Some countries in Europe require an international driving licence and so it is a good idea to check before you leave. You will not be able to hire a car without one. It is also worth thinking about the fact that you will be driving on the other side of the road. It may be easier for you to hire a car as you will be sitting in the middle of the road rather than on the outside which will be unfamiliar and more difficult to see. It is also worth thinking about learning some of the basic road signs and getting a good European map or a satellite navigation system to make things easier.