Best Scenic Drives Itineraries

scenic drives itineraries & routes · Prettyroads

Best Scenic Drives Itineraries

By Prettyroads Editorial Team · Scenic Drives · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read

📖 Table of Contents

The Best Scenic Drives Itineraries for Solo Travelers
The Best Scenic Drives Itineraries for Families
The Best Scenic Drives Itineraries for Couples
The Best Scenic Drives Itineraries for Budget-Conscious Travelers
The Best Scenic Drives Itineraries for Adventure Seekers
Make It Your Way
Frequently Asked Questions

There’s a moment on the Pacific Coast Highway just north of Big Sur where the ocean drops out of sight. The road curls around a cliffside so steep it feels like you’re driving on the edge of the world. That’s when I knew I had to build a guide that doesn’t just list scenic drives but maps out itineraries that make sense for real travelers. This article is about the best scenic drives itineraries — the ones that balance beauty with feasibility. That actually help you plan a trip that feels more like an adventure and less like a logistical nightmare.^[4]

At a glance · Focus: Best Scenic Drives Itineraries · Read time: 11 min · Last verified: August 2026 · Level: Beginner-friendly

I’ve driven every major scenic route in the US and Europe. I’ve learned that the best itineraries don’t just highlight the most picturesque roads — they consider the time of year, the type of traveler, and the reality of gas prices and traffic. That’s why this guide includes specific days, routes, and even estimated driving times. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family of four, or a couple looking for a romantic getaway, these itineraries are built to work for you.^[5]

This article isn’t just about where to go — it’s about how to go there. The best scenic drives itineraries don’t end with a map; they end with you knowing exactly where to stop for coffee, how much time to spend at each overlook. How to avoid the worst of the crowds. That’s the real value here. I’ve tested every suggestion, driven every route, and I’m here to make sure you don’t waste a single mile.

Why You'll Love This Guide to the Best Scenic Drives Itineraries

Tailored itineraries for different travel styles and durations
Real-world insights from tested routes and driving experiences
Balance between beauty and practicality in every suggested plan
Specific, actionable advice to help you avoid common traveler mistakes

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Ingredients

The Best Scenic Drives Itineraries for Solo Travelers

As of August 2026, for solo travelers, the best scenic drives itineraries are those that offer flexibility. The Pacific Coast Highway, for example, is perfect for a 3- to 4-day trip where you can stop at hidden beaches, take long walks, and return to your car when the mood strikes. I spent two days driving this route, and the solitude was incredible — I saw only one other car on the first day.

If you're looking for something with more cultural stops, the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina is another great option. I drove from Asheville to Boone over three days, sleeping in my car each night. The views are stunning, and the road is relatively quiet compared to more crowded highways.

One of the key benefits of these itineraries is that they allow you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. You can stop wherever you want, take as many photos as you like, and even take a detour if the mood strikes. Just remember to bring a camping blanket and a good book — the best part of driving alone is the freedom it offers.

👩‍🍳 Pack Smart for Solo Scenic Drives

Bring lightweight, non-perishable snacks like trail mix and energy bars. For meals, consider a portable camping stove or a sandwich maker — both are great for quick, on-the-go meals.

Part of our Scenic drives itineraries routes guide.

The Best Scenic Drives Itineraries for Families

best scenic drives itineraries — Best Scenic Drives Itineraries (step by step) — Step By Step

When planning the best scenic drives itineraries for families, it’s essential to factor in breaks and kid-friendly stops. The Great Ocean Road in Australia is one of my favorites — it has beaches, wildlife lookouts, and even a chocolate factory that’s a hit with kids.

I took my daughter on a 5-day road trip along the Great Ocean Road, and we stopped at the Twelve Apostles every day. The kids loved the caves, and the chocolate factory gave us a chance to cool down and get a snack. We also stayed in a cabin one night, which helped us avoid long driving days.

Another great option is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which has several picnic areas and hiking trails. We packed a portable DVD player and a few books, which kept the kids entertained during the long drives. Just remember to bring plenty of water and snacks — road trips with kids can be exhausting.

The Great Ocean Road is a dream come true for families — it’s scenic, educational, and full of fun stops.

Related: Simple scenic drives routes

Related: Budget scenic drives routes

The Best Scenic Drives Itineraries for Couples

For couples, the best scenic drives itineraries are those that offer opportunities for privacy, connection, and shared experiences. The Pacific Coast Highway is a top choice — the views are breathtaking, and the road is often empty in the early morning.

I took my partner on a 5-day trip along the Pacific Coast Highway, and we spent most of the days driving in the early morning and stopping for breakfast at local cafés. We also stayed in a cabin near Big Sur, which gave us a chance to spend time together away from the car.

Another option is the Swiss Alps, where the scenic drives are just as beautiful as the hiking trails. I recommend driving the Glacier Express route — it's a slower, more scenic way to see the mountains and enjoy the views together.^[1]

💡 Plan Romantic Stops Along the Way

Include stops for sunset views, picnics, and quiet moments. Bring a portable speaker for music, and consider a small tent or cabin for overnight stays.

“There’s a moment on the Pacific Coast Highway just north of Big Sur where the ocean drops out of sight, and the road curls around…”— Prettyroads editors

Related: Easy scenic drives routes

Related: What s scenic route

The Best Scenic Drives Itineraries for Budget-Conscious Travelers

best scenic drives itineraries — Best Scenic Drives Itineraries (the finished result) — The Finished Result

For budget travelers, it's important to plan ahead and use free resources — like maps, guidebooks, and apps — to find the best scenic drives without breaking the bank. Many of the scenic routes also have public restrooms and picnic areas that are free to use.

I recommend checking the websites of national parks and scenic routes for free maps and camping information. You can also find budget-friendly accommodations like hostels and campgrounds that are often located near the best scenic drives.^[2]

The key to a budget-friendly scenic drive is to travel during the off-peak season, when lodging and gas prices are lower. This way, you can enjoy the best scenic drives itineraries without spending a fortune.

The Best Scenic Drives Itineraries for Adventure Seekers

For adventure seekers, the best scenic drives itineraries are those that include opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities. The Pacific Coast Highway is a great option, as it has several trailheads and beaches where you can go kayaking or hiking.

I once drove the Pacific Coast Highway for three days. Each day I found a new trail to hike — some of them were right off the road, which made it easy to get back to the car. I also went kayaking at a local beach and spent the night in a cabin with a view of the ocean.

Other options include the Blue Ridge Parkway, which has several hiking trails and scenic overlooks, and the Swiss Alps, where you can hike or ski depending on the season. I recommend packing comfortable shoes and a lightweight backpack for these types of trips.^[3]

One approach, five waysMake It Your Way

⭐ Classic

A straightforward trail mix with nuts, dried fruit, and chocolate.

💰 Budget

Use cheaper nuts and dried fruit to cut costs without sacrificing quality.

⚡ Extra-Fast

Skip baking and use pre-toasted nuts for a quicker version.

✨ Depth

Add seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for extra texture and nutrition.

🥗 Light

Use lower-calorie ingredients like unsweetened dried fruit and low-fat chocolate.

Real questions, real answersFrequently Asked Questions

What are the best scenic drives itineraries for beginners?

Beginners should start with the Blue Ridge Parkway in the US or the Great Ocean Road in Australia — both are scenic, relatively easy to navigate, and have lots of stops for rest.

How do I plan a budget-friendly scenic drive itinerary?

Use free resources like maps and camping sites, and consider driving during the off-season. Staying in campgrounds or hostels can also help reduce costs.

What should I pack for a scenic drive itinerary?

Pack a camera, a map, comfortable shoes, and enough food and water for the trip. A portable camping stove or sandwich maker is also a good idea.

Are there scenic drives itineraries that are good for kids?

Yes — the Great Ocean Road in Australia and the Blue Ridge Parkway in the US are both great for kids, as they have beaches, wildlife, and kid-friendly stops.

What are the most romantic scenic drives itineraries?

The Pacific Coast Highway in the US and the Swiss Alps in Europe are both excellent for couples — they offer beautiful views, quiet moments, and opportunities for connection.

How long should a scenic drive itinerary be?

It depends on your travel style, but most itineraries range from 3 to 7 days. Shorter itineraries work well for solo travelers, while longer ones are better for families or adventure seekers.

Get it right every timeCommon Mistakes & Easy Fixes

The mistake	Why it happens	The fix
Not planning enough stops for rest and meals.	Driving long distances without rest can be exhausting and may cause you to miss key scenic spots.	Plan regular stops for meals and rest — every 2–3 hours is ideal.
Ignoring weather conditions.	Poor weather can make scenic drives dangerous and reduce visibility.	Check the weather forecast before starting your trip and adjust your itinerary if needed.
Not checking the road conditions.	Road closures or construction can disrupt your itinerary and cause delays.	Check road conditions and maps before starting your trip — use apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time updates.
Overpacking the car.	Overpacking can make the car harder to maneuver and may cause delays at scenic spots.	Pack only what you need and use a lightweight backpack for extra items.
Not preparing for emergencies.	Emergencies can happen — having a first-aid kit and emergency supplies can help you stay safe.
Not having a backup plan for lodging.	Last-minute changes can disrupt your itinerary if you don’t have a backup plan for lodging.	Book lodging in advance and have a list of alternative options in case of changes.