5 scenic bus trips in Europe for travelers on a budget

Love a good scenic ride? No matter what you’re into—history, art, food, or just incredible landscapes—these five bus routes will make your next trip one to remember. Affordable, comfortable, and packed with great views, they’re proof that the journey can be just as exciting as the destination.

1 – Zurich to Milan

Duration: 3h 50m
Tickets from: £18

This route is a mix of mountain views and historic charm. Leaving Zurich, you’ll see the Swiss Alps towering in the background and pass through small, picturesque villages. The scenery keeps getting better as you approach Lucerne, a lakeside city with cobblestone streets and medieval buildings.

As the journey continues, you’ll cross into Italy, passing by Lake Como, where the deep blue water and surrounding hills make for an incredible backdrop. Before reaching Milan, the route takes you through Varese, a city known for its historic villas and impressive architecture—worth a stop if you have time.

2 – Marseille to Nice

Duration: 2h 10m
Tickets from: £9

If you love coastal views, this trip along the French Riviera won’t disappoint. After leaving Marseille, the bus winds past a mix of city streets, green parks, and the rolling hills of Provence. As you get closer to Biot, the landscape opens up to reveal the Gorges du Loup, a valley with a winding river and waterfalls—a pretty spectacular sight from the road.

Further along, you’ll pass through Antibes, a seaside town famous for its yachts, sandy beaches, and Fort Carré, a fortress with a star-shaped layout. Once in Nice, you’re just a short walk from great food, museums, and the Mediterranean shoreline.

Nice, France

3 – Barcelona to Perpignan

Duration: 2h 20m
Tickets from: £8

This journey starts in the heart of Barcelona, where you’ll spot some of Gaudí’s most famous buildings before heading north along the coast. Not far from the city, the bus passes colorful seaside villages and historic sites like the monastery of Sant Jeroni de la Murta, a hidden gem with ties to Spanish royalty.

Moving on, the route cuts through Girona, a city known for its medieval streets and vibrant local culture. As you cross into France, Perpignan greets you with sprawling vineyards and the impressive Basilique-Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste—a must-see for architecture lovers.

4 – Munich to Salzburg

Duration: 1h 50m
Tickets from: £8

This short but sweet journey takes you from Germany to Austria, passing through some seriously scenic countryside. Leaving Munich, you’ll see green fields and small Bavarian towns before hitting the foothills of the Alps.

One of the highlights is Chiemsee, a massive lake with stunning mountain views. Further along, Siegsdorf offers a glimpse into the region’s skiing and hiking culture, especially in the winter months. Finally, arriving in Salzburg feels like stepping into a different era, with historic buildings, cozy cafes, and plenty of spots to soak up the city’s musical heritage.

Salzburg, Austria

5 – Oslo to Kristiansand

Duration: 4h 16m
Tickets from: £20

This route takes you through some of Norway’s most beautiful coastal landscapes. The trip starts in Oslo with views of landmarks like Akershus Fortress before heading south along the fjord-lined coast.

Tønsberg, Norway’s oldest town, is one of the most interesting stops along the way, packed with Viking history and waterfront views. Further along, you’ll pass Kragerø, a town known for its colorful wooden houses and island-dotted coastline. By the time you reach Kristiansand, you’ll be ready to explore the city’s sandy beaches, relaxed waterfront, and cozy cafes.

One of the best and most affordable ways to see Europe is from a bus window. Booking your bus tickets has never been easier—find the best routes, compare prices, and book your next adventure with Busbud.

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