We believe the best summer seaside vacation is a road trip with ever-changing views and unforgettable impressions. Nothing beats the freedom of exploring new places in your own car.
For those who agree, we’ve curated our ultimate top 10 road trip routes to the sea, tested and loved through personal experience.
This list includes popular destinations like Greece, Cyprus, Croatia, Albania, Turkey, and Portugal. Some routes even cross multiple countries and coastlines.
Every route on this list has been personally driven by us – whether in our own car or a rental picked up upon arrival.
These routes are designed for summer seaside vacations, perfect for families with kids of any age and even beginners venturing abroad for the first time. Most trips take 7-10 days, except the Balkan Peninsula circuit, which requires at least two weeks.
Route in Greece
Greece offers some of the best beaches in Europe and stunning coastal views. It’s affordable and convenient to explore by car.
Best time to travel: May-June or late August-September, when tourist crowds from Western Europe subside.
Sithonia, Halkidiki: A journey through breathtaking coves and beaches
Halkidiki has three “fingers” or peninsulas:
- Kassandra: Bustling and tourist-friendly.
- Sithonia: More rugged and picturesque.
- Athos: A monastic peninsula accessible only to men with special permits.
Don’t forget to book your rental car in Greece.
Routes in Cyprus
Cyprus is a 100% road-trip-friendly island. Traveling by car is the only way to fully experience it. Renting a car is simple and affordable, much like booking a flight from anywhere in Europe.
Here are three popular routes:
- Island-wide adventure: Combining the best beaches and famous landmarks
- Paphos and surroundings: A mix of seaside and mountain scenery.
- Northern Cyprus getaway: Perfect for a 1-3 day trip
- Cyprus: wine route from Paphos
Make sure to rent a car in Cyprus for your journey.
Driving Through Croatia
Croatia is a dream destination for road trips. The Adriatic Highway along the coast is one of the most scenic drives in Europe.
Here are two routes we highly recommend:
- 25 Croatian landmarks in one week
- Exploring Croatia in September: Route and impressions
- Istria, Croatia: Top 15 Places to Visit
Best time to visit: Early autumn. In September, summer weather lingers, crowds thin out, and prices drop.
Around the Balkans by Car
This road trip covers 8 countries and three seas in one unforgettable journey. It’s less complicated than it sounds. We stopped at dozens of gorgeous seaside spots along the way. Plan for 2-3 weeks to enjoy this adventure.
Albania
An easy route from Kyiv to the stunning Ksamil beach resort, passing through Macedonia and scenic mountain landscapes.
Don’t forget to rent a car in Albania for this trip.
Turkey
We’ve explored Turkey by car multiple times, including routes from Istanbul to Cappadocia and along the stunning coastline.
One of the best routes is in Muğla Province, home to Fethiye, Ölüdeniz, and the charming town of Kaş. This journey includes gorgeous beaches, canyons, turtle nesting sites, and picturesque lagoons.
Make sure to rent a car in Turkey for the best experience.
Portugal
Fly into Lisbon, rent a car, and head to the Algarve beaches. Spend a few days exploring Lisbon and its surroundings, including Cabo da Roca, Europe’s westernmost point.
Best time to visit: August, when the ocean is warm enough for swimming.
Don’t forget to book your rental car in Portugal for this journey.
Where to Book Your Stay
Booking.com is a trustworthy option with a wide range of accommodations. Many listings offer no upfront payment and free cancellation, so you’re covered.
Where to Buy Your Ticket
Aviasales – I’ve been using it for 10 years, and it’s been perfect every time.
Travel Insurance
If you’re from Ukraine, Hotline Finance is a solid choice, with coverage from multiple providers, ensuring you get medical help if needed. Insurance isn’t mandatory to cross the border, but it’s worth having for peace of mind on your trip.
