You know what I hate about traveling? The rental cars. Seriously - think about it. You get off your long flight, you’re tired/hungry/anxious to see the sites and actually start enjoying your long-awaited, hard-earned vacation, but first you have to go collect your bags and haul them over to the rental car pick-up station, where usually there’s a long line of other weary travelers, and then when you finally get to the counter, you have to fill out miles of paperwork. Which, let’s face it, no one ever reads so it’s possible you just gave away your kidney or your first born child. Finally you have to actually go get your car, which again, could be miles away… you may even have to take a shuttle to the rental car pick-up lot. At that point, you better pray everything is in working order because that’s a long haul back to the rental car counter if there’s an issue.

All of that is just what has to happen to actually get you in the car. Then there’s the hassle of getting used to driving the car, figuring out how to work the radio, adjusting the seats...and once you finally have your car just the way you like it - it’s time to return it. And you better not have forgotten to fill up the gas tank before handing it back in because ohhhhh boy are they going to nail you on the gas charges. Oh, and if you got a ding on the car? You might as well just buy it - you aren’t getting off easy for any actual damage - even if it’s just a little scratch.

So, what’s the alternative?

BMW European Delivery Program

While driving a rental car through Europe certainly isn’t the worst thing ever, driving your very own BMW is probably one of the best things ever. And you can do it easily thanks to BMW’s European Delivery program.

The first step is by far the most difficult - choosing which BMW to buy and bring home. Once you know exactly what make and model you want to cruise around in - both in Europe and at home - place your order with your local BMW dealership. As your BMW will be made to order, most dealerships require you place the order three months in advance of when you’d like to pick it up. But that’s okay, because it will give you time to plan your amazing European vacation. And if you’d rather someone else do all the work and planning - no big deal, BMW’s got you covered with a selection of impeccably put-together packages that will maximize your time behind the wheel with amazing views, incredible sightseeing, luxurious hotels and unparalleled driving routes. But we’ll get to that in a minute… first, let’s pick up your car.

Your brand-new, hot-out-of-the-factory BMW will be waiting for you in Munich, which you’ll have no problem getting to since BMW has also worked out a deal with Lufthansa airlines to get you there on time and in style (and with preferred pricing). Once in Munich, you’ll head to the famous BMW Welt - which is so much more than just a delivery hub. The BMW Welt is an iconic building with striking architecture that serves as a museum and event hub - you’ll want to leave time in your schedule that day to explore the exhibitions in the BMW Museum and tour the factory. By participating in the European Delivery program, you’ll be given an exclusive two-hour VIP tour of the 3 series production facility so you can really see what’s gone into making your new BMW so special.

Once you have your BMW in your possession and you’ve toured the Welt, it’s time to hit the road. BMW has taken on the task of planning a European vacation perfectly suited to your interests - no matter if you’re spending a week or just a few days traveling.

Have five to six days to acquaint yourself with your new BMW? Then opt for one of BMW’s Ultimate Luxury programs and enjoy staying in five-star hotels as you explore either the Lakeside Luxury package (which brings you through Austria, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, and Italy), the Spa, Sport & Drive package (Germany, Switzerland, France) or the Castles & Mozart package (Germany, Czech Republic, Austria). Each package details museums, restaurants and things to do as you travel, and you’ll stay in only the finest hotels along the way.

If your travel plans only allow for three or four days of sightseeing, BMW has two options for you: the Black Forest package and The Castle Road package. Both offer fantastic sightseeing and beautiful drives - you’ll get a true feel for Europe in a short amount of time. And if none of the packages are exactly what you’re looking for, not to worry - just call BMW, tell them what you’re thinking, and their travel agents will help you come up with an itinerary that lets you see Europe on your terms.

When it’s time to come home, drop your car off at one of the twelve drop-off locations scattered throughout Austria, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Switzerland, and Belgium and your BMW will be shipped to your local BMW dealership. You won’t have to worry about the cost of transportation, customs, clearance and duty, or marine insurance - it’s all taken care of when you first purchase the car using the European Delivery Program. All you’ll have to do is remember to drive on the correct side of the road again.