The allure of the Mediterranean keeps calling. Summer may be drawing to a close, but knowing that you can explore charming beach villages in Spain, Italy and Portugal, with views that truly take your breath away, make road tripping along Europe’s Mediterranean coast that much more fulfilling.
Before departing you will need to research destinations and routes, pack your clothes, download a playlist, and prepare to be inspired by the beauty of the Med along some of the most spectacular coastal roads in the world.
European countries have done major overhauls of their roadways, bridges and highways which has made driving in Europe remarkably safe and a viable way to sight see. If you do want to self-drive, you could take your own car or use a car hire company.
Holidays of this kind require preparation and it is important to familiarise yourself with road rules to make sure you stay on the right side of the law. You’ll also need to ensure that you take out comprehensive insurance cover.
If you don’t want to the hassle of driving lots of travel companies offer European tours to all the destinations featured on our list.
These are some of the best places to go.
1. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Driving along the Amalfi Coast is a truly rewarding way to appreciate the beauty of the coast and sheer brilliance of the engineers who built the connecting roads 500 feet above the glistening sea.
The Mediterranean is showcased in its most natural form, and the coast was given the highest honour as a world heritage site. Imagine beautiful coastal towns, perfectly built into hillsides, with decadent villas, restaurants and shops overlooking the turquoise waters.
The beaches themselves are dazzling and the mountainous terrain serves as the perfect backdrop to the Amalfi Coast. Drive through the villages of Salerno, Ravello, Amalfi, Valle dei Mulini, Praiano and Positano.
Positano is one of the more well-known, and although pricey, tourists flock to celebrate its coastal opulence and to relive movie moments such as ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’, which was filmed in Positano.
2. Portuguese Coast
Portugal is the country of beautiful cities, prego-roll-culture and mesmerising beaches, is the perfect place to explore by car.
During summer the southern coast along the Algarve taking in towns like Albufuira and Lagos are really popular, but if you are after something slightly different consider driving to the coastal fishing town of Cascais.
Located 30kms from Lisbon, this town is easily accessible by car and the journey is stunning. Expect beautiful white sandy beaches, and lots of villas and hotels that are equally elaborate and beautiful as are the local beach goers.
Despite Portugal being one of the most touristy countries in Europe, Cascais has still managed to retain its character. The waterfront is a still an important meeting place for local fisherman and multi-coloured boats still decorate the harbour.
From Cascais take a drive to the historic town of Sintra where you can explore ancient architectural wonders dating back to Roman times such as Palácio da Vila, and Palácio de Queluz.
3. Savour the South Coast of Spain
The southern coast of Spain is the perfect blend between traditional coastal port charm and holiday makers seeking sun and picturesque scenery.
Driving along the Southern Coast is a foodies dream, offering the freshest of seafood that is delightful for the palate. The beaches are spectacular and the architecture showcases the true Spanish Gothic theme at its finest.
Begin at Costa Del Sol and savour the lifestyles of the rich and famous at Peurto Banos. Continue to Gibraltar and marvel at the famed Rock of Gibraltar and then drive towards the fascinating town of Grenada – you can get a feel of small town Spanish lifestyle at its finest – siestas and parma ham are daily favourites.
No road trip of southern Spain is complete without driving through the famous pueblo blancos (white villages). The town of Vejer , having managed to escape the tourist take-over, is a wonderful hilltop white village that has retained all its rustic charm and obvious beauty.
Plan the Ultimate European Road Trip Today
The Amalfi Coast offers Italian class by the sea, southern Spain provides the sunniest of trips with a rustic feel and Portugal’s Cascais is the answer to coastal perfection.
Road tripping along coastal Europe is a rewarding way to experience local cultures, tasty food and stunning scenery.
The allure of a road trip is that you are your own tour guide; your trip can be as simple or as luxurious as you choose and there is always a chance that you will come across little small-town delights on your journey.
Now go enjoy one of the most spectacular rides of your life.
