16 Exciting Europe Day Trips by Road – All Tried and Tested

With five consecutive road trips through Europe as a family, what we loved most was the Europe day trips. I mean, base yourself in one city and venture out on day trips to different European cities. As a family, our Eurotrip itinerary was dotted with self-guided tours of popular European cities. If you ask me to name our favorite day trips in Europe, the list is huge!

Europe Day Trips by Road – All Tried and Tested

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Charming Cities Well Worth a Day Trip to Europe

After traveling to 100+ European towns and cities I mustered up courage to collate this list of our favorite best Europe day trips. It includes one day itineraries for the charming cities of Europe.

Day Trip Europe – Milan to Turin
Day Trip to Modena from Milan
Europe Day trip to Bruges from Antwerp
Day Trip to Tournai from Brussels
Day Trip Europe from Seville to Cordoba
Day Trip to Merida from Seville
Day Trip Europe from Madrid to Segovia
Day Trip from Madrid to Toledo
Europe Day trip from Lisbon to Sintra Palace
Day trip from Lisbon to Tomar
Day trip Europe from Athens to Nafplio
DayTrip Europe from Athens to Corinth
Day Trip to Rhine Falls from Zurich in Switzerland
Europe Day trip from Frankfurt to Rothenburg
Day trip from Frankfurt to Mainz

While you are at it, you can look up my cross-country Europe Road trips here:

• Italy in 21 Days
• Europe Road Trip Plan: 6 countries in 23 days – Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia and Czech Republic.
• Europe Vacation of 17 days: seventeen days cross country road trip through Germany, Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg and France
• Greece Tour: 12 days 1900+ km
• Spain and Portugal: 3155+ km in 15 days

Europe Day Trips by Road

Are you planning your Europe vacation and listing out the best Europe day trips destinations?

Read on for some of the best self-guided tours of Europe and also valuable suggestions on the guided tours of Europe. Don’t worry if you are not on long Europe vacations like the ones mentioned above. You can choose and pick among the ones I mentioned to curate your own ultimate Europe Trip.

I have categorized them as per countries with no specific order.

Best Europe Day Trips from Italy

Here are some suggestions from our experiences for best day trips in Italy

1. Day Trip to Turin from Milan

Distance from Milan to Turin is 143 km, approx. travel time – 1 hr 54 min via A4.

We had decided to put base at Milan and churn out day trips to nearby European cities. Turin was one of them. A quick one-day itinerary for the European city Turin would be something like this:

• Breakfast at one of the historical cafes
• Spend morning in the Palazzo Reale, cathedral and the chapel of Shroud
• Grab lunch, coffee and chocolate at the elegant Squares
• Walk to Royal Palace of Turin, visit the popular Egyptian Museum and Mole Antonelliana
• Have ice-creams – Palazzo Castello, the huge square is lined with several Gelatarias, ice cream shops or visit Caffè al Bicerin, a historic coffeehouse of Turin which traditionally serves bicerin.
• In the late evening walk to ancient Palatino gate Porta Palatina which is well lit up.

For a more organised trip in Turin check this out: Turin Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: 24 or 48-Hour Ticket

2. Day Trip to Modena from Milan

Distance from Milan to Modena is 178 km, approx. travel time – 2 hr 9 min via A1.

Modena is one of the best day trips from Milan we experienced. Modena is worth visiting for its monuments listed in UNESCO Heritage sites, its automobile museums and the ones that have treasured Modena’s glorious past, last but not the least for its traditional food.

On the tightest schedule you could check these things to do in Modena that can keep you busy for the whole day:

• Spend the morning touring the UNESCO sites – Modena’s Cathedral, climb the Torre della Ghirlandina and stroll Modena’s Piazza Grande.
• Opt for a Walking Food Tour in Modena’s historical centre to experience and savour local food culture, street food and wine tasting too.
• The town is known as Italy’s Motor Valley, so the museums and factories are worth a visit in the afternoon. Do check for the closing time before you plan.

Day Trips Europe – from Belgium

3. Day trip to Bruges from Antwerp

Distance from Antwerp to Bruges is 91.2 km, approx. travel time – 1 hr 28 min via N49.

If you are planning this Europe day trip by train you can take the day trip train from Antwerp Railway station to Bruges. Bruges has innumerable canals, breweries, museums, medieval era buildings and endless green spots. The small town will charm you to no end!

But since I am concentrating on the theme – Europe day trip, let me quickly tell you the interesting activities you can indulge in this one day itinerary of Bruges.

• Head to the Market Square first. Most of the heritage buildings, the belfry and the Historium Museum are located around this place. You won’t even realize how three to four hours would have passed by.
• Saint Salvator’s Cathedral is the oldest in Bruges and the Holy Blood Basilica that is believed to contain blood of Christ himself.
• If you have a thing for museums, Bruges has some of the quirkiest ones: Beer Museum, Torture Museum, an interesting Chocolate Museum.
• Take a canal tour to get a unique perspective of the beautiful buildings of Bruges.

Day Trip Europe – Antwerp to Bruges

4. Day Trip to Tournai from Brussels

Distance from Brussels to Tournai is 97.3 km, approx. travel time – 1 hr 24 min via E429.

Make Brussels, the centrally located city of Belgium, your base and you can chalk out several one-day trips to different cities of Europe, even to another European country – I kid you not – Luxembourg! For the present let us focus on Tournai, a cool option for those who prefer to take a day trip train from Brussels. We did the same by car during our road trip through Belgium.

Tournai is close to the French border. It is worth visiting for its Cathedral of Notre-Dame, boasting five impressive towers and an ornate rose window. Adjacent to this architectural marvel lies the Grand Place, a triangular plaza bordered by a collection of lively bars and inviting restaurants.

The cityscape is overseen by the 12th-century Belfry of Tournai, offering panoramic vistas of the urban expanse. Opposite the belfry, one encounters the Romanesque St. Quentin’s Church, while further behind stands the medieval Red Fort tower, adding to the city’s historical allure.

All of the above can take a cool five hours or a bit depending on your pace. Indulge in local food in the marketplace.

Post lunch visit the museums – The Natural History Museum and an interesting museum for kids the Maison de la Marionette (House of Puppets).

In the evening give your legs that extra exercise and stroll to the Tournai Fortification walls. Notable among these old structures are the Bridge of holes, a part of the outer wall and a tower called Henry VIII Tower; both free sights.

Europe Day Trips – Southern Spain with Seville as base.

5. Day Trip from Seville to Cordoba

Distance from Seville to Turin is 134 km,  via A-431.

Córdoba, located in southern Spain, is a captivating city renowned for its historical significance, cultural diversity, and architectural splendor. Mezquita-Catedral, a stunning mosque-cathedral that reflects the fusion of Moorish and Christian influences, is the city’s crowning jewel. Córdoba’s Jewish Quarter, with its charming alleys and courtyards, offers a glimpse into its multicultural past. This was one of my best European day trips.

Cordoba’s vibrant flamenco culture, gastronomy, and cultural festivals add to its unique charm, making it a captivating one-day destination from Seville for travelers seeking a blend of history, art, and vibrant traditions. Those keen on shopping will find souvenirs in abundance in the little shops of Cordoba.

The Roman Bridge, Alcázar de los Reyes Cristianos, and the annual Patio Festival are among its other attractions.

Day trip to Cordoba from Seville

6. Day Trip to Merida from Seville

Distance from Seville to Merida is 193 km,  via A-66.

Embark on a captivating day tour from Seville to Mérida, Spain, and uncover a treasure trove of ancient Roman history and architectural marvels. Just a few hours away from Seville, Mérida transports you back in time with its exceptionally preserved Roman ruins and cultural heritage. Highlights of this day trip include:

The remarkably well-preserved Roman Theater and Amphitheater of Merida Spain – where gladiatorial battles once enthralled audiences. These iconic structures offer a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Roman entertainment and reminded me of the Verona amphitheatre and Colosseum in Rome.

Admire the majestic Roman Bridge that spans the Guadiana River and the picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Amidst admiring all these I took time to indulge in Mérida’s culinary delights during our visit too. Savor authentic Spanish dishes at local eateries.

Take time to tour the Mérida Archaeological Ensemble which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Roman Forum, where civic life thrived, and the Temple of Diana, an elegant testament to ancient religious practices.

Day Trip Europe – Central Spain with Madrid as base

7. Day Trip from Madrid to Segovia

Distance from Madrid to Segovia is 91 km,  via A-6 and AP-61.

Nestled in the heart of Spain, Segovia enchants visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and timeless charm. The first sight of Segovia that got embedded in my heart is that of its iconic Roman Aqueduct. Its impressive arches and meticulous construction continue to amaze all even today. But beyond that there is more that Segovia has to offer:

• Alcázar of Segovia, the fairy-tale castle, perched atop a hill, evokes images from a storybook.
• The grand Segovia Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture is worth a visit.
• Take time to wander through Segovia’s charming streets, lined with well-preserved medieval buildings, cozy cafés, and hidden plazas. The city’s historic center invites exploration and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Segovia’s multicultural past is well highlighted in its Jewish Quarter. Explore its narrow alleys at your pace.
• Here is an offbeat Segovia destination – Visit the Royal Mint of Segovia, where coins were once produced. Explore the history of currency and gain insights into the minting process.

8. Day Trip in Europe from Madrid to Toledo

Distance from Madrid to Toledo is 72.4 km,  via A-42.

Toledo is conveniently located near Madrid, therefore an automatic choice as a day trip destination to explore central Spain. Toledo is famed for its stunning architecture. We took time to explore the Toledo Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture, at our slow pace. The Alcázar of Toledo, historic fortress-palace, too was captivating for its blend of architectural elements.

For art lovers a visit to the city’s art museums and galleries is a must as they showcase a remarkable collection of El Greco’s works, along with other artistic treasures.

If you are keen to see the popular Toledo steel works, Zamorano Swords in Toledo is the place to visit. The amazing range of the swords and knives on display is impressive beyond words. A peep into the factory behind the display area will enable you to see the artisans at work.

In 1986, UNESCO designated the historic city center of Toledo as a World Heritage Site, recognizing its exceptional cultural and historical value… and that makes it all the more a great reason to make this day trip in Europe.

Toledo – Day trip from Madrid Spain

Europe Day Trips in Portugal

9. Day trip from Lisbon to Sintra Palace

Distance from Lisbon to Sintra is 28.4 km,  via A-37.

The bright yellow castle walls of Pena Palace stood out in striking contrast against the vivid blue sky; never before had I seen such a colorful castle. It seemed like a painting! The interior is equally exciting. The walls are studded with intricately patterned tiles, known as azulejos. The play of sunlight filtering through the ornate windows seemed to dance across the tiles, breathing life into the stories they told.

We walked through the opulent rooms that still preserved the royalty and grandeur of the Kings who lived here. From the outdoor terraces we got a mesmerizing panoramic view of Sintra’s rolling hills, lush forests, and the distant glimmer of the Atlantic Ocean.

On a side note, when it comes to the local dishes of Sintra, make sure to try popular delicacies like the sweet treat Queijadas de Sintra, the signature pastry known as Travesseiros, and, of course, the delightful seafood. I find myself drooling just thinking about the sardines I enjoyed there as I write this.

10 Day trip in Europe from Lisbon to Tomar

Distance from Madrid to Tomar is 134 km,  via A-1.

In my quest to visit as many UNESCO sites as possible during my road trip through Portugal I planned a day trip from Lisbon to Tomar. Tomar, a charming town located in central Portugal, is renowned for its historical and cultural significance.

The centerpiece of Tomar’s attractions is the Convent of Christ (Convento de Cristo), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Convent of Christ was built by the Templars and reflects their architectural and symbolic influences. Needless to say, we took our sweet time to admire this grand architectural marvel.
We toured the well-preserved castle and its defensive walls which was once of strategic importance for Tomar. The castle offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding landscape.

Beyond its historical and cultural attractions, Tomar is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including nearby forests and hills that offer opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration. The town is situated along the scenic River Nabão, offering picturesque views and tranquil spots for relaxation. We took leisurely strolls along the riverbanks and that was such a pleasant experience.

Offbeat Day trips in Europe

11. Day trip from Athens to Nafplio

Distance from Athens to Nafplio is 138 km, via Olympia Odos/A8/E94.

Have you thought of making this Europe day trip from Athens to Nafplio? Take my word, this charming town located on the north-eastern coast of the Peloponnese peninsula in Greece, offers a wealth of attractions and experiences that make it well worth a visit. Compared to some of Greece’s more bustling tourist destinations, Nafplio offers a more relaxed and authentic ambiance, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful getaway from Athens.

Once we reached Nafplio we first headed to the Palamidi Fortress, perched on a hill overlooking Nafplio town. It was a rewarding experience to see the town getting smaller and smaller, breath-taking panoramic views of the town, the sea, and the surrounding landscape as we kept climbing the fortress’s steps.

Later we walked through narrow streets of Nafplio’s picturesque old town – A delight to explore! The neoclassical buildings, vibrant squares, the small cafes and gift shops all were so charming. It is a special experience walking through such little known towns of Greece. The town’s architecture and layout create an enchanting atmosphere that transports you back in time.

Nafplio Greece _ Europe Day Trip from Athens

12. Day Trip from Athens to Corinth

Distance from Athens to Nafplio is 83 km, via Olympia Odos/A8/E94

Some of the offbeat destinations of Greece truly shine like hidden gems. Corinth is one of them. Corinth is located 83 km from Athens and makes an ideal day trip destination. Here are the major highlights that you must add to your one day itinerary of Corinth:

• The ancient archaeological sites of Corinth are a highlight for history enthusiasts. The archaeological site includes well-preserved remnants of temples, theaters, agoras, and the iconic Temple of Apollo.
• Exploring these ruins offers a glimpse into the city’s past grandeur.
• Visit the Acrocorinth, an ancient fortress that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. It has a rich history, with layers of Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman influences.
• Most important of all is the Isthmus of Corinth. The narrow stretch of land connects the Peloponnese to mainland Greece. The engineering marvel of the Corinth Canal, that connects the Aegean Sea to the Ionian Sea, which bisects the isthmus, is a sight to behold.
• The Archaeological Museum of Corinth houses a diverse collection of artifacts, including pottery, sculptures, and objects from ancient Corinth.
• Enjoy the Corinth’s beaches, go swimming, or simply soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere.

Another reason why I like the offbeat destinations of Europe is for their local cuisines. I loved exploring the local tavernas and eateries that allow to savor traditional flavors. Corinth’s culinary offerings include delicious Greek cuisine and local specialties.

Check out these exciting day trips from Athens:

• Athens: Full-Day Trip to Nafplio and Epidaurus with Swimming
• From Athens: Half-Day Ancient Corinth Tour

Best Europe Day Trips

13. Day Trip to Rhine Falls from Zurich in Switzerland

Distance from Zurich to Rhine Falls is 50.3 km, via A1/A4 and A4.

Rhine Falls is a timeless destination. Go anytime of the year and you will find the Rhine Falls in its full glory! Can you believe the Rhine Falls history dates back to the prehistoric era! The height of the falls is not much, just 23 m, but the breadth is an impressive 150 m. There are various vantage points, observation decks from where you can do some cool photography. Besides that, there are boat tours and walking trails around Rhine Falls which can keep you busy throughout the day.

Interesting things I would like to indulge in if I get a second opportunity to visit Rhine Falls is take a boat to the rock in the middle of the waterfalls to experience the falls even closer, visit Rhine Falls after dark as it is beautifully illuminated then and last but not the least, take a dip in the Rhine at any time during the summer months.

14. Day Trip to Lucerne from Zurich in Switzerland

Distance from Zurich to Lucerne is 52.0 km, via A4 and A14.

Most travelers like to base at Lucerne and make day trips to nearby scenic tourist attractions of Switzerland. But just in case you have landed in Zurich, for say some business trip, you can make this the coolest of the cool day trips in Europe.

Lucerne, a picturesque city located in central Switzerland, offers a range of attractions and features that make it a delightful destination. Enumerating them for your perusal here:

• Lake Lucerne, surrounded by majestic mountains, boasts breathtaking natural beauty.
• Lucerne’s iconic Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), a medieval wooden bridge adorned with a tower, is one of the oldest covered bridges in Europe and a symbol of the city’s history.
• Explore Lucerne walking through the narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and charming squares, with an ice cream in hand. (My kids did that.)
• You will come across the Lion Monument, a poignant sculpture, commemorating Swiss Guards who died during the French Revolution.
• Another must visit place is the Swiss Transport Museum. This interactive museum showcases Switzerland’s transportation history with a diverse collection of exhibits, including trains, automobiles, airplanes, and ships.

Lucerne Switzerland

Exciting Europe Day Trips in Germany

15. Day trip from Frankfurt to Rothenburg

Distance from Frankfurt to Rothenburg is 177 km, via A3.

If you are in love with the medieval charm of old Europe towns then Rothenburg is one must visit place from Frankfurt in Germany. The walled town that rose like a phoenix after the devastating effects of World War II resisting all modern constructions.

Rothenburg is a complete holiday package in its own merit. Rothenburg’s meticulously preserved medieval architecture, timber-framed houses, colorfully designed wall facades are a visual feast. Walk on the city wall and climb the Town Hall tower to enjoy the stunning panoramic view of the town from the vantage point of the weathercock.

Visit a couple of museums from the long list of Rothenburg’s Museums and get knowledgeable about Rothenburg’s history, a timeline that spans from times before the first century CE when Celts inhabited the town to the times when it was ravaged by war.

That done, grab a chair at one of the cafes that line the Rothenburg Marktplatz, munch on Schneeballen, the delicious treats of Rothenburg that are an essential part of Rothenburg’s gastronomic heritage and watch the bustling vibes of the town.

Rothenburg – Europe Day Trip from Frankfurt

16. Day trip from Frankfurt to Mainz

Distance from Frankfurt to Mainz is  43.6 km, via B43 and A60.

While advancements in printing technology have propelled us forward, it’s crucial to remember our origins, isn’t it? Mainz is where it all started. It is renowned as the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the movable-type printing press.

The Gutenberg Museum in Mainz pays homage to this revolutionary invention, showcasing historical printing equipment and rare books.

We strolled Mainz’s Altstadt (Old Town) that boasts well-preserved medieval buildings, picturesque squares, and narrow streets. The lively Markt square is a hub of activity with its vibrant market and historical atmosphere.

On the sacred side, you really don’t want to miss the Mainz Cathedral (Mainzer Dom), an impressive example of Romanesque architecture. Make time to explore local vineyards and wine taverns. The region around Mainz is known for its wine production.

After you have indulged in Mainz’s best offerings, stroll along the Rhine River. The city’s location offers scenic waterfront areas, perfect for boat cruises, and gathering some moments of peace and tranquility.

Mainz day trip from Frankfurt Europe

About Europe Day Trips

What is ‘Europe Day Trips’?

Europe day trips” refers to short visits to a city spanning less than 24 hours. Travelers explore the destination without the need for an overnight stay. These trips typically involve visiting nearby cities, landmarks and returning to the starting point by the end of the day.

Why day trips in Europe are easy to do?

Europe offers a wide range of day trip options due to its compact geography and well-connected transportation networks, allowing travelers to experience different cultures, historical sites, natural wonders, and more in a relatively short amount of time.

How to plan Europe day trips?

Planning Europe day trips can be an exciting way to make the most of your time while exploring different destinations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your Europe day trips effectively:

Choose your base location, research destinations well, check travel distances between your base location and the potential day trip destinations, decide on the transportation options, create itineraries and book experiences in advance if planned.

What are the advantages of planning the day trips in Europe?

Planning day trips in Europe that can enhance your travel experience. Day trips allow you to explore multiple destinations and attractions within a limited timeframe. You can you avoid the hassle of checking in and out of hotels every day, avoid staying overnight in different locations. You can experience a wide array of cultures and attractions in a short span of time.

Europe offers a diverse range of day trip options, from bustling cities to charming villages, scenic landscapes to historical sites. You can experience a wide array of cultures and attractions in a short span of time.

Conclusion

I have chose few of the best Europe day trips in this blog. I intend to expand and update, adding more exciting cities for your Eurotrip itinerary. So watch out for more!

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Indrani Ghose is an Indian Travel Writer and Blogger based in Bangalore, India. She has written for numerous publications across the globe – including Lonely Planet, The National UAE, Whetstone Asia, Deccan Herald. You can follow her on her social media handles Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook to see the wonderful destinations, beautiful offbeat places and get instant updates about them.