What Are The Best Travel Shows To Inspire Your Next Adventure?

Are you searching for the Best Travel Shows to ignite your wanderlust and plan your next adventure? SIXT.VN offers a wealth of travel advice and services to turn your travel dreams into reality in Vietnam. So, pack your bags and explore the world from the comfort of your couch, then make those dreams a reality with top-notch travel experiences.

1. What Defines the Best Travel Shows?

The best travel shows offer a unique blend of entertainment, education, and inspiration. They transport viewers to different corners of the globe, showcasing diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.

• Cultural Immersion: These shows delve into local customs, traditions, and ways of life, providing insights beyond typical tourist experiences.
• Stunning Visuals: High-quality cinematography captures the beauty of each destination, making viewers feel like they’re right there.
• Engaging Storytelling: Compelling narratives and charismatic hosts keep audiences hooked, eager to discover what’s around the next corner.
• Authenticity: The best travel shows feel genuine and relatable, avoiding overly staged or artificial portrayals.
• Inspiration: They inspire viewers to step outside their comfort zones and explore the world with curiosity and an open mind.

2. What are Some Traditional Travel Shows Worth Watching?

Traditional travel shows often focus on providing practical information and showcasing popular destinations in a straightforward manner.

• Rick Steves’ Europe: Rick Steves is a renowned travel expert who takes viewers on informative and engaging tours of Europe’s most iconic cities and hidden gems. Available on Tubi, Xumo Play, Sling TV, PBS, The Roku Channel, PLEX, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, and Apple TV+.

Rick Steves in Europe

Alt text: Rick Steves enthusiastically guides viewers through a historic European city, showcasing its architecture and culture.

• Passport to Europe with Samantha Brown: Samantha Brown’s infectious enthusiasm makes exploring Europe a joy. She covers popular landmarks, local restaurants, and shopping spots. Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• The Layover: The late Anthony Bourdain maximizes every second in different cities, offering tips and tricks for travelers who want to make the most of short layovers. Available on Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Discovery Plus, Amazon Prime TV, Apple TV+, YouTube TV, and Travel Channel.
• The National Parks: America’s Best Idea: This documentary pays homage to the United States’ national parks, sharing their history and showcasing breathtaking video footage. Available on PBS, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube.
• Globe Trekker: Featuring a rotating cast of hosts, “Globe Trekker” is a real-life version of the Lonely Planet guidebooks. The first few seasons were filmed in the 90s so don’t expect high-def, but over two decades they cover just about everywhere that you could think of, from London to Northern India to the Australian Outback. Available on: Amazon Prime Video

3. What are the Best Experiential Travel Shows?

Experiential travel shows go beyond typical sightseeing, immersing viewers in unique and often unconventional experiences.

• Dark Tourist: Journalist David Farrier explores destinations with a grim history, like witnessing an exorcism in Mexico or swimming in a lake formed by a nuclear blast in Kazakhstan. Available on Netflix.

Dark Tourist Series

Alt text: David Farrier, host of Dark Tourist, explores a dark and unusual destination with a morbid history.

• Conan Without Borders: Conan O’Brien takes his comedic antics on the road, experiencing pop culture in other countries firsthand. Available on Max, Hulu, The Roku Channel, and YouTube TV.
• Tales by Light: This show provides a behind-the-scenes look at how talented photographers capture powerful images and explores how these images can contribute to conservation efforts. Available on Netflix.
• Expedition Unknown: Josh Gates investigates unsolved mysteries, lost cities, and buried treasure around the world, bringing an Indiana Jones-like vibe to his adventures. Available on Hulu, Philo, The Roku Channel, Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, and Apple TV+.
• The Moaning of Life: Comedian Karl Pilkington travels the world to see how other cultures tackle big topics like marriage, happiness, and death, documenting his mid-life crisis with humor and insight. Available on YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, and Amazon Prime Video.
• Planet Earth: The BBC’s “Planet Earth” is a visually stunning series that explores different biomes and habitats around the world, inspiring viewers to appreciate the beauty of our planet. Available on Max, YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, and Fandango at Home.

4. Which Road Trip Travel Shows Should I Watch?

Road trip shows capture the thrill of adventure on the open road, showcasing diverse landscapes and the camaraderie of travel companions.

• Long Way Round: Actors Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman ride their motorcycles from London to New York, taking an eastern route through Europe, Asia, and Alaska. Available on Apple TV+.
• Long Way Down: Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman ride their motorcycles from Scotland through Europe and down Africa to Cape Town, South Africa. Available on Apple TV+.
• Epic Drives: This show highlights fast cars, unique trucks, and stories from locals in epic locations, created in partnership with Motor Trend magazine. Available on Max, YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, The Roku Channel, and Amazon Prime TV.
• Top Gear: This show combines car reviews, road trips, and adrenaline-fueled challenges, with celebrity guest drivers adding to the fun. Available on Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, Sling TV, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Fandango at Home.

Top Gear series

Alt text: The hosts of Top Gear test drive a high-performance car on a scenic road, showcasing its speed and handling.

• The Grand Tour: Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May (of “Top Gear” fame) drive unique automobiles in interesting places, offering quirky advice and entertaining commentary. Available on Amazon Prime Video.

5. What Food & Drink Travel Shows are the Best?

Food and drink travel shows combine culinary exploration with cultural immersion, offering viewers a taste of the world’s diverse flavors.

• Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations: This show combines food and adventure, with Anthony Bourdain exploring different cultures and cuisines. Available on Pluto TV, The Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Hulu, Max, Amazon Prime Video, Philo, YouTube TV, Disney+, Sling, Fandango at Home, and Travel Channel.
• Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown: Bourdain learns about the history of often-complicated places by sharing traditional food or drink with the people who live there. Available on The Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Max, YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, Discovery Plus, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, and Fandango at Home.
• Gordon Ramsay’s Uncharted: Gordon Ramsay learns about cuisine or traditional cooking methods from locals and attempts to make a dish for the community himself. Available on Hulu and Disney+.
• Gordon’s Great Escape: Gordon Ramsay travels around India and Southeast Asia to learn about local cuisine, stepping outside his comfort zone and embracing new culinary experiences. Available on Tubi, Pluto TV, Xumo Play, Sling TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, and Amazon Prime Video.
• Ugly Delicious: David Chang travels to different countries to explore how those places interpret various types of food. Available on Netflix.

Ugly Delicious series

Alt text: David Chang savors a bite of street food in a bustling market, showcasing the vibrant culinary scene.

• Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner: David Chang travels the world to meet up with celebrities like Seth Rogen and Chrissy Teigen as they embark on culinary adventures in various cities. Available on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video.
• Street Food: This show captures the vibrant colors and essence of street food in different countries, showcasing the authentic flavors and the people who make it. Available on Netflix.
• Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern: Andrew Zimmern tries unusual and sometimes squeamish foods from around the world. Available on Sling TV, The Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Hulu, Max, Philo, YouTube TV, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, and Travel Channel.
• Three Sheets: Comedian Zane Lamprey travels the world to meet new people and drink alcohol with them, experiencing different drinking cultures and hangover cures. Available on Amazon Prime Video.
• I’ll Have What Phil’s Having: Phil Rosenthal travels the world to experience different cuisines, bringing his friendly demeanor and childlike innocence to each culinary adventure. Available on Pluto TV, Xumo Play, The Roku Channel, YouTube TV, and Amazon Prime Video.
• Somebody Feed Phil: Phil Rosenthal brings his friends and family along as he visits cities ranging from Tel Aviv to New Orleans, sharing his excitement for food and travel. Available on Netflix.
• BuzzFeed’s Worth It: Steven Lim and Andrew Ilnyckyj eat three different dishes at three different price points (affordable, mid, luxury) and then decide if it’s worth it to spend more money. Available on Peacock, The Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, and Disney+.
• Booze Traveler: Jack Maxwell learns about what people are drinking and why they drink it, exploring different drinking cultures around the world. Available on Philo TV, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, and Amazon Prime Video.
• Chef’s Table: This series dives into the lives and personal stories of six chefs, discussing their discipline and culinary talent while they prepare a dish. Available on Netflix.
• Restaurants at the End of the World: Kristen Kish travels the world in search of the people, places, culture, and traditions behind the world’s most remote restaurants. Available on Hulu, Disney+, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, and Amazon Prime Video.
• Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico: Eva Longoria explores the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, uncovering the deep-rooted history, diverse flavors, and cultural significance of Mexican cuisine. Available on Discovery Plus.
• Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy: Stanley Tucci meets local chefs, artisans, and food producers who showcase traditional Italian dishes, highlighting how Italy’s diverse geography and history have shaped its food. Available on Max, YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, The Roku Channel, Discovery Plus, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Fandango at Home.

6. What Are Some Reality TV Travel Shows to Watch?

Reality TV travel shows offer a mix of adventure, competition, and personal stories, showcasing the challenges and rewards of travel.

• Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father: Comedian Jack Whitehall and his father, Michael, travel together to strengthen their bond, offering a relatable and humorous look at family travel. Available on Netflix.
• The Amazing Race: Teams of two race around the world to make it to the final leg and take home the $1 million prize, facing physical and mental challenges on a limited budget. Available on Pluto TV, Hulu, Paramount, fuboTV, CBS, YouTube TV, Disney+, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, and Fandango at Home.
• Survivorman: Les Stroud strands himself in the remote wilderness for 7–10 days with only his clothes, a one-man camera rig, his harmonica, a multi-tool, and (often) items relevant to his survival situation or location. Available on Pluto TV, Tubi, the Roku Channel, PLEX TV, Sling, and Apple TV+.
• An Idiot Abroad: Karl Pilkington is constantly pranked by British comics Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant as he travels the world, offering a humorous and often clueless perspective on different cultures. Available on YouTube, Apple TV+, and Amazon Prime Video.
• Restaurants on the Edge: Three food and design experts revive failing restaurants by re-connecting them with the local culture and food, offering a redesigned decor and unique menu. Available on Netflix.
• Extreme Engagement: PJ Madam and Tim Noonan travel the world for an entire year to see if their relationship can cut it, visiting remote villages and experiencing life with tribespeople. Available on Netflix.

Extreme Engagement Series

Alt text: A couple participating in Extreme Engagement sits with a local tribe, experiencing their traditional customs.

• House Hunters International: This show offers a glimpse of life in another country, showcasing the process of buying or renting a home abroad. Available on Hulu, Max, Philo TV, YouTube TV, Disney+, Sling, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Fandango at Home.
• Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost: Marko and Alex Ayling vlog their 24-hour adventures in popular cities across the globe, experiencing each destination on both a shoestring budget and a luxury budget. Available on Peacock.

7. Are There Any Scripted Travel Shows That You Recommend?

Scripted shows set abroad offer a fictionalized but often immersive look at different cultures and destinations.

• The White Lotus: Set in luxurious resorts in Hawaii, Italy and Thailand, “The White Lotus” is a murder mystery. Each season is set in a different locale, but in every one, an idyllic vacation quickly unravels into a web of dark secrets, power struggles, and social commentary for the main characters. Available on Max, YouTube TV, Hulu, Sling TV, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Fandango at Home.
• Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories: This show takes place in a fictional small Japanese bar in Tokyo that is open from midnight to 7am, showcasing the stories of its patrons and the dishes the chef creates for them. Available on Netflix.
• Srugim: Based on the lives of five single men and women in their 30s in Jerusalem, “Srugim” checks all the boxes for a binge-worthy show: controversial issues (in the Religious Zionist society), marriage problems, a character struggling with their sexuality, and a bonus for travel junkies—true cultural immersion. Available on Tubi, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video Prime, and YouTube TV.
• Lost: The show is about the survivors of a commercial jet airliner that crashed on a mysterious island in the South Pacific Ocean en route from Sydney to Los Angeles. The show was filmed at Mokulē’ia Beach, near the northwest tip of Oahu, making it easy to imagine spending a week on your very own deserted island. Available on Netflix, Hulu, Disney+, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, and Amazon Prime Video.
• Outlander: With elements of romance, history, and science fiction, “Outlander” is filled with sweeping landscapes, historic castles, and elegant gardens. Available on Starz, Sling TV, Netflix, YouTube TV, Hulu, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, Philo, and Apple TV+.
• Downton Abbey: This series is set in the fictional Yorkshire country estate of Downton Abbey between 1912 and 1926 and depicts the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants. Available on Britbox, Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, The Roku Channel, Apple TV+, and Fandango at Home.
• Grantchester: Taking place in a picturesque 1950s Cambridgeshire village named Grantchester, this detective drama will have you dreaming of spending your next vacation in a sleepy British town. Available on PBS, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, and Fandango at Home.
• Trapped: This crime drama takes place in an isolated Icelandic town, where the chief of police tries to solve the murder of a former townsperson. Available on Netflix.
• The Kettering Incident: The Australian drama is based on the mysterious disappearance of two young girls, but the dark and enchanting landscapes are a central part of the show. Available on The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube TV, and Fandango at Home.

The Kettering Incident series

Alt text: A scene from The Kettering Incident, showcasing the dark and enchanting landscapes of Tasmania.

• Top of the Lake: Set in a remote mountain town in New Zealand, “Top of the Lake” is a harrowing series about an inexperienced detective trying to figure out what happened to 12-year-old Tui, who disappeared while five months pregnant. Available on Hulu, Disney+, YouTube TV, Apple+, Fandango at Home, and Amazon Prime Video.
• Sense8: When a group of eight strangers from around the world realize they are connected telepathically, they have to find a way to keep each other safe from those who find their powers threatening. Available on Netflix.
• Hawaii 5-0: Take a trip to Hawaii with this TV show featuring an elite state police task force set up to fight major crimes in the state. Available on Paramount, CBS, YouTube TV, The Roku Channel, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Fandango at Home.
• Marco Polo: This TV show is inspired by the creator’s own legendary trip through Central Asia. Available on Netflix, YouTube TV, Apple TV+, Fandango at Home, and Amazon Prime Video

8. How Can Travel Shows Inspire Your Next Trip to Vietnam with SIXT.VN?

Travel shows can spark your imagination and provide valuable insights for planning your next adventure to Vietnam with SIXT.VN. They can:

• Introduce you to new destinations: Discover hidden gems and popular attractions across Vietnam that you may not have known about.
• Provide cultural insights: Learn about Vietnamese customs, traditions, and etiquette to enhance your travel experience.
• Offer practical tips: Get advice on transportation, accommodation, food, and activities to help you plan your itinerary.
• Inspire your itinerary: See how others have explored Vietnam and get ideas for your own unique adventure.
• Help you visualize your trip: Watch stunning footage of Vietnam’s landscapes and cities to get a sense of what to expect.

SIXT.VN can help you turn your travel inspiration into reality by providing:

• Airport transfer services: Ensure a smooth and hassle-free arrival and departure.
• Hotel booking assistance: Find the perfect accommodation to suit your budget and preferences.
• Tour booking services: Explore Vietnam’s top attractions with expert guides.
• Flight booking services: Get the best deals on flights to Vietnam.
• Customized travel itineraries: Tailor your trip to your specific interests and needs.

9. What are the Benefits of Using SIXT.VN for Your Travel Needs in Vietnam?

SIXT.VN offers numerous advantages for travelers looking to explore Vietnam:

• Convenience: Easily book all your travel needs in one place.
• Reliability: Trust in SIXT.VN’s reputation for quality service and customer satisfaction.
• Expertise: Benefit from the knowledge and experience of local travel experts.
• Customization: Tailor your trip to your specific interests and preferences.
• Support: Receive dedicated support throughout your journey.

SIXT.VN ensures that your travel experience is seamless, enjoyable, and unforgettable.

10. How Can SIXT.VN Help Overcome Common Travel Challenges in Vietnam?

Many travelers face challenges when planning a trip to Vietnam, such as:

• Language barriers: Communicating with locals can be difficult.
• Cultural differences: Navigating unfamiliar customs and traditions.
• Transportation logistics: Arranging reliable and efficient transportation.
• Finding quality accommodation: Ensuring comfort and safety.
• Planning a suitable itinerary: Maximizing your time and seeing the best of Vietnam.

SIXT.VN addresses these challenges by providing:

• Multilingual support: Assistance in English and other languages.
• Cultural guidance: Tips and advice on local customs and etiquette.
• Reliable transportation services: Airport transfers, car rentals, and private drivers.
• Curated accommodation options: A selection of trusted and comfortable hotels.
• Expert itinerary planning: Customized itineraries to suit your interests and needs.

With SIXT.VN, you can travel with confidence, knowing that you have the support and resources to overcome any challenges that may arise.

Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality? Visit SIXT.VN today to explore our comprehensive travel services and start planning your unforgettable adventure in Vietnam. Contact us at Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam. Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358. Website: SIXT.VN.

FAQ Section

What are the best travel shows for learning about different cultures?

Shows like “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown,” “Globe Trekker,” and “Dark Tourist” offer deep dives into different cultures, showcasing unique customs, traditions, and ways of life.

Where can I find travel show recommendations?

You can find travel show recommendations on streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube TV. Travel blogs and websites also offer curated lists and reviews.

Are there any travel shows focused on budget travel?

Yes, shows like “Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost” and segments within “The Amazing Race” highlight budget travel tips and strategies.

What travel shows feature culinary adventures?

“Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations,” “Ugly Delicious,” “Street Food,” and “Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy” are excellent choices for culinary travel inspiration.

Which travel shows are best for family viewing?

“Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father” and “The Amazing Race” can be entertaining and engaging for families.

Can travel shows really help me plan my trip?

Yes, travel shows can provide valuable insights into destinations, cultural nuances, and practical tips for planning your trip.

What should I look for in a good travel show?

Look for shows with engaging storytelling, stunning visuals, authentic cultural experiences, and practical information.

How do I use travel shows to inspire my next trip?

Take notes on destinations, activities, and cultural experiences that interest you, and use them as a starting point for planning your own adventure.

Do travel shows only focus on popular destinations?

No, many travel shows explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and hidden gems, offering unique travel inspiration.

How can SIXT.VN enhance my travel experience in Vietnam?

SIXT.VN provides airport transfers, hotel booking assistance, tour booking services, flight booking services, and customized travel itineraries to ensure a seamless and unforgettable trip to Vietnam.