Best countries to road trip – and when the weather’s perfect

A new 2026 ranking names the best countries to drive in as a tourist and we’re going to tell you when the weather can make that international road trip even better.

Because let’s face it, driving in a new place can be a white-knuckle adventure on its own (driving on the other side of the road, anyone?) no need to add rain, sleet, smoke or snow to the challenge.

Zutobi, an online driver’s education site, looked at 40 counties, ranking them based on traffic congestion, safety, road quality, fuel costs and rental car prices, parking, scenic attractions and “instagrammability.”

The best of the best

• 3.  Spain

One country, five climate zones. Low congestion and endless attractions make driving in Spain a road-tripper’s dream but with widely varying temperatures from region to region, when should you go?

Weather sweet spot: May-June and September- October nationwide. In Madrid, average temperatures are around 77 degrees in July.

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Weather risks:  Temperatures can scorch past 100 in areas like Seville and Cordoba during the summer.  Autumn can bring destructive flash floods in Valencia and Murcia.

• 2. Portugal

Zutobi gave Portugal the runner-up spot thanks to low congestion levels and 132 attractions per 100,000 people.

Weather sweet spot: April-June and September-October. Warm, dry, fewer crowds.

Weather risks: Summer is wildfire season, so smoke and road closures are concerns. Winter can bring heavy rain and strong wind storms.

• 1. Slovenia

Slovenia gained the top spot for its “delightful blend of natural beauty and road safety.” With stunning mountain passes and 176 attractions per 100,000 people, there is plenty to see and enjoy.

Weather sweet spot: May-June, September-October. Temperatures are mild, conditions are dry, mountain passes are open and you’ll miss the crush of tourists in August.

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Weather risks: Slovenia’s signature drive is the Vršič Pass. It’s the country’s highest road, and it’s known for 50 hairpin turns, but it’s usually closed during winter and after heavy snow.

The worst of the worst

High congestion, road traffic deaths and expensive parking landed Colombia, Israel and Slovakia at the bottom of the list.