For travelers who love breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable road trips, few experiences rival a scenic drive.

Whether winding through towering mountains, tracing the coastline, or gliding past lush valleys, these routes offer stunning views and memorable stops along the way.

This guide highlights five must-see scenic drives, complete with practical travel information, fees, best visiting periods, and exact locations to help you plan the perfect journey.

1. Pacific Coast Highway – California, USA

The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, stretches along California's western coastline and offers some of the most iconic ocean views in the world. Drivers pass dramatic cliffs, golden beaches, and charming seaside towns such as Big Sur, Monterey, and Santa Barbara.

How to Get There

The most popular starting point is San Francisco. From there, travelers drive south along Highway 1, though segments of the road can be accessed from Los Angeles or other coastal towns. Car rentals are widely available from major airports.

Fees and Best Time to Visit

While driving the highway itself is free, parking at popular viewpoints or state parks costs around $10–$15 USD. The best months to visit are May through October when the weather is mild, and visibility is clear. Early mornings help avoid heavy traffic, particularly near Big Sur.

Tips

Take your time to stop at scenic pullouts, lighthouses, and hiking trails along the way. Coastal fog can reduce visibility, so check weather forecasts before setting out.

2. Great Ocean Road – Victoria, Australia

The Great Ocean Road is a 151-mile coastal drive featuring dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and natural landmarks like the Twelve Apostles. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot koalas, kangaroos, and native birds along the route.

How to Get There

The drive begins in Torquay, accessible from Melbourne via a 1.5-hour drive. Car rentals and guided tours are both available for visitors.

Fees and Best Time to Visit

Driving is free, but some national parks along the route charge entry fees of around $12–$20 USD. The best time to explore is between September and November or March to May, when the weather is mild and tourist traffic is lower.

Tips

Allow two to three days to fully enjoy the route. Stop at beaches, lookout points, and small coastal towns for photo opportunities and refreshments.

3. Amalfi Coast Drive – Campania, Italy

The Amalfi Coast Drive is a famous winding road connecting picturesque towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello. It features sheer cliffs, azure waters, and terraced vineyards, making it one of the most photographed coastal drives in Europe.

How to Get There

The drive begins near Sorrento and follows the coastline south toward Salerno. Visitors can rent cars from Naples or Sorrento for the drive.

Fees and Best Time to Visit

Driving along the Amalfi Coast is free, but parking is limited in small towns, costing approximately $15 USD per day. The ideal visiting months are May to September for clear skies and warm temperatures. Early mornings or late afternoons help avoid congestion in narrow streets.

Tips

Be cautious on narrow roads, and allow extra time for stopping at viewpoints. Public buses are an alternative for those preferring not to drive.

4. Icefields Parkway – Alberta, Canada

The Icefields Parkway is a 144-mile drive through the Canadian Rockies, connecting Jasper and Banff National Parks. Travelers are treated to glaciers, turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife sightings.

How to Get There

The parkway is accessible from Jasper or Banff. Travelers typically fly into Calgary or Edmonton and drive north. Car rentals are available at major airports.

Fees and Best Time to Visit

Entrance fees to the national parks are approximately $10 USD per day per person. The best time to drive the Icefields Parkway is from June to September, when roads are clear of snow and weather conditions are favorable.

Tips

Bring a camera and dress in layers due to fluctuating temperatures. Gas stations are limited along the route, so plan fuel stops in advance.

5. Ring Road – Iceland

Iceland's Ring Road circles the country, offering a spectacular mix of volcanoes, glaciers, waterfalls, and geothermal areas. Highlights include the Golden Circle, Jokulsarlon Glacier Lagoon, and the black sand beaches of Vik.

How to Get There

The Ring Road begins in Reykjavik, with car rentals widely available. The full loop takes approximately seven to ten days, depending on stops.

Fees and Best Time to Visit

Driving the Ring Road is free, though many national parks and attractions charge entry fees ranging from $5–$15 USD. The best months to visit are June to August, providing long daylight hours and accessible roads.

Tips

Weather can change quickly, so check forecasts daily. Book accommodations in advance during peak summer months.

Practical Travel Tips for Scenic Drives

Currency: All expenses are listed in US $ for international travelers.

Safety: Always follow local traffic laws, watch for narrow roads, and allow extra time for stops.

Packing: Bring snacks, water, and layers for changing weather conditions.

Photography: Pull over at designated viewpoints rather than stopping on busy roads.

Scenic drives provide a unique way to experience nature, culture, and adventure on your own schedule. By planning carefully, knowing entry fees, and choosing the best time to visit, travelers can fully enjoy the freedom and beauty of the open road. Whether seeking coastal charm, alpine vistas, or remote wilderness, these scenic drives promise memories that will last a lifetime.