travel the world with music

The Ultimate Travel Playlist: 100 Best Travel Songs (with Lyrics and Videos)

Katie Hammel

July 18, 2023

10 min read

Music has the power to transport us, change our moods, and conjure memories. And, for many travelers, music is closely linked to travel. It can helps us understand the people and culture of a place, break down language barriers, and sear certain moments into our memories forever.

With help from members of our Travel Community and Going staff, we've created the ultimate travel playlist of 100 travel songs. Some reference specific places, others showcase the musical talent of a specific country, and others simply celebrate the joy of exploration.

Here, in no particular order, are 100 of our favorite travel songs.

56 songs that reference specific places in the title or lyrics

Sure, some of these songs, such Paris by the Chainsmokers or Toto’s Africa , actually have little to do with the specific place; it’s just used as the title or the setting for the story. But others not only reference a country or city, they also evoke a specific sense of that particular place or tell a story about that destination.

For example, in Marrakech Express , Crosby, Stills & Nash recount scenes from a train ride Nash actually took in 1966. In London Calling , the Clash sing about the social issues facing London in the late 70s. In Walking in Memphis , Marc Cohn croons about his experience wandering the city. And Simon & Garfunkel's America was inspired by a road trip that Paul Simon took with his girlfriend.

Here are some of our favorite songs that mention a specific city or country, and a snippet of the lyrics.

Listen when:  you're on a $388 flight to Vienna, or a $671 flight to Johannesburg, or a $353 flight to Paris, or...

1. Kathmandu – Bob Seger

I think I'm going to Katmandu

‍ That's really, really where I'm going to

If I ever get out of here

That's what I'm gonna do

I know my plane is due

The one that's going to Katmandu

Up to the mountain's where I'm going to

K-k-k-k-k-k Kathmandu ‍

2. One Night in Bangkok – Murray Head

One night in Bangkok and the world's your oyster

The bars are temples but the pearls ain't free

You'll find a god in every golden cloister

A little flesh, a little history

I can feel an angel sliding up to me

3. I've Been Everywhere – Johnny Cash

I've been everywhere, man

Crossed the deserts bare, man

I've breathed the mountain air, man

Travel, I've had my share, man

I've been everywhere

I've been to

4. Africa – Toto

The wild dogs cry out in the night

As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company

I know that I must do what's right

As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti

I seek to cure what's deep inside, frightened of this thing that I've become

It's gonna take a lot to drag me away from you

There's nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do

I bless the rains down in Africa

Gonna take some time to do the things we never have

Bonus: Check out the 2018 cover by Weezer and this awesome 2016 video from Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard.

5. Marrakech Express – Crosby, Stills & Nash

Take the train from Casablanca going south

Blowing smoke rings from the corners of my my, my, my, my mouth

Colored cottons hang in air

Charming cobras in the square

Striped jellabas we can wear at home

Don't you know we're riding on the Marrakesh Express

6. Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) – Shakira

Today's your day

You paved the way

If you get down get up oh oh

When you get down get up eh eh

Tsamina mina zangalewa

This time for Africa

7. San Francisco – Scott McKenzie

If you're going to San Francisco

Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair

You're gonna meet some gentle people there

8. London Calling – The Clash

The ice age is coming, the sun is zooming in

Engines stop running, the wheat is growin' thin

A nuclear era, but I have no fear

'Cause London is drowning, and I, I live by the river

9. Galway Girl – Ed Sheeran

You know, she played the fiddle in an Irish band

But she fell in love with an Englishman

Kissed her on the neck and then I took her by the hand

Said, "Baby, I just wanna dance"

With my pretty little Galway girl

You're my pretty little Galway girl

10. Istanbul (Not Constantinople) – They Might Be Giants

Every gal in Constantinople

Lives in Istanbul, not Constantinople

So if you've a date in Constantinople

She'll be waiting in Istanbul

Even old New York was once New Amsterdam

Why they changed it I can't say

People just liked it better that way

11. Ramblin’ Man – the Allman Brothers Band

I'm on my way to New Orleans this mornin'

I'm leavin' out of Nashville, Tennessee

They're always having a good time down on the bayou

Lord, them Delta women think the world of me

Lord, I was born a ramblin' man

Tryin' to make a livin' and doin' the best I can

And when it's time for leavin'

I hope you'll understand

That I was born a ramblin' man

12. Aux Champs-Élysées – Joe Dassin

Aux Champs-Elysées, aux Champs-Elysées

Au soleil, sous la pluie, à midi ou à minuit

Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Elysées

In English:

Champs-Elysees, Champs-Elysees In the sun, in the rain, at noon or midnight There is everything you want on the Champs-Elysées

13. Lovers in Japan – Coldplay

Tonight, maybe we're gonna run

Dreamin' of the Osaka sun

Ohh, ohh, ohhh

Dreamin' of when the morning comes

14. Barcelona – George Ezra

Every time you have to go

Shut my eyes and you know

I’ll be lying right by your side

In Barcelona

15. April in Paris – Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong

I never knew the charm of spring

I never met it face to face

I never knew my heart could sing

I never missed a warm embrace

Till April in Paris, chestnuts in blossom

Holiday tables under the trees

April in Paris, this is a feeling

16. Blue Hawaii – Elvis Presley

Come with me

While the moon is on the sea

The night is young

And so are we, so are we

Dreams come true

In blue Hawaii

17. Back in the U.S.S.R. – The Beatles

Well the Ukraine girls really knock me out

They leave the West behind

And Moscow girls make me sing and shout

That Georgia's always on my mind

Aw come on!

Yeah I'm back in the U.S.S.R.

You don't know how lucky you are boys

Back in the U.S.S.R.

18. Rio – Netsky featuring Macklemore

It’s the “Rio” remix, you should see us

Swimming in the ocean like the pool is hella heated

Expedited Visa and I’m posted with my feet up

Parasailing over beaches, got my girl from Ipanema

19. Barcelona – Ed Sheeran

And you and I we're flying on an airplane tonight

We're going somewhere where the sun is shining bright

Just close your eyes

And let's pretend we're dancing in the street

20. Havana – Camila Cabello

Havana, ooh na-na

Half of my heart is in Havana, ooh na-na

He took me back to East Atlanta, na-na-na, ah

Oh, but my heart is in Havana ‍

21. In America – Neil Diamond

Everywhere around the world

They're coming to America

Every time that flag's unfurled

Got a dream to take them there

Got a dream they've come to share

22. Tennessee – Arrested Development

They tell me my ears are so young

Go back, from whence you came

My family tree, my family name

For some strange reason it had to be

He guided me to Tennessee

Take me to another place, take me to another land

Make me forget all that hurts me, let me understand your plan

23. Paris – The Chainsmokers

We were staying in Paris

To get away from your parents

You look so proud

Standing there with a frown and a cigarette

Posting pictures of yourself on the internet

24. Graceland – Paul Simon

The Mississippi Delta was shining

Like a National guitar

I am following the river

Down the highway

Through the cradle of the civil war

I'm going to Graceland

25. Carolina in My Mind – James Taylor

In my mind I'm gone to Carolina

Can't you see the sunshine?

Can't you just feel the moonshine?

And, ain't it just like a friend of mine

To hit me from behind?

Yes, I'm gone to Carolina in my mind

26. New York State of Mind – Billy Joel

Some folks like to get away

Take a holiday from the neighborhood

Hop a flight to Miami Beach or to Hollywood

But I'm takin' a Greyhound on the Hudson River line

I'm in a New York state of mind

27. Walking in Memphis – Marc Cohn

Saw the ghost of Elvis

On Union Avenue

Followed him up to the gates of Graceland

Then I watched him walk right through

Now security they did not see him

They just hovered 'round his tomb

But there's a pretty little thing

Waiting for the King

Down in the Jungle Room

When I was walking in Memphis

I was walking with my feet ten feet off of Beale

Walking in Memphis

But do I really feel the way I feel?

28. America – Simon & Garfunkel

Cathy, I said as we boarded a Greyhound in Pittsburgh

Michigan seems like a dream to me now

It took me four days to hitchhike from Saginaw

I've gone to look for America

29. Mexico – James Taylor

Way down here you need a reason to move

Feel a fool running your stateside games

Lose your load, leave your mind behind Baby Jane

It sounds so simple I just got to go

The sun's so hot I forgot to go home

Guess I'll have to go now

30. California – Phantom Planet

Hustlers grab your guns

Your shadow weighs a ton

Driving down the 101

California here we come

Right back where we started from

California, here we come.

31. Chicago – Sufjan Stevens

I fell in love again

All things go, all things go

Drove to Chicago

All things know, all things know

32. Kokomo – The Beach Boys

Off the Florida Keys, there's a place called Kokomo

That's where you want to go to get away from it all

Bodies in the sand, tropical drink melting in your hand

We'll be falling in love to the rhythm of a steel drum band

Down in Kokomo

Aruba, Jamaica, oh I want to take you to

Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama

Key Largo, Montego, baby why don't we go

down to Kokomo, we'll get there fast and then we'll take it slow

That's where we want to go, way down in Kokomo

33. Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd

Sweet home Alabama

Where the skies are so blue

Lord, I'm coming home to you

34. Vertigo – FM Belfast

We are going far away

Don't you look down

You are high above ground

We are driving with our friends

We are driving to a faraway place

35. California Love – Tupac and Dr. Dre

Say what you say, but give me that bomb beat from Dre

Let me serenade the streets of L.A

From Oakland to Sacktown

The Bay Area and back down

Cali is where they put they mack down give me love!

California, knows how to party

In the city of L.A.

In the city of good ol' Watts

In the city, the city of Compton

We keep it rocking

36. Malibu – Miley Cyrus

But here I am

Next to you

The sky is so blue

37. Midnight Train to Georgia – Gladys Knight and the Pips

He's leaving

On that midnight train to Georgia

And he's goin' back

To a simpler place and time

And I’ll be with him

I'd rather live in his world

Than live without him in mine

38. California Dreaming – The Mamas and the Papas

All the leaves are brown

And the sky is grey

I've been for a walk

On a winter's day

I'd be safe and warm

If I was in L.A.

California dreamin'

On such a winter's day

39. New York Groove – Ace Frehley

Many years since I was here

On the street I was passin' my time away

To the left and to the right,

Buildings towering to the sky

It's outta sight in the dead of night

Here I am, and in this city, with a fistful of dollars

And baby, you'd better believe

I'm back, back in the New York groove

40. Miami – Will Smith

Party in the city where the heat is on

All night, on the beach till the break of dawn

Welcome to Miami

Bienvenidos a Miami

Bouncin' in the club where the heat is on

I'm goin’ to Miami

41. Vienna – Ultravox

The music is weaving

Haunting notes, pizzicato strings

The rhythm is calling

Alone in the night as the daylight brings

A cool empty silence

The warmth of your hand and a cold grey sky

It fades to the distance

The image has gone only you and I

It means nothing to me

This means nothing to me

42. Viva Las Vegas – Elvis Presley

Bright light city gonna set my soul

Gonna set my soul on fire

Got a whole lot of money that's ready to burn

So get those stakes up higher

There's a thousand pretty women waitin' out there

And they're all livin' devil may care

And I'm just the devil with love to spare

Viva Las Vegas, viva Las Vegas

43. Rocky Road to Dublin – The Irish Descendants

Well in Dublin next arrived, I thought it'd be a pity

To be so soon deprived a view of that fine city

So then I took a stroll down among the quality

Me bundle it was stolen in a neat locality

Something crossed me mind, then I looked behind

No bundle could I find upon me stick a-wobblin'

Inquiring for the rogue, said me connaught brogue wasn't much in vogue

On the rocky road to Dublin

44. Beverly Hills – Weezer

Beverly Hills

That's where I want to be (gimme, gimme)

Livin' in Beverly Hills

Rollin' like a celebrity (gimme, gimme)

45. Surfin' USA – The Beach Boys

Haggerties and Swamies

Pacific Palisades

San Anofree and Sunset

Redondo Beach L. A.

All over La Jolla

At Waimea Bay

Everybody's gone surfin'

Surfin' U.S. A.

46. I'm Shipping Up To Boston – Dropkick Murphys

I'm a sailor peg

And I've lost my leg

Climbing up the top sails

I've lost my leg!

I'm shipping up to Boston, whoa

I'm shipping off to find my wooden leg

47. Hello Seattle – Owl City

Hello Seattle, I am a manta ray

Deep beneath the blue waves

I'll crawl the sandy bottom of Puget Sound

And construct my summer home

48. God Blessed Texas – Little Texas

God blessed Texas

With His own hand

Brought down angels from the promised land

Gave 'em a place where they could dance

If you want to see heaven, brother, here's you chance

I've been sent to spread the message

49. Taj Mahal – Sam Roberts Band

Sitting with you on the banks of the Ganges

Stealing a kiss on the streets of Bombay

Caressing your hair like the wind through the palm trees

I never dreamed that anyone could take you away

Keep on keep on keep on singing

I'm building a beautiful statue

To make sure that no one forgets you

50. Alaska – Maggie Rogers

I was walking through icy streams

That took my breath away

Moving slowly through westward water

Over glacial plains

And I walked off you

And I walked off an old me

Oh me, oh my, I thought it was a dream

So it seemed

51. Miles from Minnesota – The Lower 48

Yes next year we'll go traveling

Our escapades so baffling

Our sovereign love returning to the sea

We'll be miles from Minnesota then

Writing letters we won't send

For no words shall contain what will be

Well your sweet voice and my rough hands

When darkness prowls we will dance

Through bluffs and fields and orchards with the moon

Yes next year we will leave this place summer's kiss is just a taste

Fall's warm embrace is coming to us soon

Oh! We've got everywhere to go

You should sleep, I'll see you in the morning

52. Take Me Home Country Roads – John Denver

Almost heaven, West Virginia

Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River

Life is old there, older than the trees

Younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze

Country roads, take me home

To the place I belong

West Virginia, mountain mama

Take me home, country roads

53. Miles Away – The Maine

I took a trip up the west coast

Was searching for a temp so low

And a summer high

The Sun swayed and set slow

Made waves with some friends I know

Got lost in the ebb and flow

Of the drifting tide

I didn't ever want to come down

From that west coast rush and summer high

And easy, peaceful sense of time

54. Brazil – Declan McKenna

I wanna play the beautiful game while I'm in Brazil

'Cause everybody plays the beautiful game while out in Brazil

'Cause it's all you've ever wanted, and it's all that you want still

Don't you wanna play the beautiful game out in Brazil?

55. Under African Skies – Paul Simon

Joseph's face was as black as the night

And the pale yellow moon shone in his eyes

His path was marked

By the stars in the Southern Hemisphere

And he walked the length of his days

Under African skies

56. Take It Easy – The Eagles

Well I'm a standin' on a corner in Winslow, Arizona

Such a fine sight to see

It's a girl, my lord, in a flatbed

Ford slowin' down to take a look at me

Come on baby

Don't say maybe

I gotta know if your sweet love is gonna save me

We may lose and we may win

Though we will never be here again

So open up, I'm climbin' in

Take it easy

26 awesome international songs

A song’s title or lyrics don’t need to explicitly mention a specific place; sometimes it's the artist, the melody, the language, or simply the emotion of the song that ties it in our memories to a place we love.

Whether it’s the sultry sounds of Gotan Project’s Amor Porteno taking us back to a tango club in Buenos Aires, or the ethereal sounds of Hoppípolla from Sigur Rós transporting us to the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland, these international songs make us think of the places they are from or written about.

Listen when:  you're on your cheap flight to Iceland, or packing for your trip to Seoul, or strolling the streets of Paris, or driving the backroads of Scotland, or...

57. The Last – Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra

58. let the music play – shamur, 59. la vie en rose – edith piaf, 60. gangnam style – psy.

61. Immigrant Song – Led Zeppelin

62. money (that's what i want) – cheryl k, 63. royals – lorde, 64. rewrite – asian kung fu generation, 65. redemption song – bob marley, 66. dreams – the cranberries, 67. little busters – the pillows, 68. jai ho – a.r. rahman.

69. Counting Stars – Nujabes

70. i’m gonna be (500 miles) – the proclaimers, 71. sni bong – dengue fever, 72. jungle drum – emiliana torrini.

73. On and On – VIXX

74. beds are burning – midnight oil, 75. amor porteño – gotan project, 76. dui bu qi – transition, 77. sirocco – ulrich schnauss and jonas munk, 78. mi gente – j balvin.

79. Hoppípolla – Sigur Rós

80. somewhere over the rainbow – israel kamakawiwoʻole, 81. land down under – men at work, 82. guantanamera – celia cruz.

‍ 18 great songs about travel and wanderlust

Finally, the last songs on the list are those that inspire us to get out and see the world, that commiserate with those us of suffering from the travel bug, and that celebrate the beauty of a life less ordinary.

Listen when: you're suffering from an acute case of wanderlust or dreaming of your next great adventure.

83. Born to be Wild – Steppenwolf

Get your motor runnin'

Head out on the highway

Lookin' for adventure

And whatever comes our way

Yeah Darlin' go make it happen

Take the world in a love embrace

Fire all of your guns at once

And explode into space

84. Roam – The B52s

Roam if you want to

Roam around the world

Without wings, without wheels

Without anything but the love we feel

85. I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For – U2

I have climbed the highest mountains

I have run through the fields

Only to be with you

I have run, I have crawled

I have scaled these city walls

These city walls

But I still haven't found

What I'm looking for

86. Come Fly with Me – Frank Sinatra

Come fly with me, we'll fly, we'll fly away

If you can use some exotic booze

There's a bar in far Bombay

Come on fly with me, we'll fly, we'll fly away

87. On the Road Again – Willie Nelson

On the road again

Goin' places that I've never been

Seein' things that I may never see again

And I can't wait to get on the road again

88. Road to Nowhere – Talking Heads

We're on a road to nowhere

Come on inside

Taking that ride to nowhere

We'll take that ride

I'm feeling okay this morning

And you know

We're on the road to paradise

Here we go, here we go

89. Life is a Highway – Tom Cochran

Life's like a road that you travel on

When there's one day here and the next day gone

Sometimes you bend, sometimes you stand

Sometimes you turn your back to the wind

There's a world outside every darkened door

Where blues won't haunt you anymore

Where the brave are free and lovers soar

Come ride with me to the distant shore

We won't hesitate, break down the garden gate

There's not much time left today

90. When I’m Gone (Cups Song) – Anna Kendrick

I’ve got my ticket for the long way ‘round

The one with the prettiest of views

It’s got mountains, it’s got rivers, it’s got sights to give you shivers

But it sure would be prettier with you

When I’m gone

You’re gonna miss me when I’m gone

You’re gonna miss me by my walk

You’re gonna miss me by my talk, oh

91. Born to Run – Bruce Springsteen

Someday girl I don't know when

We're gonna get to that place

Where we really wanna go

And we'll walk in the sun

But till then tramps like us

Baby we were born to run

92. Send Me On My Way – Rusted Root

Well, I would like to hold my little hand

And we will run, we will, we will crawl, we will

I would like to hold my little hand

And we will run, we will, we will crawl

Send me on my way (on my way)

93. Margaritaville – Jimmy Buffett

I blew out my flip flop

Stepped on a pop top

Cut my heel had to cruise on back home

But there's booze in the blender

And soon it will render

That frozen concoction that helps me hang on

Wastin' away again in Margaritaville

Searchin' for my lost shaker of salt

Some people claim that there's a woman to blame

But I know it's my own damn fault

94. Moon River – Audrey Hepburn

Two drifters, off to see the world

There's such a lot of world to see

We're after the same rainbow's end, waitin' 'round the bend

My huckleberry friend, moon river, and me

95. Leaving on a Jet Plane – Peter Paul, and Mary

My bags are packed

I'm ready to go

I'm standing here outside your door

I hate to wake you up to say goodbye

But the dawn is breakin'

It's early morn

The taxi's waitin'

He's blowin' his horn

Already I'm so lonesome

I could cry

So kiss me and smile for me

Tell me that you'll wait for me

Hold me like you'll never let me go

I'm leavin' on a jet plane

I Don't know when I'll be back again

Oh, babe, I hate to go

96. The Passenger – Iggy Pop

I am a passenger

And I ride and I ride

I ride through the city's backside

I see the stars come out of the sky

Yeah, they're bright in a hollow sky

You know it looks so good tonight

I stay under glass

I look through my window so bright

I see the stars come out tonight

I see the bright and hollow sky

Over the city's ripped-back sky

And everything looks good tonight

97. Vacation – The Go-Go's

All I ever wanted

Had to get away

Meant to be spent alone

98. Homeward Bound – Simon & Garfunkel

Every day's an endless stream

Of cigarettes and magazines

And each town looks the same to me, the movies and the factories

And every stranger's face I see reminds me that I long to be

Homeward bound

I wish I was

Home where my thought's escaping

Home where my music's playing

Home where my love lies waiting

Silently for me

99. No Roots – Alice Merton

I like standing still, but that's just a wishful plan

Ask me where I come from, I'll say a different land

But I've got memories and travel like gypsies in the night

I count gates and numbers, then play the guessing game

It's just the place that changes, the rest is still the same

And a thousand times I've seen this road

A thousand times

I've got no roots, but my home was never on the ground

100. Fly Away – Lenny Kravitz

I want to get away

I want to fly away

Yeah, yeah, yeah ‍

Love travel? See the world for less. Sign up for Going and save up to 90% on flights.

Katie is Going's Director of Content Marketing. She has been to 30+ countries, prefers markets to museums, hates cucumbers, and dreams of one day living in a small cabin by the sea in Iceland. Originally from Detroit, she lived in Seattle and Chicago before settling in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and their two cats.

Published July 18, 2023

Last updated December 28, 2023

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5 Places to Travel for Music and the Best Ways to Experience It

Some of the world’s most melodious destinations are featured in a new video by the united states tour operators association. we took a closer look..

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What better way to connect with a place than through its music? Recognizing the power of song and dance to transform your travels into something truly special, the United States Tour Operators Association set out in search of some of the best sounds on the planet. The result is USTOA On Tour Live , a road documentary that offers insight into the faces and places behind these global traditions. In celebration of this new video, we dove into the five destinations highlighted in it, from the Lindjo dancers of Croatia’s Adriatic Coast to the mesmerizing Mevlevi music of Türkiye. Once you’ve explored the musical offerings of each locale and their noteworthy sights and tastes, visit USTOA to start planning your own harmonious adventure.

Colombia’s many rhythms

Colombia simply bursts with the spirit of song and dance.

Courtesy of ProColombia

Known as the “Land of 1,000 Rhythms,” Colombia’s cultural diversity has gifted the world such inimitable music styles as champeta , vallenato , porro , and cumbia . With influence from native traditions, as well as from Africa, Spain, and beyond, each region of the country offers a new world of music to discover, made even more accessible through an abundance of folk and international music festivals.

Arguably the best starting place to feel the heartbeat of Colombia would be the Barranquilla Carnival, a celebration held each February or March that was declared a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Heading deeper into the country alongside the Andes Mountains in the bustling, salsa-dancing city of Cali, the Petronio Álvarez Music Festival showcases the traditional music of Pacific coastal communities each August. Plus the Vallenato Legend Festival in Valledupar every year in late April and the Mono Núñez Andean Music Festival, an annual musical event in June organized in Ginebra, are among the seemingly countless other cultural events found throughout the nation.

Music lovers will also have all they need without ever leaving cities, from Bogotá’s many universities and cultural centers to the cobblestone streets and colonial architecture of Cartagena. In the latter, the bohemian neighborhood of Getsemaní offers visitors nonstop culture, starting with dinner at one of their inventive, world-class restaurants like Celele or Cocina de Pepina. Cap the evening with a nearby concert from a proud Colombian musician like Gregorio Uribe and his infectious cumbia-soaked sound.

Of course, as the country with the most biodiversity per square mile on Earth, Colombia’s unrivaled variety extends beyond music. Of the myriad natural delights to discover throughout its six main regions, the lush flora and rugged peaks of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta and the wild, beach-fringed deserts of La Guajira — each part of the Greater Colombian Caribbean—are a mere hint of what’s on offer.

Dubrovnik’s dance of the ages

Dubrovnik’s Lindjo folk dance in action.

Courtesy of Archive of Folklore ensemble Lindjo Dubrovnik

After centuries as one of the world’s great maritime superpowers, the ancient port city of Dubrovnik features layer upon layer of cultural heritage waiting to be unearthed. With immaculately preserved Baroque architecture framed by a cerulean sea, the ebb and flow of visitors attracted to this jewel of Dalmatia has left an indelible influence on the city, in its colorful cuisine and famed literary tradition—as well as its distinctive, historical music scene.

Eternally popular, Old Town Dubrovnik simply bursts with life, with live music spilling into the streets. Stopping at Libertina for an espresso, a cold pint of Ožujsko lager, or perhaps even a glass of pošip —a uniquely Dalmatian wine—you’ll immediately find yourself surrounded by local artists and eccentrics of varying stripes. Head outside to Gundulićeva Poljana, Old Town’s open-air market, to taste all kinds of local flavors, from candied almonds to local honey, the air further sweetened by the sounds of the surrounding buskers. If you’re lucky, you’ll even catch a performance by the littoral Klapa singers in USTOA On Tour Live ; their harmonious incantations aren’t to be missed.

For those visiting during the summer months, it’s best to keep an ear tuned to the steps of the Dominican Monastery or the Church of St. Blaise, where local folk hero Ibrica Jusić has been keeping the tradition of the troubadour alive with impromptu concerts for some 50 years. Drawing influences from Croatia, France, Italy, and Bosnia, particularly in the sevdalinka tradition, Jusić is but one highlight of the Dubrovnik Summer Festival, now in its 74th year. The festival takes over the streets of the city with outdoor performances of music and theater from all over the globe, representing a long, proud intellectual legacy in the city. At the center of that tradition, as USTOA’s video shows, is that of the kolo linđo .

Dating back to the early 19 th century, with influences from Dinaric and Mediterranean dance, the kolo linđo is a crucial social institution wherein dancers can freely express themselves, even in the face of oppression. As a form of courtship, participants gather in a circle, led by the dance leader, or kolovođa , who, while playing their fiddle-like lijerica , pairs off dance partners who then face off in a spirited, oft-flirtatious dance circle. Often—but not only—found at weddings, the kolo linđo represents a crucial part of Dubrovnik culture, and catching a performance by troupes like Lindjo should be at the top of the list for your next Adriatic adventure.

Musical diversity in Panamá

Indigenous communities like the Emberá people keep the past alive in Parará Purú.

Courtesy of Visit Panamá

As the literal junction point between North and South America, between the Caribbean and the Pacific, Panamá is inevitably a confluence of cultures, and its music scene reflects this, with additional influences from Spain, Africa, and countless Indigenous peoples. Also rooted in the country’s history as a crossroads, modern folk musicians distill many of these traditions into a style known as pindín , otherwise called músic a típica , a joyful and eclectic gumbo of sounds that uses everything from the accordion and the mejorana (a five-stringed guitar) to the bocana (a four-stringed guitar), tambores (wooden drums), and even a form of yodeling.

In more recent years, the catchy, irrepressible rhythms of reggaeton represent—by far—its most popular musical offering to the world. Of course, when it comes to salsa, one of the world’s most beloved paths to the dance floor, Panamá’s influence can’t be overstated, including Rubén Blades, winner of 11 Latin Grammy Awards and a Panamá City native. And defying categorization, the Panamá City-based, Grammy-nominated band Afrodisíaco offers a modern interpretation of the Panamanian sound, with complex rhythms drawing from atravesao , tambor norte , bullerengue , congo , and cortacacho traditions.

Jazz aficionados have a home here, too, thanks to the Panamá Jazz Festival, hosted each January by the nonprofit Fundación Danilo Pérez, named after the Grammy Award–winning pianist. With the opportunity to collaborate with some of the biggest figures in jazz, young performers converge from around the globe, participating in masterclasses and other educational initiatives.

Even beyond the work of Pérez and his team, music education remains a priority in Panamá, with the Portobelo-based Escuelita del Ritmo using song to promote positive social change while preserving Panamá’s cultural heritage. Thanks to their hard work, international visitors can seek out their own musical education through ongoing congo drumming and dancing courses, offering an experiential introduction to the region’s wellspring of folkloric traditions.

Travelers interested in the stylings of native Panamanians can also observe these native sounds throughout the country among its Indigenous communities, including the Naso Tjër Di, Ngäbe, Buglé, Bribri, Emberá, Guna, and Wounaan. Seek them out on a trip here to help preserve their own distinctive music and dance traditions, whether it’s a visit to the Emberá communities along the delta of the Río Chagres or the Ngäbe-Buglé tribes found in the provinces of Veraguas, Chiriquí, and Bocas del Toro. With each experience comes the opportunity to shop for handmade instruments including the sonajero , a rhythm instrument made from a natural gourd, and to immerse yourself in Panamá’s stunning seascapes and jungle vistas.

Peru’s timeless music traditions

Dancers converge to celebrate Corpus Christi in Cusco.

Courtesy of Andrés Allain

Peru is known worldwide for that Incan icon above the clouds, Machupicchu, but there’s so much more to this South American nation. From surfing the Pacific and navigating the Amazon River, nature lovers will certainly have their hands full here. And with musical traditions dating as far back as Machupicchu itself, there’s more than enough melody to make this one of the top musical destinations on Earth.

Throughout the country, you can hear hints of African, Native Andean, and European influence in instruments like the cajón , the ocarina and pan flute, and the guitar-like bandurria . Groups like the Banda San Pedro, who stars in the USTOA video, wear their European influence on their sleeve with full brass sections, yet their songs remain rooted in the hyper-local. And the band often performs at regional religious festivities such as Corpus Christi.

Even within the realm of devotional music, Peru remains diverse. In the Cusco region, the Inti Raymi festival, held yearly on June 24, helps preserve Incan spiritual traditions. And in the Andean town of Ocongate, the longstanding Pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of the Lord of Qoyllurit’i, otherwise known as the Snow Star festival, begins 58 days after Easter and attracts parishioners from throughout South America who join in round-the-clock singing and dancing.

For more accessible activities, the former Incan capital of Cusco remains one of the liveliest nights out on the continent, with an international offering of pubs, discos, and music halls featuring traditional folk, contemporary pop, and everything else in between. At the center of it all is the Plaza de Armas, where you can catch native music and dance at the Centro Qosqo de Arte Nativo, enjoy locally sourced cuisine and live music in a stylish, cyclist-friendly setting at Wasicleta or dance through the night at one of many nightclubs found throughout the area.

Musical time travel in Türkiye

Türkiye’s legendary Whirling Dervishes whirl away in Konya.

Courtesy of GoTürkiye

Famously straddling the line between East and West, Türkiye has been a cultural crossroads for millennia, hosting civilizations as diverse as the ancient Anatolians such as Hittites and the Luwians; of course, the Ottomans; and the Turkish Republic. The varied influence of Türkiye’s diverse cultural heritage can be seen immediately with a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Historic Areas of İstanbul and the Grand Bazaar found therein, where artisans deal in handmade Turkish instruments such as the oud , saz , and ney .

Türkiye’s ancient influences are also evident in the many musical genres found throughout the country, including in the cultural capital of İstanbul—home to the Beyoğlu Culture Route Festival and the İstanbul Jazz Festival every year in July, and the annual İstanbul Music Festival in June, each of which fills the metropolis with a staggering array of domestic and international acts. In the northwestern part of Türkiye, a two-hour drive from İstanbul, Edirne hosts the International Balkan Music Festival each October, celebrating the folk music and dance of the many varied Balkan cultures throughout the region.

Classical music fans will want to head to the capital of Ankara to take in a performance by the 200-year-old Presidential Symphony Orchestra and to the coastal city of Antalya, home to the annual autumn International Antalya Piano Festival. On the Turkaegean Coast, the charming towns of Bodrum and Çeşme offer open-air festivals during the summer, attracting those looking to soak in the sun when they aren’t taking in multicultural performances among the boulevards.

And who could forget Konya, the spiritual center of Sufism? Each September the Mystic Music Festival honors the legacy of the poet Rumi, and each December Şeb-i Arus ceremonies commemorate him, while hosting mesmerizing performances of the Mevlevi Order, otherwise known as the Whirling Dervishes, as shown in the USTOA video. During this mystical celebration, devotees gather to honor Rumi’s spiritual legacy and the wisdom of his teachings through the power of whirling. While there, be sure to pay a visit to Mevlana Museum, a monumental 13th century structure which serves as the final resting place of this great man.

How to get there in style

Flying to a musical destination with Turkish Airlines is a delight in itself.

Courtesy of Turkish Airlines

To travel to your music-filled destination, whether it’s Türkiye or beyond, there’s perhaps no better option than Turkish Airlines. With its convenient hub in İstanbul, Turkish Airlines flies to more international destinations than any other, spanning 129 countries across five continents.

In addition to its young, fast-growing fleet, Turkish Airlines’ dedicated staff are on hand to offer world-renowned Turkish hospitality, including award-winning services in its Business Class cabins—which are all-new in its new and efficient 787-9 Dreamliner. Already renowned for offering top-notch cuisine, with a brand-new menu introduced in June 2023, Business Class passengers on long-haul and select regional flights can also look forward to Flying Chefs. The in-flight chef experience offers each guest restaurant-quality meals cooked to order using only the finest ingredients.

From its new home at the modern İstanbul Airport—on course to become the world’s largest on the planet—Turkish Airlines is defining the future of aviation. Always looking to improve the flying experience for travelers the airline offers programs such as the Turkish Airlines Corporate Club, one of the world’s most extensive corporate frequent flier memberships with special perks and benefits.

For those traveling from the United States, Turkish Airlines currently has 13 gateway cities that fly direct to İstanbul, including Atlanta, Washington, D.C., New York, Newark, Chicago, Houston, Dallas, Miami, Boston, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Detroit—with an additional gateway set to open in Denver later this year.

Discover your musical dream trip with USTOA

When it comes to music, the world offers seemingly endless avenues to explore, and while these five destinations are certain to wow you, they’re also only the beginning. To help you discover more of what’s out there, USTOA works with thousands of local experts across hundreds of countries worldwide, offering expert-led, unbeatable tours wherever it is you want to go, so you can venture worry-free onto the dance floor, moving to rhythms you may never have known you had in you. Compose your musical adventure with USTOA.

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Travel With Your Ears™...Let The Music Take You Places

Sounds and rhythms of the world, travel with your ears™ emblematic video: haka nini by matato'a from rapa nui island, chile (best viewed on full screen or on youtube).

Travel With Your Ears™ is about the love of music as well as the love of travel around the World

The music from your travels, the music that makes you want to travel...The best of World Music to dance, chill, relax or muse...with background info on the places from where the music comes from, where to listen to it live, where to get it for keeps, and how to get there. Travel With Your Ears ™  first, then let the music take you there...follow me on a musical and visual journey which I guarantee will be filled with beautiful images, sounds, melodies and rhythms that I hope will inspire and influence your decisions for your next travels!

It is my pleasure to invite you to check the pages with informative content and to click on the many videos, playlists, individual songs and plentiful links that will guide you and allow you to go deeper into your auditory adventure through the music and places of our World. Thank you for your support in this endeavour, please spread the word by sharing and recommending. Visit often as I will be regularly adding music, playlists, videos and content to the site...

Launched on 28 July 2016, content is step by step being added, so please bookmark to revisit as often as you want, play a video at a time, listen to the playlists at work or on your commute, check the contents, follow the links, and most of all, enjoy the music by all the talended artists from around the World festured here...Peace!

    GOING ONCE MORE AROUND THE WORLD IN MUSIC

Often a cliché, it is however true that music is present in every culture, every religion, every period in time, every continent, island, region, valley, jungle, or everywhere human beings can be found. Our long-ago ancestors made music, our most isolated fellow humans make music, and few are the people who never listen or who don't enjoy one musical genre or the other.

Although there are already videos of music from every country in the world, and from most territories, inside the website pages, let's start again, this time alphabetically, to find good music from the 195 recognized and the 5 partially recognized countries of the world, from Afghanistan to Zimbabwe, starting with videos from the first letters of the alphabet. To keep track of progress and check on the countries already featured, check the page Around The World In 200 Songs by clicking HERE , which also includes info on the countries, music and artists featured...just follow the links :-)...

Dream along and join me in this musical tour of the world with the regularly updated selection of World Music and World Reggae videos on this landing page, which will showcase music from every one of our planet's nations.

Explore deep inside the pages of the website for the hundreds more videos already featured, check the Spotify links for thousands more songs, follow me on Facebook and Twitter and partake in this universal language that is music...enjoy the trip!

MUSIC DURING CONFINEMENT : CHECK HERE FOR WORLD MUSIC VIDEOS MADE BY MUSICIANS DURING OR ABOUT CONFINEMENT. THE WORLD MAY HAVE STOPPED, BUT MUSIC GOES ON...

World Music Video Wall

Yewden Yewden, a classic traditional song by legendary singer Malouna from the nation of M auritania

Pa Ti Fasil, a sensual Sega song and dance performed as should be on the sands of a beach, by Valo from M auritius

Moldoveanca, a lively folk song with beautiful backgrounds by Marcela Barbos from the Republic of M oldova

La Llorona, a popular song about a tragic story, sung in the native Nahuatl language by the Coro Niño Jesus from M exico

Young Demoiselle, a romantic modern song by Josh Stanley, a young heartthrob from the Principality of M onaco

Altai, a video showcasing the mystical sound of throat singing and the magnificent sights of the Altai mountains, by Boerte from M ongolia

Agadir Oufella, a joyous song bringing an ancient traditional instrument to the modern ages, by Ribab Fusion from M orocco

Featured World Reggae on the Wall

A couple of irie reggae (...ish) or dancehall clips from out there....

Inai Moch Pukial by Ozeky from the Federated States of M icronesia

Đe se kupaš by Who See from M ontenegro

^ Follow me on Spotify for access to all my themed playlists...hit Shuffle for best experience

Spotify playlist of music from all countries and genres (select Shuffle on your player). For full playlist, go to my profile and play the World Music Chill & Dance party list ...enjoy exploring!

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The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist To Inspire Wanderlust

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like hitting the open road or embarking on a new adventure with the perfect soundtrack playing in the background. Music has a way of capturing the essence of travel, evoking feelings of wanderlust, and transporting us to different places and times. Whether you’re exploring new cities, trekking through remote landscapes, or simply daydreaming about your next journey, having a curated playlist of travel songs is essential.

In this article, we have compiled the ultimate travel songs playlist that will inspire wanderlust and enhance your travel experience. From uplifting and energetic tunes to reflective and soulful melodies, we’ve got you covered. We’ve categorized the songs into different sections to suit various moods and preferences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

So, whether you’re embarking on an epic road trip, planning a backpacking adventure, or simply looking for some musical inspiration to fuel your wanderlust, get ready to dive into the world of travel songs that will transport you to new destinations and ignite your sense of adventure.

Section 1: Upbeat and Energetic Travel Songs

When you’re in the mood for an adventure and need a burst of energy, upbeat travel songs are the perfect choice. These songs are guaranteed to get your adrenaline pumping and have you singing along in no time.

1. “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson: A classic road trip anthem, this upbeat country song will have you dreaming of hitting the highway and exploring new horizons.

2. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston: This energetic song will make you want to dance your way through new cities and let loose as you experience the joy of travel.

3. “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay: With its catchy beat and uplifting lyrics, this song is perfect for those moments when you want to embrace the thrill and adventure of exploring new places.

4. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina and The Waves: This feel-good song is a reminder to embrace the sunshine, soak up the positive vibes, and make the most of every travel experience.

5. “Roam” by The B-52’s: This fun and upbeat track will have you singing along and dreaming of roaming the world with a carefree spirit.

6. “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys: No travel playlist is complete without a song from The Beach Boys. “Good Vibrations” is all about spreading positivity and capturing the essence of a sunny, fun-filled adventure.

7. “Don’t Stop Me Now” by Queen: This iconic Queen song is an anthem for living life to the fullest and enjoying every moment. It’s the perfect soundtrack for your next travel adventure.

8. “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon: This infectious pop-rock tune will have you dancing and singing along, reminding you to let go of your worries and embrace the joy of exploring new destinations.

9. “Holiday” by Madonna: With its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, “Holiday” will transport you to a carefree vacation state of mind, making it a must-have on your travel playlist.

10. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen: This iconic rock anthem embodies the spirit of adventure and the freedom of the open road. It’s the perfect song to kick-start your travel journey.

These upbeat and energetic travel songs are sure to get your spirits high and set the tone for an unforgettable adventure. So, turn up the volume and let the music guide you on your next travel escapade.

Section 2: Reflective and Soulful Travel Songs

Traveling often evokes a sense of introspection and self-discovery. Reflective and soulful travel songs provide the perfect soundtrack for those quiet moments of contemplation as you journey to new destinations. These songs capture the emotional depth and transformative power of travel.

1. “Wild World” by Cat Stevens: This timeless classic is a heartfelt reminder of the bittersweet nature of leaving familiar places behind and embracing the unknown.

2. “The Long and Winding Road” by The Beatles: With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, this song beautifully reflects the introspective nature of travel and the emotional journey it can take us on.

3. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman: This soul-stirring song tells a story of longing for escape and the desire for a better life, resonating with anyone yearning for adventure and change.

4. “Free Fallin'” by Tom Petty: As you embark on your travel journey, this introspective song reminds you to let go of inhibitions and embrace the freedom and unknown that lay ahead.

5. “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen: With its poetic lyrics and soulful melody, this song captures the emotional depth and spiritual aspect of travel, offering a sense of solace and hope.

6. “Learning to Fly” by Tom Petty: This introspective anthem is a reflection on personal growth and the challenges that come with leaving your comfort zone and spreading your wings.

7. “Fast Car” by Jonas Blue ft. Dakota: A modern rendition of Tracy Chapman’s iconic song, this version adds an electronic touch while still capturing the longing for escape and the desire for new experiences.

8. “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd: This soulful and melancholic song reflects on the fleeting nature of time and the longing for human connection even while exploring new places.

9. “Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros: With its warm and soulful sound, this song encapsulates the feeling of finding a sense of belonging and home within the journey of travel.

10. “Take It Easy” by Eagles: This laid-back and reflective song reminds us to take a step back, appreciate the beauty of our surroundings, and embrace the simplicity of life on the road.

These reflective and soulful travel songs will accompany you on your journey, inviting moments of self-reflection and providing emotional depth to your travel experiences. So, sit back, relax, and let the music guide you on your inner exploration while you explore the world.

Section 3: Wanderlust-themed Pop Songs

Pop music has a way of capturing the spirit of adventure, and wanderlust-themed pop songs are perfect for getting you in the mood to explore the world. These catchy tunes will have you singing along and daydreaming about your next travel destination.

1. “Unwritten” by Natasha Bedingfield: This empowering anthem encourages you to seize the moment and embrace the unknown as you embark on new adventures.

2. “Counting Stars” by OneRepublic: With its catchy melody and reflective lyrics, this song reminds us to cherish every moment and appreciate the wonders of the world.

3. “Wake Me Up” by Avicii: The upbeat tunes of this song are perfect for embracing new experiences and navigating the world with a sense of excitement and curiosity.

4. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus: This inspiring ballad serves as a reminder to persevere through challenges and embrace the journey, no matter how difficult.

5. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey: This timeless classic is the ultimate anthem for following your dreams and finding your way in the world.

6. “Firework” by Katy Perry: With its uplifting message, this pop hit serves as a reminder to let your light shine and embrace your uniqueness as you explore new horizons.

7. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake: This infectious pop song will have you dancing along and feeling the joy of travel as you embrace the rhythm of new places.

8. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas: This upbeat and energetic track captures the excitement and anticipation of a great night out or an adventure-filled day.

9. “Adventure” by Cheat Codes ft. Evan Gartner: With its vibrant beats and lyrics, this pop song is a perfect reminder to live life to the fullest and embark on new adventures.

10. “Roar” by Katy Perry: This empowering anthem encourages you to find your voice, step out of your comfort zone, and explore the world fearlessly.

These wanderlust-themed pop songs will add a sense of fun and excitement to your travel experiences. So, turn up the volume, sing along, and let the music inspire you as you embark on your next adventure.

Section 4: Classic Travel Songs

Classic travel songs have a timeless appeal and evoke a sense of nostalgia. These iconic tunes have been the soundtrack to countless journeys and continue to inspire wanderlust in travelers around the world. Let’s take a look at some of the must-have classic travel songs that should be on your playlist.

1. “Hotel California” by Eagles: This legendary song tells a captivating story of a traveler’s journey to the mysterious Hotel California, making it a true classic in the realm of travel music.

2. “Route 66” by Chuck Berry: As one of the most famous highways in the United States, Route 66 has inspired countless road trips. This song captures the essence of the iconic route and the freedom of the open road.

3. “I’ve Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash: This catchy tune lists off numerous locations, igniting a sense of wanderlust and curiosity about the vast world just waiting to be explored.

4. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd: While specifically referring to Alabama, this song is an anthem for all travelers, reminding us of the longing for a place to call home no matter where our journey takes us.

5. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver: This heartfelt ballad celebrates the beauty of West Virginia and resonates with anyone yearning for the familiarity of home and the peacefulness of the countryside.

6. “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf: Rev up your engines and hit the road with this iconic biker anthem that embodies the spirit of adventure, freedom, and a wild rebellious nature.

7. “California Dreamin'” by The Mamas & The Papas: This soulful song captures the yearning for warm California sunshine and paints a vivid picture of the longing for a change of scenery.

8. “Proud Mary” by Creedence Clearwater Revival: The energetic rhythm and powerful vocals of this song will have you picturing yourself cruising down a river, ready to explore new horizons.

9. “Rocky Mountain High” by John Denver: This melodic classic transports listeners to the majestic Rocky Mountains, evoking a sense of awe and reverence for the beauty of nature.

10. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver: A song about saying goodbye and embarking on an adventure, it captures the mix of excitement and sadness that comes with leaving behind loved ones.

These classic travel songs have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with travelers of all generations. So, add them to your playlist and let the nostalgia and wanderlust wash over you as you explore new destinations.

Section 5: Indie and Alternative Travel Songs

Indie and alternative travel songs offer a unique and often introspective take on the joys and challenges of travel. These songs have a distinctive sound and lyrical depth that resonate with those seeking a more offbeat and authentic travel experience. Let’s explore some of the must-have indie and alternative travel songs for your playlist.

1. “Ho Hey” by The Lumineers: This uplifting folk-pop tune is perfect for road trips and sing-alongs, capturing the spirit of adventure and the simple joys of exploring new places.

2. “Flume” by Bon Iver: With its ethereal sound and poetic lyrics, this indie folk song evokes a sense of tranquility and reflection, making it perfect for peaceful moments on your journey.

3. “Riptide” by Vance Joy: This catchy indie pop song embodies the carefree and whimsical nature of travel, conjuring images of sunny beaches and carefree adventures.

4. “No Cars Go” by Arcade Fire: With its anthemic sound and soaring chorus, this indie rock track captures the rebellious spirit and desire for escape that often accompanies travel.

5. “Young Folks” by Peter Bjorn and John: This indie pop gem is a catchy and nostalgic ode to the youthful spirit and sense of adventure that travel brings.

6. “Walcott” by Vampire Weekend: With its energetic pace and infectious melodies, this indie rock song will have you dreaming of exploring vibrant cities and immersing yourself in new cultures.

7. “Island in the Sun” by Weezer: This alternative rock classic brings to mind visions of idyllic island getaways and carefree days spent soaking up the sun.

8. “It’s Time” by Imagine Dragons: With its anthemic sound and positive message, this alternative rock song encourages you to seize the moment and pursue your dreams, wherever they may lead.

9. “Simple Song” by The Shins: This indie rock anthem is a delightful tribute to the joy of traveling with loved ones, capturing the essence of creating unforgettable memories on the road.

10. “Don’t Let It Get You Down” by Johnnyswim: This indie folk track is a reminder to stay resilient and positive in the face of challenges, perfect for those moments when travel throws unexpected curveballs your way.

These indie and alternative travel songs provide a unique and introspective perspective on the wonders and challenges of travel. So, dive into their atmospheric sounds and thought-provoking lyrics as you embark on your next adventure.

Section 6: Folk and Acoustic Travel Songs

Folk and acoustic travel songs have a way of capturing the essence of the journey with their raw and organic sound. These songs often tell stories of wanderlust, longing, and the beauty of nature. Let’s explore some of the must-have folk and acoustic travel songs for your playlist.

1. “The Boxer” by Simon & Garfunkel: This timeless folk ballad tells a tale of resilience and perseverance, resonating with travelers who navigate through life’s challenges on their journey.

2. “Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell: With its melodic guitar and iconic lyrics, this song reflects on the importance of preserving nature’s beauty and serves as a reminder to appreciate the world around us.

3. “I Will Wait” by Mumford & Sons: This anthemic folk-rock song embodies the sense of anticipation and patience that comes with waiting for new adventures and exploring unknown paths.

4. “Country Roads” by John Denver: A classic folk song that celebrates the beauty of West Virginia, it evokes a sense of nostalgia and a longing for the countryside.

5. “The Cave” by Mumford & Sons: This folk-inspired track is a reminder to embrace vulnerability and to keep exploring and discovering the depths of the world, both externally and internally.

6. “Rhythm of Love” by Plain White T’s: This acoustic pop song captures the joy and excitement of falling in love with a place or a person during your travel adventures.

7. “Sweet Baby James” by James Taylor: This soothing acoustic ballad paints a picture of open roads and starry nights, perfectly capturing the tranquility and freedom that travel brings.

8. “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” by Elton John: This folk-infused song speaks to the longing for something more, urging us to let go of materialistic desires and venture onto a path of self-discovery.

9. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman: With its poignant storytelling and stripped-down acoustic sound, this song captures the dreams of escape and the yearning for a better life that travel often represents.

10. “Fire and Rain” by James Taylor: This introspective folk song reflects on the ups and downs of life’s journey, reminding us to find strength and resilience through the storms we encounter.

These folk and acoustic travel songs convey the beauty and emotions that travel can evoke. So, sit back, relax, and let their soothing melodies and thoughtful lyrics accompany you on your next adventure.

Section 7: International and World Music Travel Songs

When it comes to capturing the spirit of travel, international and world music travel songs take us on a global journey through their vibrant and diverse sounds. These songs showcase the rich cultural tapestry of different countries and invite us to explore the world through music. Let’s immerse ourselves in some of the must-have international and world music travel songs for your playlist.

1. “Waka Waka (This Time for Africa)” by Shakira: This catchy global anthem, released for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, celebrates the unity and diversity of Africa, serving as an infectious invitation to embrace the rhythm and energy of the continent.

2. “Bailando” by Enrique Iglesias ft. Descemer Bueno, Gente De Zona: This Latin pop hit invites listeners to embrace the joy and passion of Latin dance and culture, providing a vibrant backdrop for your travels.

3. “Mambo No. 5” by Lou Bega: This lively and upbeat song combines elements of mambo, samba, and other Latin rhythms, transporting listeners to a tropical paradise with its infectious melodies.

4. “Clandestino” by Manu Chao: This multilingual track combines reggae, rumba, and folk influences, reflecting on the experiences of migrants and serving as a reminder of the power of music to transcend borders.

5. “Ai Se Eu Te Pego” by Michel Teló: This Brazilian hit became a worldwide sensation with its infectious rhythm and catchy chorus, capturing the spirit of celebration and joy that accompanies the vibrant Brazilian culture.

6. “Dil Se Re” by A.R. Rahman: This mesmerizing Indian song blends Hindi and Tamil lyrics with a fusion of traditional and contemporary music, reminding us of the beauty and diversity of India.

7. “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi ft. Daddy Yankee: One of the most successful Spanish-language songs in history, this reggaeton hit invites listeners to embrace the laid-back and vibrant spirit of Puerto Rico.

8. “Kiss the Rain” by Yiruma: This haunting instrumental piece by the South Korean pianist is a beautiful and evocative soundtrack for moments of tranquility and reflection during your travels.

9. “Bella Ciao” by Traditional Italian Folk Song: This iconic Italian resistance song has been embraced as an anthem of freedom and has been covered by artists from around the world, serving as a reminder of the power of music to unite and inspire.

10. “Africa” by Toto: This timeless classic captures the mystique and allure of the African continent, taking listeners on an imaginary journey through its iconic landscapes.

These international and world music travel songs offer a glimpse into different cultures and traditions, allowing us to connect with the world on a deeper level. So, let the rhythms and melodies transport you to distant lands and ignite your spirit of adventure.

Section 8: Road Trip Anthems

No travel experience is complete without an epic road trip, and having the perfect road trip anthems is essential to set the mood for adventure. These songs are perfect for singing along at the top of your lungs, feeling the wind in your hair, and immersing yourself in the freedom of the open road. Let’s explore some of the must-have road trip anthems for your playlist.

1. “Life is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane: This timeless classic is the ultimate road trip anthem, reminding us to savor every moment as we cruise along the highways and chase our dreams.

2. “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC: This hard rock anthem captures the rebellious spirit of the open road, propelling us forward on an adrenaline-fueled journey.

3. “Born to Run” by Bruce Springsteen: With its energizing sound and lyrics about escaping the confines of ordinary life, this song is a powerful reminder to embrace the freedom of the road.

4. “Route 66” by Nat King Cole: This jazzy tune pays homage to the iconic historic highway, evoking a sense of nostalgia and adventure as you traverse the American landscape.

5. “Take It Easy” by Eagles: This laid-back and melodic song invites you to slow down, enjoy the scenery, and take life as it comes during your road trip adventures.

6. “Sweet Emotion” by Aerosmith: This classic rock song embodies the excitement, energy, and sense of adventure that comes with hitting the road and leaving your cares behind.

7. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey: This uplifting anthem serves as a reminder to keep pushing forward, pursuing your dreams, and embracing the journey as you make memories on the road.

8. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers: With its infectious chorus, this folk-pop hit is a lighthearted celebration of the true essence of a road trip – the willingness to go the extra mile for love or adventure.

9. “Ramblin’ Man” by The Allman Brothers Band: This bluesy rock tune channels the spirit of a wanderer, embodying the desire to keep moving and exploring new places with a sense of freedom.

10. “Road Trippin'” by Red Hot Chili Peppers: This mellow and introspective song captures the essence of a road trip, emphasizing the bond between friends and the transformative nature of travel.

These road trip anthems will be the perfect companions as you embark on long stretches of highway, creating memories and embracing the freedom of the open road. So, turn up the volume, roll down the windows, and let the music guide you on your epic road trip adventure.

Section 9: Adventure and Exploration Songs

Embarking on an adventure and venturing into the unknown is exhilarating, and having the right soundtrack can enhance the experience. Adventure and exploration songs capture the daring spirit and the thrill of discovering new horizons. Let’s dive into some of the essential adventure and exploration songs for your playlist.

1. “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay: This infectious pop-rock hit sets the tone for an adventure-filled journey, inviting you to embrace the excitement and joy of exploring new places.

2. “Dare You to Move” by Switchfoot: With its powerful lyrics and uplifting melody, this song inspires you to step outside your comfort zone and dare to chase your wildest dreams.

3. “Go Your Own Way” by Fleetwood Mac: This timeless rock anthem encourages independence and emboldens you to forge your own path as you embark on new adventures.

4. “Brave” by Sara Bareilles: This empowering pop ballad reminds you to be brave and face your fears head-on as you embrace the unknown and seek new experiences.

5. “I Lived” by OneRepublic: With its inspiring lyrics and anthemic sound, this song encourages you to live fully in the present and seize every opportunity that comes your way.

6. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey: This classic rock anthem is a rallying cry that encourages you to keep pushing forward, never giving up on your dreams, and embracing the adventure of life.

7. “The Climb” by Miley Cyrus: With its uplifting message and powerful vocals, this pop ballad reminds you that the journey itself is just as important as reaching the destination.

8. “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons: This feel-good and upbeat song celebrates the exhilaration of achieving your goals and reminds you to savor every moment of your adventurous journey.

9. “Into the Wild” by LP: This indie pop anthem invites you to break free from the constraints of everyday life and venture into the wild, embracing the unknown with open arms.

10. “Learn to Fly” by Foo Fighters: With its energetic sound and powerful lyrics, this rock hit inspires you to spread your wings, take flight, and explore new heights of possibility.

These adventure and exploration songs will ignite your sense of wanderlust and motivate you to embark on bold, life-changing journeys. So, let the music fuel your spirit of adventure as you set out to conquer new horizons.

Music has a magical way of complementing our travel experiences, evoking emotions, and capturing the essence of our journeys. In this article, we’ve explored an array of travel songs from various genres, each offering a unique perspective on wanderlust, adventure, and exploration.

From the upbeat and energetic tunes that get our adrenaline pumping to the reflective and soulful melodies that inspire introspection, we’ve covered a broad range of travel songs for every mood and occasion. The wanderlust-themed pop songs bring a catchy and infectious spirit, while the classic travel songs evoke a sense of nostalgia and timelessness.

The indie and alternative travel songs offer a more offbeat and introspective approach, while the folk and acoustic travel songs provide a raw and organic sound that connects us with the beauty of nature. The international and world music travel songs take us on a global journey, celebrating the diverse cultures and rhythms of different countries.

We can’t forget the road trip anthems that accompany us on the open road, filling us with a sense of freedom and adventure. And if we’re seeking the thrill of exploration, the adventure and exploration songs inspire us to push boundaries and embrace the unknown.

As you curate your own travel playlist, consider the mood, destination, and emotions you want to evoke. Infuse it with a mix of these travel songs to create a soundtrack that truly represents your wanderlust spirit. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, backpacking adventure, or simply daydreaming about your next journey, let the power of music transport you to new places and ignite your sense of wanderlust.

So, pack your bags, hit play on your favorite travel songs, and let the melodies guide you on a journey filled with exploration, discovery, and unforgettable experiences. Safe travels!

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The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist to Inspire Wanderlust

Written By: The Planet D

Inspiration

Updated On: March 2, 2023

The best travel songs playlist had an outstanding turn out by The Planet D fans.

We wanted to hear, what songs inspire travel, make you think of a destination, or simply make you want to hit the road, so we asked our readers to share their favorite songs about travel.

We had such an awesome response that now have a huge list of the best travel songs as chosen by you ! There were a lot of duplicate votes for but after adding up the choices, these are the top songs.

Table of Contents

The Best Travel Songs Playlist

We took some of our favorite quotes from people when they chose their favorite songs about travel and you can read what they below.

• If you want some more travel inspiration, check out our 101 Ultimate Travel Quotes.
• Looking for a different playlist? We’ve rounded up the best road trip songs to rock the long drive.

If you have a song to add to our playlist leave a comment below. We update this list regularly

1. Africa by Toto

Nothing makes me want to go to Africa more than this song by Toto.

They capture it beautifully with their lyrics and each time I listen to it, I am brought back to camping in the desert listening to the dog crying out in the night.

Or it makes me think of climbing Kilimanjaro towering over the Serengeti. And it has had a renaissance getting a lot of air time.

“The wild dogs cry out in the night As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company I know that I must do what’s right As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti I seek to cure what’s deep inside, frightened of this thing that I’ve become”

Dina Rosita Koudys says “ Not exactly about traveling, but it does mention Africa, Kilimanjaro, and Serengeti. And I love the song!

We replied to Dina saying,  “We think Africa is exactly a travel song. It is our favorite song about travel and makes us want to see the Serengeti again and again.”

2. Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran

Ireland is one of our favorite country’s to visit and when Ed Sheeran wrote about Galway it brought us right back to being in the pubs there.

A lot of playlists omit the modern travel songs, but musicians these days have explored more of the world than anyone. And Ed Sheeran is a huge traveler.

We saw Ed Sheeran on Graham Norton talking about his travels and we love his free spirit and down to earth attitude.

“I meet her on Grafton street right outside of the bar She shared a cigarette with me while her brother played the guitar She asked me what does it mean, the Gaelic ink on your arm? Said it was one of my friend’s songs, do you want to drink on?”

3. One Night in Bangkok by Murray Head

From the Musical Chess, this hit by Murray Head made me want to visit Bangkok in the 1990s.

Whenever I’m in the city, I can’t stop singing it!

“I said, “do you speak-a my language?” He just smiled and gave me a vegemite sandwich And he said I come from a land down under Where beer does flow and men chunder”

4. Land Down Under by Men at Work

When thinking about travel music, this song is at the top for and Australian theme.

Men at work reference the Hippy Trail, muscles in Brussels and a den in Bombay.

All while bonding with people from the Land Down Under. Men at work are from Melbourne , Australia

“Bangkok, Oriental setting And the city don’t know that the city is getting The creme de la creme of the chess world In a show with everything but Yul Brynner”

5. Havana by Camila Cabello

This song takes me to Havana. The groove makes me feel that I am at a lounge in Cuba and I love it.

Even if Camila Cabello is taken to East Atlanta, her heart is always in Havana. Just like so many people feel when they visit Havana too!

Havana, ooh na-na Half of my heart is in Havana, ooh na-na He took me back to East Atlanta, na-na-na Oh, but my heart is in Havana My heart is in Havana Havana, ooh na-na

6.  Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd

This song makes me want to go to the American South.

My favorite lyric is when they mention the recording studio Muscle Shoals.

“Now Muscle Shoals has got the Swampers And they’ve been known to pick a song or two (yes they do) Lord they get me off so much They pick me up when I’m feeling blue, now how bout you?”

After watching the documentary about Muscle Shoals, I now understand what that lyric is all about.

It was the place for rock musicians to record in the 1960s. Rent Muscle Shoals on Amazon

Kathy Bovair  says “ Dave will have my back on this one “SWEET HOME ALABAMA” is the best travel song and an old high school classic from our past” 

7. I’ve Been Everywhere Man by Johnny Cash

Carmen Davis-Harcum said.  “It’s My favourite travel song.” And we agree. I’ve been everywhere is the ultimate travel song!

If you want to add a song to your travel playlist that captures what it’s like to travel around.

I always envisioned this song being about Johnny Cash writing about his life on the road as a traveling musician.

“I’ve been everywhere, man I’ve been everywhere, man Crossed the deserts bare, man I’ve breatherd the mountain air, man Travel, I’ve had my share, man I’ve been everywhere”

He may not have been everywhere int he world, but he has definitely crossed all of the United States and Canada.

I’ve Been Everywhere by Johnny Cash does the trick.

 8. Route 66 by Nat King Cole

Route 66 certainly captures the heyday of America’s famous highway running across the country.

It makes me think of simpler (and tougher) times of people hitting the open road with nothing but dreams in their heads.

This song makes me want to get in the car and drive.

“Well if you ever plan to motor west Just take my way it’s the highway that’s the best Get your kicks on Route 66 Well it winds from Chicago to L.A. More than 2000 miles all the way Get your kicks on Route 66″

Trisha Miller  is inspired by Route 66, a trip I have dreamed of for a long time, and someday I will do the entire length in one long, leisurely road trip”

9. Desert Rose – Sting

This song is apparently about when Adam was banished from the garden of Eden.

But when I listen to it, I think of travel and it transports me straight to the Middle East.

“I dream of rain, I dream of gardens in the desert sand I wake in vain, I dream of love as time runs through my hand Sweet desert rose Each of her veils, a secret promise This desert flower No sweet perfume ever tortured me more than this…”

10. Where the Streets Have No Name by U2

The song is inspired by the streets of Ethiopia where there aren’t (or weren’t) any street names.

I remember cycling through Africa and we barely saw a road sign.

At the time, Ireland was still under a lot of civil unrest and Bono wrote about a place where class, religion and income are not indicitve of the street they live on.

“I want to feel sunlight on my face I see that dust cloud disappear without a trace I wanna take shelter from the poison rain Where the streets have no name.”

11. Sympathy For The Devil by The Rolling Stones

Daniel Stein Says “ Sympathy For the Devil makes you want to drive. Who wouldn’t include this in their best travel songs playlist?”

This travel song had the most votes in our survey.

So it had to be on our playlist even though it isn’t really about travel. It does talk about historical events around the world though. 

“I stuck around St. Petersburg When I saw it was a time for a change Killed the czar and his ministers Anastasia screamed in vain” 

12. On the Road Again by Willy Nelson

Diane Grady .” We were camping year’s ago on Vancouver Island and a big motorhome pulled out playing”On the Road Again” through the loudspeakers. It was hilarious .

But you know what, On the Road Again is one of the most popular songs played when hitting the road.

The words alone. I’m on the road again!

13. I Left My Heart In San Francisco by Tony Bennet

Suggested by Katherine Hill who said, “I left my Heart in San Francisco, of course! This song is the epitome of San Francisco.

Travel Songs don’t have to be about going everywhere. They can be about one place and this is the ultimate love story dedicated to San Francisco.

Add it to your playlist on Amazon

14. Montego Bay by Amazulu

Whenever we go to Jamaica we sing this song. It is perfect for travel.

It not only captures the spirit and energy of Jamaica, it explains a lot about the island.

They drive on the island, they drink rum from a silver tray and greet you like a brother would.

“Vernon’ll meet me when the BOAC lands Keys to th M. G. will be in his hands Adjust to the driving ‘n’ I’m on my way It’s all on the right side in Montego Bay

BOAC is a British airplane and I love how they say, “it’s all on the right side, because when you are in Jamaica, you drive British style.

15. Midnight Train To Georgia by Gladys Knight and the Pips

Lauren Mcleod  made this addition to our playlist.

She says “ Even though it’s about heading home instead of away, it sure gets me groovin’ along like I want to leave.”

“The world is his, his and ‘ers alone Oh he’s leavin’ On that midnight train to Georgia (leavin’ on the midnight train) Said he’s goin’ back to find (goin’ back to find) Oh a simpler place in time”

You can also download on Amazon

16. Roam by the B52s

Genelle Gregorio “ Roam “ by the B-52s is a fantastic song for slideshows of your travels and to get you all pumped up about traveling and seeing the world.

“Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without wings, without wheels Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without anything but the love we feel”

In our hearts, aren’t we all roamers at heart?

17. Leaving on a Jet Plane by Chantal Kreviazuk

Jenny Leach “ We love this track when we are traveling . Leaving on a Jet Plane just screams travel song! Famous recordings are from Peter Paul and Mary, and John Denver.

“All my bags are packed I’m ready to go I’m standin’ here outside your door I hate to wake you up to say goodbye”

While the song is more about leaving for work (most likely the life of a rock n roll band, it still makes us think about traveling.

This song has been re-done a lot over the years, our favorite version is from the movie Armageddon  by Chantal Kreviazuk.

18. Kokomo by The Beach Boys

Keith Jenkins of Velvet Escape chose Kokomo. This makes me think of the beach for sure.

What we love about Kokomo is that it is a made up place by the Beach Boys, but it sure makes you want to go there. And it captures the spirit of the islands.

19. Graceland by Paul Simon

Sheri Anderson Wallace  said. “ I love that travel song because it captures all the pieces of a road trip. What could be more of a travel song than a song about road tripping?

We say, it also inspired us to get ourselves to Graceland and see Elvis’ home in Memphis Tennessee.

We’ll never forget visiting Kenya and seeing photographs of Paul Simon at a lodge we stayed at in the Masai Mara. He stayed here with Carry Fisher and it was this place that inspired his music for the album Graceland. I think that was one of the coolest things to see that we stayed at the same lodge.

2 0. Born to be Wild by Steppenwolf

Bonnie Paridaen says “ By Steppenwolf Baby!”  Need we say more?

“Get your motor runnin’ Head out on the highway Lookin’ for adventure And whatever comes our way Yeah Darlin’ go make it happen Take the world in a love embrace Fire all of your guns at once And explode into space.”

Born to Be Wild is all about taking a motorcycle trip across the country. The movie isn’t bad either.

21. New York State of Mind by Billie Joel

Merav Benaia  told us that it’s the travel song that makes me want to pack my bag and hop on a flight. (event though it’s about taking the bus)

Some folks like to get away Take a holiday from the neighborhood Hop a flight to Miami Beach or to Hollywood But I’m takin’ a Greyhound on the Hudson River line I’m in a New York state of mind

I love New York and this is a love song dedicated to the beautiful State. 

Get New York State of Mind on Amazon

22. Sailing, Christopher Cross

Stephanie Broschart stated. “The lyrics from Sailing totally make for a great travel song.”

It’s not far to never-never land, no reason to pretend And if the wind is right you can find the joy of innocence again Oh, the canvas can do miracles, just you wait and see. Believe me.

23. Proud Mary – Tina Turner

Whenever we’re in New Orleans , this is the song that comes to mind. It has amazing energy and gets you in the mood to hop on a riverboat and explore!

Big wheel keep on turnin’ Proud Mary keep on burnin’ Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river

It wasn’t until we took a riverboat tour in New Orleans that we even understood what big wheel keeps on turnin’ meant. It’s the big wheel that propels these riverboats. Cool eh?

24. American Woman by The Guess Who

Lorna Hazen-Francavilla said.  “ It is one of those “roll down the windows and makes crank the tunes kind of songs!”

Even though it is a song about dissing America, a lot of people look at it as a tribute to America. Regardless, it is a song that has a lot of energy.

Check it out on Amazon .

25. Man in the Mirror by Micheal Jackson

Claire Algarme “ I like the beat and the message of the song. It also reminds me to be open to everything I see & meet in my travels and how to be a better person at the end of my journeys.

We love the words of The Man in the Mirror .

Travel creates compassion. It brings people together and it is the best education.

This song empowers that feeling. Through travel we have often been compelled to make a difference.

If you want to make the world a better place Take a look at yourself, and then make a change

26. Kathmandu

When we were in Kathmandu before climbing to Everest Base Camp in Nepal.

This song captures the wanderlust of travel.

“I figure baby I’ve got nothing to lose, I’m tired of being blue, That’s why I’m going to Kathmandu Up to the mountains where I’m going to.”

It’s such a fun song.

Check it out on Amazon

27. London Calling by the Clash

Okay, so it might be an anti travel song, but if you just listen to the chorus, London is calling!

so even though the lyrics are pretty angry and depressing, I always sing it when I go to London.

“The ice age is coming, the sun’s zooming in Meltdown expected, the wheat is growing thin Engines stop running, but I have no fear ‘Cause London is drowning I live by the river”

28. Coming to America by Neil Diamond

I said this in our best road trip songs post, and I’ll say it again, I loved listening to this song while cycling down the continent of Africa .

Coming to America captures the hope and freedom of what was America.

Far We’ve been traveling far Without a home But not without a star Free Only want to be free We huddle close Hang on to a dream

The world looked America for so much when he sang this. Hopefully, it will get it’s welcoming status back again in our life.

But in the meantime, we love listening to Neil Diamond, he is the coolest cat in town.

29. Rambling Man by The Allman Brothers

Voted by – Rasheed Hooda – It’s a classic

“I’m on my way to New Orleans this mornin’ I’m leavin’ out of Nashville, Tennessee They’re always having a good time down on the bayou Lord, them Delta women think the world of me”

30. Laredo by Band of Horses

Catherine Reyes   says.”It has been my favourite of song to inspire travel for the past three months. It’s pretty recent and has that good on the road again feel.

“Gonna take a trip to Laredo Gonna take a dip in the lake Oh, I’m at a crossroads with myself I don’t got no one else”

31. Istanbul not Constantinople by They Might Be Giants

I had never heard this song before watching the Umbrella Academy on Netflix. When I heard it, it was my new favourite travel song.

We’ve been to Istanbul many times and we did know that it was once called Constantinople.

Istanbul was Constantinople Now it’s Istanbul, not Constantinople Been a long time gone, Constantinople Now it’s Turkish delight on a moonlit night

So now whenever we go back, you know we are going to be singing this song. It is so much fun.

Seriously, give it a listen!

And add it to your playlist through Amazon $1.29

32. Carolina on my Mind by James Taylor

I just love James Taylor’s calm and soothing voice. And that is exactly what travel is meant to do – calm and sooth.

A lot of can’t travel right now, but we do go to places in our mind, and this captures that daydreaming part of our lives where we imagine being somewhere else.

“In my mind I’m gone to Carolina Can’t you see the sunshine? Can’t you just feel the moonshine? Ain’t it just like a friend of mine To hit me from behind? Yes, I’m gone to Carolina in my mind.”

33. California Dreaming – Mamas and the Papas

I think we all feel this way about California on a winter’s day:

I’d be safe and warm, If I was in L.A. California Dreaming, On such a winter’s day?

And who doesn’t love the vocal harmonies of the Mamas and the Papas?

Start dreaming and get it now.

33. Bali Eyes – Porno for Pyros

When traveling through South East Asia, we discovered this song and became huge fans of the unplugged version by Porno for Pyros.

Ate a mushroom turned into Bali Didn’t look it just jumped down my throat I was starting to die until I Took a trip to Bali Their eyes are god In a glass full of jelly Bali in my eyes

Once we reached Bali, we couldn’t stop playing this one. I think you’ll like it!

34. Sand in My Shoes – Dido

This song captures how amazing travel can be, but how much of a let down it is when you get home.

“Two weeks away feels like the whole world should have changed, But I’m home now, and things still look the same I think I’ll leave it ’til tomorrow to unpack, Try to forget for one night that I’m back in my flat On the road where the cars never stop going through the night, To a life where I can’t watch the sun set”

35. New York by Alicia Keys

There are so many songs about New York City, we could have created a travel song playlist all about New York alone! (Hey that’s a great idea! )

But we could only choose one and while Frank Sinatra, Beastie Boys, and even New York New York from Guys and Dolls springs to mind, I’m going with Alicia Keys beautiful song about New York.

In New York! Concrete jungle where dreams are made of There’s nothing you can’t do now you’re in New York! These streets will make you feel brand new Big lights will inspire you Now you’re in New York

Thank you to everyone who contributed to our Best Travel Songs Playlist. I found a lot of songs I’d never heard of, some old classics and some fun ones too!

Save this list to Pinterest to share these songs about travel.

Do you have a favourite travel song? Share it with us and see if it makes the list!

• 44 of the Best Road Trip Songs to Rock the Long Drive
• 44 Best Gifts for Travelers
• 20 Best Movies to Inspire Wanderlust
• 101 Best Travel Quotes
• Best Travel Books to Inspire the Wanderer in You
• 27 Best Travel Tips from 20 Years of Traveling
• How to Travel the World – The Ultimate Travel Resource

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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25 thoughts on “The Ultimate Travel Songs Playlist to Inspire Wanderlust”

Ah these are some great songs! Some old school, some new, it’s perfect! Its pretty much my karaoke list too. Thanks so much for sharing!

Africa by Toto is classic. Its my favourite one :))) Does anyone use a travel itinerary on the worldee? For inspiration?

Please add the Spanish song Ay Carmela to your playlist.

Haha of course Sweet Home Alabama when you are cruising through bama!

Admiring the time and effort you put into your blog and detailed information you offer. This is the first time i am reading your post and admire that you posted article which gives users lot of information regarding particular topic thanks for this share.

This list is as bad as you could do without trying to be the worst… One Jason Mraz is bad enough, but two? And no Canned Heat “Going Up The Country”.

Great suggestion with – going up the Country.

Thank You for this amazing list, A Playlist for Best English, Hindi and Bengali songs for travel is a very tough work and you have done a great work.

Great list, I’m glad I contributed to the list 😀 I like Midnight train to Georgia. I don’t know bunch of the song, but now I need to have this playlist, I want to hear what others suggested! .-= Dina´s last blog ..Top 8 Animal Street Signs from Australia and New Zealand =-.

We are putting a playlist together on playlist.com when we have the final list compiled we will be putting up the playlist as well so everyone can hear. We didn’t know a few of the songs either, they are awesome. Can’t wait until monday when the new post goes out.

That’s cool! Looking forward to having the playlist 🙂

Hey, hows about something a BIT less cheesy though guys n gals. I give you M.Ward’s Paul’s Song, beautifully mournful and full of bittersweet lonesomeness.

‘How does it feel to be travelling, to live your life on the train oand the aeroplane. Well I ain’t gonna lie to you. Well every town is just the same, when you’ve left your heart in the Portland rain.’ Check it out! .-= Jools Stone´s last blog .. Edinburgh TweetUp Hatches =-.

Thanks Jools, Put it on our facebook fan page and we can include it in our list. Sounds like beautiful lyrics, I would love to include it:)

Whoever submitted “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver must be unaware that he perished in an experimental aircraft.

Haha, I forgot about that. Very ironic.

Great idea guys! I found myself spending too much time on YouTube 😉 and realised I have so many favourite travel songs I can hardly choose. I chose New York State of Mind; I think it is obvious it’s been a while since I last visited my one and only NYC. .-= Merav | AllWays Rental´s last blog ..Take the Tranz Alpine Train and Dream a Little =-.

Great list!! we have a theme song not so much a travel song. What do you think?? 🙂 http://gotpassport.org/2010/01/08/our-gotpassport-family-theme-song/ .-= GotPassport´s last blog .. That’s Right We’re Bad We’re Locals OK- Sort Of! =-.

#40 is my favourite on the list… I remember listening to this song watching the sun going down on Caye Caulker in Belize… amazing! .-= Brendan van Son´s last blog ..Fun Fotography on the Salt Flats =-.

Such an awesome list!!! .-= Andi´s last blog ..Love- Head Over Heels For The Amalfi Coast =-.

I’d love to make a second vote for Weather with You — such a great suggestion by Career Break HQ! (Especially because you two are such fundamentally happy people, and it’s a fundamentally happy song. :)) .-= Melanie@TravelsWithTwo´s last blog ..Strolling Through Hacienda Baru =-.

Thanks Melanie. We will be opening votes on the 9th, looks like it might be a winner already:)

My vote is for the Grateful Dead, the most comforting travel music I can think of. Trucking up to Buffalo is the best album for travel. .-= Shawn´s last blog ..FeedBurner’s Delusional Subscription Statistics =-.

Thanks Shawn. I don’t know if you want to enter your song. You still have a week. We need a specific song, sorry not an album and we have to have it on our facebook page to be included in the final list. Sorry, but we have to follow the rules:)

Excellent list of songs, and such a fun contest! I love that people who are submitting their favorites aren’t just pulling them out of thin air – the songs have real meaning to them…..I’ve been enjoying reading all the entries on your Facebook Page. .-= Trisha´s last blog .. Increase Your Travel Writing Exposure and Readership with Syndication =-.

Thanks Trisha, I have to say we are blown away with the song choices. They are so clever, heartfelt and interesting. It puts my post to shame about favorite travel songs. People are coming up with better choices than I ever could have thought of. It really is the ultimate playlist!

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How to travel the world—by radio

This website lets you eavesdrop on the sounds of distant destinations, from traditional rubab guitar in Afghanistan to Latin pop in Argentina.

Lately, I’ve been traveling the world.

Well, sort of. No longer am I waking up in places far from my home, groggy from a late night of scribbling down the stories I collected the day before. Nor is it a simple task to cross borders and visit relatives who have scattered just about everywhere.

Things are different now, and each day my travels begin like this: I sit down at my dining table, usually early in the morning or late at night when nobody else is awake, with a cup of yerba maté, and I listen to the radio. The radio station is always from somewhere that is not here in New York , and most often it comes from a magical realm called Radio Garden .

This free-to-use website would be almost indistinguishable from Google Earth if it were not for the thousands of little green dots that speckle its digital, rotating globe. Each one of these dots is a local radio station, streaming live.  

Move your mouse and maybe you’ll land in Bujumbura, Burundi; in Dibrugarh, India ; at the edge of the Norway ’s Arctic; or on the rim of the South Pacific. Seemingly no matter how large or small the broadcaster—and no matter how urban or remote the location—if it emits a signal online, it can appear on the site, and you can listen in.

Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic , we have all sought new ways to engage with the world across spans of separation. A Facebook group called “View From My Window,” for example, in which members post pictures from their homes across the planet, has amassed more than two million members. Interest in virtual-reality travel has boomed , as have old-fashioned forms of communication like letter writing , especially during those first cascades of lockdown and isolation.

There is hardly anything easier or more intimate than listening to live radio. During the pandemic, Radio Garden, now available as an app too, has flourished, at times drawing as many as 15 million monthly listeners.  

“We noticed a general uptick in visitors since the pandemic, and also viral spikes from time to time in countries that went in lockdown,” says Jonathan Puckey, the site’s founder. “We received lots of heartwarming emails from people stuck at home expressing their gratitude for the service.”

Eavesdropping on distant destinations

Radio Garden began as a project at the Netherlands Institute for Sound and Vision , where designers and computer programmers overlaid station streams with their geolocations on a 3-D map of the world.

The result is transporting in more ways than one. Dropping in on countries such as Colombia , I’ve had flashbacks to trips past—rambling, romantic accordion music recalling bumpy bus rides on rural roads through the heart of vallenato and cumbia country.

( Learn how travel inspires the music of hip-hop artist Dessa .)

Since I first showed my grandparents that they could scan the radio from Argentina —where my abuela and abuelo were born, and where we still have family—without leaving their kitchen table in America, not a day has gone by when Buenos Aires hasn’t sent us back radio waves of nostalgia.  

Our thoughts turn to vivid memories of easier days, of youth-infused Latin pop filling plazas teeming with people on warm afternoons, and of melancholic evenings spent roaming the cobblestone streets of neighborhoods where the tango was born.

“Sometimes I hear tangos that I haven’t heard in a very, very long time,” Abuela says. “It makes me happy. I sing along, and the words, they just come back. Listening to them reminds me of when I was a child.”

Dropping in on countries such as Colombia, I’ve had flashbacks to trips past—rambling, romantic accordion music recalling bumpy bus rides on rural roads through the heart of vallenato and cumbia country.

Indeed, the radio is a comforting reminder of the sounds that shape our worlds, the soundtracks of our lives, no matter where we live. Perhaps the most spellbinding aspect of the Radio Garden site is its ability to bring us to the most distant of places, allowing us to eavesdrop on communities that we’ve always wanted to visit but, for whatever reason, never could.

I’ve fallen asleep to traditional rubab guitar and flute music from Herat, Afghanistan , on the old Silk Road; practiced my Arabic with the news broadcasts of Radio Damascus ; discovered electronic dance music in Iran and Uzbekistan ; and followed a trail of musical dots deep into the remotest corners of Russian Siberia.

Growing global connections

The most interesting question I like to ask people is where on the Radio Garden globe they’ll visit first. I’ve noticed that each of us seems to have our own criteria for choosing, based on the languages we’re trying to learn, the places we’ve been, or the names of cities we’ve recently heard about on television.

For me, thrilling as it is to drop in on Ouagadougou or Ulaanbaatar or the Azores , it’s all about personal history: I was born and raised in New York, but my family is from everywhere—Latin America, the Middle East, and places in between. My ancestors were merchants who traded not only in goods, but in cultures. Now, because of their wanderings, bits and pieces of half a dozen languages still fly across our dinner tables, and we feel a deep affinity to a mosaic of places and traditions.

Although we’re sometimes told that our cultures (Arab, Jewish, Latino) are in conflict and that some of our places (Syria, Iraq) are difficult to visit, with Radio Garden my family can cross planes of space and time without worry. Abdel Wahab and his oud usher in the morning; Aníbal Troilo and his sad bandoneon accordion fill the night.

( Discover the sound that could preserve Utah’s arches .)

After many months of radio travel, I’ve realized that so much can be conveyed via audio alone, regardless of language—from the rhythm of a particular song to the tone of an impassioned conversation or fervent call to prayer—that I can’t help but think something like Radio Garden has the potential to bring us a little closer as a global community, even if ever-so-slightly.

Maybe it’s fitting, then, that there are no borders on the site, just one Earth of land and oceans where, if you zoom in close enough, you can hear the sounds of humanity.

As travel slowly makes a comeback, I hope these radio stations might teach us what to look for—and listen for—when we’re out in the world again. To listen, even if we can’t understand, to what a taxi driver might be playing in his car. To pause on a walk when we hear music bursting out of an apartment window. To close our eyes, and soak in the sounds.

Sound Journeys

Our planet is filled with sonic wonders to discover, music that moves you, and soundscapes to explore. Tune into our curated Spotify playlists to embark on melodic adventures around the world, from Morocco to Corsica, Vietnam, and beyond. Take a musical journey—to Korea, Italy, the Mississippi Delta, and more—in our collection of stories about sound .

Jordan Salama is a writer whose first book, Every Day the River Changes: Four Weeks Down the Magdalena , chronicles a journey along Colombia’s greatest waterway. Follow him on Instagram and Twitter .

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Matador Original Series

28 Songs That Capture the Spirit of Travel (With Videos)

T HERE’S A GOOD reason many of us take music with us when we travel; it can transport us — back home, away from an overcrowded bus, or through a restless night.

Music helps us connect to others — to fellow travelers who might share our taste in songs and to locals who might not speak our language but can carry the rhythm.

For those of us with gipsy blood, music can speak to who we are and why it is that we can never seem to settle down. Music engenders a desire to see a new place, or to travel simply for the joy of the journey.

In the few minutes that a song lasts, the ember of wanderlust inside us can be stoked into a bonfire that can’t be ignored. Suddenly, we’re inspired to earn that money, book that flight, pack that bag — do whatever it takes to get back on the road.

So here I present thirty songs that best capture the spirit of travel.

Go ahead and load up your phone, slip on your earphones, and crank up the tunes. Who knows where these songs will take you.

Songs About Place

Certain songs take you immediately to a specific place. They precisely capture somewhere you’ve been or inspire you to plan a trip to the locale forever locked in lyrics.

Other songs don’t name names, but in your mind, the place evoked by the tune is so exact you have no doubt what town, city, or country the singer is crooning about…until you meet another traveler who pictures an entirely different place every time that song is played.

1. Carolina in My Mind by James Taylor

Who doesn’t see that Carolina sunshine or feel that moonshine when this classic comes through the speakers? I certainly hear “the highway calling” each time this song appears on my play list.

The vivid imagery of this song–colored cottons, charming cobras–brings this famed Moroccan city right to life. Can you resist its call?

Come on, I couldn’t leave this one off, could I? It’s classic.

Strange and bewildering is certainly one way to describe this town. If you’ve been there, I’m sure you can think of many other fitting adjectives.

5. Graceland by Paul Simon

On the surface, sure, it’s a song about Memphis, but I think we all have our own Graceland, that place where we go for reasons we can’t explain, with the hope of being well received.

In each of our histories, there’s that “happy little foreign town,” where we danced, laughed, and were in love with every minute of every day. It’s the place we find a way to go back to time and again, even if just in our memories.

It’s the town not in any guidebook, the one you found when you got off the train at the wrong stop or surreptitiously shared a hostel room with someone who had just come from there. It’s the restaurant without a sign, the guestroom tucked away in a back alley, the beach you’ll never be able to find again…but will always remember.

Songs About How To Travel

A common maxim reminds us that it’s not the destination, but the journey that matters. If it’s about the journey, then the method of transportation is important.

By boat, by train, by foot, by car…the manner in which we travel plays a large role in the way in which we experience the world.

8. Proud Mary by CCR

Is it possible to listen to this song and not want to give up that “good job in the city” to “hitch a ride on a river boat queen”? Whether it’s on the Mississippi, the Amazon, the Nile, the Ganges, or some smaller, quieter river, boats are a great throwback way to travel.

I’m not sure you can call yourself a traveler if you’ve never made at least one trip by train, passing time playing cards with friends and watching the world pass outside your window.

Songs About the Reasons We Travel

We each have our private reasons for taking a trip, but there are common themes that link travelers.

Often we journey in search of something–ourselves, love, adventure, understanding, the place we belong. Sometimes we go simply because we can’t stand to stay where we are or because of an almost desperate urge for movement.

And in some cases, there is no reason. We travel simply because we are travelers.

Stay in one place too long and sometimes it really seems that you can feel the grass growing underfoot. That’s when you know for certain that it’s time to move on.

10. The World at Large by Modest Mouse

With the changing of seasons comes a desire for a change of scenery. The migrating instinct awakes in our souls.

While every trip might be a search for somewhere new or different, it’s also true that every journey away from home is an opportunity to better understand the place from which we come.

You have them – the friends who stayed at home and settled down. You look at their lives and can’t imagine finding happiness that way. They, on the other hand, look at your life and wonder why you always have to take “the long way around.” Different strokes, right?

Some people are content to sit on the shorelines, but those of us who travel know that we’ve got to get out there and chance the rapids, dance in the tides, and follow the dream wherever it leads.

As Steven Tyler sings, “our hopes and dreams are out there somewhere.” We can stay where we are and hope our dreams come to us or we can go out and find that better place. I’m not seeing much of a choice here.

If you live for that feeling of freedom that comes with arriving in a destination where no one knows you, there’s nothing in the world that can hold you down.

16. Ramble On by Led Zeppelin

Is it love that we’re all looking for as we ramble on? Maybe… though not necessarily romantic love. Love of a place, love of a time, love of life itself.

Sometimes the road is lonely and the destination isn’t always clear, but the dream is always big enough to compel us to walk down that road time and time again.

Trying to explain why you travel to those who’d rather stay in one place is often futile. You’re coming from places too far apart, so sometimes the best answer (and maybe the true answer) is simply that you were “born a ramblin’ man.”

Songs that Capture the Joy of Travel

At the end of the day, what most often inspires us to go is the ecstasy of travel, pure and simple. The frustrations of airports, the struggles with packing, and the tedium of days spent working all fade away when you set off on your journey.

Who hasn’t scanned the departures at the airport and recalled all the places that they’ve already been and made plans for the places still to be explored?

Going places that you’ve never been, seeing things that you’ve never seen, making music with your friends…isn’t that what travel is all about?

The only question this song leaves to ponder is: what day isn’t a good day to run?

Fly the skies, see the seas, run around all the continents. Go ahead, roam without a care.

I’m not sure it’s possible to resist this siren’s call to walk with her in yellow-grassed fields, to stand with her atop a mountain, to lie with her under a tin roof in the rain. It’s travel the romantic way.

23. Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz

Just think of all the places you would visit if you could fly, taking off with every whim. And travel without the hassle of the airport…I’m not sure it gets better than that.

Windows down, gas tank full, an open road in front of you. This song demands that you sing along as you see the world from behind the wheel.

When you’re able to find home on the road, you know that you’ve reached a new level of travel and you no longer care how the world defines you.

Though I’ve yet to actually meet anyone who can claim they’ve been everywhere, there certainly are a lot of people trying. Regardless of whether you like to hit as many spots as you can or take it slow and easy through one place, rambling through the many places listed in this song is always fun.

Everybody wants to be king of something, and if you’re a traveler, there’s no better kingdom than the road.

28. Around the World by the Red Hot Chili Peppers

No arguing here. Life is indeed beautiful all around the world.

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29 Songs about Traveling and Adventure – The Perfect Road Trip Songs (Plus: Songs during Covid-19)

Traveling videos are filled with epic, memorable travel songs. They glorify the trip. And let’s be honest, everyone plays once in a while the favorite song in the head while traveling the world.

This list is dedicated to songs about traveling and backpacking. Every single song is written with the wanderlust-mindset.

We created one more article dedicated to travel music. Listen to 31 best travel songs we play over and over.

We also recently discovered an incredible Road trip on Spotify. If you use it, check this Road trip playlist now .

BUT… This collection of 29 songs about traveling is something special and differe

And if you’re interested in more travel quotes, you can check out these good reads.

• funny travel quotes
• travel quotes for friends
• best adventure quotes

Or if you haven’t placed a bio on Instagram, here are amazing bios you can check this out.

My favorite song is #28 . So keep scrolling and give it a play . At the end of this list, you will find now as well songs to keep you motivated during the Covid-19 Crisis. These are also songs about and for travelers, but being stuck at home.

Let’s start with a bit Traveling Wilburys, these guys know how to make your trip more pleasant with a song.

1. Traveling Wilburys – End Of The Line

Well it’s all right, riding around in the breeze Well it’s all right if you live the life you please Well it’s all right, doing the best you can Well it’s all right, as long as you lend a hand

You can sit around and wait for the phone to ring (End of the Line) Waiting for someone to tell you everything (End of the Line) Sit around and wonder what tomorrow will bring (End of the Line) Maybe a diamond ring

2. A Thousand Miles – Vanessa Carlton

If I could fall into the sky Do you think time would pass me by? ‘Cause you know I’d walk a thousand miles If I could just see you tonight

It’s always times like these When I think of you And I wonder if you ever think of me ‘Cause everything’s so wrong And I don’t belong Living in your precious memory

‘Cause I need you And I miss you And now I wonder

3. Kongos – Traveling On

So long my friend, my foe, my love, my pain The road’s calling out my name Dreaming of La Boheme Maybe I’ll go to Barbizon Or see a girl before she catches cold and she’s gone Or maybe I’ll just travel on Travel on

So long my flame, my warmth, my fear, my fight The road’s calling again tonight Dreaming under street lights Maybe I’ll catch a train to Rome See the world until I can’t go on Then maybe I’ll come traveling home

4. Travelling – Paper Lions

Travelling the road, last known is where I want to be My compass directing, electing, an open road with golden trees But there’s an old man in need on the ground, I try not to make a sound He holds out his hand as I walk away, I hear him say

Please don’t be a stranger in my place Traveling come to a tavern for a momentary rest I see the old man that I passed on the road in his distress As I turned to go I can hear him say, “Son, stay. Have a drink, I’ll pay.”

5. Peter, Paul, and Mary – Leaving on a Jet Plane.

So kiss me and smile for me Tell me that you’ll wait for me Hold me like you’ll never let me go

I’m leavin’ on a jet plane I don’t know when I’ll be back again Oh babe, I hate to go

Now the time has come to leave you One more time let me kiss you Then close your eyes, I’ll be on my way

Dream about the days to come When I won’t have to leave alone About the time, I won’t have to say

6. John Denver – Take Me Home, Country Roads

Almost heaven, West Virginia, Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah River. Life is old there, older than the trees, younger than the mountains, blowing like a breeze.

Country roads, take me home to the place I belong. West Virginia, mountain mamma, take me home, country roads.

All my memories gather round her, miner’s lady, stranger to blue water. Dark and dusty, painted on the sky, misty taste of moonshine, teardrop in my eye.

7. Passenger – Travelling Alone

This song is a very special one. It is about an old man traveling the world – missing his passed wife.

I included the video where Passenger explains the story behind the traveling song.

Australian man, Scandinavian tan, Kicking stones round a square. Sat for a while and carved out a smile, As if someone would care.

Said I’m a long way from the Gold Coast. Furthest I’ve ever known, Oh and this just ain’t my home. It was my wife’s idea, but she’s no longer here. She left me travelling alone.

I never heard silence ring out like a bell. I never heard silence like last night in my expensive hotel. Well, I’m loving a shadow, I’m trying to catch the rain. But I never heard silence ’til I heard it today.

She walked out of the hotel, I could still smell the smoke of the burning heart left inside. She said men are all assholes And life’s a bad joke. She laughed and started to cry.

This is the full song and the official video:

8. Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man 1961

I’m a travelin’ man Made a lot of stops all over the world And in every port I own the heart Of at least one lovely girl

I’ve a pretty Seniorita waiting for me Down in old Mexico If you’re ever in Alaska stop and see My cute little Eskimo

Oh, my sweet Fraulien down in Berlin town Makes my heart start to yearn And my China doll down in old Hong Kong Waits for my return

Pretty Polynesian baby, over the sea I remember the night When we walked in the sand of Waikiki And I held you, oh, so tight

9. BUDAPEST – George Ezra

My house in Budapest My, my hidden treasure chest Golden grand piano My beautiful Castillo

You Ooh, you Ooh, I’d leave it all

My acres of a land That I’ve achieved It may be hard for you to Stop and believe

10. Bright Eyes “First Day Of My Life”

This is the first day of my life Swear I was born right in the doorway I went out in the rain, suddenly everything changed They’re spreading blankets on the beach

Yours was the first face that I saw I think I was blind before I met you I don’t know where I am, I don’t know where I’ve been But I know where I want to go

And so I’d thought I’d let you know That these things take forever, I especially am slow But I realized that need you And I wondered if I could come home

11. Blaumut – Vent que mou el temps

T’imagino cap per avall, amb les cames a una branca i el teu cos, que es va gronxant, mentre cauen pensaments que es desprenen amb la força d’un got d’aigua a l’inrevés.

Un, dos, tres…, són les últimes gotes, i res més. Tres, dos, un…, s’evaporen i s’enfilen cap amunt, amunt, amunt, van tan amunt…

Que l’aire es torna vent, vent que mou el temps, temps que passa ràpid i fa empentes al present, present damunt del cap i el cap massa ocupat a no deixar-se res a les butxaques del passat. Vent que mou el temps.

12. Alvaro Soler – El Mismo Sol

Te digo claro claro No es nada raro raro Así se puede amor Un mundo enano enano Estamos mano a mano Solo hace falta el amor Se puede amor Yo quiero que este sea el mundo que conteste Del este hasta oeste Y bajo el mismo sol Ahora nos vamos Sí juntos celebramos Aquí todos estamos bajo el mismo sol Y bajo el mismo sol

13. Matt Simons – Catch & Release

There’s a place I go to Where no one knows me It’s not lonely It’s a necessary thing It’s a place I made up Find out what I’m made of The nights are stayed up Counting stars and fighting sleep Let it wash over me Ready to lose my feet

Take me on to the place where one reviews life’s mistery Steady on down the line Lose every sense of time Take it all in and wake up that small part of me Day to day I’m blind to see And find how far To go

Everybody got their reason Everybody got their way We’re just catching and releasing What builds up throughout the day

14. Ed Sheeran ft. Kygo – Running Away

I’ve known it for a long time Daddy wakes up to a drink at nine Disappearing all night I don’t wanna know where he’s been lying I know what I wanna do Wanna run away, run away with you Gonna grab clothes, six in the morning go

How long you leaving? Well, dad, just don’t expect me back this evening Oh, it could take a bit of time to heal this It’s been a long day, thumb on side of the roadway, but

I love him from my skin to my bones But I don’t wanna live in his home There’s nothing to say ’cause he knows I’ll just run away and be on my own

I’ve never seen my dad cry Cold as stone in the kitchen light I’ll tell you it’s about time But I was raised to keep quiet This is what I’m gonna do Gonna run away, gonna make that move Gonna grab clothes and when it’s morning go How long you leaving? Well, dad, just don’t expect me back this evening Oh, it could take a bit of time to heal this It’s been a long day, thumb on side of the roadway, but

15. American Authors – What We Live For

This is what I live for Baby, you’re my open road You can take me anywhere the wind blows Right into the great unknown We can throw our hands up out the window This is what we live for We look up at the stars, a perfect night to dream with you Got nineties retro on the radio, our favorite tune I put the pedal to the metal just to laugh with you It’s interstellar when it’s just us two

16. Tom Walker – Fly Away With Me

I’m strummin on the corner About to catch the last train home I’ll have to jump the barriers So can you spare a penny for my thoughts I’ve been praised upon the pavements Passers by don’t pay much Chased away by neighbours Seen things you couldnt make up If the streets could talk they’d tell a story or two I’ll paint a picture for you

I can tell you what it feels like To lose your home on a cold night Can you see the blood in my red eyes Have another total forget life So come on fly away with me To a place where we could be anyone we wanna be And we can bottle up our fears Grow a taste so sweet, knock us off our feet and more Burn our troubles Inhale them all Paint our future on a fractured wall So come on fly away with me To a place where we can be anyone we wanna be

17. Epic Road Trip Acoustic/Folk/Indie Compilation – Summer 2017 (1-Hour Playlist) #3

18. Summer Drive Playlist (INDIE/POP/ALTERNATIVE MUSIC)

19. Daft Punk – Around The World

Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world

20. Gorillaz – Feel Good Inc.

City’s breaking down on a camel’s back They just have to go ‘cause they don’t know whack So all you fill the streets, it’s appealin’ to see You won’t get out the county ‘cause you’re bad and free You got a new horizon, it’s ephemeral style A melancholy town where we never smile And all I wanna hear is the message beep

21. Ed Sheeran – Castle On The Hill

When I was six years old I broke my leg I was running from my brother and his friends And tasted the sweet perfume of the mountain grass I rolled down I was younger then, take me back to when I

Found my heart and broke it here Made friends and lost them through the years And I’ve not seen the roaring fields in so long, I know I’ve grown But I can’t wait to go home

I’m on my way Driving at ninety down those country lanes Singing to “Tiny Dancer” And I miss the way you make me feel, and it’s real We watched the sunset over the castle on the hill

22. CHANGE by Some Poetries

As long as I turn my face into the light

I leave dark things behind

It feels like

I’m alive, I’m alive, I’m alive for the first time

Just because we found each other

Just because we cross dark ways

Just because of the pretty face

23. Our Adventure (EP) – The Long Valley

We found this travel music by chance.

We were looking for the most beautiful cities to visit in France, when we came across this video.

This video has the background music of “The Long Valley” “Our Adventure”.

24. Asaf Avidan – One day / Reckoning Song

One day baby, we’ll be old Oh baby, we’ll be old And think of all the stories that we could have told One day baby, we’ll be old

Oh baby, we’ll be old And think of all the stories that we could have told

No more tears, my heart is dry I don’t laugh and I don’t cry I don’t think about you all the time But when I do, I wonder why

25. Part-Time Friends – Here We Are

Something rise and fall We thought we never lost control Here we are Something rise and fall We thought we never lost control Here we are Silence Et si les vagues éteignent nos âmes Dans l’étourdissant vacarme Here we are Dansent les milles visages Dans ce si beau mirage Here we are Je t’emmène une dernière fois suivre cette lumière qui ne s’éteint pas Here we are Something rise and fall We thought we never lost control Here we are Something rise and fall We thought we never lost control Here we are

26. Jose Gonzalez – Step Out (from the movie The Secret Life of Walter Mitty)

Dark as night, let the lightning guide you

Time to step outside, time to step outside Time to step outside you

House on fire, leave it all behind you. Living life, feeding appetites. Stayed through every hard stop, every go. Being bland Breathing half the time. House on fire, leave it all behind you. Dark as night, let the lightning guide you

27. Coldplay – Gravity

Baby It’s been a long time coming Such a long, long time And I can’t stop running Such a long, long time Can you hear my heart beating? Can you hear that sound? ‘Cause I can’t help thinking And I won’t stop now And then I looked up at the sun

And I could see Oh, the way that gravity pulls on you and me And then I looked up at the sky And saw the sun And the way that gravity pushes on everyone On everyone

28. Imagine Dragons – Not Today from ME BEFORE YOU

There she goes in front of me Take my life and set me free again We’ll make a memory out of it Holy road is at my back Don’t look on, take me back again We’ll make a memory out of it We finally fall apart and we break each other’s hearts If we wanna live young, love, we better start today It’s gotta get easier, oh easier somehow ‘Cause I’m falling, I’m falling Oh easier and easier somehow Oh I’m calling, I’m calling And it isn’t over, unless it is over I don’t wanna wait for that It’s gotta get easier and easier somehow But not today Not today

29. Alkey – Travel of life

30. On Top Of The World by Imagine Dragons

‘Cause I’m on top of the world, ‘ey I’m on top of the world, ‘ey Waiting on this for a while now Paying my dues to the dirt I’ve been waiting to smile, ‘ey Been holding it in for a while, ‘ey Take it with me if I can Been dreaming of this since a child I’m on top of the world

I’ve tried to cut these corners Try to take the easy way out I kept on falling short of something

I could gave up then but Then again I couldn’t have ’cause

Covid-19 Travel Songs

It is indeed tough times; for pretty much all of us. We extended this list for  favorite songs you can listen to when you are stuck at home due to lock-downs and restrictions.

O “Fly On” – Coldplay

A flock of birds Hovering above Just a flock of birds That’s how you think of love

And I always Look up to the sky Pray before the dawn ‘Cause they fly always Sometimes they arrive Sometimes they are gone

They fly on A flock of birds Hovering above Into smoke I’m turned and rise Following them up Still I always

Look up to the sky Pray before the dawn ‘Cause they fly always One minute they arrive

It’s Time – Imagine Dragons

So, this is what you meant? When you said that you were spent And now it’s time to build from the bottom of the pit Right to the top

Don’t hold back Packing my bags and giving the academy a rain check I don’t ever wanna let you down I don’t ever wanna leave this town ‘Cause after all

This city never sleeps at night It’s time to begin, isn’t it? I get a little bit bigger, but then I’ll admit I’m just the same as I was

Now don’t you understand That I’m never changing who I am So this is where you fell And I am left to sell The path to heaven runs through miles of clouded hell

Right to the top Don’t look back Turning to rags and giving the commodities a rain check

Dani Martin – Cero (Spanish Song)

All what we saw has gone I dreamed that always I’d go by side That what we invented it’s not anymore Now just exists past

And it’s time for me to understand What I do with your hugs Now it’s time to learn How to stop loving To know how to erase it well And how It comes it gone That today it’s ZERO

I want That everything starts all over again That everything turn back That everything comes from Zero From zero

And I want that everything sounds again That everything shines again That everything comes from zero From zero

Original Lyrics in Spanish:

Quiero… Que todo vuelva a empezar Que todo vuelva a girar Que todo venga de cero De cero

Y quiero que todo vuelva a sonar Que todo vuelva a brillar Que todo venga de cero De cero

Queen – We Are The Champions

I’ve paid my dues Time after time I’ve done my sentence But committed no crime

And bad mistakes I’ve made a few I’ve had my share of sand Kicked in my face But I’ve come through And we mean to go on and on and on and on We are the champions, my friends And we’ll keep on fighting till the end

We are the champions We are the champions No time for losers ‘Cause we are the champions of the World

Skylar Grey – Coming Home

Summary: Travel Music for your Road Trip

I hope this list ultimate travel playlist gave you a great boost of wanderlust while you are road-tripping, getting to your holiday destination, or simply dreaming about traveling again.

The world of music is rich with songs about travel and adventure. Popular songs about traveling, whether they are modern compositions or classics, often have a way of evoking the thrill and beauty of discovering new places. These songs may have subtle travel references in the lyrics or might revolve entirely around the theme of journeying.

For those seeking a romantic aspect, there are songs about traveling with your love, which make perfect soundtracks for couples’ road trips or backpacking adventures.

Moreover, various genres depict this universal theme, from the narrative tales in country songs about traveling to the rhythmic beats and poetic expressions in hip-hop travel songs.

Not to be left out, rock songs about traveling often capture the raw energy and freedom associated with hitting the road.

Each genre brings a unique perspective to traveling, yet all share the universal message of the transformative power of journeys.

You can also listen to the 31 best travel songs about Wanderlust we found.

Or maybe have a good read of these inspiring travel quotes and captions to match Instagram photos and WhatsApp statuses.

• 499 best Instagram captions of all time
• 131 Tasty Food Quotes Perfect As Instagram Captions
• 119 cool quotes for WhatsApp
• How to rent a car in Europe? A simple solution
• the best travel quotes and photos you can copy-paste
• more funny Instagram captions

Safe travels!

Pin it for later.

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I love listening to travel songs, thanks for sharing the songs.

You left out Allman Bros, Rambling Man… Just Sayin’ …

Nice add-on, Rick 😉 Thanks!

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75 Travel Songs to add to your Playlist in 2024 – Mixtape #2

We curated the second mixtape of the best travel songs.

This list features classic songs about traveling to brand new tracks.

You can find more travel songs here:

• Summer Mixtape #1 for the perfect travelers playlist
• 17 best Backpacker Songs you’ve to know
• 10 songs for exploring the world

This list features a lot of cool songs you’ve to put on your phone. However, and always remember this, go out there and create your own travel songs.

What do we mean by that?

During your travels you will end up in a lot of fun situations.

You will collect memories, and a few songs will take part in it. Then, when you are back home or wherever, you will hear this special song in the radio – and it takes you right back to those fun situations you will cherish forever.

For us, this is for instance “We don’t talk anymore” – we traveled Vietnam for 3 months and some local in every single village, town and city played it at least once. We turned crazy, yet it’s today a part of the experience. Then in Labuan Bajo, while taking the boat cruise around the Komodo National Park, the boat crew only had only one song to play, HIOKO TOBELO 2 – Yopie Latul .

Read : +180 short travel stories

75 Travel Songs to Wanderlust

Okay, enough of the mambo jambo. Turn on your audio and hit the play button. This list of the best 75 travel songs is waiting for you.

I included my personal favorite travel song as #75.

Update : We had to break the songs in several pages, otherwise the page takes too long to load.

Please be patient and wait for the YouTube video to load.

1. Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man

I’m a travelin’ man I’ve made a lot of stops all over the world And in every part I own the heart Of at least one lovely girl

I’ve a pretty Señorita waiting for me Down in old Mexico If you’re ever in Alaska stop and see My cute little Eskimo

Oh, my sweet Fraulein down in Berlin town Makes my heart start to yearn And my China doll down in old Hong Kong Waits for my return

Pretty Polynesian baby over the sea I remember the night When we walked in the sands of the Waikiki And I held you, oh so tight

2. The Melodic – “On My Way”

I found an open door (I’m on my way) I think of love once more (I’m on my way)

Precious time on your own Seeing more than you care to say And the mist falls away (I’m on my way)

At times I’ve tried to feel (I’m on my way) With the thoughts I tried to steal (I’m on my way)

Left forgotten like young love All the choices I am made of When the push comes to shove

3. Passenger – Traveling Alone

Australian man, Scandinavian tan, Kicking stones round a square. Sat for a while and carved out a smile, As if someone would care.

Said I’m a long way from the Gold Coast. Furthest I’ve ever known, Oh and this just ain’t my home. It was my wife’s idea, but she’s no longer here. She left me travelling alone.

I never heard silence ring out like a bell. I never heard silence like last night in my expensive hotel. Well, I’m loving a shadow, I’m trying to catch the rain. But I never heard silence ’til I heard it today.

She walked out of the hotel, I could still smell the smoke of the burning heart left inside. She said men are all assholes And life’s a bad joke. She laughed and started to cry.

See, ten years with this man, And a life time of plans, Oh, and I loved him to his bones. Now I’ve lines on my skin And he’s traded me in. He left me travelling alone.

Well, I never felt silence hit me like a train. I never felt silence like blood coursed through my veins. Well, I’m loving a shadow, and I’m trying to catch the rain. I never heard silence ’til I heard it today. I never felt silence ’til I felt it today.

4. Band of Horses – The Funeral

I’m coming up only to hold you under I’m coming up only to show you wrong And to know you is hard, we wonder To know you, all wrong we were

Ooh-ooh Ooh-ooh

Really too late to call, so We wait for Morning to wake you, that’s all we got To know me as hardly golden Is to know me all wrong, they were

At every occasion, I’ll be ready for the funeral Every occasion, once more, it’s called the funeral Every occasion, know I’m ready for the funeral Every occasion, oh, one billion-day funeral

5. X Ambassadors – Renegades

Run away with me Lost souls and reverie Running wild and running free Two kids, you and me

6. Noah And The Whale – Blue Skies

This is a song for anyone with a broken heart This is a song for anyone who can’t get out of bed

I’ll do anything to be happy

Oh, ’cause blue skies are coming

But I know that it’s hard

This is the last song that I write while still in love with you This is the last song that I write while you’re even on my mind

’cause it’s time to leave those feelings behind Oh, ’cause blue skies are coming But I know that it’s hard

7. Coldplay – Adventure Of A Lifetime

Turn your magic on, to me she’d say Everything you want’s a dream away We are legends, every day That’s what she told him

I feel my heart beating I feel my heart beneath my skin I feel my heart beating Oh, you make me feel

Like I’m alive again Alive again Oh, you make me feel Like I’m alive again

8. Red Hot Chili Peppers – Californication

Psychic spies from China try to steal your mind’s elation And little girls from Sweden dream of silver screen quotation And if you want these kind of dreams it’s Californication It’s the edge of the world and all of western civilization

The sun may rise in the East at least it’s settled in a final location It’s understood that Hollywood sells Californication Pay your surgeon very well to break the spell of aging Celebrity skin is this your chin or is that war you’re waging?

9. Of Monsters and Men – Dirty Paws

Jumping up and down the floor My head is an animal And once there was an animal It had a son that mowed the lawn The son was an OK guy They had a pet dragonfly The dragonfly it ran away But it came back with a story to say

Her dirty paws and furry coat She ran down the forest slope The forest of talking trees They used to sing about the birds and the bees The bees had declared a war The sky wasn’t big enough for them all The birds, they got help from below From dirty paws and the creatures of snow

10. Foo Fighters – These Days

One of these days, the ground will drop out from beneath your feet One of these days, your heart will stop and play it’s final beat

One of these days, the clocks will stop and time won’t mean a thing One of these days, their bombs will drop and silence everything

But it’s alright, yeah it’s alright, said it’s alright Easy for you to say Your heart has never been broken Your pride has never been stolen Not yet, not yet, one of these days I bet your heart ‘ll be broken I bet your pride ‘ll be stolen I’ll bet, I’ll bet, I’ll bet, I’ll bet One of these days, one of these days

11. David Bowie – Heroes

I, I wish you could swim Like the dolphins Like dolphins can swim Though nothing, nothing will keep us together

We can beat them, forever and ever

Oh, we can be heroes just for one day

I, I will be King And you, you will be Queen Though nothing will drive them away We can be heroes just for one day We can be us just for one day

12. Ben Howard – Old Pine

Hot sand on toes, cold sand in sleeping bags I’ve come to know that memories Were the best things you ever had The summer shone beat down on bony backs

So far from home where the ocean stood Down dust and pine cone tracks We slept like dogs down by the fire side Awoke to the fog all around us

The boom of summer time We stood Steady as the stars in the woods So happy-hearted

And the warmth rang true inside these bones As the old pine fell we sang Just to bless the morning

13. The Byrds – I Wasn’t Born To Follow

Recommended by the Hostelgeeks community member Alexandra.

No I’d rather go and journey Where the diamond crescent’s glowing And run across the valley Beneath the sacred mountain And wander through the forest

Where the trees have leaves of prisms And break the light in colors That no one know the names of

And when it’s time I’ll go and lay Beside the legendary fountain ‘Till I see her form reflected

In its clear and jewelled waters And if you think I’m ready You may lead me to the chasm Where the rivers of our visions Flow into one another

14. Imagine Dragons – Not Today

There she goes in front of me Take my life and set me free again We’ll make a memory out of it Holy road is at my back Don’t look on, take me back again

We’ll make a memory out of it We finally fall apart and we break each other’s hearts

If we wanna live young, love, we better start today It’s gotta get easier, oh easier somehow

‘Cause I’m falling, I’m falling Oh easier and easier somehow

Oh I’m calling, I’m calling And it isn’t over, unless it is over I don’t wanna wait for that It’s gotta get easier and easier somehow But not today Not today

15. Mumford & Sons – Hopeless Wanderer

You heard my voice, I came out of the woods by choice Shelter also gave their shade But in the dark I have no name So leave that click in my head And I will remember the words that you said Left a clouded mind and a heavy heart But I am sure we could see a new start So when your hopes on fire But you know your desire Don’t hold a glass over the flame Don’t let your heart grow cold I will call you by name I will share your road

But hold me fast, hold me fast ‘Cause I’m a hopeless wanderer And hold me fast, hold me fast ‘Cause I’m a hopeless wanderer

16. Paper Lions – Travelling

Travelling the road, last known is where I want to be My compass directing, electing, an open road with golden trees But there’s an old man in need on the ground, I try not to make a sound He holds out his hand as I walk away, I hear him say

Please don’t be a stranger in my place Travelling come to a tavern for a momentary rest

I see the old man that I passed on the road in his distress As I turned to go I can hear him say, “Son, stay. Have a drink, I’ll pay.” Let bygones be gone, it’s all in the past, we raise a glass Please don’t be a stranger in my place

What if I could be what you wanted me to be What if I could see what you wanted me to see Come on and show me Please don’t be a stranger in my place

17. Ramon Mirabet – Home Is Where The Heart is

Shining sun means new start.

it’s time for me to face my fate

and follow my heart.

I’m coming home,

I’m coming home.

home is where the heart is.

it’s never late to find the answer up in the stars.

18. Dream Land (Road Trip)

19. Our adventure – The Long Valley

20. The Weeknd – Wanderlust

Is it so hard to say the same thing? And you’re so weak to say the same thing And burn a hole into your apprehensiveness And let the wildfire shine And repeat after me

Good girls go to heaven, And bad girls go everywhere And tonight I will love you And tomorrow you won’t care

You’re in love with something bigger than love You believe in something stronger than trust

Wanderlust Wanderlust

21. Creed – With Arms Wide Open

Well I just heard the news today It seems my life is going to change I close my eyes, begin to pray Then tears of joy stream down my face

With arms wide open Under the sunlight Welcome to this place I’ll show you everything With arms wide open With arms wide open

22. The Lumineers – Ho Hey

I been trying to do it right (Hey) I been living a lonely life (Ho) I been sleepin’ here instead (Hey) I been sleepin’ in my bed (Ho) I been sleepin’ in my bed (hey ho)

so show me family (Hey) all the blood that I will bleed (Ho) I don’t know where I belong (Hey) I don’t know where I went wrong (Ho) but I can write a song (hey)

23. Bastille – Pompeii

I was left to my own devices Many days fell away with nothing to show

And the walls kept tumbling down In the city that we love Grey clouds roll over the hills Bringing darkness from above

But if you close your eyes Does it almost feel like Nothing changed at all? And if you close your eyes Does it almost feel like You’ve been here before?

24. Green day – Time of your life

Another turning point, a fork stuck in the road Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go

So make the best of this test, and don’t ask why It’s not a question, but a lesson learned in time It’s something unpredictable, but in the end it’s right I hope you had the time of your life

So take the photographs, and still-frames in your mind Hang them on a shelf in good health and good time Tattoo’s of memories and dead skin on trial For what it’s worth, it was worth all the while

It’s something unpredictable, but in the end it’s right I hope you had the time of your life

25. The Script – Hall of Fame

Yeah, you could be the greatest You can be the best

You can be the King Kong banging on your chest You could beat the world You could beat the war

You could talk to God, go banging on his door You can throw your hands up You can beat the clock You can move a mountain You can break rocks You can be a master Don’t wait for luck Dedicate yourself and you can find yourself

26. Red Hot Chili Peppers – Road Trippin’

Road trippin’ with my two favorite allies Fully loaded we got snacks and supplies It’s time to leave this town it’s time to steal away Let’s go get lost anywhere in the U.S.A.

Let’s go get lost, let’s go get lost

Blue you sit so pretty West of the one Sparkles light with yellow icing, just a mirror for the sun Just a mirror for the sun Just a mirror for the sun

These smiling eyes are just a mirror for So much as come before those battles lost and won This life is shining more forever in the sun Now let us check our heads and let us check the surf Staying high and dry’s More trouble than it’s worth in the sun

27. Moby – Porcelain

In my dreams I’m dying all the time Then I wake it’s kaleidoscopic mind I never meant to hurt you I never meant to lie

So this is goodbye? This is goodbye

Tell the truth, you’ve never wanted me Tell me

28. Imagine Dragons – On Top of the World

If you love somebody Better tell them why they’re here ’cause They just may run away from you

You’ll never know what went well Then again it just depends on How long of time is left for you

I’ve had the highest mountains I’ve had the deepest rivers You can have it all but not til you move it

29. Part-Time Friends – Here We Are

Silence Ici nos âmes tutoient le ciel Et nos hymnes éternels

Here we are L’aube de nos dernières transes Laisse un vide immense

Here we are Je t’emmène une dernière fois suivre cette lumière qui ne s’éteint pas

Here we are Something rise and fall We thought we never lost control

Here we are

30. Crystal Fighters – Love Natural

Everyone, anyone who want to hear Move in a little closer, let me tell you about A love natural, oh that love actual Love that you just can’t help feeling

When feelings with meanings keep on appearing And it’s almost midnight, the time is coming up The time is getting closer, the time is almost here Life is upon us and the time for love is here and now

When I look at you, oh I feel my heart Oh, I feel your love deep inside

Oh, love natural, I can’t believe how you do it to me You make me feel, oh how you say, feel so special Oh, love natural, I can’t believe how you do it to me You make me feel, oh how you say, feel so special

31. Luis Fonsi – Despacito ft. Daddy Yankee

Sí, sabes que ya llevo un rato mirándote Tengo que bailar contigo hoy (DY) Vi que tu mirada ya estaba llamándome Muéstrame el camino que yo voy (Oh)

Tú, tú eres el imán y yo soy el metal Me voy acercando y voy armando el plan Solo con pensarlo se acelera el pulso (Oh yeah)

32. U2 – Song For Someone

You got a face not spoiled by beauty I have some scars from where I’ve been You’ve got eyes that can see right through me You’re not afraid of anything they’ve seen I was told that I would feel nothing the first time I don’t know how these cuts heal But in you I found a rhyme

33. José González – Stay Alive

There’s a rhythm in rush these days Where the lights don’t move and the colors don’t fade Leaves you empty with nothing but dreams

In a world gone shallow In a world gone lean

Sometimes there’s things a man cannot know Gears won’t turn and the leaves won’t grow There’s no place to run and no gasoline

Engine won’t turn And the train won’t leave

Engines won’t turn and the train won’t leave I will stay with you tonight

Hold you close ‘til the morning light In the morning watch a new day rise We’ll do whatever just to stay alive We’ll do whatever just to stay alive

34. Don’t fight it, Feel it – AronChupa

Oh baby when the band is playing

Oh and that solid beat

Oh make you wanna move,

make you wanna groove

Make you wanna pat your feet

When we dance close together

With your cheek close to mine

And you begin to feel a funny little thrill

Moving up your spine

35. The Chainsmokers – Paris

We were staying in Paris To get away from your parents And I thought, “Wow If I could take this in a shot right now I don’t think that we could work this out” Out on the terrace I don’t know if it’s fair but I thought “How Could I let you fall by yourself While I’m wasted with someone else”

If we go down then we go down together They’ll say you could do anything They’ll say that I was clever If we go down then we go down together We’ll get away with everything Let’s show them we are better

36. Alvaro Soler – Sofia

Sueño cuando era pequeño Sin preocupación en el corazón

Sigo viendo aquel momento Se desvaneció, desapareció

Ya no te creo, ya no te deseo, eh oh Solo te dejo, solo te deseo, eh oh

37. A R I Z O N A – Oceans Away

I never let My guard go down But you messed me up When you came around When the high wore off

Know you needed space But I don’t wanna wait I don’t wanna mistake Few thousand miles and an ocean away But I see the sunrise, oh, just like the other day Picture your eyes as I fall asleep Tell myself it’s alright, oh oh, as the tears roll by

38. Angus and Julia Stone – Big Jet Plane

She said “hello mister, pleased to meet ya” I wanna hold her, I wanna kiss her She smelled of daisies, she smelled of daisies She drive me crazy, she drive me crazy

Gonna take her for a ride on a big jet plane Gonna take her for a ride on a big jet plane Hey hey Hey hey

39. OK Go – Here It Goes Again

It could be ten, but then again I can’t remember half an hour since a quarter to four Throw on your clothes, the second side of Surfer Rosa And you leave me with my jaw on the floor

Just when you think (think) you’re in control Just when you think (think) you’ve got a hold Just when you get on a roll Here it goes, here it goes, here it goes again Oh, here it goes again I should have known, should have known, should have known again But here it goes again Oh, here it goes again

40. Traveling Wilburys – End Of The Line

Well it’s all right, riding around in the breeze Well it’s all right, if you live the life you please Well it’s all right, doing the best you can Well it’s all right, as long as you lend a hand

You can sit around and wait for the phone to ring (end of the line) Waiting for someone to tell you everything (end of the line) Sit around and wonder what tomorrow will bring (end of the line) Maybe a diamond ring

Well it’s all right, even if they say you’re wrong Well it’s all right, sometimes you gotta be strong Well it’s all right, as long as you got somewhere to lay Well it’s all right, everyday is judgment day

41. Bright Eyes – “First Day Of My Life”

This is the first day of my life Swear I was born right in the doorway I went out in the rain, suddenly everything changed They’re spreading blankets on the beach

Yours was the first face that I saw I think I was blind before I met you I don’t know where I am, I don’t know where I’ve been But I know where I want to go

And so I’d thought I’d let you know That these things take forever, I especially am slow But I realized that need you And I wondered if I could come home

I remember the time you drove all night Just to meet me in the morning And I thought it was strange, you said everything changed You felt as if you just woke up

42. Sons Of The East – Come Away

She sits and she waits by the tree And she thinks no one comes to me Heard it before She stand there all alone Staring blank at her telephone But she’s sure, so sure

Come away with me, baby Join me in my car We can go real far away Away from here

She wants to know his name Wants his wealth, but not his fame Watch your pride

43. Depeche Mode – Enjoy the Silence

Words like violence Break the silence Come crashing in Into my little world

Painful to me Pierce right through me Can’t you understand? Oh my little girl

All I ever wanted All I ever needed

Is here in my arms Words are very unnecessary They can only do harm Vows are spoken

To be broken Feelings are intense Words are trivial Pleasures remain

So does the pain Words are meaningless And forgettable All I ever wanted All I ever needed

Is here in my arms Words are very unnecessary They can only do harm

44. Gladys Knight & The Pips – Midnight Train to Georgia

L.a. Proved too much for the man (Too much for the man, he couldn’t make it) So he’s leavin’ the life he’s come to know, ooh (He said he’s goin’) He said he’s goin’ back to find (Goin’ back to find) Ooh ooh ooh, what’s left of his world The world he left behind Not so long ago

He’s leavin’ (leavin’) On that midnight train to Georgia (Leavin’ on the midnight train) Yeah, said he’s goin’ back (Goin’ back to find) To a simpler place in time (Whenever he takes that ride) oh yes he is (Guess who’s gonna be right by his side)

45. The Sounds – Painted By Numbers

Could I act like you, and put a smile on face? Not even for a second would I lie to myself.. Too many things are missing And there’s a tear in my eye It’s not a question or an answer

But it will change you mind We’ll be the same tomorrow ‘Cause we’ve all been painted my numbers We dance and eyes will follow You said it was love I said I’d like you to be mine

46. Kings Of Convenience – I’d Rather Dance With You

I’d rather dance with you than talk with you So why don’t we just move into the other room There’s space for us to shake and hey, I like this tune

Even if I could hear what you said I doubt my reply would be interesting for you to hear Because I haven’t read a single book all year And the only film I saw, I didn’t like it at all

I’d rather dance, I’d rather dance than talk with you I’d rather dance, I’d rather dance than talk with you I’d rather dance, I’d rather dance than talk with you

47. Alphaville – Forever Young

Let’s dance in style, let’s dance for a while Heaven can wait we’re only watching the skies Hoping for the best, but expecting the worst Are you gonna drop the bomb or not?

Let us die young or let us live forever We don’t have the power, but we never say never Sitting in a sandpit, life is a short trip The music’s for the sad man

Can you imagine when this race is won? Turn our golden the faces into the sun Praising our leaders, we’re getting in tune The music’s played by the, the madman

48. Sting – Englishman In New York

I don’t take coffee, I take tea, my dear I like my toast done on one side And you can hear it in my accent when I talk I’m an Englishman in New York

See me walking down Fifth Avenue A walking cane here at my side I take it everywhere I walk

I’m an Englishman in New York Oh, I’m an alien, I’m a legal alien I’m an Englishman in New York Oh, I’m an alien, I’m a legal alien I’m an Englishman in New York

49. Incubus – Wish You Were Here

I dig my toes into the sand The Ocean looks like a thousand diamonds Strewn across a blue blanket I lean against the wind Pretend that I am weightless And in this moment I am happy happy)

50. Kodaline – All My Friends

So it starts We go back to your house We check the charts And start to figure it out

And if it’s crowded, all the better Cause we know we’re gonna be up late And if you’re worried about the weather Then you picked the wrong place to stay That’s how it starts

51. R.E.M. – Leave

Nothing could be bring me closer Nothing could be bring me near Where is the road I follow? Believing, leave

It’s under, under, under my feet The scene spread out there before me Better I go where the land touches the sea There is my trust in what I believe

52. Mr. Brightside – The Killers

Coming out of my cage And I’ve been doing just fine Gotta gotta be down Because I want it all It started out with a kiss How did it end up like this? It was only a kiss, it was only a kiss Now I’m falling asleep And she’s calling a cab While he’s having a smoke And she’s taking a drag Now they’re going to bed And my stomach is sick And it’s all in my head But she’s touching his chest now He takes off her dress now Let me go And I just can’t look, it’s killing me And taking control

53. David Bowie- Space Oddity

Ground Control to Major Tom Ground Control to Major Tom Take your protein pills and put your helmet on

Ground Control to Major Tom Commencing countdown, engines on Check ignition and may God’s love be with you

54. Queen – Don’t Stop Me Now

Tonight, I’m gonna have myself a real good time I feel alive and the world I’ll turn it inside out, yeah And floating around in ecstasy So don’t stop me now don’t stop me

‘Cause I’m having a good time, having a good time I’m a shooting star, leaping through the sky Like a tiger defying the laws of gravity I’m a racing car, passing by like Lady Godiva

I’m gonna go, go, go There’s no stopping me I’m burnin’ through the sky, yeah Two hundred degrees That’s why they call me Mister Fahrenheit I’m traveling at the speed of light I wanna make a supersonic man out of you

55. Mando Diao – Dance With Somebody

Break your happy home learn to sing alone to the music, to the music Clap your hands and shake on a summer’s day to the music, to the music

I’m falling in love with your favorite song I’m gonna sing it all night long I’m gonna dance with somebody dance with somebody dance dance dance

56. David Gray – “Sail Away”

Sail away with me honey I put my heart in your hands Sail away with me honey now, now, now Sail away with me What will be will be I want to hold you now, now, now

Crazy skies all wild above me now Winter howling at my face And everything I held so dear Disappeared without a trace Oh all the times I’ve tasted love Never knew quite what I had Little darling if you hear me now Never needed you so bad Spinning ’round inside my head

57. Foster The People – Pumped up Kicks

Robert’s got a quick hand He’ll look around the room, he won’t tell you his plan He’s got a rolled cigarette, hanging out his mouth he’s a cowboy kid Yeah found a six shooter gun In his dad’s closet hidden oh in a box of fun things, I don’t even know what But he’s coming for you, yeah he’s coming for you

All the other kids with the pumped up kicks You’d better run, better run, out run my gun All the other kids with the pumped up kicks You’d better run, better run, faster than my bullet All the other kids with the pumped up kicks You’d better run, better run, out run my gun All the other kids with the pumped up kicks You’d better run, better run, faster than my bullet

58. Gorillaz – Clint Eastwood

I ain’t happy, I’m feeling glad I got sunshine in a bag I’m useless but not for long The future is coming on I ain’t happy, I’m feeling glad I got sunshine in a bag I’m useless but not for long The future is coming on It’s coming on It’s coming on It’s coming on

59. Weezer – Island In The Sun

When you’re on a holiday You can’t find the words to say All the things that come to you And I wanna feel it too

On an island in the sun We’ll be playing and having fun And it makes me feel so fine I can’t control my brain

60. Modest Mouse Float

I backed my car into a cop car the other day Well, he just drove off – sometimes life’s okay I ran my mouth off a bit too much, ah what did I say? Well, you just laughed it off and it was all okay

And we’ll all float on okay And we’ll all float on okay And we’ll all float on okay And we’ll all float on anyway, well

A fake Jamaican took every last dime with that scam It was worth it just to learn some sleight of hand Bad news comes, don’t you worry even when it lands Good news will work it way to all them plans We both got fired on, exactly, the same day Well, we’ll float on, good news is on the way

61. MGMT- Kids

You were a child Crawling on your knees toward him Making momma so proud But your voice is too loud

We like to watch you laughing Picking insects off of plants No time to think of consequences Control yourself Take only what you need from it A family of trees wanting to be haunted

62. Franz Ferdinand – Take Me Out

So if you’re lonely You know I’m here waiting for you I’m just a cross hair I’m just a shot away from you And if you leave here You leave me broken, shattered, I lie I’m just a cross hair I’m just a shot, then we can die

63. Black – Wonderful Life

Here I go out to sea again The sunshine fills my hair And dreams hang in the air

Gulls in the sky and in my blue eyes You know it feels unfair There’s magic everywhere

Look at me standing Here on my own again Up straight in the sunshine

64. Beirut – Elephant Gun

If I was young, I’d flee this town I’d bury my dreams underground As did I, we drink to die, we drink tonight

Far from home, elephant guns Let’s take them down one by one We’ll lay it down, it’s not been found, it’s not around

Let the seasons begin – it rolls right on Let the seasons begin – take the big king down

65. Eagles – Hotel California

On a dark desert highway, cool wind in my hair Warm smell of colitas, rising up through the air Up ahead in the distance, I saw a shimmering light My head grew heavy and my sight grew dim I had to stop for the night.

There she stood in the doorway; I heard the mission bell And I was thinking to myself ‘This could be heaven or this could be Hell’ Then she lit up a candle and she showed me the way There were voices down the corridor, I thought I heard them say

66. The Cranberries – Zombie

Another head hangs lowly Child is slowly taken And the violence, caused such silence Who are we mistaken?

But you see, it’s not me It’s not my family In your head, in your head, they are fighting With their tanks, and their bombs And their bombs, and their guns In your head, in your head they are crying

67. The Strokes – You Only Live Once

Some people think they’re always right Others are quiet and uptight Others they seem so very nice nice nice nice (oh-ho) Inside they might feel sad and wrong (oh no)

Twenty-nine different attributes Only seven that you like Twenty ways to see the world (oh-ho) Twenty ways to start a fight (oh-ho)

68. The Black Keys – Lonely Boy

Well I’m so above you And it’s plain to see But I came to love you anyway So you pulled my heart out And I don’t mind bleeding Any old time you keep me waiting Waiting, waiting

Oh, oh-oh I got a love that keeps me waiting Oh, oh-oh I got a love that keeps me waiting I’m a lonely boy I’m a lonely boy Oh, oh-oh I got a love that keeps me waiting

69. Come With Me Now – Kongos

Come with me now Come with me now

Woah come with me now I’m gonna take you down

Woah come with me now I’m gonna show you how Woah come with me now I’m gonna take you down

Woah come with me now I’m gonna show you how

Afraid to lose control And caught up in this world I’ve wasted time, I’ve wasted breath I think I’ve thought myself to death

70. Passenger | The Wrong Direction

When I was a kid the things I did were hidden under the grid Young and naive I never believed that love could be so well hid With regret I’m willing to bet and say the older you get It gets harder to forgive and harder to forget It gets under your shirt like a dagger at work The first cut is the deepest but the rest still flipping hurt You build your heart of plastic Get cynical and sarcastic And end up in the corner on your own

‘Cause I’d love to feel love but I can’t stand the rejection I hide behind my jokes as a form of protection I thought I was close but under further inspection It seems I’ve been running in the wrong direction oh no

71. Billy Joel – Travelin’ Prayer

Hey Lord, take a look all around And I’d a find where my baby’s gonna be Hey Lord, would ya look out for her tonight ‘Cause she is far across the sea Hey Lord, would ya look out for her tonight And make sure that she’s gonna be alright And things are gonna be alright with me

Hey Lord, would ya look out for her tonight And make sure that all her dreams are sweet Said now, would ya guide her on the roads And make them softer for her feet Hey Lord, would ya look out for her tonight And make sure that she’s gonna be alright Until she’s home and here with me

72. Creedence Clearwater Revival – Travellin’ Band

Seven thirty seven comin’ out of the sky Won’t you take me down to Memphis on a midnight ride I want to move Playin’ in a travelin’ band Yeah Well I’m flyin’ ‘cross the land tryin’ to get a hand Playin’ in a travelin’ band

Take me to the hotel baggage gone, oh well Come on, come on won’t you get me to my room I want to move Playin’ in a travelin’ band Yeah Well I’m flyin’ ‘cross the land, tryin’ to get a hand Playin’ in a travelin’ band

73. Have Love, Will Travel – The Sonics

Wow,Have love Whoa baby will travel Uh huh, uh huh,have love Woah baby will travel I said if you need loving then Mm,hmm,I’ll travel

Yeah,I’ll travel from Main to Mexico Just to find a little girl that loves me so No matter when, no matter where I’ll be I’m looking for a woman that’ll satisfy me

74. Queens Of The Stone Age – Go With The Flow

She said “I’ll throw myself away, They’re just photos after all” I can’t make you hang around. I can’t wash you off my skin. Outside the frame, is what we’re leaving out You won’t remember anyway I can go with the flow But don’t say it doesn’t matter anymore I can go with the flow Do you believe it in your head? It’s so safe to play along Little soldiers in a row Falling in and out of love With something sweet to throw away. But I want something good to die for To make it beautiful to live. I want a new mistake, lose is more than hesitate. Do you believe it in your head? I can go with the flow But don’t say it doesn’t matter anymore I can go with the flow Do you believe it in your head?

75. Maïa Vidal – Our Place

Last but not least, the ultimate travel song to wanderlust. I’d like to stay here For a while And go wild You’ll call me crazy But I don’t care ‘Cause I know where

Where I go where I go, you’re gonna take me Where I go where I go, you’re gonna take me Take me for a ride, And I’ll be by your side

Just let me stay here A little while We’ll go wild They’ll call us crazy But I don’t care ‘Cause I’ll be where you are

This all happened fast But I know how I feel Like you were the sand And I was the se

Extra 76. Sky on the Loose – Inkfield

Do you want an insider tip for cool travel songs? Then listen into Inkfield’s Sky on the Loose. Inkfield is a solo solo indie rock act from Edinburgh, UK.

Here are the lyrics.

Messaging like nights before, crashing through the wall I’m using all my strength and breath, I’m gonna show them all

You talk of my impending doom, no promise nor a myth You justify avoiding me to sell out on a whiff

Oh if I, I want to be the lonely one, I want to be the only one And if I, lord I And if I, I want to be the chosen one, I want to be the chosen one And if I, lord I

Don’t you tire of telling me? ‘The world ends at the sky, You’re just a little fish another simple passer by, All your songs and poetry are droplets in the sea’ I said ‘That is ok for you, your words won’t follow me!’

Sum it up: The 75 Travel Songs

By now your notebook should be full and you should have taken lots of notes.

This is your ultimate list of best travel songs. We tried to make a compulsive list of all the important things you have to put on your iPod, your Smartphone and Spotify list.

More travel songs here:

Again, this is your inspiration. Take it with you, let is inspire you, but make sure you add your own travel songs to your very own memory list.

The world is wide and there is a lot of adventures out there, waiting for you to live them.

We are Hostelgeeks, and we are here to help you to travel smarter, longer, and especially safe. We collect for you the best hostels in the world, the 5 Star Hostels.

Do you have your own favorite travel song?

We would love to grow this list, add more travel tracks to it. Leave us a comment with your favorite ones, we are curious what songs you love when you are on the road.

Love, cheers and safe travels,

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67 Songs About Travelling: A Playlist for 2024

Are you looking for some of the best songs about travelling to inspire you or to accompany you on your next trip? Then you have come to the right place!

I’ve collected some of the best travel songs from the 1930s until today in this list. Musical genres range from pop and dance to rock, punk, and many others. So no matter what type of music you like, there should be something in it for you. The songs in the list below either talk about a place or the experience of travelling.

Some of my favourite songs on this list are #1, #17, and #39. Make sure to check them out and feel free to leave a comment if you think a travel song is missing. I’m updating this post frequently.

The Best Travel Songs of All Time

Songs About Travelling From 2000 Until Now

1. eddie vedder – guaranteed (2007).

This is one of my favourite songs of all time! Eddie Vedder wrote it for the film Into the Wild , and the lyrics are so powerful.

“On bended knee is no way to be free Lifting up an empty cup I ask silently That all my destinations will accept the one that’s me So I can breathe”

2. Nelly Furtado – I’m Like a Bird (2000)

“And baby all I need for you to know is I’m like a bird I’ll only fly away I don’t know where my soul is (soul is) I don’t know where my home is”

3. Tom Walker – Fly Away With Me (2019)

“So come on fly away with me To a place where we could be anyone we wanna be And we can bottle up our fears Brew a taste so sweet Knock us off our feet or more”

4. Weezer – Island in the Sun (2001)

“When you’re on a holiday You can’t find the words to say All the things that come to you And I wanna feel it too”

5. Manu Chao – Me Gustas Tu (2001)

“Me gusta el viento, me gustas tú Me gusta soñar, me gustas tú Me gusta la mar, me gustas tú”

6. Lost Frequencies – Are You With Me (2014)

I wanna dance by water ‘neath the Mexican sky Drink some Margaritas by a string of blue lights Listen to the Mariachi play at midnight Are you with me, are you with me?

7. Luca Aprile – Traveler (2018)

“You’re taking off to Mexico To Paris and I know you long for more I’m waiting for you all night long I wanna see the pictures on your phone”

8. Murray Head – One Night in Bangkok (2001)

“One night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster The bars are temples but the pearls ain’t free You’ll find a god in every golden cloister And if you’re lucky then the god’s a she I can feel an angel sliding up to me”

9. KONGOS – Traveling On (2012)

“Maybe I’ll go it all alone See the world and make my way back home Or maybe I’ll keep traveling on”

10. Anna Kendrick – Cups (2012)

“I got my ticket for the long way ’round The one with the prettiest of views It’s got mountains, it’s got rivers It’s got sights give you shivers But it sure would be prettier with you”

11. Dirty Heads – Vacation (2017)

“ A-a-aye, I’m on vacation Every single day ’cause I love my occupation A-a-aye, I’m on vacation Every single day, every, every single day “

12. The Kooks – See the World (2006)

“I remember how we used to sing Writing poems in your bed sit Finding time to be the passenger But there you are you never saw me leave”

13. Estelle Swara ft. Kanye West – American Boy (2008)

“Take me on a trip, I’d like to go someday Take me to New York, I’d love to see L.A. I really want to come kick it with you You’ll be my American boy Tell ’em kno wagwan blud “

14. Alex Gaudino ft. Crystal Waters – Destination Calabria (2007)

“ Follow me And let’s go To the place where we belong And leave our troubles at home Come with me We can go To a paradise of love and joy “ A destination unknown

Travel Songs From the 80s and 90s

15. johnny cash – i’ve been everywhere (1996).

“I’ve been everywhere, man. Crossed the desert’s bare, man. I’ve breathed the mountain air, man. Of travel, I’ve had my share, man. I’ve been everywhere.”

16. Willie Nelson – On the Road Again (1980)

“And I can’t wait to get on the road again On the road again Goin’ places that I’ve never been Seein’ things that I may never see again And I can’t wait to get on the road again”

17. Toto – Africa (1982)

“The wild dogs cry out in the night As they grow restless, longing for some solitary company I know that I must do what’s right As sure as Kilimanjaro rises like Olympus above the Serengeti I seek to cure what’s deep inside, frightened of this thing that I’ve become”

18. The Proclaimers – I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles) (1988)

“And I would walk 500 miles And I would roll 500 more Just to be the man who rolled a thousand miles To fall down at your door”

19. Desireless – Voyage Voyage (1987)

“ Voyage, voyage Plus loin que la nuit et le jour (voyage, voyage) Voyage (voyage) Dans l’espace inouï de l’amour Voyage, voyage Sur l’eau sacrée d’un fleuve indien, (voyage, voyage) Voyage (voyage) Et jamais ne revient “

20. Paul Simon – Graceland (1986)

“I’m going to Graceland, Graceland Memphis, Tennessee I’m going to Graceland Poor boys and pilgrims with families And we are going to Graceland”

21. Vengaboys – We’re Going to Ibiza (1999)

“Whoah! We’re going to Ibiza Whoah! Back to the island Whoah! We’re gonna have a party Whoah! In the Mediterranean Sea”

22. Sting – Englishman in New York (1987)

“See me walking down Fifth Avenue A walking cane here at my side I take it everywhere I walk I’m an Englishman in New York “

23. Daft Punk – Around the World (1997)

“ Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world Around the world, around the world”

24. Madonna – Holiday (1983)

“If we took a holiday Took some time to celebrate Just one day out of life It would be, it would be so nice”

25. Nina Hagen – New York (1983)

“New York City is the hottest place For a honeymoon in a hotel room, uh-huh New York City is a place so nice Everybody says it so they had to name it twice”

26. Tracy Chapman – Fast Car (1988)

“You got a fast car I got a plan to get us outta here I been working at the convenience store Managed to save just a little bit of money Won’t have to drive too far Just ‘cross the border and into the city You and I can both get jobs And finally see what it means to be living”

27. Deftones – Be Quiet and Drive (1997)

“It feels good to know you’re mine Now drive me far away, away, away Far away I don’t care where Just far away I don’t care where Just far away I don’t care where, just far away And I don’t care”

28. Red Hot Chilli Peppers – Road Trippin’ (1999)

“Road trippin’ with my two favorite allies Fully loaded we got snacks and supplies It’s time to leave this town, it’s time to steal away Let’s go get lost anywhere in the USA Let’s go get lost, let’s go get lost”

29. Men at Work – Down Under (1980)

“ Traveling in a fried-out Kombi On a hippie trail, head full of zombie I met a strange lady, she made me nervous She took me in and gave me breakfast “

30. Crowded House – Weather With You (1991)

“Everywhere you go, always take the weather with you Everywhere you go, always take the weather Everywhere you go, always take the weather with you Everywhere you go, always take the weather, the weather with you”

31. The Beach Boys – Kokomo (1988)

“Aruba, Jamaica, oh I want to take you to Bermuda, Bahama, come on pretty mama Key Largo, Montego, baby why don’t we go Oh I want to take you down to Kokomo, we’ll get there fast and then we’ll take it slow That’s where we want to go, way down in Kokomo”

32. Will Smith – Miami (1997)

“Party in the city where the heat is on All night, on the beach till the break of dawn “Welcome to Miami” “ Bienvenidos a Miami” Bouncin’ in the club where the heat is on All night, on the beach till the break of dawn I’m goin to Miami “Welcome to Miami”

33. The B-52’s – Roam (1989)

“Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without wings, without wheels Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without anything but the love we feel”

34. Status Quo – The Wanderer (1983)

“ Well I’m the type of guy that likes to roam around I’m never in one place I roam from town to town And when I find myself falling for some girl Well I hop right into that car of mine and drive around the world ‘Cause I’m a Wanderer, yeah the Wanderer I roam around and round and round and round and round and round and round “

35. Tom Cochrane – Life is a Highway (1991)

“There’s a world outside every darkened door Where blues won’t haunt you anymore Where the brave are free and lovers soar Come ride with me to the distant shore”

Travel Songs From the 60s and 70s

36. john denver – leaving on a jetplane (1966).

“So kiss me and smile for me Tell me that you’ll wait for me Hold me like you’ll never let me go ‘Cause I’m leavin’ on a jet plane Don’t know when I’ll be back again”

37. Iggy Pop – The Passenger (1977)

“I am a passenger And I ride, and I ride I ride through the city’s backsides I see the stars come out of the sky Yeah, they’re bright in a hollow sky You know it looks so good tonight”

38. Scott McKenzie – San Francisco (1967)

“If you’re going to San Francisco Be sure to wear some flowers in your hair If you’re going to San Francisco You’re gonna meet some gentle people there”

39. Lynyrd Skynyrd – Sweet Home Alabama (1974)

“Sweet home Alabama Where the skies are so blue Sweet home Alabama Lord I’m comin’ home to you”

40. The Mamas and the Papas – California Dreamin’ (1966)

“ All the leaves are brown (all the leaves are brown) And the sky is gray (and the sky is gray) I’ve been for a walk (I’ve been for a walk) On a winter’s day (on a winter’s day) I’d be safe and warm (I’d be safe and warm) If I was in L.A. (if I was in L.A.)”

41. Bob Dylan – A Hard Rain’s a-gonna Fall (1973)

“ Oh, where have you been, my blue-eyed son? And where have you been, my darling young one? I’ve stumbled on the side of twelve misty mountains, I’ve walked and I crawled on six crooked highways, I’ve stepped in the middle of seven sad forests, I’ve been out in front of a dozen dead oceans, I’ve been ten thousand miles in the mouth of a graveyard, And it’s a hard, it’s a hard, it’s a hard, it’s a hard, It’s a hard rain’s a-gonna fall. “

42. Frank Sinatra – Love’s Been Good to Me (1969)

This song was covered by Johnny Cash in 2006 (which is how I got to know it), and his version is beautiful as well.

“I have been a rover I have walked alone Hiked a hundred highways Never found a home Still in all I’m happy The reason is, you see Once in a while along the way Love’s been good to me”

43. Louis Armstrong – What a Wonderful World (1967)

“I see skies of blue and clouds of white The bright blessed day, the dark sacred nights And I think to myself what a wonderful world.”

44. Ricky Nelson – Travelin’ Man (1961)

“I’m a travelin’ man and I’ve made a lot of stops All over the world And in every part I own the heart Of at least one lovely girl”

45. The Animals – We Gotta Get Out of This Place (1965)

“We gotta get out of this place If it’s the last thing we ever do We gotta get out of this place ‘Cause girl, there’s a better life for me and you “

46. Steppenwolf – Born to Be Wild (1969)

“ Get your motor runnin’ Head out on the highway Looking for adventure In whatever comes our way “

47. Rupert Holmes – Escape (The Piña Colada Song) (1979)

“If you like piña coladas And gettin’ caught in the rain If you’re not into yoga If you have half a brain If you like makin’ love at midnight In the dunes on the cape Then I’m the love that you’ve looked for Write to me and escape”

48. Crosly Stills & Nash – Marrakesh Express (1969)

“ Looking at the world through the sunset in your eyes Travelling the train through clear Moroccan skies Ducks, and pigs, and chickens call Animal carpet wall-to-wall American ladies five-foot tall in blue “

49. Audrey Hepburn – Moon River (1962)

This song was written for the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s , in which Audrey Hepburn sings it. The song won multiple awards and was covered by many other artists.

“Two drifters, off to see the world There’s such a lot of world to see We’re after the same rainbow’s end Waitin’ ’round the bend My huckleberry friend Moon river and me”

50. The Sonics – Have Love, Will Travel (1965)

“Well, I might take a boat or I’ll take a plane I might hitch hike or jump a railroad train You’re kind of love drives a man insane So look for me walking just a any old way”

51. Led Zeppelin – Immigrant Song (1970)

“We come from the land of the ice and snow From the midnight sun where the hot springs flow The hammer of the gods Will drive our ships to new lands To fight the horde, sing and cry Valhalla, I am coming”

52. Canned Heat – Going Up the Country (1968)

“I’m going up the country Baby, don’t you wanna go? I’m going up the country Baby, don’t you wanna go? We gonna go somewhere Where I’ve never been before”

53. Elvis Presley – Viva Las Vegas (1964)

“Viva Las Vegas with your neon flashin’ And your one arm bandits crashin’ All those hopes down the drain Viva Las Vegas turnin’ day into nighttime Turnin’ night into daytime If you see it once You’ll never be the same again”

54. Joe Dassin – Aux Champs Elysees (1969)

“Aux Champs-Elysées, aux Champs-Elysées Au soleil, sous la pluie, à midi ou à minuit Il y a tout ce que vous voulez aux Champs-Elysées”

55. Crosby, Stills & Nash – Marrakesh Express (1969)

56. gladys knight & the pips – midnight train to georgia (1973).

“He’s leaving (leaving) On that midnight train to Georgia (leaving on a midnight train) Hmm, yeah Said he’s going back (going back to find) To a simpler place and time (and when he takes that ride) Oh yes, he is (guess who’s gonna sit right by his side)”

57. Eddie Money – Two Tickets to Paradise (1977)

“ I’m gonna take you on a trip so far from here I’ve got two tickets in my pocket, now baby, we’re gonna disappear We’ve waited so long, waited so long We’ve waited so long, waited so long “

58. Chuck Berry – Promised Land (1964)

“ Workin’ on a T-bone steak a la carte, Flying over to the Golden State; When the pilot told us in thirteen minutes We’d be headin’ in the terminal gate. “

59. The Grateful Dead – Truckin’ (1970)

“Dallas, got a soft machine Houston, too close to New Orleans New York got the ways and means But just won’t let you be”

60. Roger Miller – King of the Road (1964)

“Third boxcar, midnight train Destination Bangor, Maine Old, worn out suit and shoes I don’t pay no union dues”

61. Steve Miller Band – Jet Airliner (1977)

“Leavin’ home, out on the road I’ve been down before Ridin’ along in this big ol’ jet plane I’ve been thinkin’ about my home But my love light seems so far away And I feel like it’s all been done Somebody’s tryin’ to make me stay You know I’ve got to be movin’ on”

62. Creedence Clearwater Revival – Travelin’ Band (1970)

“Take me to the hotel baggage gone, oh well Come on, come on won’t you get me to my room I want to move Playin’ in a travelin’ band Yeah Well I’m flyin’ ‘cross the land, tryin’ to get a hand Playin’ in a travelin’ band”

63. Led Zeppelin – Ramble On (1969)

“Ramble on And now’s the time, the time is now To sing my song I’m goin’ ’round the world, I got to find my girl On my way I’ve been this way ten years to the day Ramble on Gotta find the queen of all my dreams”

Older Songs About Travelling

64. edith piaf – sous le ciel de paris (1951).

You can find the translation of this beautiful song here .

“Sous le ciel de Paris Coule un fleuve joyeux Hum, hum Il endort dans la nuit Les clochards et les gueux Sous le ciel de Paris Les oiseaux du Bon Dieu Hum, hum Viennent du monde entier Pour bavarder entre eux”

65. The Wizard of Oz – Somewhere Over the Rainbow (1939)

“Somewhere over the rainbow Bluebirds fly And the dreams that you dream of Dreams really do come true-ooh-ooh Someday I’ll wish upon a star Wake up where the clouds are far behind me Where trouble melts like lemon drops High above the chimney tops that’s where You’ll find me, oh”

66. Frank Sinatra – Come Fly With Me (1959)

“Come fly with me, let’s float down to Peru In llama-land there’s a one-man band And he’ll toot his flute for you Come fly with me, let’s take off in the blue”

67. Hank Williams – Ramblin’ Man (1951)

“Some folks might say That I’m no good That I wouldn’t settle Down if I could But when that open road Starts to callin’ me There’s somethin’ o’er the hill That I gotta see”

Songs about travelling – Final thoughts

I hope that you enjoyed this post featuring the best travel songs from the 1930s until today. This list is a work in progress, and I’m always on the lookout for other beautiful travel music to add to this list.

Can you think of other beautiful songs about travelling that are missing from this list? Let me know in the comments below!

Enjoyed this post? You may also like:

• Poetry About Travel: The 16 Most Inspiring Travel Poems
• Songs About Paris That Will Bring You There Instantly
• Short Travel Captions to Inspire Your Wanderlust
• Movies About Nomads That Will Inspire You

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has travelled to over 40 countries, many of them solo. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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80 Best Songs About Traveling: The Ultimate Travel Playlist?

Music can put you in the mood for many things, and one of those is travel! This list of the best songs about traveling will inspire you to hit the road and take the path less traveled!

Travel Songs

There’s something about travel that just begs for a good song. Maybe it’s the excitement of new places and experiences, or the nostalgia for past trips. Whatever the reason, there are plenty of great songs out there about travel.

A fantastic song about travel can make you feel like you’re already on your way to your next adventure. It can also be the perfect way to reminisce about a past trip. And, of course, a good travel song is the perfect addition to any road trip playlist.

On our last road trip around the Mani Peninsula of Greece , we collected some of our favourite songs to play along the way! 

Related: Best Road Trip Food

Best Road Trips Songs

Why not put together the ultimate travel playlist to either inspire you to travel or to play while you're out on the road? Here's over 80 of our favorite songs about travel:

1. “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd

The song “Sweet Home Alabama” is about the band's hometown of Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The opening line “Big wheels keep on turnin'” definitely makes us think of long road trips!

2. “On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson

This song captures the essence of living life on the road, and is an ode to the open road and the nomadic life of a touring musician. It’s been covered by many artists over the years, but we love the original version by Willie Nelson.

3. “Life on the Road” by Mumford & Sons Song

This song, from Mumford & Sons' album “Wilder Mind”, is a beautiful and nostalgic look at life traveling on the road. It's definitely one of our all-time favorites for road trips!

4. “Take the Long Way Home” by Supertramp Song

The song talks about the scenic route and enjoying the journey. It's a great one for road trips!

5. “Drivin' My Life Away” by Eddie Rabbit

This song is a classic driving anthem about being on the road and longing for home.

6. “I've Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash

This music is a country classic that lists all the places in the United States that Johnny Cash has been. It's a fun and adventurous tune that will have you dreaming of new destinations !

Related: Best Road trip captions

7. “On Top of the World” by Imagine Dragons Song

This upbeat, positive song is an ideal pick for your travel playlist. It's about dreaming big and going out into the world to get what you want.

8. “City of New Orleans” by Arlo Guthrie Song

This folk song by Arlo Guthrie is a nostalgic look back at train travel in America in the 1970s. It's an upbeat, heartwarming tune that will have you dreaming about your own train adventures.

9. “I'm Outta Here” by Shania Twain Song

This song is all about the excitement of hitting the road and heading out on an adventure. It's a great travel anthem no matter where you're going!

10. “Route 66” by Nat King Cole Song

This classic song by Nat King Cole is all about the iconic American road trip. It's a fun and easy-going tune that will put you in the mood for your own adventure.

11. “The Wanderer” by Dion Song

It tells the story of the nomadic life of a traveler. It's an energetic and upbeat tune that celebrates the freedom of just going where the road takes you.

13. “Fast Car” by Tracy Chapman

This powerful ballad is all about the struggle to break free from the circumstances that hold you down, and it perfectly encapsulates the spirit of travel. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or an experienced adventurer, this song will speak to your soul.

14. “The Times They Are A-Changin'” by Bob Dylan

The classic song by Bob Dylan is all about social change, but it also perfectly captures the feeling of wanderlust. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to explore the world and see something new.

Related: Best movies about wanderlust

15. “Don't Stop Believin'” by Journey

This iconic song by the rock band Journey is all about following your dreams and never giving up. It's a great pick for those times when you need a little extra motivation to keep moving forward. Whether you're on a road trip or just trying to stick with your travel plans , this song will inspire you to keep going.

16. “I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers

This catchy, upbeat song is all about the freedom and excitement of traveling on your own terms. It's a great pick for anyone who's embarking on a solo adventure or just looking for some inspiration to get out there and explore the world. No matter where you're going, this song will make you want to keep moving forward.

17. “Road to Nowhere” by Talking Heads Song

A song about the uncertainty of travel and how you never really know what's around the corner. It's a powerful, introspective ballad that will make you think deeply about your adventures. If you're looking for something that will challenge you and give you a new perspective on travel, this is a perfect choice.

Related: Reasons Why Long Term Travel Is Cheaper Than Regular Vacations

18. “The Weight” by The Band Song

This song is all about the burdens we carry with us on our travels. It's a reflective and introspective tune that will make you think about the things you're carrying with you, both physically and emotionally. If you're looking for a song that will help you process your own travel experiences, this is a great choice.

19. “Leaving on a Jet Plane” by John Denver

This classic song by John Denver is all about the heartbreak of leaving home and heading out into the world. It perfectly captures that bittersweet feeling of travel, when you know that things will never be quite the same once you leave.

20. “Midnight Train to Georgia” by Gladys Knight and the Pips Song

This iconic song by Gladys Knight and the Pips is all about traveling to a better, brighter future. It's a great anthem for anyone who's chasing their dreams or just looking for something new in life. Whether you're on your way to a new destination or just trying to make sense of your journey, this song will give you the inspiration and motivation you need to keep moving forward.

Related: Short Traveling Quotes

21. “Ramblin' Man” by The Allman Brothers Band

This song is all about the joys and challenges of the nomadic life. It's a great pick for anyone who's feeling restless and looking to hit the open road. If you're looking for a song that will make you want to jump in your car and start driving, this is the perfect choice.

22. “Viva Las Vegas” by Elvis Presley

This classic song by Elvis Presley is all about the excitement and energy of Sin City. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to let loose and have a good time. Whether you're headed to Vegas for a weekend or just looking for a little bit of escapism, this song will give you the perfect soundtrack.

23. “One Night in Bangkok” by Murray Head

The song talks about the exotic appeal of Bangkok . It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to experience something new and exciting. If you're headed to Thailand or just dreaming of far-off destinations, this song will take you there.

24. “I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For” by U2

This classic song by U2 is all about the search for meaning and purpose in life. It's a great pick for anyone who's feeling lost or just looking for something more. Whether you're on a journey of self-discovery or just trying to find your place in the world, this song will resonate with you.

25. “Wherever I May Roam” by Metallica

This song is all about the freedom and flexibility of the nomadic lifestyle. It's a great pick for anyone who's feeling restless and looking to hit the open road. If you're looking for a song that will make you want to jump in your car and start driving, this is the perfect choice.

26. “Wherever You Will Go” by The Calling

This song is all about the feeling of being lost and alone while traveling. It's a beautiful and introspective ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt lost while on the road. If you're looking for a song that will help you process your own travel experiences, this is a great choice.

27. “Road Trippin’ ” by Red Hot Chili Peppers

This upbeat, carefree tune is all about the joys of road tripping. It's a great pick for anyone who's hitting the road and looking for something that will put them in a good mood. No matter where your travels take you, this song will give you the energy and spirit to keep going.

Related: Travelling by Car: Advantages and Disadvantages

28. “Wagon Wheel” by Old Crow Medicine Show

This infectiously catchy folk-rock song is all about the thrill of adventure and seeing new places. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to travel and explore, whether it's their first time or their hundredth. This song will pump you up and get you ready for anything that comes your way.

29. “The Wanderer” by Dion

This song is all about the feeling of being lost and alone while traveling. It's a reflective and introspective tune that will resonate with anyone who's ever felt lost while on the road. If you're looking for a song that will help you process your own travel experiences, this is a great choice.

30. “Don't Worry, Be Happy” by Bobby McFerrin

This upbeat, cheerful and fun song is all about being content and happy with where you are in life. It's a great pick for anyone who's on the road or just starting a new journey in life. No matter where your travels take you, this song will help you keep a positive attitude and just enjoy the ride.

31. “Easy” by Lionel Richie / Faith No More

This pop ballad is all about the feeling of being on the road and embracing all of the surprises that come along with it. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to travel and explore, whether it's their first time or their hundredth. This song will help you keep a positive attitude and just enjoy the ride.

32. “Dreamers of the Shore” by Volcan Peaks

This hauntingly beautiful tune is all about the feeling of being on the road and facing your fears. It's a powerful ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever set foot on a plane, train or automobile to look for something new. If you're looking for something that will help you process any travel-related fears, this song is a great choice.

33. “Somewhere Only We Know” by Keane

The song, Somewhere Only We Know, is a piece of nostalgia. The lyrics circle around about something, someone, and somewhere he used to love. It is about finding and travelling back to the feelings he used to feel, activities he used to do, and the people and places he used to see. At the same time, this song will unfold a new emotion of how past look like and how it can change drastically that will make you reflect the temporariness in this world.

34. “The Longest Road” by Morgan Page feat. Lissie

This upbeat music will boost your excitement while travelling. This song will talk about the journey of life, and how it can affect you life. It is about enjoying, trying new things, create bonds, build memories, and making mistakes. This will make you feel the urge of always chasing things in order to live and create a meaningful life out of it.

35. “I Travel” by Simple Minds

This song is all about the feeling of homesickness while traveling. It's a beautiful and introspective ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever left their home behind to travel. Whether you're far from home or just missing your loved ones, this song is slightly melancholic but nice.

36. “Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

In travelling, this song will comfort you as it will present the feeling of missing home while living in a different environment. It will likewise bring you motivation with the gratefulness of being in a new place. It will ignite different emotions, specifically the feeling of attachment, nearly love to someone, some place, or a moment that will keep you moving.

37. “Running to Stand Still” by U2

This song is all about the feeling of being on the road and facing your fears. It's a powerful ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever set foot on a plane, train or automobile to look for something new. If you're looking for something that will help you process any travel-related fears, this song is a great choice.

38. “The Road to Reno” by Guy Clark

This sad country tune is all about the feeling of traveling on the road with no end in sight. It's a powerful ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever left their home behind for an open-ended journey.

39. “Kokomo” by The Beach Boys

This fun and upbeat song is all about the feeling of being on a tropical island, far away from your troubles. It's a great pick for anyone who's looking to travel to a new and exotic location. Whether you're planning a trip or just dreaming of one, this song will help you relax and escape the everyday grind.

40. “California Dreaming” by The Mamas & The Papas

This song is all about the feeling of longing for home while you're on the road. It's a beautiful and introspective ballad that will resonate with anyone who's ever left their home behind to travel. Whether you're far from home or just missing your loved ones, this song will make you feel right at ease.

Related: California Instagram Captions

41. “Somewhere over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

This beautiful and haunting song is all about the feeling of longing for home while you're on the road. It's a great pick for anyone who's ever left their home behind to travel, whether they're far from home or just missing their loved ones.

42. “Adventure of a Lifetime” by Coldplay

This fun and groovy dance song is about feeling the emotions of being alive, again. This disco inspired music will motivate you to always carry on in life because it is an adventure, there's trouble and joy in it. This song will awaken us to the energy of life while travelling and to not lose it, hence the adventure of a lifetime.

43. “Paris” by The Chainsmokers

This electronic dance music is about finding independence with the ones you love and to live with. Paris is what the couple's trying to go and live the life they wanted away from the obstructions of their family, environmental trauma, and anxiety. Even though this song is about searching for the fantasy they wanted to live, this song gives people to motivation to dream, work on that dream and to make it come true, whether it's travelling or not.

Related: 100+ Paris Captions For Instagram For Your Beautiful City Photos

44. “Sleep on the Floor” by The Lumineers

This feel good music with its country tune and calming arrangement is about travelling away to the big bustling cities and making the most out of that impulsive decision even you're feeling out from you comfort zone. It will give you courage that in the journey of life, there's always the presence of troubles and unavoidable circumstances that you can overcome as long as you have someone with you.

45. “Heading Home” by Gryffin feat. Josef Salvat

Heading Home, an electronic dance music is a feel good music talking about the feeling of always longing to feel the comfort of a home. It will make you feel the known feeling of a traveller, being a lost person, yet pushes you to always move forward and enjoy the things life has thrown at you.

46. “Havana” by Camila Cabello

Havana is a song paying tribute to the artist's home country, Cuba. This dance music gives you the vibes of their culture, warmth, and love to their place. This song is associated to a love of a country by praising its beauty, romanticizing the relationships you can build, and treasuring the moments of travelling.

47. “Autumn Dawn” by Volcan Peaks

This music will serenade your ears while travelling a long road as bring comfort and calmness with the lyrics and its tune. Even though this song will give you comfort, the lyrics much more emphasize the feeling during a separation. This will bring enough sadness to the listeners to realize the growth you will encounter separating from a place, person, and moment among others.

Related: Best Autumn Instagram Captions

48. “Take Me Back To London ” by Ed Sheeran

This upbeat music is a vibe starter when travelling. It's about reminiscing a place where they grow up and travelling back to those moments through sharing their different stories. It's about realizing that a person can move forward in life and still be the person dreaming of what they have become.

49. “Travel Song” by Teleman

Travel Song, a feel good music, is a comforting music to hear when driving towards a destination. This song is about affection and risk, drawing matches between a widespread fire and a destined relationship. The music reflects the tone of the verses, as well — an incredible, irresistible harmony among poppy and fun-loving sentimentalism and serious, sobering acknowledgements

50. “Beach Bonfire” by Sandro

This comforting song is good lullaby during downtime or hours for siesta. From the title itself, it's about igniting your travel with beach bonfire and find comfort with it while enjoying the sea breeze and the sound of the waves. This song freezes a moment as it's very calm, and can make you realize and internalize the events during a trip.

51. “Stargazing” by Kygo feat. Justin Jesso

This is a hopeful song to everyone who's thinking they cannot get through something. The song is best for travelling especially when you're burn out or unmotivated to do such, it will give you courage to look forward of what's gonna happen. This was intentionally about the artist's ex-girlfriend finding her way to fix their relationship, but at the same time knowing that it will be okay otherwise, since there's always hope when you look up to the sky and see stars keep blazing.

52. “I’m like a Bird” by Nelly Furtado

This fun beat music will bring your feet on the move. The song talks about the freedom of a human as a bird has, but at the same time recognizing the impermanence of the abilities a human can do with that freedom. It's a good music during a trip on a summer knowing you're free from hectic schedule and heavy responsibilities.

53. “Anywhere” by Passenger

Passenger never really disappoint, especially with this song, giving us the feel good vibe when hitting off the road. It's about devotion, love, and commitment to someone when travelling, believing that it will always be remarkable as long it's with that significant other. Anywhere talks about a destination that can fulfill the dream and goal of couples driven by the want to travel and escape.

54. “Fly Away ” by Lenny Kravitz

This rock music will bring to a different dimension when travelling. The song purposively gives out a different feeling, yet so relatable as it is about escaping and going to a different place that you wish different from what you are currently living. It's a feel good music for people travelling objectifying their want for escape and adventure.

55. “Africa” by Toto

This song age like fine wine, it's really a very well-created piece of music, with driving drum circles, layered harmonies, and an anthemic tune. The comforting voice of the singer really gives you a good film moment while travelling. Not only that it pays tribute to the beauty of Africa , it will definitely give you the feeling of warmth and ease when travelling.

56. “Good Life” by One Republic

This upbeat song is best when you're travelling for your self's improvement. It's tied in with discarding your burdens and stresses and having a decent life, since you can as it centers around being the individual you need to be and not what others believe you should be. This tune truly radiates a great deal of sentiments, yet it's elevating and brings a peculiar inclination to the listeners.

57. “Wanderlust ” by Frank Turner

This country feel music will make you feel the moment while travelling. The song portrays one of Frank's heartfelt limbo, it puts to differentiate the reasonable and satisfying relationship he has with this young lady with his ceaseless desire for tour and travelling. With this song, you will feel motivated on the decisions you will be encountering regarding travels and tours.

58. “Ocean” by Martin Garrix feat Khalid

This calming, downtempo dance track highlights instrumentation by Dutch DJ Martin Garrix and vocals by American artist Khalid. This electronic dance music mainly talks about the power of love, using the ocean as metaphor that can't break a relationship. This music sets the active mood while travelling, it pumps your heart, break the awkwardness, and develop a strong start on a trip.

59. “Catch & Release” by Matt Simons

This song has an incredibly calming tune in any trip, when it discusses survival strategies through the battles in our lives. This discusses going to where without help from anyone else, yet it isn't forlorn… where someone can act naturally and find solace in self-reflection even in obscurity. This song resonates with every last one of us, the melody having a profound importance with its care meaning.

60. “Traveling On” by Kongos

Traveling On is a calming music that's best when travelling in a non-touristy village. It's a breathtaking song that soothes you blood, bones, and soul. It helps you to remember the little moments while travelling, at the same time makes wanna seize the day.

61. “Dreaming” by Smallpools

The song gets going with a tranquil sound that crescendos into a beat to set the bass of the tune that fits when you listen clearly when travelling. The tune has an exceptionally electronic sound to it, yet the artist's voice is genuine. All through the melody there is a feeling of anxiety and urgency of attempting to make a spot for yourself. The melody for the most part catches the inclination that the world is against you.

62. “These Days” by Foo Fighters

This rock music is best when travelling long serene roads, with its developing style from calm to rock.  The song divulges on the idea that we must live life to the fullest, knowing and acknowledging that it's temporary and it may or will end these days. When going on a trip, we must not forget to always take risks, create memories, and be spontaneous.

63. “Born to Be Wild” by Steppenwolf

Like any travel songs, this rock anthem is made for highways and unplanned trips. This song resonates the drive of motor riders travelling across countries by road, being wild and fun. The song, nonetheless represents to those who think they're born to be wild, being carefree, and worry less.

64. “Send Me On My Way” by Rusted Root

Send Me on My Way is a magical song that motivates you to keep moving forward when travelling with the warmth it expresses, and the soothing feeling it gives. This sets your happy mood when travelling, redefines your vision to the beauty of the traveled places, generates wonderful narratives when interacting with locals of you destinations, and releases your stress.

65. “Perfect Strangers” by Jonas Blue

This dance music will give you the vibe and mood when travelling in summer. It may originally be about two strangers found their charm with one another while travelling, it's nonetheless a summer anthem way back when it was released, with its catchy lyrics, and undeniably good electronic accompaniment.

66. “Let the Sun Shine” by Labrinth

Originally a country song, Let the Sun Shine was produced wonderfully to a hip-hop music, generating a new good travel music.  It's about the new beginnings in our life every day, giving us another time to renew, enjoy, and live. This upbeat music is best when travelling with friends, and strangers as it will connect your thoughts and mood during a trip.

67. “Beautiful Day” by U2

This iconic song is amazing when travelling alone, to be able to reflect that life may take away a lot from you, there will always be joy on what remained. This rock music gives you the vibes and good mood going abroad. This song will make you look for hope and beauty in this world even with its existing nightmares.

68. “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver

This timeless song really resonates with the ones always travelling and always on the hope to be home as soon as possible. This may be a song about home-sickness, the tune will always be remembered and used while travelling long roads. The undeniably good rhythm and its meaningful lyrics will always have a special place in all traveller's heart.

69. “Heart Of Gold” by Neil Young

This classic song expresses the longing for love and hope to never give up. This calming music is best when travelling with the car windows down while feeling the wind brushing your skin and listen as it whispers your wind. The soothing voices and mellow rhythm of the song is also good when you're taking a rest after a long day of a trip.

70. “The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel

The Sound of Silence may be an empowering song to those oppressed and unprivileged, it likewise encourages people to not be afraid to talk to people especially when travelling alone. This song is the best company when having a down time during a trip, as it recognizes the importance of solo time when overwhelmed, especially during a travel.

71. “With or Without you” by U2

With or Without You, is a song about moving forward that's translated by travellers into a good solo travel song. This rock classic is a good jam of any ages, since it's relatable at some point in life. The sentimental foundation of the song makes it a great song when going for a trip, best played in a radio on a random setting.

72. “Have You Ever Seen The Rain?” by CCR

This timeless country music is about having a beautiful, sunny, and vibrant life and knowing that there will be rainy times as well. This music is a vibe when driving on a countryside moving across borders. It's best when travelling with friends and deciding on spontaneous stops for fun and adventure. It is an anthem for a road trip.

73. “Linger” by The Cranberries

The love song turned to a travel anthem is about the things you do when in love. This classic song has become the anthem of most travellers crossing borders and going out their comfort zone. With the soothing voice and beautifully arranged dynamics, makes this song a remarkable to any ages when going for a trip.

74. “Days of Silence” by Las Lunas

This calm music is great way to feed your ears with ease and help your mind find sanity when travelling. The beautifully written lyrics and its soothing tune will bring you peace of mind. When travelling, it's best to listen it at night, to wrap up the day with good music and deep reflection of the trip.

75. “I'm Thinking About You” by Windshield

I'm Thinking About You is a great song when unwinding, just sitting on your rented cabin, chilling with the sound of nature, and live on your thoughts. It's best when camping with friends or any of your love ones, as it will unleash your authenticity as your principle for love. This song will bring you to your thoughts that can help you generate reflections throughout.

Related: Best Nature Quotes

76. “Like Stone” by Daniel Gunnarson

This acoustic song will bring you a smile when travelling as it will set your positive mood when travelling. The calming arrangement of the song soothes your soul and washes all you stress and worries. This will ignite you drive on documenting the trip to freeze the moments and treasure it with all you heart.

77. “Feel your Blue Sky” by Bothnia

The song may start melancholic, the song delivers a powerful message of courage. This song is calming and comforting to the heart, and best when travelling to an isolated island or listened with radios on long quiet road. The song is best company for couple or solo travellers, as it will give you sanity and ease.

78. “Cornelia” by The Eastern Plain

This angelic song is best when you're travelling for peace and sanity. This song will bring you in a different beautiful dimension, and reframes your vision to the positive thoughts when travelling. The song is great when going to high altitudes and look down to the beautiful scenery of the city.

79. “A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton

Some of the riffs for this hit song were written when Vanessa Carlton was just 17 years old. First released in 2002, the music video sees Vanessa being driven on a cross country road trip in America playing a piano.

Related: Camp Quotes

80. “Roam” by The B-52's

I've added this thanks to a reader's comment! The unmistaken style of the B-53's hits you from the opening, and the up-beat catchy chorus and melody quickly puts you in a happy place – no matter where you are in the world!

Roam if you want to Roam around the world Roam if you want to Without anything but the love we feel

Did the B-52's ever get the lasting recognition they fully deserve? Probably not, which is a real shame. Check it out on YouTube here: Roam

What makes a good travel song?

We think a good travel song should either inspire wanderlust or evoke memories of past trips . It should also have a catchy melody that will stay in your head long after the journey is over!

Why do people love songs about travel so much?

Songs about travel have a way of capturing the excitement, adventure , and sense of possibility that comes with hitting the open road. They can also be incredibly nostalgic, reminding us of past trips and all the places we’ve been.

How to make a perfect traveling playlist ?

To make the perfect traveling playlist, start by thinking about what kinds of travel experiences you want to evoke. Do you want a playlist that will get you pumped up for your next big adventure? Or one that will soothe homesick feelings and help you relax while on the road?

You might also consider choosing songs with lyrics that reflect your own feelings about travel, whether it’s excitement at the unknown or a sense of longing for home.

Once you have your ideas in place, put together a playlist that incorporates a variety of different artists and genres to keep things interesting! And don’t forget to pack your headphones so you can enjoy your songs in style on your next trip .

Tips for using music to enhance your travel experience :

1. Take some time to think about the kind of experiences you want to have while traveling, and then create a playlist that will help you get in the right mindset.

2. Consider choosing music with lyrics that reflect your own feelings about travel, whether it’s excitement at the unknown or a sense of longing for home.

3. Prioritize listening to your playlist while on the road, whether you’re driving or flying. This can help you get in the right mindset for your trip and make it more enjoyable.

4. Don’t forget to pack a good set of earbuds so you can enjoy your music in style at any time during your travels.

5. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the journey! Music can play a big role in making any trip more memorable and enjoyable.

Related: Songs about bicycles

Travel Songs Playlist Final thoughts

Travel and music go together like peanut butter and jelly. Whether you're hitting the open road on an epic road trip or jetting off to a new and exotic destination, music can help set the mood and enhance your travel experience.

If you're looking for some great songs about travel, we recommend checking out tracks by Guy Clark, The Beach Boys, and The Mamas & the Papas. And don't forget to pack your headphones so you can enjoy your music in style on your next trip!

What's are your best road trip songs? What do you consider to be the ultimate travel song? Let us know in the comments below!

5 thoughts on “80 Best Songs About Traveling: The Ultimate Travel Playlist?”

After a year on the road, these suggestions, and the songs they brought to mind, has expanded my traveling playlist from a few dozen to more than a hundred. Thanks a million, Dave!

Shocked not to see Roam by the B52’s?!

So am I! I’ll try to add it in over the next week or so!

Another great tune that I have never seen on any “Travel Song” list is “Born to Wander” by the Rare Earth on their 1970 album “Ecology”.

The members of Lynyrd Skynyrd did not grow up in muscle shoals Alabama. They grew up in Jacksonville, Florida.

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65 Songs About Travel & Adventure For The Ultimate Wanderlust Playlist

Add these songs to your travel playlist to fuel your wanderlust..

Last updated on Jun 28, 2023

There's nothing better than having music in your life that encompasses what you are doing or how you are feeling. And what better time to have music explain your feelings than on vacation?

Whether you're looking for the perfect songs to accompany your travel videos or are putting together a playlist for your vacation, these songs about traveling will fuel your wanderlust and set the tone for adventure.

65 Best Songs About Wanderlust, Travel & Adventure

1. "go your own way" by fleetwood mac.

If you haven't heard this song before, it will likely become your favorite travel song. It's one of those travel songs that's infused with the best travel tips: go your own way.

RELATED: 7 Reasons People Who Travel A Lot Are More Likely To Be Successful

2. "Leaving On A Jet Plane" by Peter, Paul, and Mary

You can listen to music while traveling by downloading songs to your phone. If you're traveling by plane, this song will definitely set the mood for you. John Denver also has a popular recording of it.

3. "On The Road Again" by Willie Nelson

This song is absolutely perfect for road trips . Pump up the music and sing along with your friends.

4. "Come Sail Away" by Styx

You don't have to be literally sailing away for this song to resonate. Sailing away, metaphorically speaking, can represent leaving home to jump into the unknown.

5. "Road To Nowhere" by Talking Heads

This is a great song to rock out to when you're traveling to a new destination for the foreseeable future. When moving, you might have to wrestle with a lot of bittersweet, complex emotions. This song is perfect for coping with those changes.

6. "Midnight Train To Georgia" by Gladys Knight & The Pips

This Grammy Award-winning song is about traveling from L.A. to Georgia on a train that departs at midnight.

7. "Travelin’ Man" by Ricky Nelson

Or a traveling woman, or traveling person, of course. This song is quite literally about traveling, so it will be perfect for any travel-themed playlist.

8. "Homeward Bound" by Simon & Garfunkel

Ever wanted to travel so you could avoid home? This song is about leaving home and constantly being reminded of it.

9. "Send Me On My Way" by Rusted Root

This is a song about moving forward in life — but being happy and hopeful about it.

10. "Life Is A Highway" by Rascal Flatts

"Life Is A Highway" is a metaphor for living life to the fullest and taking big risks.

RELATED: The Best Road Trip Songs To Sing (& Rock Out To) While Driving

11. "Space Oddity" by David Bowie

"Space Oddity" came out the same year that astronauts landed on the moon: 1969.

12. "Fast Car" by Tracy Chapman

If you're driving down the road in a fast car — or even a slow one — this song will be perfect for your travel playlist.

13. "Orinoco Flow" by Enya

In this song, the narrator fantasizes about sailing away and traveling the world.

14. "See The World" by the Kooks

Want to see the world? Turn this song up to the full blast.

15. "Road Trippin'" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers

This song is perfect for your road trip playlist, as it is all about going on a road trip.

16. "Hot Fun in the Summertime" by Sly & The Family Stone

Nothing screams summer vacation like hot fun summertime.

17. "Malibu" by Kim Petras

"Malibu" is such a good vacation song. It's perfect for relaxing and chilling by the beach.

18. "Island in the Sun" by Weezer

"Island in the Sun" is all about sailing away to a fantasy beach. If only escaping your problems could be so easy.

19. "Surfin’ USA" by The Beach Boys

The music was based on “Sweet Little Sixteen” by Chuck Berry. This song covers all of the best surfing locations in the United States.

20. "California Gurls" by Katy Perry ft. Snoop Dogg

California Girls — they're undeniable! If you've ever been — or lived — in California, it might not ring true. But it definitely covers all of the California stereotypes that potential tourists might assume are accurate.

21. "School’s Out" by Alice Cooper

Nothing better than the end of the school year! What's more fun than celebrating the beginning of summer with a little Alice Cooper?

22. "Don’t Worry, Be Happy" by Bob Marley

This carefree song will perfectly put your work-life woes on pause. Close your eyes, take a breath, listen to this song, and enjoy yourself.

RELATED: What Traveling The World For 450 Days Taught Me About Relationships

23. "Soak Up The Sun" by Sheryl Crow

Traveling to a sunny place? This song is perfect for listening to by the pool or beach.

24. "Vacation" by The Go-Go's

What better way to celebrate your vacation than with a song that's literally called "Vacation"?

25. "It's Nice To Go Trav'ling" by Frank Sinatra

It's nice to go traveling, don't you think? Rocking out to this song is the best way to enjoy your travels.

26. "Meet the Parents" by Kim Petras

In this song, Kim Petras sings about taking someone to the beach, Paris, Miami, and New York.

27. "Galway Girl" by Ed Sheeran

The song is about a narrator that falls in love with a girl from Galway, Ireland.

28. "New York, I Love You" by LCD Soundsystem

What better way to embrace the Big Apple than with this song? Though it's about contradictions and a love/hate relationship with New York City, it's a reminder for anyone traveling that this city has a lot of heart.

29. "Night in Bangkok" by Murray Head

Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, and this song is great for traveling, as it describes what a literal night in Bangkok looks like.

30. "Free Man In Paris" by Joni Mitchell

Ever been to Paris? Ever been to Paris listening to this song? It's perfect for the first or next time your plane lands there.

31. "Paris, Tokyo" by Lupe Fiasco

Lupe Fiasco said he wrote this song because he loves Paris and Tokyo!

32. "American Boy" by Estelle ft. Kanye West

In this song, one of the narrators asks the other to take her to New York and L.A. And if either of those locations is your destination, you can rock out to this jam on the way there.

33. "Destination Calabria" by Alex Gaudino ft. Crystal Waters

This song is about leaving home without a plan set in stone.

RELATED: 5 Liberating Reasons Why You Should Consider Traveling By Yourself

34. "Havana" by Camila Cabello

Camila Cabello is from Havana, so who better to sing a song about this beautiful city than a native?

35. "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd

Whether you're visiting Alabama or just love the tune, it's a great song about never forgetting your roots.

36. "A Thousand Miles" by Vanessa Carlton

"A Thousand Miles" is a fun travel song, especially if you're traveling a thousand miles (or more!) away from home.

37. "I’ve Been Everywhere" by Johnny Cash

This song is great if you've been traveling all over the place and is known to inspire wanderlust in anyone who listens.

38. "Everywhere" by Fleetwood Mac

Though "Everywhere" may not be about travel specifically, it conveys the lovely feeling of being anywhere in the world with your love by your side.

39. "Roam" by the B52s

This song invites you to explore the world, wherever you want, whenever.

40. "My Traveling Star" by James Taylor

"My Traveling Star" explores the tension between home and the road.

41. "Come Away With Me" by Norah Jones

This song is all about asking someone to leave with you.

42. "Shut Up and Drive" by Rihanna

Definitely consider adding this to your road trip playlist, especially if the driver talks too much.

43. "The Long Way Around" by The Chicks

Any song by The Chicks will suffice for your road trip blues.

RELATED: 75 Happy Songs To Make You Smile & Feel Good

44. "Route 66" by Nat King Cole

Route 66 is one of the most famous routes in the United States. So if you're planning to drive the entire 2,000-mile stretch, consider adding this one to your wanderlust playlist.

45. "I Left My Heart In San Francisco" by Tony Bennett

This is the perfect song when moving feels more bittersweet than sweet.

46. "Montego Bay" by Amazulu

Montego Bay is Jamaica's third most populous city, and this song is all about relaxing.

47. "Proud Mary" by Tina Turner

Originally performed by Creedence Clearwater Revival, this song is about a steamboat traveling up and down the river. But its deeper meaning has an encouraging message to appreciate the simple things in life outside of bills and work.

48. "On Top of The World" by Imagine Dragons

This song is all about moving forward and letting go of the past . It's an anthem that radiates positivity, and its upbeat energy and empowering message of triumph make it a perfect choice for a road trip or adventure.

49. "I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)" by The Proclaimers

This song is perfect for road trips. It's one of those songs that everyone loves to sing along to in a car.

50. "Runaway" by Kanye West

This song is perfect for any trip, especially if you're traveling to get away from your problems.

51. Bruno Mars TikTok Song

This Bruno Mars remix is a staple for travel TikTokers.

52. TikTok Snapping Song

Transition your travel videos with a snap with this song in the background for a cool effect.

53. "Sunny Day" by Ted Fresco

This upbeat song adds a fun, lighthearted mood to your travel videos or wanderlust playlist.

54. "Vacation" by The Dirty Heads

This has quickly become the ultimate vacation video song thanks to TikTok.

55. "Paradise" by Bazzi

Show everyone a piece of your own paradise with this wanderlust song.

56. "Knee Deep" by The Zac Brown Band ft. Jimmy Buffet

An ultimate vacation goal is what this song represents. The Zac Brown Band and Jimmy Buffet paint a picture of a peaceful oceanfront property and not worrying about anything.

RELATED: Why I Travel To Cure My Broken Heart

57. "Empire State of Mind" by Jay-Z ft. Alicia Keys

Anyone going to New York City will be inspired by the glamorous and freeing descriptions of the concrete jungle.

58. "Traveling Alone" by Passenger

The song discusses wanting to travel all over, even if you're alone. So, if you have wanderlust this song is right up your alley.

59. "Down Under" by Men at Work

This classic 80s hit is all about how amazing Australia is. Once you hear it, you'll definitely want to visit the land down under.

60. "Guaranteed" by Eddie Vedder

This song was written for the film "Into The Wild" and won a Golden Globe. Why not add an award-winning hit to your playlist?

61. "Vienna" by Billy Joel

"Vienna" by Billy Joel discusses the importance of slowing down in life and enjoying the moment. It reminds us to take a break and smell the flowers.

62. "Born To Be Wild" by Steppenwolf

If you love riding along the open road, this song is for you. Originally recorded in 1968, it was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

63. "Graceland" by Paul Simon

This recording is a timeless masterpiece that has a vibrant and uplifting musical journey. Its introspective lyrics capture the essence of growth and exploration.

64. "Come Fly With Me" by Frank Sinatra

"Come Fly With Me" was written specifically for Frank Sinatra, and is a romantic song where Sinatra invites listeners to visit exotic places with him, like Peru and Bombay.

65. "Travelin Band" by Creedence Clearwater Revival

This is a high-energy rock and roll classic that captivates listeners with its infectious rhythm and spirited guitar riffs. You have to tap your feet when you hear it!

RELATED: 35 Best Songs About Life To Keep You Motivated On Your Journey

Izzy Casey is a freelance writer, former YourTango writer and associate editor, and copy editor who received her MFA in Poetry from the Iowa Writers' Workshop. Her work has been published in Corriere della Sera, The Iowa Review, Bennington Review, Gulf Coast, Black Warrior Review, BOATT, NY Tyrant, and elsewhere.

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Exploring the South: Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee

By USA specialist Natalie

Much of the South is defined by the cities and plantations that are strung out, like Mardi Gras beads, along the length of the mighty, muddy Mississippi. Along the river, you’ll find smoky jazz halls, authentic blues dives and country music honky-tonks. You’ll also encounter restored plantations whose graceful white columns and tree-lined drives disguise a horrific history. This is the land of jambalaya, civil rights, Elvis and the Grand Ole Opry.

A two-week self-drive tour through Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee can take you through the heart of the South, following the river that defines the region.

Let the good times roll in New Orleans, Louisiana

A cultural stew pot, New Orleans has long held firm to its open-minded acceptance of anyone who’s willing to let the good times roll. French Catholic, Caribbean and African influences set the tone, alongside recent Vietnamese and Sicilian ones, all melding together in a sassafras-scented cultural gumbo.

For many, the city is the birthplace of jazz. You hear it spilling from bars on Frenchmen Street, at the prestigious Jazz Fest, blasted by buskers in Jackson Square, and leading spontaneous parades through the French Quarter. Even if you’re not a fan, I strongly suggest taking in a performance by the Preservation Hall Jazz Band.

Performed four or five times a night, the short show consists of an improvised set list. The virtuosic band members solicit requests from the audience, mixing in a little vaudevillian patter and good-natured ribbing. I think that the tiny venue and intimate nature of the performance make it the best way to experience jazz in the city.

Aside from its music, New Orleans is probably best known for its cuisine, and you could easily frame your whole visit around eating. Try pralines at Aunt Sally’s, gumbo at Galatoire’s, jambalaya at Coop’s Place, milk punch at the Court of Two Sisters and beignets at Café du Monde (bring cash).

For a more hands-on approach, you can whip up some of these poetically named dishes in a class at the New Orleans School of Cooking under the wing of an expert chef.

The city also continues to be a hotbed of culinary innovation. Staying au courant of the ever-changing restaurant scene is practically a full-time job, so ask your hotel concierge for recommendations.

Food and music don’t account for all New Orleans’ cultural heritage — the city’s long, turbulent past is written into its streets and stones. I think the best way to explore this history is on a guided tour of the city’s graveyards.

For centuries, born out of necessity by the city’s high water table, New Orleans’ dead have been buried in above-ground mausoleums and time-blackened crypts that molder, slowly, in the humid air.

Enclosed by crumbling brick walls and wrought-iron gates, the historical cemeteries are only open to visitors with an approved guide. But, to be honest, you wouldn’t want to go without one. The weathered gravestones and spall-faced crypts hide stories that a guide can bring to life, from deadly yellow fever plagues to dramatic family feuds.

The living are still very present here. Modern practitioners regularly leave offerings of gris-gris charms and flowers at the tomb of voodoo priestess Marie Laveau. In 1995, author Anne Rice staged her own mock funeral at Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. And, in 2009, actor Nicolas Cage commissioned a large white pyramid in Saint Louis Cemetery No. 1, for reasons he keeps to himself.

The city’s many museums include the well-curated National WWII Museum, which presents an in-depth look at the war, as well as a soda shop that recreates the ambiance of the era. Across town, in the elegant Presbytère building, the Louisiana State Museum displays a heartbreaking, but ultimately hopeful, exhibition about Hurricane Katrina. Smaller museums are dedicated to voodoo, and the history of pharmacies and costumes, among other subjects.

The South’s Plantation Country

As you follow the Mississippi out of New Orleans, you see dozens of restored plantations littering the river’s wide, fertile banks. On a bend about an hour west of the city are three that I particularly recommend you visit.

Oak Alley ’s front lane is lined with wide-branched oaks that frame the white colonnaded portico. The scene has been photographed so often that the image is practically synonymous with Louisiana plantations.

Lovingly, lavishly restored inside and out, the big house is, for me, the best place to spend the night in plantation country.

The tour here is fairly unremarkable, but the guest cottages are exceptional — airy and spacious with roofed porches and river views. Wake up early to explore the manicured grounds and take photographs uncluttered by hordes of tourists.

Just 10 minutes away from Oak Alley, Laura Plantation offers a thoughtful look into the history and culture of Creole plantation owners. The main house has been meticulously restored to its original blue-and-yellow exterior. Inside, you can hear about the complicated, cosmopolitan Creole culture, along with a blunt examination of how that intersected with race and the institution of slavery.

For an in-depth analysis of the lives of enslaved people, you need to venture another 10 minutes down the road to Whitney Plantation. This is the only museum in America that focuses primarily on the African workers who were forced into slavery and their descendants, born into bondage.

The exhibits provide an unflinching look at the grievous human cost that paid for the gracious mansions still lining the river, a history that’s mostly left unexamined or even elided in the other plantations.

Blues and history in Mississippi

Continuing north up the river, Vicksburg, Mississippi , is a sleepy city that acted as a vital strategic point between Memphis and New Orleans during the Civil War. Because the city offered control of the river, General Grant’s army laid siege to the city for several months, shelling it from gunboats on the river.

The Vicksburg National Military Park includes a self-guided driving trail that follows the siege lines of both armies, passing tombs and monuments. Costumed re-enactors often run demonstrations or workshops along the way. The 26-km (16-mile) route also stops at the USS Cairo Gunboat and Museum, a well-preserved example of the ironclad gunboats that plied the river during the war.

If you prefer music to history, the rundown city of Clarksdale, Mississippi, is the home of the Delta blues and some of the best blues bars in the world.

Ground Zero, co-owned by Morgan Freeman, doesn’t look like much. The white paint is mostly peeled off the battered, graffiti-scrawled brick walls, and the cluttered interior is lit by strings of bare-bulb Christmas lights. But, the small wooden stage is where aspiring blues artists come to make a name for themselves.

The club is right next door to the Delta Blues Museum and centrally located on the Blues Trail, a self-drive tour of the sites vital to Delta blues, from cotton fields to churches.

‘I’m going to Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee’

Home to Sun Studio, Graceland and a myriad of clubs that line Beale Street, Memphis is a place of pilgrimage for music fans of all sorts, whether you listen to rock ‘n’ roll, jazz or the blues.

Even if you don’t love Elvis, I’d urge you to spend at least half a day at Graceland (though true fans probably want to allot even more time). With a green shag-carpeted ceiling and the peacock stained-glass windows, the over-the-top pleasure palace is decorated in 1970s glamour or glitzy kitsch, depending on your personal taste.

Of the choice of tours, I suggest spending the extra money to see the two planes, if only for the gold-plated basin in the bathroom of the Lisa Marie. You’ll also see Elvis’s complete collection of records, cars, clothes and toys, as well as a multimedia entertainment complex that examines his life and career.

The first time I visited the mansion, I was shocked at the number of people sobbing openly at his flower-bedecked grave, the last stop on the tour.

A shuttle runs from Graceland to Sun Studio, and a visit is definitely worth your time. Elvis, BB King, Johnny Cash and countless others recorded here.

Nearby, you’ll find Beale Street, which is crowded with clubs where blues, jazz and rock musicians still belt out gigs every night and twice on Saturdays.

A 20-minute walk from Beale, the National Civil Rights Museum examines America’s long struggle with race. It backs onto the hotel where Dr King was assassinated, and you can visit the room where he died, preserved as it was that night. It’s a moving, difficult visit, but necessary, I think, to understand the South’s past and present struggles.

Two Beale Street musicians also run a vintage car tour of the city. You climb into a restored 1950s car for a tour that’s tailored to your interests. You can make it all about Elvis, examine the city’s fraught racial history or visit stops on the Blues Trail.

Music City — Nashville, Tennessee

The home of country music, Nashville has a bit of a touristy vibe and, sometimes, it can be hard to get away from the bright lights and flashy façade.

But, no one knows the city as well as the musicians who flock here, hoping for their big break, and that’s why I suggest a private tour of Nashville with a songwriter.

You’ll visit the big sights and get an insider’s view of the industry as well as the history, from its earliest days in the 1920s until today. End with a drink at one of the historic honky-tonk bars that line the Broadway District.

It was on this tour that I discovered the Musicians Hall of Fame. Lesser known than the bigger, slicker Country Music Hall of Fame, this museum takes a deep dive into the whole of America’s music industry, paying tribute to anonymous session musicians as well as big-name stars. The most fascinating exhibit for me examined what goes into making a Grammy-worthy song, from the original idea, scratched on paper, to the final pressing of the album.

But, this was surpassed by seeing a performance at the Grand Ole Opry. I’m not a country music fan, but there’s something charming about the old-fashioned, thrice-weekly live-broadcast shows. Last time I visited, I took a behind-the-scenes tour of the show. Escorted by a tiny woman dwarfed by her perfectly styled hair, I visited the backstage area.

Each dressing room is decorated to a theme. ‘Stars and Stripes’ features an oversized American flag painted on the wall, and ‘It Takes Two’ is bedecked with photographs of the genre’s best-known duos.

The pinnacle of the tour is the chance to sit on stage during the performance, close to the musicians. Singer-songwriter Dierks Bentley was close enough that I could see him sweat under the bright lights of Nashville’s most storied venue.

Read more about trips to Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee in the USA

Discovering the American South

13 days from $3,495pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• Music culture of the South
• A New Orleans food guide
• Luxury vacations in the South
• Exploring Georgia and the Carolinas
• Driving vacations in the United States

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These Are Going to Be the Most Popular Travel Destinations in 2024

A lready thinking about where you want to travel in 2024 ? If you’re hoping to hit the hottest travel destinations of the year, Expedia Group is here to help. The one-stop travel site—alongside Hotels.com and VRBO—just released Unpack '24 , a travel trends analysis for the coming year. In addition to detailing the projected top 10 most popular international destinations of 2024, the site also revealed 10 “dupes” for travelers looking to perhaps spend a bit less, as well as those hoping to be surrounded by fewer fellow tourists. Additionally, they revealed 10 affordable cities where the world’s biggest musical acts are set to perform, as well as where to travel if you live a sober lifestyle.

“At Expedia Group, we have extensive first-party travel data that we use to enhance and curate experiences for our travelers across Expedia, Hotels.com, and Vrbo,” Jon Gieselman, president of Expedia Brands, says in the report. “These insights shape our travel forecasts, revealed in Unpack '24, enabling our travelers to be the first to discover and book the most desired trips before they become well-beaten paths.”

Ready to ignite your travel bug? Ahead, discover the most popular travel destinations of 2024.

The Top 10 Travel Destinations of 2024

Expedia Group predicts that travelers are most likely to jet set to destinations popularized in fan-favorite TV shows and movies. According to the report, “More than half of travelers say they’ve researched or booked a trip to a destination after seeing it on a TV show or in a movie. In fact, travelers say TV shows influence their travel decisions more than Instagram, TikTok, and podcasts.” With that in mind, they reveal that the top 10 travel destinations of 2024 are as follows:

• Thailand - Featured in White Lotus , Season 3—which has sadly been pushed to premiere in 2025
• Romania - Featured in Wednesday , Season 2—which has not yet set a release date
• Malta - As seen in Gladiator 2 , which is set to premiere on November 22, 2024
• Paris - As seen in Emily in Paris
• Scottish Highlands - Featured in Outlander
• London, Bath, and Windsor, U.K. - As seen in Bridgerton and The Crown
• South Korea - Featured in Squid Game —the Season 2 release date has yet to be announced
• Florida Keys - As seen in the series Bad Monkey
• Australia - Featured in Baz Luhrmann’s Faraway Downs series, as well as the film Furiosa , which is set to premiere on May 24, 2024
• Greece - as seen in the films Argylle (set to release in 2024) and My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3

The Top 10 Travel Destination Dupes

Dupes have long been lauded in the beauty and fashion categories, and now the concept is making its way to travel. “1 in 3 of those polled say they’ve booked a dupe,” the report reveals. “But what do these less obvious alternatives offer besides potential savings? They’re often less crowded, tend to be a little unexpected, and can be every bit as delightful as the tried-and-true destinations.”

Intrigued by the idea of booking a stellar vacation for a fraction of the price? Check out Expedia Group’s Top 10 Travel Destination Dupes, below, which are listed as the original destination of inspiration and the dupe that mirrors it.

• Seoul —> Taipei
• Bangkok —> Pattaya
• Santorini —> Paros
• Saint Martin —> Curaçao
• Sydney —> Perth
• London —> Liverpool
• Lisbon —> Palermo
• Geneva —> Québec City
• Zermatt —> Sapporo
• Nashville —> Memphis

The Top 10 Tour-Inspired Travel Destinations

Music lovers, this one’s for you! As you well know, traveling to see your favorite artists live is expensive, to say the least. With this in mind, Expedia set out to find the most affordable destinations where the world’s most famous pop and rock stars are set to take the stage in 2024.

Through their research, in which they analyzed the average daily rates of tour locations, they found the top 10 most affordable cities (less than $150/night on average) where travelers can witness the likes of Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Coldplay, Metallica, Madonna, and more. They are as follows:

• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia - $91
• Edmonton, Canada - $108
• Mexico City, Mexico - $119
• Warsaw, Poland - $119
• Birmingham, U.K. - $127
• Houston, Texas - $130
• Antwerp, Belgium - $140
• Tokyo, Japan - $147
• Perth, Australia - $148
• Detroit, Michigan - $149

For more research-backed travel trends, be sure to check out Expedia’s full Unpack ‘24 Trend Report .

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Nicki Minaj's Husband Kenneth Petty Gets Judge's Permission to Travel Internationally for Pink Friday 2 World Tour

Petty, who's been married to Minaj for five years, cites "childcare" and "various purposes" to travel with the rapper to several countries.

Kenneth Petty will get to spend more time with his wife, Nicki Minaj , as she embarks on the international leg of her Pink Friday 2 World Tour, set to begin in Toronto on April 30.

According to documents filed on Petty's behalf on April 15, the 46-year-old sought permission from a federal judge to travel and provide "child care" of their 3-year-old son, along with other "various purposes."

“Defendant Kenneth Petty ('Mr. Petty'), by and through counsel, hereby applies to the Court for an Order allowing him to travel out of the country with his family for his wife’s tour and her professional purposes,” the filing reads, as shared by media legal reporter Meghann Cuniff .

It continues, "Mr. Petty and Mrs. Petty believe Mr. Petty is necessary to accompany the family on the tour for various purposes, including childcare. The anticipated travel schedule begins on April 17, 2024 and continues periodically to July 14, 2024. The travel schedule calls for travel to several countries including Canada, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Austria, Ireland, Switzerland, and Romania. The Government has been notified about this application and takes no position. Mr. Petty’s probation officer has been notified of this application and has no objection to the travel request."

Cuniff added on Tuesday that Petty's request was approved by Judge Michael Fitzgerald in L.A.

New tonight: Nicki Minaj's husband Kenneth Petty is asking a federal judge for permission to travel internationally for the Pink Friday 2 World tour.  He's currently on probation out of Los Angeles federal court for failing to register as a sex offender. pic.twitter.com/8sPynYfaPI — Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) April 16, 2024

Good news for Nicki Minaj: Her husband is now legally authorized to accompany her on her Pink Friday 2 world tour. Judge Michael Fitzgerald in Los Angeles signed the travel order today for Kenneth Petty, who is on federal probation for failing to register as a sex offender. pic.twitter.com/ehSIiAuXlI — Meghann Cuniff (@meghanncuniff) April 16, 2024

Petty will need to give his probation officer details regarding his travel and itinerary, in addition to being required to check in with his P.O. upon his return to Los Angeles at the tour's conclusion in July.

Petty is a registered sex offender, stemming from the 1994 rape of Jennifer Hough , who was 16 years old at the time of the alleged incident. In 2023, he was required to fulfill 120 days of house arrest after making threats online to rapper Offset .

In 2019, Petty accompanied his wife during a Nicki Wrld Tour show in Frankfurt, Germany. Security guard Thomas Weidenmuller alleged he was assaulted by the couple backstage. Weidenmuller sued the Pettys for $732,000 in 2022, but the couple reportedly didn't respond to the lawsuit, and may have to cough up $503,318 thanks to a recent default judgment.

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