We’ve shared our favourite day trips from York, but hiring a car locally doesn’t mean limiting your horizons. Did you know you can take your Autohorn Fleet Services hire car to Europe?
When planning a European getaway, most people automatically think of flights. But here’s something many drivers don’t realise – with Autohorn you can take your York hire car from the UK into Europe and turn your trip into a true adventure.
That means:
- No paying for airport parking
- No baggage restrictions
- Total flexibility to travel your way
- No need to organise car hire when you arrive
Europe offers an incredible variety of landscapes that are best experienced by road. From dramatic coastal cliffs and mountain passes to tranquil lakes and picture-perfect villages, the opportunities are endless.
With just a ferry or Eurotunnel crossing, Europe is right at your fingertips. Whether you’re heading to France, Spain, Germany or Italy, driving a UK car in Europe gives you the freedom to go beyond the typical tourist hotspots and discover places you’d otherwise miss.
If you’re considering a York hire car, this opens up a completely different way to travel, one where the journey becomes just as memorable as the destination. We’ve put together our top five best road trip routes in Europe along with all the information you
5 best road trip routes in Europe
1. Wild Atlantic Way – Ireland
Starting off with one of the most accessible routes on this list. Discover the wild, untamed beauty of Ireland as you journey along its rugged west coast on the iconic Wild Atlantic Way. This breathtaking 2,500km driving route stretches from Derry in Northern Ireland all the way down Ireland’s western edge. This unforgettable drive takes you past dramatic headlands, windswept cliffs, and hidden coves carved by the Atlantic. Beyond the coastline, you’ll find some of Ireland’s most charming towns. Wander through the lively streets of Galway, known for its music and culture, or soak up the postcard-perfect scenery of Killarney, surrounded by lakes and rolling countryside.
One of the most accessible routes on this list, the Wild Atlantic Way can be explored from multiple starting points. Begin near Derry, or take a ferry to Dublin or Rosslare and head west. With regular crossings from Fishguard, Holyhead, Birkenhead and Liverpool, getting there is simple and all part of the adventure.
For a truly remote getaway, load up one of our large cars with camping gear and enjoy getting back to nature as you campsite hop your way along the route.
2. Normandy Coast – France
Just a short hop across the Channel, Normandy offers the ideal introduction to driving a UK car in Europe. Think cruising wide open coastal roads in a premium vehicle, dramatic cliffs and beaches steeped in history. The D-Day landing sites are both moving and fascinating, while towns like Rouen offer medieval charm, stunning cathedrals and vibrant café culture. Add in fresh seafood, local cider and relaxed driving conditions, and you’ve got one of the best road trips from the UK to Europe for beginners.
3. Furka Pass – Switzerland
One for experienced drivers, the Furka Pass has to be among the most thrilling drives in Europe. One of the highest mountain roads in the Alps, it’s certainly not for the faint-hearted. Located roughly between Lucerne and the Italian border, the pass climbs to around 2,500 metres above sea level, weaving through dramatic hairpin bends as it snakes up and down the mountainside. Steep drops line much of the route, making it especially challenging in poor weather, which can change quickly at this altitude so make sure to check the forecast. Film fans may also recognise it from James Bond’s Goldfinger, where it famously featured in one of the franchise’s most iconic car chase scenes. Photo by Milosz Roman
4. The Italian Lakes – Italy
For a truly unforgettable journey, head to northern Italy’s lakes. After driving through France and into the Alps, you’ll arrive at destinations like Lake Como and Lake Maggiore, where sparkling waters meet dramatic mountain backdrops. Charming villages like Bellagio offer postcard-perfect views, while lakeside restaurants serve incredible Italian cuisine. It’s peaceful, scenic and effortlessly stylish making it one of the best road trip routes in Europe for a longer escape. Photo by Lewis J Goetz
5. Northern Spain Coastal Route – Spain
For something different, take the ferry directly to northern Spain and discover a side of the country many tourists miss. The drive from Santander to Bilbao is packed with rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs and lush green landscapes. This region feels untamed and authentic, a refreshing contrast to Spain’s busier southern resorts. And then there’s the food. From fresh seafood to world-famous tapas, this is a road trip as much about eating as it is exploring. It’s a hidden gem among the best road trip routes in Europe.
Taking your rental car abroad: everything you need to know
If you’re planning on driving a UK car in Europe, there are a few important requirements, especially when renting. If you’re hiring a car for the first time, you can learn how it all works here. Plus, we’ve answered some of the most common questions below when it comes to driving a UK hire car in Europe.
Do I need to inform Autohorn that I will be taking my York car rental to Europe?
Yes, permission is required. You must get written permission from Autohorn before taking your York hire car out of the UK. You can find more information in our terms and conditions
Can I take my York hire car out of Europe?
No, travel is typically limited to approved European destinations.
Does Autohorn offer Eurodrive cover?
Yes we do. When driving UK car in Europe you’ll need the correct insurance. Autohorn offers Eurodrive Cover for £312, which is designed to:
- Enable European travel
- Provide the necessary insurance cover for driving abroad
- Ensure you meet cross-border requirements
This is essential if you plan to take your York hire car outside the UK.
What documents do I need when driving a UK car in Europe?
Before you go, make sure you have:
- Full UK driving licence
- Passport
- VE103 certificate (for rental vehicles abroad)
- Insurance documents (including European cover)
- Breakdown cover
Important things to remember when driving abroad
Driving on the right: most European countries drive on the right-hand side, which can feel unfamiliar at first. Take extra care at roundabouts and junctions.
Speed limits: speed limits are in km/h not mph, don’t get caught out.
Road signs: sign shapes and colours may be different to the UK roads and be prepared to be reading signs in the local language. It’s well worth familiarising yourself with the basics before embarking on your journey
Low emission zones: many European cities have environmental or low-emission zones so do your research before setting off.
Tolls: familiarise yourself with your route so you’re not caught out by a sudden toll.
Start your European road trip today
With so many incredible destinations within easy reach, there’s never been a better time to hit the road. Whether you’re exploring coastal France, the Italian Lakes, or beyond, driving a UK car in Europe transforms your trip into something truly unforgettable.
If you’d like to take your York hire car further afield drop us an email or call us on 01904 557 536 and we’d be happy to discuss your needs. Book your trip now, your European adventure could start sooner than you think.
