best large family road trip vehicle

Best Road Trip Cars in 2024 and 2025

We compiled a list of vehicles that are great for road trips. These vehicles are fuel-efficient, reliable, and comfortable, which will help you out on all of your highway adventures.

Kia Motors America |

The Best Cars, Minivans and SUVs for Road Trips

Summer is prime road trip season, whether that means hitting up a national park or getting together with family at a lakeside cabin. Choosing the right new car for an epic road trip can make your vacation more comfortable, more fuel efficient, and even safer, thanks to the new technologies found in many new vehicles. It can also mean less arguing, thanks to USB ports that keep devices charged, Wi-Fi hotspots that keep everyone entertained, and roomy back seats that keep siblings from touching.

We've rounded up the best road trip vehicles available this summer, with everything from sports cars to pickups, with plenty of family-friendly SUVs on the list. As new information becomes available, we update our reviews, so the data found in these slides might not match those reviews exactly.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. |

2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid

$34,050 | usn overall score: 8.0/10.

The 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid is a more fuel-efficient version of the popular compact SUV, with up to 43 mpg in the city. A 7-inch touch screen, smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and four USB ports come standard to keep everyone powered up and entertained.

The interior is one of the nicest in the class, and the standard upholstery is stain-resistant. The seats are comfy in both rows, with room for adults to stretch out even on road trips. The rear seats recline, so whoever is off driving duty can take a nap. Standard adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist help reduce the fatigue that can come with hours of driving.

2024 Volkswagen Atlas

$36,985 | usn overall score: 8.1/10.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas has enough room to bring along everybody and all their gear. It's available with either three rows of seating or two rows in the Cross Sport configuration. The third row is comfy for kids and adults on shorter trips. The Atlas has more cargo space behind the third row than most in its class.

Refreshed for 2024, in either configuration, a 12-inch touch screen with smartphone connectivity and a Wi-Fi hot spot are standard, along with wireless device charging and four USB ports. The Atlas can also tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly configured if you plan to bring a small camper or want to tow some toys for your vacation.

2024 Ford Mustang

$30,920 | usn overall score: 8.1/10.

Sometimes you want to live the American road trip dream in an impractical sports car. But guess what – the redesigned 2024 Ford Mustang is a rather practical sports car. It's as exciting to drive as you could hope, and it still manages to turn in great fuel economy numbers that won't put a damper on your budget.

The Mustang's interior has been updated with a more modern, tech-forward look. Its standard infotainment system has a large 13.2-inch touch screen and a Wi-Fi hot spot. Standard safety tech includes automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. But maybe most importantly, for purposes of the dream, the Mustang is available as a convertible.

2024 Chevrolet Suburban

$59,200 | overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban is the classic family road trip SUV, and it's the winner of our 2024 Best Large SUV for Families award. It's huge, with more cargo space than almost any SUV out there. It can be configured to seat up to nine people, though that means someone has to sit in the middle of the front bench seat. In any case, the third row provides enough legroom for adults.

The interior is sturdy enough for epic journeys, and it comes with an 8-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and six USB ports. Depending on how you configure it, the Suburban can tow up to 8,300 pounds, enough for the average camper. It also comes with driver-assistance features like lane-departure warning and lane-keep assist.

2024 Kia Carnival

$33,600 | overall score: 8.2/10.

The 2024 Kia Carnival makes a strong case for the classic family minivan as the ultimate road-trip vehicle, especially with pricing that's among the most affordable on this list. It comes with a good list of standard safety features for long drives, including lane-keep assist and blind-spot monitoring.

The interior is upholstered with easy-to-clean materials, and all three rows have enough room for adults, though the third row has a bit less legroom than the first two. It also has lots of cargo space, even with all three rows in use. If you don't need the last row for passengers, it folds flat into the floor for even more cargo space. An 8-inch touch screen, smartphone compatibility and a whopping seven USB ports come standard.

2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

$53,425 | usn overall score: 8.3/10.

The plug-in hybrid 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid achieves up to 30 mpg in combined driving when operating in hybrid mode, which is great for any minivan. Once you reach your destination, plug this family hauler in overnight to be able to drive about 32 miles on electric power.

There's also a ton of tech included, like a 10.1-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity and Amazon Alexa compatibility. All three rows of seating have lots of head- and legroom, and there's plenty of storage space. Standard safety features include stop-and-go adaptive cruise control and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

2024 Lincoln Navigator

$82,765 | usn overall score: 8.6/10.

Wherever your road trip takes you, the 2024 Lincoln Navigator will make sure you arrive in comfort and style. It's one of the best luxury large SUVs, with a well-built and high-quality interior. Standard features include a 13.2-inch touch screen, wireless smartphone connectivity, a Wi-Fi hotspot and five USB ports.

Every seat in all three rows is comfortable, and the available L model adds extra space to an already roomy cargo area. Though the Navigator is large, its powerful engine easily gets it up to speed on the highway. Standard safety features like lane-keep assist and stop-and-go adaptive cruise control can help reduce driver fatigue too.

2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

$32,575 | usn overall score: 8.6/10.

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is among the best in its class and was a finalist for our Best Hybrid SUV for the Money and Best Hybrid SUV for Families awards this year. The regular hybrid is the best for road tripping, with up to 38 mpg on the highway. But it doesn't sacrifice power for efficiency, with enough get-up-and-go for passing on the highway. All-wheel drive is standard for a sure-footed feel.

Inside, there's tons of room for adults in both rows of seating and a huge cargo area. A 10.25-inch touch screen is standard, along with Apple CarPlay , Android Auto , four USB ports and wireless device charging.

GENESIS MOTOR AMERICA |

2024 Genesis G90

$89,200 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

If your road-trip budget allows for a little luxury. the 2024 Genesis G90 delivers. It has a capable V6 and an optional mild-hybrid powertrain that improves acceleration when passing on the highway. The available air suspension makes long drives a dream, and the extensive list of standard safety features–including adaptive cruise control and a head-up display–eases the tedium of driving.

The Nappa leather interior wraps the road tripper in luxury, and both rows of seating are comfortable for adults. The trunk is large enough for several suitcases, and it opens automatically as you approach. The G90 also has one of the longest powertrain warranties in the business.

2025 Ram 1500

$40,275 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

If your road trip plan involves a camper or boat, you'll want to look into the 2025 Ram 1500 . When properly equipped, it can tow up to 11,580 pounds. As with most pickups, you can configure the 1500 in whatever way works for you, with bed, cab and powertrain options in addition to trim levels and packages to add on.

All of the available body styles have a spacious, high-quality interior. Quite a few safety features are standard, including stop-and-go adaptive cruise control and rear cross-traffic alert. The infotainment system got an upgrade for the 2025 model year, which means even more available features, including three screen sizes, three sound systems, and a long list of available tech features.

2024 Honda Civic

$23,950 | usn overall score: 8.7/10.

You probably need one car to handle both the daily commute and the road trip vacation, and you need it to be affordable. Enter the 2024 Honda Civic . It's one of the best compact cars in its class, and we named it the 2024 Best Compact Car for the Money . All of its scores are high, especially when it comes to safety. It has the lowest MSRP on our list yet comes standard with desirable amenities like adaptive cruise control and traffic-sign recognition. It's also thrifty, with up to 42 mpg on the highway.

A 7-inch touch screen and smartphone connectivity come standard. The front seats in particular are supportive over the long haul, and the Civic has more overall interior space than most rivals.

Road Trip Car Characteristics

Passenger space: People turn cranky when they aren't comfortable after hours on the road. There needs to be space for everyone to stretch out.

Cargo space: At the very minimum, you'll be bringing luggage along and maybe also camping gear or tubes for floating the river. Make sure there's space for your gear.

Fuel economy: Stopping for gas on a road trip can get expensive. Fuel efficiency, particularly from hybrid powertrains, can ease the pain of stopping at the pump.

Infotainment: An AM/FM radio is no longer sufficient for most people. An infotainment system that's easy to use while driving and can connect to smartphones is key.

Safety tech: Driving long distances causes fatigue, and fatigue causes accidents. Modern driver-assistance features can help you stay alert and in your lane.

Reliability: No one wants to be the car in the breakdown lane while on their road trip. A good predicted reliability score shows that a particular model has on average been a solid performer over time.

Genesis Motor America |

Road Trip Car FAQs

What is the best car for road trips.

The best car for road trips is the one that fits your budget and your needs, so there's no one vehicle that will work for everybody. That said, the 2024 Honda Civic is a strong pick. It provides comfort, features, safety and reliability, and all for one of the lowest price tags on this list.

What is the best SUV for road trips?

The 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid combines a long list of standard features with great fuel economy, and it has one of the most spacious interiors in its class.

What is the best luxury car for road trips?

The 2024 Genesis G90 will take you anywhere in comfort and style. Most of its best features are standard, including leather upholstery.

What is the most comfortable car for long trips?

On a list of very comfortable vehicles, the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid is probably the most comfortable, especially for back-seat passengers who can take advantage of the reclining seats. If comfort is your priority, take a look at our list of most comfortable cars for more options.

U.S. News and World Report |

More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report

Plenty of families take road trips, so you might want to check out the winners of our 2023 Best Cars for Families awards too. Maybe you've been left stranded on an unfamiliar road by your former car and are looking for the most reliable cars available. If you know you need to bring along a lot of gear, see our roundup of compact SUVs with the most cargo space .

When you're ready to buy a new car, use our Best Price Program to pre-negotiate a great price with a local dealership. You can arrange for online buying and even vehicle delivery through the program.

U.S. News & World Report |

Best Cars for Road Trips in 2024 and 2025

2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid: $34,050 | USN Overall Score: 8.0/10
2024 Volkswagen Atlas: $36,985 | USN Overall Score: 8.1/10
2024 Ford Mustang: $30,920 | USN Overall Score: 8.1/10
2024 Chevrolet Suburban: $59,200 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
2024 Kia Carnival: $33,600 | Overall Score: 8.2/10
2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: $53,425 | USN Overall Score: 8.3/10
2024 Lincoln Navigator: $82,765 | USN Overall Score: 8.6/10
2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: $32,575 | USN Overall Score: 8.6/10
2024 Genesis G90: $89,200 | USN Overall Score: 8.7/10
2025 Ram 1500: $40,275 | USN Overall Score: 8.7/10
2024 Honda Civic: $23,950 | USN Overall Score: 8.7/10

Browse Cars

Car Reviews

Car comparisons, auto resources.

Auto Insurance
Auto Glass Repair
Auto Warranty
Product Roundups

Best Road Trip Cars: Top 10

Hitting the open road; there isn’t much that matches this feeling of freedom and adventure.

The great North American road trip is as old as the invention of the automobile itself. For over a century people have gotten behind the wheel to explore all our expansive continent has to offer.

Today it’s easy to board a plane and fly virtually anywhere in the world. But it doesn’t offer the same sights, sounds, and experiences as driving through the mountain passes, vast canyons, and twisting ocean drives in our own backyard.

Modern vehicles have made these journeys more enjoyable than ever too. Massaging seats, driving assists, crisp audio systems, and climate controlled seats are just a few of luxurious found in a plethora of automobiles. But what are the best road trip cars? There’s different answers for different people. Below we’ve selected 10 great choices that should offer a great solution for most.

Buick Enclave

For passengers, the best road trip cars need one thing above all else – comfort. When it comes to three-row SUVs, not many provide a more pleasing ride than the Buick Enclave . By eschewing any sporty pretences, the Enclave is set up to isolate occupants from the world outside. Expansion gaps, broken pavement, and rough concrete are swallowed up by the suspension making any road surface feel buttery smooth.

Great sound isolation and a V6 engine that’s rarely strained adds to the relaxed, cruiser feel of the Enclave. If hour after hour of freeway slogging encompasses your larger family’s road trip, this Buick is worth a consideration.

Chevrolet Suburban Diesel

Some road trips involve a couple taking a jaunt down a coastal highway. Others involve a large family, their pets, all their gear, and a sizeable trailer being hauled through the mountains. The Chevrolet Suburban diesel is a vehicle for the latter. With tremendous levels of torque, expansive levels of interior room, and respectable fuel economy, this is about as close as you can get to taking your house on the road.

Up to nine passengers can fit in the Suburban and towing capacity can reach 8,200 lbs. Plus, this big Chevrolet drives smaller than its size suggests, making it approachable for a variety of drivers.

Ford Mustang Convertible

Now we’ll change gears to the best road trip cars for two. When hitting the open byways along picturesque landscapes on a beautiful day, nothing beats driving a convertible. Drop tops are few and far between these days, but one icon remains; the legendary Ford Mustang . Taking a drive down the pacific coastal highway in California behind the wheel of a Mustang is something everyone should experience at least once. Ford’s pony car can even accommodate two small rear passengers if a young family is looking for an adventure.

This may not be the first choice for long distance, multi-day cruising. But wheeling a Mustang from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon on a warm spring day sounds great to us.

Honda Civic

Not everyone needs a large SUV or a sports car for an enjoyable road trip. Plenty of smaller vehicles are up for task, proving ample comfort, space, and impressive fuel economy. Chief amongst these choices is our favorite compact car here at AutoGuide, the Honda Civic . Available in a variety of flavors, the sweet spot for long distance driving is either the sedan or hatchback with the 1.5-liter turbocharged engine.

It provides plenty of power for the small car and sips gas. The car is fun enough to drive, but supple enough to not punish passengers. A premium interior is just the icing on the cake. The hatchback is the more practical choice of the two body styles and our personal pick. But really, one can’t go wrong with either Civic.

Kia Sportage Hybrid

The hottest segment right now is compact SUVs, even if these utility vehicles aren’t all that compact anymore. Being the primary vehicle for millions of families, many of these smaller SUVs will see duty as the transportation choice during vacation getaways. With so many options on the market, what is one to choose? Our current recommendation is the Kia Sportage , specifically the hybrid.

With ample power and impressive fuel economy, the Sportage features a sophisticated interior that delivers near mid-size levels of space. It’s also one of the more comfortable rides in the segment which should keep passengers happy.

Lexus ES 300h

Moving back to cars, the Honda Civic and Ford Mustang might not provide enough interior space or ride comfort for everyone’s taste. A great alternative for these road trippers would be the Lexus ES 300h . It’s one of the most supple riding, smooth driving sedans out there that just happens to also be very fuel efficient.

Like the Buick Enclave, the ES 300h eats up mile after mile of road without fatiguing the driver or its occupants. The Lexus’ focus is on comfort, refinement, and sound isolation rather than driving dynamics, which makes it a perfect long-distance cruising partner.

So far we covered gas, diesel, and a lot of hybrid choices. But what if you want to take a road trip in an electric vehicle? Many might scoff at this idea, but there are EVs on sale now that have surprising levels of range. Vehicles like the Lucid Air Grand Touring with a maximum range of 516 miles. That should give drivers a full day’s worth of driving before the car would need a charge.

The Lucid Air doesn’t come cheap though, with the Grand Touring beginning at a price of $138,000. A more affordable option, albeit with less range, is the Tesla Model 3 Long Range AWD that can travel 358 miles on a single charge and should cost under $60,000.

Not all road trips involve driving to a destination with accommodations. Some adventures include bringing the accommodations with you, like a big fifth-wheel travel trailer. For this task, a vehicle with enough interior space for a family as well as enough towing capacity to haul such a trailer is needed. This is the realm of full-size pick up trucks.

Our choice is the Ram 1500 . With the adjustable air suspension, the Ram features very un-truck-like ride comfort, yet can still do truck things. With the efficient and torquey EcoDiesel engine, the Ram 1500 can tow upwards of 9,600 lbs. when properly equipped. If that’s not enough capability, there is the gasoline 5.7-liter V8 Hemi with a mild hybrid system that can pull upwards of 12,750 lbs.

Subaru Outback

Once upon a time, the best road trip cars were ruled by wagons. But the segment is nearly dead, with very few options left. One choice that is still available is a great one; the Subaru Outback . As a lifted crossover, this wagon-on-stilts features a long travel suspension that swallows up all but the worst road imperfections. The long wheelbase prevents the vehicle from wandering on the freeway and in the grandest of Subaru traditions, the Outback has fantastic sight-lines all around.

Being a wagon, there is amble room for passengers in the rear and their cargo behind them. The entry level engine, although good on gas, might be a bit overmatched for a fully-loaded Outback. Luckily, there is a punchy turbocharged option as well.

Toyota Sienna

Part of the reason station wagons demised as the go-to-choice for the best road trip cars was the invention of the minivan. But the practical people haulers have since fallen out of favor as well, and few choices exist on the market. The ones that are left are all very appealing and can’t be beat in terms of passenger space, cargo capability, and ease of operation.

Our recommendation for a road trip minivan is the Toyota Sienna . With a standard hybrid engine, the Sienna is surprisingly efficient and should travel long distances between fill-ups. There is also optional all-wheel drive, a major plus if your road trip involves a wintery chalet escape. New this year is the Woodland Edition that offers additional ground clearance for even more rough-road capability.

Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here .

A 20+ year industry veteran, Mike rejoins the AutoGuide team as the Managing Editor. He started his career at a young age working at dealerships, car rentals, and used car advertisers. He then found his true passion, automotive writing. After contributing to multiple websites for several years, he spent the next six years working at the head office of an automotive OEM, before returning back to the field he loves. He is a member of the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC), and Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA). He's the recipient of a feature writing of the year award and multiple video of the year awards.

More by Mike Schlee

Join the conversation

These Are The 5 Most Popular Vehicles In America So Far This Year

US Plans Ban On Chinese Software In Cars

3 Reasons The Toyota Crown Signia Will Be Successful

Best Small SUV | Testing (almost) Every Compact SUV

Affordable Cars With Surprisingly Higher-End Interiors: Top 10

Latest comparisons.

Comparison Test: 2024 Kia EV9 vs 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

2024 Porsche Cayenne S and Cayenne Coupe Review

What’s the Difference Between the 2023 and 2024 Subaru Crosstrek?

Volkswagen Atlas SE Vs SEL: Which Trim is Right for You?

Hyundai Palisade Vs Mazda CX-90 Comparison

Car buying tools.

How to Buy a Car
Free dealer Price Quote

You may also be interested in

The Plug-in Hybrid With the Longest Range: Top 10 List

AWD Hatchbacks: Top 10 Lowest Priced

Best Small SUV | Testing (almost) Every Compact SUV

Top 5 Perfect Road Trip Cars

Top 10 Best Cars Under $30,000

Top 10 Best Subaru Cars of All Time

Top 10 Best New Cars to Modify

Top 10 Cars for a Road Trip

The Jeep Renegade Will Go Electric In 2027

AutoGuide Show Ep28: Maverick Lobo, Underrated TLX, Bentley Drones

There Won't Be A Jeep Wrangler EV

Nissan Drops Fresh Kicks For 2025

2025 Dodge Charger EV Reveal Set for March 5

2024 Rivian R1T Review: The Truck for Non-Truck People

The Kia K5 Costs More Than Last Year, Surprising No One

These Are The Best Off-Road Trucks

2025 Toyota Crown Signia First Drive Review: Call Me Camry Cross

2024 Toyota Prius Prime XSE Premium Review: Pleasure Cruise

The Best Road Trip Cars for Exploring Solo, Sightseeing with Family, and More

We’re still working out where to safely travel in the immediate future, but what’s certain is that after months of staying close to home, we couldn’t be more ready to make a move—which means we're officially on the hunt for the best road trip cars. With gas prices holding steady, there’s no better time to load up your favorite playlists and hit the road, company optional. We’ve gone ahead and done the research for you, assembling a list of some of the best road trip cars to pick up at your local rental agencies to help ensure a seamless and safe trip, whether you’re traveling with your kids, going solo, or looking for an off-road adventure.

For packing in the whole family

Chrysler pacifica.

It’s only fitting that the brand that first put minivans on American roads is behind the award-winning Chrysler Pacifica (named Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and Family Car of the Year by Cars.com). The sleek styling of the eight-seater will firmly put to rest any reservations about maintaining cool cred, while the spacious interior’s in-floor access bins and stow-and-go second- and third-row seats allow for a variety of configurations, no matter your family’s size . Opt for a model with all-wheel drive that automatically engages if you hit adverse weather.

The glossy, streamlined fourth-generation A8 is a stunner, from the sporty new grille to the interior’s ambient lighting. Once in motion, check out the drive select system; the comfort setting, which softens the steering and acceleration, will let you smoothly take precious cargo down rough roads. Warning: your kids will compete for the rear seats, thanks to the excess legroom, panoramic sunroof, and futuristic, neatly stowed console that controls all the rear amenities, like heated and massaging seats. Parking sensors and lane departure warning come standard.

Chevy Suburban

Don’t let the outsize proportions scare you off. The newly revamped Chevy Suburban ranks high when it comes to second-row legroom and cargo space, and now has an expanded third row that can comfortably accommodate long-legged teens. Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, forward collision alert, and multiple cameras (up to nine) for 360-degree exterior views. For added security, there’s also hidden storage so that you can secure your valuables anytime you leave the vehicle. Opt for a model with dual rear screens to keep the kids endlessly entertained.

The Mazda6 has a quiet cabin that can block out road noise on long drives.

For trekking 2,500 miles across the country

Toyota camry.

The Toyota Camry has consistently ranked as one of the most reliable midsize vehicles for the past three decades, making it one of the best picks for any trip. It offers incredible fuel economy, getting 29 miles per gallon in the city, and 41 miles per gallon on the highway (which also means fewer stops!) and has a notably quiet cabin where you can blast tunes and keep up with directions on the standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Pedestrian detection, lane departure, brake assist, and lane tracing assist from Toyota’s Star Safety System also keep the Camry centered in its lane.

Genesis G70

The refined Genesis G70 has been named a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, one of many accolades for this polished, comfortable sedan. It’s a pleasure to sit in the top-notch driver’s seat, with its well-padded diamond quilted Nappa leather. The cockpit feel is enhanced by aluminum accents, a short, stylish gear box, and the G70’s agile and responsive handling, which makes short work of the miles ahead. Added bonus: the trunk can fit multiple carry-ons or larger suitcases, and the rear seat folds for extra cargo space.

The Mazda6 is a good-looking sport sedan with a stylish interior designed for maximum comfort, a necessity when you’re spending days on the road. The Mazda6 gives you a peppy, smooth drive and a quiet cabin that blocks out exterior noise. There are convenient wheel-mounted controls, easy-access sound controls, and a solid navigation system that’s also a breeze to program. Standard features include folding rear seats, blind spot monitoring, automated emergency braking, and low-speed forward-collision warning.

For exploring solo, safely

Toyota rav4.

When you’re on your own, reliability takes on a whole new level of importance. That’s where the RAV4 comes in: after more than 25 years on the road, the model remains a winner for its manageable size, dependable performance, and commendable fuel economy, getting 27 miles per gallon in the city, and 35 miles per gallon on the open road. You’ll appreciate the car's many safety touches, which include interior lights that illuminate as you approach and driver assistance features such as an integrated backup camera, folding and fully reclining rear seats, lane-tracing assist, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Ford Mustang

America’s love affair with the Mustang began over 50 years ago and it’s still going strong. The allure is obvious, from those legendary lines to the sound of the high-powered engine—but what lies at the heart of the Mustang’s enduring popularity is that once you slide into those bucket seats, it’s an unbeatably fun, and fast, ride. Standard models come with a rearview camera, six-speed manual transmission, and a complimentary dose of nostalgia.

Honda Accord

Ten generations in, the Accord has solidified its spot as one of the most durable and nimble vehicles on the road, a winning combination for a swift, problem-free drive. The distinctive sedan’s spacious interior provides ample legroom and comfort for even the tallest of drivers and the stellar fuel economy (30 miles per gallon in the city, and 38 miles per gallon on the highway) make it a no-brainer for any trip. Driver assist technology, including traffic sign recognition and an automatic braking system that kicks in to help prevent collisions, come standard.

The Land Rover Defender's roof can support up to 600 pounds, perfect for a roof tent.

For navigating the backroads

Land rover defender.

Land Rover has long perfected the marriage of form and function, making the Defender one of the best off-roading vehicles out there. Tackling muddy or rocky ground? The quick turn of a dial will let you select a suitable suspension and traction mode for the terrain you’re on and, if you approach water, the 3D-surround camera and wade-sensing system will gauge the depth and allow you to navigate through up to 35 inches. When parked, the rear seats fold down with the touch of a button, and the roof supports a tent and occupants up to a combined 600 pounds.

Subaru Ascent

The Ascent is Subaru’s largest SUV, and it puts that size to good use with a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds (enough to haul a small trailer). The generously sized cabin seats up to eight passengers, and the rear seats fold flat to haul extra cargo or to pinch hit as a makeshift bed. Traveling with a group? The Ascent’s roof rail capacity of 700 pounds nicely accommodates a sturdy rooftop tent. Standard features include all-wheel drive, driver assist technology, and a rear-seat reminder alert that sounds when anything is left behind as you prepare to exit the vehicle.

Volkswagen Atlas

VW’s seven-seater Atlas has already seen a few changes since its relaunch three years ago. It’s one of the largest crossover SUVs, has unmatched cargo and passenger space, folding second- and third-rows, and roof rails that you can use to secure anything from kayaks to boxes of gear. The Atlas is also capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, has four adjustable all-wheel drive modes, stability enhancing systems, a hands-free liftgate, and park distance control.

Washington Pass Along the North Cascades Highway

For going greener

Ford fusion hybrid.

This attractive midsize gas-electric hybrid lets you keep track of energy output on customizable dashboard screens. Along with a roomy interior and 10-way power driver seat for maximum comfort, standard features include an eight-inch touchscreen and voice command for easy access to directions and entertainment, blind spot monitoring, forward automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and a rearview camera.

Toyota Prius

The Prius has spent the last two decades accumulating industry accolades, and it’s still going strong. The gas-electric hatchback comes with stellar stats: consistently top-ranked on safety lists, excellent fuel economy (it averages 50 miles per gallon in the city, and 54 miles per gallon on the highway) and a reliable history. The company has also upped the model’s standard features, which now include a mammoth 11.6-inch screen, Apple CarPlay, Amazon Alexa, an integrated backup camera, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. (And you’d be surprised how much you can fit in the trunk.)

Jaguar I-Pace

Be prepared to throw any preconceived notions about “boring” electric vehicles out the window when you encounter Jaguar's I-Pace. In the plush and surprisingly spacious cabin, take a minute to check out the detailed instrument panel, then select dynamic mode for a sporty, full-throttle ride. Before you zoom off, download an app like ChargePoint so that you’ll be able to quickly pinpoint fast-charging stations along your route—though with a 253-mile range, you'll have enough juice to get from, say, Washington D.C. to New York .

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The Best New Family Cars of 2020

Buying a car? These winning picks put you in the driver's seat!

Meet Our Experts

Rachel Rothman , GH Chief Technologist & Head Engineer
Drew Dorian , Car and Driver Staff Editor & Car Tester
Laurie Jennings , GH Institute Director & Lead Consumer Tester
Lexie Sachs , Director, Textiles, Paper & Plastic Lab & Consumer Tester

How We Tested

After driving the year’s new vehicles on over 5,000 miles of city roads, highways, and test tracks, we narrowed it down to the top 50 makes and models. Using industry standards and our proprietary protocols, we rated cars on:

Then our engineers, analysts, and consumer testers evaluated all the little things people really care about, like how easy it is to fold down the seats, how much cargo space there is in the trunk, how well car seats fit in the second and third rows, and whether they’re a struggle to install. We also looked closely at the interior: the amount of head and legroom, storage space for front- and rear-seat passengers, overall comfort, and how easy the infotainment system is to use without ever reading the manual. Plus, we gave points for innovative and useful features like hands-free liftgate, well-placed lighting, and anything else that improves the driving experience.

WHY WE LOVE IT There are good reasons that the Accord is our most awarded car. It’s loaded with standard safety features and has a roomy interior and a large trunk (best in class at nearly 17 cubic feet). Plus, it’s a blast to drive!

STANDOUT FEATURES In tests, it handled turns easily and accurately — more like a sports car than a sedan. Every model comes with lane-keeping assist and automated emergency braking.

GOOD TO KNOW We love how spacious the interior feels — kids, adults and even multiple car seats can fit in the back seat comfortably — but keep in mind that it has less storage around seats for drinks and other items.

LAB RESULTS Year after year, our experts keep returning to the Accord. It’s the perfect balance of performance, reliability and practicality. You can’t buy a better family car at this price.

2020 Honda Accord , from $24,020 (base price)

best car awards best luxury sedan genesis g70

WHY WE LOVE IT It’s a super fun-to-drive, upscale vehicle that’s not quite as expensive as other premium sedans. The exterior is designed to get noticed – and if you get behind the wheel, you’ll notice it does turn heads.

STANDOUT FEATURES This sporty sedan will not disappoint, with lots of standard tech included like blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts and lane-departure warning.

GOOD TO KNOW The lackluster infotainment will make you happy to plug in to your Apple CarPlay or Android Auto alternative, and rear seating has limited legroom. The back seat is a bit tight, so make sure you bring your kids when you book a test drive.

LAB RESULTS Testers raved about the sporty and swift acceleration and found the cubby in the center console particularly convenient for phones, keys and the like. This is the second year in a row the Genesis G70 has won in this category.

2020 Genesis G70 , from $35,450 (base price)

best car awards best hybrid sedan honda insight

WHY WE LOVE IT It’s a dedicated hybrid that doesn’t scream “Look, I’m green!” It’s just quietly efficient and responsible, offering superb fuel economy.

STANDOUT FEATURES You get a similar look and feel to the ultra-popular Honda Civic, with the added benefit of better mileage. It’s surprisingly quick for a hybrid, feeling more like a traditional compact sedan than eco counterparts. Unlike other hybrid sedans, you still get a lot of cargo space and a roomy interior.

GOOD TO KNOW Drivers may miss adjustable lumbar support and the base trim lacks some features we’d appreciate, like blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alerts.

LAB RESULTS The Insight offers a comfortable, refined and responsive driving experience. Given the negligible price premium over the Civic and the improved fuel economy, this car is a smart choice.

2020 Honda Insight , from $22,930 (base price)

best car awards best electric sedan tesla model 3

WHY WE LOVE IT Mix a sleek, stylish exterior with exceptional comfort and loads of fun behind the wheel and you’ve got the Tesla Model 3.

STANDOUT FEATURES We were wowed by the super-responsive and intuitive touchscreen infotainment system that’s a staggering 15-inches. An autopilot package is now standard, which doesn’t mean it’s entirely self driving (yet!), but has some extra autonomous features like automatic lane changes.

GOOD TO KNOW Its interior layout is surprisingly minimal for such a futuristic car. Some may be disappointed it doesn’t come with integrations for Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, or Sirius XM. And unless you have a charging station installed in your home, you’ll want to research locations near you.

LAB LOWDOWN The Model 3 is quick, fun-to-drive, and offers a similar wow-factor to the more expensive Model S sedan, says one of our experts. This is the second year in a row the Model 3 has won a GH Car Award.

2020 Tesla Model 3 , from $39,990 (base price)

WHY WE LOVE IT It’s an enhanced version of a vehicle already beloved by many (and us!). Now in its sixth generation, it feels familiar yet more modern. The rugged exterior design appeals to anyone with an outdoorsy side.

STANDOUT FEATURES This wagon boasts a comfortable ride for backseat passengers and ample cargo space. It’s particularly great for adventure-seeking families who may venture onto unpaved, gritty trails.

GOOD TO KNOW You’ll have to get at least the Premium trim for a lot of niceties, including 4G LTE mobile hotspot, a larger infotainment screen and more USB ports.

LAB RESULTS This perennial favorite includes loads of standard safety tech including forward-collision warning, automated emergency braking and adaptive cruise control. This is the second year in a row the Subaru Outback has won in this category.

2020 Subaru Outback , from $26,645 (base price)

best car awards best subcompact suv hyundai venue

WHY WE LOVE IT It’s an ultra wallet-friendly pick that’s nimble on tight city streets, yet still feels roomy for its size.

STANDOUT FEATURES The Hyundai Venue is practical with its stack of standard safety tech features and responsive, intuitive infotainment system. Our testers were pleasantly surprised by the ample passenger space in the front and suitable spacing in the rear.

GOOD TO KNOW This is a great value pick as long as you don’t need all-wheel drive, lots of cargo space or take frequent family road trips on the highway.

LAB RESULTS This spritely-but-small subcompact crossover is great to whip around the city.

2020 Hyundai Venue , from $17,350 (base price)

best car awards best compact suv mazda cx 5

WHY WE LOVE IT A three-time winner of the GH Car Awards, this sporty crossover looks and drives like a luxury vehicle, but comes in at a much lower price.

STANDOUT FEATURES The CX-5 handles smoothly over bumps, has responsive brakes and rides as well in town as on the highway. Its interior is well designed, with luxe details, like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, standard. The trunk offers substantial storage space.

GOOD TO KNOW We found the infotainment system sluggish, so you’ll likely want to enable Apple CarPlay or Android Auto (available on most models) for GPS and music.

LAB RESULTS The CX-5 makes you feel as if you’ve gotten more than you paid for. Its sophisticated modern design and excellent handling make it seem like a timeless high-end vehicle.

2020 Mazda CX-5 , from $25,190 (base price)

best car awards best luxury compact suv volvo xc40

WHY WE LOVE IT It strikes the balance of being both a fun and functional ride in a category that is gaining popularity.

STANDOUT FEATURES Lots of standard safety tech like standard automatic emergency braking. Optional are even more advanced features like semi-autonomous driving. It features ample storage not just in terms of what can fit, but also in clever accommodations like a hook in the glovebox that can come out and a divider in the trunk storage.

GOOD TO KNOW We like that the infotainment screen is large, but it’s on the slow and laggy end of the spectrum. The rear seats no longer have a power-folding capability.

LAB RESULTS It offers the balance of a smooth and refined ride with a comparably comfy and spacious interior for both the driver and the passengers.

2020 Volvo XC40 , from $33,700 (base price)

best car awards best midsize suv chevrolet blazer

WHY WE LOVE IT A stylish exterior and an appealing aesthetic wraps this practical, fun-to-drive crossover.

STANDOUT FEATURES The user-friendly infotainment system is responsive and intuitive. It comes standard with tech niceties like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, four USB ports and a WiFi hotspot.

GOOD TO KNOW The cargo space isn’t as spacious as others in its class, but it offers an optional clever management system. It’s made up of a floor-mounted rail that keeps items secure and a partition and netting to keep items separated. It’s offered with both a four-cylinder and a powerful V-6 engine, but only the V-6 is available in all-wheel drive.

LAB RESULTS You’ll enjoy a confident, responsive drive that stands out on city streets and highways alike.

2020 Chevrolet Blazer , from $28,800 (base price)

best car awards best luxury midsize suv porsche cayenne

WHY WE LOVE IT It’s a premium SUV that holds true to Porsche’s core of being an exciting, sporty ride. As the largest Porsche SUV, it provides ample roominess and cargo space.

STANDOUT FEATURES The 12.3” touchscreen is standard, and is responsive and easy to navigate. All models include 4G LTE mobile WiFi hotspot and Apple CarPlay integration.

GOOD TO KNOW Compared to other premium rides, the standard package is a bit sparse on luxurious items. Lots of upgrades are available to help personalize the ride, like color and material of interior and cushioning on seats.

LAB RESULTS It’s a premium SUV that will impress with its quiet agility.

2020 Porsche Cayenne , from $66,800 (base price)

best car awards best midsize suv kia telluride

WHY WE LOVE IT This spacious vehicle delivers a high-end, quiet ride for a fraction of the cost. It’s even enjoyable for adults seated in the third row. And with the back two rows folded down, it can fit an impressive 35 carry-on bags!

STANDOUT FEATURES This all-new vehicle offers ample standard features, including robust driver-safety tech and a large screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Plus, the rear-blind-spot-collision avoidance gives a dash video view of the next lane when you use your turn signal.

GOOD TO KNOW Fuel economy isn’t stellar compared with that of similar vehicles. If you want dual sunroofs and captains’ chairs in the second row, you’ll need to upgrade to the top trim.

LAB RESULTS Our engineers found the driving experience refined and comfortable. DriverTalk aptly muted music in the vehicle so the driver could be heard everywhere through the intercom system.

2020 Kia Telluride , from $31,890 (base price)

best car awards best luxury midsize suv lincoln aviator

WHY WE LOVE IT The all-new Aviator is a powerful, luxurious mid-size SUV that offers a cushy ride for six or seven passengers depending upon your chosen configuration.

STANDOUT FEATURES There are a breadth of popular driver assist features included standard in Lincoln’s Co-Pilot360 like forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring with lane-keeping assistance. Optional is the brand’s novel Phone as a Key system, where you can use your phone to unlock the car.

GOOD TO KNOW Adults won’t want to spend long hauls in the Aviator’s third row because of the limited legroom. The second row is quite spacious but could still be considered by some to be a “back seat.” The Aviator is also available in a capable plug-in-hybrid variant for added efficiency, but its brake system leaves room for refinement.

LAB RESULTS This upscale SUV smoothly cruises on highways with agility. You’ll be so comfy in this serene ride you’ll hate to park it at the end of the day.

2020 Lincoln Aviator , from $51,100 (base price)

best car awards best luxury midsize suv bmw x7

WHY WE LOVE IT The largest BMW yet, the X7 is a sleek, roomy SUV that offers the impressive driving experience you’ve come to expect from the iconic brand. Even riders in the middle and back rows will enjoy the ride thanks to the roomy interior and large windows.

STANDOUT FEATURES Our experts like that all models have standard all-wheel drive. You’ll also get high-end extras like a panoramic sunroof, four-zone climate control and a wireless smartphone charging pad. Upgrade for even cooler add-ons, like volume adjustment using just a hand gesture.

GOOD TO KNOW It’s nice to have third-row seating, but the small space is best suited for kids, especially on long drives. Also, the third-row power seat adjustment can be slow.

LAB RESULTS For someone who doesn’t want to sacrifice excitement for practicality, this luxury SUV is the perfect middle ground. It’s a family car that doesn’t scream “family car” in looks or handling.

2020 BMW X7 , from $73,900 (base price)

best car awards best large suv ford expedition

WHY WE LOVE IT There is space for everyone and all their things. If you’re a grown adult forced to sit in the third row, you won’t feel cramped. The third row power folds from the front making it easier to get in and out or the back to make loading cargo easier.

STANDOUT FEATURES All models are outfitted with Ford’s Co-Pilot360 – the brand’s driver-assistance arsenal, including automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane-keeping assist with lane departure warning. Also s tandard on all vehicles is a touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and 4G LTE mobile hotspot. With 15 cupholders standard, you’ll never be on the hunt for a spot for your coffee cup or Hydroflask.

GOOD TO KNOW As the size would imply, it’s not the easiest to maneuver, particularly in tight spots.

LAB LOWDOWN It’s a workhorse that’s spacious enough for a family of five plus all of their gear.

2020 Ford Expedition , from $52,810 (base price)

best car awards best electric suv audi e tron

WHY WE LOVE IT It’s a fully electric vehicle that doesn’t compromise on performance or design. It provides an exceptionally quiet, comfortable ride for all passengers with ample interior space and generous legroom.

STANDOUT FEATURES This luxurious SUV rides more like a sporty sedan. Audi’s cool digital gauge cluster, Virtual Cockpit, is a particular high point. A host of driver-assistance tech is included standard like standard forward-collision warning with automated emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts.

GOOD TO KNOW The range isn’t quite as impressive as other electrics at just over 200 miles, but it’s likely more than enough for most riders’ daily commutes. A universal public charging infrastructure isn’t well developed yet, so having the ability to charge at home is key.

LAB LOWDOWN Driving an electric SUV never looked, or felt, so good. Our testers couldn't stop raving about the smooth, quiet, ultra-comfortable ride.

2019 Audi e-tron SUV , from $74,800 (base print)

best car awards best minivan chrysler pacifica

WHY WE LOVE IT It’s the ultimate pick if you have a large family and tons of gear. With all the useful features you want, from a flexible interior to top-quality infotainment, it offers unbeatable value.

STANDOUT FEATURES The second and third rows on non-hybrid models fold fully into the floor for extra cargo space. We also like that key driver-assistance features, like automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, are standard.

GOOD TO KNOW The base price has gone up by nearly $10,000 since we last gave it an award. If you don’t need all the bells and whistles, opt for the pared-down Voyager.

LAB RESULTS If you want a ride with lots of cargo and passenger space as well as good fuel economy, you can’t go wrong with this minivan. The hybrid version of this vehicle is also a past GH Car Award winner!

2021 Chrysler Pacifica , from $34,045 (base price)

Rachel Rothman was the chief technologist and executive technical director of the Good Housekeeping Institute for over 15 years , overseeing testing methodology, implementation and reporting for all GH Labs. She also managed GH's research division and the analysis of applicants for the GH Seal and all other testing emblems.

preview for Featured Videos From Good Housekeeping US

@media(max-width: 64rem){.css-nkr7rg:before{margin-bottom:0.5rem;margin-right:0.625rem;color:#ffffff;width:1.25rem;bottom:-0.2rem;height:1.25rem;content:'_';display:inline-block;position:relative;line-height:1;background-repeat:no-repeat;}.loaded .css-nkr7rg:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/latest/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.loaded .css-nkr7rg:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/latest/goodhousekeeping/static/images/Clover.5c7a1a0.svg);}} Good Housekeeping Awards

Our 2024 Beauty Award Winners, Revealed

Our 2024 Best Snack Awards Are Here!

good housekeeping’s 2024 best bedding awards

Our 2024 Best Bedding Awards Are Here!

All About Good Housekeeping's Awards Programs

Our Best Fitness Awards Are Here!

The Winners of Our 2023 Kitchen Gear Awards

The Winners of Our 2023 Kids' Book Awards

Good Housekeeping's 2023 Parenting Awards

2023 Best Cleaning & Organizing Awards

Good Housekeeping's 2023 Best Snack Awards

Good Housekeeping's 2023 Best Bedding Awards

The Best Road Trip Cars From Every Category

Your changes have been saved

Email is sent

Email has already been sent

Please verify your email address.

You’ve reached your account maximum for followed topics.

Civic Hatchback

Embarking on an epic road trip adventure requires the perfect companion, and selecting the ideal car for the journey can significantly impact your experience. In an era where sustainability and efficiency take center stage, the realm of road trip vehicles has transformed. From the ever-expanding array of electric vehicles to power-oriented marvels, the choices have never been more exhilarating. The question is simple: What is the best car for long-distance driving?

That's a loaded question, so today, we'll explore the best road trip cars in 10 different segments, guiding you through options that guarantee comfort, dependability, and the freedom to navigate extensive distances effortlessly. Whether plotting a picturesque coastal drive, a cross-country odyssey, or a quick weekend escape, these road trip-ready vehicles will enhance the journey, and perhaps even the destination. Prepare to embark on your open-road adventure with unwavering confidence as we unveil the top contenders in the domain of road-trip cars.

The Hatchback: 2024 Honda Civic Hatch

The latest Civic Hatchback keeps its enjoyable driving dynamics intact despite being a more grown-up car than any Civic before it. In base form, its 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder produces an ample 158 horsepower and 138 lb-ft of torque, while a turbocharged 1.5-liter ups the stakes to 180 hp and 177 lb-ft. Plus, if you're still of the old-school persuasion and like to be in control of the experience, you can get a six-speed manual gearbox in the Sport and Sport Touring trims - or a CVT if you prefer to relax.

With combined EPA ratings of up to 35 mpg in turbo guise and 33 mpg in base form, the Civic is light on gas, and starting at an MSRP of $24,950, it's light on your bank account from the get-go.

Combine its mechanical attributes with a spacious cabin and large trunk (24.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats), and it's a winner already. Factor in a full suite of connectivity options like a seven-inch touchscreen and matching digital gauge cluster (nine- and 10.2 inches respectively on the Sport Touring), and you have one of the most complete long-distance vehicles on the market and a perfect family road trip car.

The Crossover: 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

This fuel-efficient road trip car boasts a hybrid system, achieving an impressive 38 mpg combined EPA rating. The hybrid powertrain comprises a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder with electric augmentation, paired to a six-speed automatic gearbox, producing 226 hp and 258 lb-ft.

Whether traveling with a full crew or just a few, the standard all-wheel drive ensures surefootedness over any surface and in any climate through sun, snow, and rain.

Ideal for family road trips, it boasts a comfortable and spacious interior equipped with rear USB ports and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Five seats with ample rear legroom enhance the appeal of this compact crossover, and its generous 38.7-cu-ft trunk accommodates all your gear. You can use all five seats, or drop the 60:40-split rear seats to carry larger items. Starting at $32,325, the Tucson Hybrid ticks all the right boxes .

The Sports Car: 2024 Mustang GT Coupe

While there may be many options in contention for the title of the best sports car , we maintain when it comes to road trips, the Mustang has them all soundly beaten. A new generation has arrived for 2024, sporting updated styling and a new fighter jet-inspired interior with larger infotainment and digital gauge cluster screens.

Under the hood, the 5.0-liter Coyote V8 has been upgraded and now produces 36 hp more in the 2024 Mustang GT than the old model, totaling 486 hp. It comes with a six-speed manual transmission or an optional 10-speed auto, which may be better suited to long-distance cruising.

Should the road get twisty on your journey, the Mustang GT's combination of power, noise, and agility means an entertaining road trip is in the cards, and the supportive Recaro front seats hold you in place comfortably. Ample rear legroom - yes, it's a four-seater sports car - and a 13.5 cubic foot trunk make it practical too, and since you can get it as a coupe or a convertible, it's perfect for summer road trips.

The Wagon: 2024 Volvo V60 Cross Country

The Volvo V60 Cross Country excels in various aspects such as space, speed, off-road capability, etc. This versatile vehicle is a gem for road trips and an overall top-tier option. Sporting 26 mpg combined from a 250-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, its raised ground clearance and AWD give it the ability to tackle dirt roads without the hefty fuel economy of traditional SUVs.

It comes fully equipped with advanced safety features, including a rear cross-traffic alert system and traffic sign recognition, plus semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities. A five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA backs this up and ensures a safe road trip for the whole family.

It boasts an available Wi-Fi hotspot, enhancing connectivity on your journeys and keeping the kids occupied, and its spacious interior means they'll be comfortable for hours. 22.5 cubic feet of trunk space will accommodate suitcases, tents, and more; if you need extra, the fold-down rear seats let you accommodate even more. Additionally, you can add a roof-mounted bicycle rack, perfect for those with an active lifestyle, making it one of the best cars for road-tripping.

The Minivan: 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid

The $51,095 Pacifica Plug-In Hybrid harmoniously blends gas and electric power, catering to road trips with its ample combination of cargo space, people space, and frugality. Furnished with a 3.6-liter V6 augmented by electric power, it produces 260 hp. It lays down this power through a front-wheel drivetrain. If you want AWD, you can have it, but that would require the non-hybrid Pacifica.

Spacious with seating for eight occupants, it looks after the family with advanced safety features like emergency braking, forward collision warning, lane assist, and blind spot monitoring. There's versatility aplenty with Stow 'n Go seating that avails additional cargo space without physically having to remove seats from the minivan, and between 32.3 and 140.5 cubic feet.

A heated steering wheel and three-zome climate control add extra luxury, and the new Pinnacle model adds even more luxury to the road trip experience. The panoramic rearview mirror helps to keep an eye on the kids during the, 'Are we there yet' arguments.

The Truck: 2024 Ford F-150 Raptor

Should road trips in 2023 call for a more 'cross-country' experience, the Ford F-150 Raptor is the only pickup truck for the job. While the allure is strong to go for the TRX-beating Raptor R and its supercharged V8, for road trips, we think the base Raptor is better, thanks to its twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6. Not only do you get 450 hp and 510 lb-ft sent to all corners via a 10-speed automatic gearbox, but you get 15 mpg combined (instead of the R's 12 mpg). You can still tow 8,200 lbs, get a versatile truck bed, and those sweet Fox shocks that can take you to hell and back.

Inside, all F-150 models come with standard features like a 12-inch digital gauge display and Sync 4-enabled infotainment system, soft bucket seats, wireless charging, and 400W USB ports with outlets in both the cab and the bed. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. With five seats, ample power, and go-anywhere capability, the F-150 Raptor is a road-trip truck with no equal.

The Full-Size SUV: 2023 Cadillac Escalade

If you need three rows of seats, a body-on-frame chassis, an abundance of passenger and storage space, and supreme luxury, the Cadillac Escalade may be the best road trip SUV there is, even if it does cost a slip more than $80,000.

With a versatile engine lineup including a Duramax diesel six-cylinder (277 hp/460 lb-ft) and a 6.2-liter V8 (420 hp/460 lb-ft), both saddled with a buttery-smooth 10-speed automatic, the Escalade can tow up to 8,200 lbs, meaning you can take everything with you on holiday. The spacious cabin accommodates a ton of cargo, and an available long-wheelbase ESV variant even makes the third row of seating adult-friendly.

The Escalade is loaded with exceptional tech such as the 38-inch diagonal OLED display encompassing instrumentation and infotainment, and a full-color head-up display. Super Cruise hands-free driving making long-distance trips on the highway a cinch, too.

The Grand Tourer: 2024 Lexus LC Hybrid

We've chosen the LC Hybrid for this list, but we wouldn't fault you for picking any of the LC models. The standard variant packs a sonorous naturally aspirated V8 (coupe and convertible), but for covering distance, the LC 500h's 3.5-liter V6 and twin electric motors still packs a 354-hp punch while consuming considerably less fuel at 29 mpg combined vs. the V8's 19 mpg. It looks achingly gorgeous, too. The downside is an electronic CVT, but with the additional torque of the e-motors, and given the laidback cruising nature of the LC, it's a forgivable offense.

Road trip cars typically need big trunks, and the LC falls short here with only 4.7 cubic feet in hybrid form, but with 2+2 seating in which the rear seats aren't suited for passengers, there's plenty of additional storage space in the cabin.

Packed with Lexus' array of safety systems, and now featuring a decent infotainment system , the car is technologically up-to-date and safe for you and a loved one to hit the road and soak up the miles in comfort and luxury.

The Luxury Sedan: 2024 Audi S8

The 2024 Audi S8 redefines the road trip experience with its blend of luxury and performance. Beneath its hood lies a formidable 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 563 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. While everyone knows the Mercedes-AMG S63 in this segment, the Audi S8 is seen as more of a sleeper, an understated performance sedan that can lap up the miles without shouting about its 3.8-second 0-60 mph potential. Combined with the nimbleness of its rear-axle steering and the surefootedness of its all-wheel drive, it's the perfect car for almost any occasion.

Whether you're seated up front or reclining in the massaging rear seats, you're swathed in luxury and cutting-edge technology. Plush leather seats provide a sense of opulence, while the MMI Touch Response infotainment system and onboard Wi-Fi hotspot, ensure seamless connectivity and entertainment throughout your road trips, while an optional rear-seat entertainment system keeps passengers engaged on extended journeys.

The only downside is the $120,600 price tag.

The Convertible: 2023 Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet

The Porsche Carrera GTS Cabriolet redefines the essence of road trips with its breadth of performance and capability. It's fast, it's comfortable, it's feature-laden, and it even has four seats - what more could you ask for? Beneath its curvaceous exterior lies a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six engine, delivering 473 hp and 420 lb-ft, and with your choice of rear- or all-wheel drive, you get a 0-60 mph time of under 3.4 seconds and all-weather confidence.

Inside, the Carrera GTS Cabriolet pampers occupants with opulent leather seats and a cutting-edge infotainment system, including the Porsche Communication Management system. For audiophiles, the optional Burmester sound system promises exceptional audio quality, enhancing the soundtrack of your road trip.

With a front cargo area measuring 4.7 cubic feet and rear seats that can double as storage in a pinch, there's plenty of space for your luggage. Then, when the weather is right, a 12-second drop of the top lets you feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your skin. When the journey matters more than the destination, few cars do road trips like the 911 Carrera GTS Cabriolet.

Car Culture

Car Buying Advice and Guides

The Best Cars for a Road Trip

Best cars for cruising the open road .

Whether you want to travel cross-country or drive to a neighboring state, a road trip is a popular mode of transportation for summer vacations. Even with high gas prices, car travel is typically more cost-effective than air travel with the added bonus of avoiding TSA regulations and baggage weight requirements.

Just like having the right travel companion, having the right car can greatly improve the quality of your road trip. And because everyone’s travel needs are different, we’ve selected the best road trip cars across multiple vehicle categories. After all, a family road trip with small children would require a different vehicle than cruising the California coast.

We’ve selected the best road trip cars based on reliability, fuel efficiency, cargo/passenger space, and safety. These cars also have convenience features that can come in handy for road travel, including a WiFi hotspot, smart cruise control, automatic high beam headlights, and lane-keep assist. Other features that appear on some of the vehicles on the list include rear entertainment systems and roadside assistance.

Best Small SUV for a Road Trip

Subaru Outback

iSeeCars Reliability Score: 8.6

Average New Car Price: $36,679

Average 3-Year-Old Used Car Price: $34,433

The best small SUV for a road trip is the Subaru Outback. The Outback is among the most spacious vehicles in the class and offers plenty of room for cargo and passengers. It also has excellent fuel economy. If your road trip includes rugged adventures, you can opt for the Wilderness model, which adds increased ground clearance for off-roading. The Outback comes standard with many safety features including adaptive cruise control, while more driver assistance features like blind spot monitoring are available on higher trims. All-wheel drive (AWD) comes standard so this vehicle can handle road trips in all seasons.

Best Midsize SUV for a Road Trip

Honda Pilot

iSeeCars Reliability Score: 9.2

Average New Car Price: $43,648

Average 3-Year-Old Used Car Price: $38,652

If a midsize SUV is your preferred vehicle for a road trip, chances are you have a family in tow. The Honda Pilot three-row crossover is the ultimate family SUV, which makes it an excellent choice for road trip transportation. The Pilot comes standard with seating for eight, while a seven-seat configuration with second-row captain chairs is also available. The spacious Honda Pilot offers three roomy rows of seats and comes standard with an 8-inch touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, satellite radio, HD Radio, and two USB ports. Higher trims offer even more road trip-friendly features including second-row USB ports, wireless device charging, navigation, a rear-seat entertainment system, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and the CabinTalk PA system. Front-wheel drive models get an EPA-estimated 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which is typical for the midsize three-row SUV class.

Best Large SUV for a Road Trip

Chevrolet Suburban

iSeeCars Reliability Score: 9.1

Average New Car Price: $67,883

Average 3-Year-Old Used Car Price: $57,792

By nature, large SUVs have dismal gas mileage, which can make them less than ideal for road trips. However, if you are hauling a large family and lots of cargo, a full-size SUV might be necessary. While midsize SUVs sacrifice trunk space when the rear seats are in place, full-size SUVs like the Chevrolet Suburban have a massive cargo hold in addition to three spacious rows of seats. The Suburban can haul up to eight passengers and has 41.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind its third-row, 93.8 cubic feet with these seats folded, and 144.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. Standard infotainment features include a 10.2-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, eight USB ports, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hot spot, and satellite radio. Available infotainment features include a navigation system, wireless device charging, and a rear-seat entertainment system with two 12.6-inch touch screens to keep children occupied.

Best Minivan for a Road Trip

Toyota Sienna

iSeeCars Reliability Score: Coming Soon

Average New Car Price: $49,553

Average 3-Year-Old Used Car Price: $38,914

While some think a minivan might cramp their style, others appreciate the function and features the vehicle provides. And if you’re making frequent stops with small children, the easy entry/exit process of a minivan can’t be beat. The hybrid Toyota Sienna provides the best of both worlds as a spacious family hauler and a fuel-efficient hybrid. Standard infotainment features include a 9-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, seven USB ports, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hot spot. Available features include a navigation system, wireless device charging, and a rear-seat entertainment system. You can even get an in-car intercom to easily communicate with rear passengers. Standard safety features include blind spot monitoring with rear cross traffic alert, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Best Sports Car for a Road Trip

Ford Mustang

iSeeCars Reliability Score: 7.8

Average New Car Price: $49,128

Average 3-Year-Old Used Car Price: $36,338

If your cargo needs aren’t too large, a fun-to-drive American sports car can be the ultimate road trip companion. The Mustang has one of the largest trunks in its class, although the coupe is more spacious than the convertible. It also seats four passengers, which makes it more practical than a two-seater. With its base 310-horsepower turbo-four cylinder engine and 10-speed automatic transmission, the Mustang gets up to 21 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, which is more than most sports cars. The Mustang comes standard with a voice-controlled SYNC infotainment system and a Wi-Fi hot spot, and a larger touchscreen, navigation system, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are available. The Mustang also has a suite of standard safety features like blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, lane keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control is also available.

Best Sedan/Hatchback for a Road Trip

Mazda Mazda3

The Mazda 3 is a fun-to-drive small car that’s available as a sedan or hatchback. While the sedan has below-average cargo space for the class, it can do the job if you’re a light packer. For more space, there’s the hatchback that offers comparable cargo space to subcompact SUVs. The Mazda3 comes standard with a responsive 155-horsepower 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that provides plenty of power for your daily commute. You can also opt for a more powerful 186 horsepower four-cylinder or a turbocharged 227 horsepower four-cylinder. The Mazda3 sedan gets an EPA-estimated 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the hatchback gets 26/34 mpg city/highway. The Mazda 3 comes standard with automatic high-beam headlights, adaptive cruise control, forward automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.

Best Electric Car for a Road Trip

Tesla Model 3

iSeeCars Reliability Score: 7.2

Average New Car Price: $57,452

Average 3-Year-Old Used Car Price: $50,572

With an electric vehicle, you won’t have to re-fuel, but depending on the length of your trip, you’ll likely have to re-charge. The Tesla Model 3 has between 272 miles and 358 miles of range, and if you use its standard navigation system, it will provide you with places along your route where you can charge the battery pack. Other standard infotainment features include a 15-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and wireless device charging. It has a front and rear trunk, which has a total of 23 cubic feet of cargo space, which is comparable to a subcompact SUV and should provide enough room for luggage. The Model 3 comes with a full suite of standard safety features like forward collision warning and active cruise control. Available features include full self-driving capability, which can reduce the stress of long-distance road trips. These features include automatic lane change, automatic parking, and stop sign and traffic light recognition.

Best Hybrid Car for a Road Trip

Toyota Highlander Hybrid

iSeeCars Reliability Score: 9.5

Average New Car Price: $47,515

Average 3-Year-Old Used Car Price: $45,097

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a reliable, capable crossover with a high-quality cabin and three spacious rows of seats. The Highlander comes standard with a suite of safety features including cross traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and pedestrian detection. Front-wheel-drive Highlander Hybrids get an EPA-estimated 36 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel drive versions get up to 35 mpg in the city and on the highway. For comparison, AWD versions of the standard Highlander get 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Best Luxury SUV for a Road Trip

iSeeCars Reliability Score: 8.5

Average New Car Price: $52,016

Average 3-Year-Old Used Car Price: $44,654

The BMW X3 small crossover is an excellent choice if you want a premium long-distance hauler that blends efficiency with performance. The X3 leads the class in cargo capacity and comfortably seats five people with ample headroom and legroom. It comes standard with a lively 248-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder and is one of the most fuel-efficient small SUVs available. It has a suite of standard safety features including blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane departure warning. Available driver assistance features include steering assist and lane change assist. The X3 has plenty of standard infotainment features including a 10.25-inch touch screen, navigation, Bluetooth, a Wi-Fi hot spot, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay.

Best Luxury Sedan for a Road Trip

iSeeCars Reliability Score: 8.3

Average New Car Price: $64,181

Average 3-Year-Old Used Car Price: $49,141

The Audi A6 midsize sedan is our choice if you want to travel the open road in a luxury sedan. It has a spacious, elegant cabin and features Audi’s confident driving dynamics. The A6’s base turbocharged four-cylinder engine gets 23 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, which is excellent for the class. The A6 comes standard with all-wheel drive so it can handle all weather conditions. The A6 standard infotainment features include 10.1-inch upper touch screen, an 8.6-inch lower touch screen, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, navigation and satellite radio. It also has a panoramic sunroof so road trippers can enjoy open-air driving. Standard safety features include forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and automatic high beam headlights. Adaptive cruise control is available.

Bottom Line

The ideal American road trip can vary greatly depending on your travel preferences and how many travel companions are joining you. That’s why the best road trip vehicles exist across multiple categories. So whether you’re taking a leaf-peeping excursion through New England, a family road trip to Disney World, or an expedition through the mountains, we can help you find the best vehicle for your road trip. While all modern new cars are equipped with active safety features, some vehicles offer more standard features than others. The same goes for infotainment features, although more premium vehicles tend to have more of the latest and greatest technology.

Best Electric Cars

Best midsize suvs, latest car buying tips.

Why Window Stickers Are Important, Even for Used Cars

What is the Monroney label, and why is it important?

What Are the Most Popular Car Colors in Each State

State-by-state breakdown of car color preferences

Which States Have the Greatest Need for Speed?

States with the most sports cars and the most popular sports cars in each state

Which States Buy the Most American Cars?

Which States Are Most Patriotic When It Comes to Car Buying?

New Cars With The Highest Dealer Markups in Each State

Savvy Consumers Should Avoid Buying These New Cars

What is a Rebuilt Title?

Should You Buy a Rebuilt Title Car?

How Much is An Electric Car?

Here’s How Much You Can Expect to Pay for an Electric Vehicle

Minivan vs SUV: What’s Better?

Explore the Differences and Similarities Between These Two Vehicle Types

Which States Have the Most Luxury Cars?

Where are you the most and least likely to find luxury cars on the road?

What Are the Cheapest Teslas?

The lowest prices for used Teslas and where to find them

What Is a Muscle Car?

From Big Blocks to High Horsepower: Breaking Down the Characteristics of Muscle Cars

Top 20 American Muscle Cars

From classics to modern American muscle cars, these are the greatest of all time

Our Latest Studies

The Longest-Lasting Cars, Trucks and SUVs To Reach 250,000 Miles and Beyond

These 30 vehicles have up to a 36 percent chance of reaching a quarter million miles

Consumers Battle High Prices By Buying Older Used Cars

Cars 10 years old or older gain 30 percent in used car market share

Prices of Used EVs Drop Below Used Gas Cars for the First Time

Used EV values continue to fall much faster than the average used gas car values

Cars Are Half as Colorful as They Were 20 Years Ago

Only 20 percent of today’s cars are non-grayscale colors (white, black, gray, and silver) compared to 40 percent in 2004

Best Car Rankings for 2024

Best Small SUVs

Best Hybrid Cars

Best Hybrid SUVs

Best Crossover SUVs

Best Minivans

Best Midsize Trucks

Best Sports Cars

Best SUVs with 3 Rows

Best Luxury Midsize SUVs

Most reliable cars.

Most Reliable Trucks

Most Reliable SUVs

Most Reliable Luxury Cars

Most Reliable Luxury SUVs

Most Reliable Sports Cars

Most Reliable Sedans

Most Reliable Subcompact SUVs

Most Reliable Electric Cars

Most Reliable Small SUVs

Most Reliable Minivans

Most Reliable Full-Size Trucks

Popular studies.

Most Popular Car Colors

Most popular car colors nationally, by state, and by metro area

Car Color and Its Effect on Value

Which Colors Help and Hurt a Car's Resale Value?

Top 10 Cars That Hold Their Value Best

Car depreciation by price and segment

Longest-Lasting Cars to Reach 200,000 Miles and Beyond

Most Reliable Cars Are a Mix of Vehicle Types Led by Full-Size SUVs

Cars Owners Keep the Longest

Loyalty-Inspiring Cars that Owners Keep for 15 Years or More

Top 10 Best Times to Buy a Car

Best and Worst Times to Buy a Used Car by Holiday, Month, and Day

Best Places to Buy a Used Car

Traditional, Online, or Rental Car Companies: Where to Find the Best Deals

Best Cars to Buy New and Used

Lightly-Used Cars With Smallest and Largest Price Differences Vs. New Car Prices

Popular Shopping Resources

How to Buy a Used Car: A Definitive Guide

15 Tips to Help Buy a Used Car Through a Dealership or a Private Seller

How Many Miles Should A Used Car Have?

How Many Miles is Too Many When it Comes to Buying a Used Car?

New Vs. Used Car Buying

Top 10 Reasons to Buy Used Over New

Leasing vs. Buying a Car: Which is Better?

In today's car buying climate, is buying or leasing a smarter choice?

What Does Certified Pre-Owned Mean? Understanding CPO Cars

Should You Buy a CPO Car?

What to Look for When Buying a Used Car

How to Inspect a Used Car Before Making a Purchase

How To Test Drive A Used Car: Video and Checklist

What is the Lemon Law?

What you should know before buying a car

What is a Branded Title?

Everything You Should Know About Branded Title Vehicles

AutoCheck vs Carfax: Which Vehicle History Report Is Best?

Why a Vehicle History Report is Important and How to Obtain One

10 Best Used Car Websites

Best used cars.

Best Used Cars for 2024

Best Used Cars Under $10,000

These are the best used cars under $10,000

Best Used SUVs Under $20,000

The best used SUVs on the market for under $20,000

25 Best Used Cars Under $15,000

What are the most reliable, safest used cars that retain the most value for under $15,000?

Best Used SUVs Under $10,000

What Are the Most Reliable Used SUVs for 10k or Less?

Best Cars Under $30,000

The 29 Best Used Cars Under $20,000

What are the most reliable, safest used cars that retain the most value for under $20,000?

Best Used SUVs Under $25,000

Best Used Trucks Under $20,000

These Are the Most Reliable, Longest-Lasting Used Pickup Trucks

Get the latest car research in our free monthly newsletter.

Join 366,000+ subscribers. get the latest car studies and data analysis every month..

We respect your privacy. See our Terms and Privacy Policy.

Join 366,000+ subscribers

Get the latest car studies and data analysis every month.

By subscribing, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy .

Thanks for signing up!

Watch for the latest car research in your inbox every month.

Sorry, you aren't subscribed yet because we're experiencing temporary issues.

Please try again later or contact us at [email protected] to subscribe. Thank you!

Ad-free. Influence-free. Powered by consumers.

The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.

We don’t recognize that sign in. Your username maybe be your email address. Passwords are 6-20 characters with at least one number and letter.

We still don’t recognize that sign in. Retrieve your username. Reset your password.

Forgot your username or password ?

Don’t have an account?

Account Settings
My Benefits
My Products
Donate Donate

Save products you love, products you own and much more!

Other Membership Benefits:

10 Best Road-Trip Vehicles That You Can Buy Right Now

CR's tests show that these are the best road-trip models across popular categories

Finding the perfect road-trip vehicle means striking a balance among many factors, such as front and rear seat comfort, space, fuel economy, ride quality, and noise. It also should be a vehicle that’s easy to live with when you’re not traveling, and with strong safety and reliability. That is a lot to ask of a single vehicle, but our analysts have scrutinized our test and survey data to find the best road-trip vehicles in 10 popular categories.

To find the standouts, we considered all those factors among models that meet the stringent criteria to be recommended by Consumer Reports . Each vehicle below scores at least average in those factors, plus they provide 500 miles or more of highway cruising range, based on our fuel-economy tests. They also have a sizable trunk or cargo area, based on our measurements. Because of the qualification needed to make a great long-distance runner, we omitted subcompact SUVs and small cars. We also list suitable alternatives, where possible.

All the vehicles featured here, except the Buick, come standard with forward collision warning (FCW) and automatic emergency braking (AEB) with pedestrian detection. (The advanced safety systems are optional on the Buick.)

The 10 models below are road-trip warriors, based on CR data. You can assemble your own list with CR ratings by using our A-to-Z guide . If you’re a Consumer Reports member, the full list is available to you here.

If you haven’t signed up yet, click below and become a member to access this full article and all our exclusive ratings and reviews for each vehicle we buy and test. Joining also gives you full access to exclusive ratings for the other products our experts evaluate in several categories, including electronics and appliances.

Podcast: Tales From the Road

Become a member to read the full article and get access to digital ratings.

We investigate, research, and test so you can choose with confidence.

Sharing is Nice

We respect your privacy . All email addresses you provide will be used just for sending this story.

Trending in Road Trips

Beginner's Guide to Motorhomes

How Much Truck Do You Need to Tow That Trailer?

CR’s Real-World EV Range Tests Show Which Models Beat EPA Estimates

Preparation and Driving Tips for Safe Towing

We're sorry for any inconvenience, but the site is currently unavailable.

Select a Language

Select your currency, reservations.

Start a Car Reservation
View/Modify/Cancel
All Deals & Coupons
Get a Receipt
Moving Truck or Van Rentals
One-Way Car Rentals
Long-Term Car Rentals
Subscribe with Enterprise
Rent a Car After an Accident
Dealership & Service Vehicles
Payment Options
Rental Coverage
Rental Coverage Levels
Solutions for Business
Enterprise Truck Rental
Manage Your Fleet
Dealership Solutions & Technology
ARMS® Dealership
Cars, SUVs, Trucks & Vans
Moving Trucks & Vans
Exotic Cars
Browse Selection
Find a Dealership
Vehicles under $25,000
United States Car Rental Locations
Europe Car Rental Locations
Latin America & Caribbean Car Rental Locations
Asia & Pacific Car Rental Locations
All International Car Rental Locations
Truck Rental Locations
Car Sales Locations
Exotic Car Rental Locations
CarShare Locations
Fleet Management
Shop Vehicles Under $30,000
Why Buy a Car from Enterprise?
Start Your Purchase Online
Schedule Your Test Drive
Value Your Vehicle

For Business

Driving Business
Enterprise Business Rental Program
Mileage Reimbursement Calculator
Enterprise Truck Rentals
Entertainment & Production Rentals
Enterprise CarShare for Business
Commute with Enterprise
Car Sales for Business
Learn More about Fleet
Client Login
Total Mobility Solutions
Meet our People
Supporting those in Service
Community & Sustainability
Enterprise Mobility
Pursuits with Enterprise™
Scenic Drives by Pursuits with Enterprise™
Weekend Adventures by Pursuits with Enterprise™
Enterprise + Sports
Enterprise + Music
Road Trip Ideas
Enterprise Plus® Program
Join Enterprise Plus®
Complete Your Enrollment
Get Answers

Best Road Trip Cars for Family Vacations

Do you want to travel in style? Or maybe you’re looking for comfort and convenience. Whatever you’re looking for, Enterprise can help you find the right car for your family road trip.

Check out our rental recommendations for your next trip. We have a variety of rental cars including economy, full-size or luxury sedans – all backed by our Complete Clean Pledge . With so many styles and options available, you’re sure to find the perfect family car rental for your travels, whether you’re going on a quick visit or an adventurous road trip

Best for larger families... Minivan

We have minivans, passenger vans and cargo vans – perfect for family vacations or accommodating large groups. Whether you need more seating or more room for luggage, our spacious vans come equipped with features like cruise control, AM/FM Stereo and air conditioning to help make your trip as comfortable as possible. We’ve even got add-ons like Sirius XM®, GPS and child safety seats available so all you have to worry about is where to go on your family road trip.

Best for comfort… Large SUV

From exploring the countryside to a cross-country road trip, an SUV is the perfect mix of comfort and adventure. Flexible seating and luggage room make travel a breeze, whether you need room for friends or room to bring home souvenirs. And with plenty of power, your SUV rental from Enterprise will help get you to where you need to go.

Feeling fancy? Treat yourself to a first-class experience with a luxury SUV rental . It combines the power and storage room you need with the added perks of leather seats, sunroof and more.

Best for style… Exotic

Add some fun to your road trip with an exotic rental car from Enterprise. Cruise into your vacation in a vehicle that’ll make other road trippers jealous. With high-performance engines and sleek, sophisticated styles, our exotic rental cars are perfect for impressing guests or adding some flare to your trip. They have plenty of power, are equipped with up-to-date technology and an array of special features to help you travel with style. From American muscle cars to luxury electric vehicles, an exotic car rental from Enterprise will turn a long trip into a luxurious experience.

Best for fun… Convertible

Experience the sunset like never before with a convertible rental car from Enterprise . Convertibles are perfect for road trippers who want to feel the sun on their faces and the wind in their hair while cruising along the highway. These compact and stylish cars are perfect for weekend trips to see family or for helping you see new and exciting sights along a cross-country trip.

Best for adventure… Jeep

Are you taking the road less traveled? Then you need a Jeep rental from Enterprise . Jeeps are versatile, and have the power and design to help you explore more without sacrificing comfort or style. Whether you’re traveling with lots of friends or lots of luggage, Jeeps can accommodate your road trip. Explore the beautiful beaches of Hawaii , take a trip along the Pacific Coast Highway or a enjoy a drive through New York City in your Jeep rental from Enterprise.

Best for hauling… Truck

Looking to haul large items for DIY projects? Or maybe you’re going on a weekend retreat. A pickup truck rental from Enterprise has the space, power and durability that’s perfect for your next at-home project or weekend trip. Our pickup truck rentals are unmatched in towing and hauling capabilities while still delivering the same comfort and style you’d expect from a car.

Looking for road trip ideas ? You've come to the right place! Explore scenic drives along the West Coast, the Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls and much more.

Things to Consider When

Renting a Car for a Road Trip

Going on a road trip? We've compiled a list of things to keep in mind before you reserve a car and get on the road.

Don't Forget Anything for your Trip

Road Trip Checklist

Before you hit the road, use this handy checklist to make sure you have everything you need to make your road trip even more fun and memorable!

Road Trip Rental FAQs

How do i pay for my rental.

You can pay for your rental with a credit card. The following credit cards are accepted at airport and neighborhood locations in the US, Puerto Rico and Canada:

MasterCard®
American Express®
Discover Network® (Not in Canada)

Learn more about payment options for your rental vehicle.

Can I extend my rental reservation?

Yes. If you have already picked up your vehicle and wish to keep it longer, please contact the location where you picked up the vehicle to extend or modify your reservation

If you have not picked up your vehicle you can view, modify, or cancel your reservation by clicking here . When visiting this page, you will need to make sure all fields are filled out. If you fail to enter in your confirmation number, first name, and last name -- the reservation will not be found. If you have entered in all this information correctly and still cannot modify your reservation, please contact us .

Please note: If you modify your pick-up or drop-off location, date or time, this may result in a change to your rates, taxes, surcharges or underage fees. Please see your new rate quote when you verify your reservation.

What is the Enterprise policy on pets in rental cars?

Pets are allowed in rental vehicles. Customers need to keep pets crated and return their rental car in clean condition and free of pet hair to avoid cleaning/detailing fees. Service animals used by customers with disabilities are allowed in the vehicle without a carrier.

For additional questions, please visit our main car rental FAQs page.

Driving Resources

The Enterprise App

Our iOS and Android apps make it easier than ever to manage reservations on the go.

Learn More & Download

Meet the Fleet

With so many styles and options available, you're sure to find the perfect rental for your travels.

View All Vehicles

Car Rental FAQs

Check out our FAQs for information on hours of operation, upcoming and existing reservations and more.

Which are the best cars for a family road trip?

We LOVE family road trips ! Even though our first daughter screamed from day one in the car we persevered again and again, and many grey hairs later she loves them too!

Planning ahead when buying a new family car is a great idea because road trips are so much fun.

Thinking about how you’re going to use it and all the places you want your family to go in it, will help you make the right choice .

What features are important in a car for family road trips?

There are a few things to consider before taking the plunge. As we all know with kids and babies, boot space is essential . You have to fit in the portacot, highchair, change mat, pram, balance bike – you name it, it all has to go in!

Not to mention 25 changes of clothes in case the kids get sick, and then you need that for each weather possibility too (it could be four seasons in one day)…

Oh, and that will only leave just enough space for two changes of clothes for the adults because the suitcase is full of all the ‘just in case’ items for the kids.

Ride comfort is important; you want it to be great for both everyday drop-offs and long distances as there’s few things that can ruin a road trip quite like little passengers spending the entire journey travel sick.

You want everyone onboard to be comfortable and to have good visibility so they can see all the things you point out as you drive along, and they can see out to play eye-spy and ‘spotto’.

Is there enough storage for cups, water bottles, books and iPads etc in the car for the passengers, and are there USB-A/USB-C sockets in the back for charging their devices?

Towing capacity is also worth considering; even if you start off staying in accommodation or with a tent in the boot of the car, you will soon get sucked in to the great Aussie dream and want to upgrade to either a camper trailer or small caravan.

Towing a caged trailer that can fit in bikes, beach boards and other bulky gear for camping and recreational activities is also a common choice.

I have tested many fantastic cars on road trips with my family over the past seven years as a mum of two, family car journalist and founder of BabyDrive.com.au , so here’s my pick of the best road trip cars for families…

What are the best large SUVs for a family road trip?

There are some great (and great big) SUVs to choose from, and depending on how many baby seats you need to fit in them, they can be a flexible option to fold down seats on one side of the car if you want to take kayaks, surfboards, swags or other equipment with you. These are my pick of the best…

Nissan Pathfinder

The Nissan Pathfinder is a great large SUV for family road trips and camping.

My family spent a summer holiday in which we really put the Pathfinder through some quite extreme testing and it passed with flying colours! We only had five passengers and two in baby seats, so had the flexibility to fold away the seats on one side and put a child seat in the third row. That way we could fit a kayak and two double swags in.

The boot capacity is ample for family holidays including an Esky/fridge, scooters, etc. There is a socket for charging in the boot and a large underfloor plastic storage area which is big enough for two folded scooters and great for wet beach gear too.

The suspension makes for a very comfortable ride and really reduces travel sickness. Passengers are happy with the large tinted windows so you can see out easily and are shaded from the sun too .

There is plenty of storage throughout the Nissan Pathfinder for all passengers’ refreshment needs on a road trip and places to charge and store their devices too. Air vents in all three rows of seats and built-in second-row window blinds make sure everyone is the right temperature.

With a braked towing capacity of 2700kg, the Pathfinder could also tow a camper trailer or small caravan .

Hyundai Palisade

Like the Pathfinder, you can choose a seven- or eight-seater Hyundai Palisade with either two captain’s chairs in the second row or a three-seater bench. Both have a three-seater third row, but the seven-seater allows walk-through access from the centre row to the rear and the ability to load longer items when not using the third row (through the gap between the captain’s chairs).

The four top tether anchors in the Palisade give you flexibility for positioning baby seats too.

Quiet Mode and Passenger Talk in the media system are great features for long journeys with kids in the car. The Palisade is also very comfortable for rear passengers with air vents in all three rows of seats, window blinds in the second row and plenty of storage for drinks and devices in all three rows, as well as sockets for charging them.

The Hyundai Palisade has a 2200kg braked towing capacity, slightly less than the Nissan Pathfinder but enough for towing a camper trailer or small caravan.

Kia Sorento

Rated carsales’ Best Family SUV for the past three years, the Kia Sorento has five top tether anchorages and ISOFIX points in the third row, giving you total flexibility to position your child seats – which can be really helpful when packing the car for road trips.

All rear rows of seats are comfortable with air-con vents and sockets for charging devices. Storage is good throughout, especially the second-row door cup holders that make reaching refreshments easy for kids .

The hybrid and plug-in hybrid models are economical on fuel and Quiet Mode in the media system is great when kids fall asleep in the back so you can still listen to your music (finally) in the front.

The Kia Sorento has a 2000kg braked towing capacity but the boot is considerably smaller than that of the Kluger, Pathfinder or Palisade.

Toyota Kluger

The seven-seater Toyota Kluger doesn’t have flexibility for where you put your baby seats as it only has top tether anchors in the second row.

But all passengers are comfortable with built-in second-row window blinds in high-spec models, while all get air-con vents in the ceiling plus charging sockets in all three rows .

With the Kluger, you get a bigger boot than the Sorento but it is slightly smaller than the Pathfinder and Palisade when using two rows of seats .

It has a 2000kg braked towing capacity if you want to tow a camper trailer or small caravan. An advantage of the Kluger is that you can get a hybrid from base spec, unlike the Sorento that only has this on the top GT-Line .

What are the best medium-large SUVs for a family road trip?

For families needing a car with a smaller footprint for easier parking and better fuel economy, and who don’t need the third row for child seats, these are my pick of the best medium and large SUVs with enough boot space and comfort for family road trips…

Nissan X-TRAIL and Mitsubishi Outlander

The very similar Nissan X-TRAIL and Mitsubishi Outlander both hold 13 bags of shopping in their boots, which is ample for everyday life and you can stack it to the ceiling for road trips .

A divider in the boot floor is also handy for separating shopping or camping gear, etc too. The 40/20/40-split folding rear seats allow you to divvy up space between the boot and second row when needed too as well.

Comfortably fitting three Infasecure baby seats, rear passengers are not cramped and have built-in window blinds and air vents for comfort in higher trim levels and all have great storage and numerous sockets for charging devices. Seven-seat versions are pretty small in the back row though.

Both have generous storage in the front for the adults and petrol versions have a 2000kg braked towing capacity for the camper .

Nissan offers a hybrid version and Mitsubishi a plug-in hybrid , which can respectively tow 1650kg and 1600kg (braked).

Subaru Outback

Being a long car and officially a large SUV (although it’s a traditional wagon-shaped vehicle to our eyes), the Subaru Outback’s boot space is generous, swallowing 17 bags of groceries for everyday life as well as being big enough for when you take the kitchen sink on road trips!

The Subaru Outback is also a winner for legroom, even with rear-facing baby seats and tall front occupants . Three Infasecure baby seats are a close fit in the second row, so siblings will need to get on well for long journeys!

Air vents in the back keep rear passengers comfortable and sockets are provided for charging their devices, but cabin storage is conventional rather than innovative.

A braked towing capacity of up to 2400kg in the XT versions matches that of larger seven-seat SUVs.

Hyundai Santa Fe

At the smaller end of the large SUV market is the seven-seat Hyundai Santa Fe , a great option for families and available as a hybrid for better fuel economy.

Those only needing five seats on a daily basis have the flexibility of a reasonably roomy third row when needed .

Second-row window blinds in higher-spec versions are a great inclusion and rear air-con that can be controlled from the front means all passengers are comfortable during long journeys.

Ample storage and charging sockets throughout all rows of the Santa Fe mean passengers big and small have ample refreshments and entertainment for long and short trips alike.

With a larger 2500kg braked towing capacity for those that need it and a boot that will hold 17 grocery bags with two rows of seats in use, on road trips you can pack in everything the kids need!

Quiet Mode in the media system is great when kids fall asleep in the back on long trips so you can still listen to music in the front.

Related: carsales Best Family SUV 2023

Related: six best 4x4 off-road suvs for family travel adventures, related: which are the best family cars for parents with twins, related: which evs make the best family cars, related: which are the best hybrid cars for families, related: which family cars are best for child seats, related: which family cars have the best third rows, related: which family cars have the best storage, related: which family cars have the biggest boots.

Corporate advertising
Dealer advertising
Shareholders
Competitions
Become a dealer
Farm machinery
Construction
Responsible disclosure
Terms and Conditions

6 tips for surviving a road trip with a large family

As a family of eight, our household has always traveled somewhat differently than other families. A lot of that difference comes from the fact that a small cost quickly becomes a large cost when multiplied by eight. Consider the relatively small $5.60 tax on your "free" award ticket: For our group on a round-trip itinerary, that's nearly $100. Then, there are the often astronomical fuel charges , also known as "carrier-imposed surcharges."

Because of that, our family often skews more toward "drive" in the classic "drive versus fly" debate. The economics of transporting eight people in one vehicle make family road trips a staple of our travel plans. That's still the case when gas prices are high. (Here's a list of the best credit cards for road trips , best credit cards for gas purchases and advice for maximizing points and miles on road trips .)

A family road trip can be a great idea any time of year if you want to go somewhere close or don't want the expense of airline tickets. Over the years, we've come up with several family road trip tips which you can read about them below.

Agree on screen time

When I asked my 12-year-old daughter what her best road trip tips were, she said "screens, snacks and space." Our family is fairly strict on limiting kids' screen time, but a road trip is one time when those rules go (mostly) out the window. We do try to mix things up with other forms of entertainment (see below), but it's true that most of a long road trip consists of kids on various screens.

Our road trip screen time game has evolved over time. When our kids were younger, our go-to move was a portable DVD player attached to a platform hooked into the headrest posts of the driver and passenger seats. The only problem with that came as the kids got a little older. We found that there isn't a movie in this world that a 14-year-old boy and a 4-year-old girl can agree on.

As the kids got older and technology advanced, we moved toward individual screens. Older kids usually play on their phones, and we have tablets and other devices for the younger kids. On our most recent road trip, each kid had their own Nintendo 2DS system (pictured below), which worked great.

Don't skimp on snacks

Making sure you have enough snacks for the trip is another of our must-dos. We bring cups to pass out "messier" snacks (like Goldfish, pretzels, Cheez-Its or oyster crackers). This way, the "snack master" in the front can pass out snacks all the way to those in the back. The more snacks you bring, the more self-sufficient your road trip can be. In other words, you won't have to make as many stops. (Check out TPG's list of healthy snacks to pack on trips.)

My favorite road trip snack story comes from when my oldest daughter was about 5 or 6 years old. She was in the back row of the minivan, and our other kids were too little to be any help passing out treats. At snack time, our only option was to literally throw options back at her and hope they landed in range so she could reach them without getting out of her car seat.

When we finally got to our destination, we looked in the back of the van and found about 20 sandwich cookies (and parts of cookies) littered throughout the back seat.

Consider space

Space is the next consideration. Unfortunately, it's one that you probably don't have a ton of control over. In most cases, the vehicle you drive is the only vehicle you have.

Also, when your van starts out for a road trip looking like this, you know that space is coming at a premium.

If you're renting a car instead of using your own, one possible option would be to rent two cars instead of one larger car. We covered that in our article on which rental care company is right for you.

Not only is the two-car option cheaper than renting a minivan (or worse, full-size van or large SUV), two cars also lets you split up kids that can't seem to get along. One downside when renting two cars is that both my wife and I have to drive all the time instead of being able to switch off.

Maximize your break time

Depending how long you're traveling or the ages of your kids, you'll likely need to stop several times along the way. If this is a route you've taken many times (like the way to grandma's house), you probably have your favorite rest stops already picked out. We like to turn those stops for food, gas and bathrooms into mini-exercise breaks.

Rather than all stumbling to the bathroom, we will stop at a rest area, find a grassy spot and do anything from calisthenics to a quick game of hide-and-seek. The older kids participate grumpily (then again, teenagers seem to do everything grumpily), but the younger kids enjoy running around.

If you have a little extra time in the schedule, take advantage of some free and unique things to do on the way — here are some tips for finding those stops .

Find entertainment where you can get it

As I mentioned earlier, our main source of entertainment on family road trips nowadays tends to be individual screens (phones, tablets and game systems). We do have a few other things that we use to pass the time on our family road trips. Here are a few of our favorites:

Books on CD. The "Harry Potter" series read by Jim Dale is a family favorite.
Of course, there's always the classic "Alphabet Game."
A family game titled, "I am something in the world; what am I?" is basically a souped-up 20 questions where one person thinks of anything in the world, and everyone else uses yes or no questions to figure it out. I am constantly amazed at how we can guess even the most obscure things with enough questions.
When our kids were younger, we printed out sheets with license plates from every state on them and had the kids mark the ones they saw. Bonus points if you live in a state (like Ohio) with county-level stickers on its license plates.

Set a realistic driving schedule

My last piece of road trip advice is to be realistic with your timing. You know your family best, but be wise about when you start your trip. Look at your route and when you'll be traveling through major cities. I have not-so-fond memories of being stuck in rush-hour Chicago traffic with a screaming infant.

I know some families will drive through the night to maximize vacation time. The one time our family tried that, my toddler daughter screamed her head off for over an hour straight to the point that my wife made me turn around the car and return home. (Naturally, she finally fell asleep on our way back home, so we turned around the car again and reached our destination about three hours late.)

Those of us in the miles and points world also like to break up long road trips with a night at a hotel. Be liberal with your breaks — being stuck in the back of a minivan for more than 10 hours is no fun.

If you're not sure where to start with mapping out your schedule, check out the Roadtrippers website .

Bottom line

I hope these family road trip travel tips will help you plan your next vacation. When in doubt, remember to pack enough snacks, bring enough activities for kids and make sure everyone gets ample time to stretch at each stop.

Best Cars for road trips: रोड ट्रिप के लिए ये हैं 9 बेस्ट कारें, हर रोमांच के लिए सही साथी

सड़क यात्रा का असली मज़ा तभी आता है. जब आपके पास सही कार हो. एक बेहतरीन वाहन न केवल आपकी यात्रा को आरामदायक बनाता है, बल्कि सफर के हर मोड़ पर आपका सच्चा साथी भी साबित होता है. चाहे आप परिवार के साथ लंबी यात्रा पर निकले हों या अकेले पहाड़ों की ओर तो सही कार का चयन ही सफर को आसान और यादगार बना सकता है. तो ऐसी कार चुनें जिसमें जगह और आराम हो, तो हम आपको cars-24 के हिसाब से बताएंगे जो आपके लिए सही साबित हो सकती है.....

टोयोटा इनोवा क्रिस्टा: ज्यादातर परिवारों के लिए इनोवा क्रिस्टा सबसे पसंदीदा कार है, क्योंकि यह बेहतरीन जगह और विश्वसनीयता प्रदान करती है. 7 लोगों की बठैने की क्षमता के साथ यह कार बुज़ुर्गों से से लेकर बच्चों तक सभी के लिए आरामदायक है. इसकी मजबतू सस्पेंशन ग्रामीण सड़कों पर भी आसानी से चलती है. जो इसे लंबी यात्राओं के लिए परफेक्ट बनाता है.

महिंद्रा XUV700: XUV700 के तकनीक-तथा सुरुक्षा फीचर्स, जैसे कि Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), आपके परिवार के साथ सड़क पर निकलने के लिए सबसे सुरक्षित विकल्प बनाते हैं. इसके अलावा, इसकी विशाल इंटीरियर और इन्फोटेनमेंट सिस्टम लंबे सफर में बहुत आनदं दायक है. इसका शक्ति शाली इंजन कठिन रास्तों पर भी आसानी से सफर करता है.

महिंद्रा थार: किसी भी ऑफ-रोडिगं शौक़ीन की पहली पसदं थार की 4X4 क्षमताएं इसे कठिन रास्तों के लिए सबसे उपयुक्त बनाती हैं. थार अपने मजबतू पन के लिए जानी जाती है और इसे राजस्थान के रेगिस्तान या उत्तर पर्वूर्व के पथरीले रास्तों पर चलाने के लिए सबसे बेहतरीन माना जाता है.

टाटा हैरियर: यदि आप लंबी यात्राओं में आराम चाहते हैं, तो हैरियर आपकी पसदं हो सकती है. लडैं रोवर की आर्किटेक्चर पर आधारित, यह वाहन बेहतरीन परफॉरमेंस और सुविधा के लिए डिज़ाइन किया गया है. आप इसे कभी भी, कहीं भी निकाल सकते हैं. चाहे वह भीड़भाड़ वाला शहर हो या अनदेखी सड़कें.

स्कोडा ऑक्टेविया: अगर आप लंबी यात्राओं में थोड़ी लक्जरी जोड़ना चाहते हैं, तो ऑक्टेवि या सबसे बेहतरीन सुझावों में से एक है. इसकी एडाप्टि व क्रूज़ कंट्रोल, लेन कीप असिस्ट और फटीग डिटेक्शन जैसी सविुविधाएँ ड्राइविगं को आसान और सुरक्षित बनाती है.

मिनी कूपर कन्वर्टिबल: भारत के खबू सरूत लडैंस्केप्स, जेसै केरल के तटीय सड़कों या हिमाचल प्रदेश के पहाड़ी रास्तों पर मिनी कन्वर्टिबल चलाना एक अद्वितीय आनदं है. इसका कॉम्पैक्ट साइज इसे सकंरी गलियों में भी मजेदार बनाता है. जितना कि खुले सड़कों पर होता है.

हुंडई वेन्यू: स्टाइल और परफॉरमेंस का बेहतरीन मिश्रण. हुंडई वेन्यू लेज़रली क्रूज़िगं के लिए परफेक्ट चॉइस है. इसका ऊंचा ड्राइविगं पोजीशन आपको सड़क का बेहतर दृश्य प्रदान करता है. जिससे डार्जिलिंग के चाय बागानों या पांडुचेरी की ऐतिहासिक गलियों में सहुाने सफर का आनदं और बढ़ जाता है.

मारुति सुजुकी स्विफ्ट: स्विफ्ट हमेशा से ही एक पसंदीदा कार रही है, जो अफोर्डेबिर्डेबिलिटी और आनदं का सही संयोजन है. इसका कॉम्पैक्ट साइज और एफिशि एंटइंजन इसेशहर की ड्राइव्स या भीड़-भाड़ वाली सड़कों के लिए सबसे उपयुक्त बनाते हैं. ये आम आदमी के बजट में भी आ जाती है.

टोयोटा ग्लांजा: मारुति सुजुकी बलेनो प्लेटफॉर्म पर आधारित ग्लांजा कम चलने वाली लागतों और विश्वसनीय परफॉरमेंस के लिए जानी जाती है. इसका विशाल केबिन और आधनिुनिक सविुविधाएं यात्रा को आरामदायक और सुविधा जनक बनाते हैं.

कार में मिलते हैं ये बेहद काम के फीचर्स, नहीं होता चलाने वालों को पता

MORE GALLERIES

Off the Unbeaten Track Edward Adrian-Vallance's travel site

About Edward
Country guides
Overland Travel

View when driving from Yelisovo airport to Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

The first myth I want to disprove is that getting to Kamchatka is extremely costly. It’s not. Going between February and April, a return flight from Moscow can be had for 11,000 roubles (US$380 / £220). Not bad for 18 hours total flying time. In summer the flights are more expensive but still, if you book them a few months in advance, can be got for 16,000 roubles return.

It’s true, many people will tell you that March and April are the worst months to visit because the snow is starting to melt and everything’s a bit sloshy and dirty in settlements. On the other hand, these are great months for the independent traveller! During winter zimniki (temporary winter roads made of compacted snow or simply frozen river surfaces) open up all over Kamchatka, granting access to communities that in summer are totally isolated. Hitch hiking is possible right from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to the very north of the peninsula. Alternatively, vehicles can be hired in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky from tour firms. Also in the winter or early spring months places can be reached that are away even from the zimniki, either by snowmobile or by the use of cross country skis. For example, Klyuchevskaya Sopka, Eurasia’s largest active volcano, can be accessed from the village of Klyuchi without the need even for a guide by a traveller with a pair of cross country skis. Bears do not wake up until mid-April so this is not a danger, but bears almost never attack anyone anyway.

The main disadvantages of winter travel in Kamchatka are that it is cold, there is no greenery and there are no bears, which some people come here especially to see.

The second myth I’d like to dispel is that travel around the peninsula requires hiring a helicopter. As mentioned above, in winter you can get almost anywhere by hitch hiking. I even hitched a lift with bear hunters on snowmobiles from their village to a reindeer herder encampment 100km away. In summer snowmobiles are replaced by horses, and transport is reduced from long distance ice-road journeys to irregular inter-settlement all-terrain vehicle trips. Hitch hiking is possible on these all-terrain vehicles though.

Throughout the year there are fairly expensive public helicopter flights to all settlements which are nevertheless much cheaper than hiring your own helicopter. There is also one permanent, year-round dirt road leading halfway up the peninsula. Some distance after the town of Milkovo, about 350km north of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky , it forks. The right fork leads to Klyuchi , site of Eurasia’s largest active volcano, and further to the port town of Ust-Kamchatsk. The left fork leads to the indigenous Even villages of Anavgay and Esso. Daily buses go from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky to Klyuchi , Anavgay and Esso, costing about 1000 roubles each way. In winter a zimnik passable by lorries heads north from Anavgay 36 hours to the otherwise isolated town of Palana. From Palana more zimniki head further north to yet more isolated settlements. From the peninsula’s very northernmost settlements there are even EXTREMELY irregular snowmobile and all-terrain vehicle connections with Magadan Oblast and Chukotka. Another zimnik, only passable by all-terrain vehicle, heads from Anavgay to the village of Ust-Khayryuzovo on Kamchatka’s west coast.

Kamchatka’s Indigenous
Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky

Minsk to Moscow drive

Minsk to moscow road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Minsk to Moscow. If you're planning a road trip to Moscow, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am start in Minsk drive for about 1.5 hours

11:17 am Barysaw stay for about 1 hour and leave at 12:17 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

1:53 pm Orsha stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:53 pm drive for about 2 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 5 hours

8:00 am leave from Smolensk drive for about 61 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 61 hours

8:00 am leave from Borodino drive for about 54.5 hours

2:21 pm (next day) arrive in Moscow

day 3 driving ≈ 54.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Barysaw Orsha Smolensk Borodino

Where's the best place to eat in Moscow?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Pushkin Cafe , which was mentioned 4 times.

Want to research more popular restaurants in Moscow? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Moscow?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Moscow. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Moscow.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Moscow to Minsk drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Minsk to Moscow . Or get a full Minsk to Moscow flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Minsk well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Minsk!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Minsk to Moscow

places to eat

alternate routes

Google driving directions

Bahasa Indonesia
Slovenščina
Science & Tech
Russian Kitchen

5 one-day road trip ideas outside of Moscow

1. Abramtsevo Estate and Sergiev Posad

Abramtsevo mansion

The Abramtsevo Estate (60 km from Moscow) is a must-see for anyone interested in Russian art. Thanks to industrialist Savva Mamontov, an artistic circle of the finest painters and architects of the late 19th and early 20th centuries gathered and coalesced here. Views of the estate are depicted in the paintings of many artists and they are familiar to every Russian since childhood. For the painting, "The Girl with Peaches" , the daughter of the estate owner posed for Valentin Serov in the dining room. Vasily Polenov painted the Abramtsevo pond many times, and Viktor Vasnetsov even depicted the Abramtsevo landscape for "Bogatyrs". The same artists also took part in the decoration of the estate’s Art Nouveau church.

The Assumption Cathedral in Holy Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius

After driving half an hour from Abramtsevo, you’ll reach Sergiev Posad, the most 'Orthodox' town in Russia. Here, you can visit many museums, walk along the old streets, and have a Russian meal in one of the restaurants. Of course, the main site to see is the Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius. Take a tour or explore the monastery churches and museums on your own. (Note: on major religious holidays, the Lavra is very crowded). Read more about what to see in Sergiev Posad here .

2. Kolomna and Konstantinovo village

Kolomna kremlin aerial view

The charming merchant town of Kolomna is about 100 kilometers from Moscow. The massive walls of the medieval kremlin have been preserved, as well as the ancient cathedrals and monasteries. Walking around Kolomna, you should definitely sample the traditional Russian street food - kalach - prepared according to ancient recipes; (read here why in the olden days it wasn’t customary to eat the "handle" of kalach). Another gastronomic trademark of Kolomna is apple 'pastila' , also made according to ancient recipes. Visit the Kolomna Pastila Museum, taste several kinds and buy them for all your friends - it's the best souvenir to take home!

Watch our video about a day trip to Kolomna here .

Another 30 minutes drive from Kolomna is the village of Konstantinovo, birthplace of the poet Sergei Yesenin . When you admire the views that open from the window of his village house, you’ll understand why he became a poet! The church with its golden domes, the turn of the Oka River and the endless Russian countryside scenery with golden rye fields and green patches of forests.

Konstantinovo, the birthplace of poet Sergey Yesenin

The beauty is breathtaking! The local museum tells about the mystery of the poet's death, and tries to answer the main question – whether he took his own life, or if someone "helped" him.

3. Serpukhov and Polenovo Estate

Ancient churches of Serpukhov

There is another ancient town about 30-minutes drive from Moscow, where another ancient kremlin fortress once stood. Today, only fragments of its walls remain, as well as the Sobornaya Hill on which Trinity Cathedral, built in the 16th century (and rebuilt in the 19th century in the neo-Classicist style), stands preserved. In recent years, the downtown of Serpukhov has been restored and transformed, complete with a modern urban space, pedestrian zones and cozy restaurants for all tastes.

Vasily Polenov's studio in Polenovo estate

About 40 minutes from Serpukhov is another picturesque country estate - Polenovo, named after its owner, artist Vasily Polenov. The house was built in the late 19th century by his own design, and every detail bears the imprint of the artist’s hand - tiles, mosaics, stained glass and even furniture. The house was often visited by famous artists and writers, and there was even a home theater.

Check out more pics from Polenovo estate here .

By the way, the house in Polenovo offers a magnificent view of the Oka River. You can reach the estate another way - by boat from the town of Tarusa (a single ticket includes the cost of the round-trip, as well as a house tour). At the same time, you can walk around Tarusa and learn how it’s connected with the writers Marina Tsvetaeva and Konstantin Paustovsky.

4. Mozhaysk and Borodino Field

The field where the Battle of Borodino took place in 1812

The great Russian poet Mikhail Lermontov once wrote in 1837 that all Russians remember the days of the Borodino Battle. Actually the battle that happened during the War of 1812 with Napoleonic France is still "remembered" by all of Russia today, as well as Lermontov's poem. So you are welcome to drive 100 km, which takes about 30 minutes along the high-speed Minsk Highway, and find yourself on the very field where this decisive battle took place. Once a year in early September, Borodino hosts a large-scale and spectacular reconstruction of the battle. Many people attend and so parking may be a problem, but it's worth it. You can also visit on an ordinary day, see the museum and stand where Kutuzov used to view his troops and the course of the battle.

Luzhetsky Monastery in Mozhaysk

On the way back, don't hesitate to stop in Mozhaysk, which was founded in the 13th century! This town with a beautiful hilly landscape also once had a kremlin, but now the gates and the Gothic St. Nicholas Cathedral are the only remnants of its former grandeur. Another must-see in Mozhaisk is the Luzhetsky Monastery on the banks of the Moskva River. What a gorgeous view here!

Zakharovo estate of Alexander Pushkin's grandmother

If you have time and energy, on the way back take the old Mozhaisk Highway and visit the Zakharovo Estate where the young poet Alexander Pushkin stayed with his grandmother, and the palace of Princes Golitsyn in Bolshiye Vyazemy, where they say that Field Marshal Mikhail Kutuzov spent the night, only to be followed the next day by Napoleon himself.

5. New Jerusalem

New Jerusalem Resurrection Monastery

A trip by car to Jerusalem from Moscow is quite possible! This is a miniature version of the holy city in the Moscow Region, just 50 km from the capital, in the town of Istra. The main tourist attraction is of course the New Jerusalem Resurrection Monastery built in the 17th century by Patriarch Nikon. The hill on which the monastery stands was renamed Zion, and the Istra River - Jordan. The main cathedral was built in the image and likeness of the temple of the Holy Sepulcher.

New Jerusalem museum of history and art

After visiting the monastery, be sure to visit the History and Art Museum on the other side of the river - it has a collection of Russian church and secular art, as well as large-scale exhibitions of famous artists.

Dear readers,

Our website and social media accounts are under threat of being restricted or banned, due to the current circumstances. So, to keep up with our latest content, simply do the following:

Subscribe to our Telegram channel
Subscribe to our weekly email newsletter
Enable push notifications on our website
Install a VPN service on your computer and/or phone to have access to our website, even if it is blocked in your country

If using any of Russia Beyond's content, partly or in full, always provide an active hyperlink to the original material.

to our newsletter!

Get the week's best stories straight to your inbox

Remote Siberia through the eyes of a Serbian photographer (PHOTOS)
What the popular ski resort Dombay looks like in summer (PHOTOS)
5 most interesting routes for a road trip in Russia

This website uses cookies. Click here to find out more.

Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 2, 2023

Categories Trans Mongolian Express

ultimate-Moscow-itinerary-phenomenalglobe.com

Moscow is the capital of Russia and there are few cities in the world that have played such a significant part in history.

Home to the Kremlin, the Red Square, the colorful St. Basil's Cathedral, and many more famous landmarks, Moscow is a city like no other.

This Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in Moscow. From the best places to see in Moscow to how to get around, this post has got you covered.

Moscow itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Moscow 3 day itinerary: map with highlights

Click here for the interactive map .

What to do in Moscow in 3 days

Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum.
Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre.
Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

The famous pedestrian street Nikolskaya Street (Никольская улица) located in Kitay-Gorod Moscow with thousands of fairy lights.

Important things to know when planning a trip to Moscow

The best time to plan a trip to Moscow is April-May and September-October . During these months temperatures are (generally) quite comfortable, though even in April there can be a bit of snow! The summer months are hot, both in regard to temperature as well as activities in the city. While it's a nice time to visit, it's also the busiest time of the year to visit Moscow. Hotel prices reflect this as well and summer definitely isn't a great time for budget travelers to visit Moscow. Winter in Moscow is cold, and I mean seriously cold (-15°C isn't rare). However, if you can withstand the subzero temperatures and freezing winds, it can be a magical time to visit. A snow-covered St. Basil’s Cathedral is a sight you will never forget. Keep in mind that days are short in winter and be sure to bring plenty of warm winter clothes!

The official currency in Russia is the Russian Ruble (₽ or RUB). Here you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 70RUB and $1 is around 62RUB.

Yes, you probably do. Getting a visa for Russia requires a bit of time and effort. You need to fill out several forms and provide a detailed travel itinerary and information about your accommodation. Also, you will need a Visa Support Letter which can be provided by your travel agency or your hotel. Depending on your nationality, there may be additional requirements, please refer to the information provided on the website of your country's Embassy in Russia.

While most of the things to see in Moscow listed in this post are within walking distance of each other, sometimes you will have to travel a bit further afield. The best way to get around in Moscow is by metro. It's cheap and efficient and a sightseeing activity in itself, because Moscow has the most beautiful metro stations in the world ! Among the most exquisitely decorated stations are Komsomolskaya, Novoslobodskaya, Mayakovskaya, Taganskaya, and Prospect Mira Station, but there are many more worthwhile stations to be found in the Moscow underground. You can purchase a single ticket from one of the ticket machines or get a rechargeable Troika Card when you plan on taking the metro several times. Read more details on how to use the Moscow metro here . If you prefer to get around by taxi, that's possible too. We used the Gett app to order a taxi (similar to Uber) to avoid confusion about our intended destination and having to negotiate in Russian. A convenient extra for families is the Gett Kids option, these cars are outfitted with a car seat.

The best things to do in Moscow

While you could easily spend a week in Moscow (or more), most of us, unfortunately, don't have that much time available.

This 3-day Moscow itinerary will guide you to the most popular and important places to visit in Moscow, as well as to some of the more unusual things to do in Moscow.

Below you can find the list of the Moscow sightseeing highlights included in this post.

The Red Square

Gum department store, st. basil's cathedral, lenin's mausoleum, the state historical museum, the kremlin, cathedral of christ the saviour.

The Bolshoi Theatre

Izmailovsky Market

Zaryadye park.

Planning a trip to Moscow? Click through to read about the best things to do in Moscow and practical information to plan your Moscow trip. #Moscow #Russia #CityTrip

Plan your trip like a pro with these tools: ✈️ Find the best flight deals on Kiwi.com . ? Get the best car rental deal for your road trip on Rentalcars.com . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Get Your Guide , Viator or Klook . ? Plan your journey with the Lonely Planet . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Moscow itinerary day 1

There is no better place to start your first day in Moscow, than at the world-famous Red Square.

This square is considered the central square of Moscow, not just because all the major streets start here, but also because no matter where you look when standing on this square, there are historic buildings all around.

Starting with the impressive GUM store and going clockwise, there is the colorful Saint Basil's Cathedral, the Kremlin, Lenin's Mausoleum, the State Historical Museum, and the Kazan Cathedral.

However, before entering any of these Moscow must-see attractions, allow yourself a moment to take in the view and let it sink in that you're standing on historical grounds (and a UNESCO site).

The Red Square was the official address of the Soviet government and played an important part in history. Many military parades have been held (and are still being held) here. It's the place where protests have taken place, as well as high-profile concerts from famous international artists.

All in all, it's one of the places in Moscow you can't miss during your Moscow city trip!

Red Square with GUM department store in Moscow

Yulia from That's What She Had: it might seem like visiting a department store is not something you’d do on the first visit to Russia’s capital.

But GUM is not like any other department store and is well worth your time, if only for its unique architecture.

First of all, it’s located right on Red Square which makes it an easy stop on your Moscow trip itinerary. Second, GUM is not a simple mall, but an institution built in the late XIX century.

The abbreviation stands for Glavniy Universalniy Magazin or Main Universal Store. Its impressive facade extends for over 240 meters along the eastern side of Red Square.

Inside you’ll find a beautiful glass ceiling supported by a metal framework, not unlike the ones found in the old train stations of Great Britain.

While shopping in GUM will cost you an arm and a leg, there’s one reason why tourists and locals come here anyways: traditional Russian food at Stolovaya #57. Stolovaya is Russian for canteen and this is where you can get your pelmeni , borsch , and pirozhki fix!

Afterward, don’t forget to get the famous plombir ice cream in one of the kiosks on the ground floor.

Saint Basil's Cathedral with its colorful domes is easily recognizable and one of the most popular Moscow tourist attractions. The building, built on orders from Ivan the Terrible, was completed in 1561 to commemorate the victory over Kazan and Astrakhan.

Until the construction of Ivan the Great Bell Tower (which can be found within the walls of the Kremlin), it was the tallest building in Moscow.

The design of St. Basil's Cathedral is truly unique; it's shaped like the flame of a bonfire and not one building in a similar style can be found in the whole of Russia.

A legend tells the story of how Ivan the Terrible had the architects of the Cathedral blinded so they could never build anything comparable.

This is a myth, however, but the fact remains that Saint Basil's Cathedral is one of a kind and it's not surprising it has become the symbol of Russia.

Wendy from The Nomadic Vegan: Lenin Mausoleum is hard to miss. It's a stepped-pyramid construction that sits right at the base of the Kremlin walls on the western side of Red Square.

Entrance is free but note that opening hours are quite limited, with visiting hours lasting only from 10 am to 1 pm on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday.

If seeing Lenin's embalmed body is important to you, be sure to take this into account when planning your itinerary in Moscow.

One of my top tips for travelers to Russia is to arrive early, well before the mausoleum opens, as the queue is usually quite long. However, usually, the queue does move pretty quickly.

This is especially true now that they have lifted the ban on bags and cameras.

It used to be that all cameras, smartphones, and bags of any size had to be checked at a left-luggage office nearby. But now you can bring a small handbag or backpack as well as your camera and phone.

Photography inside the mausoleum is still strictly forbidden, but you are allowed to take photos of the graves of various other important Russian figures that line the path leading to the mausoleum.

Once you finally enter the mausoleum, the atmosphere is surprisingly peaceful and uncrowded. It doesn't feel nearly as rushed as when visiting Mao Ze Dong's tomb in Beijing or Ho Chi Minh's body in Hanoi , for example.

The illumination of the body is very well done and would make for superb photography if it wasn't forbidden. As an added bonus, just after you exit, you'll see the grave of Joseph Stalin outside.

Rai from A Rai Of Light: the imposing crimson building at the northern end of the Red Square is the State Historical Museum.

By decree of Alexander III, the museum was built with the support of Russian historians, philosophers, and artists. The red brick building, dating from 1875, was designed in the Russian revival style by Vladimir Shervud.

The National Museum of Russia houses a collection of over four million items, devoted to the history of the country's ancient and imperial period.

The exhibitions include many items previously owned by members of the Romanov dynasty, such as documents, artwork, personal items, furnishings, and decorations from the palace interiors.

Another exhibit features relics of the prehistoric tribes that once inhabited this region.

Notable items include ancient manuscripts, birch-bark scrolls, a longboat excavated from the banks of the Volga River, and the largest coin collection in Russia, sourced from the museums in St Petersburg .

The State Historical Museum is open daily from 10 am to 6 pm. The entrance fee is 700₽ per adult.

Moscow itinerary day 2

When listing the best Moscow things to do, one cannot miss the Kremlin! The Kremlin houses the current seat of power in Russia and has done so for several decades.

Within its walls, the offices of the Russian Government can be found. During Soviet rule, the Kremlin was where all the important decisions were made but its history goes back for many centuries.

The first mention of the Kremlin in history books was in 1147, however, the current citadel dates from the 16th century.

The Kremlin is one of the major fortifications found in Europe, with walls that are up to 6.5 meters thick and 19 meters high in particular sections.

Inside the complex, there are many government buildings, however, these aren't accessible to the public.

Around Cathedral Square you'll find (as the name suggests) many churches and cathedrals, such as the Cathedral of the Archangel, Annunciation Cathedral, the Church of Laying Our Lady's Holy Robe, and Ivan the Great Bell-Tower.

While Cathedral Square is definitely worth visiting, the highlight of the Kremlin is a visit to the Armoury.

Inside you can find an impressive collection of Faberge eggs, beautiful dresses worn by Catherine the Great, intricately decorated thrones used by the Tsars, and much more. Unfortunately, photography is forbidden inside the Armoury.

Practical information about visiting the Kremlin

In order to visit both Cathedral Square and the Armoury, you will have to buy two separate tickets. A ticket to Cathedral Square costs 700₽ and a ticket to the Armoury is 1000₽. Prices mentioned are for adults, children below 16 years old are free.

Tickets can be bought at the ticket office onsite on the same day, however, there's no guarantee tickets will be available, especially during peak season.

Conveniently, tickets can be bought online as well, which is highly advisable if you want to make sure you'll be able to visit the Kremlin during your city trip to Moscow.

How much time to spend at the Kremlin

Be sure to allow plenty of time to explore the Kremlin, at least half a day but it's easy to spend more time as there is so much to see.

Please note there isn't any food sold inside the Kremlin, so bring a snack and enough water (especially in summer when it can get pretty hot).

Luggage storage

Backpacks aren't allowed inside the Kremlin, they can be stored (for free) in the cloakroom, but you can bring your camera and a small purse.

We could also take our Babyzen Yoyo stroller inside, which was very convenient as our 10-month-old son could take a nap while we explored the sights.

After the original Cathedral of Christ the Saviour was demolished by Stalin in 1931, a new version was completed in 2000.

The imposing building is the tallest Orthodox Christian church in the world (103 meters high), and is beautiful on the outside as well as on the inside.

Visiting the Cathedral is free of charge and it's open any day of the week from 10 am to 5 pm (except on Mondays when the opening hours are 1 to 5 pm).

When visiting the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour it's important to dress appropriately. For men, this means no shorts or tank tops.

Women can't enter with mini skirts or shorts, strap tops, or anything too revealing. Also, women are advised to cover their heads with a scarf as a sign of respect.

Inside the Cathedral photography isn't allowed, but believe me when I say there is plenty to see. There are beautiful frescoes, colorful icons, impressive statues, and other vivid decorations.

For a beautiful view over Moscow, walk up the stairs to the 40-meter high observation deck (entrance fee 400₽).

Visit Gorky Park

Helen from Holidays from Hels : Gorky Park, named after the Soviet writer Maxim Gorky, has recently undergone extensive regeneration to become Moscow's central leisure hub for young Muscovites.

Every day of the week you can find many Moscow residents strolling along the banks of the river in the summer, hiring bikes, picnicking on the grass, or dining at one of the many restaurants.

Open-air cinemas, petanque, and ping pong are all on offer. Not to be missed is the iconic white stone entranceway and museum, complete with columns carved with Soviet hammers and sickles.

In winter, look out for the ducks waddling across the frozen Moskva River, and watch boats attempting to navigate through the cracked ice. However, the real winter highlight is to try ice skating on one of the biggest rinks in Europe!

Ice skating in Gorky Park

The park’s maze of pedestrian pathways is transformed into one huge skating rink, which can play host to up to four thousand skaters.

Not surprisingly, Russians are talented ice skaters and there is a good chance you will find yourself next to a pirouetting ballerina.

Handily, you will find you will already be wearing most of what you need – gloves, hat, scarf, and thick socks and you can hire skates on-site. Lockers are included in the price if you don’t fancy skating with your day pack.

Disco tunes fill the air, and the whole arena is backlit in spectacular neon lights. Rest your weary legs and warm up at one of the cafes dotted along the frozen pathways, with the added bonus of not having to take off your skates.

Opening times

The rink is open from 10 am until 11 pm on weekdays and until midnight at weekends but closes between 3 and 5 pm. Like most attractions in Moscow, the rink is closed on Mondays.

The prices range from 350-650₽ and go up in the evening, which is the best time for the light show. Arriving at 5 pm, just as the rink opens for the evening session will give you time to find your ice legs before it fills up with more confident skaters.

Whilst waiting for the rink to open, try out the nearby tubing track where you can shoot down a snowy hill on an inflatable ring repeatedly for a very enjoyable half an hour!

How to get to Gorky Park by metro

The nearest metro is Park Kultury Station, on the other side of the river. As always, check out in advance what this looks like in the Russian Alphabet so you know when to get off!

Bolshoi Theatre

James Ian at Travel Collecting : one of the best places to go in Moscow is the famous Bolshoi Theater, located only a short walk from Red square. Bolshoy means big in Russian, and the theatre is not only big but also beautiful.

There are two ways to see the theater: on a guided tour or by watching a performance .

Take a guided tour

English tours are held on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 11:30 am. Tickets for these tours can be bought (on the same day) at the ticket office located in the Historic building of the theatre (door #12).
A ticket costs 2000₽ per person, tours last one hour, and the number of people on a tour is limited to a maximum of 20. The tour takes you inside the theater and to the historic main stage.

Watch a performance

My favorite way to see the theater, though, is to enjoy a performance and experience the theater as a patron.

The entrance is a little underwhelming when you first arrive, the street lobby is small and quite plain and you will be immediately directed up to your floor.

There are helpful attendants on each floor to guide you to the correct door. Arrive a little early and head up to the Grand Salon on the top floor where you can enjoy a glass of champagne while people-watching (Russians dress up for the theater).

Then head to your seat and take in the stunning theater before enjoying the famous Bolshoi Ballet or another performance.

Be sure to book a show at the historic stage, there is a modern stage as well but that isn't nearly as much fun.

Moscow itinerary day 3

Karen from WanderlustingK : one of the most interesting Moscow places to visit is the Izmailovsky Market .

This flea market and tourist attraction a bit outside of the tourist center is a recreation of a Tzar’s Palace, known as a Kremlin, produced in a colorful 16th-century style.

The market is filled with tiny stalls that sell everything from snacks to kitsch to authentic items from Soviet times such as hats, pins, and other pieces of memorabilia.

You'll also find authentic antiques such as vases, paintings, and other religious items if you're looking to splurge within the interior parts of the market.

Negotiating in English is not always possible as many vendors only speak Russian, so be sure to practice your Russian numbers and see how well you can do with haggling.

It's important to carry cash when you visit given that many vendors do not accept cards. We ended up purchasing a series of hats at the market, along with a beautiful hot tea glass with a metal holder with a typical Russian scene.

Elsewhere in the market, you’ll also find a few tourist shops that sell typical Russian products. It takes a few hours to see the market in full, so arrive early as the best items go quickly!

Lindsey from Have Clothes, Will Travel : Bunker-42 was once a top-secret, Soviet military complex. Stalin commissioned its construction after the United States succeeded in creating a nuclear bomb.

An impressive 65 meters (or about 213 feet) underground, was the desired depth to protect Russia’s top officials from a nuclear attack.

Bunker 42 became operational in 1954. Fortunately, it was never needed for its true purpose, and instead it was used as the command center of strategic bombers for nearly 30 years.

Nowadays it's a museum dedicated to the Cold War and visiting is a truly unique experience!

You will need to join a tour in order to see the museum. You can call ahead to book your tour (the number is: +7 499 703-44-55), there are several English tours throughout the day that are held at 13:30, 16:30, and 18:30 (the price is 2200₽).

On Mondays, there is an extra tour at 17:30, which lasts an additional 30 minutes and costs 2800₽ per person. There is also the option to book a private tour. However, I am unsure of the price for this.

You will have to wait until exactly 15 minutes before your tour begins before you'll be admitted inside. After paying for your tickets and a quick restroom stop you will descend 65 meters underground…

Another option for visiting Bunker-42, if you would rather not do the tour, is to visit the restaurant inside Bunker-42. Actually, I highly recommend visiting the restaurant before or after a tour as well!

While the food is not that great, it’s worth visiting for a drink. The restaurant is also located within the bunker and is decorated in the old Soviet style.

From time to time there will be live performances and visiting Bunker 42 is definitely an experience worth having while in Moscow! After all, how many people can say they've had a drink in a top-secret Soviet military bunker?

If you’re visiting Moscow during peak season (June-July-August), it would be worth making a reservation, to avoid having to wait. Otherwise, I would not say you need to worry about a reservation at the restaurant.

Bunker-42 is a short cab ride away from Red Square (10-15 minutes). But I recommend taking the metro to get there. The closest station is Taganskaya, which is a beautiful metro station very much worth visiting.

Pedestrian boardwalk in Park Zaryad'ye (also called Zaryadye Park)

Park Zaryad'ye or Zaryadye Park is a lovely place for a stroll and a nice place to relax after a day of sightseeing in Moscow, especially when exploring Moscow with kids.

There are many things to see and do in this park, but I recommend starting your visit at The River Overlook , a 70-meter-long boardwalk with beautiful views over the river and the Kremlin.

Other interesting places to visit in Zaryadye Park are the Ice Cave, The Museum of Nature, and The Glass Crust. But most importantly, do as the Muscovites do and find yourself a nice place in the park to sit down and relax.

Enjoy the view, do some people-watching, and take a moment to think back about all the Moscow top sights you've seen in the past couple of days.

Where to stay in Moscow

There is a huge amount of hotels in Moscow, ranging from budget hostels to exquisite 5-star hotels. Below you can find three well-reviewed Moscow hotels (rating of 8.5+ on Agoda and Booking ).

3-star hotel in Moscow: MIRROS Hotel Mokhovaya

This 3-star hotel is one of the best budget Moscow hotels and is all about location! From the hotel, it's just a 10-minute walk to the Kremlin and only 600 meters to the Christ the Savior Cathedral.

Set in a historic 19th-century mansion, the hotel features classic rooms with ensuite bathrooms.

The staff is friendly and there is a metro station nearby (Borovitskaya), making it easy to get to the Moscow attractions a bit further afield.

Click here to book

Modern hotel in Moscow: Barin Residence Myasnitskaya

The Barin Residence Myasnitskaya is a newly built hotel, located about 1.2km from the Red Square (about a 15-20 minute walk).

The rooms and bathrooms are very modern and clean, the beds are comfortable and room service is available. This hotel is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a nice hotel without a hefty price tag.

Luxury hotel in Moscow: Hotel National Moscow

Hotel National is potentially the best Moscow hotel. It's a gorgeous 5-star hotel located just a stone's throw away from the Bolshoi Theater, the Red Square, and the Kremlin.

The building was designed by architect Alexander Ivanov and completed in 1903 and has been welcoming international travelers ever since.

With its imperial architecture, luxury design, and charming classic rooms (some with a view of the Kremlin!), the Hotel National is a unique property.

Furthermore, you can enjoy an indoor pool, sauna, and fitness center as well as the well-reviewed Beluga restaurant that serves both Russian and European dishes.

While this hotel doesn't come cheap, your stay at the Hotel National will make your trip to Moscow an unforgettable experience.

Moscow itinerary and travel guide: in conclusion

I hope this guide to Moscow will help you plan a trip to this interesting Russian city. Feel free to ask any questions you may have by leaving a comment or sending me an email !

Below you can find my other posts about the Trans Mongolian Express , and the stops we made along the way:

St. Petersburg itinerary
Irkutsk and Lake Baikal itinerary
Ulaanbaatar itinerary
Trans-Mongolian Express travel guide

Planning a trip to Moscow? This detailed Moscow itinerary will help you plan your trip and discover the best things to do in Moscow. #Moscow #Russia #CityTrip

This post was updated in December 2020.

IMAGES

The Best Road Trip Vehicle For Large Family
Best Vehicle Choices for a Family Road Trip
The Best Large Family Car (When You Have 6 Kids!)
best road trip vehicle for family of 8
Picking the Perfect Family Road Trip Vehicle- yodertoterblog
Best Vehicles for A Family Road Trip for The Holidays

COMMENTS

Best Road Trip Cars in 2024 and 2025
2025 Ram 1500: $40,275 | USN Overall Score: 8.7/10. 2024 Honda Civic: $23,950 | USN Overall Score: 8.7/10. 1 of 16. Get ready to hit the road for vacations and holidays in a car that's fuel efficient, reliable and comfortable. We found the best road trip cars for any adventure.
15 SUVs and Vans That Are Great for Family Road Trips
The 2022 Kia Telluride starts at $32,790 with a 413 mile average fuel range. Kia America. The 2021 Kia Telluride is a three-row SUV that's great for shuttling families and it doesn't come with a ...
Best Cars for Your Road Trip
Today's versions are bigger and more practical for more uses, while still offering significant fuel savings over their gas-only counterparts. Many also offer active driver assistance technology ...
The 15 Best Road Trip Cars 2024
2022 Chevy Bolt EV 1LT. Shop on Chevrolet. The newest Bolt is a fun-to-drive electric vehicle capable of taking you nearly 260 miles on a full charge, at a price starting at $31,000, with 36 ...
The Best New Family Cars of 2022
Best Large SUV: GMC Yukon AT4; Best Luxury Large SUV: Lincoln Navigator; More Great Family Cars. Best Electric Vehicle: Ford Mustang Mach-E; Best Hybrid Vehicle: Honda Insight; Best Minivan: Kia ...
Best Road Trip Cars: Top 10
A great alternative for these road trippers would be the Lexus ES 300h. It's one of the most supple riding, smooth driving sedans out there that just happens to also be very fuel efficient. Like ...
The Best Road Trip Cars for Exploring Solo, Sightseeing with Family
Mazda6. The Mazda6 is a good-looking sport sedan with a stylish interior designed for maximum comfort, a necessity when you're spending days on the road. The Mazda6 gives you a peppy, smooth ...
Road Trip Ready: Discovering the Best Vehicle for Your Adventure
The Ram 1500 starts at $36,340 for a very basic model. I'd recommend the Laramie trim or higher, which is closer to the $60,000 and up range. If you're looking to tow a big trailer or boat, the Ram 1500 can handle up to 12,750 pounds with the 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine. Base Price: $36,340.
The Best Vehicles for Road Trips in 2024
Subaru BRZ. Best for: Weekend road trips. Since the demise of the BMW M Coupe and Z3 Coupe, the BRZ is the closest thing to the grand tourer, or GT, class of British and Italian sports cars that existed in the 1960s and early 1970s—cars like the Triumph Spitfire, the MG MGB GT and the Alfa Romeo Alfetta.
10 Best Road Trip Cars of 2021
2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee L. The first-ever 3-row Jeep Grand Cherokee rides on a longer wheelbase than the standard model. It has a new, high-tech interior with one of the best infotainment systems ...
The Best New Family Cars of 2020
Also, the third-row power seat adjustment can be slow. LAB RESULTS For someone who doesn't want to sacrifice excitement for practicality, this luxury SUV is the perfect middle ground. It's a ...
The Best Road Trip Cars From Every Category
The Crossover: 2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. This fuel-efficient road trip car boasts a hybrid system, achieving an impressive 38 mpg combined EPA rating. The hybrid powertrain comprises a 1.6-liter ...
The Best Cars for a Road Trip
Best Electric Car for a Road Trip. Tesla Model 3. iSeeCars Reliability Score: 7.2. Average New Car Price: $57,452. Average 3-Year-Old Used Car Price: $50,572. With an electric vehicle, you won't have to re-fuel, but depending on the length of your trip, you'll likely have to re-charge.
10 Best Road-Trip Vehicles That You Can Buy Right Now
All the vehicles featured here, except the Buick, come standard with forward collision warning (FCW) and automatic emergency braking. (AEB) with pedestrian detection. (The advanced safety systems ...
10 Fuel-Efficient Family Cars for a Long Holiday Road Trip
Honda CR-V. Although the Honda CR-V hasn't always been appropriately sized for a spot on a list of top family cars, the latest model has grown enough to earn a place on this list. Featuring a roomy interior and a large cargo area, the CR-V is certainly capable of taking your family on a long trip, and it's an affordable way to travel, as the CR-V starts at just $24,500 and returns up to 33 ...
Best Road Trip Car for Your Family Vacation
Best for fun…. Convertible. Experience the sunset like never before with a convertible rental car from Enterprise. Convertibles are perfect for road trippers who want to feel the sun on their faces and the wind in their hair while cruising along the highway. These compact and stylish cars are perfect for weekend trips to see family or for ...
Which are the best cars for a family road trip?
Kia Sorento. Rated carsales' Best Family SUV for the past three years, the Kia Sorento has five top tether anchorages and ISOFIX points in the third row, giving you total flexibility to position your child seats - which can be really helpful when packing the car for road trips.
Tips for surviving a road trip with a large family
A lot of that difference comes from the fact that a small cost quickly becomes a large cost when multiplied by eight. Consider the relatively small $5.60 tax on your "free" award ticket: For our group on a round-trip itinerary, that's nearly $100. Then, there are the often astronomical fuel charges, also known as "carrier-imposed surcharges."
Best Cars for road trips: रोड ट्रिप के लिए ये हैं 9 बेस्ट कारें, हर
Best Cars for road trips: रोड ट्रिप के लिए ये हैं 9 बेस्ट कारें, हर रोमांच के लिए सही साथी सड़क यात्रा का असली मज़ा तभी आता है. जब आपके पास सही कार हो.
Independent travel to Kamchatka
I even hitched a lift with bear hunters on snowmobiles from their village to a reindeer herder encampment 100km away. In summer snowmobiles are replaced by horses, and transport is reduced from long distance ice-road journeys to irregular inter-settlement all-terrain vehicle trips. Hitch hiking is possible on these all-terrain vehicles though.
Minsk to Moscow drive
Day 2. 11:00 am leave from Smolensk. drive for about 3 hours. 2:14 pm Borodino. stay for about 1 hour. and leave at 3:14 pm. drive for about 1.5 hours. 4:49 pm arrive in Moscow. day 2 driving ≈ 5 hours.
5 one-day road trip ideas outside of Moscow
1. Abramtsevo Estate and Sergiev Posad. Abramtsevo mansion. Konstantin Kokoshkin/Global Look Press. The Abramtsevo Estate (60 km from Moscow) is a must-see for anyone interested in Russian art ...
Moscow Itinerary: How To Spend 3 Days In Moscow
What to do in Moscow in 3 days. Day 1: The Red Square, GUM Department Store, St. Basil's Cathedral, Lenin's Mausoleum, and the State Historical Museum. Day 2: The Kremlin, the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, Gorky Park, and the Bolshoi Theatre. Day 3: Izmailovsky Market, Bunker 42, and Zaryadye Park.

Best Road Trip Cars in 2024 and 2025

The Best Cars, Minivans and SUVs for Road Trips

2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid

More on the 2024 Honda CR-V Hybrid

2024 Volkswagen Atlas

More on the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas

2024 Ford Mustang

More on the 2024 Ford Mustang

2024 Chevrolet Suburban

More on the 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

2024 Kia Carnival

More on the 2024 Kia Carnival

2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

More on the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

2024 Lincoln Navigator

More on the 2024 Lincoln Navigator

2024 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

2024 Genesis G90

More on the 2024 Genesis G90

2025 Ram 1500

More on the 2025 Ram 1500

2024 Honda Civic

More on the 2024 Honda Civic

Road Trip Car Characteristics

Road Trip Car FAQs

What is the best SUV for road trips?

What is the best luxury car for road trips?

What is the most comfortable car for long trips?

More Shopping Tools From U.S. News & World Report

Best Cars for Road Trips in 2024 and 2025

Recommended Articles

Car Reviews

Top stories

Best Road Trip Cars: Top 10

Buick Enclave

Chevrolet Suburban Diesel

Ford Mustang Convertible

Honda Civic

Kia Sportage Hybrid

Lexus ES 300h

Subaru Outback

Toyota Sienna

Join the conversation

These Are The 5 Most Popular Vehicles In America So Far This Year

US Plans Ban On Chinese Software In Cars

3 Reasons The Toyota Crown Signia Will Be Successful

Best Small SUV | Testing (almost) Every Compact SUV

Affordable Cars With Surprisingly Higher-End Interiors: Top 10

Comparison Test: 2024 Kia EV9 vs 2024 Mazda CX-90 PHEV

2024 Porsche Cayenne S and Cayenne Coupe Review

What’s the Difference Between the 2023 and 2024 Subaru Crosstrek?

Volkswagen Atlas SE Vs SEL: Which Trim is Right for You?

Hyundai Palisade Vs Mazda CX-90 Comparison

You may also be interested in

The Plug-in Hybrid With the Longest Range: Top 10 List

AWD Hatchbacks: Top 10 Lowest Priced

Top 5 Perfect Road Trip Cars

Top 10 Best Cars Under $30,000

Top 10 Best Subaru Cars of All Time

Top 10 Best New Cars to Modify

Top 10 Cars for a Road Trip

The Jeep Renegade Will Go Electric In 2027

AutoGuide Show Ep28: Maverick Lobo, Underrated TLX, Bentley Drones

There Won't Be A Jeep Wrangler EV

Nissan Drops Fresh Kicks For 2025

2025 Dodge Charger EV Reveal Set for March 5

2024 Rivian R1T Review: The Truck for Non-Truck People

The Kia K5 Costs More Than Last Year, Surprising No One

These Are The Best Off-Road Trucks

2025 Toyota Crown Signia First Drive Review: Call Me Camry Cross

2024 Toyota Prius Prime XSE Premium Review: Pleasure Cruise

The Best Road Trip Cars for Exploring Solo, Sightseeing with Family, and More

For packing in the whole family

Chevy Suburban

For trekking 2,500 miles across the country

Genesis G70

For exploring solo, safely

Ford Mustang

Honda Accord

For navigating the backroads