With the opening up of much of Europe under the EU, it is now easier than ever to drive almost completely around the continent unhindered for EU nationals. Picking up cheap car hire in Europe and driving yourself around is the best bet for getting about.

Most of the roads throughout Europe are in good condition as most members are fairly affluent, plus the stipulation of being an EU member. In particular, driving anywhere in Scandinavia, Germany, France, Spain and the UK to a lesser extent with car rental in Europe is a pleasure.

You can fly to almost any sizeable city within Europe and pick up a hire car at the airport, or indeed, do a complete tour from the UK making use of ferries or the Channel Tunnel. Prices for car hire in Europe are roughly the same between countries and will generally come with comprehensive insurance at the main firms.

Coming from the UK, most people head south through France and into Spain. Both of these countries have exceptional road networks, with tolled and un-tolled motorways between major centers and a fine network of country roads. From the south of France, you could continue along the French Riviera with car rental in Europe and head into northern Italy.

Switzerland is just north of here, while Austria and Eastern Europe are farther east. A tour of the continental Scandinavian countries with car hire in Europe is also fun during the summer months, including through Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland.