Our Top 15 Favorite Travel Movies
The state of the world right now means that planes are grounded and most people are stuck inside their homes. Flattening the curve is definitely important at the moment, but it’s especially difficult for anyone who is used to taking off to a foreign country on a moment’s notice.
If you’re searching for a break from watching the news, scrolling Instagram, or planning your next dream getaway using your Newverest map — you’re in luck! There are plenty of movies that are guaranteed to satisfy your wanderlust even when you’re unceremoniously stuck inside.
Want to make your quarantine a little more exciting? We’ve compiled our favorite escapist flicks. Each one will instantly make it feel like you’re miles away from home…even if you haven’t left your couch in days.
Check out our Top 15 Favorite Travel Movies:
Lost in Translation
Rated 7.7/10 on IMDB
Part comedy and part love story, “Lost In Translation" follows the unlikely friendship that occurs when aging actor Bob Harris and a newlywed named Charlotte cross paths under Tokyo’s glittering electric lights. This atmospheric film perfectly captures the excitement, confusion, and loneliness that inevitably occurs when visiting foreign places. Fair warning: it will definitely make you want to go for a swim in the pool at the Park Hyatt Tokyo.
Into the Wild
Rated 8.1/10 on IMDB
Based upon a biography written by Jon Krakauer, “Into The Wild” tells the true story of Christopher McCandless — a stereotypical rich kid who gave up a life of privilege to go completely off the grid. His soul-searching voyage into the Alaskan wilderness is filled with colorful characters and misadventures. If you’ve ever considered leaving it all behind, this movie is the perfect escape.
In Bruges
Rated 7.9/10 on IMDB
This movie follows a pair of hitmen — Ray and Ken — who find themselves taking a few weeks off in the beautiful city of Bruges. The longer that they traverse the medieval city’s canals and cobbled streets, however, the more surreal their entire experience becomes. A dark comedy that is perfect for anyone who appreciates a good crime movie, this one is full of surprises.
Under the Tuscan Sun
Rated 6.7/10 on IMDB
When a housewife named Frances discovers her husband is having an affair, she uproots her life and purchases a beautiful villa located in rural Tuscany. Surrounded by colorful locals (and a handsome new Italian love interest), it perfectly showcases the beauty of Italy all while supporting the theory that starting over can be as easy as buying a plane ticket.
Crocodile Dundee
Rated 6.6/10 on IMDB
While not exactly a typical travel movie, “Crocodile Dundee” is a comedy classic in every sense of the word. This fish-out-of-water story is about a legendary crocodile hunter named Mike Dundee, who leaves the rugged Australian outback and explores bustling New York City. This movie will infuse your quarantine with a little bit of comedy relief…and will encourage you to try out your own over-the-top Australian accent.
Up in the Air
Rated 7.4/10 on IMDB
Any hardcore traveler who finds themselves feeling a little too at home in airports will appreciate the sentiment behind “Up In The Air.” Although it follows the life of businessman and frequent flyer Ryan, it’s hard not to find a piece of yourself in his always-on-the-go lifestyle.
Amelie
Rated 8.3/10 on IMDB
Amelie is an escape from reality in the best way possible. Undeniably charming, this unconventional romantic comedy is about a beautiful Parisienne named Amelie who subtly transforms the lives of those around her. This film — not unlike Paris itself — is part magic, part fairy tale, and part love story.
Vicky Cristina Barcelona
Rated 7.1/10 on IMDB
“Vicky Christina Barcelona” has a charm that is all it’s own. Along with sweeping scenery, Spanish guitar music, and Catalan architecture, it tells the tale of two friends (Vicky and Christina) and their summer overseas in Barcelona. The best part of this movie, however, is the way that Penélope Cruz’s character effortlessly steals every scene she’s in.
The Beach
Rated 6.7/10 on IMDB
If overseas adventure is what you’re after, “The Beach” is a perfect pick for movie night. It centers around a backpacker named Richard who travels to Thailand. What he finds is initially a mystical paradise…until it all turns into something a little more sinister. The only thing more beautiful than this movie’s breathtaking Thai beaches is ‘90s Leonardo DiCaprio.
Eat, Pray, Love
Rated 5.8/10 on IMDB
Based on an autobiography of the same name, “Eat, Pray, Love” is about a woman who decides to travel the world. It showcases the beauty of far-off places like Bali, India, and Italy while the main character Liz learns to love herself again. Although this movie has become a bit of a cliché, it’s a great pick for anyone who dreams of ditching their old life for a whirlwind foreign adventure. Plus, it will make you crave authentic Italian pizza.
The Motorcycle Diaries
Rated 7.8/10 on IMDB
A movie based upon the life of Marxist guerrilla leader Che Guevara, this movie is about two friends who explore South America from the back of their motorcycles. From the rainforests of Brazil to the most impoverished parts of Peru, anyone who appreciates the beauty of the open road will find this story inspiring — even if you don’t necessarily agree with the political undertones.
A Good Year
Rated 7.0/10 on IMDB
When a London banker inherits a vineyard in Provence, he embarks on a life-changing adventure that involves the beautiful French countryside and an even more beautiful French woman. For this one, we recommend pouring yourself a glass of wine before you sit back, relax, and enjoy.
Seven Years in Tibet
Rated 7.1/10 on IMDB
Set in Tibet during World War II, this movie follows the story of an Austrian mountaineer and his quest to scale a Himalayan peak. A Chinese invasion looms while he strikes up a friendship with the Dalai Lama. Made in 1997 and starring Brad Pitt, this is a fascinating movie — especially if you missed it the first time around.
Midnight in Paris
Rated 7.7/10 on IMDB
Every traveler, history buff, literature lover, or 1920s enthusiast will find themselves instantly in love with this Woody Allen movie. When a writer named Gil is on vacation in Paris, he gets magically transported back in time to experience the sparkling city during the height of the Roaring Twenties. Filled with fun cameos and incredible acting, this beautiful movie will satisfy your time travel itch too.
Before Sunrise
Rated 8.1/10 on IMDB
Anyone who has fallen in love with a stranger in a foreign country — or at least dreamed about one day doing so — will appreciate the beauty of “Before Sunrise.” It’s about the burgeoning romance that occurs between Jesse, an American traveler, and Celine, who is studying in Paris. As they roam the streets of Vienna, you’ll be captivated by the elegant city and the charming yet improbable love story.
Hopefully, these beautiful movies will help you plan your next big adventure…because we know that once airports are fully operational again, we’ll all be ready to hit the road. Using these fantastic films as inspiration, consult your Newverest map and figure out exactly where you’ll be traveling to next.
