11 Safest Countries for a Stress-Free Road Trip
When you’re hitting the road for your next adventure, there’s nothing better than a smooth and worry-free drive. Cruising down an open highway surrounded by breathtaking landscapes with absolutely no stress related to road safety sounds like a traveler’s dream. To help you plan a successful stress-free road trip, we are here help you discover the world’s most road-trip friendly nations, where the journey is just as amazing as the destination.
This list has been finalized considering factors like infrastructure quality, accident rates, traffic management, and overall driving experience. Let’s go!
The Netherlands
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One of the best things about driving in the Netherlands is how simple and efficient it is. The roads are well-maintained, the signage is clear, and the traffic tends to flow smoothly, even in urban areas. Dutch drivers are known for their caution, and with a strong adherence to road laws, you can cruise through pretty villages, fields of tulips, or the streets of Amsterdam without worry.
Fun Fact: The Netherlands has over 35,000 kilometers of bike paths—so you’ll be sharing the road with more cyclists than cars!
Norway
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If you dream of driving along dramatic fjords and through snow-capped mountains, Norway is the perfect destination. Not only is the scenery absolutely mesmerizing, but the roads are also impressively safe. Strict speed limits, low traffic volumes, and well-maintained roads mean you can enjoy the views without stressing over potholes or crowded highways.
Fun Fact: The Atlantic Ocean Road in Norway, with its unique bridges and scenic views, is often considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
Sweden
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Sweden’s roads are made for relaxed exploration, whether you’re cruising through dense forests or by beautiful lakes. The country’s commitment to road safety is evident in its well-maintained highways and the consistent enforcement of traffic rules. If you’re looking for a road trip where you can simply unwind and enjoy the journey, Sweden is a top choice.
Fun Fact: Sweden is known for having some of the safest winter roads in Europe, thanks to high-quality road treatment during the colder months.
Finland
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Driving in Finland feels like you’re on a peaceful retreat. With less traffic and a culture of safe driving, you’ll find that getting behind the wheel here is stress-free. The calm driving culture, combined with the serene surroundings, means that a road trip in Finland is more about enjoying the quiet than worrying about anything else.
Fun Fact: Finland is famous for its “sauna culture.” Some of the most remote accommodations you’ll find are cabins with lakeside saunas, perfect for a relaxing stop during your road trip.
Germany
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Germany’s road system is as efficient as it is safe. While the Autobahn is famous for stretches with no speed limit, the country has an impressive record for road safety. You’ll find that German drivers tend to follow traffic laws diligently, and with its first-rate infrastructure, it’s easy to travel quickly and safely.
Fun Fact: Despite the free-speed sections of the Autobahn, about 70% of it does have speed limits to keep drivers safe, especially near urban areas and construction zones.
Japan
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The roads in Japan are maintained and well-regulated. Traffic laws are strictly enforced, and drivers are courteous, which makes the roads feel safer. Japan also offers some of the most advanced transportation infrastructure in the world, so you can rest assured knowing your road trip will be both enjoyable and secure.
Fun Fact: Japan’s expressways are known for their efficiency. You’ll often find that toll booths are quick to pass through, and the roads themselves are incredibly smooth.
Iceland
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There’s nothing like a road trip in Iceland, where you’re surrounded by otherworldly landscapes at every turn. The roads are safe and well-kept, although you may encounter a few gravel roads if you venture into the more remote areas. Road trips here are all about wild beauty, and the safety features of the roads ensure you can do so worry-free.
Fun Fact: Iceland’s road system is so straightforward that many locals don’t even use street signs in rural areas—the roads are simply easy to follow.
United Kingdom
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The U.K. offers a road trip experience like no other, from the serene countryside to bustling city streets. While driving on the left might take some getting used to, the U.K. has well-maintained roads and a strong focus on driver safety. It’s an ideal destination for those who want to take their time exploring without worrying about navigating tricky roads.
Fun Fact: The U.K. is home to more than 6,000 villages, so you’ll never run out of new places to explore during your road trip.
Australia
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The vast and open landscapes in this region make it one of the best places for a road trip, especially for those who enjoy having lots of space on the road. The country’s roads are generally smooth, and driving is relaxed, with fewer traffic jams and more opportunities to take in the scenery.
Fun Fact: The Outback is one of the most remote places in the world, and it’s so vast that some areas don’t have cell service, so always be prepared with a map and supplies!
Canada
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Canada’s wide, open roads are ideal for a peaceful road trip. From the coastal highways of British Columbia to the Trans-Canada Highway that stretches across the country, the roads are smooth, safe, and usually free of heavy traffic. With great road maintenance and strict traffic rules, Canada is a reliable and stress-free place to drive.
Fun Fact: The Trans-Canada Highway, the longest continuous road in the world, stretches over 4,860 miles, providing endless opportunities for exploration.
New Zealand
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New Zealand might be small, but its roads offer big rewards in both beauty and safety. The country’s winding, well-managed roads make it easy to explore everything from beaches to mountains in one trip. Drivers here stick to the rules, so whether you’re in a quiet village or a busy city, you’ll find the drive relaxed and smooth.
Fun Fact: New Zealand is one of the few places in the world where you can drive from a beach to a snow-capped mountain in a single day.
Switzerland
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Switzerland is known for its precision, and that extends to its roads. The highways are well-maintained, and the driving experience is smooth, especially in the Alps or in cities like Zurich and Lucerne. With low accident rates and strict traffic rules, driving here is safe and enjoyable, leaving you to focus on the stunning scenery.
Fun Fact: Switzerland has an extensive network of tunnels through its mountains, making travel through the Alps not only scenic but also efficient.
Belgium
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Driving in Belgium is calm, especially outside the cities. The roads are quiet and easy to navigate, with clear signage and little traffic. You can relax and enjoy the rich history of the country, from old-fashioned towns to the coastal views, all while having a stress-free trip.
Fun Fact: Belgium is home to some of the most beautiful medieval castles in Europe—perfect for a stop during your drive.
Portugal
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The roads in Portugal are smooth and easy to navigate, making for a stress-free driving experience. From the beautiful coastal routes to the charming towns of the interior, the roads are safe and well-maintained. With strict traffic laws and low congestion outside the cities, it’s a straightforward place to explore by car.
Fun Fact: Portugal is famous for its winding coastal infrastructures, perfect for a road trip with ocean views at every corner.
Austria
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Austria is perfect for road trips, especially through the Alps. The routes are smooth, allowing you to take in the breathtaking mountain views. From the lively streets of Vienna to the peaceful villages, Austria’s roads make every drive relaxing and enjoyable.
Fun Fact: Austria’s Alpine roads are famous for their magnificent views of snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear lakes.