asian road trip

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Sabrina Wu, Stephanie Hsu, Ashley Park, and Sherry Cola in Joy Ride (2023)

Follows four Asian American friends as they bond and discover the truth of what it means to know and love who you are, while they travel through China in search of one of their birth mothers... Read all Follows four Asian American friends as they bond and discover the truth of what it means to know and love who you are, while they travel through China in search of one of their birth mothers. Follows four Asian American friends as they bond and discover the truth of what it means to know and love who you are, while they travel through China in search of one of their birth mothers.

Cherry Chevapravatdumrong
Teresa Hsiao
Ashley Park
Sherry Cola
Stephanie Hsu
142 User reviews
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74 Metascore
2 wins & 16 nominations

Mary Sullivan

Joe Sullivan
Young Lolo (age 5)
Young Audrey (age 5)

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Audrey (age 12)

Lolo (age 12)

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White Boy #2

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The 'Joy Ride' Cast Crack One Another Up

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Trivia Stephanie Hsu said she could not contain her laughter for several takes when Sabrina Wu 's Deadeye was explaining their nickname to Kat by putting on a blank expression.
Goofs In the slapping game, Chao gets slapped hard by Audrey across the upper face but has a small wound on the side of his lip.

Kat : My vagina is the devil and she's here to stay!

Connections Featured in Amanda the Jedi Show: 'BOTTOMS' is WILD | Kicked out of The Evil Dead Rise Premiere SXSW (2023)
Soundtracks Ants Marching Written by Dave Matthews (as David J. Matthews) Performed by Dave Matthews Band Courtesy of RCA Records By arrangement with Sony Music Entertainment

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Jul 7, 2023
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Runtime 1 hour 35 minutes
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Our favourite road trips around Asia

If you’re looking for an adventure with spectacular sights at every turn, take to the roads of Asia. Rent a car - or motorbike - and head full throttle into the exotic landscapes of the Tibetan Highlands, the lush countryside of Indochina, the rugged highways of Malaysia, and the picturesque roads of Japan. With their intimate knowledge about the different regions of Asia, our Lightfoot Travel specialists can put together a tailor-made road trip just for you.

Make your way to Hokkaido, Japan during the summer and autumn months to drive along winding roads surrounded by fields of multicoloured flowers. Cruise down the coastal highway that hugs the shores of eastern Vietnam for stunning views of the South China Sea. For thrill-seeking souls, rev up your engines to cut across the mountainous regions of Indochina and Mongolia, and make pit stops at charming hill tribe villages along the way.

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The Ultimate Road Trip: The Best Routes for Traveling in Asia

For many travelers, there is no greater adventure than hitting the open road and exploring a new destination by car. If you are planning a road trip in Asia, there are many amazing routes to choose from. In this article, we will take a look at some of the best routes for traveling in Asia, from the breathtaking mountain passes of the Himalayas to the sandy beaches of Southeast Asia.

One of the most iconic road trip routes in Asia is the Karakoram Highway, which runs from China to Pakistan through the Himalayan mountain range. This challenging yet rewarding journey takes you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet, including the Karakoram Range, which is home to K2, the world’s second-highest mountain. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to visit small villages and interact with local communities, as well as enjoy the beauty of the region’s natural wonders.

If you are looking for a more laid-back road trip experience, the beaches of Southeast Asia are a great option. Countries like Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia are home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and they are easily accessible by car. From the white sandy beaches of Koh Samui to the turquoise waters of Bali, there are many breathtaking destinations to choose from. Along the way, you can enjoy the delicious local cuisine and explore the vibrant culture of the region.

Another great road trip route in Asia is the Silk Road, which runs through Central Asia and the Middle East. This ancient trade route was once the primary link between the East and the West, and it is now a popular destination for travelers. Along the way, you can visit ancient cities like Samarkand and Bukhara, as well as explore the stunning natural beauty of the region. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or natural wonders, the Silk Road has something for everyone.

In conclusion, there are many amazing road trip routes to choose from when traveling in Asia. From the breathtaking mountain passes of the Himalayas to the sandy beaches of Southeast Asia, there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Asia has a road trip route that will suit your needs.

Road Trips in Asia

Road Trips in Asia offer a unique and exciting way to explore some of the world's most fascinating and diverse regions. From the bustling cities of Japan and China to the serene mountains of Bhutan and Nepal, Asia is full of incredible destinations just waiting to be discovered on a road trip.

One of the best things about road-tripping in Asia is the opportunity to experience the region’s incredible natural beauty up close and personal. From the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas to the lush rainforests of Southeast Asia, few places in the world offer such a diverse range of landscapes to explore.

But road trips in Asia aren’t just about the scenery. They’re also a chance to immerse yourself in the rich cultures and traditions of the region. Whether you’re sampling street food in Bangkok or exploring ancient temples in Kyoto, there are endless opportunities to learn and discover on a road trip in Asia.

One of Asia's most popular road trip destinations is the legendary Karakoram Highway , which connects Pakistan and China and offers breathtaking views of some of the highest mountains in the world. Other popular road trip routes in Asia include the Silk Road in Central Asia , the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Vietnam, and the Pamir Highway .

When it comes to food, Asia is a food lover’s paradise. From spicy curries in India to delicate sushi in Japan, there is no shortage of delicious and diverse cuisines to sample on a road trip in Asia. And with the rise of food tourism in recent years, there are now more opportunities than ever to experience local food culture and learn from local chefs and food artisans.

In conclusion, road trips in Asia offer a unique and exciting way to explore some of the world’s most fascinating regions. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in new cultures, sample local cuisine, or simply hit the open road and see where the journey takes you, a road trip in Asia is sure to be an adventure you’ll never forget. So pack up your car, grab your passport, and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime in Asia.

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Asia Road Trips

Asia is the largest and most populated continent in the world with 48 countries to visit. It is well known for its intriguing landscapes, adventurous activities and spiritual way of life. It is fun to explore with great activities along the way that are different to those you might experience in Europe. Not forgetting to mention the breath-taking sceneries that you can find throughout your trip.

Driving in Asia can be daunting due to the sheer number of scooters and people on the road in cities. However, driving through the countryside is far more relaxing and will give you the time to soak up the landscapes.

Should I road trip in Asia

It might not be the first thing you would do considering public transports are so cheap in this part of the world. However, driving around is the best way to avoid busy touristy areas and be able to go off the beaten track. Renting a motorbike or scooter is much easier as the car hire market in Asia has not developed yet and can become really pricey.

Is Asia a safe place to travel

Asia is generally a safe place for people to travel, perhaps the safest region in the world, but you still need to be careful and aware of scams and petty crimes. Be careful on the road if driving especially is there is traffic. Most injuries in Asia happen on the road due to poor driving conditions and driving skills. If you experience driving a scooter in big city like Hanoi in Vietnam, you’ll know!

Things to know when driving in Asia

Concentrate and drive safely when driving in cities

You can pretty much park anywhere

Fines for driving infractions are often paid on the spot to police officers

Learn how to use your horn – it is a means of communication in Asia

Be prepared for poorly maintained rentals

Roads are poorly signposted

A two week road trip across Vietnam on a motorbike.

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The Ultimate Japanese Road Trips

Take a detour to view Mount Aso, which is easy to reach by road

Editorial Manager

Taking a road trip across Japan is a unique experience. The country has a rapid and efficient train network servicing all of the major cities, so head for those really tricky-to-reach destinations to justify your trip. Here’s our guide to getting behind the wheel and discovering the best Japan has to offer.

The rail system in Japan is so good, most visitors opt for public transport to get around, and we’re big fans of it, too. The fast, efficient, clean and safe option makes getting around a simple pleasure. But there are still some remote areas where four wheels are best – with stunning scenery and comfortable roads to enjoy en route.

Things to know before your road trip

Driving in Japan is a surprisingly straightforward affair, and hiring a car is just as easy, too. Foreigners looking to hire a vehicle will need to have a valid International Driving Permit (IDP), but this is becoming a basic requirement in most countries now.

Typically all cars are graded by size and put into classes. The Kei (light) option is fine for city commuting and short jaunts, but you wouldn’t really want to tackle any of the expressways in these economic vehicles. The Standard Class will suit most road-trip requirements; if you have the time, you could even plan longer routes that take more than a month, as packing your luggage into the boot won’t be a problem. Green vehicles are increasingly popular here, too, while for the ultimate show-offs there are luxury and sports options. And if you’re travelling as a family or in a larger group, how about a minivan?

The most important thing is to know what to expect. Mountain trails are very different to coastal routes, and the right car can make the experience more enjoyable. Speed limits are relatively low in Japan, and as such many Japanese drivers tend to take their time, even on the expressways.

A couple of other things to note. If you’re planning to cover any great distance, you will almost inevitably use a toll road. So check out expressway passes and ETC cards that can save you money and time. Finally, most vehicles come with satnav as standard – but be sure it’s set to your language before starting off.

The cherry blossom tunnel in Shizuoka prefecture

The best road trips in Japan

So you’ve sorted out your vehicle and are all set, but where to go? Here are some of our top picks.

Roller Coaster Road, Hokkaido

The breathtaking northernmost island in Japan is worth driving around for a few days. Sapporo, the capital, hosts an annual snow festival and has previously hosted the Winter Olympics. The best feature for drivers, however, is the undulating carriageway in Furano, which has earned the nickname of the Roller Coaster Road. A road trip and theme-park ride all in one go!

Kyoto to Tsunoshima

The starting point here is Kyoto , one of Japan’s most popular cultural destinations where you can enjoy a few relaxing nights before hitting the road. Tsunoshima, a remote island in the Japan Sea and part of the Yamaguchi prefecture, is the perfect destination for a short road trip from Kyoto, as the approach from the mainland is a spectacular bridge over the ocean.

Tsunoshima Ohashi Bridge makes for a spectacular road trip from Kyoto

Osaka to Chiba

You have to be a fan of urban driving for this one – and potential traffic jams – but if you time it right, you’ll get a fantastic driving experience though the tunnels of Tokyo. Hit the capital after dark, when the Bayshore Route of the Shuto Expressway becomes a futuristic playground. The route, known as the Wangan, takes you around Tokyo Bay through long tunnels and over bridges. The rest of the route isn’t as exciting, but it is a scenic way to cut through Tokyo to the underrated Chiba.

The Tokyo skyline with Tokyo tower and rainbow bridge. Tokyo, Japan. © Luciano Mortula / Alamy

Mount Fuji to Mount Aso

Mount Fuji is so popular, it’s relatively easy to get to by rail or road, but the ultimate destination is Mount Aso, the country’s most active volcano, on Kyushu, Japan’s third largest island. The road here is picturesque, and there’s little to worry about in terms of volcanic activity, so you can relax and enjoy the ride. For the best views of Mount Fuji, take the Mikuni Pass, although it might be a slight detour at the start of your trip.

Take the Mikuni Pass for the best views of Mount Fuji

Hakone Hill Turnpike, Kanagawa

Let your inner boy racer takeover on this hill climb through the trees in Hakone. Just north of Tokyo, this area, known as a geopark, has plenty of hot springs to enjoy and calming ryokans to stay in. On your way you might end up driving through turnpikes. The roads here are usually quiet, so you won’t be expected to drift round corners as your tyres light up, but it’s still a thrill.

Release your inner boy racer on the Hakone turnpike

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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The 7 best road trips in Vietnam

Jul 6, 2023 • 7 min read

Vietnam is perfect for exploring on two (or four) wheels © monticelllo / Getty Images

Long and sinuous, like the mythical naga serpent, Vietnam curves around the eastern shores of mainland Southeast Asia, stretching all the way from China in the north to Cambodia and the Mekong Delta in the south. Its twin megacities – Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City – are divided by 1137km (707 miles) of mountains, jungles, paddy fields, beaches and historic sites. In other words, this is perfect country for road-tripping.

The trip between Vietnam's northern and southern capitals is just one of many epic road trips that call out to adventurers on four (or, more commonly, two) wheels. With more than 61 million motorbikes on Vietnam's roads, intrepid bikers will find themselves in good company as they explore the country’s wonderfully diverse landscapes, with ample repair shops, gas stations and food stops along the way.

Whether you’re thinking of hitting the road by car or motorbike, here’s our pick of Vietnam’s best road trips.

Green valley with forested mountains in Ha Giang, Vietnam

1. Ha Giang Loop

Best road trip for wild swimming and mountain passes Ha Giang–Ha Giang; 350km (218 miles)

The soaring peaks and plunging valleys of Vietnam’s northernmost province are best enjoyed at a leisurely pace, with plenty of stop-offs for revitalizing dips in waterfalls, roadside snacks (nothing keeps energy levels up like dried buffalo), and to snap photos of the rice and corn terraces tumbling down the valley’s steep hillsides. Start the adventure in Ha Giang city, the gateway to a land of conical, forested peaks plucked straight from an antique scroll painting.

Ha Giang means "water and mountains" in Vietnamese, and you’re never far from either when you tackle this loop through Yen Minh, Dong Van and Bao Lam, with gurgling streams and cascading waterfalls forming a major part of the scenery. Winding its way through communities of at least 10 different ethnic minorities, this rewarding multi-day drive offers plenty of opportunities for side trips and activities, including trekking , river-boating and caving.

Planning tip: The Ma Pi Leng Pass is hands down the most scenic section of the drive, with jagged mountains surrounding the emerald Nho Que River. Remember to factor in a half-day for a quiet boat trip with a spot of swimming in its enticing waters.

A huge waterfall located on the border of Vietnam and China. Vast quantities of water flow over the falls.

2. Cao Bang to Ban Gioc

Best road trip through Vietnam's countryside Cao Bang–Ban Gioc; 80km (50 miles)

The drive from Cao Bang to the churning Ban Gioc Waterfall , which straddles the China–Vietnam border, takes adventurers through some of Northern Vietnam’s most pristine pastoral terrain. Lush farmlands, stilt villages and crystal-clear lakes are all on the itinerary. However, for driving enthusiasts, nature's creations might be outdone by an artificial wonder: the 3.5km-long (2.1 miles) Ma Phuc Pass, with its seven writhing bends offering gorgeous views of the terraced fields below.

For more natural highlights, consider a stop-off at the vast, stalactite-filled Nguom Ngao Cave , which extends for several kilometers underground, but save plenty of time for the road trip’s primary focus. Fed by the Quay Son River, the Ban Gioc Waterfalls are located partly in China and partly in Vietnam, and they thunder dramatically over a series of greenery-draped shelves. Take in the falls from the viewing platforms or hop on a bamboo raft for a closer look at the impressive cascades, which fall over 30m (98ft).

Planning tip: While worth tackling as a standalone trip, this route is also a popular add-on to the Ha Giang Loop.

An aerial view overlooking the hill station of Dalat in Vietnam. The town is shroud in mist due to its high altitude, meaning only a few buildings are visible.

3. Dalat to Nha Trang

Best road trip to a French colonial hill station Dalat–Nha Trang; 134km (83 miles)

From the cool climes of the highlands around Dalat to the sunny beaches of Nha Trang , this short and simple road trip is all about changing scenery and microclimates. Get an early start so you have time to appreciate the hilly terrain en route and the coastal views near the end of the drive.

Begin in the hillsides around Dalat, founded as a salubrious hill station where French colonists came to escape the oppressive heat of Saigon (now Ho Chi Minh City). This is a unique area of Vietnam, where the scent of pine trees hangs in the air and farms cultivate strawberries, coffee and flowers instead of rice.

As you descend from the mountains and the humidity begins to return, things start to feel more conventional. The paved QL27C road unfurls around hills and snakes through tiny villages all the way to the coast, where a dip in the turquoise waters of Nha Trang Beach makes for a worthy close to this trip.

4. Hai Van Pass

Best road trip for dramatic views and hairpin turns Danang–Lang Co Beach; 20km (12 miles)

Before the Hai Van Tunnel was completed in 2005, just the thought of enduring the hairpin turns and blind corners of the Hai Van Pass was enough to send shivers down the spines of bus passengers traveling between Danang and Hue . Now with significantly less car traffic, this short but stunning ride is a manageable, memorable trip even for the novice driver.

Translating as "Ocean Clouds" in Vietnamese, the Hai Van Pass is bordered by jungle-clad mountains on one side and cliffs plunging down to the East Sea on the other, a dramatic setting that has made this road one of the most Instagrammed highways in the world – with a whopping 4298 pictures per mile!

Detour: Stop at the mid-way point for a Vietnamese-style iced coffee and admire the Indochina-era Hai Van Gate and the remains of several French fortifications. While the pass officially ends at the windswept Lang Co Beach at its northern end, most travelers continue for another hour or so to reach the former imperial city of Hue to gaze at its palaces and timeless tombs.

Traders at the floating market in Can Tho

5. Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho

Best road trip along the lush Mekong Delta Ho Chi Minh City–My Tho; 70km (44 miles)

The rice paper-flat Mekong Delta doesn’t get much road trip love because its every-shade-of-green rice fields can turn from mesmeric to slightly monotonous as the miles mount up. However, once you get outside of sprawling, smoggy Ho Chi Minh City , you’ll see the urban shrubbery give way to majestic palms, lush banana trees and glimmering waterways amongst the emerald rice paddies.

While the scenery here is certainly evocative, the best part of driving in the Mekong Delta is taking your foot off the gas and losing yourself in the tiny riverside laneways and byways, where life moves at a very different pace to the buzzing streets of HCMC.

When you eventually make it to My Tho – a town famed for its chewy noodle, pork and shrimp soup – further cultural experiences await, with the flower farms of Sa Dec a short drive to the west and Can Tho , home to the largest floating market in the Delta, located to the southwest.

A fishing boat floating in blue waters off the Con Dao islands

6. Con Son Island

Best road trip for deserted island beaches Dam Trau–Ben Dam; 25km (15 miles)

Isolated from the mainland for years, the Con Dao islands are one of Vietnam’s natural wonders. Con Son, the largest and only inhabited island of the archipelago, has just one main road stretching across its length – a motorcycle trip is not only the best way to see the rural splendor of the island but also to hop from one gorgeous deserted beach to the next.

Start at Dam Trau, a long stretch of beach dotted with seafood shacks near the airport, and wind your way past forested hillsides, a French colonial-era prison, and a string of glorious beaches that only appear during low tide, ending up at Ben Dam where ferries from the mainland come and go. Take things slowly over a morning or afternoon, and bring your swimming costume.

7. Ho Chi Minh Highway

Best road trip for quintessential Vietnam experiences Ho Chi Minh City–Hanoi; 1880km (1168 miles)

There are several different routes between Vietnam’s two biggest cities, depending on whether you like beaches, mountains or smooth highways, but for the best balance between driving time (about two weeks) and excellent scenery, hit the Ho Chi Minh Highway, part of which was once used to transport soldiers and supplies during the Vietnam War.

After exiting busy Ho Chi Minh City, follow the road along the Truong Son mountain range as it snakes its way past sleepy hamlets, where the smell of coffee from nearby plantations hangs thick in the air. This barren plateau gives way to forested mountains as you reach Central Vietnam, considered the most scenic stretch of this epic road trip.

Detour: Adventurers will want to stop at Phong Nha Ke Bang National Park , home to the world’s largest cave, and Cuc Phuong , Vietnam’s oldest national park , located in the Red River Delta, before joining the throng of traffic on the ancient streets of Hanoi .

This article was first published May 2021 and updated July 2023

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Welcome to our page dedicated to Asia’s dangerous, scenic drives, and road trips. Get ready for mesmerizing landscapes, thrilling adventures, and unforgettable journeys across this diverse continent. Explore treacherous mountain passes, winding coastal routes, and hidden gems for an experience of a lifetime. Buckle up and embark on an unforgettable exploration of Asia’s wonders.

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The ultimate Japanese road trip

By Rory FH Smith

Day 1: Kanazawa to Gokayama

Setting off after an overnight in traditional wooden machiya, or townhouse, in Kanazawa, I roar towards the misty hills and remote villages of the Gokayama region.

Heading off the road, I navigate my way along narrow trail paths that weave a route through the thick forests in the foothills of the Northern Alps.

Up in the mountains, I eat kaiseki , an exquisitely crafted traditional feast of sashimi, miso soup and pickles. Yet, in the towns, the coffee culture feels straight out of Hoxton .

The forests are home to everything from flying squirrels to Sika deer and even black bears. Occasional signs warn walkers of the risks of wandering too far off the beaten track.

Humming in the distance is the sound of a towering waterfall, splitting the silence of the forest as a torrent of fresh mountain spring water cascades beside me.

Day 2: Gokayama to Aniokura

Plants have been essential to the growth and development of Japanese culture. In Gokayama, the sense of duty to protect and pass on the rich cultural heritage is palpable.

Day 3: Ainokura to Kamikochi

The thatched houses of Ainokura, cocooned in pine forests, float among the clouds. The silence is broken only by the wind in the rice fields and the occasional temple bell.

Azusa River Valley

The dramatic drive from Ainokura to Kamikochi, in the Azusa River Valley, traverses twisty mountain passes. Climbing higher with each turn, I observe the view from behind the wheel of my brightly-coloured GT-R.

Day 4: Kamikochi to Karuizawa

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One of the highest peaks in Kamikochi is Mount Yakedake. As I break out of the thick, green undergrowth towards the summit, the air is thick with volcanic sulphur.

Day 5: Karuizawa to Tokyo

At Picchio, a flying squirrel sanctuary that also works to preserve Karuizawa's bear population, I track all kinds of wildlife, including the Japanese serow, a goat-antelope.

Nicknamed Godzilla for its power and prowess, the Nissan GT-R is more like a mythical beast in Japan. Passers-by wave to signal approval of my terracotta-coloured ride.

Shibuya, Tokyo

Japan 's obsession with manga, the art of animation and cartoons, is everywhere. In Tokyo 's Shibuya district, I discover Mandarake's reams of sci-fi paraphernalia.

I wander down the backstreets of Tokyo's Shibuya district, bouncing in between the tiny restaurants, coffee stands and eccentric fashion boutiques.

Back in the city, the sleepless streets of Tokyo prove a final stark contrast to Japan's blissful backcountry.

Start your adventure by flying into either Osaka or Tokyo with Cathay Pacific . Rent an authentic 'machiya' townhouse and car with Japan Experience or stay at the iconic Capitol Hotel Tokyu in Tokyo. Deluxe King rooms are available from £400 per night.

This article was originally published in the December 2018 issue of Condé Nast Traveller

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A classic convoy through Japan

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The 11 Best Central Asia and Silk Road Tours & How to Choose

April 4, 2017 by Silvia 27 Comments

I’ve written a lot about my time exploring Central Asia and traveling along the Silk Road, and something people always ask me is if I can recommend some good tours for the region. Now, I traveled through Central Asia independently, but I also met a lot of travelers on tour groups, I’ve since heard from readers who chose to join a tour, and I’ve done a lot of research into Central Asia and Silk Road tours.

Why? My trip through Central Asia and the Silk Road was life-changing and I want everyone to be able to experience the area. I even convinced some family members to do a tour through Uzbekistan and Tajikistan and they loved it. Y A Y !

Should you travel Central Asia and the Silk Road independently or as part of a tour?

This was a question I had to ask myself when planning my own journey through China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. I ultimately decided to do the trip independently because I had a lot of time (four months), two of my friends wanted to do the same trip with me, and – this is a big one – I speak some Russian.

The four months I spent traveling through China , Kyrgyzstan , Kazakhstan , Tajikistan , and Uzbekistan are filled with some of the greatest memories of my life. In fact, I kind of can’t imagine what my life would have been like if I hadn’t gone on that backpacking trip. Fun fact: I started travel blogging in Central Asia, so I might not otherwise have become a full-time blogger.

It was also really, really difficult. I’m not saying this to discourage you from going – like I said, I’m so glad I did! – but if you’re going to do Central Asia independently, you should also be prepared. Kyrgyzstan is set up quite well for tourism now, but the other countries we visited were pretty crazy.

The three of us hitchhiked crammed into the back of trucks, knocked on random doors hoping for a home stay in places with no hotels, and my friends actually learned a lot of Russian, thanks to the lack of English anywhere.

It was incredibly fun, but also maybe not for everyone.

I would consider doing a tour of Central Asia and/or the Silk Road if any of the following apply to you:

You’re on a tight schedule and have specific sites you want to see
You don’t speak any Russian/won’t be able to learn any Russian before your trip
You prefer organized transport and accommodation over hitchhiking and finding your own home stays
You’re planning this trip solo but want to travel with a group
You want to see or do things that would be hard to organize on your own
You work a lot and don’t want the added work of planning this trip yourself
You have a specific budget in mind that you want to stick to

I remember meeting a couple in Kyrgyzstan who had just finished a tour of the region and were then taking the time to explore a bit on their own afterwards, which I think can also be a really good idea. The tour took them to all the hard to reach, off the beaten track places and gave them a sort of crash course on Central Asia, but then afterwards they were able to experience a bit of independent travel in Central Asia as well. Win win!

The Best Central Asia and Silk Road Tours

So, I don’t know if you’ve already done a lot of research into Central Asia and Silk Road tours, but there are a lot of options out there. That being said, I’d say there are two obvious front runners in the business: Intrepid Travel and G Adventures.

These are big name tour companies, which means they’re incredibly reliable. So if you sign up with them you know you aren’t going to get scammed (something that ugh, is all too common), your guides are going to be professional, and everything is going to run smoothly.

Both Intrepid Travel and G Adventures boast:

a strong commitment to sustainable travel
high safety standards
flexible schedules so you can have free time during your days or add optional activities to your tour
off the beaten path adventures (perfect for Central Asia!)
nearly 30 years of experience

Intrepid and G Adventures also both offer a nice variety of tour itineraries (suitable for different budgets and timeframes) for Central Asia and the Silk Road. In fact after hearing about people’s experiences on some of their Central Asia tours, especially some of the off the beaten path places they were able to visit, I’m dying to do them myself!

Intrepid Travel vs. G Adventures for a Central Asia or Silk Road tour

Okay, so you’ve narrowed down your preferred Central Asia tour operators to Intrepid Travel and G Adventures – which one do you choose?

You’ll hear a lot of opinions on which of the two tour companies is better (often depending on which company a person is working for/getting a bigger commission from) but to be perfectly honest, I’ve heard amazing things about both companies in Central Asia.

The general consensus is that G Adventures’ tours are slightly cheaper, while Intrepid Travel has somewhat smaller groups and a more consistent quality level across the board. But when looking specifically at their Central Asia tours the quality and prices are quite similar. I would recommend reading through all the itineraries and choosing based on which tour description and departure dates appeal most to you.

Intrepid Travel and G Adventures Central Asia and Silk Road Tours

Now for the fun part: choosing your tour!

There are a lot of options out there, but I’m going to list my top choices below. I’ll order these according to length, because that’s usually the biggest factor when choosing a tour.

Here are Intrepid Travel and G Adventures top Central Asia and Silk Road tours, ordered from longest down to shortest duration:

80 Days: Xi’an to Istanbul with Intrepid Travel

This is the ultimate Central Asia tour. If you have the time and the money to dedicate to this one, please, please do it!

This tour starts in Xi’an, China and finishes in Istanbul, Turkey, while passing through Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia. It gets you truly off the beaten path in these places for some once in a lifetime experiences.

Click here for the full itinerary, prices, and start dates

29 Days: The Great Silk Road with Intrepid Travel

Again, this is a long tour, but that also means that you will experience SO much on this journey.

This tour starts in Beijing, China, and continues through Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan before finishing in Tashkent. It covers all of the main Silk Road sites while also including some remote, lesser-known locations as well. If you’re into the Silk Road, this is the tour for you.

23 Days: Central Asia – Multi-Stan Adventure with G Adventures

This incredibly comprehensive tour will give you all of the top experiences of a Central Asia trip – from sleeping in yurts to staying in home stays to mountain and desert landscapes to exploring stunning Silk Road buildings. With this tour you can experience it all on a relatively short time frame and surprisingly small budget.

If you want to truly get to know Central Asia in just a few weeks, this is the tour for you.

Click here for the full itinerary, prices, and start dates

16 Days: Central Asia Explorer with Intrepid Travel

I’m fairly obsessed with Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan, and this tour takes you through all of my favorite locations in both countries. It begins in Bishkek and ends in Tashkent, while taking you through some of the region’s most stunning landscapes and villages.

15 Days: Best of Tajikistan & Uzbekistan with G Adventures

I would say that Tajikistan and Uzbekistan were the two most challenging countries to travel to, so this tour is perfect for anyone who wants to leave the organizing up to someone else!

I also think that seeing Uzbekistan and Tajikistan together is a really good combination, as Tajikistan will give you those amazing mountain landscapes and off the beaten path experiences with locals, whereas Uzbekistan is rich in its Silk Road history and amazing buildings, as well as yurts in the desert.

14 Days: Central Asia Adventure – Almaty to Tashkent with G Adventures

This two week tour shows you the very best of this remote region. It does an impressive job of covering all the must-see sites of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan while also taking you off the beaten path to some places that would be hard to reach independently. If you want to see a variety of Central Asia, this is the perfect tour.

13 Days: Tajikistan Discovery with Intrepid Travel

Tajikistan was my favorite country in Central Asia (I mean, that landscape!), so I’m definitely a bit partial to this tour, which takes you through all of the country’s amazing sites and scenery. It starts in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and finishes in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, while taking you up over the Pamir Highway (over 5,000 meters high!) and right along the Afghan border so you can see right into Afghanistan.

I particularly love that this tour includes five nights of home stays in Tajikistan, as my best experiences in the country were of staying with local families.

10 Days: Expedition – Baikonur & Kazakhstan with Intrepid Travel

This is hands down one of the coolest and most unique tours ever.

It takes you through Kazakhstan, way off the beaten path to corners few people in the world have explored, and it includes a visit to the Russian spaceport of Baikonur , the seat of the Russian space program, where you’ll even get to see a rocket launch!

10 Days: The Best of Uzbekistan with G Adventures

To be honest, I’m more of a mountain person, so Uzbekistan wasn’t my favorite country in Central Asia, but my friend I traveled with is obsessed with history and architecture and it was her favorite! This tour includes visits to Uzbekistan’s main Silk Road cities, as well as nights spent in desert yurt camps and riding camels. I love the variety here, and that it covers so much in just 10 days.

9 Days: Best of Kazakhstan & Kyrgyzstan with G Adventures

This tour includes the perfect miss of cities and must-see sites with some truly off the beaten path adventures into the countryside. It’s also surprisingly cheap, and might actually be one of the most cost-effective ways to see the region.

6 Days: Highlights of Tajikistan with G Adventures

Tajikistan was my favorite country I visited in Central Asia, but it was also the most difficult and expensive to travel through. And that’s what makes this tour so perfect – it takes you to those remote, hard to get to locations and is actually surprisingly cheap.

You could either do this tour as a quick taster trip of Tajikistan, or include it as part of a bigger journey through Central Asia.

If you do decide to book a tour through Intrepid Travel or G Adventures, please consider starting the booking process by clicking on one of my links. The price will remain the same for you, but I’ll earn a small commission which will help cover the cost of running my site. Thanks a billion!

Reader Interactions

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Jordan says

April 4, 2017 at 8:09 pm

How cool, I’d love to travel through Central Asia! Now I need to go back and read some of your older posts 🙂

Silvia says

April 9, 2017 at 7:37 am

Yesss I think you would love it!

October 8, 2017 at 12:25 pm

Hi, I think you forgot a very important of Silk Road ” Persia” which connects East Asia to Europe !!!!!

Marianne - Glimt av verden says

April 4, 2017 at 10:27 pm

What a great guide! I did the 14 days Central Asia Adventure with G Adventures in June last year. It was the second time they ran that tour. I chose a tour mainly because I had limited time and wanted to make the most out of it. But we (me and my sister) travelled to Samarkand independently. I absolutely LOVED the region! I want to see more!

April 9, 2017 at 7:36 am

Oh no way, I know a couple who did that same tour, but I think it was actually the first time they ran it! I really want to see more of Central Asia too – I feel like I’ll be returning there over and over, haha.

Annika says

April 5, 2017 at 7:33 am

Cool! I’ve been wanting to visit Uzbekistan for a long time and might be able to next year. I’ll bookmark this page. I love your blog – you always have excellent advice for the (more or less) average traveller!

April 9, 2017 at 7:35 am

Oooh I hope you do – Uzbekistan is amazing!

April 25, 2017 at 10:20 pm

I’d love to get the chance to explore this part of the world. I much prefer independent travel, but I can see how a tour here might be a good idea. Especially if time is limited.

May 1, 2017 at 11:07 am

Yeah I think of all the places I’ve traveled to Central Asia would be the one I would most recommend taking a tour through.

May 29, 2017 at 8:00 pm

This was a fantastic read. Thank you for publishing. Am currently reading a book on the silk roads and thought Central Asia would be a great place to visit. Thanks fir the travel advice.

May 30, 2017 at 4:20 pm

It really is such an amazing place to visit!

Lis Sowerbutts says

July 6, 2017 at 1:19 pm

We leave in under 3 weeks -taking over 3 months to travel from Shanghai to Istanbul! I couldn’t find a tour that would combine a trip along the Pamir Highway and a launch from Baikonur! I think you’ve missed the obvious compromise. We travel independently – but we use agents when we need to – but we use locals. So we’ve used a company to buy our Chinese train tickets, and we’ll use a local driver for the Pamir Highway, and a Kazakhstan based company to arrange the permits for the Cosmodrome. And yes I’m learning some Russian!

Luca Laesser says

October 14, 2017 at 1:22 am

Hi Lis Sowerbutts, I would be interested to hear how your two tours turned out, especially the Baikonur one? Which company in Kazakhstan did you use? Thank you! Luca

January 1, 2018 at 12:46 pm

Brilliant! Great photographs, fascinating travel destinations. I’d love to travel more in that part of the world some day. Thank you for sharing the tips and ideas.

January 3, 2018 at 6:09 pm

It really is such an interesting area – I hope you make it there eventually!

February 5, 2018 at 8:05 pm

Great blog! What time of year did you do your Central Asia trip? My boyfriend and I are planning to do the Silk Road on our own but curious what month did you travel? Thank you and I enjoyed your blog!

Kanika Bakshi says

March 1, 2018 at 12:28 pm

Hey Silvia, Thanks for sharing such an awesome for post about these lesser known road trips loved it.

Agness of Etramping says

March 7, 2018 at 3:32 pm

Exploring Central Asia and traveling along the Silk Road seems like an awesome recommendation, Silvia. These tours seem so worth considering and I would definitely choose one of those Silk Road tours when in Central Asia! Thanks for the suggestions!

Vinodh says

April 23, 2018 at 11:49 pm

Hi. Loved reading your blog. I live in India and my wife and I would like to travel through all the five ‘stans’. We can spare about 4 to 5 weeks and would like to do the highlights of each country. Could one of these companies organise a customised itinerary for us? Thank you.

April 24, 2018 at 7:08 pm

Hm, I’m not sure – you could try getting in touch with them.

May 4, 2018 at 9:28 pm

Hi,Vinodh! My name is Nazo, born and raised in Samarkand. I am working as trip leader for foreigner groups throughout Uzbekistan. I am also working at the travel agency, EWES (East West Elite Service), as an out of office product manager. I would like to explain you about Uzbekistan travel market a little more & give you and idea of the trips I could help in organizing for you.

May 4, 2018 at 10:09 pm

Hi Silvia, I like your stylish, bright blog. You are surprising person! All information is provided unostentatiously, interestingly. You are very interesting person also do very necessary serious work.

September 1, 2018 at 12:55 pm

India is one of the best countries one can visit and explore some many histories with a lot of amazing facts India is a budgeted country you can spend money and satisfy your needs you can visit India just to see how colorful it is and it is the country of joy this is such a comprehensive and helpful article for someone just starting to plan a trip to Asia, and with so many useful links. Thank you so so much!

Michelle says

October 16, 2018 at 10:30 am

Hi Silvia! I am so glad I found your blog! I love the photos – Central Asia is so beautiful!

My husband and I are just starting to toy with the idea of taking 3.5 months to travel through Central Asia. We have used Intrepid Travel a few times before and they are a good company, but we do like independent travel which gives us more flexibility to explore the place a bit more rather than being dictated by a group itinerary. However, there is one aspect of using a tour group that I really like – the opportunity to go to places that are a bit off-the-beaten-track and have experiences that I may not have necessarily known about / been exposed to if not for a tour guide telling me about it. (An example is on our recent trip to India with Intrepid where we visited a Sikh temple and were guided to the community kitchen where we sat with the locals rolling out dough for chapatti – without the guide, we would probably have just walked around the temple, not knowing about the community kitchen, or known that we could partake in making chapatti, and left).

You mentioned in your blog: “In fact after hearing about people’s experiences on some of their Central Asia tours, especially some of the off the beaten path places they were able to visit, I’m dying to do them myself!” Would you mind being more specific about the off the beaten path experiences you are wanting to try after hearing other people’s experiences? Are these things you could have done if you had known at the time?

Thank you for writing this blog – it answers exactly what I was asking!

October 16, 2018 at 12:43 pm

That sounds like it will be an amazing trip! I would say if you are able to rent a car and speak pretty good Russian then you should be fine on your own. The main things I missed out on were going to the really random small towns or scenic spots, because I was hitchhiking so couldn’t just drive myself wherever I wanted. And then the same goes for meeting people – my Russian is pretty good so it wasn’t too much of a problem, but if I had been able to communicate fluently like the guides then I think I could have had much more meaningful conversations with people and more local experiences. Ideally I would have started with a tour and then afterwards continued to explore independently, as by then I’d have had a good feel for the countries.

Hope that’s helpful – and have fun!

Paul Hardyman says

July 3, 2021 at 6:23 am

Hi Silvia, Im in Australia and planning a post Covid self drive trip through central asia with friends (ideally camping on the roof of a 4×4 Land Cruiser for example). Ive done a similar thing twice in southern africa and intend to take the back roads and dirt tracks into the remotest areas of Central Asia if we can. We would take maybe 3-4 months. Im having difficulty finding anywhere in eastern europe or central asia to rent off road vehicles for our trip. Are you able to steer me towards any. Maybe in Turkey or ??? to start our trip.

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Road trip in Thailand: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

Visit thailand by car: the 5 best road trip itineraries.

You’re planning to do a road trip in Thailand ?

Great idea!

Visiting Thailand by car is not very common and yet it’s for sure the best way to discover the country’s must-see attractions.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this guide with the 5 best road trips itineraries in Thailand depending on the duration of your stay (7 to 30 days).

For each duration, I will give you a summary of the itinerary as well as the link to read the detailed itinerary article I have written.

And at the end of this guide, I will also give you my list of the best accommodations in Thailand depending on your budget as well as my best tips to enjoy the perfect road trip.

Let’s plan your road trip!

What’s the best airport to start a road-trip in Thailand?

Rent a car for a road trip in thailand, thailand road trip: one week, 1) bangkok (2 days), 2) ayutthaya (1 day), 3) chiang mai (3 days), 4) phuket or krabi (3 days), 3) sukhothai (2 days), 4) chiang mai (3 days), 5) phuket or krabi (3 days), 6) koh lanta or koh yao noi (3 days), 7) return to phuket or krabi (1 day), 1) central thailand (3 days), 2) northern thailand (8 days), 3) south thailand (9 days), 1) central thailand (4 days), 2) northern thailand (9 days), 3) southern thailand (15 days), itinerary for the southern islands, where to stay in thailand during your road trip, when should you go on a thailand road trip, you’re traveling to thailand these articles will help you.

Thailand has several international and national airports. The best serviced are at:

Bangkok , the capital. There are 2 airports: Suvarnabhumi airport (where all international flights arrive) and Don Mueang airport for domestic flights or border countries such as Cambodia or Vietnam.
Chiang Mai in Northern Thailand
Chiang Rai , also in the North
Phuket , for the South and to visit the islands
Krabi , also in the South

For each of these itineraries in Thailand, whether for a week or 1 month, I’ve chosen arrival at Bangkok . Simply because it is the most convenient place to start driving through Thailand, going further north gradually.

If you are planning a road trip in Thailand, you will have to rent a car.

I always recommend booking a car from the airport because there you will have the greatest choice of international or national rental agencies and can therefore get the best prices.

A small specific detail about road trips in Thailand: you must rent a car car from Don Mueang airport and not from Suvarnabhumi airport, where you arrive. It is much more convenient to get your car back to Don Mueang when leaving Bangkok as this airport is directly on the way to the next stop.

You must also book your car in advance so that you have a choice of vehicle and prices that are much lower than those you get on the spot.

If you’ve ever visited my blog to organise your trips, you’ll know that I always recommend using Rentalcars.com for your car rentals. Canada , Greece , Sardinia , I can’t even count how many times I’ve rented cars from this website!

I find it really convenient to compare the prices of all the rentals and see the reviews from previous customers .

Rentalcars’ specific comprehensive coverage insurance system also ensures that you get recompensated for any costs incurred in the event of an accident or even theft of your car. And I can assure you that it works, and that the payouts are given rather quickly, you just have to send an email (They have reimbursed me for more than 1200 Euros to date).

Other benefits: the site guarantees you the best prices (it reimburses you if you find cheaper elsewhere) and the modification or cancellation is very often free until the last moment.

To compare the prices of a car rental in Thailand, just click on the button below:

Choose a rental agency that does not charge a one -way fee in case you take the car from Bangkok and return it at Chiang Mai or Chiang Rai.

In Thailand you drive on the left side of the road . If you are unfamiliar with this driving direction, take an automatic car.

No special advice for driving: the roads are in excellent condition , often with several lanes, free of charge and bordered by petrol stations. We had no problems during our whole trip in Thailand .

In this article I will give you a summary of each route in Thailand depending on the duration of your trip .

I will also post a link to the detailed itinerary, which contains all the things to do for each leg , the best hotels to stay at, and all my tips and plans!

For this first example, I have a road trip from Bangkok to explore Thailand by car for a week.

On this 1 week road trip in Thailand: Bangkok , Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai.

Day 1 and 2 – Exploring Bangkok:

The Grand Palace
Khao San Road
The Siam district

I have prepared a 2-day itinerary for Bangkok in this article: Visit Bangkok.

Day 3 – Visit to the Ayutthaya historical park and its ancient temples, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

All the practical information to visit Ayutthaya is in this detailed article: How to visit Ayutthaya.

Days four, five, and six – Exploring the capital of Northern Thailand: Chiang Mai.

The old town and its many temples
Warorot market
The Night Bazaar
Doi Suthep National Park
Huay Tung Tao Lake
A day in an elephant sanctuary
A Thai cooking class

For more things to do in Chiang Mai, read my post: What are the things to do in Chiang Mai?

Day 7: The end of your trip, head to Chiang Mai Airport for your return flight.

If you would like to go on a week-long road trip in Thailand, please read our detailed article: One week itinerary in Thailand.

Very practical, you will also find lots of good plans and hotels where you can stay every step of the way. This is the best way to organise your trip easily!

Thailand Road trip: 10 days

Second idea for a road trip, this time to visit Thailand by car in 10 days.

For this itinerary, you will leave from Bangkok and finish your stay in the South.

On the agenda for this 10-day road trip in Thailand:

Phuket or Krabi (choice)

You must start this 10-day road trip in Thailand with the capital, Bangkok . In addition to the day you arrive, you should stay there for 2 days to recover from the flight and jet lag.

Day one: Here’s an idea for your first day in Bangkok:

Siam Museum or Bangkok National Museum
Dinner cruise on the river

For the second day , continue your visit with Wat Saket, Chinatown and a walk in the Lumpini park. Then go shopping in the Siam district.

At the end of the day, don’t miss the Bayoke tower (Bangkok’s tallest tower) to admire a view of the city. Tickets can be booked here.

To best organise your exploration of Bangkok, read our article: Top 20 things to do in Bangkok.

The next day (day three) , for the rest of this 10-day road trip in Thailand, visit the historical park of Ayutthaya.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it has several magnificent temples that you can see during the day.

If you want more details about Ayutthaya, please read my detailed article: Visit Ayutthaya.

Days four, five, and six shall be devoted to visiting Chiang Mai, the capital of northern Thailand.

The unmissable spots:

The old town of Chiang Mai where all the temples are located: Wat Phra Sing , Wat Chedi Luang or Wat Inthakhin Sadue Muang
Warorot market, the city’s largest market
The night market and/or the Saturday or Sunday evening market to buy souvenirs and taste street food
The Doi Suthep National Park, where the temple of the same name is located, offers a panoramic view of the whole province
Visit the elephants in a shelter
Take a cooking class to make delicious Pad Thai and currys.

And for other places to see in Chiang Mai, you will find information here: Chiang Mai: the definitive guide.

Finish this 10-day road trip to Thailand by visiting the South, where you can enjoy the country’s most beautiful beaches.

From Chiang Mai, it is very easy to reach Phuket or Krabi in less than 2 hours.

For days seven, eight, and nine of your itinerary, you can choose between spending 3 days on Phuket Island or in Krabi province.

What are the things to see in Phuket and nearby?

Phuket Town
Monkey Hill
The beaches: Freedom Beach, Kata Beach, Karon Beach, Nai Harn Beach…
Koh Phi Phi
Similan Islands
James Bond Island

Details of all these places are in this article: What are the things to see in Phuket?

If you prefer to spend the end of your holiday in Krabi, you can:

Enjoy Ao Nang beach
Spend a day on the Railay Peninsula and its 2 beautiful sandy beaches
Take a boat trip to the 4 islands
Explore Koh Phi Phi
Visit the Hong Islands

Information on these activities can be found here: The best things to do in Krabi?

On the day ten , it will be time to take your return flight from Phuket or Krabi airport.

If you want more details about this 10-day road trip in Thailand , please read our detailed article: 10 day itinerary in Thailand.

You will also find our list of the best accommodations for each leg. As you’ll see, planning your 9-10 day trip to Thailand is fast and easy!

Thailand Road trip: two weeks

If you go on a road trip in Thailand for 15 days , you will be able to divide your time between the central/northern part of the country and the south.

This 2-week road trip in Thailand I am suggesting also starts from Bangkok.

You will find all the details to organise this Thailand tour in our article: 2-week itinerary in Thailand.

I’ll summarise the legs of the journey below:

For this two-week road trip in Thailand, we will start by visiting Bangkok for 2 days.

You’ll have time to see many of the places we discuss in our Top 20 places to visit in Bangkok.

Days 1 and 2 – Things to do:

Bangkok National Museum
A river cruise
Bayoke Tower
Chinatown and Wat Traimit
The Siam neighbourhood with huge shopping centres

On day three of your 15-day road trip in Thailand, visit Ayutthaya , the ancient capital of the kingdom of Siam.

These ancient temples are now classified as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

The timings, prices, and temples that you should not miss , everything is included in my article dedicated to the historical park: Ayutthaya: the definitive guide.

Day Four: keep one day for travelling the 350 km from Ayutthaya to Sukhothai .

Day five – Visit the historical park of Sukhothai.

Like Ayutthaya, Sukhothai was one of the capital cities of the kingdom of Siam and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here too, the best way to prepare for your visit is to read my article: How to visit Sukhothai.

Day seven of your 15-day road trip in Thailand: Travel from Sukhothai and Chiang Mai , 300 km away.

On day eight, you must visit Chiang Mai Old Town. You should absolutely see all the temples there, including Wat Phra Sing and Wat Chedi Luang . At the end of the day, head for the Night Bazaar to eat at one of the many stands or buy some souvenirs.

Day nine – You have several options to finish exploring the city and its surroundings:

Explore Doi Suthep National Park, home to a temple, Bhubing Palace (the royal family’s winter residence), a Hmong village and several waterfalls.
Spend a day with the elephants at a shelter to help the caretakers feed or wash them.
Take a traditional cooking class, a typical activity to do in Thailand!

You will find all these activities and much more in my dedicated article: The top 20 things to do in Chiang Mai.

Visiting Thailand in 15 days also allows you to devote part of your stay to the South of the country.

From Chiang Mai, you must choose between Phuket and Krabi for the rest of your 2 week road trip in Thailand. To get there, you just have to catch a plane.

On days nine, ten, and eleven , you will have plenty of time to travel around Phuket Island or Krabi province.

For the best things to do in Phuket, be sure to read our article: Visit Phuket.

And to discover Krabi, you can read this article: The must-see spots in Krabi .

After Phuket or Krabi , you can continue your road trip in Thailand with another Southern Island.

For days twelve, thirteen, and fourteen, you must choose between staying for 3 days at:

Koh Lanta to enjoy the beaches and go on beautiful trips around the 4 islands or Koh Rok .
Koh Yao Noi experience the authenticity of Thailand on an island which is still free of mass tourism.

You can find the detailed itinerary of each island by clicking on the name of the islands.

You know that now we are on day fifteen , and that means we are at end of your holiday.

For the return trip, you can catch your plane in Phuket or Krabi.

Just a reminder, I have explained this road trip in detail in my article: 2-week itinerary in Thailand.

You will also find plenty of tips and my selection of the best accommodation depending on your budget.

Thailand Road trip: 3 weeks

For a 3 week road trip in Thailand , you can divide your holiday into 3 main parts:

Central Thailand with Bangkok and Ayutthaya
The North , to discover Sukhothai, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai
The South , and its heavenly islands: Phuket , Koh Lanta , Koh Yao , Krabi .

To help you organise your three-week road trip in Thailand as best as possible, I explained everything in detail for each day in my article: 3-week itinerary in Thailand.

To know everything: the legs of the journey, places to visit, travel times and hotels , just click on the link above!

To give you an idea, I’ll give you a summary of the planned visits during these 3 weeks:

Start your 21-day road trip in Thailand by exploring the central part of the country for the first 3 days. This allows you to start slowly, recovering from jet lag and getting used to the climate.

Days 1 and 2 : Bangkok

Day 3 : Ayutthaya

Continue your three-week road trip in Thailand by heading north.

Days 4 and 5 – Visit to Sukhothai Historical Park

Days 6, 7 and 8 – Explore Chiang Mai and its many temples

Days 9, 10 and 11 – Explore Chiang Rai and its surroundings, with the unmissable white temple, THE spot to see during a 3 week road trip in Thailand!

After these 11 days in the centre and North, it’s time to continue your 20-21 day road trip in Thailand by heading South.

Days 12, 13 and 14 – Stay at Phuket , one of the most famous islands of the Andaman Sea. Not only will you explore this island, but you’ll also take boat trips to Koh Phi Phi or the Similan Islands.

Days 15, 16 and 17 – Take a boat to Koh Lanta . The island has very beautiful sandy beaches and turquoise waters. And be sure you go on one of these trips, with snorkelling and swimming stops, to the 4 islands or Koh Rok.

Days 18, 19 and 20 – For the last 3 days, you can choose between 2 places to end your holiday:

Krabi and Ao Nang
Koh Yao Noi

In both cases, the schedule is not too busy: enjoy the beaches and work on your tan in relaxation mode.

Day 21 – End of your 3 week road trip in Thailand. If you are in Krabi, head for the city’s airport. If you are on Koh Yao Noi , you can choose to fly to Krabi or Phuket.

To read the full version of our 3 week itinerary, with advice and suggestions for accommodation, click here!

Thailand Road trip: 1 month

The last itinerary for the lucky few who can take a lot of time off: a month long road trip in Thailand!

For around thirty days, you can visit Bangkok and Ayutthaya in the centre but also much of the North with Sukhothai, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.

Not to forget the other major part of this 1-month road trip in Thailand, exploring the South and its piucturesque islands. I mentioned Phuket, Koh Lanta , Krabi and Koh Yao Noi.

All the details to organise your stay in Thailand can be found in this article: Itinerary for visiting Thailand in 1 month. For each day, you will find the places to see , travel times and the best hotels to stay for each leg of the journey .

It has everything! Preparing for your 1 month road trip in Thailand has never been easier!

Here is the summary of each leg of the journey to give you an overview:

For the first part of this month long road trip in Thailand, you must start with the central part of the country for 4 days.

Days 1 and 2: Explore Bangkok and visit the main monuments such as the Grand Palace, Wat Pho and Wat Arun.

Day 3: Trip to the Damnoen Saduak floating market or to Kanchanaburi and the Kwai river bridge.

Day 4: Admire the beautiful ancient temples of the historical park of Ayutthaya.

The second leg of this 1 month long road trip in Thailand takes us North.

Days 5 and 6: Visit to the temples of the ancient capital of the kingdom of Siam, Sukhothai

Days 7, 8, 9 and 10: Cover the Chiang Mai Province

Days 11, 12 and 13: Finish your stay in the North with the town of Chiang Rai.

The last leg of your 30-day road trip in Thailand takes place entirely in the South of the country.

During these 15 days, you will be able to spend time on Phuket, Koh Lanta, Krabi and Koh Yao Noi.

Days 14, 15, 16 and 17: start with one of the mythical islands: Phuket! The whole itinerary for visiting Phuket in 4 days is in this article: What are the things to see in Phuket?

Days 18, 19, 20 and 21: Continue to another beautiful island: Koh Lanta. To visit Koh Lanta, just read this article: The best things to do in Koh Lanta?

Days 22, 23, 24 and 25: Head to the Krabi province, famous for the Railay peninsula, a splendid place to go to the beach. The itinerary is right here: Visit Krabi.

Days 26, 27 and 28: We will end with Koh Yao Noi, an island where you can relax and finish your holiday in peace and quiet. To know what are the things to do in Koh Yao Noi, click here: The most beautiful places in Koh Yao Noi.

I have also prepared 2 itineraries exclusively for the Southern islands.

I won’t include them in the “road trip” category because you won’ t necessarily need a car to travel around the islands and you can get from one island to the other by boat.

You can find them here:

7 day itinerary in South Thailand with 2 versions: one from Phuket and the other from Krabi.
15-day itinerary in Southern Thailand with no less than 4 islands on the agenda: Phuket, Koh Lanta, Krabi and Koh Yao Noi.

These itineraries are similar to the road trips with the day-to-day plans and the sights to see.

Now you know how to organise your Thailand road trip, but there is another important point to address: accommodation.

Where to stay during each leg of your itinerary in Thailand?

Easy, I have prepared a selection of the best hotels to stay in Thailand, sorted by city and budget , for all the road trips I mentioned earlier.

You can find those by clicking on the links below:

For central and Northern Thailand:

Best hotels in Bangkok
Where to stay in Ayutthaya?
Accommodation in Sukhothai
Best accommodation in Chiang Mai
List of hotels in Chiang Rai

For Southern Thailand:

Best hotels in Phuket
Where to stay in Koh Lanta?
Accommodation in Krabi
Best accommodation in Koh Yao Noi

Phuket Marriot Resort & Spa - Hôtel de luxe à Phuket

For a road trip in Thailand , the best time is from November to February . These months are the “cold” season.

When I say “cold”, you should expect between 25 to 30° on average towards Bangkok or the South, and a little less towards the North, where temperatures can drop quickly, especially at night. Generally, the climate is hot and humid any month of the year.

The months of December and January are particularly popular among Europeans who come to Thailand to spend the holiday season and get away from the grey skies. If you are going to Thailand during this period, I strongly recommend that you book your accommodation as soon as possible as prices increase quickly.

If you want to avoid peak tourist season while enjoying the most favourable climate, I would say that February is the best month to visit Thailand by car.

Between March and May , it is the summer . If you can’t stand the heat, exploring the country can be challenging. Not to mention that the vegetation tends to dry out very quickly and the landscapes are less beautiful.

But if you like the heat and especially if you have a hotel with a swimming pool or on the seafront , you can still have a great holiday!

Between June and October, there’s the rainy season. It may rain every day on your road trip but good news it usually lasts only a few hours and not all day. However, it is difficult to withstand the combined heat with that much humidity.

It is better to avoid the islands located on the west coast of the Andaman Sea (Phuket and Koh Lanta for example) which face heavy rainfall that can lead to flooding. Some islands can also be inaccessible as boat connections are cut off.

Choose the islands on the East coast of the Andaman Sea that are less affected at that time, like Koh Samui.

However, on the other hand, it rains more in the East between September and December and at that time it will be better to plan a stay to the West of the Andaman Sea to visit the islands.

So what have you planned to see on your road trip in Thailand?

Thailand travel Guides

Buy the Lonely Planet Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk
Buy the DK Eyewitness Thailand guide on Amazon.com or on Amazon.co.uk

Discover all my articles about Thailand : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Thailand are listed there.

The 25 Best Things to Do in Thailand

Itinerary: One week in Thailand – Perfect to visit Bangkok, Ayutthaya and Chiang Mai!
Itinerary: 6,7 or 8 days in Thailand – 2 itineraries to the southern islands, starting from Phuket or Krabi
Itinerary: 10 days in Thailand – The perfect itinerary to discover the best of Thailand!
Itinerary: 2 weeks in Thailand – Discover Bangkok, Ayutthaya, Sukhothai, + Best Southern islands!
Itinerary: 15 days in Thailand – The best itinerary to visit the most beautiful Southern islands
Itinerary: 3 weeks in Thailand – Discover the best of Thailand in 20-21 days
Itinerary: 1 month in Thailand – The most complete itinerary to visit Thailand!
Road trip in Thailand: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 and 30 days
Ayutthaya: The definitive guide to visit the archaeological park
Bangkok: The 30 best places to visit
Chiang Mai: The 20 best things to do
Chiang Rai: The 17 must-see attractions
Koh Lanta: The 15 most beautiful places to see on the island
Koh Yao Noi: All the things to do on this paradise island!
Krabi: Top 17 best places to visit
Phuket: The 23 best things to do
Sukhothai: How to visit the historical park?
3 days in Bangkok – The best itinerary to visit the Thai capital in 72h!
3 Days in Chiang Mai – The perfect itinerary to visit the Chiang Mai in 72h!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

3 Days in Chiang Mai: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

3 Days in Bangkok: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

1 month in Thailand: The Ultimate 30 Days Itinerary + My Best Tips

Our Bucket List Of 100 Ultimate Road Trips Around The World

01 apr 2024 04 oct 2020 | dan.

Last updated 26 January 2024 by John and Dan

So many roads, so many adventures! So where to start? In this EPIC post, we’ve compiled our bucket list of 100 ultimate road trips around the world. It’s a road trip list for a lifetime of unforgettable journeys and experiences, spanning every continent (but one). Mission accepted.

We’re happiest when we’re on the road. There’s nothing quite like the freedom and anticipation of setting out on a driving adventure of your own making. Where you call the shots: you decide where to go, what to see, how long you want to stay. Where you can enjoy the best of the roads well travelled, and then leave them behind in search of the low-key and the off-beat; the hidden gems of a destination.

Road tripping is our favourite style of travel, and over the years it’s become a key element of just about every trip we make, whether it’s in our own car, a hire car, or with a local driver/guide and their car.

Years ago, we started compiling random ideas for the world’s best road trips. Our objective? The ultimate road trip bucket list to hang on our virtual travel planning wall and set the agenda for a lifetime of adventures to come. Over time, we’ve embarked on some these grail journeys too. Until 2020 anyway when, like everyone around the world, circumstances outside our control meant we had to shift down a gear.

Perfect opportunity to take our random list and make it properly epic, we thought, and plan our road tripping future for decades to come.

So we started researching. We trawled maps, websites, guidebooks, newsletters, social media and friends’ brains, to pinpoint the best drives in the world and build our own ultimate road trips list across the globe. Then we plotted out a rough route for every single one, with approximate distances and minimum timeframes. The clusters of starred places on our Google world map resembles the Milky Way.

This post is the result: 100 amazing, multi-day (in many cases multi-week) bucket list road trip adventures on every continent, except Antarctica ( though we have set foot on the icy landmass and that trip has the number one spot on our list of 21 Epic Adventures Around the World ).

For every epic drive that’s made pole position on our road trip list though, there are another handful of road trips waiting at the back of the pack.

We’ve started with 100 but the world’s the limit, and our world is a very big place. We’re also keen to hear your tips on the best road trips in the world: let us know in the comments at the end of the post . Let’s hit the road!

Australian-Road-Trips: Seacliff Bridge hugs the cliff south of Sydney.

100 Ultimate Road Trips Around The World

1. Road Trips in Africa 2. Asian Road Trips 3. Road Trips in Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific 4. Road Trips in Central & South America 5. European Road Trips 6. Road Trips in the Middle East 7. Road Trips in North America

Our road trip bucket list has been years in the making and some we’ve happily warmed the tyres on already. Road trips we’ve done have their titles highlighted in orange and include links to posts where we’ve written up the itineraries. Plenty more write-ups and road trips still to come!

Road Trips in Africa

It’s the continent we’ve travelled the least and there are still vast swathes of Africa we’re keen to explore. There’s also an enormous diversity of experiences to be found between the desert dunes of the north and the wild and beautiful coastline of the south. So where to even start?

For our top 100, we’ve opted for seven mighty African road trip adventures taking in some of the continent’s most epic scenery, wildlife and history, from the top to the bottom, and off the mainland to an island on the Indian Ocean.

1. Baobabs, Wildlife and Pinnacles ~ Madagascar

Appx. 1,000+ km (620+ miles) | 10-14 days

Antananarivo to Morondava | In an ideal world, we’d road trip all of Madagascar, but as the fourth largest island in the world, perspective is essential. So our starting point is a central island journey offering a taster of the unique wildlife, nature and landscapes the island is famous for, including the famous Avenue of Baobabs and the World Heritage Tsingy pinnacles .

2. Across the High Atlas ~ Morocco

560 km (348 miles) | Up to 1 week

Marrakech to Merzouga | From a World Heritage walled city, we journey across the high Atlas Mountains, through canyons and gorges, past oases and ancient mud-brick kasbahs to the edge of the vast, burnt-orange Sahara Desert. We’ve travelled to Morocco twice and we loved this Moroccan road trip so much, we decided to carry on north with our driver guide through the ancient city of Fez and the blue city of Chefchaouen to Tangier. It’s a trip we hope to repeat one day. Itineraries to come .

Mountains and gorge views on a bucket list road trip in Morocco.

3. The Namib Desert ~ Namibia

Appx. 2,500 km (1,550 miles) | 10-14 days

Windhoek to Windhoek Loop | Soaring red sand dunes in the world’s oldest desert; grasslands and salt pans where wildlife roam; remarkable granite landscapes and ancient, World Heritage rock art; great gatherings of fur seals; Africa’s largest canyon; and the Skeleton Coast, a notorious stretch of coastline with the name to match. It all serves to make this one of the most exciting and anticipated adventure road trips on our list. In late 2023, we explored this fantastic country on an overland truck tour and now all we want is to go back and do it all again independently. Stay tuned for the write-up .

4. The Garden Route ~ South Africa

Appx. 1,850 km (1,150 miles) | 1-2 weeks

Cape Town to Cape Town Loop | The Garden Route, South Africa – a 200 km (124 mile) stretch of road from Mossel Bay to Storms River – is said to be one of the most spectacular coastal road trips in the world. That in itself would be enough for us. So the fact it also offers amazing wildlife watching (on land and sea) and awesome adventure activities has cemented this on our road trip bucket list. We’ll extend the journey beyond the Garden Route itself by looping to and from Cape Town, and adding more wildlife reserves plus the wineries of Stellenbosch and Francshhoek.

5. Durban to Drakensberg Mountains ~ South Africa & Lesotho

Appx. 900 km (560 miles+) | Up to 2 weeks

Durban to Durban Loop | This is a BIG drive: big beaches, big mountains, big waterfalls, big five wildlife encounters. Looping from Durban in South Africa along the coast, then inland through national parks and up into the World Heritage Drakensberg Mountains and the famous Sani Pass to Lesotho, this road trip is just one more reason we need to get driving in South Africa sooner rather than later.

6. Panorama Route ~ South Africa

Appx. 2,000 km (1,240 miles) | 1 week

Johannesburg to Johannesburg Loop | A safari in Kruger National Park is a bucket list goal. A safari in Kruger at the end of one of the most beautiful road trips in Africa, which also happens to take in one of the world’s largest canyons, must be a bucket list road trip trifecta! In addition to the showcase Blyde River Canyon, the Panorama Route packs in forests, waterfalls, rockpools, gorges, a National Monument town and, of course, epic panoramas across the lowlands to Kruger.

7. Sea, Sand and Ancient Ruins ~ Tunisia

Appx 1,600 km (995 miles) | 2 weeks

Tunis to Tunis Loop | If you know us, you know we’re mad for ruins, all ruins, but especially ruins of the Ancient Roman era. Tunisia, a wedge of land in Africa’s north, has some of the best ancient sites still standing, including the ruins of the famous Punic city of Carthage. By all accounts, road tripping through this under-the-radar country’s shifting landscapes – from the Mediterranean coast to the sands of the Sahara – is outstanding.

Asian Road Trips

From the ancient Silk Road through the mountains and high plains of Central Asia, to the cultural highlights of the Far East and tropical island jungles of the Indonesian archipelago, Asia is a treasure chest of road tripping adventures.

Drive journeys in Asia offer the chance to get off the more typical tourist trails and into villages, local hideaways and harder-to-reach destinations for unforgettable experiences in culture, adventure and history; and the nine epic Asian road trips on our top 100 road trip list do just that.

8. The Remote Himalayas ~ Bhutan

Distance varies | 10 days

Paro to Paro Loop | The Himalayas remain seriously high on our bucket list (no pun intended), and at the peak is enigmatic Bhutan, a mountain kingdom with a unique culture and spectacular, untouched nature. The country’s tourism policy means we would need to have a driver and guide for this particular Asian road trip, but when you’re surrounded by the world’s highest mountains and happiest people, we’re fine with being able to sit back and just take it all in!

9. Road Trip Flores ~ Indonesia

Appx. 750 km (465 miles) | Up to 2 weeks

Labuan Bajo to Ende | This awesome road trip through the Indonesian island of Flores serves up soaring volcanoes, traditional villages, jungley highlands and some of the best off-the-beaten track beaches in the archipelago. Add some scuba diving or snorkelling, and close encounters with primeval dragons in speccy Komodo National Park, and this is one of the best island road trips you never heard of. We traversed the island with a hire car and driver-guide. Read our 14-day Flores itinerary for all the details.

10. Land of Kings, Rajasthan ~ India

Appx. 2,500 km | Up to a month

Delhi to Delhi Loop | India’s northern state of Rajasthan is a captivating world of epic fortresses, vibrant temples, extraordinary wildlife reserves, colourful cities, vast desert landscapes and tantalising cuisines. Our driving journey into this incredible place, via the neighbouring states of Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradhesh, is an adventure we’ll never forget. Read our Rajasthan road trip itinerary for the low-down on one of the best Asian road trips on the sub-continent.

11. The Golden Route ~ Japan

Appx. 550 km (340 miles) | 1-2 weeks

Tokyo to Osaka | Where to start when it comes to exploring Japan? There’s so much we want to see on this island nation, and there are plenty of awesome-looking road trips to explore off the beaten track, like the Scenic Byway collection on Hokkaido . For our very first trip to the country though, we’re keen to seek out the epic highlights of the famous Golden Route , following the ancient Tokkaido Road between Tokyo and Kyoto and on to Osaka – a magic introduction of big cities, historic towns, rich culture and stunning scenery.

12. Gobi Desert ~ Mongolia

Distance varies | 1-2 weeks

Ulaanbaatar to Ulaanbaatar Loop | Far-flung and properly off the beaten track, Mongolia makes for no ordinary road trip. Actually, it’s well and truly off-road and from the sounds of it, trips usually take place in functional old rust-bucket vans. The rough and ready nature of this trip is all part of the fun though and well worth the prizes: huge sand dunes, vast steppes, Mongol empire ruins, wild horses, endless skies, wonderful isolation…and nights under the stars in yurts!

13. Seoul to Busan Overlander ~ South Korea

Distance TBC | 2-3 weeks

Seoul to Busan | We’re still talking about our one brilliant night in Seoul, and we didn’t even make it into the city on that stopover. So we’re eager to get back and explore the country proper. Road tripping is apparently easy and the best way to get off the beaten track to visit the country’s best World Heritage sites, traditional villages, Buddhist temples and monasteries. There’s a ton of culture, history and nature to experience here, plus Korean BBQ! If time allows, we’ll also hop across to Jeju Island to drive the renowned Ilju Coastal Road .

14. Emerald Island Circuit ~ Sri Lanka

Appx 1,600km (995 miles) | Up to a month

Colombo to Colombo Loop | Compact Sri Lanka is a wonderful country to explore by road, serving up beautiful coastlines, jungles and mountains, highland tea plantations, and standout World Heritage cultural and natural sites. We’ve travelled the traditional tourist loop from the capital to the highlands to the coast, but there’s so much more we want to see here with the freedom of a car, especially the less-visited north and east, only more recently reopened to visitors after decades of internal strife.

Asian Road Trips: A lone cyclists winds along a road through hills of tea plantations in Sri Lanka.

15. Island Loop ~ Taiwan

Appx. 1,080 km (670 miles) | 2 weeks

Taipei to Taipei Loop | Taiwan is a magical mystery to us, but what we’ve read has put it squarely on our road trip bucket list. Apparently the roads are great and the sights are many – from the city lights and night markets of the capital Taipei, to the cultural sites, tea plantations, beautiful beaches, hiking opportunities, speccy Taroko Gorge and everything else in between. More than half of Taiwan is mountain country too and we can never get enough mountains.

16. Pamir Highway ~ Tajikistan

Appx. 700 km+ (430 miles) | 1 week

Osh, Kyrgyzstan to Khorog, Tajikistan | The ‘stans loom large on our destination bucket list, so it goes without saying the opportunity to get out and explore by road (not just any road either but part of the ancient Silk Road!) only adds to the appeal. The Pamir Highway starts in Kyrgyzstan and winds a route through Tajikistan that by all accounts serves up some of the most majestic mountain scenery in the world. In fact, our mates Alesha and Jarryd of NOMADasaurus rate it so highly they set up group tours with a local operator, and their road trip write-up has us very much looking forward to one day making this journey.

Road Trips in Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific

We’ve been enjoying road trips in Australia for as long as we can remember (Dan since she was a kid on family holidays, and John since touring Oz in a Ford Econovan as a backpacker in the 90s), but we’ve still got a serious hit list of road tripping adventures we want to have across our vast island-continent home.

We’ve also been drawn time and again to that other island nation across the pond, New Zealand , as it arguably serves up some of the world’s best road tripping opportunities. Plus, after discovering the delights of Pacific Island road tripping in Vanuatu and Easter Island , we’ve added Fiji as a new island addition in our top 100.

Australian Road Trip: A road winds off towards the Warrumbungles range in NSW.

17. Great Ocean Road ~ Australia

Appx. 243 km (150 miles) | 2-4 Days

Torquay to Allansford | This iconic coastal drive is on our southern doorstep in the state of Victoria, and while we’ve both cruised parts of it, we haven’t driven it together. While you can knock it over in around four hours, we want to take our time and explore the epic coastal scenery both in and out of the car, including the world-famous Twelve Apostles, pristine beaches, rainforest, waterfalls, bushwalks, and eats and drinks along the way.

18. Circle Tasmania ~ Australia

Appx. 1,800 km (1,120 miles) | 1 week to 1 month

Hobart to Hobart Loop | Gorgeous Tasmania holds a real allure for us: it’s one of just a couple of places we could imagine ourselves retiring to one day. Naturally, we’re keen to road trip to all of its corners before then. This epic Tassie circuit by Tourism Australia looks like the perfect place to start. Add some extra km’s to include historic Port Arthur and the foodie destination, Bruny Island, plus some world-class hiking side-trips, and we’re raring to go!

19. The South-Western Corner ~ Australia

Appx. 2,000 km (1,240 miles) | 2 weeks

Perth to Perth via Albany | Take one of the world’s great wine regions (Margaret River), add exquisite white-sand beaches, giant trees, waterfalls, sand dunes, amazing hikes, unique geological formations and ridiculously cute quokkas, and you can see why this road trip has been calling to us. We finally had the chance to drive it in 2021 and it was every bit as epic as we’d hoped. Our original claim stands – this may well be one of the best road trips in Australia. Check out our itinerary for an epic two week road trip of south west Australia .

The Ultimate Australian Road Trip It’s called ‘The Big Lap’, a classic Aussie understatement for an epic 40,000 km (25,000 mile) adventure looping right around Australia. It’s a bit of a tradition for retired older Aussies and young international backpackers to load up a 4WD or camper trailer and embark on this extraordinary journey. It skirts just about all of the Australian coastline plus a stint inland to the Red Centre. How long it takes is entirely up you. Something to look forward to when we’re old(er).

20. South to North via Explorer’s Way ~ Australia

Appx. 4,000 km+ (2,500 miles) | 2-3 weeks

Adelaide to Darwin | We might be leaving The Big Lap for later (see above), but this epic Australian road trip is one we hope to make sooner. Starting in the South Australian capital of Adelaide, this incredible journey overlands through the southern outback and into the Northern Territory to visit some of the most iconic destinations on the continent – Uluru and Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon, Karlu Karlu-Devils Marbles, Litchfield National Park and more – before winding up in Darwin. Huge!

21. Viti Levu Island ~ Fiji

Appx. 515 km (320 miles) | 12-14 days

Nadi to Nadi Loop | An iso binge watch of Eco-Challenge Fiji put the spectacular landscapes of Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu, firmly on our road trip list. While we’ll leave the hard core adventure racing to the pros, exploring the island by car opens up a world of possibilities for reaching its remote corners and experiencing its diverse natural beauty and outdoor adventure – on land as well as in the sea (diving!) and on the nearby islands – along with the culture and legendary warmth of the Fijian people.

22. North Island Loop ~ New Zealand

Appx. 3,200+ km (2,000 miles) | Up to a month

Auckland to Auckland Loop | This incredible journey around the north island of New Zealand, one of our favourite places on the planet, is at the summit of our bucket list. It takes in the north’s unsurpassed landscapes of lush forests, thermal springs, pristine beaches, iconic volcanoes and spectacular lakes. Throw in ultra-cool Wellington with its craft beer and food scene, a visit to ‘Hobbiton’, and the wineries of Hawkes Bay, and this may just be our ultimate road trip heaven.

23. South Island Loop ~ New Zealand

Distance varies | Up to a month

Christchurch to Christchurch Loop | You can tackle New Zealand’s breathtaking South Island in a couple of different trips, or road trip the whole island. We’ve already mini-looped once via the west coast glaciers, and a second time via Central Otago and the east coast ( check out our South Island highlights ). Both times we took in the magnetic mountains-and-fjords-drive between Queenstown and Milford Sound. With loads of epic destinations like Abel Tasman National Park, the Catlins and Dunedin still to visit, a drive around the whole South Island is definitely a future New Zealand bucket list road trip goal for us.

Road to Mount Cook in New Zealand is one of the best drives in the world.

Road Trips in Central & South America

Latin America may well be a contender for our favourite part of the world. The vast spaces and incredible, changing scenery of South America are superb for road tripping, while the countries of Central America serve up culture and history in compact abundance. While there are still so many corners of both that we want to explore, the seven journeys here are a combination of our favourites and most anticipated.

24. Ruta 40 ~ Argentina

Appx. 5,200 km (3,230 miles) | As long as it takes

La Quiaca to Punta Loyola | South America is catnip for us, we just love it. We’ve travelled various segments of amazing National Route 40 through Argentina over the years, but we’re keen to travel the entire length, from the dramatic canyons, deserts and salt flats of the north, through the lake regions, wine regions, World Heritage, cultural heritage, historic sites and pampas grasslands, to the mind-blowing mountains and glaciers of spectacular southern Patagonia.

25. Route of the Seven Lakes ~ Argentina

Appx. 108 km (67 miles) | 1-3 days

Bariloche to San Martín de los Andes | The more time we spend in Argentina, the more places end up on our bucket list to come back and explore by car. We knew nothing about the Ruta de los Siete Lagos – Route of the Seven Lakes – when we arrived in the town of Bariloche, and our expectations were batted completely out of the ballpark. This road trip, a tiny section of Ruta 40, can be done in a day or more slowly as you follow a winding route through the sweeping forests, soaring peaks and serene lakes of northern Patagonia. Read our one-day itinerary .

Ultimate Road Trips: Yellow spring blooms on the Route of the Seven Lakes, Argentina

26. Atacama to Uyuni ~ Chile & Bolivia

Appx 550 km (340 miles) | 4-5 days

San Pedro de Atacama, Chile to Uyuni, Bolivia | Atacama, the world’s highest, driest, oldest desert is simply breathtaking – both literally and figuratively. From the volcano-dotted moonscape of the Chilean plateau, it’s just a hop across the high Andes to Bolivia and another otherworldly destination: the vast salt flats of Uyuni. We tried this journey by road once before but were thwarted by sudden snowstorms. We’re determined to go back and try again.

27. Carretera Austral ~ Chile

Appx. 1,225 km (760 miles) | 1-2 weeks

Puerto Montt to Villa O’Higgins | Patagonia is addictive. The nature, the wildlife, the outdoor adventure….we could go on. Our short road trips in Chile have whetted our appetites to explore more of this gorgeous country by car and the Carretera Austral, Chile’s Route 7, which winds along parks, rivers, lakes and hot springs and offers plenty of opportunities for trekking and out-of-car nature immersion, hits all the marks.

28. Parks & Wildlife ~ Costa Rica

Appx. 1,100 km (685 miles) | Up to 2 weeks

San José to San José Loop | This little wedge of land in Central America is one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, making Costa Rica an outstanding destination for nature lovers. With a quarter of the country protected in reserves, the hardest part of a road trip is deciding what you can bear to leave out. Our loop through the parks of Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, La Fortuna and Tortuguero served up pristine rainforest, soaring volcanoes, hot springs, beautiful beaches and wildlife watching in epic abundance. Road trip itinerary to come. In the meantime, here’s our round-up of must-see parks in Costa Rica .

29. Classic West ~ Cuba

Appx. 1,150 km (715 miles) | 2 weeks

Havana to Havana Loop | Legendary Cuba is every bit as vibrant, evocative and distinctive as we’d hoped. From the lively, crumbling capital of Havana, a journey around the western half of this island nation serves up colourful rural villages, tobacco plantations, pretty beaches and World Heritage cities. There are opportunities for horse-riding, scuba diving, cycling and, of course, vintage car rides. While we didn’t drive ourselves (it’s certainly possible), our classic car road trips between each destination took this trip to another level. Read our 2-week Cuba itinerary .

Road Trip List: Blue vintage car cruises past the University of Havana, Cuba.

30. Yucatan Peninsula ~ Mexico

Appx. 2,500 km (1,550 miles) | 2-3 weeks

Cancun to Cancun Loop | The vast, jungley Yucatan peninsula is like a magnet, drawing us back time and again to explore its pearly beaches, otherworldly cenotes , vivid historic towns, vibrant reefs , and epic ancient Mayan ruins (all of it fuelled by delicious tacos al pastor). While it’s easy to get around the Yucatan by public transport or tour, as we have previously, hiring a car is a chance to go at your own pace and search out the many gems of this awesome, ancient place. We’ll be back.

European Road Trips

While Europe may not have the landmass of some other continents, its 44 countries and sheer diversity of people, place, history and culture have led to it accounting for almost half of our top 100 road trip bucket list!

Having spent countless hours, days and weeks meandering by car through the UK and western Europe, plus a couple of months road tripping through northwestern Europe and Scandinavia, we know the possibilities for European road trips are endless. So while we’ve managed to compile close to fifty road trips here which are an absolute must for us, there are literally hundreds more just waiting in the wings. Bring it on!

31. Across the Austrian Alps ~ Austria

Appx. 1,200 km (745 miles) | 2 weeks

Innsbruck to Vienna | A whirlwind winter weekend in Innsbruck introduced us to the gorgeous alpine-scapes of Austria, and returning to road trip the country is a must for us. Our planned journey starts in Innsbruck, and from there winds a high-altitude path to the western mountains and back across the country’s alpine ranges, via the famed Grossglockner High Alpine Road , to Vienna in the east. It’s not all epic mountains though – great wining, dining, amazing hiking, history, architecture and much more also await.

32. Istria & The Adriatic Highway ~ Croatia

Appx. 800 km (500 miles) | 10 days +

Rovinj to Dubrovnik | The glimpses of Croatia we’ve had through short trips to Split and Dubrovnik – of historic cities, charming islands, turquoise waters and epic sunsets – have been more than enough to convince us that a road trip along this stunning Kings Landing coast is a must. Cue the Adriatic Highway , which winds a magical coastal path from top to bottom. We’ll extend the journey by starting in Rovinj, on the Istrian peninsula.

33. Southern Scandinavia ~ Denmark, Norway & Sweden

Appx. 1,850 km + Car Ferry | 2+ Weeks

Copenhagen to Copenhagen Loop | This Nordic journey takes in the cool Scandi cities, historical highlights and beautiful, changing landscapes of Denmark, southern Norway and Sweden. We travelled this route as part of a 3-month road trip through northwest Europe and Scandinavia, but as we were rained on for most of the journey, this route is one we’re keen to travel again, in better weather. It can easily be done in either direction, and extended with a broader circuit of Norway . Itinerary write-up to come.

Road Trips in Europe: The 19th century Rubjerg Knude lighthouse rises above sand dunes in Denmark.

34. The Mysterious Faroe Islands ~ Denmark

Distance varies | 7-10 days

Tórshavn to Tórshavn Loop | The seed for a trip to the Faroe Islands was planted as we stood looking out to sea from the port of Hirtshals in Denmark, and it’s well and truly taken root. This wild and remote cluster of islands in the northern Atlantic, a far-flung, self-governing outpost of the Danish kingdom, has an air of magic and legend about it, and the scenery to suit. While driving around an archipelago seems unlikely, the Faroes’ bridges, under-sea tunnels and ferries make road tripping here entirely possible and, by all accounts, entirely unforgettable.

35. Baltic Road Trip ~ Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania

Tallinn to Vilnius | Apart from a girls’ weekend in Tallinn for Dan in the early noughties, the Baltic states remain a tantalising unknown to us. What better way to discover this under-the-radar corner of northeastern Europe than by car? Highlights include castles, national parks, cool cities with baroque and art nouveau architecture, beaches, charming villages, history in droves, and plenty of scenic driving on a weaving route between Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.

36. Ancient Provence ~ France

Appx. 500 km (310 miles) | Up to 2 weeks

Marseilles to Marseille Loop | Some 2,100 years ago, the Romans turned up in south-east France, named it Provincia Romana and started building. Their legacy can still be found all over Provence, in the form of ancient theatres, temples, bridges, roads, aqueducts and monuments. We’ve driven parts of this route and mapped a bunch more for a fantastic road trip into the distant past. This is also one of the world’s great wine regions. Ancient history + wineries = our perfect European road trip.

Provence road trip in Europe: Ancient Pont du Gard.

37. The Brittany Coast ~ France

Appx. 700 km (435 miles) | 5-7 days

Saint-Malo to Saint-Malo Loop | If the beautiful rugged coastline wasn’t enough to put this epic road trip on our list, the megalithic sites, primeval forest trails, medieval villages and towns, and renowned food scene have cemented it there. The World Heritage Mont St Michel is also just down the road from Saint-Malo.

38. Island Tripper, Corsica ~ France

Appx. 600 km (372 miles) | 7-10 days

Bastia to Bonifacio | It took just one pic of a winding coastal road with mountains rising above a crystal clear cove to put a Corsica road trip on our bucket list. This French island, birthplace of Napoleon, packs a Mediterranean punch with wildly diverse landscapes, cute villages, outdoor adventure, beachside chill, delicious food and wineries, all in a relatively compact, very road-trippable space.

39. La Route des Grande Alpes ~ France

Appx. 675 km (420 Miles) | 3 days

Thonon-les-Bains to Menton | Alpine road trips are probably our fave, and this amazing drive from Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean through the French Alps ticks all the boxes: national parks, climbing routes, sky-high villages and lakes, around 20 mountain passes, and some of the highest roads in Europe. It’s open in Summer and early Autumn only.

40. La Route des Vins D’Alsace ~ France

170 km (106 miles) | A couple of days

Marlenheim to Thann | How could we not include a road trip named for wine? The historic Alsace region is in France’s north-east near Germany and Switzerland, and vino is truly in its DNA – it’s been producing wine since Roman times. This isn’t a long road trip, but with dozens of picturesque villages and around 1,000 producers dedicated wholeheartedly to wine, it’s a journey we want to take slow and savour (literally).

41. French and Italian Rivieras ~ France, Monaco & Italy

Appx. 315 km (195 miles) | 7-10 days

Nice to La Spezia | Despite taking in three countries, road tripping the Cote D’Azur from Nice to Menton via Monaco and onwards through the Italian Riviera to La Spezia will put little more than 300 km on the odometer. But this is said to be some of the most idyllic coastal driving out there: a gorgeous stretch of Mediterranean lapped by turquoise waters, with beautiful beaches and pretty villages, culminating in the renowned Cinque Terre National Park, a destination we’ve been itching to get back to and hike for 15 years.

42. Journey to the Caucasus ~ Georgia

Appx. 1,100 km (685 miles) | 2 weeks

Tbilsi to Tblisi Loop | Europe’s far eastern country of Georgia has become a traveller hotspot in recent years and we’ve heard lots of good stuff about it. We’ve also heard road tripping is the best way to get out into the countryside and explore the myriad landscapes, cool historic sites – like the medieval Rabati fortress and Vardzia cave monastery – and the many natural highlights, from canyons, waterfalls, lakes and hot springs to the high peaks of the Caucasus Mountains.

43. The German Alpine Road ~ Germany

Appx. 450 km (280 miles) | 5-8 days

Lindau to Schönau | People have been drawn to the Bavarian delights of the Alpenstrasse – scenic, traditional, cultural and culinary – for more than 160 years. More than a dozen villages and towns dot the beautiful route, which meanders via valleys and meadows, mountains and lakes, and passes dozens of castles, churches, monasteries and palaces.

44. The Castle Road ~ Germany

1,200 km (745 miles) | 1-2 weeks

Mannheim to Prague | We love a good castle, so naturally, Europe’s greatest dedicated castle road trip is a mandatory entry on our list. Winding a route through scenic central Germany before crossing into Prague, the Burgenstrasse links more than seventy historic citadels, including castles, palaces and aristocratic residences.

45. The Romantic Road ~ Germany

Appx. 354 km (220 miles) | 3-4 days

Füssen to Würzburg | More castles, yes, and dramatic ones (including the famous, Disney-esque Neuschwanstein). But tales of Germany’s Romantic Road through Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg tell a delightful road tripping story of postcard perfect scenery, colourful villages and cobblestoned medieval towns. Plus there’s Bavarian beer at one end and wine country at the other end. Perfect!

46. Highlights of the Mainland ~ Greece

Appx. 2,000 km (1,242 miles) | 2 weeks

Athens to Athens Loop | Greece is rightly renowned for its beautiful islands, of which we’ve sampled a few. But we’ve always wanted to hit the road on the mainland and experience the culture, scenery and archaeological wonders of this very ancient place. Highlights of our planned mainland Greece road trip include epic sites like Corinth, Olympia, Delphi and Meteora.

47. Minoan Crete ~ Greece

Appx. 745 km (460 miles) | Up to 2 weeks

Heraklion to Heraklion Loop | Crete is an island of myth and legend: home to the ancient Minoan civilisation and the mythological half-man, half-bull Minotaur. Signs of this highly advanced people remain at archaeological sites such as Knossos and Phaestos, but our own road trip through Crete surprised us with rugged mountain scenery, caves, beaches, beautiful gorges for hiking, Venetian architecture and seriously good food. Road trip highlights to come .

48. The Ring Road ~ Iceland

Appx 1,350 km (840 miles) | Up to 2 weeks

Reykjavic to Reykjavic Loop | A mystical island of icy glaciers, brooding volcanoes and soothing hot springs; where the summer sun shines all night and strange lights dance across the sky in winter. We were captivated on our road trip through the south of Iceland and we’ll definitely be back to explore the rest on the famous island loop Ring Road . This is said to be one of the best road trips in Europe.

The surreal landscapes of Iceland make for one of the best road trips in the world.

49. The Wild Atlantic Way ~ Ireland

2,500 km (1,550 miles) | As long as it takes

Malin Head to Kinsale | Ireland remains one of our fave destinations, ever since we first road tripped a loop around the country – and got engaged en route – in 2006. The Wild Atlantic Way is our next goal for the island nation. An anniversary road trip perhaps? Spanning six regions of diverse and spectacular Irish coastal terrain, this journey can be done in sections, or in one long, incomparable road trip.

50. Bay of Naples & Amalfi Coast ~ Italy

Appx: 150 km (95 miles) | 7-10 days

Miseno to Salerno | Road tripping the Amalfi Coast is a renowned journey, and rightly so. The stunning SS163 coastal route itself is just 50 km and can be driven end to end in a matter of hours, but we extended our trip to start at ancient Misenum, travelling around the Bay of Naples in the shadow of Vesuvius, taking in the vibrant city of Naples, the extraordinary ruins of Herculaneum and Pompeii, and charming cliff-side Sorrento, before winding through the spectacular coastal towns of Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. Itinerary to come .

51. The Dolomites ~ Italy

Distance TBC | 7-10 days

Bolzano to Bolzano Loop | There are some superb driving routes through the high altitude scenery of the Italian Dolomites and Alps, including the famed Grande Strada delle Dolomiti and the sky-high switchbacks of the Stelvio Pass . We’re keen to explore them all, so we’ve mapped out a World Heritage Dolomites journey along one of the best driving roads in Europe, taking in mountain passes, mountains lakes, mountain meadows, mountain food, and lots of time out of the car on epic mountain hikes.

52. Tuscan Wineries & Hill Towns ~ Central Italy

Appx. 700 km (435 miles) | 2 weeks

Florence to Florence Loop | Our love affair with Italy was cemented on the winding roads of Tuscany, Urbino, Perugia and Terni, as we road tripped through a gorgeous countryside of rolling hills, expansive vineyards and striking medieval hill towns. We’ve espoused the highlights of this journey over two posts, one focusing on our Tuscan road trip through Chianti , and the other our medieval hill-town hopper , taking in magical Urbino, Assisi, Orvieto, Siena and San Gimignano. It’s one of the Italian road trips we definitely intend to do again.

Views over San Gimignano in Tuscany, Italy.

53. Puglia Discovery ~ Italy

Distance TBC | 10 – 14 days

Bari to Bari Loop | If someone said we could only road trip in Italy for the rest of our days, well, we’d be ok with that. The region of Puglia, in the ‘heel’ of Italy’s boot, is a corner we finally reached this year: a wedge of gorgeous coastline and popular beaches, wonderful old towns for exploring on foot (including a couple of historic World Heritage sites and the nearby hill-town of Matera), sensational food and wine, and opportunities to get off the beaten path for a taste of quintessential southern Italy. Road trip itinerary to com e.

54. Sardinia Island Loop ~ Italy

Appx. 1,500 km (930 miles) | 2 weeks

Cagliari to Cagliari Loop | Just when we think road tripping Italy can’t get any better, the island of Sardinia turns up the heat. Its spectacular white-sand beaches, lapped by turquoise waters, are said to be some of the most beautiful on the Med. More than just a pretty face though, Sardinia has charming medieval villages, mountains, caves and canyons, intriguing Bronze Age sites, and a food and wine scene all its own. Check out our two week Sardinia road trip itinerary .

55. Ancient Sicily ~ Italy

Appx. 1,000 km (620 miles) | 10-14 days

Palermo to Palermo Loop | This wonderful island is ideal for road tripping and it’s a trek we definitely hope to make again. Spectacular World Heritage ancient sites, including some of the very best preserved temples and in-situ mosaics, beautifully evocative villages and historic cities, an active volcano to climb, and endlessly buonissimo eating experiences guarantee an unforgettable Italian drive holiday. Plan your own self-drive adventure with our two week Sicily road trip itinerary .

Italian Road Trips: Cruising the volcanic heights of Mount Etna on Sicily.

56. Monasteries, Fortresses and Wine ~ Moldova

Appx. 850 km (530 miles) | 7-10 days

Chișinău to Chișinău Loop | Wedged between Romania and Ukraine, this little nation flies largely under the tourist radar. Formerly part of Romania and then the Soviet Republic, Moldova’s Orthodox Christian fabric has led to the many monasteries and fortresses which are a highlight of road tripping here. It also has one of the world’s most ancient winemaking traditions and the world’s largest wine cellar . Say no more.

57. Mountains, Coasts and Fjords ~ Norway

Appx. 1,900 km (1,180 miles) | 3-4 weeks

Oslo to Trondheim | Vast, rugged and breathtakingly beautiful, Norway makes for an unparalleled road tripping adventure. We drove and camped a coast-and-fjord route from the capital to Trondheim, taking in some of the most incredible scenery we’ve yet laid eyes on. While our trip continued on into Sweden, you can return to Oslo via Oppdal over 500 km. We’ve still got the northern Svalbard region to explore, but southern Norway makes for a truly epic adventure all its own. Read our two-week, self-drive Norway road trip itinerary .

Road Trip Europe: Road winds through green mountains in Norway.

The Most Spectacular Drive in the World? It’s a big call, and we’re ready to eat our words, but we reckon the 230km (140 mile) drive along the Fv55, Rv15 and Fv63 roads between Sogndal and Geiranger in Norway is one of the world’s most beautiful – read why we think so. Fv63 also continues on to the famous switchbacker, Trollstigen Road.

58. Flores Island, The Azores ~ Portugal

Up to 100 km (62 miles) | 3-4 days

Santa Cruz Das Flores Loop | There’s a mystical quality to the lush, volcanic landscapes of Flores, one of nine islands in Portugal’s Azores archipelago. You could explore it in a busy day, and you’d be pushing to reach 100 km on the odo, even if you drive the whole thing. But with wild and windswept scenery, waterfalls in abundance, cute villages, lovely hikes and even some diving to be had, we’d look to slow the drive time and linger longer.

59. Lisbon to Porto ~ Portugal

Appx. 850 km (530 miles) | 8-10 days

Lisbon to Porto via Duoro Valley | Our ideal Portugal road trip follows the west coast north from the capital, winding a route between coastal villages, beaches and medieval towns, and taking in nearly a dozen World Heritage sites. Of course, a couple of days exploring the Duoro Valley wine region (and its prehistoric rock art) is a must before lingering on in Porto, one of our favourite European cities.

60. Transfăgărășan & Transalpina Roads ~ Romania

Appx. 800 km (500 miles) | 1 week

Bucharest to Bucharest Loop | We’re keen to explore all of Romania by road, starting with this multi-day drive to and from Bucharest, looping across two of the country’s epic mountain roads. The Transfăgărășan gets a tick from the Top Gear crew, weaving its way across the Fagaras Mountains to Transylvania, while the Transalpina, Romania’s highest road, offers panos over 2,000-metres above sea level. Both offer standout alpine hiking and scenery, as well as waterfalls, historic castles, even the ruins of an ancient Dacian fortress.

61. Highlights of Slovenia

Appx. 550 km (340 miles) | 10-14 days

Ljubljana to Ljubljana Loop | A Slovenia road trip is all about the outdoors and driving through speccy scenery to reach even more speccy places that can be explored on foot. Our itinerary goals include Slovenian highlights such as Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, hiking through high mountains and deep gorges, an Adriatic coastal city with a Venetian past (Piran), World Heritage caves, a medieval castle built into a cave, and much more.

62. Slovakia Showcase

Bratislava to Bratislava Loop | Another intriguing and beautifully scenic country, Slovakia promises outstanding cultural, historic and nature experiences on a road trip looping from the capital to the east of the country and back. Medieval towns, evocative castles and sites that tell more recent tales of the country’s struggles to come into its own, sit alongside lakes, caves and a backdrop of the stunning Tatras Mountains.

63. Andalucian Adventure ~ Spain

Appx. 1,150 km (715 miles) | 10-14 days

Málaga to Málaga Loop | Spain is made for road tripping and the southern region of Andalucia is especially awesome. We’ve explored some of the highlights on a previous trip, including the spectacular World Heritage sites of Seville, Granada and Cordoba. There’s plenty to draw us back here though, from historic pueblos blancos (whitewashed villages) and neolithic dolmens, to ancient port cities and the iconic rock of Gibraltar, not to mention all the amazing food and wine!

Road Trip Spain: Puente Nuevo crosses El Tajo gorge in Ronda.

64. The Basque Circuit ~ Spain

Appx. 480 km (300 miles) | 7-10 days

Bilbao to Bilbao Loop | Tucked into a northern corner of the Iberian peninsula, the autonomous Basque region, Euskadi , is a land unto itself, with traditions and a language all its own. The coastline is ruggedly beautiful and its beaches and resort towns renowned. Best of all, this is the unofficial foodie capital of Europe. Pintxos bars abound (the best creation ever!), as do Michelin star restaurants, and the famed Rioja wine region is right on the doorstep.

65. Canary Islands ~ Spain

Appx. 375 km (233 miles) | Up to 2 weeks

Tenerife & La Gomera | John’s very first foray abroad was a trip with mates to Tenerife when he was 16. Classic, innit. Beyond the resorts where sun-starved Brits congregate though, a road trip of the biggest Canary Island and its smaller neighbour, La Gomera, offers magnificent coastal scenery, forest escapes, charming villages, beaches for chilling, and one epic hiking opportunity to the peak of an active volcano, the 3,718m-high Mount Teide.

66. West Coast Mallorca ~ Spain

Appx. 180 km (233 miles) | 1 week

Palma to Formentor Peninsula | Mallorca is another sun-drenched Spanish isle beloved by Brits. Like the Canaries though, steer the car well clear of the beach resorts, and there’s a dramatically beautiful island to discover. We’ve read the west coast is particularly spectacular, trailing a route from the capital Palma through the Tramuntana Mountains to the island’s northern tip. While not a long trip by km’s, it sounds like one to enjoy slowly.

67. Across the Pyrenees ~ Spain & France

Appx. 700 km (435 miles) | 1 week

Lourdes to Lourdes Loop | The great range of the Pyrenees mountains forms a natural boundary between France and Spain, a stunning region that can be explored by road. The must-sees of the central range span breathtaking canyons and glacier-gouged rocky amphitheatres, mountain lakes, a sky-high observatory, and San Juan de la Peña, a monastery embedded in the foot of a cliff, to name just a few.

68. Swiss Alps Explorer ~ Switzerland

Appx. 485 km (300 miles) | 7-10 days

Lausanne to Zurich | Driving through the incredible scenery of the Swiss Alps is sky high on our road trip bucket list. Our Swiss road trip itinerary goals make the most of the picturesque lakeside cities like Lausanne and Interlaken, the medieval old towns of Bern and Lucerne, and the dramatic, snow-capped mountain panos of Lauterbrunnen and Grindlewald. We’ll also take on the switchbacks of the famous Furka Pass .

69. Ultimate Turkish Delight ~ Turkey

Appx. 3,000+ km (1,865 miles) | 1 month

Istanbul to Istanbul Loop | Turkey is one of our favourite countries and while we’ve driven, bussed and toured various parts of it, our goal is an ultimate road trip loop from Istanbul to Cappadocia and back along the south and west coasts. Thousands of years at the cross-roads of eastern and western civilisations have left an extraordinary legacy in the World Heritage and ancient sites that scatter the country. The landscapes are wildly diverse, the food is exceptional, the culture rich and the history astounding. We can’t wait to get back.

Road Trip Bucket List: An ancient paved road in Ephesus, Turkey.

70. The Atlantic Highway ~ England, UK

Appx. 115 km (70 miles) | 3-5 Days

Barnstaple to Fraddon | It’s little more than 100 km, but some say the Atlantic Highway is one of the top road trips in the UK. We know from our forays further south that Cornwall’s wildly beautiful coastline is one to linger over. This stretch passes pretty seaside and harbour villages like Bude, Padstow and Clovelly, and mystical sites like ancient Tintagel. There are speccy coastal rambles and delicious seafood eats, all with the wild Atlantic in view.

71. The Hidden Highway ~ England, UK

Appx. 200 km (125 miles) | 3-5 Days

Ludlow to Llangollen | This lovely jaunt weaves along country roads and rolling hills through the borderlands of England and Wales. The invisible divide has changed little in 12 centuries, and the many sites along the way – iron age forts, medieval villages and market towns, ruined castles and abbeys – span as many years and more.

72. South West Explorer ~ England, UK

Appx. 1,350km (840 miles)+ | 2 weeks

South West England starting and finishing in London | One of our fave UK road trips, this jam-packed two week journey travels from London to Cornwall and back, taking in a huge range of highlights along the way as we pass through the counties of Surrey, Hampshire, Dorset, Devon, Somerset and Wiltshire. We’re talking classic white cliffs, moody moors, crumbling castles, fossil beaches, standing stones, cosy pubs, dramatic coastal scenery (including the World Heritage Jurassic Coast), quaint countryside and fishing villages, and some incredible coastline walks. Check out our ultimate, self-drive South West England Road Trip Itinerary .

73. Yorkshire Moors and Dales ~ England, UK

Appx. 725 km (450 miles) | 5-7 days

York to York Loop | England’s sweeping moors make for spectacular road tripping and a tranquil journey through the bucolic landscapes of Yorkshire Dales National Park and North York Moors National Park is high on our list. Starting in the fantastically historical hub of York’s old town, this trip takes in the expansive nature, old market towns, castles and abbeys, snug pubs and warm welcome of England’s north.

74. Causeway Coastal Route ~ Northern Ireland, UK

Appx. 250 km (154 miles) | 7 days

Belfast to Derry-Londonderry | This famous route along the beautiful, rugged coast of Northern Ireland weaves a magical journey of spellbinding scenery, ancient castle ruins, clifftop walks, seaside villages and beaches, whiskey tasting, pretty beaches, the oldest human settlement on the island at Mount Sandel, and World Heritage highlight, the Giant’s Causeway. Best of all though, the chance to see puffins!

75. Isle of Skye ~ Scotland, UK

Appx. 850 km (530 miles) | 5 days

Inverness to Glasgow via Skye | Beyond its legends of fairies and giants, the Isle of Skye is a tale of expansive, fantastical scenery, rolling hills dotted with sheep and the occasional shaggy, orange-coated highland ‘coo’, ancient sites, peaty whisky, brooding mountains and lounging seals. The walks are wild and wonderful, the pubs cosy and warm, and the Scottish breakfasts singularly epic. Read our Isle of Skye road trip itinerary .

World's Best Road Trips: View from the Quiraing on Scotland's Isle of Skye.

76. North Coast 500 ~ Scotland, UK

Appx. 830 km (515 miles) | 1-2 weeks

Inverness to Inverness Loop | It is possible to walk all 500 miles of this route (cue the tune), but as it features on just about all of the world’s best road trip lists, drive it we shall! This iconic journey skirts the coastal fringe of the northern highlands, showcasing Scotland’s finest scenery and all the things we love best: ancient sites, standing stones, evocative castles, hidden beaches, wildlife watching and bird spotting, and the chance to get off the beaten track.

77. The Dragon’s Spine ~ Wales, UK

Appx. 285 km (180 miles) | 5-7 days

Cardiff to Conwy | For 1,200 years, the dragon has been the Welsh sigil, so Dragon’s Spine is a fitting name for this road trip along the country’s mountain ‘backbone’ from south to north. Also known as the Cambrian Way , the A470 travels through two spectacular national parks – the Brecon Beacons and Snowdonia – and serves up outdoor adventures like hiking, caving and ziplining. Distilleries, breweries and wineries seal the deal.

Road Trips in the Middle East

The Middle East isn’t the first place that comes to mind when thinking about epic road trip destinations. And yet it’s among these timeless landscapes that we’ve had some of our greatest driving adventures. These are ancient places, and yet some of our newest too – lands where gravelly, well-worn roads intersect spanking new freeways, and historic hill-top forts stand as remote, crumbling outposts to dazzling new, modern cities.

The long and tangible history to be found in the mountains, dunes, deserts, cities and coastlines of this region is without compare, as is the warmth and welcome of the people. A road trip in the Middle East is a road trip you won’t soon forget.

78. Ancient Israel & The Palestinian Territories

Appx. 850 km (530 miles) | 2-4 weeks

Tel Aviv to Tel Aviv Loop | This wedge of land on the eastern Mediterranean is the epicentre of the world’s three major monotheistic religions, and witness to a complex story of humanity, millennia in the making. Our brief visit to Jerusalem left an indelible mark and convinced us we need to return with time and a hire car, to get off the beaten track and beyond the turbulent narrative curated for us on the outside. A road trip offers the chance not just to seek out the many extraordinary historical and natural sites of Israel and the Palestinian Territories, but to engage first-hand with the people who live here.

79. Amman to Wadi Rum via the Kings Highway ~ Jordan

Appx. 450 km (280 miles) | Up to 2 weeks

Amman to Aqaba | The ancient landscapes of Jordan have thousands of years of stories to tell, and the road from Amman to Aqaba along the Kings Highway touches on many of them. With neolithic standing stones, biblical mountains, Roman ruins, Byzantine mosaics, crusader castles, the extraordinary Dana Biosphere Reserve, magical side trips to the Dead Sea and Wadi Rum, plus Petra – one of the Seven New Wonders of the World, there’s a reason Jordan is calling us back for a go-slow road trip.

Road Trip List: The Kings Road Winds Through Ancient Jordan.

80. Ancient Phoenicia ~ Lebanon

Beirut to Beirut Loop | 2020 has brought further tragedy to a nation defined by struggle for much of its long history. But Lebanon is as enduring as its legendary cedar tree. The story here spans some 6,000 years, and it can be found in the people, culture and many epic archaeological sites that dot the country. From the bustling Mediterranean cities to the snowcapped mountains and gorgeous inland gorges, the renowned cuisine and warm, vibrant locals, this is a land we can’t wait to explore by road.

81. South-East Arabia ~ Oman

Muscat to Muscat Loop | Low-key Oman has held its secrets close for millennia. We were intrigued. Cue an amazing two week road trip through a beautiful country of dramatic landscapes: from vast, flat stony deserts to shifting dune deserts to dramatic mountains and gorges. Medieval watch towers stand sentinel over ancient towns, while off-road adventures, rich culture and Arabian hospitality await. Read our Oman road trip itinerary .

Epic Road Trip Oman: Golden rocks at sunset atop Jebel Shams.

82. City to Desert ~ United Arab Emirates

Appx. 335 km (210 miles) | 2-3 days

Dubai to Liwa Oasis | While glitzy Dubai and Abu Dhabi have been shaped out of the desert by human hand, just a couple of hours to the south-east stretches one of nature’s most wild and inhospitable places: the vast Empty Quarter. Edging this harsh landscape, among a great sea of rose-gold sand dunes – including one of the world’s largest – is the Liwa Oasis, a 100 km stretch of villages and date palm forests. The journey to the oasis, along a purpose-built highway through the desert, is itself said to be spectacular, making this a trip worth taking slow.

Road Trips in North America

It’s little surprise that North America , with its big, expansive nature, excellent roads, and well-established road tripping culture, claims the second largest collection on our top 100 road trip list.

America has dozens and dozens of outstanding dedicated byways, skyways, highways and parkways, while some of the world’s most renowned scenic routes weave a path through Canada’s breathtaking provinces. Each North American road trip we set out on in these beautiful, diverse, easy-going countries leaves us more keen for the next one.

83. Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia ~ Canada

Appx. 300 km (185 miles) | Up to a week

Baddeck to Baddeck Loop | You can drive the Cabot Trail in a day, but we’re keen to take our time on this loop around the northern tip of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia, discovering the beautiful landscapes and the island’s unique mix of Aboriginal, Acadian and Gaelic cultural influences. In addition to the panoramic scenery, the drive takes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where black bears, moose and bald eagles roam, and dozens of hiking trails offer the chance to stretch the legs.

84. Dempster Highway, Yukon ~ Canada

Appx. 730 km (450 miles) | 2-3 Days

Dawson City to Inuvik | This incredible journey through the Yukon wilderness has all the hallmarks of an iconic Canadian road trip. Steeped in history, and traversing an old dog sled route, the Dempster’s unpaved roads will challenge us. But it’s diverse, it’s remote, and it crosses the Arctic Circle through dense forest full of wildlife, across dramatic tundra, and past the spectacular Mackenzie and Tombstone mountain ranges. A must!

85. Icefields Parkway, Alberta ~ Canada

Appx. 230 km (140 miles) | 2-3 Days

Lake Louise to Jasper | Based on what we’ve heard, we’ll definitely be arguing over who does the driving and who gets to sit in the passenger seat and take in the views on the Icefields Parkway. This is said to be one of the world’s most spectacular highways, and it comes up regularly when we ask people about their favourite road trip. Also known as Highway 93, the parkway links Banff and Jasper national parks, serving up hundreds of kilometres of mindblowing Canadian Rockies scenery, including over 100 glaciers, beautiful waterfalls and lakes, and river valleys blanketed in pine and larch forest. So high on the bucket list!

86. Montreal to the Gaspé Peninsula ~ Canada

Appx. 950 km (590 miles) | 7-10 days

Monteal to Gaspé | Montreal and Quebec City have long been in our sights, and our plan for this epic road trip includes both. Then it leaves the bustling centres behind to wind a coastal route to the tip of the remote and spectacular Gaspé Peninsula, where the history is long and tangible, the birding outstanding, and the scenery superb, with forested wilderness, rugged mountains, ravines and rocky outcrops.

87. Vancouver Island, British Columbia ~ Canada

Appx. 1,500 km (930 miles) | Up to 2 weeks

Nanaimo to Nanaimo Loop | Gorgeous Vancouver Island is an outdoor lover’s dream. While exploring by road means a bit of backtracking in places, it doesn’t matter when there are so many scenic places to stop. Our road trip served up giant trees, historic villages, totem pole walks, black bear watching, kayaking, a fossil dig, serene forest hikes, wineries and breweries, second-to-none chowder, bald eagles at every turn, a hike to a plane wreck, and so much more. Our itinerary is coming .

A snow-capped mountain rises above the road on Vancouver Island, Canada.

88. The Viking Trail, Newfoundland ~ Canada

Appx. 500 km (303 miles) | 3-5 days

Deer Lake to L’Anse aux Meadows | Viking sagas made the leap across the Atlantic from Europe to North America here, and the landscapes – especially the dramatic mountains and fjords of Gros Morne National Park – are said to be reminiscent of the lands they left behind. There are chances en route of spotting moose, whales and, at certain times of year, icebergs! The road ends at the 1000-year-old World Heritage Viking settlement site of L’anse aux Meadows.

89. Alcan Highway ~ Canada & USA

Appx. 2,200 km (1,400 miles) | 1-2 weeks+

Dawson Creek, British Columbia to Delta Junction, Alaska | This is one of North America’s legendary routes, through the Canadian Rockies and Yukon. It takes in Canada’s highest peak, alpine trails, First Nations culture, stunning mountain ranges, pristine glacier lakes, and remote, untamed parks. It’s also grizzly and black bear territory, along with an abundance of other wildlife, including timber wolves, lynx, eagles, elk, moose and more. Plenty of memory cards needed for this trip!

90. Yukon Golden Circle Route ~ Canada & USA

Appx. 568 km (352 miles) + Car Ferry | 7-14 days

Whitehorse to Whitehorse Loop | The renowned Golden Circle Route loops a truly wild adventure from Whitehorse in Canada to Skagway and Haines in Alaska, then back into Canada and the grizzly bear country of Kluane. Spectacular alpine scenery awaits, along with vast icefields, picturesque lakes, First Nations sites, Klondike gold rush history, and a ton of outdoor activities and wildlife spotting.

91. Badlands National Park Loop, South Dakota ~ USA

Appx. 62 km (39 miles) | 2-3 days

Wall to Cactus Flat | It may be one of the shortest routes on our road trip bucket list, but we reckon this journey through the striking geology of the Badlands should be stretched out over days, with early starts and late finishes to max the photo opps. The road winds among buttes, mounds and pinnacles, while bison, prairie dogs and raptors hang out on the grasslands. With a few extra days, we’ll extend the trip into Black Hills National Forest and Custer State Park.

92. Blue Ridge Parkway, Virginia & North Carolina ~ USA

Appx. 755 km (470 miles) | 5-7 days

Afton, Virginia to Cherokee, North Carolina | Dan has dreamed about visiting the Blue Ridge Mountains since the early 90s, after falling in love with its scenery in Last of the Mohicans . So it goes without saying that the opportunity to explore the beauty of the central and southern Appalachians has made it onto our road trip bucket list. The highlights are many on the road between Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains national parks: from sampling delicious local food and wine, and learning about Cherokee tradition, to searching out waterfalls, rivers, gorges and caverns, and stretching the legs on wilderness hikes.

93. Dinosaur Diamond Prehistoric Highway, Colorado & Utah ~ USA

Appx. 770 km (480 miles) | 1 week

Dinosaur to Dinosaur Loop | The fossil-nerd in us both gets really excited about this road trip , a journey of 150-million-years to some of the best dinosaur quarries and trails, fossil displays and museums around. It even starts and finishes in a town called Dinosaur! Add stunning canyons, rock formations, high plains and petroglyph sites for one amazing themed trip.

94. Highway to Hana, Maui, Hawaii ~ USA

Appx. 72 km (45 miles) | 1-3 days

Paia to Hana | Another short-distance contender, the Hana Highway is on our list for its sheer wild beauty as it curves no less than 600 times along the northeast coast of Maui. Many do the trip in a day, but there’s plenty to do and see en route – including bridges (59 of them!), rainforest hikes, waterfalls, black sand beaches, a lava tube, roadside stands and markets, and all the visual drama of this volcanic, Jurassic Park-like island world.

95. Grand Tetons, Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, Wyoming & Montana ~ USA

Appx. 885+ km (550+ miles) | 10-14 days

Jackson, Wyoming to West Glacier, Montana | Touring through the spectacular landscapes of Wyoming and Montana, this road trip takes in the heavy hitter national parks of Grand Teton, Yellowstone and Glacier, and peaks with the renowned Going-to-the-Sun Road . Mountains, lakes, canyons, geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, wildlife spotting and tonnes of hiking and outdoor pursuits await. Unsurprisingly, these are hugely popular parks, so extending a road trip out to two weeks will mean more time to visit before and after the crowds move on.

96. Pacific Coast Highway, Washington to California ~ USA

Appx. 2,655 km (1,650 miles) | 2 weeks

Seattle, Washington to San Diego, California | The Pacific Coast Highway is often touted as the classic California road trip. We’re keen though to extend it out beyond Highway 1 to include Highway 101 and drive the length of Washington, Oregon and California, taking in landscapes as diverse as misty rainforest, tall sand dunes, giant redwood forests, the famous Big Sur coast, beautiful beaches, as well as buzzing big cities and cool coastal communities, and winding up in San Diego, where I (Dan) spent my middle and early high school years.

97. Lake Tahoe to Death Valley via Yosemite, California ~ USA

Appx. 1,285 km (800 miles) | 7-10 days

Lake Tahoe to Death Valley | Much of this classic American road trip follows Route 395, a journey of diversions from the mountains-and-crystal-clear-waters of Lake Tahoe to the scorching desertscape of Death Valley via the world famous scenery of Yosemite National Park. While the changing scenery from the car is bound to be superb, the many outdoor opportunities are also a big appeal, as are potential side trips to wineries, hot springs, groves of ancient trees and historic sites.

98. San Juan Skyway, Colorado ~ USA

Appx. 375 km (235 miles) | 3-4 days

Durango to Durango Loop | There are a couple of nicknames for the Skyway, including America’s Switzerland , and a stretch called the Million Dollar Highway . This is a high-altitude journey in the shadow of mountains soaring 4,000 metres, past waterfalls and hot springs, via the famous ski resort of Telluride, and the intriguing Native American cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park. There’s plenty of hiking, epic panos, and breweries to end each day.

The Ultimate American Road Trip? According to science, apparently so. This 22,046 km (13,699 mile) adventure was created by algorithm and loops through all of the 48 connected states of the USA, stopping at a major landmark in each. You could drive it in 224 hours non-stop if you were really keen (or mad), but for us, this one’s more likely to be a lifetime of mini-trips. The guy that created it has also built an itinerary visiting every national park in the linked, mainland states. Epic!

99. The Seward Highway, Alaska ~ USA

Appx. 210 km (130 miles) | 2-3 days

Anchorage to Seward | The wonderful wilds of Alaska are squarely in our sights. There are a range of drives we hope to do here, like Denali National Park, but the Seward Highway is a stand out. The big nature alone is magnetic – snow-capped mountains, hanging glaciers, dramatic fjords and vibrant wetlands. But it’s the peak wildlife watching that gets us really jazzed about a road trip here: humpback whales, orca, belugas, sea lions, otters, black bears and more than a hundred species of bird are just the tip of the iceberg.

100. National Parks Trail, Utah ~ USA

Appx. 2,000 km (1,250 miles) | 2-3 weeks

Salt Lake City to Salt Lake City Loop | Utah may well have one of the greatest concentrations of world-class parks and monuments on the planet. We’ve mapped a road trip loop that takes in the state’s showstoppers like Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Monument Valley, Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park, along with extraordinary places like San Rafael Swell, Goblin Valley State Park, dinosaur trails and the petroglyphs of Newspaper Rock. We cannot wait to drive this route!

Road trips around the world: The rocky rises of Sedona tower over the road.

What unmissable road trips would you add to this list? Let us know in the comments below!

4 thoughts on “Our Bucket List Of 100 Ultimate Road Trips Around The World”

“Wow, this article really got me excited to plan my next road trip! The diversity of landscapes and destinations mentioned here is truly inspiring. I’ve been to a few of these places, but there are definitely some hidden gems I can’t wait to explore. Thanks for putting together such a comprehensive guide with helpful tips and recommendations. Can’t wait to hit the road and create some unforgettable memories!”

Thanks Charles, glad you found the post helpful. Happy road tripping!!

Amazing!! Congratulacions! Good and best job!! Thank you!! Brazil is not, but undestand! God bless You!!! Have a lot travels!

Hi Adalgisa! Thanks so much for your kind words. You know, Brazil was almost on the list! There are some amazing-sounding off-road adventures that we came across in our research, not to mention the famous Costa Verde, which we travelled part of in 2011. Do you have some road tripping suggestions for Brazil? We’d love to hear them – our list will definitely grow! Happy road tripping, Danielle & John

Our Complete Central Asia Itinerary

25 April 2018.

Wedged between China, Russia, Iran and Afghanistan, Central Asia or ‘the ‘stans’ are slowly gaining momentum as the next big travel destination.

Striking mountains and the boundless desert set the scene for epic hikes and bucket list worthy road trips, while harsh Soviet cities and dazzling silk road masterpieces weave together fragments of this region’s fascinating and often brutal past.

There are so many ways to travel through Central Asia and at a first glance it can all feel a little overwhelming, and that’s before things like transport logistics and visas get thrown into the mix. But things are changing slowly with the relaxing of entry requirements and constantly improving tourist infrastructure meaning it’s never been a better time to visit.

We spent almost four months in Central Asia guided by the changing seasons and chopping and changing plans on a whim as new and exciting destinations popped up on our radar. We were forced to skip over a number of places that sat high on our list for the simple reason that there was no reasonable or affordable way to get there. We lost far too much time in the cities merely because they provided the comforts of home we had so desperately been craving. In short, our trip didn’t always unfold in the most logical of ways, but it was pretty amazing nonetheless.

Need some help in planning your own adventure? This was our complete Central Asia itinerary, where we went, where we loved, what we wished we’d done differently and where is earmarked for next time around.

* This post includes affiliate links and any purchases made through these links will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

Entry + Exit Point | Almaty, Kazakhstan

Duration | This route took us 3.5 months or 110 days – 25 in Kazakhstan, 47 in Kyrgyzstan, 22 in Tajikistan, 14 in Uzbekistan and a final 2 days in Kazakhstan before flying out. In the capital cities, we made use of the decent wifi to catch up on work and so generally spent far more time there than was strictly necessary. For those with less time, this route could absolutely be condensed into a shorter period or chopped to leave out one country or another altogether.

Time of Year | We arrived in Almaty in mid-July at the height of summer and left in early November when the leaves had fallen from the trees and snow covered the mountains. The seasons heavily dictated our route and ultimately, this was probably the best time frame for this length of trip and itinerary. Yes, the cities were excruciatingly hot but the mountains were lush green and comfortable for hiking while the Uzbek desert offered up cool autumn days.

Countries Covered | Of the 5 Stans, Turkmenistan was the one we didn’t make it to. For this trip, the difficulty in obtaining a visa just didn’t seem worth the hassle for the very limited number of travel days allowed if approved. Plus, there was so much we were excited to see in the remaining countries that it didn’t feel like we were missing out.

25 days | July + August

Our journey through Central Asia began in Kazakhstan, between the leafy boulevards and bustling markets of its former capital, Almaty , incidentally a perfect place to begin your own trip through the region.

After getting lost in the Green Bazaar, touring the city’s churches and parks, gorging on the fantastic international cuisine on offer and enjoying a sunset from Kok Tobe, we took a day trip to the mountains to enjoy the hiking near Medeu and Shymbulak. There are a variety of trails leading to waterfalls and spectacular viewpoints, though our favourite was the fairly challenging Four Peaks Trail .

Once you’ve had your fill of the city, head east toward the desert where you’ll find the burnt orange Charyn Canyon and the brilliant blue oasis of Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy . Though transport in these parts is a little tricky, it’s well worth staying overnight to give you a little more time to explore.

If bright city lights are your thing, don’t miss the sparkling metropolis of Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) in the country’s north along with a day or weekend trip to the lakes at nearby Borovoe National Park . In truth, our main reason for heading north was to attend the Astana Expo but otherwise we’d probably have skipped this area in favour of exploring the beautiful landscapes of the south instead.

A Complete Guide To Charyn Canyon. Kazakhstan. Central Asia Itinerary.

Kazakhstan Itinerary | Almaty – Charyn Canyon – Kolsai Lakes – Saty + Lake Kaindy – Almaty – Astana – Borovoe National Park – Astana – Almaty

Border Crossings | Flew in direct with Air Astana from Beijing and left via the Kordai crossing on the marshrutka between Almaty and Bishkek.

Highlights | Almaty, Kolsai Lakes, Lake Kaindy and Charyn Canyon

Next Time | Kazakhstan is enormous and there were a number of places that fell off our itinerary purely based on price and logistics. Multi-days tours were often wildly expensive and with few other tourists to share the costs with, we often struggled to justify the high prices and instead chose to splurge on the bucket-list items later in the trip like the Pamir Highway and Peak Lenin. With a bigger budget or simply more time to spend in the south, places on the list for next time would include Altyn Emel National Park, Altay Mountains, Mangistau, Turkestan and Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve. The Baikonur Cosmodrome could also be an interesting addition if your trip coincides with a rocket launch.

Things We’d Change | In hindsight, we’d probably skip over Astana as it didn’t quite win us over and the long travel time to and from Almaty left us needing a few days to recover. Instead, we’d have used the time to visit some of the places mentioned above or take the Karkara Valley border crossing between Charyn Canyon and Karakol, Kyrgyzstan instead of backtracking to Almaty.

An Epic 10-Day Itinerary for the Pamir Highway through Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan

Things To Do In Nur-Sultan: Kazakhstan’s City of Lights

A Complete Guide To Charyn Canyon | Kazakhstan’s Mini Grand Canyon

The Best Things To Do In Almaty | Kazakhstan

Kolsai Lakes and Lake Kaindy: Everything You Need To Know To Plan Your Trip

Awesome Things To Do In Borovoe/Burabay Kazakhstan, The Perfect Escape From Astana

Things To Do In Burabay | Kazakhstan

47 days | august + september.

After more than a week of catching up on work in Bishkek, enjoying the cafe scene and eating our body weight in Korean fried chicken, it was time to hit the trails.

In a country that’s more than 90 per cent mountains, prepare to be doing a lot of hiking. From Karakol, the popular 3-day trek to turquoise Alakol Lake and the rejuvenating hot springs at Altyn Arashan is a good place to start. For something truly off the beaten path, explore the trails around Jyrgalan before setting off for the ochre rockface of Jeti-Oguz and its lush Valley of Flowers.

Mountain antics aside, be sure to allocate some time for relaxation along the southern shores of Issyk Kul. The tiny villages dotted around the lake provide a tranquil setting to slip into a slower pace. Choose one and stay a while or hop your way along the shoreline. I chose to spend my time in tiny Tosor in the hopes of visiting Fairy Tale Canyon and the Barskoon Valley, but Tamga and Kaji Say also sound like decent options.

From Bishkek make your way toward Osh by taxi, flight or overnight cargo bus and either head to Arslanbob to enjoy the shade of the world’s largest walnut grove or make a beeline for the Pamir Highway .

Our final night in Kyrgyzstan spent at Tulparkul Lake in the shadow of Peak Lenin and amidst a sea of rolling hills and shimmering lakes was one of the highlights of our time in Central Asia.

Roadtrip The Pamir Highway. Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Pamir Highway Itinerary. Central Asia Itinerary.

Kyrgyzstan Itinerary | Bishkek – Karakol – Jyrgalan – Alakol and Altyn Arashan Trek – Karakol – Jeti Oguz – Tosor – Bishkek – Osh – Arslanbob – Osh – Tulpar Kul Lake

Border Crossings | Arrived by marshrutka through the Kordai crossing between Almaty and Bishkek and left via the Kyzylart Pass between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan

Highlights | hiking in the mountains around Karakol, southern shore of Issyk Kul Lake, Tulpar Kul Lake

Next Time | Kyrgyzstan is experiencing something of a tourism revolution with spectacular new destinations being added to the map every few months along with better tourist infrastructure. A few I’d love to check out are Kol Suu, Son Kul, Ala Archa National Park and Karavshin Gorge. There were also a number of places I’d love to have spent more time, such as the many villages along the southern shore of Issyk Kul and the stunning mountains at Sary Moghul and Tulpar KuI.

Things We’d Change | Despite being in the midst of the walnut harvest season, a bad spring meant the forests around Arslanbob were somewhat disappointing. If you’re planning to visit, definitely check up on the situation before arriving.

Climbing Peak Lenin: The Mountain, The Mystique and The Very Misleading | Helpful Tips For Anyone Planning To Climb Peak Lenin

Climbing Lenin Peak: The Mountain, The Mystique and The Very Misleading

Hiking to Alakol and Altyn Arashan | The Most Beautiful Hike In Kyrgyzstan

Hiking to Alakol and Altyn Arashan Without A Guide

Walnuts and Waterfalls: The Best Things To Do In Arslanbob | Kyrgyzstan

A Short Guide To Jeti-Oguz | Kyrgyzstan

Hiking in Jyrgalan, Getting Off The Beaten Path in Kyrgyzstan

22 days | september.

The Pamir Highway is the road trip of a lifetime and should absolutely be on your Central Asia itinerary.

From Osh, Tulparkul Lake on the Kyrgyzstan side is an ideal starting point and one of the most spectacular places we’ve ever seen. From there, trace the lonely road through the Pamir Mountains past mirrorlike lakes, jagged peaks and the verdant knot of the Wakhan Valley. Throw in a few high altitude hikes and a collection of remote mountain villages and you’re in for one hell of an adventure.

We opted to head away from the classic route, travelling instead to Rangkul and Jarty Gumbez before weaving through the Wakhan Valley and onwards to Khorog and Dushanbe . We spent about 10 days in Dushanbe relaxing, working and organising our Uzbek visas but ordinarily one or two days in the city is enough, especially as Uzbek visas can now be done online.

Truth be told, we found Tajikistan much harder to get around than the other countries in Central Asia and by this point in the trip the travel fatigue was definitely starting to creep in. Almost every destination required a 4WD taxi that may or may not be going on a certain day, was generally rather expensive and came with the extra hassle of negotiating fares. The Pamir Highway was absolutely incredible, but these other factors certainly limited our willingness to explore much further afield.

An Epic 10-Day Itinerary for the Pamir Highway through Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. Central Asia Itinerary.

Tajikistan Itinerary | Pamir Highway via Wakhan Valley – Khorog – Dushanbe (see exact itinerary here )

Border Crossings | Arrived via the Kyzylart Pass between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan and left into Uzbekistan at the Turnisoda/Denau crossing. In 2018, the Penjikent border was finally reopened and is now the much better option for travelling between Dushanbe and Samarkand.

Highlights | Pamir Highway

Next Time | The Fann Mountains and Bartang Valley are definitely on the cards.

The Best Things To Do In Dushanbe | How To Spend 24 Hours In Dushanbe, Tajikistan's Capital City

The Best Things To Do In Dushanbe | 24 Hours In Tajikistan’s Capital

Things To Know Before Driving The Pamir Highway | Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan

16 Useful Things To Know Before Driving The Pamir Highway

An Epic 10-Day Itinerary For The Pamir Highway

14 days | october.

From the stark mountains to the riches of the ancient silk road. Immaculate blue mosaics, soaring minarets and rambling alleyways unite the main cities of Uzbekistan, though each reveals a unique character of its own.

Marvel at the enormous madrassas of Samarkand and the narrow corridors of Shah-i-Zinda before moving onto the bright chambers and leafy plazas of Bukhara . While these cities are the most famous, understated and often overlooked Khiva was our favourite of the lot.

Central Asia Travel. Central Asia Itinerary. Silk Road Travel. Visit Uzbekistan. The Stans. Stan Countries. Central Asia Tour. Travel Central Asia. Central Asia Guide.

Uzbekistan Itinerary | Samarkand – Bukhara – Khiva – Tashkent

Border Crossings | Travelled to Samarkand via at the Turnisoda/Denau crossing from Dushanbe, though these days the Penjikent border is the much better option. Left on the overnight fast train between Tashkent and Almaty.

Highlights | Samarkand, Bukhara and Khiva, as well as the refreshing change in cuisine.

Next Time | The environmental devastation of the Aral Sea and the remaining cargo ships in the desert.

Arriving at Shah-I-Zinda | Samarkand Travel Guide: The Best Things To Do In Samarkand, Uzbekistan

Exploring Samarkand, The Magnificent Ancient Kingdom Of Uzbekistan’s Silk Road

Bukhara Uzbekistan Guide. Things To Do Bukhara. Bukhara Restaurant. Bukhara Accommodation. Uzbekistan Travel. Central Asia.

A Short Guide To Bukhara | Uzbekistan’s Holiest City

If planning our itinerary through Central Asia left us scratching our heads, then trying to figure out the best way to actually get there took us to new realms of confusion.

An initial search on Skyscanner offered up the best flight routes as 40+ hour ordeals from Sydney with no less than three pointless layovers in random cities across China (that would require an extra visa) before finally touching down in the ‘Stans at a cost higher than a month’s rent each. No thanks! With no logic behind the options that were provided, I decided to ditch the search engines and instead set about mixing and matching every possible combination of flights between Sydney and destinations in Asia or the Middle East that offered direct connections to Central Asia.

Truth be told, depending on where you’re arriving from, there may be very little choice of flights. In general, Almaty is served by a wide range of airlines making it an excellent and economical arrival point, while Kyrgyzstan’s growing popularity makes Bishkek the next best option. Tashkent, Dushanbe and Ashgabat still have very limited international flights and are served by few airlines.

From Australia, it worked out much cheaper to book our flights separately. This also allowed much better connections than those offered on any of the search engines and with more reputable airlines. From Sydney, we flew to Beijing with Qantas for a 5-hour layover before changing to Air Astana direct to Almaty. Air Astana’s widening network across Asia makes it a good choice from most major hubs in the region.

From the Americas, virtually everyone I met had arrived via Istanbul with Turkish Airlines or via Moscow with Aeroflot, both of which offer easy connections at competitive prices.

Getting to Central Asia from Europe is easy with direct flights from a number of capital cities, particularly during summer. Low-cost airline Pegasus is generally the cheapest option with regular flights to Europe via Istanbul year round.

Start looking at flight options on Skyscanner here.

Central Asia Itinerary. 5 Stans. Things To Do In Central Asia

Overlanding your way from Asia or Europe? It’s possible to cross into Central Asia from all neighbouring countries, though China, Iran and Russia are the most common entry/exit points and all require special visas. For up-to-date info on all relevant border crossings in the region, see here .

If you’re travelling the Trans-Siberian, it’s also possible to travel across the border into Kazakhstan, but you’ll need a double entry visa if you intend on returning to Russia.

At Central Asia’s far eastern point, where the sprawling desert runs into the Caspian Sea, it’s possible to leave by ferry. Running on an unpredictable and highly changeable schedule, ferries depart from Aktau in Kazakhstan and Turkmenbashi in Turkmenistan for Azerbaijan and Russia. See this guide for more info.

A Complete Central Asia Itinerary for Travelling Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.

Central Asia Travel : A Complete Beginner’s Guide To Travelling The Silk Road

The Ultimate Packing Guide For Central Asia

A Mini Guide To Visas For Central Asia | The Visas You'll Need And How To Apply For Travel To Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan

A Quick Guide To The Visas You’ll Need For Central Asia

Hi, this is incredible. It’s so helpful, I can’t thank you enough. I wanted to know if you got around okay with just English, or if there’s a language barrier, and what you did to overcome it.

So glad it was helpful for you! I did manage to get by, but there is definitely a language barrier and outside of the major cities and touristy towns you’ll find very few people who speak English. I would definitely recommend learning the Cyrillic alphabet and downloading Google Translate with the Russian dictionary as it’s very widely spoken in all countries. Of course, this isn’t foolproof and I had many locals in small rural villages type things in their local dialect or the national language which wouldn’t translate, but generally, people were so friendly and keen to help that you just muddle your way through. A good attitude, a smile and some charades are always a good place to start. Learning at least a few key phrases will also be a big help!

Top 10 Road Trips in Asia

We have asked our customers to vote for their favourite road trips in various parts of the world, and we are pretty pleased with the response we got. We have compiled the top road trip destinations across the largest continent in the world, Asia, in this concise list. We hope that one of the items in this list will be your road trip of choice the next time you want to see more of our beautiful world.

1. The Karakoram Highway, Pakistan

Carved right into the Khunjerab Pass, the Karakoram Highway —also the highest paved international road in the whole world—is one of the best drives in the largest continent in the world. The highway, elevated at more than 15,000 feet, connects the Xinjiang region of China with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgil-Baltistan regions in Pakistan. Many believe that the highway is one of the Wonders of the World (the eighth one, to be exact), thanks to its impressive elevation and the laborious conditions it was constructed.

Aside from being a great road trip destination, the Karakoram “Friendship” Highway is also ideal for cyclists and mountain-climbing enthusiasts, who can enjoy easy access to the numerous slopes, glaciers, and lakes in the China-Pakistan border.

2. Leh-Manali Highway, India

The Himalayas have always been a dream destination for adventurers, and a road trip through the Himalayan districts of Manali and Leh will allow you to reap all the wonderful fruits of such an adventure. Many road adventure aficionados call this drive a Buddhist pilgrimage, where one could start in the Solang Valley and up to the Rohtang Pass. Along the way, you will find the Chandra River with its gorgeous mountain scenery and glaciers.

Plenty of Buddha statues and other sacred sites to see while driving along the highway, which leads up to the Baralacha-La, one of the most beautiful landscapes in the Himalayas with endless stretches of lush meadows highlighted by snow-capped mountain peaks and clear blue skies. However, make sure to plan your trip accordingly as the Leh-Manali Highway is only open for less than five months in the summer.

3. Ilju Road, South Korea

Located in the gorgeous volcanic island of Jeju, South Korea, Ilju Road ranks high among the popular drives in the continent. Jeju Island has been known as a fine resort destination in South Korea, and the Ilju Road along the coast will show you why. On one side of the road are the beautiful waters that rhythmically crash on the beach; on the other, the unique landscape formed by the island’s volcanic features awaits every motorist.

Driving along Ilju Road is perfect during the spring, or whenever droves of local tourists are noticeably absent in Jeju Island.

4. The Patapat Viaduct, the Philippines

The Philippines is fast becoming one of the most exciting destinations in the Asian continent, thanks to its pristine white-sand beaches and friendly, English-speaking locals. This archipelago is also home to over 7,000 islands, with the largest being Luzon in the northern part of the country. You can begin your road trip from Manila or Clark (where the major international airports are) and head on northeast to Pagudpud via the Patapat Viaduct. This scenic mountain road will lead you to the surfer’s paradise of Pagudpud, and your trip will be marked by extremely pretty sights.

The mountains are lush with tropical vegetation, and there is the unparalleled panorama of the Pasaleng Bay. However, you might want to hire a driver or a local tour guide to help you navigate through the challenging roads.

5. Rueigang Road, Taiwan

Stretching out some 14 miles along the east coast of Taiwan, Rueigang Road is a pleasure to drive through—thanks to the wonderful views of the region’s emerald hills and the Siouguluan River.

You can start your road trip at Rueisuei, which is a very popular white-water rafting destination. At the end of the road, motorists can find a sundial-like structure that marks the Tropic of Cancer. It is best to drive through Rueigang Road during the summer solstice.

6.The Bintulu-Miri Coastal Highway, Malaysia

Driving through the Bintulu-Miri Coastal Highway will reward you with scenic views of a dense tropical rainforest, where locals have built settlements on stilts. Once you have reached Miri, make sure to stoop by the Tamu Muhibbah market to partake on the bounty of the island’s freshest crops, including the stinky yet delicious durian and local limes.

The old road, which stretches to a length of 143 miles, has relatively light traffic but not exactly maintained to stellar conditions. If time is of great importance, you can take the new road (of 113 miles), but there would be less scenery to take in.

7. The Nha Trang-Quy Nhon, Vietnam

Surrounded by glorious mountains on three sides and a breathtaking bay on the fourth, the Nha Trang-Quy Nhon in Vietnam is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations in the country.

Stretching out to a delightful 134 miles, this coastal road will defitinely be an unforgettable highlight of any Vietnam holiday. You can opt to drive through the highway during the weeklong Nha Trang Sea Festival, which is held on June during odd-numbered years.

8. The Hokkaido Scenic Byway, Japan

Intoxicating fields of lavender is not only found in Europe, but also in Asia, right along the Hokkaido Scenic Byway.

Hokkaido offers six scenic byways for those who want to enjoy the views of the French countryside or the Swiss Alps. The comparison ends with the views, though—as Provence is not home to glorious hot springs like Hokkaido is. There are plenty of onsen (hot spring) resorts dotting the scenic byway.

9. The Phuket Northeast Loop, Thailand

Phuket is mainly known for its divine villas and breathtaking beaches, but if you are done with sunning yourself in this Thai destination, hop into a car and go for a rive along the Northeast Loop. You can start from the Heroines Monument and drive east to be charmed by shrimp farms, quaint fishing villages, and dramatic views of the Phang Nga Bay limestone cliffs.

10. The Tibetan Highlands, China

If you are up for some otherwordly landscapes in one of the most landscape-diverse countries in the world, then make sure to hit the Tibetan Highlands in China. The drive will take you more than two weeks, and you will start from Kunming (or Chengdu or Yunnan) and head to Lhasa.

Make sure to try the yak butter tea, interact with the local Tibetan pilgrims, and enjoy local delicacies on a picnic by the glacial lakeside. However, make sure to secure your Chinese driver’s license before embarking on your 16-day journey in the Tibetan Highlands.

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8 Best Scenic Drives In Asia

Often times looking for the best scenic road trips in Asia is not the first thing to come to mind when you think of Asia. However, Asia actually has some of the most interesting and scenic drives anywhere in the world. One way to immerse yourself in the Asian culture is by exploring Asia by car. If you travel to any of these areas, bring your camera and try out one of these scenic drives. The roads listed below are considered some of the best drives in Asia.

1. The Karakoram Highway, Pakistan, and China

The Karakoram Highway is often referred to as the highest road in the world and sits a commanding 15,000ft above sea level. The road connects China and Pakistan and many people from all over the world travel this road for the chance to say they drove or rode on this highway.

The Karakoram Highway - Best Scenic Drives In Asia

The road has views of beautiful lakes and mountains that are stunning to view as well as experience in person. Because of the height that the road reaches, it’s important to be mindful of altitude sickness and how to deal with it if you become ill. Whether you travel in a car or on a motorbike, driving this road is truly spectacular.

2. The Hokkaido Scenic Byway, Japan

Hokkaido is considered by many to be the more beautiful of the four main islands that make up Japan . The Hokkaido Scenic Byway takes you past multiple routes that offer some amazing views. Often times the area has been compared to the French countryside or the Swiss Alps.

The Hokkaido Scenic Byway, Japan - Best Scenic Drives In Asia

One key difference is the numerous natural hot springs that are abundant in the region. There are many hot spring spas that dot the routes. With stunning mountains and coastlines and an abundance of lavender fields, the Hokkaido Scenic Byway is a feast for the eyes and a picturesque wonderland.

3. The Mountain Tunnels of Guoliang and Xia Gou, China

From the city of Xinxiang, it’s fairly easy to reach the Mountain Tunnels of Guoliang and Xia Gou. Most roads in China are publicly funded, however, the country deemed it uneconomical to build roads in this region.

Guoliang and Xia Gou - Best Scenic Drives In Asia

For this reason, the locals took road construction into their own hands by blasting roads and tunnels through the mountain. The tunnel roads offer an exceptional view of the surrounding mountain scenery. Taking a drive on this road is truly a remarkable experience.

4. Nha Trang to Quy Nhon, Vietnam

Getting from beach towns Nha Trang to Quy Nhon, Vietnam is certainly one of the most beautiful drives in the in all of Asia. A drive on this road will leave you sandwiched between golden beaches on one side and gorgeous mountain scenery on the other side.

The drive has numerous villages and town for you to stop by and explore during your 134-miles long drive. There is even a bi-annual event that takes place in the spring on odd-numbered years where visitors drive the route and celebrate. Driving this route which has plenty of scenic locations will be sure to leave you with a lot of great memories.

5. Leh-Manali Highway, India

There is nothing quite like taking a drive through the beautiful Himalayas. The Indian highway that connects the districts of Leh to Manali offers many amazing scenic views along the way. Often times people have referred to the route as a Buddhist pilgrimage of a sort.

Leh-Manali Highway, India - Best Scenic Drives In Asia

Along the journey, you will pass the Chandra River, glaciers and beautiful mountains. You’ll also get to see a number of old statues of Buddha and other sacred sites along the highway. Your drive will bring you to Baralacha-La which is one of the Himalayas most beautiful landscapes. The area features lush meadows alongside snow-capped mountain peaks to create a beautifully picturesque drive.

6. Ilju Road, South Korea

If you plan on staying on the resort island of Jeju make sure to take a drive on the coastal road of Ilju. The South Korean island of Jeju is one of the many volcanic islands in the region. It features one of the best drives you can take while visiting in South Korea .

Ilju Road, South Korea - Best Scenic Drives In Asia

Along your drive on Ilju road, otherwise known as Road 12, you will have views of the coastline and beautiful beaches and hardened lava. The contrasting sides create a very unique looking landscape created by the volcano and its lava runoff. The difference in the landscapes helps to create really breath-taking pictures.

7. The Patapat Viaduct, Philippines

The Patapat Viaduct in the Philippines is a spectacular drive that you can take while in the area. Coming from the international airports in Manila or Clark, you can head to the northeast to Pagudpud on the Viaduct. Pagudpud is a popular destination and a hot spot for locals and traveling surfers.

The Patapat Viaduct, The Philippines - Best Scenic Drives In Asia

Along this beautiful coastline, you will find beautiful lush green mountains and dense tropical forests that make up the landscape. You can also enjoy some amazing views of Pasaleng Bay. The best way to get around some of the tricky roads in this area is by hiring a guide if you aren’t familiar with the route.

8. The Bintulu-Miri Coastal Highway, Malaysia

In Malaysia taking the highway connecting Bintulu and Miri will offer you lots of amazing views of tropical rain forests. You will be able to catch a glimpse of the numerous homes on stilts that located in the area.

The Bintulu-Miri Coastal Highway - Best Scenic Drives In Asia

The road has a lot of photographic moments along its 143 miles. The road itself at certain places is not the best maintained. There is a newer road you can take however, it won’t offer the same level of beautiful scenery that this old road will. It may get rough in some parts but the drive is absolutely beautiful and well worth it.

Asia has lots of attractions including some truly amazingly scenic roads that you can drive. It’s not all the time that you think if taking a road trip through Asia, however, doing so will produce some really beautiful and breath-taking views. By taking any one of these roads mentioned, you are sure to to be rewarded to stunning views and extraordinary landscapes. Going on a road trip while in Asia will give you plenty of photo opportunities and loads of great memories.

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Motorbike Trips Are Trending: 5 of the Best Places to Ride in Asia

We scouted out 5 gorgeous countries in asia for motorbike trips of a lifetime, and the best companies to book your tours with. vroom vroom.

By: Katie Lockhart Published: Sep 12, 2023 06:00 AM UTC

Motorbike Trips Are Trending: 5 of the Best Places to Ride in Asia

Ah, the thrill of the open road. Enthusiasts will tell you that two-wheeled road trips are the only true way to immerse yourself in a location’s culture, people and landscape. We scouted out 5 gorgeous countries in Asia for motorbike trips of a lifetime, and the best companies to book your tours with or rent your wheels from.

SCOOTERS, MOTORBIKES, MOTORCYCLES, mopeds, mosai, dirt bikes – whatever your saddle and terminology of choice, it only takes a few seconds on the ground in Asia to realize this continent runs on two wheels. From fitting families of five on the back to entire refrigerators, motorbikes are often more than just a mode of transportation.

But when you buck practicality, they’re made for joyriding. And it seems almost clandestine that some of the world’s best motorcycle routes are in Asia. From the mountains of the Himalayas to the rice paddies of Southeast Asia, these are the best, and some perhaps most unexpected, destinations for hopping on and taking off on the ride of a lifetime.

5 Countries in Asia With Awesome Motorbike Adventures, and the Best Companies to Book Your Trips With

Spend a day riding around Vietnam, and you’ll encounter everything from frenzied intersections to swaying rice paddies to sweeping mountain vistas. The diversity of landscape and riding options make it one of the best places in not just Asia but the world for motorcycle trips.

No one knows the terrain better than Onyabike Adventures . With trips of up to 21 days, their tours are customizable and all-inclusive, so riders experience everything, including culture and food, and worry about nothing while on a Royal Enfield Himalayan 410cc.

The team at Onyabike Adventures has been roaming Vietnam since 2017, so they know all the best spots. Among their most popular is the seven-day Highlights of Central Vietnam route that rides over the iconic Hai Van Pass and along the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

Image courtesy of Ceylon Adventure Tours

Sri Lanka isn’t just for surf trips and train rides. From its palm-fringed coastline to its tea-filled interior, it’s a beautiful place to explore at your own pace.

The crew at Ceylon Motorcycle Tours has a varied fleet of bikes to choose from, including a Baja 250 CC or a Royal Enfield. And while you can rent one and head off solo, riding is always better with a buddy. They’ve got 20 years of experience, local guides and the best motorbike tours and routes for all Sri Lanka’s highlights, Tangalle to Ella.

Image courtesy of Bhutan TUSK Motorcycle Tours

Images courtesy of Bhutan TUSK Motorcycle Tours

Switchback roads and mountain-peak views make Bhutan one of the most beautiful countries on Earth for motorbike trips. Ideal during spring and fall, it’s perfect for adventurous bikers who don’t mind dodging the occasional yak or two.

Bhutan T.U.S.K Motorcycle Tours specializes in touring the Himalayan country on two wheels. Fixed trip routes span four nights to 14, taking riders through some of the most famous and the most remote parts of the country.

For a far-flung ride, head to eastern Bhutan, where mysticism and magical views converge. If you’re looking for something shorter, opt for a trip that includes the route from the capital city of Thimphu to the country’s most famous dzong in Punakha.

Kyrgyzstan

Image courtesy of SilkOffRoad Motorcycle Tours

Images courtesy of SilkOffRoad Motorcycle Tours

While we stan the Stans, to some folks this motorcycle destination might feel like a roadside cow coming out of nowhere. But as soon as you coast down the Silk Road, you’ll understand why it makes our list.

Nicknamed the Switzerland of Central Asia, the majority of the country is covered by the Tien-Shan mountain ranges. SilkOffRoad Motorcycle Tours has been riding these mountain passes for more than 18 years, roving all over all the Stans. Their most popular Kyrgyzstan trip is the 11 Passes of Tien-Shan that lasts 12 days. The riders mount a Suzuki DR650 and take off on a journey that spans over 2,000 kilometers and reaches nearly 3,000 meters in elevation.

Landscapes in Laos are like scenes out of Jurassic Park . Lush jungle and leafy peaks dominate this all too underrated country, one of the best in Southeast Asia for spicy food, languid days, and dream-fulfilling motorbike tours. In a country this unique, your road trip should be, too.

Lao ADV Tours specializes in Dirt Bike trips venturing off-road through the country’s hidden trails. One of their most popular tours is the 10-day Lima Sites and Secret War Trails route, on which military-history enthusiasts can visit Northern Lao sites. Just be prepared to get muddy.

Lede image courtesy of SilkOffRoad Motorcycle Tours.

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Katie Lockhart

Katie Lockhart is a travel & food journalist and copywriter traveling full-time around Asia. She writes for National Geographic, Travel + Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, Robb Report and many more. You can follow her work and adventures on Instagram at @findyourhappyplate.

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Caravanistan

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Hi there! We’re Caravanistan and we help you make the most of your Silk Road trip in 4 ways:

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At Caravanistan, we spend our waking hours to guide everyone to a more meaningful travel experience on the Silk Road.

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Go beyond the guidebooks and the must-sees. We aim to guide you there.

Tailormade trips, at group tour prices

Use our expertise to design your unique adventure, whether it’s a 5-star trip along Uzbekistan’s culture cities, or a demanding hike in the Tien Shan mountains.

We evaluate your request and match you with the tour operators that suit your travel ideas best.

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How to Travel Overland from Europe to Asia by car, bike and train – The 3 Best Travel Routes

How to travel from Europe to Asia without flying? What is the best direction to travel overland from Europe to Asia? This guide gives you a detailed overview of all the possible routes you can take if you want to hitchhike, cycle or drive from Europe to Asia by land or travel from Europe to Asia by train. You’ll find information on ferries, borders, visas, and how to deal with possible obstacles along the way.

Editor’s note: You’ll find many 2022 updates throughout this guide. I try to keep up as much as I can with these fast-changing global situations. In case you have new updates that haven’t been added to this post, let me know about them in the comments below so I can update accordingly.

Planning a big overland trip requires preparation. And flexibility.

I often had to change my initial plans and routes when I was hitchhiking and traveling from Europe to Asia without flying. The biggest challenge was dealing with closed borders and difficulties in getting visas.

Driving from Europe to Asia - Driving in Kazakhstan - Road trip through Kazakhstan - Journal of Nomads

Some countries like to change their visa regulations on a regular basis so you have to adjust your plans accordingly (yes China, I’m talking about you).

Others don’t allow you in their country unless you’re part of a tour group. Iran, for example, doesn’t like Canadians, Brits, and US citizens traveling independently and Turkmenistan is just suspicious of any other nation in the world.

A few countries (like Pakistan and Russia) only issue a visa when you apply for it in your home country and/or give you a very limited time to enter the country between the time the visa is issued and your arrival (e.g. you only have 3 months to enter China from the moment you’ve got your visa).

This isn’t really a problem if you’re taking airplanes but it becomes tricky when you’re hitchhiking, cycling or driving from Europe to Asia and you want to take the time to explore the countries you’re passing through instead of rushing towards your destination.

And let’s not forget about 2020… Land borders are now finally reopening but each country has its own set of extra entry requirements.

backpacking in winter - journal of nomads

So what’s the best way to travel from Europe to China and/or Southeast Asia without too much hustle, bustle and fuzzle?

I’ll give you an overview of all the possible routes on how to hitchhike/cycle/drive/take the train from Europe to Asia, including border and visa obstacles and possible solutions.

Disclaimer: This posts might contain affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for helping to support this website!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Traveling in Europe by land (and sea)

1.1 visas and border crossings in europe.

As a European citizen, you can travel as much and as long as you want in all the countries of Europe. You have the privilege of not needing a visa, not even for the European countries that are not part of the European Union or the Schengen area.

Map of Europe with Schengen countries - Journal of Nomads

This also means that, if you pass a border checkpoint, you just have to show your passport or national ID card and you’re free to go.

To travel to and in Europe as a non-European citizen , you’ll need a Schengen visa. This visa allows you to stay 90 days in countries that are part of the Schengen area .

The European countries that are not part of the Schengen area will allow travelers holding a Schengen visa to enter and stay in their country for 90 days. This means that you could actually stay for 6 months in Europe (or longer).

I’ll give you an example:

Let’s say you’re traveling from Spain to Turkey by land. You’ve already stayed for 60 days in the EU and are about to enter Croatia .

Croatia is part of the EU but a non-Schengen country, which means that you’ll receive a visa on arrival at the border (after showing you have a Schengen visa) that allows you to stay 90 days in Croatia.

Once you leave Croatia, you still have 30 days on your Schengen visa to travel in the Schengen countries.

How to travel overland from Europe to Asia – everything you need to know about routes, borders and visas - Journal of Nomads - Croatia - Dubrovnik

Just be aware that the Schengen visa only allows you to stay 90 days in a period of 180 days.

If you decide for example to spend 90 days in Croatia and another 90 days in Albania (also a non-Schengen country) before entering Greece (which is a Schengen country), your Schengen visa will be expired by then and you’ll have to apply for a new one.

→ Make sure to apply for a multi-entry Schengen visa when traveling around Europe !

I tried to explain all of this as clearly as possible. Even as a European citizen I find this whole Schengen – non-Schengen stuff a bit confusing!

Here’s a website that gives you more detailed information about it and it also tells you how and where to apply.

So whatever travel route you take in Europe, as long as you have a multi-entry Schengen visa , you shouldn’t encounter any problems at the borders.

My whole hitchhiking journey from Ireland to Turkey went very smoothly, even for my hitchhiking partner who’s a Canadian citizen. We only had to hurry to enter Turkey once we were in Greece because his visa was running out.

1.2 Driving and cycling in Europe – travel routes

Resources for driving in Europe:

Driving in Europe – Requirements and Tips
Driving in Europe – Checklist
European Roadtrip Ideas by Wandering Bird
20 Best Road Trips in Europe by Skyscanner

Resources for cycling in Europe:

EuroVelo : 15 long-distance cycling routes across the whole European continent
Tom’s Bike Trip : How to prepare yourself for a long bike trip

1.3 Travel in Europe by train

Europe has a great international railway network, including international high-speed trains like Eurostar connecting the UK with mainland Europe .

Here are 2 in-depth guides on how to travel across Europe by train:

A Complete Guide to Train Travel in Europe by the Savvy Backpacker
A Beginner’s Guide to Train Travel in Europe by The Man in Seat 61

1.4 Ferry routes and crossings in Europe

When you’re cycling or driving from Europe to Asia, you might want to save some time by skipping a part of the overland journey and take a ferry instead.

Here are some ferry companies that offer different European ferry routes:

OK-ferry : ferry routes to different destinations of the Mediterranean Sea
Direct Ferries: numerous option for ferries in and around Europe

We took a ferry from Ireland to France and from the mainland of Greece to several Greek islands .

Ferry routes in Europe - ferry in Greece - traveling Europe by ferry - Journal of Nomads

2. Europe – Asia Border Crossings

There are 3 different ways to travel across the European-Asian border and make your way towards the East.

2.1 Traveling from Europe to Russia

Update 2022:
Due to the current war, you can’t travel from Europe to Russia by land . I’ll leave this section be for now but I recommend skipping it and scrolling to 2.2 Travel from Europe to Turkey.

This is the road less taken if you’re traveling towards Asia as it’s not always that easy to obtain a tourist visa for Russia. You could also opt for a transit visa, which is easier to get but it will only allow you 10 days in Russia (not ideal if you’re cycling).

1) How and where to apply for a tourist visa for Russia

If you’re from Latin America, South Africa, Georgia, Central Asia or any of these 45 countries, you’ll get a free visa on arrival that allows you to stay 30 to 90 days in Russia, depending on your citizenship.

Travelers from North America, Europe, Africa, South Asia, and Australia will have to apply for a Russian tourist visa in the Russian consulate or Russian embassy in their home country.

To apply for a tourist visa for Russia, you’ll need:

a Letter of Invitation (LOI) ,
a visa application form that you’ll very likely have to fill in online
passport with 2 empty pages valid for 6 months after arrival in Russia
photocopy of your passport
passport picture
Travel Insurance for Russia (only for citizens of the EU)
iVisa is a reputable online passport & visa service that offers Tourist Invitation Letters (LOI) for Russia . They can also help you with the whole visa application process to receive the Russian tourist visa.

What if you’re already on the road but you still want to apply for a tourist visa for Russia?

There are only a few countries, such as Canada and the US , of which the citizens can apply for a Russian visa outside their home country.

If you’re a citizen of Europe, Australia, etc, you could always send your passport home and aks a friend or a family member to do the application for you. However, this is risky and not something I’d recommend as your passport might get lost in the mail. It’s also illegal in most countries to travel without having your passport with you.

2) How and where to apply for a transit visa for Russia

You can easily apply for a Russian transit visa in any country that has a Russian consulate or embassy.

A transit visa allows you to stay up to 10 days in Russia. To apply for this visa, you need:

proof of onward travel like transportation ticket from Russia to the next destination or, if you travel by car, car documents and a print-out of your planned route
proof of valid visas for the countries from which you enter and exit Russia

Here’s more detailed information on how to apply for a transit visa for Russia.

3) Cycling or driving from Europe to Russia

The best way to travel from Europe to Russia is via the border with Latvia, Estonia or Finland as they all belong to the EU, which means less hassle.

Avoid going from Ukraine into Russia as they were at war with each other and there are still some rebel-held zones in Southeastern Ukraine and Crimea, which you shouldn’t cross at all!

You can also enter Russia via Belarus, but you’ll have to apply for a visa to enter Belarus by land as you can only obtain a free visa on arrival if you arrive by plane. Check the visa policy for Belarus here .

The Way to Russia is a great resource for if you want to travel to Russia by car, motorcycle or hitchhiking.

Plan your trip to Russia well in advance. It’s the largest country in the world and even if you get a 90-day tourist visa, you’ll have to drive a lot if you want to cross the country within a decent time frame.

Also, keep in mind that winter isn’t the best time to travel through Russia (especially if you’re cycling or hitchhiking!!). Prepare yourself well!

4) Traveling from Europe to Russia by train

Here are 2 fantastic resources if you want to travel by train from Europe to Russia:

How to travel by train from London to Moscow & Russia by The Man in Seat 61
The Best Train Routes to Russia by The Way to Russia

2.2 Traveling from Europe to Turkey

The most popular way to travel from Europe to China and Asia is by going through Turkey.

Update 2022 : The following land borders with Turkey are currently open:

Greece to Turkey at Kastanies–Pazarkule and Kipi–İpsala
Bulgaria to Turkey at Kapitan Andreevo–Kapıkule, Lesovo–Hamzabeyli and Malko Tǎrnovo–Aziziye
Turkey to Georgia via Sarp, Türkgözü and Aktaş
Turkey to Iran at Bazargan-Gürbulak and Sero-Esendere

1) Turkey Entry Requirements

Visa for turkey.

Citizens from Latin America, Central Asia, New Zealand and certain European countries (for the complete list, look here ) receive a free visa on arrival that allows them to stay up to 90 days in Turkey.

If you’re a traveler from North America, Australia, South Africa, South Asia, and following European countries (for the complete list, look here ) need to apply for an e -visa.

It’s super easy and straightforward to apply for the e-visa online and once you receive it, you’ll be allowed to travel for 30 up to 90 days in Turkey. This is plenty of time to cross the country (although, we overstayed our Turkish tourist visa with 6 months , but that’s a different story…)

Turkey Test and Vaccination requirements:

Passengers over the age of 12 must have a document showing a negative COVID-19 test result to enter Turkey. This must be a PCR test taken in the last 72 hours before entering the country or a rapid antigen test taken in the last 48 hours.

If you have a vaccination certificate showing the last dose was given at least 14 days before arrival, then you don’t need a negative COVID-19 test result.

Visiting Cappadocia in Turkey - Journal of Nomads

2) Driving or cycling from Bulgaria or Greece to Istanbul

If you’re cycling or driving from Europe to Istanbul and beyond, the easiest and most straightforward way is crossing the land border with Greece in Ipsala or with Bulgaria in Edirne .

You might encounter a lot of security checks at both land borders as many refugees try to enter Europe from here.

3) Taking the train from Europe to Istanbul – the ‘Modern Orient Express’

Does ‘Murder on the Orient Express’, the famous detective novel by Agatha Christie, ring a bell?

Throughout history, there are many referrals to train travel in Europe on the Orient Express route. The route started in Paris, went across Vienna and ended in Istanbul.

Nowadays, you can still travel by train along the Orient Express Route:

Read how Naomi from Probe around the Globe followed this famous historical train route from the Netherlands to Istanbul .
The Man in Seat 61 wrote a comprehensive guide on how to travel by train from London to Istanbul

4) Taking the ferry from Greece to Turkey

When we were hitchhiking from Europe to Turkey , we took a ferry from Rhodes, one of the Greek islands, to Marmaris, a port in Turkey. If you like traveling by boat, I’d definitely suggest you take this route.

How to travel overland from Europe to Asia – everything you need to know about routes, borders and visas - Journal of Nomads - Boat Turkey

Here’s a ferry connections route map between Athens, the Greek islands and the ports in Turkey. You can book tickets for the ferry online, in a travel agency in Athens or on one of the islands.

Read: The 13 Best Places to visit in Turkey

How to travel overland from Europe to Asia – everything you need to know about routes, borders and visas - Journal of Nomads - Turkey ferries - ferry Greek islands

5) From Turkey to Georgia

2022 Update: You need to present either a vaccination certificate or a certificate with a negative PCR test result , no later than 72 before entering Georgia.

The easiest way to travel from Turkey to Georgia is by crossing the border at Sarpi on the Black Sea Coast .

Reading Tip: Georgia Travel Guide: 1 9 u s e f u l things you should know before you go

6) Taking the ferry from Bulgaria to Georgia

There’s also the possibility to skip Turkey and take the ferry from the port of Varna in Bulgaria to the port of Batumi in Georgia. Check the ferry schedule here .

3. Traveling from Europe to Central Asia

There are a few different routes to travel from Europe to Central Asia by land, some easier and more accessible than others.

I’ll focus on one main route as it’s currently the best possible direction from Europe to Asia as most land borders on this route have reopened.

1) From Georgia to Azerbaijan

2022 Update: You must have a vaccination certificate stating you are fully vaccinated or a recovery certificate with a QR code and a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours before arrival in Azerbaijan.

You can enter Azerbaijan with an e-visa (since 2017!) which allows you to stay for 30 days in the country. If you’re planning on staying longer than 10 days in Azerbaijan, you’ll have to get registered !

If you want to travel by train, there’s a daily train leaving from Tbilisi (Georgia) to Baku (Azerbaijan) .

* Note : If you also want to visit Armenia, know that they aren’t the best buddies with Azerbaijan. Definitely avoid going through the disputed region of Nagorno – Karabakh because you can be sure that you won’t be allowed into Azerbaijan at all! If you decide to go through that region, make sure that you have your stamp on a separate piece of paper.

There are also no open borders between Armenia and Azerbaijan so you’ll have to return to Georgia first before entering Azerbaijan or you can go through Iran (see route A).

You can expect annoying questions from the Azerbaijani border controls concerning your visit to Armenia (they will ask if you visited Nagorno – Karabakh) but they will allow you in.

Read: Everything you need to know about traveling in Azerbaijan

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Backpacking in Azerbaijan - Journal of Nomads

2) From Azerbaijan to Kazakhstan by boat

2022 Update: You need to present either a vaccination certificate or a certificate with a negative PCR test result , no later than 72 before entering Kazakhstan.

You can cross the Caspian Sea from Baku in Azerbaijan to Aktau in Kazakhstan by ferry, which costs around $80. It’s more expensive if you travel by car.

This ferry doesn’t have a fixed schedule but it leaves at least once every 3 to 7 days.

Read my Comprehensive Guide with everything you need to know about taking the boat from Azerbaijan to Kazakhstan .

Crossing the Caspian Sea by boat – How to travel by cargo ship from Baku (Azerbaijan) to Aktau (Kazakhstan) - Journal of Nomads

3) From Azerbaijan to Turkmenistan by boat

2022 Update: Turkmenistan remains closed for foreign travelers.

Turkmenistan is a pain concerning visas and independent traveling. You can only enter the country on a tourist visa if you’re part of a tour group. If you just want to apply for a transit visa , there’s no guarantee you’ll get it. The rejection rate is 50% and they love to play games.

Applying for a transit visa is like playing the lottery. I also heard stories of couples that applied for the transit visa and while one of them got the visa, the other person got his application rejected.

I’m super curious about this country but it’s not worth the hustle. Oh, and you can’t get any visa during the month of September, due to an important festival in Turkmenistan.

4) Traveling overland in Kazakhstan

Citizens from the European Union, Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Israel, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Korea, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Russia, Armenia, Georgia, Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, and Mongolia are eligible for a free tourist visa upon arrival .

Citizens from non-visa-exempt countries need to apply for an e-Visa

Find more information about traveling and driving in Kazakhstan in my Travel guide to Kazakhstan .

If you want to travel around Kazakhstan by train, read the following guide on How to travel by train in Kazakhstan .

Reading Tip: The 26 most beautiful places in Kazakhstan

Charyn Canyon - Kazakhstan -Valley of Castles - Journal of Nomads

You have 30 days to cross Kazakhstan into the following countries:

5) Traveling overland in Uzbekistan

2022 Update: You must present either a negative PCR test result no later than 72 before entering Uzbekistan or proof of vaccination .

Uzbekistan is now issuing free visas on arrival to citizens of more than 30 countries, including citizens of the European Union. With this free visa, you can stay up to 30 days in the country.

Travelers of countries who still need a visa for Uzbekistan can now easily apply for an e-visa. You can read all the details in my Travel Guide to Uzbekistan .

The easiest way to get around Uzbekistan is by train. Here’s a guide on how to take the train in Uzbekistan .

Reading Tip: Visit the best places in Uzbekistan with these 3 travel itineraries.

Registan Square in Samarkand - Journal of Nomads

6) Traveling overland in Kyrgyzstan

You can easily enter Kyrgyzstan from Uzbekistan and/or Kazakhstan by bus. Kyrgyzstan doesn’t have a proper railway so the best way to get to and around Kyrgyzstan is by (mini)bus or shared taxi.

Here are some guides that can help you:

How to get from Tashkent (Uzbekistan) to Kyrgyzstan by bus
How to get from Almaty (Kazakhstan) to Kyrgyzstan by bus

Kyrgyzstan has the most liberal visa regime in Central Asia and offers a free visa on arrival to these nationalities .

I have many comprehensive guides and useful travel information about Kyrgyzstan:

Find everything you need to know about traveling in Kyrgyzstan (best places to visit, itineraries, practical info,…) in Traveling in Kyrgyzstan – The Ultimate Travel Guide

Traveling in Kyrgyzstan - Journal of Nomads

7) Traveling overland in Tajikistan

2022 Update: There’s still no clear news about whether or not the land borders of Tajikistan have reopened.

You can enter Tajikistan via Uzbekistan or Kyrgyzstan . More info about the border crossings here .

Tajikistan offers now a free visa on arrival for most nationalities, except when you’re from one of these countries .

Tajikistan is a mountainous country so there are no trains or big buses here. You’ll have to travel around by shared taxi, a public minivan, or your own vehicle.

If you have the time, don’t skip the Fann Mountains and the Pamir Highway !

Read all my guides about Tajikistan in Traveling in Tajikistan – The Ultimate Travel Guide

Panoramic view over Iskanderkul Lake Tajikistan - Journal of Nomads

4. From Turkey or Central Asia to South-East Asia

1) how to travel overland from central asia to china.

2022 Update: China closed its borders again to foreign travelers

Oh, dear China, how moody art thou!

While it used to be possible to apply for a visa for China in different countries in Central Asia, they’ve recently changed their visa regulations. It’s currently extremely difficult to obtain a Chinese tourist visa in Central Asia .

Remember that the rules change all the time so you better check the Caravanistan forum for recent updates.

I had a sparkle of hope that I could apply for a Chinese visa in Tbilisi (Georgia) but they are now only issuing visas for residents of Georgia.

The only solution is to send your passport home (there we go again) and ask someone to apply in the Chinese embassy in your home country (unless you’re from Germany, then you have to be physically present to apply for the visa).

Here’s what you need to apply for a Chinese visa .

If you managed to get a visa for China, you can enter China from Kyrgyzstan or Tajikistan.

If you want to travel from Kyrgyzstan to China , you can cross the borders at the Irkeshtam Pass or the Torugart Pass.

You can travel from Tajikistan to China across the Qolma Pass .

If you want to drive in China, know that you can’t do this independently. You can only drive with your own car or motorbike in China if you’re part of a tour group or have a personal guide, which is very expensive.

The best solution is to find a group of travelers who also want to cross China by car or motorbike and split the costs. You’ll also need to apply for a Chinese driving license.

Click here for more information.

2) From Europe to India by land (Myanmar – Thailand)

A lot of people dream of traveling overland from Europe to India. This is also the route we first had in mind. We wanted to travel overland from Europe to Thailand across Iran, Pakistan, and India.

It looks like an easy road on the map but it doesn’t come without any obstacles. This route is also not possible to travel by train.

How to travel overland from Europe to Asia – everything you need to know about routes, borders and visas - Journal of Nomads - From Europe to India

1) From Turkey to Iran

2022 Update: Iran has reopened its land borders. Aside from a visa, all travelers over the age of 12 are required to provide proof of full vaccination . You also need a negative PCR test taken within the last 72 hours before arrival in Iran, unless it has been at least 14 days since the second dose of a two-shot vaccine (or the single dose of the Johnson & Johnson/Janssen vaccine).

The shortest way to travel from Turkey to Iran is by crossing the Gurbulak – Bazargan border or the Esendere – Siro border. Find all the information about the Turkey-Iran border crossing here .

Iran issues visas on arrival but only if you arrive by plane . If you travel overland, you still have to apply for a tourist visa at an Iranian embassy.

However, the whole visa situation changes constantly so for the most recent updates concerning the Iranian visa, check out the updates on Caravanistan .

The best place in Turkey to apply for a tourist visa for Iran is at the Iranian embassy in Ankara .

You could also travel from Turkey to Iran across Georgia and Armenia . Both countries offer free visas on arrival to many nationalities (check the visa policy for Georgia and Armenia visa policy ) and are definitely worth a visit!

2022 Update: The borders between Georgia and Armenia are open. For both countries, you need to present either a vaccination certificate or a certificate with a negative PCR test result , no later than 72 before entering the country.

Tusheti – one of Georgia's most beautiful and fascinating regions - Journal of Nomads

Read: 15 Amazing Places to Visit in Georgia

If you travel across Georgia and Armenia, apply for an Iranian tourist visa at the consulate of Iran in Batumi (Georgia).

Only citizens of the UK, US, and Canada can’t travel independently to Iran. They need to be accompanied by a tour guide at all times. But… there’s a way around it.

You could enter Iran via the Armenian border where the border controls are known to be less strict. Alex from Lost with Purpose wrote how she entered Iran independently as a UK citizen .

How to travel overland from Europe to Asia – everything you need to know about routes, borders and visas - Agha Bozorg mosque - Kashkan - credit Lost with Purpose

2) From Iran to Pakistan

Update 2022: The land borders between Iran and Pakistan are currently closed. Updates concerning these borders are very welcome in the comments below!

Crossing the Pakistan – Iran border is possible but a bit tricky.

This border crossing is very long and known to be a dangerous area. That’s why you can only cross with an armed escort. Read the border crossing report by Lost with Purpose and check for updates on Caravanistan .

Pakistan was our second obstacle. You can only apply for a Pakistan visa in your home country or country of residence. Europeans and Canadians can get a visa on arrival if they arrive by plane and are part of a tour.

Just like with the Russian visa you can try to send your passport to someone in your home country and ask him/her to apply for the visa in the Pakistan embassy of your country.

Know that you’ll be without a passport for a while and you should check the regulations of the country you’re in whether or not it’s illegal to travel there without a passport.

If you are able to obtain a visa for both Iran and Pakistan, it means that you can enter India without too much hustle.

3) From Pakistan to India

Update 2022: There was only one Pakistan – India border where foreigners could cross but this one still seems to be closed now . Updates concerning this border are very welcome in the comments below!

There is one Pakistan – India border that is open only for foreigners.

You can obtain an e-visa for India but only if you arrive by plane. If you want to enter India by land, you’ll have to apply for a regular tourist visa in an Indian embassy .

You can apply for a 6-month tourist visa on your way to India. I’ve heard that the embassy in Pakistan is quite a hassle but you can try to apply for one in Tehran (Iran).

Other options are applying for an Indian visa in Central Asia (Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan,…) but that means you’ll have to make a huge detour and you need to be aware that the visa starts from the date of issue, not from the date of entrance !

How to travel overland from Europe to Asia – everything you need to know about routes, borders and visas - Palitana - India - credit Lost with Purpose

4) From India to Myanmar and Thailand

2022 Update: Myanmar will reopen its borders to international tourists on 17 April . Find the current Myanmar entry requirement s here .

If you’ve finally managed to travel from Europe to India (congrats, let me know if you’ve done it in the comments!!), you might want to continue your journey toward Southeast Asia.

The only way to reach Thailand or Laos is to cross Myanmar (aka Burma).

This is also tricky! You can enter Myanmar from Thailand on an e-visa but there are some mixed reports on whether or not it is possible to enter Myanmar from India. You’ll also need a special permit to travel overland in Myanmar.

How to Travel Overland from Europe to Asia by car, bike and train – The 3 Best Travel Routes

Nobody said that traveling by land would be easy, eh?

Alright, one last route:

3) from Central Asia to South East Asia without traveling to China

2022 Update: This route is currently not possible as a) it’s not possible to travel to Russia at the moment due to the war and b) most countries on this route are closed to foreign travelers.

How to travel overland from Europe to Asia – everything you need to know about routes, borders and visas - Journal of Nomads - From Europe to China

This route is the longest way to travel overland from Europe to China and South East Asia but it’s the best chance to get a visa for China while you’re traveling and make it to Southeast Asia.

1) From Kazakhstan to Mongolia

There is no direct border between Kazakhstan and Mongolia so you’ll first have to travel across a small part of Russia.

You’ll need to apply for a 2-day Russian transit visa in Almaty or Nur Sultan .

If you’re not cycling or driving your own vehicle, you can take the train to cross the distance between Kazakhstan and Mongolia but you have to buy these tickets in advance as proof for your transit visa.

You’ll also need to apply for a Mongolian visa (30 days) at the embassy of Mongolia in Almaty or Nur Sultan.

2) From Mongolia to Russia

After visiting Mongolia, you’ll have to apply for a new Russian transit visa (try to get 10 days) in Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia) to enter Russia.

To travel from Russia to Asia without taking any flight, you’ll first have to go all the way to Vladivostok in Russia.

The best way to get there from Mongolia is by train. You can book the train tickets for the Trans-Siberian train from Ulan Ude to Vladivostok (Russia) online .

3) From Russia to South Korea by ferry

There’s weekly one ferry that goes from Russia to South Korea, operated by DBS Ferry company.

The ferry leaves in Vladivostok (Russia) and arrives about 22 hours later in Donghae (South Korea). You can book online tickets for this ferry here .

South Korea offers a free visa on arrival for many countries. Check here to see if you need to apply for a visa in advance or if you can get a free visa on arrival.

You should be able to apply for a Chinese visa at the Chinese embassy in Seoul. Find out here what you need to apply for a Chinese tourist visa.

How to travel overland from Europe to Asia – everything you need to know about routes, borders and visas - Naejangsan - South Korea - credit Hedgers Abroad

4) From South Korea to Japan by ferry

There are a few ferry lines connecting South Korea to Japan.

Here is a fantastic and very comprehensive guide about taking the ferry from South Korea to Japan, including the various ferry routes, costs and practical travel information.

Japan offers a free visa on arrival to many countries. You can also try to apply for a Chinese visa at the Chinese embassy in Tokyo.

5) From Japan to China by ferry

There is currently one ferry route running between Japan and China. The ferry leaves from Osaka and arrives 46 hours later in Shanghai. You can check the schedule here .

Once you’ve made it to China, you can easily continue your journey toward Vietnam, Laos and Thailand.

If you’re going on a long journey like this, you should get good travel insurance! Here are the 3 best and most affordable travel insurance companies for long-term travelers!

I hope this post has been very useful to you!

If you’re planning to embark on this long overland journey or you’ve traveled this route or parts of it and you have extra information, useful guides, or stories, please share them in the comments below! Feel free to contact m e if you have any questions!

More Useful Resources:

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Turkey
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Georgia
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Azerbaijan
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kazakhstan
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Kyrgyzstan
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Uzbekistan
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Tajikistan

Kyrgyzstan on a budget. How much does it cost to travel in Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan Money Guide: Costs of Living and traveling in Kyrgyzstan in 2024

Tashkent to Osh - Osh to Tashkent - Dzuma Mosque - Tashkent tourist places of interest

The best way to get from Tashkent to Osh and from Osh to Tashkent, crossing the Dostyk border (Kyrgyzstan – Uzbekistan)

Traveling in Central Asia Packing List - what to wear in Central Asia - Kyrgyzstan - The Complete Travel Guide how to visit Kel Suu Lake in Kyrgyzstan

Best Tips and complete Packing List for Traveling in Central Asia in 2024 – When to go and what to wear when visiting Central Asia

Pamir Highway Tajikistan - Tajikistan Travel Guide - Journal of Nomads

The Complete Tajikistan Travel Guide – 18 useful things to know to visit Tajikistan in 2024

Best Uzbekistan Silk Road Cities - Khiva

The Best Uzbekistan Itinerary ideas: What to Visit in one week in Uzbekistan up to 4 weeks?

Uzbekistan on a budget - How much does it cost to travel in Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan Money Guide (2024) – How much does it cost to live and travel in Uzbekistan?

68 thoughts on “how to travel overland from europe to asia by car, bike and train – the 3 best travel routes”.

Hi, the EU part needs updates.

Croatia is in the Schengen now, and the map has a truckload of mistakes, not just related to new Schengen countries but also some EU members, while UK that has left is stil there.

Hi Goran, I know this post needs some updates but just haven’t gotten round to it yet. It’s on my to-do list 🙂

wow ! Absolutely amazing in depth content and information. soo soo inspiring and soo confusing but very very exciting. Good luck on your travels everyone here.

Thanks Steve!

Hi Cynthia, I thoroughly enjoyed your article :How To Travel Overland From Europe To Asia.” I was searching the internet to see if there are still British tour companies offering inexpensive (camping) travel from Indonesia to India or Turkey in a convoy of old British army trucks. Didn’t find any, but found your fascinating accounts of Asian travel. I traveled from Melbourne, Australia to England over a period of about 8 months in 1979. Hitchhiked up the Australian coast; flew to Bali; ferries, trains and deck-class voyages through Java, Sumatra, and Thailand; flew to Katmandu; trekked in Himalayas; flew to India; traveled by old Mercedes bus from New Delhi to Iranian border where bus and German owners were detained by Afghani police for smuggling hashish; detained by revolutionaries in Tehran after overthrow of the Shaw but before the American embassy was taken hostage; by bus to Istanbul, and then on to Munich; hitchhiked to Stuttgart, where I stayed and worked for a few weeks; hitchhiked to Frankfurt; took train to Amsterdam and ferry to London. Whew! Great trip!. I’m glad to see young folks doing similar travel in this changed world. Good luck to you, and thanks for supporting economical, independent international travel.

Hi Paul, wow, you also traveled very extensively overland! Thanks for sharing your story!

Hi. I was just wondering how you’re able to afford staying on the road throughout all this. Is it something you’ve been saving up for, for years, or is it working while travelling? Also what way do you think would be the best way for beginners. Hitchhiking always seems a bit sketchy, because you don’t know who you might encounter, however it’s also the cheapest way i can imagine.

Hi Nicolas, in the early years of my nomadic life, I worked along the way and combined it with a lot of volunteering work . Then I was an online teacher while setting up a business. Nowadays I have a full-time income coming from my business. Hitchhiking requires having trust and a strong intuition. I never had a bad experience (even as a woman alone) and I rely a lot on my intuition (always follow that gut feeling) :). I’m sharing more info about the how’s of my nomadic life here .

Great research. Thanks for sharing. I was considering travelling from Europe yo Asia by motorhome. Have you come across anybody that has done this? Thanks

No, I haven’t met anyone traveling by motorhome yet. The closest thing were people traveling by van. I could always bring you in touch with some of them if you like.

Thanks for this nice clear overview of options! I’m seriously considering cycling from the Netherlands to Australia. So far Iran and Pakistan seem to be the biggest hurdles. Apart from political turmoil, mostly because I have to apply for the visa from my home country and then cycle over there before it expires. Are there any known solutions to this problem?

Hi Robin, one solution that other cyclists did was to send their passport home and let a trusted family member/ friend apply for the visa and then send you the passport back. I know it’s not an ideal solution… I also met cyclists who had 2 passports so they could apply for the visa with one passport while still having another one on them while abroad. Hope this helps?

Thanks for your reply Cynthia, I will definitely consider this option.

Nice work. I see many of the responses are pre covid. not too many to date reports. I have a friend who just got a blood clot in her leg in Greece and needs to get home to Thailand. She can’t fly in this condition for 7-9 months. So, we are looking at how she can do it overland and when you see these maps in Sept.2022 you realize just how messed up things are in these area of the world. pakistan is in rough shape. iran? China? best war/covid/weather issues there doesnt seem to be a clear answer if it can be done right now. I like your Turkey-Iran-Pakistan routing through Myanmar and home but it sounds like Iran is a tough one for Canadians (which she and I are). A tour guide to whisk us through the country…..? Looking forward to reading more on that but again things are very strange at the moment everywhere so any 2019 information is right out the window I would think. Great post as many have said. I hope some people can add some things here. Back in the day we would go to Lonely Planets Thorntree for up to date info around the world from travellers and you know what? It might be interesting to see if it survived all these years. It was a got to at the turn of the century (wow that sounds old). She has an interesting challenge ahead of her.

It’s still going to be challenging to make the overland journey from Greece to Thailand at this point. I’m not sure how the situation is in Myanmar and yes, you can’t travel independently through Iran as Canadian citizens, but you might find a way around that. I hope you find a solution! Best wishes

thank you, Cynthia! very helpful. i’m also planning to travel from Baku to Kazakhstan by ferry this June.

Wow!! I never post comments but this article is hands down one of the best and most in depth things I have ever had the joy to read!!! Thank you so so much for putting in the time and effort to create this article!

Thank you Russel! And thank you for commenting 😀 It’s really lovely to hear your feedback!

Great job on all this. What about a ship like a cruise ship

I haven’ t been on a cruise ship yet so this is unknown territory but it might be possible

This is a very interesting! thanks for sharing these great articles, good luck

Thank you 🙂

Thanks for sharing this great information

My pleasure 🙂

I want to ask that, what I need to aware to ensure my safety, since I heard that traveling through Central Asia is dangerous, which several people lost their lives there, and what equipment and clothings I should bring and wear when I want to cycle through Central Asia to Europe, starting in China? Also, I need to stop to eat when I get hungry and stay at a hotel when I got really dirty and want to find a place to rest for a while. These all need a large amount of money, so how can I bring them ? Can I use credit cards? Can I use the atm there? I am confused 😕 as a starter. Overall, thanks for your inspiring article.

Hi Adrian, I’m curious to know where you’ve heard that Central Asia is dangerous? If you go trekking unprepared in the mountains by yourself, then I’d say, yes, that would be dangerous in any country in the world 🙂

My tips: don’t cycle through Central Asia in winter. Ideally, you’re there between the end of May and end of September. Hostels and homestays in Central Asia are cheap, you can get a bed in a hostel for $5 -$6 a night, you can eat at local restaurants which are also very cheap. You can take out money at the ATM’s in the big cities in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan. If you’d cycle through Uzbekistan, get cash out at Tashkent (the capital city). You can also exchange money at the banks in Tashkent (Uzbekistan) and Dushanbe (Tajikistan).

I hope this helps. Let me know if you’d have more questions! Wishing you a great and safe journey ahead!

so great website for me. thanks for sharing these great articles with us

Thank you Mino! 🙂

Awesome blog, thankyou for this, really helpful and inspiring 🙂 I am wanting to make the route 3.2, but then enter India or Nepal from China. do you know if this is possible? I am also wondering how much such a journey would cost, how much would route 3.2 cost approx.? Thankyou in advance,

Hi Anne, thanks for reading our blog and I’m happy to hear it’s inspiring! I don’t think it’s possible to enter Nepal from China. It’s possible to go from China to India or from China to Pakistan as I know some people who’ve done it. The costs depend on the way you travel. Are you going to travel by public transport, with your own vehicle (car, bike, motorbike), are you camping or spending most nights at a hostel,…? Let’s say that you were to travel from Central Asia to China overland, and you travel by public transport and spend every night at a hostel, I’d count on an average of US$30 per day (food not included). I hope this helps!

China is running rail through Tibet that will go into Kathmandu, I know they started awhile ago but not sure when it will be finished.

That would be exciting!!

Thank you so much for this, I’m dreaming of driving one of these routes with my dog which of course adds another layer of complexity, do you know of anyone that has traveled overland with a pet?

Thank you! Sophia

I know some people who have traveled with their pet. You need to check with the vet so your pet has a passport and all the documents and vaccinations required!

This is a very interesting ! I look forward to seeing your stories and photos along the path you follow. You have passed through some interesting areas!

Thank you Tina 🙂

Thanks for sharing this informative blog hope soon you will post something about india thanks again for such valuable post

Hi, once we make it to India (and we’d love to travel there one day), we’ll definitely write about it! Happy to hear you like the blog!

Good post! I travelled from Dublin to Varanasi almost 10 years ago, all overland. Amazing trip, but not an easy one, especially because of Pakistan (I was there when Mr. Bin Laden got caught). Anyway, great article. I’m in SEA now and planning my return to Europe next year. I will try to drive all the way through the route I once did by train/bus. Take care!

Oh wow, that journey must have been even more challenging than it is now. Nowadays it’s rather easy to get most of the visas but it must have been quite something 10 years ago 🙂 How was it to travel through Pakistan when Bin Laden got caught? How was the atmosphere? Good luck with your overland return to Europe! It will be interesting for you to make a similar journey all these years later!

This is probably the best informative post on hitchhiking! Amazing and inspirational story!

Thank you Amber! Are you going on a big hitchhiking trip soon?

I’ve tried to be a nomad and it’s fun. It’s hard at first but when you get the hang of it, everything becomes just fun.

Hi Martha, that’s very true! Every change in your life or habits require some adjustment but like you say, once you get the hang of it, it’s fun! 🙂

Just a quick heads-up on the paragraph “the only solution is to send your passport home (there we go again) and ask someone to apply in the Chinese embassy in your home country (unless you’re from Germany, then you have to be physically present to apply for the visa). Here’s what you need to apply for a Chinese visa.” -> there are a number of agencies handling visa applications for German citizens. I live in China (as a German) and get frequent visits from friends and family, and none of them live in Frankfurt (consulate location) or Berlin (embassy location), and none ever had an issue getting a visa. We are using a service called 1A Visum, but there are a number of others around.

Thanks for the update Chris! This will definitely be useful for German citizens!

With this new information about hitchhiking there, we are now considering of going there too

Hi, you can hitchhike all the way from Europe to Central Asia. You still can’t apply for a Chinese visa in Central Asia (you’ll have to do this in your home country). If you have a visa for China, you can hitchhike all the way to South-East Asia. If not, you’ll have to go through Russia and take a ferry to Korea or Japan or you’ll have to fly from Kazakhstan or Kyrgyzstan to Cambodia or so.

Excelent article! very useful. Now I know that Im not th unique that want to travel and explore by hiking and cycle method through long distances. Thanks!

Hi Ignacio, thank you!! And yes, you’re not alone!! If you’d make this overland trip, you’ll meet many like-minded travelers along the way!!

Dear authers, wanderers,

Great page to start planning for my trip over land to India for next year. I like the size you are thinking in, i mean, in this post you are planning half/whole continents instead of which place to visit whitin a coutry. Anyway… I am planning on the most direct route, which is also known as route A. Would like to do that one up untill India. So I like to start my trip in 8 to 10 months, and take about 7 to 8 months to reach the pakistani-Indian border, hitchhiking from the Netherlands. These numbers are still rather flexible though, is there any country or particilar part I should plan around, concerning the climate? For example.. hitchhiking around Iran in those and those months are way to hot, or visiting the mountains in Pakistan is unduable in those and those months. Any other advise on things I should plan or organize now and not in half a year.

Cheers, A Dutchie

Hi Thijs, I’m happy to hear that this post is useful to you. You’re up for an amazing overland adventure!! You should definitely keep the seasons in mind, summer and winter are at the same time like in the Netherlands but it’s way hotter or colder in Iran or Pakistan 🙂 It can get very hot in Iran so I think late summer, early autumn would be the perfect time to go there but keep in mind that, if you want to travel through the mountains in Pakistan, you should go there before or after winter otherwise certain roads won’t be accessible and it will too cold anyway to go there in winter. Remember that you need to apply for your Pakistani visa in the Netherlands and I don’t know how much time you have to enter Pakistan from the moment you have your visa. Crossing the Iran – Pakistan border and the Pakistan – India border is also another challenge so make sure you’re well-prepared for those (safety, visa,…) Enjoy the preparations of this trip and feel free to contact me if I can help you with something!

Hi Cynthia, I am gratefull for your reply, it feels like a warm welcome. 🙂 So… For now, I decided to aim for crossing Iran-Pakistan border in April. So I can check out the mountains in Pakistan in April/May. I know these borders are a challange on their own, that’s why I am already preparing now. I do have considerable amount of travel experience, so hopefully everything will be fine. Yeah… So considering the pakistani visa, i’m chatting with Alex from Lost with purpose to figure out my best strategy.

All the best from Uni library in Bonn. Thijs

I think that you’re choosing the right season for going to the mountains in Pakistan. Alex is the expert on traveling in Pakistan so I’m sure she’ll be able to give you loads of information about the visa and border crossings! Enjoy your preparations (they’re also part of the journey 🙂 ). And who knows, we might cross paths! That would be really cool! All the best from Morocco! 🙂

Loved your article, it is helpfull! We will head in a year from now on an owerland trip with 2 small kids (1.5yo and 3.5yo than) so will follow a safer route that keeps the budget. Your route seams food but not all the part is possible with a vehicul. We will figure it out of we go part of the way on wheels and part of it witjout and what would we do with a vehicul.. Still lots to plan 🙂 Thanks for all the info!

Hi Morana, what a great idea to make such an overland adventure with your children! The route from Europe over Georgia/Armenia/Iran or Azerbaijan to Central Asia is very safe and beautiful! If you have any questions or need help with planning your journey, don’t hesitate to contact us! Wishing you all the best!!

Hi Morana, I am planning to go from Spain to Thailand in a couple of years when our kids are bit more grown up. We would like to go with an Autocaravan. Please send me some info if you first try it. My email is [email protected]

Nice pictures. I like your blog. You share the information is very helpful. It is very supportive and useful post. I would like to visit the post once more its valuable content. Thanks!

Hi David, thank you so much! Are you planning on making an overland journey soon?

Very good article. I prefer traveling overland like you you are a happy couple. good luck

Thank you! <3

really love this block. very informative post. really love the story.

Thank you Hiroshi! Glad to hear you enjoyed this post!

Nice read but there is some information which is not correct, I hitchhiked all over Uzbekistan and it is allowed. The police/army/guards at roadblocks will even stop cars for you to help you getting a ride 😉 I really loved Uzbekistan and the people there. Also Croatia and Cyprus are EU countries, but indeed not in the schengen zone. Maybe also good to know for people is that if you want to hitchhike in Tajikistan on the Pamir highway (Which I highly suggest) you will need an extra permit which costs extra money. You can either apply in Dushanbe or online with the E-visa.

Hi Paul! Thanks for pointing this out! There was indeed a misunderstanding and some confusion about Uzbekistan and I adjusted it in the article. I came across the info that one has to show tickets from the bus/train when exiting the country. But that is only for night transportation. With this new information about hitchhiking there, we are now considering of going there too 🙂 Thanks for the extra info about the Pamir Highway! Did you hitchhike all around Central Asia? What was your best experience?

yes exactly

This is a super useful guide, well done! I’m so excited to see your stories and photos of the route you laid out. It goes through some fascinating regions!

Thanks Alex! After puzzling our route together I thought I could help a lot of people who want to do a similar journey with this guide (including your super useful articles!!). We’re very curious and excited about the upcoming route!

08 March - 12 March 2024

An 11:45 express train transported us from the centre of Taipei, east to the coast and then south to the town of Hualien. It wasn’t long out of Taipei that the scenery changed completely. Suddenly concrete was replaced by trees. Everywhere was lush in green foliage and the size of the communities had shrunk in size. Rice paddies were a common site, stretched out between scattered housing. Factories and heavy industry became more prominent. As the journey progressed the forest clad hills turned into mountains and the sea was visible out of the opposite carriage window.

Train Journey from Taipei to Hualien

Scenery from the train journey

Some of the industrial scenery from the train journey

By mid afternoon we were in Hualien and at our comfortable little hotel. The rest of the day was spent looking around Hualien and grabbing a bit to eat. Tomorrow we start our Taiwan road trip.

Friendly staff greeted us at the car rental office and with paperwork complete and car readied, the road trip was up and running. The first job was to negotiate urban Hualien. Fairly straight forward provided you stay alert to the motor scooters coming at you from all directions. Once out on the open road the driving was much more relaxing. Our route took us inland away from the coast. Soon we were cruising down highway 9 in the East Rift Valley National Scenic Area. A lush green environment with the Coastal Mountain Range to our east and the Central Mountain Range to our west. We passed through small rural towns and crossed bridges above almost dry rivers . All the time accompanied by rice paddies, each in a varying state of cultivation.

Rice paddies

Toilet notice lost in translation

Just after crossing the Tropic of Cancer we arrived at our first destination, the Yushan National Park. A quick stop at the Nanan Visitor Centre and the nearby waterfall, then it was on to the start of our afternoon hike. There are many trails in the National Park, some have been used for thousands of years by the indigenous population and some developed during the Japanese occupation of Taiwan. The hiking trail we choose, the Walami Trail, was the most accessible and well maintained. From the parking area the path climbed gently into the mountains. River gorges are crossed by suspension bridges and purpose built platforms have been built to provide great views of the waterfalls and surrounding area.

Waterfall in Yushan NP

Suspension Bridge in Yushan NP

Hiking in the Yushan NP

We were also lucky with the wildlife sighting. Not far up the path we encountered a small group of Formosan Rock Monkeys. They seemed as interested in us as we were in them. Further along the trail we were lucky enough to see a Mikado Pheasant. We kept quiet and still whilst it foraged on the path before disappearing into the undergrowth.

Mikado Pheasant

Formosan Rock Monkey

The Walami Trail is popular with locals and we met many couples, families and groups as we progressed. All pleased to greet us with a “Hello” and sometimes “Goodbye”. To which we responded with a “ni hao” (hello in Chinese).

Local hikers crossing one of suspension bridges in Yushan NP. It was build by the Japanese during their occupation Taiwan. The inscription on top is Japanese not Chinese

Invigorated by our hike it was now time to continue our journey to our accommodation for the night. First an early dinner in the local town of Yuli then on to An Tong Hot Springs were we spent the night. As usual we were received with a warm welcome and communicated with the hotel manager via “Google Translate”. Daylight wasn’t on our side so we left exploring the hot springs until the following morning.

A leisurely breakfast and an exploration of the hot springs right outside our hotel, started our day.

An Tong hot springs where we spent the night

A Tong hot springs, very hot temperature, between 60 and 66 centigrade. you have to be careful not to get burns

We then began the drive over the Coastal Mountains to Taiwan’s east coast. The cloud was higher than it had been the previous day so the view was much better. This meant a couple of mountain view point stops to take photo’s.

Views from the coastal mountain road

Formosan Rock monkey

View from the coastal mountain road looking down on the east coast. In the background is the location of the 8 arches bridge

Once on the other side of the mountains we followed the coast road south towards our evening destination of Taitung. Our first stop was Black Rock Bay to take a look at the local fishing fleet then on to the Sanxiantai Arch Bridge. Sanxiantai Island and the adjacent land are a unique biodiverse hotspot and to allow visitors to enjoy both areas a bridge has been built between the two. However, this is no ordinary bridge, but one with eight arches in the shape of waves and represent China’s eight immortals. This fascinating and unusual landmark was an enjoyable second stop.

Traditional fishing boat

Sanxiantai Arch Bridge

Our final stop of the day was the Amis Folk Centre. The Amis are one of the indigenous groups that still occupy this part of Taiwan and the Folk Centre provides an incite into their culture. When we arrived a music performance was in progress, so we watched this for a while, before looking around some building re-creations.

Amis Folk Centre

By late afternoon we had reached our accommodation in Taitung. With a top floor spacious room and great views of the mountains and the sea. We decided to dine in and enjoy our room.

A short walk from our hotel were two attractions we wanted to explore. We started with Taitung Seaside Park with its sculptures, bridges and walkways. Not as interesting as we were expecting but the interaction with the locals made up for it. About half way through the park we turned around and backtracked along the beach. That was until our progress was halted by a river emptying into the sea. It was a bit too deep to cross without taking our shoes and socks off, so we decided to turn around and find an alternative route. That was until a kind local guy offered to ferry us across on his 4x4. With the offer greatly accepted we climbed onto the side of the vehicle and across we went.

Sea Side Park, the boat in the background is a sculpture made of different aluminium squares

Taitung Sea Side Park

Friendly looking offered us a ride across the river as we were stuck

It was now time for our second attraction, Taitung Forest Park. This time our expectations were met. A beautiful little park with attractive foliage and water features. Cut off from the noise of Taitung's street with only bird song to interrupt the tranquility.

Taitung Forest Park

Beware of poisonous bees and snake!

Lake in the Forest Park

The afternoon was spent in the streets of Taitung with the goal of buying provisions but also to have a look around. As is often the case with these street walks, you stable upon things you weren’t expecting. We were amazed by the number temples tucked away amongst the shops and business and the size of some off them. We even came across a theatre performance going about its rehearsals and happy to let us watch for awhile.

One the many temple in Taitung

Another Taitung temple but Buddhist

Going for a walk in Taitung leads us to some interesting site such as this theatre rehearsal

theatre rehearsal in preparation for a night festivity

The next day our Journey continued south from Taitung, again hugging the coast road. The drive was at times spectacular. Huge waves crashed on to isolated beaches, fuelled by a strong wind blowing that day. At times the road appeared to be hung from mountain cliffs with nothing but sea below. Even when we turned inland the view continued to be impressive. From the coast, the road wound into the mountains with thick forest on either side. Eventually we reached a long tunnel through the mountains, emerging on the south west coast of Taiwan. We then continued south, this time following the west coast road, until we arrived in Kenting. We were now almost as far south as you can go in Taiwan. Just above the town of Kenting is the Kenting Forest Recreation Area, and our entertainment for the afternoon. Part protected forest and part botanical garden this 435-hectare site is a maze of trails. We spent the whole afternoon walking almost all of them. Massive fig trees cling to inland coral, caves displayed unusual shaped stalactites and vantage points provided views of the surrounding area. We also had the company of Formosan Rock Monkeys on occasions. A very pleasant way to spend an afternoon.

Kenting Forest Recreational Area

Kenting Forest Recreational area

one of the cace in Kenting Forest Recreational Area

Aerial view of the most southernly point of Taiwan from Kenting Forest Recreational Area

Personal Observations & Interesting Facts

When is a traffic light not a traffic light? Taiwan has directional traffic lights and warning traffic lights. Both look very similar. A warning traffic light is placed around 100 meters before the official traffic light and is illuminated in the same colour as the official one you are about to approach. If the official one is red upon your approach so would be the warning traffic light. This confused us a bit at first. But we very quickly realised that only the official traffic light is accompanied by white lines on the road. It is only there should you stop for a red light.

Military Manoeuvres Throughout our stay in Taitung we had been aware of military aircraft constantly flying over head. This we found out were training aircraft for the Taiwan Airforce. But as we left the town we realised it wasn’t just the airforce but the army were also training here as well. It was a strange sight to see a soldier, with rifle, crouched down beside the traffic light we were waiting at. We weren’t concerned as it was obvious just training as the commanding officer was just chatting in a carpark across the road.

Air Force training aircraft

This featured blog entry was written by MAd4travel from the blog MAd4Travel . Read comments or Subscribe

By MAd4travel

Posted Fri, Apr 12, 2024 | Taiwan | Comments

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10 Best Road Trips in the United States

Across the United States of America, roads and highways crisscross the country, tying and connecting people and places featuring some of the most beautiful landscapes and natural wonders. Some of the best examples include the sunny Pacific Coast Highway and the legendary Route 66, part of a big web of roads running through cities, towns, and all the natural wonders in between. These roads and highways are more than about getting from place to place; they are part of the destination and experience in and of themselves. They are also a reflection of what makes America such a special place! So, let us dive in and explore some of the best road trips in the United States.

The Road to Hana

Set off from Kahului on Hawaii , cruise toward Hana along Maui's east coast, and there you have it: the winding Hana Highway. As you zip along a road, it is not a super long journey, but it is like going on a mini adventure with all its sharp turns and narrow bridges. This path is famous for how it zigzags, with many twists and curves, and all its one-way bridges. There is definitely some skill involved with this drive! The best part is driving through the lush green forests with waterfalls popping up here and there as you go, including the famous Twin Falls and Wailua Falls.

These spots are great for taking photos and sometimes even going for a swim. Near the end of your trip, make sure to check out Ohe’o Gulch. The stop is intensely pretty, with sights of pools and waterfalls tumbling right into the Pacific Ocean .

Grand Teton, Yellowstone, & Glacier National Parks Road Trip

Road from Yellowstone National Park to Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming, USA

How does 900 miles through some of the nicest mountain valleys in the country sound? Well, this trip weaves through America’s stunning national parks. You can see wildlife as there are many spots to get out for hikes and, of course, some of the region’s famous geysers. The dramatic Teton Mountain Range, with its jagged peaks, lay on one end, while the countless lakes and mountains of Glacier Mountain Park lie on the other. This road trip is truly breathtaking.

Right between those two points lies Yellowstone, famed for the iconic Old Faithful Geyser , the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring , and numerous other geysers and hot springs. This does not even include the bison, elk, and wolves that roam inside its borders! The best time to tackle this trip is between the end of June and the start of September when most roads and services are available.

Street scene with classic car in front of souvenir shops in Williams, one of the cities on the famous Route 66

Is there a road in the U.S. as well-known as Route 66? It has appeared in songs and films and is deeply woven into what it means to be American. The road has a deeper meaning, too, standing for freedom, new chances, and the thrill of exploring. Running from Chicago to Santa Monica , the road was a key path for folks heading west in the 1930s, searching for a brighter future. Altogether, Route 66 is just under 2500 miles, going through natural wonders like the Grand Canyon and the Petrified Forest National Park. It also goes past towns like Tulsa, St. Louis, and many others. So, if you want to see the outdoors or take in some of the sights of a city, Route 66 truly has it all!

Olympic Peninsula Loop

Seven Lakes Basin on the High Divide loop, Olympic Peninsula, Washington State, USA.

Olympic Peninsula Loop circles through the state of Washington , passing through rainforests, past glaciers, and beside beaches. You have found your match if you want a road where you can stop to explore the outdoors. At just over 300 miles, it is not as long as some trips on this list. It is the kind of road where you can take it slowly, stopping at landmarks as you circle the loop. Look out for places like Mount Ellinor, known for its easy-to-reach peak, and Lena Lake, perfect for day trips beside clear, blue waters. Looking for a chill day out? Swing by Port Townsend. It has vintage Victorian-style buildings and a laid-back city center that is perfectly inviting.

The Great River Road

The Great River Bridge over the Mississippi in Burlington, Iowa.

This is no ordinary drive. This long, winding passage goes through 10 states, following the twists and turns of the Mississippi River . Altogether the drive spans over 2000 miles, through peaks, valleys, towns, and cities. When you are driving through this many states, it is more than just a drive. It is a lesson in the cultural essence of America. Some people will put aside weeks to tackle the entire length. Get lost easily? You will know you are on the right road by the green and white pilot’s wheel logo, making it simple for travelers to follow the route. Some of the best places to see along the way include the Itasca State Park in Minnesota or the cultural treasure of the French Quarter down in New Orleans .

Going-to-the-Sun Road

Quality, not quality. That is the simple rule of this trip, found in Montana's Glacier National Park. This trip is only 50 miles long but full of great scenery, like spring-time wildflowers, icy lakes, and top-notch mountain scenery. Passing through Logan Pass over the Continental Divide opens up an array of the park's diverse ecosystems. Some of the best spots to look for include Avalanche Creek, a beautiful spot featuring the Trail of the Cedars and the Avalanche Lake trailhead. The Weeping Wall is also a section of the road where water cascades down from the garden wall, often drenching cars in the early summer.

Pacific Coast Highway

Santa Monica gulf and mountains over renewed Pacific Highway descent.

The Pacific Coast Highway is an iconic way to see some of the best views available on the California coast. It has everything you would look for in a drive by the ocean. Also known as Highway 1, the drive is one of the most famous routes around the world. It covers just over 600 miles, passing cliffsides, thick forests, and the Pacific Ocean by your side. You can take this journey slow, with countless places to stop and explore, making for an amazing long adventure, or you can visit different towns one after another for a quick hop. Must-see spot choices include Carmel-by-the-Sea , the dramatic cliffs of Big Sur, Santa Monica, and even the Golden Gate Bridge .

Blue Ridge Parkway

This path is called "America's Favorite Drive" and cuts through the Appalachian Highlands. Its name means it passes through rolling mountains topped with lush forests. The best time to see it is in fall when the foliage turns all sorts of vibrant colors. The road links Virginia with North Carolina , providing a one-of-a-kind journey through the natural wonders and cultural history of the American South. Speed demons beware: the National Park Service looks after the road and is made for relaxed driving, and the speed limit usually does not exceed 45 mph. This way, travelers can go at a nice, slow pace and really soak in the surroundings.

Las Vegas to San Diego

This path goes from a cool, breezy beach to a hot, dry desert. It mixes the fun energy of Las Vegas with the relaxed beach vibe of San Diego . It's the kind of drive that's great for the person who wants to explore all sorts of fun. It is that interesting combination of cities and nature that makes it so unique! The quality and variety of biomes you can see are unbeatable, such as the Cleveland National Forest or the Mojave Desert. The best time to head out on this trip is during the fall, winter, or spring as summer can be a tad hot. You should definitely check out places like Anza-Borrego Desert State Park and Death Valley National Park while driving past.

Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway

Mount Rushmore National Memorial though the Doane Robinson Tunnel on Iron MountaIn Road part of the Peter Norbeck Scenic National Byway

This byway stretches over 70 miles and showcases the beautiful Black Hills in South Dakota. People love it for its views, with its rugged rock shapes, pine woods, and lots of animals to see as you drive by. But it can be more than just pretty sights; many say there is something special and spiritual about this place, almost like it touches your soul, making the Black Hills truly one-of-a-kind.

The drive is short but filled with iconic places. Custer State Park and the Mount Rushmore National Memorial are the two endpoints, with stops like the ongoing Crazy Horse Memorial construction on the way. One of the most popular segments of the drive is Iron Mountain Road, which forms a portion of the byway. It offers stunning views and unique features like its famous pigtail bridges and tunnels.

Driving through the United States, there is something new to see or experience on every new road. From Maui's rainforests to the famous Route 66, these trips let us deeply experience what makes this country's nature and culture special. Whether looking at the views on the Blue Ridge Parkway or experiencing the wild beauty of the Olympic Peninsula, the drive is all about exploring and finding new things, showing us why traveling by road is so appealing. So jump into the car, grab a map and just drive.

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Amazing American Road Trips You Can Do In 48 Hours

Posted: November 13, 2023 | Last updated: November 13, 2023

<p>Road trips don’t need to be stretched over a fortnight to be epic and vacations needn’t last forever (much as we’d like them to). You can pack plenty of fun into a long weekend, making the most of national holidays or just making your annual leave work extra hard. There are endless possibilities for mini-breaks and twin-center vacations across the US, but we’ve picked out a few favorites to get you started. </p>

Easy getaways

Road trips don’t need to be stretched over a fortnight to be epic and vacations needn’t last forever (much as we’d like them to). You can pack plenty of fun into a long weekend, making the most of national holidays or just making your annual leave work extra hard. There are endless possibilities for mini-breaks and twin-center vacations across the US, but we’ve picked out a few favorites to get you started.

<p>This probably isn’t one for the height of summer (no amount of air con will quell that burning southern Arizona heat). But the drive between these two cities, both of which ooze their own version of Wild West charm, is perfect in spring and fall, and still balmy in winter. <a href="https://www.experiencescottsdale.com/">Scottsdale</a>’s downtown streets, lined with olive trees, are home to steak restaurants and art galleries (check the opening status of individual outlets before visiting). There's also <a href="https://franklloydwright.org/taliesin-west/">Taliesin West</a>, former home of architect Frank Lloyd Wright, due to reopen from 15 October.</p>

Scottsdale to Yuma, Arizona

This probably isn’t one for the height of summer (no amount of air con will quell that burning southern Arizona heat). But the drive between these two cities, both of which ooze their own version of Wild West charm, is perfect in spring and fall, and still balmy in winter. Scottsdale ’s downtown streets, lined with olive trees, are home to steak restaurants and art galleries (check the opening status of individual outlets before visiting). There's also Taliesin West , former home of architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

<p>Phoenix and the cacti-filled <a href="https://dbg.org/">Desert Botanical Garden</a> (advance reservations required) are on the way to <a href="https://www.visityuma.com/">Yuma</a>, one of the sunniest places on Earth. There’s more to this Sonoran Desert city than the weather though. It's packed with railroad history and is home to the fascinating <a href="https://www.yumaprison.org/">Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park</a>, a 19th-century prison that’s now a museum – visitors are <a href="https://www.yumaprison.org/covid-19.html">asked to wear masks</a>.</p>

Phoenix and the cacti-filled Desert Botanical Garden (advance reservations required) are on the way to Yuma , one of the sunniest places on Earth. There’s more to this Sonoran Desert city than the weather though. It's packed with railroad history and is home to the fascinating Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park , a 19th-century prison that’s now a museum.

<p>College town <a href="https://www.wilmingtonandbeaches.com/">Wilmington</a> blends old-fashioned Southern charm with dramatic coastal beauty – it's laced with beaches, marshes and barrier islands. Visitors can catch the sunrise over Wrightsville Beach, where lilac, orange and pink swirls cast dramatic light on the pale sand, before heading inland on a trip that routes through some of the state’s most beguiling destinations.</p>

Wilmington to Yadkin Valley, North Carolina

College town Wilmington blends old-fashioned Southern charm with dramatic coastal beauty – it's laced with beaches, marshes and barrier islands. Visitors can catch the sunrise over Wrightsville Beach, where lilac, orange and pink swirls cast dramatic light on the pale sand, before heading inland on a trip that routes through some of the state’s most beguiling destinations.

<p>Potential stops include Raleigh (known for its restaurants and craft breweries), garden-filled Chapel Hill and historic Winston-Salem. But the main event is the wine. There's <a href="https://www.jolovineyards.com/">JOLO</a>, whose award-winning reds include vintages made with native grapes, or <a href="https://www.divinellamavineyards.com/">Divine Llama Vineyards</a>, which really is home to llamas – both spots are open with COVID-19 protocols currently in place. In fact, there are three dozen or so wineries in the <a href="https://www.yadkinvalleync.com/">Yadkin Valley</a>, surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains.</p>

Potential stops include Raleigh (known for its restaurants and craft breweries), garden-filled Chapel Hill and historic Winston-Salem. But the main event is the wine. There's JOLO , whose award-winning reds include vintages made with native grapes, or Divine Llama Vineyards , which really is home to llamas. In fact, there are three dozen or so wineries in the Yadkin Valley , surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains.

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<p>There isn’t too much driving on this trip, though it packs in more urban and natural attractions than many longer journeys. It begins in <a href="http://www.loveexploring.com/guides/81742/explore-tampa-the-top-things-to-do-where-to-stay-what-to-eat">Tampa</a>, whose downtown is a refreshing blend of local-centric bars, diverse dining, art galleries and cool souvenir shops – check <a href="https://www.visittampabay.com/listings/city-of-tampa/4735/">the tourist board website</a> for attraction updates. The Riverwalk, a raised walkway along the Hillsborough River, is a nice spot for sunset, then there's a free streetcar to Ybor City, founded by cigar magnates in 1885 and still steeped in Cuban culture. </p>

Tampa to Crystal River, Florida

There isn’t too much driving on this trip, though it packs in more urban and natural attractions than many longer journeys. It begins in Tampa, whose downtown is a refreshing blend of local-centric bars, diverse dining, art galleries and cool souvenir shops – check the tourist board website for attraction updates. The Riverwalk, a raised walkway along the Hillsborough River, is a nice spot for sunset, then there's a free streetcar to Ybor City, founded by cigar magnates in 1885 and still steeped in Cuban culture.

Read our guide to Tampa

<p>The drive up to Crystal River takes around two hours on the coast-hugging scenic route, passing mangroves, swamps and wildlife preserves like <a href="https://myfwc.com/recreation/lead/chassahowitzka/">Chassahowitzka</a>. It’s all leading up to the best natural attraction of all: swimming with manatees. Crystal River is the only place in the US where visitors can swim with the mammals in the wild and snorkeling in the presence of these gentle, seagrass-munching giants is a humbling, surprisingly peaceful experience – <a href="https://www.visitflorida.com/en-us/things-to-do/outdoors-nature/how-to-swim-with-manatees-in-crystal-river.html">check with local operators for current availability</a>. </p>

The drive up to Crystal River takes around two hours on the coast-hugging scenic route, passing mangroves, swamps and wildlife preserves like Chassahowitzka . It’s all leading up to the best natural attraction of all: swimming with manatees. Crystal River is the only place in the US where visitors can swim with the mammals in the wild and snorkeling in the presence of these gentle, seagrass-munching giants is a humbling, surprisingly peaceful experience.

<p>It's possible to hop on a ferry to reach P-Town (as locals, and anyone cool enough to pull it off, call Provincetown) – but a road trip is much more rewarding. The longer route combines the history and modern charms of <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/76558/explore-boston-the-top-things-to-do-where-to-stay-what-to-eat">Boston</a> with coast-skimming roads and broad, burnished beaches.</p>

Boston to Provincetown, Massachusetts

It's possible to hop on a ferry to reach P-Town (as locals, and anyone cool enough to pull it off, call Provincetown) – but a road trip is much more rewarding. The longer route combines the history and modern charms of Boston with coast-skimming roads and broad, burnished beaches.

How to have the best time in Boston

<p>Cape Cod curls around the bay like a flexed arm, and pretty much anywhere is a good place to stop. Favored spots include the LeCount Hollow Beach (at its best come sunset) and the cranberry bogs and pine trees of the Cape Cod Rail Trail. Funky, dune-backed P-Town has plenty of delicious food to sample too, from lobster mac ‘n’ cheese at <a href="http://www.thecanteenptown.com/">The Canteen</a> to charcuterie and cocktails at <a href="http://www.strangersandsaints.com/">Strangers & Saints</a>. COVID-19 measures are currently in place – check the respective restaurant websites for details. </p>

Cape Cod curls around the bay like a flexed arm, and pretty much anywhere is a good place to stop. Favored spots include the LeCount Hollow Beach (at its best come sunset) and the cranberry bogs and pine trees of the Cape Cod Rail Trail. Funky, dune-backed P-Town has plenty of delicious food to sample too, from lobster mac ‘n’ cheese at The Canteen to charcuterie and cocktails at Strangers & Saints .

<p>This is the ultimate escape for music lovers – or anyone who likes their road trips to come with equal doses of culture and fun. Memphis is home to <a href="http://www.bealestreet.com/">Beale Street</a> – with its fizzing neon signs, blues bars, BBQ joints and record stores – and <a href="https://www.graceland.com/">Graceland</a>, former house of the King of Rock 'n' Roll. Elvis’ mansion lives up to the hype thanks to a stylish tour that takes visitors past the Jungle Room and to the singer’s grave. Guests are asked to <a href="https://www.graceland.com/covid">check Graceland's safety protocols</a> before visiting. </p>

Memphis, Tennessee to Jackson, Mississippi

This is the ultimate escape for music lovers – or anyone who likes their road trips to come with equal doses of culture and fun. Memphis is home to Beale Street – with its fizzing neon signs, blues bars, BBQ joints and record stores – and Graceland , former house of the King of Rock 'n' Roll. Elvis’ mansion lives up to the hype thanks to a stylish tour that takes visitors past the Jungle Room and to the singer’s grave.

<p>The music pilgrimage continues on the road – on Route 61, or the "Blues Highway", to be specific. The road wiggles down through Mississippi to Clarksdale, where Morgan Freeman co-owns <a href="https://www.groundzerobluesclub.com/">Ground Zero Blues Club</a> (temporarily closed) next door to the small yet sweeping <a href="https://www.deltabluesmuseum.org/">Delta Blues Museum</a> (open with reduced capacity). It then continues on to Jackson, home to blues clubs and juke joints like <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bluefrontcafeblues">Blue Front Cafe</a>, just outside the city – check <a href="https://www.facebook.com/bluefrontcafeblues">the Facebook page</a> for events.</p>

The music pilgrimage continues on the road – on Route 61, or the "Blues Highway", to be specific. The road wiggles down through Mississippi to Clarksdale, where Morgan Freeman co-owns Ground Zero Blues Club (check the website for updates) next door to the small yet sweeping Delta Blues Museum (open with reduced capacity). It then continues on to Jackson, home to blues clubs and juke joints like Blue Front Cafe , just outside the city – check the Facebook page for events.

<p>There's truly gorgeous scenery striking out in all directions from Salt Lake City. This is Utah, after all. Visitors can breathe in the hip, high-perched city’s crisp air and take in the mountain views – so perfect they look like stage backdrops – before motoring south.</p>

Salt Lake City to Bryce Canyon, Utah

There's truly gorgeous scenery striking out in all directions from Salt Lake City. This is Utah, after all. Visitors can breathe in the hip, high-perched city’s crisp air and take in the mountain views – so perfect they look like stage backdrops – before motoring south.

<p>The road passes peaks and hiking trails, and those who take the slower, scenic route through <a href="https://www.fs.usda.gov/mantilasal/">Manti-La Sal National Forest</a> can stop to explore aspen groves, sandstone canyons and mountain lakes. It’s a good way to build up for setting eyes on <a href="https://www.nps.gov/brca/index.htm">Bryce Canyon</a> – this jagged sprawl of red and apricot hoodoos, towering above stretches of alpine forest, is jaw-droppingly beautiful. Now discover <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/77699/rv-heaven-the-best-place-to-stay-in-every-state-with-your-motorhome?page=1">the best place to stay in every state with your motorhome</a>.</p>

The road passes peaks and hiking trails, and those who take the slower, scenic route through Manti-La Sal National Forest can stop to explore aspen groves, sandstone canyons and mountain lakes. It’s a good way to build up for setting eyes on Bryce Canyon – this jagged sprawl of red and apricot hoodoos, towering above stretches of alpine forest, is jaw-droppingly beautiful.

Now discover the best place to stay in every state with your motorhome

<p>Galleries, markets and Pueblo revival architecture fill <a href="https://santafe.org/Visiting_Santa_Fe/">New Mexico’s enchanting state capital</a>, where centuries-old plazas and chapels sit comfortably alongside contemporary art installations and murals. Next, <a href="https://santafe.org/Visiting_Santa_Fe/Things_to_Do/Road_Trips/Taos_and_the_High_Road/">the aptly named High Road</a> winds and curls through thick forest that opens up to views of the red-and-gray Jemez Mountains.</p>

Santa Fe to Taos, New Mexico

Galleries, markets and Pueblo revival architecture fill New Mexico’s enchanting state capital , where centuries-old plazas and chapels sit comfortably alongside contemporary art installations and murals. Next, the aptly named High Road winds and curls through thick forest that opens up to views of the red-and-gray Jemez Mountains.

<p>The road continues to the traditional weaving village of Chimayó and El Santuario de Chimayó, a church dating back to 1816 whose “miraculous dirt” is believed by some to have healing properties. <a href="https://taospueblo.com/">Taos Pueblo</a>, with its still-occupied 1,000-year-old adobe buildings, is temporarily closed, but check for updates. Finally, visitors can return to Santa Fe via a different route: the Low Road loops back from Taos and unveils entirely different landscapes, weaving down to the banks of the Rio Grande and ducking through a narrow canyon.</p>

The road continues to the traditional weaving village of Chimayó and El Santuario de Chimayó, a church dating back to 1816 whose “miraculous dirt” is believed by some to have healing properties. Taos Pueblo , with its still-occupied 1,000-year-old adobe buildings, is temporarily closed, but check for updates. Finally, visitors can return to Santa Fe via a different route: the Low Road loops back from Taos and unveils entirely different landscapes, weaving down to the banks of the Rio Grande and ducking through a narrow canyon.

<p>The excitement of <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/guides/78385/new-york-things-to-do">New York City</a>’s buzzing streets and the wide-open, natural beauty of the Finger Lakes are a classic combination. Visitors can gaze at Manhattan’s gleaming skyline, and pound streets lined with brownstones and boutiques, before swapping it all for a landscape of skinny, jagged lakes, wineries and wildlife. The <a href="https://www.nycgo.com/">NYC GO website</a> has info on citywide attractions and protocols. </p>

New York City to Cayuga Lake, New York

The excitement of New York City’s buzzing streets and the wide-open, natural beauty of the Finger Lakes are a classic combination. Visitors can gaze at Manhattan’s gleaming skyline, and pound streets lined with brownstones and boutiques, before swapping it all for a landscape of skinny, jagged lakes, wineries and wildlife. The NYC GO website has info on citywide attractions and protocols.

What to see and do in New York City

<p>The traffic thins out and life slows to a leisurely pace at Cayuga Lake, one of 11 spindly stretches of water that make up <a href="https://www.fingerlakes.org/">the Finger Lakes</a>. They’re all beautiful but <a href="https://cayugalake.com/">Cayuga</a>’s two dozen wineries – some of which can be accessed via boat or kayak – make it stand out (check with individual outposts for their opening status). An 86-mile (138km) road skims the lake’s edge and passes parks, villages with art studios and <a href="https://friendsofmontezuma.org/">Montezuma Wildlife Refuge</a>, home to bald eagles and waterfowl – note that the summertime hike and bike path and the visitor center is currently closed here, but the Wildlife Drive is open. </p>

The traffic thins out and life slows to a leisurely pace at Cayuga Lake, one of 11 spindly stretches of water that make up the Finger Lakes . They’re all beautiful but Cayuga ’s two dozen wineries – some of which can be accessed via boat or kayak – make it stand out (check with individual outposts for their opening status). An 86-mile (138km) road skims the lake’s edge and passes parks, villages with art studios and Montezuma Wildlife Refuge , home to bald eagles and waterfowl.

<p>It's easy to motor between these two Texas Hill County cities in just over an hour. And, from <a href="http://www.loveexploring.com/guides/75504/explore-austin-where-to-stay-what-to-eat-the-top-things-to-do">Austin</a>’s hip nightlife, music scene and beloved BBQ joints to the restaurants and art that flank San Antonio’s Riverwalk, there’s plenty to keep visitors occupied. But adding in Fredericksburg really completes the triangle.</p>

Austin to San Antonio, Texas

It's easy to motor between these two Texas Hill County cities in just over an hour. And, from Austin’s hip nightlife, music scene and beloved BBQ joints to the restaurants and art that flank San Antonio’s Riverwalk, there’s plenty to keep visitors occupied. But adding in Fredericksburg really completes the triangle.

<p>The <a href="https://www.visitfredericksburgtx.com/">German-settled town</a> of Fredericksburg, surrounded by wineries, combines proud heritage with modern twists on its past, from food to art. Visitors can also take a detour to hike up the huge granite boulders of <a href="https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/enchanted-rock">Enchanted Rock State Natural Area</a> (reservations required for weekends and holidays), before looping down to <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/news/76078/5-reasons-why-san-antonio-should-be-your-next-us-trip">San Antonio</a>, where disused brewery <a href="https://atpearl.com/about">Pearl</a> is the place to hang out. The micro-district, just off the Riverwalk, has boutiques, a food hall, restaurants and a hotel in buildings once dedicated to brewing beer. </p>

The German-settled town of Fredericksburg, surrounded by wineries, combines proud heritage with modern twists on its past, from food to art. Visitors can also take a detour to hike up the huge granite boulders of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (reservations required for weekends and holidays), before looping down to San Antonio, where disused brewery Pearl is the place to hang out. The micro-district, just off the Riverwalk, has boutiques, a food hall, restaurants and a hotel in buildings once dedicated to brewing beer.

<p>Cities don’t come much more stylish than <a href="https://www.choosechicago.com/">Chicago</a>. Public art installations, including the famous Cloud Gate sculpture or "The Bean”, have become as integral to the landscape as the Art Deco skyscrapers, water views and deep-dish pizza.</p>

Chicago, Illinois to Ann Arbor, Michigan

Cities don’t come much more stylish than Chicago . Public art installations, including the famous Cloud Gate sculpture or "The Bean”, have become as integral to the landscape as the Art Deco skyscrapers, water views and deep-dish pizza.

<p>This route loops around a corner of vast Lake Michigan, en route to Ann Arbor, which has been stealing some of the limelight from Detroit recently. The <a href="http://www.umma.umich.edu/">University of Michigan Museum of Art</a> (currently closed) has a collection covering everything from African architecture to Picasso, while – like many university cities – Ann Arbor's food scene is drawing attention too. There's everything from trendy brunch spots to classics like <a href="https://www.zingermansdeli.com/">Zingerman’s Deli</a>, which typically also runs food tours. See the website for current availability. </p>

This route loops around a corner of vast Lake Michigan, en route to Ann Arbor, which has been stealing some of the limelight from Detroit recently. The University of Michigan Museum of Art (check the website for updates) has a collection covering everything from African architecture to Picasso, while – like many university cities – Ann Arbor's food scene is drawing attention too. There's everything from trendy brunch spots to classics like Zingerman’s Deli , which typically also runs food tours.

<p><a href="https://www.visitsavannah.com/">Savannah</a> wears its Southern charm like its majestic oak trees wear soft Spanish moss – with pure, old-fashioned elegance. Georgian mansions line the streets, brewpubs and art galleries take up old cotton warehouses by the waterfront, and cemeteries are filled with sculptures, tall mausoleums and yet more oaks.</p>

Savannah to Jekyll Island, Georgia

Savannah wears its Southern charm like its majestic oak trees wear soft Spanish moss – with pure, old-fashioned elegance. Georgian mansions line the streets, brewpubs and art galleries take up old cotton warehouses by the waterfront, and cemeteries are filled with sculptures, tall mausoleums and yet more oaks.

<p><a href="https://www.jekyllisland.com/">Jekyll Island</a>, an easy, scenic drive along a coastline laced with beaches, marshes and barrier islands, packs up the same charm and elegance and takes it to the seaside. One of Georgia’s Golden Isles, it’s accessible by car but feels cut off from the rest of the world. Windswept oaks and tangles of driftwood form a backdrop to soft-sand beaches, while trails wind into the woods.</p>

Jekyll Island , an easy, scenic drive along a coastline laced with beaches, marshes and barrier islands, packs up the same charm and elegance and takes it to the seaside. One of Georgia’s Golden Isles, it’s accessible by car but feels cut off from the rest of the world. Windswept oaks and tangles of driftwood form a backdrop to soft-sand beaches, while trails wind into the woods.

Now discover more of America's most charming seaside towns

<p>From beautiful people strutting on South Beach to free-range cockerels strutting on Duval Street, <a href="https://www.miamiandbeaches.com/">Miami</a> and Key West are both the same – and eons apart. Both cities share a free spirit and a strong sense of fun but, while Miami wears its character like a slick designer jacket, Key West wears just whatever it feels like at any particular moment. In other words, it’s weird and proud of it.</p>

Miami to Key West, Florida

From beautiful people strutting on South Beach to free-range cockerels strutting on Duval Street, Miami and Key West are both the same – and eons apart. Both cities share a free spirit and a strong sense of fun but, while Miami wears its character like a slick designer jacket, Key West wears just whatever it feels like at any particular moment. In other words, it’s weird and proud of it.

<p>Driving on the Overseas Highway, which soars over the water, is alone worth the trip. Visitors can stop at <a href="https://www.islamorada.fl.us/">Islamorada</a>, <a href="https://www.floridastateparks.org/BahiaHonda">Bahia Honda State Park</a> (currently open with limitations) and Marathon’s adorable and thought-provoking <a href="https://www.turtlehospital.org/">Turtle Hospital</a> before arriving in quirky Key West. Here, there's a colorful buoy which marks the southernmost point in the continental US.</p>

Driving on the Overseas Highway, which soars over the water, is alone worth the trip. Visitors can stop at Islamorada , Bahia Honda State Park and Marathon’s adorable and thought-provoking Turtle Hospital before arriving in quirky Key West. Here, there's a colorful buoy which marks the southernmost point in the continental US.

<p>The George Parks Highway, or Parks Highway, joins Anchorage and Fairbanks, slicing through 323 miles (520km) of wilderness, rivers and lakes, with sightings of North America’s tallest peak, Denali, along the way. <a href="https://www.anchorage.net/">Anchorage</a> is the glorious starting point, with its galleries, museums and live music scene. Note that visitors to Alaska must currently provide proof of a negative COVID-19 test before entering the state – <a href="https://www.travelalaska.com/planning/tips/covid19.aspx">check details here</a>.</p>

Anchorage to Fairbanks, Alaska

The George Parks Highway, or Parks Highway, joins Anchorage and Fairbanks, slicing through 323 miles (520km) of wilderness, rivers and lakes, with sightings of North America’s tallest peak, Denali, along the way. Anchorage is the glorious starting point, with its galleries, museums and live music scene.

<p>The highway follows the eastern edge of Denali National Park before cutting across a corner of the vast wilderness, which sprawls over six million acres. The park’s alpine forest and mountain slopes are home to curly-horned Dall’s sheep, wolves, grizzlies and black bears. Fairbanks’ forested riverbanks and downtown offer further adventure. Visit in summer for the midnight sun, or from August to April for a chance to see the sky swirl with the Northern Lights. Love this? Now check out <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/galleries/84609/stunning-us-spots-to-relax-in-your-rv-autumn-fall-2020?page=1">the stunning spots to relax in your RV this fall</a>. </p>

The highway follows the eastern edge of Denali National Park before cutting across a corner of the vast wilderness, which sprawls over six million acres. The park’s alpine forest and mountain slopes are home to curly-horned Dall’s sheep, wolves, grizzlies and black bears. Fairbanks’ forested riverbanks and downtown offer further adventure. Visit in summer for the midnight sun, or from August to April for a chance to see the sky swirl with the Northern Lights.

<p>There are only around 40 miles (64km) between these two coastal beauties, but most visitors choose to take their time, meandering down roads that skim past bays, beaches and breakwaters. <a href="https://www.visitportland.com/">Portland</a> itself is wonderfully walkable, with a lovely stretch of bars and restaurants tucked along the cobbled streets of the Old Port by the waterfront. There's also a rich art scene, including works by Warhol and Monet at the <a href="https://www.portlandmuseum.org/">Portland Museum of Art</a> (open with advanced, timed tickets). </p>

Portland to Ogunquit, Maine

There are only around 40 miles (64km) between these two coastal beauties, but most visitors choose to take their time, meandering down roads that skim past bays, beaches and breakwaters. Portland itself is wonderfully walkable, with a lovely stretch of bars and restaurants tucked along the cobbled streets of the Old Port by the waterfront. There's also a rich art scene, including works by Warhol and Monet at the Portland Museum of Art (check the website for opening times).

<p>Drivers can stop at Cape Elizabeth to see the lighthouse and walk out onto the craggy rocks, stroll on the sandy beaches of Kennebunkport, and hike around the salt marshes of <a href="https://www.fws.gov/refuge/Rachel_Carson/about.html">Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge</a> (note that the visitor center is currently closed). In Ogunquit, the lobstermen of Perkin’s Cove pull in their catch, then deliver sweet seafood to the town’s shacks and waterside restaurants. Now discover <a href="https://www.loveexploring.com/gallerylist/87456/americas-most-charming-seaside-towns">more of America's most charming seaside towns</a>.</p>

Drivers can stop at Cape Elizabeth to see the lighthouse and walk out onto the craggy rocks, stroll on the sandy beaches of Kennebunkport, and hike around the salt marshes of Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge . In Ogunquit, the lobstermen of Perkin’s Cove pull in their catch, then deliver sweet seafood to the town’s shacks and waterside restaurants.

Love this? Now check out the stunning spots to relax in your RV

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Maggie Rogers – ‘Don’t Forget Me’ review: wistful road trip record acts as a sonic reboot

The Maryland artist's musical journey since her viral breakout moment has been frantic. On this stripped-back third album, she sounds confident in where she's headed next.

Perhaps the one constant tying together each era of American pop is its tendency to find inspiration from the country’s highways . Lying steadily as the nation around them drastically evolves, they’ve simultaneously existed as veins tying states together and a muse for artists seeking romantic metaphors for freedom, idealism and escape. On ‘America’, Simon & Garfunkel hitchhiked and gazed longingly out of bus windows in search of the nation’s identity, while Bruce Springsteen has felt the urge the open road since birth. It’s a uniquely American notion — after all, few have been compelled to write odes to the M25 (although Olivia Dean did give it a go ). So, when delving into her most introspective songwriting yet, it makes sense that Maggie Rogers, like those before her, has turned to their sweltering tarmac and the lonesome desert landscapes that frame them for guidance.

Having first found acclaim through 2016’s ‘Alaska’ — introduced to the world through a viral clip now embedded into internet lore — Rogers’ career thus far has often felt like a grappling to establish her sound. Her debut, 2019’s ‘Heard It In A Past Life’ chronicled her struggle to adjust to newfound fame and blended tasteful Euro dance music with her lifelong fondness for folk; it’s follow-up, 2022’s ‘Surrender’ , marked an urgent, heavier evolution, adopting elements of alternative rock to capture the claustrophobia and chaos of New York City.

‘Don’t Forget Me’, then, offers an insight into the direction Rogers’ may have gone in had ‘Alaska’ not plunged her into an intense virality that expected her to replicate the track’s poppier principles. While her debut drew criticism for over-production , ‘Don’t Forget Me’ shines in its simplicity, with Ian Fitchuk (Kacey Musgraves, Stephen Sanchez) as the sole collaborator. Here, through a whole-hearted embrace of the folk, country and Western that underscored her upbringing, Rogers’ seems more at home than ever.

Yet, ‘Don’t Forget Me’ exists as a meticulously crafted homage to the road trip. Rogers attended sessions with a very specific aesthetic moodboard: endeavouring to capture the beauty of ephemeral moments with the same fervour as the grainy Linda McCartney photographs that documented ‘60s pop. Perhaps it’s why she deals so heavily in the finer details, with clothing a key lyrical motif. ‘The Kill’ recalls a lover through the scraps of discarded clothing they left in a hasty exit and ‘Never Going Home’ has flashbacks in the form of a “jacket the same colour as the seats in your car ”.

Crucially, though, it’s a record that doesn’t take itself too seriously. ‘So Sick Of Dreaming’ is a celebration of singledom indebted to Shania Twain , both sonically and lyrically ( “So you think you’re on the right track/Cruising on the bridge in your grey Cadillac” , she sings with an audible smile). The song’s climax is a sex in the city-esque anecdote of being stood up at a steak restaurant by a date who went to see the Knicks instead. They lost, by the way, she’s sure to declare via a crackly voice note.

Written and recorded over five days in chronological order, the sequencing lends itself to the format of a road trip — so much so that at times it seems ready to soundtrack an inevitable Thelma & Louise reboot. There’s the relentless energy to begin (‘Drunk’), existential conversion (‘If Now Was Then’) and sing along anthems (‘On & On & On’ and ‘Never Going Home’) that collapse into quietness following too many miles (‘I Still Do’).

It’s why the final track ‘Don’t Forget Me’ is all the more poignant, conjuring the bittersweet feeling of reaching a familiar destination after a long drive. As the promises of the open road dissolve into familiarity, it’s a return to real life and a final acceptance of the inevitability of endings. Having spent a record collating memories with the urgency of someone trying to capture flecks of light disappearing in the rearview mirror, it’s a moment of vulnerability from Rogers that reveals her desire to be remembered with the same importance – and one that that assures she will be.

Release date: April 12, 2024
Record label: Capitol Records
Related Topics
Maggie Rogers