If you're looking for a way to experience Europe that's both flexible and immersive, a self-drive holiday may be just the ticket. With the freedom to explore at your own pace, you can take in the sights, sounds, and flavours of the continent in a way that suits your interests and preferences.
Here are some of the best self-drive routes for culture enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities to stop and soak up the local culture along the way.
The Romantic Road in Germany is a 350-kilometer route that winds through picturesque towns and villages, offering a glimpse into the country's rich history and culture.
Starting in Würzburg and ending in Füssen, the route takes you through the heart of Bavaria, with stops at medieval castles, charming towns, and stunning countryside. Highlights include the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle, the historic town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, and the beautiful city of Augsburg.
With plenty of opportunities to sample local cuisine and wine, the Romantic Road is a must-see for culture enthusiasts.
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The Amalfi Coast in Italy is a stunning self-drive route that winds along the Mediterranean coastline, offering breath-taking views of the sea and the surrounding cliffs.
Starting in Sorrento and ending in Salerno, the route takes you through charming towns and villages, with plenty of opportunities to sample local cuisine and wine.
On this route you’ll experience the colourful town of Positano, the historic city of Amalfi, and the beautiful gardens of Ravello.
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With its rugged beauty and rich history, the Ring of Kerry is a must-see for culture enthusiasts visiting Ireland.
Starting and ending in Killarney, the route takes you along the coast and through the mountains, with plenty of opportunities to stop and explore charming towns and villages along the way.
Highlights include the picturesque town of Kenmare, the stunning views from Moll’s Gap, and the historic Muckross House and Gardens.
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The Scottish Highlands offer some of the most breath-taking scenery in Europe, with rugged mountains, deep lochs, and ancient castles. A self-drive tour of the Highlands allows you to explore at your own pace, taking in the stunning landscapes and historic sites along the way.
Start in Edinburgh and head north to Inverness, stopping at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle and the picturesque village of Plockton. From there, head west to the Isle of Skye, where you can hike in the Cuillin Mountains and visit the fairy pools.
The Highlands are also home to some of Scotland’s most famous whisky distilleries, so be sure to stop for a dram or two along the way.
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Start this stunning self-drive route in Croatia’s historic city of Dubrovnik (the main filming location for the iconic TV series Game of Thrones), where you can walk the ancient city walls and explore the Old Town.
From there, head north to Split, where you can visit the impressive Diocletian's Palace and the Cathedral of Saint Domnius. Along the way, stop at the charming seaside towns of Makarska and Trogir, and take a ferry to the beautiful island of Hvar.
The Dalmatian Coast is also known for its delicious seafood and wine, so be sure to indulge in the local cuisine.
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Sure Travel partners with tour operators across Europe to offer clients incredible fly-in and self-drive holidays. Contact your nearest Sure Travel Agency for more info on self-drive holiday packages for Europe.
Or, if you’re planning your own self-drive holiday in Europe, book accommodation en route for the best prices with Sure Travel’s hotel partners in Europe. Find accommodation deals online here.