The 30 Most Beautiful Roads In The World You Need To Drive
For those who believe travel is all about the journey rather than the destination, there’s no better way to fully experience a place than by driving through some of its scenic roads.
Road trips give you the chance to see a different side of a destination, but they’re also a wonderful way to discover places you wouldn’t regularly find in a guidebook. Driving independently allows you to spend as much or as little time in a place as you’d like, get closer to the local culture, and make stops anywhere that catches your fancy.
From the mountains of northern Vietnam to the lavender fields of southern France and the rugged California coast, these are some of the most beautiful roads in the world you have to place on your bucket list.
Most Beautiful Roads in the World
1. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Almost a rite of passage for visitors to Australia, the Great Ocean Road is a gorgeous highway that connects the southern coast from Torquay to Allansford.
As you make your way along the coast, you’ll get to wind your way across 243 kilometers, passing through authentic shipwrecks, beaches, charming coastal villages, lush rainforests, and rocky coastlines.
One of the most iconic sights of the Great Ocean Road is the Twelve Apostles, a set of towering limestone stacks that protrude from the ocean and create a breathtaking scene (only eight out of the twelve are left, though!).
Aside from that, other wonderful stops you can make as you drive along include Great Otway National Park to explore the rainforest, Bells Beach for a gorgeous beach, Lorne for artsy small-town vibes, and Kennett River to see koalas!
2. Trollstigen, Norway
Known as the “Troll’s Path,” this 106-kilometer route between Åndalsnes and Valldal features 11 hairpin bends ascending a steep mountain pass. While the most dramatic section is just 20 kilometers long, allow a full day to enjoy the numerous viewpoints and hiking opportunities.
The road climbs past thundering waterfalls and sheer cliff faces, with the Stigfossen waterfall dropping 320 meters alongside the highway. The modern visitor center at the summit offers spectacular views of the serpentine road below. Only open from late May to October/November (weather dependent); snow closes the pass during winter months.
Early morning or evening visits avoid the busy tourist bus traffic, and changing weather conditions can create dramatic photography opportunities. The road is well-maintained but requires careful driving, especially during wet conditions
3. Icefields Parkway, Canada
Stretching 232 kilometers through the heart of the Canadian Rockies between Banff and Jasper National Parks, the Icefields Parkway offers one of North America’s most dramatic mountain drives. While you could technically complete the route in about three hours, you’ll want to allow at least 2-3 days to appreciate the countless viewpoints and hiking trails.
The highway showcases over 100 ancient glaciers, turquoise lakes, and cascading waterfalls. Must-see stops include the Columbia Icefield, where you can walk on ancient glacier ice, the pristine waters of Peyto Lake, and the thundering Athabasca Falls. Wildlife sightings are common, with chances to spot bears, elk, and mountain goats.
While the parkway is open year-round, summer (June-September) offers the most accessible conditions. Winter driving requires special preparation but rewards visitors with frozen waterfalls and snow-capped peaks without the crowds.
- We have more inspiring drives across Canada you’ll want to add to your bucket list over here
4. Big Sur, United States
Even though Highway 1 through Big Sur is only 90 miles long, this gorgeous road is dotted by wonderful stops to make every single mile of the way, so we recommend treating it as a multi-day road trip rather than a scenic drive in order to make the most of it.
Offering views of the alluring Santa Lucia Mountains to one side and rugged California coastline vistas to the other, driving through Big Sur is one of the most exciting experiences you can have not just in California but quite likely in the entire world.
As for what to see here, two of the most popular landmarks are Hearst Castle in the town of San Simeon and the gorgeous European-style Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Aside from that, nature reigns supreme in Big Sur, with plenty of state parks scattered all over the highway. These include the Point Lobos State Nature Reserve for hikes with coastal views, Julia Pfeiffer State Park to see a waterfall crashing down from a cliff into the ocean, and Garrapata Beach for seaside and forest hikes. Make sure you also make a stop at Pfeiffer Beach, which is a beach made up of purple sand!
As a note, Big Sur is a section of the longer Highway 1, which runs all the way from San Diego to Seattle along the Pacific Coast. This is one of the most beautiful roads in the entire world if you’re up for a more extended adventure!
- We take you from through the drive from Seattle to San Fran here, and extend this through California from San Fran to San Diego in this itinerary
5. Black Forest Scenic Drive, Germany
If fairytale-like villages and charming forests that look straight out of a storybook sound like your ideal places to spend time, the B500 highway from Baden Baden to Freiburg in Germany’s Black Forest is guaranteed to please.
Even though it’s only 40 miles long, this gorgeous drive will allow you to experience old-time Germany, with half-timbered houses dotting the villages along the way, cozy coffee shops, cuckoo clock workshops, and local distilleries being just a few of the highlights you’ll find along the way.
This road is also perfect for those in nature, as you’ll get the chance to stop at plenty of trailheads for hiking. There are also many accommodation options inside the Black Forest in case you want to spend the night in nature!
6. Ha Giang Loop, Vietnam
High in northern Vietnam, the Ha Giang Loop is a dazzling road that winds its way through striking canyons and breathtaking limestone mountain passes.
Starting in Ha Giang City, this road will also give you the chance to experience authentic Vietnamese culture, not to mention you’ll also get to try local food everywhere you look because no matter how remote a section may seem, you’ll always be able to find a roadside food stall.
You’ll begin the Ha Giang Loop by driving across lush forested hills before arriving at the Vietnamese border with China, where you’ll find a series of limestone karts above the treeline.
From here, you’ll start descending into the valley before winding your way through mountains and canyons, with sights of turquoise-colored rivers and waterfalls appearing every mile of the way.
7. Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road, UAE
Rising from the desert near Al Ain, in the United Arab Emirates, this 11.7-kilometer mountain road delivers an unforgettable driving experience. With 21 corners carved into the limestone mountain, the drive up takes just 30 minutes but we’d plan for 2-3 hours to enjoy the sunset views and explore the summit.
Frequently rated among the world’s greatest driving roads, the perfectly engineered three-lane highway climbs 1,219 meters through the rugged Hajar Mountains. The summit offers spectacular views across the desert, with a luxury hotel and private palace near the top.
Best driven early morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense desert heat, the road is particularly magical at sunset when the surrounding mountains glow orange. The road is immaculately maintained and accessible year-round, though summer temperatures (late May to early October) can be extreme.
- We share more of our favorite drives in the United Arab Emirates here
8. Ruta 40, Argentina
Stretching over 5,000 kilometers along the Andes Mountains from La Quiaca to Río Gallegos, Ruta 40 is Argentina’s epic answer to Route 66. While the entire route would take weeks to complete, most travelers focus on the Patagonian section from Bariloche to El Calafate, which deserves at least 10 days.
The highway passes through 20 national parks, crosses 27 mountain passes, and connects to Mount Fitz Roy and Los Glaciares National Park. Notable stops include the wine regions of Mendoza, the ancient rock art of Cueva de las Manos, and the dramatic peaks of Patagonia. While much of the road is now paved, some remote sections remain gravel.
Though Patagonian winds can be intense, summer (December-February) offers the most reliable conditions. Winter brings beautiful snow scenes but challenging driving conditions and closed sections.
9. Captain Cook Highway, Australia
Hugging the Queensland coast between Cairns and Port Douglas, this 75-kilometer stretch of road offers one of the rare places worldwide where two UNESCO World Heritage sites meet – the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Though driveable in just over an hour, allow at least a day to explore the pristine beaches and rainforest walks.
The winding coastal road offers stunning ocean views at every turn, with numerous beaches like Ellis Beach and Palm Cove perfect for swimming (only within designated areas during stinger season). Rex Lookout provides spectacular photo opportunities of the coastline, while detours into the rainforest reveal hidden swimming holes and ancient vegetation.
The road is well-maintained and accessible year-round, though the wet season (November-April) brings spectacular waterfalls alongside occasional flooding. Early morning drives offer the best chance to avoid traffic and tour buses.
- Explore this route further and continue your journey through remote Tropical North Queensland with our Cairns to Cape Tribulation road trip itinerary
10. Florence to Ravello, Italy
If you’re up for exploring the gorgeous Amalfi Coast in Italy, there’s no better way to do that than by driving the highway from Florence to Ravello.
Not only will you get the chance to make a pit stop in Rome along the way, but you will also feel as though you’re in 1953’s Roman Holiday movie as you make your way through the rugged Italian coastline.
Culture, colorful medieval villages atop hills, and picture-perfect coastal views are all elements of this beautiful road, not to mention you’ll also drive past several of Italy’s top destinations like Rome and Positano in case you want to stop for a few days to explore them!
11. Mae Hong Son Loop, Thailand
This 600-kilometer circuit through northern Thailand’s mountains combines stunning landscapes with rich cultural experiences. Starting from Chiang Mai, the loop requires at least 4-5 days to properly explore the remote temples, hill tribe villages, and natural hot springs along the way.
The route’s 1,864 curves wind through mist-shrouded mountains, passing highlights like the temple-topped Doi Kong Mu in Mae Hong Son and the picturesque Pai Canyon. Don’t miss the sunflower fields of Khun Yuam (November-December) or the chance to visit traditional long-neck Karen villages.
While the road is fully paved, it demands careful driving, especially during the rainy season (July-October). The cool season (November-February) offers the most comfortable conditions and clearest views, with morning mists creating magical photography opportunities.
12. Ring Road, Iceland
If a road trip made up of extremely rugged and untouched landscapes is what you’re after, the 837-mile Ring Road across the entire island of Iceland is one of the most beautiful roads in the world you can take.
Starting and ending in the city of Reykjavik, this road is a loop where you’ll get to stop and see some of the most famous highlights in Iceland, including the Blue Lagoon, the Hallgrimskirkja Church, and Reynisfjara beach (a black beach), to name just a few! Of course, sights like waterfalls, glacier lagoons, and geysers are guaranteed!
13. Highway 395 (Sierra Nevada Mountains), United States
Starting in Los Angeles and ending in the idyllic Lake Tahoe, Highway 395 is a 450-mile route. This is of the most beautiful roads in the world, not only for its striking views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains but also for the wide array of incredible stops you can make along the way.
A few of the best stops to make along Highway 395 include Mono Lake to see otherworldly-looking landscapes, Bristlecone Pine Forest to witness some of the oldest trees in the world, the Devil’s Postpile to gaze at rare geology, and Bodie to explore a real-life ghost town!
As a bonus, a short detour from the main highway will get you to places like Death Valley National Park and Joshua Tree National Park, both of which are two of California’s most interesting national parks to visit!
- You can find our complete guide to all the stunning scenic drives of northern California here, with a detailed guide to stops between Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe
14. Grossglockner High Alpine Road, Austria
This 48-kilometer toll road through the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park delivers Austria’s most spectacular alpine experience. While driveable in a few hours, plan for a full day to explore the 36 hairpin bends, educational exhibits, and hiking trails along the route.
Rising to 2,504 meters at Hochtor Pass, the road offers close-up views of Austria’s highest peak, the Grossglockner (3,798m), and the dramatic Pasterze Glacier. The Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe visitor center provides the best viewpoints and wildlife watching opportunities, including spotting marmots and ibexes.
The road is typically open from early May to late October, weather permitting, with peak wildflower season in July and August. Early morning drives offer the best chance of clear weather and fewer tourists, while sunset brings spectacular alpenglow to the surrounding peaks.
15. Crown Range Road, New Zealand
This 47-kilometer alpine pass connects Queenstown to Wanaka and is New Zealand’s highest main road. While the drive can be completed in about an hour, you’ll want to allow at least half a day to properly enjoy the numerous viewpoints and historic stops.
The road climbs through a series of dramatic switchbacks to the Crown Range summit (1,121 meters), offering breathtaking views of the Wakatipu Basin and the Southern Alps (Ka Tiritiri o te Moana). Don’t miss the historic Cardrona Hotel, one of New Zealand’s oldest pubs, or the summer hiking and mountain biking opportunities.
While the road is fully sealed, winter conditions (June-August) can be challenging, requiring snow chains and extra caution. The route is particularly stunning during sunrise and sunset, when the surrounding peaks are bathed in golden light. Spring brings the added bonus of wildflowers dotting the alpine meadows.
- Extending your drive through the South Island, follow this itinerary from Christchruch to Queenstown
16. Ring of Kerry Scenic Drive, Ireland
The Ring of Kerry is a full loop that begins in the city of Killarney and ends there, taking you all around Ireland to see the best this island country in Europe has to offer.
Over a total of 111 miles, you’ll drive past some of the most quintessential Ireland sights, including medieval castles, expansive fields of green, ancient forts, windy shorelines, and just about everything in between!
While an entire post would be required to list everything single stop worth making on the Ring of Kerry, some of the absolutely can’t-miss ones include the Ross Castle, Torc Waterfalls, Killarney National Park, and the Gap of Dunloe. We guarantee you’ll LOVE it!
17. Garden Route, South Africa
Stretching all over the South African coast from Mossell Bay to Tsitsikamma, the Garden Route is a coastal road where you’ll get to experience some of the best South Africa has to offer.
From basking on golden beaches to going on thrilling safaris on game reserves, there’s a little something for everyone to do on this incredibly interesting highway.
Some of the best activities to do along the Garden Route include visiting ostrich farms in Klein Karoo, seeing meerkats at sunrise in Oudtshoorn, gazing at sea lions at Plettenberg Bay, hiking over mountains, eating world-class oysters at Knysna, seeing migrating whales in winter, and going vineyard-hopping in the quaint town of Stellenbosch.
18. Carretera Austral, Chile
Known as Ruta 7, this 1,240-kilometer highway through Chilean Patagonia presents one of South America’s most epic road trips. Plan for at least 7-10 days to properly explore this remote route from Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins, though many travelers spend two weeks or more discovering its hidden gems.
The partially paved road winds through pristine temperate rainforests, past marble caves, hanging glaciers, and turquoise lakes. Highlights include the Queulat National Park with its hanging glacier, the marble caves of Lake General Carrera, and the Baker River’s intense turquoise waters.
The best time to travel is during the Southern Hemisphere summer (December-March) when days are longer and roads more accessible. Even then, expect some ferry crossings, unpaved sections, and limited services in remote areas. Carrying spare fuel and supplies is essential, but access to some of Patagonia’s most untouched landscapes is the reward.
19. Jeju Island Coastal Road, South Korea
Circling South Korea’s largest island, this 234-kilometer coastal route offers a perfect blend of volcanic landscapes, tropical beaches, and traditional culture. While it is possible to drive the circle in a day, allow 3-4 days to properly explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites and natural wonders along the way.
The route passes the dramatic Seongsan Ilchulbong sunrise peak, mysterious lava tubes, and the island’s iconic dol hareubang stone statues. Don’t miss the stunning waterfalls like Jeongbang, which drops directly into the ocean, or the unique women diver (haenyeo) culture.
Spring (March-May) brings cherry blossoms and mild weather, while autumn (September-November) offers warm seas and fewer tourists. Summer can be busy with domestic tourists, and winter brings dramatic waves and fewer crowds. The road is well-maintained and easy to navigate, with English signage in most areas.
20. Kings Highway, Jordan
This ancient trade route stretches 335 kilometers from Amman to Petra, following the path of countless civilizations through Jordan’s dramatic landscapes. While technically driveable in 5-6 hours, you’ll want to allow 3-4 days to properly explore the historic sites and natural wonders along the way.
The highway winds past some of Jordan’s most significant attractions, including the Byzantine mosaics of Madaba, the Crusader castle of Kerak, and the stunning Dana Biosphere Reserve. The road’s highlight comes at Wadi Mujib, where the highway crosses a spectacular canyon known as the “Grand Canyon of Jordan.” Best visited in spring (March-May) or autumn (September-November) when temperatures are moderate.
While the road is well-maintained, expect occasional military checkpoints and watch for local traffic in villages. The route culminates at the ancient city of Petra, making it an essential part of any Jordan road trip itinerary.
21. Million Dollar Highway, United States
Looping over 233 miles in Colorado, the Million Dollar Highway is one of the most beautiful roads in the world not only for the gorgeous mountain views you’ll get to see mile after mile, but also for the fantastic stops you can make along the way.
Driving the Million Dollar Highway can be done in under two hours, but this type of drive is more about the journey rather than the destination, so we recommend allowing at least a few days to complete it.
Along the way, you’ll get the chance to stop at some of the most beautiful alpine towns Colorado has to offer, including those like Durango, Ridgeway, Telluride, and Ouray, all of which provide wonderful hiking trails and outdoor adventures.
Moreover, if you’re into hiking, make sure you also make a stop at the San Juan National Forest, a park made up of a whopping 1.8 million acres and different ecosystems like high-desert mesas and mountains.
- In a state full of incredible mountain views, we share more of our favorite scenic drives in Colorado for the most beautiful mountain views in America.
22. Skeleton Coast Road, Namibia
Following Namibia’s haunting Atlantic coastline, this 500-kilometer route from Swakopmund to the Angolan border takes you through one of Earth’s most remote and mysterious landscapes. The journey requires careful planning and at least 4 to 5 days, with special permits required for the northern sections.
The road passes shipwrecks half-buried in desert sands, colonies of Cape fur seals, and towering dunes that meet the cold Atlantic. The southern section to Torra Bay is accessible by regular vehicles, but the northern stretch requires 4WD and guided tours. Wildlife sightings might include desert-adapted elephants, lions, and various antelope species.
The coast is often shrouded in thick fog, particularly in the morning hours, creating an eerie atmosphere. It is best visited during the cooler months (April-October), though the otherworldly landscape is impressive year-round.
23. Arthur’s Pass, New Zealand
Cutting through the heart of the Southern Alps, this 231-kilometer journey from Christchurch to Greymouth offers New Zealand‘s most dramatic alpine crossing. While it is possible to drive in about three hours, plan for a full day to explore the numerous hiking trails and waterfalls along the route.
The road winds past the iconic limestone formations of Castle Hill, beloved by rock climbers and featured in “The Chronicles of Narnia.” Don’t miss the short walk to the thundering Devil’s Punchbowl Falls or the chance to spot native Kea parrots at Arthur’s Pass Village. The Otira Viaduct, an engineering marvel, carries you through a steep gorge that perfectly captures the route’s wild beauty.
While open year-round, winter brings snow and ice to the higher sections, requiring chains. Summer (December-February) offers the most reliable conditions, though the weather can change rapidly at any time of year.
24. Leh-Manali Highway, India
One of the world’s highest motorable roads, this 479-kilometer Himalayan route connects Manali in Himachal Pradesh to Leh in Ladakh. Due to the high altitude and challenging conditions, the journey requires at least 2 days, though 3-4 days allow better acclimatization and exploration. This is a definitely bucket list drive, and not for the faint-hearted!
Crossing five major mountain passes, including the breathtaking Tanglang La (5,328 meters), the route showcases dramatic desert mountains, pristine lakes, and ancient Buddhist monasteries. The highway is only open from mid-June to mid-October, when snow clears from the passes, however, weather can be unpredictable, and the rough road conditions demand a sturdy vehicle.
Despite the challenges, the reward is unparalleled views of the Himalayas and unique cultural experiences in remote mountain villages. Early morning starts are essential to cross passes before afternoon winds pick up.
25. Fundy Coastal Drive, Canada
Following New Brunswick’s Bay of Fundy coastline, this 460-kilometer route offers a unique maritime experience where you can witness the world’s highest tides. The complete journey deserves 3 to 4 days to properly explore the coastal villages, hidden coves, and numerous provincial parks.
Highlights include the Hopewell Rocks, where you can walk on the ocean floor during low tide and kayak around the same spots hours later. The route takes you through Fundy National Park‘s hiking trails and waterfalls and past charming fishing villages like St. Martins with its twin covered bridges.
The drive is best visited between June and October, and it is particularly spectacular during fall foliage season. Don’t miss the chance to spot whales from St. Andrews or sample fresh seafood in Alma. While the road is well-maintained and easily accessible, fog can roll in quickly along coastal sections.
- Extend your journey with this detailed driving itinerary from Toronto to Halifax
26. Atlas Mountain Route, Morocco
Winding through North Africa’s highest mountain range, this 200-kilometer route from Marrakech to Ouarzazate takes you from bustling medinas to remote Berber villages. Plan for at least 2 to 3 days to properly experience the dramatic landscape changes and cultural encounters.
The road climbs through the Tizi n’Tichka pass (2,260 meters), where snow-capped peaks give way to palm-filled oases and desert landscapes. Key stops include the UNESCO World Heritage site of Aït Benhaddou, a stunning ancient fortress city, and traditional weekly markets in mountain villages.
While driveable year-round, winter snow can temporarily close the pass, and summer heat can be intense. Spring (March-May) offers comfortable temperatures and blooming almond trees, while autumn (September-November) brings harvest festivals in local villages.
27. Hokkaido Scenic Byway, Japan
Japan’s northernmost island offers a network of scenic routes that showcase dramatically different landscapes across seasons. The most beautiful section runs from Furano to the Shiretoko Peninsula, requiring at least 4 or 5 days to fully appreciate the diverse scenery and cultural stops.
Summer (July-August) brings endless fields of lavender and colorful flower farms in Furano, while autumn paints the mountains in brilliant reds and golds. Winter transforms the route into a snow-covered wonderland, though some mountain passes may close.
Key stops include the Blue Pond of Biei, known for its otherworldly turquoise color, the steaming hot springs of Noboribetsu, and the dramatic coastline of the Shiretoko Peninsula, where you might spot brown bears and sea eagles. The roads are impeccably maintained, but winter driving requires snow tires and careful planning.
28. Marseille to Aix-en-Provence, France
Although short, the highway from Marseille to Aix-en-Provence is one of the most beautiful roads in the world that will give you the opportunity to see what the Provence region in France has to offer.
Not only does this drive start and end in two of the most important cities in southern France, but it will also give you the chance to see one of the most beautiful regions in the entire Europe.
Along the way, you’ll get plenty of opportunities to stop at small villages, discover vineyards spread all over, and get lost in expansive lavender fields that have made this region a photographer’s paradise.
As you drive further from the coast, you’ll quickly understand how Provence inspired many of Vincent Van Gogh’s early paintings. He actually lived in the region for a while because of the creativity boost he got there!
29. Going-to-the-Sun Road, Montana, USA
Cutting through the heart of Montana’s Glacier National Park, this 50-mile engineering marvel offers one of North America’s most spectacular alpine drives. While the drive can technically be completed in about two hours, plan for a full day to explore the numerous viewpoints, hiking trails, and wildlife-watching opportunities.
The road dramatically climbs to Logan Pass at 6,646 feet, passing through almost every type of terrain in the park, from glacial lakes and cedar forests to alpine tundra. Highlights include stops at Lake McDonald, the weeping wall where waterfalls cascade onto the road, and the Jackson Glacier Overlook.
Depending on snowfall, the road is typically only fully open from late June/early July to late September/early October. Wildlife sightings are common, including mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and occasionally bears. Early morning or late evening drives offer the best lighting and fewer crowds, though parking at popular spots like Logan Pass fills quickly during peak season.
- Be aware of the need for timed reservations to travel on Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak times from late May to September.
30. Transfăgărășan Highway, Romania
No words can quite capture the majestic beauty of this 115-kilometer-long route through the Carpathian Mountain range of Romania. Starting in Sibiu and ending in Bascov village, north of the capital Bucharest, this postcard-perfect drive spells road-trippers delight.
Aside from the picturesque alpine scenery, what drivers love most about the Transfăgărășan are the hundreds of hairpin turns and sudden ascents and descents.
Now, before you go grabbing the Kwells, there are plenty of pullover stops such as the Poenari Citadel, Vidraru Lake, and Bâlea Lake to break up your journey – with a tunnel that connects the northern and southern halves of the route at it’s the highest point, more than 2000 meters above sea level.
You need to time it right to drive the Transfăgărășan, though. Icy conditions in the winter make the road unpassable, so you can generally only use the entire length of the road from late May through until October. In the peak of summer, forget your Top Gear dreams; you’ll be going at a crawling pace around most of the bends!
Pack your picnic as you need at least a complete day to undertake the drive, or stay overnight at the Ice Hotel!
Road Trip Ready?
- Before you hit the road, make sure you check out our road trip essentials checklist – it comes with a printable PDF you can tick off as you go preparing your car and your family ready for their next great family road trip.
- Heading into the mountains, make sure you brush up on some of your winter driving skills, snow chains may be required at high elevations
© Family Road Trip 2024
