Ready to swap the typical vacation for an unforgettable drive? We’ve rounded up 18 iconic road trips from around the world that promise more than just views—they’re packed with adventure at every turn. So, buckle up and let the journey begin!
1. Route 66: The Mother Road, USA
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Traverse the heart of America on the legendary Route 66, stretching from Chicago to Santa Monica. It’s a slice of classic Americana, peppered with vintage diners, quirky roadside attractions, and the spirit of freedom.
2. The Great Ocean Road, Australia
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Wind along Australia’s southeastern coast for jaw-dropping views of the Twelve Apostles and rainforests meeting the rugged cliffs of the ocean. It’s a dramatic journey through nature’s finest work.
3. Ring Road, Iceland
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Circle Iceland on its Ring Road to witness geysers, glaciers, and fjords. Each turn reveals a new, otherworldly landscape, making it a road trip for the adventurous soul.
4. Amalfi Coast, Italy
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Cruise the serpentine roads of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, where azure seas, precariously perched villages, and lemon groves create a sensory overload of picturesque beauty.
5. Garden Route, South Africa
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South Africa’s Garden Route offers a mosaic of ecosystems, from beaches to forests and lagoons. It’s a wild journey through some of the most beautiful landscapes on earth.
6. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
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Hug the Californian coast from San Francisco to San Diego, where the Pacific Ocean crashes against rugged cliffs. The PCH is a road trip that epitomizes the romance of the American West.
7. The Golden Triangle, India
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Explore India’s rich history and culture on a road trip through the Golden Triangle. From the bustling markets of Delhi to the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra and the palaces of Jaipur, it’s a feast for the senses.
8. Route des Grandes Alpes, France
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Drive through the heart of the French Alps on this high-altitude journey, connecting Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean. It’s a thrilling ride through Europe’s most iconic mountain range.
9. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
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Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way stretches along the rugged western coast, offering a journey through quaint villages, ancient castles, and some of the greenest landscapes you’ll ever see.
10. North Coast 500, Scotland
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Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the North Coast 500, winds through the Scottish Highlands, showcasing fairy-tale castles, secluded beaches, and dramatic moors.
11. The Trans-Canada Highway
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Canada’s epic cross-country journey showcases the vastness and diversity of the country, from vibrant cities to untouched wilderness.
12. The Transfagarasan, Romania
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Named by some as the best road in the world, the Transfagarasan winds through the Carpathian Mountains, offering stunning views and a thrilling drive.
13. The Atlantic Road, Norway
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Norway’s Atlantic Road jumps from island to island via bridges, with the ocean on both sides. It’s a short but unforgettable journey through Scandinavian beauty.
14. The Pamir Highway, Central Asia
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Traverse the rugged landscapes of Central Asia on the Pamir Highway, a route that’s as much about the journey as the destination. It’s a true adventure for the intrepid traveler.
15. Cabot Trail, Canada
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The Cabot Trail circles Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, offering views of wooded valleys, cliff-top vistas, and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It’s a peaceful escape into Canada’s natural beauty.
16. The South Island, New Zealand
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New Zealand’s South Island is a road tripper’s dream, with the Southern Alps, fiords, and lakes providing a backdrop to an epic journey through Middle-earth.
17. The Pacific Rim Highway, Canada
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Journey through Vancouver Island’s rainforests, coastal cliffs, and surf towns on the Pacific Rim Highway. It’s a road trip that embraces the wild spirit of the west coast.
18. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Image Credit: Shutterstock / Eric Weissenborn.
Not your typical road trip, driving across the world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni, is an unforgettable experience, where the horizon blends sky and earth in a surreal landscape.
The Journey of a Lifetime
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These 18 road trips offer more than just stunning landscapes; they’re a call to adventure, an invitation to explore the diverse tapestry of our planet. So, grab your keys, hit play on your favorite road trip tunes, and let the adventure begin.
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Featured Image Credit: Pexels / Paul Macallan.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
Tips for Trip Success
Book Your Flight
Find an inexpensive flight by using Kayak, a favorite of ours because it regularly returns less expensive flight options from a variety of airlines.
Book Your Hotel or Special Accommodation
We are big fans of Booking.com. We like their review system and photos. If we want to see more reviews and additional booking options, we go to Expedia.
You Need Travel Insurance!
Good travel insurance means having total peace of mind. Travel insurance protects you when your medical insurance often will not and better than what you get from your credit card. It will provide comprehensive coverage should you need medical treatment or return to the United States, compensation for trip interruption, baggage loss, and other situations.Find the Perfect Insurance Plan for Your Trip
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