Scenic drives, cultural experiences, and rising global interest are turning Europe into a road trip paradise
As summer 2025 draws near, travel experts are seeing a sharp rise in interest for European road trips. More travelers are choosing to hit the road instead of booking traditional holiday packages. This shift reflects a growing desire for freedom, flexibility, and deeper, more personal travel experiences.
According to analysts, road trips now offer more than just beautiful views. They provide a sense of adventure and control that appeals to independent and conscious travelers. Tourists are looking to explore hidden spots at their own pace, often away from crowded tourist sites.
A recent study by insurance broker ChoiceQuote has confirmed this trend. The company analyzed online behavior, including Google searches and TikTok engagement, to identify the most popular road trip routes in Europe. The data reveals the scenic drives travelers are most excited to take in 2025.
Scenic Routes See a Spike in Interest
The study found that TikTok searches for “European road trip” grew by 86% over the past year. This boom in social media content reflects a wider change in travel habits. More people now prefer experiences over traditional tourism.
Google searches also show strong interest in self-guided travel. Scenic routes are being searched and shared online at record levels. Experts say this is part of a broader shift toward experiential travel, especially among younger generations and content creators.
France’s Northwest Coast Tops the List
France’s Northwest Coast road trip is the most in-demand route, with Google searches rising by an incredible 83,100% in the past 12 months. The route spans 310 to 435 miles and passes through the regions of Brittany, the Loire Valley, and Normandy.
The journey is filled with natural beauty and historical landmarks. Travelers can see coastal cliffs, rolling green landscapes, and famous sites like ancient castles and World War II memorials. British tourists especially find this trip convenient, as it begins just a short ferry ride from Dover to Calais.
French tourism officials have welcomed the surge in interest. Local communities along the route are also benefiting, with more visitors supporting small businesses. Campaigns now highlight local food, wine, and historical attractions to draw even more tourists.
Amalfi Coast Still a Favorite
Italy’s Amalfi Coast ranks second in popularity. This 31-mile stretch between Salerno, Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello gets around 135,000 Google searches each month.
Its stunning sea views, steep cliffs, and charming towns continue to draw visitors from around the world. Many travelers also visit nearby sites like Pompeii or take a boat trip to the island of Capri.
Experts say the Amalfi Coast’s beauty and strong online presence have kept it a top travel destination. Its luxury hotels, fine dining, and Instagram-friendly scenes make it especially appealing to modern tourists.
France’s Drôme Region Offers a Peaceful Escape
In third place is the Villages de Drôme road trip in southeastern France. Google searches for this route rose by 2,200% over the past year.
This scenic drive takes travelers through the Drôme Provençale region, home to medieval villages and quiet countryside. Highlights include Grignan, known for its Renaissance château, and Montbrun-les-Bains, one of France’s most beautiful villages.
Tourism experts say this route is gaining attention because it offers a more peaceful and authentic experience. It attracts visitors who are interested in history, wine, and traditional village life.
Romania’s Transalpina Pass Delivers High Adventure
Romania’s Transalpina route is also seeing a surge in popularity. Google searches have increased by 2,200% in the past year.
Known as one of the highest roads in Europe, the Transalpina reaches 2,145 meters above sea level. The road cuts through the Carpathian Mountains and offers wide, dramatic views of the alpine landscape.
Tourism officials in Romania are now promoting the route as part of a larger plan to draw international visitors. The road’s high curves and scenic meadows appeal to experienced drivers looking for a unique challenge and a less-traveled destination.
Switzerland’s Susten Pass Showcases Alpine Engineering
Switzerland’s Susten Pass completes the top five list. This alpine road links Innertkirchen and Wassen and is famous for its 26 bridges and tunnels carved through the mountains. Google searches for the route have risen by 2,200%.
One of the key stops is the Stein Glacier, which attracts travelers interested in nature and photography. Swiss tourism groups are now offering road trip packages that combine the Susten Pass with train rides, lake visits, and eco-lodges.
The route reflects the best of Swiss design and nature. It’s ideal for travelers who want to mix comfort, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.
A Road Trip Renaissance
Together, these five routes highlight a growing trend in European travel. Tourists are now choosing the road for freedom, connection, and authenticity. With the help of social media and digital travel tools, road trips are no longer a niche interest—they’re a major part of Europe’s tourism future.
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