The 75+ Best Travel TV Shows Sure To Give You The Travel Bug

Departures is a masterpiece of travel television, immersing viewers in an authentic and raw exploration of various cultures, landscapes, and human connections. The show's hosts, Scott Wilson and Justin Lukach, offer a genuine and relatable portrayal of two friends embarking on a journey around the globe, making viewers feel like they are right there with them. With its brilliant cinematography and engrossing storytelling, Departures showcases the transformative power of travel, creating an undeniable sense of wanderlust in all who watch. More than just a typical travelogue, this series delves into the heart of cultural experiences, leaving viewers inspired to take their own adventures.

Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown remains a trailblazer among travel shows, thanks to its unapologetic and thought-provoking examination of often-overlooked destinations. Bourdain's passion for exploring the world, combined with his innate curiosity and respect for other cultures, truly sets this show apart from its contemporaries. Through intimate conversations with locals and immersive culinary experiences, Parts Unknown expertly intertwines the themes of food, culture, and travel, revealing the interconnected nature of humanity. With its mesmerizing storytelling and rich cultural insights, this groundbreaking series leaves viewers yearning for a deeper understanding of the world.

With Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations, viewers are treated to a unique blend of culinary curiosity, cultural immersion, and a healthy dose of humor. Bourdain's willingness to jump headfirst into any experience, from sharing a meal with a tribal community to facing his fears in a haunted Romanian forest, highlights the transformative nature of travel. No Reservations artfully showcases how culture and cuisine inform one another, as Bourdain uncovers the hidden stories and flavors of each destination. The show's marriage of culinary delights and globe-trotting adventure will leave viewers hungry for their own epicurean escapades.

In The Layover, Anthony Bourdain takes viewers on a whirlwind tour of cities around the world, making the most of the limited timeframe a layover provides. By showcasing the best each destination has to offer in just 24 to 48 hours, the show highlights the importance of embracing spontaneity and flexibility in travel. Bourdain's charismatic personality and insider tips make him the ultimate travel companion, proving that meaningful experiences can be had even in the briefest of moments. With its fast-paced adventures and hidden gems, The Layover inspires viewers to seize every opportunity for exploration, no matter how fleeting.

Travels in Europe with Rick Steves stands out as a quintessential travel show that effortlessly transports viewers to the continent's most iconic destinations. Steves' genuine enthusiasm for European history and culture, paired with his expert guidance, helps demystify foreign travel for beginners while also captivating experienced globetrotters. Through engaging storytelling and valuable travel tips, the show encourages viewers to connect with locals and immerse themselves in authentic experiences. Travels in Europe with Rick Steves is a must-watch for those looking to explore Europe with both reverence and curiosity.

An Idiot Abroad offers a refreshingly irreverent take on travel, delivering equal parts humor and cultural insight. Following Karl Pilkington, a reluctant traveler with a penchant for comedic grumbling, the series documents his experiences exploring the world at the insistence of his friends, Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant. The show cleverly juxtaposes Pilkington's unconventional perspective with the rich tapestry of global cultures, resulting in a truly unique and entertaining travelogue. With its offbeat humor and endearing protagonist, An Idiot Abroad showcases the transformative potential of travel, even for the most skeptical of sojourners.