There’s something uniquely Australian about packing up the car, rolling down the windows, and hitting the open road.
Whether it’s the lure of the coast, the call of the outback, or the promise of a pie at a country bakery, road trips are stitched into the fabric of our national identity.
And according to fresh data, some routes are capturing our collective imagination more than others.
So, which journeys are topping the charts for Australian adventurers? We’ve crunched the numbers, scoured the maps, and added a dash of local knowledge to bring you the five road trips Australians simply can’t get enough of.
If you’re looking for inspiration for your next getaway—or just want to see if your favourite made the cut—read on!
1. The Great Ocean Road, Victoria
No surprises here! The Great Ocean Road is a perennial favourite, and for good reason. Stretching 243 kilometres from Torquay to Allansford, this iconic drive is a feast for the senses.
Think dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and the world-famous Twelve Apostles rising from the Southern Ocean. Along the way, you’ll find charming towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay, perfect for a coffee stop or a night’s rest.
Insider tip: Take your time. There are plenty of hidden gems off the main drag—waterfalls, koala-spotting in the wild, and some of the best fish and chips you’ll ever taste.
2. Sydney to Byron Bay, New South Wales
This classic coastal journey is a rite of passage for many Ausrtalian. The 800-kilometre route hugs the Pacific coastline, offering endless beaches, national parks, and quirky towns.
Stop in at Port Stephens for dolphin watching, detour to the Hunter Valley for a cheeky wine tasting, or stretch your legs in Coffs Harbour with its famous Big Banana.
Byron Bay, your final destination, is a haven for surfers, foodies, and anyone seeking a laid-back vibe. Don’t forget to catch a sunrise at the Cape Byron Lighthouse—the easternmost point of mainland Australia.
3. The Nullarbor Plain, South Australia to Western Australia
For those with a taste for adventure (and a good playlist), the Nullarbor is the ultimate Australian road trip.
Spanning over 1200 kilometres from Ceduna to Norseman, this journey is all about wide-open spaces, star-filled skies, and the thrill of crossing the ‘treeless plain’.
Highlights include the Bunda Cliffs, whale watching at Head of Bight (in season), and the quirky roadhouses that dot the route. It’s a test of endurance, but the sense of achievement at the end is second to none.
4. The Great Alpine Road, Victoria
If you prefer mountains to the sea, the Great Alpine Road is your ticket to adventure. Winding 339 kilometres from Wangaratta to Bairnsdale, this route takes you through the heart of Victoria’s High Country.
Expect snow-capped peaks in winter, wildflowers in spring, and some of the best cool-climate wines in the country.
Don’t miss the historic town of Bright, especially in autumn when the leaves put on a spectacular show. And if you’re a keen walker, there are trails galore to stretch your legs and fill your lungs with crisp mountain air.
5. Cairns to Cape Tribulation, Queensland
For a taste of the tropics, nothing beats the drive from Cairns to Cape Tribulation. This 140-kilometre journey may be short, but it packs a punch.
You’ll wind your way through the lush Daintree Rainforest, cross the mighty Daintree River, and emerge onto pristine beaches where the rainforest meets the reef.
Along the way, keep an eye out for cassowaries, sample exotic fruits at roadside stalls, and take a guided walk with a local Indigenous ranger to learn about the world’s oldest living rainforest.
Why we love a good road trip
There’s more to these journeys than just the scenery. Road trips offer a sense of freedom and adventure that’s hard to match.
They’re a chance to reconnect with friends, family, or even just yourself. And in a country as vast and varied as Australia, there’s always something new to discover around the next bend.
Tips for a top-notch road trip
Plan, but don’t over-plan: Leave room for spontaneous detours and unexpected finds.
Pack smart: Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a good playlist or two.
Check your car: Make sure your vehicle is up to the journey, especially for remote routes like the Nullarbor.
Support local: Stop in at country bakeries, farm gates, and local attractions—you’ll be glad you did.
Your turn!
Have you tackled any of these legendary road trips? Or do you have a hidden gem you think deserves a spot on the list? Share your stories, tips, and must-see stops in the comments below. Let’s inspire each other to hit the road and make some new memories—because the best adventures are often just a tank of petrol away.
Also read: Clever mum’s budget hack turns family road trip into a full-time adventure
