ROAD TRIPS, EUROPEAN STYLE
How to survive navigating highways and byways in countries across the Atlantic
Horror stories about driving in Europe abound. They’re fun to tell, but driving is really only a problem for those who make it one.
If you know what to expect, your drive can be a highlight rather than harrowing.
Here are a few tips for being ready to roll when you get behind the wheel:
RESEARCH YOUR RENTAL
Most European rental cars use stick shift (standard transmission), so be sure to ask for an automatic if you’re not used to changing gears, especially if you’ll be driving on narrow, winding roads.
Be aware, though, that you’ll pay about 50 per cent more for an automatic transmission.
It’s usually cheaper to arrange rentals from the U.S. Shop around and always check the fine print for add-on charges.
Remember that it might make sense to pick up and return your car in different cities so you don’t have to backtrack.
GET TO KNOW YOUR CAR
Once you pick up your car, test the wipers, headlights, and gearshift, and make sure you know what type of fuel the car takes (diesel vs. unleaded), and how to release the gas cap.
BE PUMP SAVVY
Learn the local term for your fuel: diesel or unleaded. At gas stations, prices are by the litre; regular gas is marked “95” while super or premium gasoline is usually designated “97” or “98.” In some countries, there’s no difference between the nozzles for diesel and gasoline — check signs before you fill ’er up.
LEARN THE RULES OF THE ROAD
Ask your rental company, or check the U.S. State Department website (search for your country in the ‘Learn about your destination’ box, then click ‘Travel and Transportation’). Once on the road, watch the speed-limit signs carefully: In many places, speed is monitored by cameras that click photos, and send speeders tickets by mail.
PLOT YOUR ROUTE
Study roads and major interchanges and decide whether to take the expressway or a slower scenic route.
If you’re headed for a small or mid-sized town, know which big city is nearby (and most likely to be sign posted) to keep you headed in the right direction.
Even if you’ll be using GPS or a mapping app, keep a paper map handy and pay attention to road signs.
PREPARE FOR TOLLS
It’s free to drive on some expressways, such as Germany’s famous autobahn. But many countries charge tolls for their highways. In places that use automatic, cashless toll systems (such as Portugal), there is often a tollbooth option to pay with cash or a credit card. Other countries’ toll roads require a permit sticker (called a “vignette”) displayed on windshields. Your rental car may already have one; if not, you can buy one at border crossings, gas stations, and post offices. If you don’t have a sticker, you’ll soon meet your first local … in uniform. Fines start at around $193.
PLAN FOR PARKING
If you’re staying at a hotel, ask about parking when you book. In many big cities, it’s best to park your car on the outskirts and use public transportation or taxis; some cities even have free shuttles from parking areas into the city centre. Even better, return your rental car on arrival in a major metropolis, as cities across Europe have taken measures to discourage urban driving. For example, to drive anywhere in downtown London or Stockholm, you’ll pay not only very high parking rates, but a “congestion charge” just to drive into the city.
If you do drive into town, learn what the pavement markings mean (different curb colours can mean free parking — or no park- ing). Look for signs, or ask a local. Don’t assume that an absence of meters means you can leave your car there: You may need to get a timed ticket from a nearby payand-display machine, or display a parking-clock disc that allows you to use free, time-limited spots.
GO WITH THE FLOW
Driving in Europe tends to be more aggressive than in North America, but each country has its quirks. For example, in Germany if you drive less than 193 km/ h in the fast lane on the autobahn, you’ve got people climbing up your tailpipe. But the same Germans — notoriously good at obeying rules — are also likely to go from 193 km/ h to 96 km/ h the instant they spot a speed limit sign … so keep your distance. Rural areas have plenty of other hazards, such as high hedges blocking the view on narrow lanes, and the occasional sheep crossing that forces you to wait and enjoy the scenery. Think of it as enjoying the local culture.
You may curse the confusing signs, narrow roads, and macho habits, but it’s all part of the experience. Driving at home is mundane; driving in Europe is memorable.