There’s something magical about hitting the open road, windows down, your favorite playlist on, and endless horizons ahead. As travel by car becomes increasingly popular, road trips in 2025 are shaping up to be more exciting than ever, with new scenic routes, improved infrastructure, and off-the-beaten-path destinations waiting to be explored.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple seeking adventure, or a family looking to reconnect with nature, these best road trip routes will offer unforgettable experiences.
1. Pacific Coast Highway (California, USA)
Highlights: Big Sur, Monterey, Santa Barbara
This legendary route along California’s coastline delivers jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and coastal towns. It’s a classic American road trip for a reason—perfect for 2025 travel by car enthusiasts looking for both scenery and culture.
2. Ring Road (Iceland)
Highlights: Waterfalls, volcanoes, glaciers
Iceland’s Route 1 circles the entire country, offering epic views of untouched landscapes, geothermal hotspots, and stunning fjords. With improved road conditions and eco-friendly rest stops, it’s one of the top international road trips in 2025.
3. The Great Ocean Road (Australia)
Highlights: Twelve Apostles, rainforest walks, coastal cliffs
Stretching over 240 km, this coastal route is one of Australia’s most scenic drives. Explore surf towns, wildlife parks, and majestic cliffs while enjoying the relaxed charm of the Australian coastline.
4. Route 62 (South Africa)
Highlights: Winelands, mountain passes, small towns
Often dubbed South Africa’s answer to Route 66, Route 62 offers picturesque drives through vineyards, mountains, and historic towns—ideal for those seeking a cultural yet scenic adventure.
5. North Coast 500 (Scotland, UK)
Highlights: Castles, lochs, coastal cliffs
Starting and ending in Inverness, this loop showcases Scotland’s natural beauty. With rugged terrain and quaint fishing villages, it’s the perfect drive for 2025 travelers looking to explore the UK beyond the cities.
6. Garden Route (South Africa)
Highlights: Forests, lagoons, ocean views
Another South African gem, this drive from Mossel Bay to Storms River passes through lush greenery, charming towns, and diverse landscapes. Adventure lovers can enjoy bungee jumping, kayaking, and hiking.
7. Leh-Manali Highway (India)
Highlights: Himalayas, high-altitude passes, Buddhist monasteries
For thrill-seekers, this high-altitude road trip through the Indian Himalayas offers surreal mountain views and cultural richness. With road improvements in 2025, it’s becoming safer and more accessible for car travelers.
8. Route 66 (USA)
Highlights: Nostalgia, desert landscapes, quirky roadside stops
No list is complete without this American classic. While some parts are modernized, Route 66 still offers a nostalgic trip through heartland America, perfect for history buffs and vintage lovers.
9. Amalfi Coast Drive (Italy)
Highlights: Mediterranean views, cliffside towns, Italian cuisine
Narrow, winding roads hug the dramatic cliffs of the Amalfi Coast. Stop in Positano, Ravello, and Sorrento for breathtaking views and world-class food—ideal for a romantic road trip in 2025.
10. Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia, Canada)
Highlights: Ocean vistas, highland plateaus, whale watching
This loop around Cape Breton Island blends ocean scenery with cultural experiences from the local Mi’kmaq and Acadian communities. Ideal for summer or fall drives.
