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There is something undeniably magical about a great travel movie. The kind that sweeps you away from your everyday life and drops you into sun drenched streets, windswept deserts, misty mountains and busty foreign cities, the top travel movies perfectly capture the thrill of exploration. These cinematic gems not only tell you some of the best stories, but ignite within you a sense of wanderlust, spark curiosity and sometimes even change the way you see the world. Whether it is a soul searching narrative about solitude or a story of a solo trek across a continent, the laughter of road trip mishaps with unlikely companions, or the bittersweet discoveries made thousands of miles away from home, the various travel movies celebrate the journey as much as the destination.
In a world where passports don't always come out of the drawer as often as we would like, travel movies offer a ticket to far off places, where no boarding is required. From some of the top classic tales of self discovery to modern day adventures that redefine what it means to explore, the best journey movies allow you to live vicariously through characters who dare to wander. They inspire, educate and above all, remind us that the road ahead has a number of twists and turns, and that is exactly where the real story lies. So, prepare yourself for a cinematic adventure with some of the best travel movies to add to your watchlist.
Explore the profound impact of stepping outside your comfort zone and into a world of adventure and thrill with these top journey films
1. Into the Wild (2007)
Based on a true story, this Sean Penn directed drama follows Christopher McCandless, who gives up on all his material life to travel across America and live off the grid in Alaska. What begins as an act of rebellion soon turns into a profound exploration of solitude, nature, and spiritual awakening. Among the top travel movies that is also highly critically acclaimed, along with Eddie Vedder’s haunting soundtrack and panoramic visuals, this film is a love letter to the untamed wilderness and human spirit.
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
2. Eat, Pray, Love (2010)
Starring the ever beautiful Julia Roberts, Eat, Pray, Love is an adaptation of Elizabeth Gilbert’s memoir. Among the best travel movies, the film is a lush cinematic journey through Italy, India and Bali. As the protagonist seeks pleasure, spiritual solace and balance, the audiences are treated to rich cultural tapestries, mouthwatering cuisines and transformative encounters. A travelogue of emotions, wrapped in the most vibrant destinations, this travel movie symbolises a search for oneself around the world.
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV
3. Highway (2014)
A gritty and unconventional story directed by none other than the iconic Imtiaz Ali, Highway is among the most visceral and best travel movies in India. Following the abduction of a young woman who unexpectedly finds freedom in captivity, the travels portrayed in the film touches across the raw, untouched terrains of northern India. From snow dusted mountains to sun baked deserts, the visuals portrayed in the film symbolises the emotional state of the protagonist as her inner shackles begin to break. The breathtaking landscapes portrayed in the film mirrors her internal journey, making this one of the best journey movies which is poetic and an ode to personal liberation.
Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video, Youtube
4. Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (2011)
A true Bollywood travel gem, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara is iconic and among the best travel movies in India. A modern classic directed by Zoya Akhtar, this travel movie is a vibrant and soul searching journey through the heart of Spain. When three childhood friends reunite for a bachelor trip, their carefully planned adventure quickly becomes a deeper exploration of fears, forgiveness and freedom. From skydiving in Seville to flamenco dancing in Andalusia, every frame portrayed in the film is an invitation for the viewers, urging them to live freely. With rich cinematography and a soundtrack that tugs at your wanderlust, this film does not just take you on a trip, but makes you want to pack your bags.
Streaming on: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
5. Dil Chahta Hai (2001)
Farhan Akhtar’s directorial debut, Dil Chahta Hai is a cultural debut that redefined travel in Indian cinema. Revolving around the story of three friends who embark on a road trip to Goa, this movie explores the turning tides of youth, love and friendships. Among the best journey movies that seamlessly blends in urban chic and coastal charm, paired with a timeless soundtrack, Dil Chahta Hai is an anthem for millennial wanderers. More than just a destination, this travel movie celebrates the emotional landscapes we travel through in our twenties.
Streaming on: Netflix, Apple TV