Public transit is a great way to see Europe, but there are places in Europe where renting a car is worth it. In some regions, trains and buses don’t reach hidden villages, mountain passes, or coastal stretches that are best explored on your own schedule. Having a car allows travelers to stop at small towns, explore scenic backroads, and experience destinations at a pace that feels more personal. For those who value flexibility, driving can turn a trip into an adventure that goes beyond the main tourist routes.
With these destinations, the road becomes part of the journey. Whether it’s weaving through vineyards, tracing rugged shorelines, or driving high into alpine valleys, renting a car can open up experiences not possible with public transport alone. Explore the European spots where having your own set of wheels makes all the difference and start planning the routes that will give you the freedom to see more than the guidebooks suggest.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast’s dramatic cliffs, pastel-colored villages, and coastal roads make it an ideal spot for renting a car. Public transportation is available, but buses can be crowded and schedules restrictive, especially in peak season. Having your own car allows you to stop at small, scenic villages like Praiano or Ravello, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, and visit hidden beaches at your own pace. The drive itself is part of the experience, with winding roads offering breathtaking sea views around every curve.
Algarve, Portugal
Portugal’s Algarve region is known for its striking cliffs, golden beaches, and charming fishing villages. While some towns are accessible by train or bus, many of the most beautiful coves and secluded beaches require a car. Renting a vehicle gives you the freedom to explore smaller towns like Tavira or Aljezur, discover hidden viewpoints, and travel between lively resorts and quiet coastal trails. Driving also allows you to venture inland to see rolling hills, orange groves, and local markets.
Iceland Ring Road
Iceland’s Ring Road loops around the entire country, passing glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. While guided tours cover select sections, renting a car lets you experience the full route at your own pace. You can stop at lesser-known attractions, linger at iconic sights like Seljalandsfoss or Jokulsarlon, and take detours to places like the Westfjords. The changing weather and daylight conditions make flexibility essential, and having your own car ensures you can adapt plans as you go.
Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands offer vast stretches of rugged mountains, shimmering lochs, and remote villages. Public transport is limited, so renting a car allows you to explore iconic routes like the North Coast 500 and detour to hidden gems such as Glen Etive or the Isle of Skye. With your own vehicle, you can stop for photos, hike scenic trails, and visit historic castles at your leisure. Driving opens up parts of the Highlands that organized tours rarely reach.
French Riviera, France
The French Riviera combines glamorous cities, charming towns, and picturesque beaches. While trains connect major destinations like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, a rental car allows you to explore hilltop villages such as Èze or Saint-Paul-de-Vence and quieter stretches of coastline. You can visit vineyards, markets, and hiking trails without being tied to public transport schedules. The scenic coastal roads provide stunning Mediterranean views and the flexibility to discover both famous spots and hidden corners.
Norwegian Fjords
Norway’s fjords are famous for steep cliffs, deep blue waters, and quaint villages. While cruises and ferries show parts of the region, renting a car lets you explore inland valleys, mountain passes, and lesser-known fjords. You can visit small towns like Aurland or Odda, take detours to waterfalls, or drive scenic routes such as Trollstigen and the Atlantic Road. Flexibility is key here, as weather can change quickly, and a car allows you to adjust your itinerary accordingly.
Bavaria, Germany
Bavaria is home to storybook castles, alpine lakes, and charming towns. While trains connect larger cities, many scenic routes and smaller villages are easier to access by car. Renting a vehicle lets you explore Neuschwanstein Castle, drive through the Romantic Road, or visit lakes like Königssee. You can stop at mountain viewpoints, sample local food in small towns, and create your own itinerary without the limits of public transportation schedules. Autumn and spring drives are especially beautiful.
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Azores, Portugal
The Azores archipelago, located in the Atlantic Ocean, is known for its volcanic craters, hot springs, and lush greenery. Public transportation is minimal, and many natural attractions are spread across the islands. Renting a car allows you to visit viewpoints like Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, explore hidden beaches, and reach hiking trails in remote areas. You can also drive to local farms, small villages, and geothermal pools, making it easier to see each island’s variety in a short visit.
Loire Valley, France
The Loire Valley is famous for its castles, vineyards, and charming villages. While trains connect some major towns, many of the region’s most impressive châteaux are scattered across the countryside and require a car to reach easily. Renting a vehicle lets you tour places like Château de Chambord, explore riverside paths, and stop at local markets. You can travel at your own pace, moving between historic sites and scenic picnic spots along the Loire River.
Ring of Kerry, Ireland
The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most scenic drives, looping through rugged coastline, green mountains, and charming villages. While there are organized tours, driving yourself means you can stop at quiet beaches, hidden waterfalls, and local craft shops without a set schedule. The small roads leading to places like Valentia Island or Skellig Ring are best explored by car. With your own vehicle, you can enjoy the views at sunrise or linger for sunset.
Transfagarasan Highway, Romania
Often called one of the most dramatic roads in Europe, the Transfagarasan winds through the Făgăraș Mountains with hairpin turns, tunnels, and stunning alpine scenery. Public transport doesn’t serve the full route, and tours can feel rushed. Driving yourself lets you stop at Balea Lake, explore hiking trails, or visit Poenari Castle, linked to the legend of Vlad the Impaler. This seasonal road is open in summer, making a car essential for exploring it at your own pace.
Highlands, Scotland
Scotland’s Highlands stretch across wild landscapes of mountains, lochs, and glens, with remote villages and castles scattered throughout. Public transport covers only a fraction of the area, and many scenic routes are inaccessible without a car. Driving allows you to follow the North Coast 500, visit hidden beaches, or stop for photos along winding single-track roads. You can also explore off-the-beaten-path spots like Glen Etive, where dramatic scenery appears around every bend, far from busier tourist stops.
Sicily, Italy
Sicily’s attractions range from ancient Greek temples and Roman mosaics to volcanic craters and turquoise coves. Public transportation can be slow and doesn’t connect all rural areas. With a rental car, you can explore Mount Etna, drive to hilltop towns like Erice, or seek out lesser-known beaches along the coast. Many small villages and wineries are scattered inland, best reached by car. Having your own vehicle lets you plan flexible day trips and see the island’s variety beyond the main cities.
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