15 Best Travel Shows to Inspire Your Next Big Adventure
Dreaming of far-off places but stuck at home? Travel shows have a magical way of letting you experience the world without packing a bag. Whether you love getting lost in colorful street markets, exploring wild landscapes, or tasting new foods, the right show can take you there.
We’ve rounded up some of the best travel shows that bring adventure, culture, and excitement straight to your screen. Perfect for a cozy night in or sparking ideas for your next trip, these shows are a reminder that the world is full of wonders — and you’re just one episode away.
1. Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown
Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown is more than a travel show — it’s a moving exploration of humanity through food, culture, and conversation. Bourdain didn’t just visit cities and countries; he dug deep into their stories, often spotlighting places that are overlooked or misunderstood.
With his trademark wit, honesty, and humility, he made viewers feel connected to people across the globe, no matter how different their lives might seem.
His curiosity and respect for every culture turned each episode into something special, blending beautiful visuals, emotional depth, and incredible meals. Parts Unknown isn’t just about seeing the world — it’s about understanding it.
2. Rick Steves’ Europe
Rick Steves’ Europe is like sitting down with a knowledgeable, friendly uncle who’s been everywhere and wants you to love travel as much as he does. Rick’s passion for Europe shines through every episode, where he highlights not just the famous landmarks but also the little cafés, tucked-away neighborhoods, and local traditions that make each destination feel alive.
His advice is practical, his storytelling is sincere, and he has a way of making even the most intimidating places feel approachable. Watching his show is like getting a personal tour guide for all your European dreams — budget-friendly, culturally rich, and endlessly inspiring.
3. Somebody Feed Phil
Few shows feel as heartwarming and genuinely happy as Somebody Feed Phil. Phil Rosenthal’s wide-eyed enthusiasm is contagious, whether he’s devouring a massive sandwich in New York or slurping noodles in Bangkok. He doesn’t try to act like a polished traveler or seasoned foodie — he’s just delighted by everything he experiences.
His goofy humor, heartfelt interactions with locals, and pure joy in every bite make this show feel like a big warm hug. It’s not just about food; it’s about celebrating the kindness, creativity, and community that exist everywhere if you’re willing to sit down and share a meal.
4. Expedition Unknown
Adventure lovers, rejoice: Expedition Unknown with Josh Gates is a thrilling, globe-trotting quest packed with mysteries and ancient legends. Josh isn’t just a host — he’s an explorer with a great sense of humor and a knack for storytelling. One episode might have him searching for pirate treasure, while another sees him hiking through dense jungles to find forgotten cities.
What makes the show special is how real it feels; Josh doesn’t always find the answers, but the excitement is in the journey itself. His infectious spirit and ability to laugh through setbacks make Expedition Unknown feel like an adventure you’re part of, not just watching.
5. Long Way Round
Long Way Round follows Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman as they undertake an incredible 20,000-mile motorcycle journey from London to New York, traveling through Europe, Asia, and North America.
Their route takes them across some of the most remote and breathtaking landscapes on Earth — rugged mountains, endless steppes, dense forests — and challenges them with border crossings, mechanical breakdowns, and rough weather.
But the heart of the series is the genuine friendship between Ewan and Charley. Their laughter, frustrations, and amazement feel real and unscripted, showing the raw, emotional side of travel. Long Way Round reminds you that the best adventures are the ones you share with people you trust, even when the road gets tough.
6. Street Food (Netflix)
If you believe that some of the best stories are told through food, Street Food will steal your heart. Created by the team behind Chef’s Table, this beautifully filmed series highlights the vibrant street food scenes across Asia, Latin America, and the U.S.
But it’s not just about the dishes — it’s about the people behind them. Each episode dives into the life of a street food vendor, telling stories of resilience, passion, family, and tradition. With stunning visuals and heartfelt storytelling, Street Food shows that some of the most unforgettable meals don’t come from fancy restaurants, but from humble stalls full of history and soul.
7. Dark Tourist
Hosted by New Zealand journalist David Farrier, Dark Tourist takes viewers to some of the world’s most unusual and unsettling destinations. Farrier explores places where tragedy, danger, and the macabre are major draws for visitors — think nuclear disaster zones, haunted forests, and sites of historical horrors.
But what makes this show stand out is Farrier’s approach: he’s curious, respectful, and often hilariously awkward. Instead of glorifying the darkness, he questions why people are drawn to it. Dark Tourist is perfect if you’re looking for a travel show that feels a little offbeat, thought-provoking, and completely different from the typical sun-drenched postcard adventures.
8. The Kindness Diaries
In The Kindness Diaries, former broker Leon Logothetis sets out on a global journey relying entirely on the kindness of strangers — no money, no credit cards, just goodwill. He travels on a vintage yellow motorbike, sleeping wherever people offer him shelter and eating whatever they share.
In return, he finds ways to give back to those who touch his heart, often in life-changing ways. The show is uplifting, emotional, and a beautiful reminder that despite everything, humanity still overflows with generosity. If you ever need a boost of hope and faith in people, this show delivers it with a full heart.
9. Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father
Comedian Jack Whitehall and his very proper, very British father, Michael, embark on a series of increasingly ridiculous journeys together in Travels with My Father. Their generational and personality clashes create hilarious moments, but underneath all the sarcasm and eye-rolling, there’s real affection.
As they travel through Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, Australia, and beyond, Jack’s spontaneity constantly butts heads with Michael’s preference for luxury and structure. This show is a funny, lighthearted take on travel — and family — that will make you laugh out loud and maybe even appreciate the quirks of your own loved ones a little more.
10. Tales by Light
Tales by Light is one of the most visually stunning travel shows out there. Produced in partnership with National Geographic, it follows professional photographers and filmmakers as they venture to some of the most remote and breathtaking places on Earth.
Each episode focuses on a different artist’s journey to capture the perfect shot — from underwater wildlife to tribal ceremonies to endangered landscapes.
But it’s not just about photography; it’s about storytelling, preservation, and seeing the world through a different lens (literally). Tales by Light is a quiet, mesmerizing series that reminds you how much beauty and wonder exist if you’re willing to look for it.
11. Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy
Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy is a love letter to Italian food, culture, and heritage, told with warmth, humor, and sophistication. Tucci, the acclaimed actor and passionate foodie, takes viewers on an intimate journey across different regions of Italy, from the bustling streets of Rome to the lush hills of Tuscany.
With every dish he samples, he weaves in history, family traditions, and the local spirit that makes Italian cuisine so beloved around the world. His genuine enthusiasm and effortless charm make the show feel less like a travel documentary and more like a personal invitation to sit at the table and savor life.
12. Down to Earth with Zac Efron
In Down to Earth, Zac Efron teams up with wellness expert Darin Olien to explore sustainable living practices across the globe. This isn’t your typical glamorous celebrity travel show — it’s grounded, refreshing, and surprisingly educational.
Zac’s easygoing attitude and curiosity make him a relatable host as he visits eco-villages, clean energy projects, and communities focused on health and sustainability.
From Iceland’s renewable energy systems to Costa Rica’s “Blue Zones” where people live longer, Down to Earth leaves you inspired to live more thoughtfully, and reminds you that adventure and responsibility can go hand in hand.
13. Race Across the World
Race Across the World puts a thrilling twist on the traditional travel show format. In this reality competition, teams of two race across continents without using air travel — relying only on trains, buses, boats, and sometimes even walking. They have limited budgets and must make tough choices about routes, accommodations, and how to earn money along the way.
What unfolds is not just a race, but a test of resilience, teamwork, and adaptability. Viewers get a front-row seat to stunning landscapes, authentic local interactions, and emotional highs and lows. It’s an exhilarating reminder that travel is as much about the journey as the destination.
14. The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy
Known for his iconic comedic roles, Eugene Levy steps way out of his comfort zone in The Reluctant Traveler. True to the title, Levy isn’t exactly thrilled about globetrotting — but that’s what makes the show so charming.
With dry wit and honest reactions, he tackles exotic destinations, new experiences, and luxury accommodations that he never would have chosen on his own.
Watching Levy’s awkward yet heartfelt attempts to embrace adventure makes the series relatable to anyone who has ever felt a little nervous about trying something new. It’s funny, endearing, and proof that sometimes stepping out of your comfort zone leads to the best stories.
15. Our Planet
Narrated by the legendary David Attenborough, Our Planet is a breathtaking documentary series that takes you across the Earth’s most incredible natural wonders.
But it’s not just a showcase of beautiful places — it’s a powerful call to action about protecting the environment. The cinematography is jaw-dropping, capturing rare animal behavior and awe-inspiring landscapes that feel almost otherworldly.
Each episode connects viewers to the fragility of our planet, showing how interconnected life is across oceans, forests, deserts, and ice caps. Our Planet reminds us that travel isn’t just about seeing new places — it’s about understanding and caring for the world we’re lucky enough to explore.
