Three ways to do a road trip in Asia

A driving holiday allows you to take things at your own pace and discover destinations off the beaten track. And while they’re popular around the world, they’re far less common in Asia. So to spark your wanderlust, we’ve curated a selection of journeys across the region – from short escapes to weeklong adventures. 

From now until 31 August, when you book a car rental with Hertz for a minimum of three days in selected Asian destinations, you’ll earn 500 – which is two times the regular earning rate, 10% off and an extra 500 miles for using our online platform. 

Plus, protect yourself from unexpected expenses arising from unforeseen accidents and more with Rewards Travel Cover, and earn HKD1 = 1 when you enrol. 

1. Explore South Korea’s east coast, from Busan to Seoul 

For a weeklong road trip 

Start in Busan, where you’ll pick up your car rental. Set aside time to visit cultural hotspots like Huinnyeoul Culture Village, known for its street art and lively seaside walkway. Before hitting the road, ride the Haeundae Sky Capsule, which glides along the coast and offers magical sunset views.  

Then, head north for an hour to Gyeongju, the ancient capital of Silla. For a more scenic drive, take the Donghae Expressway (Route 65), exit at Ulsan onto Route 16, then continue on Route 1 to Gyeongju. Remnants of the city’s past remain on temple grounds, royal tombs and in traditional villages. The Daereungwon Tomb Complex, with its sculpted hills and picnic-ready fields, is a highlight. Consider staying overnight to fully soak in the atmosphere. 

Next, set off for Pohang, a 30-minute drive north. Featured in hit K-dramas Hometown Cha-cha-cha and When the Camellia Blooms, the steel-producing city is known for its seafood dishes like mulhoe (cold raw fish soup) and thrilling waterfront attractions like the Hwanho Space Walk – a gravity-defying stairway by the sea. Beaches and surf schools also await active travellers. 

Your next stop is Gangneung, three hours away. Detour to Yeongdeok Crab Village for a medley of fresh snow crab, before tracing Route 20 along the coastline and curving inland towards the mountains.  

After arriving in Gangneung, check out Gyeongpo Beach and Gyeongpodae Pavilion, the latter of which is a great cherry blossom viewing spot in spring. On the outskirts of the city lies Daegwallyeong Sheep Farm, home to expansive pastures and its woolly inhabitants – sure to be a hit with families travelling with kids. 

Finally, make a beeline for Sokcho. Seoraksan National Park, just outside the city, delivers breathtaking mountain views, while Sokcho Tourist Fish Market promises a feast with its fresh seafood and street snacks. From Sokcho, the Seoul-Yangyang Expressway (Route 60) brings you to Seoul. 

2. Discover spectacular sites from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai 

For an overnight stay 

Route 118 gets you from Chiang Mai to Chiang Rai in about three hours, through forested mountain landscapes. Stop at Mae Kachan Hot Spring for foot bathing and natural springs so hot you can even boil eggs. For a dose of adventure, consider a side trip to the Skyline Adventure with its two-kilometre luge run. The treetop ziplines and adrenaline-inducing rope courses are some of the best ways to get closer to the region’s diverse flora and fauna.  

In Chiang Rai, don’t miss Wat Rong Khun (the White Temple), Wat Rong Suea Ten (Blue Temple), and Baan Dam Museum for their striking and intricate architecture and unique histories. 

On your return, why not extend your trip? An hour northwest lies Mae Sap Cave, a little-known natural cavern with vividly coloured rock formations. Meanwhile, an hour southwest brings you to Eve 79 Elephant Sanctuary, which offers observation-only guided tours around resident elephants’ natural habitat. 

Check out our guide on where to stay in Chiang Mai if you’re planning to explore a while longer. 

3. Enjoy a tea break in Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lumpur 

For a day trip 

From Kuala Lumpur, the three-hour drive north to Cameron Highlands transitions from tropical forests to winding mountain roads. Tea plantations like Bharat and BOH’s Sungei Palas Tea Garden are must-visits for tastings, tours and sweeping meadow views.  

The region is also known for strawberry picking, with several berry farms dotting the area. If you don’t want to put in the work, Cameron Night Market and Kea Farm Market sell them by the box, alongside other fresh produce and miscellaneous goods.  

Wondering what to do once you’re back in KL? Check out our shopping guide or 48-hour itinerary. 

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