Some of the most breathtaking views on Earth aren’t found at your final destination—they’re discovered on the way there. If you’ve ever taken a taxi ride that made you forget your phone and just stare out the window, you already know: not all commutes are created equal.
From winding hillsides to sparkling coastlines, these are some of the most scenic taxi routes in the world, where the journey is truly part of the experience.
- San Francisco, California – Lombard Street and the Presidio Drive
Known as “the crookedest street in the world,” Lombard Street offers a short but thrilling downhill ride with flower-lined curves and postcard-worthy views of the bay. Pair it with a taxi ride through Presidio Parkway, which opens up to vistas of the Golden Gate Bridge and Marin Headlands.
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – Avenida Atlântica along Copacabana Beach
Catch a taxi along Avenida Atlântica, the coastal road running parallel to the famous Copacabana Beach. The blend of ocean, mosaic sidewalks, palm trees, and Sugarloaf Mountain makes this one of the most captivating urban drives in the world.
- Cape Town, South Africa – Chapman’s Peak Drive
While not a typical taxi ride, many drivers in Cape Town will happily take you along Chapman’s Peak Drive—a coastal road carved into cliffs above the Atlantic. With every curve, you’re rewarded with dramatic seascapes and mountain backdrops.
- Hong Kong – Victoria Peak Descent to Central
Start your journey from Victoria Peak and wind your way down through lush green hills, modern skyscrapers, and colonial architecture. Taxis in Hong Kong offer a smooth, air-conditioned ride down one of the most vertical cities on the planet.
- Paris, France – Seine River Loop via Quai Voltaire
Ask your taxi driver to take you along the Seine River, especially at dusk. A loop that passes Pont Alexandre III, the Eiffel Tower, and Notre-Dame offers the ideal Paris postcard experience—without leaving your seat.
- New York City – FDR Drive at Night
The FDR Drive hugs the east side of Manhattan and offers one of the best nighttime taxi rides in the city. Skyscrapers light up above while the East River sparkles beside you. It’s a cinematic experience every time.
- Sydney, Australia – Bondi to Coogee via Coastal Roads
While most people walk the Bondi-to-Coogee trail, a coastal cab ride offers a quicker yet stunning version. Travel along Birrell Street and Bronte Road, catching glimpses of cliffs, coves, and surfers below.
- Istanbul, Turkey – Bosphorus Bridge to Ortaköy
Travel between continents with a taxi ride over the Bosphorus Bridge, connecting Europe to Asia. At sunset, the view of the water and skyline is unforgettable—especially as you arrive in the historic Ortaköy district.
- Barcelona, Spain – Montjuïc to the Gothic Quarter
Begin your ride near Montjuïc Castle, descend past the Magic Fountain, and cruise down into the Gothic Quarter. This drive offers a blend of modernist architecture, medieval charm, and ocean views.
- Dubai, UAE – Sheikh Zayed Road at Night
Cruising down Sheikh Zayed Road in a taxi is like riding through a sci-fi skyline. With towering glass buildings lit in neon and a surprisingly smooth ride, it’s a glimpse into futuristic city planning—best viewed after dark.
Tips to Maximize the Experience
- Choose a reputable service like UrbanSwift or TransitCore when exploring U.S. cities
- Request scenic routes—drivers often know lesser-known lookouts or backroads worth seeing
- Time your ride around sunset or at night for optimal views
- Sit on the passenger side for a better angle on coastal or skyline routes
Whether you’re after Instagram-worthy shots or just want to take the long way around, these scenic taxi rides remind us that sometimes, the journey really is the destination.
