The world's best roundabouts revealed: Top 10

Curious about the most captivating roundabouts that shape cityscapes around the globe? Explore some of the world's most unique circular wonders, where functional traffic intersections transform into defining landmarks for the cities they inhabit.

While roundabouts have been a familiar sight on UK roads for over a century, with thousands of them in various sizes, the rest of the world has had its own unique journey with these traffic circles. In the United States, for instance, drivers are adapting to the concept, replacing traditional crossroads with energy-efficient and safer roundabouts. Do they share the same enthusiasm for these circular marvels as their UK counterparts? In this article, we take a closer look at some of the weird and wonderful roundabouts from across the globe.

A roundabout, also known as a traffic circle or rotary, is a circular intersection designed for continuous traffic flow around a central island. Let's unravel the story of these urban features that not only streamline traffic but also shape the character of their surroundings. Originally introduced in the early 20th century, these ingenious structures have stood the test of time, becoming integral to urban landscapes worldwide.

What are the most famous roundabouts for cars in the world?

1. Magic Roundabout (Swindon, England): This circular marvel boasts six smaller roundabouts, creating a complex design that challenges even the most seasoned drivers.
2. Arc de Triomphe Roundabout (Paris, France): Encircling the iconic Arc de Triomphe, this roundabout is not just busy; it demands a courageous approach from drivers navigating its multiple lanes.
3. Hamburger Roundabout (Buxtehude, Germany): A culinary delight on the streets, this roundabout takes the shape of a giant hamburger, capturing attention as both a traffic hub and a unique piece of public art.
4. Magic Roundabout (Hemel Hempstead, England): With six smaller roundabouts arranged hexagonally, this roundabout's unconventionality poses a challenge for drivers, earning its place on our list.
5. Putrajaya Roundabout (Putrajaya, Malaysia): Also known as the Wawasan Roundabout, it stands out with its unique design featuring large, colorful flowers, creating a distinctive landmark.
6. Makarios III Avenue Roundabout (Nicosia, Cyprus): This roundabout is celebrated for its central fountain, symbolizing the "fountain of knowledge" in the heart of Nicosia.
7. Pilestredet Park Roundabout (Oslo, Norway): Known for its artistic design, this roundabout combines sculptures and greenery to form a visually appealing traffic circle.
8. Swirling Rapids Roundabout (Cancun, Mexico): Shaped like a seashell, this roundabout celebrates marine life, adding a touch of natural beauty to the streets of Cancun.
9. The Bullring (Birmingham, England): Featuring a statue of a charging bull, this roundabout becomes a distinctive landmark in the vibrant city of Birmingham.
10. Spiral Tunnel Roundabout (Weston-super-Mare, England): With its hypnotic spiral design, this roundabout captures the attention of drivers and designers alike, standing out as a unique traffic circle.

Image credit: Depositphotos

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