We’ve been sharing our recommendations for European road trip apps since April 2014. In this completely revised edition we’ve eliminated apps that are no longer published, plus we introduce you to our latest finds.
If you’re an app user who’s planning a road trip in Europe—or any traveler to Europe—bookmark this page so that you don’t miss our updates. Or subscribe to the My Itchy Travel Feet Weekly Broadcast so you’ll be the first to know.
Top Apps for a European road trip
A trip to Europe is always so … magical, isn’t it? With plenty of options for exciting travel destinations, the old continent rarely disappoints travelers of all ages and tastes. And when it comes to road trips, well, Europe has certainly got you covered there as well. And our European road trip app recommendations are going to help you make the most of that travel adventure.
Thinking about a road trip through wine country? Well, France’s Bordeaux region or Italy’s famed Tuscany region will fit the bill quite nicely. What about a curvy coastal jaunt in that convertible mini cooper? Spain and Italy’s coastlines have the ability to transport you back in time with their tiny villages, traditional cuisine and stunning landscapes.
Of course, no road trip would be complete without the help of the ever-growing app world. We’ve researched a few European road trip apps to help you make the most of your time in Europe. Download them before leaving home.
Organize your European road trip with an app
Download the Skyscanner app for researching the best flights for your European road trip: Skyscanner iOS App Download or Skyscanner Android App Download
TripIt: Travel Organizer has quickly become the go-to app for on-the-go travelers in Europe. It’s a great app for organizing every step of your trip, from flight times, to connection times, to maps, everything! Available on App Store and Google Play. Free. But your biggest benefit comes from signing up for the pro version at $49/yr.
Packing Pro app has packing down to an exact science. All you have to do is enter your destination and length of stay and it’ll come up with a suggested packing list, separated by useful categories like documentation, clothing, gadgets, etc. Available for purchase at the App Store.
European road trip apps for what to do and where to go
Michelin Guide Europe is a great app for those who like to prepare every step of their trip. And even for those who are more spur of the moment travelers, Michelin guides are great for quick reference points like restaurants, bars and hotels. The European Guide covers an extensive amount of information. Available for purchase at the App Store and Google Play.
Rick Steves’ Audio Europe™ is one of those apps that’s always handy. No one manages to describe Europe better than our old friend, Steve. Highly respected and incredibly well traveled, if you’re going to take one person’s travel advice, it should be Steve’s (and Donna’s of course!). Buy this app at the App Store and Google Play for free.
MetrO app is incredibly handy for getting around European cities after you’ve parked the car. The app offers information and maps for public transportation systems (subway, bus, tram, train) in more than 400 cities in the world. The best part? Once you have plugged in your itinerary cities, you don’t need an internet connection to access the information. The app is available for purchase on App Store for free.
XE Currency Pro takes the hassle out of money conversion. If you’re on a tight travel schedule, the last thing you want to be doing is wasting time trying to convert money while shopping. Available for purchase on App Store and Google Play.
Spyglass app is a great guide to take on any adventure. The app allows travelers to use its GPS system for outdoors and off-road navigation, even when offline. The app comes packed with extras such as binoculars, heads-up display, hi-tech compass, etc. Available for purchase at the App Store and Google Play.
Apps for staying in touch
WiFi Finder is one of the most useful apps for road trippers. Although it’s always a good idea to take a break from our mobile and tech devices while traveling, you never know when you’ll need Internet access. Wi-Fi finder helps you locate the most immediate place in your area to connect. Purchase this app at the App Store and Google Play for free.
WhatsApp app is great for international communication. Although its not really popular in the states, it’s one of Europe’s most-used apps. Basically, it’s a free, real-time messaging service, perfect for keeping in contact with friends and relatives back at home or new friends you meet while traveling. You just need an internet connection and that’s that. No fees, no roaming. Whatapp is available at the App Store and Google Play for free.
European apps for emergencies
mPassport is one app I hope you will never have to use. However, if you do, you’ll be happy to have it by your side. MPassport App is a Medical Emergency app that lists the closest doctors and hospitals in your area as well as a list of emergency phone numbers. It also has a list of non-emergency medical services such as dentists, pharmacies, etc. The app is available for purchase at the App Store and Google Play for free.
iTranslate app may not seem adventure-related at first, but believe me, when you’re in a strange country doing something risky and have no communication skills, things can get hairy quickly. Available for purchase at the App Store and Google Play.
Sitata Travel Safe is a potentially life-saving app, especially for busy travelers. The app has a database of emergency service numbers for almost any country. Monitoring health and safety threats from around the world is another bonus. The app is available on App Store and Google Play for free.
International emergency numbers app is a indispensable resource if you’re away from home and run into a problem. The app works offline so it’s great in every corner of the earth. Available for purchase at the App Store and Google Play.
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