Summer is the season for rolling down the windows, feeling the breeze, and watching the landscape unfold beside a glittering sea. Europe's islands offer some of the continent's most rewarding driving routes, from ancient coastlines to volcanic passes and villages that seem frozen in time.
To help drivers choose, car rental company Avis ranked European islands based on size, terrain, elevation, tourist density, Instagram hashtags, and the number of key landmarks. The result is a list that spans the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, with something for every kind of road-tripper.
Scenic Drives: Volcanic Peaks and Ocean Views
The most picturesque islands combine dramatic elevation changes, panoramic viewpoints, and roads that invite exploration. Tenerife, in Spain's Canary Islands, tops the scenic ranking with a maximum elevation of 3,715 metres and seven key roadside landmarks. Its volcanic landscapes have drawn more than 12.4 million #tenerife Instagram posts, a testament to its visual appeal.
Best visited between April and October, Tenerife is home to Mount Teide National Park, where drivers can enjoy lofty views over volcanic plains and the colourful Pico Viejo crater. Beyond the national park, the island offers the Siam Park water park, the coastal town of Garachico with its natural volcanic rock pools, and the UNESCO World Heritage city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, known for its mix of architectural styles.
Gran Canaria, also in the Canaries, takes second place thanks to its blend of volcanic terrain, historic towns, and golden beaches. It has six landmarks within easy driving distance and a highest point of 1,949 metres. The best times to visit are April to October for beach weather, or November to March for milder winter sun and hiking. Highlights include the protected Dunas de Maspalomas sand dunes, the hike up Roque Nublo for panoramic views, and exploring the island's historical villages.
Madeira, Portugal, secures third place. Often overlooked, the island's score was boosted by six key landmarks and a circuit route that takes about six hours, allowing for a full day of driving. Its dramatic volcanic landscapes, mild year-round climate, and lush greenery have earned it more than seven million Instagram hashtags. The best time to visit is April to June, when the island's famous flowers are in full bloom. While there, drivers can tackle the 'Stairway to Heaven' trail connecting Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo, go whale watching, or swim in volcanic pools.
Secluded Routes: Escape the Crowds
Overtourism is putting pressure on many of Europe's most popular islands. For those who prefer their road trips without queues and overbooked campsites, the answer lies in looking beyond the obvious choices.
El Hierro, the most remote of the Canary Islands, is the standout pick for solitude. Known for its volcanic landscapes and crystal-clear natural pools, it also has a low tourist density score. The best times to visit are April-May and September-October, when visitor numbers are low and temperatures are comfortable. The island's UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status protects a range of natural pools, and there are ample opportunities for whale and dolphin watching, snorkelling, and scuba diving. For something otherworldly, El Sabinar is a must-see, where harsh Atlantic winds have twisted ancient juniper trees into surreal, sweeping shapes.
Lesbos, Greece, comes second. Its vastness makes it perfect for a secluded road trip, and a car is recommended to experience all its landscapes and picturesque fishing villages. Despite low road trip search volume, it has six key landmarks, including the mammoth Molyvos and Mytilene castles. There are also plenty of beaches, the Eftalou Hot Springs, and the Petrified Forest & Natural History Museum. May to June and September to October are peak times to avoid the crowds.
Samos, another Greek island, takes third place. It offers mythological heritage, hidden natural wonders, and pristine coastlines, along with low tourist density and road-trip search volume. Samos is ideal for a May to October road trip. Visit the Heraion of Samos, enjoy the refreshing Potami waterfalls, or relax on the exotic Psili Ammos Beach.
Stress-Free Driving: Flat Roads and Easy Circuits
For the stress-free ranking, Avis combined three factors: average road elevation, EV charging station density, and island circuit distance. One country dominated: Croatia.
Pag, in Croatia, is the top destination for a stress-free island road trip. Its relatively flat road network and compact size mean the full island drive takes around two hours, making it easy to explore in a single day without spending long hours behind the wheel. The island is known for its lunar-like landscape, cheese, and vibrant nightlife in the summer.
Korčula and Brač also rank highly. Korčula, with its medieval old town and vineyards, offers a relaxed driving experience, while Brač, famous for the Zlatni Rat beach, has a manageable circuit and gentle terrain. These Croatian islands are part of a broader trend of water sports destinations in the Adriatic, though they remain less crowded than some of their neighbours.
For those looking to avoid the well-trodden paths, the list also includes five underrated European islands that offer a quieter alternative. And with the rise of electric vehicles, the availability of charging stations is becoming a key factor in route planning, as seen in the innovative solutions being developed for island sustainability.
Whether you're chasing dramatic scenery, seeking solitude, or simply want a stress-free drive, Europe's islands offer a road trip for every taste. As the summer season approaches, these rankings provide a useful guide for planning your next adventure.
