This is your sign to go on an epic road trip in 2025
There’s nothing quite like the freedom of the open road, and 2025 is the perfect year to embark on a new adventure!
Picture this: you're cruising past incredible landscapes, there's fresh air in your lungs; you're blasting "A Thousand Miles" and singing (or yelling) with your best mates. Call me biased, but road trips are truly the best kind of adventure.
Whether you’re craving stunning coastal views or charming countryside landscapes, the world is full of epic road trip routes waiting to be explored.
In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of the best road trips around the globe, from iconic scenic drives to hidden gems that’ll make you want to pack your bags and hit the road!
Oceania
1) New Zealand South Island
Credit: Cassie Matias via Unsplash
We're starting our list with one of the world's most epic road trips: New Zealand's South Island.
Known for jaw-dropping mountain ranges, glaciers, and fjords, New Zealand’s South Island is a dream destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. A New Zealand road trip was at the top of my bucket list for the longest time, and it surpassed all my expectations when I finally got the chance to go!
Highlights of a South Island Road Trip
Firstly, the landscapes here are out of this world. Several movies were filmed in New Zealand — like The Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Chronicles of Narnia, and Mission Impossible!
TLDR: No greenscreen can replicate the grandeur of South Island's mountains and lakes. Head to Milford Sound, Te Anau, Arthur's Pass, and Mount Cook National Park for blockbuster-worthy views!
On the adventure side, there's a reason why Queenstown is known as "The Adventure Capital of the World". Skydiving, bungee jumping, paragliding, ATV riding — you can tick off every single item on your bucket list in this city if you wanted to.
Where else in the world are you able to get up close and personal with dolphins?!
And of course, there's tons of wildlife. What I love about New Zealand is there are strict laws protecting wildlife from overtourism.
I went on a dolphin tour in Kaikoura, where the government limits the number of boats out in the water and forbids dolphin feeding. There were hundreds of dolphins that day, and we even got to swim with them — I'm not exaggerating when I say this was truly one of the best days of my life.
Suggested Route and Duration
Credit: @nickdafonseca via Unsplash
The two main airports on New Zealand's South Island are in Christchurch and Queenstown. You can either do a big loop and start and end your journey in Christchurch, or do an open-jaw road trip by starting in Christchurch and ending in Queenstown.
You'll need to spend at least 2 weeks in New Zealand's South Island, though you can easily extend your trip to 3 weeks if you had the time!
2) New Zealand North Island
Though smaller than her Southern sister, New Zealand's North Island has plenty of gems up her sleeve! Like geothermal wonders, vibrant cities, and a strong Maori culture.
Highlights of a North Island Road Trip
The North Island's geothermal landscapes are otherworldly — think bubbling mud pools, steaming vents, and rainbow-colored hot springs. Head to Rotorua, where you’ll find the legendary Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland.
Then, there’s the rich Maori culture. North Island is the heartland of Maori heritage, and experiencing it is essential. Stop by Te Puia in Rotorua to witness the traditional haka and explore a Maori village, or head to Waitangi in the Bay of Islands, where New Zealand’s founding treaty was signed.
If you’re up for adventure, tackle the Tongariro Alpine Crossing for epic volcanic landscapes, or kayak through glowworm-lit caves on Lake McLaren. Finally, unwind at Hot Water Beach on the Coromandel Peninsula, where you can dig your own hot tub in the sand, or surf the black-sand shores of Piha Beach.
Suggested Route and Duration
Photo credit: Newzealand.com
You'll need at least 10 days to get a taste of New Zealand's North Island! Start in Auckland and head south to Rotorua and Lake Taupo. Continue to Tongariro National Park for hiking, then circle back up the east coast, visiting Hawke’s Bay and Coromandel Peninsula.
3) Western Australia
Australia’s Coral Coast Drive from Perth to Exmouth showcases a stunning coastline filled with unique marine life, dramatic cliffs, and white-sand beaches. This Aussie road trip is extremely colorful — from the Instagram-famous Pink Lake to
Highlights of a Western Australia Road Trip
Marvel at the unique limestone spires rising from the golden sands of the Pinnacles Desert, and immerse yourself in Kalbarri National Park's dramatic gorges and seasonal wildflowers.
Visit Monkey Mia for an unforgettable encounter with friendly wild dolphins, and experience the pristine beauty of Ningaloo Reef, where snorkeling with whale sharks and vibrant coral gardens awaits.
Suggested Route and Duration
We'd recommend spending at least 8 days in Western Australia! Start in Perth then drive to Lancelin Sand Dunes and Swan Valley, followed by The Pinnacles and Penguin Island. For the full road trip itinerary, check out our 8-Day Perth guide!
4) Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania is often overlooked, but the Great Eastern Drive offers some of Australia’s most untouched and beautiful coastal scenery. I had the chance to spend a week in Tasmania in 2023 — and it wasn't nearly enough.
Highlights of a Tasmania Road Trip
Image credit: Discover Tasmania
Explore the crystal-clear waters and white sands of Wineglass Bay in Freycinet National Park, one of Tasmania’s most iconic spots.
Further north, the Bay of Fires offers striking orange-lichen boulders against turquoise seas—a photographer's dream. In the heart of the island, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park boasts stunning alpine scenery with trails through ancient rainforests, rugged peaks, and glacial lakes.
Don’t miss Mount Field National Park, known for its majestic Russell Falls and diverse landscapes from eucalyptus forests to alpine moorlands. Finally, dive into Tasmania’s cultural side at Salamanca Market in Hobart, and sample local produce and wines in the Huon Valley.
Suggested Route and Duration
Starting in Hobart (the capital of Tasmania), head to Tasman Peninsula and Maria Island. Continue to Freycinet National Park and the Bay of Fires, then to Launceston — a UNESCO City of Gastronomy! After that, head to Cradle Mountain in Lake St. Clair National Park, Cradle Mountain.
I'd recommend a minimum of 12 days for a Tasmania road trip, though you can easily extend it.
5) The Great Ocean Road, Australia
Witness stunning biblical references and more at the Great Ocean Road Tour! Credits: @pingsterrrr on Unsplash
Australia’s Great Ocean Road is one of the most iconic road trips in the world. It's a must for anyone looking to combine dramatic coastlines, lush rainforests, and quirky beach towns! This 243-kilometer route stretches along the southern coast of Australia, offering striking views at every turn.
Highlights of a Great Ocean Road Road Trip
Start with the breathtaking Twelve Apostles, towering limestone stacks rising dramatically from the ocean, and don’t miss the nearby Loch Ard Gorge for its beautiful turquoise cove and fascinating shipwreck history. Further along, Gibson Steps provides a chance to descend to the beach for up-close views of the cliffs.
In Great Otway National Park, you’ll find lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls like Erskine Falls, and towering eucalyptus trees where you can often spot koalas. Explore Apollo Bay for a charming coastal town experience and enjoy panoramic views from Cape Otway Lightstation, Australia’s oldest surviving lighthouse.
Suggested Route and Duration
Source: Denise Jans of Unsplash
Melbourne is the gateway to The Great Ocean Road, so it's where you'll be renting a car! The recommended duration for a Great Ocean Road road trip is typically 2 to 3 days, though a longer trip of 4 to 5 days allows you to explore the sights more leisurely and enjoy side trips.
Asia
6) Okinawa, Japan
Beat the heat by plunging into the waters of Okinawa Islands as the sun shines! Credits to Klook
For those craving a road trip with tropical vibes and rich history, Okinawa is a must. Known as Japan’s island paradise, Okinawa has crystal-clear waters, unique local culture, and scenic drives along coastal roads.
Highlights of an Okinawa Road Trip
Explore pristine beaches, historical sites like Shurijo Castle, and Okinawa’s famous Churaumi Aquarium. Take in the beauty of Cape Manzamo and enjoy a sunset at Kouri Bridge, which offers breathtaking ocean views.
Behold the majestic giants of the sea at Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium! Credits: Erik on Unsplash
Suggested Route and Duration
Start in Naha and drive up the island, stopping at Shurijo Castle and Cape Manzamo. Continue to Motobu for the aquarium, then head over the Kouri Bridge for incredible ocean vistas before returning to Naha.
7) Hokkaido, Japan
Japan’s northern island of Hokkaido is a paradise for road trippers. Known for its vast landscapes, seasonal beauty, and open roads, Hokkaido offers one of the most scenic and relaxing drives in Japan.
Highlights of a Hokkaido Road Trip
Shirogane Blue Pond
Visit Furano and Biei for rolling lavender fields and flower farms in summer, and enjoy Niseko’s ski resorts in winter. Don’t miss Shiretoko Peninsula, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and Lake Toya for hot springs and lake views.
Suggested Route and Duration
Source: Otaru Tourism Association Website
Start in Sapporo, the capital of Hokkaido and head to Asahikawa, Furano and Biei for flower fields in summer, then make your way to Lake Toya and Noboribetsu. Drive to Otaru, before heading back to Sapporo!
The best time for this road trip is in summer for flower blooms or autumn for vibrant foliage, though I've visited Hokkaido in winter as well and the colder weather comes with its charms as well — like winter festivals and ski season!
Here's our 7-day Hokkaido road trip itinerary:
8) Jeju, South Korea
South Korea’s Jeju Island offers a unique mix of volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and beaches, ideal for a relaxed yet exciting island road trip. Known as the “Hawaii of Korea,” Jeju boasts stunning natural sites and cultural attractions.
Highlights of a Jeju Road Trip
Hallim Park showcases different plants and flowers with each season, such as the hydrangea in June and the lotus flowers in July and August. Image Credits - Jeju Tourism Organization
Start with a sunrise hike up Seongsan Ilchulbong (Sunrise Peak), a UNESCO World Heritage site formed from volcanic eruptions, offering panoramic views over the island. Visit the enchanting Manjanggul Lava Tube, one of the world’s longest lava tunnels, to witness Jeju’s fascinating volcanic history.
For beach lovers, Hyeopjae Beach offers turquoise waters and white sands with views of Biyangdo Island in the distance. Nature enthusiasts will love Hallasan National Park, where they can hike South Korea’s highest mountain and explore lush landscapes filled with unique flora.
Finally, stop at Jeongbang Waterfall, one of the few waterfalls in Asia that flows directly into the ocean, for an unforgettable coastal view. Jeju’s diverse attractions make it an unforgettable road trip destination.
Suggested Route and Duration
Begin in Jeju City and make a loop around the island, stopping at Seongsan Ilchulbong and the Manjanggul Lava Tube. Then head west to enjoy the beaches and finish by exploring Hallasan National Park in the center of the island!
The recommended duration for a Jeju road trip is typically 3 to 4 days to fully enjoy the island’s top sights, natural wonders, and unique attractions.
9) Bangkok to Huahin, Thailand
A perfect weekend getaway from the hustle and bustle of Bangkok, Hua Hin is a charming seaside town with beautiful beaches, night markets, and cultural attractions.
Highlights of a Hua Hin Road Trip
A road trip from Bangkok to Hua Hin is a delightful journey that blends Thailand’s vibrant culture with coastal charm. Along the way, you can stop at the bustling Maeklong Railway Market, where vendors sell fresh produce right along the train tracks, and explore the famous Amphawa Floating Market for authentic Thai street food.
In the historic city of Phetchaburi, visit the stunning Khao Wang Palace atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the area. Finally, in Hua Hin, unwind on beautiful beaches, wander through the lively night market, and discover the unique Hua Hin Railway Station — one of Thailand's most picturesque train stations.
Suggested Route and Duration
Begin in Bangkok and make your way south. Stop by Samut Songkhram and Phetchaburi to explore unique Thai culture before reaching Hua Hin.
Europe
10) Ring Road, Iceland
For the adventurer seeking something truly unique, Iceland’s Ring Road is an unforgettable journey through wild landscapes of glaciers, volcanoes, and waterfalls. The circular route, which spans 1,332 kilometers, will take you through the island’s most iconic sights.
Highlights of an Iceland Road Trip
Photo by Jared Erondu from Unsplash
Explore the Icelandic countryside with its geothermal hot springs and dramatic lava fields.
Along the way, discover iconic waterfalls like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss, stroll the dramatic black sands of Vík, and marvel at floating icebergs in the magical Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon. As you journey into the eastern fjords, expect scenic coastal roads and cozy fishing villages before reaching the geothermal wonders of Lake Mývatn.
End your adventure on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, often called “Iceland in Miniature” for its mix of lava fields, glaciers, and rugged coastlines. With endless waterfalls, steaming hot springs, and vast glacier views, each stop on this route feels like stepping into a different world, making for an unforgettable Icelandic road trip.
Suggested Route and Duration
Photo credit: Jeff Sheldon
An Iceland Ring Road road trip is an adventure of a lifetime, taking you through some of the world’s most otherworldly landscapes. With 10 to 14 days, you can fully immerse yourself in Iceland’s raw beauty, starting and ending in Reykjavik.
11) Amalfi Coast, Italy
Credit: bluejayphoto via Getty Images Pro
The Amalfi Coast is one of the most scenic road trips in Europe. Stretching about 50 kilometers along the southern edge of Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers dramatic Mediterranean views, colorful cliffside villages, and a road that winds along steep coastal cliffs.
Highlights of an Amalfi Coast Road Trip
Credit: @kevinpmcmahon via Unsplash
The Amalfi Coast is home to some of Italy’s most beautiful and iconic coastal towns, including Positano, known for its colorful houses cascading down the mountainside, and Ravello, a town famous for its breathtaking gardens and cliffside views.
The region offers a rich history with ancient cathedrals, traditional Italian architecture, and cultural sites like the Amalfi Cathedral and Villa Rufolo in Ravello. Each town along the coast has its unique charm, from the bustling port town of Amalfi to the quieter village of Praiano.
Food lovers will find a culinary paradise here, with local specialties like fresh seafood, limoncello, and handmade pasta. Restaurants perched on cliff edges provide a beautiful backdrop for enjoying authentic Italian dishes.
Suggested Route and Duration
A recommended duration for an Amalfi Coast road trip is 3 to 5 days, depending on how much you’d like to explore each town and if you’re planning side trips.
Start your journey in Sorrento and make your way south along the coast. Spend time exploring Positano’s narrow alleys and Amalfi’s historical sites, then continue up to Ravello for sweeping views of the coastline. End your trip with a drive back to Naples, where you can visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii for a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history.
North and South America
12) Western Canada
Credits to: YayaErnst from Getty Images Pro
For those seeking a winter adventure, Western Canada offers a mesmerizing journey through snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and vibrant cities. This two-week itinerary takes you from Vancouver's bustling streets to the serene landscapes of Jasper and Banff.
Highlights of a Western Canada Road Trip
Credits to: Unsplash
A Western Canada road trip is an awe-inspiring journey through some of the world’s most stunning natural landscapes. Start in the Canadian Rockies, where Banff National Park offers crystal-clear lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, surrounded by towering peaks.
Drive through Jasper National Park to spot wildlife like elk and bears along the scenic Icefields Parkway, one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Stop at the Columbia Icefield to walk on a glacier or enjoy panoramic views from the Glacier Skywalk.
Further west, explore the lush rainforests, rugged coastline, and serene beaches of Pacific Rim National Park on Vancouver Island. With its diverse landscapes, including pristine lakes, towering mountains, and coastal vistas, a Western Canada road trip promises unforgettable views at every turn.
Suggested Route and Duration
Our 2-week Western Canada road trip starts in Vancouver, then covers cities like Kamloops, Jasper, and Banff before returning the car in Calgary.
Things to Take Note of When Planning Your First Road Trip
Planning your first road trip is exciting, but it also requires preparation to ensure a smooth journey. Here are some essential tips to help you get started:
1. Required Documents for Renting a Car
- Driver’s License: You’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country. If you’re driving in a foreign country, some rental agencies require an International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your regular license, especially in countries like Italy and Japan.
- Passport: Bring your passport as additional identification if you’re traveling internationally, as some agencies may ask for it.
- Credit Card: Most rental companies require a credit card under the driver’s name for the security deposit, even if you’ve prepaid. Some companies may accept debit cards, but it’s always best to confirm ahead of time.
2. Rental Terms and Conditions
Photo credit：Jeju Tourism Organization
- Fuel Policy: The most common fuel policies are "full-to-full" (you return the car with a full tank) and "pre-purchase" (you pay for a full tank upfront and return it empty). Full-to-full is usually the most economical, but make sure to fill up before returning to avoid high refueling fees.
- Additional Drivers: If more than one person plans to drive, check if adding an extra driver is included or if there’s an additional fee. Some companies offer free additional drivers, while others charge per day.
- Age Requirements: Many rental companies charge extra for young drivers under 25 or have restrictions for older drivers over 70. Confirm any age-based policies to avoid surprises.
3. Local Driving Laws and Road Conditions
Credits to: Brian Gratwicke on Flickr (Attribution 2.0 Generic (CC BY 2.0))
- Road Rules: Familiarize yourself with the local driving rules and signage, as these can vary significantly by country. In Italy, for instance, certain areas like the Amalfi Coast have restricted traffic zones (ZTLs) where you could incur fines if you’re not aware.
- Automatic vs. Manual Transmission: Automatic cars are often more expensive to rent in regions where manual transmission is common (e.g., Europe). If you’re only comfortable driving an automatic, be sure to reserve one in advance.
- Toll Roads: Many countries have toll roads, so it’s wise to check the toll requirements along your route. Some rentals offer electronic toll passes, which can save you time and hassle.
More Road Trip Inspiration
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