The 30 Best Road Trips in The World: A Travelers Dream
Road trips are a favorite activity among young people, families, and even seniors. Around the world, there are many spectacular road trip routes, each offering unique and breathtaking views. Every location in different regions presents its own distinct scenery. Here is a list of the best road trips in the world that everyone dreams of experiencing.
Why Road Trips Are the Ultimate Travel Experience
Road trips are the ultimate travel experience, providing an unparalleled sense of freedom and adventure.
Driving through diverse landscapes allows travelers to connect with the world in a unique and personal way.
Whether exploring the scenic routes of the Pacific Coast Highway in the USA or the rugged terrains of the Karakoram Highway in Pakistan and China, road trips offer a chance to discover hidden gems and experience local cultures.
Road trips in the world cater to all types of travelers, from the Australian tourist exploring the Great Ocean Road to international tourists traversing the romantic roads of Germany.
They allow for spontaneous detours, unique encounters, and the creation of unforgettable memories.
Road trips are more than just a journey; they are an experience that engages all senses, making every mile a story worth telling.
How to Prepare for an Epic Road Trip
Preparing for an epic road trip involves careful planning and consideration of various factors.
Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey:
- Plan Your Route: Research and map out your road trips in the world. Decide on the destinations, stopping points, and alternate routes.
- Check Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is in top condition. Check the tires, brakes, engine oil, and other essential parts.
- Pack Essentials: Bring along necessary items such as a first-aid kit, spare tires, tools, maps, and a reliable GPS device.
- Accommodation: Book accommodations in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons.
- Local Laws: Familiarize yourself with the traffic laws and regulations of the countries you’ll be driving through.
- Travel Insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that covers road trips.
- Entertainment: Prepare a playlist, podcasts, and audiobooks to keep you entertained during long drives.
Now, let’s delve into the details of some of the best road trips in the world.
Where to Find The Best Road Trips in The Worlds?
To discover the best road trips in the world, it’s essential to compare different regions and their unique offerings.
Here is our recommended list to help you find and enjoy the best road trips around the world:
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway, an iconic route along California’s breathtaking coastline, is renowned for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, charming coastal towns, and scenic overlooks.
This unforgettable journey, stretching over 655 miles, showcases the beauty of California’s rugged coast.
Since its inception in the 1930s, the PCH has been a testament to human engineering, designed to be traveled leisurely while taking in the majestic mountains, towering trees, expansive beaches, and endless skies.
This scenic highway offers travelers a unique glimpse into California’s diverse character, from pioneer outposts and surfing villages to farm-fresh foods, local wines, roadside attractions, Hollywood glamour, and bohemian vibes.
Detail information about the Pacific Coast Highway, USA:
- Miles: 655
- Road Terrain: Coastal
- Tips: Avoid peak tourist season for less crowded roads
- Best Time to Go: Spring and fall
- Best For: Scenic views and ocean vistas
- Location: California
2. Route 66, USA
Route 66, known as the “Main Street of America,” is a legendary road trip destination spanning eight states, offering a nostalgic glimpse into America’s past with its vintage diners, motels, and roadside attractions.
Immortalized in the song “Get your kicks on Route 66,” this historic highway was initially proposed in 1925 to connect Chicago to California.
Route 66 remains a vital part of American history, celebrated for its cultural and economic impact.
Detail information about the Route 66, USA:
- Miles: 2,448
- Road Terrain: Mixed
- Tips: Plan for stops at historic sites and quirky attractions
- Best Time to Go: Late spring to early fall
- Best For: History buffs and nostalgic travelers
- Location: Illinois to California
3. Icefields Parkway, Canada
The Icefields Parkway in Canada is renowned for its stunning glaciers, turquoise lakes, and majestic mountains.
This route is perfect for those seeking a serene and picturesque road trip experience.
Situated halfway between Jasper and Lake Louise, it offers exceptional natural scenery.
There is an endless display of snow-capped peaks, massive glaciers, and expansive riverbeds throughout the trip from Jasper.
Larch trees peek out from amid black spruce, and dense woods cling to bare rock cliffs.
Detail information about the Icefields Parkway, Canada:
- Miles: 144
- Road Terrain: Mountainous
- Tips: Carry snow chains in winter
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Nature lovers and photographers
- Location: Alberta
4. Blue Ridge Parkway, USA
The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive through the Appalachian Mountains, offering breathtaking views, hiking trails, and historic sites.
It’s especially popular in the fall when the leaves change color.
Detail information about the Blue Ridge Parkway, USA:
- Miles: 469
- Road Terrain: Mountainous
- Tips: Check for road closures in winter
- Best Time to Go: Fall for foliage
- Best For: Leaf-peeping and hiking
- Location: Virginia to North Carolina
5. Alaska Highway, USA
The Alaska Highway is an adventurous route through the wilderness of Alaska and Canada.
Travelers can expect stunning landscapes, wildlife sightings, and a sense of remote adventure.
Detail information about the Alaska Highway, USA/Canada:
- Miles: 1,390
- Road Terrain: Rugged
- Tips: Carry extra fuel and supplies
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts
- Location: Alaska to British Columbia
6. The Ring Road, Iceland
Iceland’s Ring Road circles the entire country, offering a unique opportunity to explore its diverse landscapes, including waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic terrain.
It’s a dream road trip for nature lovers.
Detail information about the Ring Road, Iceland:
- Miles: 828
- Road Terrain: Mixed
- Tips: Be prepared for changing weather conditions
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Nature enthusiasts and photographers
- Location: Iceland
7. Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast, famous for its dramatic cliffs, colorful villages, and stunning sea views, is perfect for a romantic and scenic road trip.
This picturesque drive along the SS163 coastal road from Sorrento to Salerno offers 35 miles of breathtaking views of rugged mountains and deep blue sea.
For the best experience, avoid visiting in August when it’s busiest.
Detail information about the Amalfi Coast, Italy:
- Miles: 35
- Road Terrain: Coastal
- Tips: Avoid peak tourist season
- Best Time to Go: Spring and fall
- Best For: Scenic views and romantic getaways
- Location: Italy
8. North Coast 500, Scotland
Scotland’s North Coast 500 is a spectacular route that takes travelers through rugged coastlines, historic castles, and charming villages.
It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Detail information about North Coast 500, Scotland:
- Miles: 516
- Road Terrain: Mixed
- Tips: Watch out for single-track roads
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Scenic views and cultural experiences
- Location: Scotland
9. Romantic Road, Germany
The Romantic Road in Germany is a journey through picturesque towns, fairytale castles, and beautiful countryside.
It’s an ideal road trip for those interested in history, culture, and stunning architecture.
Detail information about the Romantic Road, Germany:
- Miles: 261
- Road Terrain: Mixed
- Tips: Explore medieval towns along the way
- Best Time to Go: Spring and summer
- Best For: History and culture enthusiasts
- Location: Germany
10. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world, offering breathtaking views of Ireland’s rugged coastline, cliffs, and beaches.
It’s perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Detail information about the Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland:
- Miles: 1,553
- Road Terrain: Coastal
- Tips: Be prepared for narrow and winding roads
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Scenic views and outdoor activities
- Location: Ireland
11. Great Ocean Road, Australia
The Great Ocean Road is one of Australia’s most famous road trips, known for its stunning coastal scenery, including the iconic Twelve Apostles rock formations.
It’s a must-visit for foreign tourists and international visitors alike.
Detail information about the Great Ocean Road, Australia:
- Miles: 151
- Road Terrain: Coastal
- Tips: Visit the Twelve Apostles at sunrise or sunset
- Best Time to Go: Spring and fall
- Best For: Scenic views and coastal attractions
- Location: Victoria, Australia
12. Hai Van Pass, Vietnam
The Hai Van Pass in Vietnam offers a scenic drive through lush mountains and along the coastline.
This short but beautiful route is perfect for those looking to experience Vietnam’s natural beauty.
Detail information about the Hai Van Pass, Vietnam:
- Miles: 13
- Road Terrain: Mountainous
- Tips: Be cautious of weather conditions
- Best Time to Go: Spring and fall
- Best For: Scenic views and cultural experiences
- Location: Vietnam
13. Karakoram Highway, Pakistan–China
The Karakoram Highway is one of the highest paved roads in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Karakoram mountain range.
It’s an adventurous route for those seeking a unique road trip experience.
Detail information about the Karakoram Highway, Pakistan–China:
- Miles: 800
- Road Terrain: Mountainous
- Tips: Prepare for high altitudes
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Adventurers and nature lovers
- Location: Pakistan to China
14. Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route in South Africa is renowned for its scenic beauty, offering a diverse landscape of lush forests, stunning beaches, and charming towns.
Stretching along the southeastern coast, this route provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities, wildlife viewing, and cultural experiences.
It’s a perfect road trip for nature lovers and adventurers.
Detail information about the Garden Route, South Africa:
- Miles: 186
- Road Terrain: Coastal
- Tips: Plan for stops at national parks and beaches
- Best Time to Go: Spring and summer
- Best For: Nature enthusiasts and beachgoers
- Location: South Africa
15. Leh-Manali Highway, India
The Leh-Manali Highway in India is a challenging but rewarding road trip through the Himalayas.
Travelers can expect stunning mountain views, remote villages, and a sense of adventure.
Detail information about the Leh-Manali Highway, India:
- Miles: 297
- Road Terrain: Mountainous
- Tips: Acclimatize to the high altitude
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Adventurers and nature enthusiasts
- Location: India
16. Ruta 40, Argentina
Ruta 40 is one of Argentina’s longest and most famous highways, stretching from the northern border to the southern tip of the country.
This epic road trip offers diverse landscapes, from deserts to mountains.
Detail information about the Ruta 40, Argentina:
- Miles: 3,107
- Road Terrain: Mixed
- Tips: Plan for long distances between stops
- Best Time to Go: Spring and fall
- Best For: Adventurers and nature lovers
- Location: Argentina
17. Carretera Austral, Chile
The Carretera Austral in Chile is a remote and scenic route through Patagonia, offering stunning views of glaciers, fjords, and forests.
It’s a dream road trip for nature lovers and adventurers.
Detail information about the Carretera Austral, Chile:
- Miles: 770
- Road Terrain: Mixed
- Tips: Be prepared for changing weather conditions
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Nature enthusiasts and photographers
- Location: Chile
18. Trans-Amazonian Highway, Brazil
The Trans-Amazonian Highway is a challenging and adventurous route through the Amazon rainforest.
This road trip offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.
Detail information about the Trans-Amazonian Highway, Brazil:
- Miles: 2,000
- Road Terrain: Jungle
- Tips: Travel with a guide for safety
- Best Time to Go: Dry season
- Best For: Adventurers and nature enthusiasts
- Location: Brazil
19. Patagonian Highway, Chile and Argentina
The Patagonian Highway offers a stunning journey through the rugged landscapes of Patagonia, with breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and lakes.
It’s perfect for those seeking a remote and scenic road trip.
Detail information about the Patagonian Highway, Chile/Argentina:
- Miles: 800
- Road Terrain: Mixed
- Tips: Plan for remote areas with limited services
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Nature enthusiasts and photographers
- Location: Chile and Argentina
20. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, offers a surreal and otherworldly road trip experience.
Travelers can drive across the vast, reflective surface and explore the unique landscape.
Detail information about the Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia:
- Miles: Varies
- Road Terrain: Salt flats
- Tips: Visit during the dry season for best conditions
- Best Time to Go: Dry season which typically runs from May to October
- Best For: Photographers and adventurers
- Location: Bolivia
21. Milford Road, New Zealand
The Milford Road in New Zealand is a scenic drive through Fiordland National Park, offering stunning views of mountains, waterfalls, and fjords.
It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.
Detail information about the Milford Road, New Zealand:
- Miles: 75
- Road Terrain: Mountainous
- Tips: Be prepared for changing weather conditions
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Nature enthusiasts and photographers
- Location: New Zealand
22. Great Alpine Road, Australia
The Great Alpine Road is one of Australia’s most scenic drives, offering breathtaking views of the Victorian Alps, lush forests, and charming villages.
It’s perfect for Australian tourists and international visitors alike.
Detail information about the Great Alpine Road, Australia:
- Miles: 192
- Road Terrain: Mountainous
- Tips: Check for road closures in winter
- Best Time to Go: Spring and fall
- Best For: Scenic views and outdoor activities
- Location: Victoria, Australia
23. East Coast Escape, Tasmania
The East Coast Escape in Tasmania is a scenic drive along the island’s eastern coastline, known for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and outdoor activities.
It’s a perfect road trip for nature lovers and beachgoers.
Detail information about the East Coast Escape, Tasmania:
- Miles: 167
- Road Terrain: Coastal
- Tips: Visit the Bay of Fires for stunning beaches
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Beach lovers and nature enthusiasts
- Location: Tasmania, Australia
24. Red Centre Way, Australia
The Red Centre Way is a remote and scenic route through Australia’s outback, offering stunning views of desert landscapes, including Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
It’s perfect for those seeking a unique and adventurous road trip.
Detail information about the Red Centre Way, Australia:
- Miles: 683
- Road Terrain: Desert
- Tips: Carry extra water and supplies
- Best Time to Go: Winter
- Best For: Desert landscapes and Aboriginal culture
- Location: Northern Territory, Australia
25. West Coast Drive, New Zealand
New Zealand’s West Coast Drive offers a scenic journey along the island’s rugged coastline, with stunning views of the Tasman Sea, lush rainforests, and glaciers.
It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and adventurers.
Detail information about the West Coast Drive, New Zealand:
- Miles: 373
- Road Terrain: Coastal
- Tips: Be prepared for changing weather conditions
- Best Time to Go: Summer
- Best For: Scenic views and outdoor activities
- Location: New Zealand
26. Skeleton Coast, Namibia
The Skeleton Coast in Namibia is a remote and rugged road trip through the desert, known for its eerie shipwrecks, dunes, and wildlife.
It’s perfect for those seeking a unique and adventurous journey.
Detail information about the Skeleton Coast, Namibia:
- Miles: 311
- Road Terrain: Desert
- Tips: Travel with a guide for safety
- Best Time to Go: Winter and summer
- Best For: Desert landscapes and wildlife
- Location: Namibia
27. Panorama Route, South Africa
The Panorama Route in South Africa offers a scenic drive through the Drakensberg Mountains, with stunning views of waterfalls, canyons, and lush landscapes.
It’s perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Detail information about the Panorama Route, South Africa:
- Miles: 160
- Road Terrain: Mountainous
- Tips: Visit Blyde River Canyon for stunning views
- Best Time to Go: Spring and summer
- Best For: Scenic views and outdoor activities
- Location: South Africa
28. Great Rift Valley, Kenya
The Great Rift Valley in Kenya offers a diverse and scenic road trips in the world through one of the world’s most geologically significant regions.
Travelers can expect stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife.
Detail information about the Great Rift Valley, Kenya:
- Miles: Varies
- Road Terrain: Mixed
- Tips: Plan for wildlife viewing
- Best Time to Go: Dry season
- Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers
- Location: Kenya
29. Atlas Mountains, Morocco
Photo from: https://www.the-wanderlusters.com/africa/morocco-driving-guide/
Alt Text: Atlas Mountains Morocco, Rugged terrain road trip, Berber villages scenic views
Description: Discover the breathtaking beauty of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains, where rugged terrain, stunning mountain vistas, and traditional Berber villages create the perfect road trip for adventurers and cultural enthusiasts.
The Atlas Mountains in Morocco offer a stunning road trip through rugged terrain, with breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, and traditional Berber villages.
It’s perfect for adventurers and cultural enthusiasts.
Detail information about the Atlas Mountains, Morocco:
- Miles: Varies
- Road Terrain: Mountainous
- Tips: Be prepared for changing weather conditions
- Best Time to Go: Spring and fall
- Best For: Adventurers and nature lovers
- Location: Morocco
FAQ
The top popular routes such as the Pacific Coast Highway, the Great Ocean Road, and the Ring Road in Iceland.
The road trips were selected based on their scenic beauty, cultural significance, unique experiences, and overall popularity among travelers. The routes offer a mix of stunning landscapes, historical sites, and opportunities for adventure.
The best time to travel varies depending on the destination. For example, summer is ideal for road trips in the northern hemisphere, while winter might be preferable for destinations in the southern hemisphere. Always check local weather conditions and seasonal recommendations.
Essentials include comfortable clothing, a first aid kit, snacks and drinks, a good map or GPS, and any required travel documents. Depending on the route, you may also need items such as hiking gear, a camera, and specific safety equipment.
Many of these routes are accessible year-round, but some may be affected by seasonal weather conditions or road closures. Always check local travel advisories and road conditions before your trip.
Conclusion : The Best Road Trips in The World
Road trips are the ultimate travel experience, offering the freedom to explore diverse landscapes, cultures, and destinations at your own pace.
Whether you’re a foreign tourist or an Australian tourist, there’s a road trips in the world out there for you.
Don’t forget to plan your visit to Atlas Beach Club in Bali, where you can relax and unwind after your epic journey.
With this comprehensive guide to the best road trips in the world, you’re now equipped to embark on your next adventure. Happy travels!
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