It’s never too early to start planning for the sunny season! The long vacation is calling for a fantastic adventure, and it’s best to prepare now. So, what’s your plan for summer 2023? If you haven’t decided yet, we recommend going on a road trip this summer! Hopping into a van and hitting the road is the perfect way to enjoy your vacation and have loads of fun. With so much to see and enjoy, a summer road trip is a fantastic idea.
### Why You Should Go on a Road Trip in Summer 2023:
1. **Lots to See in One Trip**
Driving your own car makes it easy to explore different places. Cars give you the flexibility to navigate various types of roads, allowing you to stop in picturesque areas or discover hidden gems. Plus, you can enjoy gorgeous scenery from the comfort of your car.
2. **Save Your Budget**
Road trips can save you a lot of money. Without the need to book flight tickets, you can save hundreds of euros. Additionally, driving your own car or renting one affordably can further reduce costs. Traveling with friends can also help share the costs of fuel and car rental.
3. **Flexible Itineraries**
Road trips allow for flexible itineraries. You’re the boss on your own trip, deciding when to stop, what to see, and where to go. This means you can enjoy your vacation at a relaxed pace without the pressure of a strict schedule.
4. **Bring Your Pets Along**
No need to leave your pets behind with their sad puppy eyes. Road trips are pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the ride. Just make sure you bring the essentials for your pet, including treats and toys.
5. **Fun with Friends**
Road trips are synonymous with fun. Spending a few days in a car with friends ensures lots of laughter and good times. Exploring beautiful places and bonding along the way makes road trips an excellent choice for strengthening friendships.
### Recommended Road Trips for Summer 2023:
1. **Amalfi Coast, Italy**
The Amalfi Coast is one of Italy’s most cherished destinations, known for its stunning coastline, sandy beaches, and charming seaside towns. Start your trip in Naples, drive through Sorrento, and visit must-see spots like Positano and Vietri sul Mare. End your journey in Salerno after 3 to 7 days of exploration.
2. **Madeira, Portugal**
Madeira, also known as Flower Island, offers breathtaking landscapes, smooth roads, and safe driving conditions. Begin your trip in Funchal, explore the west coast, and visit places like Câmara De Lobos and Ponta do Sol. End your journey in Santa Cruz after 4 to 7 days.
3. **South of France**
Drive around the South of France for a luxurious summer adventure. Visit tranquil towns such as Sainte-Victoire, experience wine-tasting in Saint-Emilion, and see the lavender fields in Aix-en-Provence. Your trip can start in Toulouse or Marseilles and end in Nice, taking 5 to 7 days.
4. **Baltic Countries (Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania)**
Explore Eastern Europe with a road trip through the Baltic countries. Start in Estonia, drive through Latvia, and finish in Lithuania. Discover historical buildings, UNESCO sites, and beautiful natural scenery in just 2 to 3 days.
5. **Epirus Region, Greece**
Discover Greece’s best-kept secret with a road trip through the mountainous Epirus region. Starting from Ioannina, the trip will take you through lush forests, spectacular gorges, and picturesque villages like Pyrsogianni and Zagoria. Plan for 5 to 7 days of exploration.
6. **Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales, the UK**
The Pembrokeshire Coast offers some of Great Britain’s most magical scenery with rugged cliffs and turquoise-blue waters. A relaxed road trip through this region will introduce you to centuries-old villages, beautiful beaches, and authentic Welsh culture. Start in Tenby and end in Newport over 5 to 7 days.
7. **Pacific Coast, the US**
The Pacific Coast Highway in California is perfect for a scenic road trip. Spanning around 900 km, the drive takes 10-12 hours without stops, but it’s better enjoyed over a week. Start in Los Angeles, pass through cities like San Francisco and Santa Cruz, and capture the stunning views along the way.
8. **Turquoise Trail, the US**
This 90 km highway in New Mexico offers both beautiful scenery and rich history. Driving the Turquoise Trail lets you see the iconic West’s desert landscapes while learning about the region’s mining history. The route runs from Albuquerque to Santa Fe and can be completed in 1 to 2 days.
9. **Utah National Parks, the US**
Utah’s national parks offer breathtaking scenery perfect for a road trip. Visit up to five parks, including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. Start your trip in Salt Lake City or Las Vegas and end at Canyonlands National Park, spending 7 to 8 days on the journey.
10. **Route 66, the US**
Embark on America’s most iconic road trip along Route 66. This 2,400 km highway passes through eight states and offers nostalgic experiences with stunning views. Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, the trip can last from 7 to 14 days.
So, are you convinced to plan an amazing summer road trip? Decide on your dream destination for summer 2023, and make sure to bring your friends along for double the fun. If you’re unsure whom to invite, you can always explore curated trips for meeting like-minded travelers and forming lasting friendships!