There’s something deeply freeing about the open road — the wind in your hair, an ever-changing landscape out the window, and the thrill of discovery around every bend. Around the globe, some roads aren’t just routes — they’re destinations in themselves. Whether you’re carving through snow-capped mountains, hugging rugged coastlines, or cruising across sunbaked deserts, these scenic road trips deliver jaw-dropping beauty and unforgettable experiences.
Here are some of the most scenic road trips around the world to add to your travel bucket list.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Route: San Francisco to Los Angeles, California
Distance: ~655 km (407 miles)
This legendary route along California’s Highway 1 is the epitome of coastal road tripping. Hugging the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean, you’ll pass Big Sur’s dramatic sea stacks, charming seaside towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea, and iconic landmarks such as the Bixby Creek Bridge. Don’t forget to stop for fresh seafood and sunset views.
Highlights:
- Big Sur coastline
- Monterey Bay
- Hearst Castle
- Malibu beaches
2. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Route: Torquay to Allansford, Victoria
Distance: ~243 km (151 miles)
The Great Ocean Road offers one of Australia’s most iconic drives, where the Southern Ocean meets lush rainforest and rugged limestone cliffs. The famous Twelve Apostles — towering rock formations rising from the sea — are a must-see.
Highlights:
- Twelve Apostles
- Great Otway National Park
- Koala spotting in eucalyptus forests
- Surf beaches like Bells Beach
3. Ring Road, Iceland
Route: Full circle around Iceland
Distance: ~1,332 km (828 miles)
Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) takes you through a surreal world of volcanoes, glaciers, geysers, waterfalls, and lava fields. You can spot puffins in the summer or chase the northern lights in winter — all from the comfort of your car.
Highlights:
- Seljalandsfoss & Skógafoss waterfalls
- Vatnajökull Glacier
- Black sand beaches of Vík
- Lake Mývatn geothermal area
4. Garden Route, South Africa
Route: Mossel Bay to Storms River
Distance: ~300 km (186 miles)
South Africa’s Garden Route is a lush, coastal drive with dramatic scenery, wildlife encounters, and outdoor adventures. Dense forests, lagoons, and pristine beaches make every kilometer an experience.
Highlights:
- Knysna lagoon
- Tsitsikamma National Park
- Elephant sanctuaries
- Storms River Suspension Bridge
5. Amalfi Coast Drive, Italy
Route: Sorrento to Salerno
Distance: ~80 km (50 miles)
This Mediterranean dream route winds through cliff-hugging roads with views of pastel villages, turquoise waters, and cascading bougainvillea. It’s narrow and challenging, but the vistas and culture make it one of the most romantic drives in the world.
Highlights:
- Positano and Amalfi towns
- Limoncello tastings in Sorrento
- Cliffside restaurants with sea views
- Ravello’s stunning villas
6. Route 40, Argentina
Route: From La Quiaca in the north to Río Gallegos in the south
Distance: ~5,000 km (3,107 miles)
Spanning almost the entire length of Argentina, Route 40 crosses 20 national parks and climbs the Andes to dizzying altitudes. Expect deserts, vineyards, lakes, and remote mountain villages in Patagonia.
Highlights:
- Patagonia’s dramatic landscapes
- Mendoza wine region
- Mount Fitz Roy and El Chaltén
- Perito Moreno Glacier
7. North Coast 500, Scotland
Route: Inverness to Inverness (loop)
Distance: ~830 km (516 miles)
Scotland’s answer to Route 66, the NC500 winds through the untamed beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Expect rugged coastlines, castles, lochs, and a few roaming Highland cows along the way.
Highlights:
- Loch Ness
- Smoo Cave
- Eilean Donan Castle
- White sand beaches of Durness
8. Trollstigen & Atlantic Road, Norway
Route: Åndalsnes to Kristiansund
Distance: ~150 km (93 miles)
This drive offers some of Europe’s most dramatic scenery — serpentine mountain passes, cascading waterfalls, and the gravity-defying curves of the Atlantic Ocean Road. It’s a short route, but visually unforgettable.
Highlights:
- Trollstigen switchbacks
- Storseisundet Bridge
- Romsdal Alps
- Fjord views around every turn
9. Route 66, USA
Route: Chicago to Santa Monica
Distance: ~3,940 km (2,448 miles)
More than just a road trip — Route 66 is a slice of American history. Nicknamed “The Mother Road,” it stretches across eight states, with retro diners, classic motels, and quirky roadside attractions all along the way.
Highlights:
- Cadillac Ranch (Texas)
- Petrified Forest National Park
- Grand Canyon detour
- Santa Monica Pier
10. The Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
Route: Kinsale to Malin Head
Distance: ~2,600 km (1,616 miles)
Europe’s longest coastal driving route hugs Ireland’s west coast, offering emerald landscapes, ancient castles, and windswept cliffs. Charming villages and warm hospitality complete the experience.
Highlights:
- Cliffs of Moher
- Dingle Peninsula
- Connemara National Park
- Donegal’s rugged beauty
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re seeking solitude in Iceland’s lava plains, sipping wine in Argentina’s valleys, or photographing sea cliffs in Ireland, the world’s most scenic road trips prove that sometimes, the journey truly is the destination. So fuel up, pack a playlist, and hit the road — your next great adventure awaits.
