Ready for a road trip? Here’s what you need to know about driving in Europe.
Brush up on the European rules of the road and become a confident international driver. This simple guide has the important information you need for a safe and easy road trip in Europe. Take a look at our European driving checklist, country-specific advice, and road trip inspiration.
Driving in Europe: Important documents you need
Mandatory requirements for all drivers
Before leaving for your trip, it’s important to make sure you’ve got all of the right documents and that they’re valid for the length of your trip.
While driving across Europe, road users must have these items in the vehicle at all times.
- Valid driver’s license
- National insurance number
- VC5 certificate (if you’re taking your own car)
- Passport
- European breakdown cover policy numbers and documents
- Proof of vehicle insurance
- Travel insurance documents
European driving checklist
Common road laws in Europe
Thankfully, many European countries share the same driving laws. However, it’s important to be aware of some key differences. Take a look at our European driving checklist below.
- Drive on the right, give way to the left
Unless you’re in the British Isles, Cyprus, or Malta. - Reflective jackets
In France, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Austria, and Croatia you’re legally required to keep one high-visibility jacket per person in the passenger’s glove compartment. - Warning triangles
All vehicles in Europe must carry a warning triangle in case of a breakdown or emergency. - First aid kits
Many European countries legally require you to carry a first aid kit on the road. And where it isn’t the law, it’s highly recommended. - Snow chains and winter tires
Depending on the time of year, snow chains and winter tires are legally required or recommended in Andorra, Austria, France, Germany, Italy, and Switzerland. - UK stickers and identifiers
If you’re driving a UK-registered car in Spain, Cyprus, or Malta, you need to display a UK sticker at all times. In other European countries (except Ireland), you also need a UK sticker unless your license plate shows a Union flag. A GB identifier, Euro symbol, or national flag doesn’t count as a UK identifier. - Headlight converters
UK cars usually need headlight converter stickers to adjust the dipped beam of your lights to prevent dazzling oncoming vehicles. - International driving permit
You might need an international driving permit (IDP) to drive in certain European countries, in addition to your legal driver’s license. - Green cards
You might need a green card to prove that you have vehicle insurance while driving in Albania, Azerbaijan, Moldova, Turkey, and Ukraine. - Visas
Check the entry requirements of the countries you’re visiting in case you need a visa.
Driving through Europe: Country-specific tips
Lesser-known driving rules around Europe
Portugal
If you’re traveling with bikes, make sure they’re on a roof mount because it’s illegal to carry them on the back of a car in Portugal. Also, you must have prepaid toll tickets to drive on Portuguese highways.
France
You can’t wear headphones while driving or use speed-camera detection on your phone or sat nav. Your vehicle must also display a Crit’air emissions sticker to avoid a €135 fine. Finally, be savvy to speed limits, which can change in different weather conditions, like rain.
Austria
Keep your hands off the horn in Vienna and around hospitals — beeping is largely prohibited in these areas.
Cyprus
Make sure you pull over if you’re feeling thirsty or tempted by a snack because you could be fined for eating or drinking while driving in Cyprus.
Germany
Before heading to any major cities, you’ll have to display an Umweltplakette emissions sticker, which you can order online.
Spain
It is mandatory to carry a spare wheel (and the tools to fit it) when driving in Spain. It’s also a good idea to pay close attention to parking rules, as they can be very particular in some regions.
Greece, Poland, Romania, and Russia
Although it’s often recommended in many European countries, you are legally required to have a fire extinguisher on board while driving in Greece, Poland, Romania, and Russia.
The ‘just-in-case’ packing list
What you’ll need for driving in Europe
Whether it’s an extra pair of sunglasses or your favorite pair of shoes, we’ll leave the vacation packing list up to you. But alongside the mandatory driving documents and items, you might want to think about taking some of these.
Breakdown essentials
- Jumper cables, a spare tire, and a fuel can.
- Extra layers, blankets, a flashlight, and plenty of water.
- Emergency numbers for the areas or countries you’ll be traveling through.
Useful extras
- A physical map to add a level of security while navigating new roads.
- Cash for snacks and toll roads (especially in France, Italy, and Spain).
- Travel health insurance details in case you need health care while traveling.
- A breathalyzer to test your blood alcohol concentration before driving if you’ve been drinking.
- Photocopies of important documents in case you lose anything.
Bucket-list drives in Europe
Five best roads in Europe
If you’re looking for inspiration for your European road trip, consider adding these routes to your itinerary.
Furka Pass
Switzerland
Buckle up for a high-altitude cruise through the southern Swiss Alps. Leave Ruess Valley and climb to about 8,000 feet for views of the Gotthard Massif and Urseren Valley.
Stelvio Pass
Italy
Steer around 60 hairpin bends on Europe’s second-highest mountain road from Bormio to Prad am Stilsfer Joch. This challenging route requires skill and concentration as you ascend through the trees and barren mountainside.
Atlantic Road
Norway
Meander through the Norwegian islands and over the Atlantic Ocean from Bud to Kristiansund. Stop at small villages, beaches, and wildlife-watching areas as you breeze along this laid-back coastal trail.
Grossglockner
Austria
Take the alpine route navigated by humans for three and a half thousand years. Journey past meadows, craggy peaks, and glacier viewpoints on Austria’s highest mountain road.
Route des Cretes
France
Head along the cliffs of southern France and give in to the 14 awe-inspiring viewing platforms along the way. Reach heights of 2,300 feet as you wind around the glistening emerald waters of Verdon Gorge.
Ready to hit the road in Europe? Skyscanner can help you find the best flights, hotels, and car rental deals for your next trip.
