UK Holidaymakers Eye European Road Trips as May Bank Holidays Approach
With spring in full swing and the May bank holiday weekends on the horizon, British travellers are increasingly seeking adventurous ways to explore Europe during peak travel periods. According to recent data from the travel search engine KAYAK, UK car hire searches saw a notable 10% year-on-year increase in March and early April, signalling a growing interest in road trips across the continent.
Surge in Car Hire Searches Across Key European Destinations
The data highlights significant growth in car hire searches by UK travellers for several European countries compared to last year. Romania led the way with an impressive 44% increase, followed by Norway at 29%, Austria and Germany both at 23%, and France with a 10% rise. This trend suggests that Brits are drawn to scenic and adventurous drives, opting for destinations that offer breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences.
In a positive development for holidaymakers, average car hire prices have generally decreased in these trending countries since last year. Romania saw the most substantial drop at 35%, while France experienced a modest 1% reduction. However, Germany bucked the trend with a 5% increase in daily rates, making it a slightly more expensive option for road trippers.
Budgeting for Scenic European Drives with KAYAK's Road Trip Calculator
To assist travellers in planning their journeys, KAYAK utilised its Road Trip Calculator to estimate costs for some of Europe's most picturesque routes. The calculations include a 3-day rental of a medium-sized car from a major city and fuel expenses for a return trip, providing a comprehensive overview for budget-conscious adventurers.
- Romania: Bucharest to Brasov to Bicaz-Chei Loop – Best in May for towering limestone cliffs, snowmelt waterfalls, and dramatic gorge roads. Estimated driving time: ~11 hours; total cost: ~£244.
- Norway: Bergen to Vikøyri to Gaularfjellet to Førde Circuit – Ideal in May with powerful fjords, lush valleys, and long daylight hours. Estimated driving time: ~9 hours; total cost: ~£238.
- Austria: Salzburg to Graz to Leutschach to Klagenfurt Route – Perfect in May for Alpine backdrops and scenic wine routes. Estimated driving time: ~8 hours; total cost: ~£244.
- Germany: Frankfurt to Romantic Road to Füssen Journey – Recommended in May for medieval towns and spring landscapes before peak season. Estimated driving time: ~9 hours; total cost: ~£315.
- France: Lyon to Provence to French Riviera (Nice) Tour – Excellent in May with wildflowers in Provence and warm Riviera seasides. Estimated driving time: ~9 hours; total cost: ~£299.
These estimates highlight the affordability and appeal of European road trips, encouraging UK holidaymakers to consider driving holidays as a viable option for the upcoming bank holidays. As travel trends evolve, road trips offer a flexible and immersive way to experience Europe's diverse beauty, from Romania's rugged gorges to Norway's majestic fjords.
