5 countries where you must drive on the left

Driving abroad

5 December 2025

Knowing which countries drive on the left-hand side isn’t always obvious. If you’re planning a road trip that feels a little more like driving at home, check out our ideas for places to visit: 

  1. Ireland
  2. Channel Islands
  3. Malta
  4. Cyprus
  5. Isle of Man

Ireland

Ireland shares many things with the UK, including driving on the left. You can even take your car over on the ferry.

The Ring of Kerry is a circular route that's popular with tourists. It meanders for 111 miles through a number of quaint towns in County Kerry, showing off the best of Irish scenery.

Channel Islands

The Channel Islands are known for their stunning beaches, historical sites, and a unique blend of cultures.

Jersey has one of the largest flower festivals in Europe. The Battle of Flowers is held every August, with colourful floral displays and imaginative floats.

Is Guernsey more your thing? If so, head to St. Peter Port. A picturesque harbour town known for its cobblestone streets, charming shops, and the 13th-century Castle Cornet.  

Malta

Malta is packed with natural beauty spots, graceful architecture and layers of intriguing history. It’s also small but mighty, measuring only 16.5 miles by 8.5 miles.

Head to the capital of Valetta – a World Heritage Site with stunning Baroque architecture. Or meander through Paola, where you can buy the best pastizzi (the Maltese version of the British pasty).      

Cyprus

Traffic in Cyprus sticks to the left, and the British influence means many road signs also look familiar.

During your road trip, why not have a dip in the crystal clear waters of the Blue Lagoon? You can get there by boat, using one of local trip operators. Whilst you’re exploring by road, it’s worth stopping to admire Aphrodite’s Rock. It’s a popular photo opportunity that’s definitely social-media worthy, with its breathtaking view.

If you decide to explore a few more Mediterranean countries as well, take a look at our top tips for driving safely when you're abroad in Europe.

Isle of Man

The Isle of Man is known for its world-famous TT motorcycle circuit. However, it’s also home to the largest original working waterwheel in the world. You can take the Manx Electric Railway from Douglas to Laxey to visit the Laxey Wheel.

If you’re looking for a peaceful spot, Peel has a beautiful sandy beach and the 11th-century Peel castle. The steep climb up Peel Hill can sometimes be rewarded with the rare sighting of a puffin!

And the good news?

If you’ve bought an AXA Car Insurance policy, you have 90 days of enhanced driving abroad cover included. This means you can drive your own car in these countries (plus many others) and still have the same cover as you do at home (excluding a courtesy car).