You might be stuck on your couch right now, but that does not mean your wanderlust has to hibernate. Sometimes the best way to explore the world is with a remote in one hand and a snack in the other. Netflix has become a massive library for travel content, but finding the hidden gems among thousands of titles can be exhausting.
I have curated this list to save you time and get you straight to the good stuff. Whether you are craving street food in Asia or want to explore the darker side of history, these shows will transport you there instantly.
For the Foodies: Culinary Adventures
If you believe the best way to understand a culture is through its stomach, start here. These shows are not just about cooking; they are about the human connection we build over a hot meal.
Somebody Feed Phil
This is arguably the most heartwarming travel show on the platform. Phil Rosenthal, the creator of Everybody Loves Raymond, travels the globe with a childlike wonder that is infectious. He is not a chef and he is not a critic. He is just a guy who loves to eat. What makes this show special is Phil's genuine kindness. He connects with locals in a way that makes you feel like you are right there at the table. If you are planning a trip to Europe or Asia, his episodes are packed with real restaurant recommendations you can actually visit.
Street Food: Asia & Latin America
Forget white tablecloths and Michelin stars for a moment. This series dives into the chaos and beauty of street stalls. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the steam rising from a wok in Bangkok or the sizzle of a tortilla in Oaxaca. It focuses heavily on the stories of the cooks, often highlighting their struggles and triumphs. It is emotional, raw and incredibly appetizing. Warning: Do not watch this on an empty stomach.
Chef's Table
This is the gold standard of food documentaries. While it focuses on high-end dining, the travel aspect is undeniable. Each episode takes you to a different corner of the world, from the jungles of Peru to the snowy landscapes of Sweden. It treats food as high art. Even if you never plan to spend $500 on a dinner, seeing the local ingredients and landscapes that inspire these chefs is a journey in itself.
For the Adrenaline Junkies: Nature & Adventure
Sometimes you want to leave the cities behind and see the planet in its purest form. These documentaries are visual masterpieces that look incredible on a big screen.
Our Planet
Narrated by the legendary David Attenborough, this series is a breathtaking tour of Earth's remaining wilderness. It is not just eye candy; it carries a strong message about conservation. From the frozen poles to the deep jungles, the footage is high-definition therapy for the soul. It reminds us why we travel in the first place, to witness the beauty of our home before it changes forever.
The World's Most Amazing Vacation Rentals
If you are the type who plans trips around unique accommodation, this show is for you. Three hosts with different budgets (budget, unique, luxury) travel together to test out insane rentals. You will see treehouses in Bali, private islands in the Bahamas and snake-shaped apartments in Mexico. It is practical too because you can actually book most of these places on Airbnb or similar platforms.
For the Curious Traveler: Niche & Unique
This is where things get interesting. Travel is not always about sunsets and cocktails. Sometimes it is about the weird, the dangerous and the macabre.
Dark Tourist
This is my personal favorite for when you want something totally different. Journalist David Farrier visits places that are usually associated with death and tragedy. He swims in a nuclear lake in Kazakhstan, visits a death cult in Mexico and tours Escobar's legacy in Colombia. It explores the phenomenon of Dark Tourism, where travelers are drawn to grim locations rather than happy ones. If this concept fascinates you, we have a deep dive on this topic. You should check our guide on Dark Tourism to understand why we are so attracted to these spooky destinations.
Tales by Light
This one is for the photographers. It follows professional photographers as they chase the perfect shot in extreme conditions. It offers a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into capturing those iconic National Geographic style images. It is less about the destination and more about the art of observation.
Travel Movies & Series Based on Real Locations
Sometimes a fictional story inspires a trip more than a documentary ever could.
Emily in Paris
Yes, it is full of clichés. No, real Parisians do not act like that. But you cannot deny that the show makes Paris look absolutely magical. Every shot is a postcard. It takes you through the most scenic spots of the city, from the Jardin du Palais Royal to the hip cafes of Montmartre. If you are dreaming of a European summer, this is your guilty pleasure fix.
Down to Earth with Zac Efron
Zac Efron travels the world with wellness expert Darin Olien to find healthy, sustainable ways to live. It sounds a bit preachy, but it is actually quite grounded. They visit Iceland for renewable energy, Sardinia for longevity secrets and Peru for superfoods. It is a travel show that makes you think about your own impact on the planet while showing you gorgeous locations.
Each of these shows offers a different flavor of travel. Whether you need a laugh with Phil or a scare with David Farrier, there is something here to fill the gap until your next flight. Grab your remote and start exploring.
