Europe’s Top Wine Regions to Explore by Car: Scenic Routes, Local

Embark on the ultimate wine road trip through Europe. Discover the best wine regions to explore by car, from France to Portugal, with must-visit villages, scenic drives, and local tasting tips.

There’s No Better Way to Taste Europe Than by Car

Europe is home to some of the world’s most historic and celebrated wine regions. But beyond the famous labels and iconic vineyards lies something even more magical—charming countryside roads, medieval hill towns, and family-run wineries tucked away from the usual tourist trail.

Traveling by car gives you the freedom to explore these regions at your own pace, stop for impromptu tastings, and discover the lesser-known terroirs that rarely make it onto standard itineraries. Whether you’re chasing bold reds in Rioja or crisp whites in the Wachau Valley, here’s your ultimate guide to discovering Europe’s wine country by road.

1. Alsace, France: Half-Timbered Villages and Crisp Whites

Best for: Riesling lovers, fairytale towns, and scenic vineyard drives
Top Stops: Colmar, Riquewihr, Eguisheim, Strasbourg

Drive the Route des Vins d’Alsace and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. This 170 km stretch winds through rolling vineyards and pastel-colored villages with cobblestone streets and timbered houses. Alsace is known for its dry, aromatic whites—especially Riesling and Gewürztraminer—perfectly paired with local cheeses and choucroute garnie.

2. Tuscany, Italy: Rolling Hills and Robust Reds

Best for: Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and postcard-perfect views
Top Stops: Siena, Montepulciano, Pienza, San Gimignano

Few places on Earth combine wine, food, and scenery like Tuscany. A road trip here means winding through golden hills dotted with cypress trees, olive groves, and ancient farmhouses. Take your time exploring wine cellars, enjoying long Italian lunches, and watching sunsets over the vineyards.

3. La Rioja, Spain: Bold Flavors and Barrel Rooms

Best for: Full-bodied reds and innovative wineries
Top Stops: Haro, Logroño, Laguardia

La Rioja offers an intoxicating blend of tradition and modern winemaking. Many of the region’s most prestigious bodegas are within easy reach of each other, making it ideal for a car-based wine route. Don’t miss the chance to stay in a vineyard hotel and enjoy tapas in the lively city of Logroño.

4. Douro Valley, Portugal: River Views and Port Wine

Best for: Port tastings, river drives, and UNESCO beauty
Top Stops: Peso da Régua, Pinhão, Lamego

The Douro Valley is a jaw-dropping destination, with terraced vineyards climbing the hills above the Douro River. While river cruises are popular, driving lets you take detours to hidden villages and private tastings. Try both traditional ports and the region’s increasingly acclaimed table wines.

5. Wachau Valley, Austria: White Wines and Danube Views

Best for: Grüner Veltliner, medieval monasteries, and river drives
Top Stops: Dürnstein, Melk, Krems

Just an hour from Vienna, the Wachau Valley is a short but stunning drive along the Danube. Known for its crisp white wines and apricot-based specialties, the region is also rich in cultural heritage. Combine your wine route with a visit to the Melk Abbey or a hike through terraced vineyards.

Tips for a Wine-Fueled European Road Trip

Designate a driver if you’re doing tastings—many wineries also offer overnight stays.
Book ahead during harvest season (September–October), when accommodations and tours fill up fast.
Consider regional wine passes or tasting trails for discounted experiences.
Travel off-season (late spring or early autumn) to avoid crowds but still enjoy pleasant weather.

Why Drive?

Taking your own car—or leasing one long-term—gives you the flexibility to go beyond the obvious. You can stop at that tiny roadside vineyard with no tour buses, pick up bottles directly from the winemaker, and change your route on a whim. With CarTurf, long-term travelers have the tools they need to explore Europe’s wine regions legally and stress-free, from vehicle registration to insurance and beyond.

Ready to sip your way across Europe?
Make your wine road trip unforgettable with the freedom of your own vehicle.