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25 Best Travel Movies On Netflix

I think every wanderlust lover enjoys a great travel movie! These films can make you travel the world in a little under two hours and can be super inspiring. Though finding the right movies to watch when traveling can be time-consuming and even complicated if you’re on an international trip. That’s why Netflix is life-saving for all travel lovers wanting to watch movies on the road! 

For me, one of the best gifts for travel lovers is a streaming subscription! This allows us to download movies and watch them whenever suits us better while on a trip. It’s practical and stress-free! Plus, Netflix has an impressive movie catalog that includes some of the most beloved travel films out there. That’s why I decided to create this roundup. Keep reading to find out what are the best travel movies on Netflix! 

1. Eat, Pray, Love (2010)

This movie is an absolute classic! Not only is this story filled with beautiful landscapes, but it’s also quite moving. It’s based on a true story, so you’re for sure getting the real deal here. The plot follows a freshly divorced woman, Liz, as she embarks on a 9 month-long trip to find herself. The story kicks off in New York but Liz travels to Italy, India, and Bali on this self-discovery journey. It’s fast-paced (only about an hour and a half long) and filled with travel motivation. As you can probably tell, this movie is as inspiring as it gets! 

2. Lion (2016)

This is another touching film based on true events. It’s the story of Brierley, who got lost and separated from his parents at only 5 years old. He ended up on the other side of his home country, India, and never saw them again, getting adopted later and moving to Australia. But the story kicks off when Brierley decides to go on a journey to find them! The movie will take you on a heart-wrenching journey across India and Australia. It lasts almost two hours, so get cozy! 

3. Chasing Liberty (2004)

For anyone longing for a 2000’s rom-com after two emotional films, I’ve got you! This is such a feel-good type of movie that it’s perfect for anyone stuck at a boarding gate, bus terminal, or rainy day when camping ! The story follows the daughter of the President of The United States as she steps off on a European adventure to rebel against the constant security imposed on her. It’s got European travel destinations, 2000’s nostalgia, and romance! 

4. Expedition Happiness (2017)

If you want to check out some of the best United States road trip destinations , then this film is for you!  Expedition Happiness follows a German couple as they set off on a road trip across the USA, Mexico, and Canada. They explore all of North America with their dog and a converted school bus. The views are spectacular and will definitely inspire you to travel!  It lasts 96 minutes and will convince you to pack your bags before you even get to watch half of it! 

5. Mamma Mia (2008)

Another outstanding classic! I couldn’t leave Mamma Mia out of this list, especially when it’s such an uplifting and comforting film. The story takes place on a Greek island ( anyone else longing for some sun right now?) and follows a young woman named Sophie who’s about to get married. She wants her father to be there but doesn’t know who she is. So Sophie invites all three of her potential dads to the wedding! It’s a true rollercoaster of a film. Plus, it’s a musical, so there’s even more to love about it! 

6. Ibiza (2018)

Okay, so this movie is pretty much a rulebook for what NOT to do on a business trip. Which makes it all that much more fun and enjoyable! The plot follows Harper, a 30-year-old woman from NYC who travels to Barcelona for work. But (of course) everything goes off track when she meets a handsome DJ! It’s only an hour and a half long, so you can definitely squeeze it in the middle of any busy day! 

7. The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)

Alright, we’re back to the moving travel movies category. For real now, this is the ultimate road trip movie! It follows the story of Ben, a writer turned caregiver in charge of a teenager with muscular dystrophy, Trevor. As the boy loves American roadside attractions, Ben convinces his mother to go on a road trip across the country. It’s an emotional film packed with views of the open road! 

8. The Terminal (2004)

Pretty much everyone and their mother knows this is a great movie. This commercial success follows the ordeal of an Eastern European man stranded inside of New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport because his passport is no longer valid. But the same reason why they won’t let him in is the same reason why he can’t leave: his country suffered a military coup and his life would be in danger. So he stays there, making a terminal his new home as he waits for asylum. This is a classic and you should not miss it! 

9. Casino Royale (2006)

James Bond films are always quite the show! They’re bound to make you have fun while traveling. This one follows Bond as he is earning his license to kill and is involved in a high-stakes poker game at the Casino Royale, Montenegro. The movie was shot in the Czech Republic, the Bahamas, Italy, and the United Kingdom. So you’ll see lots of different places! 

10. Amelie (2001)

If you’ve ever longed for a trip to Paris, then this movie is for you! The story follows Amelie, a girl whose childhood was conditioned by her mistakenly diagnosed heart condition. As she barely got any real-life interactions with people, she resorted to her own fantasy world that resulted in a vivid imagination even as an adult. Her life changes when she moves to Paris and that’s where this story begins. It’s a cinematic masterpiece and a very acclaimed film! 

11. Into the Wild (2007)

This great movie will take you deep into the wilderness of Alaska. It’s the story of Christopher McCandless, as he sells all of his possessions after graduating from university and departs to Alaska. He even donates all of his savings to give it all up and live in the wild. Along the way, he’ll encounter people that will forever make an impact on his life. It’s quite a long film (almost two and a half hours long) but definitely worth your time! 

12. Adrift (2018)

This moving film is based on an inspiring true story and will leave you shaken. It follows the adventures of two sailors who embark on a trip across the seas only to find themselves in the eye of one of the most catastrophic hurricanes in history. After the storm, their boat is shredded to pieces and one of them is badly injured. Now all they have to do is try to survive. It’s a gripping story, that’s for sure! 

13. Crystal Fairy and the Magical Cactus (2013)

This movie is for those who want a bit of fun when they’re away or daydreaming of being on the road! Meet Jamie, a let-loose American who’s traveling in Chile. There, he joins a woman keen to discover the benefits of a local South American hallucinogen: the San Pedro cactus. You’re bound to have a good laugh with this one. It’s short (1:40 hours) and hilarious!

14. Forrest Gump (1994)

This American classic is one you’ve probably seen dozens of times before. But we never get tired of this movie! This story follows the beloved character, Forrest Gump, across a tale of his eventful life while he waits at a bus stop. His memoirs also depict a series of key events in American history, so it’s quite the emotional ride. It’s a longer movie, almost two and a half hours long, but certainly an unskippable one! 

1 5. Jiro Dreams of Sushi (2011)

This Netflix documentary follows the life of 85-year-old sushi master Jiro Ono and his work at his renowned sushi restaurant. It also touches upon his relationship with his son as he is under the pressure of taking over the restaurant. Meanwhile, Jiro sets out on his lifelong quest to create the perfect piece of sushi. It all happens in Tokyo, so it’s a great movie for those longing to visit Japan! 

16. Faces places (2017)

This documentary is the perfect road trip film! The French protagonists, 89-year-old New Wave director Agnés Varda and 33-year-old photographer JR, embark on an artistic journey that’s caught on camera. They travel around the small villages of rural France, as they create portraits of the people they come across on their trip. It’s simple, subtle, and comforting! It’s a great movie for a road trip, so head over to our Road Trip section to start planning your next one.  

17. In Search Of Fellini (2017)

This story is both dreamy and relatable in certain ways! The protagonist is a small-town girl from Ohio who isn’t too keen on reality but adores movies. When she discovers the artistic and bizarre films of Federico Fellini, she takes off on a passionate trip across Italy just to find him. It’s a coming-of-age memoir mixed with a heavy dose of wanderlust. And if you like Italy’s landscapes, you can’t skip it! 

18. The Mummy (1999)

This one is another classic! If you’re in the mood for an adventure comedy, this is what you need to watch. Out of all these travel movies, The Mummy has a very distinct vibe. Is a mix of romance, adventure, comedy, and terror that just ticks all the right boxes! It tells the story of an expedition of treasure-seeking explorers in the Sahara Desert. When they uncover an ancient tomb, they set free a  3,000-year-old mummy by accident. And I’ll let you find out the rest from there! Get ready to visit Egypt! 

19. The Way (2010)

The Way is visually stunning and emotionally touching. It tells the story of a man who goes to St. Jean Pied de Port, France to gather the remains of his deceased adult son. His son died in a storm while attempting to complete the Camino de Santiago (The Way of Saint James trail). There, he decides to embark on the pilgrimage himself to honor his son’s desires. It’s an emotional ride but a beautiful one! 

20. The Bucket List (2007)

A travel movie with Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman is a film worth watching! This comedy-drama follows two men suffering from a terminal illness as they set out on a once-in-a-lifetime kind of road trip. On their journey, they will check off everything they need to from their bucket lists before actually “kicking the bucket”. It’s funny, it features lots of cool places and activities, and it’ll sure keep you company while on the open road! 

21. On The Road (2012)

On The Road is the compelling take of a road trip fuelled by grief and a need for inspiration. Writer Sal Paradise embarks on a trip across the open road to regain clarity and motivation. On his journey, he encounters the free-spirited Dean Moriarty and his charismatic girlfriend. Together they travel the American Southwest in search of the unknown. The landscapes present in this movie are stunning and it’s always great to get to see more of the US! 

22. Wild Oats (2012)

This film is for those who want to watch movies that are a ton of fun! Wild Oats is a great movie capable of getting a laugh out of most of us. The story kicks off when a retired high school teacher receives a $5,000,000 check for her deceased husband’s $50,000 life insurance policy. Influenced by her friends, she decides to make the most out of the mistake and embark on a wild trip to the Canary Islands. The location of this film is beautiful and the storyline is hilarious! 

23. The Da Vinci Code (2006)

Everyone knows The Da Vinci Code in one way or another, right? Whether you’ve read the book or seen the film, this is a travel movie worth watching. The story follows symbologist Robert and cryptologist Sophie as they find themselves in the middle of a political and religious battle amid different believers. I don’t want to spoil anything else but this one is a must-watch!

24. Forgetting Sarah Marshall (2008) 

This is one of the best comedies/rom-coms of all time! Not only does it make everyone laugh and cringe a little, it’s also set in beautiful Hawaii. The plot follows Peter, who was dumped by his girlfriend (actress Sarah Marshall) and decided to take off to Hawaii. He hopes to relax but, as he’s checking in, he spots Sarah and her new boyfriend. The events that follow are bizarre, hilarious, and worth watching! 

25. Cairo Time (2009)

Finishing off this roundup of travel movies on Netflix with Cairo Time seems like the right move. This movie is poetic to its core and has some really strong performances. It’s a romantic drama that focuses on an unexpected affair in Cairo. Of course, it features the best views of the city and a few of Egypt’s most iconic landmarks. For those of you who love the Pyramids, this one’s for you! 

What are your favorite travel movies and shows on Netflix?

Those are the 25 best travel movies on Netflix! Each and every one of these films is perfect for sparking that wanderlust flame or preparing for an upcoming trip. Even more, you can watch them while traveling on a road trip or at the hotel! So just download them and get ready to be entertained for a while. What is your favorite travel movie? Let me know in the comments. Now go enjoy those wanderlust-packed films! 

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Hello and warm regards from sunny Singapore!

Been following your IG and now subscribed to your blog. Thanks for this travel list. Cant wait to watch them. Thanks for your recommendations.

Ms Shan Lim

This is such a great list!! I am such an Egypt fanatic, how I have never heard of Cairo Time? Totally going to watch that tonight, thanks for the recommendations!

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11 Travel Movies on Netflix to Download for Your Next Flight

Whether you're back at home between trips or prepping for a two-hour-plus flight, watching classic travel movies on Netflix can be one of the best ways to spirit yourself away to a new destination. It's a great time to do so, too: With the streaming options below, this might be the best collection of films on the platform yet—especially when it comes to documentaries. And as more and more airlines move their in-flight entertainment from seatback screens to mobile apps, you might as well download these ahead of your next flight, so you can watch what you'd like (and not Hitch for the 20th time). 

Note that you'll have to head off of Netflix to see some of our other favorites that the streaming site has previously carried (like road trip classic Y Tu Mamá También , which is available to rent on Amazon, or Catch Me If You Can , available on Peacock). And once you've finished this list, don't worry, we have a whole other list of our favorite travel TV shows on Netflix —including most of the late Anthony Bourdain's work—to binge. 

For now, here's a list of some of our favorite movies involving travel by land, air, and sea, that are available right now on Netflix.

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Eat Pray Love (2010)

Elizabeth Gilbert’s memoir of leaving her busy city life behind to seek new adventures in Italy, India, and Indonesia has charmed millions of readers. The film may not have the emotional heft of the book, but the scenery it provides more than makes up for it.

Roma (2018)

One of Netflix's first original travel movies, Alfonso Cuarón's beautiful tribute to his youth in Mexico City recreates a world many felt had been lost to time. And if you want to stay in Roma 's world after the credits roll, look no further than our guide to Mexico City Airbnbs that features a number of rentals that feel like they could have been been in the film .

My Octopus Teacher (2020)

This Netflix original documentary—which won the Oscar for Best Documentary Feature in 2021—follows filmmaker and freediver Craig Foster as he forges a friendship of sorts with a wild octopus that lives in a kelp forest off the coast of Simon's Town, an area outside of Cape Town more commonly known for its penguin-filled beaches. Follow Foster as he learns about the marine life in the area, and applies lessons he learns from the octopus, who he visits every day for a year, to his own life above sea level.

The Terminal (2004)

While there are plenty of stories of travelers and refugees taking up a semi-permanent residence in an airport terminal, this version—where Tom Hanks plays a traveler who spends nine months in New York's JFK airport after arriving, only to find his passport is invalid and he can't return home—is completely fictional. Look for appearances by Stanley Tucci , Catherine Zeta-Jones, and Zoe Saldana, but don't look for recognizable JFK airport landmarks, as the terminal scenes were actually shot on a soundstage built into a hangar at L.A.'s Palmdale Regional Airport. 

Casino Royale (2006)

Pick any of the 24 released Bond films and you'll watch the MI6 agent jetset from places like Dunn River Falls in Jamaica, in 1962's Dr. No, to Mexico City in the opening scene of Spectre . But we think Casino Royale has some of the best filming locations of them all—at least until No Time to Die hits theaters later this year—as it was filmed in Prague , the Bahamas, and Venice and Lake Como in Italy. 

The Dawn Wall (2017)

Free Solo , the stress-inducing documentary that followed rock climber Alex Honnold as he scaled the 3,000-foot-tall El Capitan in Yosemite National Park without a rope, isn't on Netflix. (You'll have to go to Disney+ to watch it.) But The Dawn Wall is, and it'll give you a similar sense of adventure from the comfort of your couch or airplane seat. It follows Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson, the first climbers to attempt a free ascent of a section of El Capitan known as, you guessed it, the Dawn Wall. While they don't use equipment to aid their climbs, unlike Honnold they do use a harness and rope as a safety net. 

Into the Wild (2007)

Based on a Jon Krakauer book by the same name, this Oscar-nominated movie follows Christopher McCandless (played by Emile Hirsch) as he hikes and hitchhikes all across North America, hitting California, North Dakota, Colorado, Utah, and many more U.S. states before ending up in Canada. But before you go planning a trip to see the bus that served as the real McCandless's home in the later parts of his life, know it's been relocated to the Museum of The North in Fairbanks, where it will be showcased soon in its own outdoor exhibit.

Chasing Coral (2017)

You may not be able to travel to see the Great Barrier Reef , the subject of this Netflix documentary, for much longer if we don't do something about climate change and ocean warming. The film uses high-tech camera equipment and time lapses to show the speed and scale of the deterioration of the coral, as it turns from colorful, vibrant ecosystems into a barren, lifeless wasteland. You'll feel truly gutted once the movie's over, but also a renewed drive to act. To learn more about the movie and hear firsthand about what it took to film, keep reading here .

Adrift (2018)

Another movie adaptation of a book—this time Red Sky in Mourning: A True Story of Love, Loss, and Survival at Sea by Tami Oldham Ashcraft— Adrift follows Tami (played by Shailene Woodley) as she sails with her beau Richard (played by Sam Claflin) from Tahiti to San Diego . The couple's path is intersected by a hurricane, setting them adrift and into survival mode. It's a harrowing, real life tale—but we won't give you any spoilers as to how it ends. 

The Trader (2018)

If you're short on time, this documentary following the rural route of a traveling trader in the Republic of Georgia is perfect—it's just 23 minutes long. Despite its length, it packs a lot of emotion in, following Gela Kolochovi as he brings second-hand clothes, kid's toys, equipment and more to small towns in exchange for potatoes. 

A Life on Our Planet (2020)

It couldn't be a list of travel movies without at least one appearance from Sir David Attenborough. And this one isn't the usual fare, turning the lens on the celebrated naturalist and beloved narrator himself. Over the course of the documentary, Attenborough reflects on his more than 90 years on earth so far, and his hopes for the protection of our planet and its residents big and small in the future. If you love the movie, be sure to check out his memoir by the same name, which delves deeper into the movie's message. 

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32 of the Best Travel Movies on Netflix to Watch

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Since you all loved my post about movies set in Europe so much, I figured I’d follow it up with a post about the best travel movies on Netflix! These streamable movies are from all over the Earth, and some of them even inspired sequels! Some are in the adventure travel movie genre, while others are more dramatic historical films. Most of these Netflix travel movies are for the PG-13+ crowd, and they are all currently available to stream.

Update 2024: As this post was published in 2019, I have updated it with links to other platforms if the movie is no longer available on Netflix. Newer films are added to the bottom.

Table of Contents

The Best Travel Movies on Netflix

1. Chasing Liberty

Chasing Liberty is an early 2000s romantic comedy film I absolutely adore! Starring Mandy Moore and Matthew Goode, the film is about the 18-year-old daughter of the President of the United States. Rebelling against the constant presence of the Secret Service agents in her life, she galavants around Europe and, of course, winds up in an unexpected romance. As  Chasing Liberty was filmed on location in Prague, Venice , Berlin, London , and Washington, D.C. , it is one of my favorite adventure travel movies on Netflix.

2. A Little Chaos

King Louis XIV of France requested the  Gardens of Versailles  be built and tasked André Le Nôtre with this project. Le Nôtre interviewed several gardeners who had submitted designs for the project, including one lone woman, Sabine de Barra. After her interview, André surprised Sabine and asked her to design an outdoor ballroom surrounded by a fountain and landscaping.

As she is a commoner, Sabine stands out in court, which leads to difficulty when trying to complete the project. Even though she is the outsider, she winds up befriending Nôtre, the King’s brother, Duc Philippe d’Orleans, and his wife, Elizabeth Charlotte, Princess Palatine.

3. Julie and Julia

In Manhattan, Julie Powell is stuck at a job she hates and is disheartened at watching her friends succeed. To spark some joy, she decides to cook every recipe in Mastering the Art of French Cooking  by Julia Child with a one-year deadline. She also sets out to write a blog to motivate herself and document her progress. 

In flashbacks, we get the 1950s Julia Child—an enthusiastic and unabashed woman who lives in Paris with her diplomat husband, Paul Child. She attends Le Cordon Bleu to learn French cooking and is initially met with skepticism as she is the only woman in the class. Though we don’t see the characters travel much themselves, it’s one of the best travel movies on Netflix with its flashbacks to 50s Paris.

4-5. Mamma Mia & Mamma Mia Here We Go Again

Based on the 1999 musical of the same name and the songs of ABBA. The film follows a young bride-to-be who invites three men to her upcoming wedding. She found these men’s names in her Mother’s diary around the time she was conceived. They all agree to attend, and unbeknownst to them, one of them is her father. This is also quite a shock for her mother, who doesn’t know they were invited to the wedding. It is one of my favorite musicals! I absolutely adored the sequel, Mamma Mia Here We Go Again , but it is not yet on Netflix!

6. In Search of Fellini

A small-town Ohio girl who’s lived a rather sheltered life loves movies but dislikes reality. Upon discovering the delightfully bizarre films of Federico Fellini , she sets off on an adventure. This propels her on a strange and beautiful journey across Italy to find him.

7. Wild Oats

When a retired high school teacher loses her husband, she mistakenly receives a $5,000,000 check on her deceased husband’s $50,000 life insurance policy. Her friend Maddie, whose husband has just left her for a younger woman, convinces her to keep the money. They decide to live it up at a resort in the Canary Islands.

8. The Duchess

Based on a biography of the late 18th-century English aristocrat Georgiana Cavendish , Duchess of Devonshire. Set to marry William Cavendish, Duke of Devonshire, she is expected to produce a male heir. When Georgiana gives birth to a girl, William is displeased. Georgiana then befriends Lady Bess Foster and invites her to live with them since Bess has nowhere else to go. Soon after, William has an affair with Bess, causing Georgiana to feel betrayed by her only friend.

After starting her own affair, the whole of London society comes to know of it. William then threatens to end her lover’s political career and forbids Georgiana from seeing her children again if she does not end the relationship.

The film follows Dexter Mayhew and Emma Morley over 18 years, on the same day—15 July, St. Swithun’s Day. After graduating from the University of Edinburgh, Dexter and Emma spend a platonic night together and agree to “just be friends.” The years pass, and the audience gets to see how they intertwine over those 18 years.

10. The Other Boleyn Girl

Having no living male heir to the throne, Thomas Howard, Duke of Norfolk, and his brother-in-law Thomas Boleyn plan to install Boleyn’s eldest daughter, Anne Boleyn , as the King’s mistress. The film is a fictionalized account of the lives of Mary Boleyn, the one-time mistress of King Henry VIII , and her sister, Anne, who became the King’s ill-fated second wife.

11. Viking Destiny

A Viking princess is forced to flee her kingdom when she is framed for her father’s murder. With the help of the god Odin, she travels to gather support to win back her throne.

12. Outlaw King

Following Robert the Bruce , the 14th-century Scottish King who launched a war against the indomitable English army over a 3-year historical period, this film focuses on when Bruce decided to rebel against the rule of Edward I over Scotland, thus becoming an “outlaw,” up to the 1307 Battle of Loudoun Hill.

13. Becoming Jane

Jane Austen’s financially strapped parents expect her to marry the nephew of wealthy Lady Gresham.  However, she knows that this will destroy her creativity and sense of self-worth. Instead, she becomes involved with Tom Lefroy, a charming but penniless apprentice lawyer. He bolsters her, which is exactly what she needs for her future career as a novelist.

14. The Man in the Iron Mask

The former musketeer Athos swears vengeance after King Louis XIV causes the death of his son. Gathering his old friends, Porthos and Aramis, he hatches a plan to liberate a shackled prisoner who is rumored to be the King’s twin brother and then install him on the throne. But they are also faced with their old friend D’Artagnan, who has remained in the King’s service.

If you have not yet seen this, see it ASAP, as it’s one of my favorite travel movies on Netflix! You can also visit the Pierrefonds Castle they shot at!

15-17. The Da Vinci Code

Robert Langdon is called to the Louvre as a murder in the museum has taken place. Cryptic clues in some of Leonardo da Vinci’s most famous paintings lead in this adventure travel movie. For 2,000 years, a secret society has closely guarded information that could shake the very foundations of Christianity. Its sequels,  Angels and Demons and Inferno , are also on Netflix.

Check Out These Posts:

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18-20. The Mummy

One of my favorite adventure travel movies on Netflix is The Mummy ! An epic about an expedition of treasure-seeking explorers in the Sahara Desert in 1925. As they stumble upon an ancient tomb , the hunters accidentally set loose a 3,000-year-old mummy. The mummy is the vengeful reincarnation of an Egyptian priest who had been sentenced to an eternity as one of the living dead. It was followed by two sequels, The Mummy Returns and The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor which are also found on Netflix.

21. Into the Blue

Divers Sam and Jared love living in the Bahamas. But when friends Bryce and Amanda visit, the couple takes them on a treasure-hunting trip. They find a downed airplane full of cocaine alongside a famous shi pwreck. Making a fatal mistake, they decide to sell the cocaine, which angers a group of drug dealers.

22. Dangerous Beauty

Veronica loves a handsome aristocrat, Marco Venier, but he cannot marry her because she is penniless and of a questionable family. So Veronica’s mother, Paola, teaches her to become a courtesan, which is a  companion favored by the richest and most powerful of Venetian men . Using this new turn of events, she changes her destiny. It’s a lovely film if you’re a fan of Venice as its story is based there and appears to be filmed there.

23-24. National Treasure 1 & 2

Historian Ben Gates has been searching his whole life for a treasure dating back to the birth of the United States. After joining an expedition led by a fellow treasure hunter, Gates finds an ice-locked Colonial ship in the Arctic Circle. It c ontains a clue linking the treasure to the Declaration of Independence. But when the fellow treasure hunter betrays him, Gates has to race to get to the document ahead of his former friend. I wish they also had the sequel, National Treasure: Book of Secrets , on Netflix, as it’s one of the best recent travel films.

25-28. Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark

My favorite adventure travel movie hero is Indiana Jones ! As an archaeologist, he tries to beat a band of Nazis to a religious relic. Battling against the Nazi’s plan for world domination, a snake phobia, and accompanied by his ex-girlfriend, Indiana Jones is in constant peril. All the sequels are also on Netflix.

29. A Tourist’s Guide to Love

After an unexpected breakup, a travel executive accepts an assignment to go undercover and learn about the Vietnamese tourist industry. Along the way, she finds adventure and romance with her Vietnamese expat tour guide.

A Tourist’s Guide to Love is one of the recent best travel movies on Netflix. I really enjoyed it, even though it was cliche in parts, it was a wholesome traveler movie we don’t get to see very often.

30. Irish Wish

When the love of her life gets engaged to her friend, Maddie puts her feelings aside to be a bridesmaid at their wedding in Ireland . Days before the wedding, Maddie makes a spontaneous wish for true love, only to wake up as the bride-to-be.

Above, you see them at the Cliffs of Moher , which Lindsay Lohan luckily didn’t get electrocuted at, like myself, to my knowledge.

31-32. Murder Mystery 1 & 2

Murder Mystery is about a New York cop and his wife going on a European vacation to reinvigorate the spark in their marriage. A chance encounter leads to them being framed for the murder of an elderly billionaire.

Murder Mystery 2 is about the now private detectives launching their own agency; Nick and Audrey Spitz, land at the center of an international investigation when a friend is abducted.

Above you can see them at the Pont des Arts , Paris’ love lock bridge.

Did I miss one of your favorite travel movies on Netflix? Let me know in the comments.

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Michelle is a nerdy wanderluster with a love of history. A thirty-something occasional female solo traveler who you’ll find road-tripping across the United States or hostel-hopping in Europe. Currently residing in Southern California with a day job in marketing.

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The Best Travel Movies On Netflix Right Now

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Feb 25, 2023 | Inspiration , Travel Tips

Searching for the best travel movies on Netflix ? Are you starting to plan your next trip and looking for some inspiration? 

Whether you’re about to jet off or are putting together a killer itinerary, the best way to get in the mood is by watching travel or road trip movies.

Luckily, Netflix is full of movies about travel, so you’ll likely find one set in your destination or relating to your travel style. 

So, regardless of if you’re taking a road trip, flying to another country, or even sailing across the world, these ten travel movies on Netflix will fill you with excitement and anticipation.

1. Eat, Pray, Love (2010)

Eat Pray Love is perhaps the most loved movie for female solo travelers and one most of us can relate to.

This film is even better because it is based on the true story of writer Elizabeth Gilbert’s travel life.

What’s more, Gilbert is played by none other than the incredible Julia Roberts. 

We first meet Gilbert in a moment of deep despair where she realizes that she is unhappy in her marriage.

The scene of her crying on the bathroom floor pulls the heartstrings of every female who has left a relationship for the life of travel. 

After dealing with a messy divorce, Gilbert plans a year-long spiritual journey to rediscover herself. She splits the year between Italy, India, and Bali, and we follow her to each destination.

Throughout the movie, we see how she grows and finds pieces of herself that had become lost in an unfulfilled life, and we can’t help but cheer her on every step of the way.

If you’re a fan of this movie, make sure to read our post including the best quotes from Eat, Pray, Love .

2. Into The Wild (2007)

This Oscar-nominated film is based on the true story of a young American guy who feels called to go into the wild. He gives up everything to live a nomadic life, including his trust fund and excellent job prospects.

The film follows Christopher as he hitchhikes across North America, arriving in the Alaskan bush.

Here, he lives almost entirely off the land, hunting for food and sleeping in an abandoned bus he found.

While we may not have had such an intense travel experience, as freedom seekers, we can relate to Christophers’ desire to break free from society.

I don’t want to give too much away, but this film is undoubtedly a tear-jerker!

3. Expedition Happiness (2017)

This travel documentary follows a young couple wanting to escape their hometown and see the world, something all travelers can relate to.

Expedition Happiness follows the adventure-seeking couple who transform an old school bus into a motorhome and then travel across North America in it, with their fur child in tow. 

Expedition Happiness feels authentic and relatable, and you’ll indeed feel for the couple as they encounter many familiar road trip problems.

It’s one of the best road trip movies you can find on Netflix right now and will remind you of the first big trip you ever took and that first taste of freedom you experienced.

Or, if you’ve yet to pack up your life and hit the road, this travel movie will inspire you to make it happen!

4. Lost In Translation (2003)

Lost in Translation is one of the best backpacking movies on Netflix. It deals with the feelings of loneliness solo travelers often experience on long stints away from home.

The 2003 movie follows the story of two travelers in Tokyo (played by Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson) who find comfort in each other’s company.

Lost in Translation represents perfectly the familiar feeling of confusion and alienation when you first arrive in a country where you don’t speak the language.

Plus, it highlights the importance of human connection during travel and how the people we meet while away are never by coincidence. 

5. The Bucket List (2007)

The Bucket list is undoubtedly one of the best travel movies on Netflix for anyone who is procrastinating about booking their dream trip.

This inspiring film is about two terminally ill men (played by Morgan Freeman and Jack Nicholson) who meet on a cancer ward.

They create their bucket lists and decide to tick off as many things as possible before they die. 

This ultimate travel movie follows the pair as they visit the most incredible places globally, such as ​​the Taj Mahal, The Great Wall Of China, and the Egyptian pyramids.

What’s more, they embark on many adventures, from an African Safari to skiing in the alps to skydiving.

While the concept of this movie is simple, it serves as a refreshing reminder to make the most of the time we have left. What’s more, the acting and story writing is superb. 

6. The Terminal (2004)

Ok, this may not be one that you’ll want to watch the night before a flight, but it’s an incredible movie nonetheless.

I’m sure we’ve all had worrisome thoughts of being stranded in an airport, and this is what happens to a traveler played by Tom Hanks in The Terminal.

However, he doesn’t just get stuck there for a few days, no he spends nine months inside New York’s JFK airport! 

How does this happen? The character Viktor flies into JFK but then realizes his passport is invalid and unrecognizable and cannot enter the USA, nor can he return home.

But don’t worry, this story is entirely fictional, thank god!

7. The Fundamentals Of Caring (2016)

The Fundamentals of Caring is another of the best road trip movies and an inspirational buddy comedy about a disabled teen and his caregiver.

Ben (Paul Rudd) is a writer who retires early after a family loss and decides to become a caregiver for a troubled teen (Trevor) who’s fed up with being stuck in a wheelchair. 

Ben decides to take Trevor on a road trip across America to change his perspective on life.

With themes of ​​hope and companionship, they both overcome struggles and gain a new lease on life along with a solid friendship.

The Fundamentals of Caring is funny yet emotional and perfectly exemplifies how life-affirming road trips and traveling can be.

8. Holiday In The Wild (2019)

If you’re planning an African Safari, Holiday in the Wild is a must-see. This movie is about an American woman whose husband unexpectedly leaves her.

She decides to go alone on what was supposed to be their ‘second honeymoon,’ a trip to Africa.

However, during the solo safari, she finds purpose in helping the animals and extends her stay. 

While in Zambia, Kate volunteers at an elephant sanctuary. There are several scenes that anyone who has volunteered with animals abroad will find relatable. 

Although a little predictable, it’s a pleasant, easy-viewing film about leaving the modern luxuries of the western world and experiencing a simpler life in the wild.  

9. The Tourist (2010)

We’ve all had holiday romances but probably not one that put us in great danger and on the run from the police!

The Tourist is a thrilling travel movie about an American tourist named Frank (played by Johnny Deep) who travels to Italy on his own to mend his broken heart.

However, instead of finding peace and solitude, he meets Elise (played by Angelina Jolie) on a train to Venice. 

Frank believes they have hit it off but unknown to him, Elise has chosen him as a decoy.

As a result, he’s mistaken for a mobster and wanted by the police and the mob from whom Elise stole money.

The film is a tad unrealistic, but you’ll surely enjoy The Tourist if you like thrillers and adore Italy. 

10. David Attenborough: A Life On Our Planet (2020)

This recent David Attenborough travel documentary is a must-see for anyone interested in this magnificent world, thus all travelers. In ‘A Life on Our Planet,’ Attenborough recounts the most astonishing things he has seen on his travels.

As a man who has visited the most remote, uninhabited places on every continent, he is someone worth listening to!

Attenborough speaks of the evolutionary history of life on Earth and grieves the loss of rainforests and animal species and the effect of climate change.

But it’s not all doom and gloom, as he discusses his vision for the future and how we can make a positive change to the planet we live on.

This travel documentary will undoubtedly inspire you to get out there and make a difference in the world.

Final Thoughts On Travel Movies

Our list of the best travel movies on Netflix includes something for every wanderlust planning or preparing for a trip.

So, why not take a break from your destination research and packing and put one of these travel and backpacking movies on Netflix.

Searching for more inspiration? Read one of the following blog posts:

• Best travel shows on Netflix
• Best movies about long-distance relationships
• Best movies filmed in France

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11 Best Travel Movies on Netflix that are Based on True Stories

Posted on Last updated: February 25, 2024

If you are looking to cure your wanderlust without leaving home (or even exiting out of Netflix), you’ve come to the right place. Some of the below best travel movies on Netflix may be largely unheard of, but they’re all based on true stories . These movies are all perfect to watch for the insight they bring to their respective countries and cultures, whether in comedy, adventure, education, or history.

Naturally, most of these true story movies on Netflix have had a bit (or a lot) of Hollywood sprinkled over them, but I have tried to point this out where possible. Enjoy a quick departure from your living room and travel across the world through these amazing travel films. *Note this list was compiled in Indonesia, some of the movies might or might not be found on Netflix in your region but I have stated where they can be found if so.

Seven Years in Tibet (Tibet) – 1997

Seven Years in Tibet is one of the coolest historical adventure movies on Netflix. It’s based on the journey of an Austrian climber, Heinrich Harrer (played by Brad Pitt), in the 1940s WW2 era. The pure beauty of the Buddhist culture and the country of Tibet is reason enough to watch this movie. Seven Years in Tibet tells an amazing story of events during the Chinese occupation of Tibet which are still not spoken about widely today.

Captured by Imperial English forces in India while climbing in the Himalayas, Heinrich escapes from a POW camp in India to Tibet. He eventually makes his way to the holy city of Lhasa, compared in the movie to the Buddhist version of Mecca, where the Dali Lama, at the time a small boy, resides.

The two strike up a relationship and Heinrich ends up spending many years (well… 7 to be exact) in Tibet, seeing out the end of WWII and the ensuing invasion by China. Whilst somewhat dramatized, this issue between China and Tibet is one that stands still today and is the reason the Dali Lama lives in India and not Tibet.

The Boy Who Harnessed The Wind (Malawi) – 2019 

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind follows a family of farmers in the small village of Kasungu, Malawai . It is one of the true story movies on Netflix that follows a time of suffering in Africa during the early 2000s. Then, an early season of heavy rainfall and flooding is followed by a terrible drought. This creates great hunger and a food shortage for the entire village.

The story follows a young schoolboy named William Kamkwamba. While his family struggles to put him through school, they are faced with many challenges because of such uncertainty of rain. His family doesn’t have enough money to put him through school, so he’s inevitably sent home to help tend the land.

From his classes, Kamkwamba comes up with the distant thought of creating a windmill to bring up water from the well. He eventually manages to sneak into the library, and educates himself enough to feel confident he can bring about change.

The film creates a dark picture of Africa and Malawi during this period. It traces the stories of tyrannical leaders, hardship, and villagers fighting amongst each other to survive. An inspiring true story, this is one to be watched with the family to make you smile, to encourage us all to educate ourselves more, to not let people get in the way of our education.

It’s also a lesson to sometimes listen to our children or those younger than us who may be more educated. It is worth googling the true story also if you are interested, and one of the great newer travel movies on Netflix for the cultural context based on true stories.

Into the Wild (USA) – 2007

Whilst Into The Wild doesn’t tell the travel story we all imagine, it tells the unique true story of Christopher McCandless who rejects society instead to travel the wilderness of Alaska. Depicting a lost soul who is not content with a normal life, the story begins with McCandless destroying all of his default world possessions, credit cards, and ID, etc, driving into the wilderness, and leaving his car behind – inspired by tales of Jack London and Henry David Thoreau.

The story is simplistic in narrative, but deep in a sense that it explores what we as a society call possessions and just what we actually need in life not just to travel. Centralized around his home, the ‘Magic Bus’ (which has now become a tourist destination), the film instills a sense of adventure and travel like no other. It’s one of the absolutely classic travel movies on Netflix that will make you want to get up and go.

It has a similar vibe to the likes of Kerouac’s ‘On the Road,’ but in much harsher conditions and with far more of a rejection of society and ‘the system.’ An adventure travel movie on Netflix recommended for all of those scared to adventure off with all but a backpack on their back, this film will make you reconsider how you travel.

*Unfortunately this movie is no longer on Netflix, but it’s one of the most legendary adventure movies based on true stories and can be found on Hulu and Google Play

Cool Runnings (Jamaica) – 1993

Cool Runnings has to be one of the funniest films on this list of best travel movies. It tells the very loosely-based true story of a group of four Jamaican men who qualify for the Winter Olympics in Canada in 1988 – in one of the most bizarre of ways. Somehow, they qualify in bobsled racing, having never raced in an actual bobsled or even seen snow in their life.

It has quite a tragic beginning with one of the characters, a 100m sprinter, failing to make the Summer Olympics due to a race mishap. He then, however, forms an unlikely alliance with another race contender and some other friends. The four are coached by a disgraced 2-time American gold medalist who lives in Jamaica. Their coach guides their journey from Jamaica right up until a very inspirational ending, contending against teams like the prior gold medalist East German team.

With one of the funniest lines of the film after a crash, “Sanka’, ya dead man’?”, “Yeah man”, this film is great for the family and for some inspiring funny laughs… or you’ll just be singing, “Jamaica’s got a bobsled team” on repeat in your head. *Unfortunately this is a Disney movie so is not on Netlfix, but it’s one of the most legendary adventure movies based on true stories and can be found on Disney Plus

The Red Sea Diving Resort (Sudan) – 2019

Based on true events between 1979-1984 in Ethiopia and Sudan, T he Red Sea Diving Resort is an inspiring yet largely unheard of historical travel movie on Netflix (made for Netflix). It tells the story of Israeli’s intelligence agency, the Mossad. Their main aim is aiding in evacuating the persecuted minority of Ethiopian Jews through Sudan from a civil war-torn Ethiopia.

The film follows a group of agents as they buy a diving resort as a front on the red sea and pretend to run it for tourists in Sudan. As they pretend to work in hospitality, they daringly evacuating thousands of Ethiopian Jews onto ships off the coast of the red sea bound for Israel.

The film depicts a lesser-known minority group following a sect of Judaism in Ethiopia, a community known as Beta Israeli, that has existed for hundreds of years. It provides an insight into some of the cultures and conflicts that have existed in Africa in the past 50 years. This is one of the best true story movies on Netflix.

Hotel Rwanda (Rwanda) – 2004

Hotel Rwanda is probably one of the most tragic of all these best travel movies on this list. It tells the brutal story of a mass genocide in Rwanda in 1994 of the ethnic minorities, the Tutsis, by the Hutus. The film follows the story of one man, Paul Rusesabagina, and how he saves hundreds of lives from the 100-day genocide by hiding them in his luxury hotel during the attacks.

This film, whilst dramatized, is criticized for its accuracy about the ethicality of the main character. It is still accurate in the sense of the horrific portrayal of one of the worst genocides in the last 30 years, which was somehow largely unknown.

As the world stood by and offered little aid or UN intervention, an estimated 500,000-1,000,000 Tutsi’s were killed and an estimated 250,000-500,000 women raped during the 100-day period. The range of figures is truly mortifying (check this Human Rights Watch link if interested), but it is important to learn about through this film.

Hotel Rwanda is a truly graphic reminder of some of the brutality of the world and must be watched if not for the inspiring story of Rusesabagina, but just to ensure we as a planet never let such atrocities happen again.

*Unfortunately not on Netflix in all countries, but can be found on Hulu or Google Play if not in your country

The Last Samurai (Japan) – 2003

The Last Samurai is one of the best true adventure movies on Netflix – a story immersed in traditional Japanese culture. This travel movie follows the story of Captain Nathan Algren, who is haunted by the past deeds of brutality against the native Americans. He is approached and shipped to Japan to train the newly formed Imperial Japanese army to suppress an uprising by a Samurai.

The film takes a turn when Nathan is captured during a battle with the Samurai forces. From there, we are immersed in the traditional Samurai way. With an overarching moral concept of wanting to do right as he has done so much wrong in his past, Algren sympathises with the Samurai cause, is taught their way, and eventually decides to fight for the rebellious Samurai army.

The Last Samurai is based on a true story, but just loosely. In reality, he was not American but the French officer Jules Brunet. He did fight alongside the Samurai rebellion seeing the overshadowing tyranny of Imperial Japan.

*Unfortunately this movie is no longer on Netflix, but can be found on YouTube and Google Play

Lion (India) – 2016

Lion has to be included in the best travel movies on Netflix because it is entirely true. The storyline depicts one of the wildest and most tragic adventures a small boy could ever imagine in India and Australia. At the age of 5, Saroo accidentally falls asleep on a train thinking his brother was also onboard. When it pulls into the station, he has no idea where he is or how long he has been asleep for.

With an inability to speak the dialect of India and being so young and unable to explain his hometown or where he has come from, he is stranded. Saroo becomes tangled in a web of street life in India before ending up in an orphanage. Here, he is lucky enough to be adopted by an Australian couple who take him back to Hobart, Tasmania.

He grows up educated there, and then through the use of technology some years later tried to track his family down using Google Maps. This movie is one to be watched if not just for the culture and inspiring events, but for the courage, the beauty, and the kindness of peopl -e such as his adoptive mother Sue and his real mother Kamla who never gave up hope, or Saroo himself.

*Unfortunately not on Netflix but worth seeing! It can be found on Google Play or Amazon

Gangsta’s Paradise: Jerusalema (South Africa) – 2008

Gangsta’s Paradise: Jerusalema is another of the travel movies on Netflix that is somewhat unheard of. It tells a story similar to American Gangster of the rise and fall of Lucky Kunene, known as “The Hoodlum of Hillbrow”. It creates a post-apartheid scene in South Africa of the disparity of the socio-economic equality of the blacks and the whites during the time Mandala is in prison.

The main character looks up to Mbolelo Nazareth, a so-called Russian trained communist gangster who is taking back the wealth for the black South Africans. The difference between American Gangster and Gangsta’s Paradise: Jerusalema is that the film glorifies Kunene in a way unlike Frank Lucas – as a drug lord, but as a democratic-kind-of-thug who takes back the run-down high rise housing of Hillbrow for the people.

This film is inspirational and demonstrates the power of one man taking on a racist, corrupt system. Although the actual truth of the film is a little different from the reality (Ill let you do your research) and it is unclear how evident or severe his crimes were, it does paint somewhat of an accurate picture of South Africa during these troubling times.

*Unfortunately not on Netflix in all countries, but can be found on Amazon if not in your country

Braveheart (Scotland) – 1995

No list of the best travel movies on Netflix could miss out on Braveheart ! You may know this film from the famous quote “They may take away our lives, but they’ll never take our freedom!” Braveheart tells a loosely based true story of William Wallace and how he stood up for Scotland to fight the scourge of the English and King Edward ‘Longshanks’.

It follows the story of William, his upbringing, and the betrayal and invasion of the Scots by the English. William returns home from an education abroad in Europe and subsequently falls in love – not just with a woman but with his country.

It tells an epic tale of the Scots and the hardship they felt at the hands of the brutal English. It shows how the English would take women as they pleased and tax heavy handily for no reason other than because they could.

With numerous battle scenes, betrayal after betrayal, and inspirational speeches, this one (if you haven’t already seen it) is a must. Just a word of warning: it may not be for the whole family as it can be a little graphic.

*Unfortunately this movie is no longer on Netflix, but can be found on Disney+ and Google Play

Slumdog Millionaire (India) – 2008

Slumdog Millionaire is a truly graphic introspective yet inspiring travel movie examining the brutal side to poverty in India. Following the story of Jamal Malik, it is directed in a way that we know he has already won ‘Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?’ He is the first person in India to ever do so, but he is accused of cheating.

It follows the tragic tale of love and friendship between Jamal and his brother Salim. It follows Jamal as he retells to the police how he knows the answers to the questions on the game show. His story has snippets of being orphaned after the Bombay riots and his survival with his friends, the ‘three musketeers’ as they dub themselves. As can be expected, they face various adversaries and meet many horrific challenging situations, which sadly are not uncommon in the streets and slums of India.

Whilst Slumdog Millionaire is mostly fictional, it is based on a true story of Sushil Kumar, who was the first person to win ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire’ in India. It is true he started from nothing, and faced many challenges. The real true story in this film is the introspective raw view of what life is like on the streets as an orphan in India.

*Only available on Netflix in certain countries, but can be found on Amazon or Google Play

I hope you have plenty of travel films to add to your list from this list of the best travel movies on Neflix! Do you have any more that I should add on? Let me know?

Stuck at Home? Check out some more quarantine content here:

• 50 Fun Things to Do at Home
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The Best Travel Movies On Netflix Right Now

Last Updated: March 12th, 2020

Movies are a big part of our daily lives. They make us laugh, they make us cry, and — for many of us — they make us want to travel . That’s why we put together a list of our favorite travel-themed movies on Netflix right now.

It should go without saying, this list will constantly be evolving as Netflix rotates its library and new movies arrive. In the streaming wars, as in travel, there’s no time like the present. So grab some popcorn and get cozy, then let these travel movies inspire your next grand adventure.

Ibiza (2018)

Run Time: 94 min | IMDb: 5.2/10

What Is It: Getting to travel for work feels like a luxury. Getting to hang in Ibiza with a star DJ and have a spontaneous time-of-your-life moment while traveling feels like something that only happens in movies. Maybe. But you’ll never know if it’s real unless you go out and look for these adventures yourself and that’s where Ibiza gets you.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: Sometimes you just have to go out there and live that life and see what happens. You’re never going to know what’s out there unless you go see for yourself.

Wine Country (2019)

Run Time: 103 min | IMDb: 5.4/10

What Is It: Amy Poehler rounds up some of her funniest pals from Saturday Night Live for this boozy comedy about a girls’ trip to Napa Valley. The film is packed with comedy legends like Tina Fey, Rachel Dratch, Paula Pell, Maya Rudolph, Ana Gasteyer, and Emily Spivey, and it marks Poehler’s directing debut.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: It’s an ode to female friendships and how they change as we age — think Bridesmaids but with more wine and some scenic views of idyllic Napa wine country. If these amazing vistas of vineyards don’t stoke a desire to get to California ASAP, nothing will.

Murder Mystery (2019)

Run Time: 97 min | IMDb: 6/10

What Is It: Jennifer Aniston and Adam Sandler reunite for this whodunnit with a slapstick comedy twist. The film follows Audrey and Nick Spitz, a married couple from Brooklyn celebrating their honeymoon 15 years late. They meet a dashing stranger on their plane to Europe (played by Luke Evans) who invites them to vacation aboard his yacht where a shocking murder puts them in the spotlight. As they use Nick’s detective skills and Audrey’s love of true crime to solve the case and clear their own names, more suspects pop up, and more laughs are had.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: We don’t want to say that movie posits you should never accept invitations to party on a yacht in the South of France. But keep your wits about you if you do find yourself in that situation.

Like Father (2018)

Run Time: 109 min | IMDb: 6.1/10

What Is It: Kristen Bell in anything is guaranteed to be funny, but this father-daughter comedy looks especially rife with humor. Bell plays a workaholic jilted at the altar who decides to salvage something from her relationship when she heads out on her honeymoon cruise … with her estranged father. Kelsey Grammer stars as her deadbeat dad and the two try to reconnect over tropical expeditions, ziplining, and plenty of seafaring.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: There are a lot of lessons to be drawn from a light comedy about people reconnecting while living in a confined space. Travel companionship is never a black-or-white prospect and sometimes the best travel buddy is the person you’d least expect.

David Brent: Life on the Road (2016)

Run Time: 96 min | IMDb: 6.3/10

What Is It: The Brentmaster General is back and as awkward as ever. This time, David Brent ( Ricky Gervais ) is on a music tour — funding the trip out of his own pocket, renting a bus completely unnecessarily, and making college kids cringe like crazy.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: This one of the best examples of people traveling together that really, truly don’t understand or even like each other. And, whether we like it or not, that’ll eventually happen to all of us at some point. At least with Ricky Gervais steering the action, there’ll be more laughs than tears. Just barely.

Mississippi Grind (2015)

Run Time: 108 min | IMDb: 6.4/10

What Is It: Ryan Reynolds and Ben Mendelsohn star in this road trip drama about a pair of down-on-their-luck gamblers making their way to New Orleans . Reynolds plays Curtis, the younger of the two who’s developed a system to manage his gambling habits. The key, Curtis says, is to not care about winning. Gerry (Mendelsohn) on the other hand is deep into his addiction, out of money, and unable to quit. The two team up, traveling down the Mississippi river, betting all they have on horse races and roulette tables before their wild ways catch up with them.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: It’s a film steeped in the American South’s blue-collar world. There’s plenty to admire about the scenery, but it’s also a film that does a decent job of tackling addiction without making it feel trite or heavy-handed. In the end, this is about two people on a mission and knowing when to let each other go.

Kodachrome (2018)

Run Time: 105 min | IMDb: 6.8/10

What Is It: Jason Sudeikis , Ed Harris, and Elizabeth Olsen star in this Midwestern road-trip drama about an estranged father-son duo trying to reconnect. Harris plays a famous travel photographer intent on developing the rest of his unused film and the only Kodachrome photo lab in Kansas before it closes. Sudeikis and Olsen are dragged along, and along with some stunning vignettes of small-town America, we’re treated to a beautiful portrait of a father-son relationship.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: This movie treats the idea of someone being the proverbial “third-wheel” to a traveling duo aptly. Each character feels like that third-wheel at some point along the journey, which perfectly mirrors reality when you’re traveling with two or more people.

Slow West (2015)

Run Time: 84 min | IMDb: 6.9/10

What Is It: Kodi Smit-McPhee plays a young Scottish man who travels from his home country to the dry, bleeding heart of the American West to find the woman he loves. Along the way, he meets a band of outlaws looking to collect the bounty on his intended’s head and a thuggish, slow-drawling Michael Fassbender who acts as his reluctant chaperone. It’s a fun, inventive take on the classic Western adventure, and it doesn’t hurt that the cinematography is gorgeous.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: How far will you go for love is a question as old as story-telling itself. In this case, our hero leaves the wind-whipped coasts of Scotland and trudges to America. Have you ever given up everything and hit the great unknown for your love? This movie may well inspire you to.

Kon-Tiki (2012)

Run Time: 118 min | IMDb: 7.2/10

What Is It: Thor Heyerdahl’s Kon-tiki Expedition is the travel-history of legends. Back in 1947, the intrepid Norwegian set out to prove that pre-Columbian American cultures had the means and wherewithal to cross the oceans. Heyerdahl’s work was instrumental in moving European anthropology away from the inept “savage” view of Indigenous people and recentering the idea of human migration.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: At its heart, this film is about the mad ones . The film follows the trials and tribulations of six crew members as they sail the Pacific on a small, reed craft with a single sail. Kon-Tiki offers a glimpse into how hard travel used to be and what we can overcome out there.

The Fundamentals Of Caring (2016)

Run Time: 97 min | IMDb: 7.3/10

What Is It: Paul Rudd is at his most charming and charismatic here. He plays a newly trained caregiver to a distant teenager with muscular dystrophy named Trevor. After some icebreaking, the two set out on a trip to see some of the most boring roadside attractions middle America has to offer. If you’re feeling down, this one will pick you up.

Plus… it’s Paul Rudd. That dude is always a ray of sunshine.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: There’s a classic appeal to a mismatched pair of people traveling along the American road. It helps when the trip isn’t grandiose or the soul purpose of the trip. Sometimes, the trip is the time you spend getting to know who you’re moving with. Everything else is just the icing on the cake.

Babel (2006)

Run Time: 143 min | IMDb: 7.4/10

What Is It: Cate Blanchett and Brad Pitt star in this drama about a vacationing couple whose romantic trip to Morocco is cut short by tragedy. Blanchett plays Susan, Pitt her husband, Richard. When Susan becomes the victim of an accidental shooting while touring the country, their plans go awry and their story collides with three other families, all impacted by the event in one way or another.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: Alejandro González Iñárritu weaves these tales together, skipping from the deserts of Morocco to the bustling nightlife of Tokyo to the vibrant, colorful backdrop of the Mexican desert in a non-linear fashion that gives the film an added sense of urgency. Each place draws you in and asks you, ‘why aren’t you having this experience?’

Y Tu Mama También (2002)

Run Time: 106 min, IMDb: 7.6/10

What Is It: After a stint in Hollywood, Alfonso Cuarón returned to Mexico for this story of two privileged high school boys (Diego Luna and Gael Garcia Bernal) who road trip with an older woman (Maribel Verdú) in search of an unspoiled stretch of beach. In the process, they discover freedom as they’d never imagined — and maybe more freedom than they can handle.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: Cuarón’s stylish film plays out against the backdrop of Mexican political upheaval and plays with notions of upturning the established order on scales both large and small, all the while suggesting that no paradise lasts forever. Those are universal travel themes if ever we’ve heard them.

Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Run Time: 153 min | IMDb: 8.3/10

What Is It: Tarantino often goes deep on a single location. Pulp Fiction , Reservoir Dogs , Jackie Brown , and Once Upon A Time … In Hollywood are all odes to a single place, Los Angeles. But when QT does hit the road, it’s often a treat for the sense. In his 2009 a-historical WWII B-movie, Inglourious Basterds, Tarantino takes us on a trip around Europe with titular Basterds. We maraud with them as they make their way from England, to the Belgian lowlands, through France, and into Paris.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: Travel isn’t always about self-fulfillment and relaxation. A lot of folks’ first travel experience before 1950 was via war. Still, there’s a sense of wonder to this movie that transcends any reason to travel and speaks to a universal truth of a group of people finding their way through places they don’t quite understand.

Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)

Run Time: 115 min | IMDb: 8.4/10

What Is It: As far as travel and adventure go, Raiders of the Lost Ark , has everything you could possibly want. A hero with a love for archeology and whips? Check. An adventure to recover a stolen artifact with destructive powers? Check, check. Harrison Ford beating up Nazis with sarcastic one-liners and a knowing twinkle in his eye? Did movies even exist before this?

Why It’s Great For Travelers: It could be argued that this movie inspired a generation of Gen X travelers to hit the road. The movie bleeds the sense of adventure and zest for life that we all wish we could have had on the open road. Raider’s promises glory and thrilling exploits exist out there and we want that to be true deep in our bones.

Snowpiercer (2013)

Run Time: 126 min | IMDb: 7.1/10

What Is It: Bong Joon Ho was on film lover’s minds for years before he became a household name with his Oscar-winning masterpiece Parasite . Bong’s 2013 sci-fi turn with Captain America Chris Evans is a dystopian train journey in a post-climate-change afflicted world. The world is iced over, people are surviving by speeding around the globe on a train, and the working class has had enough. Though you may have to suspend your disbelief that survivors who lived by cannibalizing infants would revolt over being fed insect protein, this movie still holds up as a spell-binding, action-packed whirlwind.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: The sense of non-stop movement in this film draws you in. You’ll be longing to hit the Trans-Siberian, jump on the Empire Builder across America, or buy that Rail Pass for Europe next summer. Hopefully, battling 1984 -esque guards and Tilda Swinton will not be a part of those train journies though.

Batman Begins (2005)

Run Time: 140 min | IMDb: 8.2/10

What Is It: The fourth reboot of the Batman franchise was helmed by Christopher Nolan when we still had something to prove to the world. The film follows a young Bruce Wayne as he spends the first half of the film wandering around the world looking for a purpose in life. He finally ends up in a Himalayan prison camp where he’s rescued by a mysterious group of psychonaut militant ninjas who help birth The Batman .

Why It’s Great For Travelers: The desire to find yourself on the open road is a universal one, especially when you’re in your late teens and twenties. Bruce Wayne’s down-and-dirty vagabond journies where he’s barely scraping by are the stuff of backpacking legend and inspiration enough to go out there and find a little truth. You may not come home Batman, but you may come home a more complete you.

Kill Bill: Vol. 1 (2003)

Run Time: 111 min | IMDb: 8.1/10

What Is It: Tarantino has a knack for globetrotting. The first half of Kill Bill finds the vengeful Bride bouncing from Texas’ high deserts to Southern California suburbia to the mean streets of Tokyo. Each of these locations has a unique and highly stylized nature that begs you to step into the location.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: When the Bride walks into an Okinawa sushi house, you want to be sitting there too. For a brief moment, you think you too can wear a leather jumpsuit and ride a motorcycle around Tokyo at night. And, you know what? Why not? Go! Do exactly that. Maybe leave the katana at home though. They’re not really going to let you carry it on the plane (no matter how cool it makes you look).

The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999)

Run Time: 139 min | IMDb: 7.9/10

What Is It: Patricia Highsmith’s ability to weave noirish tales around mid-20th century travelers is legendary. The atmosphere of 1950s Italy is so intact and somehow universal in this film that you can almost feel the heat of the sun and the taste of the bitters in the cocktails. The intrigue of a young Matt Damon going full psychopath on an unsuspecting Jude Law and Gwyneth Paltrow is a masterclass in creepiness (why doesn’t Damon play more villains?). Plus, there are wonderful Phillip Seymour Hoffman and Cate Blanchett performances here too. Taking a step back, this cast is phenomenal and worth the two hours alone.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: Do you become someone else when you’re no longer home? Maybe you do become someone else when you’re on the road? Maybe you don’t. Philosophical questions of self-identity aside, if this movie doesn’t make you book a trip to Italy , nothing will.

Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle (2004)

Run Time: 88 min | IMDb: 7.1/10

What Is It: There are few things better than a buddy stoner movie. This quest to quell a wicked case of the munchies by stoner pals Harold and Kumar to White Castle for a pile of sliders is a cult classic that still holds up. Plus, the under 90-minute runtime makes this an easy, fun watch — whether you’re stoned or not.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: If you’ve been on the road and you’re inclined to find an epic meal, you know Harold and Kumar’s drive and pain. Granted this is just about traveling across town for a fast-food snack, but there’s something universal about that trek. We travel far and wide for the best taco trucks, burger joints, craft brews, and simple pleasures that, simply, makes us happy, and that’s what this movie captures so perfectly.

Indiana Jones And The Last Crusade (1989)

Run Time: 127 min | IMDb: 8.2/10

What Is It: Yes, we’re putting two Indiana Jones movies on this list. The Last Crusade is the actual sequel to Raiders of the Lost Ark ( Temple of Doom is an underrated prequel ). Indy is a little older, he’s traveling with his cantankerous father, and he’s punching Nazis all the way around the world. Hell, even the opening scene with River Phoenix playing a teen-aged Indy has a sense of wanderlust whimsy in Utah’s Arches National Park. And all of that’s before you get to Il Duce’s Venice, Austrian castles, Hitler’s Berlin, and the Middle East’s deserts.

Why It’s Great For Travelers: Nearly one-million people visit Petra in Jordan yearly (where the movie’s climax takes place) many thanks to this movie. And, in true Indiana Jones fashion, traveling is the core of the film. You can go to all of these places right now and relieve your favorite Indiana Jone’s fantasies. Plus, the movie touches on how two distant people can find common ground again while sharing experience on the road.

24 BEST travel movies on Netflix or Prime (2024 updated)

Posted on Last updated: 26 March 2024

Is it movie night in your household tonight? Looking for best travel movies that you haven’t yet seen? Or perhaps you want to revisit some classic adventure movies? Then read on…

We are travel addicts in this family. When we’re not actually travelling, or planning travels, or even talking, writing and reading about travels, what do we do? We watch films about travel! We have watched every single travel film on this list, and every single one gets our personal recommendation.

And if you’re looking for the best travel movies on Netflix UK or best travel movies on Prime, you can find all these films on either or both!

But be warned, watching these travel films will give you a serious bout of itchy feet and may lead to flight purchases.

1. The Beach (2000)

Perhaps our all time favourite travel movie and a true classic. We can honestly watch this one over and over again. Richard, a backpacker in his 20s comes across a strange map that leads him and his friends to a solitary beach paradise. Anyone who has travelled Thailand can relate to the buzzing scenes of Th Khao San in Bangkok and the tropical island vibes in this evocative blockbuster adapted from Alex Garland’s book of the same name. Directed by Danny Boyle and starring a young Leonardo DiCaprio, this film may leave you questioning the costs your own travel adventures, despite the extreme ending.

2. Wild (2014)

Reese Witherspoon stars in this extraordinary true story based on the best selling novel. Cheryl Strayed, a girl in her 20s who recently lost her mother, decides to start a new life by hiking along the 1,100 mile-long Pacific Crest Trail in the USA. As with all travel with a purpose, the miles walked provides Cheryl with the time and space to reflect on her life and she begins to discover herself. Have the tissues handy.

3. Lost in Translation (2003)

Shot entirely on location in Japan, this is a heartfelt film about loneliness and human connection, and is easily one of the best films of all time. It beautifully captures the feeling of confusion and alienation which can affect travellers when they first arrive in a new country, stepping out of their comfort zone, and is a film you will be thinking about for days after watching.

4. The Way (2010)

After hearing the devastating news that his son was killed in a storm in the Pyrenees while walking The Camino de Santiago, Tom, an eye doctor from California, flies out to France to collect his son’s remains. Rather than return home, Tom decides to embark on the historical pilgrimage to honour his son, leaving his ashes along the trail. Through the weeks of walking and the characters he meets along the way, Tom begins to understand his son’s passion for travel and in turn learns more about himself and what he wants from life. Another tear-jerker this one.

5. Into the Wild (2007)

Directed by Sean Penn, this is a true story pieced together from family accounts and journals from Christopher McCandless who was found dead in an abandoned bus in the depths of Alaska in 1992. He was a successful graduate and top student from Emory University, who abandoned his possessions, gave his entire $24,000 law school fund to Oxfam, and hitchhiked to Alaska to live in the wilderness. An outstanding travel movie, with an extremely sad ending.

6. Up (2009)

Easily one of the best travel movies for kids. This animated comedy adventure from Pixar Studios shows that you’re never too old or too young to travel. Carl Fredricksen, a 70 year old retired balloon salesmen, never made it to the wilds of South America with his wife, even though they always dreamed about travelling there together. His wife has sadly passed away, but he ends up fulfilling his dream with the help of balloons and a young scout.

7. The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)

Our regular readers will know that we used to live in India and so we easily fell in love with this travel movie. There’s also a sequel! The film beautifully captures the chaos and colour of this contradicting country, where a group of British retirees travel to Jaipur to stay at the supposedly newly restored Marigold Hotel. Less luxurious than advertised, the Marigold Hotel nevertheless slowly begins to charm in unexpected ways and will have you both laughing and crying at the same time.

8. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)

A quirky one and perhaps not to everyone’s taste. But if you allow yourself be drawn into the vivid imagination of Walter Mitty, you will be transported to the vast open plains of Greenland, Iceland (which is one of our favourite family travel destinations ) and Afghanistan’s Himalayas. It’s beautifully shot, and has the powerful message that resonates with all travellers, in that travel changes you for the better.

9. Tracks (2014)

A remarkable true story of Robyn Davidson, a young woman, who leaves her life in the city behind to make a trek through 1,700 miles of sprawling Australian desert with just four camels and a dog for company. Expect epic Australian landscapes and beautifully raw acting.

10. Eat, Pray, Love (2010)

Some say this travel movie is excruciatingly corny, yet for others, including myself, it’s a feel-good movie that provides the warm and fuzzy vibes. Believing there’s more to life than a husband, house and career, Liz Gilbert (Julia Roberts) leaves New York and embarks on a yearlong journey travelling to Italy (for good food), India (to meditate) and Bali (to perhaps find true love). Based on the best-selling book by Elizabeth Gilbert.

11. Holiday in the Wild (2019)

The dialogue is cliché, the plot is predictable, and the repertoire of Kristin Davis is barely stretched, but if you love elephants, you love an African safari , and you’re looking for some easy viewing, this Netflix produced travel movie is worth a watch. Filmed in South Africa , a Manhattanite flies solo to Zambia for her second honeymoon (after her husband walked out on her, the same day her son leaves for college) and ends up working at an elephant sanctuary.

12. The Inbetweeners 2 (2014)

The Inbetweeners TV series is one of the most hilarious British comedies to grace our screen. There have been two spin off films made, but our favourite has to be when the misfit foursome head downunder. When Neil, Will and Simon arrive in Australia to find that Jay’s life in Sydney’s ‘sex capital of the world’ isn’t quite all he has been saying, Will decides they have an opportunity to do some ‘real’ travelling. Cue a romp through camp-fire singing, unintentional proposals, water-slide disgrace, dolphin feeding and a trip to the outback.

13. The Darjeeling Limited (2007)

Three American brothers (Francis, Peter, and Jack) who have not spoken to each other since their father’s funeral a year ago, set off on a train voyage across India with a plan to find themselves and bond with each other. Francis is recovering from a motorcycle accident, Peter cannot cope with his wife’s pregnancy, and Jack cannot get over his ex-lover. The brothers fall into old patterns of sibling behaviour and the spiritual quest gets rather complicated.

14. A Map for Saturday (2007)

A documentary of solo backpacker Brook Silva-Braga’s travels for one year across the globe. Follow his well trodden path from Australia, South East Asia, India, Nepal, Europe and Brazil and perhaps reminisce about your young backpacker days before you started travelling the world with kids in tow. It’s an honest account of life on the road for a young single traveller and very relatable. And why the title? Well, every day feels like a Saturday when you’re travelling!

15. 180° South (2010)

A Netflix travel movie that follows Jeff Johnson as he retraces a legendary 1968 trip to Patagonia undertaken by his heroes, Yvon Choinard and Doug Tomkins. This film may get you packing your bags and jumping on a sailing boat to South America. You’ve been warned.

16. Out of Africa (1985)

An oldie but goodie, and an absolute must if you’re planning a trip to Africa . Set in colonial Kenya, a Danish Baroness (Meryl Streep) has a passionate love affair with a free-spirited big-game hunter (Robert Redford). This epic travel movie won seven Oscars in 1986, including Best Picture and Best Director, so it must be good.

17. Thelma and Louise (1991)

Another Oscar-winning, classic travel film. Thelma and Louise set off on a girls road trip for some fun and excitement, but after Louise shoots dead a guy who tried to rape Louise, they decide they have no choice but to go on the run. One of the first true feminist films.

18. Priscilla Queen of the Desert (1994)

It was actually seeing the stage show of this travel movie in Sydney that prompted us to watch this classic Aussie film. Two drag queens and a transsexual travel across the vast Outback from Sydney to Alice Springs in a battered old bus (called Priscilla) to perform their cabaret. It’s fabulously hilarious with wonderfully outrageous costumes, but surprisingly tender at times.

19. Before Sunrise (1995)

An American guys meets a French girl on a train, and they impulsively decide to get off the train and spend the evening together in Venice before he has to fly back to home the US. What this travel movie lacks in plot development, it gains in romantic charm, and if you really love it, this is just the first in a trilogy.

20. The Endless Summer (1966)

The ultimate surfing film directed by Bruce Brown follows two young surfers from California around the world in search of the perfect wave. In his narration, Brown muses that if someone had enough time and money, they could literally follow the summer around the globe, and he takes us to Senegal, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Hawaii and California.

21. Vicky Cristina Barcelona (2008)

Two best friends, Vicky and Cristina, with opposing views to love, embark on a summer in Barcelona. The plot line of them falling for the same man sounds cliché, but the clever dialogue and superb acting make this romantic travel film something different; although the character that really seduces us all is Barcelona.

22. Into Thin Air: Death on Everest (1997)

No list of best travel movies is complete without a film about Everest. There are so many films and documentaries about this beast of a mountain to choose from, but my favourite has to be ‘Into Thin Air’; a personal account from Jon Krakauer of the horrific 1996 Mt Everest Disaster where eight climbers were killed and several others were stranded by a storm. Jay and I hiked to Everest Base Camp from the Nepal side pre-kids, and this film really hit home.

23. The Art of Travel (2008)

The Art of Travel is seemingly the ultimate travel movie for those who love to don their backpack and venture off the beaten track. We follow the journey of Conner, a young man who embarks on a solo adventure of self-discovery after leaving his cheating fiancé at the altar. Demonstrating the transformative power of travel, Conner experiences a challenging introduction to Nicaragua’s capital, Managua, and meets a group of travellers aiming to break the world record in crossing the Darien Gap between Panama and Colombia, before venturing into South America. There is so much potential with this film, but it’s let down with a poor script that can be patchy and clichéd at times. It’s one to watch after you have travelled to Central and South America. Perhaps avoid watching before you go.

24. A Tourist’s Guide To Love (2023)

Firmly in the chick flick genre, this film lacks grit and a tight narrative. But as soon as the lead character sets foot in HCMC, you can’t help but smile, especially as she struggles to cross the road through the throng of mopeds. 

It’s an easy watch, with a handful of predictable cheese, following the story of a travel agency rep, Amanda Riley, falling in love with her local tour guide, Sinh, with a heavenly-sanitised and serene version of Vietnam as a backdrop travelling through HCMC, Hoi An, Da Nang, and Hanoi. 

The key message throughout is that we shouldn’t feel the need to tick off sites to experience a country. Be flexible, head off the beaten path, and see where your day takes you. 

So that’s a wrap on our best travel movies. There are A LOT more travel films around, but these are our ultimate favourites. If you have any favourite adventure films that aren’t on this list, then let me know, and we’ll have to check them out! I will be updating this post regularly as there are always new travel films coming out, or old classics still to find, so keep this page bookmarked.

You may also like to read: How to become a digital nomad family How we afford to travel with kids Unpaid Parental Leave: taking leave from work to travel with your kids

17 Travel movies on Netflix, you need to stream right now!

traveller Divya

Travel movies on Netflix are the best way to treat your travel bug right now. When you can’t visit the places yourself, the best way to experience virtual travel is through cinema.

In this blog, I am going to take you through a list of travel movies streaming right now on Netflix. These movies are perfect to soothe your wanderlust right now.

I have tried to add all the travel movies on Netflix available right now. While some of these movies are really good, others are decent and a one time watch.

Netflix has a wide range of travel-based content. From travel documentaries to travel series and movies, there is enough to keep your travel desires fulfilled.

Here’s the updated list of Travel movies on Netflix, you need to add to your binge list:

I am not saying that these are the best travel movies on Netflix. This is the list of all the movies that you can stream on Netflix right now.  Take note that I haven’t included documentaries of any kind in this list.

1.   Before Sunrise:  One of the Best Travel Movies on Netflix

This movie is actually a part of a trilogy – Before Sunrise, Before Sunset and Before Midnight. However, Netflix has only the first one. The movie describes a relationship between two travellers who meet on a training Europe.

While talking to each other in the lanes of Vienna, they share stories and form a beautiful connection. The reason I love this movie so much is that despite having a simple story, it displays human emotions in a very beautiful manner.

• Main Cast: Ethan Hawke, Julie Delpy
• Director: Richard Linklater
• Language: English
• Locations: Vienna

2.  EuroTrip:   Go on this funny Europe Trip  with a Group of Goofy Friends

This travel movie is a decent watch if you need some silly laughs. The plot of the movie revolves around friends backpacking around Europe in search of a German pen pal.

The film is set in Europe and covers some of the most well-known European travel destinations.

• Main Cast: Scott Mechlowicz, Jacob Pitts, Michelle Trachtenberg, Travis Wester
• Director:  Jeff Schaffer
• Locations: London, Paris, Amsterdam, Bratislava, Berlin, and Rome

3.  The Bucket List:   A heartfelt movie about living life to the fullest

A heart-warming film about two terminally ill men who head on a road trip before they kick the bucket. The movie takes you through many countries as the duo experiences life to the fullest.

Starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freemen, the movie is inspirational and sentimental. Although, if you are looking for something lighter, you might want to avoid it.

• Main Cast: Jack Nicholson, Morgan Freeman, Sean Hayes, Beverly Todd
• Director: Rob Reiner
• Locations: India, Egypt, France, China, Tanzania, USA

4.  Wine Country:   Take a Netflix tour  with the funniest group of ladies 

I saw this movie only a few days back and totally loved it. Starring my favourite female comic Tina Fey, the movie is about a girls’ trip to Napa Valley.

A lovely heartwarming movie, what I loved most about the movie were the beautiful vineyards.

• Locations: Napa Valley, California

5.   Eat Pray Love:  Stream one of the most celebrated travel movies on Netflix 

This is one of the most celebrated travel movies and also one of my favourites. The movie is based on the book Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert , which I would highly recommend.

The movie takes you on the self-discovery journey of a woman as she goes off on her journey around the world. A must watch for all those who love to travel.

• Main Cast: Julia Roberts, Javier Bardem, Richard Jenkins, Viola Davis
• Director: Ryan Murphy
• Locations: USA, Italy, India, Indonesia

6.  Into the Wild:   Inspired by the true story of an American hiker 

The movie is based on a true story of an American hiker, Christopher Johnson McCandless, also known by the pseudonym Alexander Supertramp.

The story chases Christopher as he sets out on a road trip through the USA before ending up in Alaska. If I say anything beyond that, it would be a spoiler! Watch it if you haven’t already.

If you would like to know more, I would recommend the book Into the Wild written by Jon Krakauer .

• Main Cast: Emile Hirsch, Marcia Gay Harden, William Hurt, Jena Malone
• Director: Sean Penn
• Locations:  USA- Oregon, Alaska, Arizona, and South Dakota

7.  Up in the Air:   A Movie for People, constantly on the move

Up in the Air is a movie about a person who is constantly on the move. He loves his life on the road and believes that moving is living.

The movie is based on the book Up in the air by American Novelist Walter Kirn. The movies bring out questions and emotions related to living a life that is constantly on the move.

• Main Cast: George Clooney, Vera Farmiga, Anna Kendrick, Danny McBride
• Director: Jason Reitman
• Locations:  USA- Las Vegas, Florida

8.  Seven Years in Tibet:   An inspiring story of a hiker who spends time with a young Dalai Lama

The movie is based on the Book, Seven Years in Tibet: My Life Before, During and After by Heinrich Harrer .  This biographical film is an account of the experience of the author in Tibet between 1944 and 1951 where he spends time with a young Dalai Lama.

Although the movie is about Tibet; it has been shot in Argentina and British Columbia. It is a wonderful movie that gives an insight into the Tibetan and Buddhist cultures.

• Main Cast: Brad Pitt, David Thewlis, BD Wong, Danny Denzongpa, Mako
• Director: Jean-Jacques Annaud
• Locations:  Argentina and Canada 

9.  Indiana Jones:   Go on an adventure 

This series has to be on every traveller’s bucket list. Although the series has 4 movies, on Netflix you can watch the first in the series- Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark.

This classic is considered to be one of the best travel films of all time. So, if you haven’t watched it yet, you must do it now.

• Main Cast: Harrison Ford, Karen Allen, Paul Freeman, Ronald Lacey
• Director: Steven Spielberg
• Locations:  USA, France

10.    My Travel Buddy:   A funny Turkish Movie of two friends on the road 

This is a two-part series and both the movies are available on Netflix. The movies revolve around the adventure and road trips of a duo. This is one of the lesser-known travel movies .

This Turkish movie is fun to watch as it takes you through beautiful Turkish towns. Give it a try if you want to watch something goofy.

• Main Cast: Oguzhan Koç, İbrahim Büyükak, Emre Kınay, Aslı Bekiroğlu, Eda Ece, Bahar Sahin
• Director: Bedran Güzel
• Language: Turkish
• Locations:  Turkey

11.  Holiday in the Wild:  A decent watch for Elephant Lovers 

This is a romantic movie that centres around a woman who goes alone on a holiday without her husband.

More than the story, what I actually liked about the movie is the location. The movie is shot beautifully and has a decent storyline.

• Main Cast: Rob Lowe, Kristin Davis
• Director: Ernie Barbarash
• Locations:  Zambia

12. Due Date:   Take a funny road trip across the United States 

If you are a Zach Galifianakis fan like me, you will like this movie. This movie takes you on a beautiful yet hilarious road trip.

The movie takes you on a road trip across the United States and the landscapes are nothing less than amazing.

• Main Cast: Robert Downey Jr., Zach Galifianakis, Michelle Monaghan, Juliette Lewis, Jamie Foxx,
• Director: Todd Phillips
• Locations:  USA- Las Cruces, New Mexico, Atlanta, Georgia, and Tuscaloosa, Alabama

13.  Easy Rider:  A Classic Motorcycle Travelogue

The movie is a motorcycle travelogue that follows the main characters on their journey from Mexico to Los Angeles to New Orleans.

The film is shot across varied landscapes including deserts and towns. I feel this is one of the best travel movies on Netflix right now.

• Main Cast: Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper, Jack Nicholson
• Director: Dennis Hopper
• Locations:  Mexico and USA

14.  Zindagi Milegi Na Dobara:  One of the best Bollywood Travel Movies on Netflix

The movie is synonymous with Spain. The plot takes you on a road trip adventure of three friends through Spain as they discover themselves in the process.

The movie has some stunning visuals and adventures that among others include sea diving, sky falls and the Tomatina festival.

• Main Cast: Hrithik Roshan, Abhay Deol, Farhan Akhtar, Katrina Kaif, Kalki Koechlin
• Director: Zoya Akhtar
• Language: Hindi
• Locations:  Spain

15.  Dil Chahta Hai:  An Absolute Must Watch

One of my all-time favourite Bollywood movies, Dil Chahta is a treat for travellers as well. Trust me, nothing has boosted Goa tourism more than this movie. So, much so that Chapora Fort has is famously known in Goa as the Dil Chahta hai Fort.

Feel the Goa vibe with this amazing movie to quench your wanderlust.

• Main Cast: Aamir Khan,  Saif Ali Khan, Akshaye Khanna, Preity Zinta, Sonali Kulkarni, Dimple Kapadia
• Director: Farhan Akhtar
• Locations:  Goa (India), Australia

16.  Queen:  Experience a woman’s journey of self-discovery 

This again is a simple yet heartwarming Bollywood film that takes the protagonist on a solo trip to Europe where she discovers her own identity.

The movie is a wonderful depiction of a woman’s journey as she explores friendships and learns to be independent.

• Main Cast: Kangana Ranaut, Rajkummar Rao,  Lisa Haydon
• Director: Vikas Bahl
• Locations:  Paris, Amsterdam, Delhi (India)

17.  Tamasha:  Experience the visually stunning Corsica in Spain

Shot in the beautiful city of Corsica in Spain, the movie is yet another Bollywood film where the protagonist is on a path of self-discovery.

So, if you still haven’t thought of including Spain in your Wishlist, maybe it is time to change that.

• Main Cast: Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone
• Director: Imtiaz Ali
• Locations:  Corsica (Spain), Himachal Pradesh (India)

So, while you are at home with no plans to go out, these movies should keep you entertained. Let me know in the comment section if I forgot to list any travel movie that is currently available on Netflix.

THIS POST IS AN EXCLUSIVE PROPERTY OF BUDGET WAYFARERS. ANY INDIVIDUAL OR ASSOCIATION INDULGING IN PLAGIARISM WILL BE DEALT WITH STRICTLY . IF YOU WANT TO USE INFORMATION FROM THE ARTICLE ABOVE, KINDLY QUOTE THE SOURCE.

Especially for readers and movie buffs, travel is often less about visiting an actual place than it is about visiting the place as described by your favorite writer — Hemingway’s Spain, Joyce’s Dublin, or Faulkner’s South. Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris takes a nostalgic screenwriter (played by Owen Wilson) and allows him to travel back in time to the Paris of the 1920s, back when it was chock full of the best writers and artists in the world. If for nothing else, watch it for the awesome scenes with the drunken, macho Hemingway.

14. The Lord of the Rings trilogy

J.R.R. Tolkien considered The Lord of the Rings to be a single story, so I’m counting it as one here, even though the three movies add up to 9+ hours of viewing time. And yes: It counts as travel even if it’s in a mythical land. If you haven’t seen The Lord of the Rings , then I don’t know what the fuck you’ve been doing with your life, but it basically defines the word “epic.” And while many people consider director Peter Jackson’s inability to do anything at all with any sort of brevity to be the trilogy’s great weakness (his kids presumably hate it when it takes him 18 hours to make them toast for breakfast), it’s still an incredible story to watch. At the very least, it’s an amazing advertisement for visiting New Zealand.

13. Zombieland

It’s a road trip with zombies. I mean, what more do I need to say about it?

12. Dumb & Dumber

It doesn’t matter how dumb or dated this movie is, I will always love it, and I will probably always be able to quote it from beginning to end. Also, you get to see great American sights, like the plains of Nebraska (“That John Denver was full of shit,”) and Aspen, “where the beer flows like wine and the beautiful women instinctively flock like the salmon of Capistrano.”

11. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy

The movie, sadly, is not as excellent as Douglas Adams’ insanely awesome book or any of its four sequels, but that was maybe too much to hope for in the first place. If you’re unfamiliar with the story, it’s about a man who survives the demolition of Earth and then travels around the universe searching for a decent cup of tea. I suggest, of course reading the books first (which are full of useful travel advice, like, “Don’t panic,” “Always know where your towel is,” and “The secret to flying is to throw yourself at the ground and miss”), but in a pinch the movie will make your universe feel larger and stranger, which can only be a good thing.

10. The Darjeeling Limited

Other than maybe Slumdog Millionaire , no movie made me miss India quite as much as The Darjeeling Limited . It’s a Wes Anderson movie, so naturally full of whimsy and understatement, but the tale of three brothers taking a train across India to see their mother seems to capture the feel of being a stranger in huge, crowded, cluttered, confusing India perfectly. You can almost smell the country.

9. Thelma & Louise

Thelma & Louise is indisputably the best American buddy road trip movie all time. Yes, even better than Dumb & Dumber. It’s also a rare popular feminist movie, so that’s an added plus.

8. Life of Pi

Ang Lee’s adaptation of Yann Martel’s book Life of Pi is one of those rare movies that is actually better than the book. It’s about a young boy who is, along with an adult Bengal tiger, the only survivor of a shipwreck, and is stranded on a lifeboat in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It is visually stunning and is one of those rare movies that looks even better in 3-D. See it that way, if you can.

7. Raiders of the Lost Ark

Of course this is a travel movie. It gets into the top 10 solely on account of its iconic map travel scenes. Technically, I could throw all three Indiana Jones movies in here (what fourth?), but Raiders is by far the best, and if it doesn’t put some swash in your buckle, nothing will.

6. Lost in Translation

One of the most defining parts of travel is the sense of feeling isolated, exhausted, and culturally cut off. Sofia Coppola’s Lost in Translation manages to convey that perfectly, while also making Tokyo look pretty fucking incredible. The fact that Bill Murray didn’t win the Oscar for this movie is proof that there is no God.

You really don’t need to say anything about Up except that it’s a Pixar movie, but it’s also an incredible travel movie. I always worry that I’m going to turn 60 and find that I haven’t been to all of the places that I want to go, and to that, Up answers, “Who cares?” Ultimately, it’s a movie about living life to the fullest no matter what your age. Also, it has talking dogs.

4. In Bruges

After a botched assassination in London, two hitmen go to the medieval Belgian town of Bruges to hide out. It is one of the funniest, darkest movies you’ll ever see, and if it doesn’t make you want to go to Belgium afterwards, nothing will. Except maybe waffles.

3. The Before Sunrise trilogy

Yes, I’m cheating by putting two trilogies on here, but the Before Sunrise collection is not only the best travel trilogy of all time, but the best trilogy of all time. You heard me, George Lucas. If you aren’t familiar with these movies, Before Sunrise starts with an American boy (Ethan Hawke) and a French girl (Julie Delpy) meeting on a train and getting off in Vienna to spend the night together before he flies home. The next two movies follow their relationship — in real time! — over the next two decades. Each movie really only contains three characters, Jesse (Hawke), Celine (Delpy), and whichever foreign locale they’re wandering around: Vienna in Before Sunrise (1995), Paris in Before Sunset (2004), and Messenia, Greece, in last year’s Before Midnight . Inexplicably, each movie is better than the last, and it’s an absolute fucking treat to watch.

2. Into the Wild

Watching Into the Wild is basically an act of vicarious wish fulfillment. Who hasn’t wanted to drop all of their belongings and leave home for good, committing to life as a wanderer? Into the Wild is based on the true story of Chris McCandless, who did just that for two years back in the ’90s. The movie focuses less on the problematic aspects of McCandless’s life — that he abandoned his family and didn’t tell them a thing about his whereabouts, or his wild irresponsibility in refusing to use maps in the Alaskan wilderness — than Jon Krakauer’s excellent book does, but it’s still an incredible movie, and will make you itch to get on the road.

1. The Motorcycle Diaries

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Best Travel Movies on Netflix

Sometimes, wanderlust hits the hardest in moments where travel is impossible. If you’re feeling a little stuck these days, try getting lost in an incredible travel movie. Even if you can’t feel the cobblestone streets, taste the fresh pastries, or smell the sea breeze you’ll get swept up in the dream. Chances are you’ll be looking up hotels in these international cities before getting to the credits. 

The best part? All of these travel movies can be found on Netflix. Meaning, you can watch them on the couch curled up with your favorite travel companion or download them for later.

The Talented Mr. Ripley 

The Talented Mr. Ripley is an absolute classic. The unsuspecting thriller shows off all the beauty and luxuries the Amalfi Coast has to offer.  Tom Ripley (Matt Damon) is sent to Italy to convince Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law) to return home to America, but Tom gets sidetracked and begins to crave la dolce vita  that Dickie leads. It is impossible to watch and not daydream. Instagram is covered with photos of the stunning coastline, but the movie really completes the picture. If reading is more your speed, get lost in the pages of the book then check out the film adaptation.

Catch Me If You Can

Frank Abagnale, Jr. is the ultimate con man even before his 18th birthday. Frank ( Leonardo DiCaprio) successfully conned his way around the world by pretending to be a pilot, doctor, and lawyer. This biographical crime story (yes, it’s based on a true story) heats up as FBI Agent Carl Hanratty (Tom Hanks) and his team chase him around the globe. Frank always seems to stay one step ahead, but how long will that last?

Roma is a Netflix original movie set in Mexico City. Not only was the movie written and directed by Alfonso Cuaron, it also tells the story of a central figure in his childhood, Cleo, a live-in housekeeper. Roma’s story is told in the most captivating way showcasing what was going on in and out of the home during the early ’70s. It is a tearjerker and there is no mistaking the respect Cuaron feels for Cleo. 

Eat Pray Love

The ultimate travel movie might just be Eat Pray Love. Elizabeth Gilbert’s memoir of her growth through travel after a breakup runs you through the gauntlet of emotions. The book was read by millions, but the movie starring Julia Roberts is captivating in its own way. Getting even just a glimpse of Italy, India, and Indonesia will spark your curiosity. In fact,  travel in Indonesia, specifically Bali, has exploded since the film. Save these Indonesian COMO Hotels and Resorts properties for the inevitable trip you’ll be wanting to plan after watching Eat Pray Love. 

Set in India, Lion tells the true story of Saroo Brierley who at five-years-old gets separated from his older brother while on the train. Brierley is forced to learn how to fend for himself on the streets before ultimately being adopted by a family in Australia. Years had passed but a strong connection to his home country remained. However, what burned strongest was his desire to tell the people who he was separated from that he was still alive. Against all odds and with little memory from his life in India as a young boy, he searches tirelessly to return to his home. 

City of God 

Adapted from the original 1977 novel of the same name, City of God is set in the sprawling favelas situated right outside of Rio de Janeiro. The dark coming of age film, loosely based on true events, illustrates the paths of two young men born and raised in Rio de Janeiro. Rocket is a photographer using his lens as a way to showcase what it’s like in his neighborhood, while Jose becomes an ambitious drug dealer who is focused on the fame and power dealing gets him. 

The Bucket List 

Against doctor’s orders, two terminally ill strangers check out of the hospital together to complete a list of things they want to see and do before they die. About as opposite as two people can be, billionaire Edward Cole (Jack Nicholas) and car mechanic Carter Chambers (Morgan Freeman) set out together to complete their list before they kick the bucket. While on their journey, they bond over the few things that they do have in common, mainly a desire to come to terms with who they are. The movie is sure to pull at your heartstrings while also providing a whole lot of laughs.

Queen of Katwe

Queen of Katwe is based on a true story that takes place in the slums of Uganda. A local girl, Phiona, learns the game of chess from a missionary. Through chess, her eyes are opened to the huge possibilities of life outside of poverty. It is an underdog story that is truly heartwarming and a lesser-known travel movie that deserves much more notability!

Up In the Air

Based on the 2001 novel of the same name, Up in the Air is a lighthearted movie about life on the road. Ryan’s (George Clooney) job has him bouncing from city to city in the United States racking up airline miles as he teaches the importance of face-to-face meetings to his younger co-worker (Anna Kendrick). As fate would have it, he meets a woman (Vera Farmiga) who is also a frequent flier and they arrange dates in different cities. When his company makes a cost-cutting pivot, Ryan’s life on the road might be in jeopardy. 

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25 Of The Best Travel Movies To Ignite Your Wanderlust

Looking for some great travel movies? We share some of our favorite adventure films.

Any list of the top travel movies is going to be a bit controversial. After all, opinions about what make the best travel movies are as diverse as the people watching.

However, there are some wanderlust movies that are so iconic that it’s hard to argue about their inclusion on our list.

The Best Travel Movies

Each of these movies is on our list for a different reason. Some bring back memories of carefree summer vacations, while others have characters that visit remote and undiscovered lands. Some of these movies are all about adventure, while others are more introspective, and about the inner journey. Still, others show off the filmmaker’s video editing capabilities, and their gorgeous cinematography.

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty stars Ben Stiller as Walter. He spends his days daydreaming about an exciting existence, but spends day-after-day developing photos for Life magazine. His life turns around when he takes the chance to travel the world to find the perfect photo for the magazine’s final print issue.

It’s a funny and inspiring adventure movie, full of gorgeous scenery and grand adventures.

Where to watch. Stream: HBO Now, HBO Max. Buy or rent: YouTube, iTunes.

Hector and the Search for Happiness (2014)

Equally touching and funny, Hector and the Search for Happiness stars Simon Pegg as a middle aged psychiatrist who travels the world in his search for happiness.

One NSFW word of caution: You may find yourself saying: “ I want happiness ” in an over-the-top French accent over and over.

Where to watch. Stream: Amazon Prime . Buy or rent: Amazon , YouTube, iTunes.

Lost in Translation (2003)

Lost in Translation is a movie that I’ve watched over and over. It perfectly captures that sense of disconnect that I feel when I first visit a new destination where the language and customs are so different from my own.

Starring Bill Murray and a young Scarlett Johansson, Lost in Translation was directed by Sofia Coppola. The movie follows the relationship of an aging movie star (Murray) and a lonely, adrift young woman (Johansson) against the backdrop of Tokyo, Japan.

Where to watch. Stream: Crave, Starz. Rent or Buy: Amazon , YouTube.

Under the Tuscan Sun (2003)

Starring Diane Lane, Under the Tuscan Sun tells the story of a midlife woman who finds romance and a new purpose while renovating a run-town Italian villa. It’s equal parts romance, self discovery, wonderful food, and views of the stunning Tuscan landscape.

Where to watch. Stream: Amazon Prime Video . Rent or buy: Amazon , YouTube, Microsoft

Eat, Pray, Love (2010)

Based on the bestselling book by novelist Elizabeth Gilbert, Eat, Pray, Love follows Gilbert’s (Julia Roberts) journey of self discovery as she travels the globe.

Where to watch. Stream on Starz. Rent or buy on Amazon , YouTube, Microsoft .

In Bruges (2008)

Love it or hate it, the movie In Bruges captures the charms of Bruges, Belgium perfectly. It’s a grittier choice than many of the movies on this list as it follows the adventures of hit men Ray (Colin Farrell) and Ken (Brendan Gleeson) as they await new orders in Bruges however you can’t fault the Belgium ambience.

Where to watch. Stream on AMC+. Rent or buy: YouTube, Google, iTunes, Amazon.

Wild (2014)

Based on the real-live adventure of author Cheryl Strayed, Wild stars Reese Witherspoon. An inexperienced hiker, Strayed decided to walk the challenging Pacific Crest Trail to face her inner demons, and comes to the end of the hike with a newfound clarity about her life.

Where to watch. Stream: Disney+. Rent or buy: iTunes

Into the Wild (2007)

Into the Wild is a real-life true story of the journey of Christopher McCandless, who disappeared while exploring the wilderness in Alaska.

Because of the sad ending, I resisted seeing this for a couple of years, thinking it would be a sad movie to watch. Surprisingly, I found Christopher’s journey to be inspiring and uplifting. The scenery is gorgeous as well.

Where to watch. Rent or Buy: iTunes, YouTube, Amazon.

The Way (2010)

I’ve always wanted to walk the Camino de Santiago in Spain. This movie stars Martin Sheen, who undertakes the walk as a pilgrimage of sorts to his recently deceased son. It’s a sad premise, but the movie is ultimately a perfect showcase for the gorgeous Camino de Santiago journey.

Where to watch. Stream: Amazon Prime . Rent of Buy: YouTube, Amazon, iTunes.

Tracks (2014)

Tracks tells the real life story of Robyn Davidson, who spent nine months trekking across the Australian desert on camels. Starring Mia Wasikowska and Adam Driver, the movie is an inspiration for solo travelers in challenging terrain.

Where to watch. Stream: Amazon Prime . Rent or buy: YouTube, Cineplex.

Before Sunrise (1995) – Before Sunset (2004) – Before Midnight (2013)

I’ll watch anything starring the talented Ethan Hawke. That said, these movies hold their own as is.

I watched these out of order, seeing Before Sunset before the original, Before Sunrise. I think it was a mistake as the original was my favorite. The movie stars a very young Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy flirting and talking philosophy among the charming streets of Vienna, Austria after hours.

There’s a lot of dialogue and relationship talk here, so this might not be the trilogy for you if you’re craving action and excitement.

Where to watch. Stream: Hoopla. Rent or buy: Amazon , YouTube, iTunes.

Out of Africa (1985)

Starring Meryl Streep and Robert Redford, Out of Africa is one of those iconic travel movies. The scenery is stunning, and Streep’s performance is wonderful. The movie itself won best picture and best cinematography the year it was relieased. The movie tells of the story of Danish author Karen Blixen, who moved to Africa to build a new life for herself.

Where to watch. Rent or buy: Amazon , YouTube, iTunes.

The Beach (2000)

Based on Alex Garland’s book of the same name, this movie tells the story of twenty-something Richard (Leonardo DiCaprio), who is in search of a lost paradise away from the backpacker trail. He finds a strange map, and makes his way to a hidden island.

The Beach was filmed on Maya Beach on Thailand’s Koh Phi Phi Le (or Ko Phi Phi Leh). After the film came out, the beach was overrun by visitors.

When we visited in 2003, once pristine Maya Bay was still beautiful, but covered in a film of oil from boats ferrying visitors like us to the island. It’s since been closed to allow it to recover, and is open in a limited capacity.

Where to watch. Stream on Disney+. Rent or buy: Amazon , YouTube, iTunes.

Roman Holiday (1953)

Starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Pick, this black-and-white classic is set in Rome. It’s a fun, quirky, love story where a princess (Hepburn) meets a reporter (Peck), and they spend a day exploring 1950’s Rome.

Where to watch. Rent or buy: Amazon , YouTube, iTunes, Microsoft Store.

Up in the Air (2009)

If you love airports and flying, then this is the movie for you. There’s not a lot of great scenery here, or adventures across the country though. It stars George Clooney as Ryan, who travels the USA firing people for other companies. He’s about to reach his life’s goal of a million frequent flyer miles, when technology threatens to make his travels obsolete.

Where to watch. Stream: FuboTV. Rent or Buy: Amazon , YouTube, iTunes, Microsoft Store.

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel (2011)

A handful of older Brits decide to retire in the Marigold Hotel in Jaipur, India, rather than in sterile retirement homes back in the UK.

There’s a great cast with Judi Dench, Celia Imrie, and Bill Nighy, who struggle with day-to-day life in India.

Where to watch. Stream: Roku. Rent or Buy: Amazon , YouTube, iTunes, Microsoft Store.

Lawrence of Arabia (1962)

Starring a young Peter O’Toole, this epic historical drama based on the life of T. E. Lawrence, follows the plight of a British soldier who unites nomadic Arabian tribes to band against the Turks in the first World War. Set against the backdrop of the Arabian Desert, it’s a beautifully shot film and is often considered one of the best movies of all time. Whether you agree with the premise though is up to you.

Where to watch. Stream: Amazon Video . Rent or Buy: Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

The Best Road Trip Movies

The road trip is gold for adventure, fun, and great scenery. These flicks run the gamut from funny road trip movies to more serious explorations of culture and living conditions on the road.

Sideways (2004)

If you’re a fan of California wine country, this is the travel movie for you. It’s the story of two middle aged men on a road trip through wine country.

Where to watch. Stream on Disney+, Crave, Starz. Rent or Buy: Amazon, YouTube, iTunes, Microsoft Store.

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles (1987)

Starring John Candy and Steve Martin, this is one of the all time classic road trip comedy movies. Trying to get home during a freak snowstorm, control freak Neil Page (Martin), keeps encountering bumbling and talkative Del (Candy). Out of necessity, the two pair up to try to get home on a cross country road trip from New York to Chicago.

I’ve watched this with the kids (beware the R rating if you have little kids), and they thought it was hilarious. Our favorite quote: “Those aren’t pillows!”

Eurotrip (2004)

Definitely the raunchiest of the movies on this list, the R rated Eurotrip is still one of our favorite travel movies. Crossing 8 countries while trying to get the girl of his dreams, a group of friends travel Europe together one summer vacation and fall into one funnier predicament after another. It’s light and fun however there are some iconic shots across Europe in there as well as a few places you likely won’t find on the beaten path. Also one of the most wrong and catchy (and funny once you’ve watched the movie) songs you’ll ever hear in a movie (Scotty doesn’t know.)

Where to watch. Rent or Buy: Apple TV, Google Play, YouTube

National Lampoon’s Vacation (1983)

One of the best movies about family vacations , this 1980s classic starts Chevy Chase as bumbling, but well-meaning Clark Griswold. It’s an over-the-top spoof of the classic American road trip, that incidentally takes them through the Grand Canyon and Death Valley.

Somehow, this movie always inspires me check my road trip packing list , grab a list of the best family audiobooks for road trips , and get on the road.

Where to watch. Stream: Starz, Crave. Rent or Buy: Amazon , YouTube, iTunes, Microsoft Store.

The Motorcycle Diaries (2004)

The Motorcycle Diaries is based on the journals of Che Guevara, leader of the Cuban Revolution. Starring Gael García Bernal, the movie shows Che and his pal Alberto Granado on a road trip from the Andes to Machu Picchu and other South American Landmarks.

Where to watch. Rent or Buy: Amazon , YouTube, iTunes, Microsoft Store.

Best Travel Movies on Netflix

Choosing the best travel movies on Netflix can be a bit tricky, since Netflix is constantly changing the movies in their catalogue and they can vary from country to country. That said, here are our picks for the best travel movies on Netflix right now.

Seven Years in Tibet (1997)

Brad Pitt is the lead in this epic film based on a true story. Pitt plays egocentric Austrian mountain climber, Heinrich Harrer, who escapes from a WWII prisoner of war camp in India. He makes his way to refuge in the sacred land of Tibet, where he meets the young Dalai Lama.

Where to watch. Stream: Netflix.

Holiday in the Wild (2019)

Ok, I’m fully aware of the incongruity of putting a fun, escapist movie like Holiday in the Wild directly after a classic like Seven Years in Tibet. That said, Holiday in the Wild is both a fun movie, and chock full of absolutely stunning images of South Africa and Zambia landscapes and wildlife.

The movie stars Rob Lowe and Kristin Davis (who played Charlotte York Goldenblatt in Sex in the City). Davis plays a woman who is Jilted by her husband on the eve of embarking on an African safari. She chooses to travel to Africa alone, where she meets Lowe, who plays an elephant conservationist.

IMDB rating: 6.1

Wine Country (2019)

Another lighthearted romp, Wine Country is produced and directed by Amy Poehler, with a great cast that includes Poehler herself, Maya Rudolph,  Kristen Wiig, and Melissa McCarthy.

It’s set in a girls-only vacation to Napa Valley, where a group of longtime friends reunite and revisit past choices.

Other articles you might like:

• The Best Travel Vloggers on YouTube in 2021
• The Best Songs about Adventure and Travel
• 25+ Best Travel Memories Quotes to Inspire Your Wanderlust
• Five Interesting and Offbeat Travel TV Shows
• Our Favorite Travel TV Shows

Want to see all of the trailers in one place?

Watching trailers for movies is one of my favorite things in the world. Check out our YouTube playlist with trailers for all of the top travel movies here: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsfDUGOZ3UU8OxFOY5kxwxe374BOi_uoF

Do you have any personal picks for the best travel movies that we’ve forgotten? Share them in the comments!

Seven years in Tibet is one of my most favorite travel movies. Even the book is so hypnotizing.

These look like some classics. I’d have nothing to add. Nothing like a good travel movie to motivate one to hit the road.

Wow! What a fantastic list of travel movies! As an avid traveler, I’m always on the lookout for inspiring films that ignite my wanderlust, and this compilation delivers perfectly. It’s refreshing to see a mix of well-known classics and hidden gems, ensuring there’s something for everyone’s taste. I appreciate the brief descriptions provided, giving just enough insight without spoiling the magic. This list has definitely added a few titles to my must-watch list! Thank you for sharing such a captivating collection, it will surely keep me entertained on my upcoming adventures. Cheers! Gary Ford

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Globe Gazers

9 Best Travel Movies on Netflix to Feed Your Wanderlust

Let’s face it as much as we love to travel, explore a new place, get away from it all sometimes we simply can’t. For whatever reason, anything from it not fitting in your budget to a global pandemic (like that would ever happen!) sometimes it isn’t possible for us to visit a brand new destination. But, wanderlust doesn’t care about any of that. It strikes when it chooses and since teleportation hasn’t been invented yet (are we sure it’s 2020?) we have to get creative about how we satisfy the itch to travel. What the future has given us to help with this are travel movies on Netflix! Cue travel escapism. 

That’s right. On days like the ones we’re living through now we travel addicts can turn to such alternative forms of escapism. After some serious research (yes, I made sure to actually watch and vet all of these) I’ve compiled the best travel movies on Netflix to help you get away from it all. 

But that’s not all! Travel is a multi-sensory experience. So, when I really want to feel like I’m exploring the world with my butt still glued to my couch I turn on my inner foodie. Forget food and wine pairings, these days I’m all about the food and film pairings. I’m sure fellow food travelers can relate. Whether it’s a recipe I make at home or ordering takeout to support local businesses, pairing geographically and culturally relevant food with my travel movies really uplevels the whole experience. When food tourism isn’t an option out in the world, bring it into your home instead. 

Jump ahead to:

The Best Travel Movies on Netflix 

Julie & julia .

Of course, a classic! Meryl Streep is Julia Child, a famed American cookbook author who brought French cuisine to America. Amy Adams plays the New Yorker who becomes fascinated with Child’s life and with recreating her recipes. The movie tells their story set between past and present, France and New York. Truly delightful and will probably make you hungry so may as well be prepared! 

Suggested recipe: Easy One Pot Beef Bourguignon

The Hundred Foot Journey 

Another movie with a heavy focus on cooking. This one follows an Indian family whose car breaks down in a small but stunning village in France (how convenient?) and they decide to rebuild their lives right then and there (goals). They end up opening an Indian restaurant directly across from the best known [French] restaurant in town and beyond. Competition, underdogs, wanderlust and love — all are served up in this movie. 

Suggested recipe: Never have I craved a simple omelet so much.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society

Based on a book, this movie features actors from Downton Abbey and Game of Thrones. Set in London and the island of Guernsey, this story is full of heart and so beautifully played out. The characters themselves are enough to draw you into another world, supported by views of London city and sweeping cliffside landscapes. Highly recommend. 

Suggested recipe: Anything but potato peel pie. Go for something hearty and warm. The beginning will likely have you craving roast meat. Plan accordingly. 

Sex and the City 2 

What’s better than hilarious, supportive female friendship? Hilarious, supportive female friendship in Abu Dhabi. Fly and stay in luxury, shop for shoes in the souk with Carrie, and have fun with fashion in the sand dunes all from the comfort of your home. You can’t go wrong with the foreign [mis]adventures and girl talk, and of course some eye candy along the way. 

Suggested recipe: Try this hummus . Whatever you do, avoid yams. Trust. 

Holiday in the Wild 

You can take Charlotte out of Sex and the City but you can’t take that Sex-and-the-City charm out of Charlotte. Or, in this case, Kate. She’s just as sweet and still a recovering romantic when she winds up, fresh out of a failed marriage, in an elephant sanctuary in Africa. Of course there happens to be a dreamy resident pilot there as well. Why wouldn’t there be? Clearly I’m seeking partnership in all the wrong places *searches tickets to Africa.* Sure, it’s a little cheesy at times but the elephant cuteness makes up for it. 

Suggested recipe: Instead of Christmas cookies, try your hand at Mandazi . 

Murder Mystery

How can you go wrong with Jennifer Aniston? You can’t, and throw in Adam Sandler for good measure. A delightful comedy travel movie that’ll take you to Europe on a ridiculous and haphazard anniversary celebration. If you’re looking for a fun, lighthearted movie here you have it. 

Suggested recipe: Embrace the couple’s NY roots and the Italian filming locations by ordering a pizza for this one. 

Queen 

My mom recommended this Hindi movie to me years ago about a jilted would-be bride from Delhi who decides to go on her honeymoon to Paris and Amsterdam without her flaky ex. It’s the classic coming of age of a timid, heartbroken young woman discovering the world has more to offer than she’d known. Watch if: you don’t mind subtitles. 

Suggested recipe: I tend to order this in but you could also make chicken tikka masala , a personal fave when I’m craving Indian food.

Falling Inn Love

Unlucky in love means lucky in life in this movie, when our protagonist (Christina Milian, actually) enters a competition for an inn in New Zealand and actually WINS it. Seriously, who wins those things? Probably not me or you. Live vicariously through her instead as she moves to New Zealand, renovates the inn and meets a better love along the way. How much would it cost to have the mind behind this movie rescript my life? Hmm..

Suggested recipe: Coconut Curry Mussels

The Tourist 

If adventure travel movies are more your speed then this fast-paced action flick is your cup of tea espresso. This movie starts out in Paris and moves on to mostly takes place in Venice. It strikes a healthy balance between lively plot and eyefuls of Venetian views. You can’t help but be pulled quickly into this one so it’s the perfect way to achieve travel escapism. 

Suggested recipe: Counteract the fast pace with a glass of wine and some dark chocolate.

Bonus, on Hulu: Under the Tuscan Sun

And because movies set in Italy are my personal favorite, I also recommend Under the Tuscan Sun though it’s on Hulu and not Netflix. One of my favorite and best travel movies about a divorced woman who takes a trip to Italy and winds up moving there permanently. As she renovates an old villa, finds family in unexpected places and discovers love again she offers hope that it is possible to live life fully on our own terms. 

Suggested recipe: Crock Pot Bolognese sauce over zoodles or cauliflower gnocchi 

Want more travel inspiration? Check out these 30 bucket list travel experiences to add to your list now.

Nausheen is a solo female traveler who is passionate about travel as a way to increase self love and confidence. She focuses on slow travel and bouts of digital nomadism, and has experience living abroad across several continents. As a post-divorce, South Asian woman in her 30s Nausheen aims to empower fellow women of color in particular to live life on their own terms. She shares travel itineraries, tips and inspiration on her blog and social media channels.

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34 Movies That Will Make You Want to Get Off the Couch and See the World

From "The Holiday" to "Romancing the Stone" to "Eat Pray Love," these travel movies will inspire some serious wanderlust.

There's nothing like an epic on-screen adventure to get you acquainted with some place new and dreaming up an enviable vacation itinerary. For me (and basically all my childhood friends), this first happened following a viewing of Disney's "The Lizzie McGuire Movie" back in 2003, when Hilary Duff's character traveled to Rome to live out every teen's parent-free European fantasy. Though I've graduated to more mature travel movies over the last 18 years, one thing hasn't changed: films with gorgeous backdrops give me an unruly case of wanderlust.

From classics like "Around the World in 80 Days" and "Roman Holiday" to modern masterpieces such as "Wild" and "Crazy Rich Asians," travel films tend to ignite a longing for freedom and excitement. Maybe it's the sight of beaches on your screen triggering a phenomenon known as Blue Mind , or maybe watching a couple of pals take to the open road for a life changing road trip just makes you want to feel unconfined. Whatever it is, sometimes a travel film is all you need to provoke that feeling. That's why we've rounded up, in no particular order, 34 of the best travel movies that inspire wanderlust. Maybe they'll be cause for a change of scenery — or maybe they'll incite the adventure of a lifetime.

'Thelma & Louise' (1991)

Widely regarded as one of the best road trip movies of all time, this buddy film follows best friends Thelma (Geena Davis) and Louise (Susan Sarandon) as they drive through the American Southwest after Louise kills a man in Arkansas.

'The Holiday' (2006)

A Hollywood movie trailer producer (Cameron Diaz) and a London reporter (Kate Winslet) decide to switch homes for a few weeks after finding out their respective boyfriends have been cheating on them. The results offer enough glamor shots of Los Angeles and cozy footage of England's countryside to make you want to pack up and head to either city immediately.

'Crazy Rich Asians' (2018)

Though this movie revolves around the conflict between New Yorker Rachel Chu (Constance Wu) and her boyfriend's wealthy family, "Crazy Rich Asians" could pass as a tourism film for Singapore. If the Southeast Asian country wasn't on your bucket list before, this film's dazzling shots of Singapore, specifically the acclaimed Marina Bay Sands Hotel, may convince you.

'Wild' (2014)

Based on a true story, "Wild" sees Cheryl Strayed (Reese Witherspoon) hike more than a thousand miles from California to Washington on the Pacific Crest Trail following her divorce and the death of her mother. On her journey, Cheryl treks through the Mojave Desert , the Sierra Nevada, and Mount Hood National Forest while reflecting on her life.

'Eat Pray Love' (2010)

After her divorce, Elizabeth (Julia Roberts) sets off to explore the world with hopes of finding herself in the process. Elizabeth's inspiring and uplifting journey takes her — and viewers — to Italy, India, and Indonesia where she discovers the pleasure of nourishment, prayer, and romance.

'La La Land' (2016)

Admittedly, this musical doesn't feature much traveling (save for a brief road trip to Mia's hometown in Nevada), but the dreamy, oversaturated shots of Los Angeles in nearly every scene are enough to make anyone want to book a flight to the City of Angels.

'Before Sunrise' (1995)

Two strangers meet aboard a train from Budapest. Jesse (Ethan Hawke) is hoping to catch a flight home to the United States while Céline (Julie Delpy) is en route to Paris. Instead of sticking to their plans, the two disembark in Vienna and spend the entire night exploring the city and falling in love. A viewing of this movie will leave you longing for an epic adventure in the picturesque Austrian capital.

'National Lampoon’s Vacation' (1983)

National Lampoon 's classic comedy series is now six films strong, but it was 1983's "Vacation" that started it all. Unlike the franchise's most famous film, "Christmas Vacation," the original movie sees the Griswolds actually hit the road for a trip to Walley World, an amusement park several states away. After you watch Chevy Chase's hilarious hijinks unfold in this film, let sequels "European Vacation" and "Vegas Vacation" inspire further travels.

'The Darjeeling Limited' (2007)

After the death of their father, three estranged brothers (Owen Wilson, Adrien Brody, and Jason Schwartzman) decide to hop aboard a train in India called The Darjeeling Limited to reconnect and experience spiritual self-discovery. Viewers catch glimpses of the Indian countryside, Hindu temples, and eventually the Himalayas — but not without a few jokes along the way.

'Up' (2009)

Arguably the most heart-wrenching animated film of all time, "Up" earns a spot on our list thanks to adorably grumpy widower Carl Fredricksen's determination to fulfill his own wanderlust. With the help of thousands of balloons and a young sidekick named Russell, Carl and his house soar across the world on an incredible journey that culminates at Paradise Falls (based on Angel Falls in Venezuela).

'Raiders of the Lost Ark' (1981)

"Raiders" kicks off the iconic Indiana Jones series with a quest to find the fabled Ark of the Covenant. On his journey, Indy (Harrison Ford) makes stops in Nepal , Egypt, and the Aegean Sea , and, of course, famously runs from a giant rolling boulder in a temple in Peru . Follow up this film with its sequels, "Temple of Doom" (1984), "Last Crusade" (1989), and "Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" (2008), to see Indy travel to Jordan , the Amazon jungle, and beyond.

'Mamma Mia!' (2008)

Few movies offer the kind of gorgeously colorful beach imagery "Mamma Mia!" and its 2018 sequel, "Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again" provide. If you haven't seen the films, you likely know them as "the movies with all the ABBA songs." But if you have seen them, you know they're actually about three men who travel to the impossibly beautiful, albeit fictional, Greek island of Kalokairi, each believing they're the father of a young bride-to-be.

'Nomadland' (2020)

After losing her job in the town of Empire, Nevada, Fern (Frances McDormand) decides to sell her belongings, buy a van, and drive across the country working odd jobs. Fern travels through deserts, small towns, and nomad communes where she works, makes new friends, and learns about life. If you've ever fantasized about dropping everything and taking to the open road, "Nomadland" will probably either convince or deter you.

'Romancing the Stone' (1984)

When New York City-based romance novelist Joan Wilder's sister is kidnapped in Cartagena , Joan (Kathleen Turner) ends up on a rescue-mission-turned-treasure-hunt with adventure-seeking Jack T. Colton (Michael Douglas). Don't be surprised if a viewing of this movie makes you want to trade in your annual beach vacation for a wild ride through the Colombian jungle.

'Paris, Je T’aime' (2006)

Paris, Je T'aime is different from the other films on this list in that it's not one film — it's 18 short films that all feature Paris as a central theme. Because the project is made up of 18 different stories in 18 different arrondissements around the city, viewers get a true, unfiltered sense of Paris, and may even find themselves inspired to visit lesser-known locales in the City of Light.

'The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert' (1994)

If you've ever longed to take a laughter-fueled road trip with your best friends, this film is worth a watch. In the flick, pals Tick (Hugo Weaving), Adam (Guy Pearce), and Bernadette (Terence Stamp) head out on a cross-country road trip through the Australian outback to perform their successful drag act in a new town. The trio takes up residence in an oversized tour bus called Priscilla, Queen of the Desert in this fun, ahead-of-its-time dramedy.

'RV' (2006)

While plenty of road trip movies have been made over the years, "RV" might be the only one that takes place in, well, an RV . Though the main characters in this movie face more bad luck than fun, family bonding, the film does feature generous desert , mountain , and wilderness scenery, as well as an all-star cast (Robin Williams, Kristin Chenoweth, Cheryl Hines, and Josh Hutcherson are just a few that appear).

'Point Break' (2015)

Yes, we're talking about the "Point Break" remake rather than the original film from 1991, but hear us out: the imagery in this movie inspires some serious wanderlust. The story takes viewers to several of the wildest places on Earth (Mexico's Cave of Swallows, Venezuela's Angel Falls, etc.) and though the plot is slightly different from the original (think eco-terrorism rather than bank robberies), it is quiet possibly the most visually stimulating travel movie ever made.

'Girls Trip' (2017)

When was the last time you took a trip with just your core group of girlfriends? A quick watch of this comedy will have you planning your next gal pal getaway faster than you can say "PTO." In the film, a group of friends (Queen Latifah, Tiffany Haddish, Regina Hall, and Jada Pinkett Smith) head to New Orleans , but you'll be ready to travel anywhere with your best buds after watching "Girls Trip" — even if it's just to the next town over.

'The Way' (2010)

After his son is killed walking the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route to Galicia, Spain, Tom Avery (Martin Sheen) sets out on the trail himself to retrieve his son's body. Along the way, Tom meets several other travelers who are walking the trail in hopes of changing their own lives for one reason or another. This inspiring film may just persuade you to make the famed pilgrimage yourself, or to book a similarly reflective trip.

'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants' (2005)

If you were a teen or pre-teen in 2005, you have likely seen this movie and its 2008 sequel, and can attest that both inspire major wanderlust. The first film follows best friends Carmen, Lena, Bridget, and Tibby (who share a magical pair of jeans that fits them all perfectly) as they spend a summer in different parts of the world. Lena (Alexis Bledel) travels to Santorini, Greece , which makes for some seriously dreamy backdrops. In the sequel, the whole gang heads to Greece, but not before Bridget (Blake Lively) spends some time in Turkey .

'Up in the Air' (2009)

This George Clooney-led comedy-drama makes business travel and airports look glamorous — hospitable, even. Boasting just as many cityscape shots as it does plane scenes, "Up in the Air" will have you longing to be in the skies, jet setting off to some place new. Anna Kendrick and Vera Farmiga also star in this critically-acclaimed film about a man who lives out of a suitcase.

'Around the World in 80 Days' (1956)

If this classic adventure film doesn't inspire daydreams of traveling somewhere new, we're not sure what will. In 1872, Englishman Phileas Fogg makes a bet with several members of his gentleman's club that he can travel around the globe in just 80 days. On his journey, he and sidekick Jean Passepartout bring viewers along as they travel by gas balloon to France , Spain , Italy , India, Hong Kong , the United States , and more.

'Home Alone 2: Lost in New York' (1992)

The Home Alone movies usually fall under the comedy or holiday categories, but if you think about it, the second installment in the series is totally a travel movie. The film does a fantastic job of showing off the glamorous side of New York City, the place young Kevin McCallister accidentally ends up while the rest of his family vacations in Florida. From shots of the Rockefeller Christmas tree to the Manhattan skyline, this film is sure to inspire a trip to the Big Apple.

'Under the Tuscan Sun' (2003)

You won't find shots of northern Italy as serene as the ones in this feel-good film about independence, love, and friendship. After losing everything in her divorce, American writer Frances Mayes (Diane Lane) suddenly finds herself beginning a new life in the small Tuscan town of Cortona. And if you're anything like us, Googling "Tuscan villas for sale" will become a regular part of your life after watching this film.

'Angels & Demons' (2009)

Though "Angels & Demons" is classified as a thriller, it'll definitely make you want to head to Rome and dig up some history, both figuratively and literally. Based on the Dan Brown novel of the same name, the story follows Robert Langdon (Tom Hanks) as he discovers secrets of the Vatican and faces off against the supposed Illuminati. If you're a fan, check out other Dan Brown adventure travel films, "The Da Vinci Code" (2006) and "Inferno" (2016).

'Easy Rider' (1969)

Our list features travel by plane, train , RV, and even hot air balloon , but "Easy Rider" is the only movie that follows a journey via motorcycle. In the film, drug smugglers Wyatt (Peter Fonda) and Billy (Dennis Hopper) ride from Los Angeles to New Orleans in hopes of reveling at Mardi Gras to celebrate their latest score. On their journey, they stop in several small towns, make a few friends, and unsuccessfully try to evade trouble.

'Out of Africa' (1985)

If Africa doesn't currently have a spot on your bucket list, this film might make you rethink that. Meryl Streep and Robert Redford star in this true story about Karen Blixen, a Danish woman who moves to Nairobi with her new husband, and builds a life there despite their many marital issues. "Out of Africa" features sweeping panoramic shots of Nairobi in nearly every scene, leaving it no wonder the drama won seven Academy Awards, including one for Best Cinematography.

'Johnson Family Vacation' (2004)

This family comedy starring Cedric the Entertainer, Vanessa Williams, and Solange Knowles follows the mildly dysfunctional Johnsons as they road trip to their family reunion in Missouri. On the drive, the family hilariously encounters just about every road trip cliché, from picking up a problematic hitchhiker to running out of gas, before making it to the reunion and performing a musical number to nab the coveted Family of the Year trophy.

'Midnight in Paris' (2011)

Set in present-day Paris, this Oscar-winning film is typically a favorite among art and literature lovers. At midnight each night, screenwriter Gil (Owen Wilson) is transported back in time through different eras of Paris, where he befriends Ernest Hemingway, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and Pablo Picasso, and even strikes up a romance with a 1920s woman named Adriana. The film offers plenty of inspiration for a culturally rich trip to France.

'The Parent Trap' (1998)

"The Parent Trap" is another film that may not immediately stand out as a travel flick, but once you take into account the film's many settings ( London , San Francisco, Napa Valley , and the northeastern U.S.), it's easy to see that this family classic has been a travel film all along. Plus, the main characters spend lots of time on planes, boats, and camping trips throughout the movie.

'The Talented Mr. Ripley' (1999)

Carefully spliced between disturbing revelations and suspenseful plot twists are luxurious shots of Italian beaches in this Matt Damon-led film. When Tom Ripley (Damon) is paid to travel to Italy and bring Dickie Greenleaf (Jude Law) back to the States by Dickie's father, Tom ends up befriending — and later becoming obsessed with — Dickie. Despite the plot quickly darkening, viewers are treated to bright, colorful scenes in Rome and glamorous seaside villages .

'Roman Holiday' (1953)

Romance? Check. Stunning visuals of Rome? Check. Audrey Hepburn? Check. This classic travel comedy lands at the top of many movie buffs' all-time favorite lists, and for good reason. Bored with her mundane life as a European princess while on a trip to Rome, Ann (Hepburn) ditches her duties and hits the town with journalist Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck). The two take viewers on a tour of the Eternal City and fall in love in the process.

'Pee-wee’s Big Adventure' (1985)

Before you roll your eyes, take a moment to acknowledge that this film essentially sends happy-go-lucky Pee-wee Herman (Paul Reubens) on the great American road trip in search of his stolen bicycle. In this comedy for adults and children alike, Pee-wee stops at the Alamo, the Cabazon Dinosaur park in California, and Hollywood. Traveling by car, truck, and train, Pee-wee befriends a biker gang, competes in a rodeo, and of course, famously dances to "Tequila" before his journey is through.

Hillary Maglin is a digital editor who splits most of her time between New York City and Pittsburgh. You can find her on Instagram @hillarymaglin , where her DMs are always open to discuss travel gear, wine bars, and Taylor Swift's latest record.

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21 Best Travel Movies That Will Inspire Your Wanderlust

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: September 8, 2023

Are you looking for some good movies about travel to kindle your wanderlust? This article has some great suggestions and some of the best travel films of all time . Find out!

Have you ever found yourself inspired to travel to one or the other location just because you saw it in a movie? It happens to me all the time! So in this article, I share some of my favorite travel movies , the ones that got me googling the filming location and planning a trip before the movie was even over.

If you are looking for a good story or some travel inspiration, then you’ll definitely find it in these films. These are one by one great travel movies and stories that will get you out of the couch and booking a trip to discover new destinations.

Below is my personal selection of some of the best travel movies of all time. Take a look!

Click on the title of the movie to see reviews, get a DVD, or watch it on Amazon Prime . Some of these movies are also available on Netflix.

These are the best travel films:

Into The Wild

Into The Wild is an unbelievable true story of a top student and athlete who abandons everything he has and hitchhikes to Alaska to live in the wilderness. This movie will probably stay with you forever.

It’s an inspiring story taking place in the most incredible landscapes of Alaska. If you choose just a few movies to watch from this list, definitely include this one in your selection!

The Way is a heart-warming story of a father who heads overseas to retrace the last days of his son’s life who passed away while traveling the Camino de Santiago trail in the Pyrenees (France – Spain). Once he gets there, he decides to take the pilgrimage himself.

This movie is about family, friendships, and life choices. And of course, the beautiful places along Camino de Santiago. It’s a powerful story that will make you think deeper about the difference of the life we live and the life we choose.

Under The Tuscan Sun

Under The Tuscan Sun is a romantic story that takes place in rural Tuscany . Lovely landscapes, an Italian lifestyle, and a heart-warming life story make it a perfect choice for a relaxing evening.

This beautiful light-hearted movie will get you planning a trip to Tuscany in Italy sooner than you think.

The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty

The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty   is a light-hearted story for a movie night with friends. The movie features some of the most incredible travel destinations all over the world.

A lot of the scenes (even the ones from the Himalayas and Afghanistan) are filmed in Iceland and some in Greenland . The unbelievable adventures of Walter Mitty will leave you longing for an extraordinary adventure of your own.

This film is so good that it has inspired thousands and thousands of people to travel more and discover new places. If you watch just one movie from this list of the best travel films, make it ‘The Secret Life of Walter Mitty’. You’ll love it!

A Walk in the Woods

A Walk in the Woods movie is based on a true story and a book by Bill Bryson, A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail .

The famous writer who never hiked much sets on the Appalachian Trail. With a total length of about 2,200 miles (3,500 km), this famous American hiking trail stretches through 14 states along the east coast of the United States, from Georgia to Maine.

I haven’t read the book and the reviews are somewhat mixed (it seems that people either love or hate Bryson and his writing style). But I find that the movie is really funny, entertaining, and the scenery will definitely inspire you to get outdoors and take a hike of your own.

Out of Africa

Ok, I know it’s an old one, but Out of Africa definitely deserves a place in the all-time favorite travel movies list.

Filmed in Kenya and the UK, this classic that has won 7 Oscars and countless other prizes will definitely get you dreaming of Africa. It’s one of those movies that you can watch again and again.

The Motorcycle Diaries

The Motorcycle Diaries is an awe-inspiring film that is based on the memoirs of Che Guevara.

It will take you to the most beautiful places in South America. A beautiful story in an incredible setting.

In Bruges  is very different from all the rest of the travel movies on this list. But I just had to include this movie in the top-20 of the best travel films because it’s filmed in Belgium, where we live.

It’s a hilarious dark comedy and a great performance by all three main characters in the most fantastic setting in Belgium’s most beautiful fairytale town.

If you haven’t been to Bruges, you’ll definitely want to visit it after watching this movie! Here you can find some inspiration with our insider tips for the best things to do in Bruges .

Before Sunrise – Before Sunset – Before Midnight

If you like Europe and deep meaningful dialogues with a good dose of humor, you’ll love this trilogy called Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, and Before Midnight . We only discovered these films recently when we accidentally saw the first one, Before Sunrise, on TV. 

Regarded as one of the most significant films of the ’90s, Before Sunrise, was followed by two more sequels. We watched all three films and loved every second of it.

The first movie takes you to Vienna, Austria, the second one – to Paris, and the third – to the Greek Islands.

These travel films are probably not for everyone, but if you can appreciate this style, you’ll love them all!

Amélie

If you haven’t been to Paris yet, you will definitely want to plan a trip after watching this movie. If you have, you’ll want to return.

Amélie is a beautiful example of French cinema. It will also take you to the most inspiring locations in Paris. The film is set in the Montmartre neighborhood in Paris and shows you the more local side of living in this fascinating city.

This travel movie is based on a true story of a young woman who sets on a journey of over 1,000 miles hoping to recover after the passing of her mother.

Wild  is full of beautiful scenes throughout the Pacific Northwest in the U.S. This is one of those travel films that remind you that often the journey is more important than the destination.

Lost In Translation

A beautiful film that shows the fun and unexpected side of traveling in a new country. Lost In Translation is about the many little random travel experiences that stay with you long after you return back home.

The sights and the energy of Tokyo will get you planning a trip to Japan.

‘Lost in Translation’ is considered a real classic and one of the best travel films ever.

Midnight in Paris

Midnight in Paris is a bit different travel film than all the rest in this selection. And it’s probably not for everyone…

But if you like Woody Allen, Paris, and the artist lifestyle, then you’ll love this surreal story that takes you back to Paris of the 1920s.

A Good Year

A Good Year is a light-hearted romantic story that takes place in the most beautiful setting in the Provence region in the South of France.

This movie will not only inspire you to visit France but might also make you reconsider your life choices. It’s a story about leaving the rat race, getting back to your roots, and enjoying the simple things in life.

A truly great film!

The Way Back

The Way Back is inspired by an incredible true story of seven prisoners from very different backgrounds who try to escape from a Siberian prison in winter.

This movie is filmed in some amazing locations in India, Morocco, and Bulgaria and features some great actors.

The Beach is a great film from the ’90s that has a little bit of everything: good story, beautiful music, and amazing scenery from Thailand. Oh, and the young Leonardo DiCaprio, who once again proves that he deserves the Oscar he finally got recently.

For a while, Thailand even had to close Maya Beach on Koh Phi-Phi due to its increasing popularity which has been attributed mainly to this film. So if you feel inspired to visit Thailand after watching ‘The Beach’, you may want to look for some alternative beaches and beautiful islands.

You can find some inspiration in our Thailand island hopping itinerary .

Tracks is a beautiful adventure film of a young woman who crossed 1,700-miles over the deserts of West Australia with four camels and her faithful dog.

It’s based on a true story and featuring some amazing Australian landscapes. A beautiful film that will inspire you to visit the Australian Outback !

Encounters At The End Of The World

Encounters At The End Of The World is an incredibly beautiful and funny travel film about the people and animals who live in Antarctica.

If Antarctica was not on your travel list yet, it will be after watching this great documentary!

The Bucket List

The Bucket List is sentimental, predictable, and yet a very heart-warming story that will inspire you to tick off your bucket list sooner rather than later.

Filmed in various locations in India, China, Egypt, Tanzania, France, and the U.S., this movie will definitely give you some new ideas for the next trips.

Photos: IMDb

So, this is a list of some of my top travel films and favorite movies about travel. Have you seen any of these films? Which one is your favorite travel movie of all time?

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Monday 18th of September 2023

When I’m always about to go on an adventure I keep coming back to this page to get inspired to travel to somewhere new

Thursday 21st of September 2023

What a great way to find some trip inspiration, Joshua. Happy travels!

Sunday 5th of March 2023

They aren’t travel movies, but The Lord of the Rings trilogy inspired me to go to New Zealand! How could those scenes in the mountains not inspire everyone?

Monday 6th of March 2023

Agree! (and New Zealand is absolutely stunning ;))

Thursday 2nd of March 2023

Thank you for sharing! This list is awesome!

Saturday 22nd of October 2022

If you wanna know one more... U can watch "Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara". It means "U won't have a second Life again". It's soo good and so inspiring...thank me later.

Sunday 23rd of October 2022

Thanks for the recommendation, Asif! Will see if we can find this movie.

Sunday 10th of April 2022

Thank you for the awesome movie recommendations

'The Adam Project' & 9 Best Time Travel Movies on Netflix

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No matter the time period, time travel movies have always been popular. Whether it is the latest Ryan Reynolds and Netflix collaboration The Adam Project or the sci-fi action masterpiece The Terminator , time travel fans are spoiled for choice. Netflix in particular has plenty of great movies in the genre worth visiting, and some of the best time travel movies on Netflix will have you watching them over and over again.

In Netflix time travel movie The Adam Project , Ryan Reynolds plays a fighter pilot from the future, who crash lands in the present and meets his 12-year-old self. Together they must save the world in a journey that harkens back to Amblin classics from the 1980s while featuring some great needle drops.

Time travel stories have always been a popular narrative choice, with the highest-grossing film of all time, Avengers: Endgame , fitting in the genre. Videogames such as Mortal Kombat 11 also use time travel to great effect. But with The Adam Project being a Netflix original, there are more time travel movies on Netflix to watch after seeing Reynolds quip his way through another memorable performance.

Updated on May 28, 2023, by Ty Weinert:

10 'naked' (2017).

Rob ( Marlon Wayans ) is about to marry the girl of his dreams, Megan ( Regina Hall ). But after a night out with his best friend results in Rob waking up naked in an elevator, he must race to the altar to make it in time. Failing that, Rob wakes up again in the elevator, realizing he is trapped in a time loop and must relive the hour over and over again.

Working like a mix of The Hangover and Groundhog Day , Naked will appeal to anyone who enjoyed those screwball comedies. While it is not one of the best time loop movies , it still offers some laughs and is a good enough way to kill an afternoon on the couch.

Watch on Netflix

9 'Captain Nova' (2021)

Like The Adam Project , Captain Nova follows a fighter pilot who is sent back in time to stop a catastrophe. Nova ( Kika Van De Vijver ) finds herself transformed into her younger self due to her journey through time, however, making it hard for adults to take her seriously as she warns them of the dangers to come.

Hailing from the Netherlands, Captain Nova makes for a nice change from the American movies that dominate the time travel genre on Netflix. Due to its protagonist's youthful transformation, Captain Nova is a kid-friendly take on the formula and can be enjoyed by the whole family.

8 'See You Yesterday' (2019)

Produced by legendary director Spike Lee , See You Yesterday follows two teenage scientists, who are attempting to create a time machine. After one of their older brothers is killed in a police shooting, the pair activate their machine to travel to the past and save him.

While still following the conventions of time travel movies, See You Yesterday stands out with a plot that focuses on relevant social issues. By bringing light to matters that are still plaguing society four years after release, the film is a unique choice within the time travel Netflix catalog.

7 'In the Shadow of the Moon' (2019)

Beginning in 1988, In the Shadow of the Moon follows Thomas Lockhart ( Boyd Holbrook ), a police officer determined to become a detective. When his city is plagued by a serial killer, Lockhart begins investigating, eventually discovering the killer comes back every nine years. As the case deepens, time travel eventually becomes a factor.

In the Shadow of the Moon feels like a callback to the detective thrillers of the '90s, like Se7en . While it does tend to lose focus as more outrageous plot points are introduced, In the Shadow of the Moon remains a solid choice for anyone looking to discover their next crime obsession.

6 'Synchronic' (2019)

Another quality entry in acclaimed duo Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson 's trippy shared universe , Synchronic stars Anthony Mackie and Jamie Dornan as paramedics and lifelong friends. After a new drug sweeps their city, resulting in the deaths of its users, the pair investigates after Dornan's daughter goes missing.

The film delves into time travel in ways that will not be spoiled here, but needless to say Synchronic is a trippy film with a central mystery that unravels over time. Both leads excel in their roles and share great chemistry, with Mackie, in particular, delivering a fantastic performance that shows what he can offer when given more meaty roles outside the MCU.

5 'ARQ' (2016)

Waking up to intruders breaking into his home, an engineer ( Robbie Amell ) finds himself trapped within a time loop. With each death sending him back to the start of the invasion, he works to defeat his pursuers and escape with his lover ( Rachael Taylor ).

ARQ works as a sci-fi spin on films such as Happy Death Day , with the audience learning new information alongside the protagonist with each subsequent loop and eventual death. While not as charming as Happy Death Day , ARQ still offers an enjoyable take on the genre.

4 'When We First Met' (2018)

When We First Met follows Adam DeVine , of Workaholics fame, as he repeatedly goes back in time to try and win over the girl of his dreams ( Alexandra Daddario ). Being a romantic comedy, the film stands apart from other time travel movies that focus on more serious consequences.

While We First Met does not offer much new to the genre, though DeVine gives an admirable performance to help carry the film. Fans of his stand-up or the aforementioned Workaholics should have a good time watching his numerous attempts to escape the hellish nightmare called "the friend zone."

3 'Long Story Short' (2021)

Waking up the morning after his wedding to discover that his life is jumping forward in time every few minutes, Teddy ( Rafe Spall ) is forced to use his dwindling time to stay with the woman he loves. With every jump causing them to drift further apart, time is running out for the bumbling lead.

Like When We First Met , Long Story Short uses time travel in a romantic comedy , albeit in a more urgent way. The Australian film was directed by Josh Lawson , known to audiences as Kano, the best part of the recent Mortal Kombat film.

2 'The Adam Project' (2022)

When fighter pilot Adam Reed (Ryan Reynolds) travels from 2050 to 2012, he is forced to work together with his 12-year-old self in order to get back home and save his deceased wife Laura ( Zoe Saldana ). The two Adams end up going on a journey full of heart and humor as they travel through time.

The latest in the long line of big-budget blockbusters on Netflix, The Adam Project is one of the best free movies you can access on the service. Reynolds is always a charming lead, and along with Saldana, they are supported by a winning cast that includes Mark Ruffalo , Jennifer Garner , and Catherine Keener .

1 'Mirage' (2018)

When Vera ( Adriana Ugarte ) and her family move into a new home, they discover that a boy died there thirty years ago. Finding a way to communicate with the boy in the past, Vera warns him of his death and saves his life, only to change the flow of time in the process.

As the best time travel movie Netflix has to offer, Mirage is a compelling mystery thriller from Spain. As more circumstances of the boy's death emerge, greater narrative threads are pulled into this time-bending journey, with Ugarte delivering a great performance as the central character.

NEXT: The Best Time Travel Movies Ever Made, Ranked

• The Adam Project (2022)

5 best time travel movies on Netflix to stream right now

Head into the days of future past

Sometimes, the only way to solve a problem is through time travel. While there are understandable consequences — as demonstrated in many time travel movies — it's hard to resist the idea of going back into the past or surging forward into the future to make a change. 

Netflix has a collection of the best time travel movies available to stream. Whether you want a comedic take on the familiar trope or an action-packed thriller, we've selected the ones you don't want to miss. These movies will have you fantasizing about all the fun — or disaster — that could be had if only our version of reality included time travel.

It makes complete sense that if time travel ever becomes available, it would only be possible for the wealthy or corrupt to take advantage. Its capabilities are technically outlawed in Rian Johnson's mind-bending "Looper," but that doesn't stop the mafia from using it. Joseph Gordon-Levitt stars as young Joe, a Looper who hides evidence of the mafia sending people into the past to take them out. He knows one day he will have to kill the older version of himself, played by Bruce Willis, to hide he ever worked for them.

The battle of self goes to the next level in this movie, especially as both young and old Joe fight against the other to survive. It's hard to know who to root for, and it's no surprise this movie received numerous awards, including the Critics' Choice Movie Award in 2013 for Best Sci-Fi/Horror Movie.

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Directed by Oriol Paulo, "Mirage" takes us on a journey during a storm set 25 years apart. In 1989, the same day as the fall of the Berlin Wall, the life of a little boy, Nico, is cut short when he runs into the road and dies after being hit by a car. More than two decades later, a couple, Vera (Adriana Ugarte) and David (Álvaro Morte) have moved into Nico's house. Vera has a chance to save Nico's life but finds that solving the problems of the past tends to mess with the future.

This film has a fascinating blend of time travel, murder mystery and parallel universes. While the film tends to get complicated, especially as Vera tries to undo her actions and make things right again, it's intense and thrilling every step of the way.

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'Hot Tub Time Machine'

If you can't take the premise of time travel too seriously for long, you'll want to watch "Hot Tub Time Machine." John Cusack and director Steve Pink (co-writer on "High Fidelity" and "Gross Pointe Blank") reunite to explore the hilarious possibilities of time traveling. Adam (John Cusack), Lou (Rob Corddry), and Nick (Craig Robinson) all reconnect after Lou is hospitalized following a suicide attempt. They decide to get together, along with Adam's nephew Jacob (Clark Duke), at a ski resort they visited in the past. When they overload the hot tub machine with an energy drink, they discover that it takes them back to 1986.

Even though a repairman (Chevy Chase) warns them not to mess with things from the past, they can't help themselves. Of course, hilarity ensues. There are plenty of literal laugh-out-loud moments throughout, and this film has a healthy dose of cool '80s vibes. You're sure to love it.

'Time Trap'

Going on field trips has always been a fun part of going to school. However, if your teacher happens to go missing, that can complicate matters. In the film "Time Trap," several graduate students go on a field trip with their professor to hidden caves that are somehow connected to a group of missing hippies. The professor returns to the town with the students and dismisses them. However, only a brief amount of time passes before they realize the next day that their professor has yet to return. 

The students return, of course, and embark on an unusual adventure inside the caves, in which they discover that the whole space and time thing has gotten messed up. While this may be a classic science fiction B-movie, you will surely enjoy the imaginative story. 

This movie takes the premise of living the same day repeatedly (hello, "Groundhog Day") and gives it an exciting, science-fiction twist. "ArQ" focuses on a couple fighting to protect a unique energy that could restore an unlimited supply to the Earth and stop the wars that have erupted worldwide. However, this power comes at a cost as they battle against men trying to break into their home and steal it from them. Something about the technology, though, is forcing them to relive the same day.

Director Tony Elliott is the mind behind this complex film. You may have to suspend disbelief more than usual, but the action and plot will hold your attention throughout.

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Nicole Pyles is a writer in Portland, Oregon. She loves movies, especially Lifetime movies, obscure TV movies, and disaster flicks. Her writing has been featured in Better Homes and Gardens, Mental Floss, WOW! Women on Writing, Ripley's Believe it or Not, and more. When she isn't watching movies, she's spending time with family, reading, and writing short stories. Say hi on Twitter @BeingTheWriter.

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The Best Time Travel Movies On Netflix

Vote up your favorite time travel movies currently streaming on Netflix.

Time travel has always captured the imagination, and if you're looking to indulge in stories that bend the fabric of reality, Netflix has you covered. The best time travel movies on Netflix offer a mind-bending mix of adventure, romance, and sci-fi thrills that will leave you contemplating the mysteries of time long after the credits roll.

Take Looper , for example. This intense sci-fi thriller, starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bruce Willis, delves into the intricacies and moral dilemmas of time travel with a gripping storyline and stellar performances. For something a bit lighter, 13 Going on 30 provides a delightful escape, where Jennifer Garner's character magically skips from adolescence to adulthood, blending humor and heart in a charming way that’s sure to resonate with viewers of all ages. And then there's The Adam Project , a Netflix original that sees Ryan Reynolds teaming up with his younger self in a heartfelt yet action-packed narrative that explores themes of family, regret, and redemption.

We've assembled a list of these captivating films, and now we need your input. Vote on the top time travel films on Netflix and help us determine which ones truly stand out. Your votes will highlight the movies that deserve attention for their inventive storytelling and unforgettable journeys through time.

This sci-fi thriller directed by Rian Johnson,is all about Joe, a "Looper" who assassinates people sent from the future. It's a steady job, until his next target turns out to be his older self. Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Bruce Willis play the younger and older Joe, respectively, and their already dangerous relationship grows even more ominous when young Joe encounters a self reliant mother, played by Emily Blunt, and her mysterious, off-putting young son.

Galaxy Quest

A very, very Star Trek -ish comedy directed by Dean Parisot, Galaxy Quest follows the cast of a defunct sci-fi TV show led by Tim Allen as Jason Nesmith as Commander Peter Quincy Taggart, who become real-life heroes when they are whisked away by actual aliens who believe the show was an all-facts historical document. Nesmith's crew includes Gwen DeMarco (Sigourney Weaver), Alexander Dane (Alan Rickman), Fred Kwan (Tony Shalhoub), and Tommy Webber (Daryl Mitchell), who must play their parts to save a naive alien race from war. Sam Rockwell steals the show too. Time travel has a small but pivotal role thanks to the  "Omega 13," a device that reverses time by 13 seconds, allowing Nesmith a second chance to save the day.

The Adam Project

This '80s-flavored sci-fi drama directed by Shawn Levy rides shotgun with Adam Reed, a fighter pilot from a dystopian 2050 traveling back in time to prevent his wife Laura's murder. Ryan Reynolds stars as the older Adam, with Isaiah Haegert and Walker Scobell as the 8 and 12-year-old versions of himself with whom Adam teams up. In addition to altering the past on behalf of his future/past wife, the mini-generations of Adam also gets to revisit his mother and father, played by Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo.

Hot Tub Time Machine

A party comedy (with science fiction as an excuse for time travel shenanigans) directed by Steve Pink, this one centers around a group of disillusioned friends - Adam, Lou, Nick, and Jacob, portrayed by John Cusack, Rob Corddry, Craig Robinson, and Clark Duke - who unwittingly travel back to the 1980s through a malfunctioning hot tub. Trapped in the past and afraid of altering their future, the quartet (one of whom hadn't been born in the ‘80s) have a good time and confront the choices that have defined their adulthoods. Also Crispin Glover has a ball as a bellhop with one arm wrapped around destiny’s shoulders.

13 Going on 30

This romantic comedy (with a dollop of fantasy) directed by Gary Winick revolves around Jenna, a 13-year-old girl who makes a wish to be "thirty, flirty, and thriving," and wakes up the next day as a 30-year-old woman. Unlike many body-swap movies, this one actually jumps forward in time from 1987 to 2004, making it a body-swap-time-travel film. Jennifer Garner and Mark Ruffalo play the older Jenna and her childhood best friend Matt, who has grown into a man the old fashioned way while Jenna was leaping ahead via whimsical time travel.

When We First Met

Directed by Ari Sandel, this romantic comedy with a splash of sci-fi focuses on Noah, played by Adam Devine, who discovers a magical photo booth that sends him back in time to the day he met Avery, a woman he's convinced is the only one for him, despite her engagement to another man. Alexandra Daddario plays Avery, the object of Noah's affection, who sees him only as a friend even as he hops back in time throughout the 2010s attempting to make her fall in love with him. Butterfly effect consequences with a funny slant ensue.

This sci-fi drama directed by Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead follows two New Orleans paramedics who encounter a series of bizarre, gruesome deaths linked to a mysterious new drug called Synchronic, which messes with users' place in time, sending young users traveling into the past and allowing grown ups to observe different times. Anthony Mackie and Jamie Dornan star as Steve and Dennis, the paramedics whose friendship and lives are upended by Steve's investigations into the drug's origins and the sudden disappearance of Dennis's daughter.

In the Shadow of the Moon

This noir thriller with sci-fi elements directed by Jim Mickle, is the story of Thomas Lockhart, a determined Philadelphia detective, played by Boyd Holbrook, who becomes obsessed with a case that spans decades. Lockhart's pursuit begins in 1988 when he first encounters a serial killer, played by Cleopatra Coleman, whose crimes not only predict the future but also occur with inexplicable regularity every nine years. As the narrative unfolds, the killer's motives and the mysterious role of time travel become clearer, propelling Lockhart through a temporal chase that defies the linear nature of time.

See You Yesterday

This sci-fi drama, directed by Stefon Bristol and produced by Spike Lee, tells the gripping story of high school prodigies, Claudette "C.J." Walker and Sebastian Thomas, who invent backpacks that allow them to travel through time. Eden Duncan-Smith and Dante Crichlow play the duo, whose ambitions take a tragic turn when they use their invention to prevent the wrongful police shooting of C.J.'s brother, Calvin. 

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As they say in well-written scripts, "You mean... like time travel?" + also a few bizarre stories about real people who have claimed, despite every law of physics, they have traveled through time.

12 Best Time Travel Movies on Netflix (August 2024)

Whether altering the past, glimpsing the future, or visiting alternate realities, time travel concepts brim with potential. They seem to add intriguing twists to every genre of film they are utilized in. Such works often greet us with refreshing settings and unique dynamics, putting their characters through imaginative scenarios. From heart-pounding thrillers to heartwarming romances, these are the absolute of best time-traveling movies offered on Netflix.

12. See You Yesterday (2019)

Directed by Stefon Bristol, ‘ See You Yesterday ’ is a Netflix teen-adventure film that blends racial themes with a time travel plot. When a police officer senselessly shoots African American teen C.J. Walker’s caring brother, she and fellow prodigy Sebastian Thomas complete their time-traveling device to save him. However, they find that changing the past turns out to be incredibly difficult.

With their device’s charges running low, the two become desperate to prevent the shooting and try to alter the sequence of events at various points. The poignant and impactful tale addresses themes of racial injustice, grief, and sacrifice. It conveys a sense of helplessness felt by the protagonist, which is symbolic of her community’s emotional state, making great progress but falling victim to old prejudices. You can see the movie here .

11. Captain Nova (2021)

In the directorial hands of Maurice Trouwborst, ‘ Captain Nova ’ is a Dutch sci-fi film that follows Nova, a fighter pilot from a dystopian future where the Earth is on the brink of environmental collapse. She is sent on a mission from 2050 to 2025 to alter key events and save the future. However, she unexpectedly becomes a young teen girl as a side effect and struggles to be taken seriously. Nas, an outcast teen, assists her on the mission as the Secret Service tries to capture her. With striking visual effects and creative future technology, the film adds a touch of humor for a refreshing sci-fi experience aimed at audiences of all ages. You can see the movie here .

10. In the Shadow of the Moon (2019)

With Jim Mickle at the helm, ‘ In the Shadow of the Moon ’ combines a noir-style serial killer mystery with time travel in a high-concept thriller filled with twists and turns. The story centers on Philadelphia police officer Thomas Lockhart, who becomes obsessed with a series of inexplicable murders committed by a woman appearing every nine years despite having died in front of him. As Lockhart delves deeper into the investigation, he uncovers a chilling connection that challenges his understanding of reality and time itself. The Netflix sci-fi film features a thought-provoking, imaginative plot that explores themes of fate, justice, and the burdens of the past. You can stream the movie here .

9. The Flash (2023)

While not a conventional time-traveling film, ‘ The Flash ’ sees the titular superhero blaze through his fair share of timelines. Directed by Andy Muschiett, the film follows Barry Allen as he taps into the speed force to save his mother, inadvertently altering the timeline to a catastrophic degree. He teams up with his past self and must gather an unfamiliar and scattered Justice League to defend against General Zod’s invasion of Earth. The film explores the potential divergence of the timeline far beyond the Butterfly Effect, with a single seemingly mundane event of time manipulation changing both past and future dramatically. Featuring an array of cameos and plenty of fan service, the film maintains a decent pace with explosive action sequences. You can see the movie here .

8. Long Story Short (2021)

Loosely based on the Indian film ‘Baar Baar Dekho,’ ‘Long Story Short’ follows Teddy, a man who wakes up the day after his wedding to discover that his life is fast-forwarding, with each day skipping ahead a year. As Teddy struggles to understand this strange phenomenon, he begins to miss the most important moments of his life. The Josh Lawson directorial combines humor with a poignant message about love, regret, and the fleeting nature of time. The impactful film creates an increasingly charming and thought-provoking narrative with the use of fantastical time travel. You can stream the movie here .

7. The Door Into Summer (2021)

Also known as ‘Natsu e no Tobira: Kimi no Iru Mirai e,’ ‘The Door Into Summer’ narrates a tale of mystery, betrayal, and advanced technology interwoven with the delicate threads of time travel. Directed by Takahiro Miki and based on Robert A. Heinlein’s eponymous novel, the film follows Soichiro Takakura, an ingenious inventor who finds himself betrayed by his girlfriend and business associates who take over his life’s work. Hoping to live in a brighter future, he enters cold sleep and wakes up thirty years later in 2025. Finding his wealth completely dissolved and his company closed down, he traces down figures from the past in search of answers. The Japanese-language film essays as a thoughtful time travel story, offering a combination of romance and sci-fi with moving performances from the lead cast. You can see the movie here .

6. Still Time (2022)

Directed by Alessandro Aronadio, ‘Still Time’ is a poignant Italian comedy-drama about a workaholic man who finds his life skipping a year ahead every day. The film is based on Josh Lawson’s ‘Long Story Short.’ Dante barely makes time to spend with his friends and family, being late to his own fortieth birthday. Blowing out the candles, he makes a wish that causes him to begin leaping in time. From missing the birth of his baby to witnessing his relationships withering owing to overwork, each day makes him grieve the life slipping through his fingers.

‘Still Time’ stands out as a touching and thought-provoking time travel movie that encourages us to cherish each moment before it’s too late. The narrative depicts how everyday choices and habits can paint the picture of one’s life in the long term, offering a glimpse into the future without even requiring time travel. You can stream the movie here .

5. When We First Met (2018)

‘When We First Met’ narrates the story of a man going back in time to win the affection of the woman he loves in a delightful romantic comedy directed by Ari Sandel. Noah meets Avery, the girl of his dreams, but waits too long to make a move and is friend-zoned. After she marries someone else, he wishes for another chance and inadvertently travels back in time through a photo booth. Jumping with joy, Noah tries to woo Avery in a series of hilarious and ill-fated attempts, traveling back to the night they met repeatedly. With its humor, heart, and refreshing twists, ‘When We First Met’ offers a relatable and gratifying take on a time-tested formula. You can see the movie here .

4. Hot Tub Time Machine (2010)

Helmed by Steve Pink, ‘Hot Tub Time Machine’ transports a group of washed-out friends to the 1980s, when they are tempted to change their lives and the timeline. Four friends suffering through various shades of disaster in their lives are sent to the past via a malfunctioning hot tub. At a bustling ski resort, they seek to relive their youth by immersing themselves in ‘80s culture while attempting to make better choices for the future.

The irreverent comedy doesn’t take itself or the concepts of time travel too seriously; instead, it uses its premise to go all out with silly references and hilarious sequences. Despite the zany humor, the characters gain unexpected depth and charm, making ‘Hot Tub Time Machine’ an easily recommendable lighthearted and raunchy adventure into the ‘80s. You can stream the movie here .

3. The Adam Project (2022)

Helmed by Shawn Levy, ‘ The Adam Project ’ narrates a humorous and action-packed time travel tale of a pilot from the future teaming up with his past self to save the world. Adam is a young boy grappling with the recent loss of his father while facing bullying at school. One day, he finds an injured pilot hiding in his shed, who is revealed to be his future self. On a secret mission, the older Adam (Ryan Reynolds) is being pursued by a powerful organization and seeks to save the future from it.

The interactions between the Adams are both heartwarming and hilarious, with the two bonding over their woes and sharing comparable mannerisms. Their futuristic pursuers attack with gunships, pulse weaponry, and “not lightsabers,” making for stylish chase and fight scenes. ‘The Adam Project’ is a solid sci-fi romp which accomplishes its goal of thorough entertainment with Ryan Reynolds delivering his signature charm. You can see the movie here .

2. Mirage (2018)

Originally titled ‘Durante la tormenta,’ ‘ Mirage ’ revolves around Vera Roy, a mother who finds that she is able to influence past events through her television set. With the old device and a peculiar thunderstorm overhead, she communicates with a boy living 25 years in the past and saves his life before he meets with a tragic accident. The intervention unknowingly alters the course of her own life, and she wakes up in a reality where her daughter never existed.

Vera must restore her timeline within 72 hours or be stuck in her new reality. Helmed by Oriol Paulo, the gripping Spanish thriller blends complex time travel with suspense and mystery, its post-Cold War setting creating a foreboding atmosphere. The well-written film manages to keep us in the dark with its twists and is further enhanced by stellar performances from the cast. You can stream the movie here .

1. Back to the Future (1985)

Directed by Robert Zemeckis, ‘ Back to the Future ’ is a timeless classic when it comes to time travel films, transporting us to the ‘80s and ‘50s. The film follows the journey of Marty McFly, a teenager who accidentally travels back to 1955 in a DeLorean-turned-time machine invented by the eccentric Dr. Emmett Brown. There, he must ensure that his parents meet and fall in love to prevent his existence from being erased.

The lighthearted yet sophisticated comedy captures the imagination with clever writing and great special effects that hold up in the modern context as well. The film isn’t afraid to have fun through its time-traveling concepts, with Marty going through a number of awkward and comical scenarios during his iconic adventure. You can see the movie here .

Read More: Best Sci-Fi Movies on Netflix

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