolomites Road, also known as SS 241. As you navigate through various balconies and tunnels, you’ll be treated to your first breathtaking views of these remarkable mountains, which were once submerged under the sea!

The first sight you'll encounter in the Dolomites is the Latemar massif, along with the iconic Torre di Pisa, before the impressive Catinaccio comes into view. This massif, known as the Rosengarten in German, has a unique pink hue due to the mineral dolomite, which captures the sunset and glows beautifully in the evening light.

After navigating a series of winding turns, you'll reach Lago di Carezza, a small, enchanting lake with deep emerald waters. The crystal-clear surface reflects sunlight, earning it the nickname 'Lake of the Rainbow,' and it's steeped in legends of sorcerers, wizards, and mermaids.

Not long after, you’ll pass through Vigo di Fassa, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by dramatic peaks topped with sharp, rugged rock formations amid lush green meadows.

Look around to spot Marmolada, the tallest peak in the Dolomites at 10,965 feet, affectionately known as the ‘Queen of the Dolomites’; the massive Sella massif crowned by Piz Boè at 10,338 feet; and Sassalungo, or ‘long rock,’ which is the highest peak of the Langkofel group.

If you start early, you’ll arrive in Canazei by lunchtime, presenting you with the delightful dilemma of deciding how to spend the next 36 hours. It’s a challenge because there’s so much to see and do that choosing can be overwhelming!

Here’s a list of our top activities to enjoy in Canazei:

Ride a cable car: The Dolomites boast an extensive network of cable cars, gondolas, and lifts. You can board one from Canazei, switch to another across the valley, and find yourself high in the mountains within minutes.

Embark on a hike: No matter your fitness level, there’s a hike suited for you. Use the cable cars to ascend if you prefer to avoid steep inclines and tackle one of the area’s epic trails.

Take a bike ride: Numerous spots in town offer electric bike rentals, and there’s a fantastic cycling route along the River Avisio that leads to charming villages. For those seeking a thrill, consider renting a downhill mountain bike and using the cable cars to access various trails in the area.

Visit Piz Boè: If there’s one must-do activity, this is it! Drive the Pordoi Pass from Canazei and ride the Pordoi cableway to the Terrace of the Dolomites on Sass Pordoi, soaring to 9,642 feet. This engineering marvel offers a breathtaking five-minute ascent.

At the summit of Sass Pordoi, you’ll find a lunar-like terrain far above the treeline, stretching as far as the eye can see. From the cable car station, reaching Piz Boè involves a moderately challenging hike with some via Ferrata features like steps and rungs for assistance. If time is tight, take a leisurely stroll around Sass Pordoi to soak in the stunning views instead.

Where to stay in Canazei: Locanda degli Artisti Art Hotel boasts an excellent location in town and is celebrated for its highly rated restaurant.

Day 9: Bardolino (one night)

Distance from Canazei: 111 miles - approximately 2.5 hours

On this segment of your Italian road trip, you’ll leave the mountains behind and make your way to Lake Garda, the most renowned of the Italian Lakes.

Nestled on the eastern shore is Bardolino, a picturesque lakeside town featuring a delightful historic center that beckons exploration. With its narrow cobblestone streets and vibrant buildings, you can easily spend an afternoon wandering the lakeside promenade, lounging on the sandy beaches, or embarking on a boat tour to discover the clear waters of Lake Garda.

Bardolino is also famous for its excellent light and fruity Bardolino red wine. Don’t miss the chance to take a local winery tour, sample the wines, and learn about the art of winemaking—it's an experience you won't want to overlook.

Where to stay in Bardolino: Palace Hotel San Pietro is located right on the waterfront and features a pool perfect for refreshing after your journey.

Day 10 & 11: Venice (two nights)

Distance from Bardolino: 95 miles - about 1.5 hours

The distinctive city of Venice has thrived over the centuries despite numerous challenges. Built upon the tidal waters of the Adriatic Sea on a series of mud banks, Venice experiences regular flooding, yet its beauty and allure more than make up for it!

Known as the ‘City of Canals,’ Venice is one of the most iconic and romantic cities in the world, consisting of 118 small islands interconnected by canals and bridges.

The city is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, featuring stunning palaces, historic churches, and elegant squares. Be sure to visit St. Mark's Basilica, famous for its intricate Byzantine mosaics, the Doge's Palace, a gem of Venetian Gothic architecture, and the Rialto Bridge.

One of the true joys of Venice is wandering through its narrow streets and getting lost while crossing charming bridges, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of this unique city.

Other must-see experiences include a gondola ride along the Grand Canal and visits to the renowned glass-making island of Murano, the lace-making island of Burano, and the evocative Torcello.

Where to stay in Venice: Hotel Moresco is conveniently located for parking and consistently receives outstanding reviews.

Day 12 & 13: Bologna (two nights)

Distance from Venice: 96 miles - approximately a 2-hour drive.

Referred to as 'la Rossa, la Grassa e la Dotta'—the red, the fat, and the learned—Bologna boasts a rich cultural heritage and stands as a culinary powerhouse in Europe.

In this phrase, 'red' symbolizes the terracotta rooftops of the historic center, 'fat' highlights the city's delectable cuisine, and 'learned' honors the ancient University of Bologna, established in 1088.

One of the highlights of Bologna is indulging in its cuisine! Sampling, savoring, and immersing yourself in the culinary delights of the Emilia-Romagna region is a true sensory celebration.

Locally produced specialties like Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, and Balsamic Vinegar of Modena provide ample chances to discover the origins of these exquisite foods.

Also, take time to appreciate the stunning architecture, which features the UNESCO-listed porticoes of Bologna and the iconic two towers, emblematic of the city.

Where to stay in Bologna: Hotel Brun is centrally located in the old town and is celebrated for its delightful breakfast.

Day 14: Milan (one night)

Distance from Bologna: 136 miles - approximately 2.5 hours

Your final destination on this European road trip is the fashion capital of Italy, Milan. Here, the blend of historical and contemporary elements culminates in the iconic Il Duomo di Milan, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

Other highlights in Milan include the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Santa Maria delle Grazie, home to The Last Supper, Leonardo da Vinci’s extraordinary work created between 1495 and 1497, and the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the oldest shopping malls globally, ideal for luxury brand enthusiasts.

Where to stay in Milan: The Radisson Blu Hotel Milan offers a convenient location near Milan’s airports and features a pool and sauna, perfect for relaxing after your travels.

Conclusion

Upon completing your European road trip, you will have explored some of the continent's most stunning locations. From the awe-inspiring Dolomites to Germany's rich history and Italy's vibrant culture, this remarkable journey will create lasting memories.

Begin planning your adventure today and uncover the beauty and diversity that lie in the heart of Europe.

What inspired this guide?

We hail from the UK and have dedicated our lives to exploring the countries of Europe and beyond by road.

With a passion for outdoor adventures blended with history and culture, we prefer road-tripping—whether by car, motorhome, or bike—as our top travel method.

Over the past five years, we've been sharing our experiences on our blog, The Gap Decaders, as we navigate through Europe, learning how to plan and execute the ideal road trip!