Ultimate road trips abroad for adventure seekers
Few things match the freedom of hitting the open road with a sense of adventure. From coastal highways to rugged mountain passes, the world is full of scenic routes perfect for road trip lovers.
Whether you’re cruising along dramatic coastlines or navigating winding forest roads, don’t forget one essential item before setting off: the right currency for where you’re headed.
Here are some of the world’s most iconic road trip destinations, and how to be currency-ready for each one.
Buy your travel money now
1. USA: Pacific Coast
Highway, California
The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) stretches along California’s dramatic coastline from San Francisco to San Diego.
Expect stunning ocean views, cliffside curves, and charming stops like Big Sur, Monterey, and Santa Barbara. It’s a perfect mix of beach towns, nature, and classic Americana.
Top things to do:
Visit the Bixby Creek Bridge: An iconic highlight of Big Sur, this dramatic arch bridge offers panoramic views of the cliffs and coastline.
Explore Carmel-by-the-sea: This picturesque seaside town charms with cobblestone streets, art galleries, and cosy cafés, making it a relaxing and romantic stop along the way.
Hike towards McWay Falls: A short trail leads to this stunning 80-foot waterfall cascading directly onto the beach, one of the most breathtaking natural sights on the California coast.
The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn (May-October) for clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and fewer road closures due to landslides or fog.
Currency to bring:
Travelling the U.S. by car often means stopping at small gas stations, roadside diners, and parking lots that may charge fees or prefer cash. Having US dollars on hand makes your trip smoother.
2. Australia: Great Ocean Road, Victoria
Winding along Australia’s southern coast, the Great Ocean Road is a breathtaking drive that stretches from Torquay to Allansford.
Along the way, you’ll pass surf beaches, lush rainforests, seaside towns, and the world-famous Twelve Apostles limestone stacks rising from the ocean. It’s a nature-lover’s dream, perfect for spotting wildlife and soaking up coastal views.
Top things to do:
See the Twelve Apostles: These towering limestone stacks rise from the ocean along the rugged coastline, a must-see at sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic views.
Walk through the Great Otway National Park: Explore lush rainforests, waterfalls, and ancient
trees just inland from the coast, perfect for a scenic walk or short hike.
Stop in Lorne: A charming beach town where you can enjoy fresh seafood, boutique shops, and a relaxed surf-town atmosphere.
For warm weather, longer days, and ideal road-tripping conditions, the best time to visit is November to April (Australia’s spring and summer).
Currency to bring:
While many places accept cards, having Australian dollars is useful for smaller coastal towns, scenic car parks, or local shops and cafes that may have minimum card spend limits.
3. South Africa: Garden Route
The Garden Route is one of South Africa’s most scenic drives, stretching from Mossel Bay to Storms River.
It’s a diverse journey filled with coastal cliffs, forests, lagoons, and mountains. Explore charming towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, hike through Tsitsikamma National Park, or go whale-watching in Hermanus.
Top things to do:
Drive through Tsitsikamma National Park: Known for its dramatic coastal cliffs, suspension bridges, and indigenous forest, it’s a great spot for hiking or kayaking.
Explore Knysna: This beautiful lagoon-side town is famous for its oysters and waterfront views ideal for a peaceful lunch stop.
Visit Wilderness Beach: A long, unspoiled stretch of sand backed by mountains and rivers, it’s perfect for a peaceful stroll or picnic.
Visit in September to April for warm, dry weather and great outdoor conditions.
Currency to bring:
Bring South African rand, especially if you’re stopping at remote petrol stations, nature reserves, or local markets along the way.
Buy your travel money now
4. Canada: Icefields Parkway, Alberta
Running between Banff and Jasper National Parks, the Icefields Parkway is one of the most jaw-dropping drives in the world.
Towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and ancient glaciers line the route, with highlights including Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, and the Columbia Icefield.
It’s a must for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.
Top things to do:
View Athabasca Glacier: Part of the Columbia Icefield, this massive glacier is easily accessible and offers guided tours for those wanting to walk on the ice.
Stop at Peyto Lake: Famous for its wolf-head shape and unreal turquoise colour, it’s one of the most photographed lakes in the Rockies.
See Sunwapta Falls: A powerful waterfall fed by glacial meltwater, it’s just a short walk from the road and an ideal quick stop for nature lovers.
June to September offers the best driving conditions and access to key stops, with clear roads, hiking trails, and glacier tours all open.
Currency to bring:
In the more remote parts of this drive, it’s a good idea to carry Canadian dollars, particularly for entry fees, small-town shops, or national park services.
5. Norway: Atlantic Road
Winding across a series of islands and bridges on Norway’s rugged west coast, the Atlantic Road is a thrilling drive surrounded by sea views, dramatic weather, and coastal wildlife.
The 8.3 km route connects the towns of Kristiansund and Molde and is known for its cinematic twists and turns – especially stunning during a storm or sunset.
Top things to do:
Drive the Storseisundet Bridge: This iconic, curved bridge appears to leap into the sea and offers dramatic views – especially when waves crash below during stormy weather.
Explore the island of Håholmen: A small fishing village turned heritage site, accessible by boat, where you can learn about local maritime culture.
Stop at Eldhusøya Viewpoint: A modern walkway loops around this small island, giving 360° views of the surrounding sea and road, a perfect photo spot.
Visiting during May to September offers the mildest weather, with longer daylight hours perfect for scenic drives and photo stops.
Currency to bring:
While Norway is highly digital, it’s still smart to carry Norwegian krone for toll roads, ferry services, and rural pit stops.
Takeaways
From the dramatic coastlines of California to the fjords of Norway, road trips offer a unique way to explore a country at your own pace.
Before you go, make sure your travel wallet is ready. Having the correct local currency means you’re free to make spontaneous stops, cover tolls and fuel, and support small local businesses along the way.
With Manor FX, getting the currency you need is simple, fast, and reliable.
FAQs
Which European country is best for a road trip?
When it comes to road trips in Europe, each country has something special to offer:
- France: scenic countryside, wine routes, and charming villages.
- Italy: famous coastal drives like the Amalfi Coast and plenty of historic cities.
- Germany: smooth Autobahns, fairytale castles, and scenic forest routes.
- Norway: dramatic fjords, winding mountain roads, and breathtaking views.
Each offers something unique, so the best choice depends on your style of adventure
Will I get more travel money if I use Manor FX?
At Manor FX, we’re all about helping your travel money go further. We keep an eye on currency rates every day, so you always get a great deal.
Compared to the high street or other online providers, you’ll soon see just how much more value you get with us.
Do you charge any fees?
With Manor FX, what you see is exactly what you pay, no hidden fees or sneaky extras.
Delivery to your door is just £7.95 for orders under £750, and if you spend £750 or more, we’ll send it to you free of charge.