There’s something magical about hitting the open road — windows down, music up, and endless horizons ahead. Road trips offer a sense of freedom and adventure that no flight or train ride can match. Whether it’s the winding coastal highways of California, the rugged landscapes of New Zealand, or the desert trails of Morocco, the world is full of scenic routes that promise unforgettable memories.
Here’s a list of some of the most breathtaking road trips worth taking around the world, along with tips to help you make the most of every mile.
Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Route: San Francisco → Los Angeles (California)
Distance: ~655 miles (1,055 km)
This legendary highway hugs California’s dramatic coastline, offering ocean views, cliffs, and charming seaside towns.
Highlights: Big Sur, Monterey, Bixby Creek Bridge, Malibu.
Pro Tip: Take 3–5 days to fully enjoy the journey and stop at local wineries and beaches along the way.
Great Ocean Road, Australia
Route: Torquay → Allansford (Victoria)
Distance: ~150 miles (243 km)
One of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, this route takes you past limestone cliffs, surf beaches, and lush rainforests.
Highlights: Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Great Otway National Park.
Pro Tip: Visit early morning or sunset for the best light and fewer crowds at the Twelve Apostles.
Ring Road, Iceland
Route: Around the entire island
Distance: ~825 miles (1,328 km)
The Ring Road circles Iceland, showcasing glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, and black-sand beaches.
Highlights: Seljalandsfoss, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Skógafoss, and the Northern Lights (winter).
Pro Tip: Rent a 4×4 vehicle and plan for at least 7–10 days to explore comfortably.
Garden Route, South Africa
Route: Mossel Bay → Storms River
Distance: ~190 miles (305 km)
This lush coastal drive offers diverse landscapes — from beaches and forests to mountains and wildlife reserves.
Highlights: Tsitsikamma National Park, Knysna Lagoon, Plettenberg Bay.
Pro Tip: Combine your road trip with a safari or wine tour near Cape Town for the full South African experience.
Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
Route: Donegal → Cork
Distance: ~1,500 miles (2,400 km)
A journey of dramatic cliffs, cozy pubs, and emerald hills, the Wild Atlantic Way captures Ireland’s rugged charm.
Highlights: Cliffs of Moher, Dingle Peninsula, Galway, and Connemara.
Pro Tip: Rent a small car — narrow roads and sharp bends are common. Don’t rush; Ireland’s beauty unfolds slowly.
Route 66, USA
Route: Chicago → Santa Monica
Distance: ~2,448 miles (3,940 km)
Nicknamed “The Mother Road,” Route 66 is an American classic filled with nostalgia, quirky roadside attractions, and small-town charm.
Highlights: Grand Canyon detour, Cadillac Ranch, and old diners along the way.
Pro Tip: Allow at least 2 weeks to fully enjoy this cross-country adventure.
North Coast 500, Scotland
Route: Inverness → Inverness (loop)
Distance: ~516 miles (830 km)
Scotland’s answer to Route 66, this route takes you through rugged coastlines, castles, and misty mountains.
Highlights: Loch Ness, Smoo Cave, Bealach na Bà, and hidden whisky distilleries.
Pro Tip: Travel between May and September for longer daylight hours and mild weather.
South Island Circuit, New Zealand
Route: Christchurch → Queenstown → Milford Sound → Christchurch
Distance: ~1,000 miles (1,600 km)
New Zealand’s South Island offers a cinematic mix of fjords, glaciers, and alpine landscapes.
Highlights: Lake Tekapo, Mount Cook, Milford Sound, and Wanaka.
Pro Tip: Drive clockwise to follow the best views — and allow at least 10 days for stops and hikes.
Amalfi Coast, Italy
Route: Sorrento → Salerno
Distance: ~37 miles (60 km)
Short but stunning, this cliffside drive along southern Italy’s coast is full of charm, color, and romance.
Highlights: Positano, Ravello, Amalfi Town.
Pro Tip: Visit in spring or early fall to avoid the summer crowds and heavy traffic.
Atlas Mountain Loop, Morocco
Route: Marrakech → Ouarzazate → Aït Benhaddou → Marrakech
Distance: ~300 miles (480 km)
This adventurous route crosses the High Atlas Mountains, winding through desert landscapes and ancient villages.
Highlights: Tizi n’Tichka Pass, Aït Benhaddou, Todra Gorge.
Pro Tip: A 4×4 vehicle is recommended; stop often for mint tea and panoramic views.
Bonus Tips for a Perfect Road Trip
- Plan your route, but stay flexible. Spontaneous detours often lead to the best memories.
- Pack smart. Include snacks, water, first-aid kits, and offline maps.
- Stay connected safely. Use GPS, but download maps for offline use.
- Respect nature. Leave no trace, especially in national parks and coastal areas.
- Capture the moments. Don’t just drive — stop, breathe, and take it all in.
Final Thoughts
Road trips remind us that travel isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the journey. From the rugged cliffs of Ireland to the golden deserts of Morocco, the world’s scenic routes offer stories waiting to be written one mile at a time.
So fuel up, hit the road, and let adventure take the wheel.
