With a total area of 9.5 million square kilometres, the United States is the world's fourth-largest country. Getting around it is no easy task, but the way you choose to do it will depend on what kind of holiday you're in the mood for.

Driving tours are a popular way to see a lot if you're low on time. A trek up California's highway 1 is an unforgettable drive along the Pacific, while the emblematic Route 66 that connects Chicago to Los Angeles can be a unique lesson in American history and culture. The abundance of national parks in western states like Colorado, Utah and Arizona make a driving tour of the parks a popular option, while a tour through the forests of New England in autumn has turned into an annual tradition for many leaf-lovers. Highways between one city and another are probably long (Americans may think nothing of driving 12 hours to visit family in the next state over) but many are lined with old-style gas stations, friendly towns, quirky roadside attractions and restaurants serving down-home food.

You'll find plenty to keep busy in the cities of New York, San Francisco, Washington DC or Chicago. World capitals of business, style and entertainment, America's cities offer some of the best dining, shopping and culture around. Domestic flights hover around $200, so city jumping is an easy but pricey way to see the country.

If you want to head to one place and stay put, resorts are available in every style, price range and climate. Florida's 663 miles of beaches offer year-round sun, while the ski resorts of Colorado are open a good six months of the year. Resort areas like Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard on the East coast, and Carmel on the West coast are ideal for those looking for a community atmosphere (and plenty of shopping and good eating).