Breathtaking: 5 scenic drives in Europe

The old Europe offers some of the most beautiful scenic roads in the world. From the Atlantic to the Mediterranean Sea, from the Alps to the lakes of the Highlands, Europcar explores Europe’s most stunning Roadtrips. Follow the guide!

Get lost in the vastness of the Highlands…

Wild moors, whisky distilleries nestled in peat bogs, isolated mountains battered by winds, endless beaches, and solitary castles… When it comes to dramatic landscapes, the Scottish Highlands have it all. Pick up your car at one of Europcar’s 43 locations across major Scottish cities, and you’re ready for a fabulous journey through history.

Looking for wild lands? Head to the Northwest Highlands Geopark, home to incredible views like Ben Stack, world-famous for inspiring the Paramount logo. Fascinated by castles? A little further south, near the Isle of Mull, lies Appin, one of Scotland’s most isolated and photographed castles, featured in Monty Python’s “Holy Grail.” You might be surprised to learn that the Highlands also boast beautiful beaches. You’ll find them along the northwest coast, especially at Sandwood Bay. Stretch your legs with a 6-km walk from Blairmore parking. As you approach, climb a hill for an unobstructed view of a vast lake, golden sands, and an old, supposedly haunted cabin—a perfect day for the whole family! A small tip: bring maps and a GPS, as road signs can be scarce. And a word of caution: unless you’re driving a snowplow, avoid visiting in winter!

Travel the sunny and picturesque roads of Corsica!

If you’re seeking a Roadtrip that unveils vast landscapes rather than guiding you from one traffic-jammed city to another, Corsica is the place to be. The main roads circle the island, connecting Ajaccio in the southwest with Bastia in the north and extending down to the southern tip of Bonifacio. This leaves plenty of wild spaces for the Regional Natural Park of Corsica, far from the main cities. To deeply explore what the island has to offer, renting a car is essential—and simple too. Just pick up your Europcar rental at the airport and head inland. Soon, you’ll find yourself surrounded by mountainous landscapes, charming perched villages, ancient fortresses, and magnificent hiking trails.

For a breathtaking view, visit the Bavella Needles with their incredible peaks and cliffs. Perfect for hikes or simply stunning photos. On the 2-hour drive from Ajaccio airport, you can stop at several small villages to taste brocciu or traditional Corsican pork. A Roadtrip in Corsica is the best way to experience the strength and spice of this unique Mediterranean island.

Drive along Germany’s Alpine Road—a once-in-a-lifetime Roadtrip!

When it comes to stunning landscapes, exceptional food, and even better locals, Bavaria is unbeatable. The German Alpine Road—or the “Deutsche Alpenstrasse”—winds through the region like a red carpet rolled out for you. It spans 450 km from Berchtesgaden, southeast of Munich, traversing Bavaria’s southern region to Lindau, on the shores of the vast and majestic Lake Constance. Whether you drive the entire route or just part of it, you’ll find yourself amidst fairy-tale landscapes that only Germany can offer. Start your adventure by picking up your car in Munich, just after landing. Take the A96 for less than 2 hours to Füssen. Once there, stroll to the famous castle that seems straight out of Disneyland, in the heart of traditional Bavarian countryside.

Then continue east along the Alpine Road. Don’t miss Ettal Abbey, Bavarian hospitality, or the renowned craft beer. Further along, marvel at natural wonders like Partnach Gorge, the alpine lake Walchensee, and the incredible ice caves of Werfen—this Roadtrip has it all!

Meet the “rich and famous” at Lake Como in Italy

Driving to Lake Como from Milan is well worth the journey. With a car, you can explore this fabulous lake region, where each lake has its own charm.

If you land at Milan Malpensa airport, it’s easy to rent a car at the airport and drive an hour to Como, on the southwest shores of the lake.

There, you’ll find accommodation without spending a George Clooney-level budget. The ferry will take you to nearby gems like Villa del Balbianello, symbolizing the best of the Italian countryside. From there, a scenic road connects the southern shore of the lake to Bellagio, where luxury truly begins. Expect luxury boutiques and lavish cafés with pink façades. The road around the lake is a wonder, with its small villages and hilltop churches. But the real advantage of having a rental car is easily venturing off the beaten path to visit other nearby lakes, such as the stunning Lake Maggiore with its villa-dotted islands or the lesser-known but equally splendid Lake Orta, offering views of the Italian Alps.

Enjoy an authentic stay on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Coast!

For everyone, Dublin is a must-visit destination. But it’s when you head west of the island that you truly begin to feel the calm and serene charm so characteristic of Ireland. You’ll see, taste, and experience the authentic Ireland, leaving the crowds behind. With the convenience of a Europcar rental at the airport, head for the Wild Atlantic Way, a coastal route stretching from Cork in the southwest to Banba in the island’s northernmost point.

This Roadtrip takes you gently through Ireland’s most stunning landscapes, from the timeless elegance of Ross Castle to the rugged coastline of Killarney. Take a boat to visit uninhabited islands like the Skelligs with their puffins or the remote Blasket Islands. Dotted with lively cities like Cork and Galway, this Irish Roadtrip will surprise you. Better yet, unlike Ireland’s inland areas, the Wild Atlantic Way is well signposted, though getting lost in such scenery is a delight—it’s always an opportunity to chat with the ever-friendly and generous locals. As they often say there: “Fáilte Ireland,” welcome to Ireland!