Amalfi Coast Road (SS163)
Must-DoIconicThe most famous coastal road in the world — hairpin turns above sheer cliffs from Sorrento to Salerno. Stop at Positano for the view, Amalfi for the cathedral, Ravello for the gardens. Drive east-to-west to stay on the sea side.
Great Dolomites Road (SS241/SS48)
Must-DoIconicFrom Bolzano to Cortina d'Ampezzo over the Sella, Pordoi, and Falzarego passes. The quintessential Alpine drive — pale towers, green valleys, and switchbacks that never get old. Allow a full day with stops.
SS125 Orientale Sarda, Sardinia
Hidden GemSardinia's eastern coast road from Dorgali to Cagliari — through the rugged Gennargentu mountains and above the Gulf of Orosei. Wild, empty, winding, and utterly beautiful. No guardrails in places.
Chiantigiana Road (SR222), Tuscany
Must-DoFamilyThe wine road from Florence to Siena through the Chianti hills — cypress avenues, stone farmhouses, and vineyard after vineyard. Stop for tastings at Greve, Panzano, and Castellina.
SS113 Northern Sicily Coast
Hidden GemFrom Palermo to Cefalù and onward to Milazzo (for the Aeolian Islands). Coastal cliffs, medieval towns, and views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. More authentic and less touristy than the south coast.
Stelvio Pass Road (SS38)
IconicAdvancedThe highest paved pass in the Eastern Alps — 48 numbered hairpins to 2,758m. An engineering marvel and driver's dream. Go early morning for clear skies and no traffic. The Bormio side is the most dramatic.
Our pick
The Great Dolomites Road for mountains, the Chiantigiana for Tuscany's soul. Both deserve a full day.