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

Travel Tv Shows are a fantastic way to ignite your wanderlust and plan your next adventure, and SIXT.VN is here to help you turn those dreams into reality in Vietnam. From culinary explorations to thrilling road trips, these shows can transport you to incredible destinations. Let’s explore some of the best travel TV shows and how SIXT.VN can assist you in experiencing the beauty of Vietnam firsthand. Explore Vietnam’s cultural richness with insights from travel documentaries and food adventures.

1. Why Watch Travel TV Shows for Travel Inspiration?

Travel TV shows offer a unique window into different cultures, landscapes, and experiences. They provide viewers with ideas, inspiration, and practical information for planning their own trips.

Watching travel shows offers numerous benefits:

• Inspiration: Discover new destinations and experiences.
• Information: Learn about cultures, customs, and travel tips.
• Motivation: Ignite your passion for travel and adventure.
• Planning: Get ideas for itineraries and activities.

2. Traditional Travel Shows: Classic Explorations

These shows offer a classic approach to travel, focusing on historical landmarks, cultural insights, and practical travel tips.

2.1. Rick Steves’ Europe

Rick Steves is known for his in-depth knowledge of European history and culture. His show is perfect for those who want to explore Europe with a knowledgeable guide.

• Focus: European history, culture, and travel tips.
• Why watch: Steves’ passion and expertise make Europe accessible and engaging.

Rick Steves’ Europe offering in-depth knowledge of European history and culture.

2.2. Passport to Europe with Samantha Brown

Samantha Brown brings a sense of curiosity and excitement to her travels. Her show highlights popular landmarks, local restaurants, and shopping spots in Europe.

• Focus: European cities, landmarks, and local experiences.
• Why watch: Brown’s enthusiastic approach makes travel planning fun and accessible.

2.3. The Layover

Anthony Bourdain’s “The Layover” is perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time. Bourdain explores cities in 24-48 hours, showcasing the best food and experiences.

• Focus: Maximizing layover time, food, and local culture.
• Why watch: Bourdain’s travel tricks and culinary insights are invaluable.

2.4. The National Parks: America’s Best Idea

This documentary celebrates the United States’ national parks, sharing their history and showcasing breathtaking footage.

• Focus: US national parks, history, and natural beauty.
• Why watch: It inspires appreciation for nature and conservation.

2.5. Globe Trekker

“Globe Trekker” features a rotating cast of hosts exploring destinations around the world. It’s like a real-life version of the Lonely Planet guidebooks.

• Focus: Global destinations, cultural experiences, and travel adventures.
• Why watch: The show covers a wide range of destinations with diverse perspectives.

3. Experiential Travel Shows: Unique Adventures

These shows go beyond traditional tourism, offering viewers a glimpse into unusual and immersive experiences.

3.1. Dark Tourist

“Dark Tourist” explores destinations with a grim history, offering a fascinating look at the darker side of travel.

• Focus: Unusual and morbid destinations, dark history.
• Why watch: It provides a unique perspective on travel and history.

Dark Tourist exploring destinations with a grim history.

3.2. Conan Without Borders

Conan O’Brien takes his late-night antics on the road, experiencing pop culture in other countries firsthand.

• Focus: Pop culture, humor, and international experiences.
• Why watch: It’s a fun and entertaining way to see the world.

3.3. Tales by Light

“Tales by Light” offers a behind-the-scenes look at how photographers capture stunning images, highlighting the power of visual storytelling.

• Focus: Photography, visual storytelling, and conservation.
• Why watch: It inspires appreciation for photography and the environment.

3.4. Expedition Unknown

Josh Gates investigates unsolved mysteries, lost cities, and buried treasure around the world.

• Focus: Archaeology, mysteries, and adventure.
• Why watch: It combines history, adventure, and exploration.

3.5. The Moaning of Life

Karl Pilkington travels the world to see how other cultures tackle big life questions.

• Focus: Cultural perspectives, humor, and life’s big questions.
• Why watch: It offers a unique and humorous take on cultural exploration.

3.6. Planet Earth

“Planet Earth” showcases the beauty of our planet through breathtaking episodes featuring different biomes and habitats.

• Focus: Nature, wildlife, and global ecosystems.
• Why watch: It inspires appreciation for the natural world and conservation.

4. Road Trip Shows: Adventures on the Road

These shows highlight the thrill of the open road, featuring unique vehicles, scenic routes, and local stories.

4.1. Long Way Round

Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman ride their motorcycles from London to New York, taking an eastern route through Europe, Asia, and Alaska.

• Focus: Motorcycle adventures, scenic routes, and global exploration.
• Why watch: It inspires a sense of adventure and freedom.

4.2. Long Way Down

A sequel to “Long Way Round,” this show follows McGregor and Boorman as they ride from Scotland through Europe and down Africa to Cape Town.

• Focus: Motorcycle adventures, scenic routes, and African exploration.
• Why watch: It showcases the challenges and rewards of long-distance travel.

4.3. Epic Drives

“Epic Drives,” created in partnership with Motor Trend magazine, highlights fast cars, unique trucks, and stories from locals in epic locations.

• Focus: Automobiles, scenic drives, and local culture.
• Why watch: It’s perfect for car enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

4.4. Top Gear

“Top Gear” combines car reviews, road trips, and adrenaline-fueled challenges, making it a fun and entertaining watch.

• Focus: Car reviews, road trips, and humor.
• Why watch: It’s a thrilling and humorous take on automotive adventures.

4.5. The Grand Tour

Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May drive unique automobiles in interesting places around the world.

• Focus: Automobiles, humor, and global exploration.
• Why watch: It’s a fun and engaging way to see the world through the lens of car enthusiasts.

5. Food & Drink Shows: Culinary Adventures

These shows explore the world through its cuisine, offering viewers a taste of different cultures and culinary traditions.

5.1. Anthony Bourdain: No Reservations

“No Reservations” combines food and adventure, offering a look at not just the cuisine, but the people and culture of each location.

• Focus: Global cuisine, culture, and adventure.
• Why watch: Bourdain’s insights and storytelling are captivating.

5.2. Anthony Bourdain’s Parts Unknown

Bourdain learns about the history of often-complicated places by sharing a traditional food or drink with the people who live there.

• Focus: Global cuisine, culture, and social commentary.
• Why watch: It offers a deeper understanding of different cultures through food.

5.3. Gordon Ramsay’s Uncharted

Gordon Ramsay learns about cuisine and traditional cooking methods from locals, often finding himself out of his comfort zone.

• Focus: Global cuisine, traditional cooking methods, and culinary challenges.
• Why watch: It showcases Ramsay’s culinary skills and cultural immersion.

5.4. Gordon’s Great Escape

Gordon Ramsay travels around India and Southeast Asia to learn about local cuisine and cooking methods.

• Focus: Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine, cultural immersion, and culinary exploration.
• Why watch: It’s a unique look at Ramsay as a student of cuisine.

5.5. Ugly Delicious

David Chang travels to different countries to explore how different places interpret and make various types of food.

• Focus: Global cuisine, cultural interpretations, and culinary exploration.
• Why watch: It offers a unique perspective on familiar foods.

Ugly Delicious Exploring Global Cuisine.

5.6. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

David Chang travels the world to meet up with celebrities as they embark on culinary adventures in various cities.

• Focus: Global cuisine, celebrity guests, and culinary adventures.
• Why watch: It’s a fun and engaging way to explore food with familiar faces.

5.7. Street Food

“Street Food” captures the vibrant colors and essence of each dish, making even the most humble of street food look beautiful.

• Focus: Global street food, culture, and culinary traditions.
• Why watch: It celebrates the authenticity and diversity of street food.

5.8. Bizarre Foods with Andrew Zimmern

Andrew Zimmern tries bizarre and unusual foods from around the world, offering viewers a taste of extreme culinary adventures.

• Focus: Unusual foods, global cuisine, and culinary adventure.
• Why watch: It’s a unique and sometimes squeamish look at food culture.

5.9. Three Sheets

Zane Lamprey travels the world to meet new people and drink alcohol with them, offering viewers an international pub crawl experience.

• Focus: Global drinking culture, alcohol, and social experiences.
• Why watch: It’s a fun and lighthearted exploration of drinking traditions.

5.10. I’ll Have What Phil’s Having

Phil Rosenthal travels the world to experience as much as he can, even if that means stepping into the unknown.

• Focus: Global cuisine, cultural experiences, and culinary exploration.
• Why watch: Rosenthal’s friendly demeanor makes travel accessible and fun.

5.11. Somebody Feed Phil

Phil Rosenthal brings his friends and family along as he visits cities around the world, tasting the best food each place has to offer.

• Focus: Global cuisine, cultural experiences, and family travel.
• Why watch: It’s a heartwarming and engaging exploration of food and culture.

5.12. BuzzFeed’s Worth It

Steven Lim and Andrew Ilnyckyj eat three different dishes at three different price points and decide if it’s worth it to spend more money.

• Focus: Food reviews, value for money, and culinary exploration.
• Why watch: It offers a practical and relatable approach to dining.

5.13. Booze Traveler

Jack Maxwell travels the world to learn about what people are drinking and why they drink it.

• Focus: Global drinking culture, alcohol, and social experiences.
• Why watch: It’s a unique and informative exploration of drinking traditions.

5.14. Chef’s Table

“Chef’s Table” dives into the lives and personal stories of chefs, discussing their discipline and culinary talent while they prepare a dish.

• Focus: Chef profiles, culinary talent, and personal stories.
• Why watch: It’s a deep and inspiring look at the world of culinary arts.

5.15. 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.

• Focus: Remote restaurants, global cuisine, and cultural exploration.
• Why watch: It’s an inspiring look at culinary resilience and innovation.

5.16. Eva Longoria: Searching for Mexico

Eva Longoria explores the rich culinary traditions of Mexico to uncover the history, flavors, and cultural significance of Mexican cuisine.

• Focus: Mexican cuisine, cultural traditions, and culinary exploration.
• Why watch: It’s a flavorful and informative exploration of Mexican food.

5.17. Stanley Tucci: Searching for Italy

Stanley Tucci meets local chefs, artisans, and food producers who showcase traditional Italian dishes, highlighting how Italy’s geography and history have shaped its food.

• Focus: Italian cuisine, cultural traditions, and culinary exploration.
• Why watch: It’s a charming and informative exploration of Italian food.

6. Reality TV: Real-Life Adventures

These shows capture real-life adventures, offering viewers a glimpse into the challenges and rewards of travel.

6.1. Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father

Jack Whitehall and his father hit the road together to strengthen their bond, offering viewers a relatable look at family travel.

• Focus: Family travel, humor, and cultural experiences.
• Why watch: It’s a relatable and entertaining take on traveling with parents.

Jack Whitehall: Travels with My Father capturing family travel experiences.

6.2. The Amazing Race

Teams 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.

• Focus: Global travel, competition, and physical challenges.
• Why watch: It’s a thrilling and competitive look at travel.

6.3. Survivorman

Les Stroud strands himself in the remote wilderness for 7–10 days with only his clothes and a few tools, showcasing survival skills and nature.

• Focus: Survival skills, nature, and remote wilderness.
• Why watch: It inspires appreciation for nature and survival skills.

6.4. An Idiot Abroad

Karl Pilkington is pranked by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant as he travels the world, offering a humorous take on cultural customs.

• Focus: Cultural customs, humor, and travel mishaps.
• Why watch: It’s a funny and lighthearted exploration of cultural differences.

6.5. Restaurants on the Edge

Food and design experts revive failing restaurants by re-connecting them with the local culture and food, offering viewers a glimpse of different locales.

• Focus: Restaurant makeovers, local culture, and culinary experiences.
• Why watch: It combines design, food, and cultural exploration.

6.6. Extreme Engagement

A couple travels the world for an entire year to see if their relationship can cut it, visiting remote villages and experiencing life with tribespeople.

• Focus: Relationships, cultural immersion, and remote travel.
• Why watch: It offers a deep and personal look at different cultures.

6.7. House Hunters International

Buyers search for homes abroad, offering viewers a glimpse of life in another country and where they could potentially live.

• Focus: International real estate, lifestyle, and cultural experiences.
• Why watch: It inspires dreams of living abroad.

6.8. Basic Versus Baller: Travel at Any Cost

The “Vagabrothers” vlog their 24-hour adventures in popular cities, showing both sides of the coin for budget and luxury travel.

• Focus: Budget travel, luxury travel, and urban exploration.
• Why watch: It offers practical tips for all types of travelers.

7. Scripted Shows Set Abroad: Fictional Escapes

These shows transport viewers to different countries through fictional stories and captivating scenery.

7.1. The White Lotus

“The White Lotus” is set in fictional White Lotus resorts, where an idyllic vacation quickly unravels into a web of dark secrets and social commentary.

• Focus: Resort settings, social commentary, and mystery.
• Why watch: It offers a captivating and thought-provoking escape.

7.2. Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories

Set in a small Japanese bar in Tokyo, the show captures the true feeling of food bringing people together.

• Focus: Japanese culture, food, and social interactions.
• Why watch: It’s a heartwarming and immersive look at Tokyo life.

7.3. Srugim

Based on the lives of five single men and women in Jerusalem, “Srugim” explores controversial issues and cultural immersion.

• Focus: Israeli culture, relationships, and social issues.
• Why watch: It offers a deep and engaging look at life in Jerusalem.

7.4. Lost

“Lost” is about the survivors of a commercial jet airliner that crashed on a mysterious island in the South Pacific Ocean, offering a sense of adventure and mystery.

• Focus: Survival, mystery, and island setting.
• Why watch: It’s a thrilling and immersive adventure.

7.5. Outlander

With elements of romance, history, and science fiction, “Outlander” is filled with sweeping landscapes and historic castles, filmed mostly in the Scottish Highlands.

• Focus: Scottish Highlands, romance, and historical drama.
• Why watch: It offers a captivating blend of romance, history, and adventure.

7.6. Downton Abbey

Set in the fictional Yorkshire country estate of Downton Abbey, the series depicts the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants.

• Focus: British aristocracy, historical drama, and countryside setting.
• Why watch: It offers a fascinating look at British history and society.

7.7. 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.

• Focus: British countryside, detective drama, and historical setting.
• Why watch: It offers a charming and relaxing escape to rural England.

7.8. Trapped

“Trapped” captures the wild and remote feeling of Iceland in this crime drama taking place in an isolated Icelandic town.

• Focus: Icelandic setting, crime drama, and remote landscapes.
• Why watch: It offers a thrilling and atmospheric escape to Iceland.

7.9. The Kettering Incident

Based on the mysterious disappearance of two young girls, the dark and enchanting landscapes are a central part of the show, filmed in Tasmania.

• Focus: Australian setting, mystery, and enchanting landscapes.
• Why watch: It offers a captivating and atmospheric escape to Tasmania.

7.10. 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 a missing 12-year-old girl.

• Focus: New Zealand setting, crime drama, and remote landscapes.
• Why watch: It offers a thrilling and atmospheric escape to New Zealand.

7.11. 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.

• Focus: Global locations, science fiction, and interconnected stories.
• Why watch: It offers a thrilling and visually stunning adventure.

7.12. 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.

• Focus: Hawaiian setting, crime drama, and action.
• Why watch: It offers an exciting and scenic escape to Hawaii.

7.13. Marco Polo

Inspired by the creator’s own legendary trip through Central Asia, “Marco Polo” gives viewers an insight into the life of one of the world’s first explorers.

• Focus: Central Asian setting, historical drama, and adventure.
• Why watch: It offers a fascinating and adventurous look at history.

8. How SIXT.VN Can Help You Plan Your Vietnam Adventure

Inspired by these travel TV shows? SIXT.VN is your ultimate partner for planning a seamless and unforgettable trip to Vietnam. We offer a range of services tailored to meet the needs of every traveler, ensuring a hassle-free experience from arrival to departure.

8.1. Comprehensive Travel Consultation

SIXT.VN provides personalized travel consultation services to help you design the perfect itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, our experts will craft a customized plan that suits your needs.

• Personalized Itineraries: Tailored to your interests and time frame.
• Expert Advice: Recommendations on must-see attractions and hidden gems.
• Cultural Insights: Tips on local customs and etiquette.

8.2. Airport Transfer Services

Arrive in Vietnam with ease with SIXT.VN’s reliable and convenient airport transfer services. Our professional drivers will greet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel in comfort and style.

• Meet and Greet: Professional drivers to welcome you.
• Comfortable Vehicles: A range of options to suit your needs.
• Timely Service: Punctual and dependable transfers.

8.3. Hotel Booking Assistance

SIXT.VN offers a wide selection of hotels to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort or a cozy boutique hotel, we’ll help you find the perfect accommodation.

• Wide Selection: Hotels ranging from budget to luxury.
• Best Prices: Competitive rates and exclusive deals.
• Convenient Booking: Easy and secure online booking.

8.4. Tour and Ticket Booking

Explore Vietnam’s top attractions with SIXT.VN’s tour and ticket booking services. From historical sites to natural wonders, we’ll help you discover the best of Vietnam.

• Guided Tours: Expert guides to enhance your experience.
• Skip-the-Line Tickets: Save time and avoid crowds.
• Diverse Options: Tours for every interest, from culture to adventure.

8.5. Flight Booking Assistance

SIXT.VN can assist you in booking flights to and from Vietnam, ensuring a smooth and stress-free travel experience.

• Competitive Prices: Access to the best flight deals.
• Flexible Options: A range of flight times and airlines.
• Expert Support: Assistance with booking and modifications.

8.6. Hanoi City Tours

Discover the charm of Hanoi with SIXT.VN’s expertly crafted city tours. Explore historical landmarks, vibrant markets, and delicious street food with our knowledgeable guides.

• Historical Landmarks: Visit iconic sites like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter.
• Local Markets: Experience the bustling atmosphere of Hanoi’s markets.
• Street Food Adventures: Taste the best of Hanoi’s culinary scene.

9. Why Choose SIXT.VN for Your Vietnam Trip?

Choosing SIXT.VN for your Vietnam trip offers numerous advantages:

• Convenience: All-in-one travel services for a seamless experience.
• Reliability: Trusted and professional services.
• Expertise: Knowledgeable local experts to guide you.
• Customer Support: Dedicated support team to assist you every step of the way.

10. Practical Tips for Planning Your Vietnam Trip

To make your Vietnam trip even more enjoyable, here are some practical tips:

• Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements based on your nationality.
• Best Time to Visit: Consider the weather and tourist seasons.
• Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions.
• Currency: Understand the local currency (Vietnamese Dong) and exchange rates.
• Transportation: Plan your transportation within Vietnam.
• Health Precautions: Consult your doctor about necessary vaccinations and health precautions.

11. Vietnam Travel FAQs

11.1. What are the best places to visit in Vietnam?

Vietnam offers a diverse range of destinations. Some of the best places to visit include Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta.

11.2. What is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The best time to visit Vietnam depends on the region. Generally, the dry season (November to April) is ideal for visiting the north and south, while the central region is best visited between February and May.

11.3. Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?

Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. It’s best to check the latest visa regulations before planning your trip.

11.4. What is the local currency in Vietnam?

The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Credit cards are accepted in major cities and tourist areas, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash.

11.5. What are some essential Vietnamese dishes to try?

Some must-try Vietnamese dishes include Pho (noodle soup), Banh Mi (sandwich), Goi Cuon (fresh spring rolls), and Com Tam (broken rice).

11.6. Is it safe to travel in Vietnam?

Vietnam is generally a safe country for tourists. However, it’s always wise to take precautions against petty theft and scams, especially in crowded areas.

11.7. What are some cultural etiquette tips for visiting Vietnam?

Respect local customs by dressing modestly when visiting temples, removing your shoes when entering someone’s home, and avoiding public displays of affection.

11.8. How can I get around in Vietnam?

Popular modes of transportation include taxis, buses, trains, and domestic flights. Motorbike rentals are also common, but exercise caution and wear a helmet.

11.9. What should I pack for a trip to Vietnam?

Pack lightweight and breathable clothing, comfortable shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, and any necessary medications.

11.10. How can SIXT.VN help me plan my trip to Vietnam?

SIXT.VN offers comprehensive travel consultation, airport transfer services, hotel booking assistance, tour and ticket booking, and flight booking assistance to ensure a seamless and unforgettable trip to Vietnam.

12. Conclusion: Start Your Vietnam Adventure with SIXT.VN

Travel TV shows offer a fantastic source of inspiration for your next adventure, and SIXT.VN is here to help you turn those dreams into reality. With our comprehensive range of travel services and local expertise, we ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience in Vietnam. Contact us today to start planning your dream trip!

Ready to explore Vietnam? Visit SIXT.VN now for travel advice, reliable airport transfers, various hotel options, tour reservations, and booking support. Contact us via:

• Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358
• Website: SIXT.VN

Explore Vietnam’s best with SIXT.VN!