Everyone has a dream of going on a motorcycle trip, exploring new places and creating unforgettable memories. This post is for those who want to discover the best routes around the world, learn which bike suits each journey, find the ideal time to ride, and get tips for a safe and memorable adventure.
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If you’re planning a road trip but aren’t sure which route is best, don’t worry this guide will help you find the most exciting motorcycle adventures, along with advice on bikes, timing, safety, and costs.
15 Best Motorcycle Road Trips Around the World
There is a quote: Enjoy the journey, not just the destination. And what better way to do that than exploring the 15 Best Motorcycle Road Trips Around the World?
If you love motorcycles and adventure, nothing beats the thrill of hitting the open road. Feeling the wind, exploring new places, and experiencing the freedom of two wheels is an experience like no other.
Around the world, there are some routes that every biker dreams of riding. From mountains to coastlines, deserts to forests, here are 15 best motorcycle road trips that promise unforgettable memories.
1. Pacific Coast Highway, USA
Cruising along California’s Pacific Coast Highway is pure magic. From San Francisco to Los Angeles, you’ll pass dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, and quaint coastal towns. The road hugs the ocean most of the way, giving breathtaking views at every turn. It’s perfect for bikers who enjoy long, relaxed rides with plenty of stops for coffee, food, and photo opportunities.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Moderate | 150–250 km/day | Watch for sharp curves and sudden weather changes; maintain safe speed | Respect speed limits, pedestrians, and wildlife crossings; follow US traffic laws |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Cruiser or Touring (Harley-Davidson, BMW R1250RT)
- Best Season: Spring to Fall (March–October)
- Expected Expense: $1,800–$3,000 for 7–10 days
2. Great Ocean Road, Australia
Australia’s Great Ocean Road is a scenic masterpiece. Ride through rainforest, past cliffs, and iconic rock formations like the Twelve Apostles. This route combines natural beauty with small charming towns along the coast, perfect for a relaxed adventure with stops for sightseeing and meals.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Moderate | 120–200 km/day | Keep left side riding; watch for wildlife crossing | Respect local traffic rules; stop at designated lookout points |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Sport Touring or Adventure (KTM Adventure, BMW F850GS)
- Best Season: Summer (December–February)
- Expected Expense: $1,400–$2,200 for 5–7 days
3. Route 66, USA
The legendary Route 66 is a ride through history. From Chicago to Santa Monica, you’ll pass classic diners, roadside attractions, and open stretches of desert. It’s ideal for riders who love nostalgia, long stretches, and capturing the classic American road trip experience.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Easy–Moderate | 200–300 km/day | Long stretches; stay alert on desert roads | Respect historic sites; fuel up often; follow local speed limits |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Cruiser (Harley-Davidson, Indian Chief)
- Best Season: Spring or Fall (April–June, September–October)
- Expected Expense: $3,600–$4,800 for 14 days
4. Amalfi Coast, Italy
Italy’s Amalfi Coast is all about cliff-hugging roads and picturesque towns. Riding here is like being in a postcard, with the Mediterranean Sea sparkling below and colorful villages around every bend. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic rides combined with Italian culture, food, and relaxed travel.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Challenging | 80–150 km/day | Narrow cliff roads; avoid sudden braking | Respect Italian traffic laws; honk carefully on blind corners; be courteous to locals |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Lightweight Touring (Yamaha Tracer, Ducati Multistrada)
- Best Season: Spring (April–June)
- Expected Expense: $1,800–$2,400 for 5–6 days.
5. Trollstigen, Norway
Trollstigen is a thrill for adventure riders. Norway’s winding roads with steep hairpin bends and towering mountains offer a mix of adrenaline and natural beauty. Waterfalls and fjords dot the landscape, making it one of the most scenic mountain rides in the world.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Challenging | 100–150 km/day | Hairpin bends; check weather for rain or fog | Follow Norwegian road signs; give way to larger vehicles; respect nature areas |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Adventure (BMW GS series, KTM Adventure)
- Best Season: Summer (June–August)
- Expected Expense: $1,800–$2,400 for 3–4 days
6. Transfagarasan Highway, Romania
Dubbed “the best road in the world” by many, the Transfăgărășan Highway winds through the Carpathians. Sharp turns, tunnels, and mountain passes make it exciting for bikers seeking adventure. The surrounding landscape of hills and lakes adds to the magic of this ride.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Challenging | 100–200 km/day | Steep turns and mountain passes | Respect local drivers; drive carefully through tunnels; stay on marked paths |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Sport Touring (KTM Super Adventure, BMW R1250GS)
- Best Season: Summer (July–September)
- Expected Expense: $960–$1,440 for 3–4 days
7. Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland
Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is rugged and beautiful. Rolling hills, dramatic cliffs, and charming villages line this 2,500 km route. Riders can enjoy curvy coastal roads, sudden rain showers, and the famous Irish hospitality along the way.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Moderate | 120–250 km/day | Wet and windy roads; watch for livestock crossings | Drive on left side; respect small village streets and locals |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Cruiser or Adventure
- Best Season: Summer (June–August)
- Expected Expense: $1,400–$2,200 for 7–10 days.
8. Garden Route, South Africa
The Garden Route is a mix of mountains, beaches, and forests. With stops in towns like Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, it’s perfect for riders who want adventure and relaxation. Smooth roads with occasional gravel paths make adventure bikes ideal for this journey.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Moderate | 150–200 km/day | Curvy coastal roads; check road conditions | Follow local speed limits; respect wildlife and national parks |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Touring or Adventure (BMW GS, KTM Adventure)
- Best Season: Spring and Summer (September–March)
- Expected Expense: $1,200–$1,800 for 5–7 days.
9. Stelvio Pass, Italy
Stelvio Pass is famous for its 48 hairpin bends and alpine views. Riding here is an adrenaline rush for bikers who love curves and high-altitude roads. Villages along the pass offer rest stops, food, and souvenirs for a complete experience.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Challenging | 100–150 km/day | Hairpin bends; slippery in rain | Respect Italian traffic laws; yield to uphill vehicles; watch for cyclists |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Sport Touring or Lightweight Adventure
- Best Season: Summer (June–September)
- Expected Expense: $1,200–$1,800 for 2–3 days.
10. Iceland Ring Road, Iceland
Iceland’s Ring Road circles the island, passing glaciers, volcanoes, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Riding this route feels like entering a fantasy world. Adventure bikes are necessary for gravel sections and sudden weather changes.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Moderate–Challenging | 150–250 km/day | Gravel sections; sudden weather changes | Respect Icelandic nature; avoid off-road riding; follow speed limits |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Adventure (BMW GS, KTM Adventure)
- Best Season: Summer (June–August)
- Expected Expense: $2,400–$3,000 for 7–10 days.
11. North Coast 500, Scotland
Scotland’s North Coast 500 is perfect for remote scenic riding. With mountains, lochs, and castles, this 830 km loop is ideal for riders who enjoy solitude and rugged landscapes. Guesthouses and inns make comfortable stops along the way.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Moderate | 150–200 km/day | Narrow roads; watch for sheep | Respect left-hand driving; give space to locals and hikers |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Cruiser or Adventure
- Best Season: Summer (May–September)
- Expected Expense: $1,400–$2,200 for 5–7 days.
12. Route of the Seven Lakes, Argentina
Patagonia’s Route of the Seven Lakes offers crystal-clear lakes, snow-capped mountains, and wide open roads. Adventure and sport-touring bikes handle the mixed terrain and long stretches perfectly. Small towns provide cozy stays and local cuisine.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Moderate | 120–180 km/day | Mountain curves; check weather | Respect wildlife; drive slowly through small towns |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Sport Touring or Adventure
- Best Season: Summer (December–March)
- Expected Expense: $1,200–$1,800 for 5–6 days.
13. Karakoram Highway, Pakistan/China
The Karakoram Highway takes riders through the Himalayas, offering dramatic scenery and one of the highest paved roads in the world. Adventure bikes are ideal for steep climbs and variable road conditions. This route is challenging but incredibly rewarding.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Very Challenging | 100–200 km/day | High altitude; landslides possible | Respect local checkpoints; carry permits; avoid riding at night |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Adventure (BMW GS, KTM Adventure)
- Best Season: Summer (June–September)
- Expected Expense: $1,800–$2,400 for 7–10 days.
14. Silk Road, Central Asia
The Silk Road offers a journey through deserts, mountains, and ancient cities. Adventure and dual-sport bikes are perfect for the mix of gravel, pavement, and long stretches between towns. It’s a cultural and historic ride that’s as enriching as it is exciting.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Challenging | 120–200 km/day | Mixed terrain; deserts and mountains | Respect local customs; follow local traffic rules; carry enough water |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Adventure or Dual Sport
- Best Season: Summer (June–August)
- Expected Expense: $1,200–$1,800 for 10–12 days.
15. Pacific Ring of Fire, Japan
Japan’s Pacific coastal roads combine twisty mountain routes, ocean views, and cultural experiences. The mix of curves, scenic stops, and temples makes this ride special for touring and cruiser riders.
| Route Difficulty | Suggested Day Routes | Safety | Rules & Respect |
| Moderate | 120–180 km/day | Curvy mountain roads; occasional fog | Respect Japanese traffic rules; avoid riding in restricted areas; be polite to locals |
Key Points:
- Best Bike: Sport Touring or Cruiser
- Best Season: Spring (April–June) or Autumn (September–November)
- Expected Expense: $1,800–$2,400 for 5–7 days.
Tips for an Unforgettable Motorcycle Journey
- Choose the Right Bike: Cruisers for highways, adventure bikes for mountains.
- Ride in the Best Season: Avoid bad weather; check the ideal time for your route.
- Plan Your Budget: Include fuel, food, stays, and emergency costs.
- Pack Light: Bring essentials only—gear, clothes, tools, and documents.
- Stay Safe: Wear helmet and protective gear; follow traffic rules.
- Take Breaks: Stop often, enjoy scenery, local food, and take photos.
Emergency Tips Every Biker Should Know
Motorcycle trips can be unpredictable, so it’s important to be prepared for emergencies. Carry a first aid kit, know some basic bike repairs, and keep emergency contacts handy. Always have a charged phone or GPS device in case you need help.
If something unexpected happens, stay calm and assess the situation carefully. Whether it’s a breakdown, minor accident, or sudden bad weather, being prepared can keep you safe and ensure your trip continues smoothly.
Planning Your Ride: Bikes, Seasons & Budget
Motorcycle road trips are more than just rides—they’re unforgettable experiences. Choosing the right bike, season, and budgeting properly ensures a safe, enjoyable, and memorable journey. Whether it’s coastlines, mountains, or deserts, the world has endless roads waiting for you.
If you want, I can also make a compact, mobile-friendly table summarizing all 15 trips with Bike, Season, and Expected Cost in USD for quick scrolling.
