Driving in Europe
Photo: Crusier, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Most of Europe has good roads, but in comparison with the United States, fuels and other costs for driving are high. A car is usually the most practical vehicle for moderate distances (10–300 km) in the countryside. In big cities, street congestion often makes public transportation and cycling better options and cars are often a liability. On long distances, rail or air travel is usually faster between cities, and intercity buses often cheaper.
UnderstandDriving can be an enjoyable and feasible way to see the countryside and smaller cities.S.
PaperworkIn most European countries, you are required to carry your driving licence when driving, in some cases accompanied by the International Driving Permit (IDP).
EquipmentRules on use of video cameras mounted in the car ("dashcams") vary. If you consider using one, check the regulations of each country.
Renting a carIf you plan to rent a car to drive around Europe, it often makes sense to check the rates in different countries rather than just getting a car in the country of arrival.g.
Crossing bordersIn most of Europe, crossing borders by car is a painless process. The Schengen Area allows you to drive from the Arctic to the Mediterranean without so much as a passport check.
Rules of the roadTraffic circulates on the right-hand side of the road, except in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Isle of Man, Guernsey, Jersey, Malta and Cyprus (all of which are islands).
Road classificationsThere is one road classification that is used throughout Europe: the E-route scheme. The E-routes traverse Europe but are overlaid onto the national road system.
Road conditionsThe ease of driving on the continent varies greatly, and, as a general rule, east and west of the erstwhile Iron Curtain are two different worlds.
Urban drivingAvoid large cities if you are not used to driving in Europe. Most cities in Europe do not allow you to enter the historic tourist center with a car.
Interactions with the lawHopefully you will not need to interact with any law enforcement agencies. However it helps to know what to do should the need arise.
CostsFuel is highly taxed in most EU and EFTA countries.50 range).
By countryFor country-specific info, you should generally consult the By car sections of the country's article. Tolls information is found in some country-specific articles, or from the official websites shown below.
See also
Sources and licences
- Guide text adapted from the Wikivoyage article "Driving in Europe" by its contributors, available under CC BY-SA 4.0. Read on Wikivoyage · Contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
- Photo: Crusier, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons