As spring blossoms and the May bank holiday weekends approach, British holidaymakers are increasingly turning to European road trips for their getaways. 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, signaling a growing appetite for adventurous and scenic drives across the continent.
Surge in Car Hire Searches Across Key Destinations
The data highlights significant growth in car hire searches by UK travellers for several European countries. Romania leads the pack 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 seeking out diverse landscapes, from Romania's dramatic gorges to Norway's majestic fjords, to make the most of the spring season.
Favorable Rental Prices Enhance Travel Plans
In a boost for budget-conscious travellers, average car hire prices have generally decreased in these trending destinations compared to last year. Romania experienced the most substantial drop, with rates falling by 35%, while France saw a modest 1% reduction. Austria and Norway also reported lower prices, contributing to more affordable road trip options. However, Germany stands out as an exception, with daily rental rates increasing by 5%.
KAYAK's Road Trip Calculator: Budgeting for Scenic Routes
To assist travellers in planning their journeys, KAYAK utilized its Road Trip Calculator to estimate costs for some of Europe's most picturesque drives. 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 holidaymakers.
Highlighted Routes and Estimated Costs
- Romania: A circuit from Bucharest to Brasov to Bicaz-Chei and back offers towering limestone cliffs and snowmelt waterfalls in May, with an estimated driving time of 11 hours and a total cost of approximately £244.
- Norway: The route from Bergen to Vikøyri to Gaularfjellet to Førde and return showcases fjords at their peak in May, featuring lush valleys and extended daylight, with a 9-hour drive and a cost of around £238.
- Austria: Traveling from Salzburg to Graz to Leutschach to Klagenfurt and back provides alpine vistas and vineyard scenery in May, with an 8-hour journey and an estimated cost of £244.
- Germany: The Romantic Road from Frankfurt to Füssen and return offers medieval charm and spring landscapes before the tourist rush, with a 9-hour drive and a cost of about £315.
- France: A trip from Lyon to Provence to the French Riviera (Nice) and back bursts with wildflowers and coastal warmth in May, featuring a 9-hour drive and an estimated cost of £299.
These insights underscore a shift towards more flexible and immersive travel experiences among UK residents, leveraging the convenience of car rentals to explore Europe's natural beauty during the spring months. With prices generally on the decline, now is an opportune time for Brits to embark on these scenic adventures ahead of the busy holiday periods.
