A Harley-Davidson is recognisable by more than its engine sound: it represents a way of travelling. Born in Milwaukee in 1903, the brand became a symbol of freedom on two wheels. Its touring and custom models invite you to take your time and enjoy the scenery, provided you choose a route suited to both the motorcycle and its rider.
Here are six motorcycle road trip ideas, from Route 66 to the Portuguese coast. This selection is inspiration, not a list of tours all available on a Harley-Davidson. Check road surfaces, the motorcycle offered and local conditions before booking, especially on routes that include unpaved sections.
1. The cliffs of southern Portugal
Southern Portugal lends itself to a road trip combining coastal roads, scenic views and fishing villages. Between Lisbon and the Algarve, allow time for detours and breaks. The area around Albufeira and the cliffs at Arrifana can be included according to your itinerary. If you also want to visit Óbidos, north of Lisbon, plan it as a separate extension.
2. Argentina and Chile: a long-distance adventure
Deserts, coastlines and high Andean plateaus give this journey a different scale. Santiago, Valparaíso, the Atacama and Route 40 offer inspiration to shape around the time you have. Do not treat them as a short circuit to complete in one go: distances, border crossings and logistics need dedicated planning. To ride a Harley, confirm the surface of each stage and the availability of a suitable model.
3. Southern Madagascar
Madagascar draws travellers with its contrasting landscapes, villages and red-earth tracks. Antsirabe, the tapia forests and Anja Reserve are among the places to consider. But a route with unpaved sections should not automatically be described as suitable for a Harley touring motorcycle. Confirm the itinerary and vehicle with the local specialist; if riding a Harley is your priority, choose a confirmed road-based route.
4. Thailand and its winding roads
Thailand combines green hills, temples and encounters along the way. Depending on the region you choose, consider the area around Bangkok and Khao Yai, or a northern route around Chiang Mai. These ideas are not one continuous loop: choose an area that fits your travel time. On technical roads, comfort and control of the bike matter more than its size alone.
5. The Route Napoléon on a Harley
The Route Napoléon connects Golfe-Juan with Grenoble, passing through places including Grasse, Sisteron and Gap. It offers varied scenery between the Mediterranean, Provence and the Alps. Plan your stages around your pace and the stops you want to make. A detour to the Italian Riviera can extend the journey, but is not part of the Route Napoléon itself.
6. The legendary Route 66
No selection of Harley road trips would be complete without Route 66. From Chicago to the Los Angeles coast, the journey brings together small towns, retro motels and American culture. The landscapes of Arizona and New Mexico are part of the experience, with distances and breaks to factor into your plans.
To turn the idea into a journey, explore our guided Route 66 motorcycle tour on a Harley-Davidson. Check the itinerary, services and departure conditions on the tour page before requesting a quote. A Harley remains the iconic choice for this trip; the model depends on the categories offered and availability confirmed when booking.
Not sure which motorcycle to choose? Our guide to choosing a Harley for a USA motorcycle trip helps you compare models according to your experience and travel style.
Preparing your Harley road trip
- Route: check road surfaces and adapt each stage to your experience, without filling every day with miles.
- Motorcycle: confirm the model or category, rental conditions and assistance provided. If taking your own bike, plan its mechanical preparation.
- Luggage: distribute the load and choose luggage compatible with the motorcycle.
- Pace: leave room for visits, weather and unexpected changes.
- Support: compare what is organised and what remains your responsibility before choosing a guided or self-guided trip.
The right itinerary matches your interests, your experience and the vehicle actually available. Our advisers help you refine your plans and choose a suitable journey.