Long weekends are the perfect chance to escape the city, explore new destinations, and recharge. With a Green Motion car rental ready at the airport, you can maximise your time, visit hidden gems, and enjoy the freedom to travel at your own pace. From charming villages and dramatic coastlines to alpine lakes and national parks, these road trips let you experience a full European getaway in just a few days.
Here are five long weekend road trips in Europe perfect for travellers using Green Motion car rental.
Landing at Heathrow Airport? Picking up a Green Motion London car rental puts the idyllic Cotswolds just over two hours away, perfect for a long weekend escape. Rolling hills, honey-coloured villages, and cosy pubs make it easy to enjoy scenic drives and charming stops. With your own car, you can explore at your own pace and still return to Heathrow on time for your flight.
Top stops along the way:
Bibury – stroll along riverside cottages and quaint streets
Bourton-on-the-Water – explore canals and small bridges
Broadway – enjoy historic streets, shops, and village charm
Landing at Lisbon Airport? Collecting a Green Motion Lisbon car rental makes the sun-soaked Algarve just a three-hour drive away, ideal for a long weekend getaway. Golden beaches, dramatic cliffs, and historic towns can all be explored on your own schedule. With a Green Motion car, you can hop between beaches, viewpoints, and charming towns, returning to Lisbon Airport with plenty of time to spare.
Top stops along the way:
Ponta da Piedade – cliffside paths and sea caves with breathtaking views
Praia da Marinha – iconic beach with photogenic cliffs
Lagos – wander historic streets and enjoy seaside dining
Landing at Milan Malpensa Airport? A Green Motion Milan car rental makes Lake Como just over an hour away, perfect for a short weekend trip. Alpine backdrops, charming villages, and winding lakeside roads allow you to explore at your own pace. With your own Green Motion car, you can visit off-the-beaten-path towns and return to Milan for your flight without stress.
Top stops along the way:
Bellagio – explore the lakeside promenade and historic centre
Varenna – stroll the narrow streets and visit villas with lake views
Como Town – enjoy the cathedral, waterfront, and charming squares
Landing at Hamburg Airport? A Green Motion Hamburg car rental takes you to the historic town of Lübeck in under an hour, perfect for a long weekend exploring cobbled streets, brick Gothic architecture, and riverside walks. With your Green Motion car, you can also explore nearby Baltic coastal towns and return to Hamburg Airport on time.
Top stops along the way:
Holstentor – iconic city gate and museum
Old Town Lübeck – wander cobbled streets and historic squares
Travemünde – charming seaside district for beach walks and seafood
Landing at Zagreb Airport? Picking up a Green Motion Zagreb car rental makes Plitvice Lakes National Park about two hours away, perfect for a nature-packed long weekend. Cascading waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and forest trails can all be explored at your own pace while still leaving time to return to Zagreb Airport for your flight.
Top stops along the way:
Lower Lakes Trail – wander among the waterfalls and lakes
Upper Lakes Trail – hike through forested paths with stunning viewpoints
Rastoke Village – nearby watermill village for traditional charm
Plan key stops but stay flexible – a Green Motion car allows you to adjust your itinerary on the fly.
Travel light – packing only what you need makes airport transfers and short drives easier.
Start early – maximise daylight for sightseeing and scenic drives.
Check local traffic rules – especially if crossing borders or driving in historic towns.
Book your Green Motion car rental in your arrival city in advance – ensures the right vehicle and a smooth start to your trip.
Why use Green Motion car rental for a long weekend in Europe?
A Green Motion car rental gives you freedom to explore multiple destinations in just a few days. You can travel at your own pace and return to the airport stress-free.
Where can I pick up a Green Motion car in Europe?
Green Motion has rental locations at major airports including Heathrow, Lisbon, Milan Malpensa, Hamburg, and Zagreb.
How far can I realistically drive on a long weekend?
Most suggested road trips are 1–3 hours from the airport, ideal for sightseeing without spending all your time driving.
What type of Green Motion car should I rent for a short trip?
Compact cars are ideal for city driving, while larger cars or SUVs suit longer drives or groups with luggage.
Should I book my Green Motion rental in advance?
Yes. Booking ahead ensures you get the right vehicle and a smooth start to your long weekend adventure.
Are Green Motion cars easy to drive in Europe?
Absolutely. All vehicles are well-maintained, fully insured, and equipped for stress-free driving in cities, countryside, and coastal roads.
A long weekend can feel like a full vacation when you can explore freely. From rolling hills and coastal cliffs to alpine lakes and forest trails, a Green Motion car rental lets you discover hidden gems, take spontaneous detours, and enjoy every moment. Return to your flight relaxed, refreshed, and on time.
Ready to explore Europe your way?
Book your Green Motion car rental today and hit the road for your next long weekend adventure.