car road trip itinerary

• © Roadtrippers
• © Mapbox
• © OpenStreetMap
• Improve this map

• Scenic Drives
• Road Trip Planner

Road Trip Planning Made Easy

Create custom day trips, weekend getaways, and cross country adventures worldwide

Powerful features for planning your epic road trips (and the shorter adventures in between)

Unlimited stops.

Add unlimited stops and sub-stops. Combine your own stops with our pre-planned routes and recommended places of interest.

Smart Scheduling

By the minute, hour, or overnight, set preferences for each stop. Export your trip to your own Calendar.

Set Vehicle Type

Car, RV, camper trailer, truck, motorcycle, pulling a boat? Get a realistic estimate of driving time. Adjust travel speed by percentages for each unique situation.

Divide Trips Into Days

Divide your trips into manageable driving days based on your custom settings by time or distance. And of course you can customize each day differently.

Route Preferences

Configure route preferences such as avoiding highways or tolls for each day or any segment of your trip.

Use Any Device

Plan trips from your desktop computer, iPad, Android tablet, and mobile phone with the same easy-to-use interface. No app to download or software to install.

Automated To Do List guides you through the road trip planning process.

Manage Your Budget

Track expenditures before you go and along the way. See a summary of expenses for entrance fees, activities, restaurants, and lodging, etc.

Gas Calculator

See the estimated fuel cost for your vehicle type.

EV Charging

Find EV charging stations along your route. Get reminders to recharge. Use Charging Ranges to display icons on the map where your vehicle will require recharging.

Export Options

We support Google Earth (KML), Garmin Communicator, BaseCamp and MapSource (GPX), Co-Pilot Live (TRP), Microsoft Streets and Trips, TomTom itineraries (ITN), TomTom Places of Interest (OV2), Comma Separated Files (CSV), and Tab Separated Files (TSV).

Directions on paper come in handy. Print your road trip with turn-by-turn maps and full directions, divided into your day-by-day itinerary.

Is This Really Free?

Yes! It is free to use our Scenic Drive Itineraries and Road Trip Planner. Please consider purchasing your National Park or National Forest passes on myscenicdrives.com.

Why Do I Need An Account?

A free account is only required for the Road Trip Planner, enabling you to create, edit, and save your trips. Your account is secure. We never share your information.

Do I Need to Download An App or Install Software?

No app or software is needed. myscenicdrives.com works in any browser. Simply go to myscenicdrives.com

More Resources

Documentation, myscenicdrives.com, how it works.

A travel planner for everyone

Organize flights & hotels and map your trips in a free travel app designed for vacation planning & road trips, powered by ai and google maps..

Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

What travelers are raving about

Features to replace all your other tools, add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions, plan like a pro.

Unlock premium features like offline access, unlimited attachments, flight deals, export to Google maps, and much more

Offline access

Unlimited attachments, optimize your route.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

Discover your next favorite destination

Get inspired from guides around the world — with expert tips and recommendations from the Wanderlog community. See all Wanderlog travel guides.

Have tips of your own? Write a guide to share with other travelers like you!

Ready to plan your trip in half the time?

For every kind of trip and every destination, the best road trip planner, the best vacation planner, the best group itinerary planner.

• Plan a Road Trip
• Plan a Flight
• Find an Airport
• Where to Stay
• All Questions

"Trippy is the best road trip planner"

Get advice from real travelers who have done the same trip:, recent questions.

• 15 minutes ago someone asked : about Ellsworth       " Ellsworth, maine "
• 15 minutes ago someone asked : about Green Cove Springs and Tampa       " Road trip from Green cove springs florida to Tampa Florida "
• 25 minutes ago someone asked : about Whitecourt and Dawson City       " Whitecourt to Dawson city "
• 30 minutes ago someone asked : about Esperance and Cocklebiddy       " How far Esperance to cocklebiddy "
• 1 hour ago someone asked : about Dover (New Hampshire) and Concord (New Hampshire)       " Halfway between Dover nh and concord nh "
• 1 hour ago someone asked : about Melbourne and Gympie       " Melbourne to Gympie "
• 2 hours ago someone asked : about Melbourne and Longreach       " melbourne to longreach via the coast "
• 2 hours ago someone asked : about Moncton       " Baddeck to moncton "
• 2 hours ago someone asked : about Nairobi and Amboseli       " restaurants between nairobi and amboseli "
• 3 hours ago someone asked : about Saint Augustine       " St Augustine "
• 4 hours ago someone asked : about Grand Canyon National Park and Denver       " GRAND CANYON TO DENVER "
• 5 hours ago someone asked : about Mumbai and Wayanad       " Mumbai to wayanad "
• 5 hours ago someone asked : about Chattanooga and Savannah       " How long drive from Chattanooga to savannah "
• 6 hours ago someone asked : about Jacksonville and Charleston south Carolina       " Jacksonville Florida driving to Charleston South Carolina "
• 6 hours ago someone asked : about Hegins (Pennsylvania) and York (Pennsylvania)       " Half way between hegins pa and York pa "
• 7 hours ago someone asked : about Galway and Clifden       " miles between Galway and clifden "
• 16 hours ago someone asked : about Gulf Shores and Kansas City (Kansas)       " What is the best route to go? and Safest? "
• 23 hours ago someone asked : about Durango and Albuquerque       " What are the best stops between Albuquerque and Durango? "

Plan epic road trips

Plan multi-stop routes.

Easily plan your trip itinerary on an interactive map and see distances and driving times

Find places along the route

Find attractions, restaurants or accomodation along your driving route

Find inspiration

Explore our growing collections of ready-made road trip routes.

Share your itinerary

Invite family and friends to plan your route together. Or share your trip itinerary as a neat document

Discover Inspiring Routes

Explore our curated selection of epic road trips for every taste. Get inspired and use our guides as templates for your own planning.

Plan Your Road Trip

Build the perfect trip itinerary and pin as many locations on the map as you like. You’ll see distances connecting the waypoints and know the driving times between multiple stops. Search points of interest like attractions, trails, or national parks. Choose if you’re traveling by car or RV to optimize your route accordingly.

• English (UK)
• Español (Latinoamérica)
• Español (España)

Hit the road with TripIt

From car rental pickup to driving directions, TripIt can make sense of all your travel plans and create a single itinerary for every road trip.

You handle the booking, we'll take it from there

Plans are accessible on all devices

Adds travel plans from your Gmail, Outlook or Yahoo inbox

Plans are always available, even offline

Find the latest guidelines, restrictions, and requirements for your destinations

Upload PDFs, photos, and other documents to keep your travel plans all in one place

Get where you need to be, effortlessly and safely

Plots out your entire trip on a map

Pulls up driving directions between two points

Locates the closest restaurants, cafes, parking and more to where you’re staying

Shows safety scores for the areas you’re visiting with COVID-19 data included

Quickly get your upcoming travel plans without taking your eyes off the road

More from our blog

Download the TripIt app

The world’s highest-rated travel-organizing app has plenty of free features to make road trips easier. Whether you want your plans in your hand or you need your hands free, TripIt is available anywhere you need it.

15 Incredible Italy Road Trip Itineraries (with Driving Tips)

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: June 20, 2024

Home >> Europe >> Italy Travel Guide >> 15 Incredible Italy Road Trip Itineraries (with Driving Tips)

A road trip through Italy is the trip of a lifetime. We have enjoyed numerous Italian road trips and never tire of exploring one of Europe’s most charismatic and exciting countries by car.

Italy offers glorious road trip possibilities with beautiful historic cities, stunning countryside, majestic lakes and mountain regions, and quaint coastal towns and islands. And, of course, such varied regional cultures and cuisines to explore.

Whether it’s an extended road trip from north to south or one region of Italy, we’ve rounded up some fabulous itineraries for each area – from a few days to four weeks to help you plan the perfect Italian road trip.

Table of Contents

Tips for Renting a Car and Driving in Italy

• Always take photos when you pick up your rental and when returning it. Some agencies may try to accuse you of damaging the vehicle after you have returned it.
• Read your rental contract, and be aware of the excess fees and type of insurance.
• If possible, rent a small car . Streets can be narrow in small towns, and parking garages in cities and larger towns can be very tight.
• Collecting your rental car from an airport is always less stressful than in a city.
• Download the Parclick App to pre-reserve parking all over Italy (and Europe). It can save you up to 50% on parking fees . Select the garage that suits you, book for the required days, and show your reservation (or use the license plate recognition) on arrival. You can come and go from the garage as much as you like during your booked time. We have used it all over Europe and saved ourselves so much stress and money when parking in cities and larger towns.
• Be careful not to drive into any restricted zones in historical centers . They are called ZTL zones (Limited Traffic Zones) and are monitored with cameras. You can check for the zones online before arriving in a city. Unauthorized vehicles will automatically be issued hefty fines.
• When it comes to speed limits in Italy, while many people don’t seem to respect them, you can get hefty fines if caught on camera, and there are a lot of speed cameras in Italy.
• The same goes for parking. It can be difficult to work out where you can or can’t park sometimes but never risk it – In Italy; you will either get a huge fine or worse – they just tow you away. Always look for the ticket machine or park in a paid garage.

Find the Best Car Rental Deals for Italy

When we travel, we always use Discover Cars for car rental as they aggregate the best local deals, have no hidden fees, and offer free cancellation.

Tip:  Always check if you have car rental insurance included on your travel insurance or with your credit card company before paying any additional to the rental car company. 

Search for the Best Car Rental Deals in Italy .

16 Fabulous Italian Road Trip Ideas

Northern italy to southern italy-south tyrol to bari.

• Recommended Duration : 3-4 Weeks
• Distance : Over 1400 Kilometres
• Destinations : South Tyrol – Venice – Bologna – Brisighella – San Marino – Perugia – Sorrento – Amalfi Coast – Naples – Capri – Pompeii – Ischia – Matera – Bari

For the ultimate Italy road trip, head from north to south. This Italian road trip itinerary starts at the border with Austria, visiting South Tyrol and ending in Bari in the south, where it is possible to head over to Croatia if you choose.

Covering over 1400 kilometers and traveling through many regions of Italy, you need to allow 3-4 weeks for the optimal experience.

The best time of year is spring – May/June and autumn – September/October for great weather without the summer crowds. However, this itinerary is great at any time – winter is especially good in South Tyrol for skiers.

Suggested Itinerary

• Start in South Tyrol for stunning mountain scenery and a mixture of Austrian and Italian culture. The German-speaking towns add a very different feel to this slice of Italy. Hike Lago do Baies to see the best of this area.
• Next, head to Venice for the quintessential Italian bucket list experience. Take a gondola ride, walk over the Rialto Bridge, and experience the unique ambiance of Venice. We have a fabulous Venice itinerary if you can allow at least a few days in the magical city.
• On your way south, stop in at Bologna . Bologna is renowned for its fantastic food, so indulge in the region’s typical dishes while exploring the atmospheric Old Town.
• Brisighella is the perfect rural stop to enjoy the Italian countryside. This gorgeous town has the must-visit Rocco Manfrediana fortress.
• Pop out of Italy for a moment with a stop on your way south at San Marino . One of the world’s ten smallest countries at 61 sq km, this tiny republic is the world’s oldest surviving sovereign state with glorious views and a beautifully preserved medieval walled town.
• Soak in the history of Perugia. The center is gorgeous, with interesting museums and many historic churches.
• Next up is Rome . There is so much to do in Rome (we have a great 3-Day Rome Itinerary to help you plan your stay). From the Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and Vatican City , Rome is a highlight on any Italian itinerary. If you need a budget-friendly Rome itinerary, there are many great things to do in Rome for free .
• It’s now time for southern Italy with a week in the Sorrento/Amalfi coast area – one of the most romantic places in Italy for couples . Make a day trip to Naples and Capri , explore the towns of the Amalfi coast by sea, and head to Pompeii and Ischia . There is so much to do in this region, so spend as much time as you can spare. For those that like walking and hiking, see our Amalfi Coast hiking guide .
• Finish up with a final stop at Matera before getting to Bari . Matera is famous for its cave dwellings which have been inhabited for 9,000 years. It’s amazing to walk around.

Recommended by Sharon Gourlay – Dive Into Germany

Northern Italy Road Trip Itineraries

Road trip through piedmont italy.

• Recommended Duration : 7-10 days
• Distance : 290 Kilometres
• Destinations : Turin – Bra – Barolo – Alba – Asti – Biella – The Sanctuary of Oropa

The  Piedmont region of Italy  is situated in northwest Italy, bordering France and Switzerland. Backdropped by the majestic Swiss Alps, its rolling hills and vineyards eventually give way south to the Ligurian sea.

Piedmont has everything a traveler could want, from welcoming small towns, unique cuisine, and amazing wine, the most famous of which is Barolo, the King of wine.

Highlights of the Trip:

• Turin, the Imperial capital of Piedmont
• Bra – Birthplace of the Slow Food movement
• Barolo – Taste Barolo wine and local cuisine
• Alba – Home of the rare white truffle
• Asti – Much more than Spumante wine
• Biella – Famous wool town supplying the fashion capital of Milan
• The Sanctuary of Oropa
• Start your 290 km road trip in Turin , a large but walkable city with dozens of Savoy Royal Palaces to tour, loads of historical attractions, decadent chocolate, and the outstanding Egyptian Museum.
• Drive 74 km south of Turin to Monforte d’Alba , a hilltop town with many enotecas, restaurants, and historic sites. It’s a perfect base to explore the surrounding wine towns of Bra, Barolo, and Alba .
• Spend a day in Asti drinking the sweet Moscato wines for which the town is named, then head north to Biella , 125 km north of Asti.
• Biella is known for producing wool and exquisite cashmere, surrounded by rambling rivers and mountain scenery. Be sure and visit the Sanctuary of Oropa , one of the many sacred mountains in the region.
• Sixty kilometers north of Biella on the eastern shore of Lake Orta is the quaint medieval village of Orta San Giulio and a great place to end your road trip. Tour the Sacre Monte of Orta and Isola San Giulio just offshore. You can stay at the centrally located Hotel Rocco San Giulio and walk anywhere in town.

Travel to Piedmont in late Spring through Fall to avoid wintery road conditions.

Recommended by Lori Sorrentino – Travlinmad

Northern Italy’s lakes

• Recommended Duration : 10 days or more
• Distance : 700 Kilometres. Circular route starting and finishing in Milan.
• Destinations : Milan – Lake Garda – Lake Como -Lake Maggiore – Cannobio – Lake Orta

An easy circular route from Milan’s airport,  a road trip through northern Italy’s lakes  is a must-try bucket list experience. You’ll cover approximately 700 km in one week, though extending the itinerary to 10 days or more is easy.

• The first four days must be dedicated to Lake Garda , the largest lake in Italy. Boasting enchanting coastal towns and beautiful natural scenery, you’ll want to stay forever.

Focus each day on another part of the lake – visit the unique Lemon orchard of Limonaia del Castèl in Limone sul Garda, take a morning stroll around the turquoise Lake Tenno, roam the colorful Malcesine, enjoy wine tasting near Bardolino, climb the Scaligero Castle in Sirmione.

• Continue to the luxurious Lake Como for one day. Visit the picturesque towns of Varenna and Bellagio and the stunning Gardens of Villa Melzi.
• Next, spend a day on the lovely Lake Maggiore . Base yourself in the city of Stresa , and opt for a boat tour to the nearby Borromean Islands, one of the most beautiful islands in Italy . See the picture-perfect centuries-old villas and gardens still owned by the noble Borromeo family.
• Have a relaxed last day with a visit to the serene town of Cannobio and a final cup of coffee in the medieval Orta San Giulio on Lake Orta before returning the car to Milan.

Late spring or early fall are the ideal times for this road trip in terms of weather and crowds. Also, many attractions in the area are only open from April to October.

Recommended by Or – My Path in the World 

Emilia-Romagna, Lombardy, and Piedmont. Bologna to Milan and Turin

• Recommended Duration : 7 -14 days
• Distance : 370 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Bologna – Modena – Parma – Milan – Turin

This fantastic road trip through historic Northern Italy is perfect if you want to taste some of the best ingredients and dishes produced in the country.

The entire distance of this Italian road trip itinerary is only 371 Kilometers, which means you will have plenty of time for small side adventures if you spread it out over two weeks. You could, of course, stay to the major stops and complete it comfortably in a week.

One thing is certain; there is no way you will finish this road trip hungry. You will wish you had just a bit more time to try just one more dish.

• The trip starts in Emilia Romagna, where you will make stops in Bologna, Modena, and Parma for a whirlwind culinary tour of the region. 

Some must-experience stops include learning how Parmigiano Reggiano is made in Parma and tasting 100-year-old Balsamic in Modena . 

Bologna is a highlight of the road trip, with historic sites like the Piazza Maggiore, its Renaissance buildings, the city’s incredible food scene, and charming cafes.

• From Emilia Romagna, head northwest toward the Lombardy region for a stop in Milan , the world’s fashion capital and home to the famous Risotto Milanese. 
• The road trip then continues to the city of Turin in the heart of the Piedmont region . You will want to take some time to go truffle hunting or take a day to taste some Barolo or Barbaresco.

The best time for a road trip through these regions is during truffle season in the late fall – you will experience fewer crowds and accommodation, and car rental prices are lower. It is also a great time of year for food festivals after the harvest season.

Recommended by Gabriel – Chef Travel Guide

Pisa to Genoa

• Recommended Duration : 2-7 days
• Distance : 330 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Pisa – La Spezia – Cinque Terre – Portofino – Genoa

One of Italy’s best coastal road trips is from Pisa to Genoa. This road trip starts in Pisa in the region of Tuscany, tracing the Ligurian Coast to the capital of Liguria, Genoa.

It is possible to complete this road trip in two days, with an overnight stop in one of the Cinque Terre Villages.

However, this itinerary would be lovely spread over a week, allowing for at least one night at each destination between Pisa and Genoa. We have a fantastic two-night Cinque Terre itinerary to help you plan extra time in the famous five villages.

• See the Leaning Tower of Pisa and climb to the top
• Visit the Technical Naval Museum in La Spezia
• Enjoy the viewpoints and  Instagrammable places in Cinque Terre .
• Go to Castello Brown in Portofino
• Taste focaccia in Genoa
• On the first day, you’ll discover Pisa and the remarkable monuments in the so-called “Square of Miracles, including the iconic leaning tower.
• Head to La Spezia , the second largest city in Liguria and the gateway to the famous Five Villages. The pretty coastal city of La Spezia is also home to a major Italian naval base and the Technical Naval Museum.
• Head north to Cinque Terre to stay in one of the five villages for a night or two. Make sure you try tasty bruschetta at Nessun Dorma in Manarola and catch the sunset from one of the villages.
• Visit one of the prettiest fishing towns on the Italian Riviera, where the colorful village clusters around a small harbor. Since the late 19th century, Portofino has attracted European aristocracy and the celebrity jet set to its pristine shores, high-end restaurants, and glitzy boutiques. You never know who you might see in Portofino.
• You can spend an evening (or two) in Portofino or head directly to the final destination, the capital of Liguria, Genoa .

This road trip is best in the shoulder seasons to avoid summer traffic and crowds. However, if you plan to take advantage of the stunning coastal beaches, try for early or late summer. Avoid August if possible.

Recommended by: Dymphe Mensink – Dymabroad

Sanremo to Cinque Terre

• Recommended Duration : 3-5 days
• Distance : 260 Kilometres.

Embark on a memorable Italian road trip from Sanremo to Cinque Terre. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Italian Riviera as you drive along the Mediterranean Sea. This road trip itinerary can be completed in as little as 2-3 days or stretched over a week.

• Sanremo is a charming and animated town right next to the French border. It’s a perfect starting point for an Italian road trip after exploring the south of France . You will find good restaurants and bars to get a first taste of the culinary talent and kindness of the locals.
• Drive along the Ligurian Coast from Sanremo for two hours until you reach Genoa , the capital of Liguria. Spend the afternoon visiting the Royal Palace Museum, Piazza De Ferrari, or Cattedrale di San Lorenzo.
• For the second day of your road trip, head to the marvelous Portofino, less than one hour from Genoa. You will be mesmerized by the colorful waterfront houses that line the harbor of the beautiful coastal town.
• You can spend the rest of the day (or overnight) in Portofino or head to the world-famous cliff-side fishing villages of Cinque Terre . 
• You should spend at least two days in Cinque Terre to see it all. Explore each colorful village, from Monterosso al Mare to Riomaggiore, making unforgettable holiday memories while savoring some of Italy’s best seafood dishes. 

Recommended by: Soline Le Page – On the Road Diary

Central Italy Road Trip Itineraries

Rome to pisa along the tyrrhenian coast.

• Distance : 350 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Rome – Cerveteri – Santa Severa Beach – The Tarot Garden – Argentario Peninsula – Elba Island – Pisa

A road trip along the Tyrrhenian Coast from Rome to Pisa is especially pleasant in summer. Traveling between the cities along the ancient consular road Aurelia allows you to discover beautiful beaches and small villages off the beaten path.

• Start in Rome, where the city’s historic center is dense with things to see. Aside from the main attractions – the Colosseum and the Trevi Fountain, there are wonderful piazzas, such as Piazza Navona and Piazza del Popolo, to explore.
• From Rome, head to Cerveteri . One of Rome’s most popular day trips , it is home to a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site, the Etruscan Necropolis of Cerveteri—a fascinating city of the dead with thousands of tombs carved into the rock.
• Santa Severa Beach is the most beautiful beach near Rome. The beach is home to a well-preserved medieval castle and is washed by a clear sea.
• The Tarot Garden is a contemporary art park a few kilometers from the town of Capalbio . The park is home to 22 fascinating sculptures representing the tarot’s major arcana. The creator is French-American contemporary artist Niki De Saint-Phalle .
• Visit the peculiar Argentario Peninsula linked to the mainland by three narrow strips of land. The perimeter of the Argentario peninsula hides small bays bathed by crystal-clear sea, accessible by fairly steep walking paths. Cala Gesso is the most picturesque of these bays.
• Visit the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, Elba Island . Take one of the regular ferries from the port of Piombino to explore the island’s unique and glorious beaches, such as Fetovaia Beach, and discover Elba’s rich history and the legacy of its most famous resident, Napolean Bonaparte.
• Finish in Pisa . The small city full of artistic treasures can be toured in a day. Its heart is the Piazza del Duomo, which houses the Leaning Tower, the Cathedral, and the Baptistery.

Tip: Pay attention to the speed limits along Aurelia road, as there are many speed cameras.

Recommended by Lisa –  Travel Connect Experience

Siena Region of Tuscany

• Recommended Duration : 2-3 days
• Distance : 70 Kilometres. Siena and Florence are the possible start and finishing points.
• Destinations : Montalcino – Pienza – Montepulciano – Cortona

One of the quintessential Italian experiences is a Tuscany road trip. The  Tuscan region of Siena  borders the province of Florence in the north, the province of Arezzo to the northeast, Umbria and Lazio to the south, and Pisa to the west. 

You can complete this road trip as a loop, starting and finishing in Siena. Or as this region is one of the most popular and accessible day trips from Florence , you could start or finish in Florence.

• You can start from either Siena or Florence.
• First, head for the tiny hilltop village of Montalcino , famous for its delicious Brunello wine. Visit the wine-tasting room in the fortress of Montalcino, where you can sample most of the local producers in one place. 
• Next, head to Pienza , the hilltop UNESCO-designated town, arriving through the sublime landscape of cypress trees and gently rolling hills. On the way, stop at Cipressi di San Quirico d’Orcia, a scenic viewpoint. Pienza, known for its Pecorino cheese, is a well-preserved Renaissance town that has remained untouched since the 15th century. Linger over a long meal at La Terrazza del Choistro or Osteria Sette di Vino. 
• Visit the pretty village of Montepulciano . Sip on some of the village’s finest wine in one of the cozy wine-tasting cellars dotted throughout the town.
• The last stop is Cortona , the town made famous by the book  Under the Tuscan Sun  by Francis Mayes and the subsequent movie. The town’s buildings span the 11th to 15 centuries.  Grab a gelato from the delicious Gelateria Snoopy and lose yourself in Cortona’s endless winding alleyways and epic views of the Tuscan countryside. 
• Return to either Siena or Florence.

For a relaxing road trip to this part of Tuscany, plan for 2 to 3 days and enjoy a lovely stay at  Siena House , a charming boutique B&B or explore some of Tuscany’s best wine hotels in the region.

Recommended by Renee – Dream Plan Experience 

Tuscany-Round Trip from Florence

• Recommended Duration : 7 days
• Distance : 471 Kilometres. Starting and finishing in Florence
• Destinations : Florence – Lucca – Pisa- Siena – Cortona – Arezzo – Val d’Orcia – Chianti

A road trip through one of Italy’s most famous regions, starting and finishing in one of Italy’s most beautiful cities, Florence.

Spring, summer, and fall are particularly beautiful in Tuscany. The hills will be green in the spring, and poppies will bloom in the countryside. In the summer, sunflower fields are a draw, and the golden, bare rolling hills look stunning after the autumn harvest. 

From a weather perspective, spring and fall offer the most pleasant temperatures, with fewer crowds than in the summer. 

Highlights of a  road trip through Tuscany  include:

• Charming hilltop towns that offer historical landmarks, local cuisine and culture, and charming ambiance.
• See the world-famous art in Florence.
• Wine tasting at some of the renowned wine-growing areas in the region, including Chianti and the Val d’Orcia.
• The opportunity to photograph one of the most picturesque regions in Italy, with its rolling hills, stately cypress rows, and picturesque farmhouses.
• Taste the region’s cuisine with its pasta, cheeses, meats, and the famous  ribollita  soup.
• Driving in a loop, you’ll start and end this Tuscany road trip in Florence. You can find our guide on what to do in Florence here .
• Head west of Florence to the city of Lucca , famous for its well-preserved Renaissance walls encircling the cobbled maze of the historic city center.
• On to Pisa , a small city best known for its leaning tower in the Piazza del Duomo. The so-called “Square of Miracles” is a treasure trove of remarkable landmarks, including the cathedral, baptistery, and the  camposanto (cemetery).
• Make your way south toward the stunning medieval city of Siena to explore the city’s 17 historic districts that extend outward from the unique fan-shaped central square, Piazza del Campo. Visit Palazzo Pubblico, the Gothic town hall, and the 14th-century Torre del Mangia for sweeping views of the city.
• Continue on to the Val d’ Orcia region for stunning landscapes and local wine – Plan some tastings in Montepulciano and Montalcino in the Val d’Orcia, where you can also taste the local pecorino.
• Head east to visit Cortona . The walled hilltop town, one of Tuscany’s prettiest towns, is famous for its beautiful medieval center and the Etruscan museum.
• Continue on to Arezzo in the east, an elegant city with an easy-going atmosphere often bypassed by tourists . Yet, the beautiful city is rich with monuments, parks, archaeological remains, churches, and historic squares.
• Make your last stop in the famed wine region of Chianti just south of Florence before heading back to the city.

If you have more time, you can add many small picturesque towns along the route to your itinerary.

Make sure you book at least one stay at an agriturismo. They capture the region’s essence and allow you to appreciate the countryside.

Recommended by Dhara – It’s Not About the Miles

Chianti Region Tuscany

• Distance : 100-150 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Montefioralle – Monteriggioni – San Gimignano – Radda in Chianti

One of Italy’s finest short road trips is a 2-3 day drive around the Chianti region of Tuscany. Chianti is situated between the tourist hotbed of Florence and the stunning medieval city of Siena .

A road trip between the two cities through Chianti only covers about 100-150 km, but there are so many beautiful places to see along the way that you won’t want to cover more ground. 

A region of rolling hills covered in vineyards and stone masonry villas, Chianti is what many people think of when they imagine Tuscany.

Chianti is mostly known for its wine. The region produces some of the finest wines in the world, especially the local specialty Chianti Classico . Vineyards are scattered throughout the region, mixed in with fairy-tale Tuscan villages and ancient castles.

Plan your road trip to avoid the motorways. While driving the winding back roads, be sure to include the following towns and villages in your itinerary:

• Montefioralle
• Monteriggioni
• San Gimignano
• Radda in Chianti

Most importantly, stop by some of Italy’s best wineries. Just be sure there is a sober driver in the group, as the local wineries can be generous with the pours.

Some of the top picks for Chianti region wineries are:

• Castello di Verrazzano
• Pogglio Amorelli
• Azienda Agricola Campocorto
• Fattoria di Montemaggio

Be sure to contact the wineries before visiting to arrange tours or tastings. Most of the more popular wineries require reservations. For a true Tuscan experience, spend the night at a castle vineyard like Castello Vicchiomaggio . 

A road trip through Chianti will leave you longing for more time in the Tuscan hills.

Recommended by: Chris Heckmann – Around the World with Me

Val d’Orcia Tuscany

• Recommended Duration : 4-7 days
• Distance : 350 Kilometres Starting in Florence or Siena.
• Destinations : Florence or Siena – Pienza – Montepulciano – Monticchiello – Bagni San Filippo thermal baths

The charming  Val d’Orcia in Italy  is a true jewel of Tuscany and a fantastic Italian road trip destination.

Most start their tour in Florence (approximately 1.5 hrs from Val d’Orcia), but you can also start or finish in Sienna (approximately 1.20 hrs from Val d’Orcia). You can plan around 350 kilometers for the entire route and 4-7 days.

On a road trip through Val d’Orcia, you will discover Tuscany you only know from movies. Endless hilly landscapes, breathtaking viewpoints along the panoramic roads, and the typical cypress avenues conjure up a picture-perfect ambiance. 

The stunning landscape dotted with small medieval villages and Renaissance towns is considered so unique it was given UNESCO World Heritage status in 2014.

• Explore the numerous small, charming Renaissance villages, where you can stroll through medieval alleys and discover Tuscany from its most beautiful side.
• Pienza is considered the cradle of the Renaissance. Make sure you try the local pecorino di Pienza cheese.
• The medieval walled town of San Quirico d’Orcia is considered one of the prettiest villages in Tuscany.
• Montepulciano . The stunning medieval hilltop town is a paradise for wine lovers. Make sure to try the delicious local red Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.
• Montalcino is another beautiful town for wine lovers. The town’s vineyards produce some of Italy’s most famous and delicious wines, Rosso di Montalcino and Brunello di Montalcino.
• The beautiful village of Monticchiello, with its famous winding road, becomes an open-air theatre in summer with performances by the local inhabitants.
• For the onward journey, it is best to choose the Strada Provinciale 146 between Pienza and San Quirico , considered one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in the region with its numerous viewpoints.
• visit the Bagni San Filippo thermal baths – beautiful natural hot springs in a peaceful forest setting. The water is loaded with calcium, giving the water a milky blue/white color like milk, and leaves white calcium deposits on the rocks, creating a stunning setting to bathe in.

You will find lots of lovely agrotourism accommodations to stay overnight, which will add to the Tuscan experience. A road trip through Val d’Orcia is a wonderful mix of landscape, culture, and wine, which should not be missed on any trip to Tuscany.

Recommended by Martina – PlacesofJuma

Southern Italy Road Trip Itineraries

Puglia road trip.

• Distance : 580 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Bari – Manopoli and Polignano a Mare – Alberobello – Locorotondo – Ostuni – Lecce

A Puglia road trip is the best way to explore one of Italy’s most charming regions. The ideal time for this road trip is around seven days in spring, early summer, or early autumn.

Visiting Puglia, you can fly into one of two airports, Bari or Brindisi (in the South). Both airports have car rental options to begin your 580 km road trip around Puglia’s best sights.

Suggested Itinerary for Puglia

• It’s worthwhile beginning your Puglia road trip in the historic city of Bari , Puglia’s capital. Bari has beautiful architectural sights, including the Basilica San Nicolo and Bari Cathedral.
• From Bari, head to Manopoli and Polignano a Mare , where you will find the region’s best beaches.
• Head inland to see the famous trulli houses of Alberobello . The white cone-shaped houses of Alberobello are a recognized Unesco World Heritage Site.
• Locorotondo , a picture-perfect town (often missed by tourists), is a real treat. Visit during holidays such as Easter and Christmas when the locals adorn the town in traditional decor.
• The white city of Ostuni is a maze of white-washed buildings, sitting below a hill-topped citadel with ancient fortified walls.
• Before heading back to Bari, if your Puglia road trip itinerary allows, stop at Lecce , known as the ‘Florence of the South,’ with exquisite baroque architecture, including the Piazza del Duomo.
• It’s also worth stopping in Gallipoli : an old fishing village with a stunning port backed by ancient walls and pretty beaches.

Recommended by: Jasmine – The Life of a Social Butterfly

Calabria in the Toe of Italy’s Boot

• Recommended Duration : 7-9 days
• Distance : 153 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Costa degli Dei and Costa Viola – Pizzo – Zambrone – Marinella – Michelino – Tropea – Costa Viola – Bagnara Calabra

Often overlooked by visitors to Italy, Calabria is a fabulous region in Italy’s south. If the idea of visiting picturesque villages perched in the Pennine mountains, the glowing sun, and relaxing at the beach sounds like your type of road trip, Calabria is perfect.

If you find yourself in cities such as  Venice  or Rome, you can take an internal flight to Lamezia Terme Airport. Your road trip will start from here and ends in Scilla.

Taking between seven and nine days, you can drive 153 kilometers down the Costa degli Dei and Costa Viola.

• First, stop in Pizzo , where you can taste the delicious Tartufo (a gelato based dessert).
• Visit the beaches in Zambrone, Marinella, and Michelino, then the last stop along the Coast of the Gods, Tropea. The tourist town of Tropea is worth visiting for its lovely old city set on high cliffs overlooking the sea. Don’t miss trying the typical Calabrian pasta dish, Fileja alla Tropeana, when in Tropea.
• Continue towards the Costa Viola with Bagnara Calabra, known for its long stretch of sandy beach and Scilla.
• In Scilla , you can spend some time snorkeling in some of Italy’s most crystal clear waters and visit Chianalea , the charming fishing village. Make sure you try a swordfish sandwich in Scilla.

The best time of year to be in Calabria is in June or July, right before it gets too busy in August.

This Calabria road trip is an alternative way to explore the Tyrrhenian coast and includes popular places and lesser-known villages.

Recommended by: Maddalena Visentin – Venice Travel Tips

• Recommended Duration : 2 weeks
• Distance : 600 Kilometres.
• Destinations : Cagliari – Villasimius- Cala Goloritze – Gorrupu – Orgosolo – Cala Luna – Cala Brandinchi – Olbia – La Maddalena – Alghero – Bosa

A Mediterranean island road trip through Sardinia offers some of the world’s finest beaches, picturesque hikes, breathtaking natural beauty, and charming towns. 

A trip to Sardinia is an incredible Italian road trip experience.

A suggested 600 km, two-week itinerary would be to start in the capital city of Cagliari and end in Bosa. The best stops are Villasimius, Cala Goloritze, Gorrupu, Orgosolo, Cala Luna, Cala Brandinchi, Olbia, La Maddalena, and Alghero. 

• Once you have explored the capital Cagliari , drive along the coast to Villasimius , where you can enjoy the famous Sardinian beaches.
• Another must-see spot is Cala Goloritze , where a hike leads to one of the island’s most spectacular beaches with crystal-clear water.
• Gorropu , an impressive canyon, is a reminder that Sardinia has more to offer than just beaches. Inland villages such as Orgosolo , known for its street art and political graffiti, also provide a glimpse into the “real Sardinia.” 
• Another highlight includes the stunning La Maddalena Island . While there, visit Caprera Island, Cala Coticcio, the Garibaldi Museum, and Cala Napoletana.
• Finally, back on the mainland, visit the charming city of Alghero, Neptune’s Grotto, and the colorful town of Bosa. 

The best time for a road trip around Sardinia to avoid the crowds and enjoy milder weather is the shoulder season from May to June and September to October. It is still warm enough to go to the beach, but there are fewer crowds to battle – Sardinia is extremely busy in the summer months. See here for more tips on visiting Sardinia .

Recommended by: Rachel – Average Lives

Western Sicily

• Recommended Duration : 10-12 days
• Distance : 580 Kilometres. Starting and finishing in Palermo
• Destinations : Palermo – San Vito Lo Capo – Trapani – Marsala – Caltabellotta – Agrigento – Enna – the Parco delle Madonie.

Sicily is the ideal setting for an Italian road trip. This efficient itinerary starts and ends in Palermo and makes a tidy loop around the western part of the island.

We also have a 10 day Sicily road trip looping the entire island.

Covering both the coast and the lush interior, stops include San Vito Lo Capo, Trapani, Marsala, Caltabellotta, Agrigento, Enna, and the Parco delle Madonie.

This road trip covers a distance of approximately 580 km and requires a minimum of 10-12 days to complete.

The best time of year to explore this part of Italy is early autumn when temperatures are pleasant, the summer crowds have dissipated, and harvest festivities sweep through the vineyards.

• Embarking on a street food tour of Palermo
• Swimming and snorkeling at San Vito Lo Capo
• Exploring the salt flats near Trapani
• Shopping for traditional Sicilian souvenirs at the carpet ateliers in Erice
• Doing a fortified wine tasting in Marsala
• Getting lost in the ancient streets of Caltabellotta
• Visiting the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Valley of the Temples
• Touring the incredible Cathedral of Enna
• Hiking in the Madonie Regional Natural Park
• After a few days in Sicily’s biggest city, pick up your car and depart Palermo . Follow the coastal road to San Vito Lo Capo, where gorgeous white-sand beaches and ultramarine waters await.
• Continue along the coast to Trapani , the ‘City of Salt and Sail’, to explore the crystal pans before continuing to Marsala , a picturesque city of honey-colored stone known for its fortified wines. For a unique experience, tour the cellars at Cantine Florio.
• Detour inland to spend a night in the tiny village of Caltabellotta before making your way down to Agrigento , the departure point for exploring one of Sicily’s most important archaeological sites, the Valley of the Temples.
• Turning inland, make a quick stop in medieval Enna before spending a few nights on the fringe of Madonie Regional Natural Park , where you can enjoy the area’s hiking trails before returning to Palermo.

Recommended by Emily – Wander-Lush

Italy is such an incredible country to explore leisurely by road. With so many incredible and diverse experiences, it’s hard to choose just one Italy road trip itinerary.

• WORK WITH US

Photo Presets

The Mandagies

The Perfect Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary (25 Stops + 3 Itineraries!)

Post Summary: The Ultimate Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary + All The Stops Along The Way

The Pacific Coast Highway is easily considered to be one of the most iconic road trip routes in the world !

It’s not hard to believe either. From the moody beaches in Washington to the spectacular natural bridges in Southern Oregon to the winding roads of Big Sur, California , there is something new to see around every bend.

Berty and I drove the entire route back in 2017, and have returned to deeply explore sections every year since then!

Because we know this route so well, we wanted to create this comprehensive guide for iconic stops and places to see along the entire length of the Pacific Coast Highway, all 1,700-ish miles between Seattle, Washington and Orange County, California !

In this power, we’ll share the best PCH stops in Washington, Oregon, and California to make your Pacific Coast Highway road trip your most epic trip yet.

Let’s get planning!

Step By Step Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Directions (Download)

Where is the pacific coast highway how long is it.

The Pacific Coast Highway has many names.

You can also recognize it by its abbreviation (PCH), and referred to as the California Coast road trip , Pacific Coast Highway road trip, Route 1, Highway 101 (through Washington and Oregon), or even just Highway 1 (in California).

All names aside, they all lead you down the same road, which is the route that parallels the Pacific Ocean and the western border of the contiguous United States.

The traditional Pacific Coast Highway (Route 1) is 655 miles long. The full Pacific Coast Highway (Orange County to Seattle) is just over 1,700 miles.

We’ll be talking about the entire Pacific Coast Highway itinerary in this blog post. (Seattle to Orange County)

Pacific Coast Highway Map, Directions, & Best Times

Which direction to drive the pacific coast highway.

Where should you begin your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary? Northbound or Southbound?

There are two directions to do a Pacific Coast Highway road trip – driving south or driving north! Honestly, both are great options but being from Washington, Berty and I began in Seattle and made our way south.

If you are searching for the best weather conditions, here are pros of each direction:

• Southbound (Seattle to Orange County): Driven during spring break, you can escape the Pacific Northwest rain and enjoy the warmth of Southern California.
• Nortbound (Orange County to Seattle): Driving north will help you escape California’s hot weather in late summer and fall.

Pacific Coast Highway Start and End Points

Traditionally, the Pacific Coast Highway is considered to be the entire Highway 1 of the California Coast. This spans between Capistrano Beach is Orange County to Legget in Nortoerhn California. Highway 1 is 655.84 miles.

However, we like to think of this drive spanning three Pacific Coast states: Washington, Oregon, and California.

The traditional starting point in Washington is Seattle (with a detour through the Olympic National Park). The traditional starting point in California is San Diego .

When To Drive The Pacific Coast Highway

We also began our trip in June, but this trip is good to take any time of year.

If you decided on making it a winter road trip route , that means you’ll have a lot fewer crowds to deal with! Driving along the coast, the weather is more temperate and usually doesn’t get cold enough for snow, so you won’t run into many driving issues.

However, if you’re looking for the “windows-down, sunsets every night” kind of trip, we recommend taking this drive any time between June-September for the best chance of good weather.

Pacific Coast Highway Map

Top Tips For Driving The Pacific Coast Highway

So, how can you plan a Pacific Coast Highway road trip? Here are our suggestions of things to do before your trip:

Plan Your Stops Carefully: Carefully creating an itinerary will help make reserving hotels and activies a LOT easier. However, make sure to leave just a little wiggle room for surprises! Book Accommodations In Advance: The Pacific Coast Highway is a popular road trip route. Once you know your trip dates, plan to book hotels and campgrounds ASAP. We like to split accommodations between car camping and hotels for a good mix. On a budget? Here are 20 car camping hacks to consider. Check Road Closures: Check you route for any major road closures. This actually happens a lot more often than you might think Big Sur often has landslides. Rent a Great Car (or RV!): You can rent a car and book hotels, OR you can rent a campervan and book campgrounds for a budget-friendly trip. Outdoorsy has cool recreation vehicles vans to rent – it’s like Airbnb but for RVs! Decide When To Embark: Determine when to plan your PCH trip and how many days you have. Keep scrolling to the bottom of the post for PCH itinerary examples. Use a Good Navigation App : Good navigation apps make a huge difference. Read our favorite road trip planner apps here. Get a Convertible…or a Harley! If you are driving only a small section of the PCH, rent a fun vehicle! This isn’t mandatory, but it sure is iconic to drive on the highway in one of these cool rides. Ask Great Questions: You’re in the car for a long time. Make sure to have these road trip questions ready to brighten those dull moments. Download Podcasts + Playlists : Download these road trip podcasts and personalized playlists when you have wifi. You’ll thank me later. Pack Your Car With The Essentials: Here’s a list of road trip essentials you need to be packing. Prepare To Stop Frequently: The whole point of driving the Pacific Coast Highway is to take in the sights!

How To Choose a Car For The Pacific Coast Highway

Choosing the right vehicle for your Pacific Coast Highway road trip is probably THE most important decision you will make.

Option 1: Drive Your Own Car Make sure your car has had a tune-up, and its oil changed. It’s worth it to get checked out now, than risk something going wrong mid-way through your trip.

Option 2: Rent a Regular Car Renting a car is a great option for a reliable drive down the Pacific Coast Highway. Personally, we like Avis becuase they have a great rewards program. You can find cheap options

Option 3: Rent a Campervan or RV Renting a campervan is an awesome way to experience a little bit of vanlife. Search for the best campervans at Outdoorsy . Just note, it may be a little tricky to drive a campervan one-way. You may have to return it at your starting point via I-5!

Option 4: Take The Public us (Kind of possible, but not recommended) Yes, it’s possible to cobble together transportation on local transit. You’ll find that you can get around easiest in Southern California and the central Oregon Coast. However, there will be stretches of road with no transporation avaiable, or you may have to leave the coast and venture inland to find a route. It’s cheap yes, but takes quite a bit of pre-planning.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip On A Budget

Are you hoping to plan a Pacific Coast Highway road trip route on a budget ? Here are some budgeting hacks we like to use to plan a budget PCH trip:

Use The Dyrt To Find Campgrounds: The Dyrt is the largest online campground database. We use the offline campground search feature to find spots on the go (no service needed!). The Dyrt gave us a code for you, our epic reader, to try the pro membership for 30 days free!   Click here to unlock your 30-day free trial . Find Free Campsites: Road tripping around the west coast for years, we’ve learned a thing or two about finding free campsites in the USA . Our guide includes campground searching hacks, backcountry packing guides, and tips on how to find the best camping spots on the PCH. Cook Your Own Meals: Save money on the road by making your own quick & easy camping meals . Manage Money On The Road: Learn how we travel on a budget in the Pacific Northwest .

What To Pack For A Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip

A good Pacific Coast Highway road trip will take you through the rainy gloom of Washington, as well as the sunny beaches of California. This makes packing slighly more challenging – you’ll have to account for tons of variable weather!

Rain Jacket: You’ll need one in Washington and Oregon, especially during winter and spring. Here are our favorite rain jackets to wear in the Pacific Northwest . Light Layers: Once you reach California, it’s nice to have light, packable layers to bring on your day adventures. We like this windbreaker and this colorful fleece for easy layering. Down Jacket: Down jackets are an excellent option for extra warmth, especially when paired with a rain jacket. Get this packable one to save space in your suitcase. Sunglasses: You’ll need some, since you’ll be watchin the sunset every night! Grab this pair of inexpensive but HIGHLY rated sunglasses to knock around on your adventures. Hiking Shoes: Hiking in the PNW for over a decade, we know a thing or two about boots! Read our list on the best hiking boots , to pick the right ones for you. Walking Sandals : From walking around Huntington Pier to strolling around your campsite, walking sandals are essential to your Pacific Coast Highway packing list. Portable Phone Charger: This Goal Zero 24 is the perfect companion to charge your phone on a day trip. Camera: Here’s our guide on how to take smartphone landscape photography, or you can check out the travel photography gear as media professionals. Hiking Clothes: You’ll want to bring these highly-coveted hiking shorts , a day pack , and the 10 hiking essentials .

Here are some posts we’ve written about what to pack for certain parts of the Pacific Coast Highway:

• 5 Essentials to Bring On The Washington Coast
• The Ultimate Packing List For San Francisco
• What To Pack For A Weekend in Los Angeles

The Best Pacific Coast Highway Stops (State By State)

If you’re planning to experience the entire Pacific Coast Highway (including extending it to Oregon and Washington), you probably know that there is an insane amount of beautiful stops to take.

We’re going to break locations down state by state, to give you bite-sized chunks of information for each place.

Each state provides something unique and exciting for your Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary, so read below for location inspiration in Washington, Oregon, and California!

Pacific Coast Highway Stops In Washington

Washington is not all rain and gloom!

While the movies portray this evergreen state in a constant shroud of clouds and moodiness (Thanks, Twilight) , its nothing farther from the truth.

Here, you can find powerful waterfalls, secret coves, and lush green forest, and amazing hikes in every corner of this beautiful state.

Keep on reading to read about some highlights along the Pacific Coast Highway in Washington!

Seattle, Washington

This is where we suggest starting your Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

Seattle is a great place to stock up on all the road trip essentials , grab rental cars, and arrive by plane to stay on your journey on the Pacific Coast Highway. If you’re flying in to begin your journey, you’ll fly into Sattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

Have a little bit more time on your hands? Stick around for a few days and try these unique things to do in Seattle , or take these incredible day trips from Seattle .

Fun things to do in Seattle, Washington:

• Visit Pike Place Market
• Go to the first-ever Starbucks Coffee store
• Visit The Museum of Pop Culture
• Watch the sunset at Jose Rizal Park
• See the Space Needle up close at Kerry Park
• Have a bonfire with friends at Golden Gardens Park
• Go to A Husky Football game in the University District

Read More: What To Pack For The Pacific Northwest

Port Angeles

If you are starting in Seattle or Vancouver, chances are you’ll need to take a ferry across the Puget Sound to reach the Olympic Peninsula . It’s also possible to drive around through Olympia, if you don’t want to put your car on the ferry.

From here, you will pass the cities of Sequim and Port Angeles. Before hitting to Pacific Coast Highway, we recommend taking a stop by Lake Crescent for some classic PNW vibes and maybe a quick lunch break too.

If you want to see what the lake looks like from above, test your limits and hike Mount Storm King . The 4.7-mile round trip hike gains over 2,000 feet in elevation, including scrambling up the side of a cliff with the help of a few installed ropes.

This hike isn’t for the faint of heart, but your attempts will be rewarded with experiencing one of the most spectacular places to see in the Olympic Peninsula .

Stay Overnight: Book a stay at The Olympic Lodge in Port Angeles . It’s right in town, and central to other adventures like Hurricane Ridge, Salt Creek, and Lake Crescent.

Sol Duc Falls

Sol Duc Falls is located in the Olympic National Park , and along Highway 101 on your way towards the coast.

It’s a small detour before heading to the ocean. However, the detour is worth every minute! The short trail to Sol Duc Falls leads to one of the most gorgeous waterfalls in Washington state.

If you are wanting a unique place to stay in the Olympic National Park, consider staying at the Sol Duc Hot Springs, a natural pool resort in the park.

Doing this, you can wake up early to visit the falls and beat the crowds!

Cape Flattery

If you’re looking for the most northwest location in the lower 48 United States, you’ve found it at Cape Flattery !

This jaw-dropping piece of coastline is owned by the Makah Tribe. It includes beautiful sea stacks just offshore and expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

If you are planning your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary for epic photo spots, don’t miss this place! You’ll need an entry pass ($10 per vehicle) and you can pick it up at the gas station or grocery store at Neah Bay.

Forks, Washington

La Push Beaches (First, Second, and Third)

You may know these beaches from the movie Twilight but rest assured there are no vampires in sight. (Partly because it’s werewolf territory anyway, DUH) In fact, we’ve seen some of the most incredible sunsets right here on Second Beach.

When visiting, it’s important to note that there are three beaches to choose from. First Beach provides easy and instant beach access, so it’s a popular choice for families.

Second Beach requires a hike on a short trail to reach the beach, and you can also camp on this beach. Second Beach is also the most popular option for its beautiful rock formations and vast shoreline.

Third Beach requires a longer hike and is the least visited of all the beaches.

Any of these Washington beaches you choose, don’t forget to pack these 5 beach essentials!

Read More: La Push Beach + and Beach Camping Tips

Ocean Shores, Washington

Ocean Shores is a quaint little town on the Washington Coast, just north of Grays Harbor.

Here, you will find tons of vacation rental homes, small seafood restaurants, and tons of beach activities. Berty and I came with our friends last summer and opted to rent motorbikes on the beach, eat our weight in crab, and explore the jetty!

Restaurants to try in Ocean Shores:

• Murphy’s Candy & Ice Cream Shop
• Galway Bay Irish Pub
• Ocean Beach Roasters and Bistro
• Oyhut Bay Bistro

Want more beach fun on the Washington Coast? Check out Ruby Beach and Rialto Beach !

Read More: 7 Fun Things To Do In Ocean Shores, Washington

Pierce County Area (Gig Harbor, Tacoma, and Puyallup)

If you’re looking to spend a little extra for a comfortable room and some great food, spend some time exploring Gig Harbor and boating around the South Puget Sound . You will be able to spot wildlife all around you, whether it’s jellyfish or a pod of orcas!

Some of our favorite cities in Pierce County to explore: Puyallup (Washington State Fair), Tacoma, and Gig Harbor!

Mount Rainier National Park

Take your journey slightly inland to explore Mount Rainier National Park. Here, you can test your limits and backpack up to the summit (training required!) or simply take a nice stroll at the base of the mountain like on Nisqually Loop Trail .

Mount Rainier is best explored if you spend 2-3 days in the park! There are so many different areas to cover (Paradise Area and Sunrise Area are the most popular), so give yourself time to enjoy the beautiful outdoors here in the Pacific Northwest.

Most Popular Activities To Do At Mount Rainier:

• Hike the Grove of the Patriarchs Trail
• See Silver Falls
• Hike the Skyline Divide Trail
• Visit the Longmire Museum

Cape Disappointment State Park

Cape Disappointment is located in the far southwestern corner of Washington State. Here, you can discover miles of trails, play on the beaches, and maybe even spot an orca offshore!

For a memorable photo opportunity on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, take the trail down to Deadman’s Cove and capture this hidden beach at sunset!

Read More: Cape Disappointment + Deadman’s Cove

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Stops In Oregon

The Oregon Coast itself is worthy of its own road trip but lucky you – you get to see it all and more!

We’re sharing all the best stops along this part of the Pacific Coast Highway and what you can expect in this beautiful state.

Not enough time for the whole thing? Take an Oregon Coast Road Trip instead!

Cannon Beach

Cannon Beach is a family and dog-friendly beach located 1.5 hours west of Portland. Here, you can explore the many quaint seaside shops, take a walk on the beach, and explore the many tide pools.

There are many services available here, so it’s a great stop for camping, resting, or even getting a seaside Airbnb! (By the way, y ou can get $40 off your first reservation at this link! )

Read More: Spending The Day At Cannon Beach

Cape Kiwanda

Cape Kiwanda  is a popular beach on the Oregon Coast. Here, you can walk along the beach and enjoy Pacific City’s own “Haystack Rock”, or climb the nearby sand dunes to discover incredible views, coves, and rock formations!

Too busy for you? Venture just a 5-minute drive south to Bob Straub State Park, where you can walk along the less-traveled and peaceful beachfront.

The area of Oregon can be rainy and cloudy year-round, but if you’re lucky you can experience one of its gorgeous sunsets (that is if the weather cooperates!). Make sure to pack a rain jacket!

Read More:  10 Epic Adventures To Take Aroun Cape Kiwanda

God’s Thumb Hike, Lincoln City

The hike to God’s Thumb is a moderately difficult hike along the Oregon Coast. A 4.6-mile round trip hike will bring you to a curved landscape on an oceanside cliff. 

It gets its name “God’s Thumb” because it slightly resembles a thumb… but we think it kind of looks like a soft-serve ice cream swirl!

Located in Lincoln City, Oregon , this is a perfect place to get out of the car, stretch your legs, and see a beautiful area of the Oregon Coast.

Read More: Hike To God’s Thumb in Lincoln City On The Oregon Coast

Devil’s Punchbowl

Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area is a perfect stop on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Here, you can experience the power of the ocean slamming and swirling into a carved-out bowl.

From the top, you can see down inside the “punchbowl”. During high tide, the waves swirl and crash around inside, but during low tide, you can walk down on the beach and explore inside.

Stay a while for a roadside picnic, to explore tide pools, or climb around on the rocks on the shore.

Thor’s Well

Thor’s Well in another one of the Oregon Coast’s amazing natural phenomena. You can experience the most dramatic sights at high tide, but beware – it’s the most dangerous time to visit too.

Similar to the Spouting Horn in Kauai , this sinkhole looks like water is just draining into a huge abyss, but it’s actually a natural rock tube that sucks and shoots water our according to the adjacent waves.

Don’t get too close to it though, it pushes and pulls water with a powerful force , meaning if you get too close you risk being swept off your feet into the hole!

This area is located just south of the Cape Perpetua Visitor’s Cente r, with lots of wheelchair accessible walkways AND walk-at-your-own-risk paths too.

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area

Cape Perpetua Scenic Area is an amazing spot on the Pacific Coast Highway, and probably home to one of the best photo spots on the PCH!

For a quick side trip, take the drive up to Cape Perpetua Lookout , where you can see the Oregon Coast meet the winding highway below. It’s an incredible view – make sure to bring your camera!

This is also a great stop for some camping on the Oregon Coast, as well as exploring the many ocean features and scenic trails in the area.

Read More: 10 Epic Things To Do In Cape Perpetua Area Of The Oregon Coast

(Bonus Side Trip!) Umpqua Hot Springs + Toketee Falls

Got an extra day to spare?

Since you’re already in Oregon, consider taking a side trip east to the Cascade Mountains. The Umpqua National Forest has a lot to see, but it’s shining stars have got to be Toketee Falls and the Umpqua Hot Springs.

Both of the trails to Toketee Falls and Umpqua Hot Springs are nearby one another, short, and easy to follow.

They can be accomplished in a morning or afternoon trip. If you haven’t visited a Pacific Northwest hot springs  yet, this is the perfect chance to do it!

We would suggest that you Visit Toketee Falls first, so you can save your soak for last!

Read More: 5 Essential Tips For Soaking at Upmqua Hot Springs

Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor

Of all the stops on the Oregon Coast, Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor is a MUST visit. Offshore rock formations, dramatic cliffs, and crashing waves make this place a magical stop on the Pacific Coast Highway.

To fully experience this area, we suggest scheduling your visit for sunset. The sun sets over the Pacific Ocean, and on a clear day the skies light up with beautiful colors. Don’t forget to stop at other iconic spots in the park including Secret Beach, Natural Bridges, Arch Rock, and Indian Sands Trail!

Located on the Southern Oregon Coast , Samuel H Boardman spans around 10-miles of rugged, scenic coastline. There are many hikes to choose from around Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor . Take some time to explore a few (many trails are short) , and pick your favorite spots for sunset.

Pacific Coast Highway Stops In California

Congratulations! You’ve made it to California!

This is technically the beginning of the official Pacific Coast Highway (also called Highway 1) , but we all know you’ve put in too many miles on your car and see too much epic-ness for it to be just starting.

While you’ll be encountering a lot more sunshine in this section of the road trip, the Northern California coast can be a little temperamental! Don’t put away your rain coast just yet.

California road trip stops on the Pacific Coast Highway are some of the most breathtaking and beautiful areas of the whole trip. Read on to discover where to go and what to see below in the sunshine state.

Redwood National and State Parks

If your Pacific Coast Highway road rrip is taking you southbound, your first California stop will be at the Redwood National and State Parks.

The Redwoods are known for their spectacularly tall and beautiful trees. Furthermore, this area is home to some of the tallest trees on earth!

There are several scenic drives to take here, but the prettiest Northern California drives are through the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (the scenic route) and the Avenue of The Giants at Humbolt Redwoods State Park. For a lot of stops and viewpoints of the ocean, consider stopping at Patrick’s Point State Park !

Read More: 10 Things To Do In The Redwood National Park

Fern Canyon

Wait, did we just travel through time? You’re not far off if you felt like you just stepped foot into Jurassic Park. In fact, scenes from the movie were filmed right here in Fern Canyon!

Fern Canyon Trail in the Redwoods is a very short route – just 1.1-miles to revel in the 50-foot tall fern-covered walls and lush surrounding forest. The hike is easy, but getting there is a different story. The trip requires a few creek crossings and winding, narrow dirt roads to reach the trailhead. We’ve got everything you need to know about Fern Canyon right here !

Black Sand Beach

Have you been looking at thos e famous black sand beaches in Iceland ? Get a taste of the beauty (without the price of a plane ticket) and come visit a look-alike on the California Coast.

Shelter Cove is a little town located in the King Range National Conversation Area. Here, there are craggy coastlines, dramatic scenery, and a black sand beach. The waves are tall and powerful here.

Warning: The road is winding and treacherous, which can be dangerous in bad weather.

This is also an extremely out-of-the-way detour, with one route going in and out from the beach. Make sure to have a full tank of gas, and be prepared to drive on narrow roads and near tall cliff edges!

Read More:   How To Get To California’s Iconic Black Sands Beach

Point Reyes National Seashore

Love the California beach? Explore the Point Reyes National Seashore , a protected coastline of rolling pastures, historic landmarks, and even a secret docked ship!

Start your journey in the town of Inverness, where you can stock up on food, gas, and even camping gear if you choose to spend the night in one of their many campgrounds .

Some of the best things to do in Point Reyes National Seashore are visiting the historic lighthouse (make sure to pay attention to its hours of operation! ), driving down the canopy of Cypress trees , and even whale watching if you come at the right time of year!

Read More: Spending The Day At Point Reyes National Seashore

Bolinas Ridge

If you have a scheduled stop in San Francisco on your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary, make sure to make a sunset stop just north of the city , on Bolinas Ridge .

This area of golden, glimmering rolling hills is located on the edge of Mount Tamalpais State Park in Marin County, California.

Our favorite scenic road to drive is Ridgecrest Boulevard , which includes pullouts ever so often to quickly park your car and enjoy the beautiful and consistent sunsets on this piece of the California coast.

Read More: A Golden Sunset At Bolinas Ridge

Mount Tamalpais

Keep the spirit of adventure alive , even in a bustling city like San Francisco !

If you’ve got a pit stop in the Golden City, journey just north of the Golden Gate Bridge and experience Mount Tamalpais State Park for a quick break from city life.

Here, you can take many amazing trails with stunning views of big city buildings across the bay. Some of our favorite trails for city views are the East Peak Hike  (to a stone lookout tower) and the Verna Dunshee Trail. 

Going when it’s cold outside? Read our San Francisco Winter Packing List .

Read More: 10 Adventurous Things To Do Outside of San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge

No trip along the Pacific Coast Highway is complete without seeing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge!

On either side of the bridge, there are several incredible viewpoints to check out. Some of the best places to view the Golden Gate Bridge are from Battery Spencer, Kirby Cove, and the North Vista Point.

Remember: The Golden Gate Bridge is a toll bridge . Motorcycles and regular cars will get through and be billed $8.00 to the address your car is registered at.

San Francisco, California

If you’ve been driving southbound on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, San Francisco will be the first large city you will encounter. 

Here, you can experience many iconic and famous landmarks. Here are some places to see while in San Francisco :

• See the sunrise at the Golden Gate Bridge
• Visit Fisherman’s Wharf
• Stop By The Painted Ladies
• Wander through the neighborhoods and see the beautiful Victorian-era houses

Need a place to stay in San Francisco? Click here and get $40 off your first booking on Airbnb!

Shark Fin Cove

Click here to see more amazing pictures from our visit to Shark Fin Cove.

Shark Fin Cove is a beautiful California coast beach located south of San Francisco – in Davenport, California. It’s named for its rock formation just off the shore that resembling a shark’s top fin. 

You aren’t able to see this cove from the road, which makes finding access a little difficult . There are no signs indicating the location, so you must rely on Google Maps to help guide to you the parking lot off the California Coast Highway 1.

This place provides absolutely stunning views from above AND below. Start your visit at the top and walk along the trails near the cliffs (but be careful!). Finally, climb down into the cove via a steep trail to find beach access.

On a weekday, it’s very likely you will get this beach all to yourself! 

Read More: What To Expect At California’s Shark Fin Cove

Big Sur State Park

When you think of driving down the California Coast , Big Sur is what Pacific Coast Highway dreams are made of. Sunny coastline, winding roads, dramatic cliffs, and beautiful bridges are scattered along 90 miles of this beautiful West Coast drive.

Some of the highlights on this part of the PCH include:

• Pfeiffer Beach
• McWay Falls
• Bixby Creek Bridge
• Pebble Beach
• 17-Mile Drive (Monterey/Pacific Grove)

Pro Tip: A day trip to Big Sur, California is absolutely the most quintessential activity  of any good Pacific Coast Highway road trip. Don’t miss this.

Read More: How To Pull Off A Day Trip To Big Sur, California

(Detour Off Highway 1) Yosemite National Park

While you’re in the area, might as well take a little detour to one of the greatest national parks in America!

Yosemite is home to the tallest waterfall in North America, home to giant Sequoia trees, and has more than 800 miles of trails for hikers to enjoy.

Only have 24 extra hours to spare for Yosemite? Click here for our 24-hour guide to Yosemite National Park.

Pro Tip: If you are hoping to spend a few days in the park, make camping reservations extremely early in advance.

Camping spots generally get full six months before the reservation date. A trip to Yosemite National Park requires a lot of pre-planning.

Los Angeles, California

Another major city on your Pacific Coast Highway road trip will be Los Angeles California. For many going northbound, this is a common starting point (as well as San Diego).

If you’re like us and coming to LA on a southbound Pacific Coast Highway trip, this is a fun pit stop to take a few days and recharge from all that driving.

Again, if you are looking to book a place on Airbnb, click here to get $40 off your first booking!

Here are some fun things to do in Los Angeles:

• Santa Monica Pier + the Amusement Park on the boardwalk.
• Venice Beach
• Griffith Observatory
• The Getty Museum
• Hollywood Boulevard
• Hike to the Hollywood Sign

Read More: How To Spend a Fun Weekend in West Hollywood, California

Orange County, California

Orange County California is just south of the city of Los Angeles. With a slower lifestyle, less traffic, and a lot more beach space, this place is a perfect getaway for sunshine lovers and surfers alike.

There are a few opportunities to camp on the coast, like RV sites in Huntington Beach and tent sites at Crystal Cove State Park. Either way, it’s definitely worth it to spend a few days in Orange County and experience all it has to offer!

Must-see spots to visit in Orange County:

• La Tour (Secret Oceanside Castle in the cliff)
• Huntington Beach (Sur City, USA)
• Newport Beach Harbor and Balboa Island
• Laguna Beach
• Here are our favorite restaurants in Orange County to try!

Looking to travel to the OC on a budget? Check out our list of free things to do in Orange County to have maximum fun, with money still left in your pocket!

Read More: 10 Amazing Outdoor Activities in Orange County, California

San Diego, California

You did it!

San Diego will be the likely the end (or the beginning!) to your Pacific Coast Highway itinerary.

However, it’s still worth visiting for a few days. There are so many amazing things to do in San Diego that this city is an excellent way to kick off or wrap up any Pacific Coast Highway road trip.

Don’t miss out of Torrey Pines State Reserve! This network of outdoor trails have some of the best views in the entire city. Spend some time exploring the trails during sunset for a magical stay in San Diego.

Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Itinerary Examples

Wondering if you can see all these iconic landmarks in one trip?

To accommodate different trip lengths, we’re sharing some example itineraries for a five-day trip , one-week trip , and two-week trip down the Pacific Coast Highway.

Read below to find your perfect one!

5 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

Five days to drive down the Pacific Coast is absolutely doable! During these days, you have time to experience the highlights of the coast, and whet your appetite for another future trip!

• Day 1: Seattle, WA to Coos Bay, OR
• Day 2: Coos Bay OR, to Redwood National Park, CA
• Day 3: Redwood National Park, CA to San Francisco, CA
• Day 4: San Francisco, CA to Los Angeles, CA
• Day 5: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

7 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

One week on the Pacific Coast Highway will allow you to see the most iconic locations. One week is great for travelers who want to fit in the entire trip during a school break, or only have so many days to take off of work.

A one-week Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary will allow you to see the highlights without feeling rushed. Here’s an example PCH itinerary:

• Day 1: Seattle WA, to Forks, WA
• Day 2: Forks, WA to Cape Kiwanda, OR
• Day 3: Cape Kiwanda, OR to Redwood State Park, CA
• Day 4: Redwood State Park, CA to San Francisco, CA
• Day 5: San Francisco CA, to Big Sur, CA
• Day 6: Big Sur, CA, to Orange County, CA
• Day 7: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA

10 Day Pacific Coast Highway Itinerary

Two-week pacific coast highway road trip itinerary.

If you have two weeks to spare, this is the ideal amount of time for a Pacific Coast Highway road trip!

Two weeks gives you ample time to see all the highlights, take some day hikes, and even some off-coast detours like Yosemite or Toketee Falls! You will be able to see everything you want and more, and not feel rushed in your process.

• Day 1: Seattle, WA to Port Angeles, WA
• Day 2: Port Angeles, to Forks, WA
• Day 3: Forks, WA to Astoria, OR
• Day 4: Astoria OR, to Cape Kiwanda, OR
• Day 5:  Cape Kiwanda OR , to Brookings, OR
• Day 6: Brooking OR, to Redwood State Park, CA
• Day 7:  Redwood State Park, CA to Mendocino, CA
• Day 8: Mendocino, CA to San Francisco, CA
• Day 9:  San Francisco, CA to Santa Cruz, CA
• Day 10: Santa Cruz, CA to Big Sur, CA
• Day 11:  Big Sur, CA to Santa Barbara, CA
• Day 12: Santa Barbara, CA to Los Angeles, CA
• Day 13: Los Angeles, CA to San Diego, CA
• Day 14: End in San Diego

Some of our Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip Inspiration

Creating this Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary was quite the workload! Lucky for us, this is the kind of work we live for, and it was fun, inspiring, and most of all helpful!

We hope this helps in your own Pacific Coast Highway road trip and makes planning a little bit easier for you.

Here are some of the pins we’ve created to share with our followers on Pinterest. Feel free to save some too for your own inspirational road trip!

Pinterest ( Find us at @themandagies )

Have you taken a pacific coast highway road trip what were some of your favorite stops, ready to plan your own pacific coast highway road trip read these helpful posts:.

8 Steps For Planning A Flawless Weekend Trip

2o Energizing Hikes In The PN W

The Essential 2017 PNW Bucket List

Want more Pacific Coast Highway road trip inspiration? Follow our curated board on Pinterest!

So excited for you guys! My hubby and I did a similar (but quicker, so we didn’t see everything) trip in the summer of 2010 (a LONG time ago!). It was amazing. There is an amazing hike in Redwood National Park (Gold Bluffs Beach Section) that leads down to this secret beach. Even in summer (August) there wasn’t anyone on the trail. We were pretty new to the “planning” travel business so didn’t really plan anything when we went, but this hike was a highlight of our trip. I’m dying to go to the Painted Hills and Hot springs so excited to see what you guys think. Have so much fun!!! We’re secretly living through both of your photographs and blogs dreaming of our move one day back to this beautiful region of the world. We love Ireland, but the PNW truly can’t be beat.

Hi Danielle! I’m so glad you like our photographs and blog! That means so much to us 🙂 I’m so intrigued about the Gold Bluffs Beach Hike in the Redwoods. Now we need to go back and do that one!!!

• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• National Parks
• Affording Travel
• Photography
• Responsible Travel
• Worldschool
• Wanderlust Guides
• Travel Planning
• Work with Us

California , North America , Oregon , Travel , USA , Washington

The best usa west coast road trip: itinerary + ideas.

Planning a trip to the west coast and want to do an epic road trip journey? Check out this west coast road trip itinerary + ideas to help you plan your trip.

There’s nothing more American than a road trip! In fact, there are at least 25 American Road Trips that I think are essential to do before you die! One of them is the great west coast road trip.

I’ve lived in California most of my life, and driving the PCH (Pacific Coast Highway) is a must when you live here at least once in a lifetime. It’s like a right of passage.

But there are even more incredible places to explore on the west coast of the USA.

If you’ve got a few weeks to cruise the western coast of the United States, you’ve made a good choice. This is some of the most stunning scenery in the world. You’ll spend time in the famous PNW (pacific northwest) and be venturing into the beautiful diversity that is California.

A west coast trip is a must, especially if you’re visiting the US for the first time. It’s so unique and classic, and something I hope everyone gets a chance to do in their lifetime! I hope that these west coast road trip ideas will help you when planning your trip and give you the confidence to drive the entire coast!

This loop ensures that you see all the most popular sites, while also getting off the beaten path and exploring hidden gems in each western state.

Here's a Short Cut

1. Safety Supplies for your West Coast USA Road Trip

2. get a good rate on a car rental, 3. be sure you have good insurance, 4. be sure to pack right, 5. don’t overdo it, 1. the pacific coast highway, 2. san diego to los angeles, 3. san francisco to yosemite national park, 4. southern california national and state parks, 5. portland to seattle, western us road trip driving map, south bound route, san juan islands, olympic national park, long beach peninsula, cannon beach, multnomah falls, bandon beaches, redwoods national park, point reyes national seashore, napa valley, san francisco, pismo beach, los angeles, crystal cove state park, palm springs, joshua tree national park, death valley national park, sequoia national park, yosemite national park, lassen volcanic national park, ashland oregon, crater lake national park, i hope this west coast road trip planner has been helpful, practical tips for your west coast road trip.

I wanted to share some practical information before diving into the road trip itinerary.

When you’re preparing for west coast travel, it’s always a good idea to keep a road safety kit in your car, in case of break-downs, accidents, or other emergencies. Even when my boys have to get out and “go” on the side of the road, I like to put up reflective warning road safety triangles like these ones , especially at night! I always like to have a good first aid kit on hand as well, not only when we road trip, but when we travel anywhere. You never know when it could be a literal life-saver!

If you’re renting a car for your west coast road trip, be sure to shop around for the best deals. We like to use Rental Cars to find the best rates and locations. Be sure to read the rental agreement too. Some rental car companies only give you a certain allotment of miles and if you’re going to do a massive road trip like this, you’ll want to make sure you pick a car with unlimited miles.

Be sure that you have good car insurance and also a good travel insurance. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been grateful to have travel insurance the the peace of mind it brings! If you’re driving your own car, be sure that you have enough insurance as well. The last thing you want to have to deal with on a road trip is fighting insurance companies if you get in an accident.

To prepare for your west coast road trip be sure to follow these tips that I’ve shared in How to Plan a Road Trip.  I share all my best tips on how to plan the perfect road trip, including safety tips, ideas on how to keep kids entertained during a road trip, and the best apps to use for roadtripping! If you’ve ever considered doing a west coast road trip in a camper, check out these RV rentals in California.

It’s human nature to think we can do more than we actually can. Try to be realistic about how much time you have to do this itinerary. I would give yourself at least two weeks for this. One week in each direction.

Other West Coast USA Road Trip Ideas

If you don’t have time to do this complete itinerary, you can always pick one of these shorter west coast road trip ideas. These road trip routes are some that I’ve done in the past and most can be done in just a day or two.

This is the most iconic California road trip. If you’re shorter on time and can’t do the entire west coast, at least drive the PCH. Driving the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in California is an incredible experience. The Pacific Coast Highway is a famous coastal road that runs along the Pacific Ocean, stretching over 600 miles from the north to the south of California. This scenic route is known for its breathtaking views, winding roads, and stunning beaches, making it one of the most popular road trips in the world.

This scenic highway, the PCH, runs from Dana Point in Orange County all the way up to Leggett in Mendocino County. The most scenic section of the highway is the stretch between San Francisco and Los Angeles, which takes you through some of the most beautiful areas in California, including Monterey, Big Sur, Santa Barbara, and Malibu.

One of the highlights of driving the PCH is the incredible views of the Pacific Ocean. Along the way, you’ll see rugged cliffs, stunning beaches, and sparkling blue water. You’ll also pass through charming coastal towns, each with its own unique personality and attractions.

Another great thing about driving the PCH is the opportunity to stop at some of the state’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. For example, you can visit Hearst Castle, a grand mansion built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Or you can explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which is home to thousands of marine creatures.

The PCH is also known for its winding roads and steep cliffs, which can be a bit nerve-wracking for some drivers. However, the road is generally well-maintained and offers plenty of pullouts and viewpoints where you can safely stop and take in the views.

Driving the Pacific Coast Highway is an unforgettable experience that offers some of the most stunning scenery in California. If you’re planning a road trip in the Golden State, the PCH is definitely a route you won’t want to miss.

Distance : 600 miles

A Southern California road trip from San Diego to Los Angeles is a great way to explore the southern coast of California. The drive takes you along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as Highway 1, which offers stunning ocean views and a chance to explore several charming towns and attractions along the way.

Starting in San Diego, you can head north on Interstate 5, which takes you through the coastal communities of La Jolla, Del Mar, and Encinitas, known for their beautiful beaches and oceanfront dining. Alternatively, you can take the scenic route and drive up the coast on the PCH, which takes you through the seaside towns of Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Solana Beach, and Carlsbad.

As you continue north, you’ll reach the city of Oceanside, which is home to the California Surf Museum and the historic Oceanside Pier. Further up the coast, you’ll pass through the beach towns of San Clemente, Dana Point, and Laguna Beach, all offering beautiful beaches, great restaurants, and unique shops.

One of the highlights of the drive is the stretch of Highway 1 that passes through Laguna Beach and Newport Beach, where you can see some of the most expensive homes in California and catch a glimpse of the famous surf spot, the Wedge.

As you approach Los Angeles, you’ll pass through the charming coastal towns of Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach, all offering great places to grab a bite to eat or take a stroll along the beach. The drive will end in Los Angeles, where you can explore attractions like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica.

A road trip from San Diego to Los Angeles offers a chance to see some of the best beaches and coastal towns in Southern California. Whether you stick to the highways or take the scenic route along the PCH, you’ll be treated to stunning ocean views and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way.

Distance : 130 miles

A road trip from San Francisco to Yosemite National Park is a popular way to experience the beauty of the Sierra Nevada Mountains and one of America’s most iconic national parks. The drive takes you through the heart of the Central Valley, a vast agricultural region, and into the Sierra foothills before arriving at Yosemite National Park. This road trip is full of outdoor adventures.

Starting in San Francisco, you’ll head east on Highway 580, which takes you through the East Bay and into the Central Valley.

Continuing east on Highway 205, you’ll pass through the city of Modesto, home to the Gallo Center for the Arts, before reaching Highway 99, which takes you through the agricultural heartland of California. Along this stretch of road, you’ll see vast orchards of almonds, pistachios, and citrus, as well as miles of fields growing crops like tomatoes and lettuce.

At Merced, you’ll exit Highway 99 and head east on Highway 140, which takes you into the Sierra foothills and toward Yosemite National Park. This scenic route will take you through the charming towns of Mariposa and El Portal, where you can grab a bite to eat or stock up on supplies before entering the park.

Once inside Yosemite National Park, you’ll be treated to stunning views of granite peaks, waterfalls, and lush forests. Some of the must-see sights in the park include Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls. There are also plenty of hiking trails and outdoor activities to enjoy, from gentle walks to challenging climbs.

West coast road trips from San Francisco to Yosemite are a great way to experience the beauty of California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains and one of the country’s most beloved national parks. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns, see breathtaking natural landscapes, and create unforgettable memories.

Distance : 170 miles

You could spend weeks just in Southern California exploring the various national parks. Road Trips through Southern California’s national parks are a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and diversity of the region.

Start your trip in Los Angeles and head east towards Joshua Tree National Park, located about two and a half hours away. Spend the day hiking, rock climbing, or simply enjoying the stunning desert landscapes of this unique park.

After a day in Joshua Tree, continue southeast to Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, about a two-hour drive. This park is known for its rugged terrain, stunning wildflower displays, and fascinating geological formations.

Next, visit Cabrillo National Monument, located on the southern tip of the Point Loma Peninsula in San Diego. This park offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and San Diego Bay, as well as hiking trails, tide pools, and historic landmarks.

Drive north to Ventura, which is about three hours away, and take a ferry to Channel Islands National Park. This park is located off the coast of Southern California and offers pristine beaches, hiking trails, and opportunities to observe marine wildlife such as seals and dolphins.

Distance : Varies

West coast road trips from Portland to Seattle are a fantastic way to explore the Pacific Northwest and take in the natural beauty of the region. The drive covers about 175 miles and takes approximately three hours, depending on traffic and the route you choose. Along the way, you’ll encounter gorgeous coastlines, charming towns, and iconic landmarks that define the Pacific Northwest.

Starting in Portland, head north on I-5 towards Seattle. About an hour into the drive, you’ll reach the city of Olympia, the capital of Washington State. Olympia is known for its stunning waterfront parks, including Percival Landing Park and Priest Point Park. Stop by the Olympia Farmers Market to sample local produce, crafts, and food, or explore the Washington State Capitol Campus, which features beautiful gardens, monuments, and historical buildings.

Continuing on I-5, you’ll pass through Tacoma, another vibrant city in the Pacific Northwest. Tacoma is home to the Museum of Glass, where you can watch glass-blowing demonstrations and admire works by renowned artists. The city’s waterfront area offers stunning views of Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound, as well as a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries.

As you approach Seattle, you’ll pass through the suburbs and get your first glimpse of the city’s iconic skyline. Seattle is famous for its coffee culture, music scene, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Take a stroll through Pike Place Market to sample local seafood, fresh produce, and artisanal goods, or visit the Space Needle for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. Other must-see attractions include the Chihuly Garden and Glass, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the Seattle Aquarium.

A road trip from Portland to Seattle offers a unique blend of urban and natural landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to explore the vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery of the Pacific Northwest.

Distance : 175 miles

My Full West Coast Road Trip Itinerary

For this west coast trip, I’ve divided the west coast up into two routes so that you can drive in a loop. There is a coastal route, stopping at some of the most stunning beaches in the U.S., and an inland route, where you’ll visit famous national parks and mountainous roads.

In my opinion, this is the best west coast road trip and will allow you to see some of the most incredible sites in the region. You can drive this West Coast Road Trip Itinerary either way you like. You can even start in the middle and only do parts of this itinerary, but I prefer to drive from north to south if I can.

The weather becomes more temperate the farther down you go, and when you’re driving south along the coast, the passenger (usually me with the camera) gets all those gorgeous views out their window.

Driving south will also allow you to take the longer route down first, saving the faster route for the end. This interactive map will help you plan your west coast road trips.

This west coast trip map will help you navigate all the stops along the way.

You can begin or end your west coast road trip in Washington state. From the majestic, snow-capped Cascade Mountains, the bustling and hip town of Seattle, to the forested islands of the Puget Sound, Washington has beauty and variety that should not be missed.

Starting your west coast road trip off in Seattle is a great idea. Visit the Space Needle, a futuristic remnant from the 1962 World’s Fair, head to the century-old Pike’s Place Market, watch the fishmongers toss fish, grab a drink at the original Starbucks, and stock up on snacks for your epic journey! If you’re feeling brave you can make a visit to Mel’s Hole in Ellensburg before heading south.

From Seattle, grab a ferry to the San Juan Islands and enjoy a day or two of these stunning forested islands, where you can camp or stay in one of the Bed and Breakfasts along the islands. See wildlife, hike, swim, bike, kayak or just enjoy the scenery as you drive along the scenic byway of the San Juan Islands.

Download and follow this map of the scenic byway in the San Juan .

Spanning several different ecosystems, from the Olympic mountain range to the old-growth forests. Drive through the majestic national park and take it all in. Stop and hike, climb, picnic or just enjoy the ride!

Along these stunning beaches you’ll find sand dollars, driftwood, anemones, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot eagles, whales, dolphins and other coastal wildlife.

Be sure to visit these beaches in the Olympic National Park:

• Shi Shi Beach
• La Push Beach
• Rialto Beach where you can see the Hole-in-the-Wall rock arch during low tide

The Long Beach Peninsula is a 30 mile stretch of land with gorgeous white beaches just before the Oregon border. Visit the World Kite Museum and brave the winds by flying your own kite. If you’re making this west coast road trip in August, you’ll be just in time for the International Kite Festival.

Now it’s time to head south towards Oregon.

Welcome to Oregon! The northern Oregon coast has some of the most stunning scenery in the world. Home to more mountains, beaches, and some of the most incredible waterfalls in the world. It is a foodie mecca and home to more breweries than Scotland and the Czech Republic combined! Don’t miss these incredible stops along the Oregon coast:

Home to the ‘80s classic movie Goonies . Be sure to watch it before visiting, then you can see all the iconic scenes from the movie, including the infamous Goonies House.

Astoria is a historic city located on the northwestern tip of Oregon, at the mouth of the Columbia River. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts and culture scene, and rich history. The city is home to a number of iconic landmarks, including the Astoria Column, a 125-foot tall monument that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area, and the Columbia River Maritime Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Columbia River and its importance to the region.

Astoria is also home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries, offering visitors a chance to experience the local arts and culture scene. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, explore the town’s museums and historic landmarks, or take a hike through the nearby Fort Stevens State Park for stunning views of the coast and surrounding forests. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural offerings, and unique history, Astoria is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling along the Oregon coast.

A charming little town and beach. Seaside is an amazing place to go if you want to spend some time by the ocean collecting shells, relaxing, and enjoying nature.

Seaside is a charming coastal town located on the Oregon coast, about 80 miles northwest of Portland. It is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic promenade, and family-friendly attractions. The town’s main attraction is the Seaside Promenade, a 1.5-mile long boardwalk that runs along the beach and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The promenade is lined with shops, restaurants, and other attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

In addition to the promenade, Seaside is home to a variety of family-friendly activities, such as the Seaside Aquarium, the Funland Arcade, and the Broadway Theater. The town also hosts several annual events, including the Seaside Beach Volleyball Tournament, the Seaside Wheels and Waves Car Show, and the Seaside Jazz Festival. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore the town’s attractions, or participate in one of its many events, Seaside is a fun and welcoming destination for visitors of all ages.

Another iconic scene from Goonies where you can see haystack rock. My kids love this beach and it makes for an amazing photo backdrop.

Cannon Beach is a charming seaside town located on the Oregon coast, about 80 miles west of Portland. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its pristine beaches, towering rock formations, and picturesque lighthouse. One of the most iconic landmarks in the area is Haystack Rock, a massive monolith that rises over 230 feet above the beach and is home to a variety of seabirds and marine life.

In addition to its natural attractions, Cannon Beach is also home to a thriving arts community, with numerous galleries, studios, and festivals showcasing the work of local artists. Visitors can explore the town’s quaint shops and restaurants, stroll along the beach, or take a hike through the nearby Ecola State Park for stunning views of the coast and surrounding forests. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural offerings, and laid-back atmosphere, Cannon Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling along the Oregon coast.

Take a tour of the Tillamook Dairy Factory and learn where all that delicious, milk, cheese, butter, ice cream, and yogurt come from. Grab a giant ice cream cone and stock up on snacks for the next leg of your trip.

The Tillamook Cheese Factory is a popular attraction located in Tillamook, Oregon, about 75 miles west of Portland. The factory offers a free, self-guided tour that allows visitors to witness the cheese-making process firsthand, as well as sample a variety of cheeses and other dairy products. The tour includes a short video presentation, a viewing area overlooking the production floor, and a taste-testing area where visitors can sample Tillamook’s award-winning cheeses.

In addition to the factory tour, visitors can explore the Tillamook Creamery, which features exhibits on the history of Tillamook cheese and the local dairy industry. The creamery also includes a gift shop where visitors can purchase a variety of Tillamook products, as well as souvenirs and other gifts. The Tillamook Cheese Factory is a fun and educational destination for visitors of all ages, offering a glimpse into the art and science of cheese-making and the history and culture of the Pacific Northwest dairy industry.

You can choose to visit Portland on either route, north or south, or hit it twice, I don’t think you’ll mind. Be sure to eat everything in Portland, especially Blue Star Donuts and Salt & Straw Ice Cream.

Portland, Oregon is a vibrant and eclectic city located in the Pacific Northwest. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and progressive values. The city is situated at the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers and is surrounded by lush forests, snow-capped mountains, and scenic waterfalls.

Portland is often referred to as the “City of Roses” due to its numerous rose gardens and annual Rose Festival. The city is also known for its thriving food and beverage scene, with a wide range of farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, and coffee shops. Visitors can explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm, or take a stroll through one of the many parks and gardens, such as Washington Park or the International Rose Test Garden.

Portland is also a hub for arts and culture, with numerous museums, galleries, and performing arts venues. The city is home to the Portland Art Museum, the Oregon Historical Society Museum, and the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry, as well as several theater companies and music venues. With its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and laid-back atmosphere, Portland is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Pacific Northwest.

Multnomah Falls is a breathtakingly beautiful waterfall located in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, just outside of Portland, Oregon. It is the most visited natural recreation site in the Pacific Northwest, attracting over two million visitors each year. The waterfall is fed by underground springs and cascades over 600 feet in two tiers, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in the United States.

The falls are accessible via the Historic Columbia River Highway and are surrounded by lush greenery and stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge. A footbridge spans the lower tier of the falls, providing visitors with an up-close and personal view of the cascading water. There are also several hiking trails in the area, ranging from easy to moderate, that allow visitors to explore the surrounding forests and discover additional waterfalls and scenic vistas. Multnomah Falls is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Portland area, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty and wonder of the Pacific Northwest.

There are several beaches in Bandon, Oregon, all amazing. Visit the lighthouse at Bullard’s Beach, and Face Rock to look for the famous Tufted Puffins. The beaches in Bandon are said to be one of the best places in the world for storm watching.

Explore more from this Oregon bucket list.

Once you’ve had your fill of Oregon beaches, you can continue your west coast road trip down into California.

Welcome to the Golden State. Be prepared for some more gorgeous views and stops. If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to check out these California road trip stops. 

These protected forests and beaches along the northernmost coast of California are not to be missed. Spend time hiking or driving through the parks and taking in the trees, some of which are over 5,000 years old! Read more about visiting Redwood National Park with Kids. 

Redwood National and State Parks is a national park located in the northern coast of California, known for its stunning coastal landscapes and towering ancient redwood trees. It spans over 131,000 acres and is home to some of the world’s tallest trees, including the Hyperion tree, which stands at over 379 feet tall. The park offers visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty of the coast, hike through ancient forests, and observe a variety of wildlife.

In addition to its natural attractions, the park is also known for its cultural significance. It is home to several Native American tribes, who have lived in the area for thousands of years and continue to practice their traditions and customs. Visitors can explore the park’s museums, attend cultural events, or take guided tours to learn more about the area’s rich history and cultural heritage. Redwood National and State Parks is a unique and awe-inspiring destination, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural and cultural wonders of the northern California coast.

Located along the stunning Mendocino coast, Fort Bragg is known for its Glass Beach where you can see millions of colorful stones scattered along the shores.

Fort Bragg is a charming coastal city located in Mendocino County, California. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and vibrant arts and culture scene. The city is situated on the rugged Mendocino coast, offering visitors stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, scenic beaches, and towering cliffs.

One of the most popular attractions in Fort Bragg is the Glass Beach, which is located near the city’s downtown area. The beach is covered with millions of colorful glass pebbles that were created over time from discarded glass bottles and other objects. You can take a stroll along the beach, collect glass pebbles, and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.

The city is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Skunk Train, a historic narrow-gauge railroad that offers scenic tours through the surrounding forests and hills. Fort Bragg is a charming and unique destination, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Mendocino coast.

These protected lands offer seashores, hiking trails, forests and a beautiful historic lighthouse. Stop into Point Reyes Station to wander the shops, eat some lunch, stay the night, and grab more snacks for your drive. Read more about Point Reyes here.

Point Reyes is a peninsula located on the coast of Northern California, about 30 miles northwest of San Francisco. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and historic landmarks. The peninsula is surrounded by the Point Reyes National Seashore, which offers visitors miles of unspoiled beaches, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean.

One of the most popular attractions in Point Reyes is the Point Reyes Lighthouse, a historic landmark that has been guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Pacific since 1870. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and learn about its history and importance to the region.

The peninsula is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, foxes, and numerous bird species. Visitors can explore the park’s many trails and observe wildlife in their natural habitats. Point Reyes is a stunning and unique destination, offering a chance to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the Northern California coast.

Visit the Napa Valley wine region, where you can tour local wineries and do taste testing.

Napa Valley is a world-renowned wine region located in Northern California, about 50 miles north of San Francisco. It is known for its picturesque landscapes, award-winning wineries, and gourmet food scene. The valley is home to over 400 wineries, ranging from small family-owned vineyards to large estates that produce some of the world’s most celebrated wines.

In addition to wine tasting, visitors to Napa Valley can explore the valley’s charming towns, such as Yountville, St. Helena, and Calistoga, which offer a variety of restaurants, shops, and galleries. The valley is also home to a number of spas, hot springs, and wellness centers, making it a popular destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Napa Valley is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and foodies alike, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, culinary excellence, and world-class wines.

There is so much to do in this beautiful city, that it has its own post. Read more about it here.    We love San Francisco as its one of the nearest metropolitan areas where we live. It’s where we come when we need a little taste of city life and culture.

San Francisco is a vibrant and diverse city located on the northern coast of California. It is known for its iconic landmarks, rich culture, and stunning natural beauty. The city is home to the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the Painted Ladies, as well as several world-class museums, theaters, and galleries.

In addition to its attractions, San Francisco is also renowned for its culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and food markets offering a variety of cuisines and flavors. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, such as Chinatown, the Mission, and Haight-Ashbury, offer visitors a chance to experience the city’s unique culture and history. With its stunning views, vibrant culture, and world-class attractions, San Francisco is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Northern California.

It’s time to start your trip down the iconic   Pacific Coast Highway!

Monterey is another area of California that requires its own post. There is so much to do here, but if you only do one thing, take the 17-mile drive for the most breathtaking coastal views. There’s so much to see in Monterey with kids . 

Monterey is a charming coastal city located on the central coast of California. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and world-class aquarium. The city is situated on Monterey Bay, offering visitors beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.

Monterey is also home to several historic landmarks, such as Cannery Row and the Monterey State Historic Park, as well as the Monterey Bay Aquarium, which features a variety of marine life and exhibits. With its beautiful beaches, unique culture, and natural wonders, Monterey is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to California’s central coast.

While you’re passing through Monterey, stop by the charming little town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, which is famous for it’s fairytale cottages. Be sure to stop at the candy store for some road trip snacks.

This rugged stretch of California’s coast can be a little tricky to drive, with winding curves and nearly constant fog. Be careful while taking in the views. Big Sur is a rugged and stunningly beautiful stretch of coastline located on the central coast of California.

It is known for its towering cliffs, pristine beaches, and dramatic landscapes. Visitors can take a scenic drive along Highway 1, which winds along the coast and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, with the iconic view of Bixby Creek Bridge (above) or explore the area’s many hiking trails, such as the famed McWay Falls Trail, which leads to a picturesque waterfall and beach. With its rugged beauty and unspoiled natural landscapes, Big Sur is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the breathtaking beauty of California’s central coast.

This classic Central California surf town has great beaches. Be sure to check out the Dinosaur Caves Park for stunning views of the Pacific.

Pismo Beach is a beautiful coastal town located in San Luis Obispo County, California. It is known for its sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and picturesque sunsets. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as surfing, kayaking, and fishing, or explore the area’s many hiking trails and nature reserves. The town also offers a vibrant downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Wind your way down to LA, visit Venice Beach, climb to the Hollywood sign, drive through Beverly Hills, then skip town, trying not to hit too much traffic.

I mean, what’s a trip to California without visiting your favorite mouse? You’ll need to plan at least a full day or two for your trip to Disneyland. Read this to help you plan your trip.

One of the most beautiful beaches in Orange County, Crystal Cove State Park is worth the parking fee. Crystal Cove State Park is a beautiful coastal park located in Orange County, California.

It is known for its natural beauty. You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as swimming, surfing, and sunbathing, or explore the park’s hiking trails, which offer breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding hills.

The park also offers several historic landmarks, including the Crystal Cove Historic District, which features 46 vintage beach cottages and a beachfront restaurant. With its idyllic coastal setting and diverse recreational opportunities, Crystal Cove State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Orange County.

There is so much to do in San Diego that is also deserves its own post. Check out this San Diego itinerary . 

This is also a great California road trip itinerary !

Congratulations, you’ve now hit the southernmost tip of your West Coast road trip itinerary and it’s now time to head north!

San Diego is a vibrant coastal city located in Southern California, known for its stunning beaches, warm weather, and rich cultural offerings. The city offers visitors a variety of attractions, including Balboa Park, which houses several museums, gardens, and the San Diego Zoo, and the historic Gaslamp Quarter, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and nightlife venues.

You can also enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches, such as La Jolla Cove, Coronado Beach, and Mission Beach, or explore the nearby coastal towns and attractions, such as the Cabrillo National Monument and the USS Midway Museum. With its perfect weather, diverse cultural offerings, and beautiful beaches, San Diego is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Southern California.

North Bound Route

If you’re ready for some desert R&R, this is the place. Take a step back in time and book a room at one of Palm Spring’s trendy retro hotels, soak up some rays and hang by the pool.

Palm Springs is a desert oasis located in the Coachella Valley, known for its hot springs, luxurious resorts, and iconic palm trees. The city offers visitors a variety of activities, including world-class golf courses, art museums, and the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which takes visitors on a scenic ride up the San Jacinto Mountains.

Visitors can also explore the nearby Joshua Tree National Park or relax at one of the many spas and hot springs in the area. With its beautiful weather, luxurious accommodations, and stunning natural landscapes, Palm Springs is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Southern California.

Take a day trip or camp at Joshua Tree National Park where you can find rugged rock formations and twisted other-worldly Joshua trees.

Joshua Tree is a stunning national park located in Southern California, known for its unique desert landscapes, towering rock formations, and diverse wildlife. The park is named after the iconic Joshua Tree, a type of yucca plant that is native to the area and has become a symbol of the park.

The park offers a variety of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and camping sites, allowing visitors to experience the natural beauty and rugged wilderness of the desert. With its otherworldly landscapes and stunning vistas, Joshua Tree is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the beauty of the American Southwest.

Move from one desert park to the next and visit Death Valley’s ghost town and see North America’s lowest point.

Death Valley is a starkly beautiful national park located in Eastern California, known for its extreme temperatures, unique geological features, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to the lowest point in North America, as well as stunning sand dunes, salt flats, and canyons.

The area’s harsh environment supports a wide range of plants and animals, including coyotes, bighorn sheep, and several species of cacti. The park also has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. With its stunning natural landscapes and unique features, Death Valley is a fascinating destination for anyone seeking to explore the beauty and diversity of the American Southwest.

Located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Sequoia National Park is home to huge sequoia trees and underground Crystal Cave. Be sure to drive through the Tunnel Tree. Read more about Sequoia National Park here. 

Sequoia National Park is a stunningly beautiful park located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, known for its giant sequoia trees, rugged mountain terrain, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to several groves of giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree, which is the largest tree in the world by volume.

The park also offers a variety of recreational activities, such as hiking, camping, and fishing, as well as several historic landmarks, such as the Giant Forest Museum and the historic Lodgepole Village. With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history, Sequoia National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the wonders of California’s mountain wilderness.

Famed for its iconic vistas and epic granite cliffs, Yosemite offers hundreds of hiking trails. Read more about Yosemite here.

Yosemite National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful park located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, known for its towering granite cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to several iconic landmarks, such as Half Dome, El Capitan, and Yosemite Falls, as well as several groves of giant sequoia trees.

The park offers visitors a variety of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, rock climbing, and fishing, as well as several historic landmarks, such as the Yosemite Valley Railroad and the Ahwahnee Hotel. With its stunning natural beauty and unique geological features, Yosemite National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the natural wonders of California’s mountain wilderness.

Bordering the California and Nevada state line, Lake Tahoe is a deep blue lake nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The beaches, hikes and ski resorts are some of the best in the world. Take in the clear blue waters of the second deepest lake in the United States.

Lake Tahoe is a stunningly beautiful alpine lake located on the border between California and Nevada. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters, rugged mountain scenery, and year-round recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and boating, or simply relax and take in the stunning natural scenery.

The area is also home to several charming towns and villages, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities, Lake Tahoe is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the beauty of the American West.

Lassen Volcanic National park is rich in hydrothermal sites like Bumpass Hell and has acres of bubbling mud pots. Lassen Peak Volcano offers views of the nearby area.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is a unique and breathtakingly beautiful park located in northeastern California, known for its fascinating geothermal features, rugged mountain landscapes, and diverse wildlife. The park is home to several active volcanoes, including Lassen Peak, as well as numerous geothermal features, such as hot springs, mud pots, and fumaroles.

Visitors can explore the park’s hiking trails, take a scenic drive through the park’s various regions, or enjoy the park’s diverse recreational opportunities, such as camping, fishing, and winter sports. With its stunning natural beauty and unique geological features, Lassen Volcanic National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the wonders of California’s mountain wilderness.

Home to the world-famous Oregon Shakespeare Festival, Ashland is a charming mountain town, with trendy vibe, offering museums, restaurants, and parks that make this a great road trip stop to stock up on snacks again, especially after visiting all those national parks and hopefully doing a lot of hiking!

Known for the famous Crater Lake, formed by Mount Mazama, the now-collapsed volcano, Crater Lake National Park offers hiking trails and a rim road, which circles the famous lake.

Crater Lake National Park is a stunningly beautiful park located in southern Oregon. It is known for its pristine blue lake, which is the deepest in the United States, as well as its towering cliffs, stunning vistas, and diverse wildlife. You can explore the park’s hiking trails, take a boat tour of the lake, or participate in a variety of outdoor activities, such as camping, fishing, and snowshoeing. With its breathtaking natural beauty and unique geological features, Crater Lake National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Pacific Northwest.

These famous falls just outside of Portland can get busy, so be sure to go early to find a good parking spot and beat the crowds. Take the short hike up to the bridge which bisects the two sections of the waterfall. If you visit during the spring you’re likely to get wet!

Visit Portland again! You’ll need some more good food by now!

Congratulations, you’ve made it back to Seattle!

Phew! What an epic West Coast road trip! I hope you’ve enjoyed some of the most iconic scenes and locations on the West Coast. I would love to know what your favorite was. If you’ve driven the West Coast, I’d also love to know what I’ve missed. Any hidden gems that you recommend?

I know that this is a massive trip and should not be attempted in a week!

It is a lot of driving, so be sure to prepare your car for this epic road trip and install a HumX in your vehicle to take the worry out of your journey and to get you on the road!

Wanderlust Crew

One thought on “ the best usa west coast road trip: itinerary + ideas ”.

Nice article! There is so much to see in California! I have been creating California itineraries of various duration and for various interests for 4 years. I have 35 now on my blog http://familyroadtripguru.com/ and I think we only explored just about 20% of the state 🙂

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• The Perfect 10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary

With its outstanding natural beauty and sophisticated cities that fuse old with new, Austria is one of the most enchanting countries to visit in Europe. As there are so many pristine lakes, rivers, and mountain ranges to explore in between the urban areas, the best way to experience the place has to be with an epic Austrian road trip.

Renting a car and hitting the road in Austria gives you so much freedom to pick and choose which places you get to visit. No matter where you drive, you will find yourself surrounded by incredible landscapes the whole time, without even needing to leave the car.

If you’re not sure where to begin, then my 10 day Austria road trip itinerary is here to help! This guide contains all the practical information you need as well as the most impressive destinations that let you experience a bit of everything that Austria is known for.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

No time to read now? Pin it for later!

Table of Contents

Useful Info for Your Austria Road Trip

How to get to austria .

This Austria road trip itinerary is designed to start in either Vienna or Innsbruck. My guide starts in the east, in Vienna, and concludes in the west, at Innsbruck. However, you can flip it and do it in reverse if that suits you better!

Both Vienna and Innsbruck are served by an international airport. As the Austrian capital and largest city, Vienna International Airport (Flughafen Wien) connects nonstop to the vast majority of European cities. You can also find direct flights from the US, Canada, the Middle East, and some Asian cities.

As a smaller airport, there are fewer direct flights to Innsbruck Airport (Flughafen Innsbruck). However, you can fly nonstop from other Austrian airports as well as from a select number of European destinations including Germany, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands.

Best time to visit Austria 

Austria experiences the four distinct seasons as per the Northern Hemisphere and other Central European nations, so the best time to visit Austria really depends on the type of experience you are after. The climate and temperatures differ depending on the altitude, so during the course of this road trip in Austria, you should expect the weather to fluctuate somewhat. 

The peak travel season is the summer months of July and August when the temperatures are at their hottest, reaching typically 27-29°C (80-84°F) or sometimes even higher. Meanwhile, winter brings snowfall to the mountains and sees the ski resorts open up for the season.

In terms of the best time to visit Austria as part of a road trip, the shoulder seasons of late spring and autumn are the most pleasant overall. Temperatures are at their most comfortable, you will have less competition for accommodation and parking space, and tours and hotels will be a fraction cheaper. And to be honest, when you’re up in the mountains you will likely still see dustings of snow on the peaks.

Car rental in Austria

No matter which airport you fly to (Vienna or Innsbruck), there are car rental agencies located at both of the airports and in the cities themselves.

I recommend booking your rental well in advance to get the best deals. Prices can be pretty inflated during the summer months so the earlier you book, the better deals you can snag.

Driving tips for Austria 

Driving in Austria is a doddle, providing that you follow the rules and understand the local road rules. Naturally, you must wear a seatbelt at all times, not drive while under the influence, or when using your mobile phone. Here are a few more driving tips for your Austria road trip itinerary: 

• During the summer season and warmer months, Austrian roads are a joy to drive. They are paved and well maintained. However, between December and March, snow and ice is likely at higher altitudes so you will need to ensure that your rental is fitted with winter tires and that you have snow chains in the boot. 
• To drive in Austria, you must possess a full driving license from your home country as well as an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). You will need to arrange this documentation prior to arriving in the country to start your Austria road trip. If your driving license was issued by one of the member states of the European Economic Area, you will not need the IDP as your license is valid in Austria.
• Traffic rules and regulations are comparable to other European countries. In general, the speed limit is 100 km/h (62 mph) on Bundesstraße (freeways) and S Roads (expressways) and 130 km/h (81 mph) on Autobahn (highways). When driving through residential areas and inner cities, the speed limit is usually 50 km/h (31 mph), but you should stay alert for signs.
• In order to drive on the Austrian Autobahn and S Roads, your rental must display a vignette toll sticker. If your rental car doesn’t have one, you must purchase a vignette before hitting the highways. For this Austria road trip itinerary, purchasing a 10-day vignette is the best option which costs €9.90. You can buy the vignette at any of the petrol stations and then stick it to your windshield.
• Driving with your headlights on is optional during daylight hours and compulsory at night in Austria. 
• ÖAMTC and ARBÖ are the two major breakdown assistance services in Austria and both operate 24/7. The numbers are 120 and 123, respectively. As a non-member, you will be liable to pay a fee if you use this service. 
• This itinerary for Austria includes a generous amount of hiking so it’s really important to have some sturdy hiking boots in your rental that you can throw on whenever you reach the trails. You should also have a significant stash of water ready for the hikes. 

Overview of Your 10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary

Breakdown of your 10 days in austria.

This is your itinerary at a glance, with details about where you will need to book accommodation for each of the 10 nights. Remember, you can do the route in reverse if it suits your travel plans better.

• Day 1-2: Two full days in Vienna (overnight in Vienna)
• Day 3: Grüner See, Admont Abbey Library, arriving in Hallstatt (overnight in Hallstatt)
• Day 4: Full day in Hallstatt (overnight in Hallstatt)
• Day 5: 5 Fingers Viewing Platform (Dachstein), Gosauseen, arriving in Salzburg (overnight in Salzburg)
• Day 6: Full day in Salzburg (overnight in Salzburg)
• Day 7: Gollinger Wasserfall, Bluntauseen, Hohenwerfen Castle, arriving in Zell am See (overnight in Zell am See)
• Day 8: Stausee Mooserboden, Sigmund-Thun Klamm, Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun, Mitterberghof Jausenstation (overnight in Zell am See)
• Day 9: Krimml Waterfalls, arriving in Mayrhofen (overnight in Mayrhofen)
• Day 10: Olpererhütte, Innsbruck (overnight in Innsbruck)

Map for your Austria road trip

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Austria road trip itinerary. I marked the different parts of the road trip with different colors so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will automatically save this map to your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

Day 1-2: Vienna

Number one on your Austria itinerary is Vienna, the capital and largest city in the country, located in the northeast. The oldest part of the city and its most central district is the Innere Stadt, which is contained by a ring road.

Within this neighborhood, you will find the majority of the key attractions and majestic architecture, including Baroque palaces and gardens, museums, and concert halls. No wonder that Vienna is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe !

Vienna is synonymous with classical music and was the home of musical masters including Mozart and Beethoven so you will find numerous references and recitals in town.

Two days in Vienna is plenty of time to explore the major landmarks of this elegant city. You will not need a car for these two days as it’s easier to get around the city via public transport and walking so you can pick up your rental car after your two days in Vienna are over.

Where to stay in Vienna

If this is your first time visiting Vienna then I recommend staying in the Innere Stadt. Hotels are more expensive but deals can always be found. Alternatively, you can choose accommodation in one of the outlying neighborhoods and connect to the Old Town easily by metro.

Trendy Wieden has affordable accommodation which is convenient for seeing the sights featured on this road trip in Austria. Landstrasse, to the east of the Innere Stadt, is another alternative for budget hotels. As you will not pick up your rental until the third day, you don’t need to worry about finding a hotel with parking.

Below you can find my suggestions for the best places to stay in Vienna for 2 nights.

LUXURY – Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna

Built as a hotel for the World Exhibition in Vienna in 1873, the luxurious Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna can be found right on the famous Ringstraße boulevard in the heart of the city. The hotel features 2 restaurants, a bar, and an exclusive spa and fitness center.

MID-RANGE – Hilton Vienna Plaza

Located on the historic Ringstraße in the Innere Stand, the city center of Vienna, Hilton Vienna Plaza combines modern and Art Déco design elements. The elegantly decorated rooms come with marble bathrooms and offer amazing views of the city from their large windows.

BUDGET – K+K Palais Hotel

Centrally located in the quiet part of Vienna’s city center, K+K Palais Hotel is a total steal. Boasting fully air-conditioned rooms and state-of-the-art amenities, the property is in close proximity to many major sights, such as the St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Best things to do in Vienna 

Explore the innere stadt.

Vienna’s old town is brimming with museums, monuments, and landmarks that you can explore on foot. Slip into your sneakers and spend a day touring the key sights.

Look out for the ornate Anker Clock, the commanding Rathaus (city hall), the manicured Volksgarten, and the Wiener Minoritenkirche which features a mosaic of Da Vinci’s Last Supper.

Hundertwasserhaus

Perhaps the most unusual building you’ll see during your Austria road trip, the Hundertwasserhaus was conceived by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser and architect Joseph Krawina in 1985.

The concept was to create a space in harmony with nature and highlights include the grass on the roof and the trees that grow freely through the floors. Thanks to its vibrant colors, it’s definitely one of the best Vienna Instagram spots !

Classical concert

In a city famed for its lineage of classic music, you might want to book tickets to catch a show for yourself. There are various concert halls scattered throughout the Innere Stadt.

Once you’ve confirmed the dates for your itinerary for Austria, check out what’s on at the Wiener Musikverein, Wiener Konzerthaus, and the Vienna State Opera House . The main season runs from September to June.

Schönbrunn Palace

This 18th-century palace and gardens are located southwest of the Innere Stadt. Once the summer residence of the Habsburg royal family, this colossal complex is now the star attraction in Vienna. Queues are always long so I recommend booking a skip-the-line tour of Schönbrunn Palace to save time.

Hofburg Palace

Another palace for your list, this one was built during the 13th century and has been restored and expanded in the following centuries. Originally the winter home of the Austro-Hungarian Empire leaders, the property is now the office of the Austrian president.

Vergnügungspark

One of the most fun things to do in Vienna at night is to visit the Prater amusement park. The star attraction is the giant Ferris wheel which has been rotating since 1897 but there are plenty of other rides to satisfy all thrill-seekers.

Where to eat in Vienna

• Honu Tiki Bowls : Colorful cuisine in an equally colorful setting! You can select one of the signature bowls or customize your own. There are plenty of options to satisfy vegans, carnivores and seafood lovers.
• Das LOFT : Dine high above the rooftops of Vienna at this upscale restaurant that serves contemporary Viennese dishes, quality wines, and delectable cocktails. They’re also open for breakfast.
• Café Anzengruber : Located in the foodie haven that is Wieden, the 4th District, this is one of the best places for authentic schnitzel, goulash, and other traditional Austrian plates you must try during your 10 days in Austria.
• Restaurant Ofenloch : Another option for classic Austrian food this time in the heart of the Innere Stadt. This historic venue has an irresistible ambiance and an expansive menu. 

Day 3: Vienna to Hallstatt

Pick up your rental and ready your playlist, your Austria road trip officially begins today as you journey into the mountainous state of Styria! The total drive time to today’s final destination, Hallstatt, is around 5 hours and the distance is 340 km (211 miles).

But you will stop along the way before reaching your hotel in Hallstatt so allow extra time to visit the destinations listed below.

Once in Hallstatt, you will need to book 2 nights of accommodation. Refer to the next day if you want to learn about my recommendations for where to stay in Hallstatt!

Grüner See

Driving time: 2 hours and 15 minutes (175 km/110 miles) from Vienna to Grüner See

Leaving the city behind, Grüner See in an unbelievably beautiful pool of water formed by the snowmelt of the surrounding karst mountains. Translating into ‘Green Lake’, the water is an ethereal emerald hue.

There is a huge parking lot at the entrance of the lake but since it’s a popular place among locals and tourists alike, it’s better to go early to secure a parking spot. Parking is €6 for a full day (there is no hourly parking option) and you can only pay with cash.

It takes around 20 minutes to reach the lake from the parking lot on a gravel road, the trail is completely flat and very easy. You can walk around the lake in its entirety in around 30 minutes to appreciate the viewpoints and take photos.

There is a small restaurant next to the lake if you need lunch or you can prepare a picnic to enjoy by the water. Note that swimming is not permitted in the lake due to conservation efforts.

Admont Abbey Library

Driving time: 1 hour and 40 minutes (87 km/54 miles) from Grüner See to Admont Abbey Library

The next scenic stop on today’s journey is a sensational library situated inside Admont Abbey. Stepping into the library feels as if you would enter the library from the Beauty and the Beast !

The archive represents the largest monastic library in the world and the works span architecture, frescoes, sculptures, manuscripts, and printed tomes. Constructed by the architect Josef Hueber, the library hall was completed in 1776.

It registers 70 meters (230 feet) in length, 13 meters (43 feet) in height, and features seven ceiling frescoes that represent the Enlightenment. These were composed by the painter Bartolomeo Altomonte who was 80 years old at the time!

70,000 volumes are stored in the hall while the abbey in total contains around 200,000 books and manuscripts, with some dating as far back as the 8th century AD.

There’s a huge parking lot right next to the Abbey where you can leave your car while you explore the inside.

A ticket to Admont Abbey Library costs €16.50 and it also includes entrance to a bunch of museums such as the Museum of Fine Arts or the Natural History Museum. I’m not a museum kind of girl myself but I really enjoyed wandering around these museums so definitely give them a try!

Depending on how many museums you want to visit, you can easily spend 2-3 hours inside. If you happen to visit at 11 am or 2 pm, you can also take part in a guided tour of the library which lasts for 40 minutes (it’s already included in your ticket price).

Please note that the library only operates on a limited opening time. As of March 2023, according to the official website it’s closed and will be open from April to May between 10.30 am to 3.30 pm and it’s completely closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. From June to October it will be open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. In November you can count on the same opening hours as in April and May. From the second half of December the library is going to be closed.

The official website doesn’t get updated that much so if you want to go for sure, it’s worth calling them in advance about the current opening hours. We almost missed our chance to visit this masterpiece because of the incorrect opening hours on the website so if you want to avoid the struggle, make a call!

Outside of the library, it’s also worth taking a stroll around the beautiful gardens and popping into the Abbey itself (it’s free to visit). Admont itself is situated on the banks of the Enns River right in the middle of the Ennstal Alps so if you have more time, it’s also worth taking a wander around this picturesque town to savor the incredible scenery. 

Arriving in Hallstatt

Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (78 km/48 miles) from Admont Abbey Library to Hallstatt

After wandering around Admont and taking in the scenic views, pop back into your car and drive all the way to Hallstatt. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach this fairytale town from Admont. In case you’re not staying directly in Hallstatt, you might need to calculate different driving times depending on where you’ll stay.

Day 4: Full day in Hallstatt 

Hallstatt is a quaint lakeside village located in the mountainous region of Salzkammergut. It is known for its salt mining heritage and historic center which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hallstatt’s setting on the shore of Hallstätter See (Hallstatt Lake) means that you have arresting views in all directions which really do look like something you’d see on a postcard. This is easily one of the prettiest places you’ll stay during your Austria road trip.

Cars are not allowed in Hallstatt Zentrum. So, you will need to leave your car at the parking lot suggested by your hotel while you carry on with your one day in Hallstatt . 

Where to stay in Hallstatt 

As Halsttatt is a small village, accommodation options are limited and it’s essential to book far in advance. However, as you will have your own car you can also consider staying further out of the village in either Obertraun or one of the other nearby hamlets. These are my suggestions for where to stay in Hallstatt for your two nights.

LUXURY – Hallstatt Hideaway

This adults-only resort is located right on the waterfront and comprises a deluxe portfolio of suites that offer lake views. Modern interiors feature a rustic twist and the most decadent options come with additional features ranging from private patios to private spa pools.

MID-RANGE – Heritage Hotel Hallstatt

All rooms and suites at this 4-star hotel provide lake views and are equipped with a private bathroom, coffee maker, and homely touches. The accommodation spans three buildings and there is also a restaurant and sauna on site.

BUDGET – Gasthof Bergfried

This centrally located guest house features compact rooms with en suite bathrooms with the option to upgrade to a balcony suite. The property offers a shared relaxation area with a spa and sauna.

Alternatively, if you have a car, you might want to stay a little further out of town in one of the surrounding hamlets. One of the best options is Obertraun, from where you can reach Hallstatt within 10 minutes by car or you can also take advantage of the ferry.

We stayed at  Haus Salzkammergut  on our second visit to Hallstatt and absolutely loved everything about the hotel! Great location, amazing views from the balcony, lovely owners, cute doggie, and delicious breakfast. I can only recommend this place!

In case the hotel is full or you’re looking for something else, you can  check all the accommodation options in Obertraun here .

Best things to do in Hallstatt 

Hallstatt zentrum.

The center of Hallstatt is totally walkable and you can spend the morning exploring the main sites. Roam the Marktplatz Hallstatt with your camera, take in sweeping views from the top of Evangelisches Pfarramt and visit the ossuary (bone cemetery) at Michaelskapelle. You can also walk down to Small Island and head north of the village to appreciate the scenic viewpoints of Hallstatt.

Ride the ferry

Whether you stay in Hallstatt Zentrum or Obertraun‎, it is worth hopping on the ferry that connects the two towns in order to experience a different perspective of the river. The crossing takes around 25 minutes.

Hallstatt Skywalk

Ride the Salzbergbahn funicular up to this observation deck that rises 350 meters (1,148 feet) above the village and provides sensational views of the alpine landscape. You can also walk up but it is very steep and takes around 1.5 hours. The compromise is that you ride the funicular up and walk back down!

Salzbergwerk Hallstatt

Take a tour of this 7,000 year old salt mine which includes exploring on foot and by traditional mine train. The mine is only accessible via the 90 minutes guided tour which you can book online in advance to secure your spot. Access to the attraction is also via the funicular so you can plan these two activities for the same time.

Hallstatt Waterfall

A shorter waterfall option: you can walk to the Hallstatt Waterfall from Marktplatz in around 20 minutes. It gushes out from the vegetation and is a great way to warm up for a day of sightseeing or cool down in the spray during summer. 

Waldbachstrub Waterfall Hike

It takes around 40 minutes to hike to the Waldbachstrub Waterfall from Parkplatz Echerntal or just over 1 hour from Hallstatt Zentrum. This is an easy trail with minimal incline and is a great way to experience the local nature and warm up for some more challenging hikes later in the Austria itinerary.

Gletschergarten (Glacier Garden) Hike

The Glacier Garden is another wonderful hike that you can do from Hallstatt or Parkplatz Echerntal. This assemblage of rocks and streams formed during the last Ice Age as the local glacier receded from the gorge. It takes 2-3 hours to cover the entire complex and it isn’t too demanding.

Where to eat in Hallstatt

• Restaurant Rudolfsturm : Located within a medieval tower, this place is worth it for the views alone. The menu is typically Austrian and they also do a great apple strudel. 
• Restaurant Am See : This lakeside eatery offers charming views and the menu is rich with local dishes and fresh fish dishes. 
• Pizzeria Kegelbahn : Situated across the lake in Obertraun, this Italian restaurant serves good quality pizza and pasta alongside soups, salads, and Austrian fare. 

Day 5: Hallstatt to Salzburg 

Today you’ll need to check out of your hotel in Hallstatt as it’s time to head to your next destination: Salzburg! You’re going to have two stops along the way so your driving time will be around 2 hours including both stops.

I recommend starting the day as early as you can as you’ll have some exciting plans for the day!

5 Fingers Viewing Platform (Dachstein)

Driving time: 10 minutes (7 km/4.5 miles) from Hallstatt to Dachstein Krippenstein

Your first stop today is going to be the slopes of the Dachstein massif, a dramatic glacial mountain range that rises 2,700 meters (8,858 feet) in the region south of Hallstatt. Once you reach the summit, you can explore the 5 Fingers lookout, an ice cave, and 360° views.

You can park at the cable car, Dachstein Krippenstein, and then hop on the gondola up the mountain to experience incredible views as you soar. The ticket price depends on which attractions you’re planning to visit, you can check the different options here .

For reference, if you only want to visit the 5 Fingers platform, you’ll need to purchase a Panorama ticket that costs €35.30, while the all-inclusive ticket costs €52.20 which includes a visit to the caves as well.

In a remarkable feat of engineering, the 5 Fingers observation platform protrudes 400 meters (1,312 feet) above the ground below and is shaped in the form of a hand with 5 ‘fingers’ stretching out to grasp the cool mountain air.

Once you leave the cable car at Krippenstein (section 2), you’ll need to hike around 25-30 minutes to get to the viewing platform.

The hike is really easy and well-marked so it shouldn’t be a challenge even if you’re not in the best shape. And the views along the way are out of this world!

Within the same area as the lookout, you will also find the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave. Entering this huge cavern, you will encounter stalactites of all different colors before you catch sight of the massive wedge of ice filling the chasm.

Guided tours of the ice cave last 50 minutes and require a 15-minute walk from the cable car station, Schönbergalm (section 1). If you do want to explore the cave, you will need to dress warmly as the average temperature inside is -2 °C (26.6 °F), even during summer. Make sure you pack layers for your 10 days in Austria!

You can find another cave at Schönbergalm (section 1) called Mammut Cave. It’s known as one of the largest karst caves in the world, hence the name. It takes around 15-20 minutes to reach the cave from the cable car station and as with the Giant Ice Cave, a guided tour lasts for 50 minutes as well.

Depending on how much time you have, you can visit either of the caves or both, or you can just go for the 5 Fingers platform for the panorama – it’s completely up to you!

Gosauseen 

Driving time: 30 minutes (27 km/17 miles) from Dachstein Krippenstein to Gosauseen

Gosauseen is a cluster of three beautiful lakes located in the Alps of Upper Austria. You can drive to the Gosausee Parking lot and park your car here while you explore, or you can park near the Gosaukammbahn cable car station and ride up to the lakes this way instead if you prefer.

There are a series of hiking trails that connect the lakes and give you the chance to explore phenomenal nature.

The shortest option is to just walk around the first of the three lakes, Vorderer Gosausee, which takes around 1-1.5 hours in total. The more challenging options take you to the middle lake, Gosaulacke, as well as the third and final lake, Hinterer Gosausee.

To visit all three bodies of water, you will need to allow around 5 hours. As the drive time today is around 3 hours, this is feasible if you depart from Hallstatt as early as possible and skip the caves at Dachstein.

If you don’t want to fully drain your batteries, my recommendation is to visit only the first lake and rest a little bit after you arrive in Salzburg.

Arriving in Salzburg

Driving time: 1 hour and 10 minutes (80 km/50 miles) from Gosauseen to Salzburg

After exploring the lakes, you’ll need to drive around 1 hour to get to Salzburg, which will be the next destination on your Austria road trip itinerary. Once in the city, you’ll need to stay for 2 nights to be able to spend one full day in Salzburg.

If you need recommendations of where to stay in Salzburg, check the next section for my tips!

Day 6: Full day in Salzburg

Salzburg presses its way up against the border with Germany in Western Austria and affords some of the finest views of the Eastern Alps. The Salzach River flows through the center of the city, with the Salzburg Alstadt (Old Town) resting on the left bank.

As the birthplace of the legendary composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, much of the culture of the city revolves around his lineage.

Fans will no doubt want to visit both Mozart’s Birthplace and Mozart’s Residence and catch a recital while in town. But Salzburg is also abundant in museums, galleries, stately residences, and gardens, restaurants, and shops, and it’s really not a place to skip off your Austria road trip.

You can easily spend one day in Salzburg exploring the delights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and strolling along the riverside. 

Where to stay in Salzburg

As with Vienna, it makes sense to book accommodation as centrally as your budget allows. Hotels in Salzburg Altstadt are priced higher and you should expect to pay around €15 per day for parking so do factor that into your plans and budget.

If you stay further out in areas such as Itzling, Maxglan or Taxham then you will find that accommodation rates drop and you can transfer into the city center efficiently via bus.

These are my suggestions for where to stay in Salzburg for your two nights.

LUXURY – Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse

All suites at this deluxe hotel are artistically presented and some feature a private terrace. The property is situated in Salzburg Altstadt within walking distance to all the major landmarks and has a wonderful restaurant on the premises. 

MID-RANGE – Hotel Wolf

Colorful rooms are comfortably designed with eclectic furnishings and immaculate bathrooms. The hotel is positioned within a building that dates back to 1429 and is located in the heart of Salzburg Altstadt. A fantastic breakfast is included in the rate. 

BUDGET – Hotel-Flair

Rooms at this budget hotel in Salzburg are clean with plenty of space and each comes with a private bathroom. The property is conveniently located for walking to and from Salzburg Central Station and is a 30-minute walk into Altstadt Salzburg. 

Best things to do in Salzburg

Salzburg alstadt.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salzburg Alstadt is where you will find the most historic buildings and streets in the city, as well as museums, public squares, shops, and cafes.

You can call in at the shops on Getreidegasse, stroll down Sigmund-Haffner-Gasse, tour Mozart’s Birthplace, or dip into one of the Salzburg Museum institutions. 

Mirabell Palace & Gardens

This resplendent palace dates back to 1606 when the prince-archbishop Wolf Dietrich commissioned and gifted the residence to his mistress, Salome Alt. You can explore the sprawling gardens and peer into the public rooms of the estate.

If you are a fan of The Sound of Music then this place will be familiar to you already!

Kapuzinerkloster Viewpoint

This viewpoint is accessible via a climb up 260 steps to the Aussicht Kapuzinerberg. Your reward is the scenic views across the city towards Hohensalzburg Castle from the deck and they are worth the effort, I’d say they’re the best in town. 

Hohensalzburg Castle

Ride the funicular up the mountain to get up close to the defining emblem of Salzburg, and one of Austria’s most iconic sights.

Hohensalzburg Castle, the largest fully preserved castle in Central Europe, is home to a portfolio of museums that you can take your pick from. However, it’s the views of the city and the looming alps that more than justify making the journey. 

Where to eat in Salzburg

• Imlauer SkyBar : Located on the sixth floor of the Imlauer Hotel, this swanky restaurant is the perfect place to start your day in Salzburg with brunch or wrap up a perfect day of sightseeing with a decadent dinner!
• Café Bazar : After tackling the viewpoint climb, you can recoup your energy at this historic cafe that looks across at Salzburg Altstadt. Considered the home of artists and poets, the menu spans lunchtime specials, sweet treats, and moreish specialty coffees. 
• S’Kloane Brauhaus : Slip inside this 400 year old building and you will be greeted with the scents of traditional Austrian delicacies. The friendly staff are on hand to guide you through the menu to find your perfect dish!
• Lazarte : It might feel odd to dine on Latin American food during your Austria itinerary, but Lazarte delivers the real deal. Add a dash of spice to your trip and experience the flavors of Mexico, Peru, and beyond at this top rated restaurant. 

Day 7: Salzburg to Zell am See 

The distance from Salzburg to Zell am See via the specified attractions is 120 km (75 miles) and the drive time is approximately 2 hours. Tonight you will need to book accommodation in the little town of Zell am See-Kaprun for 2 nights.

Gollinger Waterfall 

Driving time: 35 minutes (28 km/17 miles) from Salzburg to Gollinger Waterfall

Head to Parkplatz Gollinger Wasserfall where you can leave your car and walk to this remarkable 75 meter (246 feet) waterfall which forms two tiers as it crashes down the cliff from the forest.

Between the months of May and October, you must pay €5 to visit the waterfalls on top of the parking fee which is also €5. You’ll need to drive around 35 minutes to get to the waterfall from Salzburg which makes it one of the best day trips from Salzburg.

There are different viewpoints along the waterfall and you can even hike to the top which I 100% recommend! It takes around 10-15 minutes to reach the lower viewpoint while it will take you approximately 35-40 minutes if you want to go all the way to the top.

The waterfall is super strong so be prepared to get a little bit wet! If you decide to go up, you’ll find a bridge that crosses over the water so that you can get very close to the water spray. It’s recommended to wear sneakers or hiking boots as the trail gets wet and slippery due to the mist.

Driving time: 7 minutes (3.5 km/2 miles) from Gollinger Waterfall to Parkplatz Bluntautal

Another day, another magical lake nestled between mountains and forestry to add to your Austrian road trip! Bluntausee changes color depending on the time of day you visit and what the weather is doing, so it might be emerald or sapphire tinted.

You can follow the hiking trail around the perimeter in less than one hour however swimming in the water is forbidden.

Since it’s only 3.5 km (2 miles) from Gollinger Waterfall, you can easily walk from one place to the other but if you’d rather drive, you can leave your car at Parkplatz Bluntautal which is the closest parking lot to Bluntausee. From the parking lot you’ll need to hike for around 30 minutes to reach the lake.

The trail is completely flat so the hike itself is really easy and it goes through a beautiful forest and crosses a crystal clear river. It’s absolutely worth visiting Bluntausee just for the scenery alone!

Hohenwerfen Castle

Driving time: 20 minutes (18 km/11 miles) from Parkplatz Bluntautal to Hohenwerfen Castle

In a country that is overflowing with beautiful castles, this one really takes the biscuit and is an essential sight during your 10 days in Austria! The hilltop fortress of Hohenwerfen Castle has stood in this spot for over 900 years and from the complex, you can look down at the Salzach River and across at the surrounding mountains and woodland. 

Access to the castle is via funicular or a short but steep 25-minute hike. Once at the fortress, you can observe a demonstration of the resident birds of prey in addition to exploring the museums.

There are always a number of temporary exhibitions which change throughout the year and seasonal events are hosted on the grounds. Entrance to the castle costs €10.40 and if you want to take advantage of the elevator, you can buy a combo ticket for €14.40.

Zell am See-Kaprun

Driving time: 50 minutes (57 km/35 miles) from Hohenwerfen Castle to Zell am See-Kaprun

Today’s final destination is Zell am See-Kaprun, a small town that sits on the shore of Lake Zell (Zeller See). The town is the gateway to the ski resorts and slopes of the Schmittenhöhe mountain that looms over the town and is accessible via cable car if you wish to take in the views.

You can go for a walk or hire some bicycles and cycle along the esplanade that begins at the southwest of the lake and skirts the circumference of the water.

Down at the south corner, you also have the option to rent kayaks or stand up paddleboard and float your way across the lake. There are a number of pretty parks dotted along the lakeside where you can enjoy a picnic and the town has a good spread of restaurants and hotels.

Where to stay in Zell am See

Zell am See-Kaprun is small but it does have a substantial number of hotels and guesthouses. As with Hallstatt, I encourage you to book accommodation way ahead of your Austria road trip and look further out of town if needs be.

Here are my recommendations for where to stay in Zell am See-Kaprun for two nights.

LUXURY – Salzburgerhof Wellness-, Golf- und Genießerhotel

This luxurious, family-run spa, golf, and pleasure hotel offers unique holiday experiences in a beautiful location in Zell am See. Surrounded by a splendid natural landscape, the Salzburgerhof combines 5-star comfort with 4 lilies in the Relax Guide for its spa quality and the culinary pleasures of 3 toques by Gault Millau.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Neue Post

Only a 3-minute walk away from the Zeller Bergbahn cable car, which provides access to the Schmittenhöhe skiing and hiking area, Hotel Neue Post enjoys an exceptional location in the heart of the old town of Zell am See.

BUDGET – Hotel Glasererhaus

Just a 5-minute walk from the shore of Lake Zell in the heart of Zell am See, Hotel Glasererhaus offers individually furnished rooms, a wellness area, and free WiFi. Most rooms additionally come with a balcony featuring a seating area.

Day 8: Highlights of the Kaprun Valley 

Today you will explore the attractions of the Kaprun Valley before returning to your Zell am See accommodation for a second evening.

Stausee Mooserboden

Driving time: 20 minutes (16.5 km/10 miles) from Zell am See-Kaprun to Kaprun Stauseen Parkhaus

Stausee Mooseroden is one of two high-altitude reservoirs and dams in the Kaprun Valley that resemble fjords. At 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level, the water is a startling shade of turquoise that contrasts against the circling cliffs and snow-capped peaks.

The dam wall at the Moserboden is 107 meters (351 feet) high and almost 500 meters (1,640 feet) long.

Unfortunately, you can’t drive all the way up to Stausee Mooserboden, so you’ll need to leave your car at Kaprun Stauseen Parkhaus (it’s free) and use the shuttle buses from there.

The parking house has 11 floors and if there’s enough free space, it’s worth driving all the way to the top because that’s the direction you’ll need to go in order to find the ticket office and the shuttle buses. If you park on the lower levels, you’ll need to climb up the stairs to get to the top of the parking lot.

Once you purchase your ticket, you’ll need to get on the shuttle bus which will take you to a very cool open-air lift. This is the largest open lift in Europe and it will take you up on the 431 meters (1,414 feet) incline within minutes.

After that, you’ll need to board another shuttle bus which will take you all the way to the reservoir. The whole process takes around 45 minutes and a return ticket costs €28 per person.

During your exploration, you can follow short hiking trails to get a full perspective on this dramatic landscape from the surrounding viewpoints. If you’re up for a challenge, you can also try some of the via ferrata routes but for that, you’ll need to have the proper gear.

If you want something easier, you can just hike up to the upper viewpoint which takes 10-15 minutes and it’s fairly easy. The route is quite narrow and steep so it’s best to wear sturdy shoes and watch out for your steps.

Sigmund-Thun Klamm

Driving time: 6 minutes (4.5 km/3 miles) from Kaprun Stauseen Parkhaus to Sigmund-Thun Klamm

Once you’re reunited with your rental you can drive 5 minutes along the road to the next attraction on your Austrian road trip itinerary.

Sigmund-Thun Klamm is a stunning ravine with an excellent wooden track that lets you walk past the water that thunders through the narrow chasm before culminating in a massive waterfall that falls like a veil.

You’ll find a couple of parking lots near Sigmund-Thun Klamm, the closest one is right at the crossing of Kesselfallstrasse and Klammweg. Once you park your car, you have to follow Klammweg and around 5 minutes later you’ll come across the ticket office which marks the entrance of Sigmund-Thun Klamm (an entrance ticket costs €6.50).

It takes around 20-30 minutes to go through the gorge and it’s important to note that the wooden track is one way only, you will have to take another road to get back to your car.

At the end of the trail you will reach another gorgeous lake called Klammsee that you can then complete a lap around. The lake is quite small and the trail around the lake is only 1.8 km (1.1 miles) so you can walk around the whole lake in 30 minutes.

All in all, you should factor around 1.5-2 hours to fully explore Sigmund-Thun Klamm and Klammsee together. There are few places where you can experience such an extraordinary spectacle of nature and it’s worth taking the time to complete the full route.

Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun

Driving time: 6 minutes (4 km/2.5 miles) from Sigmund-Thun Klamm to Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun

The next item on today’s agenda isn’t one for the fainthearted but it’s great fun! The Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun is essentially a rollercoaster combined with a toboggan.

Once comfortable in your two-seater sled, you will charge down the track reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph), and screaming is fully acceptable.

The ride is open year-round and you can opt for a single ride for €14 or pay for 5 for €59.50.

Dinner at Mitterberghof Jausenstation

Driving time: 25 minutes (15 km/9.5 miles) from Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun to Mitterberghof Jausenstation, then 15 minutes (9 km/5.5 miles) back to Zell am See-Kaprun

After a fairly strenuous and hair-raising eighth day of your Austria road trip, you might just want to flop into your hotel bed. However, if you can summon the energy to drive a little bit more, this awesome restaurant is worth the 15-minute drive, especially on a balmy evening.

From the outdoor dining terrace, you can drink up views across the Kaprun Valley and Zeller See. Although, on overcast days you might be seated above the clouds!

You’ll find wholesome Austrian fare on the menu as well as an excellent variety of desserts. The restaurant is actually part of a family-run inn and you could even choose to stay here rather than in Zell am See if you prefer.

In case you’re not hungry or you have other dinner plans, it’s still worth driving up to the restaurant for the view alone.

Day 9: Zell am See to Mayrhofen 

The journey time from Zell am See to Mayrhofen via the below attractions is just shy of 2 hours, and the distance covered is 100 km (62 miles). You will need to book one night of accommodation in Mayrhofen for the penultimate evening of your Austria road trip itinerary.

Krimml Waterfalls 

Driving time: 55 minutes (55 km/34 miles) from Zell am See-Kaprun to Krimml Waterfalls

If you were impressed by the ravine yesterday then just wait until you clap your eyes on what is said to be the highest and most powerful waterfall in Europe!

You’ll find plenty of parking lots near the Krimml Waterfalls, the closest one is P4 so if you find free space there, go for it! There is a small tunnel going under the main road right next to the P4 parking lot, you’ll need to follow this road to get to the ticket office.

An entrance ticket costs €10.20 and if you want to visit the nearby Water Worlds Krimml museum as well, you can purchase a combo ticket for €13.90.

The Krimml waterfalls tumble over several layers and you can decide how far you want to hike. The first viewpoint is accessible via a 15-minute walk from the parking and this alone is impressive.

However, if you want to walk all the way to the summit of the falls, it will take 2-2.5 hours to complete the 380 meters (1,250 feet) hiking trail, and then you’ll need to climb back down so factor in a 5-hour round trip. It does get steep and slippery due to the spray, so excellent hiking boots and a reasonable level of fitness are required.

Driving time: 55 minutes (44 km/27 miles) from Krimml Waterfalls to Mayrhofen

After an intense morning, you can look forward to checking into your hotel in Mayrhofen and taking a leisurely afternoon. It’s a further hour to reach Mayrhofen from the waterfalls if you take Gerlos Strasse.

Since this is a private road, you’ll need to pay €11 per car for the road usage. Sometimes this road gets closed due to weather circumstances so it’s worth checking it in Google Maps in advance before you go in that direction.

If the road is closed or you don’t want to pay, you can take a detour and use another road to get to Mayrhofen, but it will take you 2 hour and 15 minutes this way.

Situated in the Zillertal Valley, in the province of Tyrol, Mayrhofen is another feeder town for the local ski resorts. You can ride the gondolas from the town up to the resorts where you’ll find loads of hiking trails if you have the energy, but the views are lovely on their own.

The Pfarrkirche Mayrhofen is a cute church and you can take a stroll along the river in town.

If you need a restaurant recommendation for dinner, check out Goldkind . They’re the number one restaurant in Mayrhofen according to TripAdvisor and let me tell you, they’re not wrong! The restaurant caters to everyone from vegans and vegetarians to meat lovers.

All the meals we tasted there were super delicious and the prices were reasonable as well (nothing too fancy or expensive). Give them a try, you won’t regret it!

Where to stay in Mayrhofen

As a lively ski town, Mayrhofen features a good spread of accommodation options. The following places are all centrally located and provide free on-site parking which is perfect for your one night in Mayrhofen.

LUXURY – Huber’s Boutique Hotel

This stylish hotel comes with all the luxury trimmings including a pool, spa, and scrumptious breakfast. The top-tier suites feature idyllic freestanding bathtubs and spacious balconies.

MID-RANGE – Gut Stiluppe

This beautiful lodge offers a spread of rooms and suites, including ‘Romantic’ and ‘Royal’ themed choices. There is a pool, sauna, spa, and garden terrace where you can unwind.

BUDGET – Brugger ApartHotel

Rooms at this inviting hotel are decorated in traditional Tyrolean style with wooden furnishings and feature a balcony, a private bathroom, and a seating area. Breakfast is included and the price is happily affordable.

Day 10: Mayrhofen to Innsbruck 

Can you believe that it’s the final day of your Austrian road trip already? Today your final destination will be Innsbruck but first you’re going to take a little detour to reach one of the most epic viewpoints in Austria.

Once you get to Innsbruck, you’ll need to book a hotel for one night.

Olpererhütte 

Driving time: 40 minutes (25 km/15.5 miles) from Mayrhofen to Parkplatz Schlegeis Stausee (Olpererhütte)

First up on the agenda today is a demanding hike up to Olpererhütte, a mountain refuge that sits 2,388 meters (1,273 feet) above sea level.

Olpererhütte is a 30-minute drive southwest of Mayrhofen. There is a parking lot marked as Parkplatz Schlegeis Stausee where you can leave your car as you tackle the Olpererhütte trailhead which starts a few minutes walk from the parking area.

This is another occasion where hiking boots are essential as the trail is steep and strewn with rocks and even some streams that trickle down the mountain which you’ll have to wade through.

The hike up will take between 2-2.5 hours and then you’ll need to make your way down carefully as well so you can factor in 4-5 hours for the whole hike. This is by far the most challenging hike on your Austria road trip itinerary but trust me, it’s so worth it for the views!

Once you reach the summit you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the landscape. You can appreciate the scenery from the Panoramabrücke Olpererhütte, which is a suspension bridge that overlooks the valley and turquoise Schlegeisspeicher down below. And of course, you can get a much-needed drink and snack at the hut.

If you do not fancy the hike then you can enjoy a more relaxing walk around the shore of Schlegeisspeicher, or even head straight to Innsbruck and spend longer there.

Ps: Before you think I’m crazy, I just wanted to let you know that I obviously did not hike up to Olpererhütte in a skirt! I was wearing proper hiking shoes with leggings and a top and I just changed to this red skirt at the bridge for the photos. Don’t underestimate this hike and please don’t try to complete it in pretty dresses!

Driving time: 1 hour and 40 minutes (92 km/57 miles) from Parkplatz Schlegeis Stausee (Olpererhütte) to Innsbruck

The final destination on your Austria road trip (or first, if you’ve flipped the itinerary) is the colorful city of Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol province. Most of the touristic attractions are situated within the Altstadt (Old Town) and you will find monuments, museums, and restaurants galore here.

Notable sights include the 16th-century palace, the Hofburg, and the Roman-style Triumphpforte which was erected in 1765. You can walk along the River Inn or hire a bicycle while a series of cable cars whisk you away high into the Nordkette mountain range which is situated in the Karwendel Nature Park.

If you completed the whole Olpererhütte hike then you’ll probably feel super tired so I recommend just casually strolling around the Old Town and finding a great restaurant for dinner.

My personal recommendation is Gasthof Goldener Adler, which is allegedly the oldest restaurant in Innsbruck. They have a really nice terrace right in the heart of the historic old town and their menu is full of authentic Austrian delicacies.

Where to stay in Innsbruck

Innsbruck is teeming with budget-friendly and luxury hotels and you can find decent deals in the city or elect to stay further afield if you are keeping your rental for the final night. Here are my top picks for where to stay in Innsbruck.

LUXURY – aDLERS Hotel Innsbruck

Being the tallest hotel in Innsbruck, aDLERS Hotel Innsbruck offers a breathtaking panorama from its stylish rooms. There is also a spa area on the 11th floor and guests can dine at the Panorama Restaurant and Bar on the 12th floor.

MID-RANGE – Faktorei

Sophisticated rooms weave minimalism with a rustic touch and a number are equipped with a balcony. On site you will find a bohemian cafe and a lovely bar where you can toast the end of your trip!

BUDGET – Hotel Garni Römerhof

Combining modern facilities with a traditional style, Hotel Römerhof enjoys a quiet location only 8 km from the center of Innsbruck. Stylish rooms offer amazing views of the surrounding woods and meadows and there is also a spa area on site.

Planning a trip to Austria?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Austria. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• Where to Stay in Vienna: 7 Best Areas & Hotels
• 2 Days in Vienna Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend in Vienna
• 19 Stunning Vienna Instagram Spots You Can’t Miss
• How to Spend One Day in Salzburg, Austria
• One Day in Hallstatt Itinerary: The Perfect Hallstatt Day Trip
• Hotel Review: Das Edelweiss Salzburg Mountain Resort
• Hotel Review: Hotel Post Lermoos, Austria

Pin It for Later!

8 thoughts on “The Perfect 10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary”

Hi, we are planning to visit Austria from 26 Nov- 3rd Dec and kind of follow this itinerary. However, could you please tick-off routes and places to be avoided during this time of the year?

I’ve never been to Austria during that time of year so unfortunately I don’t have any first hand experience to help with.

Some good advice but all of these places can be visited by train without adding to green house gasses. I can only hope that this ridiculous trend of travel bloggers posing in long dresses and skirts is dead soon. Seriously, posing in a flowing dress on a hanging bridge or hiking trail just distracts from your articles. It also clogs up travel spots for the rest of us travelers as we have to wait around while you get the perfect photo. Isn’t this blog to serve other travelers? Help with our trips? You’re doing the opposite. Please. Just stop.

Well, yes, most of these places can be visited with a train but then you’ll need a lot more time and wouldn’t be able to complete this itinerary in 10 days. But if you have more free time, go for it! I’m sorry if the pictures bothered you but at the end of the day, did you find the information on this blog helpful? Did it help you to plan your trip? If yes, you are welcome, if you found it useless, then you can just click away and read another blog. I don’t think that by sharing some pictures I like makes the article unhelpful but again, sorry if you feel that way.

Hi! I have been to Austria a few time and I still learned a lot from this blog. Some I have done before and I totally agree with your suggestions so I trust the many suggestions and ideas that I have not heard of or tried. Thank you for your thorough research and clear, well thought out itinerary. I picked and chose what I liked from it and will definitely use it on my trip in May. Really great job. Glad I came across your page. Thank you. Thank you!

Thank you so much for your lovely comment, it really means a lot and I’m so happy I was able to help you plan your trip. Have fun in Austria in May!

Can You tell me please which time have you visited. Because the flow of waterfalls is insane. To witness the same experience I’m asking your travel month. And yes i love your article so much that everyday i come and read your blogs.

Sure! We’ve been to Austria multiple times but most of these photos were taken on a road trip in the middle of June. Hope that helps!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

The Perfect Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary (+ Driving Tips!)

Planning the perfect Tuscany road trip itinerary is no easy feat–but it’s well worth getting right.

If you’re dreaming of delicious Italian food, of romantic sunsets and Tuscan wines, of rolling hills peppered with vineyards as far as the eye can see, of hilltop villages and of Renaissance art, this Tuscany itinerary has you covered.

We’ve put this ultimate guide to planning a Tuscany road trip after spending several months traveling in the region over a period of years, often on road trips.

We’ve explored Tuscany by car, train, and tour, in large multigenerational family groups and as a couple, in tiny towns and in the fabulous cities of Florence and Siena.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

We’ve visited museums, gone horseback riding, zipped along countryside roads on a Vespa, and taken quiet strolls down deserted country lanes. We’ve taken food tours and wine tours, and stopped at more than our fair share of vineyards and restaurants independently, too.

Suffice it to say, we absolutely adore traveling in Tuscany, and this Tuscany itinerary is put together based on our detailed experiences traveling in the region as well as additional research.

We want to help you plan your perfect Tuscany road trip itinerary, especially if it’s your first time in the region.

Here’s what we suggest.

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary

How long will this tuscany itinerary take, getting around during your tuscany road trip, will this tuscany itinerary work without a car, the ultimate tuscany road trip itinerary, other destinations to add to your tuscany road trip itinerary, tuscany road trip itinerary map, the best time to visit tuscany, useful travel tips for driving in tuscany, what to pack for your tuscany road trip.

We structured this Tuscany road trip itinerary as a loop beginning and ending in Florence.

It’s designed primarily for first-time visitors to the region who want to soak up the classic Tuscany experience: think rolling hills, golden light, scrumptious wine, picturesque hilltop villages, and some of the best food you’ve ever eaten in your life.

… But that being said, even longtime lovers of Tuscany will find something for them here (just ask our extended family).

With this Tuscany itinerary, you’ll visit some of the most iconic places in the region, while also peppering in stops at smaller towns and attractions that would likely go unnoticed if you stuck to exploring via train.

Is it a cop-out to say that this Tuscany road trip will take as long as you have?

Perhaps, but whether you have 5 days in Tuscany, a week in Tuscany, or a month in Tuscany, this circular route will provide an excellent backbone to your Tuscany road trip.

If your trip is short–say 5 days in Tuscany or less–you’ll be able to shorten your stays in some towns (in a pinch, for example, Pisa and Lucca can be combined into one day), and with a longer trip to Tuscany, you’ll have a chance to adopt a leisurely pace and add in more excursions like wine tasting or days spent at one of Tuscany’s saunas.

Ideally, I would say that this Tuscany road trip would be spread across roughly 10 days to 2 weeks in Tuscany, but of course, that won’t always be possible–especially if you want to see more regions of Italy during your trip!

If you do have a longer trip to Tuscany planned, we recommend taking a look at some of the additional Tuscany road trip destinations that we’ve outlined below the main itinerary and seeing what other spots catch your eye.

For most people, of course, taking a Tuscany road trip will require renting a car.

We’ll cover some tips and tricks for renting a car here below the Tuscany itinerary (or you can use the table of contents section at the bottom of the introduction to this Tuscany travel blog post to navigate there!), but here’s the short version: we recommend renting a small car in Tuscany through Discover Cars , which will allow you to compare prices and inclusions of multiple companies at the same time and choose the best car for you from there.

We also recommend renting your car only after you leave Florence, which we’ll cover a bit more below, so you likely won’t need one for every day of your trip to Tuscany!

Check rates & book your rental car with Discover Cars today!

Short answer? Yes, it can.

Through a combination of trains, buses, and carefully selected guided tours (we recommend several reputable ones in our Things to Do in Florence post ), this Tuscany itinerary can be completed without a car, though the logistics will be challenging in certain places.

That being said, there’s something very special about taking a Tuscany road trip, and by not driving, you will lose out on the charm of seeing some of the smaller towns at night, miss some of the prettiest vistas, and have a little less freedom in planning your trip.

However, we completely understand that not everyone planning a Tuscany itinerary can or would like to drive, and we fully believe you can have a deeply fulfilling trip to Tuscany without a car–we’ve done it several times ourselves.

And, while you will lose some freedom, you’ll also gain a bit of peace of mind, as driving in Tuscany is certainly not the most carefree driving in the world!

Start your Tuscany itinerary in Florence.

As the capital of Tuscany, Cradle of the Renaissance, and home to the biggest airport (and train station) in the region, there’s no better place to start your Tuscany itinerary than in Florence.

Ideally, we recommend a minimum of two full days here, which will give you enough time to explore all of the major sights.

Marvel at the art in the Uffizi Gallery, soak in the views from Piazzale Michelangelo and more, (window)shop for gold jewelry on the Ponte Vecchio, eat your way through Mercato Centrale, stand in awe of the Duomo, and visit Michelangelo’s masterpiece David in the Galleria dell’Accademia.

We’ve created several guides to Florence based on our six weeks or so spent exploring the city, including a one-day itinerary and a two-day itinerary , so be sure to check those out for more detail.

For this Tuscany road trip itinerary in particular, though, we have a crucial piece of advice regarding driving: don’t pick up your rental car until the morning you leave Florence.

Having a rental car while in the city is not only unnecessary, it’s an absolute burden. Driving in Florence’s historic city center is extremely limited, and you’ll save both money and headaches by ditching the car until you’re ready to hit the countryside.

Where to Stay in Florence

B&B Le Stanze del Duomo  — Though Florence hotels can be a bit pricey and stretch the definition of “budget”, B&B Le Stanze’s beautiful rooms and impeccable location in Florence will be sure to have you swooning!

Check rates & book your stay at B&B Le Stanze del Duomo!

Bargello Guest House  — Located in the heart of Florence, this property is only a short (read: less than 5-minute) walk away from some of Florence’s highlights like the Palazzo Vecchio. Staying here, you’ll be within easy walking distance of the best of what Florence has to offer.

Check rates & book your stay at Bargello Guest House!

Hotel Lungarno  — Nestled right against the Arno River and home to one of the best views of the Ponte Vecchio in Florence (not to mention some of the best views of the rest of Florence from their top deck), Hotel Lungarno is our personal “if we ever  really  want to splurge” hotel in Florence. You can’t go wrong using Hotel Lungarno as your base for one day in Florence!

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Lungarno!

Start your Tuscany road trip and drive to Lucca.

Laidback and charming, colorful Lucca is the perfect first stop on your Tuscany road trip and an excellent place to grow accustomed to the ins and outs of driving and parking in Tuscan towns.

Lucca is not too big, not too small, and parking is fairly easy to find right outside the city walls.

It also happens to be a gorgeous, relaxing city that is a fantastic place to soak up the ambiance of Tuscany.

While you’re there, be sure to check out the beautiful Piazza dell’Anfiteatro, which, like Siena’s main piazza, is actually an oval rather than a traditional square, and to stroll along the tops of the city’s 16th-century fortifying walls, which are completely accessible to the public.

Don’t miss a climb up Torre Guinigi, either–not only does it boast incredible views of Lucca, but it’s home to several oak trees that are growing in the sky!

Stop by Pisa.

I’ll be perfectly honest: of all the places we recommend or mention in this Tuscany itinerary, Pisa is the one I’m least in a hurry to get back to.

It’s generally far more crowded than most of these other destinations–even the very touristy ones–and outside of Pisa’s famous tower and surrounding historic complex, the town is not exactly known as one of the most beautiful or interesting Tuscan villages.

It is, however, incredibly famous, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa itself more than lives up to expectations. The Leaning Tower of Pisa is truly stunning, and far more opulent and beautiful in person than I expected before laying eyes on it for the first time.

If you’d like to see it, we recommend stopping by for half a day on your Tuscan road trip, checking out the tower itself as well as the nearby Duomo and baptistery, and then moving on.

If you’d like to tour the interior of any of the structures, including climbing to the top of the leaning tower, we absolutely recommend booking skip-the-line tickets in advance .

Book your skip-the-line tickets to visit the Leaning Tower of Pisa now!

Make your way to San Gimignano.

Known for its stunning towers (14 of an original 72 remain), long history of wealth due to its prime location along a Roman trading route, gorgeous city center, beautiful views, and convenient location that is roughly equidistant from Siena and Florence, it’s safe to say that San Gimignano is both incredibly popular and well worth visiting.

We adore this beautiful hilltop town, and highly recommend spending at least one night either in town or nearby if you can, in order to enjoy the city without the crowds of day-trippers that tend to take over the streets during the day.

Don’t forget to make time in your schedule for a scoop (or several scoops, let’s be real) of gelato from the world-famous Gelateria Dondoli: as one of the best-known and most acclaimed gelato shops in Italy, it’s a safe bet that whatever you order is bound to impress.

Head to Siena.

While today Florence is significantly better-known than Siena, that was not always the case: beautiful Siena was once the military rival of Florence, and the history of the Middle Ages in the region is dotted with stories of their back-and-forth battles.

Today, Siena is known for its Palio di Siena horse race that takes place bi-annually in the oval-shaped Piazza del Campo–when you stand in the middle of the piazza, be sure to picture 20 horses running at full-speed around a packed crowd–it’s truly impressive.

Siena is packed full of interesting things to do: it’s home to arguably the most beautiful Duomo in Tuscany (don’t forget to check out the Piccolomini Library while you’re in there!), and we absolutely recommend taking the Porta di Cielo, aka Gate to Heaven, tour of the cathedral’s roof if you can–it’s magnificent.

At least once during your trip, climb to the top of one of Siena’s monuments for an epic view–the Torre del Mangia in Piazza del Campo is a popular choice, but personally, we love that the view from the top of the Opera della Metropolitana includes stunning views of the Piazza del Campo from a bit of a distance.

Spend some time in Val d’Orcia and soak up the Tuscan countryside.

Of all the scenic places in Tuscany, Val d’Orcia might just be the most beautiful of them all.

This UNESCO-recognized valley is home to the Tuscan road trip views of your fantasies, and it truly has to be seen to be believed.

If you have the time in your Tuscany itinerary, we recommend booking at least a couple of nights in a nearby country villa or agriturismo in order to slowly savor the beauty of the region, but if not, even an afternoon drive here is well worth the trip out.

Marvel at the beauty of Montepulciano.

Tiny, gorgeous, and home to arguably some of the best countryside views of all the villages in Tuscany, it’s impossible not to be charmed by stunning Montepulciano–and that’s even before you start sipping its world-famous wine.

While it doesn’t take terribly long to explore a village this size on your Tuscany road trip, Montepulciano has one of those peaceful atmospheres that you just want to savor.

While you’re there, be sure to stop by the beautiful Piazza Grande, admire views of the nearby Church of San Biagio that is located just outside of town, and to taste the local wine, vino nobile di Montepulciano .

Pay a visit to Arezzo.

As you turn back north toward Florence to start to wind down your Tuscany road trip, be sure to check out the beautiful city of Arezzo.

Often overlooked on Tuscany road trips, Arezzo is a delightful city that is well worth the time it takes to visit.

Home to Roman ruins (including the remains of Arezzo’s very own Colosseum), sweeping views of the countryside from the Medici fortress, some impressively well-preserved fifteenth-century frescoes, and a large number of antique shops just waiting to be perused, Arezzo is an excellent addition to any Tuscany itinerary.

Be sure not to miss a chance to climb the clock tower at Palazzo della Fraternita dei Laici right off the main square (Piazza Grande)–the views from the top are absolutely sublime, and it is our personal favorite spot in Arezzo.

Drive back to Florence & say goodbye to Tuscany.

As your Tuscany road trip winds to a close, head back to Florence to drop off your car, say goodbye, and–depending on time–perhaps visit one or two more sights in the Cradle of the Renaissance as well.

While we’ve set up this Tuscany itinerary to act as a loop, if you’re going to be flying out of Italy (or continuing your Italy travels outside of Tuscany) in a different location, you can also consider dropping off your car in Rome, Milan, Bologna, or even Venice–but keep in mind that you will likely incur a one-way drop-off fee for doing so, so be sure to budget for that if needed!

While this Tuscany road trip itinerary gives a solid outline of the region and is a delightful trip all on its own, for those with a bit of extra time in the area (or those who like to move at a very fast pace), there is an unlimited number of additional destinations you could add to your trip, both in Tuscany and in its surrounding regions of Umbria, Emilia-Romagna, and Liguria.

We’ve outlined a few of each here to give you some ideas as you plan your trip to Tuscany!

Within Tuscany

The most famous of all of Tuscany’s hot springs has emerged from comparative obscurity into being a full-blown famous photography location in recent years, but there’s no doubt that it’s still a dream to visit–if you have time during your Tuscany road trip to make the trek out there and you’re a fan of hot springs, it’s definitely worth a visit.

Dating back to the Etruscan period and nestled on a hill high above the sweeping Tuscan landscapes it overlooks, the walled city of Volterra is absolutely worth visiting as part of your Tuscan road trip itinerary.

The ease of accessing it paired with its beauty make this one of the first towns we would recommend if you are looking for additional stops along your road trip in Tuscany.

Cortona is perhaps best known for the famous book/movie that is based there, but even without the fame brought by Under the Tuscan Sun , this tiny Tuscan town is still a fabulous place to visit!

I’ll be honest: a trip to Elba is a bit of a stretch for all but the longest trips to Tuscany, but it bears mentioning simply for the fact that Elba is Tuscany’s very own island–and “Mediterranean island” is just not what you normally associate with a trip to Tuscany.

Whether you want to scuba dive, enjoy delicious seafood, lounge on the beach, or chase down the island’s interesting history (Elba was the first place Napoleon was exiled to, though he escaped a little under a year later), there’s no doubt that Elba makes a unique addition to any Tuscany itinerary.

Easier to access than Elba but equally focused on all things coastal, the seaside city of Livorno is the perfect Tuscany road trip destination for anyone looking to enjoy a little sea and sun as part of their trip to Tuscany.

Best known for its delicious Brunello di Montalcino wine, the hilltop town of Montalcino is a delightful slice of Tuscany that is easy to access from Siena and Val d’Orcia.

Outside of Tuscany

Cinque terre.

Of all destinations outside of Tuscany that people tend to be eager to add onto their Tuscany trip, Cinque Terre almost always falls near the top.

We’ve visited this sensational collection of Ligurian fishing villages twice as part of a Tuscany road trip, as well as on a standalone visit, and we can attest that they are well worth the trouble if you have time in your itinerary.

We absolutely do not recommend driving into the villages, however–instead, drive to the train station at La Spezia or Levanto, park your car, and then take the train into the villages from there.

Known, above all else, for its food, Bologna is the perfect location for foodies to flock to if they’re looking for some truly epic cuisine during their road trip.

Bologna is the capital of Emilia-Romagna, the region that is home to so many of the things us foreigners tend to associate with Italian food: tagliatelle al ragu (aka spaghetti bolognese), mortadella (aka bologna), parmigiano-reggiano , traditional balsamic vinegar, and more.

Once you get done eating, Bologna has plenty of other sights to explore, as well–but the food alone is worth visiting for.

Set on a hilltop overlooking sweeping views of the Umbrian countryside, Orvieto is as historical as it is picturesque: dating back to the Etruscans and once (briefly) the home of the pope, whether you’re looking to dive deep into the history, enjoy the tasty Orvieto Classico wine, or simply admire the magnificent vistas, Orvieto has something to offer.

We adore this little village–be sure to check out the Duomo, the views from the Torre del Moro, and the underground while you’re there, among plenty of other fun things to do.

As the location of the birth, work, and death of St. Francis, Assisi is an enormously popular pilgrim destination among Catholic travelers–but even if you’re not Catholic, this small Umbrian town has plenty of history and beauty to offer.

St. Francis was the founder of the Franciscan Order–a name you’ll see pop up a lot in Italy–and is also one of the patron saints of the country.

In Assisi, you can tour the enormously impressive Basilica of St. Francis while learning about the life and history of the saint.

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

Ultimately, Tuscany is a beautiful destination year-round, and you can never go wrong with a visit.

Spring in Tuscany brings beautiful flowers but plenty of rain, summer brings lots of tourists but also long days and sunshine.

Fall brings the harvest and temperamental weather, and winter brings cold, gray weather but also low prices and a distinct lack of crowds.

If you ask us, though, our favorite time to take a Tuscany road trip will always be in the fall, particularly late September through mid-October.

True, it’s hardly offseason (in other words, there will be plenty of other tourists around), and there’s a good chance of experiencing a cold and/or rainy day or two–but the changing colors across the countryside, the incredible food that is freshly harvested, and the crisp chill that sweeps through the air each evening as the heat dies down for the year give the region a magical quality that we will never tire of experiencing.

We’ve spent at least part of the last few autumns in Tuscany, and we see no reason to stop that tradition anytime soon.

While driving in Tuscany is not the most difficult driving you’ll encounter in Italy (looking at you, Rome and Sicily), it definitely has its quirks!

Here are a few tips we recommend keeping in mind as you plan your Tuscany road trip itinerary.

Make sure you have access to a GPS for your Tuscany road trip.

This is absolutely imperative, in our opinion, and can make the difference between an insanely stressful Tuscany road trip and a fairly laid-back one: whether you purchase an international cell phone plan through your carrier before leaving for Tuscany or you purchase an Italian SIM card on the ground, you’ll 100% want to make sure you have cell phone data–and therefore GPS–with you as you drive.

Shop around for your rental car.

I’m almost 100% certain that we’ve used a different rental car company every time we’ve rented a car in Italy–that’s how much the prices can vary depending on your time of travel, pickup and dropoff locations, size of the vehicle, and more.

We recommend searching for your car via Discover Car Hire , which will allow you to check out the rates of several different rental car agencies in Tuscany at once and compare prices and inclusions side-by-side.

Shop for your Tuscnay rental car with Discover Car Hire today!

Buy the insurance–you won’t regret it.

Ultimately, this is up to you–I know some people prefer not to buy additional CDW insurance (aka the insurance that covers damages to the actual car you’re driving, as opposed to your liability to anyone else) on trips–but we buy it every. single. time. in Tuscany and have no regrets.

I don’t want to overstate things, because driving in Tuscany isn’t exactly like driving in the Wild West–but let’s just say that the roads are often tiny, the buildings very close, the parking lots cramped, and the other tourists’ rental cars parked nearby are frequently scratched and dinged in a way that while not horrendously damaging, is definitely something a car rental company would love to charge you for if it happened on your watch.

The peace of mind is absolutely worth it to us–you can price it for yourself when shopping on Discover Car Hire , or purchase a travel insurance policy through that includes car rental insurance (but be sure to double-check the policy, because only some policies cover it).

You need an international driving permit to rent a car in Tuscany.

Technically, you always need an international driving permit to rent a car in Italy, and that includes in Tuscany.

You can pick this up before you leave home from AAA, and it’s very easy and cheap to do–just a bit annoying, as it’s one more thing to add to your to-do list before leaving for your Tuscany road trip.

Now, that being said–will your rental agency always ask for it? No. Will the police always ask for it? No.

Is it worth the risk of being refused a rental car or getting a ticket over $25 USD and a bit of hassle? Not in my opinion.

Rent the smallest car possible.

Not only is it cheaper, which is always excellent, but a smaller car in Tuscany is also much easier to drive.

While the highways in Tuscany are pretty standard, this-could-be-anywhere highways, the small country roads, parking lots near villages, and dirt roads leading to vineyards and villas can be incredibly narrow–which, naturally, does not stop them from being used for two-way traffic (you’ll probably end up pulling over to let someone maneuver past you at least a couple of times during your Tuscany road trip).

Be sure to account for how much space you’ll need for luggage, especially if you have three or more people in your group, but other than that–the smaller, the better.

If you get a ticket, you probably won’t know it right away.

Traffic citations in Tuscany are generally captured via camera, so if you get one, you probably won’t know it right away.

Instead, your license plate will be captured, the ticket will be sent to the owner of the car (ie, your rental company), and then your rental company will forward it onto you.

Unfortunately, that means you won’t be 100% sure you didn’t have any infractions during your Tuscany road trip until several weeks after you get home.

You will encounter toll roads in Tuscany–so carry cash.

Most toll roads in Tuscany will accept credit cards, but it’s always best to have small bills/coins of cash on you–just in case you run into a cash-only booth (or you need a last-minute coffee and/or gelato, which are also very important parts of any Tuscany road trip itinerary).

Be prepared to park and then climb up to towns.

Tuscany is known for its delightful hilltop towns, full of winding, narrow streets and plenty of foot traffic.

Combine the above description of Tuscany that we all know and love with the very concept of a Tuscany road trip, and an obvious question emerges: where are the cars?

Usually, they’re in parking garages built literally under the hilltop towns or on the outskirts of historical centers… which means you often have to walk up steep hills in order to reach the center.

Some cities, like Siena, have escalators installed to help alleviate this problem–but in general, be prepared for a little bit of a leg workout when visiting small towns in Tuscany!

Avoid ZTL zones like the plague.

Essentially, ZTL zones are restricted access zones that dot most of Italy’s historic city centers, including in Tuscany.

If you drive into one, even accidentally, you’re risking a big ticket (and we’ve definitely had to call tiny Tuscan police stations to help some of our family members pay them off months after the fact).

Avoid them by parking on the outskirts of historical centers and by doing your research ahead of time, which leads me to…

Whenever possible, figure out where you’re going to park next before leaving.

This is one of our favorite tricks to keeping stress levels down when driving into a new town in Tuscany: know where the public parking lots are and, when heading out for the day, put your directions on for that particular spot rather than just the town.

This will absolutely cut down on the risk of accidentally driving into a ZTL zone (and therefore getting a ticket), and also make the trip into town much less stressful.

Now, in the interest of full disclosure, this doesn’t always work–occasionally the parking lot you have picked out will be full, or you’ll luck out and find street parking along the way–but in general, it will definitely make your life easier during your Tuscany road trip.

Travel Insurance  — We don’t ever suggest traveling without travel insurance–anything can happen, and this is definitely a case of better safe than sorry. We use and recommend  Safety Wing for trips to Tuscany.

International Driving Permit — If you’re coming from outside the EU and plan to rent a car in Tuscany, you’ll need to make sure to acquire an International Driving Permit in your home country, before  coming to Italy.

It is required for all car rentals in Italy, and while the rental company may not ask, it’s not worth the risk of being refused a car once you arrive or getting a fine if you’re pulled over to be without one. Play it safe and if you plan to drive during your trip, add getting an International Driving Permit to your pre-Tuscany planning!

[convertkit form=828904]

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

67 thoughts on “The Perfect Tuscany Road Trip Itinerary (+ Driving Tips!)”

I love this website It has convinced my husband and me to go on a driving tour of italy! I actually have a question. How do you know or find out where is the ZTL zones so you can avoid them? Thanks! Ilene

So glad to hear that, Ilene! Hope you guys have a great time!

Your GPS can help you avoid the ZTL zones, but the biggest thing is paying very close attention to the signs, as they’ll be marked there. As a general rule, historic centers of cities are ZTL zones, so it’s safest to avoid those entirely and park outside the center before walking into the town!

Hi Kate, Do you have any recommendations for accommodations on the Tuscan itinerary? We would be going in Sept 2022.

Hi Sabrina!

Yes, absolutely. We have several properties linked in this post, but if you’re looking for specific towns/cities, we also have recommendations in each of our independent city guides.

Hello, You guys look like you have a great life! My husband and I are older than you but have retired a bit early so we can travel while we are still able to move about. We have traveled quite a bit independently throughout the years so we are comfortable going to new places. Your blog is great and has so much useful information. Thank you for putting all of your knowledge out there. I know it’s a lot of work to do so. If you don’t mind me asking…we were told you have to have a permanent address at least 6 months out of the year for tax purposes. How do you get around that? Don’t mean to overstep. Thanks!

Thank you so much, Joanne! We really appreciate it. 🙂 Residency requirements vary by state, but we maintain a technical permanent address in our home state of Oklahoma where we pay our taxes, maintain our businesses, keep our driver’s licenses up to date, etc. Most nomadic travelers have a similar setup for logistical purposes!

Hello, thanks so much for this post. It’s so helpful! My partner and I are going to copy this for our holiday in June this year. I was just wondering if you could tell me which towns you stayed overnight in? Grazie, Olivia

So glad it was helpful, Olivia! Where to spend the night really depends on your specific taste, but from this itinerary, we’ve stayed overnight in Florence, Siena, and Arezzo. We’ve also stayed in countryside villas near the Val d’Orcia and Lucca.

Since you’ll be driving, we 100% recommend staying in the country at least once–Tuscan villas and agriturismos are absolutely amazing. For staying in the towns themselves, make sure your hotels have parking, but other than that, any and all of them make a great place to spend the night.

My daughter and I just booked a rental car for our trip to Tuscany this summer thanks to your post. I was nervous about driving but you laid it all out perfectly, thank you. We’re going for her graduation present and it’ll be the first time in Italy for us both. Bookmarking your site now for when the trip gets closer. Thanks again!

That’s amazing to hear, thank you Susan! Comments like this never fail to make my day, we are ALL about making sure your trip goes perfectly! Hope you guys have a fantastic time, and congratulations to your daughter on her graduation!

Hey, this has been quite useful. Im planning my road trip, but im going clockwise on this route. Since i live in The Netherlands, i will drive in from the north, Florence and start here and after Pisa-Lucca, the last stop instead of heading back to Florence is Cinque Terre, to enjoy a bit of the coast. I will take the advice of leaving the car in La Spezia, but if you had to choose to spend a night in Cinque Terre, which woudl you guys recommend, Vernazza or Manarola?

Glad to hear it, thanks Rodolfo!

Which village is best for spending the night in Cinque Terre is definitely a matter of preference, and Vernazza and Manarola happen to be two of my top 3 favorites (the other is Riomaggiore). You can’t go wrong with either, but I’d recommend Vernazza if you’re looking for something smaller, and Manarola if you want to have access to a wider variety of shops and restaurants. Manarola is a more popular (read: crowded) sunset spot, but both places will quiet down considerably once the day trippers head home.

Wonderful, informative article! I am so glad I found your website. We are hoping to be able to visit Tuscany in summer 2022. Italy is our favourite country, but we haven’t been to Tuscany or Cinque Terre, so I really appreciate the wealth of information on your website!

Thank you so much, Cheryl! So glad to hear that. 🙂 Hope you guys have an amazing trip to Tuscany and Cinque Terre!

Hi! I just came upon your site when doing a search for info on an upcoming trip. My husband and I are planning a trip for the end of Oct. We will be renting a car in Florence, spending about two days driving through Tuscany and returning the rental in Rome. I know that’s way too short to do Tuscany justice, but we have a commitment in Venice prior to Florence, and are bookended with a fixed return date from Rome. Where in Florence would be our best choice to rent a car so we can get on the road to Tuscany easily? Same question for returning rental in Rome without having to deal with city driving. Lastly, we are doing some basic research in Tuscany in order to maybe get a place there down the road. Should we consider spending our two nights there in Lucca? Thanks so much and I will definitely be following your adventures!

Hi Rohini! There are so many places to rent cars in both cities it’s really impossible to say–I’d keep an eye out for the best deal and then look carefully at the directions. Unfortunately, some city driving is probably unavoidable if you want to make it all the way from Florence to Rome, but you can limit it based on your schedule.

If you’re just going to relax, Lucca is a great choice! If you want to compare possible areas to own a property in Tuscany though, I’d probably recommend one night there and one night in the Val d’Orcia area. You may also want to consider a look at Siena, depending on whether you want to be close to a city or not.

Hi Kate. Thanks for your quick response! This is very helpful info. I had read somewhere that Tiburtina station in Rome is a good spot for rental return since it would not involve going into the city to return. Would you say that is the case? Once again, thank you for your help!

Hi guys, I imagine you’ve had some ups and downs in your travel in the last 2 years because of Covid. I really hope you’ve been able to stay safe and still continue some of your adventures. I found your site and am really keen to follow your path around Tuscany when my husband and I go this year. I looked up your destinations and would really encourage you to look into coming to Australia and New Zealand some time if you can. Down Under is a wonderful place and New Zealand has just about everything you could ever want to see in a really small country! Thank you for your really helpful and informative site. Take care.

Yes, there have been many ups and downs over the last couple of years for sure, but luckily things are mostly up right now! We’ve decided to base ourselves in Portugal for the next little bit to enjoy lots of Europe throughout 2022. 🙂 Knock on wood, but hopefully our next Tuscan road trip is just around the corner!

We’d love to head down to Aus and New Zealand one day! No plans at the moment, but you never know. 🙂

Hope you guys have a wonderful trip!

Such a great and helpful Itinerary, thank you!

We’re planning to visit late September and I am nervous about the driving portion – what location would you recommend for pick up, outside of Florence? We’re hoping to get a drive to our first destination (open to anywhere) and then pick up a car – appreciate any extra tips you might have! I was surprised to not see any mention of Greve as a stop, have you been? This was what I thought was my main stop in Tuscany but I am now rethinking everything! 😀 We have 5 nights in Tuscany (counted Florence separately as a stop when we head North) and prefer to not spend too much time in the city and want to visit many wineries and enjoy the local food! If you have any very specific favorite wineries to stay at or places to dine, I would love to hear about them!

Thanks again for such a detailed post! I have a lot to consider 🙂

Thanks so much, Cait!

There’s never enough time for all the towns, lol, but if you want to swap in Greve you absolutely can! We haven’t been ourselves yet but generally speaking there’s no such thing as a “wrong” Tuscan town to visit. 😉

If you want to pick up a car outside of Florence, I’d recommend taking a look at Siena. By the time you get into the very small hilltop towns like San Gimignano, etc, there may not be car rental agencies available (or if they are, it’ll just be an office and they’ll need to drive the car itself to you from a bigger city–which often comes with a fee).

Have an amazing trip!

Hi, I am planning a vacation trip to Rome (5 days) and from there a road trip (5 days) to the Tuscan area. I’ve been already to Florence and Pisa. I will like to know cities or towns with good food and scenery off the beaten path. Thanks so much for your time and sharing your knowledge.

It depends on how you define off the beaten path, but just about everywhere in Tuscany is further off the path than Florence and Pisa! And virtually everywhere in Tuscany has great food. 🙂

Arezzo, Volterra, Pienza, Montepulciano are all delightful, some more commonly visited than others. Montalcino is tiny but beautiful.

We also love Lucca, it’s much quieter in many ways than Florence or Siena.

A common theme is that if you spend the night in any of these places, they will get much more peaceful and quiet if you spend the night, as the day-trippers will head home.

Some of the spa towns other than Saturnia can feel off the beaten path, such as Bagno Vignoni. They’re popular, but more catered to tourists from nearby.

Wonderful article – thanks!

Planning Sept trip – 4 days Rome, 2 days Florence, 3 days Venice (as of now)

Considering adding a Tuscany component but limited to time. Any suggestions to condensing to 2-3 days as a loop or feasibility of starting in Florence and ending in Venice?

Any input greatly appreciated.

Happy to help, Richard!

With a 2-3 day driving loop from Florence, I’d recommend driving to either the Val d’Orcia (so towns like Montalcino and Pienza) or a nearby base like Montepulciano, and then basing yourself there for a couple of days. You can drive between a handful of close-together towns, see the landscape, enjoy an agriturismo, do some wine tastings, etc, all within a close distance.

Driving from Florence to Venice isn’t a go-to suggestion of mine since you don’t need a car in either city, but we’ve actually made the drive ourselves as part of a family trip and it was lovely! Bologna, Ferrara, and/or Padua are easy stops right along the route.

If you wanted to take a couple of days between the two cities, a loop through Parma, Modena, Reggio-Emilio and Bologna would put you in the heart of Emilia-Romagna, which is the origin of some of the most beloved Italian foods (traditional balsamic, parmigiano-reggiano, etc).

It’s not the most efficient way to get from Florence to Venice of course (that’d be the high-speed train), but if you want to make a trip of it, you’ll have fun!

If you do want to consider renting a car in Florence and dropping it off in Venice, though, be sure to ask your rental company if they allow it and what fees they would charge before making any plans.

One of my stops is in Luca and the hotel and parking garage are in the Atlantic. How do I get a permit to drive through it.

I think you may have a typo in there, but I’m assuming you mean you have a hotel booked in the historic center of Lucca? If the hotel offers private parking on-site, you can give them your license plate number and they’ll be able to make arrangements for you.

If they don’t have parking, you’ll likely need to park outside the walls and walk into the center to reach your hotel.

Hope that helps!

The parking os not on-site but within the walls.

So you are saying that all I need to do is call either the garage or hotel with my rental car license number and they would be able to get me a permit to drive inside the walled city to get to the hotel and garage?

In your case, I’d contact the hotel and ask where they recommend you park, and then if you head to the garage inside the walls, look at the map to confirm the directions to access it.

Essentially, your goal is to avoid the ZTL zones, which trigger an automatic ticket (and technically two–one for entering the zone and one for leaving it). Unfortunately, since all of the traffic controls are done by camera, you’ll have no sure way of knowing at the time you park if you’ve crossed the boundary.

The public parking within the walls should have a way to access it without passing through a ZTL zone, the concern is taking a wrong turn, etc. If you do need to pass through a ZTL zone (generally speaking in Italy), hotels within the walls can get access for their guests but I’m not sure if yours can since they don’t have on-site parking. These rules also vary from city to city in Italy.

Generally speaking, in the case that you do get access to a ZTL zone to access hotel parking (I know yours doesn’t have it, but just generally), you won’t get a paper permit or anything like that. It’s all done by license plate and camera.

Hi Kate! What an insightful article. I am planning a trip to Itlay in August for 12 days with a girlfriend who has never been to Italy. We are landing in Rome, spending 3 days there, and making our way to Florence by train. We will have 6 days in the Tuscany region and plan to rent a car after reading your article. This is what I am planning for our road trip and what your feedback. Would love to know if you can recommend an amazing winery with meals and wine tasting at one of our stops. I have taken suggestions from your blog on places to see and things to do at each stop:) Am I packing in too much? Day 1 – Florence to Lucca to San Gimignano spend the night here Day 2 – San Gimignano to Siena to Val D’Orcia spend 1 or 2 nights here Day 3 or 4 – Val d’orcia to Montepulciano to Montalcino (not sure about Montalcino) Day 4 – Drive to Saturnia from the last destination and head back to Florence

Hi Gira! All of the places you have mentioned are wonderful, but yes, I’d highly recommend cutting a few places from your list in order to savor the others more!

Driving, parking, walking into historic centers, etc, all eat up quite a bit of time.

I’m assuming you’re planning a couple of days in Florence on days 5-6. Ideally, I’d recommend only changing your “base” one other time. Montepulciano is a convenient spot as you can reach the Val d’Orcia, Montalcino, etc, from there. Siena is another fantastic option, but it’s definitely a small city, not a tiny town.

Saturnia is pretty far out of the way from everything else on your list, so unless it’s your dream destination in Florence, I’d consider trimming that. 🙂

Hi, Your article is very informative. Thanks. One question, I understand that leaving anything in the car in Italy is not a good idea as it can be stolen. What about these small towns in Tuscany? Is it risky to leave luggage in the trunk when parking there, too? Thanks

That’s essentially down to your personal risk tolerance. Many people leave luggage in the car when they have no other good option if it is kept out of sight in a locked trunk.

Obviously, there’s always a small risk with that, but it’s a fairly common practice.

The most important thing is to make sure nothing visible is left behind.

Thank you for such a insightful article, it has definitely helped to make a road trip through Tuscany feel less daunting!

Are there are places on your list that are more or less English friendly? We will obviously try to learn what we can in Italian, but it is always helpful to know 🙂

My husband and I previously visited Florence and did a day trip to Pisa, Siena, and San Gimignano. The scenery was so breathtaking it quickly made a road trip through Tuscany a MUST on our bucket list! Having already visited those places (wouldn’t mind visiting San Gimignano again!), what would be your top picks for 5-6 nights (not including Florence but starting from there)? I would love to make a stop at Saturnia if time allowed. Thank you SO much for your suggestions!

Hi Samantha,

Thank you so much! Glad we can help. 🙂

Unless you go exceptionally off the beaten path, you won’t have any problem using English (plus body language/hand signs/etc) in Tuscany, so don’t worry! Definitely learn what Italian you can, but Tuscans are very friendly and exceptionally used to foreigners.

Since you guys have already done quite a bit in the northern part of Tuscany, I recommend heading to the southern part! Montepulciano, the Val d’Orcia (including towns like Pienza and Montalcino), Cortona, and Saturnia, make a great loop.

You might also look at taking a day trip to Civita di Bagnoregio, Orvieto, Perugia, or Assisi. Those places aren’t in Tuscany but are wonderful, and depending on your itinerary might make fun additions.

This is so helpful Kate, THANK YOU!!!! This will be my first time in Italy, I’m traveling solo, and I’ve never driven outside of the U.S. before, so I’m thinking I’ll stick to trains to get around this time (which I know will limit how much flexibility I have). Are any of these towns easily accessible by train from Florence (and/or each other)?

Happy to help, Tara!

Yes, Lucca, Pisa, Arezzo, and Siena are all easy to get to by train.

The smaller hilltop towns are generally harder to access without a car, and many don’t have train stations. You can technically get to Montepulciano by train, but the station is outside of town and you’ll need to catch a bus or taxi to get all the way there.

If you want to visit a few of the tiny hilltop towns, I’d recommend signing up for a day trip one day–we link a some popular ones in this post: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/best-day-trips-from-florence-italy/

Generally from Florence, you can find either day trips that focus on the north (San Gimignano is a common stop) or the southern Val d’Orcia towns. They’re a great way to see harder-to-access spots while letting someone else deal with the driving and parking!

Thanks so much for responding and for the additional tips! <3

Hi Kate! Thank you, thank you, thank you for the wealth of information. Very helpful for our upcoming visit!

Any possibility of emailing you directly with a few more questions?

Thanks, Lori and Steve, USA, coming in October for our 60th birthday’s!!!!

Yes, of course!

We’re not travel agents and don’t plan/book trips for people, but we’re always happy to answer a few questions and point travelers in the right direction. 🙂

Happy early birthdays!

Hello again, We will only have about 4 (3 full) days and nights to explore Florence and Tuscany. We hear that Florence is not terribly large and is very walkable? Would it be practical and safe to utilize motor scooters to do so? The countryside is a PRIORITY, but we are considering not venturing too far from the city to limit travel time. We’d like to spend at least one night in the city, and at least one in the country. And we very much want to explore a couple of very small villages. Suggestions?

Would you recommend purchasing train tickets in advance, or is it really not necessary? Likewise for renting a car, and making hotel reservations (First week of October).

For the train tickets–it depends. For high-speed trains across long distances, like from Florence to Venice, yes, absolutely book in advance. The prices increase dramatically as you get closer to your dates.

For regional/slow trains, like taking a day trip from Florence to Lucca, there’s no need to book in advance.

What gets a bit confusing is that some lines, like between Rome and Florence, have both high-speed trains (essential if you’re making a day trip, as it takes under 2 hours), and regional/slow trains, which depending on the exact timetable can take anywhere from 3-5 hours or so.

If you want an overview of what’s available, we recommend using Omio to search for tickets and compare prices/timetables.

For hotels and a rental car, yes, you’ll want to book in advance. It’s not as urgent as in, say, July, but to get maximum availability it’s best to be prepared, especially if you have special requirements for your rental car such as wanting to rent an automatic.

I hope that helps and that you guys have a great time! October is our favorite month to be in Tuscany. 🙂

My daughter & I will have 5 days in Tuscany, have a rental car & want to visit mostly hill towns. Our hotel is outside Florence. We’d like to drive to Cortona then to for wine tasting, then to Monticchiello for a 7:30 dinner at Daria & spend night. Is this possible? Where do I find city maps?

I think you mean you plan to spend the night in Monticchiello? If so, yes, that will probably work well. Cortona is a bit out of the way as far as Tuscan hill towns go, but it’s very popular!

For city maps, your hotel will usually offer one, especially if you ask. For towns that you just take a day trip to, the easiest way to find them is to head to the tourism office (there’s virtually always a well-marked office in the town center).

Some tourism offices do charge a nominal fee for maps, so it’s a good idea to have a few Euros in small coins/bills on you when you go.

Totally loved it!!! Would you recommend doing this roadtrip with a child? I really want my 5year old daughter to witness new cultures and enjoy some holidays with mum and dad!

Of course it depends on the child, etc, but it’s definitely possible! Italy is considered to be very kid-friendly, and kids are adored and welcome just about everywhere.

The distances in this road trip are also fairly short, so no extremely long car days to contend with.

I don’t see your 2 night Tuscany itinerary?

Hi Lorraine,

I’m not sure what you mean–maybe you’re looking for our 2 day Florence itinerary? Here it is: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/2-days-in-florence-itinerary/

I don’t have anything on spending 3 days/2 nights in Tuscany specifically, but for most visitors, I’d recommend spending 2 days in Florence and then taking a day trip to the countryside on the 3rd day.

Hope that answers your question!

Thank you very much for your article, it was very helpful to consider the cities/town to visit in La Toscana. What would you recommend me for a 10-day trip (honeymoon 🙂 ) by arriving to Rome? For sure, I want to rent a car and do all by car. Would it be better to take a train all over to Florence and from there do the trip all over to Rome? Is it a big deal if I do not have an international license? Thank you for your help.

You can definitely structure this trip as a road trip from Rome to Florence, touring Tuscany by road trip along the way instead if you prefer. For that version, you’ll likely want to start at Montepulciano and then make sort of a “V” shape ending in Florence. Keep in mind that you’ll probably have a one-way car rental fee if you do it this way.

In that case, you may want to add on a stop in Orvieto along the way as well–it’s in Umbria, and a beautiful place: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/things-to-do-in-orvieto-italy/

Having an international driving permit is required for non-EU drivers in Italy. It’s not often asked for, so you can choose to take the risk, but your rental company can refuse to rent to you and of course, you can have issues if you get into an accident, etc, if you don’t have one as well. They’re not complicated to get, so it’s much better to acquire one before going to Italy!

Hi! Thank you so much for this wonderful site – it is so informative!! We are planning 2-3 days traveling from Florence to Rome and wonder if there are private drivers for hire in Tuscany. Is that an option? And, if so, do you have a sense of how we would locate good drivers? Our concept is that it may be easier on us if we just left the driving to a trained professional local… your thoughts? Thanks again! Paul

We’ve never hired a private driver in Tuscany, so I can’t speak to that personally! I know that some private drivers and tours advertise through Get Your Guide. Other than that, I’d recommend asking your hotel concierge, they’ll no doubt know of someone.

However, if your goal is to travel between Rome and Florence, you could also easily take the train. If you’d rather take 2-3 days to do the journey and sightsee along the way, Orvieto and Siena are both stops to consider on the way.

If you’re confident drivers, though, that route is fairly simple–lots of highway driving, etc. If you’re considering the option of driving yourselves, I’d say there’s no real reason not to.

Hi Thank you for putting together all this info, it has filled me with excitement thinking about our trip this year. My husband and I are hoping to fulfil my dream of travelling to Tuscany this year at the start of April. We will be driving from the UK and stopping off in Normandy then driving across to Italy and Tuscany. The first large city we will enter is Turin before moving towards Tuscany. We have 7 days in Italy but we thought a circular road trip would be great made up of countryside, wine, food and wandering around towns and markets. I love the road trip based around Florence but given our route and our starting point, would you be able to recommend anywhere we should visit/stay/avoid that starts further north and drops into Tuscany. I don’t want to disappoint myself by making poor choices in destinations so any help would be much appreciated. Thank you

Sounds like a wonderful trip! We’ve driven from Portugal to Italy and/or France (and back) several times ourselves, so we’re very familiar with the breadth of the drive you’re taking on.

The Langhe region of Piedmont, located close-ish to Turin, is fantastic: think small towns, gorgeous views, delicious wine, and fewer crowds than Tuscany. You may want to consider a stop there before heading further south! We loved La Morra in particular, but there is lots to see around there, including Alba, Barolo, etc.

Depending on what route you take in, you may pass through Emilia-Romagna as well, one of our favorite foodie regions in Italy. There are a million places to fall in love with there, but Parma might be right along your drive: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/best-things-to-do-in-parma-italy/

Hope you guys have a fantastic trip!

Hi, I loved your article. My husband and I are planning to head to Tuscany in September. My thought is to arrive in Florence from the states and stay for 3 nights. Originally I was planning to head to Greve and stay at Borgo de Cabrea. for 5 nights and just do day trips from there. (The pictures of the hotel views blew me away). However after doing some more research, I’m thinking that I would leave Florence and head down to the Val d’ Orcia region for two nights, do some day trips from there, then head back up to the hotel in Greve for my remaining 3 nights. I don’t want to short change my experience in southern Tuscany. Looking for advice on where to stop on the way down, and the way up versus day trips from where we are staying. I’m thinking of stopping in Sienna on our way back up since it’s closer to Greve then we can avoid a day trip back down. Where do you think is good place to stop on the way down vs. places that would be better as day trips? Also any advise on where to stay in Val d’ Orcia region? Thanks for the advise on the cars. The site you suggested is much cheaper than the one I was originally looking at.

Those hotel views do look incredible!

With the caveat that you can’t make a very wrong decision in Tuscany, I’d recommend spending 3 nights in the Val d’Orcia area and 2 around Greve. Definitely check out the tiny town of Montefioralle when you’re in the Greve area, too: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/montefioralle-italy/

Siena is a decent-sized city rather than a hilltop town, so I’d spend more time there than you can–but if a couple of hours is all you can spare, visiting the Piazza del Campo + the Duomo + visiting one of the viewpoints to see the city from above will make for a memorable stop.

As for where to stay in the Val d’Orcia, we’re partial to Montepulciano as a base. It’s not in the Val d’Orcia, but nearby, well-connected, and beautiful. Pienza also makes an excellent base and has some hotels whose views I think you’ll also love: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/pienza-italy/

Depending on which route you take down from Florence, you may pass Monteriggioni, if so, that’d be a lovely stop during your drive.

Thank You so much for your response. After doing some of my own research and keeping your advise in mind, we booked a hotel in Montepulciano. I have another question for you. We are renting a car and tried discover cars. The prices for renting a compact car through Noleggiare are significantly cheaper than any other company. We need an automatic so it can get pricey. The reviews are mediocre and I was wondering if you had any experience with them. Thanks!

I don’t think we’ve ever used them in particular, but in general, we’ve never had any issues with a car rental in Italy and have zero brand loyalty with rental cars there. We tend to go with whoever is most affordable, as the prices can vary so much. We do buy rental insurance, though–for us, it’s worth the peace of mind.

Hi Planning on driving from Rome to Florence, taking our time. Where would you rent the car? And can you drop off a car in Florence if you rent in Rome. Thanks

Hi Sebastiano,

Personally, we’d rent the car in Rome wherever we could find the best deal–we’re not particularly loyal to any one car rental company.

You can definitely rent a car in Rome and drop it off in Florence, however, you’ll likely incur a one-way rental fee. These can vary dramatically, but are usually pretty reasonable if you’re picking up and dropping off the car in the same country (driving from Italy to Switzerland, for example, would be a different story).

Hi! I liked your insights very much, I hope to go visit Tuscany soon with my family. Though you didn’t really mention seaside areas – I guess it’s because people don’t tend to visit Tuscany region because of beaches, but still, there IS some seaside (judging from map sorry), and I would like to know more, either if you had any experience, or from locals or friends. I clinged to the one photo of a beach at Livorno. I was wondering, if it is worth seeing the seaside as well, if there are any beaches, maybe areas where swimming is not recommended, dangerous tides, sharks… or are there nice places as well, worth visiting. Is the shore easily accessible? The shoreline area is more flat I guess, less hills there as I assume again, from maps…

You’re right, I didn’t include seaside areas because typically, that’s not what non-Italian travelers are looking for from the Tuscany region. You’re right that it has a lovely coastline, though!

A few popular beach towns in Tuscany include Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi. Livorno is a popular cruise ship stop, and has a historic fort right on the water. Don’t miss the view from Terrazza Mascagni if you go!

If you want to go further off the beaten path, the Tuscan island of Elba (where Napoleon was once banished to) is beautiful.

If you’re in a beach town, you’ll definitely have access to the sea!

Will be in Tuscany for four days and thinking one day each in Pisa, Florence and Montepulciano (or combine a couple (like Pisa/Florence). Can you suggest a good home base area? We will have a car – any suggestions for a couple of one day road trips (if we can combine P, F or M) to visit wineries, different towns, etc? So many things to see it’s hard to decide and are hoping you can help us out. Thank you so much!!!

Hi Collette,

If you plan to have a car, I’d recommend staying outside a city center and enjoying the countryside a bit. That’s the advantage of having a car in Tuscany!

I’d also recommend combining Lucca with Pisa–Pisa doesn’t take long to see, but Florence definitely takes a full day at a minimum assuming you want to go inside a museum, up a viewpoint, etc.

On the route from Florence to Montepulciano, Monteriggioni and Siena are great options (depending on which route you take). The Chianti area is also between the two, though it’s a bit more out of the way to access!

San Gimignano and/or Volterra would also make a great day, and would be enhanced by having a car.

Deciding where to stay can be fairly flexible, as all of those places can be visited as a day-trip from the others, but I’d choose based on your priorities, as you’ll have some long drives round-trip. The Siena area makes a great base if your priority is Montepulciano and towns like the Val d’Orcia. The Lucca area or Chianti area is lovely for accessing northern Tuscany (Florence, Pisa, San Gimignano, etc).

Ciao! Thank you so much for writing so much about Italy! It’s been very helpful while planning our upcoming Tuscany road trip. We’re planning to rent a car from Florence and are seeing a lot of negative reviews on all the cheaper Discover Cars rental companies. What rental companies have you used in the past and would you recommend them? Also, are there any we should stay away from? Trying to be budget friendly but also do not want hit with a bunch of fees after the fact. Thank you so much for your help!

Hi Natalie,

Happy to help!

Honestly, I could not even remember all the rental companies we’ve used in Italy, let alone in Europe. We’re not picky–we’ve used everything from big brands like Hertz and Sixt all the way to tiny local outfits that we spot on the ground. We’ve never been charged for damage, but we do take precautions.

Specifically, we ALWAYS thoroughly photograph and video (a full 360 video) the vehicle when picking it up, and we tend to buy the additional insurance as well. If you want to ensure there’s a 0% chance of being charged for anything, most companies offer a $0 deductible (in Europe, a deductible is called excess) policy. It’s an increase in the upfront budget, but offers a lot of peace of mind if it’s something you’re worried about!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

The Ultimate West Coast USA Road Trip Guide

A West Coast USA road trip is one of the classic American road trips. Make the most out of your adventure with this step-by-step Pacific Coast Highway road trip itinerary.

Driving up the Pacific Coast Highway and Highway 1 on a West Coast USA road trip is an experience to remember – it’s one that I certainly do.

Magnificent views, laid-back towns, vineyards and the great outdoors: this is a real chance to explore the great American coast. What more could you want from your time on the road?

Any great trip is worth taking its time over, so I’ve put together the perfect three week West Coast USA road trip itinerary to help you plan your trip. 

All the ideas, stops and suggestions you’ll need to plan the perfect trip. Don’t stress, just sit back and enjoy the ride, whether you are planning on going in a car, van or motorcycle touring.

In this guide I will cover: 

• What to do and consider before your Pacific Coast Highway trip 
• A step by step West Coast road trip itinerary – with the best things to do on the West coast of America, estimated driving times and suggested stays. 
• Other useful resources for the trip and a handy map to make things super easy

Practical Tips and Frequently Asked Questions About How to Travel the West Coast of the USA

Where does the pacific coast highway start.

The Pacific Coast Highway technically only runs from San Diego to Mendocino in California – the full stretch from San Diego to Seattle is Highway 1 / Highway 101, which is what this itinerary covers. 

In reality, people use the phrases Pacific Coast Highway, Highway 1 and Highway 101 interchangeably (and that’s what I do in this guide)  – it all means one thing: an amazing West Coast America road trip.

Which Direction Should You Drive Highway 1?

The short answer is either way. 

I wanted to travel the West Coast of the USA from south to north but you can drive this West Coast road trip itinerary in the opposite direction from Seattle to San Diego – there isn’t much in it either way. 

If you drive from north to south, it’s easier to turn off and get to lookouts. If you drive from south to north, the sun tends to be behind you and not in your eyes. 

I’d check flights on Skyscanner first and then just book whichever way works best from there. 

How Much Does a West Coast Road Trip Cost?

In general, driving down the West Coast of America costs between $175 and $350 dollars a day (for two people). Estimated costs for a few items are as follows. 

I haven’t included estimates for food and excursions as ultimately, this really will depend on your budget and travel style. 

You can reduce costs by renting an RV rather than a car – although the initial cost of the rental is higher, you save on accommodation (other than pitch fees) and you can cook to save money as you travel. 

How Long Does it Take to Drive the West Coast of America?

You can drive the whole of the West Coast of America in just under three weeks as per this itinerary. This does mean that you will be constantly moving and won’t have time for any detours. 

I would suggest taking things at a slower pace if you can. 1 month for the whole of the West Coast is an ample amount of time allowing you to explore at your leisure. 

If you are looking for a West Coast road trip itinerary that you can do in 14 days or less, I would suggest sticking to the California section of the trip from San Diego to Redwood National Park and taking more time in each stop. 

Car Hire for Your West Coast USA Road Trip

If you’re hiring a car, rather than an RV, your choice of car is going to be really important. 

While it can be tempting to hire the smallest and cheapest car – do remember that you’re going to spend a lot of time in the vehicle. So much so that it’s going to become one of your best buddies during your West Coast America trip.

Who doesn’t want to look flashy in a bright red convertible zipping along the coast? If you’re going for the ultimate road trip vehicle a convertible is the thing that immediately springs to mind. 

That said, if you’re travelling outside of summer, it might not be the best choice: the weather in the Pacific Northwest is notoriously unpredictable…

Things to Consider When Renting a Car for the Ultimate West Coast Road Trip

Here are some pointers on what to think about when you are choosing a car.

• If you want to live it up in true West Coast style and hire a convertible, popular choices are a Ford Mustang or Chevrolet Camaro. If you aren’t fussed about having the top down but still want to go for a muscle car, you may be able to get a really good deal on one of the hard top versions of these cars (that’s what we did and saved a few hundred dollars!).
• You could also consider something a little more unusual like a Dodge Challenger.
• Muscle cars are perfect for two people and a reasonable amount of luggage. They will use a little more fuel than a typical economy car but fuel in the US is pretty inexpensive.
• Most of the rental cars are automatic – worth remembering if you’ve never driven one before (don’t stress, it’s easy).
• US cars tend to be larger than European ones. Watch out on that spatial awareness (though parking spaces etc tend to be larger too).
• Generally, you will be able to pick up and drop off a car at most of the larger stops along this West Coast road trip but do be aware that a one-way fee will probably apply. Be sure to check how much this is before you book as it can be a significant proportion of the overall cost.

Car Hire Options for the West Coast Drive of the USA 

• Hertz – Hertz is an international car rental company that has a variety of cars available for a road trip on the Pacific Coast Highway. 
• Sixt Rent a Car – Sixt has great car rental prices.
• Rentalcars.com
• Alternatively, rather than trawling through all of the car hire companies independently, I often use rental comparison site Holiday Autos to find the cheapest / most suitable rental for my trip.

If you don’t want to hire a car and sort accommodation separately, an RV is something you should consider. RVs or “recreational vehicles” can be as basic or as luxurious as your budget affords.

The whole of Highway 1 is covered with campsites with RV pitches (including all of the campsites mentioned in the article) so you will never struggle to find somewhere to pitch for the night. Pitches tend to come with electricity and water as a minimum. 

Of course, you always have the option of just parking up roadside and kipping there for the night too.

Though RV rental isn’t cheap, it tends to be the more economical option if there’s a group of you travelling.

RV Rental Companies

• Motorhome Republic
• Camper Travel USA

You can also choose to camp and drive in a campervan. 

As a rule, these are much smaller than RVs but also tend to be more cost-effective. Wicked Campers hire brightly-coloured and decorated vehicles that are going to make you look like the coolest kid in town – I used them for our Atacama Desert road trip in Chile and was really impressed by the company.

When is the Best Time to do a Road Trip up the West Coast of the USA?

In the southern part of the road trip (south of Los Angeles) the weather tends to be sunny pretty much all year round, getting colder and chillier the further north you go. 

If you want to do the whole road trip from San Diego to Seattle, I would suggest doing it between April and October. 

Even then, be sure to bring warm clothes and layers as it can be foggy and chilly north of San Francisco , even in the summer. 

The busiest time for a West Coast drive is between mid-June until the end of August (which is also when the notorious “June Gloom” fog engulfs parts of the coast, so if you can travel outside of these times, I would.

What to Pack for Your West Coast USA Road Trip

It can be tempting to pack everything, including the kitchen sink for a West Coast road trip but the reality is you don’t need to bring tonnes of stuff with you. 

I’ve put together a basic list of items you’ll need, plus a few extras if you plan on doing a lot of hiking while you’re on the trip.

• Clothes + Shoes
• Binoculars – for whale watching season, seal and sea-lion spotting, bird watching and trying to work out how tall that tree really is.
• Picnic Blanket

Additional Items for Outdoors Activities

• Wetsuit if you’re planning on surfing , particularly in the sea in and above Northern California.
• Hiking Boots and Socks
• Soft Shell Jacket or Waterproof Jacket for Hiking
• Marco Polo West Coast USA Map

Read My Road Trip Essentials Guide for a Full Packing List

The Ultimate West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary 

San diego (west coast road trip itinerary day 1).

Laid-back, friendly and easy on the eye, San Diego is the perfect place to start your USA road trip itinerary and a great introduction as one of the most beautiful spots in California . 

The city is best known for two things: its great beaches and year-round warm climate – take advantage of both of these before you set off on your West Coast road trip.

Spend some time exploring the compact downtown area and take advantage of the buzzing dining scene before hitting the road. 

See the Practical Tips section above for details on transport, car hire and road trip essentials before you set off.

Best Things to do in San Diego

• San Diego Zoo – San Diego ’s world-famous wildlife sanctuary is located in Balboa Park, with more than 3,700 animals of 650 species.
• Mission Beach – The lively boardwalk and picture-perfect coast make this one of San Diego’s hottest spots.
• Catch the sunset at Sunset Cliffs – They got their name for a reason.
• Take a surfing lesson – Because it’s the West Coast of California and it’s practically mandatory.
• Gaslamp Quarter – Shop, drink and dine in the coolest part of town.

Read for more San Diego travel inspiration 

Where to Stay in San Diego

Sheraton san diego marina (luxury).

This super sleek hotel sits right on the Marina and offers a free transfer from San Diego Airport.

Check Rates and Availability

Hotel Indigo (Mid Range)

An eco-friendly hotel with an eye-catching interior in the Gaslamp Quarter.

Hotel Solamar (Mid Range)

Flaunting its hipster credibilities, Hotel Solamar is a cool place to stay without breaking the bank.

San Diego to Laguna Beach (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 2)

1.5 hour drive from San Diego.

It’s a beautiful drive from San Diego to Laguna Beach, the next stop on your West Coast USA road trip itinerary. Straight outta the OC, Laguna Beach is a pleasant cluster of gorgeous beaches, art galleries and boho-chic eateries.

Stop off to explore the rocky bluffs and hidden coves dotted along Laguna’s coastline. There are over 30 beaches in the seven-mile stretch of Laguna Beach for you to take your pick from.

Best Things to do in Laguna Beach

• Laguna Art Museum – The best in modern Californian art in the oldest museum in the state.
• St Francis Cathedral   – The second-smallest cathedral in the world (it’s tiny).
• Laguna Gallery of Contemporary Art – Showcases contemporary art dedicated to illuminating humanitarian causes.
• Nick’s Laguna Beach – Classic American comfort food is the name of the game at this chic bistro with an open kitchen.

Where to Stay in Laguna Beach

Inn at laguna beach (luxury).

One of the coolest hotels in Laguna Beach (and with the price tag to match), the Inn at Laguna Beach is tucked away on a cliff, 1 minute walk from the beach and with captivating ocean views. Service is second to none.

Laguna Hills Lodge (Budget)

Tucked inland in the Laguna Hills, this budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price.

Laguna Beach to Los Angeles (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 3)

1 hour drive from Laguna Beach.

Love it or hate it, no West Coast USA road trip is complete without a stop in Los Angeles . 

Sure, the roads are crazy but take some time to explore and you’ll find some of the coolest galleries, restaurants and beaches in the US.

Best Things to do in Los Angeles

• The Broad – LA’s hottest art gallery is the place to go and an Insta-lover’s dream.
• Venice Beach – Release your inner freak and revel in the weird, wacky and wonderful on Venice Beach.
• Roscoe’s House of Chicken & Waffles – The best fried chicken in LA is something of an institution. Grab your place in line before settling down to a feast.
• Take a short road trip into the surrounding area s – destinations like Palm Springs, Ojai and Big Bear are only a few hours away. Heck, you can even spend a day in Disneyland.
• The Hollywood Sign – No trip to LA is complete without visiting this epic photo spot. I recommend taking the classic hike; it’s sweaty but very worth it.
• Griffith Observatory – Perched atop a hill overlooking the city, head here for epic sunset views.

Best Places to Stay in LA

The mondrian (luxury).

This hotel property is quirky and unashamedly glossy – one of my favourite hotels in the USA.

Banana Bungalow Hollywood (Budget)

Looking for a lively hostel with buzzing social areas? This is your place.

Want more LA travel inspiration? Check out my guide to 25 LA Hotspots you shouldn’t miss on your next trip .

Los Angeles to Santa Barbara (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 4)

1.5 hour drive from Los Angeles.

After a leisurely (and relatively short) drive from Los Angeles, you should stop off in Santa Barbara for a taste of the good life. 

This old Spanish mission town is a West Coast road trip USA staple – over the years it has blossomed into a hub of pretty buildings, lush gardens and high-end stays.

Don’t forget to pop into a vineyard or two in the style of indie-hit film Sideways. Just remember to appoint a designated driver first.

If you don’t have time to head out to the vineyards, many of them have tasting rooms in town too (mostly centered around the fabulously-named region of town called The Funk Zone).

Best Things to do in Santa Barbara

• Mission Santa Barbara -Dating back to 1786, Santa Barbara’s mission is the city’s main historical landmark and well worth a visit.
• Santa Barbara Museum of Art – Captivating range of artworks from native Californians and international masters.
• Kalyra Winery – A small, independent winery producing stellar wines (also pops up in the indie flick Sideways).
• The Lark – Santa Barbara’s best restaurant is difficult to book but well worth the effort if you bag a table.
• Metropolous Fine Foods Merchant – Stock up on deli dishes, handmade sandwiches and salads for your lunch.

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara

Belmond el encanto (luxury).

A plush hotel overlooking the ocean, El Encanto is the place to really push the boat out, it is perfect if you are having a romantic getaway in the USA .

The Eagle Inn (Mid Range)

A quaint B&B with private cottages a few blocks away from the beach.

Casa del Mar Inn (Budget)

An affordable hidden gem that’s close to the beach.

Check Prices, Reviews & Availability

Santa Barbara to Pismo Beach + San Luis Obispo (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 5)

1.5 hour drive from Santa Barbara.

The drive from Santa Barbara to San Luis Obispo is full of treasures, and sure to be a highlight of your West Coast USA road trip.

If you’re travelling between October and February, the Pismo Beach Butterfly Grove is a must-do: millions of Monarch Butterflies take sanctuary in the grove’s Eucalyptus trees during the winter season. Bring some binoculars or a good zoom camera for a close up peek.

Pismo is prime seafood country – The Cracked Crab might be no-frills, but who needs them when the seafood is that fresh and tasty? Cover up though, digging in can be a messy business.

Almost perfectly halfway between LA and San Fran, San Luis Obispo (or SLO as the local’s call it) is a buzzing town with an old Catholic mission and a great weekly farmer’s market. Wine lovers should take a little detour into the picturesque Edna Valley to taste the local vintages.

Best Things to do in Pismo Beach + San Luis Obispo

• Monarch Butterfly Grove – It’s quite a spectacular sight seeing so many fluttering butterflies.
• The Cracked Crab – A lively restaurant serving some of the best seafood in Cali.
• San Luis Obispo Mission – A well-preserved mission dating from 1772.
• Farmer’s Market – Pick up some fresh grub, or head here just to people watch.

Where to Stay in San Luis Obispo

San luis creek lodge (luxury).

High-end B&B that’s consistently rated as one of the best places to stay in SLO.

Madonna Inn (Mid-Range)

Over-the-top in the best possible way. If you want your accommodation with bags of colourful personality, you won’t find anywhere better than the Madonna Inn.

Avenue Inn Downtown San Luis Obispo (Budget)  

Small inn in walking distance from downtown San Luis Obispo.

San Luis Obispo to Hearst Castle and the Big Sur (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 6)

Get ready for dramatic scenery and photo-opps galore on today’s West Coast drive. Today starts with a visit to the palatial but bizarre Hearst Castle .

Sir William Randolph Hearst built the castle to entertain his hoards of Hollywood star and media magnate friends. Expect unbridled opulence and gorgeous architecture from this Highway 1 Highlight.

After Hearst Castle, jump back into the car for a completely different kind of drama: The Big Sur. 

This winding 100-mile stretch of road is California’s most famous – and for many, the highlight of their West Coast Road Trip. 

For good reason: the salty surf, coastal bluffs and (mildly terrifying) winding road are sure to keep you on your toes. Allow plenty of time to drive the Big Sur as it can get quite congested. 

Sections of Big Sur are closed during 2022. Check here for the latest updates.

Best Things to do in Big Sur

• Hearst Castle – Sir William Randolph Hearst’s fantastical fairytale destination. 
• The seal colony at Point Piedras Blancas
• Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park – home to McWay Waterfalls, redwoods and some great hiking.
• Henry Miller Memorial Library – beatnik books, offbeat events and film screenings.
• Pfeiffer Beach – a purple sand beach in the state park. A little hard to find but worth spending the time to do it.
• Big Sur Taphouse – For locally-brewed craft beers and delicious food.
• Deetjeens Big Sur Inn – Grab some hearty fare from this local institution.

Where to Stay in Big Sur

Post ranch inn (luxury).

Frequently named as one of the best hotels in the US and the place to pamper yourself on your Highway 1 road trip.

Big Sur Lodge (Mid Range)

Tucked away in the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, Big Sur Lodge is the perfect base for exploring the area.

Big Sur Campground & Cabins (Budget)

If you’ve brought a tent, book ahead and pitch up in this handy campsite.

Read Next: The Ultimate Big Sur Camping Guide 

Big Sur to Carmel, Monterey + Santa Cruz (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 7)

1.5 hour drive from Big Sur to Santa Cruz

Wherever you’ve stopped off in Big Sur, I’m pretty sure that you will be sorry to leave. 

Many people call it a day after Big Sur and head back home. Sure, you could do that – but you’d be missing out on so much of the Pacific Coast Highway / Highway 1 and the adventures that it has to offer.

Pack up and jump back in the car and drive down to the small well-heeled town of Carmel (of Clint Eastwood ex-mayor fame). I can’t say that Carmel was my favourite place ever, but there’s an undeniable charm to the chocolate-box prettiness of the town.

Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, a short distance from Carmel, couldn’t stand in starker contrast to the quiet town. 

You can’t miss the crashing waves and the noisy sea lion population who make their presence known (very loudly).

I’d recommend taking a few hours and doing the six-mile circuit around the park, but if you’re short on time there are plenty of car parks near to viewing points for you to take advantage of.

Further along the coast, you can stop off in Monterey to see the award-winning aquarium (buy your tickets in advance if you do). 

Wander around the town, which was immortalised in the John Steinbeck novel “Cannery Row” thanks to its previous life as the centre of the US sardine canning industry.

Those brave enough to get in the chilly waters might also want to consider booking a dive to explore Monterey’s abundant underwater life. 

When you’re ready to get back on the road, cruise along to eccentric Santa Cruz to spend the night.

Best Things to do in Carmel, Monterey + Santa Cruz

• Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – Sea lions and wildlife in a rugged natural setting.
• Monterey Bay Aquarium – One of the best aquarium’s in the US (and the world), famed for conservation.
• Point Pinos Lighthouse – the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the West Coast.
• Monarch Grove Sanctuary Park . If you missed the Monarch Butterfly grove on the way to Pismo, you get a second chance. October to February only.
• Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk . The oldest seaside amusement park on the West Coast is a celebration of all things kitsch and cool.
• Santa Cruz Surf School . There’s no better place to learn to surf than Santa Cruz – you can even buy a board (or something a little more portable) from the original O’Neill Surf Shop on 41st Ave.

Where to Stay in Santa Cruz

Rio vista inn & suites (luxury).

A pristinely restored historical mansion and the swankiest bed in town.

Pacific Blue Inn (Mid-Range)

Eco-friendly cool spot with comfortable and stylish rooms.

New Brighton State Beach Campground (Budget)

Beachside camping with power connections and shady spots if you can get there early enough to nab one.

Santa Cruz to San Francisco (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Days 8 + 9)

1.5 hour drive from Santa Cruz to San Francisco

It’s only 70 miles from Santa Cruz to San Francisco but what a 70 miles – it is the quintessential American West Coast road trip dream. 

You’d think that you’ll be used to mile after mile of gorgeous coastline unfurling in front of your windscreen by now, but let me tell you – it never gets old.

Stop off outside of Santa Cruz at the Año Nuevo State Park to see the largest mainland breeding colony of elephant seals. 

Watch as the (not so gentle) giants roll around in the surf, snooze and fight – you can book ahead onto a guided tour.

There are plenty of small stops for you to take along the coast: Pigeon Point, Pescadero State Beach and Half Moon Bay are popular ones. 

Seafood-lovers are spoilt for choice with the seemingly endless seafood shacks lining this part of Highway 1 (hey, you can never have too much of a good thing right?).

However many stops you make and shacks you eat in, you’ll eventually make it to San Francisco.

I’d recommend spending an extra day here (mainly because you’ve been doing a lot of driving and it’s one of my favourite cities ) – but if you would rather spend that extra day somewhere else, say in Yosemite , that’s easily done too. 

San Fran is packed with things to do- here are a few of my faves. 

Best Things to Do in Santa Cruz and San Francisco

• Año Nuevo State Park – Here’s where to head for Elephant seal watching on the coast.
• Pigeon Point Lighthouse and Park – One of the tallest lighthouses in the US and a good seal and whale watching spot during the season.
• Pescadero State Beach – The marshy lands behind the beach are a birdwatcher’s paradise.
• Alcatraz – The prison on The Rock. Take the boat and a tour of the most famous prison in the US .
• The Castro – Gay friendly and colourful Castro is the perfect spot to explore on two feet.
• Golden Gate Bridge + Park – Walk through the woodland and hike along the trails to the foot of San Francisco’s legendary Golden Gate Bridge .
• Go Stargazing in the Bay
• Balmy Alley – Politically-inspired street art in the lively Mission District.
• Brunch – Gingey Bites has written a great guide to the best brunch spots in San Francisco

Where to Stay in San Francisco

Argonaut hotel (luxury).

Luxury hotel on Fisherman’s Wharf with a stylishly understated Maritime theme.

The Buchanan (Mid-Range)

Located in Japantown, The Buchanan boasts a sleek design and thoughtful touches at a reasonable price.

Pigeon Point Lighthouse (Budget)

If you don’t want to spend the night in San Fran, you can book a bed in the iconic HI-run lighthouse if you reserve well in advance.

Or check out my guides to The Best Things to do in San Francisco and  to Cool Airbnbs in San Francisco .

San Francisco to Mendocino (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 10)

3hrs drive from San Francisco to Mendocino.

From San Francisco, head back out to Highway 1 to resume your West Coast road trip itinerary. 

You’re heading towards redwood country: where the majestic tall trees are almost as numerous as the people that live there.

Hiking opportunities abound, as do small and quirky towns – each with its own organic food store and cafe. Stock up on picnic supplies and eat your feast on one of the wide-open beaches.

If you’re travelling in season (November to April), keep an eye out for migrating whales making their annual journey between Alaska and Mexico. 

Bed down in Mendocino: the perfect base for exploring the craggy Mendocino Headlands State Park.

Best Things to do Between San Francisco and Mendocino

• Go on a whale watching trip with Bodega Bay Charters .
• Hiking in Salt Point State Park .
• Climb to the top of the Point Arena Lighthouse for spectacular views out to sea.
• Mendocino Headlands State Park for abundant wildlife and (more) hiking.
• Spud Point Crab Company – You’ve got to be a dab hand at making crab if you include it in your name. Fortunately for Spud Point, they are.
• Explore wine country. Head inland to discover Mendocino’s thriving wine country.

Where to Stay in Mendocino

Blue door inn (luxury).

Upscale accommodation with indulgent breakfasts and contemporary decor.

Agate Cove Inn (Mid-Range)

A small, high-end B&B with sea views.

Gualala Point Regional Park

The perfect place to camp: a short walk from the beach in a redwood grove.

Mendocino to Klamath (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 11)

4.5 hour drive from Mendocino to Klamath.

Today is all about the majestic Redwood National Park – home to the tallest trees in the world. 

Start off from Mendocino early for the 3-4 hour drive up to the national park. The park takes its name for the soaring redwood trees, larger than you can possibly imagine that fill its grounds.

There are numerous hiking trails within the park, suited to hikers of all kinds of abilities, otherwise you can explore the highlights and main viewing points by car.

If you’re not camping, the small hamlet of Klamath is your best choice for accommodation – with the added benefit that you can start several hikes from Klamath itself.

If you are stopping your West Coast USA road trip in California, that’s it folks – time to head home. 

If you’re going all the way up to Seattle, keep reading – you’ve got plenty of excitement to come.

Best Things to do in Redwood National Park

• Howland Hill Road – a 10-mile drive through a Redwood grove with an optional ½ mile walk.
• Klamath River Overlook – drive to the overlook for prime whale watching during migration season plus wildlife spotting opps for the rest of the year.
• Fern Canyon – An enchanting canyon lined with ferns in Prairie Creek Redwood State Park.
• Hidden Beach   – Hike along a three-mile coastal and forest trail from the Klamath River Overlook to this gorgeous beach that is only accessible by foot. It’s almost always empty and is dotted with driftwood pebbles and branches worn smooth by the surf.
• Avenue of the Giants – Take a turn off Highway 101 in the Humboldt Redwoods State Park to take the 32-mile Avenue of the Giants. The road is named for the soaring redwood trees that line its sides – nothing makes you feel smaller than hundreds of trees so tall you can’t even see the top.

Where to Stay in Klamath

Holiday inn express redwood national park (budget).

There’s not much to this Holiday Inn that’s special but it’s in a great location for walking out to Klamath River Overlook and then doing the three mile hike to Hidden Beach.

Or, read my guide to camping in Redwood National Park

Klamath to Coos Bay (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 13)

3 hour drive from Klamath to Coos Bay

Welcome to Oregon! 

After a long time dawdling your way up the Californian coast and moseying inland for a detour or two, it’s time to hit a new state. Oregon’s quieter coastline boasts a rugged beauty that never fails to impress.

Almost every Tom, Dick and Harry sets out on a Pacific Coast Highway road trip and sees the Big Sur, but if you’ve made it up this far, you’ve truly earned your Highway 1 road-tripper badge of honour.

Best Things to do between Klamath and Coos Bay

• Samuel H Boardman Scenic Corridor – Named after the “father” of Oregon’s national park system, the scenic corridor is one of the most beautiful stretches of the Oregon coastline.
• Brookings – A cool little town just over the Oregon border. Chill out on one of the many beaches, hang out on the boardwalk and soak up the laid-back vibe.
• Arch Rock Brewing Company – The Pacific Northwest is famed for its craft beer scene. Make like a local and try a brew or two in Arch Rock (y’all don’t need me to tell you about drink driving – designated driver etc etc).
• Sunset Bay , Shore Acres and Cape Arago State Parks – Three state parks that stand side by side on the southern stretch of the Oregon coast. You can camp in Sunset Bay – make sure you’re there for sunset, it’s named that for a reason.
• Port Orford – Wedged in a small natural harbour next to Cape Blanco State Park , the views from Port Orford are fairly spectacular.
• Coos Bay – Coos Bay is well worth exploring. There are a few cool museums and plentiful seafood to chow down on too.

Where to Stay in Coos Bay

Red lion hotel coos bay (mid-range).

Recently given a breath of fresh air, the Red Lion is a comfortable option in Coos Bay.

Sunset Bay State Park (Budget)

Camping near to the shoreline at this state park. Tent sites, RV hookups or you can rent one of their eight yurts.

Coos Bay to Newport (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 13)

2 hours 10 minutes drive from Coos Bay to Newport

A little north of Coos Bay Highway 1 takes you to the fringe of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area – the largest area of coastal sand dunes in the US.

Up to 150 metres tall – the dunes are impressive enough to look at, but add in dune bashing, hiking and horseriding and you have a whole world of fun. 

I’d recommend parking up and spending most of the day in the park – it’s only a short drive to Newport and the dunes really do have to be seen to be believed.  

Best Things to do Between Coos Bay and Newport

• Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area – spend the day (or more if you have the time) exploring the largest area of coastal sand dunes in the US.
• Umpqua Aquaculture – If you love oysters, read on.This tiny little spot may well serve the best oysters you can find on the whole of the West Coast. Yes, we’re serious. Buy them by the bucket and feast your face off.
• Oregon Coast Aquarium – Award-winning aquarium in Newport with a sea otter pool, and a heart-stopping shark tunnel.
• Yachats – A small town on this undeveloped coastline that’s the Oregon beachside hideaway for those in the know.
• Yaquina Head Outstanding Area – A coastal bluff with the tallest lighthouse in Oregon. At low tide, you can spot the sea urchins and starfish that line the shores. You’ll need to book ahead if you want to visit the lighthouse itself.
• Willamette Valley – Not along Highway 101 at all but this valley a short drive inland is the home of Oregon’s flourishing Pinot Noir production. Wine lovers – it’s definitely worth the detour .

Where to Stay in Newport

Inn at nye beach (luxury).

Set in the increasingly cool area of Nye Beach, the Inn has a wonderful view, freshly-roasted coffee and chocolate chip cookies. Heart eye-emoji love.

Sylvia Beach Hotel (Mid-Range)

Every room here is named (and decorated) after a different literary legend, so you can take your pick from Alice Walker, Ernest Hemingway, J.R.R Tolkien, Oscar Wilde and more. The room features books and information about your author of choice. There are no TVs and no wifi – just hunker down with your favourite book and soak up the atmosphere.

South Beach State Park (Budget)

For something a little more rugged, this is a popular campsite two miles south of Newport.

Newport to Astoria (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 14)

3 hours 15 min drive from Newport to Astoria

The stretch of Oregon Coast between Newport and Astoria is studded with uber-cool towns, nice beaches (when the weather’s warm enough) and lots of beautiful vantage points for you to soak up the Pacific Ocean.

Astoria itself is a historic city with plenty of easily-accessible hikes and water-sports for you to take advantage of. 

Seaside and Cannon Beach are two of the better known beaches along this stretch – just watch out, they tend to get pretty busy during the summer months (though that’s not always a bad thing at all).

Manzanita is one of my favourite little villages along this coast – the small city is a thriving outdoors hub and brimming with great restaurants. It helps that the beach is pretty lovely too.

Best Things to do Between Newport and Astoria

• Seaside and Cannon Beach – For summertime beach-bumming and stellar views.
• Manzanita – A cool (dare I say hipster) village that’s well worth a stop.
• Astoria – Soak up the history in Oregon’s northern most coastal town.
• Big Wave Cafe, Manzanita – Hearty and fresh grub served in Manzanita’s friendliest restaurant.
• The Three Capes detour – take a detour off the 101 to soak up the coastal views on the Three Capes road. It winds its way past Cape Meares, Cape Kiwanda and Cape Lookout. The road has been under repair in recent years so check the status before you turn off the PCH.

Best Places to Stay Between Newport + Astoria

Whale cove inn (luxury).

You’ve been on the road for weeks now. Splash out and stay in this super-luxury hotel. Suites come with private decks with a jacuzzi and all boast magnificent ocean views.

Commodore Hotel (Mid-Range)

A cool hotel in downtown Astoria, the Commodore has been built in the vein of our much-beloved Ace Hotels, with funky decor and friendly staff.

Nehalem Bay State Park (Budget)

Bed down in one of Nehalem Bay’s yurts, or pitch up on a RV or tent site. In the morning, simply walk over the dunes and you’re straight onto the beach – perfect for your morning swim.

Astoria to Olympic National Park (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 15)

2.5 hours from Astoria to Olympic National Park

It’s the penultimate day of your West Coast USA road trip itinerary. Can you believe it?

It was over two weeks ago that you set out thinking that you had all the time in the world to wend your way along one of the most famous road-trip routes in the world and now it’s almost over. 

We’re all sad about it, but you’d better make these last days count.

What better way to start than crossing over into a new state? 

You pop over into Washington almost as soon as you leave Astoria – and the Highway 1 dips in and out of the coastline for the last stretch.

Today is really about getting to and spending at least a bit of time in Olympic National Park . It’s 1406 square miles, so probably a bit too much to see in one day (I know you’re keen but no, that’s just too much).

The section of Olympic National Park near to Highway 1 is the wildest and the most untamed – Hoh River Rainforest and Lake Quinault are good places to head to as you can camp or find accommodation in both.

Best Things to do in Northwest Washington

• La Push Beach – Twilight fans can revel in the knowledge that the vampire/werewolf dramafest were set in La Push. The rest of us can just enjoy the rugged tranquility of the three beaches and small surrounding community.
• Olympic National Park – far greater than you’re ever going to be able to tackle in a day (or even a year come to think of it), Olympic is the outdoor adventurer’s dream. Plan your trip using the park’s informative website.

Where to Stay in Olympic National Park

Lake quinault lodge (luxury).

One of the classic park lodges of yore, Lake Quinault Lodge offers high-end stays in a memorable setting.

Quileute Oceanside Resort

Take your pick from the luxury cabins, motel rooms or RV sites in this quaint resort just outside of La Push.

Hoh Visitor Center and Campground

Very, very basic camping but a great base for exploring the near-mystical Hoh River Rainforest.

Olympic National Park to Seattle (West Coast Road Trip Itinerary Day 16)

2 hours drive from Olympic National Park to Seattle (dependent on park location)

The final day of our Highway 1 road trip itinerary lands us in Seattle. 

PNW’s biggest hub sits in the shadow of the towering Mt Rainier and is a charming combination of great coffees, trendy places to eat and drink and grungy hangouts.

If you have a bit more time, Seattle’s a great city to decompress and unwind after your hectic two and a half week trip – otherwise it’s a whirlwind tour of the city and hometime. I hope you’ve had an awesome trip!

Best Things to do in Seattle

• Pike Place Market – One of Seattle’s most famous landmarks, Pike Place is a thriving hub of small businesses, pubs, seafood eateries and shopping nooks. Spend an hour or two with no agenda for the full experience.
• Discover Seattle’s Most Instagrammable Spots – Seattle is full of cool places to photograph, if you know where to find them.
• Space Needle – You can’t miss the Space Needle – the recognisable tower that dominates Seattle’s skyline. Fork out the steep price for the observation deck – it’s worth it.
• Olympic Sculpture Park – The ‘grammer’s dream, Olympic Sculpture Park is bold, arresting and free! Pack a picnic and get snapping.
• Washington State Ferries – Jump on a Washington State Ferry to get around Puget Sound or just soak in the awesome views from the deck. If you have enough time, get a ferry to Bainbridge Island and spend some time in Winslow, the island’s main town – or strike further out to explore the almost-too-good-to-be-true landscapes.

Where to Stay in Seattle

The edgewater (luxury).

(In)famous waterfront hotel where rock-stars and celebrities have stayed and frolicked for several decades.

Staypineapple at the Maxwell Hotel (Mid-Range)

One of the best boutique hotels in Seattle with colourful interiors and stellar service.

Ace Hotel (Mid Range)

A hop, skip and not even a jump away from Pike Place, Ace Hotel offers stylish digs in a central location.

Recommended Detours from Your American West Coast Trip

West coast road trip detour one: yosemite national park.

3 hour drive from San Francisco to Yosemite

The best time to do this detour from Highway 1 is after San Francisco. You can then either add on the second suggested detour (to Sonoma – discussed below) or you can drive from Yosemite to Mendocino and pick up the itinerary from there.

OK, so now we’re going to tear the rule book up and throw it out of the window (or let it flutter over your head if you have a convertible with the top down).

Yes, yes, I know that Yosemite isn’t on Highway 1. In fact, it’s a three hour detour away from Highway 1 towards the Nevada border. 

But, unless you have been and decided never to go again (doubtful), or you are really, really pushed for time (more likely), it would be a real shame to come all this way and not go to Yosemite.

So pack up the trunk, take the rather dull drive inland and get yourself to Yosemite – I can guarantee you won’t regret it.

It would actually take a whole other article as long as this one (7,200 words and counting) to cover all the things you can see and do in Yosemite – which is kind of handy because I’ve written this Yosemite guide for you to check out.

Best Things to do in Yosemite

• Yosemite Falls
• Viewpoint from Tunnel View
• Mariposa Grove – giant sequoia trees.
• Basically everything you see and do.

Where to Stay in Yosemite

Evergreen lodge (luxury).

Originally built in the twenties, Evergreen is just outside the national park boundaries but offers rustic-chic lodging for a high-end stay.

Wawona Hotel  (Mid-Range)

It’s a bit of a drive to sights other than the Mariposa Grove, but an affordable and comfortable option.

Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Lodge (Budget)

Hippy vibes and friendly owners on the outskirts of Yosemite.

Upper Pines Campground (Budget)

Upper Pines is busy but it’s well located, shady and a good base for a short Yosemite stay.

Read Next: How to Spend Your Time in Yosemite

West Coast Road Trip Detour Two: Sonoma Valley

The best time to do this detour is between San Francisco and Mendocino. If you did detour one, your itinerary would be as follows: San Francisco > Yosemite > Napa / Sonoma > Mendocino.

My second suggested detour from the Pacific Coast Highway is to Sonoma . If you’re anything like me, you love your wine (almost as much as you like the breathtaking views you caught sight of in Yosemite, but not quite).

You can easily tack on Sonoma to your trip to Yosemite 

We all know that Napa and Sonoma are California’s most revered wine regions, so it makes sense to stop off and have a nose, just while we’re in the area on our West Coast road trip.

I’ve been to both Napa and Sonoma and preferred the latter’s slightly more casual vibe – you can of course go to both, or neither – whatever takes your fancy.

Best Things to do in Sonoma

• WINE. More specifically…
• Bartholomew Park Winery . The wine is mighty tasty, but the 400-acre nature preserve setting is almost as big a draw. Purchase a bottle or two and head out into the grounds with a picnic.
• Sonoma Valley Bike Tours. Let’s face it – no one wants to be the designated driver in Sonoma. Book onto a guided tour or hire a bike and set off on your own.
• Fig Cafe & Winebar . Hearty and delicious food is paired with an extensive local wine list.
• Benzinger Family Winery . Sample Benzinger’s range of biodynamic wines on one of their popular tours. Reserve in advance.

Where to Stay in Sonoma

Farmhouse inn (luxury).

The hefty price tag means the Farmhouse Inn is only a plausible option if you don’t mind splashing on a hotel. Those who do are treated to Michelin-star meals and airy rooms in return.

Vintner’s Inn (Mid-Range)

Within a short distance of countless vineyards, Vintner’s Inn is a homely boutique option a few miles out of downtown Santa Rosa.

Casini Ranch (Budget)

RV Hookups, a tent campsite and small cabins at affordable prices.

Other Useful Resources for a West Coast Road Trip 

• Lonely Planet California Guide
• Lonely Planet Western USA Guide
• Marco Polo West USA Map

West Coast Road Trip Map

Inspiration for The Ultimate West Coast Road Trip

• The Best Things to do in Los Angeles 
• The Best Road Trips from Los Angeles
• Big Sur Camping Guide 
• 24 Best Things to do in San Francisco
• Cool Things to do in Seattle
• How to Plan the Perfect California Road Trip
• Gorgeous Places to Visit in the US
• The Ultimate US Bucket List

Love this? Save and share on Pinterest!

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

Where to Stay in Santa Barbara: The Best Areas + Hotels For Your Trip

Unmissable Things To Do in Rocky Mountain National Park

The Ultimate New Mexico Road Trip Itinerary

22 Unmissable Landmarks in San Diego

Great post…. I love the way you given all the details about stay, driving time etc. Very useful.

Thank you Sapna – I really want it to be a practical go-to guide!

Fantastic guide and so thorough.. I need it as an ebook. 🙂 Thanks for the obvious time and though you put into this.

Thanks Susan – that’s actually on my task list 🙂 really enjoyed writing it and glad you find it useful.

what a great guide! I have to admit I’m a California native and have never done the entire road trip, but this post proves I need to! lovely pictures and great in-depth info

Thank you – it was such an awesome trip, very jealous that you have that on your doorstep all the time! Glad you enjoyed it. Do let me know if you do the whole thing!

• Pingback: What To See During 3 Days In San Francisco?

Really a Classic roadtrip but still beautiful to do it again sometimes. I’m sure that I will take this trip again and take more time for the beautiful places.

Thanks Ilse – glad you enjoyed your time on the road!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

Let's be friends! Sign up receive our monthly newsletter with updates and new in-depth guides. 

How to Plan an Amazing Arizona Road Trip (7-14 Days)

How were we so late to the Arizona party? Despite both having been to Arizona MULTIPLE TIMES before, we were radically unprepared for the sheer beauty that we experienced over the course of our Arizona road trip. We spent around two weeks in Arizona, and already started making plans for our return. Because there is SO MUCH to do and see in Arizona that it’s honestly a little overwhelming.

We originally had plans to go all over the state, but ended up having to cut our trip a little short. Which turned out to be a good thing, because it forced us to focus in on the things we really wanted to do and see while we were in Arizona.

We used our experience road tripping in Arizona – along with the hours of research that went into planning our own trip – to put together this guide to planning an amazing Arizona adventure.

In it, you’ll find the logistics – when to go, where to fly in, etc etc – along with our favorite stops in Arizona and exactly what to do and see while you’re there.

We think that you should spend your time going deep (or, as deep as you can go with 2-3 days) in each of the stops you make rather than trying to see everything in one trip. The latter approach means you’re spending 4-5 hours a day in the car, which, honestly, sucks.

Instead, spend your time exploring hiking trails, stuffing your face with food and drinks, and seeing some of Arizona’s most spectacular landscapes.

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it.

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days in Arizona?

Arizona is huge, and if you’re trying to hit all of the different corners of the state, you’ll need at least two weeks .

If you have less than that, we’d strongly recommend focusing your Arizona road trip itinerary on three main areas : Phoenix and the Superstition Mountains, Sedona, and Grand Canyon National Park.

You will need at least seven days – more would be better – to do Phoenix, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon.

We’ve written the road trip itinerary below for seven days, but have suggestions for what to do with extra time that are equally as detailed as the 7 day itinerary below – you can find them at the end of this guide.

• With a few extra days – 10 or so – you can add on Tucson and Saguaro National Park.
• With 14 days, add the southern loop through Tucson , plus Page and Zion National Park , ending your time by flying out of Vegas. 

Monument Valley, which is spectacular, is FAR from most of the places on this itinerary. For example, it’ll take you three to four hours to get there from the Grand Canyon.

Other than the drive, which is beautiful, there’s nothing else to really do there, so we don’t think it really makes sense to take a huge detour to get there . In fact, it would be a better addition to a broader Arizona / Utah road trip on your way to Moab .

Instead, we’d STRONGLY recommend focusing your time on the corridor between Phoenix and the Grand Canyon, immersing yourself in the spectacular landscapes along the way rather than spending all day in the car.

Where to Start and End Your Arizona Road Trip

For most people, a loop that starts and ends in Phoenix, Arizona is going to be the best way to do this road trip.

Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, which generally has a good selection of flights from around the country (and even the world, in some cases). Click here to check flight prices into Phoenix’s Sky Harbor International Airport for your dates.

The benefit of doing this as a loop is that you won’t have to pay a one-way rental car fee.

From the furthest points on the itinerary below – either Page or the Grand Canyon South Rim – it’s about a four hour drive back to the airport.

Plan on booking the earliest possible flight into Phoenix, and the latest possible flight out to maximize your time.

Note : The exception to doing this as a loop is if you have 14 days and decide to add on Zion National Park at the end. Then, it would actually be better to end in Las Vegas – about two and a half hours or 172 miles from Zion.

Do You Need to Rent a Car for this Road Trip?

In short, yes. You’ll need to rent a car for the entirety of this itinerary. We’d recommend picking up and dropping off at the same place – Sky Harbor International Airport in Phoenix – to avoid a one-way rental car fee if you can. 

We like using Kayak for booking rental cars because they aggregate all the different car rental sites to help you find the best price. Make sure to rent from a reputable company – Hertz, Enterprise, National, or Avis, which you can do by using Kayak’s helpful filters.  Cl i ck here to check prices for rental cars in Phoenix.

A Complete 7 Day Itinerary for a Road Trip in Arizona

Now that we’ve got all the logistics out of the way, time to get into the exact itinerary we’d recommend. 

Day 1: Fly in and Explore Phoenix

A lot of people pick up their rental car and head straight for either Sedona or Tucson, depending on what route you’re taking.

However, we think there are a few things to do in Phoenix that are well worth a day of your time.

We’d spend your first day, night, and second day in the Phoenix area, focusing on the many outdoor activities nearby, most notably the Superstition Mountains, which were a highlight of our Arizona trip. Then, on your second night, head up to Sedona and sleep there so you can get an early start the next morning.

What to Do in Phoenix

There are a couple of things worth doing in Phoenix itself on your first day in Arizona – we’ll cover the Superstition Mountains on day 2 of this itinerary.

• The Desert Botanical Garden in Papago Park is worth a stop to see all sorts of desert flora – over 50,000 different kinds! There are multiple loops that take you on a journey through the plant life of the Sonoran desert, which will give you a great foundation for the rest of your trip (“Hey Alysha! It’s a teddy bear cholla cactus!”).
• Speaking of Papago Park, Hole in the Wall is a short climb that takes you to a perfect spot to take in your first Arizona sunset! Unlike places on the west coast, there’s no marine layer or clouds in the sky to ruin the evening glow – sunsets in Arizona are spectacular.
• There are a surprising number of great hikes within 45 minutes of Phoenix. Camelback Mountain is seemingly right in the middle of town, and gives you sweeping views of the surrounding area from the summit, which is reached with a 2.5 mile out-and-back trail that is basically straight up. Tom’s Thumb is another great hike that takes you to a saddle with panoramic views – it’s a little further out to the north of town, but is worth the journey in our opinion.
• Get coffee at Cartel Coffee Lab , who has the best coffee in Phoenix (in our opinion, anyway) and has created a mini empire in southern Arizona.

Where to Stay in Phoenix

We were walking through Uptown Phoenix on our way to Cartel Coffee – some of the best coffee in Phoenix – when we found ourselves in the courtyard of a hip-looking hotel.

That hotel was Rise Uptown , and we wish we would have stayed there. It’s a great location for exploring Phoenix, and the rooms are spacious and beautiful. Plus, there’s a nice pool, and Cartel Coffee is essentially in the lobby. 

In general, we’d recommend staying somewhere between Downtown and uptown, between the two highways that run north-south (51 and 17).

Here are a couple of other good choices in Phoenix.

• Cambria Hotel Downtown Phoenix : Great value with bright-colored rooms and charming décor. Plus, it’s super affordable! It’s also near the freeway that you’ll take out to the Superstitions, which puts you in a great location for exploring.
• Aloft Phoenix Airport : Location is nothing special, but it’s convenient for the airport, and it’s an affordable choice with nice rooms and a pool.
• The AC Hotel Phoenix Biltmore : A little more on the boutique end of the spectrum, this hotel is beautiful, and is well-located in the Biltmore area of Phoenix, which is a perfect home base for exploring the city and surrounding area.

Day 2: Day Trip to the Superstition Mountains

Stay in Phoenix for the night, and head out early to the east, where you’ll find the Superstition Wilderness, a highlight of our time in Arizona. You can explore most of the main part of the western end of the park in a morning, which is exactly what you’re going to do here.

Head to Lost Dutchman State Park , which will be your base for exploring, and park at either the Treasure Loop or Siphon Draw Trailheads . There’s a day use fee of $10 to enter the park.

There are a couple of established hikes in the park, but we created our own by putting together multiple hikes into one big loop.

Start with the eastern part of the Treasure Loop Trail , which winds its way up to the ridge. From there, rather than heading back down via the Treasure Loop Trail, take the Prospector’s Ridge Trail to the west until it intersects with the Siphon Draw Trail . From that intersection, take the Jacob’s Crosscut trail back to the trailhead.

All-in, it’ll be around four miles, and you’ll see the Superstition Mountains and a ton of desert flora and fauna along the way.

On your way back into Phoenix, stop in Mesa, Arizona for a couple of our favorite spots in the Phoenix Metro Area. 

• Get coffee at Mythical Coffee , which is actually in Gilbert, but is roughly on the way. This is the best coffee in the Phoenix area, we think. An alternative would be Peixoto Coffee , which we like because they own a coffee farm in Brazil (or more accurately, are owned by a family who also owns a coffee farm in Brazil) and highlight the coffees from their farm in their shop. 
• Need to refuel post-hike? There are two great gluten free spots in Mesa, which we’d recommend whether you have Celiac Disease (like me) or not. First is Spooky Swirls , a cupcake shop (they make all sorts of baked goods) that makes fun, themed cupcakes that are not only beautiful, but they’re also delicious. We got a Baby Yoda cupcake (see below), that didn’t quite survive the Arizona heat, but was delicious either way. The second spot is Intentional Foods Cafe , which is a 100% gluten free restaurant that is also free of eight other allergens, so it’s perfect if you or any of your traveling companions have food sensitivities. Get the donuts and the fries. 
• Last, but certainly not least, head up to Cider Corps , a veteran-owned cidery in Mesa to try some local cider. I believe (I could be wrong) that they are Phoenix’s only cider bar! They have a nice outdoor patio if it’s cool enough, otherwise they have a high-ceilinged, light-filled indoor space. Plus, CIDER SLUSHIES! You can bring outside food, so we’d recommend grabbing lunch and heading here to eat and sip on some cider. 

Days 3 & 4: Sedona

Drive Time from Phoenix: 2 hours / 115 miles

Sedona is gorgeous. We did Sedona and Zion on the same trip (see our recommendations for 14 days below to see how we did it), and in a lot of ways, they’re very similar. You’ll find red rock walls and towering buttes with lush greenery in the canyons below.

Another thing that makes them similar? The crowds.

We were in Sedona in April, and it was a zoo. Think hundreds of cars parked at the most popular trailheads, and roads to trailheads closed because the trailhead is full.

Still, it’s a beautiful place, and as long as you know what you’re getting into before you get there, you’ll enjoy your visit.

What to Do in Sedona

Sedona, like Bend, Oregon, is an outdoor lover’s paradise. There’s all sorts of fantastic hikes (psst! We have a guide to our favorite hikes in Sedona ), 4×4 offroading, areas to spend a summer day lounging at the river, and more. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Sedona.

Crescent Moon Picnic Area : At this park on the south side of town, you’ll have some of the best views of Cathedral Rock that you’ll find anywhere in Sedona. Plus, there’s a river, so bring a picnic, a blanket and some towels, your swimsuit, and make an afternoon of it. 

Drink Mind-blowing Chai at the Chai Spot : This was unexpected. As I was scrolling Google Maps getting myself oriented, I realized that there was a chai shop in Sedona called the Chai Spot . Not only do they make INCREDIBLE chai (get the butter chai, it’s creamy and rich and delicious), but their story is worth looking into as well. It’s a social project that focuses on economic empowerment of women and education of children in Pakistan. The inside of the shop is colorful and vibrant, and the outdoor patio is a welcome refuge from the heat – it’s the perfect spot for chai lovers (like Alysha) to relax in Sedona. 

Hiking in Sedona: There are an incredible number of great hikes in Sedona. So many, that we have a whole separate post highlighting the best hikes in Sedona – if you want to spend most of your time on the hiking trails, you should absolutely go read that. We really enjoyed the West Fork of Oak Creek , which is a beautiful meander through a lush canyon with towering red rock walls. You cross the river 13 times, but none of the crossings are particularly hard, especially if you have waterproof shoes on. The Boynton Canyon Trail and Soldier Pass Trail were our next two picks, though you need to read our hiking guide to figure out the parking situation for Soldier Pass, which is a bonafide nightmare. Devils Bridge is cool, but you’ll probably have to wait in line at the top for a picture, which isn’t our cup of tea. 

Sunset Spots: Arizona sunsets are amazing. Catch sunset at Airport Mesa , which is one of the most popular spots (there were literally hundreds of people there when we were there) or the top of Cathedral Rock , which requires a steep hike to reach. Another good option that should be less crowded is Bell Rock . Make the climb about halfway up the south side of the towering rock formation and find a nice spot to relax and watch the sun dip below the horizon. It’ll light up the red rocks of the valley in front of you as it does. 

Wine Tasting: I bet you didn’t expect to see wine tasting on an itinerary for Arizona, did you? The Verde Valley Wine Trail is just outside of Sedona, in nearby Cottonwood and Corndale (~30 minutes from Sedona by car) and a trip out there would make for a great afternoon activity after a morning hike. Head to Oak Creek Vineyards for wine flights and small plates (also dog + kid friendly!), or Arizona Stronghold Vineyards (no reservations, tables are first-come-first-served) for a delightfully rustic tasting experience just outside of Cottonwood. If you don’t want to make the journey out of town, head to Art of Wine in Sedona and get a flight of the Arizona reds or whites, depending on what you’re into. 

Where to Stay in Sedona

There are a couple of options in Sedona in terms of style and budget. You could stay in a hotel or resort, which will give you a nice refuge from the heat if you’re visiting in the summertime (or the cold if it’s winter or early spring). Or, you could camp at one of the campgrounds along 89A just north of Sedona. 

Hotels in Sedona

If you’re looking to stay in a hotel, you’ve got a pretty impressive number of options. 

We like Sky Ranch Lodge , which is walkable to the best sunset spot in the area at Airport Mesa. It’s where we’d stay if we were planning a trip to Sedona and weren’t living in our van.

They have a beautiful, lush property that has a patio with a great view of Sedona, and rooms are spacious. Plus, they’re certified sustainable by the Sustainability Alliance of Arizona!

Plus, a free shuttle to areas within five miles of the hotel means you won’t have to deal with parking at some of the most popular trailheads like the Soldier Pass Trail (though you should be careful, because cell-service is nonexistent in some parts of Sedona). It’s also walkable from the airport, which is a nice bonus if you’re flying in. 

The other spot we’d recommend looking at is Junipine Resort , which is along 89A north of town and offers a quieter, more private place to stay. We drove past it on our way to our campground and were intrigued. Sure enough, it looks like an amazing place to stay!

It’s along the banks of Oak Creek, they’re certified sustainable, and they have “Creekhomes” that have plenty of space and a full kitchen. It’s only 10-15 minutes outside of Sedona, and is perfect if you’re in search of a bit of tranquility, which you might not find if you’re staying in downtown Sedona. 

Camping in Sedona

If you want to camp, there are a bunch of campgrounds north of Sedona along Highway 89A. We’ll cover three of them, starting with the closest to Sedona and ending with one that’s about 15-20 minutes outside of town that we stayed at and really liked. 

Manzanita Campground : Right along the creek in a nice shady spot, this is the closest campground to town, which also means it’s the most competitive. There are only 18 sites, 11 of which are reservable in advance. Seven sites are first-come-first-served, so plan on getting there early in the day to secure a spot. More info here . 

Cave Springs Campground: With 84 sites, this is the biggest campground in the area. You must make reservations in advance (at least three days before you show up), and there’s usually availability (though we’d recommend grabbing a spot well in advance for the month of April, which is high season in Sedona). More info here .  

Pine Flat Campground : This is the one we stayed at, and 18 of the 54 sites here are reservable in advance. It’s a nice campground, though it is right along the road (though all of them are, really). Try to get a site on the side of the campground that’s along Oak Creek – that’s on the west side of the road, and the west side of the campground (look at a map and you’ll see what I mean). More info here . 

Days 5 & 6: The Grand Canyon

Drive Time from Sedona: 2 hours / 115 miles

We think 2 days in the Grand Canyon is the perfect amount of time to explore the rim, take the scenic drive out to the East Entrance of the park and Desert View, and do one of the difficult but spectacular hikes that take you below the rim.

There’s plenty to do and see to fill a few more days if you have extra time on this road trip and you’re particularly interested in the Grand Canyon – like the North Rim, or backpacking to the floor of the canyon – but we think your time is actually better spent elsewhere unless you’re up for a long drive around to the North Rim, or a long overnight backpacking trip.

So spend a couple of days exploring the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, which is plenty of time to see the highlights.

What to Do in Grand Canyon National Park (South Rim)

Like we mentioned above, there are three things we think are “must-do” at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

• Hike the Rim Trail : All along the Rim Trail, you’ll have spectacular and ever-changing views of the vastness of the canyon below. We like the stretch from Mather Point to the Bright Angel Trailhead, which is a 3.1 mile hike that is mostly flat with plenty of viewpoints along the way. Don’t miss Mather Point , Yavapai Point , and the Yavapai Geology Museum . This hike is best done in the early morning before 10am, which is when the crowds start to show up, or within an hour of sunset for stunning light on the canyon.
• Scenic Drive out to Desert View : This drive is amazing, with about a half-dozen viewpoints that are worth stopping at along the way. You’ll have a different perspective on the canyon from the eastern end, and it’s the only part of the rim road that you can drive in a private vehicle (except between December and February, when the road out to Hermit’s Rest is open to private vehicles). Start two hours before sunset, stopping at the viewpoints along the way, and ending at Desert View to take in the usually-stunning Arizona sunset.
• Get below the Canyon Rim : Like Bryce Canyon , one of our favorite national parks in the United States, the best way to really get a feel for the Grand Canyon is to hike down into it. You’re sure to appreciate the scale of the canyon if you have to make the climb up the canyon walls, gaining several thousand feet over the course of your journey! The two most popular trails are the South Kaibab Trail and the Bright Angel Trail. The Bright Angel Trail is more of a way to get all the way to the canyon floor, which you won’t be able to do in a day hike. We’d recommend taking the South Kaibab Trail out to Skeleton Point , which is 6 miles roundtrip with an elevation gain of 2,000 feet on the way back. Shorten it to 3 miles / 1,100 feet by turning around at Cedar Point instead.

The hikes below the rim are not for the faint of heart – you’ll need to be prepared with plenty of water, sun protection, and salty snacks.

The interior of the canyon is often 20+ degrees hotter than the rim, which means you’re going to be at risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration, particularly in the summer months. Do not underestimate the difficulty of these hikes.

It’s probably better to underestimate your abilities rather than overestimating them, in this case.

Where to Stay in the Grand Canyon

There are three places we’d recommend staying on the Grand Canyon’s South Rim, and it largely depends on your budget and style.

If you’re camping, stay at Mather Campground , which is within walking distance (~1 mile one-way) of the main Visitors Center and the Marketplace. We stayed here and although it’s a massive campground, it’s relatively nice with flush toilets, shaded sites, and good water. Honestly, we were surprised at how nice it was.

Staying inside the park on the Rim is a great option, but like most national parks, you’re going to pay a little extra for the convenience of having the Grand Canyon literally out your front door (in most cases). Along the rim, the best options are going to be El Tovar Hotel , the Bright Angel Lodge , and the Maswik Lodge .

Staying outside of the south entrance of the park (which is the best place to stay outside the park), is going to be cheaper, but means a little bit of a journey to get to the rim of the canyon, and often a line at the park entrance (though, not if you get there early enough!).

We’d recommend looking in the town of Tusayan (15 minutes from the rim), which is just outside the South Entrance, or Grand Canyon Junction (30 minutes to the rim), which has a better selection of places to stay, but is a little further out. Here are three places to check out:

• Under Canvas Grand Canyon (Grand Canyon Junction): Bucket list-worthy glamping! If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, check out their safari tents in the desert.
• Red Feather Lodge (Tusayan): Located a few minutes from the entrance to the park, this is a solid value with simple rooms in a perfect location. Plus, relatively affordable!
• Holiday Inn Express or Best Western Premier (Tusayan): Two well-rated, good value hotels just outside the south entrance. Not a whole lot of bells and whistles here, but a pleasant place to use as a home base for exploring the Grand Canyon.

Williams and Flagstaff will have you driving for an hour (or more) each way to and from the rim of the Grand Canyon, and we wouldn’t recommend staying there if you can avoid it.

Day 7: Drive to Phoenix & Fly Home

The drive back to Phoenix is going to take you about four hours from the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. Plan on booking an afternoon / evening flight to give yourself plenty of time for the drive back.

Longer Itinerary Options (10 & 14 Days)

If you have a full 10 days or even two weeks, you’ll unlock more possibilities for your trip.

Here’s how we would spend 10 days and 14 days in Arizona.

How to Spend 10 Days in Arizona

With 10 days, we think you should add on Tucson and Saguaro National Park on the front end of your road trip, and Page, Arizona on the tail end after the Grand Canyon.

For this version of the itinerary, pick up your rental car in Phoenix and head south to Tucson, where you’ll spend the first 2-3 days. Then, continue on the road trip above as written. On the second-to-last day, head up to Page.

Here’s what that looks like:

• Day 1: Fly into Phoenix, drive to Tucson
• Day 2: Tucson / Saguaro National Park
• Day 3: Tucson / Saguaro National Park
• Day 4: Drive to Phoenix, afternoon in Phoenix
• Day 5: Superstition Mountains, drive to Sedona
• Day 6: Sedona
• Day 7: Sedona + Drive to Grand Canyon
• Day 8: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 9: Grand Canyon National Park + Drive to Page
• Day 10: Page + Drive to Phoenix + Head Home

Tucson and Saguaro National Park

Southern Arizona is a vastly different landscape than northern Arizona, which is what the 7 day itinerary above focuses on. With more time, you’ll be able to dip your toes in the southern Arizona water (just kidding, this is the desert!), but you won’t be able to see it all.

For your introduction to southern Arizona, we think you should focus on the area around Tucson.

What to Do in Tucson

There are two main focuses for your time in Tucson – Saguaro National Park (there are two parts!) and Mt. Lemmon .

Saguaro National Park

First, you should know that there are two parts of Saguaro National Park that straddle Tucson, one on either side. They are the Rincon Mountain District , which is on the east side of Tucson, and the Tucson Mountain District to the west. 

Stop at the Visitor Center in each part of the park to grab a map, fill up your water, and get ready to explore. There is nowhere to get food or drinks other than water within the park, so you’ll want to pack a lunch and plenty of snacks. 

Here are some things to do in each region of the park. 

In the Tucson Mountain District, which is smaller in area but has a higher density of cacti and is therefore more popular: 

• Drive the 5 mile Bajada Loop scenic drive , which is a loop consisting of Golden Gate Road and Hohokam Road. It’s unpaved, but is passable by all vehicles. Drive it counterclockwise, starting with Hohokam road and ending on Golden Gate. This is a great way to explore the park, especially if you make stops at the Valley View Overlook Trail (extend it a bit by combining it with the Wild Dog Trail ) to get up close and personal with a ton of cacti, and the Signal Hill area, where you’ll find petroglyphs at the top of the hill. 
• If you’re looking for a longer hike , do the hike up to Wasson Peak either from the Sendero Esperanza Trailhead (7.5 miles / 1,600 feet of elevation) or via the Hugh Norris Trailhead (8.9 miles / 2,400 feet of elevation gain). 
• Stop at the Red Hills Visitor Center to walk the short loop through the cactus garden and pick up some maps and park information. 
• The Desert Discovery Center , which is outside the park’s southern boundary, is worth a stop either on the way in or out to learn about all the flora and fauna in the desert. 

In the Rincon Mountain District, which is the bigger but less popular part of the park on the east side of Tucson (If you only have time for one, we’d recommend the Tucson Mountain District. However, if you have time for both, this section of the park makes for a nice combination with Mt. Lemmon, since there’s only really about a half day worth of things to do and see here.):

• The number one thing you should do is drive Cactus Forest Loop Drive , which is a huge loop that takes you through the majority of the park. It is paved, and well worth the time. Stop at the Freeman Homestead Nature Trail , the Loma Verde Trail (do a loop with the Squeeze Pen Trail for a nice stroll through the desert), and the Cactus Forest Overlook . 
• If you’re looking for a longer hike, there are a bunch of great options leaving from the Broadway Trailhead at the northwest corner of the park and the Douglas Spring Trailhead along the northern boundary. 

Then, head to Mt. Lemmon for a completely different perspective on Tucson and the surrounding area. 

At 9,159 feet above sea level, Mt. Lemmon is a completely different place than Tucson. It’s likely going to be 20-30 degrees cooler, which means different ecosystems thrive here on the highest peak in the Santa Catalina Mountains. 

To put it in perspective, the average high temperature in July in Tucson is 100 degrees F. On Mt. Lemmon, it’s 76 degrees. 

Would you believe me if I told you there’s a SKI RESORT on Mt. Lemmon?

You should definitely drive all the way to the top – Summerhaven. It’s 26 miles, and the landscape gradually shifts over the course of the journey. At the top, you’ll be in the woods. In Arizona. Which is an odd feeling when just an hour or two ago you were driving through Saguaro National Park, home of a bazillion cacti. 

Stop by Windy Point Vista and San Pedro Vista on the way up for great views of the surrounding area. 

There’s a bunch of things to do and see in the town of Summerhaven at the top, whether you want to hike or just peruse shops, but we think the drive itself is by far the best part about Mt. Lemmon.

If you’re looking for a great, relatively easy hike, head out to the Mt. Lemmon Fire Lookout Station. It’s 2.1 miles round trip with 360 feet of elevation gain, and you can make a nice loop of it by returning via the Meadow trail. 

Where to Stay in Tucson

There are exactly zero campgrounds to stay at in Tucson, so your only options are going to be hotels and vacation rentals. Since you have two nights, you have your choice between staying in a hotel, which will provide more convenience and flexibility but less space, and vacation rentals, which give you more space and usually a kitchen, but less flexibility.

If you’re looking for a hotel, stay at Hotel McCoy , a cool hotel on the outskirts of town that’s perfect for exploring Saguaro National Park, or the Tuxon or the Graduate Hotel , which are both closer in to town and the amenities in Tucson.

Page, Arizona: Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend

Page is a good home base for exploring two now Insta-famous sights in Arizona: Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend .

I know Page as the jumping off point for renting a houseboat on Lake Powell, which my family has done twice now. Other than those three things, there’s not a whole lot going on, which makes it a perfect half-day addition after the Grand Canyon.

We’d recommend leaving the Grand Canyon on the afternoon of your last day to make it to Horseshoe Bend for sunset. Keep in mind, you’ll be with hundreds of your new closest friends – it’s a popular spot. You’ll need to get there early if you want a prime location.

Then, the next morning, get up early and head to Antelope Canyon . It’s on Navajo land, and is only accessible via guided tours, which take between one and a half to two hours. Grab an early 8am departure, which will give you plenty of time to head back to Phoenix afterwards and catch your flight home (or start the drive home, if you drove).

Where to Stay in Page

Stay at the Desert Canyon Inn , which is where we had booked a room before we had to cut our trip a bit short. They have basic apartments – complete with kitchens! – in a perfect location in downtown Page.

What to Do in Arizona With 14 Days

With a full two weeks, you’ve got options. At a high level, you could either make a big loop, including Monument Valley and Page, or you could tack on Zion National Park at the end of your trip, and fly out of Vegas.

For this itinerary, head south to Tucson first, then spend two days in Phoenix before heading up to Sedona, on to the Grand Canyon, then to Page for a night before heading to Zion National Park, which is technically in Utah, but close enough, right?

Note that we’re skipping Petrified Forest National Park and Monument Valley. It’s not that they aren’t cool and worth seeing. It’s that we think you’re better served focusing on western Arizona here, and making a return trip to explore eastern Arizona. 

Otherwise, you’ll spend WAY too much time driving – and those drives are not particularly scenic, though there are some nice spots along the way – and not enough time actually exploring. 

For reference, it’s going to take you four and a half hours to go from Tucson to Petrified Forest National Park, another three or more hours to go from there to Monument Valley, and another two hours to get to Page. All in the span of about 36 hours, because there’s really not that much to do along that route. 

We think your time is better spent immersing yourself in Tucson, Sedona, and the Grand Canyon (and Zion). Some might disagree, but that’s our perspective. 

Here’s what that itinerary looks like:

• Day 3: Tucson / Saguaro National Park + Mt. Lemmon
• Day 4: Phoenix
• Day 5: Superstition Mountains (sleep in Phoenix)
• Day 7: Sedona
• Day 8: Sedona + Drive to Grand Canyon in evening
• Day 9: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 10: Grand Canyon National Park
• Day 11: Page (Antelope Canyon morning + Horseshoe Bend sunset)
• Day 12: Drive to Zion
• Day 13: Zion 
• Day 14: Drive to Vegas and Fly Home (stop at Valley of Fire if you have time)

Wondering what to do in Zion National Park? We’ve got you covered. 

• How to Plan a Perfect Zion National Park Itinerary
• Where to Stay at Zion National Park

The Best Time to Road Trip in Arizona

Essentially, we’d say “anytime other than the summer.” But ideally spring and fall – March and April, and September and October being the best months.

We spent three weeks on this road trip in the spring in April, and it was very, very pleasant. In Phoenix, it’s still going to be warm, but not unbearable just yet – think 80’s and 90’s during the day. In higher elevation Sedona and the Grand Canyon, it’ll be slightly cooler, even downright cold in the Grand Canyon at night.

In the fall , it’s going to be similar, with relatively warm temperatures in Phoenix and southern Arizona that start to cool off as you head north into the higher elevation parts of the state.

The winter is also a decent time to visit, particularly in southern Arizona (Phoenix and Tucson). However, you could run into snow in Sedona and the Grand Canyon, which can put a damper on your trip.

Summer in Arizona is going to be borderline unbearable, with temperatures regularly over 100 degrees, and huge crowds of people – particularly families with kids out of school – flocking to places like the Grand Canyon. You’ll need to book things well in advance if you visit during the summer, and be prepared for incredibly hot weather.

More Arizona + Utah Travel Guides

If you liked this guide, you’re going to love our other Arizona and Utah travel guides.

Phoenix : Plan a perfect weekend in Phoenix , and figure out where to stay in Phoenix.

The Grand Canyon : Planning a trip that includes the Grand Canyon? We’ve got you covered with a guide on exactly how to plan an amazing Grand Canyon itinerary and how to find the perfect place to stay .

Sedona : Plan the perfect weekend getaway to Sedona , and learn everything you need to know to go hiking in Sedona .

If you’re making your way into Utah , you’ll want to read our guides to:

• Zion ( 2 day itinerary and where to stay )
• Bryce Canyon (the best hikes and how to spend one day in Bryce Canyon )
• Moab ( a perfect itinerary , the best hikes in Arches , and the best places to stay and things to do )

Plus, our 10 day Utah National Parks road trip is a super detailed guide to exploring Utah, if you’ve got the time. Otherwise, save it for later.

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

7 Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas

T he Northeast is the perfect region for a road trip. Filled with diverse cities and towns, the East Coast offers ski resorts, beaches, attractions, history, and so much more.

Road trips can be a great way to be more impulsive in your travel because you aren’t going to be bound by flight reservations. They can also be a wonderful way to save money on your vacation. When road-tripping, you don’t have to pay for airline tickets or rent a car.

If you are thinking of road tripping, and are looking for some inspiration, here are 7 East Coast road trip ideas. I’ve selected specific start and end points for demonstration, but keep in mind that you can adjust these trips based on where you live and where you want to end up. If you are looking for an epic East Coast road trip itinerary, you may consider combining some of these road trips along the East Coast to make a longer trip.

This post contains affiliate links. A purchase through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us. All opinions are my own. We may have been hosted at one or more of these destinations but all opinions are my own.

7 of the Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas

Canada – boston road trip.

I have so many fond memories of traveling to Canada each summer from my home in Rhode Island. If you live in the Northeast, there are several great Canadian destinations to visit, including Toronto, Niagara Falls, Montreal, and Quebec City .

Our favorite road trip to Canada is from Boston to Quebec City. There are two main routes to take, and to see more sites, you may want to take one route on the way there, and one route on the way back.

The first route takes about 7 hours and goes through the White Mountains National Forest . We typically try to stay overnight part of the way through that trip – usually stopping in Lincoln, New Hampshire.

Our pick in Lincoln, NH is the Mountain Club on Loon

• Great location
• Nice family rooms
• Indoor and outdoor pools

The second route takes about an extra half hour and goes through Maine, including the southern coast of Maine. Although it isn’t halfway, you may consider staying in Portland, Maine . There’s so much to do, including some fantastic restaurants and great shops.

Our pick in Portland Maine is the Press Hotel

• Fantastic theme with some great fun touches
• Member of the Autograph Collection

If you’d rather visit Montreal, you’ll travel through both New Hampshire and Vermont. A good stopping point is right on the NH/Vermont border, near Hanover, NH. That trip, from Boston to Montreal, takes a little over 5 hours. It can definitely be done in a day, but it’s also nice to stop over in New Hampshire/Vermont on your way.

See hotels in Montreal

See hotels in Hanover, NH

New England Road Trip

You could easily explore much of what New England has to offer with a road trip. For this type of trip, you’ll want to start and end at the same point. There are so many scenic drives as well as historic sites in the area.

During your trip, you may want to visit the following places:

• Rockport, MA
• Lake Winnipesaukee, NH
• Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor
• Lincoln, NH
• Cape Cod, MA
• North Conway, NH
• Portland, Maine
• New Haven, CT
• Newport, RI

A few years ago, we did a culinary road trip from Portland, Maine to New Haven, CT. This trip was a great way to sample delicious food and see fabulous museums. Make sure you research in advance to figure out which attractions you want to see on this type of trip.

If you aren’t from the New England area, I’d recommend starting and ending your trip in Boston. It’s a good central location, and that’s the largest of the airports in the area. Getting a flight to Boston from most larger United States airports is pretty easy.

Northeast – Florida Road Trip

When I was a kid, my family road-tripped from our home in Rhode Island down to the Orlando area in Florida several times. This journey, which takes about 24 hours, can seem very long. But there are also some great places to stop along the way.

To break things up, you’ll want to have several drivers or stop at least overnight. You can also make several stops, seeing varying sites along the way.

For much of this trip, you’ll be traveling down I-95. Ideas for stops include:

• New York City
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Washington DC
• Richmond, Virginia
• Fayetteville, North Carolina
• Savannah, Georgia
• Jacksonville, Florida
• Daytona Beach, Florida
• St. Augustine, Florida (the oldest city in the United States)

Other popular spots, like Bethany Beach Delaware, and Charleston South Carolina, would be detours of the route. But if they are must-dos, definitely build some time for those side trips.

Typically, we would do this type of road trip to visit Walt Disney World. However, you could definitely go beyond that, and visit the Southernmost point of the United States, all the way in the Florida Keys at Key West. Just keep in mind that you will likely need to make several overnight stops. Those are best reserved in advance for the best availability.

Northeast – Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a popular summer destination. If you are thinking of traveling there, a road trip from the Northeast can be a great option. Overall, the trip will take about 12 hours (depending on where you depart from), and there are several stops you can make along the way.

• New York City, NY
• Norfolk, Virginia
• Virginia Beach, Virginia

Boston-Washington DC Road Trip

A few years ago, we drove from our home in the Boston area to Washington DC. This trip takes about 8 to 8 ½ hours if you drive straight through. However, if you are trying to make it more of a journey, there are several East Coast road trip stops you can make along the way.

• Hartford, Connecticut
• New Haven, Connecticut

During our trip, we decided to leave after school on the last day before spring break. So, we drove in the evening until we reached Greenwich, CT. We stayed overnight there and then continued to DC. On our way back, we wanted to get home, so we drove the whole way back straight through.

If you want to stop at multiple cities for a longer stay, I’d recommend stopping in NYC and Philadelphia. These two large US cities offer so many attractions and historical sites that they are great for a family vacation.

Our pick in Philadelphia is the Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia City Center

• Fun boutique hotel
• Unique rooms
• Fantastic location

Boston-NYC Road Trip

It’s a short trip, but there are tons to see on the journey from Boston to New York City. It’s a bit longer, but if you are looking to see a few places along the way, I’d recommend taking Route 95. This trip will take you through Rhode Island and the coast of Connecticut.

On your trip, you can stop in Mystic, Connecticut, and New Haven, Connecticut to visit their attractions and eat the delicious local food (don’t miss trying the iconic New Haven pizza).

You can easily do this trip in one day. If you do choose to do that, I’d recommend picking one attraction in Mystic to visit. With younger kids, the Mystic Aquarium is probably the best choice. It’s one of my favorite aquariums and is usually a big hit with kids.

Revolutionary War/Hamilton Road Trip

The East Coast is home to so many US history sites that you could easily plan a road trip right around those sites. One idea is a Hamilton road trip, which will take you to many of the sites mentioned in Hamilton: An American Musical.

For this road trip, I’d recommend the following stops. This itinerary starts in the south and moves north, but of course, you could do it in the opposite direction.

• Yorktown Battlefield Virginia (Mentioned in the song Yorktown (the World Turned Upside Down)
• Monticello (Mentioned in the song What Did I Miss?) – Charlottesville, VA)
• James Madison’s Montpelier (not explicitly mentioned in the musical, but Madison is a main character in the second act)
• George Washington’s Mount Vernon (Mentioned in Right Hand Man and Stay Alive)
• Washington Monument/Thomas Jefferson Memorial (Washington Monument mentioned in Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story)
• The Bureau of Engraving and Printing
• Weehawken, NJ (Mentioned in My Obedient Servant)
• Richard Rodgers Theater, NYC

The post 7 Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

• Elektrostal Tourism
• What to do in Elektrostal
• Elektrostal Hotels
• Itineraries
• Elektrostal
• 5 Days In Elektrostal

Elektrostal Itinerary 5 Days

Best itineraries for 5 day trip to elektrostal.

Let our handpicked 5-day Elektrostal itineraries guide you in creating a trip plan of your own. Take a look at these customised Elektrostal trip plans for 5 days and you will not miss out any point of interest in the city.

Recent Itineraries: Elektrostal Trips for 5 Days

Make your travel planning easier by using these perfect 5 days in Elektrostal itineraries from our users and travel experts. Look out for wisely chosen places you would like to explore during 5 days in Elektrostal.

Ready to Plan a Elektrostal Itinerary 5 Days Now?

Are you now ready with your Elektrostal bucket list? Create an itinerary to Elektrostal using our Free Trip Planner and check all the attractions off your list.

Check Out these Long Itineraries for Cities Nearby

• Itinerary for 5 Days in Moscow

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Bykovo Manor
• Balashikha Arena
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Pekhorka Park
• Saturn Stadium
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center