Few experiences compare to the freedom and beauty of a scenic road trip. Whether you’re winding through mountain ranges, hugging the coastline, or cruising through vast deserts, these roads offer breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. From the rugged wilderness to pristine beaches, here are the 27 most scenic drives across the globe that should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA)
This iconic highway takes you along California’s stunning coastline, offering views of cliffs, ocean waves, and vibrant sunsets. Highlights include Big Sur, the Bixby Creek Bridge, and charming coastal towns. Learn more about the Pacific Coast Highway.
2. Great Ocean Road (Victoria, Australia)
Known for its dramatic coastal scenery, this Australian gem stretches 243 kilometers along the southern coast. Famous stops include the Twelve Apostles and the Great Otway National Park. Explore the Great Ocean Road.
3. Amalfi Coast Road (Italy)
This cliff-hugging road offers jaw-dropping views of the Mediterranean Sea, colorful villages, and steep cliffs. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Amalfi Coast is a must-drive. Check out the best stops along the Amalfi Coast.
4. Ring Road (Iceland)
Iceland’s Ring Road circles the entire country, providing unparalleled views of glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, and black sand beaches. Don’t miss out on the top attractions along Iceland’s Ring Road.
5. The Garden Route (South Africa)
Stretching from Mossel Bay to Storms River, this 300-kilometer drive showcases forests, lagoons, and stunning ocean vistas. Plan your adventure along South Africa’s Garden Route.
6. Route 66 (USA)
The historic Route 66 offers a nostalgic trip through the heart of America. Spanning from Chicago to Los Angeles, this road takes you through deserts, small towns, and iconic landmarks. Discover the charm of Route 66 and its history.
7. Romantic Road (Germany)
Winding through Bavaria, the Romantic Road offers picture-perfect villages, medieval castles, and rolling hills. A highlight is Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most famous castles in the world. Read more about Germany’s Romantic Road.
8. Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia, Canada)
The Cabot Trail offers breathtaking ocean views, forested mountains, and charming fishing villages. Located in Cape Breton, this scenic drive is especially beautiful in autumn. Get details on the Cabot Trail.
9. Milford Road (New Zealand)
This winding road through Fiordland National Park offers spectacular views of mountains, waterfalls, and fjords. Milford Sound at the end of the drive is considered one of the most beautiful places on Earth. See why Milford Road is a must-visit.
10. The Atlantic Road (Norway)
Connecting small islands with bridges that seem to float over the sea, Norway’s Atlantic Road is a thrilling drive. The ocean views and the wild, rugged landscape make it one of Europe’s most scenic routes. Explore Norway’s Atlantic Road.
11. The Icefields Parkway (Alberta, Canada)
This stunning drive through the Canadian Rockies connects Jasper and Banff, passing glaciers, turquoise lakes, and mountain peaks. Don’t forget to stop at Lake Louise and Peyto Lake. Discover more about the Icefields Parkway.
12. The Wild Atlantic Way (Ireland)
Stretching over 2,500 kilometers along Ireland’s rugged western coastline, the Wild Atlantic Way offers dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and quaint villages. Explore Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way.
13. Stelvio Pass (Italy)
Famous for its 48 hairpin bends, Stelvio Pass offers breathtaking views of the Alps and is a must-drive for adventure seekers. Learn more about the thrilling Stelvio Pass.
14. Salar de Uyuni (Bolivia)
A surreal drive across the world’s largest salt flat, Salar de Uyuni feels like traveling on another planet. In the rainy season, the flats reflect the sky, creating a mirror effect. See more about Salar de Uyuni.
15. Chapman’s Peak Drive (South Africa)
Hugging the cliffs above the Atlantic Ocean, this 9-kilometer route between Hout Bay and Noordhoek offers some of the best coastal views in the world. Plan your Chapman’s Peak Drive.
16. Blue Ridge Parkway (USA)
Spanning 469 miles through the Appalachian Mountains, this scenic road is known for its sweeping vistas, especially in fall when the foliage is spectacular. Explore the Blue Ridge Parkway.
17. Karakoram Highway (Pakistan to China)
This high-altitude road winds through the towering Karakoram mountain range, connecting Pakistan and China. It’s one of the most challenging and scenic drives in the world. Discover the Karakoram Highway.
18. Trollstigen (Norway)
This steep and winding mountain road offers dramatic views of waterfalls, cliffs, and valleys, with 11 hairpin bends leading to the top. Learn more about driving Trollstigen.
19. Causeway Coastal Route (Northern Ireland)
This scenic route takes you along the rugged coast of Northern Ireland, with stops at the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Dunluce Castle. Plan your Causeway Coastal Route.
20. Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road (UAE)
This road ascends the UAE’s second-highest peak, offering panoramic views of the desert landscape. It’s a popular drive for car enthusiasts. Find out more about Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road.
21. Grossglockner High Alpine Road (Austria)
This mountain road offers breathtaking views of Austria’s highest peak, the Grossglockner, and takes you through the heart of the Alps. Discover more about the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.
22. Ruta 40 (Argentina)
One of the longest highways in the world, Ruta 40 runs parallel to the Andes and offers spectacular views of mountains, lakes, and deserts. Explore Argentina’s Ruta 40.
23. Sossusvlei Desert Road (Namibia)
This desert road takes you through the striking landscapes of Namibia’s Sossusvlei, home to towering sand dunes and salt pans. Plan your Sossusvlei Desert adventure.
24. Dades Gorge (Morocco)
This dramatic road winds through the Dades Gorge, offering stunning views of red cliffs and lush valleys. Learn more about the Dades Gorge drive.
25. The Road to Hana (Maui, Hawaii, USA)
This tropical road takes you through lush rainforests, past waterfalls, and along the rugged coastline of Maui. Plan your Road to Hana trip.
26. Transfăgărășan Highway (Romania)
Dubbed “the best road in the world” by Top Gear, this mountain road offers hairpin turns and breathtaking views of the Carpathian Mountains. Find out more about the Transfăgărășan Highway.
27. Ruta de los Siete Lagos (Argentina)
This scenic route takes you through Argentina’s Lake District, offering stunning views of crystal-clear lakes and snow-capped peaks. Explore the Ruta de los Siete Lagos.
