Few experiences rival the thrill of the open road — the freedom to explore hidden gems, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures at your own pace. Whether you’re hugging rugged coastlines, traversing mountain passes, or cutting through deserts, these unforgettable road trips showcase some of the best scenery and adventure our planet has to offer. Here are top picks for the best road trips around the world.
1. Pacific Coast Highway — USA
Stretching from California’s northern redwoods down to sunny Los Angeles, Highway 1 (the Pacific Coast Highway) is an iconic American road trip. It winds past dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and charming seaside towns like Carmel and Big Sur. Pull over often for whale watching, tasting local seafood, and photographing the spectacular ocean vistas.
2. The Great Ocean Road — Australia
This legendary drive hugs Australia’s southern coast from Torquay to Allansford in Victoria. Along the way, you’ll see rugged limestone formations like the Twelve Apostles, lush rainforests, and koalas snoozing in eucalyptus trees. With surfing beaches and quaint coastal villages to explore, it’s a quintessential Aussie adventure.
3. The Garden Route — South Africa
South Africa’s Garden Route runs for about 300 kilometers along the country’s southeastern coast. Starting from Mossel Bay to Storms River, it passes stunning lagoons, dramatic cliffs, and indigenous forests. Stop in Knysna for oysters or take a canopy tour through Tsitsikamma National Park.
4. Ring Road — Iceland
Iceland’s Route 1 circles the island, offering a front-row seat to waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes, and black-sand beaches. Highlights include Seljalandsfoss waterfall, Jökulsárlón glacier lagoon, and the geothermal wonders near Lake Mývatn. It’s a breathtaking journey through a land that feels otherworldly.
5. Amalfi Coast — Italy
The narrow road along Italy’s Amalfi Coast from Sorrento to Salerno is equal parts thrilling and jaw-dropping. Colorful cliffside villages like Positano and Amalfi seem to tumble into the turquoise sea. Expect sharp turns, breathtaking viewpoints, and plenty of stops for fresh seafood and limoncello.
6. Route 40 — Argentina
Stretching more than 5,000 kilometers from the Bolivian border to Patagonia, Argentina’s Ruta 40 is one of the longest roads in the world. It crosses 20 national parks, skirts the Andes, and takes you through remote landscapes where guanacos roam and Andean peaks dominate the skyline.
7. The North Coast 500 — Scotland
Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the NC500 loops for 500 miles around the northern Highlands. Expect ancient castles, serene lochs, dramatic coastal cliffs, and quaint villages. It’s a journey filled with history, whisky distilleries, and rugged natural beauty.
8. The Atlantic Road — Norway
Though only about 8 kilometers long, Norway’s Atlantic Road is one of the world’s most scenic drives. It leaps from island to island via dramatic bridges that seem to float over the sea. Combine it with a longer Norwegian coastal or fjord route for an unforgettable Nordic adventure.
9. The Silk Road — Central Asia
For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, portions of the ancient Silk Road through Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and beyond make for an incredible road trip. You’ll encounter mountain passes, vibrant markets, and historic caravanserais — all while retracing the footsteps of traders from centuries past.
10. The Cabot Trail — Canada
Located in Nova Scotia, Canada’s Cabot Trail loops around Cape Breton Island, offering stunning coastal views, forested highlands, and frequent wildlife sightings (keep your eyes out for moose). In autumn, the trail is ablaze with fall colors, making it one of the best times to drive.
Final Thoughts
Whether you crave coastal breezes, alpine passes, or windswept deserts, the world’s best road trips promise adventure, discovery, and countless stories to tell. So pack your bags, cue up your favorite playlist, and hit the road — some of life’s best memories are made on four wheels.
