There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road, rolling down the windows, and soaking in the breathtaking views along the way. Whether you crave coastal serenity, rugged mountains, or scenic countryside, 2025 is the perfect year to embark on an unforgettable road trip. Here are some of the best road trips to take in 2025, offering epic landscapes, thrilling experiences, and hidden gems along the way.

1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA

Route: San Francisco to Los Angeles

  • Experience the rugged cliffs of Big Sur, charming coastal towns like Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the stunning beaches of Malibu.
  • Highlights: Bixby Bridge, McWay Falls, Santa Monica Pier.
  • Best time to go: Spring and Fall for mild weather and fewer crowds.

2. The Great Ocean Road, Australia

Route: Torquay to Allansford

  • A mesmerizing drive along Australia’s southern coast featuring the iconic Twelve Apostles, lush rainforests, and breathtaking ocean views.
  • Highlights: Loch Ard Gorge, Great Otway National Park, Bells Beach.
  • Best time to go: Summer (December to February) for warm weather.

3. Ring Road, Iceland

Route: Full circle around Iceland

  • Witness waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and volcanic landscapes on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.
  • Highlights: Skógafoss Waterfall, Jökulsárlón Glacier Lagoon, Reynisfjara Beach.
  • Best time to go: Summer (June to August) for better road conditions and longer daylight hours.

4. Garden Route, South Africa

Route: Mossel Bay to Storms River

  • A road trip through diverse landscapes featuring lush forests, stunning coastlines, and rich wildlife encounters.
  • Highlights: Tsitsikamma National Park, Knysna Heads, Cango Caves.
  • Best time to go: Spring and Summer (September to February) for ideal weather.

5. The Scottish Highlands, Scotland

Route: North Coast 500 (NC500)

  • A breathtaking journey through Scotland’s rugged landscapes, historic castles, and pristine lochs.
  • Highlights: Eilean Donan Castle, Applecross Pass, John O’Groats.
  • Best time to go: Late Spring to Early Autumn for milder weather.

6. Route 66, USA

Route: Chicago to Santa Monica

  • A classic American road trip through vintage diners, desert landscapes, and quirky roadside attractions.
  • Highlights: Cadillac Ranch, Grand Canyon detour, Santa Fe.
  • Best time to go: Spring or Fall to avoid extreme heat.

7. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Route: Sorrento to Salerno

  • A dreamy drive with dramatic cliffs, pastel-colored villages, and the shimmering Mediterranean Sea.
  • Highlights: Positano, Ravello, Fiordo di Furore.
  • Best time to go: Late Spring or Early Autumn for pleasant weather.

8. The Canadian Rockies, Canada

Route: Banff to Jasper via Icefields Parkway

  • An awe-inspiring journey through towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife.
  • Highlights: Lake Louise, Athabasca Glacier, Peyto Lake.
  • Best time to go: Summer (June to September) for clear roads and great hiking.

9. The Atlantic Road, Norway

Route: Kristiansund to Molde

  • A short but spectacular drive over dramatic bridges connecting small islands, offering breathtaking sea views.
  • Highlights: Storseisundet Bridge, Håholmen Island, Kvernes Stave Church.
  • Best time to go: Summer for the best weather conditions.

10. Patagonia Road Trip, Argentina & Chile

Route: Carretera Austral & Ruta 40

  • An ultimate adventure through vast wilderness, snow-capped peaks, and pristine lakes in South America.
  • Highlights: Torres del Paine, Perito Moreno Glacier, Mount Fitz Roy.
  • Best time to go: Spring and Summer (October to March) for accessibility and pleasant temperatures.

Final Thoughts

Road trips allow you to explore at your own pace, discover hidden gems, and enjoy stunning landscapes along the way. Whether you choose a coastal drive, a mountain adventure, or a cultural journey, these road trips in 2025 promise to be unforgettable. Pack your bags, fuel up, and set out on an epic adventure!