Road trips are gaining tremendous traction across Europe, with search interest skyrocketing by 86% over the last year, according to analysis by Choice Quote. Travelers are increasingly attracted to the freedom and scenic views offered by distinctive European routes, with notable options like the The National 7 (France), Wales (UK), Slovenia, and the Wild Atlantic Way (Ireland) - recently honored as the best road trip in Europe.
Leading the trends for 2025 is the Northwest coast of France, which has emerged as the most popular route among road trip enthusiasts. This route boasts a remarkable demand index of 90/100, producing approximately 14,800 monthly Google search requests and 9,800 searches on TikTok. Its significance is amplified by the staggering increase of 83,100% in searches over the past twelve months, highlighting the growing interest.
The lack of a formally established itinerary for this trip allows travelers to creatively piece together their own routes from must-visit locations across Normandy and Brittany. Key stops suggested include:
- Rouen: Renowned for its cathedral, medieval quarter, and the Museum of Fine Arts.
- Le Havre: A UNESCO World Heritage site recognized for its architectural heritage.
- Etretat Cliffs: Famous for their stunning natural beauty along the Alabaster Coast.
- Caen: Home to the Caen Memorial and the historic castle.
- Normandy Beaches: Significant historical sites such as Omaha Beach and Utah Beach.
- The Mont-Saint-Michel: A French monument known worldwide, sitting at the top of online searches after the Eiffel Tower.
The Brittany region also offers delightful stops such as:
- Saint-Malo: A fortified city rich with history.
- Cancale: Famous for its delicious oysters.
- Dinan: A quaint medieval town rich with charm.
- Vannes: Known for its ancient fortifications and art museums.
- The Gulf of Morbihan: A stop often transitioned from vehicle to boat to explore the idyllic islands.
Meanwhile, other locations are also making waves on the European road trip scene. The villages of the Drôme, for example, rank as the third most trendy route for 2025. This route takes the number three spot, right behind the Amalfi Coast, with searches increasing by 2,200% this past year, reaching around 12,100 investigations monthly. Spectacular villages to explore on this itinerary include Crest, Chabrillan, and Grignan, known for their picturesque landscapes and cultural richness.
The top 3 European road trips according to 2025 metrics based on demand are summarized as follows:
- Northwest Coast, France - Google Search Volume: 14,800; TikTok Volume: 9,800; Demand Index: 90/100.
- Amalfi Coast, Italy - Google Search Volume: 135,000; TikTok Volume: 89,600; Demand Index: 88/100.
- Villages of Drôme, France - Google Search Volume: 12,100; TikTok Volume: 8,000; Demand Index: 78/100.
Other routes also receiving attention include the Transalpina Road in Romania, the Sustenpass Pass in Switzerland, and the Grand Tour of Luxembourg, each presenting their unique allure and opportunities for adventure.
The Transfagarasan and the Semois Valley are noteworthy mentions at the tail end of the list with consistent interest demonstrated across search volumes. These routes not only provide options for seasoned explorers but also create welcoming trails for novices eager to discover Europe’s scenic splendor.
Choosing the right road trip can be overwhelming with so many enticing options available. Still, the enduring charm of the roads winding through the Northwest coast of France and the lush landscapes of the Drôme are well worth consideration for anyone planning their next getaway. Given the massive uptick in interest this year, these routes are not just popular; they are set to be among the must-experience travel destinations of 2025.