Europe is a hotspot for travellers, with more and more are looking for cost-effective ways to enjoy the sun, sights and cultures across the continent. Whether you’re an adventurer who loves history and culture, or a foodie that enjoys music and art, these five scenic bus routes are bound to inspire your next trip. Claim your front row seats to some of the most stunning landscapes and historical landmarks the continent has to offer.
Zurich to Milan
3h 50 by bus
Lovers of artistic architecture and the great outdoors are sure to enjoy this scenic route. Travellers can enjoy views of the Swiss Alps and authentic Alpine villages as they make their way through Switzerland, and expect to see the gorgeous medieval architecture and stunning natural surroundings of Swedish cities such as Lucerne.
Prepare to be stunned by the exceptional fusion of Swedish and Italian architecture and culture as the journey progresses. Sit back and be dazzled by sparkling, clear waters alongside the picturesque array of colourful flowers and houses as the bus passes through Verbania and Lugano.
Once in Italy, travellers can soak in the scenes of the breathtaking Italian coastline and the calming waters of Lake Como. Enjoy the rich cultural heritage of Varese, a city best known for its art-nouveau villas and 17th century architecture!
Marseille to Nice
2h 10 by bus
This journey is perfect for city-dwellers looking for a sunny change of scenery. Travellers can enjoy familiar sights of urban architecture and the gorgeous greenery of countless parks and nature trails like Aoubré l’Aventure Nature as they travel through Marseille.
Passing through Biot, passengers will be completely immersed in the lush green hills and pristine waters of Gorges du Loup, a valley with a river twisting from the Audibergue mountains down to the Mediterranean. The enchanting valley features several waterfalls that shimmer in the sun, allowing travellers to relish in the feeling of serenity.
As the bus approaches Nice, travellers are transported to the 16th century as they pass through Antibes, a resort town nestled between Cannes and Nice on the French Riviera. Soak in the scenes of the charming town with its luxurious yachts docked at the port and its star shaped Fort Carré.
For the lovers of art and adventure, enjoy the beautiful sights of Baroque churches, mansions and caves of Vieux Nice. Once in Nice, the bus stop is just a 10 minute walk away from the Natural History Museum, a quaint museum featuring displays of animal and plant specimens. Alternatively, walk 8 minutes from the bus stop to the charming Place Giuseppe, an open square displaying a gorgeous fountain and stone statues with plenty of space to rest and a plethora of food places to choose from.
Barcelona to Perpignan
2h 20 by bus
This bus journey is great for those who admire Moorish and Renaissance architecture. Marvel at Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpieces like Casa Batlló, or capture the surreal shapes and curves of La Pedrera Casa Milà – another magnificent Gaudí building.
In Barcelona alone, passengers will be enthralled by dreamlike scenery from grandiose churches and castles to the lush greenery of Parc de La Pegaso and Parc de la Trinitat Vella. Shortly after leaving the town of Badalona, passengers will be greeted by the lush green hills of Barcelona’s coast, dotted with beautifully coloured houses and landmarks such as the monastery of Sant Jeroni de la Murta, visited by John II of Aragon and Charles I of Spain. The 600 year-old Gothic building has a fascinating history, which passengers can learn more about as they pass by.
Continue through sunny Lloret de Mar and the vibrant Girona, where passengers can expect to be mesmerized by the lively fields, forests and wonderful architecture.
Perpignan also delivers stunning sights. Surrounded by thousands of vineyards and intriguing landmarks like the Basilique-Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, Perpignan is the ideal place for art and culture lovers to enjoy.
Munich to Salzburg
1h 50 by bus
Calling all history buffs and lovers of the great outdoors! Get ready for an unforgettable journey dotted with alpine meadows, rolling hills, and majestic mountain peaks. The adventure begins in Munich, a city bursting with vibrant storefronts and lush green trees – the perfect starting point for this magical trip.
Wave goodbye to the city to pass through charming countryside, a picturesque landscape of farms and fields. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax with an exciting audiobook or favourite playlist while enjoying the adorable farm animals and breathtaking scenery.
The magic continues with the stunning beauty of the Chiemsee lake, surrounded by captivating architecture and statues. Travellers can admire it all from the comfort of their seat while passing through Siegsdorf!
Siegsdorf, renowned for its natural beauty and proximity to the Chiemgau Alps, boasts some of the best ski resorts and hiking trails in the world! Passing through quaint towns like Vorauf during the ski season, visitors feel transported to a winter wonderland.
The journey ends in Salzburg, a city brimming with European charm. From the Mozart Residence to beautifully built performance theatres like the Salzburg Marionette Theatre, there’s something for everyone! Enjoy the elegant Mirabell Garden, with its stunning landscaping and floral displays, or relax by the calming waters of the Salzach River.
Oslo to Kristiansand
4h 16 by bus
The drive through Oslo displays some of Europe’s most intricate and grand buildings such as the Akershus Fortress and the Astrup Fearnley Museum. From diverse landscapes, coastal views, lush forests, and charming villages, this serene journey can’t be topped!
Driving along the pier gives passengers a choice between looking out into the gorgeous sparkling waters and surrounding landscapes, or the quaint and quirky architecture, surrounded in the warmer months by bright flowers and stunning greenery.
The journey features many coastal towns including Tønsberg, Norway’s oldest town, offering fascinating historical sites, and Kragerø, famous for its colourful wooden houses and archipelago. It’s definitely a picture-perfect sight!
The Norwegian coastline is decorated with scenic coastal paths, quaint colourful houses and plenty of tranquil landscapes.
Go from rocky coastlines to dense trees and grassy hills en route to the most relaxing fine, white sand beaches. Lined with more charming wooden houses and intricately decorated villages, Kristiansand boasts one of the most fabulous beaches in Norway dotted with palm trees and plenty of souvenir shops to get some equally gorgeous trinkets.
From students to travellers, and friend groups looking to explore the scenery of Europe, these bus routes offer an alternative to overpriced flights and a unique way to sightsee. Each route offers something new and intriguing about European culture and history, making them the perfect quick trips for lovers of learning and travelling.
