Best Road Trip Routes Around the World for 2026

Introduction: The Freedom of the Open Road

There's something magical about a road trip—the freedom to stop where you want, discover hidden gems, and create your own adventure. These routes offer unforgettable journeys.

1. Pacific Coast Highway, California (USA)

Distance: 655 miles (1,055 km) Duration: 7-10 days Highlights:

• Big Sur dramatic cliffs
• Hearst Castle
• Santa Barbara wine country
• Monterey Bay Aquarium
• San Francisco Golden Gate Bridge Best Time: April-May, September-October Road Trip Tip: Book accommodations in advance during summer

2. Great Ocean Road, Australia

Distance: 151 miles (243 km) Duration: 3-5 days Highlights:

• Twelve Apostles rock formations
• Loch Ard Gorge
• Bells Beach (surf spot)
• Rainforest walks
• Koala spotting Best Time: December-February (Australian summer) Don't Miss: Sunrise at the Twelve Apostles

3. Ring Road, Iceland

Distance: 828 miles (1,332 km) Duration: 7-14 days Highlights:

• Waterfalls (Seljalandsfoss, Skógafoss, Dettifoss)
• Black sand beaches
• Glacier lagoons
• Geothermal areas
• Northern Lights (winter) Best Time: June-August (midnight sun) or September-March (Northern Lights) Tip: Rent a 4x4 for F-roads access

4. Route 66, USA

Distance: 2,448 miles (3,940 km) Duration: 14-21 days Highlights:

• Chicago start
• Route 66 Museum
• Cadillac Ranch
• Petrified Forest
• Grand Canyon detour
• Santa Monica Pier finish Best Time: May-June, September-October Nostalgia Factor: Classic American diners and motels

5. Garden Route, South Africa

Distance: 190 miles (300 km) Duration: 5-7 days Highlights:

• Tsitsikamma National Park
• Knysna Heads
• Plettenberg Bay beaches
• Oudtshoorn ostrich farms
• Bloukrans Bridge bungee Best Time: September-May Wildlife: Whale watching (July-November)

6. Romantic Road, Germany

Distance: 220 miles (350 km) Duration: 3-5 days Highlights:

• Rothenburg ob der Tauber medieval town
• Neuschwanstein Castle
• Würzburg wine region
• Augsburg historic center
• Bavarian Alps views Best Time: May-September Culture: Christmas markets (December)

7. North Coast 500, Scotland

Distance: 516 miles (830 km) Duration: 5-7 days Highlights:

• Highlands scenery
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Applecross Pass
• Smoo Cave
• Whisky distilleries Best Time: May-September Weather: Always pack rain gear!

8. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Distance: 1,553 miles (2,500 km) Duration: 10-14 days Highlights:

• Cliffs of Moher
• Ring of Kerry
• Dingle Peninsula
• Connemara
• Giant's Causeway Best Time: May-September Pub Culture: Traditional music sessions

9. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Distance: 31 miles (50 km) Duration: 3-5 days (with stops) Highlights:

• Positano vertical village
• Amalfi town
• Ravello gardens
• Lemon groves
• Coastal restaurants Best Time: April-June, September-October Driving Tip: Narrow roads, take it slow

10. The Pan-American Highway

Distance: 19,000+ miles (30,000+ km) Duration: 6-12 months Ultimate Adventure:

• Alaska to Argentina
• Multiple countries and cultures
• Most ambitious road trip on Earth Planning: Requires extensive preparation, visas, vehicle shipping through Darien Gap Best For: Experienced overlanders

Road Trip Essentials

Before You Go

• Vehicle inspection and maintenance
• International driving permit (if needed)
• Roadside assistance coverage
• Download offline maps
• Plan fuel stops (especially remote routes)

What to Pack

• First aid kit
• Spare tire and tools
• Jumper cables
• Phone charger and power bank
• Cooler for snacks and drinks
• Reusable water bottles
• Sunscreen and sunglasses
• Physical maps (backup)

Road Trip Safety Tips

• Share your route with someone
• Check weather conditions
• Never drive tired (pull over for breaks)
• Keep emergency contacts saved
• Know local traffic laws
• Fill up when you see gas stations in remote areas

Budget Planning

• Factor in gas, tolls, parking
• Mix camping with hotels to save money
• Pack snacks to reduce restaurant costs
• Consider vehicle rental costs vs. mileage
• Book accommodations in advance for popular routes

Photography Tips

• Golden hour (sunrise/sunset) for best light
• Pull over safely for photos (no driving and shooting!)
• Use landscape mode for scenic views
• Capture details (road signs, local characters)
• Document the journey, not just destinations

Conclusion: The Journey is the Destination

Road trips offer freedom that flying never can. You control the pace, discover unexpected places, and create stories between the dots on a map. Choose your route, fuel up, and hit the road—adventure awaits.