RechealEver thought of what the best countries for road trips will be like? What is your definition of a road trip? Is it exploring new places, listening to music to match the landscapes or scenery, or a cross-country journey?
No matter what it is, if your answer or choice is large or varied, know that it cannot be as large as the country itself, which means you visit and explore the country of your choice.
There is no doubt that road trips can be very thrilling and exciting. That is why, In this overview, we will list some of the best countries for road trips.
Table of Contents
ARE ROAD TRIPS WORTH IT?
Road trips can be absolutely worth it! They offer a unique travel experience packed with advantages:
- Freedom and Flexibility: Unlike buses or trains, road trips let you set your own pace and itinerary. Stop at quirky roadside attractions, explore hidden gems, or linger in charming towns that catch your fancy.
- Adventure and Discovery: The open road beckons with the promise of adventure. Hit the road less traveled and discover hidden waterfalls, scenic overlooks, or unexpected detours that turn into lasting memories.
- Bonding and Shared Experiences: Road trips are fantastic for couples or families. Jam out to your favorite tunes, share stories, and create lasting memories together as you navigate the journey.
- Cost-Effective (potentially): While gas prices can fluctuate, road trips can be budget-friendly, especially if you split costs among multiple travelers. You can control your accommodation options (camping!) and food choices (picnics!).
Which country has the best road trips?
Iceland, the “Land of Fire and Ice,” is a strong contender for the title of the country with the best road trips. Buckle up for a journey unlike any other, where dramatic landscapes unfold around every bend. Cruise down the iconic Ring Road, a single road that encircles the entire island nation. Witness otherworldly volcanic landscapes, including geysers erupting skyward, steaming lava fields, and craters that scar the earth.
The stark beauty continues with glaciers snaking down from snow-capped peaks, contrasting with vibrant green valleys and cascading waterfalls. Black sand beaches pounded by the relentless Atlantic waves add another layer of intrigue.
Beyond the natural wonders, charming Icelandic towns dot the Ring Road, offering opportunities to soak in geothermal pools, sample delicious seafood, and experience the warm hospitality of the Icelandic people. This unique combination of dramatic scenery, diverse natural wonders, and a comfortable driving route makes Iceland a road trip paradise.
Related: Best Indoor Activities In Edinburgh
BEST COUNTRIES FOR ROAD TRIPS
Here are the top 12 countries where you can enjoy beautiful scenery while on a road trip
1. AUSTRALIA
As the largest country by area in Oceania and the sixth largest country in the world, Australia has a lot to offer travelers. Australia is one of the best countries for road trips. The country has areas of tropical rainforests, and it features mountains, deserts, and wide-open spaces.
The country is well known for its beaches, national parks, small villages, and nature. Australia has it all.
Australia offers travelers the best road trip experience. The island is a series of nature offering beautiful views of the Ocean, mountains, and desert panoramas. The beauty of Australia is like nowhere else.
If you are not sure of where to go in Australia, you can go on a trip to the “Great Barrier Reef” and enjoy some natural wonders. The Great Barrier Reef contains the world’s largest collection of coral reefs, with 400 types of Coral, 1,500 species of fish, and 4,000 types of Molluscs. The place is popular among travelers and is counted among the natural wonders of this world.
Related: Romantic Getaways In Australia
2. CANADA
One of the best countries we highly recommend for a road trip is Canada. Canada is a country in North America and the second largest country in the world. While it’s worth spending time in Canada, Travelers should rent a car and journey into the countryside or the northern forests of Ontario.
As one of the best countries for road trips, driving across Canada allows travelers the freedom to visit and explore stunning cities and parks like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, or Banff.
If you still do not know where to explore in Canada, consider “Alberta”.
Alberta is one of the most beautiful destinations in Canada. It is filled with views of the Canadian Rockies, Glacial lakes, and a regular cast of wildlife. Its landscape encompasses mountains, prairies, desert badlands, and vast coniferous forests.
3. ICELAND
Iceland is a Nordic island nation that is known for its dramatic landscapes with volcanoes, geysers, hot springs, and lava fields. This country is best passed through by car. For road trips in Iceland, the most famous place to explore is Thingvellir National Park.
Driving along Thingvellir national park gives you the freedom to see untouched nature, Oxararfoss waterfall, and Pingvellir church.
You can also enjoy an unforgettable trip along in the “Blue Lagoon”. The Blue Lagoon is one of Iceland’s most beautiful and famous attractions.
It is one of the best countries for road trips. It is a geothermal spa in southwestern Iceland. The spa is in a lava field and is best known for its milky mineral-rich waters and its incredible skin treatment. The lagoon has treatment rooms, changing rooms, a free car park, showers, and a restaurant on site. It is a perfect place for a road trip.
4. CROATIA
Croatia is another ideal destination for travelers. It is a country at the crossroads of central and southeast Europe. Also, one of the best countries for road trips.
Croatia is famous for its major cities, such as Dubrovnik, Zadar, and Zagreb. Croatia is known for its extraordinary natural attractions, such as Adriatic Coastlines, Plitvice Lakes, Krka National Park, and islands.
The minimum time for a road trip in Croatia is 7 days. That way, you could explore a few islands and understand the culture and history of Croatia.
Related: Things To Do In Edinburgh
5. SWITZERLAND
Switzerland is a central European country known for its ski resorts and hiking trails. Switzerland is home to many lakes, villages, and mountains. It is one of the best countries for road trips.
A road trip to Switzerland is not a bad idea. Most travelers visit Zermatt. This part of the journey will provide you with breathtaking mountain views, Lakes views, and amazing train rides.
In Zermatt, you can find Matterhorn-The most iconic mountain, the Matterhorn Ski Paradise, and the Matterhorn Aerial Tramway-Europe’s highest cable car.
6. NEW ZEALAND
A list without New Zealand is not complete. Holding the title of one of the world’s most stunning countries, New Zealand is a popular destination for travelers. It is one of the best countries for road trips.
It is an island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It comprises over 700 smaller islands. And while it has large cities like Wellington, Dunedin, Christchurch, and Tauranga, it also has lots of attractions.
Travelers mostly visit Auckland in New Zealand to see natural wonders, mountains to climb, and forests to stroll. Every road trip in Auckland requires a few days, and each day offers something new.
You can visit Cape Reinga in Auckland. It is a perfect place for a road trip, offering views of two oceans colliding and an ancient Pohutukawa tree. Cape Reinga is famous for its lighthouse.
Related: Best Travel Agents In Mauritius
7. IRELAND
Known for its Scenic Coastlines and magical landscape. Ireland is an island in the North Atlantic Ocean, in north-western Europe. It is one of the best countries for road trips.
Exploring Ireland on a road trip is a complete adventure on its own. When you hit the road, you will see untouched nature, and small towns and even learn about the history of some places in the country.
While some areas in Ireland are filled with lush green scenery and dramatic coastlines, the country is best explored by car.
8. SCOTLAND
If you’re visiting Scotland, plan a road trip where you can explore half of the country. Scotland is a small country, so you can explore numerous places no matter how long or short you are staying. It is one of the best countries for road trips.
Known for its uninterrupted nature, dramatic ocean views, mountains, and culture, Scotland is best seen by traveling by car. One of the best places to explore on a road trip in Scotland is Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital. Known for its castle, Royal Mile shops, and art festivals, Edinburgh starts and ends with enjoying the city’s remarkable sights.
9. NAMIBIA
Another country highly recommended is Namibia, a country in southwest Africa. Its western border is the Atlantic Ocean. It is one of the best countries for road trips. One advantage of traveling by car in Namibia is you get to explore small villages, and desert and see diverse wildlife.
Namibia is a destination that cannot be compared to anywhere else in the world. The roads are very well-maintained, and its restaurants provide delicious food. The Etosha National Park is probably the country’s most famous place.
It’s a recommended place for anyone visiting the country for the first time and wanting to experience and see the country’s attractions. Etosha is known for its wildlife, such as Lion, leopard, elephant, cheetah, giraffe, zebra, and more.
Related: Tourist Attractions In Namibia
10. SPAIN
Spain is, without a doubt, one of the best countries for road trips. Not only does Spain have some of the most beautiful cities and places in the world, but it also features the best of everything for travelers to enjoy.
From breathtaking attractions to mountain villages and beach resorts. Exploring Spain by car is not a bad idea, it would be a very exciting adventure. The country is known for its food, islands, Mediterranean beaches, and culinary art.
Spain is a fantastic country for a road trip. Driving through Seville, Majorca, Barcelona, and Madrid in Spain may make your trip a memorable one.
Related: Best Travel Agency In Egypt
11. FRANCE
The best place to explore in France is Paris, the Capital of France. Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and also one of the best countries for road trips. It is known worldwide for the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. Paris is also famous for its arts, it is known for being the city of romance and love.
Driving through France’s glorious coastline, breathtaking scenery, and stunning villages may be a perfect road trip that is highly recommended for everyone. The advantage of traveling by car in France is you get to enjoy the scenic back roads.
Most of France’s beautiful sceneries may be found off a beaten path. This will allow you to see breathtaking landscapes without other vehicles distracting the view. Another advantage is you get to explore France’s fragrant fields, vineyards, and Cliffside castles.
Related: Cheapest Travel Insurance In Nz
12. ITALY
Italy is another perfect destination for a road trip. It is a European country with a long Mediterranean Coastline. If you are in love with nature and wildlife, then a road trip through Italy has to be on your bucket list.
The country is filled with epically gorgeous locals, romantic cities, stunning islands, breathtaking mountains, seascapes, and sparkling lakes. It also has thousands of small towns and villages.
The most popular and fun place in Italy is Venice. Venice has it all, from famous museums to striking architecture to plazas and beautiful bridges. Venice is known as the City of Canals, The Floating City, and Serenissima.
Which country is best for self drive?
Choosing the perfect country for a self-drive adventure depends on what you’re looking for in your trip. Here are two very different options that cater to different desires:pen_spark
- Spectacular scenery and diverse landscapes: New Zealand
New Zealand is a paradise for road-tripping couples. With stunning scenery around every corner, from snow-capped mountains and glaciers to rolling hills and pristine beaches, New Zealand offers a diverse and breathtaking backdrop for your journey. The well-maintained roads and well-established infrastructure make it a safe and comfortable place to explore by car. You can embark on a multi-day adventure on the South Island, starting in buzzing Queenstown and venturing through Milford Sound and Franz Josef Glacier, or explore the geothermal wonders and rolling hills of the North Island.
- Cultural immersion and historical charm: Italy
Italy beckons road-tripping couples seeking a taste of la dolce vita. Cruise down scenic coastal roads, meander through charming villages perched on hilltops and explore the rich history of this fascinating country. Tuscany is a classic choice, with its vineyards, medieval towns, and rolling hills. Visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa, soak in the thermal baths of Saturnia, or simply get lost in the beauty of the Tuscan countryside. For a taste of southern Italy, embark on a road trip along the Amalfi Coast, stopping to admire the dramatic cliffs, colorful towns like Positano, and the ruins of Pompeii.
FAQs
Which Country Is Best For a Road Trip?
Some of the best countries for road trips are Canada, Iceland, Croatia, and Switzerland.
What’s The Easiest Country To Drive In?
They include Australia, Switzerland, New Zealand, Ireland, and others.
What Are The Best Countries For An Epic Road Trip?
They include Scotland and Namibia.
CONCLUSION
There are so many best countries for road trips. Ranging from the United States to the United Kingdom to Asia and Africa, there are thousands of places to go on a road trip. There’s no shortage or limit of destinations and detours to explore by car. We hope this overview is a helpful guide to your search.
REFERENCES
- Internationaltraveller.com
- Thetravel.com
- Autoaccessoriesgarage.com
- Silverkris.com
RECOMMENDATIONS
Recheal
Tour Chief Editor (Chilaka)
Jude
