Europe Road Trip Ideas: 2-Week Road Trip from the UK [2024]

Planning a Europe road trip can be both an exciting and overwhelming job, especially when considering all the options of places to visit in Europe. Heading to Europe on a road trip from the UK in your own campervan is what all camper owners dream of, with so many opportunities to explore incredible landscapes and cultures and all with your tiny home! 

Table of Contents

• 2 week Europe road trip from the UK
• Day 1: Depart from the UK to France
• Day 2: Ghent
• Day 3: Luxembourg and Upper Sure National Park
• Day 4-5: Germany’s Black Forest
• Day 6-10: Switzerland’s Natural Beauty
• Day 6: Zurich and Lake Zug 
• Day 8-10 Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen and Interlaken
• Day 11-12: The heart of the French Alps: Chamonix
• Day 13: France’s Romance and Culture: Annecy
• Day 14: Return to the UK
• Essential Tips for Your Europe Road Trip
• 2- week Europe road trip map
• Europe road trip ideas

We quit our jobs to travel long-term in Europe, but we know that most people only have up to a couple of weeks to explore so this blog aims to provide a complete Europe road trip idea for anyone looking to set off on a road trip from the UK. Buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

We’ve chosen this route as it will take you to a number of different countries and give you a variety of nature and charming European culture. Get ready to explore Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland and France!

2 week Europe road trip from the UK

Day 1: Depart from the UK to France

Your European road trip begins by crossing the English Channel. You can pick from the Eurotunnel from Folkestone to Calais or take a ferry from Dover to Calais or Dunkirk. We personally like the Eurotunnel as it is much easier with a pet. 

We usually like to get to the Eurotunnel early in the morning so we have a full day ahead of us and the perfect place to begin is by heading straight to Bruges, which is only an hour and a half from Calais. 

This picturesque medieval city is known for its cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and historic architecture. Visit the Belfry of Bruges, the Market square, and the Basilica of the Holy Blood. You also absolutely have to taste the famous Belgian waffles, chocolates, and beer, what a perfect way to start your road trip!

Day 2: Ghent

The second stop on your Europe road trip is another stunning Belgian city. Nestled between Brussels and Bruges is the city of Ghent, often overlooked for its neighbours but its vibrant atmosphere and historical charm shouldn’t be missed. 

Spend the day wandering around the cobblestone streets of the historic city, visiting Saint Bavo's Cathedral, picturesque canals, and the imposing Gravensteen Castle. You could even make the most of your time here and head out on a boat tour along the Leie River. 

If you’re anything like us you will enjoy some more Belgian waffles and a craft beer whilst you’re here, make the most of the Belgian culinary scene because tomorrow you’re heading to a new country. 

Day 3: Luxembourg and Upper Sure National Park

Luxembourg, one of the smallest countries in Europe, may not be on your radar to visit. However, if you want to discover somewhere new with a bonus of cheap fuel, it should be on your Europe road trip itinerary. Be sure to take a visit to Upper Sûre National Park, located in the Ardennes region, it’s a beautiful place to soak up the tranquil nature. 

The main event of the national park, the Upper Sûre Lake, is perfect for a paddle-board or kayak adventure, even a swim if you’re feeling brave. This is a perfect stop to break up the cities and sightseeing on your Europe road trip. 

Luxembourg City, the capital, is a unique European capital that perfectly blends history with modern luxury. Explore the Old Town, visit the Grand Ducal Palace, and take a stroll along the picturesque Chemin de la Corniche, often called ‘the most beautiful balcony in Europe’ and gives an incredible view of the city. 

Day 4-5: Germany’s Black Forest

Continue your Europe road trip into your third country of the trip, Germany. Head to the Black Forest region, famous for its dense forest, the clue is in the name! Explore the serene Lake Titisee and Lake Schluchsee, both offer beautiful views and an option for activities whether it’s a swim, sailing or a boat trip. 

The Elbachseeblick Viewing Platform is the perfect place to get panoramic views that are typical of the Black Forest. For those who love hiking, the majestic Feldberg, the tallest mountain in the Black Forest, and the tranquil Feldsee are also must-visit spots.

If you’re more of a city person, you could choose to visit Strasbourg or Colmar and admire the cobblestone stress, timber houses and Gothic 13th-century architecture. Perfect additions to a European road trip. 

On your last day in the Black Forest, we would recommend the short drive across the border into Switzerland to end your day visiting Rhine Falls. This is the biggest waterfall in Europe by volume and an absolutely jaw dropping waterfall; pure power and a magical turquoise river. If you visit in Spring time like we did, this waterfall will be in full flow with the recent snow melt. 

We can’t think of a better place to give you a taste of what’s to come in Switzerland. You can also stay the night in the parking for Rhine Falls so it’s a good place to end the day. 

Day 6-10: Switzerland’s Natural Beauty

Switzerland is the furthest you will travel on your Europe road trip. From the UK, we think this is enough driving to be doing in 2 weeks. If you travel fast, you could detour into Austria or Italy too but truthfully this route will keep you busy enough. 

Day 6: Zurich and Lake Zug 

Your next destination in Switzerland is Zurich, the financial capital. Spend a day wandering around this unique city, it’s one of our favourite European cities with such a nice atmosphere and a crystal clear river before.

See the sights such as Fraumunster Church and the Church of St. Peter in Zurich’s Old town, as well as taking a trip down Zurich’s Bahnhoffstrasse, the most expensive street lined with all the designer shops you could imagine.

End your day in Zurich by driving to the nearby Lake Zug, it’s a beautiful place to escape to after the hustle and bustle of the city and you won’t be able to resist a dip in the crystal clear lake (even if it is freezing).

Now you’re half-way through your Europe road trip! So it’s time to get out in the Swiss mountains, and where better than Stoos.

Day 7: Stoos

A car-free mountain village, accessed by taking the steepest funicular in the world, from Schwyz. Once at Stoos you can take another chair lift up to Fronalpstock for incredible panoramic views over Lake Lucerne and beyond.

There is also a beautiful ridge walk to Klingenstock that is not to be missed. Make sure you check the timings and opening times for the funicular and chairlift and plan your day well!

Day 8-10 Grindelwald, Lauterbrunnen and Interlaken

There is too much to say about this region of Switzerland for one blog, let alone one paragraph but there are plenty of adventurous activities to do in the area.

Swimming and relaxing around Lake Brienz or Lake Thun is an absolute must, as well as taking a hike up Harder Kulm or Augstmatthorn to see the lakes from above. Make sure you visit Lauterbrunnen, even if it is a short trip to see the magical valley filled with 72 waterfalls! 

Grindelwald is where the real adventure happens, home to Jungfraujoch, the top of Europe and there are plenty of other beautiful hikes to do around here such as heading up First mountain. If you only have one day in Grindelwald, First is the perfect destination, from the top of First there are many activities you can do:

• Hike to Bachalpsee 
• Hike further to Schynigge Platte, make sure you plan ahead as you need mountain transport from Schnigge Platte so check the latest time they run!
• First Cliff walk 
• Choose one of the many adventurous activities to descend from zip lining to trikes!

If you have a little bit longer to explore Switzerland, our Switzerland road trip guide and map includes many more ideas for your Swiss trip. 

Day 11-12: The heart of the French Alps: Chamonix

The last country on this Europe road trip route is France! From Switzerland, travel to Chamonix, France, a mountain resort at the foot of Mont Blanc. If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting the Alps, this is an absolute must-visit for your Europe road trip. 

If you pay for one activity whilst in Chamonix then make sure to ride the Aguille du Midi cable car up to 3842m and take in the panoramic views of the snowy scenery.

This is the closest you can get to Mont Blanc without actually climbing it and is an incredible view. You can even watch in awe at the mountaineers who are taking on the highest peak.

Either on your ascent or descent from Aguille du Midi you should get off at the mid-station Plan d’Aiguille and do the short walk to Lac Bleu.

On your second day in Chamonix you can choose from taking the Montenvers railway to the Mer de Glace, the largest glacier in the French Alps, taking the La Flegere cable car and hiking to Lac Blanc, or simply enjoying a wander around Chamonix. 

Day 13: France’s Romance and Culture: Annecy

Your final stop, that’s gone quickly hasn’t it! Annecy, located in the North of the French Alps is sometimes referred to as the ‘Pearl of the French Alps’ or the ‘Venice of the French Alps’. It’s a stunning and charming town to visit, a canal runs through the colourful old town, a castle overlooks the turquoise lake and there are imposing mountains in all directions. 

We would recommend spending the morning exploring the old town of Annecy, complete with some French pastries! Then head to Lake Annecy in the afternoon and enjoy a dip in this stunning turquoise lake.  Lake Annecy is also referred to as the cleanest lake in Europe due to strict environmental regulations since the 1960’s, so it’s the perfect place to enjoy. 

If you’re looking for a more detailed itinerary for the French Alps, if you have a little more time for example, make sure to check out our French Alps Itinerary Blog. 

Day 14: Return to the UK

As your two-week Europe road trip draws to a close, make your way back to the UK. From Annecy to Calais it is roughly an 8 hour drive so consider splitting this up between a couple of days if you’re able to. 

Essential Tips for Your Europe Road Trip

1. Documentation and Preparation: Including your driving license, passport, car insurance and vehicle documents. 
2. Vehicle Check: Check your vehicle thoroughly before setting off and make sure you have essential items like a spare tire, first aid kit, and European driving kit.
3. Local Laws and Customs: Familiarise yourself with local driving laws and customs in each country you visit. This includes understanding speed limits, road signs, and toll systems. The RAC is a great resource for this - https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/travel/advice/checklist/.
4. Packing Essentials: Make sure you bring your essentials and suitable clothing, it’s not always sunny in Europe! If you’re looking for a comprehensive packing list for your road trip, we’ve got exactly what you need - Road trip packing list. 

2- week Europe road trip map

Below we have created a Google map with all of the locations pinned that we have mentioned throughout the blog. You can open this by making it full screen and see all of the locations on the map. 

 

Europe road trip ideas

We hope this blog has been a source of inspiration for your Europe road trip. Embarking on a Europe road trip from the UK is in our opinion, the best way to experience what the continent has to offer. This two-week itinerary offers a balanced mix of iconic cities, incredible landscapes, and a variety of culture. So, pack your road trip essentials, check out your route, and get ready to explore Europe!

For more road trip route ideas, be sure to check out our road trip guides here.