At the time of making the decision on a grand tour, we had little experience of traveling to Russian cities. We started from Suzdal, then expanded our geography, reached Rostov the Great, Uglich, Yaroslavl. Our pride and peak was Petersburg (with Veliky Novgorod in addition). Probably, it would have gone on like this, we talked about Pskov and the Baltic states, but then chance intervened ...
In general, I somehow sat on the Internet, with enthusiasm I read various reports about traveling to Europe by car, and came across a curious one. The guys, newlyweds, went on their own to Italy, and described everything very vividly, attaching pictures of unthinkable beauty. So they decided everything! I showed them to my husband and the trap slammed shut! The first phrase was "So let's go!" True, Italy had to be swept aside at once, it is for already advanced travelers. And we, like teapots, ventured only to the very edge of Europe - Poland, the Czech Republic and Austria. With a one-day trip to Germany (Dresden).
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From the moment of the first phrase to the day of departure, a long 10 months passed, during which I carefully collected information, reading tons of reviews on various resources. I read the most interesting ones to Vadika, and we had a wonderful time, discussing, laughing, and imagining our future voyage.
And for 10 whole months I remembered school English, taking Vadik as a classmate. He resisted, of course, but as they say - where can you go from the submarine? :)
Finally, in May, for the first time, we independently prepared and submitted documents to the Czech Visa Application Center. And we got visas without any problems. Hooray! From that moment on, I no longer thought about anything, I slept badly and wanted one thing - to go immediately!
Route travel in Europe by car by day
Our euro tour looked like this:
June 19 - Moscow-Brest 1067 km, overnight in Brest.
June 20 - Crossing the border in Domachevo, the way to Krakow 415 km, overnight in Krakow.
June 21 - Krakow - Prague 536 km.
June 22 - Prague.
June 23 - Departure to Karlovy Vary 126 km.
June 24 - Prague.
June 25 - Departure to Germany, Dresden 148 km.
June 26 - Prague.
June 27 - Transfer Prague - Cesky Krumlov 175 km.
June 28 - Cesky Krumlov.
June 29 - Departure to Salzburg, passing by 3 Austrian lakes, returning to Krumlov, about 400 km in a day.
June 30 - Transfer Cesky Krumlov - Vienna 208 km.
July 1 - Vienna
July 2 - Vienna - Krakow 468 km, overnight in Krakow.
July 3 - Krakow - Slovatyche 415 km, crossing the border to Domachevo. Overnight in Brest.
July 4 - Brest - Moscow 1067 km.
Map. Cities where they lived and visited:
Hotels
Hotels were booked through Booking (except for the Belarusian one). To advise not to advise our hotels is difficult to say. Everyone has their own preferences and requirements for housing. But I will write the names and opinions in a nutshell.
IN Brest the choice is not great, so we settled on what seemed the most acceptable. Hotel "Energy", 2-room Twin 3.450 rub. Pricey, but overall we liked it. Own large guarded parking lot, walking distance to the local Arbat, where there are many cafes and places for recreation.
IN Krakow spent the night in the Kubik-Studio apartment. This is a private apartment on the ground floor of an old building with high ceilings. So high that the bed is bunk, you have to climb the stairs, and then watch out so as not to get bumps, banging your head on the ceiling. Price per night 3.347 р. The center is very close, parking is near the house. Generally normal, but no enthusiasm.
And here is the Happy Prague Apartments in Prague we were pleased. House of the XIV century, but everything is comfortable inside. The location is excellent - it is 5 minutes to the Charles Bridge. The owner is sociable, speaks a little Russian, and pours out compliments (even though he's an Italian). The car was parked in the patio, paid for 6 nights 31.199 rubles.
Hotel Garni Villa Beatika in Cesky Krumlov pleasantly surprised. This is a 3-storey small villa, where each room is personalized and decorated in the style of its owner - a world star. We got No. 9 John Lennon, and our neighbor turned out to be Freddie Mercury. But most of all I was struck by the view from the balcony. He's just incredible! In general, we were very lucky, and when we left, they said that their hotel is worthy of a solid top 10. Paid for 3 nights 10.746 rubles.
Well, and the hotel climax - the Hotel Am Parkring in Vienna... Vadik chose him, setting himself the task of finding something special, and he succeeded! The hotel is the only one with a view of St. Stefan, and when you stand on the balcony, the panorama of the city is breathtaking, he is literally at your feet! And since beauty is rarely cheap, we had to fork out for a suite and pay 27.617 rubles for 2 nights. But to be honest - it was worth it!
Roads
They are everywhere from good to very good, bad ones have not been met. But it is better to observe the speed limit, and we tried as best we could. So far, no notifications have come (ugh, ugh, ugh). Traveling around Poland is the most tedious. Settlements walk one after another, and until you get to the high-speed highway, you will wear out a small tangle of nerves ... During the entire trip, no one stopped us, they did not meet ambushes, even in Belarus ...
Toll roads there are in Poland, they are arranged like ours - you drive up from the barrier, pay, go on. And in the Czech Republic and Austria you need to buy a vignette, preferably no later than the first refueling after crossing the border. They exist for a different number of days, and are glued in different angles windshield.
Many copies on the Internet break down about whether international rights are needed or not. After deliberation, we came to the conclusion that it would be better to have them. The fact is that if you drive according to the rules and do not have problems, national rights are enough. But if, God forbid, there is a traffic problem, you will definitely need international rights. We must bear this in mind!
Enjoyed navigator Sygic... He worked without interruptions, brought him to the exact place, so we had no reason to scold him for his stupidity. For hiking routes, they always took a tablet with Maps.me maps. Before the trip, they downloaded the maps of the necessary countries and wandered around the cities without fear. True, through their own fault they went to the wrong place several times, but quickly returned ...
They paid for purchases with cards and cash. In Moscow, they changed a little of each of the currencies ahead of time, and did not regret it. When you are still poorly guided in the city, there is an opportunity to pay for parking, buy water, pay for a toilet, etc. without delay.
Well, now the trip itself.
Daily travel program in Europe by car
We left Moscow at 7 am, and briskly, on the rise, in 12 hours we drove 1067 kilometers. On the way, we rested and had a snack at gas stations. Accordingly, at 7 pm we were in Brest, and managed to have dinner and see their main street.
In the morning, ready for battle, they rushed to the border, in Domachevo (this is 40 kilometers from Brest). Both Belarusians and Poles passed in 1.5 hours, which is considered very good. And the happy ones drove around the European Union! Even the slow movement did not irritate at first, it was possible to examine the life of Polish towns in detail. Then the track began, and we drove to Krakow. It took 7 hours to get there.
Krakow we really liked it, after all, the former capital! The main attractions are the Market Square, St. Mary's Church, Mateyki Square, Barbican, Florian Tower, Town Hall tower (where you can climb) and, of course, Wawel Castle. Inside there is the Cathedral, the monuments of Kosciuszko and Pope John - Paul II.
View of St. Mary's Church
In St. Mary's Church, we found a wedding.
Florian Tower
Next morning - moving to Prague... Kilometers had to go more, but because villages were gone, we drove in 6.5 hours. And then they began to explore the city. It is, of course, unique! The main attractions are Old Town Square, Wenceslas Square, Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Temple of Loretta, Hradcany, etc.
An incredible aesthetic pleasure to look around, every house can be filmed! And we walked, walked, walked. We climbed all the towers, the Town Hall, the Cathedral of St. Vitus, to the Panavas pavilion, from where you can see the bridges of Prague. We tried the national cuisine - soup in bread, boar knee. We listened to an organ concert in the church, rode a boat, fed the swans. In general, we were in a childish, enthusiastic and joyful state!
Stained glass in St. Vitus Cathedral
Night Prague Castle
The weather was just cool, and it rained at times. But we remembered the slogan of tourists and did not abandon our plans. We left for a day, first to Karlovy Vary, and then to Dresden.
Karlovy Vary we were conquered! A city similar to Prague, beautiful, unique, with a huge history. We walked again, could not walk up. They bought fruit at the market, and then devoured them with a huge appetite. There are a lot of Russians, they speak from everywhere, they are treated there, they walk with cups in their hands. The main attractions are the colonnades - Market, Melnichnaya, Sadovaya. Temple of Mary Magdalene, Thermal outdoor pool with constant temperature 30 gr, Dvorak gardens and, of course, Becherovka (museum and shop).
Dresden after such beauties, he seemed restrained, his aesthetics are completely different. But we didn’t regret going there. Moreover, the journey took a little more than 2 hours. We saw the Center - Altstadt, Theater Square, the opera house, the Frauenkirche church, the castle of the residence, the Zwinger - the palace complex. True, they did not go to the art gallery, and they did not see the Sistine Madonna. Nothing, next time.
Frauenkirche
After Prague there was a move to Krumlov, into another Czech pearl. The town is definitely a box. Attractions - Castle, Cloak Bridge, Central Square, Town Hall, Plague Column, etc. Again, climbing all the peaks and stunning views!
From Krumlov we went to Salzburg... My special dream! Because of Mozart, of course. I could not take my eyes off the house where he was born, and where his family lived for 27 years. I wanted to remember, take in! And from another house where the family moved, and Wolfgang lived there for 7 years. In general, everything in the city is connected with him - the Cathedral, where he was baptized, the Old Residence of the princes, where 6-year-old Mozart played in the Hall of Soviets. So we went, and I constantly asked Vadik, “And this was seen by Mozart, what do you think, and this? He probably went here, but here? " :)
Even in Salzburg, you can climb Mount Festunberg, visit the Hohensalzburg fortress. Which is what we did. Moreover, the rise began young and briskly, and ended barely trudging, remembering all their diagnoses. We went down already on the funicular ... You can see the very beautiful park "Mirabell", the territory of the abbey of St. Petra, walk along the main street of Getreidegasse. And that's not all.
Salzach river
From Salzburg to Krumlov they decided to go through the lakes. It turned out to be a small detour, but not to see such beauty was just a crime! When we drove, it was already evening, we were in a hurry, we were afraid that the sun would set and the views would not be so good. But we made it! The views were stunning, they still stand in the eyes!
The first lake is Fuschlsee, the second is Wolfgangsee, and the third is Traunsee. On the last one there is a small town Gmunden with its castle Orth. Schubert lived in Gmunden, who wrote "Ave Maria" looking at this very castle. We could not resist, we sang a masterpiece with an expression (fortunately, no one was around), and Vadik said that he would also write "Ave Maria" if he lived here! :)
Well, and the last point of the program - Vein... Chic, imperial, white. We loved her, although not everyone likes her. There is a huge list of must-see attractions. Belvedere Palace and Park, Hofburg Imperial Palace, Opera House, Parliament, St. Stephen's Church, Karlskirche Church, the whole museum quarter and much more. We had only two days in the city, so we didn't try to embrace the immensity, but we still saw a lot. The rest is next time.
After Vienna, the road went back to Poland. It took about 7 hours to get to Krakow, but we were already familiar. And with music and constant conversations, time flies by. Krakow greeted us with warmth and sunshine, which could not but rejoice. We finally reached Wawel, climbed our 9th summit, and satisfied, we completed the European program - at least.
What is the bottom line. It was just amazingly good everywhere! No negativity around, only goodwill and positive. Many tourists, yes. But we chose popular places, we had to reckon with this ...
And then we drove through Poland, crossed the border to Domachevo. Moved in 1 hour. Because they did not have tax-free checks, and stood in the green corridor. In red it would have to stand for 3 hours, if not more. In the evening in Brest we managed to get to. I was there during my school years and really wanted to visit again. Thanks to Vadik, he was already chopping up from fatigue, but he supported me, and we stamped our feet for another 10 kilometers.
In the morning there was a way home. The very last kilometers were not easy, but, as you know, everything ends. And as my mother said when I called her with the words "We are at home!" - "Thank God!".
We covered 5,300 km in total in 16 days.
Concluding my long story, I want to say that this trip was wonderful! She keeps us emotionally up to now. We were happy all these days without interruption, our eyes absorbed so much beauty, and our souls so much joy that we want to share them with everyone! Vadik at work stirred up the people with his stories, and now everyone, too, urgently got together in travel by car to Europe! Isn't that a reward !?
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Foreword
Every September I go away for a month to rest. Earlier machines was not, and had to travel with someone for the company. This year a Volvo V70 (2005) was purchased, and an interesting task turned up for me - to take a friend from Russia to sunny Andalusia (Andalucia, Spain). Another friend had a vacation, he wanted to go somewhere to the sea, since in our area the summer passed by. So I decided to take a chance and test the car in action.
Preparing for a road trip around Europe
To build the route and navigation in general, we used several services:
- site - to get general information, calculating distance and fuel.
- Via Michelin and its Android app - the best option for trips around Europe.
- Google Maps.
- Waze.
As a result, Waze was used more often - it was always turned on on the navigator's smartphone to track high-speed radars and police that met along the way. We also used Google maps to search for passing gas stations, parking lots, eateries and reviews to them.
Via Michelin helped with cost planning. On the website, we entered the vehicle data (model, engine type, fuel, mileage) and chose one of the proposed routes from Tallinn to Malaga. According to the calculation of the service, we were waiting for 47 hours behind the wheel and a route more than 4000 km long (). Expected costs for toll roads and diesel fuel amounted to 527 euros (about 36,000 rubles). The option "to go on the free road" was not considered, because I wanted to reach the end point as quickly as possible, which would ultimately save time (vacation after all) and money on lodging and food.
Since we did not have time to carefully prepare for the trip (spontaneity is our credo), we created a general chat in one of the messengers, to which we sent a detailed list of what needs to be done and taken on the trip. It contained the necessary maps, a canister of water, and much more.
As a result, the channel was thrown off helpful information (necessary phone numbers, addresses) and even advice from comrades. Since the connection to the Internet is not always stable on the road, this channel has become an essential support on the way. It is convenient when all interested parties have access to information at the same time.
Tallinn - Suwalki
The first day.
On the morning of the first day, we had free time before lunch, as one of the fellow travelers was finishing his last working day before the vacation. The sun was shining, it was warm and we went for a walk through the old town.
Of course, we could not help but climb the Kohtuotsa observation deck, which offers an excellent view of the old city and the spire of the Church of St. Olaf. Once it was the tallest building in the world, but now only in the center of Tallinn.
The streets of the old town
We had time to walk around the old city when our friend joined us and we hit the road.
We usually refuel at the Olerex or Statoil gas station, which this year became Circle K. On the way, we filled full tank on Olerex, it cost about 80 euros (about 5,500 rubles). average price for diesel in Estonia is 1.16 euros / liter.
Before Riga, we drove to the bay in the Salacgriva area to warm up and breathe in the sea air - in front long road to the warm Mediterranean waves.
The roads in Latvia do not differ much from those in Estonia, but in places, for example, in front of Riga, many drivers moved almost along the side of the road.
Roads and shoulders of Latvia
The first night was waiting for us in Poland at the border, in a small hotel, which we booked over the phone. Hotel Jasionowy Gai was recommended by friends.
We planned to spend the night there and, without waiting for breakfast, leave, so in Lithuania we stopped at the Rimi supermarket for food. We had a 12V travel fridge in the car, but there is a very good ready-to-eat section in Rimi.
At night we reached the town of Suwalki. At the hotel we were met by the owner Andrzej and his three adorable dogs. The room for 35 euros was very cozy: a separate entrance from the yard, a heater, a kitchen, 4 beds, a shower room. In the shower room, individual shower kits were prepared for the guests.
When we woke up in the morning, we found that the kitchen would be fine for a longer stop. There was a kettle, refrigerator, stove, cutlery, pots, frying pan, cups, tea and coffee sets, salt, sugar and even a toaster. This place left a pleasant impression.
Rested and satisfied, we set off on a further journey.
In the city we stopped at the post office and bought a local SIM card for mobile Internet (no documents required). We chose a starter package from one of the local operators for 5 zlotys (about 80 rubles) - 5 GB of mobile Internet.
Results of the day in money:
- Fuel: 80 euros (5500 rubles) for 70 liters.
Suwalki - Berlin - Kassel
Second day.
Polish roads
Earlier, about 5 years ago, the road from Lithuania to Warsaw was terrible. It is not the first year that renovation workand there is hope for the best. Today this section is a road with one lane on each side without shoulders.
Starting from Warsaw, the roads are spacious and with good coverage, you can drive safely, but even on good roads accidents happen.
After Warsaw, through Lodz and Poznan, we headed for Berlin - according to past experience, it was in this direction that there were excellent roads.
Here we would like to squeeze the gas, but the trouble is, something happened to the car - a vibration appeared, which increased at certain speeds. It was scary to drive fast, it was even more terrible to drive slowly, as there was a strong hum and the whole car was almost shaking. There were thoughts of driving into a collapse, but car services as evil did not meet us along the way.
It was already getting dark, we did not have time to find a working service, but we believed in the best, because "we only checked everything with our mechanics yesterday." Well, they called the mechanics and described the problem. They said that everything should be all right. Well, it was not, let's go to Berlin!
We googled the options for accommodation in Berlin (thanks to the Polish SIM card) and found a place in the city center that was called "Easy Lodges" or Scube Park Columbia ("Scuba Park Columbia"). It was almost the only place available for booking for 54 euros that night, and even in the city center.
Before the border with Germany, we wanted to refuel, but we were very surprised at the price tag for diesel - the cost of fuel was almost 1.30 euros / liter. We googled the prices of diesel in Europe and realized that the last Polish gas station before the border just brazenly used its position, since the average check per liter of diesel in Poland is 1 euro. We should have had enough fuel to get to Berlin, so we passed the last Polish gas station.
By the way, about the cents. In Poland, we were often given prices in kroons or zlotys. One of us had a Russian Sberbank card, he paid with it, but chose to pay in dollars, because the MasterCard card. Later we learned that it would be more profitable to choose the payment in kroons.
When we got to Easy Lodges, we were in for an unpleasant surprise. We found ourselves in an open area, like a park with wooden boxes in the form of cubes, all of which are blank, except for a glass facade with a door. Through the glass we could see the decoration of some of the rooms. Basically, these are 2 or 3 beds in two tiers, a table, a curtain and a floor lamp. And that's all. Since we arrived in the dark, the photos could not convey all the local flavor - the area was not lit. But photos of these lodges can be found on the Internet, we then saw them when we left our dissatisfied review. Toilet, shower? It was all somewhere at the entrance to the territory, not far from the reception, where none of the employees was there, but there was a note with wishes for a pleasant stay and a list of the names of those who were expected during the "late check-in" period. Our surname was there too, but opposite was the number of the loggia.
Late check-in from Easy Lodges
We found our last name and went to look for the number. It should be noted that we could not have found it without a flashlight. When we found him, we were even more upset - there were no keys, the room was closed, it seems that they forgot about us. For the sake of curiosity, we looked into the rooms from the list - everyone had keys on the bed or table. No one answered the phone anymore, and the reception was crowded with newcomers, puzzled tourists. What to do? A few minutes to think and decide: we go further and look for an overnight stay.
Hotels in Berlin were ready to open their doors for at least 115 euros per night, not counting the cost of parking. We were offered parking in the parking lot of one of the hotel for 25 euros per night. After circling the city a little more, we stopped at a gas station, filled up the tank and drove forward along our route to Spain.
Results of the day in money:
- Fuel: $ 77 (4110 rubles) for 56 liters.
- Toll roads (Polish): 47.90 zlotys (762 rubles).
Berlin - Lyon - Lloret de Mar
Third day.
Germany, somewhere beyond Kassel
After refueling in Berlin, Germany, we made a couple more stops at gas stations in the Kassel, Hessen and Baden-Württemberg regions. It rained all the way, the car rumbled, this discouraged the desire to stop somewhere else. But even in cloudy weather, forests and mountains beckoned to us, which means that we will definitely return to take a walk in Wilhelmshöhe Park and the Schwarzwald forests.
In general, the impressions of the road in Germany are positive. The night road was tiring: work was underway on the highway, the entire right lane was occupied by endless rows of trucks that traveled at a speed of no more than 80 km / h. It rained all night, so we drove almost by touch at the speed of trucks.
At around 11 am we stopped to have a snack and warm up. We ended up at a Tank & Rast gas station in the Freiburg area.
German gas stations differ from the rest in that it is customary to pay 70 cents for a trip to the toilet. And it doesn't matter if you filled up the fuel or not. Everyone is obliged to pay, except for children and the disabled.
Toilets for 70 cents
There are turnstiles at the entrance to the toilet. You can pay by cash or card. Free access is provided for children and disabled people. Those who have paid for the passage are issued a voucher for a discount of 50 cents, which can be used right there at the gas station.
By the way, one bratwurst (fried sausage) with potatoes costs 6.99 euros (a little less than 500 rubles at the current exchange rate). The cost diesel fuel: 1.229 euro / l.
Magnets for 10 euros
Free toilets can be found in designated recreational areas, which are quite common along the road. You can stop at them and take a nap.
Road to France
The crossing of borders between countries in the European Union is imperceptible: you drive along the highway at 120 km / h (or faster), and only the signs let you understand that you are no longer in Germany, but in France. We drove almost non-stop through Burgundy and the Rhone, closer to the south. The landscape has changed markedly, dense forests have replaced fields and castles, endless rains have given way to the sun.
French fields
After the rain
Route A9
Closer south
France near Nimes
In the Aire d "ambrussum area, we stopped to refuel and refresh. BP gas stations were the most" voracious ", the cost of diesel fuel was 1.389 euros / liter.
Chocolates at 1.35 euros per piece
By 2 o'clock in the morning we got to Lloret de Mar. We got there, as the car urgently required a visit to the service.
We have already been to Loret de Mar, so we booked in advance the Royal In hotel, which was familiar from the first visits to Spain. Its staff are very friendly and speak Russian. The hotel is located in the city center, next to the beach. Adequate price of 50 euros per night in a clean and comfortable room consisting of two separate rooms - what else do you need to be happy? Previously, however, we could make a pre-reservation by phone, this year we were urged to make a reservation via the Internet.
So, we parked in the city parking near Hollywood disco and went to the hotel.
Results of the day in money:
- Fuel: 177 euros (12,000 rubles) for 140 liters.
- Toll roads (563 km in France): 62 euros (4,215 rubles).
Fourth day.
In the morning at the reception, the first thing we did was find out the address and contacts of the car service. It was within walking distance of the parking lot at the intersection of Vila de Blanes and Avenida del Rieral. The local mechanic made it clear that he would have to wait at least a week. We drooped - no one expected such a turn of events.
Not knowing what to do, we went to the local supermarket chain - Mercadona - to buy local freshly squeezed orange juice. In each "Mercadona" in the fruit section there is a juicing machine. You take from the machine plastic bottle, place it on a stand next to which there is a lever, hold it down, and the device squeezes out the juice. There is something fascinating in this process.
Charged with vitamin C, we went to the Garnier coffee shop, where we took a coffee and a sandwich and began to think about a plan to save us and Volvo. Suddenly they remembered that there was another car service next to the parking lot. We went to him.
So, Saturday, half an hour before the siesta, we are in the Euromaster service.
Euromaster service
The car was quickly examined and was reassured that the replacement of the CV joint would take an hour. The only difficulty is to find the same CV joint that suits us by the end of the day.
An autopsy revealed
Oil splashed from a burst anther
We agreed to meet with the masters after the siesta.
After the siesta, the situation did not change - no one works during the siesta, so there was too little time left until the end of the working day. We had to find this CV joint, otherwise we risked getting stuck in Lloret until Monday or Tuesday. We stayed in the service and actively began to take part in the search: we asked the guys from the workshop to show us a picture of the part and, by the VIN number, give an exact description of what to find.
Luckily, we found a Russian-speaking mechanic in the service who helped us with an explanation. We began to call all our friends who are associated with car services and lived in Catalonia. Finally the good news came, the CV joint was found, it will be brought to the workshop in the morning, so we can leave Lloret before lunchtime. So that you understand, Sunday is sacred for the Spaniards! It is very rare for someone to work on Sunday, as a rule, locals go somewhere in nature or just relax with their families at home. So we are incredibly lucky.
But the hotel was not lucky. We did not have time to book "Royal In", we had to look for an alternative. With the help of Booking.com, focusing on reviews and a budget of 50-60 euros per night, we found the AR Niu Dor Aparthotel. At the reception we were met by two girls: one is Spanish, the other is Russian (we came across Russian speakers in Loreta in every institution). They asked for a deposit of 120 euros and 2 euros per person for a set of linen and towels. They gave us a paper for signature, in which we were obliged not to break furniture, not to leave cigarette butts (although we asked for a non-smoking room), not to shout after 23 hours, take out the trash after ourselves, and so on.
In response to such hospitality, we asked to check our room, for which we were asked to leave a deposit and sign a paper. The hotel employee, smiling awkwardly, showed us a more than modest room, the furniture in which was a little loose. How the sofa was laid out, she did not know.
Exploring the sofa
In general, we are not fussy, and we just wanted to spend the night, but the atmosphere of the hotel was depressing. Be that as it may, until the next morning we were on our own. So they left our shelter and went to admire the views of Lloret.
Playing ball in the streets
Lloret Center
Plants paint the city walls
Streets of Lloret
Balconies of Catalonia
The sea felt like 20 degrees, not more. We got hungry and went to the pizzeria.
Here they cook Italian pizza in the oven
We returned from a walk at 22 o'clock to sleep. But the hotel turned out to be a refuge for young people who were in a hurry to get the maximum experience from alcohol. Under our windows in the neighboring rooms above and below, music played all night. By 8 am this noise was replaced by the hum of mopeds and cars under the windows. We had to leave the room by 10 am.
This place did not match the Booking ratings in any way. In parting, our comments and feedback received a response from a Spanish employee: "This is not a hotel, but an apartment." Well, let's not get stuck, let's move on.
Hola, Andalusia!
Fifth day.
We went to Mercadona for juice and sat down in a cafe next to the service, waiting for the car. Already at 11:30 we thanked the local mechanics for the repairs and continued on our way south - we were separated from the target by the last 800 km, and the machine pleased us with the absence of vibration and grinding.
Before Valencia, we turned to the beach near Mercadona, traditionally took an orange juice, which was noticeably sweeter than in Lloret. We had a snack on the shore, swam in the sea, the water was very pleasant, 24 degrees, the beaches are clean and there are few people.
Refreshed, we rushed along the Spanish highway to the finish line. The roads in Spain are excellent (I mean highways), you have to pay for the absence of traffic lights, several lanes and an average speed of 180-220 km / h.
Road south
There was the last toll road in front of Malaga, but we got a promotion and after midnight it was free - a wonderful bonus for late arrival.
Results of the day in money:
- Fuel: 120 euros (8,150 rubles) for 100 liters.
- Toll roads: 41 euros (2800 rubles).
Conclusion
The road to the south, apart from a long stop in Lloret, would have taken us 4 days. For an autumn outing, such a marathon is justified - in the south the weather is more pleasant, and we will definitely visit central Europe in the spring, and this will be a more planned trip.
This time the road, taking into account the repair of the car, cost us about 1000 euros. After talking with local mechanics, we learned that Volvo or Honda are not very popular in Spain, so parts for them are difficult to find, and they can cost a tidy sum (we were forced to pay 415 euros to replace the CV joint).
If we forget about the losses, then we definitely did not regret that we came to the Costa del Sol. In September, the sun warms pleasantly without scalding, the water is pleasant, there are few people. You can spend time "seals" on the beach or explore the area. If you find yourself on such a long road trip, plan for more long term, at least for a month.
View of the port of Malaga from the Alcazaba fortress
The mountains
Fuengirola Castle from the beach and barbecue boat
On weekends, locals come to the beach and cook grilled sausages, fish, meat, drink beer, sangria, have fun, chat, listen to music, some sing and dance - in general, they have a rest.
Local beaches are free and equipped with showers and toilets. For money, only trestle beds and umbrellas - in the region of 6-7 euros for the whole day.
Mijas
Marbella, Salvador Dali alley
Seville
Tariff
AND
Streets of Spain
Time to say good-bye...
Until next time!
If you come to Warsaw by your own car and want to explore the city, then it is best to do this on foot or with the help public transport... In Warsaw on weekdays, the number of traffic jams is not inferior to Moscow. At the same time, it is advisable to leave the car in one of the many parking lots or parking lots. How to use parking lots in Warsaw?
An international driver's license (IDL) is not an independent document and it is not legal to drive a car with only an IDL. It is important! At its core, it is only a translation of our Russian (national) driving licensewhich is paired with it.
On the streets of Paris, you can increasingly see parking lots where cars are wired to a small rack on the sidewalk. These are electric vehicles. At present, the number of this transport of the future is growing every year, and not only in Paris, but throughout France. Despite the fact that the travel time on such an electric car is only two hours, this is quite enough to get to the place of work through traffic jams in Paris.
Crossing the Russian-Finnish border. Where it is easier and more convenient for you, there you cross. You can cross the Russian-Finnish border in your car in several places. Where and how to cross the Russian-Finnish border in your car, we read further in this article.
You are about to visit Finland by car. As in any country, you can be fined for violating traffic rules. Of course, you should strive to travel by car in Finland without traffic violations... However, unfortunately, there are situations in which it is impossible to foresee everything. And if it suddenly happens that you broke the rules, then know what you will get for it.
Of course, you can travel in a huge variety different ways: to the services of tourists and planes, and trains, and a lot of other types of regular transport. Many, however, choose to travel by car in Europe. Sometimes as a way to get to the destination of the trip, sometimes - as a transport already in place.
This approach has many advantages, although it also contains a number of difficulties. Before you set off, or make a decision, you should pay attention to a number of important issues - otherwise the trip may be spoiled in order, or even break down altogether.
In this article, we will talk in detail about traveling by car in Europe, about the key points worth paying attention to. Let's consider a lot of "pitfalls" and give useful tips.
So let's get started! The first part of the article will be devoted to the preparation stage, and the very beginning of the journey. About what awaits you already in the process - in the second part.
Depending on the first question you have to decide, the preparation process will change a lot. The only thing that you need to make sure in any case is that you have it. The usual ones used on the territory of Russia are formally insufficient.
"Formally" - because often the police in Europe do not know anything about this, and do not pay any attention to the lack of an international driver's license. However, it is better not to risk it and get a special document for driving abroad. This is not difficult.
Personal or rented car?
This is, perhaps, the first essential question that will inevitably arise before you. If you live in the European part of Russia, then Europe is close enough for you to have something to think about seriously here.
One side, private car, familiar and perfectly familiar to you is a plus. However, you will have to take care beforehand that technical condition vehicle meets the requirements of the country you intend to enter and all other conditions have also been met. But we will talk about this in more detail a little later.
FROM rented car everything is simpler: by renting it on the spot, you save yourself from the worries mentioned above. In addition, it is not necessary to return it to the starting point - you can easily make an autotravel one way, and return by another transport. It's comfortable.
And now - in more detail about the very nuances of preparing and starting a trip, in the case of a personal and rented car.
Traveling by private car: preparation and start
First of all, you must make sure that your car is technically suitable for traveling in Europe... And it's not about whether the car is working properly: when entering Europe, depending on the specific country through which this happens, there are different requirements.
We will not list them exactly for the reason that the requirements may change, and the options for entering Europe are very different. But let's note the main areas to which you should pay attention.
- First, if you have old car - make sure that it does not violate the accepted environmental standards... However, you are hardly going on a long journey for such old car, so it will not focus on this.
- Secondly, rubber, and this is important. For example, in Finland (one of the most popular countries for road trips among Russians), strict requirements apply: from a certain date, you must have a winter or summer tires, and no other. Otherwise, you will simply not be allowed across the border. Spiked tires, which are harmful to the road surface, can also become an obstacle.
- Thirdly, toning. Check the rules regarding it in the countries you are going to visit in advance: it can also become an insurmountable obstacle to crossing the border.
We have dealt with the technical issues, now let's move on to the "paper" formalities. There are two main points here: customs and insurance... Both will not directly relate to the "automobile" component of the trip, if you rent a car already "on the other side", so we will discuss it now.
Insurance and customs clearance
It is difficult to forget about the need to purchase a “green card”, a compulsory insurance for a car traveler: it is persistently offered on the way to the border, and the closer the “cordon”, the more insurance points with bright signs.
But it is better to buy insurance not at the last moment, but in advance: naturally, the closer to the border, the more expensive it will cost you. AND it is impossible to enter Europe without a “green card”... You can also purchase from an insurance company, Russian or foreign,; protect yourself from harm in accident case, theft, and so on.
customs inspection at road checkpoints it is not very common, because they are usually too busy: usually everything is limited only to checking documents.
However, just in case, still make sure that you do not violate the rules of import or export of anything by studying the current information on the websites of the customs authorities of Russia and the countries of destination.
Note:
Requirements on different sides of the border may vary, and significantly! Therefore, it is necessary to read the information from both sources, and nothing else.
First of all, pay attention to the norms of transportation of alcohol, tobacco, and also fuel (you probably have a canister with you when you go on a long journey?).
Car rental in Europe
By renting a car on the spot, you save yourself from all the issues of crossing the border: the car is already here, it is registered in Europe, and meets all local requirements. There are two main questions: the requirements for the driver himself, and how best to rent a car in general.
To rent a car in Europe, you do not need anything other than an international driving license and a Visa or Mastercard (yes, cash is not very popular in Europe). Insurance, with all the options at your request, will be issued right in the process. But keep in mind that the younger your age and driving experience - the more expensive the rent will be.
Be sure to pay attention to which countries you can enter with a rented car, according to the contract! There may be restrictions here, especially in the Balkans.
Obey the rules strictly!
It is no secret that in the post-Soviet space, the severity of laws is compensated by the non-binding nature of their implementation - and this also applies to traffic rules. Of course, in developing countries the problem is not too acute either, but remember: non-observance of traffic rules is the best way to ruin your car trip in Europe!
Many violations "familiar" to a Russian motorist will very unpleasantly surprise you with substantial amounts of fines for their commission. And you need to pay them, otherwise in the future you will have big problems with a visa. But more on that later, for now - another question.
What are Russians most often fined for in Europe? There are three main types of violations: speeding, parking violations, and non-payment of toll roads. If everything is clear with the speed limit - just look at the signs (the only caveat is that on the autobahn sometimes a lower speed limit can also be set), then two other questions require separate consideration.
Parking in Europe
Parking in European cities is not easy. Firstly, it is practically never free: just leaving the car on the street will cost a few euros per hour. Or a few hundred euros if you decide not to pay and you will receive a fine. The exceptions are weekends, as well as at night - but this must, of course, be clarified in advance.
Helpful information:
You can prepare for your trip in advance and find parking lots in 52 countries of the world on this website. The Parkopedia website is by far the largest resource with a selection of parking lots. Please note that this site also has mobile apps!
Secondly, very often parking is generally prohibited in the city center (this most often applies to small old towns). And absolutely always in the center it is much more expensive, so it may make sense for a car traveler to settle in and leave the car closer to the outskirts.
How to proceed?
The easiest way is not to park the car on the street at all, but to use only underground parking lots, where it is extremely easy to understand the payment rules. On the streets, pay attention to the explanatory signs, but be prepared: payments are not always automated. You may not find a parking meter, as in Moscow. It may be necessary to buy coupons or cards in advance - and in Finland, for example, a special “parking clock” is needed to measure a short period of free parking. Also in this country in winter, the rules are greatly complicated due to the removal of snow.
So, treat the issue carefully, or use only large parking lots, where the staff is always ready to help, and it is impossible to do anything wrong. Let it cost a little more.
European toll roads
Traveling by car in Europe is very comfortable, which is achieved precisely due to the wide network of toll roads that permeate the entire continent - you can go very quickly, and completely without thinking about anything, like a capsule in a pneumatic tube.
But you still need to think about something: about payment. Please note that it is almost impossible not to collide with toll roads in Europe: at least, you will definitely encounter toll sections when moving from city to city.
Unfortunately, not always entry to toll road looks like a barrier with a cashier or a machine gun - in this case, everything is quite clear. The central part of Europe (Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Czech Republic) especially suffers from unexpectedly starting toll highways and sections of highways. Therefore, a tip: study your route carefully in advance.
It's not that hard: the same google Maps system, not to mention the more advanced navigators, warns you about paid plots and highways. Payment, alas, is not always made simply upon entry: sometimes it needs to be done in advance by purchasing something like a subscription. Sometimes the payment depends on the mileage.
In short, each country and region has its own nuances that need to be studied. All the necessary information is available both on the Internet and in navigation programs.
Penalties
They can be calculated in four-digit amounts in euros, and even three-digit ones are generally in the order of things. Given the current exchange rate of the European currency, this is a strong motivator not to break the rules. Europe is friendly to people who are attentive, orderly and law-abiding.
We answer the frequently asked question: yes, you must pay... Otherwise, you simply risk not getting a Schengen visa anymore. It is best to do this right on the spot, through a local bank - often in European countries, the size of the fine is lower if it was paid very quickly. Keep this in mind.
But this is not always possible, especially since the fine can come to you by mail in the form of a "letter of happiness", or wait for you at the Schengen border. This happens if the violation is recorded by the camera. But it's not a problem.
Fines can be paid through Russian banks (with a commission), and by credit card on special state websites of some countries (here you will not be charged a commission). We advise you to contact the local police by phone or e-mail: firstly, to clarify the situation (why they did not pay immediately), and secondly, to clarify the possibilities of remote payment.
Inquire about local nuances
It is not always possible to give universal advice, because every country in Europe is unique, and in each some local subtleties are possible.
Take for example car refueling question... Are you sure you know the name the right fuel in the country you plan to visit by car? Unfamiliar languages \u200b\u200bcan be very cunning in this aspect. For example, in Italy and Spain, the words gasolio and gasoleo do not mean at all gasoline, as it is logical to assume (from the English gasoline), but one of the types of diesel fuel. You should be guided by the word petrol or the exact form gasoline. We suppose you don't need to explain the consequences of the error?
Finally: be careful. There are many quiet corners in Europe, but many and no less criminal than our hometowns. Theft or theft from a car can be encountered not only in Eastern Europe, but also in almost any country in its western part. So don't relax too much, especially in major tourist centers and (sorry if this sounds a little intolerant) places where many non-indigenous Europeans live. They are, unfortunately, notorious for being in trouble.
Traveling by car in Europe is sure to work!
In conclusion, we will repeat the thesis again: do not think that all this is complicated. Traveling around Europe by car is actually very easy and comfortable! We only share our experience with you and point out the "pitfalls" so that readers do not have to learn something from their own mistakes.
