30 days of early summer. That’s what this road trip is all about. From the Dalmatian Coast to the French and Italian Rivieras, Tuscany, Catalonia, and the Basque Country, this itinerary takes you to Europe’s hotspots in spring, without the summer crowds. Explore the Mediterranean at your own pace, with the freedom to go where you want, when you want. Use this guide as inspiration to plan your next adventure in a campervan or motorhome.
Slovenia & Croatia: Lakes, Castles, and Coastal Charms
Your journey begins in the heart of Central Europe, where Slovenia’s fairy-tale landscapes and Croatia’s dramatic coastline set the stage for an unforgettable adventure. From the charming streets of Ljubljana to the cascading waterfalls of Plitviče Lakes, this region is a blend of natural beauty and rich history.
Day 1: Ljubljana – Novo Mesto – Zagreb
Start your journey in Slovenia’s charming capital, Ljubljana. After soaking up the city’s vibrant atmosphere, head east to Croatia and Zagreb. Zagreb is home to a gothic-inspired twin-spired cathedral and some of the best-preserved Austro-Hungarian architecture in Europe. Don’t miss the 13th-century St. Mark’s Church. The city’s mix of historic charm and modern energy, with bustling bars and cafes, makes for a perfect first night.
- Drive time: 1.5 hours
- Overnight: Zagreb
Travel Tip: Fly in the night before and spend a day exploring Ljubljana’s fairy-tale streets and riverside cafes.
Hidden Gem: Take a pit stop at the magical Lake Bled, just a short detour from Ljubljana.
Day 2: Zagreb – Plitviče Lakes National Park
Drive to Plitviče Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This 295-square-kilometer forest park is famous for its 16 terraced waterfalls cascading through lush greenery. Spend the afternoon hiking the well-marked trails and soaking in the natural beauty.
- Drive time: 2.5 hours
- Overnight: Plitviče Lakes
Hidden Gem: Stop by Predjama Castle, a stunning cliffside fortress, on your way to Plitviče.
Day 3: Explore Plitviče Lakes
Dedicate a full day to exploring Plitviče Lakes. Walk the wooden pathways that wind around the lakes and waterfalls, or take a boat ride for a different perspective. The park’s crystal-clear waters and vibrant colors are a photographer’s dream.
Day 4: Plitviče Lakes – Zadar – Split
Leave Plitviče and head to Split, stopping in Zadar for lunch. Split is a lively resort town on the Dalmatian Coast, where Roman history meets modern beach life. Explore Diocletian’s Palace, a 4th-century fortress filled with shops, bars, and cafes.
- Drive time: 3 hours
- Overnight: Split
Travel Tip: Consider a day trip to the island of Hvar for its lavender fields, historic sites, and stunning coastline.
Italy: From Ancient Rome to the Riviera
Cross the Adriatic Sea and step into Italy, a country where history, art, and cuisine come together in perfect harmony. From the eternal city of Rome to the colourful villages of Cinque Terre, Italy promises a journey filled with iconic landmarks, delicious food, and breathtaking landscapes.
Day 5: Split – Ancona (ferry) – Monte Conero
Say goodbye to Croatia and take a ferry to Italy’s east coast. Spend the night at Monte Conero, a hidden gem on the Adriatic with dramatic cliffs and secluded beaches.
- Travel time: 10 hours (including ferry)
- Overnight: Monte Conero
Day 6: Monte Conero – Rome
Drive to Rome, one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Spend your evening strolling through the historic center, tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, and indulging in authentic Italian gelato.
- Drive time: 3.5 hours
- Overnight: Rome
Day 7: Explore Rome
Rome is packed with iconic sights: the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Pantheon. Spend the day immersing yourself in history, art, and Italian cuisine.
Day 8: Rome – Bagni di San Filippo
Escape the city for the natural hot springs of Bagni di San Filippo. Relax in the warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by lush forests, a perfect way to unwind after Rome’s hustle and bustle.
- Drive time: 2 hours
- Overnight: Bagni di San Filippo
Day 9: Bagni di San Filippo – Florence
Florence is a treasure trove of Renaissance art and architecture. Visit the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, and the Uffizi Gallery. Don’t forget to try a Florentine steak at a local trattoria.
- Drive time: 2 hours
- Overnight: Florence
Day 10: Florence – Pisa – Cinque Terre
Stop in Pisa to see the Leaning Tower, then continue to Cinque Terre. This collection of five colorful fishing villages is perfect for hiking, swimming, and enjoying fresh seafood.
- Drive time: 3 hours
- Overnight: Cinque Terre
Day 11: Explore Cinque Terre
Spend the day exploring Cinque Terre’s villages, beaches, and vineyards. Hike the scenic trails between Monterosso and Vernazza, or take a boat tour along the coast.
Day 12: Cinque Terre – Bologna – Venice
Drive to Bologna for lunch, a city famous for its medieval towers and delicious food. Then, head to Venice, where you can park your motorhome near the ferry terminal and explore the canals by water taxi.
- Drive time: 4.5 hours
- Overnight: Venice
Travel Tip: Purchase a 24-hour water taxi pass to hop between islands like Murano and Burano.
Day 13: Explore Venice
Venice is best explored on foot. Visit St. Mark’s Basilica, the Rialto Bridge, and the Doge’s Palace. For a unique experience, stay overnight in a historic hotel in the city center.
Day 14: Venice – Lake Garda – Milan
Leave Venice for Lake Garda, where you can enjoy lakeside lunches and medieval castles. Continue to Milan, Italy’s fashion and design capital.
- Drive time: 3 hours
- Overnight: Milan
Hidden Gem: Visit Sirmione, a resort town on Lake Garda known for its thermal baths and Scaliger Castle.
Day 15: Milan – Lake Como – Interlaken
Drive to Lake Como for a lakeside lunch, then cross into Switzerland and head to Interlaken, the adventure capital of the Alps. The scenic drive through the mountains is unforgettable.
- Drive time: 4 hours
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Overnight: Interlaken
Fancy a route change?
At this point, you also have the option of spending 5 days exploring the French Riviera and visiting Monaco, Nice, the beautiful Verdon Gorge, and Marseille before rejoining the itinerary at Montpellier on Day 20.
Switzerland: Alpine Adventures
Prepare for a change of scenery as you enter Switzerland, where towering Alps, crystal-clear lakes, and charming towns await. Whether you’re hiking in Interlaken or exploring the historic streets of Bern, Switzerland offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Day 16: Explore Interlaken
Interlaken is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Take the Schynige Platte Railway for panoramic views of the Alps, or try paragliding over the lakes.
Day 17: Interlaken – Bern
Drive to Bern, Switzerland’s charming capital. Explore the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Bear Park.
- Drive time: 1 hour
- Overnight: Bern
France: From the Alps to the Atlantic
France is a country of incredible diversity, from the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the sun-drenched beaches of the Atlantic coast. This leg of your journey takes you through picturesque towns, world-famous vineyards, and historic landmarks.
Day 18: Bern – Lausanne – Lyon/Rhone
Travel through the Swiss Alps and stop in Lausanne for lunch by Lake Geneva. Continue to Lyon, a city rich in history and gastronomy, or stay in the picturesque Rhone Valley.
- Drive time: 3 hours
- Overnight: Lyon or Rhone Valley
Day 19: Lyon – Montpellier
Drive through the Ardèche and Cévennes National Parks, stopping to explore their natural wonders. End your day in Montpellier, a vibrant university city with Gothic architecture.
- Drive time: 3.5 hours
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Overnight: Montpellier
Day 20: Montpellier – Carcassonne – Barcelona
Visit the medieval fortress city of Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before crossing into Spain. Spend the evening in Barcelona, where Gaudí’s architecture and lively tapas bars await.
- Drive time: 4.5 hours
- Overnight: Barcelona
Spain: Tapas, Beaches, and Gaudí’s Masterpieces
Spain is a country of passion, where vibrant cities, golden beaches, and world-class cuisine come together. From the architectural wonders of Barcelona to the surfing paradise of San Sebastian, this part of your journey is all about indulging in the best of Spanish culture.
Day 21 and 22: Explore Barcelona
Barcelona is a city of art, beaches, and culinary delights. Visit the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and La Rambla. Don’t miss the chance to relax on Barceloneta Beach.
Day 23: Barcelona – Zaragoza
Drive to Zaragoza, a city known for its Mudéjar architecture and the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. Sample local specialties like tapas and wine.
- Drive time: 3 hours
- Overnight: Zaragoza
Day 24: Zaragoza – San Sebastian
Head to San Sebastian, a coastal gem famous for its beaches and pintxos (Basque tapas). The city is also a great place to learn how to surf.
- Drive time: 3 hours
- Overnight: San Sebastian
Hidden Gem: Visit Playa de Gulpiyuri, a unique inland beach formed by the sea.
Day 25: Explore San Sebastian
Spend the day exploring San Sebastian’s old town, relaxing on La Concha Beach, or taking a day trip to Bilbao to see the Guggenheim Museum.
France: Wine, Dunes, and Coastal Gems
Return to France for the final leg of your journey, where rolling vineyards, historic chateaus, and dramatic coastal landscapes await. This is your chance to savour some of the world’s best wines, explore medieval towns, and relax on stunning beaches.
Day 26: San Sebastian – Bordeaux
Cross into France and drive to Bordeaux, the heart of the world’s most famous wine region. Tour a vineyard or visit the Cité du Vin museum.
- Drive time: 2.5 hours
- Overnight: Bordeaux
Hidden Gem: Try sandboarding on the Dune of Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune.
Day 27: Bordeaux – Cognac – La Rochelle
Stop in Cognac for a tour of its famous distilleries, then continue to La Rochelle, a coastal town known for its seafood and historic harbor.
- Drive time: 2 hours
- Overnight: La Rochelle
Day 28: La Rochelle – Noirmoutier-en-l’Île – Nantes
Take the scenic coastal route to Nantes, stopping at Noirmoutier-en-l’Île. This island is famous for its tidal causeway, the Passage du Gois, which you can cross at low tide.
- Drive time: 5 hours (scenic route)
- Overnight: Nantes
Day 29: Nantes – Mont Saint-Michel
Drive to Mont Saint-Michel, a breathtaking abbey perched on a rocky island. Explore the medieval streets and enjoy the stunning views of the bay.
- Drive time: 3 hours
- Overnight: Normandy
Day 30: Normandy – UK
On your final day, visit the D-Day beaches and museums in Normandy before catching your ferry back to the UK. Arromanches and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer are powerful reminders of history.
- Drive time: 1-3 hours
Travel Tip: Get an early start to explore the WWII sites before your ferry departure.
The Journey of a Lifetime Awaits
As your 30-day European adventure comes to an end, you’ll carry with you more than just memories, you’ll have stories of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, and hidden gems discovered along the way. From the turquoise waters of Plitviče Lakes to the romantic canals of Venice, the alpine peaks of Switzerland to the golden beaches of San Sebastian, this journey is a celebration of Europe’s diversity and beauty.
Travelling by motorhome gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, to wake up to a new view every morning, and to experience each destination in a way that feels uniquely yours. Whether you followed this itinerary to the letter or veered off the beaten path, the road less travelled always leads to the most unforgettable experiences.
So pack your bags, hit the road, and let Europe’s charm unfold before you. The open road is calling, where will your next adventure take you? Safe travels, and may every mile bring you closer to the heart of this incredible continent. Your European dream is just a drive away.
