Travel movies have the unique ability to transport us from bustling metropolises to the untouched wilderness. These films capture the essence of exploration, whether it’s the vibrant chaos of urban life or the serene isolation of nature. Some stories immerse us in the pulse of cities teeming with culture, while others beckon us to vast open landscapes where solitude reigns. This duality—city and wilderness travel movies—showcases the beauty and complexity of the world, as well as the diversity of human experience across these contrasting environments. Here’s a look at some of the best urban and nature travel films, ranked for their stunning visuals, compelling narratives, and transformative journeys.
1. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty (2013)
Topping the list is The Secret Life of Walter Mitty, an extraordinary film that seamlessly transitions between the chaotic vibrancy of New York City and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Greenland, Iceland, and the Himalayas. This movie embodies the spirit of travel movies from city to wild, as Walter Mitty, played by Ben Stiller, moves from his mundane office life into an epic global adventure. The film is visually breathtaking, with striking contrasts between the steel and glass of urban life and the raw, natural beauty of remote terrains. It’s a story of breaking free from the confines of everyday life and embracing the unknown—a journey that starts in the heart of a city but leads to the untamed wilderness.
2. Lost in Translation (2003)
For those who prefer travel stories rooted in the pulse of city life, Lost in Translation is a standout. Set in the neon-lit metropolis of Tokyo, this film is a masterclass in capturing the disorienting beauty of urban exploration. Through the eyes of two strangers, played by Bill Murray and Scarlett Johansson, viewers experience the city’s dizzying energy, from crowded streets to tranquil temples. The film paints Tokyo as both overwhelming and intimate, offering a unique portrait of the metropolis. It’s one of the ranked top travel films for its ability to convey the feeling of being simultaneously lost and found in a foreign city.
3. Into the Wild (2007)
Few films evoke the allure of the wilderness as powerfully as Into the Wild. Based on the true story of Christopher McCandless, this film is the epitome of wilderness travel movies. McCandless abandons his life in the city to venture deep into the Alaskan wilderness, seeking freedom and solitude. The film is both beautiful and haunting, with stunning cinematography that captures the vastness and isolation of nature. It’s a poignant reminder of the stark contrast between the complexities of urban living and the simplicity of life in the wild. Into the Wild is a meditative exploration of human longing for escape, making it one of the best urban and nature travel films on this list.
4. The Darjeeling Limited (2007)
Wes Anderson’s The Darjeeling Limited offers a perfect blend of city exploration and spiritual retreat. This film follows three brothers on a train journey through India, traveling from the chaotic energy of Indian cities to the peaceful isolation of the countryside. The journey itself is an emotional one, as the brothers attempt to reconnect after their father’s death. The colorful, bustling streets of India juxtaposed with the serene rural landscapes highlight the contrasts that often define travel experiences. It’s a film that beautifully captures both urban vibrancy and natural tranquility, placing it among the city and wilderness travel movies that truly shine.
5. Wild (2014)
Based on Cheryl Strayed’s memoir, Wild is a story of personal transformation set against the backdrop of the American wilderness. Strayed, played by Reese Witherspoon, embarks on a solo hike along the Pacific Crest Trail in an attempt to heal from personal loss. The film’s depiction of nature is both brutal and beautiful, with wide, sweeping shots of the vast wilderness Strayed traverses. It is a cinematic reminder of how nature can both challenge and heal us. While the film primarily focuses on the wilderness, its portrayal of how city life and personal tragedy can drive someone into the wild makes it a must-watch among ranked top travel films.
6. Before Sunrise (1995)
For those who love the magic of city exploration, Before Sunrise is a quintessential travel film. Set in the romantic streets of Vienna, this movie follows two strangers, played by Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy, as they wander the city together, forming a deep connection over the course of one night. The city of Vienna becomes a character in its own right, with its historic architecture, cozy cafes, and winding streets providing the perfect backdrop for this intimate, dialogue-driven story. The film is a love letter to urban travel, where every corner of a city holds the promise of discovery. It’s one of the most beautifully crafted travel movies from city to wild, even though it remains firmly rooted in the urban landscape.
7. Tracks (2013)
For a deeper immersion into wilderness travel, Tracks offers a stunning portrayal of one woman’s journey across the Australian desert. Based on the true story of Robyn Davidson, who walked 1,700 miles through remote landscapes with her dog and a few camels, the film is a testament to the human spirit’s ability to endure and thrive in solitude. The vast, unforgiving desert serves as both a physical and metaphorical journey of self-discovery, making this one of the best urban and nature travel films for those who seek stories of survival and personal growth in the wild.
Conclusion
From the bustling streets of global metropolises to the serene, untouched expanses of wilderness, the best urban and nature travel films offer a diverse array of experiences that capture the essence of exploration. Whether it’s the thrill of getting lost in a city or the solitude of the wild, these movies take viewers on transformative journeys that highlight the beauty and complexity of the world around us. Through contrasting environments and narratives, these films remind us that adventure awaits, whether we find it in the heart of a city or the depths of the wilderness.