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14 Countries Where Every Bus Ride Is A Scenic Discovery

There’s something oddly magical about sitting on a bus, staring out the window while the world scrolls by like some majestic screensaver. But not all bus rides are created equal – some take you through landscapes so stunning that you’ll be tempted to glue your face to the glass like a starry-eyed goldfish.

From towering mountain ranges to endless coastal roads, there are places where a bus ride isn’t just a way to get from point A to point B but are experience itself. And these are the kind of journeys that make you forget how uncomfortable the seats are…or that your knees have been in a permanent state of protest.

So get ready for a look at the most scenic routes that turn an ordinary bus trip into something extraordinary.

Got a favorite bus route or a scenic ride we missed? Drop a comment below and share the love (don’t leave us in suspense!).


South Africa

A winding coastal road in South Africa hugs the rugged shoreline, with the deep blue ocean on one side and lush green hills on the other. The iconic Lion's Head mountain peak stands in the background under a clear blue sky.
© Canva Pro

The Garden Route in South Africa is basically the entire Internet search term “dreamy landscapes” in bus form. It’s equal parts rugged coastline, serene elephant reserves, and vibrant coastal villages that look like they came out of a Pinterest board.

If you’re into indigenous forests that feel vaguely enchanted, this is where you casually plug in your “nature ASMR” playlist and just exist.

Norway

A breathtaking view of a Norwegian fjord with towering, snow-capped mountains and lush green hillsides surrounding the deep blue water. A large cruise ship is docked near a quaint village nestled along the shoreline.
© Shutterstock

If you’ve never wanted to stand on the edge of the Earth while leaning into a waterfall mist, congrats – you’re officially missing out. Norway’s “Golden Route” is a ridiculous tribute to nature, rolling through mountains that look like they’ve been CGI-rendered.

Fjords, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks…it’s not fair how pretty it all is. And you could almost feel guilty for being cooped up in a bus when you could be outside hiking. But then you realize the bus has actual heat and a window seat coffee situation.

New Zealand

A serene lake in New Zealand reflects towering mountain peaks with lush greenery and snow-capped summits. The calm waters mirror the striking landscape under a soft, golden sky.
© Canva Pro

Calling all “Lord of the Rings” geeks, amateur photographers, and anyone who enjoys being visually overwhelmed by Earth’s majesty. The Milford Road, winding through Fiordland National Park, is proof that New Zealand doesn’t have a bad angle.

Mountains, rainforests, and, oh, just a casual glacier hanging in the background. It’s also nearly impossible not to feel smug about the sheer amount of beauty you’re absorbing. Fun fact? The bus makes pit stops for photo ops – because even bus drivers here get it.

Switzerland

A bright yellow Swiss post bus travels along a mountain pass, surrounded by towering green and rocky peaks. The clear blue sky contrasts with the rugged alpine scenery.
© Shutterstock

Switzerland got game, and they know it. The Swiss PostBus system weaves through Alpine landscapes so perfect you might start questioning reality. The Furka Pass is a 24-kilometer stretch of are-we-actually-playing-MarioKart visuals.

Steep cliffs on one side and endless valleys on the other – this route isn’t for people who “prefer flat landscapes.” Spoiler alert? You’ll be tempted to make a case for moving into a chalet and never leaving.

France

A panoramic view of the French Riviera coastline with its pebble beach stretching alongside turquoise waters. Colorful buildings line the shore, and beachgoers are scattered along the water’s edge.
© Canva Pro

France doesn’t do “boring,” and its Riviera bus routes are a glowing testament to that. Along the Cote d’Azur, you’ll cruise past sparkling Mediterranean blues, pastel towns perched on clifftops…and yachts so big you’d think you’re watching a Bond movie.

The route even flirts with Monaco (glamour overload alert). Just casually sipping champagne vibes all the way through.

Canada

A stunning view of the Icefields Parkway in Canada, featuring a glacier nestled between towering mountain peaks. A winding road leads through the golden autumn landscape, with a reflective river in the foreground.
© Traveling In Focus

Canada, the polite landscaper of the world, brings us the Icefields Parkway – a 140-mile stretch of “why is this not in my backyard” views. Glaciers? Check. Lakes bluer than a Smurf convention? Double check.

The road runs between Banff and Jasper, giving you just enough minutes on the bus to plan your next epic Instagram caption. PSA for passengers prone to window-gazing existential crisis – this ride could wreck you in the best possible way.

Iceland

A scenic road in Iceland curves along the coastline, bordered by rolling green hills and dramatic cliffs. The calm ocean reflects the moody sky, with hints of pink and purple in the clouds.
© Canva Pro

If eating skyr (Icelandic yogurt) on a bus as volcanic landscapes, ethereal glaciers, and alien moss carpets roll by isn’t on your bucket list, have you even lived? Travel Iceland’s Ring Road, a loop of epic proportions, where you can spot geysers in one frame and ice fields in the next.

This country genuinely feels like Earth threw all its best natural disasters into one photogenic stew and said, “You’re welcome.” Bonus points if you see a reindeer casually jaywalking.

Japan

A breathtaking view of Mount Fuji silhouetted against a twilight sky, with the lights of a lakeside town reflecting on the water. The snow-capped peak stands majestically over the serene landscape.
© Canva Pro

If you’ve always wanted an up-close-and-personal moment with Mount Fuji (without breaking out hiking boots), Tokyo to Fuji Five Lakes is your golden ticket. Sit back as the bus slices through picture-worthy countryside.

It stops just enough to make you want to write haikus about serene landscapes, rice paddies, and tea fields. Pro-tip, though – prepare for your camera roll to balloon out of control because Mount Fuji loves serving looks.

Italy

Colorful Mediterranean buildings are perched along the cliffs of Italy's Amalfi Coast, overlooking the azure blue sea. The coastline features charming arched bridges, rocky shores, and boats docked at small piers.
© Shutterstock

The Amalfi Coast is not here to play around. With its twisty cliffside, pastel villages, and the twinkly Mediterranean Sea waiting to be photographed to death, this is basically an influencer’s spiritual home.

The bus hugs impossibly narrow roads (props to the drivers for chilling through it all) while your heart rate matches the height of every dramatic plunge. Pack an extra phone battery and carb load beforehand…those winding views and lemon groves are no joke.

Australia

A stunning aerial view of the Twelve Apostles, a series of limestone stacks along Australia's Great Ocean Road. The turquoise ocean waves crash against the rugged cliffs, with a golden sunset casting a warm glow over the landscape.
© Canva Pro

You know those desktop wallpapers featuring dreamy coastal stretches? The Great Ocean Road is that, but IRL. And iconic views of the Twelve Apostles limestone stacks might actually make you cry.

Ocean? Check. Dense rainforest? Sure. Do they mix it up? Oh, absolutely. You get cliffs, beaches, and even wild kangaroos if you’re lucky.

Costa Rica

A lush green landscape featuring a rustic metal suspension bridge stretching across a dense jungle. The bridge's steel beams and cables contrast with the vibrant foliage, creating a striking blend of nature and infrastructure.
© Shutterstock

Hop on a bus in Costa Rica, and it’s just a casual “jungle meets paradise” flex. One moment, you’re catching glimpses of rainbow-winged toucans in emerald rainforests, and the next, you’re spotting waterfalls that look aggressively scene-stealing.

Oh, and don’t be shocked if howler monkeys provide the soundtrack. This ride isn’t just about sights – it’s a full-on experience, complete with humidity that loves your hair just a little too much.

Scotland

A breathtaking view of the rugged Scottish Highlands, featuring towering rock formations covered in vibrant green grass. The rolling hills extend into the distance, with a scenic lake nestled in the valley below.
© Canva Pro

If the Scottish Highlands don’t awaken your inner poet…you might be a robot. The scenery repeats in castles, lochs, and mist (lots of mist), with a landscape that screams, “Yes, we actually inspired the background art for epic fantasy movies.”

Hit the bus routes during fall, when the hills wear autumn like a cozy plaid scarf. Just remember, you’re sharing these views with deer and sheep who frankly couldn’t care less about your selfie game.

Austria

A winding mountain road curves through a landscape of golden autumn trees and snow-capped peaks in the Austrian Alps. The vibrant orange foliage contrasts beautifully with the crisp blue sky and rocky terrain.
© Shutterstock

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is where beauty and drama had a meeting, and the result was this next-level masterpiece. Curve your way through Austria’s highest peaks and continental glaciers – this is high-altitude traveling at its finest.

Heads up, though – anyone prone to extreme stargazing or snow envy might emotionally break here. Also, good luck pronouncing the route’s name quickly without butchering it.

Vietnam

A panoramic view of Vietnam's iconic rice terraces, with the golden fields cascading down the hillsides. The sun sets behind the mountains, casting a warm glow over the peaceful rural landscape dotted with small huts.
© Canva Pro

Vietnam’s Hanoi to Ha Long Bay ride was made for people who want lyrical landscapes served piping hot. Rice paddies stretch endlessly as limestone karsts rise like something out of a surrealist painting.

And by the time you reach the bay and spot its emerald-green waters dotted with junk boats, you’re basically ready to write a memoir about rural serenity…or at least take 400 photos you’ll delete later.


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