Top 5 Beach Road Trips in Southern Europe for Sun-Seekers and Road Trippers

Southern Europe is a paradise for sun-seekers and road trip lovers alike. With golden coastlines, hidden coves, turquoise waters, and cliffside villages, there’s no better way to soak up the magic than by car. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family on an extended sabbatical, a beach road trip through Southern Europe is pure freedom.

And thanks to CarTurf, you can enjoy that freedom with your own vehicle—even if you don’t have a European address.

Here’s our curated guide to the best beach road trips in Southern Europe that promise unforgettable views, salty breezes, and the kind of detours you’ll tell stories about for years.

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1. The Amalfi Coast (Italy)

Route: Sorrento – Positano – Amalfi – Ravello

Distance: ~50 km

Highlights:

• Dramatic cliffside drives and panoramic sea views

• Lemon groves and world-class seafood

• Boat trips to Capri and stunning beach coves like Fiordo di Furore

Pro Tip: Avoid high summer months if you want to skip traffic. Park outside towns and explore by foot when possible.

2. The Costa Brava (Spain)

Route: Barcelona – Tossa de Mar – Begur – Cadaqués

Distance: ~200 km

Highlights:

• Secluded beaches, medieval villages, and Salvador Dalí’s hometown

• Excellent snorkeling and kayaking in crystal-clear coves

• Tapas on seaside terraces

Pro Tip: Look for calas (small coves) off the main route. Many are hidden gems.

3. The Algarve Coast (Portugal)

Route: Lagos – Portimão – Albufeira – Faro – Tavira

Distance: ~150 km

Highlights:

• Limestone cliffs and iconic rock formations

• Warm Atlantic waters and consistent sunshine

• Charming old towns and fresh seafood

Pro Tip: Visit Praia da Marinha and Benagil Cave for unforgettable photo ops.

4. The Dalmatian Coast (Croatia)

Route: Split – Makarska – Dubrovnik

Distance: ~250 km

Highlights:

• A mix of beaches, history, and dramatic Adriatic views

• Day trips to islands like Hvar or Korčula

• UNESCO World Heritage towns and Game of Thrones filming locations

Pro Tip: Make sure your insurance includes non-Schengen countries if continuing toward Montenegro.

5. The Peloponnese Peninsula (Greece)

Route: Corinth – Nafplio – Elafonisos – Kalamata

Distance: ~350 km

Highlights:

• Quiet, authentic beaches with fewer crowds

• Fresh Mediterranean cuisine and historic ruins

• Elafonisos Island’s Simos Beach—one of Europe’s most beautiful

Pro Tip: Take the ferry to Elafonisos for a true hidden island experience.

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How CarTurf Makes Beach Road Trips Possible

Planning to spend 6+ months in Europe? CarTurf helps you:

• Buy and register a vehicle even without a European address

• Get insured with international coverage (green card included)

• Arrange delivery of your vehicle in Germany—or elsewhere in Europe

• Sell or store your car when your trip ends

Ready to Ride the Coastal Highways of Southern Europe?

With your own vehicle and the open road ahead, these sun-soaked beach routes offer a mix of relaxation, adventure, and beauty that you simply can’t get from a bus or train. It’s time to live the slow, scenic life—and with CarTurf, you’ve got the wheels to do it.

Start planning your coastal adventure today at mycarturf.com.