35 Best Road Trips Around the World
There’s something undeniably magical about road trips.
The open road stretching out before you, the promise of new adventures around every corner, and the freedom to explore at your own pace make road trips a unique and thrilling way to travel.
Whether you’re cruising along a scenic coastal highway, winding through majestic mountain passes, or traversing vast deserts, each road trip offers a journey of discovery and unforgettable experiences.
In this article, I’ve curated a list of 35 of the best road trips around the world, spanning diverse landscapes and cultures.
From the rugged beauty of North America’s iconic highways to the breathtaking vistas of Europe’s picturesque routes, and from the remote adventures in Africa to the awe-inspiring drives in Oceania, these road trips will inspire you to pack your bags, hit the road, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
North America
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), or California State Route 1, is a legendary road trip route that stretches over 600 miles along California’s stunning coastline.
Starting from the picturesque town of Monterey and winding down to the vibrant city of Los Angeles, the PCH offers breathtaking ocean views, dramatic cliffs, and charming seaside towns.
Key highlights include the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, the rugged beauty of Big Sur, the serene beaches of Malibu, and the quaint village of Carmel-by-the-Sea.
This drive is perfect for those seeking a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it a quintessential American road trip.
2. Blue Ridge Parkway, USA
The Blue Ridge Parkway, often called “America’s Favorite Drive,” spans 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, connecting Shenandoah National Park in Virginia to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.
This scenic route offers stunning vistas of rolling mountains, lush forests, and vibrant wildflowers.
During the fall, the foliage transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors, making it a prime destination for leaf peepers.
The Parkway also features numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic sites such as the Blue Ridge Music Center, where visitors can learn about the region’s rich musical heritage.
It’s an ideal road trip for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
3. Route 66, USA
Route 66, known as the “Main Street of America,” is an iconic road trip route that spans nearly 2,500 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California.
This historic highway takes travelers through eight states, offering a nostalgic journey through America’s heartland.
Along the way, you’ll encounter quirky roadside attractions, classic diners, and vintage motels.
Highlights include the Cadillac Ranch in Texas, the Blue Whale of Catoosa in Oklahoma, and the ghost town of Oatman in Arizona.
Route 66 is more than just a road; it’s a journey through time, celebrating the spirit of American adventure and the golden age of road travel.
4. Icefields Parkway, Canada
The Icefields Parkway, running 144 miles through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, connects the towns of Jasper and Banff in Alberta.
This stunning drive is renowned for its breathtaking mountain scenery, emerald lakes, and ancient glaciers.
Key highlights include the Columbia Icefield, where you can take a guided tour of the Athabasca Glacier, and Peyto Lake, famous for its striking turquoise color.
The Parkway is also home to abundant wildlife, including bears, elk, and bighorn sheep.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking awe-inspiring views, the Icefields Parkway offers a quintessential Canadian road trip experience.
5. Cabot Trail, Canada
The Cabot Trail, located on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, is a 185-mile loop that offers some of the most stunning coastal scenery in North America.
The trail winds through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, providing dramatic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Atlantic Ocean.
Along the way, you’ll pass through charming fishing villages, such as Baddeck and Cheticamp, and have opportunities for whale watching, hiking, and enjoying fresh seafood.
The drive is particularly spectacular in the fall when the foliage turns brilliant shades of red and gold.
The Cabot Trail is a must-see for anyone visiting Canada’s East Coast.
South America
6. Ruta 40, Argentina
Ruta 40 is one of the longest highways in the world, stretching over 3,100 miles from the Bolivian border in the north to Patagonia in the south.
This epic road trip takes you through a diverse range of landscapes, including the arid deserts of the north, the lush vineyards of Mendoza, and the stunning glacial lakes of Patagonia.
Key highlights include the majestic Fitz Roy mountain, the Perito Moreno Glacier, and the historic town of El Calafate.
Ruta 40 offers an unparalleled journey through Argentina’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a dream trip for adventurous travelers.
7. Trans-Amazonian Highway, Brazil
The Trans-Amazonian Highway is a challenging yet rewarding road trip that spans over 2,500 miles across Brazil.
Starting from the coastal city of João Pessoa and extending deep into the Amazon rainforest, this route offers a unique adventure through some of the most remote and biodiverse regions on Earth.
Travelers will encounter vibrant indigenous cultures, stunning river landscapes, and an array of wildlife.
The road conditions can be tough, especially during the rainy season, but the journey provides a deep connection to the heart of the Amazon.
This trip is ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure and a deeper understanding of Brazil’s natural wonders.
8. Carretera Austral, Chile
The Carretera Austral, or Southern Highway, is a scenic route that stretches over 770 miles through the remote and rugged landscapes of southern Chile.
This road trip takes you through lush rainforests, dramatic fjords, and towering glaciers. Highlights include the stunning Marble Caves on General Carrera Lake, the Queulat National Park with its hanging glacier, and the quaint town of Puyuhuapi known for its hot springs.
The Carretera Austral offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the pristine beauty of Chilean Patagonia and experience the tranquility of one of the world’s last great wildernesses.
9. Pan-American Highway, Various Countries
The Pan-American Highway is an extensive network of roads stretching from the southern tip of Argentina to Alaska, covering nearly 19,000 miles.
This epic journey takes travelers through a diverse range of landscapes and cultures, from the arid deserts of Peru to the lush rainforests of Central America.
Highlights include the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, the vibrant markets of Guatemala, and the stunning beaches of Costa Rica.
While the entire route is a monumental undertaking, even traveling segments of the Pan-American Highway offer an unforgettable adventure through the Americas.
10. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Driving through Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, is a surreal and otherworldly experience.
Located in southwest Bolivia, this vast expanse of white salt stretches over 4,000 square miles.
The journey typically starts in the town of Uyuni and takes you across the dazzling salt flats, where the horizon seems to stretch infinitely.
Highlights include the Incahuasi Island, home to giant cacti and unique rock formations, and the nearby Eduardo Avaroa National Park with its colorful lagoons and geysers.
This road trip offers a truly unique adventure, providing stunning photo opportunities and a sense of exploration in one of the planet’s most extraordinary landscapes.
Europe
11. North Coast 500, Scotland
The North Coast 500, often dubbed “Scotland’s Route 66,” is a 516-mile loop that takes you through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Starting and ending in Inverness, the route winds through the rugged coastlines, picturesque villages, and dramatic mountains of the Scottish Highlands.
Key highlights include the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Ardvreck Castle, the white sandy beaches of Achmelvich Bay, and the stunning views from Bealach na Bà.
The North Coast 500 offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and thrilling driving experiences.
12. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of Italy’s most scenic drives.
Stretching about 30 miles along the southern edge of the Sorrentine Peninsula, this road trip offers stunning coastal views, charming villages, and historic sites.
Key highlights include the picturesque town of Positano with its colorful cliffside houses, the historic Amalfi Cathedral, and the beautiful gardens of Villa Rufolo in Ravello.
The winding roads and breathtaking vistas make this a memorable drive, perfect for those seeking romance and cultural enrichment.
13. Ring Road, Iceland
Iceland’s Ring Road, or Route 1, is an 828-mile loop that circumnavigates the entire country.
This road trip offers an incredible variety of landscapes, from volcanic craters and geothermal hot springs to stunning waterfalls and glacier lagoons.
Highlights include the majestic Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, the black sand beaches of Vik, and the otherworldly beauty of Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon.
The Ring Road provides a comprehensive tour of Iceland’s natural wonders, making it a must-do for any adventurer.
14. Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a scenic route that winds through the Hohe Tauern National Park in Austria.
This 30-mile drive offers breathtaking views of the Austrian Alps, including the country’s highest peak, Grossglockner.
Highlights include the Kaiser Franz Josefs Höhe visitor center, which offers stunning views of the Pasterze Glacier, and the picturesque village of Heiligenblut.
The road is open from May to October and provides an unforgettable alpine driving experience with numerous hiking and photo opportunities.
15. Route des Grandes Alpes, France
The Route des Grandes Alpes is a legendary road trip that takes you through the French Alps, from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean Sea.
This 425-mile route passes through some of the highest and most scenic mountain passes in Europe.
Key highlights include the Col de l’Iseran, the highest paved pass in the Alps, and the charming town of Chamonix, home to Mont Blanc.
The route offers a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, charming alpine villages, and thrilling driving experiences, making it a favorite among road trip enthusiasts.
16. Romantic Road, Germany
The Romantic Road is a picturesque route that stretches over 220 miles from Würzburg to Füssen in southern Germany.
This drive takes you through medieval towns, fairy-tale castles, and beautiful countryside.
Highlights include the charming town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, and the stunning Neuschwanstein Castle, which inspired Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle.
The Romantic Road offers a journey through Germany’s rich history and cultural heritage, making it a perfect road trip for those seeking romance and adventure.
17. Trollstigen, Norway
Trollstigen, or “The Troll’s Path,” is a dramatic mountain road located in the Rauma Municipality in Norway.
This serpentine road features 11 hairpin bends and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
Highlights include the Stigfossen waterfall, which cascades down the mountainside, and the Trollstigen Viewing Platform, which provides panoramic views of the valley below.
The road is typically open from May to October and offers a thrilling driving experience combined with stunning natural beauty.
18. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
The Wild Atlantic Way is a 1,500-mile coastal route that stretches from Donegal in the north to Cork in the south of Ireland.
This scenic drive takes you through some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes, including rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming coastal villages.
Highlights include the Cliffs of Moher, the Ring of Kerry, and the Dingle Peninsula.
The Wild Atlantic Way offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm Irish hospitality, making it a must-do road trip for any traveler.
19. Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania
The Transfăgărășan Highway, often referred to as “the best road in the world,” is a 56-mile route that crosses the Făgăraș Mountains in Romania.
This dramatic road features hairpin bends, tunnels, and viaducts, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
Key highlights include the stunning Bâlea Lake, the Vidraru Dam, and the historic Poenari Castle, once home to Vlad the Impaler.
The Transfăgărășan Highway provides an exhilarating driving experience combined with stunning natural beauty and historical significance.
20. Route One, Norway
Route One, also known as the Norwegian Coastal Route, is a scenic drive that stretches over 1,200 miles from Kristiansand in the south to Kirkenes in the north.
This route takes you through some of Norway’s most stunning coastal landscapes, including fjords, mountains, and charming fishing villages.
Highlights include the Geirangerfjord, the Lofoten Islands, and the historic city of Bergen.
The Norwegian Coastal Route offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-do road trip for any traveler.
Oceania
21. Great Ocean Road, Australia
The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most iconic road trips, stretching 151 miles along the southeastern coast of the country.
Starting from Torquay and ending in Allansford, this scenic drive offers stunning coastal views, lush rainforests, and charming seaside towns.
Key highlights include the Twelve Apostles, a collection of limestone stacks rising from the ocean, and the Great Otway National Park with its beautiful waterfalls and walking trails.
The Great Ocean Road is a must-see for anyone visiting Australia, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions.
22. Stuart Highway, Australia
The Stuart Highway is an epic road trip that spans over 1,700 miles from Darwin in the Northern Territory to Port Augusta in South Australia.
This route takes you through the heart of the Australian Outback, offering a unique opportunity to experience the vast, rugged landscapes of the country.
Key highlights include the vibrant city of Alice Springs, the stunning Uluru (Ayers Rock), and the historic town of Coober Pedy, known for its underground houses and opal mines.
The Stuart Highway offers a true Outback adventure, perfect for those seeking a deeper connection with Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.
23. Gibb River Road, Australia
The Gibb River Road is a challenging yet rewarding road trip that stretches over 410 miles through the remote Kimberley region of Western Australia.
This route offers stunning landscapes, including rugged gorges, cascading waterfalls, and ancient rock formations.
Highlights include the beautiful Bell Gorge, the stunning Mitchell Falls, and the historic El Questro Wilderness Park.
The Gibb River Road is best tackled with a 4WD vehicle and offers a true adventure through one of Australia’s most remote and beautiful regions.
24. Red Centre Way, Australia
The Red Centre Way is a scenic loop that takes you through the heart of Australia’s Red Centre, covering over 800 miles.
Starting and ending in Alice Springs, this route offers stunning desert landscapes, ancient rock formations, and rich Aboriginal culture.
Key highlights include the iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock), the stunning Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), and the beautiful Kings Canyon.
The Red Centre Way provides a unique opportunity to explore the spiritual heart of Australia, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
25. Milford Road, New Zealand
Milford Road, also known as State Highway 94, is one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives, stretching over 75 miles from Te Anau to Milford Sound.
This route offers breathtaking views of towering mountains, lush rainforests, and pristine lakes.
Key highlights include the stunning Eglinton Valley, the beautiful Mirror Lakes, and the awe-inspiring Milford Sound, known for its dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls.
Milford Road is a must-do for anyone visiting New Zealand, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
Africa
26. Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route is a scenic drive that stretches over 200 miles along South Africa’s southwestern coast, from Mossel Bay to Storms River.
This route offers stunning coastal views, lush forests, and charming towns.
Key highlights include the beautiful beaches of Knysna, the stunning Tsitsikamma National Park, and the vibrant town of Plettenberg Bay.
The Garden Route is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it one of South Africa’s most popular road trips.
27. Skeleton Coast, Namibia
The Skeleton Coast is a remote and rugged road trip that stretches over 500 miles along Namibia’s northwestern coast.
This route offers stunning desert landscapes, shipwrecks, and abundant wildlife.
Key highlights include the hauntingly beautiful shipwrecks, the stunning dunes of the Namib Desert, and the abundant wildlife in the Skeleton Coast National Park.
The Skeleton Coast offers a unique and adventurous road trip through one of Africa’s most remote and beautiful regions.
28. Panorama Route, South Africa
The Panorama Route is a scenic drive that stretches over 100 miles through the Mpumalanga province of South Africa.
This route offers stunning views of the Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world, and a variety of waterfalls, such as the beautiful Lisbon Falls and Berlin Falls.
The route also passes through charming towns like Graskop and Sabie.
The Panorama Route is a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it a must-see for anyone visiting South Africa.
29. Cape to Cairo Road, Various Countries
The Cape to Cairo Road is an epic road trip that spans the length of the African continent, from Cape Town in South Africa to Cairo in Egypt.
This route takes you through a diverse range of landscapes and cultures, from the deserts of Sudan to the lush forests of Uganda.
Highlights include the stunning Victoria Falls, the historic city of Addis Ababa, and the ancient pyramids of Egypt.
The Cape to Cairo Road offers an unparalleled journey through Africa’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
30. Atlas Mountains, Morocco
The Atlas Mountains in Morocco offer a stunning road trip through one of Africa’s most beautiful regions.
The route takes you through the dramatic landscapes of the High Atlas, with its towering peaks and deep valleys, and the charming Berber villages that dot the mountainsides.
Key highlights include the stunning Tizi n’Tichka pass, the beautiful Todra Gorge, and the historic city of Marrakech.
The Atlas Mountains offer a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a must-do road trip for anyone visiting Morocco.
Asia
31. Leh-Manali Highway, India
The Leh-Manali Highway is a stunning road trip that stretches over 300 miles through the Indian Himalayas.
This route offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, high-altitude deserts, and deep gorges.
Key highlights include the beautiful Rohtang Pass, the stunning Baralacha La, and the historic town of Leh.
The Leh-Manali Highway is a challenging but rewarding drive, offering a unique adventure through one of the most remote and beautiful regions in India.
32. Karakoram Highway, Pakistan/China
The Karakoram Highway, also known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” is a stunning road trip that stretches over 800 miles from Islamabad in Pakistan to Kashgar in China.
This route offers breathtaking views of the Karakoram Range, with its towering peaks and deep valleys.
Key highlights include the stunning Hunza Valley, the beautiful Khunjerab Pass, and the historic town of Gilgit.
The Karakoram Highway is a challenging but rewarding drive, offering a unique adventure through one of the most remote and beautiful regions in the world.
33. Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam
The Ha Giang Loop is a stunning road trip that stretches over 200 miles through the northern mountains of Vietnam.
This route offers breathtaking views of terraced rice fields, deep valleys, and rugged limestone peaks.
Key highlights include the beautiful Ma Pi Leng Pass, the charming town of Dong Van, and the stunning Lung Cu Flag Tower.
The Ha Giang Loop is a challenging but rewarding drive, offering a unique adventure through one of the most remote and beautiful regions in Vietnam.
34. Hai Van Pass, Vietnam
The Hai Van Pass is a scenic mountain pass in central Vietnam, offering stunning views of the South China Sea and the lush green mountains.
This 13-mile route connects the cities of Da Nang and Hue, winding through the Truong Son Range and providing breathtaking panoramas at every turn.
Highlights of the Hai Van Pass include the picturesque Lang Co Beach, the historic Hai Van Gate, and the vibrant city of Da Nang.
Along the way, you’ll encounter lush forests, serene lakes, and traditional Vietnamese villages.
The Hai Van Pass is a popular destination for motorbike enthusiasts, offering a thrilling and unforgettable ride through the heart of Vietnam.
The best time to drive the Hai Van Pass is during the dry season, from March to September when the weather is clear and the views are at their best.
Be prepared for steep gradients and winding roads, and take your time to fully enjoy the beauty of this scenic route.
35. Pamir Highway, Tajikistan/Kyrgyzstan
The Pamir Highway, also known as the M41, is a stunning road trip that stretches over 800 miles through the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan.
This route offers breathtaking views of high-altitude deserts, deep valleys, and rugged peaks.
Key highlights include the beautiful Ak-Baital Pass, the stunning Karakul Lake, and the historic town of Khorog.
The Pamir Highway is a challenging but rewarding drive, offering a unique adventure through one of the most remote and beautiful regions in the world.
Conclusion: Best Road Trips Around the World
Embarking on a road trip is one of the most exciting ways to explore the world.
Whether you’re cruising along scenic coastal routes, navigating through rugged mountain passes, or discovering remote desert landscapes, these journeys offer a unique and immersive travel experience.
The 35 road trips highlighted in this article represent some of the best the world has to offer, each providing its own distinct charm and adventure.
As a solo traveler, I’ve found that road trips not only allow me to see new places but also give me the freedom to explore at my own pace.
Each trip is a new adventure, filled with unexpected discoveries and memorable moments.
So, pack your bags, get behind the wheel, and set out on the journey of a lifetime.
Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or on your own, these road trips will inspire you to hit the road and explore the incredible beauty our world has to offer.
Happy travels!
