Taking a road trip is fun, so it's no surprise that many people prefer to drive rather than fly or take public transportation like a bus or train. Road trips offer complete freedom and flexibility. You can travel anywhere and bring whatever you can in the trunk. It's also convenient, especially if you have children.
But to ensure a successful trip, you must plan it well. The first step in planning is deciding where to go. If you need help with this, see this list of best places to visit for amazing trips.
1. Iceland
Iceland, also called the “Land of Fire and Ice”, is a spectacular place to go on an adventure trip. Its volcanic and glacial terrain has shaped the country's incredible geography over the centuries. On your trip to Iceland, you'll be driving past towering mountains, glistening waterfalls, stark lava fields, and breathtaking thermal lagoons.
This visually stunning country will have you stopping every now and then to capture perfect, postcard-worthy images. You will also have plenty of opportunities to go on exciting adventures such as whale watching, snorkeling and ice cave trekking.
One of the first things to keep in mind when planning your trip to Iceland is car rental. It's a good idea to rent a 4×4 vehicle, especially during winter. The road can become very challenging at this time of year.
Heavy rain and snowstorms are common and can happen when you least expect it. When it's about rent a 4×4 car in Icelandcheck out Fara, a family-owned car rental company based just outside Reykjavik International Airport.
Once you've sorted out your car rental, it's time to plan your driving route. The Ring Road is Iceland's national road that goes around the country. Driving this route is highly recommended if you want to see as many attractions as possible.
You can make many stops along this route to visit impressive attractions like Vatnajokull Glacier, Lake Myvatn and Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon.
You must allocate at least ten days for driving around the ring road. This should be enough time to see as many attractions as possible. But if you only have a few days, you can opt for the Golden Circle route. This route will take you to some of the country's most popular sites, including Thingvellir National Park and Gullfoss Falls.
On the Barbara Experience blog you will find tips on the best way to travel around Iceland!
2. United Kingdom
The UK is a hiker's paradise, with roads that take you to scenic views, rolling hills, picturesque villages, winding rivers, majestic mountains and ancient castles. But, like any big trip, the first step is to plan.
But first, you need to decide where to go. The Peak District is a fantastic destination for a UK road trip simply because it is stunning, especially in spring when the wildflowers are in full bloom. Snake Pass is the most famous route in the Peak District. As its name suggests, this road passes through the local mountain peaks. Be prepared for a vertigo-inducing ride 1,679 feet above sea level!
The North Coast 500 in Scotland is a must-see for a road trip. Plan your trip in winter, when the countryside is incredibly stunning. Don't worry about the cold – you can always stop at the various inns and pubs to warm up.
Stretching 500 miles, it will take you to the picturesque Scottish Highlands. Driving clockwise will bring you to Loch Ness first. It's worth a stop, especially if you're interested in hunting the infamous Loch Ness monster.
Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way is one of the UK's most scenic coastal highways. At 2,400 kilometers long, you'll pass steep cliffs that hug the stunning Donegal coastline towards County Cork. The route includes passing some of the most beautiful beaches in Ireland, so don't forget to bring swimming clothes!
3. Monaco
Monaco may be a small country, but it's packed with incredible sights and attractions, making it a great place to visit on a scenic trip. Exuding a glamorous vibe, it is the playground for the rich and famous, just like Las Vegas and Dubai. And if you're a big fan of F1 racing, you'll love Monaco even more.
As you probably know, it hosts the Grand Prix. So if you're coming here for a road trip, it might be worth scheduling your trip during the F1 race. For a more pleasant experience, Reserve a package of Monaco Formula 1 tickets.
Driving around Monaco allows you to visit as many beautiful attractions as possible. Despite being a small country, it offers countless things for tourists to enjoy by visiting the Palais du.
Prince should be first on your itinerary. Built during the 13th century, it sits above Monaco, surrounded by stunning views! Stop by the opulent Monte Carlo Casino, one of the most famous casinos in the world, and enjoy playing a game or two.
Monaco is also home to excellent museums, such as the Musée Oceanographique, 90 meters above sea level. Opened in 1910, it is one of the oldest aquariums in the world, featuring incredible collections of marine artifacts.
4. Canada
As the second largest country in the world, the best way to see all of Canada's beautiful places is to take a road trip. Along the way, you'll encounter incredible landscapes, from bird-filled marshes to glacier-carved mountain peaks.
You can make many stops to enjoy the panoramic views, sleep in cozy inns or sample the local cuisine. But deciding where to drive and what to see in such a vast and diverse country is not easy. So, here are some suggestions.
British Columbia's Crowsnest Highway, which stretches from BC to Alberta, is a great driving route, taking you past majestic mountains and quaint villages. As you leave the bustling city of Vancouver, drive towards the Fraser Valley.
Stop at EC Manning Provincial Park to stretch your legs and enjoy a short hike. Spend the night in the park and head to the Similkameen Valley the next day.
If you want explore the Rocky Mountains Canadians on their trip, the Icefields Parkway in Alberta would be the perfect route. It is 235 km long, with stunning glaciers and crystal-clear lakes. After leaving Banff National Park, drive toward Highway 93, where you can marvel at stunning views like Lake Herbert and Sunwapta Falls.
Head to Jasper National Park and spend the final leg of your journey exploring the ice fields and parks.
If you like big cities, consider driving from Toronto to Ontario. Start your journey by exploring Toronto's top attractions, including museums and art galleries, and spend the night in one of the city's best hotels. The next day, drive west about 90 miles and admire the Victorian architecture along the road, including live theater in Stratford.
5. New Zealand
If you are traveling to New Zealand in the summer months, one of the best things to do is go on a road trip. With its impressive snow-capped mountains, giant glaciers, tranquil lakes and endless grassy fields, driving through New Zealand is an exhilarating experience.
You'll have countless route options when traveling by car in New Zealand, and all of these routes have scenic views. The journey from Auckland to the Bay of Islands will bring you the pure beauty of the north coast, starting in the vibrant city of Auckland towards the majestic Bay of Islands. You can also enjoy dolphin watching and other fun activities along the way.
The Eastern Cape Route is a movie-worthy coastal route that starts in the town of Opotiki and ends in Gisborne. If you want to explore New Zealand's Eastland region, this is the best way to go.
The road will take you to stunning beaches where you can learn more about the local Maori culture. You can also stop at one of New Zealand's famous Great Walks, Lake Waikaremoana, which you can do as a multi-day walk.
If you want to explore the South Island, take the road from Christchurch to Queenstown. Characterized by its giant lakes and dramatic mountains, not to mention an endless maze of stunning trails, the South Island is an exciting place to explore. Driving from Christchurch to Queenstown is the best way to appreciate the unique beauty of this part of the country.
In short, the most fantastic places to travel by car are:
- Iceland
- UK
- Monaco
- Canada
- New Zealand
Are you planning your next trip?
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