There’s something uniquely magical about a road trip: the freedom to take the scenic route, spontaneous stops at hidden gems, and the open road stretching ahead. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an epic multi-day adventure, 2025 has some incredible road trip routes worth exploring. From coastal drives with ocean views to mountain passes through dramatic landscapes, these journeys deliver unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveler.
🛣️ 1. Pacific Coast Highway – California, USA
The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is often considered the quintessential American road trip. Stretching over 650 miles along California’s coastline, this route offers jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and lush forests. Start in San Francisco and head south through Big Sur, stopping at iconic spots like Bixby Creek Bridge, Monterey Bay, and Hearst Castle. Sunset views over the ocean, roadside lookout points, and charming beach towns make this route perfect for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.
🏔️ 2. Great Ocean Road – Victoria, Australia
Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a coastal masterpiece that showcases the country’s wild beauty. This scenic route winds for over 150 miles along the southern coast of Victoria, taking you through rainforest, limestone cliffs, and rugged ocean vistas. Highlights include the Twelve Apostles rock formations, Loch Ard Gorge, and serene beaches perfect for a picnic. With abundant wildlife, surf towns, and panoramic lookout points, this road trip blends nature, adventure, and cultural stops seamlessly.
🌲 3. Ring Road – Iceland
For travelers seeking dramatic landscapes and otherworldly views, Iceland’s Ring Road (Route 1) is hard to beat. This circle highway loops around the entire country, covering waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, volcanoes, and hot springs. Must-see stops include Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, and the geothermal wonders of Mývatn. Iceland’s Ring Road is ideal for 7–10 day itineraries, but the more time you have, the more hidden gems you’ll uncover off the main route.
🏞️ 4. The Garden Route – South Africa
South Africa’s iconic Garden Route stretches along the southeastern coast from Mossel Bay to Storms River. This road trip is a mix of forests, lagoons, coastal cliffs, wildlife reserves, and charming towns. Popular attractions along the way include Knysna Heads, Tsitsikamma National Park, and wildlife experiences in Oudtshoorn. The route is ideal for food lovers, nature enthusiasts, and adventurers who want varied scenery all in one trip.
🌉 5. Amalfi Coast – Italy
For travelers who crave Mediterranean charm, the Amalfi Coast delivers breathtaking coastal views, pastel-colored villages, and world-class cuisine. The drive from Sorrento to Salerno passes through iconic towns like Positano, Ravello, and Amalfi itself. Winding roads, sea views at every turn, and historic villas make this route perfect for couples, photographers, and anyone who loves vibrant culture paired with stunning scenery.
🌄 6. The Wild Atlantic Way – Ireland
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is one of the longest defined coastal routes in the world, stretching over 1,500 miles along the western edge of the country. This epic road trip combines dramatic cliffs, rolling green hills, historic castles, and welcoming towns. Key stops include Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, and the rugged beauty of Connemara National Park. With friendly locals and cozy pubs at every turn, this route captures the heart of Irish heritage and natural splendor.
🚙 7. Route 66 – USA (Chicago to Santa Monica)
No road trip list is complete without the legendary Route 66—the historic highway that captures the spirit of classic Americana. Starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, this iconic route takes you through eight states, desert landscapes, small towns, roadside diners, and kitschy Americana attractions. Although parts of it have been replaced with modern highways, following Route 66 is a nostalgic journey through time and culture.
🏝️ 8. South Island Route – New Zealand
New Zealand’s South Island offers one of the most scenic road trips on the planet. From Christchurch to Queenstown and beyond, the route includes Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, turquoise lakes like Lake Tekapo, rugged coastlines near Kaikoura, and alpine scenery that feels straight out of a movie. This road trip is perfect for hikers, photographers, and anyone who loves dramatic landscapes and outdoor adventure.
🌵 9. Ruta 40 – Argentina
For a long-distance adventure with incredible variety, Argentina’s Ruta 40 is legendary. Stretching from La Quiaca in the north to Ushuaia in the south, this highway crosses deserts, mountains, vineyards, and glacial regions. Stops like Mendoza’s wine country, the stark landscapes of Patagonia, and the southernmost town of Ushuaia make this one of the most diverse road trips on Earth. Ideal for travelers seeking a once-in-a-lifetime full-continent adventure.
🚴 10. The Canadian Rockies – Alberta
The Canadian Rockies road trip through Alberta is a dream for nature lovers. Starting in Calgary and stretching through Banff and Jasper National Parks, this route delivers turquoise lakes, snow-capped mountains, abundant wildlife, and some of the most scenic drives in North America. Pit stops include Lake Louise, Icefields Parkway, and hidden waterfalls tucked into lush forests.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Road trips in 2025 offer an unmatched way to connect with nature, explore diverse cultures, and experience the joy of the open road. Whether you’re planning a coastal cruise, alpine adventure, island discovery, or historic Americana journey, there’s a route for you. Preparation, flexibility, and a sense of adventure are the key ingredients for a memorable road trip. So pack your bags, fill up the tank, download your playlist, and hit the road — the world is waiting.