AllClear Travel Insurance found that 77% of adults in the UK plan on taking a holiday abroad in 2024.
It also turns out that Italy has emerged as the most popular travel destination for 18- to 24-year-olds, followed by the other fan-favourites France, Spain, and Germany.
But, with popularity comes overcrowding, so you might want to broaden your horizons beyond Rome and Venice for something really special.
And what better way to soak up one of the most scenic countries in the world than with a road trip?
You’re in luck. Sam Sheehan, Motoring Editor at cinch, the faff-free way to buy a car online, has undiscovered some incredible road trip destinations throughout Europe just for you.
Salento and Valle d’Itria, Italy
Italy’s Salento region, located in the southern part of the Apulia (Puglia) peninsula, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Beautiful coastline, charming towns, and all the culture you could hope for from an Italian adventure.
Start your journey in Valle d’Itria, also known as Istria Valley, located in the northwestern part of the Apulia region. The first stop on your road trip should be the medieval town of Ostuni, known as the ‘White City’ for its whitewashed buildings. The rolling hills and olive groves of Valle d’Itria offer a serene backdrop for your journey.
As you continue south, you come across Salento, a true hidden gem often overshadowed by the more commonly visited locations. With unspoiled historic towns, they’re a genuine taste of traditional culture and cuisine.
Following your journey southward, Lecce is next, dubbed the ‘Florence of the South’, with its baroque architecture and vibrant piazzas.
Sheehan has suggested one last stop on your route: “As your road trip comes to an end, make sure to have Otranto as the final stop. A picturesque town with a historic cathedral and a stunning coastline, don’t miss the chance to taste food from restaurants that platform local produce and fish, which perfectly capture the flavours of this region.”
Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como, nestled in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, is renowned for its breathtaking scenery and luxurious villas. And, while it’s pretty popular, there are still undiscovered spots for a road trip off the beaten tourist track.
It might be a little busy but it’s still worth beginning your journey in the iconic town of Como. Explore the Gothic Como Cathedral and take a funicular ride to Brunate for panoramic views of the lake.
After that’s ticked off the bucket list, you can venture off to the lesser-known villages like Nesso. A quaint village famous for its picturesque waterfall, Orrido di Nesso, which cascades into the lake.
Next stop: Varenna. Simply jump on a ferry in your car to not miss out on its colourful houses, charming alleys, and the beautiful Villa Monastero gardens.
There’s no better way to lean into the experience of an Italian road trip than with a used Fiat 500e – travelling in retro style without spoiling Lake Como’s magic, and you’ll have enough range to get back to the hotel.
Andalusia, Spain
Andalusia, in southern Spain, is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable road trip.
Start in the vibrant city of Córdoba, home to the magnificent Mezquita, a mosque-cathedral that showcases the region’s diverse cultural heritage.
Continue your journey through to Ronda, a picture-postcard town perched dramatically on a cliff. You’ll find breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the famous Puente Nuevo bridge, which spans a 120m-deep gorge.
After drinking in the sights and sounds of Ronda and the gorge, you can detour through El Borge and Yunquera and follow the snaking mountain roads of Sierra de las Nieves National Park – half of which has been a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve for over two and a half decades.
Finish up by heading to the Alpujarras region in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Its whitewashed villages, such as Pampaneira and Capileira, offer a glimpse into traditional Andalusian life.
From here, southern Spain is your oyster. Head to see the medieval architecture of nearby Granada or continue into the mountains.
Saxon Switzerland National Park, Germany
Germany is famous for its picturesque countryside and charming towns, but Saxon Switzerland National Park remains relatively undiscovered.
Begin your road trip in the city of Dresden, known for its stunning Baroque architecture and vibrant cultural scene, often forgotten about in favour of the more famous German cities like Berlin and Munich.
From Dresden, head south towards the national park, stopping at the Bastei Bridge, an iconic stone bridge that offers breathtaking views of the Elbe River and the surrounding sandstone cliffs.
Further south, you’ll reach Hohnstein, a picturesque castle town with over 70km of hiking trails. It’s also the home of puppetry, with a specially built puppetry house and festival celebrating the art.
Located in the eastern part of Germany, near the border with the Czech Republic, this national park offers a unique landscape of dramatic sandstone formations, deep valleys, and dense forests.
Sheehan noted just how much there is to do: “The park is a paradise for hikers, with loads of trails to scenic viewpoints and hidden valleys. Don’t miss the Königstein Fortress, one of the largest hilltop fortresses in Europe, for panoramic views of the Elbe Valley.”
The Romantic Road, Germany
Another enchanting route in Germany is the Romantic Road. Stretching from Würzburg to Füssen in Bavaria, it takes you through charming medieval towns, rolling vineyards, and fairy-tale castles.
Start in Würzburg, known for its stunning Residenz Palace and picturesque vineyards, then continue south to Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Here you’ll find a well-preserved medieval town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses.
As you travel further along the Romantic Road, you’ll find towns like Dinkelsbühl and Nördlingen, each with unique charm and historical significance.
End your journey in Füssen, home to the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle and is the perfect way to end a road trip that lives up to its name.
These undiscovered road trip destinations in Europe offer a chance to explore the continent’s hidden gems and experience its rich cultural heritage away from the crowds.
From the coastal beauty of Salento and the serene landscapes of Lake Como, to the vibrant culture of Andalusia and natural beauty of Saxon Switzerland, each of these destinations promises an unforgettable journey.
