Do you feel a strong desire to explore new places? Are you dreaming of different landscapes and cultures? Traveling offers a world of endless possibilities, including beautiful views, diverse cultures, and exciting adventures.
In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of 18 best travel books that will spark your sense of adventure and take you on unforgettable journeys, all from the comfort of your favorite reading nook.
Each book on this list bursts with the promise of new horizons, offering a passport to captivating experiences and hidden gems across the globe. It can be a walk through lush rainforests, an expedition to remote mountain peaks, or an exploration of bustling city streets – anyway, these stories will transport you to the heart of the action and the soul of distant lands.
Ready to ignite your wanderlust and explore the world through the power of storytelling? Buckle up, because your next adventure starts here!
A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail
If you want a mix of humor and adventure, Bill Bryson’s A Walk in the Woods is a must-read. This New York Times bestseller follows Bryson’s attempt to hike the 2,100-mile Appalachian Trail with his comically unfit friend, Stephen Katz. The book is full of laughs as they face various challenges and enjoy beautiful scenery.
Bryson also shares thoughts on the history and delicate state of America’s wilderness, urging us to care for it. With adventure, humor, and a love for nature, A Walk in the Woods is a modern classic in travel literature.
 A Walk In the Woods is a pleasant, entertaining, mildly funny tale of Bill Bryson’s trek along parts of the Appalachian Trail. It is the kind of compelling story that draws you in, and takes you along to enjoy the sights, sounds, and adventure without, of course, actually being there. A good read.
– By Larry Manch |
Riding the Iron Rooster
In Riding the Iron Rooster, Paul Theroux takes you on an amazing train journey across Europe, through Asia, and into China. Theroux is great at describing what he sees, making each place come alive with his detailed and lively writing.
As you read, you’ll feel like you’re on the train with him, seeing different cultures, and landscapes, and meeting interesting people. This book is a great choice for anyone who loves travel and wants to explore the world by train through the eyes of a top travel writer.
 What a wonderful book. Very interesting — a little dated now, so it’s difficult to gauge Theroux’s perspectives on China and its people. But the writing and pacing of the storytelling is so good. I’m having a hard time not immediately picking up another of his books. I’m guessing the South American one will be next.
– By Joel Register |
Africa is Not a Country
Africa Is Not a Country gives a fresh and detailed look at modern Africa, breaking away from common stereotypes. Instead of just showing famines and safaris, Dipo Faloyin shares a rich mix of cultures and stories. He talks about lively city life in Lagos and the fun debate over the best Jollof rice.
Faloyin also discusses Africa’s colonial past and the fight for democracy in places ruled by dictators. With humor and sharp insights, this book helps readers see Africa in a real and nuanced way. If you want to understand Africa beyond the clichés, this book is a great pick.
 This was a really thorough look into not only African history throughout the continent, but also into what it looks like to be an African today and how that differs across countries. I’m not the biggest fan of history-heavy nonfiction, but this was so readable I just breezed through it. Would definitely recommend to everybody, but especially anybody looking to get a beginner’s overview on the continent.
– By Rachel |
The Last Ride of the Pony Express: My 2,000-Mile Horseback Journey Into the Old West
The Last Ride of the Pony Express by Will Grant, a cowboy and journalist, takes you on an incredible horseback journey through the modern West. Named one of Smithsonian’s Best Travel Books of the Year and a USA Today bestseller, this book follows Grant as he retraces the historic 2,000-mile Pony Express route.
Riding his horses, Chicken Fry and Badger, Grant brings the West to life with stories of ranchers, farmers, and historians he meets along the way. He mixes tales of the rugged 19th-century landscape with stories of today’s changing West, giving readers a close-up look at America’s frontier spirit. This fascinating book is perfect for anyone interested in the true heart and history of the American West.
 This was highly enjoyable. Clean, concise travel writing with history, ecology and culture interspersed.
I especially appreciate how difficult a journey he took to write this book after riding my bike on a section of the Pony Express Trail along the Carson River. The wind was brutal! I can only imagine what it would have been like to ride across the whole state of Nevada, not even the entire 2,000 miles. What a crazy long way to go on a horse. And to think the Pony Express riders did it in 10 days! – By Carrie Jensen |
In a Sunburned Country
In a Sunburned Country offers a funny look at Australia. Known for its friendly people, wild weather, and dangerous animals, Australia is brought to life by Bill Bryson’s sharp wit and sense of wonder.
As Bryson travels, he meets cheerful Australians, visits clean and lively cities, and learns amazing facts about this vast land. Even with the many things that can be dangerous—like sharks and snakes—Bryson’s love for Australia stands out, taking readers on an exciting journey beyond the usual tourist spots. This book is a great guide to Australia, full of smart observations and lots of laughs.
| Paperback holiday read.
I really loved this book! Loved the facts. Loved the antidotal stories. Loved the history lessons. And laughed out loud at the comedy ; irritating for my partner. Probably more irritating when I insisted on reading them out loud! But oh the story about the young child who helped build a house. Priceless! Think the whole beach heard us laughing when I read that one out! – By Michele |
A House in the Sky
by Amanda Lindhout & Sara Corbett
In A House in the Sky, Amanda Lindhout shares her story of being kidnapped in Somalia for fifteen months. This gripping memoir starts with her as a curious child inspired by National Geographic, growing into an adventurous traveler and new TV reporter. Her journeys took her to some of the world’s most dangerous places, ending with her kidnapping in Somalia in 2008.
During her 460-day captivity, Amanda found comfort in her memories and a safe mental space she called her “house in the sky.” The book is a vivid and thrilling story that shows her incredible strength and even her compassion for her captors. A House in the Sky is a powerful tale of survival and the resilience of the human spirit.
| This was a tough read in the sense of reading through what someone had to endure. I had to remind myself several times that this was not fiction. She actually went through all the torture and abuse and tried to stay positive throughout. I don’t know if I’d be as strong if I were in that same situation or to be about to have a life after.
– By Amanda Woodhead |
Notes from a Small Island
Notes from a Small Island by Bill Bryson is about his last tour of Britain before moving back to the U.S. in 1995. As he travels through the beautiful countryside, Bryson talks about what makes Britain special—from funny place names like Farleigh Wallop to the endearing habits of its people, like saying “Mustn’t grumble” and loving tea and biscuits.
This bestseller shows Bryson’s funny and warm observations, giving readers a heartfelt tribute to a country he loves. With over two million copies sold, Notes from a Small Island is one of the most loved books about Britain, celebrating its unique culture with humor and warmth.
 I read this for the umpteenth time because I wanted to try to figure out, as a sort of travel writer myself, how Bryson manages to wander about, often without much to say, amidst stuff of no particular interest, and make it both engaging and amusing. Not belly-laugh funny, but constantly entertaining. Of course he does say quite a lot about Britain and why he likes it (and sometimes why he doesn’t), but his enthusiasm frequently arises from things of little consequence. It’s charmingly written, and that’s the trick, but I still don’t know how he does it.– By Stephen Wood |
Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mt. Everest Disaster
Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer tells the gripping story of the 1996 Mt. Everest disaster, where five people lost their lives. His writing is full of vivid details and deep emotions, showing the dangers of climbing at high altitudes.
Krakauer gives a fair view, honoring the Sherpas and thinking about his own guilt and responsibility. The updated postscript looks at his debate with guide Anatoli Boukreev, showing Krakauer’s thoughtful side. This bestseller explores the deadly draw of Everest and the business of mountaineering.
 How can you rate something that was a real life horror? I felt this eerie sadness as soon as I finished this book. Mountaineering is risky, and people who are involved in it know that, but reading incidents like this show how fragile humans are. But I think I will never understand the complete obsession with something that some people have where they are willing to do anything.
This was my first time reading a narrative non-fiction and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved the writing style as it keeps you hooked from start to finish. It literally felt as if I was also climbing Everest alongside the author and his team. The last couple of chapters made me feel weary because it was just so overwhelming. – By Ayesha Syed |
The Catch Me If You Can
The Catch Me If You Can by Jessica Nabongo is an inspiring travel book about her journey as the first Black woman to visit all 195 countries. With amazing stories and beautiful photos, Nabongo shares her adventures, cultural experiences, and the deep connections she made along her travels.
From a scooter accident in Nauru to playing dominoes in Havana, each chapter shows different traditions and special moments. Nabongo’s tales include well-known places like Peru and South Africa, and less-visited spots like Tuvalu and the Central African Republic. This book is perfect for those who dream of traveling or enjoy reading about far-off places.
 I love traveling but don’t have the time or budget to be able to do as much as I’d like. Nabongo’s stories are a wonderful way to satisfy my wanderlust without breaking my budget. Her descriptions are personal, relatable (if you’ve done any traveling) and an excellent alternative to scrolling through TripAdvisor ☺️– By KatieLovesToRead |
Travels with Charley: In Search of America
Travels with Charley by John Steinbeck is a personal and reflective look at America. At fifty-eight years old, Steinbeck takes a road trip across the country with his loyal French poodle, Charley, to rediscover the nation he has written about for years.
During the trip, Steinbeck drives on highways and back roads, eats with truckers, sees wildlife in Yellowstone, and meets old friends in San Francisco. His thoughtful reflections cover the American character, racial issues, loneliness, and the unexpected kindness he encounters. This travel memoir is a heartfelt rediscovery of America, full of vivid descriptions and deep thoughts, making it a timeless read for anyone curious about the country’s soul.
I enjoyed this book SO much! Steinbeck is such a thoughtful and beautiful writer. I laughed out loud in the middle of the BMV waiting room while reading the chapter on Yellowstone, and was astonished to recognize the historical significance of his stop at a school in New Orleans. I had no idea Steinbeck personally witnessed Ruby Bridges going to school! I don’t buy many books but I plan to purchase a copy of this one asap.
– By Carmel Rietveld |
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail
Wild is a powerful memoir by Cheryl Strayed about her eleven-hundred-mile solo hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. At twenty-six, after her mother’s death and her marriage ending, Strayed sets out on this tough hike with no hiking experience.
As she walks through California, Oregon, and Washington, Strayed faces many physical and emotional challenges. Her story is full of suspense, humor, and raw honesty, showing a journey that pushes her to her limits but helps her heal and find herself. This #1 New York Times bestseller is a testament to the strength of the human spirit, making it an inspiring read for anyone looking to overcome their own challenges.
| This book exceeded my expectations. I saw the movie years ago and was mostly interested in the PCT element, but I found the writing to be outstanding and the story had many more layers than just the hike. I had a great time following Strayed’s (mis)adventures on the trail and admire her perseverance in the face a seemingly never-ending chain of difficulties (many of which were self-inflicted). As an East Coaster this is probably the closest I’ll get to actually hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, but i now have a number of new places added to my bucket list.
– By Chris Sulima |
The Half-Known Life: Finding Paradise in a Divided World
The Half-Known Life by Pico Iyer, a well-known travel writer, is about his journey to some of the world’s most sacred places. He looks for a glimpse of paradise, even in places with ongoing conflict. Iyer travels to spots like Jerusalem, Belfast, and North Korea, offering deep thoughts on the human condition and the search for peace.
This beautifully written memoir blends Iyer’s inner and outer journeys, asking readers to think about where paradise might truly be. With rich storytelling and sharp insights, Iyer suggests that despite the world’s divisions and troubles, we can find paradise within ourselves and around us if we choose to see it. Highly praised by critics, The Half-Known Life is a spiritual and thought-provoking read that encourages us to find hope and beauty in everyday life.
 One of the best books – let alone travel books – I have ever had the pleasure of reading. Flew through it far too quickly. The insight and beauty Iyer invokes in some of the world’s perhaps most overwhelming and multi-faceted places is truly one of a kind. Spectacular.– By Elis Williams |
Eat, Pray, Love
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert is a beloved memoir that has touched many hearts. In her early thirties, Gilbert leaves behind her seemingly perfect life—husband, home, and career—and starts a journey of transformation.
She explores pleasure in Italy, devotion in India, and seeks balance between enjoyment and spirituality in Bali. This personal and inspiring book encourages readers to find their own best selves through Gilbert’s experiences and thoughts. It is a wise and uplifting travel memoir and a timeless guide to self-discovery and inner peace.
 I don’t know that I would like Elizabeth Gilbert as a person very much, but as an author, I’m a fan. I think she has an incredible way with words, and her storytelling really grabbed me in this memoir. This was both light and deeply soul-searching at the same time, and I really appreciated that balance. It was funny and informative and certainly made me want to pack up to travel the world for a year.– By Lauren P. |
Blue Highways: A Journey into America
Blue Highways by William Least Heat-Moon is a classic piece of American travel writing that takes readers on a memorable journey along the nation’s backroads. Driven by a need for change and curiosity about small, often overlooked towns like Remote, Oregon, and Arizona, Heat-Moon sets out to explore the heart of America.
During his travels, he finds hidden gems and meets fascinating people, creating a rich collection of stories that show the real American experience. His adventures and reflections offer a deep understanding of the country’s diverse places and cultures. The book invites you to discover the beauty and uniqueness of America’s lesser-known routes and communities.
 This is precisely the type of travel memoir I love. It is a road trip that takes you to little-known places that seem stuck in time, forgotten by many due to development and roads, but still form an integral part of the American landscape. The author’s description is just the right amount of detail, and the interactions with locals are what give the book its soul. Blue Highways is a must for travel lovers and an ode to the joy of being out and about on the open road.– By Tara – The BookSirens Weekend Reader |
Shantaram
Shantaram is a gripping story, now a major Apple TV+ series starring Charlie Hunnam. It follows Lin, an escaped convict from Australia, who hides in the busy streets of Bombay. With the help of his friend Prabaker, Lin explores the hidden world of beggars, gangsters, and slum dwellers.
He runs a clinic in a poor neighborhood and works under mafia boss Khader Khan. Lin’s journey is full of love, betrayal, and self-discovery. His relationship with the mysterious Karla adds depth to his quest. Shantaram captures India’s vibrant chaos and soul, making it an unforgettable read.
 an epic book. This is about redlining life amidst wealth/poverty, power, Indian culture, love, good and evil. It’s about the Indian mafia and explores philosophy and the relationship between consciousness and matter. It’s beautiful and hard. The author has an adjective for every noun. It’s about violent criminal mafia gangs. Love and addiction.
I “read” the audio version. The book is about 1,000 pages long and the audio version is 42 hours. The audio is well worth the time. The narrator, Humphrey Bower, brings conversations to life among a group of Indians so each person has their own voice and accent. – By Kozmo Bates |
Around the World in 80 Trains
Around the World in 80 Trains is an exciting travel memoir by Monisha Rajesh. She plans to travel around the world using eighty train journeys. Covering 45,000 miles, her adventure goes from the high altitudes of Tibet’s Qinghai railway to the luxury of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.
With her fiancé Jem, the journey starts from London’s St Pancras station and goes through Russia, Mongolia, North Korea, Canada, and more. Along the way, they meet quirky and kind fellow travelers while enjoying stunning landscapes. Rajesh’s insightful and funny storytelling celebrates the joy of train travel. She also explores the rich history and diverse cultures they come across. This book will make you appreciate the beauty of slow travel and the connections made on the journey.
| If you’re looking for a guidebook this is not it. However for someone with endless wanderlust it is quite transporting, and it perfectly captures enchanting moments of observation and reflection in far flung places. I loved that the writer included anecdotes about interesting chance encounters with people along the way, because in the end that’s what really makes a memorable trip.
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A Walk in the Park: The True Story of a Spectacular Misadventure in the Grand Canyon
A Walk in the Park by Kevin Fedarko tells the exciting story of his 750-mile trek across the Grand Canyon with his friend Pete McBride. Starting with no preparation, their year-long journey is full of danger, discovery, and wonder.
They navigate dangerous cliffs and find hidden spots in the canyon, learning from long-distance hikers and Native American tribes. The experience changes their understanding of the Grand Canyon’s rich history and highlights the threats from commercial tourism. Fedarko’s story is both a thrilling adventure and a call to protect this natural wonder. The book also beautifully shows the canyon’s harsh majesty and lasting beauty.
| A walk in the wood meets a walk in the park! Great story with many educational points along the way. Some great descriptions about the scenery, the weather, the life of inhabitants. Can be preachy about items that have meaning to the author. I learned more about bad choices when hiking, and how critical planning is for hiking the canyon. It was funny, sad, emotional, interesting, and educational. In the story, you can feel the heat, see the blue sky, the pitch black of night, the fear of being totally on your own. If you make a mistake, it could be the last. I enjoyed the walk. – By Jim Flanigan |
Neither Here nor There: Travels in Europe
Neither Here nor There is a funny and heartfelt travel memoir. It follows Bill Bryson as he retraces his backpacking trip across Europe from the 1970s. With his memorable friend Stephen Katz, Bryson takes a journey full of humor, nostalgia, and cultural insights.
The book captures the essence of traveling in Europe, blending Bryson’s witty observations with his love for the continent. Whether you’re an experienced traveler or prefer exploring from home, Neither Here nor There gives a delightful and entertaining view of Europe.
 The first travelogue I ever read. It had me in stitches. When I was reading it as a college kid traveling abroad, I didn’t know you were allowed to write like this. It opened my world to how I could write myself, using irreverent personality. The adventures of he and Katz gave me inspiration to travel myself and Bryson was an inspiration as I wrote my own book.– By Tim Sweeney |
Final Thoughts
As we finish this exploration of travel books, one thing is clear: the allure of travel is always just a page away. The 18 books we’ve explored offer more than just stories of distant places—they show us the beauty, excitement, and diversity of our world.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab one of these books, dive into the stories, and who knows? You might find yourself booking a plane ticket or packing for a road trip.
Feel free to check out our other blog posts for more inspiration and book picks.
99 Amazing Books Turned into Movies
Top 100 Best-Selling Books 2023
Also, remember to compare book prices and find great deals on BookScouter.com. It’s a handy tool to make sure you buy at the best price, and get the best value for your used books when you sell them back. Safe travels, and happy reading!
