Mountain passes make road trips special. They offer great views, exciting roads, and the freedom to stop where you want. In this article, we list some of the best mountain passes in Europe. These passes were chosen for their scenery, views, and the driving experience.
Col de la Bonette – France
Col de la Bonette is one of the highest paved mountain passes in Europe, sitting at an elevation of around 2,715 meters. It stretches for about 40 kilometers, offering views of the Alps and Mercantour National Park. It’s rated 3/5 for difficulty, making it suitable for both cars and motorcycles. The best time to visit is between June and September when traffic is lighter. To reach Col de la Bonette, take the D64 road from Jausiers, which will lead you to the pass.
Furka Pass – Switzerland
Furka Pass sits at 2,429 meters in the Bernese Alps of Switzerland. It connects Gletsch and Realp and covers about 30 kilometers. The route offers views of the Rhône Glacier and alpine landscapes, with several spots for taking photos.
The road has tight switchbacks and sweeping curves, making it moderately challenging to drive. It is rated 4/5 for difficulty and is suitable for cars or motorcycles. The best time to visit is from July to September, though traffic can increase around midday. To reach Furka Pass, take Swiss Route 19 from Andermatt or Realp.
Susten Pass – Switzerland
Susten Pass is located at 2,224 meters in the Uri Alps, connecting Wassen and Innertkirchen. The road stretches for about 45 kilometers. Along the route, you’ll see the Stein Glacier, waterfalls, and alpine valleys. The road is wide and paved with some curves, making it moderately easy to drive. It is rated 3/5 for difficulty and is suitable for cars or campervans. The pass is typically open from June to October, but snow can delay its spring opening. To reach Susten Pass, take the main road from Wassen or Innertkirchen. Traffic can be heavier during midday in the summer, so starting early is recommended.
Grimsel Pass – Switzerland
Grimsel Pass is located at 2,164 meters in the Bernese Alps, connecting the Hasli Valley and Goms. The road stretches for about 30 km from Innertkirchen to Gletsch, passing reservoirs and rocky valleys.
- Reservoir lakes and dams
- Rock-strewn alpine valleys
- Lookout points above the lakes
The road has continuous curves and climbs, making it moderately challenging to drive. It is rated 3/5 for difficulty and is suitable for cars or motorcycles. The best time to visit is between July and September. The road usually opens in late spring and closes in autumn. Traffic is moderate, except during peak hours. To reach Grimsel Pass, take the main road from Innertkirchen.
Stelvio Pass – Italy
Stelvio Pass is one of the highest roads in the Eastern Alps, standing at 2,757 meters. It connects Bormio with Prato allo Stelvio in northern Italy, stretching for about 25 kilometers. The road is famous for its tight turns and hairpins, making it a thrilling drive, especially for those who enjoy winding mountain roads. The road is challenging, with over 75 hairpin bends, making it suitable for motorcycles or sporty cars. It is rated 5/5 in difficulty. To get there, drive from Bormio or Prato allo Stelvio, both of which lead directly to the pass.
Passo di Rolle – Italy
Passo di Rolle is located in the Dolomites at an elevation of 2,239 meters. It connects the Fiemme and Primiero valleys and stretches for around 30 kilometers. The drive is moderate, with fewer sharp turns than some other passes, and it is rated 3/5 for difficulty. It’s ideal for both cars and motorcycles. The best time to visit is late summer when the weather is clear, and the road is open. To reach the pass, you can drive from either San Martino di Castrozza or Predazzo.
Timmelsjoch Pass – Italy/Austria
Timmelsjoch Pass sits at 2,509 meters and connects Austria and Italy. The road runs for about 37 kilometers, passing through the Ötztal Alps. The road involves continuous climbs and is rated 4/5 in difficulty, making it suitable for cars and motorcycles. The best time to visit is from July to September, as the pass is closed during winter due to snow. You can reach Timmelsjoch from Moos in Passeier or Obergurgl, both of which are common starting points.
Col de Turini – France
Col de Turini is a mountain pass in the French Alps, located at 1,607 meters. It connects the towns of Sospel and Lantosque and is known for its many hairpin turns. The road is famous for being part of the Monte-Carlo Rally route. The road is challenging with its many sharp turns, rated 4/5 for difficulty, and is best suited for cars and motorcycles. It’s best visited in summer or early autumn when the road is clear of snow. To get there, you can take the D2566 from Sospel or the D70 from La Bollène-Vésubie.
|
Pass Name |
Country |
Elevation |
Difficulty |
Best Vehicle |
Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Col de la Bonette |
France |
2,715 m |
3/5 |
Car, Motorcycle |
June–September |
|
Furka Pass |
Switzerland |
2,429 m |
4/5 |
Car, Motorcycle |
July–September |
|
Susten Pass |
Switzerland |
2,224 m |
3/5 |
Car, Campervan |
June–October |
|
Grimsel Pass |
Switzerland |
2,164 m |
3/5 |
Car, Motorcycle |
July–September |
|
Stelvio Pass |
Italy |
2,757 m |
5/5 |
Motorcycle, Car |
June–September |
|
Passo di Rolle |
Italy |
2,239 m |
3/5 |
Car, Motorcycle |
Late Summer |
|
Timmelsjoch Pass |
Italy/Austria |
2,509 m |
4/5 |
Car, Motorcycle |
July–September |
|
Col de Turini |
France |
1,607 m |
4/5 |
Car, Motorcycle |
Summer–Autumn |
Road Trip Planning Tips for Mountain Driving
Before you set off, check the weather and road conditions to avoid surprises like snow or fog. Make sure your car or motorcycle is ready for the trip, especially the brakes, tires, and coolant. If you’re driving a campervan, be mindful of the size on narrow roads. Planning Checklist:
- Check weather and road conditions
- Pack water, snacks, and a first-aid kit
- Start early to avoid traffic
- Take breaks at scenic spots
- Know your limits for difficult roads
- Keep your fuel tank full
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Suggested Multi‑Country Road Trip Routes
Here are a few simple route ideas based on real mountain driving routes across Europe. These link several high passes and follow common road‑trip paths through the Alps.
- Alpine Loop (Italy–Switzerland–Austria)
Start in northern Italy and head north over Stelvio Pass toward Switzerland. From there, continue over Furka Pass and Grimsel Pass across the Swiss Alps.
- France–Switzerland Circuit
Begin in southeastern France and drive across passes like Col de la Bonette into Switzerland. Then continue along Swiss alpine roads to Susten Pass and Grimsel Pass.
- Western Alps Route (France–Italy–France)
Drive inland from the French Riviera through Col de Turini and then cross into Italy for passes like Stelvio Pass and Passo di Rolle in the Dolomites.
FAQ
When is the best time to drive these mountain passes?
The best time to drive is from June to September. During these months, most passes are open, and the weather is usually good. Some passes close earlier in autumn due to snow.
Which passes are the hardest to drive?
Passes like Stelvio Pass (2,757 m) and Col de Turini (1,607 m) are the toughest because of steep climbs, sharp turns, and high elevations. Stelvio Pass is rated 5/5 for difficulty, while Col de Turini and others like Furka Pass (2,429 m) are rated 4/5.
Can I ride a motorcycle on these passes?
Yes, many of these passes are great for motorcycles. Stelvio Pass and Col de Turini are popular among motorcyclists, but make sure your bike is ready for the curves and climbs.
Are there any tolls on these passes?
Some passes, like Timmelsjoch Pass, charge a toll. Others, like Col de la Bonette and Grimsel Pass, are free to drive. It’s always a good idea to check the latest info on tolls before you go.
