8 Best Drone Friendly Countries in Europe

By David Stock on February 23, 2018 • Last updated November 1, 2020 • 1 Comment
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Take the guesswork out of finding the best drone friendly countries in Europe, so you can plan a creative European vacation with ease.

Europe is a diverse continent with a wealth of historic sites, stunning scenery and natural wildlife to explore, making it one of the best places to visit with your drone.

Regardless of whether it’s your first time visiting the continent, or you’ve traveled throughout Europe many times before; with each trip, you can find something new to explore, along with many more impressive sights to capture.

If you want to make the most of your trip around Europe and hit all the main sights with your drone, look no further.

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Best Drone Friendly Countries in Europe

Fortunately, the drone enthusiasts over at the Case Farm have helped us single out the best drone friendly countries in Europe.

When taking your drone from country to country, it’s crucial to be mindful of drone laws within the local areas that you’re traveling to.

Each country has its own rules and regulations surrounding the commercial and recreational use of drones. Brushing up on these laws helps you to respect the local practices and of course, avoid any costly fines.

Below, we’ve put together more information about some of the drone friendly countries, so that you have all the guidance you need for a fun-filled and stress-free trip around Europe with your drone.

1. Scotland

Scotland is a country comprised of breathtaking natural scenery and masses of character; a great first stop to visit on your European drone tour.

Fortunately, Scotland has a lot of greenery, open spaces and beaches away from crowds of people and buildings, making it easier to find safe spots to fly your drone.

Glen Roy is a spectacular nature reserve in the Scottish Highlands, which is home to a range of wildlife including ravens, red deer, and golden eagles.

Here, you should be able to capture the green pastures with your drone, or just have a bit of fun flying your drone freely and safely.

If you’re traveling around Scotland and other parts of the UK with your drone, be sure to check the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) website to find the latest drone regulations.

2. Spain

To fly a drone in Spain, regardless of whether you’re using it for recreational or for commercial purposes, you must be aged over 18 and you must have a drone license.

It’s best to organize this well before you travel, to avoid any complications while you’re enjoying your European tour.

Drone regulations are mainly in action for your own safety and the safety of the general population around you.

So long as you’re mindful and respectful of your surroundings and you’re complying with local laws, you should have no problems capturing some of Spain’s stunning scenery.

3. Switzerland

If you’re taking a trip around Europe, you certainly won’t want to miss Switzerland.

Here, you can enjoy the Swiss Alps’ snow-capped peaks, or the mesmerizing waters of Lake Geneva, as well as a wealth of other natural wonders that are housed in Switzerland.

Recreational drone use is allowed in the daytime only, however, this shouldn’t stop you from flying as some of Switzerland’s best sights are best enjoyed in the beautiful Swiss sunshine.

4. Italy

For fans of flavorful food, sunshine, and history, Italy is a must-see spot for a European road trip.

Between tasting specialty pasta and seeing historic sights, you can make the most of your trip by finding a picturesque spot to take your drone.

Although you don’t need a license to fly your drone in the country, there are certain rules that you must follow. You can’t fly over beaches, towns or near airports, and there are some restrictions as to how big your drone can be.

You can find the full list of drone rules in Italy, on the DroneZine website or the Italian Civil Aviation Authority website.

5. Greece

Greece is an incredibly diverse country, with a wealth of culture, history, beautiful landscapes and stunning coastline to enjoy.

To capture this scenic country, you’ll need to register your drone with the Greek Civil Aviation Authority, no matter whether you’re flying it for recreational or for commercial purposes.

Once you’ve registered your drone and you’re aware of the no-fly zones, the world is your oyster.

You can capture the crystal white sand beaches of Zakynthos or the vast wilderness of Zagori, so long as you are mindful of people and buildings.

6. Croatia

Croatia Drone Rules - Best Places to Fly a Drone in Europe

If you want to fly your drone in Croatia, you’ll need to follow the rules set by the Croatian Civil Aviation Agency. However, once you’ve got the all clear, there are a wealth of sights and hidden treasures to capture in the country.

The Krka national park is a must-visit spot if you take a trip to Croatia. Here you’ll be able to capture the area’s cascading waterfalls, and you can even take a swim in the Krka lakes if you want a break from flying your drone.

7. Germany

The laws surrounding drone usage in Germany are quite complicated, so it’s best to check with the official Federal Aviation Office’s regulations before you start your trip.

Although Germany is densely populated with lots of large cities and buildings, this shouldn’t deter you from visiting the country with your drone.

Germany has stunning natural scenery hidden in its many national parks, so it’s worth taking a trip here to see what you can capture, should the regulations allow it.

8. Norway

If you haven’t had the chance to visit Norway in the past, you certainly won’t want to miss out on this destination should you choose to embark on this European tour.

Here, you can enjoy the spectacle of the Northern Lights and take in Norway’s remarkable natural beauty.

Similarly to other countries’ regulations, Norway also has restrictions regarding how much your drone can weigh, how high it can fly, and where it can fly in relation to buildings, gatherings of people and vehicles.

The Civil Aviation Authority Norway provides some guidance on how to fly a drone in Norway, do not travel to Norway with your drone until you have consulted the site to make sure you’re not breaking any rules.

Europe Drone Travel

Europe Drone Rules - David Stock with Divergent Travelers Adventure Travel Blog

Traveling with your drone doesn’t need to be complicated. It is easy to find the rules, regulations and best practices online before you travel, so this helps take the confusion out of being able to fly.

So long as you’re up-to-date with recent regulations and you’re respectful of the local culture, you’ll have no problems enjoying the beautiful sites of Europe on your tour.

Above all, remember that you represent all drone flyers and the rules are in place for a reason. Be responsible and happy flying!

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Discover the best locations in Europe to visit with a drone.

Article by David Stock

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.