8 Best Road Trips Around The World
Sometimes travel by flight is inaccessible or not possible. However, your travel plans don’t have to stop there. You can still see the world from the comfort of your car!
These are the best road trips around the world that give you a great local experience and amazing scenic views that you’d otherwise fly right over and miss out on!
These destinations are all around the world, so, hopefully you see something close to home that you can try. Maybe there’s something here that you can use to help you plan a trip for the future!
Best Road Trips Around the World
1. South Island Circuit, New Zealand:
If you want to experience the most surreal landscapes of New Zealand, then you must head to the South Island. You can explore the exotic locales through a road trip and take in the ethereal beauty of New Zealand.
South Island is an ideal place for adventure seekers, from rugged coastline to snow-capped mountains, from never-ending fjords to countless adventure activities. The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is tranquil and offers stunning views of the Fiordland and Southern Alps.
2. The Ring Road, Iceland:
Ever wondered if you can travel an entire country by road? When it comes to Iceland, you most certainly can. The Ring Road in Iceland covers 828 miles, taking you around the spectacular country in around 1 week. You can start in the capital city of Reykjavik and then travel around the country in a circular direction.
Iceland is infamous for its natural beauty, and you can find an abundance of it on this summer road trip. The Jokulsarlon glacial lagoon, geothermal activity in Hveragerdi, and Skogafoss waterfall are the sites that you must visit during the trip. Since you will be carrying plenty of luggage for this road trip, it is wise to invest in a roof rack basket to keep your bags secured in their place.
3. Route 66, USA:
When going on a road trip in the USA, you are spoiled with choices. One of the best road trips to explore the United States of America is the historic Route 66. The enormous cross-country route covers over 2,500 miles and passes through 8 states.
It starts in Chicago and ends in Los Angeles, taking around two weeks to complete. You can witness the red rock formations in Arizona, stay in Kitsch hotels of New Mexico, and explore the quaint and uninhabited town of Texola in Oklahoma. If you want to explore the best of the USA, set out on Route 66 and have the time of your life.
4. The Garden Route, South Africa:
For an easy and serene introduction to South Africa, the Garden Route is the best way. It hugs the southerly tip of South Africa, stretching from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth. The road trip consists of breathtaking views of sandy beaches, lush green, and mighty mountains, and plenty of vineyards.
While you enjoy the natural beauty and scenic views on the trip, you can stop at the vineyards along the way and try the most exquisite wines. The Addo National Park and the 200 million years old Cango Caves are a must-visit. You can easily cover the journey of 500 miles in 3-4 days.
5. Great Ocean Road, Australia:
For the ones looking for a quick road trip in Australia, the Great Ocean Road is a glorious chance that you must not miss. It is an ideal one-day trip of 157 miles starting from Torquay and ending at Warrnambool, located in southwestern Victoria.
While you can cover the entire journey in a day, you can spend more time camping. The most exquisite part of the road is ‘Shipwreck Coast,’ which houses the Twelve Apostles rock formation. Besides picturesque views, you can explore the national parks, rainforests, and cliffs along the way.
6. Stelvio Pass, Italy:
A list of best international road trips is incomplete without Stelvio Pass in Italy. It is a thrilling and fulfilling journey for all adventure enthusiasts. The route features a hairpin bend on the cliff of Italy.
It is the highest mountain road in Europe and serves some of the Alps’ most exotic views. You can cover the journey of 73 miles within 2 to 3 hours. You can make the journey more interesting and stop at the Stelvio National Park and the lake along the road.
7. The Alcan Highway, Canada to Alaska:
If you are looking for a long road trip, the 1,340 miles on the Alcan Highway take you through the wilderness of North America. You get the opportunity to get a first-hand experience of the lush green forests and snow-covered mountains from Canada to Alaska.
Animals like grizzly bears and moose are a common sight here. You can enjoy a sunny day out at Muncho Lake or take a dip in the second-largest hot spring of Canada, Liard River Hot Springs.
8. North Coast 500, Scotland:
The North Coast 500 or NC 500 can take you through Scotland’s most rugged and scenic part. People often consider it the best road trip that every enthusiast must take. A road trip on NC 500 rakes you in between the coastline, medieval castles, lochs, and glens.
You can witness the classic highland cattle of Scotland. The Rogie Falls and the beach in Cape Wrath can be ideal for a fun time with family and friends. You can easily spend three to six days enjoying the North Coast 500.
Final Thoughts
With technological advancement, there are faster and more convenient ways to travel. But nothing beats the experience of a well-planned road trip. It is much safer to travel in your own car, and you also have the flexibility to go wherever and stop whenever you want.
These are some of the best road trips in the world. Hopefully, some of these interest you and you can add them to your bucket list!
Happy Road Tripping!
