European islands are often associated with beaches and summer holidays, but many of them are also perfect destinations to explore by car. Winding mountain roads, coastal routes and small villages reveal scenery that is difficult to experience from one single location. To identify the best options for road travellers, car rental company Avis analysed European islands based on factors including terrain, elevation, number of landmarks, tourist density, online popularity and driving conditions. The results highlight destinations for travellers looking for dramatic views as well as quieter places away from the biggest crowds. Some islands appear in both categories, showing that impressive scenery and a sense of tranquillity can go hand in hand.
Europe’s 10 most scenic island road trips
Tenerife ranks first among Europe’s most scenic island road trips thanks to its volcanic landscapes and impressive elevation. The Canary Island reaches 3,715 metres at Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak, offering views over lava fields, forests and the Atlantic Ocean. A drive through Mount Teide National Park reveals how quickly the scenery changes, from rocky volcanic terrain to green mountain slopes. Historic towns such as Garachico add cultural highlights along the route.
Gran Canaria takes second place with a mix of volcanic mountains, beaches and traditional villages. The island’s varied terrain means that a single road trip can include coastal views, desert-like dunes and mountain landscapes. The route towards Roque Nublo is one of the highlights, offering wide views over the interior. Beyond the popular resorts, quieter roads reveal local communities and a different side of the island.
Madeira completes the top three thanks to its dramatic cliffs, green valleys and volcanic origins. The Portuguese island’s roads often run along steep slopes above the Atlantic Ocean, creating viewpoints throughout the journey. A full island circuit can be completed in around six hours, allowing travellers to experience many of its highlights. Hiking routes, natural pools and the island’s famous forests make Madeira a diverse road trip destination.
@xtravel.madeira Perfect 1-day Madeira road trip 🇵🇹🔥 Funchal → Câmara de Lobos → Cabo Girão → Fanal → Porto Moniz → Seixal → sunset 🌅 Feels like 5 different places in one day. After 3 years exploring Madeira, I created my 🗺️ INTERACTIVE MADEIRA MAP 🗺️ 🔗 Link in bio I also do PRIVATE HIKING AND DRIVING TOURS 🚗🥾 #madeira #madeiraisland #visitmadeira #travel #portugal🇵🇹viral ♬ оригинальный звук – xtravel.madeira
La Palma stands out for its combination of volcanic scenery, forests and mountain views. Known as “La Isla Bonita”, the island reaches 2,426 metres at Roque de los Muchachos, providing panoramic views across the Atlantic. Drivers can explore Caldera de Taburiente National Park, discover volcanic landscapes and pass through small villages surrounded by nature. Its dramatic scenery makes it one of the Canary Islands’ most rewarding destinations by car.
Mallorca ranks fifth thanks to its mountain roads, historic towns and Mediterranean coastline. Although it is one of Europe’s most visited islands, travelling beyond the main resorts reveals a quieter atmosphere. The Serra de Tramuntana mountain range offers some of the island’s most scenic routes, with winding roads overlooking valleys and the sea. Villages such as Valldemossa and Deià add cultural charm to the journey.
Corsica offers one of Europe’s most adventurous island drives, combining mountain scenery with Mediterranean coastlines. The French island reaches 2,706 metres at Monte Cinto, creating a landscape where alpine environments meet turquoise waters. Roads pass through forests, valleys and small villages, offering a strong sense of exploration. The combination of rugged nature and traditional culture makes Corsica particularly attractive for road trippers.
The Isle of Skye offers one of Europe’s most distinctive island drives, where dramatic scenery appears around every corner. Located off Scotland’s northwest coast, the island combines mountains, sea cliffs, waterfalls and small coastal villages. Natural landmarks such as the Fairy Pools and the Quiraing highlight the variety of views travellers can discover along the roads. Skye’s appeal comes from its wild atmosphere and ancient geological formations.
@ameliaxsalmon the most beautiful two days in the Isle of Skye 🏴🪵🏔️ we only had two full days to explore the island, so we packed our itinerary … driving from Edinburgh we stopped at Glen Coe & the Glenfinnian Viaduct, arriving for dinner at Crouisk House 🏡 day one: fairy pools, Portree, birch cafe + Staffin sauna and cold dip day two: lean to coffee, rainy cinema trip to Las Portree + Skye candles followed by a stop at Eilean Donan castle on the drive back home to Edinburgh !! honestly had the most magical time exploring (the views here don’t feel real!) & will be back to do the old man of stor in better weather !! 🏔️🪵🌲
♬ Lovers by the Water – Makayla Marie Williams
Crete combines ancient history with varied scenery, making it one of Greece’s best islands for a road trip. The island reaches 2,456 metres at Mount Ida, creating routes that move between mountains, beaches and traditional villages. Travellers can discover archaeological sites such as the Palace of Knossos while also exploring natural areas including the Samaria Gorge. Crete offers a balance between culture, nature and local traditions.
Rhodes provides a road trip experience where history and nature come together. The Greek island is known for its medieval Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but its interior also offers forests, villages and mountain roads. Routes across the island connect archaeological sites, beaches and quieter communities. This variety makes Rhodes more than just a traditional sun and sea destination.
La Gomera completes the scenic top ten with a landscape shaped by mountains, ravines and ancient forests. The Canary Island’s roads pass through Garajonay National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting one of Europe’s best examples of laurel forests. Travellers can discover traditional villages, dramatic viewpoints and winding mountain routes. Its smaller size creates a road trip experience focused on nature and discovery.
Europe’s 10 best secluded island road trips
El Hierro ranks first among Europe’s most secluded island road trips thanks to its peaceful atmosphere and untouched surroundings. Located in the western Canary Islands, it receives far fewer visitors than Tenerife or Gran Canaria. Volcanic landscapes, natural pools and remote viewpoints make it ideal for travellers looking to slow down. The island’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status reflects its focus on protecting its unique environment.
Lesbos offers a quieter alternative to Greece’s better-known islands, with enough space to explore without large crowds. Its roads connect olive groves, mountain villages and coastal areas, creating varied routes across the island. Travellers can discover historic sites such as Molyvos Castle, relax at natural hot springs or explore the Petrified Forest. Its combination of culture and nature makes Lesbos well suited for a peaceful road trip.
Samos combines mythology, forests and beaches while maintaining a more relaxed atmosphere than many Greek islands. Located in the eastern Aegean Sea, it offers routes through green landscapes, traditional villages and coastal areas. Visitors can explore the ancient Heraion sanctuary, discover waterfalls and enjoy quieter beaches. Lower visitor numbers allow travellers to experience the island at a slower pace.
La Gomera’s secluded character comes from its quieter atmosphere compared with neighbouring Canary Islands. While Tenerife attracts millions of visitors, La Gomera offers a slower experience with small villages, traditional agriculture and peaceful roads. The island’s routes lead to hidden viewpoints and remote corners where travellers can enjoy nature without large crowds. Its appeal lies in the feeling of discovering a lesser-known destination.
Gotland, Sweden’s largest island, combines peaceful roads with medieval history and Baltic scenery. The island is home to Visby, a UNESCO World Heritage Site surrounded by a well-preserved medieval wall. Beyond the historic centre, travellers can explore rocky coastlines, countryside roads and unusual rock formations. Its relaxed pace makes it a strong choice for those looking for a quieter European escape.
Korčula provides a more peaceful alternative to Croatia’s busiest coastal destinations. Roads cross vineyards, forests and small villages before reaching beaches and viewpoints along the Adriatic coast. The medieval streets of Korčula Town add cultural interest to the journey. The island’s combination of nature, tradition and manageable distances makes it ideal for relaxed exploration.
The Faroe Islands offer one of Europe’s most remote and dramatic road trip experiences. The Danish archipelago consists of 18 volcanic islands connected by tunnels, bridges and ferries. Steep cliffs, green mountains and small villages create a unique setting that feels far removed from busy tourist destinations. Changing weather conditions add to the adventure and constantly transform the scenery.
Brač is another Croatian island where travellers can enjoy quieter roads and natural beauty. Known for its clear waters and traditional stone villages, the island offers a mix of coastal scenery and inland routes. Zlatni Rat beach near Bol is its most famous attraction, while the mountains and countryside provide a different perspective. Its compact size makes it easy to explore at a relaxed pace.
Ultimately, Europe’s best island road trips are not necessarily about covering the greatest distance. From the volcanic roads of the Canary Islands to the rugged landscapes of Scotland and the quieter shores of the Mediterranean and Baltic, travelling by car offers the freedom to explore beyond the usual tourist centres.
The fact that islands such as La Gomera, La Palma and the Isle of Skye feature among both the most scenic and most secluded destinations also suggests that travellers do not always have to choose between spectacular landscapes and escaping the crowds. Sometimes, both can be found along the same road.
