15 Countries Perfect for a Thrilling Drive
Wondering where to take your road trip next? Given that alluring drives will always be the ultimate adventure for many and 64% of Americans are road trip fans, it’s no wonder. Some destinations are roads made: wind coastal highways and mountain passes.
If you have a wanderlust that can’t be satisfied, here are the 15 countries that should be on your road trip bucket list. You can travel and make unforgettable memories while on the drive with some jaw-dropping landscapes.
United States
The roads of the United States inspire any enthusiastic traveler searching for thrilling destinations. Depending on your location, you might encounter ocean views along the Pacific Coast Highway in California or embark on a journey down the spine of Route 66, getting into the heart of American culture.
It’s one of those vacation destinations with plenty of adventure on more than 4 million miles of roadway from its famous National Park circuits.
Tip: Using an app like Roadtrippers to plan your stops is better.
A Scenic New Zealand
New Zealand’s roads are a series of postcards running through valleys and rugged coasts. Milford Road stands out in the South Island—fjords, sweeping waterfalls, and snow-crowned peaks appear here.
With 94% of tourists rating driving in New Zealand as “always scenic” (NZ Transport Agency, 2022), you’ll never want to leave the driver’s seat.
Pro-tip: Rent a campervan and discover for yourself when you are ready.
The Land of Fire and Ice–Iceland
Moving to another planet is what it’s like to drive Iceland’s 828-mile Ring Road. It’s a driver’s dream, with glaciers around every corner, geothermal springs, and sandy beaches. Iceland’s roads are carefully done.
Norway
Norway is a dream destination for anyone who loves to see a fjord. How could not playing in the fjords of Norway be a dream? Norway’s Atlantic Road is built on islands with spectacular views; CNN has recently called it “the world’s best road trip.”
Prepare yourself for an array of pristine fjords and bridges that arch over the waves. Trollstigen Mountain Road will captivate even tenacious thrill seekers.
South Africa – Safari on Wheels
The Garden Route in South Africa offers diverse landscapes, from beautiful beaches to lush forests. Additionally, Kruger National Park is well worth the drive, where you can encounter lions and elephants roaming close to your car.
Fact: South Africa boasts over 20 national parks, and with them comes scenic drives and your safari viewing drive.
Alpine Excellence – Switzerland
Perhaps none are like the Furka Pass, where engineering marvels and natural beauty converge in Switzerland’s mountain passes. It is a journey through snow-capped peaks, beautiful valleys, and stunning lakes that will take your breath away.
For drivers, it includes a list of scenic roads, such as Switzerland’s Great St Bernard Pass. Rental cars in Switzerland often come with “vignettes” that cover tolls, ensuring convenience for visitors.
Italy – Beyond the Dolomites
It’s a narrow stretch of roads with iconic Mediterranean scenery. It’s on everyone’s bucket list, and you see it on the horizon, much like the Amalfi Coast. Unique mountain driving in Italy is to be had in the Dolomites, which are made up of sheer cliff faces and amazing Alpine scenery.
Tip: If you’re traveling in Italy on a budget and don’t need much space, consider renting a compact car since some of Italy’s streets and turns are very narrow.
The Secrets of Australia’s Outback and Coastal Marvels
Australia is unbelievably diversified, from the excellent Outback to the Great Ocean Road in Victoria. The unmissable item on your list is the 150-mile coastal drive past the South Australian sea lined like white rocks, all named the Twelve Apostles.
The Great Ocean Road is one of Earth’s most popular car routes, and over 5 million visitors discover it yearly.
Wilderness, Wonder, and Canada
The Icefields Parkway connects Banff and Jasper, Canada’s gem national park in the heart of the Rockies. It’s the route famed for glacial blue lakes, towering summits, and grizzly bear and elk sightings. Check out the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia, a coastal beauty that’s a leisurely summer tour.
Tip: Fall is a great time to come because the fall foliage along these scenic routes is impressive.
In Japan, Traditional Meets Modern
Japan’s Noto Peninsula may be for you if you want a more relaxed drive with the chance to see fishing villages and coastal charm.
Alternatively, take a drive on the Hakone Skyline to see Mount Fuji anytime the sky is clear. Japan has reliable infrastructure and an orderly road system, which foreign drivers can happily use. Getting an International Driving Permit before you go is also a good idea.
Drive through Argentina & the Andes
The best way to drive from continental Argentina to Chile is via the small town of La Poma. From there, you can hit Argentina and drive through the Andes. One of the world’s longest driving roads, Ruta 40 (National Route 40) stretches 3,000 miles along the Andes in Argentina.
Traversing the way, you’ll catch wine country in Mendoza, picturesque glaciers in Patagonia, and a stark desert landscape in Salta. Ruta 40 is South America’s most legendary route.
Scotland
When you do it right, Scotland’s Route 66—the North Coast 500—will take you through rugged highlands, castle-studded landscapes, and dramatic coastlines.
Scotland has its share if you’re looking for reasons to hit the road. It can be cold and windy, and the weather can change from fine to rainy instantly, so pack a rain jacket.
Germany – Home of the Autobahn
Germany’s famed autobahns are loved for their trouble-free driving. Medieval fairy tale castles such as Neuschwanstein are passed by on the Romantic Road.
Note: There are no speed limits, and the autobahn does have people who drive fast.
France — Champagne to the Coast
Everything a person needs for a road trip is in France. Provence’s fields of lavender and sunlit vineyards of the Loire Valley exist.
So, want to enjoy the sea? The French Riviera provides a great atmosphere and, if available, Spanish views. UNWTO (2023) has continued to list France among the top five self-driving tourist destinations worldwide.
The Emerald Isle from Wheels-Ireland
The Ring of Kerry is a spellbinding driving loop that showcases Ireland’s green gems: landscapes, cliffs, and villages. Along the way, you will find ancient stone forts and Celtic ruins.
Tip: Drive on the left in Ireland. There’s a lot to enjoy, so give yourself time.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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