The Ultimate Summer Road Trips 2025: Top 5 UK & EU Picks from a Travel Expert

With nearly half of Brits (47%) planning a summer getaway this year, and one in three set to take a road trip, we teamed up with top travel expert Gemma Logan from The Brighton Bucket List to unveil the top five UK and EU road trip destinations for summer 2025.

“We’ve seen a major shift towards slower, more meaningful travel,” says Gemma. “Road trips offer freedom, flexibility, and the chance to uncover hidden gems along the way - all while travelling on your own terms. They’re no longer a backup plan - they’re the heart of how people want to travel.”

So, let’s jump in!

Top five UK road trips for Summer 2025

1. North Coast 500, Scotland

Start your journey in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, and embark on the legendary North Coast 500 loop. The route takes you through some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes in the UK, including stops at John o’ Groats, Durness, and Ullapool. Along the way, don’t miss the dramatic Duncansby Stacks, the winding Bealach na Bà mountain pass, and stretches of wild, white-sand beaches that feel almost tropical. It delivers breathtaking Highland scenery, dramatic coastlines, and remote villages that feel completely untouched.

Distance: approximately 516 miles (830 km)

Drive time: 11 hours 30 minutes of driving time, 5–7 days of leisurely driving

Link to route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/f2Jd9iwmEzB5FEcH7

Recommended time to go: Late May to early July – long daylight hours and fewer midges than peak summer.

2. Cornwall

A classic summer road trip, coastal views, surfy atmosphere, and charming towns like St Ives or Padstow make it a favourite. Begin your Cornish road trip in Newquay, the surf capital of the UK, and follow the coast either west toward St Ives and Land’s End or east toward Padstow and Fowey. With dramatic cliffs, picturesque fishing villages and endless beach stops, it’s the perfect summer escape. Highlights include the tidal island of St Michael’s Mount, the cliffside Minack Theatre, and fresh seafood in every harbour.

Distance: around 200 miles (320 km) coast-to-coast loop

Drive time: approximately 5–6 hours total

Link to route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/fKzpw5VaWbqVbfcH6

Recommended time to go: June or September – to enjoy warm weather without the peak summer crowds.

3. Lake District

The Lake District is ideal for a more compact but adventure-packed road trip. Start in Kendal or Windermere and explore the region’s most iconic spots like Grasmere, Coniston, and Keswick. The drives are compact but incredibly scenic, and there’s so much adventure packed in - hiking, kayaking, and lakeside walks. From scenic lakeside drives to hiking up Scafell Pike or taking a cruise on Lake Windermere, the area offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities surrounded by stunning natural beauty. 

Distance: roughly 80–100 miles (130–160 km) depending on the loop

Drive time: around 3–4 hours; best experienced over 2–3 days

Link to route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UuegP6DQ6PLb7n9Z9

Recommended time to go: Late spring (May–June) – for blooming landscapes and better hiking conditions. 

4. Yorkshire Dales & Moors

Kick off your journey in Skipton, often dubbed the "Gateway to the Dales," and meander through the rolling landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales before crossing into the North York Moors. This route includes charming stops like Grassington, Malham, and Helmsley. A visit to Malham Cove is a must, with its dramatic limestone cliff and panoramic views. Along the way, expect hearty food, historic inns, and rugged countryside. For those who love culture, hearty food and dramatic countryside, Yorkshire is unbeatable.

Distance: approximately 120 miles (190 km)

Drive time: around 4 hours total, ideally over 2 days

Link to route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/bv9YbaJspJw7SJuW9

Recommended time to go: Early summer or early autumn (June or September) – quieter trails and rich colours across the moorland.

5. Wales Coastal Way

This is one of my rising favourites, wild beaches, less crowded than England’s south coast, and full of peaceful beauty. Start in Aberdaron on the Llyn Peninsula or Aberystwyth if you're after a central point. This route along the west coast of Wales follows the Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire coastlines, offering peaceful beaches, dramatic sea cliffs, and hidden coves. Highlights include the postcard-perfect Barafundle Bay, the cathedral city of St Davids, and miles of coastal walking paths brimming with wildlife and tranquillity.

Distance: about 150 miles (240 km)

Drive time: roughly 10 hours; best over 3–4 days

Link to route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/WDLEWeZaKs6j7hkAA

Recommended time to go: Late May to July – for mild weather, coastal wildlife, and fewer visitors.

Top five EU road trips for Summer 2025

1. Amalfi Coast & Puglia, Italy

Fly into Naples to begin this sun-drenched journey through southern Italy. Drive along the cliff-hugging roads of the Amalfi Coast, passing through Sorrento, Positano, and Ravello. Then head east into the hills of Matera before continuing south into the whitewashed towns of Puglia. From the glamorous sea views of Amalfi to the iconic Trulli houses of Alberobello, this route blends luxury, history, and rustic charm. You get the cliffside glamour of Amalfi followed by the rustic, foodie magic of Puglia - it’s a dreamy contrast.

Distance: approximately 410  miles (660 km)

Drive time: approximately 9 hours

Link to route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/DkDBjydhuTCk32ev8

Recommended time to go: Late May or September – to avoid extreme heat and enjoy quieter roads.

2. Alsace Wine Route, France

Start in the charming city of Strasbourg and head south through one of Europe’s most picturesque wine regions. Fairy tale towns, rows of vineyards and postcard-perfect villages – it’s like driving through a storybook. The Alsace Wine Route winds through colourful villages like Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and Colmar, where cobbled streets and half-timbered houses sit among rolling vineyards. Be sure to spend time exploring Colmar’s old town, a fairy-tale setting of canals, flower boxes, and cosy wine cellars. 

Distance: about 90–120 miles (140–190 km)

Drive time: 3–4 hours total

Link to route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/6qp8vZRRCR8GwQhi7

Recommended time to go: June or October – for wine festivals and vineyard colours in autumn.

3. Dalmatian Coast, Croatia

From Split to Dubrovnik, this coastline is packed with sun, culture, hidden coves and medieval charm. Begin in Split and drive south along Croatia’s dazzling Dalmatian coastline. This journey takes you through beach towns, island ferry ports, and historical centres before ending in Dubrovnik. The route is filled with sunshine, crystal-clear waters, and ancient charm. A walk along Dubrovnik’s city walls offers a perfect end to the trip, with panoramic views of the Adriatic and the city’s terracotta rooftops.

Distance: approximately 110 miles (180 km)

Drive time: 5–6 hours; ideal as a 3–4 day journey

Link to route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/H2ZxDAj24LSK26518

Recommended time to go: Early June or mid-September – great swimming weather with fewer cruise ship crowds.

4. Germany's Romantic Road

It winds through castles, cobbled towns and forests; it’s the kind of route that really makes you fall in love with driving. Start in Würzburg and travel south through the heart of Bavaria on Germany’s famed Romantic Road. Along the way, you’ll pass through medieval towns like Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Dinkelsbühl before finishing at the fairy-tale Neuschwanstein Castle near Füssen. This route is all about cobbled streets, forested hills, and charming villages that seem frozen in time.

Distance: around 260 miles (420 km)

Drive time: 6–7 hours; best enjoyed over 3–4 days

Link to route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/D2ed75SzbuWit6Qn9

Recommended time to go: May or September – for warm weather and fewer tour buses in the smaller towns.

5. Basque Country (Spain-France)

An absolute dream for foodies. From pintxos in San Sebastián to wine tasting in French Basque towns, it’s a culinary road trip. San Sebastián or Bilbao makes a perfect starting point for this culture- and food-rich road trip. Begin with tapas and beach time in Spain, then cross the border into the French Basque Country to explore towns like Biarritz, Saint-Jean-de-Luz, and Espelette. It’s a route made for food lovers, with must-visits like La Concha Beach in San Sebastián and bustling market towns brimming with Basque flavour and tradition.

Distance: about 150 miles (240 km)

Drive time: around 4 hours; perfect for a multi-day foodie escape

Link to route: https://maps.app.goo.gl/XYAZomQnV82nEynG9

Recommended time to go: June or early September – to enjoy the beaches, local festivals, and ideal foodie weather.

Top tips for EU travel

“If you’re doing a multi-country EU road trip, it’s vital to check your entry allowance. Most UK travellers get 90 days in a 180-day window across Schengen countries,” Gemma advises. 

You’ll also need a V5C logbook, insurance, and your UK photocard licence. “Some countries still ask for International Driving Permits, so it’s worth checking well ahead, especially if you’re heading to places like Albania or Serbia.”

Tolls, vignettes, and border rules vary, and Gemma always suggests carrying some cash. “Remote toll booths and smaller petrol stations still don’t take cards in some regions. Having cash can save you a lot of stress.”

Top places to avoid in the UK and EU for Summer 2025

While there are plenty of must-visit spots, Gemma also highlights a few destinations best avoided during peak summer months.

"Cinque Terre and central Amsterdam can feel really overrun in July and August,” she warns. “If summer’s your only option, I’d recommend staying somewhere nearby and doing early morning or evening drives to avoid traffic and make the most of the days in each location. This will make the experience so much better.”

Lesser-known destinations and trends on the rise

Emerging destinations are also gaining momentum. “There’s a definite buzz around travellers choosing lesser-known routes,” Gemma notes. “Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, especially around Sligo and Donegal, is still relatively untouched. And for adventure seekers, Romania’s Transfăgărășan Highway is a total showstopper. The switchbacks, the scenery, it’s like something out of a car ad.” She also recommends northern Portugal’s Douro Valley and Slovenia’s wine-growing regions as “quiet, sophisticated alternatives to Italy or Austria-perfect for a more tranquil experience.”

Gemma has also noticed a growing trend towards themed trips. “Coastal drives are still big, especially for that classic summer vibe,” she says, “but countryside escapes and wine-and-food routes are fast gaining ground. Travellers are planning itineraries around local markets, vineyards, and even seasonal harvests - it’s travel with real flavour.”

Travel expert essentials: Gemma’s road trip must-haves

1. A solid playlist or podcast stash
2. Snacks and water for the road
3. Offline maps for remote areas
4. A comfy neck pillow for passengers
5. A multi-port charger to keep devices topped up

When to book a road trip to secure the best deals

To secure the best deals, Gemma recommends booking car hire and key accommodation three to six months in advance.

Gemma recommends booking between January and March. “That’s the sweet spot. You’ll get better car hire rates, more choice for accommodation-especially if you’re looking for something boutique or an EV rental,” she says. “Leave it too late and you risk higher prices or sold-out models.”

Choosing the right car for the trip

• EVs are ideal for Western Europe routes with strong charging infrastructure
• Hybrids are great for flexibility in remote or hilly regions
• Petrol/Diesel is still useful in less-developed areas
• Families should opt for SUVs or estates, while couples might enjoy a zippy convertible

Best places to visit based on what you want out of a trip

Different routes cater to different types of travellers. “For families, I always suggest places that mix outdoor fun and culture, Cornwall, Brittany, or Bavaria; they all hit that sweet spot,” says Gemma. “Couples often go for the romance and food, so Tuscany or the Cotswolds are perfect. And for solo travellers, it’s all about ease and depth. The Scottish Highlands, the Basque coast or even Slovenia—these places are incredibly welcoming and full of soul.”

Festivals and events to catch this summer

Gemma shares that there are standout festivals and seasonal events worth planning your road trip around. 

“In the UK, the Edinburgh Festival in August is a cultural icon, while events like Camp Bestival in Dorset and Boardmasters in Cornwall add music and fun to the summer calendar. “

“In Europe, La Tomatina in Spain offers one of the most unique and chaotic travel experiences on the calendar, while wine harvest festivals across Burgundy, Rioja and the Douro Valley bring local tradition and flavour into full focus.”

Going electric, eco-conscious travel and sustainability

When recommending road trips, Gemma always considers more than just scenery. “Yes, the views matter, but I also think about accessibility, seasonal traffic, attractions and how easy it is to explore on your own,” she explains. “The best routes have a balance: beautiful drives, places to stop, and a real sense of place.” Increasingly, she also seeks out destinations offering sustainability-focused experiences, from eco stays to local produce and low-impact activities.

Whether you're craving wild coastal views, foodie adventures, or off-the-beaten-path discoveries, summer 2025 is set to be a standout season for road trips. Wherever the road takes you, it’s all about the memories you make along the way.