Driving Abroad: Complete Guide to Driving in Other Countries
Driving abroad can be one of the best ways to explore a destination. You can leave the main tourist areas, discover smaller towns, visit beaches and countryside, and travel at your own pace.
But driving in another country can also feel very different from driving at home. Road signs, traffic lights, roundabouts, speed limits, parking, tolls, road layouts and driving habits can all change.
This HolidayIn4U guide explains the main things to understand before driving abroad. Always check the latest official rules for your destination before travelling.
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Why Driving Abroad Can Be Different
A road may look familiar, but the way it works can be completely different from the roads you know at home. You may be driving on the opposite side of the road, using kilometres instead of miles, approaching roundabouts from a different direction or encountering road signs that you have never seen before.
In some destinations, city driving can be busy and complicated. In others, the biggest challenge may be narrow mountain roads, rural roads, changing weather or long distances between fuel stations.
Preparing for these differences before you travel can make driving much more comfortable and can help you avoid fines, delays and unnecessary stress.
Driving Abroad Quick Guide
Which Side of the Road Do They Drive On?
One of the first things to learn before driving abroad.
Drive on the Left
Countries including the UK, Ireland, Malta, Cyprus, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and several countries in southern and eastern Africa drive on the left.
Drive on the Right
Most European countries, the United States, Canada, Mexico, much of South America and many countries across Asia drive on the right.
Speed Limits Around the World
Never assume the speed limit is the same as the UK.
Check the Units
Many countries display speed in kilometres per hour rather than miles per hour. Make sure your dashboard and navigation system are showing the units you understand.
Urban Areas
Town and city speed limits can be lower than the national limit. Watch carefully for signs when entering built-up areas.
Motorways
Motorway limits vary between countries and sometimes change according to weather, traffic or location.
Temporary Limits
Roadworks, accidents and environmental conditions can introduce temporary speed restrictions.
Weather Conditions
A posted maximum speed does not mean it is always safe to drive at that speed. Rain, snow, ice, fog and strong winds can require slower driving.
Heavy Vehicles
Different speed limits may apply to vans, motorhomes, trailers and other vehicles.
Understanding Road Signs Abroad
Learn the important signs before you arrive.
Priority Signs
Learn the local signs showing priority roads, give-way situations, stop requirements and changes in priority.
No Entry
A road that looks like a normal street may be restricted in one direction. Pay close attention to no-entry signs.
Parking Signs
Parking restrictions may be shown using colours, symbols, time limits and additional signs.
Speed Signs
Check whether a sign shows a maximum speed, recommended speed or temporary restriction.
Environmental Signs
Some cities have low-emission or restricted-traffic zones that require permits, registration or payment.
Local Language
Download offline maps and learn a few important road words in the local language before travelling.
Roundabouts Abroad
Roundabouts can feel particularly confusing when you drive on the opposite side.
Before Entering
- Reduce your speed.
- Look for lane arrows.
- Read priority signs.
- Choose your lane before entering.
- Do not blindly follow another vehicle.
While on the Roundabout
- Watch for vehicles changing lanes.
- Use indicators as required locally.
- Check mirrors before moving across.
- Look carefully for cyclists.
- Follow the road markings.
Driving in Foreign Cities
City driving can be very different from driving on open roads.
One-Way Streets
Tourist areas often contain complicated one-way systems. Navigation apps can help, but always follow the physical road signs.
Restricted Areas
Historic city centres may restrict vehicles or require permits. Research this before driving into the centre.
Pedestrians
Tourist centres can have large numbers of pedestrians crossing unexpectedly. Slow down and expect people near attractions.
Trams
Some cities have extensive tram networks. Learn the basic rules for sharing the road with trams before driving.
Cyclists
Cycle lanes and cycling priorities vary. Give cyclists adequate space and check carefully before turning.
Navigation
Set your destination before moving and never allow navigation instructions to make you ignore road signs.
Driving on Rural Roads Abroad
Some of the most memorable journeys happen away from the cities.
Narrow Roads
Some rural roads may be considerably narrower than roads you are used to. Reduce speed and be prepared for oncoming traffic.
Limited Lighting
Rural roads may have little or no street lighting. Consider completing unfamiliar journeys during daylight.
Animals
Livestock and wildlife can appear unexpectedly, particularly in rural and mountain areas.
Few Fuel Stations
Do not wait until your fuel tank or EV battery is nearly empty before looking for the next charging or fuel stop.
Mobile Signal
Some remote areas have limited mobile coverage. Download offline maps before setting out.
Farm Vehicles
Slow agricultural vehicles may be common on country roads. Be patient and only overtake when it is clearly safe and legal.
Driving in Mountainous Countries
Mountain driving requires extra care and planning.
Steep Roads
Steep climbs and descents can place extra demands on the vehicle. Use appropriate gears and maintain a safe speed.
Hairpin Bends
Slow down before bends and expect vehicles coming from the opposite direction to require more space.
Weather Changes
Mountain weather can change rapidly. Check forecasts before leaving and be prepared for conditions to deteriorate.
Snow Chains
Some destinations can have seasonal requirements for winter equipment. Check the local rules before travelling.
Braking
Long downhill sections require careful speed management. Avoid excessive reliance on continuous braking.
Scenic Stops
Never stop in a dangerous location simply to take photographs. Use designated viewpoints or safe parking areas.
Tolls, Vignettes & Road Charges
Understanding the road charging system can save time and money.
Toll Booths
Some motorways have physical toll booths where payment is made during the journey.
Electronic Tolls
Some roads record vehicles electronically or by number plate. Check how visitors are expected to pay.
Vignettes
Some countries use time-based motorway permits instead of conventional toll booths.
City Charges
Some cities operate congestion, environmental or restricted traffic zones.
Border Crossings
Driving through several countries may mean encountering different toll systems and road regulations.
Check Before Your Trip
Research the roads you intend to use and include road charges in your travel budget.
Parking Abroad
Parking rules can be very different from one town or city to another.
Read the Full Sign
Do not rely solely on the colour of a parking space. Read the nearby signs and any supplementary information.
Payment Machines
Some car parks accept cards, coins, apps or contactless payments. Have a backup payment method where practical.
Parking Apps
Some destinations use local parking applications. Research these before travelling if you expect to park frequently.
Resident Zones
Residential parking restrictions may apply even when a space appears available.
Historic Centres
Some historic areas restrict traffic completely or only allow authorised vehicles.
Parking Fines
Never ignore a parking notice. Rental companies may also charge administrative fees when processing penalties.
Fuel & Electric Vehicles Abroad
Fuel stations and charging networks can vary considerably.
Fuel Names
Fuel may be labelled differently. Always confirm the correct fuel type before filling the vehicle.
Self-Service Stations
Some stations operate differently from UK petrol stations. Understand the payment process before starting.
Remote Areas
In rural areas, fuel stations can be much further apart. Plan refuelling stops rather than relying on the next station appearing.
EV Charging
Check charging availability before travelling to remote areas, islands and mountain destinations.
Charging Networks
Different charging networks may require different apps, accounts or payment methods.
Plan Your Range
Hills, traffic, heating, air conditioning and weather can affect vehicle range and fuel consumption.
Driving in Different Weather Conditions
Weather can change how a familiar road behaves.
Heavy Rain
Reduce speed, increase your following distance and watch for standing water.
Extreme Heat
Carry drinking water, take breaks and avoid leaving people or animals inside parked vehicles.
Snow & Ice
Check weather and road conditions before leaving and understand any local winter equipment requirements.
Fog
Reduce speed and increase your distance from other vehicles. Use appropriate lights according to local rules.
Strong Winds
Be especially careful on exposed roads, bridges and coastal routes.
Flooding
Never assume that a flooded road is safe to cross. Follow local warnings and seek an alternative route.
Documents for Driving Abroad
Requirements depend on the country, vehicle and length of stay.
| Document / Requirement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Driving licence | Your UK licence must be valid and accepted in the destination. |
| International Driving Permit | Some countries require an IDP in addition to your driving licence. |
| Insurance | Check that your vehicle is properly insured for every country you plan to visit. |
| Vehicle documents | If taking your own vehicle, check the documents required for the journey. |
| Extra equipment | Some countries require particular safety equipment to be carried in vehicles. |
| Emission permits | Some cities have environmental zones or permits. |
| Country identification | Check whether a UK identifier or other marking is required. |
Understanding Driving Culture Abroad
Not everything that feels different is necessarily against the law.
Traffic Flow
Traffic may appear faster, slower or more assertive than you are accustomed to. Concentrate on the road and follow the rules.
Indicators
Indicator use and local driving habits can feel different. Always signal clearly and follow the rules of the country you are visiting.
Horns
In some countries drivers use their horn more frequently. Try not to interpret every horn as aggression.
Motorcycles
Motorcycles and scooters may be common in some destinations. Check mirrors frequently, especially in cities.
Pedestrians
Tourist areas can have pedestrians stepping into roads unexpectedly. Reduce speed around busy attractions.
Stay Calm
Do not copy risky behaviour simply because another driver is doing it. Your priority is to drive safely and legally.
Driving in Popular Holiday Countries
These are useful starting points, but always check the latest official rules before travelling.
Spain
Driving side: Right
Spain is popular for road trips because it offers motorways, coastal roads, mountain areas, islands and historic towns.
Expect a mixture of modern motorways, busy city roads and narrower roads in older towns and rural areas. Take particular care around mountain routes and busy tourist centres.
UK photocard licence holders do not generally need an IDP to drive in Spain, but check current requirements and rental-company rules.
France
Driving side: Right
France has an extensive motorway network and is excellent for long road trips, but toll roads can add to the cost of a journey.
City driving can be more complicated because of restricted traffic areas and environmental rules.
UK drivers should check current requirements for environmental zones, road equipment and other local rules before travelling.
Portugal
Driving side: Right
Portugal is popular for road trips between Lisbon, Porto, the Algarve and smaller coastal and inland destinations.
Motorways can make longer journeys straightforward, while older town centres may contain narrow streets and limited parking.
Pay particular attention to toll arrangements and local parking restrictions.
Italy
Driving side: Right
Italy can be fantastic for road trips, from the lakes and mountains to Tuscany, Sicily, Puglia and the Italian coast.
Historic city centres are particularly important to research because some areas restrict vehicle access.
Watch carefully for restricted traffic zones and parking rules before driving into historic centres.
Greece
Driving side: Right
Greece offers a mixture of mainland roads, mountain routes, coastal journeys and island driving.
Some roads can be narrow or winding, particularly away from major towns. Allow plenty of time and avoid rushing.
Cyprus
Driving side: Left
Cyprus is one of the easier destinations for UK drivers to adapt to because vehicles drive on the left.
Road conditions can vary between major routes and smaller rural roads. Take extra care on unfamiliar mountain and country roads.
Malta
Driving side: Left
Malta uses left-hand traffic, making the basic road position familiar to UK drivers.
The main challenge can be busy urban roads, narrow streets, parked vehicles and limited space.
Turkey
Driving side: Right
Turkey is a large country, so driving conditions can vary greatly between major cities, coastal resorts, motorways and rural regions.
Plan long journeys carefully and allow additional time when travelling through busy cities.
Iceland
Driving side: Right
Iceland is famous for road trips, but weather and road conditions can change rapidly.
Check road and weather conditions before travelling, particularly outside the main populated areas.
Remote roads can have limited services, so plan fuel and journey distances carefully.
Egypt
Driving side: Right
Driving conditions can be very different from those experienced by many UK motorists, particularly in large urban areas.
Traffic, road conditions and driving behaviour can vary considerably. Consider carefully whether self-driving is suitable for your itinerary.
Morocco
Driving side: Right
Morocco offers a wide variety of driving experiences, from cities and coastal roads to mountain areas and desert routes.
Conditions can change significantly outside major cities. Plan carefully, particularly for long-distance journeys.
Driving Side: More Popular Destinations
A quick reference for some popular holiday countries.
| Destination | Driving Side | What to Think About |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | Left | Baseline for UK drivers. |
| Ireland | Left | Rural roads can be narrow. |
| Australia | Left | Very long distances and remote areas. |
| New Zealand | Left | Mountain roads and changing weather. |
| Japan | Left | Urban driving and different road signs. |
| United States | Right | Rules can vary by state. |
| Canada | Right | Winter conditions can be important. |
| Mexico | Right | Road conditions vary considerably. |
| South Africa | Left | Long distances and varied road conditions. |
| Thailand | Left | Busy traffic and motorcycles. |
| United Arab Emirates | Right | Large multi-lane roads and high temperatures. |
| Switzerland | Right | Mountain roads and motorway requirements. |
Mobile Phones & Navigation
Set Navigation Before Moving
Enter your destination and check your route before setting off. Avoid operating the phone while driving.
Download Offline Maps
Offline maps can be particularly useful in rural, mountain and remote areas where mobile coverage may be limited.
Watch the Road Signs
Navigation systems can occasionally suggest routes that are unsuitable or restricted. Physical signs always matter.
Essential Safety Advice
Take Your Time
Allow more time for unfamiliar journeys. Rushing is one of the easiest ways to make mistakes.
Do Not Drive Tired
Long holiday journeys can be tiring. Take regular breaks and share driving where appropriate.
Do Not Drink and Drive
Alcohol limits vary between countries. The safest choice when driving is not to drink.
Wear Seat Belts
Make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained according to local requirements.
Keep Valuables Hidden
Avoid leaving passports, phones, luggage or other valuables visible inside an unattended vehicle.
Know Your Emergency Contacts
Save local emergency, breakdown, insurance and roadside assistance numbers before travelling.
Common Mistakes When Driving Abroad
These simple mistakes can turn an easy journey into a stressful one.
Forgetting Which Side to Drive On
This can happen when leaving a car park, petrol station or quiet side road. Take a moment to reset before moving.
Ignoring Local Signs
Do not assume a familiar-looking road has familiar rules.
Running Low on Fuel
This is particularly risky in remote areas and on long road trips.
Not Checking Tolls
Some journeys can involve multiple road charging systems.
Driving Too Fast on Mountain Roads
Familiarity with driving does not make unfamiliar mountain roads predictable.
Relying Completely on Navigation
Navigation is a useful tool, but it should never replace road signs or sensible judgement.
Driving Abroad Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need an International Driving Permit?
Do I drive on the left or right abroad?
Are speed limits the same everywhere?
Do I need special equipment in my car?
Can I drive into city centres?
Are toll roads common in Europe?
Driving Abroad Checklist
Run through these checks before you leave.
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Always Check the Latest Official Rules
Driving requirements can change. Before travelling, check the latest official information for the country you are visiting, including licence requirements, IDPs, insurance, vehicle equipment, road rules and local restrictions.
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