As longer days and warmer temperatures rapidly approach, it’s time to dust off your camper and hit the open road. With the Eurotunnel just a few hours from home, it’s never been easier to start an unforgettable adventure across Europe.
From breathtaking coastlines to tiny villages steeped in history, our magnificent continent offers a plethora of destinations perfectly suited for a summertime road trip. Before you start your journey, check out our 5 must-visit spots for 2024.
Our top 5 summer road trips for 2024
1. The Amalfi Coast, Italy
Imagine postcard-perfect cliffs adorned with quaint, colourful villages overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. This resplendent scene awaits you on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, which could be your next road trip destination.
You can park up in one of the many scenic campsites nestled amid lemon groves, olive trees and beautiful blue bays. Spend your afternoons exploring narrow streets in old towns like Positano or Naples. Indulge in authentic Italian meals and delicacies like cannoli, a traditional sweet, filled pastry. Enjoy the morning sunshine on pristine beaches like Spiaggia Grande.
2. The Scottish Highlands
If you’re keen to stay in the UK, the Scottish Highlands promise a unique experience. Ideal for nature lovers seeking unspoilt, rugged natural beauty, this dramatic landscape promises tranquillity and untamed wilderness.
You could embark on the North Coast 500 route, following roads that wind through majestic mountains, historic castles, and shimmering lochs. Just don’t forget to get campervan insurance for peace of mind on the roads.
Whether you park beside a babbling brook or a mist-covered valley, the choice is yours. Responsible campers have the right to roam and pitch anywhere in Scotland: just never leave a trace behind you.
3. The Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
This wonderful coastline in Croatia boasts some of the most impressive seaside towns and crystal-clear waters in the continent. You can set up camp in various locations along the coast and explore magnificent cities like Dubrovnik, famed for its medieval walls and marble streets.
Don’t miss the opportunity to island-hop if you’re happy to leave the van parked for a few days. Just a short cruise away on taxi or private boat, you can discover ancient ruins, hidden coves, and traditional fishing villages with so much charm.
4. The French Riviera
Looking for a little bit of glamour on your next road trip? The start-studded French Riviera exudes elegance, known for its high-end tourist market. You can park up in one of the bustling coastal towns there and soak up the sun on beautiful beaches.
In the afternoon, take a stroll along palm-lined promenades or browse the selection of designer and independent shops in the area. From gourmet cuisine and top-rated museums to world-class nightclubs, the French Riviera is vibrant by day and night. Cities like Nice and Monaco are teeming with opportunity.
5. The Black Forest, Germany
Lastly, if you’d like to escape the stifling midsummer heat, why not head to the cool, dense landscape of Germany’s Black Forest? You can arrive at a quiet, secluded campsite and relax in total tranquillity.
The area makes a wonderful choice for outdoor enthusiasts. Embark on scenic hikes through towering trees and past cascading waterfalls or discover fairytale villages like Triberg. Any visit to the Black Forest would be incomplete without a taste of traditional Black Forest cake, best eaten al fresco in the dappled afternoon sunshine.
Whether you prefer to stretch out on sun-soaked beaches, visit all the top spots or carve your own path through rugged landscapes, Europe offers a diverse range of summer travel destinations. Pack your bags, hit the road, and take your camper further than ever before!