Updated: 10/20/2018 | October 20th, 2018
Way back in 2008, I created a list of ten of the best travel movies ever. It’s a great list. But 2008 was a long time ago. (Have I really been blogging for ten years?! What?!) Since I watch a lot of movies on flights and there have been many wonderful and breathtaking travel movies made since then, watching The Way a few days ago made me realize that we’re long overdue for a list of my all-time favorite best travel movies that will inspire you to get off the couch, pack your bag, and head to unknown lands:
Lost in Translation
Besides being an all-around incredible movie, it takes you into the heart of chaotic Tokyo. Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson play two characters adrift in their hotel…at least, until they cut loose and explore Tokyo. They are suffering from a self-imposed confinement, and that bonds them together. Together, they escape into Tokyo with its nonstop energy. The sights, sounds, and energy overwhelm you and will have you booking a flight to Japan. It’s one of my favorite movies of all time.
Whale Rider
I remember seeing this movie when it came out. It blew me away. The story follows a little girl in a Maori village and her struggle to get her grandfather’s acceptance. But the real star here is Maori culture. The modern world of a Maori is spotlighted in an accurate portrayal that invokes wonder and sympathy. I met a member of the featured tribe while in New Zealand, who said the film benefited his people greatly. This movie sparked a fascination with Maori culture that is part of the reason why I went to New Zealand.
Lord of the Rings
Another New Zealand–based movie, Peter Jackson’s award-winning epic will leave you stunned by the diverse and beautiful landscape of New Zealand. From glaciers to rivers, mountains, and forests, New Zealand’s beauty was the star of this movie. It launched the country’s modern tourist industry and made it one of the premier destinations for adventure seekers. Die-hard fans can take part in Lord of the Rings tours.
Into the Wild
Based on a true story, this movie follows Christopher McCandless as he tries to shed his material life and get in touch with real life and nature. After graduating from college, Christopher sets out on a road trip through the USA before ending up in Alaska. Much of the story is based on second-hand accounts, yet the movie is a poignant reminder that we all could simplify our lives a little bit and just enjoy living. It reminds us that travel is not about what we carry with us but about what we carry inside.
In Bruges
Colin Farrell may have thought a life in Bruges was hell, but the city provides a beautiful backdrop for this comedy. And I have to admit, until I saw this movie, I really didn’t know much about Bruges. Sure, I knew where it was and that it was famous, but I’d never given much thought to it. After this movie, I wanted to go to Bruges! It looked beautiful. (And, having been there now, I can confirm it is.) Bruges is a great destination for travelers who want to step back in time. This movie will have you including it in your next European adventure.
Under the Tuscan Sun
I don’t like Diane Lane romance movies, and this movie is totally one of them. Girl feels lost in life, starts fresh, meets guy, everything works out. This movie could star any actress because the real movie star here is Tuscany. Tuscany provides a stunning backdrop for this otherwise mediocre movie. This place lives up to all the hype that surrounds it and will make you want to leave home and buy a vineyard in some small Italian village.
Nowhere in Africa
A German movie that follows the true-life story of a Jewish family that escapes the Nazis to run a farm in Kenya. The movie deals with how they adjust to their new life and cope with the life they left behind. Anyone who has ever adapted to a new culture will be able to relate. It’s not always easy, but as this movie shows, it’s possible once you open yourself up. The movie is in German but subtitled in English. Besides being an inspiring travel movie, it’s one of my favorite foreign-language movies.
Crocodile Dundee
Not only did these movies launch the short career of Paul Hogan but they made everyone want to be an Aussie. Dundee was the MacGyver of the outback. While the movies gave a generation of people clichéd notions of Australia, they also gave Americans a connection to the country. Like us, Aussies were free-spirited pioneers with a love for the wilderness. While it’s cliché and exaggerated, Australians do share a love for nature, and the movie inspired people to visit Oz.
Up in the Air
I live in an airport world. Maybe not as much as Ryan Bingham, George Clooney’s character, but when I saw this movie, I found myself relating too much to Ryan’s character. Though in some ways it has a happy ending, I found the movie to be a downer. I was depressed for hours afterward, because I see myself in Ryan’s lifestyle. He’s a man who feels at home in airports and planes and is constantly on the move. As he says, moving is living. The movie is a must-watch for long-term travelers, as it brings up the sometimes mixed emotions we have about living in constant motion.
The Beach
Released in 2000, the movie follows Alex Garland’s novel about young backpackers who set out to find paradise but end up destroying it, and it had me drooling over Thailand. Those beaches, those parties, those people. It seemed wonderful. Backpackers in Asia are always reading the book, and the movie plays in all the guesthouses. It says something about our hopes for the road: we want to find our own idyllic, romantic paradise. The one we all think won’t be destroyed, but will. The movie has a different ending, characters, and storyline than the book, but the theme is the same. It is a great reflection on the hopes and realities of travel.
The Motorcycle Diaries
Set in South America, this movie follows the life of Che Guevara from doctor to revolutionary. Starring Gael García Bernal, this poignant tale features amazing images of South America, from the deserts to the rainforest. It shows the heartbreaking poverty of the time period, too. Beautifully cast and directed, this movie will make you want to jump on a motorcycle and explore the continent. Even if you do not agree with the politics of the movie, its acting is first-rate, and this movie transcends the politics of the man it follows. It was critically acclaimed for a reason.
Any Indiana Jones
Indy made everyone an archaeologist and an adventure seeker. From Egypt to India, Indy showed us the world and the mythology of ancient cultures. The movie brought out the adventurer in me and helped foster a love for history. It also did wonders for Petra, Jordan. Who didn’t want to see the city after watching The Last Crusade!? Despite the lackluster fourth installment, these movies not only remain some of the best in travel but some of the best of all time.
Thelma and Louise
Released in 1991, this tragic story stars Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis as two women driving across the American Southwest in search of adventure and friendship while escaping the law. The movie is stunningly acted, winning many accolades, and also features breathtaking shots of the American West that will make you want to get in your car and see the country.
Lawrence of Arabia
Released in 1962, this Peter O’Toole classic is set during World War I and follows a British soldier’s interaction with nomadic tribes. O’Toole is T.E. Lawrence, who unites Arabian tribes against the Turks. With stunning images of the desert, you’ll soon be wanting to lead your own expedition through the desert, though probably not for war. Lawrence may remain a controversial figure, but there’s no controversy that this is a great film set in an amazing place.
Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
A movie about Australian drag queens that take a road trip across the desert in order to perform at a lip-synching show. It’s funny, it’s heartwarming, it won a bunch of awards. The stars get shocking reactions as they wander across the Outback toward their show, stopping often along the way. Most importantly, it highlights two of the best things about Australia: the Outback and awesome accents.
A Good Year
Made in 2006 and starring Russell Crowe, this movie features him as an uptight banker who finds his soul again when returns to his uncle’s vineyard. All he wants to do is sell it and make some money, but soon the countryside and a pretty French girl have him changing his tune. (French girls always have you changing your tune!) It’s a movie for the wine lover, and along with Under The Tuscan Sun, will have you heading off to the nearest vineyard before the credits finish.
Eurotrip
A silly movie about backpacking in Europe, this movie will nonetheless have you wanting to see all the places they filmed. The movie takes you across Europe in a whirlwind of stereotypes, but it’s pretty funny, and anyone who has roamed Europe can probably relate to a few of the situations. The script isn’t deep, and some of the situations are goofy, but it does a good job of sending you across Europe and features a very memorable appearance by Matt Damon.
Seven Years in Tibet
This movie is about a German mountaineer Heinrich Harrer and his time with the Dalai Lama. Released in 1997 and starring Brad Pitt, it takes an interesting look at Tibetan culture on the eve of the Chinese invasion. You get an outsider’s perspective on this remote nation and of the ruler who now lives in exile in India. It is an interesting movie, even if it’s not 100% historically accurate.
The Darjeeling Limited
A year after their father’s funeral, three brothers travel across India by train in an attempt to grieve, bond, and get closer. As the brothers try to find meaning in their loss, they fight, resent each other, overcome barriers, and learn to love India. While not my favorite Wes Anderson movie, I loved the cinematography and scenery of this movie. I felt it did a good job of making you want to jump on a plane to India.
Midnight in Paris
I pretty much love every movie about Paris, but this is one of my all-time favorites, not least because it is set mostly set 1920s Jazz Age Paris — the one time period I would live in above all others. The movie follows Gil, a writer on vacation with his fiancée and her family. At night, he wanders the streets of Paris before stumbling into a time warp that sends him back to the ’20s to meet some of the most famous people of the age. With its lighting, story, and incredible acting, this movie will make your heart swoon for the City of Lights. Even though it plays to all the clichés of Paris, I eat it up!
Monsoon Wedding
This Indian independent film tells the story of an arranged marriage and the modern pushback against this tradition by the bride as the family prepares to host a four-day wedding. Artfully shot with intriguing characters and beautiful scenery, this is not only one of my favorite travel movies (and a phenomenal look at Indian culture) but one of my all-time favorite movies ever. I highly recommend you watch this movie.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
This movie was better than I thought (and helped create a boom in Icelandic tourism). Walter Mitty, a guy who hates his job and dreams of a more exciting and adventurous life, is the liaison between Life magazine and the mysterious photographer Sean O’Connell. When the magazine wants to use one of Sean’s photographs for the last issue, Walter realizes he lost it and goes in search of Sean. Along the way, he breaks out of his shell, becomes more confident, and starts to turn his daydreams into reality. It’s a story most people can relate to! The breathtaking scenes they shoot around the world only add to the incredible story.
The Way
Someone who knows me well told me to watch it, and when I did, I was blown away. It was such an emotional movie. I cried a bit. The Way follows Tom, an American doctor who travels to France to pick up the ashes of his dead son. His son died on the Camino and he walks it to finish what his son started. Along the way, he makes friends with some other pilgrims and begins to see why his son loved traveling so much. Martin Sheen is incredible in this film, and the movie totally made me decide to hike the Camino this year.
Vicky Cristina Barcelona
A Woody Allen movie, this movie follows two girlfriends on a summer holiday in Spain who become enamored with the same painter as they spend a holiday in Barcelona. When his crazy ex comes onto the scene, all hell breaks loose. This movie not only tells an amazing story but shows off the beauty, excitement, and magic of Barcelona (Woody Allen, what’s with you getting places right?).
Y Tu Mama También
Set in Mexico, this movie follows two teenage boys and an attractive older woman who embark on a road trip and learn a thing or two about life, friendship, and each other. This movie won countless awards and helped make Gael García Bernal a star.
Wild
Based on the novel of the same name, this movie follows Cheryl Strayed as she hikes the Pacific Crest Trail as a way to restart her life, end her drug addiction, and finally cope with the death of her mother. While I loved the book more (I mean, the book is always better), I thought Reese Witherspoon gave a really strong performance, and the movie still conveys the emotional impact of the book.
Before Sunrise
This classic Gen X movie about a young man and the woman he meets on a train in Europe says a lot about the shortness of travel relationships. They only have one night together, but it seems to stretch on forever. I like this movie because it plays with that sense of “travel time.” On the road, days feel like months, and when you meet someone special, one day can feel like a lifetime.
A Map for Saturday
With this movie, I save the best for last. This documentary follows Brook Silva Braga as he prepares for his year-long trip around the world. He films the entire trip and it is the best — THE BEST — movie about long-term travel. It captures the anxiety before your trip, the worry of your friends and family, the ups and downs, the fleeting romances, deep friendships, and stresses of the road like no other movie ever has. Out of all the movies on this list, if you only watch one, watch this movie. Seriously, this is my favorite travel movie. I watched it the day before I came home and “settled” down in NYC and it stirred a lot of emotions. (I did an interview with Brook many, many years ago.)
There are many travel movies out there — most of them horrible — but out of the countless movies I’ve seen, these are my favorite. What’s yours?
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Caroline Eubanks
The Way makes me cry so hard but I love it!
NomadicMatt
I cried….maybe hard…MAYBE!
Phil
I’ll confess I atcually cried the first time I watched I watched it. Although it is a travel movie it’s also much more. Although it did also have a line I really liked.
Didn’t really know much about the Camino, but it’s one adventure I plan on
Alison
I didn’t cry, but I did pull my turtleneck up over my mouth.
Chris
Matt, your comment made me laugh so hard I ALMOST cried too ;’-)
Jiten
Me too 🙁
Veronika
I’ve seen only about half of the movies, so I still got a lot of catching up to do! Thanks, Matt. I cried when watching The Way too.. and Into the Wild.. and actually many other ones. I’d really like if more travel comedies were made.. perhaps in 2016!
Andrea Anastasiou
This is a brilliant list, Matt. Lost in Translation is my all-time favourite movie; it is what made Japan a priority on my ‘to-visit’ list. Vicky Cristina Barcelona is also another favourite of mine. There are quite a few on here that I haven’t seen yet, so you’ve given me a great idea of what to do next weekend 🙂
Dominique
Great list! Lost in Translation isn’t just my favourite travel movie, it’s my favourite movie of all time! What I love most about this list is there are some less well-known titles in there that I haven’t seen yet, thanks for the recommendation of some new travel movies!
Lara
Wonderful list! I watched The Way with my daughter before she went on a school exchange to Santiago de Compostela. And I’m taking my husband to Tuscany this year, in part because of Under the Tuscan Sun. I often look for movies that depict a destination we’re headed to, but I think I’m ready to dive into this list for continued inspiration on where to go too.
Sonja Riemenschneider
This is a great list! I love the way Secret Life of Walter Mitty makes me feel every time I watch it. The song when he grabs his bag and walks out of his office, gets on the plane and flies to Greenland gives me chills!
Lara
Seriously! I love that movie too!
Phil
The song is called “wake up ” by the arcade fire.. And that’s when the movie really begins(one of my all time favorite movies) although the posters make that scene even better
Scott
The Sheltering Sky. Based on the book by Paul Bowles, himself, a many-decades resident of Morocco.
Jo
Wonderful recommendation. The Sheltering Sky is a terrific movie based on an even better book, set in a gorgeous, exotic (to a Westerner) location. For newbies, see the movie first, then read the book,then go to Morocco!
Kate
Are you serious?!! Sheltering Sky is the one travel film I’d suggest NEVER to watch. It’s like my worst nightmare…the scenes where Malkovich’s character is dying in agony from cholera or whatever it was, in a sweltering desert with no medical care, haunt me forever..
Petr
Oh thankg for the list. I’ve seen only Beach and Eurotrip, they are on my the best movies list! Definitely have to watch others from your list.
Everybody Hates A Tourist
The Trip & The Trip To Italy are great road trip movies, especially if you’re a fan of British comedy (specifically Steve Coogan & Rob Brydon)
Pam Shaeffer
So glad to see these made the list!
Tomáš Vachuda
Thanks for the tips! I would personally add:
– Once Upon a Time in Phuket (I’ve seen it 3 times already, great vibes & funny)
– Hector and the Search for Happiness (very similar to Walter Mitty movie)
Angélica
I love this list, but I feel it really needs ‘Tracks’! And Hector and the search for happiness is great as well 🙂
Jessica
Yes, Tracks is a great one too!
Michelle
Love these movies! A lot of them on here are my favorites 🙂
Elizabeth Hilton
I have seen and love most of these movies. They are a few I have not seen, so thank you for the suggestions. May I return the favor and offer two suggestions. Cinema Paradiso is my all time favorite movie. It inspired me to visit Italy. Also, Cairo Time is a wonderful story too.
Marie
One Week with Joshua Jackson is one of my favourite travel movies.
Andreina
I have seen 90% of these movies and love every single one of them!
Another great movie is Copenhagen. Makes you fall in love with the city ???
Anca | Globaloud
There are a few my all time favorite movies on this list. Before Sunrise goes to my ultimate Top 5 movies list and I really like how good you described the correlation between the movie and the life while traveling. It really shows how endless all that time seems when we escape routine and meet someone new somewhere new.
Marcos
Just the scene by Hal Holbrook,in “into the wild”,when Chris says his goodbye to him pays for the whole list…Truly moving!!
Ria
Saw all of them 🙂 I would add “Samsara” as well, “Baraka” (even if it’s old movie), PK (easy way with good sense about “differences” of religions)
Brett H
I’ve seen almost every movie on this list, so of course I agree with you. Now I just need to catch a couple more, and then start adding new ones to the list. Thanks Matt!
Nayeli
I´ve seen most of them, I would add The Necessary Death of Charlie Countryman ir shows a lot of the life in Bucharest, a defenitley not common or touristy place for a lot and its a great independent film starring Shia LaBeouf and Evan Rachel Wood, pretty great performances and interesting backdrop.
K. Renae P.
I’d watch all the James Bond movies and be in awe of the locations. I remember that I thought he was so cool because he was a spy who got to go all sorts amazing places. I know Bond movies aren’t travel movies per se, but they helped flame my wanderlust fire. I’m saving vacay time & money for Peru (my next big out of country trip) as I type.
Thank you for not including Eat, Pray, Love.
NomadicMatt
It was a shitty movie! Gag!
Jess
I’ve seen a handful of these but will definitely make my way through the rest this year, with the last one at the top of my list! I’d add ‘Into the blue’ not the best movie I’ve seen but I love the simplicity of their life in the Bahamas.
Thanks for these 🙂
Trisha Barnes
Thanks Matt! Always searching for travel movies – this helps immensely! I’d add “Elizabethtown” … the roadtrip at the end is absolutely beautifully designed! 🙂
Renee
I agree, and one of the best funeral scenes ever!
Stephen Gollan
Matt I have so much respect for you as you put Lawrence of Arabia on this list. I was panicking while scrolling down the list looking for it.This movie is a true classic and one of the main reasons I began travelling the world. Great idea for a blog post as well, travel movies are a great way to beat those travel blue (that space in between work and travel). Anyway cheers matt!
NomadicMatt
Glad you like the list!
Curtis
Wow… Going through this list I recognized that I’ve only watched a few of these.
This will give me several movies/documentaries to watch and get up to date on over the coming months.
Thanks Matt!
NomadicMatt
Welcome!
Adam
Americano with Dennis Hopper and Joshua Jackson. If you’re a fan of Hemingway you’ll love it.
Eric
I’m a high school teacher and I showed my senior classes “A Map for Saturday” today, so I was surprised to see it mentioned here. I show the movie every year as a way of sparking an interest in the outside world. Usually the students love the movie, and it is one of my favorites too.
NomadicMatt
I’ll tell Brook. He’s going to be thrilled!
Saad Waqar
Great list, is there any upcoming movie you know like Point Break?
Angel
Nice list of movies! Of this list, I like Y Tu Mama Tambien a lot!
NomadicMatt
Thanks everyone for all the movie suggestions!!
Elisa Zen
This list is top-notch! Many of these are already favorites of mine but there are a couple that I haven’t seen yet that are now on my list. Priscilla, queen of the desert looks like it will be a great watch also Vicky Christina Barcelona sounds like a great film as well. Awesome post!
Christina Chyerez
How about Capitan Ron! Made me want to sail the Caribbean. 🙂
NomadicMatt
Classic film! CLASSIC!
Mauricio Campos
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty has to be my favorite on this list. The places he goes to in the movie are amazing. I hope to visit all of them in my lifetime!
Rebecca
My blog is about film and travel and there’s some on this list I haven’t seen… I’m disappointed in myself!
Joya
Good choices! Midnight in Paris and Before Sunrise are my favorites.
Santos
Into the Wild is a great movie, makes me wanna travel!
Jodi Goes Global
How have I only watched four of these movies!!! Clearly, I have a lot of catching up to do. I loved all of the Lord of the Rings movies, especially because the landscapes were so captivating. Now going to find and watch ‘Wild’. Sounds like something I need to see.
Tea
Great list! I love how you sneaked in EuroTrip – one of the most underestimated travel movies 😉 Have you had a chance to see Hotel Very Welcome? It captures the best travel moments we’ve all experienced with gorgeous Thai and Indian backdrops.
Pat
No 180 Degrees South? Unless you’re doing another piece about documentaries or have not seen it, the movie tells a great story about Jeff Johnson’s journey to Patagonia. Glad to see you included Into the Wild and excluded The Bucket List with Jack Nicholson – that movie is too depressing for my taste.
Colton
180 degrees south all time favorite documentary. It helped me realize back in early high school that life isnt just about working and living the american dream. It also introduced to the most interesting and awesome people. grwat choice to add!
Gurudev
The Art Of Travel is also good One you might like it !
Ally
Wow! So happy that I found your blog & this list. My husband and I have seen about 1/2 of these movies and since we’ve been cooped up in the house a bit more this winter it will be great to keep the adventure flowing though us by checking a few more off the list!
Duke Stewart
Liked I mentioned to you on Twitter before reading this, Wild was pretty cool when I recently watched it. Man, you have some awesome movies on this list that are hard to top. In Bruges was a recent rewatch and has convinced me that a night in that beautiful city is a must before I die. Lost in Translation was sort of my go-to movie when living in Japan many years ago. It really captures the loneliness that can occur, even in one of the world’s largest cities.
Thanks for sharing this list, Matt. You’ve really given me some new ones to watch. (Into the Wild among a few)
paula
What a fantastic list of movies! Love these…I get a kick out of placing the film location when a movie starts – kinda like “Name that Tune” for travel geeks…
I’d add Long Way Round to the list – sure it’s a documentary, but some scenes nail the surreal aspects of travel as well as those times you’re sleep deprived yet walkin & talkin.
These movies really help bridge the gap between travels – Thanks!
Daisy
So many great recommendations Matt! Well done.
Sally
Great list! Have to still watch Wild & The Way. I loved The Decoy Bride, small Scottish island/beginner travel writer, David Tennant & good laughs. Also Leap Year (for us rom/com gals!) set in Ireland.
Jeff
The Way has me wanting to walk El Camino as well. This year if I can swing it, definitely next year, if I have to wait that long.
If you can stand a romance movie, Letters to Juliet has beautiful scenery shots of Italy. And you get to learn about the women from around the world who write letters to Juliet, and the Italian women who answer them all.
If you can stand Mandy Moore, Chasing Liberty takes place all over Europe.
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel and The Second Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. I really enjoyed these two, probably because I’m also an expat (in Ecuador).
Ruby
Loved those as well. Great Jaipur scenery.
Joanne Edwards
Hey Matt,
Saw ‘The Way’ and it actually inspired me to do the walk. What an experience!I even stayed in Martin Sheens’ room….the one with the courtyard scene where the proprietor is pretending to be in the bull ring. Met lovely people from around the world.
You. Will. Love. It!
Best,
Joanne
Andrea
I came here to say the same thing! I walked the Camino nearly three years ago after watching the film. Didn’t stay in the same room as Martin Sheen, but it was definitely a transformative experience and I can’t wait to do it again.
Phil
Is it an amazing experience. One of my life goals is to do it
Candace
I have seen many of these and enjoyed them. Just saw the Secret Life of Walter Mitty this past weekend. It was superb! Thank you for sharing.
RebeccaL
I found it interesting, if predictable, that you hated the romantic aspect of Under the Tuscan Sun, but liked it in A Good Year, with the underlying theme of both being essentially the same. It wasn’t about the romance, it was about finding out the truth about what is most important to making a happy life. I’m not scolding you, Matt, it is simply a matter of gender perspective. For me, Under the Tuscan Sun demonstrated what I love about travel – finding me. When I pack what I need and leave the “things” behind, I am more my true self than at any other time. Only wandering souls get that.
Jeff
I was just looking at your “Companies I Use… page and found your “other” list of movies. You don’t include some of them in this list. Did your tastes change? Or did the missing ones not make it into the ultimate list?
The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert
The Art of Travel
The Beach
City of God
The Darjeeling Limited
Eurotrip
A Good Year
The Hangover
Indiana Jones: The Complete Adventures
Into the Wild
Last Stop for Paul
Lawrence of Arabia
Lost in Translation
Midnight in Paris
Monsoon Wedding
The Motorcycle Diaries
Nowhere in Africa
Romancing the Stone
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty
Seven Years In Tibet
Thelma & Louise
The Way
Up
Up in the Air
Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Y Tu Mama Tambien
NomadicMatt
Most of these are on this list too! Only a couple are on the other list haven’t moved over here! I still love them all!
Jessica
Glad to see some of my favorite travel movies in this list!
Remember to check “Tracks” and “Hector and the search for happiness” Matt! Both really nice. You can see my own list on my blog! 🙂
Franco
Nice list. I also love Midnight in Paris! I will try to watch them all.
Wesley
Just watched Map of Saturday last night because of this post. What a great movie to relate to and be inspired by.
Gracias from Mexico
NomadicMatt
Glad you liked it! It’s my fav! 🙂
Vishal
thanks Matt for sharing such a fantastic list. i hardly watched 1 or 2 movies out of it now panning to watch them all.
you are a star.
David
Check out Outsourced (2006), a movie about an American who is transferred to India by his novelty gift company to manage a call center. The movie later was made into a comedy television series which sadly lasted only one season.
Max Neumegen
I see I have lots of watching to catch up with. For me, the ultimate travel film has always been “2001 a space odyssey” since the first time it saw it.
Also, it may be interesting to see what peoples choices are for travel related documentaries. There are just so many today.
Billy O'Connell
“Nowhere In Africa” is one of my favorite movies. I’ve never come across anyone else who’s seen it. And I totally related to “Up In The Air”! I also include all Matt Damon “Bourne” movies.
Megan
I remember watching The Beach, and it instantly made me want to go to Thailand. I wanted to discover my own piece of paradise.. however, when i eventually arrived at Maya Bay (where The Beach is filmed) I was so disappointed. It was no longer a secret haven or hidden paradise… The nearest I ever came to a deserted island was Koh Rong in Cambodia, but even that island is becoming built up now..
Meagan
Brokedown Palace…maybe not a “favourite” movie given it’s not very uplifting but it certainly gives you some perspective on travelling in Asia.
Ashley
I always liked this movie even though it’s pretty terrifying. Sure teaches you a good traveling lesson though!
Johnny
Hey Matt,
I know this is a list about movies, but I’m wondering if you’ve ever heard of the TV show “Departures”? It’s a great series about two Canadian guys in their late twenties backpacking all around the world. It’s inspiring and beautifully shot. I recommend it to anyone who wants to get a sense of what it’s like to just drop everything and travel.
Jennifer
Best show ever!
Jennifer
My favorite quote of all time came from an episode in departures. A wise man named Filiberto on Chiloe in Chile (departures.):
“Live life to the fullest! It’s the best way. Live every moment intensely. Because life is too short, and the moment comes when we are going to die, and we’d wished to do so many thing we didn’t. Thats why we have to enjoy every moment. One must enjoy life.
Try not to acquire so many things, but instead have experiences. Accomplish everything you want to do, no matter the effort that it deserves. Life is too short and one must relish it.”
Timothy W Pawiro
Great compilation! Hvnt watched most of the movies on the list … *yikes*
😀
Vince Law
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is an incredible movie to watch to get pumped up for a trip. I watched this on my flight to London when I studied abroad, and it holds a special place in my heart. Also, it has an incredible storyline that can inspire travel anywhere. Midnight in Paris is a great movie that inspires travel to Paris, and also tells great backstories of some famous writers and artists. The Lord of the Rings can inspire travel with the beautiful scenery. There are several movies on this list I’d like to see. Specifically, I’d like to see Seven Years in Tibet, Lawrence of Arabia, and A Map for Saturday.
Ashley
I watch Under the Tuscan Sun because I constantly miss life in Italy so much – even though it’s so cheesy it’s almost painful. Vicky Christina Barcelona I could watch over and over and over 🙂
Fawad Ali
Wow. I never watched any movie of a/m list but now I will try to watch all of them in a series as per your list. Thanks for such a wonderful list.
Best wishes from Pakistan for every reader of this post.
RTW Mike
Great list, I also like the Art of Travel.
Brian Lennon
This list is great. I have a couple other movies to add, the first being one of my favorite films of all time: Charlie Countryman, Tracks, The Way Back, Sideways (not a ton of travel in this film, but the acting, writing are incredible)
L. Morgan
Sideways….a great movie.
Herman K
Hi Matt,
I’d vote for Indiana Jones. I watched Vicky Cristina Barcelona and Up in the Air, thanks for your list, enjoyable movies.
Caroline R
Eat, Pray, Love makes me drool over Rome, Bali, and India. Really shows how getting away from the world you know can open your eyes.
Michael
I stumbled upon your blog with a google search of “best travel movies”, because my wanderlust bones were aching again and I was hoping to find something new to take me away. I love all of these movies.
My favorite part of your list, though, is your expressed love for “A Map for Saturday”. It’s the best and I really don’t know how many times I’ve watched it. Too many. I feel like Brook and I are friends. It just doesn’t get old and watching it really does scratch (or aggravate) that wanderlust itch every time.
Kate
Eat pray love should be added to this list!
Kadi
MATT! Have you not seen Hector and the Search for Happiness?! The Tourist and Sahara are two other good ones that I did not see on your list.
erich
excellent publication, I have seen several movies that you mention it, others see them caused me curious on your feedback. I wish you a good trip on your next outing.
Elise
You HAVE to add ‘Tracks’ to your list!
And Australian film about a girl who walks from Alice Springs straight to the west sea accros the dessywith her dog and 3 camels!
Another women power movie!
Dave
You are 100% correct about A Map For Saturday! Honestly, I think watching that movie changed my life. Such an amazing film. I actually saw it while on my very first trip to South-East Asia, at this really cool place on Koh Phi Phi called the Banana Bar. They play movies every night, and since the film incldues a section on Phi Phi, it created the perfect setting to watch it. Surrounded by fellow travelers. I recommend to it everyone!
Veronica
Chasing liberty, is one of my absolute favorite movies, and it’s also a really good international movie 🙂
Marc
Midnight in Paris is a great movie and loved it. It’s a great collection and I may have to watch them all. Thanks Matt
Anna
Paris, Je T’aime! So many facets to one beautiful city. Since you apparently like his films, I’d also recommend Allen’s To Rome With Love . Also, there’s this fantastic Italian movie from the late 90s I think called Bread and Tulips (Pane e Tulipani) about an Italian housewife who gets separated from her family on vacation and catches a random ride to Venice where she rediscovers herself. I found it my library’s foreign film section and adored it. Oh and then there’s the classic Roman Holiday . can you tell I love Italy????
Alice
Matt, I hate having to correct you but Heinrich Harrer of Seven Years in Tibet was Austrian, not German.
Other than that – great list. I liked The Secret Life of Walter Mitty so much more than expected (incidentally watched it on a plane – luckily on the way to my holiday, not back home) and have yet to see The Way. Whale Rider had me in tears almost from the beginning for it’s sheer power of few words and intense pictures and I just bought the ebook of Into the Wild and can’t wait to dig into it.
I also loved Australia (yes, the Hugh Jackman/ Nicole Kidman film) for its beautiful images of the Australian Outback as well as Tracks (for similar reasons) and interestingly, Slumdog Millionaire made me want to experience India.
Tomer Maimran
The Art of travel is one of the best travel movies ever! I highly recommend it
Bud Inman
Funny no one ever has this movie, came across it on Netflix awhile back, “One Week”. Has Joshua Jackson in it, he finds out he has stage 4 cancer and travels across canada on a motorcycle. Not the best I’ve ever seen but definitely on my list
Colton Mcclain
I agree 100% with your list, especially into the wild. I read that book in the 6th grade and the story of Chris Mccandless really had a huge impact on my life. As others have stated 180 degrees south is my all time favorite documentary, one week was pretty good as well, departures was a great tv show, just watched north of the sun and i have to say the scenery is absolute beautiful Norway is definitely on my next place to visit. And lastly you guys should check out these short documentary by Chris Burkard you can find them on itunes to watch the trailers and stuff but they include, Cradle of storms, the out post volume 1 and volume 2.
Neha Makdey
Animated movies –
1. Finding Nemo
2. Up
They teach us how to travel 🙂
Lynn
Fabulous list! Lots new that I haven’t seen, so thanks 🙂 A Map for Saturday is one of my all time favorite movies – so glad you included it, as most have never heard of it. It’s what jump-started my own year around the world trip!
Kjc
Great list.. I’d add
1. La haine.. Great shots of Paris and really gets into its gritty African based subculture..
2. Outsourced… Interesting comedy about a company outsourcing to India. Made me want to visit India!
3. The guard… Portrays modern rural Ireland very well.. A dark comedy
Laurel
Where can I find Nowhere in Africa? Sounds great.
As an old timer, highly recommend The Man who would be King.
Jenn Coleman
Awesome list! So many of these movies are near and dear to my heart! Into the Wild I read my first year out of high school, and inspired me to 20 years of living in mountain towns teaching skiing and guiding whitewater. My husband and I listened to Wild on a road trip, and were both balling while trying to drive (both the movie and both are amazing in their own right, but we were very happy that they cut out many parts of the horse scene from the movie! That was the brutal part of the book that caused the tears). The Whale Rider has a really special place in my heart, I was fortunate enough to see it the first day at showed at the Sundance Film Festival with my Kiwi ex husband and a bunch of our New Zealand friends. What an amazing movie! We were so happy it won that year!
Mike
A few more:
Tracks
Transsiberian
Sightseers
Touching The Void
180 Degrees South
Brokeback Mountain
Walkabout
And…errm…Romancing The Stone. :p
NomadicMatt
Romancing the Stone is a classic!
Frank
Some good movies in there, I liked “The Way”, “In Bruges”, and I loved (almost) all the Indiana Jones movies.
But if you can include Indiana Jones in there I’d all the “Bourne” movies, especially the Bourne Identifty and Bourne Supremacy. And since I have a man-crush on Matt Damon I’d add the first movie of his I saw: “The Talented Mr. Ripley” which really showed off Italy.
Frank (bbqboy)
Tom
I loved a map for saturday. My girlfriend and i watched it about 4 times already, and this within a month 🙂 We decided to take a long trip ourself as well and this movie was very inspiring.
Marco Polo
Great list, Matt!
And also great additions in the comments!
I noticed there are lots of Italy lovers in the comments.
Here’s a great adventure/comedy travel movie in italian:
“Puerto Escondido” is set in the Mexican surfing paradise of the same name and is an excellent adventure/comedy which received several acting awards and spurred an italian travel boom to the town. As a result, you\’ll find tons of very good italian restaurants when you go there 😉
Waleed
I would add \”Hanna\”. It\’s an action movie, but she goes to several countries, and after the part in Morocco, I immediately booked a ticket. It was majestic!
Kristina
I love Before Sunrise, watched it a couple of times 🙂
Eliza
Thanks for the list and to everyone that has commented. I now have a lengthy list of inspiring movies to watch whilst on the road. There’s one film which makes me want to snorkel everyday of my life… Kon Tiki!
Erin
Great list, I\’ve seen most but a few new ones. Just love Woody Allen\’s whole European series.
Under the Tuscan Sun is a great movie!! Great actors and well done.
I would also add Some Like it Hot, inspired an early love of train travel.
And North by Northwest for some suspenseful travel!!
And another romantic comedy but with great acting by Marisa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr and directed by Norman Jewison with beautiful Italian scenery: Only You. Totally cheesy but really captures that drive down the Amalfi Coast!
Greetings from Zambia
Emily
Hate to admit that I’ve only seen one movie on this list but oh my I loved it!!! WILD! It just made me confirm how much I need to go traveling to save myself
Beth
I think you should really add 180 Degrees South. It’s a documentary type film, but it’s one I’ve watched over 30 times. It’s the type of movie you go to when you need a lift!
The Way also inspired me to do the Camino. I didn’t get to do the whole thing, but just doing a month of it changed my life.
Thanks for the list!
Emilie Girard
The movie ”Tracks” i also a really great travel movie. It’s based on the true story of Robyn Davidson who trained 4 wild camels to walk across the Australian outback on her own in the 70’s. (The book is wonderful too of course and in my opinion better than the movie) but the movie was really good and loved the cast.
Beth H
Matt, thanks for providing this list. The one movie that started my dreams of travel was The Man from Snowy River. I watched with wonder at the scenery and splendor of that region of Australia.
Blair
Just watched Hector and the Search for Happiness on Netflix. Solid travel theme and it’s good for those of us questioning the current state of our lives. Check it out, see what you think.
Fenne
There are a few on the list that I still have to see but one of my favourites is “on the road” based on the book by Jack Kerouac.
BJ in Canada
“Enchanted April” captures the incredible feeling of Italy – One of my favourite movies …inspiring!
Thomas Pallesen
You have to watch Lion if you haven’t seen it already! Fantastic movie!
Ruby
Thanks for the wonderful list. I also enjoyed all the suggestions in the comment section.
One movie that inspired me to go to Indonesia was an oldie called The Year of Living Dangerously. With a young Mel Gibson and Sigourney Weaver. He’s a reporter who gets stuck in a revolution.
Katherine
I’ve seen most of your recommendations except 2, and I’d like to add several. One of my favorites is Brigadoon (warning- a musical ), The Long Long Trailor, hilarious Lucy and Dezi honeymoon travels,- more recently, A Trip to Italy. One that touched my heart was The Straight Story based on the true story of Alvin Straight who drove a lawn mower tractor from Iowa to Wisconsin. I’m surprised you left out Easy Rider.
LA
When I was a teen, I saw “Only You” (with Marisa Tomei and Robert Downey Jr) and fell madly in love with Italy… I still can’t believe I’ve never been, but as I cross certain things off my list, Italy is getting closer!
Giselle
Try watching Point Break! The story mostly is about extreme sports but the views are amazing!!!
Claire
Wonderful list Matt, some l havn’t seen so a bit of catching up to do. Thanks for the heads up.
Maureen
Loved these. Before Sunrise, and After Sunset are great. The Way – please can I meet Yoast? Under the Tuscan Sun is brilliant!! Almost bought that villa, but in Umbria. Stayed at the Hyatt a couple times where Lost in Translation was filmed in Tokyo, and in St. Louis where Alex met Ryan in Up in the Air.
Monika
Also, if you’re not ready to jump on a plane to Hawaii don’t ever watch 50 first dates, Aloha or Jurassic Park – those views are just so beautiful I could cry.
Bri
I’m not much of a movie person UNLESS they have a seriously good story to tell. I grew up in Africa so I must add three of my all time favourites: Second Hand Lions, Sahara, and The Gods Must Be Crazy. I HIGHLY reccommend.
All three are hilarious, heartwarming, adventurous, full of history and rich culture.
Maya
Check out One Week, an amazing indipendent Canadian film (you can find it free on YouTube). It’s about a man in Toronto who, when he finds out he has stage 4 cancer, buys a motorcycle and starts going West. It’s a beautiful tribute to everything Canadian and bases a lot of its philosophy of the quote “To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.”
Glenda
Great list. I have seen most of them but have to check out the others, specially a map for Saturday. Others I love that are not on your list: Long Way Down (tv docu with Ewan Mcgregor and Charlie Boorman graveling from Scotland to South Africa on motorcycles), Eat, Pray, Love, Julie and Julia, any Jason Bourne film.
John
I really like like The Art of Travel also.
Rui
About Schmidt with Jack Nicholson’s road trip, and his personal reflexions put together with letters to the african child N’Dugu, put so much in perspective about life and each man circumstances.
Shraddha
This list is fabulous. I guess I have to catch up on a lot of them already! And its the best use of the quarantine period right now! By the way, some of these are quite old from the ’90s, and I love how the cinema was so meaningful back then.
Odeyemi Wasiu
I watch the The Beach and I love it but way they throw them out of the island give me nightmare
John
The Art of Travel is also worth a watch if you haven’t already.
Bob
Can’t believe you missed Easy Rider.
Two for the road. Albert Finney and Audrey Hepburn travelling across France as they play out their marriage over the years.
Under the Volcano with Albert Finney again as a retired British Consul getting drunk in Mexico.
Ice Cold in Alex. A British war movie about an ambulance crossing the Libyan desert with the dream of a cold beer in Alexandria at the end.
The most thrilling, nail biting road film ever has to be The Wages of Fear. Next time you are on a rickety third world bus on a rough mountain road just think it could be worse. You could have a cargo of nitro-glycerine.
Warren
I really like The Art of Travel also.
Nilima
An excellent compilation of travel movies! Seen some of them…For Paris, my favorite is Amelie & our very own Indian movie – An Evening in Paris.
Agree with your view on ‘ Under the Tuscan Sun’- breathtaking sceneries…