10 Travel Flicks Bound to Whisk You Away

Because sometimes the best escape doesn't require a passport.

Apr 11, 2025

It’s Friday and you might be looking for a flick to help you unwind after a crazy week - personally, professionally, politically…

And sometimes you just need a little escape. Enter: travel movies.

You know the types — the ones that spotlight a city or country almost like another character in the movie. The kind full of visual delights that leave you yearning for more – to see and experience that particular part of the world firsthand.

That’s how these movies make me feel every time I watch them. And I say, “every time” because I’ve seen each one dozens of times, if not more. Maybe you have too!

I just revel in watching a film I’ve seen before, comforted by the nostalgia of characters I adore and, of course, lines I love:

Unthinkably good things can happen even late in the game.
~ Frances in “Under the Tuscan Sun”

Here are 10 travel-related films (each of which fall in the romantic comedy category and listed in no particular order) that give allllllll the feels.

And if you watch any, make sure your viewing party includes plenty of 🍷 and 🍿.

1. “Roman Holiday”

Jump on Audrey Hepburn's Vespa for a Roman Holiday | Travel Insider — Courtesy of Quantas

Adventure, mischief, and romance in Rome… with Audrey Hepburn? This is the movie that made me fall in love with her and the Italian city. It’s a classic for a reason.

2. “Crazy Rich Asians”

Crazy Rich Asians argue about satay — Courtesy of Bon Appetit

This movie was a love letter to Singapore and its native cuisine. The cast is outrageously beautiful, matched only by the stunning urban scenery.

3. “Under the Tuscan Sun”

The Magic of Italy! Under the Tuscan Sun… | Raving review — Courtesy of The Guardian

I love this sweet movie about living outside our comfort zones and taking risks – it’s a beautiful reminder that each time we do, the pay off can be unexpectedly delightful (especially when it involves moving to Italy!).

4. “Eat Pray Love”

Robert Richardson ASC / Eat Pray Love - British Cinematographer — Courtesy of British Cinematographer

I appreciate how this film showed the importance of opening ourselves up to life vs. always trying to control it. But above all, it highlighted the importance of seeing travel as a chance to learn not only about other cultures but about ourselves too. It’s resonated with me especially during this particular season of my life.

5. “Up in the Air”

George Clooney's 'Up in the Air' Bought by Revolution — Courtesy of Variety

This bittersweet romance displayed the sometimes neurotic gamification of travel (e.g., the cult of rewards cards, insider POVs, etc.) but what it did more than anything was remind me that while being a nomad can be adventurous, it’s also important to cultivate a sense of home, wherever I may be.

6. “Vicky Cristina Barcelona”

Vicky Cristina Barcelona Film Locations in Spain: FULL List + Map! — Courtesy of Offscreen Tourist

Barcelona! Gaudí! La Marsella! Beautiful places and beautiful people abound in this homage to Barcelona. It helped me see the beauty in saying “yes” to life (but never at the expense of my peace).

7. “Paris Can Wait”

Paris Can Wait | Rotten Tomatoes — Courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes

There’s something about this movie that reminded me of films of a bygone era – swept away by the visual romance unfolding on screen (specifically of the French countryside). The simple pleasures of an impromptu roadside picnic and meandering detours give this movie an abundance of charm.

8. “The Devil Wears Prada”

Devil Wears Prada: Anne Hathaway Outfits — Courtesy of The Hollywood Reporter

Fine, maybe not technically a travel movie but I am still counting it as one 🤷🏽‍♀️. I’ve easily watched it approximately 7,982 times. The sights and sounds of Paris simply never get old. And can we talk about the fashion!? The montage of Andie Sach’s glow up is *chef’s kiss*. “That’s all.” 🤭

9. “To Catch a Thief”

To Catch a Thief review: Hitchcock at his breeziest – The Irish Times — Courtesy of IMDB

I adore the cat-and-mouse plot of this movie staring Cary Grant and Grace Kelly. The picturesque French Riviera and countryside always leave me drooling plus I just love movies from yesteryear - namely the slower and more savory pace (plus the leading lady’s wardrobe is nothing short of complete and absolute perfection). This is definitely one to double feature, ideally, on the same night as “Roman Holiday.”

10. “French Kiss”

French Kiss: The Unexpected Is Meant to Be | Film Obsessive — Courtesy of Film Obsessive

Oh, look at that. Another movie on this list that takes place in France… So I adore everything about this beautiful country; who doesn’t? Well, the movie, “French Kiss,” is no exception. I appreciate how it reminds us of the importance of pushing past our fears and letting go of people and things that simply no longer serve us. When we let go of what we think we want, the Universe often surprises – and delights – us with something far better. Between the iconic Parisian highlights and Kevin Kline playing a Frenchman, I just can’t get enough of this flick.

You can rent or buy almost every movie on this list from Apple TV, Prime, or HBO Max.

Here are some others on my radar that I’ve yet to watch:

“The Secret Life of Walter Mitty”
“In Bruges”
“The Beach”
“To Rome With Love”
“Y Tu Mamá También”

What am I missing that YOU love? Share below! I’m always looking for a good one to add to my list.

Whatever you end up watching this weekend, happy viewing!