Nothing compares to a traditional road trip. There’s simply something about packing up the car and heading off, even if this is only for a few days or weeks. From the breathtaking fjords of Norway to the Martian scenery of Australia, the creamy coastlines of California, and much more. There are many experiences to be had on asphalt. This list of the best scenic drives in the world might help you decide where to drive next in the world to see breathtaking views. This guide will help you decide where to drive next to see breathtaking views.
Here is the list of the top 50 best scenic drives in the world
| Scenic Drive | Location |
|---|---|
| South Africa’s Chapman’s Peak Drive | Cape Town, South Africa |
| America’s Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone | Yellowstone National Park, USA |
| Icefields Parkway Canada | Banff National Park to Jasper National Park, Canada |
| Arches National Park Scenic Drive USA | Arches National Park, Utah, USA |
| Trollstigen Norway | Norway |
| The Great Ocean Road Australia | Southeast coast of Australia |
| Zion National Park – Mount Carmel Highway, USA | Utah, USA |
| Flores Island in the Azores Portugal | Flores Island, Azores, Portugal |
| The French Calanques de Piana in Corsica | Corsica, France |
| Garden Route South Africa | Storms River to Mossel Bay, South Africa |
| Stelvio Pass Italy | Northern Italy near the Swiss border |
| Monument Valley Scenic Drive Arizona, USA | Arizona, USA |
| Ornevegen Norway | Near Geiranger, Norway |
| Highway Overseas – Florida, USA | Florida Keys, USA |
| China/Pakistan via the Karakoram Highway | Pakistan to China via the Himalayas |
| Valley of Fire in Nevada USA | Nevada, USA |
| Panorama Route South Africa | Mpumalanga, South Africa |
| Tioga Road, USA – California | Yosemite National Park, California, USA |
| Tianmen Mountain Road China | Tianmen Mountain, China |
| Norway along the Atlantic Road | Atlantic coast of Norway |
| Amalfi Coast, 163 Strada Statale Italy | Sorrento to Salerno, Italy |
| The Grandes Alpes Road in France | Lake Geneva to French Riviera, France |
| Route 40: Argentina | Through Argentina |
| Highway One Monterey County, California, USA | California, USA |
| Transfagarasan Highway Romania | Transylvanian Alps, Romania |
| Blue Ridge Parkway, USA (Virginia/North Carolina) | Great Smoky Mountains, USA |
| Ireland’s Ring of Kerry | Iveragh Peninsula, Ireland |
| Journeying To The Sun Road – USA, Montana | Glacier National Park, Montana, USA |
| Aurelia Street Italy | Rome to Pisa, Italy |
| Namibia’s Sossusvlei | Namibian desert |
| Seward Highway in Alaska USA | Alaska, USA |
| Arretera De Sa Calobra Spain | Spain |
| Scotland’s A82 Road | Glasgow to Inverness, Scotland |
| Hawaii’s Hana Highway | Maui, Hawaii, USA |
| Abu Dhabi’s Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road | United Arab Emirates |
| France’s Col de L’Iseran | French Alps |
| Route Cabot – Nova Scotia | Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Canada |
| USA’s Denali Highway in Alaska | Alaskan wilderness |
| The USA’s Lonesome Pine Loop | Kentucky to Tennessee, USA |
| Japan’s Irohozaka | Tochigi Prefecture, Japan |
| Mount Cook via Highway 80 in New Zealand | New Zealand |
| Switzerland’s Furka Pass | Swiss Alps |
| Australia’s Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park | Australian outback |
| India’s Rohtang Pass | Himalayas, India |
| Paso De Los Caracoles, Argentina/Chile | Chile to Argentina |
| Path 1: Iceland | Iceland |
| Argentina’s El Chalten Road | Patagonia, Argentina |
| Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way | Coastline of Ireland |
Norway along the Atlantic Road
Atlanterhavsveien, or the Atlantic Road in Norway, twists and swirls across a rich cultural landscape. Travelling along the Atlanterhavsveien, you will pass by quaint settlements like Kårvåg, bounce between skerries, and encounter towering fjords. Make sure to pause at Eldhusøya’s overlook for a breathtaking vista.
South Africa’s Chapman’s Peak Drive
Many years ago, we left our hearts behind in South Africa. Thus, there are a lot of stunning roads from South Africa on this list of our top scenic highways in the globe. Let us begin with the most striking one.
A quick yet incredibly scenic road that runs along the coast between Cape Town and the South Cape Peninsula is called Chapman’s Peak Drive. Among the world’s most breathtaking highways is this one. Make sure to visit Cape Town if you have the chance!
America’s Grand Loop Road in Yellowstone
Out of all the National Parks in America, Yellowstone is our most favourite. Driving the Grand Loop Road, which links the park’s key attractions, is the greatest way to experience it.
Without a doubt, the Yellowstone Loop merits a spot in any ranking of the greatest highways in the United States and maybe the whole globe!
Naturally, you should make time to see all of the must-see locations, such the Grand Prismatic Spring, Mammoth Hot Springs, the Yellowstone Canyon, and Old Faithful Geyser. However, Yellowstone is about the trip as much as the destination! Travelling along the picturesque route within the park offers breathtaking views and an abundance of diverse fauna.
Hayden Valley, Lamar Valley, and the route from Lamar Valley to the park’s east gate are our top picks for picturesque drives across the area. This place has magnificent views! This trip is made even more memorable by the herds of wild bison and other animals that may be seen along and on the road.
Icefields Parkway Canada
In Canada, the Icefields Parkway is arguably the most picturesque route. The road, which stretches as far as the eye can see from Lake Louise in Banff National Park to over a hundred glaciers and waterfalls in Jasper National Park, is encircled by the most breathtaking scenery.
Arches National Park Scenic Drive USA
The United States perhaps boasts more picturesque highways than any other nation in the world because of its abundance of national parks and varied landscapes.
One of our all-time favourites is the breathtaking loop of Arches National Park in Utah! Every bend in the generally fairly level terrain is filled with breathtaking sights as you wind and turn amid the massive boulders towering above. If you’re ever in Utah, you really must visit Arches National Park since it has so many overlooks, short treks, and conveniently accessible attractions!
Trollstigen Norway
Regardless of how many mountain roads you have travelled, the winding Trollstigen (Troll Ladder) picturesque route in Norway will leave you in awe.
Since it’s one of the most visited tourist destinations in Norway, try to visit either late at night or early in the morning. Additionally, be sure to visit the picturesque viewing point where you can overlook the entire route! It’s arguably more spectacular to see the hairpin curves from above than it is to drive them.
The Great Ocean Road Australia
The Great Ocean Road is a picturesque route spanning 243 km (150 miles) along Australia’s southeast coast. Although the route is most recognised for the well-known “Twelve Apostles” rock formations, there are several more breathtakingly beautiful overlooks along the way that are well worth stopping at. Our top destinations on the Great Ocean Road include the London Bridge, Loch Ard Gorge, and the Bay of Islands. Don’t forget to see the untamed koalas by the Kennett River!
Zion National Park – Mount Carmel Highway, USA
One of the most breathtaking drives in the country is the Zion-Mount Carmel Highway in Utah! In addition to offering just stunning scenery, this route makes it simple for visitors to get between Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park. This picturesque side trip is also available if you’re going from Las Vegas to Page, AZ, which is home to Antelope Canyon.
Checkerboard Mesa along the eastern edge of Zion National Park is one of the greatest spots to pause. One of the greatest treks in Zion National Park, the Canyon Overlook Trail, is also accessible closer to the tunnel. It’s a short, easy climb. The little effort is definitely worth the sights.
Flores Island in the Azores Portugal
Flores Island in the Azores, Portugal, is breathtaking, with only a few roads, one more lovely than the other. It seems incredibly secluded and pure—a real Atlantic hidden treasure.
You could spend a single day touring every route on the island because it is so small. But don’t be fooled by its size. This place has breathtaking scenery!
The Azores are home to several stunning islands. The largest island, Sao Miguel, is the most well-known and often travelled to of them all. Our favourite was the unexplored Flores, though!
The French Calanques de Piana in Corsica
By boat, Calanques de Piana in Corsica, France, is readily discovered. The breathtaking journey along Route D81 from Piana to Porto, in my opinion, does this Gulf of Porto’s breathtaking coastline—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—better credit.
Driving in this area is not recommended for the timid due to the extremely tiny roadways. But what a memorable encounter! Without a doubt, one of Europe’s most picturesque drives is this one!
Garden Route South Africa
The Garden Route is a 300-kilometer coastal route in South Africa that runs from Storms River in the Eastern Cape to Mossel Bay in the Western Cape. You could spend a month here, or you could drive it in a single day. There is so much to see and do in the region that I suggest staying for at least a week!
Along the Garden Route, some of our favourite places to visit include Plettenberg Bay, Wilderness, Oudtshoorn, Storms River and Tsitsikamma National Park, and of course, our favourite town in South Africa, Knysna.
Stelvio Pass Italy
The highest mountain pass in Europe is the Stelvio Pass, which is located in northern Italy near the Swiss border. Since we first saw a photo of it in the magazine, we have wanted to drive this route, which is frequently rated as one of the greatest in the world.
And what an amazing experience! You won’t soon forget the sensation of driving the 2,757-meter (9,045-foot) Stelvio Pass, which has 75 hairpin turns overall (48 on one side).
Be patient since this route is a favourite of motorcyclists and bikers. Nevertheless, if you go slowly, you may take your time to enjoy the landscape and the engineering prowess that went into creating this route. It is imperative that you drive this famous route if you are ever in this small area of the Alps!
Monument Valley Scenic Drive Arizona, USA
One of the most stunning routes in the Southwest of the United States is the Monument Valley Scenic Drive.
This route, which was formerly difficult for lone travellers to reach since it was situated within Navajo territory, is now available for travel.
You are welcome to drive your own vehicle along this picturesque circular route, while guided tours with a local guide are highly recommended.
In the centre of the renowned Monument Valley, one of the most breathtaking locations in Arizona, you can get up close and personal with the amazing rock formations. The view is breathtaking.
Remember that you can only travel this route in a car. Therefore, motorhomes, RVs, and motorbikes are not permitted. If you are travelling by RV, just choose the guided tour option.
Ornevegen Norway
Just a short, but extremely steep, drive north from Geiranger town in Norway lies Ornevegen, often known as Eagle’s Road. At the summit is the most amazing viewpoint with outstanding views over the Geirangerfjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Highway Overseas – Florida, USA
Through the Florida Keys, US Route 1 spans 125 miles and crosses brilliant blue seas. All of the keys are connected by this magnificent route, which is ideal for island hopping and getting to know the Florida Caribbean. Take a trip along one of the most distinctive and picturesque highways in the country after packing the car.
China/Pakistan via the Karakoram Highway
In addition to connecting Pakistan and China, the Karakoram Highway winds through one of the world’s most breathtaking mountain ranges, the Himalayas, which was formerly an important portion of the Silk Road.
You’ll travel via historic trade routes and across the Himalayas, Karakoram, and Hindu Kush on this winding, picturesque road. It makes sense that travellers from all over the world go via the Karakoram Highway.
Valley of Fire in Nevada USA
Admire the surrounding area of Nevada’s Valley of Fire, which resembles Mars. Fittingly called, this route meanders over massive red sandstone outcrops in the untamed desert, demanding admiration. Additionally, some of the sandstone has 2,000-year-old petroglyphs, which make for an ideal pit break.
Panorama Route South Africa
The Panorama Route in South Africa offers a variety of magnificent views, including thickly forested woods and canyons. This breathtaking path connects many of the nation’s cultural landmarks and scenic beauties. Make sure to see Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the world.
Tioga Road, USA – California
Pack the car for a breathtaking journey through Yosemite’s mountains. Tioga, which means “where it forks” in Mohawk, will pass across Mono Lake and wind through Yosemite Valley. You will be in awe of the glacier lakes and old mountain peaks here.
Tianmen Mountain Road China
One of the most breathtaking driving routes in the world is located atop Tianmen Mountain, also known as Heavens Gate Mountain. The road is as curved as they come, even though it is just 7 miles long. From top to bottom, the 7 miles consist of 99 hairpin switchbacks. We assure you that the vistas are well worth the terrifying sound.
Amalfi Coast, 163 Strada Statale Italy
It’s no secret that the Amalfi Coast is among the most picturesque locations on Earth, which is why it has one of the most breathtaking drives in the world. To see some of the most breathtaking vistas on earth, simply travel along the idyllic turquoise coast that runs from Sorrento to Salerno.
The Grandes Alpes Road in France
Located in the French Alps, this fabled alpine route connects Lake Geneva with the French Riviera. This route passes through stunning alpine meadows, serene turquoise lakes, towering craggy peaks, and the stunning Riviera shoreline.
Route 40: Argentina
Travelling down Argentina’s Ruta 40, which spans over 3,200 miles of breathtakingly stunning terrain and is among the greatest roads in the world, redefines the phrase “adventure.” You’ll go past marshes and magnificent glaciers on this amazing roadway.
Highway One Monterey County, California, USA
Renowned for its picturesque vistas of Big Sur and its striking cliffsides, this California road is ideal all year round. You’ll go through some of California’s most beautiful areas, including Carmel, Monterey, Santa Cruz, Malibu, and much more, on this breathtaking trip.
Transfagarasan Highway Romania
One of the most beautiful roads in the world, this asphalt ribbon consistently tops lists of such routes. You may travel 70 miles along the Transylvanian Alps, one of Romania’s most picturesque regions. There are several viewing points and breathtaking vistas, so make sure to take your time and stop anytime you’d like.
Blue Ridge Parkway, USA (Virginia/North Carolina)
Enjoy the breathtaking Blue Ridge Parkway as you take in all the enchantment and beauty that the Great Smoky Mountains have to offer. It boasts many breathtaking views and runs from Shenandoah National Park to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Make sure to schedule some time to enjoy picnics and local Appalachian handmade shopping.
Ring of Kerry Ireland
The famous Irish highway known as “The Ring of Kerry” circles the Iveragh Peninsula and is home to charming beach resorts, jade hills, and historical sites. This path takes you past breathtaking vistas of Ladies View, The Gap of Dunloe, Derrynane Beach, and the Skellig Islands.
Journeying To The Sun Road – USA, Montana
Take this breathtaking trip around Glacier National Park to discover one of the most stunning national parks in the United States from the comfort of your vehicle. Travelling The Sun Road will take you through a variety of environments, including deep cedar forests and alpine tundras, as well as old glacial lakes. Make sure to take a couple pictures at Logan Pass’s Continental Divide.
Aurelia Street Italy
Explore a bygone period by travelling down Italy’s Via Aurelia. You’ll pass by several quaint little towns as well as the Italian Riviera on this picturesque trip. Riding one of the most significant highways in the Roman Empire will make your feat even more spectacular. Since it was built in 100 BC to connect Rome and Pisa, the Via Aurelia has served as a breathtaking path across the Italian countryside.
Namibia’s Sossusvlei
Despite having very few signs and no designated roads, Sossusvlei is definitely worth the trip. Some of the world’s tallest dunes, breathtaking burn orange scenery, and breathtaking sunrises may all be found in this location. The road from Sossusvlei to Swakopmund is highly recommended, as it passes through the centre of the Namibian desert.
Seward Highway in Alaska USA
Some of Alaska’s greatest natural and historical landmarks are situated along this lovely woodland byway, which spans 127 miles. You will witness beluga whales, flying eagles, grazing moose, and much more along the route. Seward Highway provides unquestionably the greatest views of the Alaskan wilderness.
Arretera De Sa Calobra Spain
Carretera De Sa Calobra is one of the most beautiful and hazardous roads in Spain because of its short, sharply curved sections. Locals refer to it as “the snake” because it’s well-known for its twisting roadways that offer breathtaking views of the surroundings.
A82 Road Scotland
Take this breathtaking trip via Fort William to witness the untamed splendour of the Scottish landscape. This lengthy, meandering route, which connects Glasgow and Inverness, passes through some of Scotland’s most breathtaking wildness, including velvety hills, untamed sheep, and charming castles.
Hawaii’s Hana Highway
The Hana Highway in Maui offers an unrivalled view of the natural scenery of the Pacific paradise. You’ll pass through verdant valleys, vibrant meadows, and breathtaking waterfalls on your journey. Don’t forget to stop by The Garden of Eden. Have faith in us.
Abu Dhabi’s Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road
With its surreal scenery, Jebel Hafeet Mountain Road in the United Arab Emirates is among the greatest in the world. It makes sense that the route is among the most picturesque drives in the world, with its majestic Arabian highland scenery, desolate cream-colored plains, and romantic sunsets. The route is not only beautiful to travel but also pleasant because of its many lengthy bends and hairpin twists.
France’s Col de L’Iseran
Col de L’Iseran is a road that is genuinely part of the Alps. This path, which climbs to 2,770 metres, is only accessible in the summer and is a part of the Graian Alps. This route is as breathtaking as it is heart-pounding, as you may imagine. Admire the untamed landscape, clear sky, and snow-capped summits of the French Alps.
Route Cabot – Nova Scotia
The breathtaking majesty of the Cape Breton Highlands is best viewed from the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Enjoy unparalleled sea vistas, historic woods, and old lakes on this coastal journey. To truly appreciate it all, consider going kayaking if you have the time.
USA’s Denali Highway in Alaska
This breathtaking picturesque trek takes you through 135 miles of Alaskan wilderness. Alaska’s treasures, including animals, glacial lakes, dense woods, and craggy slopes, may all be found along the Denali Highway. As you go around the Tangle Lakes, be sure to pay attention to the more than 900 archaeological sites.
The USA’s Lonesome Pine Loop
Legendary frontiersman Daniel Boone established this road in 1775, and hundreds of thousands of people have since settled along it on the western frontier. The driving trip stays as near to the Wilderness Trail as feasible until it reaches Cumberland Gap.
Japan’s Irohozaka
Irohozaka is renowned for its breathtaking vistas, dramatic bends, and lush vegetation. Along the route, there will be breathtaking woodlands, as well as a number of observation platforms and lovely waterfalls. In the event that driving is not possible in the autumn, April blossoms are equally stunning.
Mount Cook via Highway 80 in New Zealand
The asphalt paradise that is Highway 80 to Mount Cook consists of few bends and lots of open space. Even though the journey just takes an hour or so, you’ll see a variety of landscapes, including grasslands, mountains, and the well-known Lake Pukaki.
Switzerland’s Furka Pass
Furka Pass is unquestionably one of the most spectacular drives in the world, winding through some of the most gorgeous sections of the Swiss Alps. This breathtaking journey crosses through breathtaking alpine meadows, glacial lakes, and serene snowy plains. It also happens to be one of the highest highways in all of Europe.
Australia’s Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
A front-row seat to Australia’s outback, with its surreal desert environment and unusual rock formations, is provided by the journey through Uluru. However, the trip is renowned for more than just its scenic splendour. The park is listed as a World Heritage Site because of its natural and cultural significance, making the visit very breathtaking.
India’s Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is not only the entry point to the Himalayas and Lahaul Valley, but it’s also one of the world’s most breathtaking drives. There are few views like the breathtaking Indian forest and mountainside that can be had while driving via Rohtang Pass. With its tight cliffside tunnels and 3,978 feet of elevation gain, Rohtang Pass is not a place for the timid.
Paso De Los Caracoles, Argentina/Chile
The journey of a lifetime is Paso De Los Caracoles, which stretches over 5,000 kilometres between Chile and Argentina. You will be completely engrossed in the Los Caracoles region’s splendour and the Andes’ mystical beauty along this path. As you travel along the stunning curving roads, take in the constantly changing scenery.
Laval, Combe, France
The Combe Laval in France winds through green valleys, rugged cliffsides, and dense forests. The expansive views, etched into the side of soaring limestone cliffs, are just breathtaking. Make careful not to miss the heart-pounding tunnel that plunges right through the cliffside.
Million Dollar Highway Colorado USA
The Million Dollar Highway in Colorado bears true to its moniker as it winds past historic gold mining towns, bubbling hot springs, ancient woods, and ancient lakes. Despite being just 25 miles, the route weaves through several stop-offs and extremely difficult mountain roads, so plan to spend a full day travelling it with only a few short stops.
Route 66 USA
One of the most picturesque roads in the world is also the most famous highway in the US. Known as the Main Street of America, Route 66 traverses three different time zones and honours modern America with its hauntingly beautiful scenery, vintage eateries, oddball landmarks, and ghost towns.
This 2,400-mile highway pass connects Chicago and Los Angeles and passes through lush woods, peaceful plains, and a desert like Mars, in addition to oddball roadside artwork.
Hai Van Pass Vietnam
This brief but stunning journey circles the East Sea’s majestic green highlands. Take this breathtakingly beautiful journey and wind through verdant rainforests, white sand beaches, and treacherous steep slopes. Don’t forget to observe the Brick Gate of Emperor Minh Mang.
Romantic Road Germany
On this breathtaking panoramic trip, go through a wonderful realm of Germany’s fairytales. The route winds through Bavaria’s lovely woodlands and rugged mountains. Still, the charm is the finest feature. Mediaeval walled cities, picturesque villages, and intriguing castles may be seen all along the trip.
Bolivia’s North Yungas Road
North Yungas Road, which has the title of being the world’s most hazardous road right now, is also one of the most picturesque drives. The surrounding beauty is a fantastic reward if you have the courage to walk the dangerous path. It’s one of the most beautiful highways in the world because of the never-ending cascades, verdant Amazonian scenery, steep alpine cliffs, and treacherous switchbacks.
Route 1: Iceland
The greatest route to see one of the most stunning islands in the world is via Iceland’s Route 1, also referred to as the Ring Road. With its 800-mile route around the whole nation, this road offers breath-taking Icelandic scenery at every corner. Along the route, you will be met with breathtaking views of unearthly landscapes with cold waters and sharp peaks.
Argentina’s El Chalten Road
Thanks to its breathtaking mountain scenery and recognisable views of El Chalten in Patagonia, Argentina’s Road To El Chalten is among the most picturesque roads in the world. This path is truly fit for a pioneer; it passes through some of the most untainted and rocky terrain on Earth. Additionally, the path is easy to cruise, giving you more time to take in the breathtaking scenery.
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
The 1,553-mile Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland is home to breathtaking coastal mountains, undulating hills, untamed farmland, and rich historical sites. From the Cliffs of Moher to Killary Harbour, this tour will show you the finest of the Emerald Isle. This magnificent road is the most scenic drive in the world because of its unmatched splendour.
