The top 10 celebrity-hosted travel shows
The late Anthony Bourdain is still popular on travel TV. He explores culinary traditions worldwide with wit, grit, and unfiltered curiosity. Whether sampling street food in Thailand or dining with locals in Peru, Bourdain's candid storytelling and adventurous spirit make this a travel show like no other. His legacy includes other greats with different networks like 'Parts Unknown' and 'The Layover.'
The closed-minded Karl Pilkington (shown), pushed by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant (the duo behind the original Office), reluctantly visits the world's wonders. His unfiltered reactions to foreign cultures and landmarks are hilariously candid, making this show a refreshing take on travel.
Stanley Tucci charms his way through Italy, savoring regional delicacies and uncovering the stories behind iconic dishes. From Rome's pasta alle carbonara to Milan's risotto, Tucci's passion for Italian cuisine and culture is infectious, making viewers crave both the food and the journey. Try to finish it without wanting to plan a trip...
William Shatner, Henry Winkler, Terry Bradshaw, and George Foreman embark on humorous and heartwarming adventures across Asia and Europe. Their playful camaraderie and touching encounters with locals make for an entertaining and memorable travel series that can sometimes feel more like a sitcom than a documentary.
Joanna Lumley’s exploration of Japan is filled with elegance and curiosity. From ancient temples to futuristic cities, Lumley’s engaging storytelling and genuine fascination provide a beautifully nuanced view of Japanese culture. She also has lots of other great series like 'Great Cities of the World,' 'Home Sweet Home' (about the UK), and 'Hidden Caribbean.'
New Zealander David Farrier ventures into the world’s most bizarre and eerie destinations. Whether exploring haunted forests or radioactive sites, Farrier’s unique take on dark tourism is both intriguing and slightly chilling, perfect for those who crave the unusual.
Eva Longoria dives deep into Mexico’s vibrant food scene, uncovering the history, culture, and people behind its famous dishes that merge ancient and modern cuisine. Her passion and personal connection to the country make this culinary journey both heartwarming and mouthwatering.
No American travel guru knows Europe like Rick Steves. In his classic show, he guides viewers through Europe’s rich history, art, and local customs with warmth and expertise. His insightful tips and genuine passion for travel make this series an essential guide for anyone looking to explore Europe authentically and affordably. Starting in the year 2000, it tends to run every second year.
British comedian Richard Ayoade’s award-winning and quirky travel show is a whirlwind of fun, packing a city’s best attractions into just 48 hours. With celebrity guests in tow, Ayoade’s dry humor and sharp observations turn every trip into a hilarious, must-watch adventure.
Gordon Ramsay trades his chef whites for rugged gear as he travels to remote locations, embracing local culinary challenges. From hunting tarantulas in Cambodia to fishing in Alaska, Ramsay’s competitive nature and culinary skills highlight the raw beauty and flavors of these extraordinary places. He's also generally nicer than on his other shows.