Dreaming of sun-drenched roads, breathtaking coastal views, and picturesque villages? Europe offers some of the most incredible motorcycle touring experiences in the world. But before you hit the road, it helps to get a handle on the European motorcycle rules.

This blog will help you navigate the specific regulations for the top three British holiday destinations: Spain, France, and Italy. From European licensing requirements and helmet laws to essential gear and local traffic nuances, we’ve got you covered. We’ll equip you with the knowledge needed for keeping to the right side of traffic rules on your epic European motorcycle adventure. We’ve also thrown in details for some of the best riding routes these destinations offer for good measure.

So, whether you’re a seasoned rider or planning your first motorcycle trip across the channel, jump on. We’ve got miles to cover so you’re ready to explore foreign roads with confidence. Let’s roll!

Understanding the basics: European motorcycle rules

While each country has their own motorcycle traffic regulations, a few rules are the same. Regardless of where you tour in Europe, some insurance companies require an International Driving Licence (IDP). There are different types of IDP, so check which type to get for your destination. These generally last for 12 months, no matter what type they are.

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of each of the top threee holiday destinations, here’s the basics for European motorcycle rules:

• Nearly all European countries are right-hand drive. The only exceptions are us (the UK), Cyprus, Malta, and Ireland. So stick to the right. Pay extra attention when turning left because you’ll be crossing traffic.
• Motorcycle helmet laws for Europe are the same as ours. You must wear a helmet when you ride. So must your pillion. It needs to be of an EU approved safety standard (ECE 22.05). The good news is, European safety standards are pretty much the same as ours. So, you can take your regular lid on holiday with you. Some countries insist on other safety gear like high-vis vests, gloves and jackets. Check this for your chosen holiday destination.
• Your full UK motorcycle licence is enough to show you’re qualified to ride in Europe. A CBT certificate is not regarded as a licence, so you can’t head to any foreign lands with it—even if you hold a driving licence. You’ll need your A1, A2, or A licence with you whenever you’re riding.
• If you have an old-style paper licence, you’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to show too. Same goes if your licence is from Gibraltar, Gurney, Jersey or the Isle of Man. If you have a photocard licence, you’re good to go.
• Along with your licence and passport, you’ll need to take some paperwork for your motorcycle too if you’re riding it abroad. Of course, if you’re hiring your ride, no need to worry. The additional paperwork includes your original V5C document (otherwise known as your logbook) and your tax and MOT certificate. It’s best to take original documents as copies often aren’t accepted.
• Carry your European insurance documents with you too. Check with your bike insurer if they cover the countries you’ll be visiting. If they do, they’ll give you an insurance “Green Card” to prove you have the minimum required motor insurance coverage in the countries you’re visiting. This can be provided on green paper (hence the name) or as a digital copy to keep on your devices. It’ll make any claims a little faster and easier too.
• Most European countries require riders to keep their headlight on and dipped when riding – even in the day. It improves your visibility for other road users and keeps you safer. So turn your lights on with your engine.

Preparing for your motorcycle holiday in Spain

Spain beckons motorcyclists from all around the world. It offers some exhilarating riding experiences throughout its extensive network of well-maintained roads. From the awe-inspiring scenery of the Pyrenees to the super smooth tarmac of the Andalusian plains, it’s the perfect place for a motorcycle tour. Spain has something to offer every rider—charming villages, historic cities, curvaceous coastal roads and white-knuckle mountain routes.

Motorcycle tourists are welcome and the vibrant culture, delicious local dishes, and warm, dry riding climate are ideal. That said, it pays to be aware of the country’s specific traffic regulations. And the warmer climate calls for well-ventilated riding gear. So, let’s cover the essential information you need for a fantastic motorcycle holiday in Spain.

Riding a motorcycle in Spain

• Filtering through heavy traffic isn’t allowed in Spain. So no lane splitting or filtering to the front in congested city traffic. Doing so could land you with a hefty fine.
• Pillion passengers must be 12 or older, unless you’re their parent or guardian, in which case they can be as young as 7 years old. Of course, they’ll need a European safety standard helmet and to sit with their feet firmly on their footpegs. 
• Speed limits through towns, villages and urban areas are often quite a lot lower than you’ll find the UK. In some places, you’ll need to keep to just 12 mph. Pay close attention to speed signs as you ride into populated areas. You should also make sure your dipped headlight is on when you ride – even in the middle of the day.
• Essential safety gear needs to be carried with you when you ride too. Along with wearing your helmet, you should have motorcycle gloves and boots. You’ll have to don a reflective high-visibility vest if you pull over on the side of the road. Even if it’s just to take a few snaps of the amazing scenery. If you wear specs when you ride, you’ll need a spare pair in your pack.

Best motorcycle routes in Spain

The twisty roads to the monastery at Montserrat, eastern routes through the Pyrenees, and other routes through northern Spain get a great rap. The roads are well maintained and offer challenges for all levels of rider experience.

We’ve also hosted trips to Spain and offer flexibility for our groups. You’ll get a start and end point and are free to figure out the route between. Of course, if you’ve never been to Spain before, you can stick with the group leads to check out tourist attractions enroute.

Preparing for your motorcycle holiday in France

France is our second favourite place for a holiday for good reason. Expect delicious food, wines and some gorgeous scenery to boot. French people famously love motorcycles, and the best parts of France for motorcycle touring are in the south. Think Loire Valley, French Riviera, the Pyrenees and the French Alps. The roads further north in France are less interesting—flat but smooth and well maintained like the rest of the country’s roads.

Riding a motorcycle in France

• France allows filtering through heavy traffic on motorways. There are a few rules you’ll need to be aware of before doing so. Filtering is allowed only on motorways and dual carriageways. You’ll need to limit your speed to 50 km. Don’t overtake other filtering motorcycles and stick to the outside left lanes for filtering.
• Pillion passengers must have full safety gear in France, just like riders. That means a helmet, high-visibility vest, and gloves. Your motorcycle must accommodate a pillion passenger too. Carrying a pillion without abiding by these rules could land you both with a fine and points on your licence.
• Speed limits are in kilometres, not miles. They’re usually higher than UK speed limits too. For motorways, speed limits change according to weather conditions, so stay alert for signs and changes.
• Essential safety gear includes an ECE22-04, 22-05, or 22-06 helmet and gloves. Sharp ratings, which are more common if you’re buying a lid in the UK, recognise UN ECE regulations. That means, if your lid has a SHARP star rating of one or more, you’ll be compliant across Europe too. You must have four reflective stickers on your helmet to aid visibility and carry a high-visibility vest with you.

Best motorcycle routes in France

The two to three day Great Alpine Road motorcycle tour from Switzerland to the border of Italy is highly recommended by Honda. Expect devine scenery and challenging twists and inclines. Route Napoleon is perfect for history buffs. Remember to plan your route carefully and carry the correct paperwork with you.

Preparing for your motorcycle holiday in Italy

Italy offers vibrant culture, varied landscapes and plenty of history to soak in. No doubt, that’s why it’s the third most popular holiday destination for Brits. When it comes to motorcycle tours, the European motorcycle rules aren’t that far different from other countries on the continent.

Riding a motorcycle in Italy

• Filtering and lane splitting is legal in Italy. In fact, it’s not only legal, it’s expected. Motorcyclists filtering in slow moving traffic keep everyone getting where they want to go faster. Pay attention to what your doing, only filter in slow moving traffic, and be on high alert for hazards; just as you would do if filtering traffic in the UK.
• Rules about carrying pillion passengers differ depending on your age and your machine. Under 16s can’t carry a pillion at all. If you’re 18 or over, have a full licence and ride a motorcycle of 50cc or more, you can carry a pillion. Of course, your passenger needs the proper protective gear, your bike needs to have a seat and footpegs for them, and you shouldn’t exceed your machine’s weight limit.
• Speed limits are a little higher than you find at home. Signs are also in kilometres, not miles. When you hit the motorway, the speed sign showing 130 translates to around 80 mph. Main roads outside urban areas tend to be limited to around 110 km (68 mph). Many of the motorways have tolls, so prepare to pay along the way.
• Essential motorcycle gear when riding in Italy includes an ECE 22-05 or 22-06 helmet. High-visibility vests and first aid kits are optional but recommended, especially for motorcycle tours. You’ll also need to keep your headlight on throughout the day.

Best motorcycle routes in Italy

The north west of the country is ideal for on and off-road touring. Here, you’ll find exciting tarmaced and off-road routes in the Liguria, Valle D’Aosta and Piedmont regions. The Italian Alps and lakes of Lombardy also beckon riders with an adventurous spirit.

Motorcycle laws in Europe

European motorcycle rules differ slightly from country to country. If you’re planning a grand tour covering more than one country in a single holiday, check laws and rules before you go. Stick to the rules wherever you are to have an enjoyable and carefree journey. 

Keeping your headlight on and dipped through the day is a good idea. Even in countries that don’t require this, it’s not illegal and it’ll enhance your visibility. That’s never a bad thing. If you’d love to ride in Europe, but don’t want to go alone, get in touch to find out about our yearly group trips abroad. We’d love to introduce you to the delights of motorcycle riding in Europe!