Driving in Europe

driving in Europe car rentals leases leasing renting European traffic laws regulations rules road signs highways Autobahn Autostrada motorways motorhomes vans campers vacations rail-dive

ABOVE: If you're going to drive around Europe, do it in style.

Should you drive in Europe or take the train? For many vacationers, especially those from North America, driving is the obvious choice--but it may not be the right choice, especially if the trip involves staying in large cities.

In my "Driving in Europe" article, I discuss when it makes sense to travel by car and when it's smarter to take the train. I also talk about a third option: "rail-drive" itineraries that combine train travel between larger cities with local excursions by car.

Finally, before making any driving plans in Europe, consult the following pages of links to Web sites that explain European traffic customs and road signs, laws in individual countries, rental options (including short-term leasing), and motorhome, camper, or van travel:

Driving in Europe - General Information

Country Information - Tips and Regulations

European Car Rental and Leasing

Motorhome, Camper, and Van Travel in Europe

European Travel Links - Main Index

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Need a car in Europe?

Auto Europe guarantees the lowest rental rates for standard cars, sports cars, SUVs, luxury cars, chauffered sedans, and RVs. Its Web site also has driving information for 38 countries.

If you live outside the EU, a tax-free Renault or Peugeot tourist lease can be cheaper than renting. Minimum driver age is 18, there' s no upper age limit, and rates include insurance. See: Short-term car leasing.

European train

Traveling by train?
Rail Europe has schedules, maps, and guides for 50+ European railroads. (Residents of North and Central America can buy tickets and rail passes online.)

From Europe for Cruisers:

Travel and cruise news:

Europe for Visitors Blog