12 Most Iconic Road Trips To Take Around the World

One thing travelers and adventurers can agree on is the thrill of hitting the open road and embarking on an epic road trip. The freedom to explore at your own pace, the anticipation of the unknown, and the stunning views and stopovers you experience make road trips a trendy way to travel. These 12 road trips promise you nothing short of a thrill to remember. 

1. Route 66, USA

Route 66, one of the most legendary routes in the world, spans from Chicago to Santa Monica and goes through 8 states. Along the way, you’ll experience the typical American road trip, passing through iconic cities such as St. Louis, Oklahoma City, and Albuquerque. 

While there are tens of excellent stopovers to experience on Route 66, the most notable include The Cadillac Ranch, The Milk Bottle Grocery, The Painted Desert, the Petrified Forest, the Gateway Arch, and the Mojave National Preserve.

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Read also: Epic US Road Trips

2. Great Ocean Road, Australia

The Great Ocean Road boasts stunning coastal landscapes, offering panoramic views of the Southern Ocean, cliffs, and rock formations. Famous landmarks such as the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge make the journey visually appealing. Furthermore, it’s in a region rich in wildlife, and road trippers often have the opportunity to spot native Australian animals such as kangaroos, koalas, and various bird species.

Also, the road has historical significance, mainly related to its construction by World War I veterans. This adds a layer of cultural and historical interest to the journey.

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Read also: Outstanding Coastal Drives Around the World

3. Ring Road, Iceland

Prepare to be amazed as you make your way to the Ring Road in Iceland, stretching 821.45 miles (1,322 kilometers). It offers a range of landscapes, including glaciers, waterfalls, volcanoes, fjords, and black-sand beaches. The ever-changing scenery makes every stretch of the journey stunning. 

For winter travelers, the Ring Road provides opportunities to witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. Also, this road passes through geothermal areas where you can relax or soak in hot springs, such as the famous Blue Lagoon and Mývatn Nature Baths.

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Read also: Amazing European Natural Wonders

4. Romantic Road, Germany

Choose the Romantic Road in Germany for a trip filled with fairytale castles, charming villages, and picturesque landscapes. This scenic route runs from Würzburg to Füssen and takes you through the Bavarian countryside. Sites along the road, like Neuschwanstein Castle, Würzburg Residence, and Hohenzollern Castle, offer a glimpse into Germany’s cultural heritage.

In addition, the road passes through wine regions such as Franconia and Württemberg, letting outdoor enthusiasts explore vineyards, taste local wines and experience Germany’s unique wine culture. Beyond sightseeing, the Romantic Road offers a variety of activities, including hiking and cycling.

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Read also: Fairytale Towns in Europe

5. NC500, Scotland

Get ready to be enchanted by the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands on the NC500 road trip. The North Coast 500 takes you on a circular route around the northernmost part of Scotland, offering dramatic coastal views, ancient castles, and quaint villages. 

It passes several historic castles, such as Dunrobin Castle and Eilean Donan Castle, allowing travelers to explore Scotland’s rich history and architectural heritage.

Scotland is famous for its whisky, and the NC500 passes by several distilleries, allowing whisky enthusiasts to explore and taste some of the finest Scotch whiskies.

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Read also: Unique Places to Visit in Europe

6. Pacific Coast Highway, USA

Pacific Coast Highway stretches along the California coast from San Francisco to San Diego. Aside from unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, this route takes adventurers past famous landmarks such as Big Sur, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and the picturesque McWay Falls.

This same route features historic and architecturally significant bridges, including the Bixby Creek Bridge and the McWay Creek Bridge. You also stand a chance to spot seals, sea lions, dolphins, and even whales during your road trip.

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Read also: US West Coast Road Trip

7. Ring of Kerry, Ireland

Experience the magic of the Emerald Isle by exploring the scenic Ring of Kerry in Ireland. This 111.22-mile (179-kilometer) long route is ideal for those seeking stunning landscapes, cultural richness, and historical immersion.

A road trip on this route takes travelers through charming Irish villages, including Killarney, Kenmare, and Sneem. These villages provide opportunities to experience local culture and enjoy traditional Irish hospitality.

Also, this road is in a region with ancient ringforts and stone circles, such as Cahergall Stone Fort and Staigue Fort. These archaeological sites add a sense of mystery and historical intrigue to the journey.

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Read also: Hidden Islands in Europe

8. Panorama Route, South Africa

Panorama Route is a scenic road showcasing the Mpumalanga province’s natural beauty. It offers awe-inspiring views of the Drakensberg Mountains and the Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the world.

A must-visit viewpoint along the route, God’s Window provides a panoramic view of the Lowveld and the distant Lebombo Mountains. On a clear day, you can see as far as Kruger National Park.

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9. Cabot Trail, Canada

Located in Nova Scotia, Canada, the Cabot Trail is a road trip that promises stunning coastal views and rich cultural experiences. This 185-mile (298-kilometer) route winds through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where you can marvel at rugged cliffs, lush forests, and vibrant fall foliage. 

Stop at the magnificent fishing village of Chéticamp to indulge in delicious seafood while immersing yourself in Acadian culture. The Skyline Trail, with its stunning views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, is a highlight not to be missed.

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10. Leh-Manali Highway, India

For adventure seekers who crave an adrenaline-pumping road trip, the Leh-Manali Highway in India offers an unforgettable experience. This high-altitude route takes you through the majestic Himalayas, with sharp bends, snow-capped peaks, and breathtaking valleys. 

One of the popular stops along the way is Pangong Tso, a stunning lake known for its ever-changing shades of blue. You can absorb the local culture during the trip by passing traditional Ladakhi villages and monasteries.

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Read also: Iconic Places in the World

11. Transfagarasan Highway, Romania

Renowned as one of the most scenic drives in the world, the Transfagarasan Highway in Romania is a road trip that will take your breath away. This winding road traverses the Carpathian Mountains, offering panoramic views of deep valleys, glacial lakes, and medieval castles. 

Among the highlights is the Poenari Castle, perched high on a cliff. It was once the stronghold of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s film Dracula. Don’t forget to pause at Balea Lake, a gorgeous glacial lake surrounded by pristine wilderness.

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Read also: Hidden Romantic Getaways

12. Trollstigen, Norway

Trollstigen is a serpentine mountain road that winds through steep mountainsides and waterfalls, providing breathtaking views at every turn. Stop at the Trollstigen Visitor Centre and marvel at the engineering feats that made this road possible. If you’re up for a hike, the nearby Trolltunga is an iconic rock formation that offers spectacular views over the breathtaking Norwegian fjords.

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Read also: Scenic European Villages

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