Armchair travel has never been so appealing, especially when the travel bug bites but real-world adventures are on hold. If you’re yearning for exploration from the comfort of your couch, dive into our curated list of 50 captivating Travel Shows. These series will transport you to breathtaking landscapes, immerse you in diverse cultures, and ignite your passion for discovery. Whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or a travel dreamer, these travel shows offer a world of inspiration right at your fingertips.
Classic Travel Shows: Your Passport to the Globe
1. Rick Steves’ Europe
For a deep dive into European history and culture, look no further than “Rick Steves’ Europe”. Rick Steves’ genuine passion for the continent is infectious. His bookish charm and extensive knowledge make this travel show a delightful and informative journey through Europe’s iconic cities and hidden gems. Whether you’re planning your European escapade or simply dreaming of it, Rick Steves is your erudite guide.
Available on: Amazon, Hulu, YouTube
2. Passport to Europe with Samantha Brown
Samantha Brown’s infectious enthusiasm and genuine curiosity are at the heart of “Passport to Europe”. This travel show is a comprehensive guide, brimming with historical insights, must-see landmarks, local culinary hotspots, and shopping destinations. Samantha covers both bustling metropolises and charming smaller towns across Europe, providing viewers with a well-rounded perspective and making it a quintessential travel show for planning your next European adventure.
Available on: Amazon
3. The Layover
“The Layover”, hosted by the late, great Anthony Bourdain, is a high-octane travel show for those who believe in maximizing every moment. Bourdain masterfully demonstrates how to squeeze every ounce of experience out of short layovers, turning travel downtime into an art form. His signature wit and adventurous spirit make this show a thrilling and practical guide to efficient and exciting travel, even within limited timeframes. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in travel shows that are both entertaining and informative.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Sling, Amazon
4. The National Parks: America’s Best Idea
Ken Burns’ “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea” is more than just a travel show; it’s a cinematic tribute to the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of the United States’ national parks. This documentary series chronicles the evolution of the national park system from its inception in the 1800s to the present day. Through stunning visuals, compelling interviews, and untold stories, it celebrates these natural treasures, from Alaska’s remote Gates of the Arctic to the iconic Yellowstone.
Available on: Amazon, YouTube
5. Globe Trekker
“Globe Trekker” is a long-running travel show that embodies the spirit of adventure and exploration. With a diverse cast of hosts, it serves as a visual counterpart to the Lonely Planet guidebooks. Spanning over two decades, “Globe Trekker” has traversed virtually every corner of the globe, from bustling London streets to the serene landscapes of Northern India and the rugged Australian Outback. While early seasons are from the 90s, the sheer breadth of destinations covered makes it a valuable resource for travel show enthusiasts.
Available on: Amazon
Experiential Travel Shows: Beyond the Tourist Trail
Dark Tourist delves into unconventional travel experiences, a unique type of travel show.
6. Dark Tourist
“Dark Tourist” on Netflix, hosted by journalist David Farrier, ventures into the realm of the unconventional. This travel show explores destinations with a macabre or unusual history, offering viewers a glimpse into the fringes of tourism. From witnessing exorcisms in Mexico to exploring haunted forests in Japan and swimming in a nuclear blast lake in Kazakhstan, “Dark Tourist” is a captivating, albeit unsettling, exploration of the world’s darker corners. It’s a distinctive travel show for those seeking experiences beyond the typical vacation.
Available on: Netflix
7. Conan Without Borders
“Conan Without Borders” showcases a different side of comedian Conan O’Brien as he takes his late-night antics on international journeys. This travel show blends comedy and cultural immersion as Conan dives headfirst into local pop culture, whether it’s starring in a telenovela, attempting to become a K-pop star, or showcasing his unique dance moves. For fans of Conan and travel shows that are both funny and insightful, this series is a must-watch.
Available on: Netflix
8. Tales by Light
“Tales by Light” is a visually stunning travel show that delves into the art and impact of photography. It goes behind the lens with acclaimed photographers as they capture breathtaking images around the world. More than just showcasing beautiful pictures, the series highlights the power of photography in conservation and storytelling. For aspiring photographers and anyone who appreciates the beauty of our planet, “Tales by Light” is an inspiring and educational travel show.
Available on: Netflix
9. Expedition Unknown
Josh Gates, with his background in archaeology and fascination with the unexplained, leads “Expedition Unknown” on thrilling quests around the globe. This travel show blends adventure with mystery as Gates investigates lost cities, unsolved mysteries, and buried treasures. His Indiana Jones-esque approach, combined with real-world challenges like searching for Amelia Earhart’s remains, makes for captivating television.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling
10. The Moaning of Life
Karl Pilkington, known for his deadpan humor, takes center stage in “The Moaning of Life”. This travel show documents his mid-life musings as he travels the world to explore how different cultures approach life’s big questions. From marriage and parenthood to happiness and death, Pilkington’s unique perspective and often bewildered reactions make for a hilarious and thought-provoking journey. It’s a travel show that combines comedy with cultural observations.
Available on: Amazon
11. Planet Earth
BBC’s “Planet Earth” is a landmark travel show in documentary filmmaking. With its groundbreaking cinematography and extensive production, this series offers an unparalleled look at the Earth’s diverse biomes and habitats. From the polar extremes to the deepest oceans, “Planet Earth” showcases the planet’s breathtaking beauty and ecological wonders. Winner of multiple Emmys and a Peabody Award, it’s a visually stunning and deeply impactful travel show that inspires awe and environmental awareness.
Available on: YouTube, Amazon
Road Trip Travel Shows: Adventures on Wheels
Top Gear epitomizes the excitement of road trip travel shows.
12. Long Way Round
“Long Way Round” is a classic road trip travel show starring actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman. They embark on an epic motorcycle journey from London to New York, taking a scenic eastern route through Europe, Asia, and Alaska. Their camaraderie and shared passion for riding, along with the stunning landscapes they traverse, make this series an inspiring adventure for motorcycle enthusiasts and travel lovers alike.
Available on: Amazon
13. Long Way Down
Following the success of “Long Way Round”, Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman returned for “Long Way Down”. This sequel travel show sees them riding from Scotland through Europe and Africa to Cape Town, South Africa. Covering 15,000 miles, the series captures the challenges and triumphs of long-distance motorcycle travel, showcasing diverse cultures and breathtaking African landscapes.
Available on: Tubi
14. Epic Drives
“Epic Drives”, created in partnership with Motor Trend magazine, is a travel show that celebrates the thrill of driving in remarkable locations. The series features fast cars, unique vehicles, and captivating stories from locals encountered along the way. It’s a blend of automotive passion and travel exploration, highlighting both the machines and the destinations.
Available on: YouTube
15. Top Gear
“Top Gear” is a globally popular travel show that combines car reviews, road trips, and adrenaline-fueled challenges. With its signature humor and celebrity guest drivers, “Top Gear” has become a cultural phenomenon. The show’s blend of entertainment and automotive enthusiasm makes it a unique and engaging travel show.
Available on: YouTube TV, Amazon
16. The Grand Tour
“The Grand Tour” reunites the beloved trio from “Top Gear”—Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May—for more automotive adventures. This travel show features quirky humor, stunning locations, and a diverse array of vehicles, from Aston Martins in South Africa to Fiat Pandas in Colombia. Their banter and automotive escapades continue to entertain fans worldwide.
Available on: Amazon
Food & Drink Travel Shows: Culinary Journeys Across the Globe
Ugly Delicious, a food-focused travel show exploring global cuisine.
17. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations
“No Reservations” is a quintessential food and travel show, hosted by the iconic Anthony Bourdain. This travel show seamlessly blends culinary exploration with cultural immersion. Bourdain’s raw and authentic approach to travel, combined with his passion for food and people, made “No Reservations” a groundbreaking and influential series in the travel show genre.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling, Amazon
18. Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown
“Parts Unknown” further solidified Anthony Bourdain’s legacy as a travel show host who went beyond the surface. In this series, Bourdain explored complex and often misunderstood places like Detroit, Iran, and Senegal through the lens of food and shared meals. “Parts Unknown” is a powerful travel show that uses food as a bridge to understanding diverse cultures and histories.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Amazon
19. Gordon Ramsay’s Uncharted
“Gordon Ramsay’s Uncharted” presents a different side of the famously fiery chef. This travel show sees Ramsay venturing into uncharted culinary territories, learning about local cuisines and traditional cooking methods from indigenous experts. It’s a humbling and adventurous journey as Ramsay steps outside his comfort zone to master new culinary skills and ingredients.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling, Disney+
20. Gordon’s Great Escape
“Gordon’s Great Escape” is a travel show that follows Gordon Ramsay’s immersive culinary adventure in India and Southeast Asia. Initially admitting his ignorance about “real” curry in India, Ramsay embarks on a journey of discovery, traveling by motorbike and immersing himself in local food cultures. This series showcases Ramsay as a student, offering a refreshing and engaging perspective.
Available on: Amazon, Disney+
21. Ugly Delicious
“Ugly Delicious”, hosted by James Beard Award-winning chef David Chang, takes a unique approach to food travel shows. Each episode revolves around a specific dish or type of food, exploring its variations and cultural significance across different countries. With mouthwatering close-up shots and Chang’s engaging personality, “Ugly Delicious” is a treat for food lovers.
Available on: Netflix
22. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
“Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner” is another food-focused travel show hosted by David Chang. This series shares similarities with “Comedians in Cars Getting Coffee” as Chang travels the world with celebrity guests like Seth Rogen and Chrissy Teigen, embarking on culinary adventures in various cities. It’s a fun and lighthearted exploration of food and culture.
Available on: Netflix
23. Street Food
“Street Food” on Netflix is a visually captivating travel show that celebrates the vibrant culture of street food around the world. Each episode highlights the stories of street food vendors and the rich culinary traditions they represent. The series beautifully captures the essence of each dish and the people behind it, making street food appear both humble and extraordinary.
Available on: Netflix
24. Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern
“Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern” is a travel show that pushes culinary boundaries. Andrew Zimmern fearlessly samples unusual and often challenging foods from around the globe, from lamb brains to duck tongue. This series is for adventurous eaters and those curious about the diverse and sometimes shocking culinary traditions of different cultures.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling, Amazon
25. Three Sheets
“Three Sheets” with comedian Zane Lamprey is a travel show with a focus on global drinking culture. Lamprey travels the world to meet locals, learn about their drinking traditions, and, of course, sample alcoholic beverages. It’s essentially an international pub crawl, complete with hangover cures, offering a lighthearted and boozy take on cultural exploration.
Available on: Amazon
26. I’ll Have What Phil’s Having
“I’ll Have What Phil’s Having” introduces Phil Rosenthal, the creator of “Everybody Loves Raymond”, as a charming and wholesome travel show host. Phil, who admits to having had a bland childhood diet, approaches global cuisine with childlike wonder and enthusiasm. His friendly demeanor makes viewers feel like they are tagging along on a delightful culinary journey.
Available on: YouTube, Amazon
27. Somebody Feed Phil
“Somebody Feed Phil” is a continuation of Phil Rosenthal’s food travel show adventures. In this series, Phil brings friends and family along as he explores cities and their culinary delights, from Tel Aviv to New Orleans. His infectious excitement and genuine appreciation for food make this show a heartwarming and enjoyable watch.
Available on: Netflix
28. BuzzFeed’s Worth It
“Worth It” by BuzzFeed offers a unique spin on food travel shows. Hosts Steven Lim and Andrew Ilnyckyj explore three different price points for a particular dish—affordable, mid-range, and luxury—in various cities. They then determine whether the more expensive options are “worth it.” This travel show provides a relatable and budget-conscious perspective on food exploration.
Available on: Hulu, BuzzFeed’s website
29. Booze Traveler
“Booze Traveler”, hosted by Jack Maxwell, delves into the world of alcoholic beverages and their cultural significance. Maxwell, with his background as a bartender and his genuine interest in people’s stories, travels the globe to learn about local drinks and the traditions surrounding them. This travel show offers a down-to-earth and engaging exploration of global drinking cultures.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling
30. Chef’s Table
“Chef’s Table” is an Emmy-nominated travel show that offers a deeper look into the lives and culinary philosophies of renowned chefs. Each episode profiles a different chef, showcasing their personal stories, culinary journeys, and signature dishes. It’s a beautifully produced and insightful series for serious foodies and those who appreciate the artistry of cooking.
Available on: Netflix
Reality TV Travel Shows: Unscripted Adventures and Drama
Extreme Engagement showcases the reality aspect of travel shows.
31. Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father
“Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father” is a hilarious and relatable travel show about intergenerational travel. Comedian Jack Whitehall and his decidedly unadventurous father, Michael, embark on journeys to “strengthen their bond.” The comedic clash between Jack’s desire for immersive experiences and Michael’s preference for comfort and familiarity makes this show a laugh-out-loud treat.
Available on: Netflix
32. The Amazing Race
“The Amazing Race” is a long-running reality travel show that pits teams against each other in a race around the world for a $1 million prize. Contestants face physical and mental challenges in diverse locations, testing their relationships and resilience under pressure. The show’s global scope and competitive drama have made it a reality TV staple.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Sling, Amazon
33. Survivorman
“Survivorman” is a survival-focused travel show featuring Les Stroud, a Canadian survival expert. Stroud strands himself in remote wilderness locations for days with minimal gear, filming his own survival efforts. While not for the faint of heart, “Survivorman” offers a raw and realistic look at wilderness survival and may inspire viewers to appreciate nature in new ways.
Available on: Hulu, Amazon, YouTube
34. An Idiot Abroad
“An Idiot Abroad” is a comedy travel show that follows Karl Pilkington as he’s sent on often uncomfortable and culturally perplexing trips around the world by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. Pilkington’s bewildered reactions to unfamiliar customs and situations are the comedic core of this series, making it a unique and entertaining travel show.
Available on: YouTube, Amazon
35. Restaurants on the Edge
“Restaurants on the Edge” is a makeover-style travel show that focuses on struggling restaurants in stunning locations. Food and design experts revitalize these eateries by connecting them with local culture and cuisine. The show showcases not only restaurant transformations but also the breathtaking scenery of places like Malta, St. Lucia, and Hong Kong.
Available on: Netflix
36. Extreme Engagement
“Extreme Engagement” is a unique reality travel show that follows engaged couple PJ Madam and Tim Noonan as they travel the world for a year to test their relationship. They immerse themselves in remote communities and tribal cultures, seeking to uncover the “secret to a perfect marriage.” This series offers a deep dive into diverse cultures and an unconventional relationship journey.
Available on: Netflix
37. House Hunters International
“House Hunters International” is a popular travel show that caters to the fantasy of living abroad. Each episode follows individuals or families as they search for homes in international locations. The show offers a glimpse into real estate markets and lifestyles around the world, often with entertaining doses of unrealistic expectations and lavish budgets.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV, Sling
38. Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost
“Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost” from Vagabrothers presents a competitive travel show format. Brothers Marko and Alex Ayling explore popular cities on both shoestring and luxury budgets. Each episode showcases two contrasting travel styles, offering viewers insights for both budget travelers and those seeking high-end experiences.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube TV
Scripted Travel Shows: Fiction Set in Far-Off Lands
Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories, a scripted travel show with cultural immersion.
39. Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories
“Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories” is a heartwarming scripted travel show set in a small Tokyo diner that operates from midnight to dawn. The show focuses on the diner’s patrons and their interconnected stories, with the Master chef creating custom dishes based on their requests. It’s a slice-of-life series that beautifully captures the essence of Tokyo and Japanese culture.
Available on: Netflix
40. Srugim
“Srugim” is an Israeli drama series that offers cultural immersion in Jerusalem. This scripted travel show follows the lives of five single Orthodox Jewish men and women in their 30s, exploring their relationships, faith, and challenges within their community. “Srugim” provides a nuanced and authentic portrayal of life in Jerusalem.
Available on: Amazon Prime, YouTube
41. Lost
“Lost”, a highly popular American drama series, is set on a mysterious island in the South Pacific. While fictional, this travel show was filmed in Oahu, Hawaii, showcasing the island’s stunning beaches and lush landscapes. “Lost” sparked wanderlust for many viewers, inspiring dreams of tropical island escapes.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Amazon
42. Outlander
“Outlander” is a historical drama series with elements of romance and science fiction, filmed in Scotland, Prague, and South Africa. This visually stunning travel show features sweeping landscapes, historic castles, and elegant gardens. “Outlander” transports viewers to different time periods and locations, making it a visually rich and engaging series for travel enthusiasts.
Available on: Netflix, Hulu, Sling, YouTube TV
43. Downton Abbey
“Downton Abbey” is a beloved British period drama set in a fictional Yorkshire country estate. This scripted travel show depicts the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants in the early 20th century. Filmed at Highclere Castle, “Downton Abbey” has inspired countless viewers to visit the British countryside and experience its historical charm.
Available on: Amazon, YouTube
44. Grantchester
“Grantchester” is a British detective drama set in the picturesque 1950s Cambridgeshire village of Grantchester. This charming travel show evokes the idyllic atmosphere of rural England, with its quaint village, meadows, and traditional pubs. Viewers can even visit the real village of Grantchester and experience its tranquil beauty firsthand.
Available on: Amazon, YouTube
45. Trapped
“Trapped” is an Icelandic crime drama series set in an isolated Icelandic town. This atmospheric travel show captures the stark and dramatic beauty of Iceland’s landscapes, enhancing the suspenseful narrative. “Trapped” showcases Iceland’s unique and often otherworldly scenery, enticing viewers to explore this Nordic nation.
Available on: Amazon
46. The Kettering Incident
“The Kettering Incident” is an Australian drama series set in Tasmania. This mystery-driven travel show features the dark and enchanting landscapes of Tasmania, adding to the show’s eerie atmosphere. Filmed in and around Kettering and Bruny Island, “The Kettering Incident” highlights the captivating and often haunting beauty of Tasmania.
Available on: Amazon, YouTube
47. Top of the Lake
“Top of the Lake” is a New Zealand drama series set in a remote mountain town on the South Island. This gripping travel show showcases the breathtaking scenery of New Zealand’s South Island, particularly the Glenorchy region. “Top of the Lake” offers a glimpse into New Zealand’s untouched wilderness, inspiring viewers to experience its natural wonders.
Available on: Hulu, YouTube, Amazon
48. Sense8
“Sense8” is a science fiction drama series that spans the globe. This visually ambitious travel show was filmed in 15 cities and 13 countries, showcasing diverse urban and natural landscapes. From Seoul to Amsterdam, “Sense8” offers a whirlwind tour of global locations, making it a visually stunning and geographically expansive series.
Available on: Netflix
49. Hawaii Five-0
“Hawaii Five-0” is a classic police procedural series set in Hawaii. This long-running travel show, both in its original and remake versions, showcases the iconic beaches, palm trees, and ocean views of Hawaii. “Hawaii Five-0” serves as a visual escape to a tropical paradise, reminding viewers of the allure of Hawaiian vacations.
Available on: CBS, YouTube TV
50. Marco Polo
“Marco Polo” is a historical drama series inspired by the legendary explorer’s journeys through Central Asia. This epic travel show offers a glimpse into the landscapes of the Mongolian-Manchurian steppe and the cultures of the Silk Road. “Marco Polo” ignites the spirit of adventure and exploration, transporting viewers to a historically rich and geographically vast region.
Available on: Netflix, Amazon
Ready to turn your screen dreams into real-world journeys? Explore the world beyond your couch and start planning your next adventure. For incredible deals on flights to destinations featured in these captivating travel shows, join Going and receive alerts for cheap flights—up to 90% off—directly to your inbox. Your next adventure awaits!
