Best Road Trips in the World

Have you ever dreamed of going on a road trip? Just close your eyes and picture it for a moment. You, driving along the roads in different countries, visiting cities and natural parks at your own pace, and planning from scratch your itinerary… How cool is that? If this sounds like you and you intend actually to go for it, here in Civitatis we’ve compiled for you some of the best road trip ideas. Start your engines!

Route 66, one of the best road trips in the US

Also known as The Main Street of America, the Mother Road is undoubtedly one of the most famous and historic roads in the United States. Route 66 is one of the dream trips for many people all around the globe, and it’s no wonder really. Despite the fact that this route was removed from the U.S. Federal Highway System in 1985, its worldwide fame has made it one of the most popular road trips in the entire world.

This route from Chicago to Los Angeles spans over 2400 miles and covers the United States from one end to the other! Springfield, Oklahoma City, and Santa Fe are some of the stops on this itinerary. Although, it’s also very common to take a little detour to visit Las Vegas or the Grand Canyon of Colorado. As for the length of the trip, it really comes down to how much time you want to spend driving each day or how long you spend on each stop. Usually, it takes between 12 and 20 days to enjoy Route 66 to the fullest.

Romantische Strasse – a road trip in Germany

On the lookout for the most beautiful roads in Europe? A total of 285 miles of vineyards, hills, rivers, and mountains make up the romantic Romantische Strasse route, which connects the cities of Würzburg and Füssen. The road was first opened in 1950 in hopes of showing a friendlier side to Germany, full of culture and life and no trace of the pain and destruction it caused during World War II. In fact, American soldiers were the very first to enjoy their vacations traveling through the different towns and villages along this route.

The beautiful medieval towns of Rothenburg and Dinkelsbühl, the castle of Bad Mergentheim, and the charming village of Taubertal, where one of the most important punk and rock festivals in Germany is held, can all be found along the way of this incredible road trip.

Route Napoleon, a road trip following the steps of the emperor

Different sculptures bearing the imperial eagle have been placed along the Route Napoleon linking Antibes with Grenoble. To understand the origin of one of the most famous road trips in France, we’d have to go back to the year 1815. After eleven months in exile on the island of Elba, Napoleon managed to escape with the aim of taking back Paris.

The Route Napoleon retraces the route that the emperor and his army followed through French lands before their definitive surrender. You’ll be able to admire the deep gorges and lakes of the Verdon Natural Park, discover beautiful fields of lavender and jasmine, or visit the city of Grasse, considered by many the capital of perfume. It’ll be a wonderful and unforgettable experience!

Ruta 40, the longest and most beautiful road in Argentina

The National Route 40 traverses Argentina from north to south. A total of 11 provinces and a route of over 3200 miles long make up this popular road full of historic cities and amazing landscapes. From the incredible lakes of the Nahuel Huapi National Park, to the famous Perito Moreno Glacier, the desert landscapes of Cafayate, or the colorful mountains of the Quebrada de Humahuaca, protected as a World Heritage Site, this road trip will definitely not disappoint. It’s, without a doubt, one of the most spectacular road trips in the world, especially if we consider the great variety of landscapes it offers along the way.

Route 62, the most ‘green’ road trip

Also known as the Garden Route, Route 62 has become increasingly popular with tourists visiting South Africa. Along this 500 mile-long route, this highway connects Cape Town to Port Elizabeth. This journey along the southern coast of the country will allow you to discover South Africa’s extensive vineyards and many wineries. As you drive along one of the most beautiful roads in South Africa, you’ll come across small colonial towns such as Stellenbosch and coastal forests such as those of Tsitsikamma National Park.

Ring Road, a road trip full of glaciers and fjords

Planning to visit Iceland by car? The Ring Road is one of those road trips that every traveler should experience at least once in a lifetime. This ring-shaped road, 830 miles long, encircles the entire island and offers a great opportunity to discover the main natural attractions in the country.

While it all depends on the number of stops you want to make on the way, this road trip should take between 7 to 14 days. A dip in the hot springs of the village of Hveragerði, a visit to the Seljalandsfoss waterfall, a break on the black sand beaches of Vík, a walk along Jökulsárlón to discover the huge portions of ice on the shore of Diamond Beach, a boat ride to see whales in Húsavik or to admire the fjords of Akureyri – the Ring Road has endless possibilities!

Great Ocean Road, one of the most beautiful roads in Australia

Located in the State of Victoria, between Torquay and Allansford, the Great Ocean Road is one of the most beautiful roads in Australia. Although this road trip is shorter than the previous ones, as it extends 150 miles, it usually takes three days to enjoy it at its best.

The main charm of this route, as its name suggests, is its views of the coast – perfect for surf lovers! What’s more, you can also see koalas in the wild in the Kennett River area, admire dozens of lighthouses, or discover the famous rock formations of the Twelve Apostles in Port Campbell National Park.