If you're planning on driving to Europe for your summer holiday, you're in luck – research has found that British holidaymakers will be paying less at pumps on the continent this year. With France and the rest of Europe just on our doorstep, driving to a holiday destination has always been a popular alternative to the stresses and strains of the airport and now research by Post Office Travel Money has found that Brits driving in Europe will pay up to 10.1% less for fuel than they would have done a year ago.
This is down to the current strength of the pound, which has gone up against the euro as a result of the continuing eurozone crisis.

The majority of people driving to Europe will do so via France or Belgium where fuel prices are amongst the most expensive. But that doesn't seem to have put motorists off, as the research found that only 8% of people are deterred from driving abroad by the cost of fuel.

"Our research shows that UK holidaymakers are not deterred by the high fuel prices they will find when driving in some countries this summer," said Andrew Brown, Post Office Head of Travel Money.

"However, it also revealed that some advance route planning with petrol prices in mind could help them cut costs A good tip is to fill up before leaving the UK if travelling to France or Belgium in a petrol car, divert into Luxembourg if travelling south through eastern France or detour into Andorra en route to Spain."

Driving in Europe can be a wonderful experience, despite high fuel prices across the board. With a car by your side, the whole continent is your oyster. So where should you go for a great European drive?

France is just a short drive and ferry trip away so is probably the best place to start. France is a vast nation with plenty to offer travellers, so it can be hard to know where to begin.

Your best bet is to head south to the Mediterranean. Regions such as Cote d'Azur or the French Riviera, the Languedoc-Roussillon and the Midi-Pyrénées all offer some fantastic drives.

With idyllic countryside, looming hills and mountains and, of course, the picturesque Mediterranean Sea, you'll be hard-pressed to keep your eyes on the road in this area. Luckily, there are plenty of sleepy towns and villages to stay in for a night or two so you can really explore the area.

For a more thrilling driving experience, why not head cross-country to the French Alps? Not only will you be able challenge your car up the long, winding roads but you can head into Switzerland or Italy.

The Post Office's research found both of these countries to be quite hard on the wallet when it comes to fuel but the scenery and views will make it worthwhile.

North Italy offers a wealth of thriving cities alongside grand natural beauty. After travelling through the Alps, a stay on some flat ground might be just what you need.

So why not head to Milan for a bit of pampering? As with any city, driving through Milan can be a bit of a challenge but it'll be worth it once you're sitting in a cafe sipping on some high-quality Italian coffee.

Then, of course, there's the shopping – high-class boutiques and fashion houses mixed in with hidden gems offering something completely unique.

Wherever you decide to drive on the continent, you're sure to see Europe from a different angle than you would when flying. So instead of booking the cheapest available flights, why not go on a road trip adventure this year? I promise you won't regret it.