Traveling around the world is an exciting and ambitious adventure, and planning your route is one of the key elements to ensure you get the most out of your journey. Several round-the-world routes cater to different interests, budgets, and travel styles. Here are some popular routes that many travelers choose to explore, each offering unique experiences and access to some of the world’s most iconic destinations.
1. The Classic Europe-Asia-Australia Route
This route offers a mix of cultural experiences, historical landmarks, and natural wonders, connecting three continents: Europe, Asia, and Oceania.
- Europe: Start in iconic European cities like London, Paris, or Rome. Explore the art, history, and cuisine of these destinations. From there, you can venture to smaller cities and towns or head eastward to Asia.
- Asia: Popular stops include Bangkok, Tokyo, Beijing, or Singapore. Explore bustling cities, ancient temples, and beautiful beaches. Southeast Asia offers affordable travel options, while Japan and China provide rich cultural experiences and stunning landscapes.
- Australia: Conclude your journey in Australia, exploring vibrant cities like Sydney and Melbourne or venturing into the outback to experience the natural beauty of the country.
Best for: Travelers interested in experiencing a mix of Western and Eastern cultures with a balance of city life and nature.
2. The Southeast Asia-Pacific Route
This route takes you through some of the world’s most beautiful and affordable destinations in Southeast Asia and the Pacific, offering both tropical paradise and vibrant city life.
- Southeast Asia: Begin in Southeast Asia with destinations like Bali (Indonesia), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), and Chiang Mai (Thailand). These cities offer a rich blend of history, vibrant nightlife, and scenic landscapes.
- Australia & New Zealand: Continue down under to explore the stunning beauty of Australia and New Zealand. Sydney and Melbourne are cultural hubs, while places like the Great Barrier Reef and New Zealand’s South Island offer nature lovers unforgettable experiences.
- Pacific Islands: For a tropical twist, make stops in the Pacific Islands such as Fiji, Tahiti, or the Cook Islands. These idyllic islands offer beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving.
Best for: Travelers seeking adventure, cultural diversity, and relaxation in tropical settings.
3. The Transcontinental Route (North America – South America – Europe)
For those wanting to explore both the Americas and Europe, this route is a perfect blend of cultural exploration, history, and modern cities.
- North America: Start in North America, visiting cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Toronto. From there, take in the stunning landscapes of the American Southwest, the Great Lakes, or the Canadian Rockies.
- South America: Continue south to explore vibrant cities like Rio de Janeiro (Brazil), Buenos Aires (Argentina), or Lima (Peru). Visit the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu, hike in Patagonia, or relax on the beaches of Uruguay.
- Europe: Finish in Europe with destinations such as Barcelona, Paris, or Lisbon. Europe is home to centuries of history, world-class art, and architectural marvels, making it an ideal endpoint for your journey.
Best for: Those looking to explore both the Americas and Europe, experiencing urban and natural wonders along the way.
4. The Africa-Middle East-Europe Route
This route focuses on exploring the cultural richness of Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, offering a mix of history, desert landscapes, and Mediterranean charm.
- Africa: Start in Africa by visiting Morocco, Egypt, or Kenya. Explore the ancient pyramids of Giza, the bustling souks of Marrakech, or the wildlife of the Serengeti and Maasai Mara.
- Middle East: Head to the Middle East, where cities like Dubai, Istanbul, or Cairo offer a mix of modern architecture and historical sites. Explore ancient ruins, visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, or relax on the beaches of the Arabian Peninsula.
- Europe: Conclude your journey in Europe, with stops in Athens, Rome, or Istanbul. Europe’s diverse cultures and rich history provide the perfect finish to your round-the-world adventure.
Best for: Those interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage, ancient history, and vibrant modern cities of Africa, the Middle East, and Europe.
5. The Asia-Africa-Europe Route
A great route for those seeking to explore both the tropical beauty of Asia and the wild landscapes of Africa, with a cultural finale in Europe.
- Asia: Begin your journey in Asia, starting in places like Delhi (India), Kathmandu (Nepal), or the beaches of Vietnam. Explore the temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia, the Great Wall of China, or the bustling markets of Bangkok.
- Africa: From Asia, head to Africa, where countries like Tanzania, Kenya, or South Africa offer everything from safaris to cosmopolitan cities like Cape Town. Experience the diverse wildlife, visit the historic pyramids in Egypt, or take a trek in the Atlas Mountains.
- Europe: End in Europe, where major cultural hubs like Paris, London, or Berlin await. Europe’s blend of history, food, and culture makes it a fantastic final destination for your global adventure.
Best for: Travelers interested in a blend of rich cultural diversity, exotic landscapes, and natural wonders across three continents.
6. The North-South Global Adventure
If you prefer to see the contrasts between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, this route takes you from the cold landscapes of the North to the warm, tropical areas of the South.
- North America: Start your journey in cities like New York, Vancouver, or Mexico City. Explore the vastness of Canada or head to the warm beaches of Mexico.
- Central and South America: Continue to Central and South America, with stops in Costa Rica, Colombia, Argentina, or Chile. South America offers a mix of jungles, beaches, and mountains, as well as fascinating cultures.
- Southern Hemisphere: End your journey in the Southern Hemisphere, with destinations like Australia, New Zealand, and the Pacific Islands, offering a contrast in climate and culture.
Best for: Those looking to explore the stark contrasts between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres, with a focus on natural beauty and vibrant cities.
7. The Ultimate Adventure Route (North America – Europe – Asia – Oceania)
For the ultimate world traveler, this route spans four continents and includes diverse cultures, landscapes, and experiences.
- North America: Begin your adventure in cities like New York, Chicago, or Los Angeles, or head to the wilderness of Alaska or the Canadian Rockies.
- Europe: After crossing the Atlantic, head to Europe, where you can visit London, Paris, or Amsterdam, or explore smaller towns with rich cultural histories.
- Asia: After Europe, continue your journey through Asia, visiting countries like India, China, Thailand, and Japan. Asia offers everything from bustling cities to serene temples and breathtaking landscapes.
- Oceania: Finally, make your way to Oceania, where you can explore Australia’s cities and beaches, or discover the remote islands of the Pacific.
Best for: Travelers who want to experience the diversity of four continents, with everything from urban culture to rugged wilderness and tropical paradises.
Each of these routes offers something unique, so consider your interests, budget, and time frame when choosing the best round-the-world route for your adventure. Whether you seek cultural immersion, natural beauty, or historical exploration, there’s a route to suit every kind of traveler.
