Have you ever watched travel movies, and while the credits were rolling up, thought to yourself, "I so want to travel there now?"
Movies are a great way to inspire, motivate and bring to light unique places in the world.
To be honest, though, a Top 10 list is a joke and almost impossible to do.
I know some will be mad at this list. You didn't have Indian Jones anywhere. What the hell, you bastard! This is why I added to to the Honorable Mentions section at the end.
Others will be confused. Why is the City of God on this list?
And maybe, just maybe, a few will agree. But for the record, there is no perfect list.
For me, though, after I watched these travel movies, I wanted to book a flight the next day and head there, so maybe you will too.
So to keep it civil and fair, if you have a movie to add, please do so in the comments section.
I know I couldn't fit them all in, but I would love to hear your favorites or even your Top 10 list as well.
Table of Contents
Top Travel Movies
10. The Beach
Ok, I know some of you will stop reading right now just because of this one, but you have to admit when you first watched it, it made you want to look for Daffy in Thailand.
It's been overused and abused by the backpacking community as the staple for what backpackers should do, and if you have traveled more than a few months, odds are you have seen The Beach in your hostels at least 10x.
That being said, it's still a good movie and made me want to see Phi Phi Island in person one day (which I did and loved it!).
After receiving a not-so-secret map to a secluded island from a stoned-out loony (Robert Carlyle, full of dark portent and spittle), Richard sets out to find the hidden paradise with a young French couple (Virginie Ledoyen, Guillaume Canet).
What they find is a tropical commune existing in delicate balance with Thai pot farmers, and before long--as always--there's trouble in paradise.
There's trouble in the movie, too, as DiCaprio is reduced to histrionics when the plot turns into a muddled mix of Lord of the Flies and Apocalypse Now, with shark attacks tossed in for shallow tension.
Jeff Shannon
9. City of God
This movie doesn't show the traveler the perfect beaches of Brazil or the famous sites.
It does show you the struggles of real life in one of the most dangerous cities in the world, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The whole movie is in Portuguese, but you don't even notice having to read the subtitles because it grabs you from the start and never let's go.
It will make you think twice about traveling to Rio, but at the same time, it will make you want to see it that much more.
Celebrated with worldwide acclaim, this powerful true story of crime and redemption has won numerous prestigious awards around the globe!
The streets of the world's most notorious slum, Rio de Janeiro's "City of God," are a place where combat photographers fear to tread, police rarely go, and residents are lucky if they live to the age of 20.
In the midst of the oppressive crime and violence, a frail and scared young boy will grow up to discover that he can view the harsh realities of his surroundings with a different eye: the eye of an artist.
In the face of impossible odds, his brave ambition to become a professional photographer becomes a window into his world ... and ultimately his way out!
Amazon.com
8. Shanghai Kiss
This one doesn't get much attention, but I found it worthy because I think too many people can relate to it.
Mid-life crises, an unexpected trip to China, and bang next thing you know, it's life-changing.
It's filled with lots of cultural interactions from East meets West, and after watching it, you'll want to see China too.
Be sure to pay extra attention to the taxi scene because you will encounter this in your travels at some point.
Set in two dichotomous worlds, Shanghai Kiss tells the story of a Chinese-American actor who doesn't quite fit in anywhere.
In his hometown, he's considered a foreigner even though he's American. And in his family's native China, his mannerisms make him stick out in sea of familiar faces.
Ken Leung (The Sopranos) does a wonderful job portraying Liam Liu, a complicated young man whose flirtation with the teenage Adelaide (Hayden Panettiere, Heroes) is reminiscent of Timothy Hutton's cautious infatuation with the Natalie Portman character in 1996's Beautiful Girls.
Jae-Ha Kim
7. Eurotrip
Who doesn't love this movie?
I mean, it has everything: funny one-liners, covers most of Europe, highlights all the unique things about each country (the drinking of Absinthe in Amsterdam was priceless!) to why we travel in the first place... to score and get laid!
This movie will have you laughing and make you want to buy a one-way ticket to Europe to see for yourself why "Scotty doesn't know..."
Eurotrip views the Old World as a goofy parade of soccer hooligans, horny camera saleswomen, and pawing lechers reeking of cologne.
After being dumped by his girlfriend, Scotty (Scott Mechlowicz) discovers that the German e-mail correspondent he thought was a guy is actually a hot girl--so naturally he jets off to Europe to find her, joined by his friends Cooper (Jacob Pitts), Jamie (Travis Wester), and Jenny (Michelle Trachtenburg, trying to leap into sexier roles after her adolescent characters in Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Harriet the Spy).
Bret Fetzer
6. Lost in Translation
Written by Fancies Ford Coppola's daughter, Sofia Coppola, this movie throws you right in the middle of modern-day Japan from the perspective of someone who knows nothing about its ways.
You will feel just as lost as Bill Murray was but at the same time ok with it.
If you want the feeling of being in a new country and not understanding anything... this movie is the one!
Like a good dream, Sofia Coppola's Lost in Translation envelops you with an aura of fantastic light, moody sound, head-turning love, and a feeling of deja vu, even though you've probably never been to this neon-fused version of Tokyo. Certainly Bob Harris has not.
The 50-ish actor has signed on for big money shooting whiskey ads instead of doing something good for his career or his long-distance family.
Jetlagged, helplessly lost with his Japanese-speaking director, and out of sync with the metropolis, Harris (Bill Murray, never better) befriends the married but lovelorn 25-year-old Charlotte (played with heaps of poise by 18-year-old Scarlett Johansson).
Even before her photographer husband all but abandons her, she is adrift like Harris but in a total entrapment of youth.
Doug Thomas
5. Slumdog Millionaire
Director Danny Boyle must know something about movies that involve exotic locations and traveling (he also directed "The Beach," see #10).
The plot, the acting, the travels through India, and the soundtrack all make this movie awesome!
Never mind all the awards Slumdog Millionaire won because this means little to a backpacker.
We want to know what it's like to live in India, and this movie delivers on that in a new way.
Jamal Malik (Dev Patel) is just one question away from winning a fortune on India's version of "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?"
But how has this uneducated young man from the slums succeeded in providing correct responses to questions that have stumped countless scholars before him?
And will he ultimately win it all or lose everything, including his true love?
Amazon.com
4. Under the Tuscan Sun
This one is for you ladies out there!
Getting a divorce, buying a shamrock villa in the Tuscany region of Italy, and learning to cook has never looked so good until after you have watched this beautiful movie.
It's the romantic idea all women have and makes you want to put your corporate life behind and soak up another culture.
Based on the #1 New York Times best-selling book, Under The Tuscan Sun follows San Francisco writer Frances Mayes (Lane) to Italy as a good friend offers her a special gift -- 10 days in Tuscany.
Once there, she is captivated by its beauty and warmth, and impulsively buys an aging, but very charming, villa.
Fully embracing new friends and local color, she finds herself immersed in a life-changing adventure filled with enough unexpected surprises, laughter, friendship, and romance to restore her new home -- and her belief in second chances.
Amazon.com
3. Into the Wild
A must-see and an obvious choice!
It's what most backpackers dream of doing one day, and although the guy took his travels to the extreme, it has inspired many people to let go and see the world in a new way.
If you want the feeling of leaving everything behind in search of proving to yourself that you can see the world, consider Into the Wild your #1 movie.
This is the true story of Christopher McCandless (Emile Hirsch).
Freshly graduated from college with a promising future ahead, McCandless instead walked out of his privileged life and into the wild in search of adventure.
What happened to him on the way transformed this young wanderer into an enduring symbol for countless people -- a fearless risk-taker who wrestled with the precarious balance between man and nature.
Amazon.com
2. The Motorcycle Diaries
If you haven't seen this movie... shame on you!
It's all in Spanish, but who cares, as who doesn't want to take a motorcycle trip across a continent with your best friend, living from town to town, using your wits to get by, and in the process, you learn a valuable life lesson.
Oh, plus start a military coup, win a revolution, and become an icon for sticking it to the man. Yeah, you'll be pumped after this movie.
The beauty of the South American landscape and of Gael Garcia Bernal (Y Tu Mama Tambien, Bad Education) gives The Motorcycle Diaries a charisma that is decidedly apolitical.
But this portrait of the young Che Guevara (later to become a militant revolutionary) is half buddy-movie, half social commentary--and while that may seem an unholy hybrid, under the guidance of Brazillian director Walter Salles (Central Station) the movie is quietly passionate.
Guevara and his friend Alberto Granado (Rodrigo de la Serna, a lusty and engaging actor) set off from Buenos Aires, hoping to circumnavigate the continent on a leaky motorcycle.
They end up travelling more by foot, hitchhiking, and raft, but their experience of the land and the people affects them profoundly.
No movie could affect an audience the same way, but The Motorcycle Diaries gives a soulful glimpse of an awakening social conscience, and that's worth experiencing.
Bret Fetzer
1. Outsourced
And the #1 pick is another movie that most people don't know about, but Outsourced covers everything.
Love in a foreign country, forgetting your Western ways, adopting local customs, finding yourself at the end of the road, and knowing what you want.
If you watch this movie and don't want to see India, then sorry, my friend, you are a lost soul.
There are so many things about this movie that people can learn from when traveling.
I found it to be beyond inspiring!
Todd Anderson (Josh Hamilton-Kicking and Screaming, The Bourne Identity) gets the bad news from his boss: his job has been outsourced. Adding insult to injury, Todd must travel to India to train his own replacement.
Through a series of hilarious misadventures, this charming, critically acclaimed romantic comedy reminds us that sometimes getting lost is the best way to find yourself.
Amazon.com
Honorable Mentions
- Seven Years in Tibet
- A Good Year
- Medicine Man
- The Gods Must Be Crazy
- Lawrence of Arabia
- Before Sunrise
- Roman Holiday
- Vicky Cristina Barcelona
- Indiana Jones - The Complete Adventure Collection
Anil says
Outsourced is a wonderful movie and much funnier after a trip to India.
Catherine says
Amazing! I did a list of my own and I have Outsourced there too! Plus my friends don't seem to know about it as well hehehe
ShannonOD says
Ooo - I love this list, and despite hearing great things I havent seen Outsourced yet :-) I hope to catch a few of these before I head out again.
Margarita Salgado Miranda says
Thank you for you recomendations Jason, I love movies, I will going to get them. Excellente weekend. Regards from Morelos.
AuthenticSeacoast says
Yes, movies are a great way to get the travel juices going. To get you thinking about visiting Nova Scotia in Atlantic Canada, here's a link to some movies that were filmed in our beautiful province:
http://www.thecoast.ca/halifax/inside-haliwood/...
We hope our seacoast vistas encourage you to add Nova Scotia to your 2010 travel list.
Babel says
Into the Wild... such a great book an movie :(
Dave says
This is the first I've heard of Outsourced, so I look forward to checking it out. I was glad to have watched Slumdog Millionaire after having visited India. I was able to relate to it much better.
Dave says
Hi Shannon, T-roy came up with a good list, for sure. I was glad to see some of my favorites too, like Before Sunset, the Beach, and Eurotrip....I could go on. :)
soultravelers3 says
Ha! We haven't seen one of these yet, but looks like an interesting list! We DO have "Lawrence in Arabia" and must admit we felt like him when we did our family camel trek deep into the Sahara in Morocco! ;)
AirTreks Nico says
I love movie lists! I did one back in Oct that has a lot of overlap with yours. I do love the movie City of God tho. It's haunting and harrowing and gives a glimpse at what goes down in the favelas of Rio. The DVD extras have amazing real-life footage. Totally gripping. Definitely in my top 10 of all time.
Nomadic Matt says
what! seven years in tibet or a good eyar get honorable mention but shanghai kiss makes the list? i call foul!
Neeraj says
Backpackers "want to know what it's like to live in India"... and they will learn that by watching Slumdog? lol - clearly, you have no idea what it's like to live in India!
Going a bit off-topic, this movie wouldn't have won any oscars if it wasn't directed by an Englishman. There were many Indian movies on the same topic that were overlooked - I highly recommend "Salaam Bombay (1988)" if you liked Slumdog.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0096028/
foggodyssey says
Nice list you made up and seen a few I haven't gotten to see yet. I remember when I first watched City of God and thought the movie made Brazil look like a modern-Western in a way. No rules and everything goes.
foggodyssey says
Matt I said you could arrange them any way you like as it wasn't a perfect list. :) Shanghai Kiss was a wild card and but I just really liked it for some reason. Though I do love 7 Years in Tibet I just didn't know where to put it without taking another one out. What is your top 10 travel movies?
Dave says
While I only spent 7 weeks in India back in 2008, I did feel as though I was in a better position to appreciate some of what I saw in Slumdog Millionaire than if I had not been there at all.
ottsworld says
I'd love to add Revolutionary Road - if that doesn't make you realize the value and importance of travel - I don't know what will!
Nomadic Chick says
I'm confused why Before Sunrise isn't in the top ten. Such a damn good movie.
Dave says
I'm with you there. Before Sunrise is the quintessential travel movie in my mind.
Dave says
Sherry - That's a movie I've been waiting to watch on my computer. Didn't realize it was related to travel.
Chaleigh says
I think what Sherry is talking about is Kate Winselt's characters passion for moving to Paris. In retrospect it isn't a travel movie. It's a movie about a quest. It's a movie about a troubled marriage. Revolutionary Road is a metaphor. You get to understand & feel what people go through, when they try to make any sort of destination...life gets in the way.
It's sad and intense, (especially, if you see your parents when you watch this).
If anything, it displays why so many people need to travel more. Need to experience life more. But, I hope you enjoy the movie.
ottsworld says
Make sure you have a glass of wine when you watch it...it's pretty heavy...very heavy. Let me know what you think when you do watch it! I think I"m going to use it to promote Briefcase to Backpack!
AirTreks Nico says
Exactly. The thing that amazed me the most was how young these kids were. 12 & 13 years old and already in full gangster mode.
I guess it says a lot. As a kid would you rather scrub floors and be poor, or deal drugs, live life in the fast lane but potentially die at 15.
foggodyssey says
I agree... what does Revolutionary Road have to do with travel? "A young couple living in a Connecticut suburb during the mid-1950s struggle to come to terms with their personal problems while trying to raise their two children."
MFR says
I am surprised to see the Darjeeling Limited not on your list.
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0838221/
Matthew says
I have to say that despite the shortcomings of Shanghai Kiss the scene with the cab driver makes the entire movie worth a watch for any traveler. It definitely captured the pure frustration of travel with a language barrier.
Eurotrip has to be my favorite comedy of all time and is half the reason I went to Europe.
Dave says
MFR - I enjoyed Darjeeling Limited a lot too, though the train rides were more of a 1st class experience, then the typical 3AC (3rd class air-conditioned) rides I enjoyed.
Dave says
Shanghai Kiss is a new one to me, but Eurotrip is high on my list as well.
Being a bit older, I also have to mention National Lampoon's European Vacation (definitely a classic). "Look kids, Big Ben, Parliament..." (repeat as they can't get out of the traffic circle.
foggodyssey says
Dave- Looks like maybe I'll have to make another list to add all the recommendations from everyone. :)
michaelapotter says
Revolutionary Road doesn't have to do with travel but the lack of travel in their lives. Unhappy in their lives and careers, they decided that they would pack up and move to Paris. They were at their happiest when they were planning this significant life change, despite the naysayers. Then "life" intervened...
And I think Sherry's comment above about enjoying it with a glass of wine (I say bottle) pertains to Revolutionary Road, not Slumdog.
While I'm commenting, I'd love to add The Devil Wears Prada to the list. It's not about travel but does a gorgeous job of capturing NYC and Paris. I saw it for the first time while volunteering in Peru and it made me tremendously homesick for NYC.
Dave says
I'll speak up and admit that I've seen The Devil Wears Prada, and agree that it does capture the feel of NYC and the romance of going to Paris.
Ralf says
While this list is good, there is one glaring omission: "A Map for Saturday" is really a stunning and very authentic documentary of a guy who quits his job and travels around the world, backpacker-style. Its so inspiring and charming and instantly makes you want to quit your job and do it too. Ok, the film is not a mainstream blockbuster like most of the other titles you listed, but just check it out (just google for "A Map for Saturday", theres a trailer on youtube and on their website).
Rui says
One of the best travel films i have ever seen, backpacking, life changing one is: The Art Of Travel!
FANTASTIC.
Dave says
I picked up a copy of The Art of Travel on Amazon.com for $5 (shipped!). Haven't watched it yet, but excited. :)
janateneva says
great selection...i really wanted to stop reading at the beach...but i am glad i kept reading:)
I would add "Up in the air" here too: it has so much of the new/modern miles/bberry-every-day-business-traveller-life:)
GlobalButterfly says
Motorcycle Diaries is one of the MOST incredible movies!!!
Chelle11 says
Loved the list....it pretty much included some of my all time favourites (Motorcycle Diaries, Under the Tuscan Sun & City of God) and movies I watch all the time when I am not travelling just to remind me of why I love travelling so much!
Here's a few others you might be interested in - The Big Blue (starring Jean Reno and Jean Marc Barr), Che Parts 1&2 (starring Benicio Del Toro) & The Spanish Apartment (about a group of multi national students sharing an apartment in Barcelona).
I am a huge lover of foreign films and just watching them helps to fuel my love for other cultures and their way of life - if you can get past the subtitles I suggest you try them too as they also often have much better stories to them than a lot of Hollywood made movies.
Dave says
Chelle - thanks for sharing your favorite travel vids!
Lisa says
It's actually called l'auberge espagnoel, a real great movie! I felt happy for days after watching it.
Steve says
I thought that "The Beach" would have been number one. Or maybe I am biased since I have been all over Thailand. Weirdly enough, I had the chance to go to the island that this movie was filmed on and it has become a huge tourist destination because of this film's success. I went to Koh Samui instead.
Dave says
Hey Steve,
I think it's because The Beach was popular that Troy didn't list it first. I also went to Koh Phi Phi where scenes were shot. Beautiful island.
Ukmale111069 says
umm you went to Koh Samui to escape the tourists?
Steve says
I thought that "The Beach" would have been number one. Or maybe I am biased since I have been all over Thailand. Weirdly enough, I had the chance to go to the island that this movie was filmed on and it has become a huge tourist destination because of this film's success. I went to Koh Samui instead.
Stephanie Figueroa says
This list made me go see "EuroTrip." Mr. "MISCUSI!!!" was hilarious!
Dave says
I love the Lustra theme song "Scotty Doesn't Know" I was just watching it on TV the other day. A classic!
Amanda_photographer says
I LOVE movies. I've seen the majority, but not Outsourse. Thanks for the recommendation!
Amanda
Stephanie Wafzig says
I see that Vicky Christina Barcelona got an honorable mention but it should definitely be in the top 10.
cangaceiro says
Seven years in Tibet was made... in the Andes! province of Mendoza, Argentina, my country, and the scene at a railwaystation in the city of La Plata, my birthplace, where the producers found that location very similar than the original place. Good night
Stacy says
So glad Outsourced made this list -- it is such a charming movie! Def made me wanna visit India...
foggodyssey says
Glad it helped and hope you liked the movie! It's one of my personal favorites and it cracks me up every time. So much to relate to in that movie!!
Andrew says
i watched it probably 3 times before i realized that matt damon was the singer in the band when they played scotty doesnt know
foggodyssey says
yeah i just watched it again a few weeks ago and have to say i could easily make any Top-10 travel list. I hate Woody Allen but this movie was great and it didn't feel like a Woody movie to me... it was just pure pleasure and indulgences with great humor on many topics.
foggodyssey says
Hey thanks for the fact on that! I didn't know that but it's very interesting. I guess people would be surprised at how many movies are filmed in locations that they never knew would even work.
foggodyssey says
I just can't say enough about it either. I know some didn't think it was that great but every time I watch it it gets me excited about India in a heartbeat! I haven't been but want to so bad and a lot of it comes from seeing this movie. Glad you liked!
foggodyssey says
Yeah I went to Maya Bay to see the island, it's nothing like what the movie projects it to be but the bay is just as beautiful. When i went i was hoping to camp (or cop-a-squat) somewhere on the island but found out it's protected and no over night visits are allowed. Still worth the trip.
foggodyssey says
I keep hearing about the Spanish Apartment and will see if I can find it somewhere on the internet to watch it (yeah I know that is illegal but i can't rent here in Colombia!). Never heard of the Big Blue but will look into it now that you said something about it. Thanks for the recommendations. Any others let us know on here please!
foggodyssey says
Yeah, something told me that you would like this movie best of all. Che is lucky he still isn't alive because you would be stalking him if so! jajajaja :)
foggodyssey says
Yeah, Up in Air hadn't been realeased when I made this list. It is on the other list though that I did as a follow-up. Check it out at the link below if like:
https://gobackpacking.com/2010/02/10/fo...
foggodyssey says
I just want to say firstly that i love what you guys are doing and in traveling! I encourage you to take a little time and watch a few of these, esp the ones of places you haven't been.
foggodyssey says
I added it to the follow-up list, as you recommended it. It was a little dark for me at times but i did enjoy it. It had some funny parts in it for sure!
https://gobackpacking.com/2010/02/10/fo...
foggodyssey says
Ralf: Thanks and adding to my follow-up list (check it out at the link below). I got to finally watch it a few months ago and LOVED it!!! You will be seeing more movies like this I think in the future with so many people able to actually do things like this on a budget, without having to have $20 million dollars to do it.
https://gobackpacking.com/2010/02/10/fo...
foggodyssey says
Will check this out for sure, can't believe I never looked at the list yet. Thanks!
GlobalButterfly says
Jajajajaja, si es cierto! Adoro Che!!!!!!!!!! ;-)
In a message dated 8/23/2010 4:04:11 P.M. Eastern Daylight Time,
writes:
foggodyssey wrote, in response to GlobalButterfly:
Yeah, something told me that you would like this movie best of all. Che
is lucky he still isn't alive because you would be stalking him if so!
jajajaja :)
Link to comment: http://disq.us/l3hh0
Aaron says
A flick to DEFINITELY add: THE ART OF TRAVEL. It will become your number 1.
Aaron says
Nevermind, it's in your followup list. GOOD CHOICE!
Aaron says
OH!, also, you should put up 180 Degrees South! Fantastic flick about a man's journey to Patagonia!
Stephen says
Into the Wild is a fantastic movie and an even better book! I will have to check out Outsourced next.
JB says
I just watched the movie, The Fall. It is not a movie about travel, but I can't imagine anyone watching that visual masterpiece, shot all around the world, and not wanting to travel. Check out the locations used at:
http://thefall-locations.blogspot.com/
Born Traveler says
If you wanna watch a great travel film go to http://www.hulu.com and watch "The Art of Travel" for FREE! The movie is really well done! It's also on netflix and itunes! (But at least on HULU its for free!)
Ismael-17-Norway says
A Good Year deserves to be on the list. a good movie that will leave you with feelings no man can describe.
Chelsea says
I would add "The Art of Travel", which I recently just saw for the first time. I'm still running off the inspiration to seek adventure through travels from it! Also, "Eat Pray Love"...this movie meant a lot to me personally and inspired my first trip I ever took on my own.
Dave says
I liked The Art of Travel too....Brooke Burns helped :)
Emma-jae says
Love this, also stealing beauty needs a mention here =) Amelie too.
Anonymous says
Into the wild made me thinking about my Round the World Trip....now i'm at the planning stage ;)
Dave says
Congrats on your upcoming RTW trip! Whenever it happens, I'm sure it'll change your life for the better.
Indy Afandi says
you should put 127 Hours and The Way on your list :)
Dave says
I just saw 127 Hours a few weeks ago, though I was already familiar with the story. Not sure I'd call that a travel movie. The Way looks cool, appears it hasn't even been released in the US yet....
"An American father travels to France to recover the body of his estranged son who died while traveling "El camino de Santiago" from France to Santiago de Compostela (Spain)."
Mel Lifshitz says
This inspires me to make my own list. Nice list, btw.
Lusso Bags says
Gotta love Outsourced, and now the follow-up comedy series :)
Zhian Soriano says
I love the list. Slumdog* is the only movie I've watched that is why I got to download all in the list. Anyways, you can also try to put "A Map for Saturday" in the list. Although it is a documentary movie film (^_^).
Dave says
Awesome! Lots of good movies on the list, and Slumdog was one of my favorites. I've also seen A Map for Saturday...I think Troy mentioned that in a follow-up post he did here: https://gobackpacking.com/2010/02/10/follow-up-10-travel-movies-to-get-you-going-in-2010/
Hopskipandjump.blogspot.com says
What about Koyaanisqatsi? This montage film with scenes from across the globe was probably THE movie that inspired me to go travelling and experience difference cultures, sites and places.
ChrisAnnan says
Transsiberian, i want to go to Russia
Dave says
Good suggestion Chris -- I saw that movie earlier this year (and liked it).
Zi Zi Bright says
Am blogging about my upcoming trip to Timbuktu... you need a good Africa Movie.
I love "The Gods Must Be Crazy"
Andy says
Definitely gotta add 180? South!!! Super inspiring film about travels to Patagonia...makes you want to drop everything and go NOW.
shubham says
seriously an awesome list.....dowloaded most of all....
my favourites are:-
1.) Into the wild
2.) The Motorcycle Diaries
3.) The Beach
4.) 127 Hours
5.) The Art Of Travel.
rest of the lost will watch very soon.
i just love travelling....i am from india n covering whole india these days....n then one day for sure will go for world tour.
Travelling is a religion and a message to all travellers just plan voyages n attempt them..theres nothing else...cheers.
Greg says
I would have added Mountains of the Moon, which tells the story of the search for the source of the Nile during the time of Queen Victoria.
Talyn Sherer says
Great list I love all those videos. Here is mine as well: http://thephotojunket.blogspot.com/2012/05/travel-movies-that-changed-my-life.html
Jeremy Branham says
I do have one to add but am embarrassed to list it because it is a romantic comedy. Not only that, I love the music in the film. So I will risk losing my man card and admit to loving The Holiday. I love the scenes in England and even the stories in the movie. There are even some great scenes in LA as well.
Probably not one to inspire most people but it's one that always inspires me to travel.
Stuart says
Jeremy, I see your 'The Holiday' and raise you with my embarrassing film favourite... Hudson Hawk. OK, so it is widely considered a record flop but I do love the stupid humour, a swaggering Bruce Willis and the delectable Andie MacDowell..... and the Italian backdrop is fairly awesome and makes me want to go there.
Anna says
I just want to suggest also "The sheltering sky" and maybe "out of africa"...
I'm so addicted with travel movies atm ;P
NEIL says
U MUST CHECK OUT "AUSTRALIA".....
Hongkongsyl says
A favourite inspirational travel film (and bit of chick flick) Shirley Valentine! Location: Greece..... Hilarious
Scott Summer says
The Beach is one of the top list. Here are the others;
1. Bridget Jones Diary2 by Rene Zelweeger
Location: Krabi, Thailand & London, UK
2. Monte Carlo by Selena Gomez
Location: Paris, France & Monte Carlo, Monaco
3. Lizzie Mcguire by Hilary Duff
Location: Rome, Italy
4. Jumper By Hans Christiansen
Location: mostly in Rome, Italy and other part of the world
5. Mr. Bean's Holiday by Rowan Atkinson
Location: Paris, France & Cannes, France
6. Darkest Hour
Location: Moscow, Russia
7. Pink Panther
Location: Paris, France
8. View from the Top by Gweneth Paltrow
Location: USA & Paris, France
9. Eat, Pray, Love by Julia Roberts
Location: New York USA, Rome Italy, India, & Bali Indonesia
10. Tomb Raider by ANgeline Jolie
Location: Siem Reap, Cambodia
11. Friends with Benefits by Justin Timberlake
Location: New York, USA
12. The Tourist by Angeline Jolie & Johnny Depp
Location: Paris, France & Venice, Italy
13. The Karate Kid 2011 by Jadeth Smith
Location: Beijing, China
Scott Summer says
14. AFter the Sunset by Pierce Brosnan & Salma Hayek
Location: The Bahamas & the Carribean
15. Push by Chris Evans
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
16. The Origin of Chunli
Location: Bangkok, Thailand
Cezaris says
I personally think that the best movies to watch before you go to a journey to a specific country are documentaries. Dramatisations does not show you real people and situations are, well, made more dramatic. Then again true life is also dramatic, but frequently in different aspects than fictional stories.
Sherri says
What about The Bucket List?! Surely worthy a top 10?
Michael Hoyt says
After watching Seven years in Tibet I wanted to book a ticket to Tibet!
Bali says
worst list i have ever seen- you must not travel at all
J1 says
One film you guys haven't mentioned which captures the backpacker vibe well is City of Ghosts. It's shot in Cambodia. Decent film, not mind-blowing, but worth seeing if you're nostalgic for your southeast Asian travels. It did give me that feeling, the feeling I had when I was there. I'm going back soon and fuckin' psyched !
J1 says
Oh yeah, another one. Saint Jack with Ben Gazarra. Shot in Singapore in the late 70s. Cool flick.
stephanie ann says
Definitely forgetting EAT, PRAY, LOVE. that movie has inspired me the most.
Falana says
How about movies that make you want to stay home. I compiled a list called 'Tourist Traps'. Art imitates and movies are not far from the truth. http://glamtrotter.blogspot.ro/2013/08/tourist-trap-11-travel-movies-that-make.html
1. Taken
2. Chernobyl Diaries
3. Hostel
4, Turistas
5. The Reef
6. Train
7. Wolf Creek
8. The Hills Have Eyes
9. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre
10. The Descent
11. Wrong Turn
12. Psycho
Alex Cardo says
When I visited Thailand for a first time, I've never seen the movie "The Beach". After I've seen this movie in my "Home Theatre", I visited Krabi Province in Thailand, including Koh Phi Phi Islands! Yes! One of this movies has impressed me too much!
Girc says
Samsara Samsara and again Samsara.... you drop your jaw and it stays that way all the way! :)
Sebastian says
When it comes to having fun and experiencing sexual adventures Euro Trip is definitely a very funny movie that makes you want to go to Europe...especially to Amsterdam ;-)
Into the wild is an amazing movie that goes really deep. It is a big inspiration for everybody who wants to step out of his or her comfort zone and who wants to experience adventures. At least it was a big inspiration for me.
Life is short....start living!
ian | going places says
Don't the James Bond movies, most of it are travel movies shoot in different countries.
John Armstrong says
Awesome. I obviously love travel movies and I'm excited that your number one choice I haven't seen. Now if I can pull myself away from House of Cards...
Peter Taylor says
I am not sure that "City of God" will get you going. Rio is not portrayed as a nice place at all, but I agree, the movie is fascinating.
"Euro Trip" is still hilarious in 2014.
I guess "The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" would make the list nowadays, it has some great scenes.
Monnette says
Good to know that there are also others who think that Bucket List and Eat, Pray, Love should be on this list.
butthurtburt says
Now that I think about it, the movies that inspire me to hit the road are the following:
1.) Motorcycle Diaries (South America)
2.) Into the Wild (USA)
3.) The Beach (Thailand)
4.) Before Sunrise/Before Sunset (Europe)
5.) L'auberge espagnole (Spain)
6.) The Darjeeling Limited (India)
7.) 24 Hours/Slumdog (Grand Canyon)/(India)
8.) A Room with a View (Italy and UK)
9.) A Good Rain Knows When to Come (a Korean-Chinese movie) (China)
10.) Wong Kar-wai movies
-In The Mood for Love (Hongkong, Singapore, Cambodia)
-So Happy Together (Argentina, Iguazu Falls, Ushuaia)
11.) *many East Asian epic movies
12.) *many Vietnam war movies
Shaun says
Great list! Still stands today!
Traveling Ted says
Great list. I will have to check out Outsourced. I like watching historical movies that take place in foreign countries. I just watched Gandhi this weekend and really made me want to visit India. Other favorites include Killing Fields, Bridge Over the River Kwai, Good Morning Vietnam, El Salvador, and Hotel Rwanda. Even though these movies are all about depressing moments in history, it is safe now to travel in all of these countries now.
elaine schoch says
Great list of movies! I must admit A Good Year is one of my all time favs. Going to France this week and will be doing a re-watch tonight.
Rebecca says
Great list, I would add Sideways, A Good Year, The Talented Mr. Ripley, Julie & Julia, Vicky Cristina Barcelona and Cairo Time.
Danielle says
I also think Blue Crush 2 is a good one! After watching it, I want to book the next flight to South Africa.
Allison says
Wonderful selection of movies! You should also check out 'The Secret Life of Walter Mitty' which made me plan a trip to Iceland for next year and 'The Art of Travel' which made me laugh so hard at the end, incredible movie!
Nigel says
Yeah, the beach is definitely up there along with into the world. Although it's a documentary I would add 'A Map For Saturday' to the list
Share says
Definitely Eat, Love, Pray. Also The Way. Can't wait to see Wild.
Jasmine says
great list, I'm on holidays at the moment and besides reading lots of travel blog posts i was wondering what travel movies i could what! i haven't seen Under a Tuscan sun as yet, but i'd ad to this list, although not totally focused on travel, the movie Squatters.. one of the best movies I've seen lately :)
shilpa says
very inspiring list... Although the very first movie which inspired me to start my travels was a Bollywood Movie - "Zindagi na milegi Dobara", which showed the beauty of Spain... But after reading your list, I'm gonna see all the listed ones... Many Thanks!
maura says
Hector and the search for happiness! It is a must!!!!
Mat says
Some movies on this list are really really bad...
If you want to see something motivating, you should wath 'the secret life of Walter Mity'. Very well realized and makes you want to travel to Iceland !
Aaron Jade says
The Beach definitely, when I was young I watched that and was hooked on wanting to travel to Thailand. Also enjoyed Into the wild, love to get out into nature.
Shachar says
Into the wild - a classic movie. always makes me wanna take the next flight to ANYWHERE :)
Adriana says
Great list, thanks for sharing! You should add the "180 South" and "the Walk"
Claire Algarme says
I have watched some of the movies here and Under the Tuscan Sun really got me hoping I'd be able to visit Tuscany someday. I also liked the Motorcycle Diaries. I'd want to add Mama Mia and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2, which both featured the Greek Islands. :-)
Nigel and Jane says
I've just done my Top 10 and there is a bit of overlap.
Must check out your no. 1 which I have to admit to not knowing.
Richard says
How can you say that Eurotrip "covers most of Europe" when they only go to 7 countries?
Serhat Engul says
Great list of movies for travel inspiration my friend. I would perhaps add The Walter Mitty's Secret life to this list. Thanks a lot.
Jason says
Haven't watched the whole list. I loved Into the Wild and Motorcycle dairies. Need to watch those remaining for the travel inspiration.
Dirk says
Another good road movie is "Saint-Jacques... La Mecque" a French made film from 2005. Three siblings who detest each other and hiking must complete together a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in order to be eligible to inherit their mother's wealth.
dbestesolak says
Into the Wild good movie. I like it....
Gopikrishna says
You must think about this too,
Wild, one week, tracks, the way back, sanctum, zindgi Na milegi doobara (Hindi), yeh jawani hai deevani (Hindi), highway (Hindi)
Kemal Kaya says
Into the Wild, A Good Year and The secret life of Walter Mity my favorite movies.
Dave says
I also enjoyed The Secret Life of Walter Mitty with Ben Stiller. Great soundtrack too!