Travel Songs That Inspire Adventure
This article presents a curated playlist of the best travel songs as recommended by travel enthusiasts. Discover tunes that evoke wanderlust, remind you of destinations, and celebrate the joys of exploring the world.
The Best Travel Songs Playlist
We received wonderful insights from our readers about the songs that inspire their travels. Here’s a collection reflecting their favorites.
1. Africa by Toto
This iconic song by Toto stirs a deep yearning to visit Africa. The lyrics evoke vivid imagery of camping in the desert and climbing Kilimanjaro, bringing the continent to life every time it plays.
“The wild dogs cry out in the night…
…I seek to cure what’s deep inside, frightened of this thing that I’ve become.”
2. Galway Girl by Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran captures the essence of a night out in Galway, Ireland. His music resonates with a modern travel theme, reflecting his own adventures across the globe.
“I meet her on Grafton street right outside of the bar…
…Said it was one of my friend’s songs, do you want to drink on?”
3. One Night in Bangkok by Murray Head
This catchy track from the musical ‘Chess’ sparked a desire to explore Bangkok during the 1990s and continues to pop up in my head while visiting the city.
“I said, ‘do you speak-a my language?’…”
4. Land Down Under by Men at Work
Men at Work’s classic references the Hippy Trail, evoking images of travel through exotic places while celebrating Australian culture.
“Bangkok, Oriental setting…
…In a show with everything but Yul Brynner.”
5. Havana by Camila Cabello
With a groove that transports listeners to Cuba, this song encapsulates the essence of Havana, highlighting the emotional connection many have with this vibrant city.
Havana, ooh na-na…
6. Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd
This American classic evokes nostalgia for the South, showcasing the unique culture and the mesmerizing landscapes of Alabama.
“Now Muscle Shoals has got the Swampers…”
7. I’ve Been Everywhere Man by Johnny Cash
This iconic tune reflects the ultimate travel experience, portraying the life of a wanderer through verses that celebrate the journey itself.
“I’ve been everywhere, man…”
8. Route 66 by Nat King Cole
Capturing the spirit of America’s iconic highway, this song invites listeners to hit the open road and enjoy the journey from Chicago to L.A.
“Well if you ever plan to motor west…”
9. Desert Rose – Sting
This haunting melody evokes travel to the Middle East, conjuring images of distant lands and exotic adventures.
“I dream of rain, I dream of gardens in the desert sand…”
10. Where the Streets Have No Name by U2
This powerful song reflects a desire for unity and freedom, inspired by Bono’s observations of Ethiopia and its streets.
“I want to feel sunlight on my face…”
11. Sympathy For The Devil by The Rolling Stones
Despite its historical themes, this song is a favorite for many travelers and makes for an energizing road trip anthem.
“I stuck around St. Petersburg…”
12. On the Road Again by Willy Nelson
This classic is synonymous with road trips, embodying the excitement and anticipation of being back on the open road.
“Just can’t wait to get on the road again…”
13. I Left My Heart In San Francisco by Tony Bennett
This emotive ballad encapsulates the beauty of San Francisco, making it a sentimental travel song for many.
“I left my heart in San Francisco…”
14. Montego Bay by Amazulu
This vibrant song perfectly captures the energy and spirit of Jamaica, celebrating its community and culture.
“Vernon’ll meet me when the BOAC lands…”
15. Midnight Train To Georgia by Gladys Knight and the Pips
This soulful classic is about longing and homecoming, evoking strong feelings of nostalgia.
“Oh he’s leavin’ on that midnight train to Georgia…”
16. Roam by the B52s
This upbeat song encourages listeners to explore the world and embrace the nomadic lifestyle.
“Roam if you want to…”
17. Leaving on a Jet Plane by Chantal Kreviazuk
This heartfelt ballad is often associated with travel and the bittersweet emotions of departure.
“All my bags are packed, I’m ready to go…”
18. Kokomo by The Beach Boys
This song epitomizes beach vibes and relaxation, inviting listeners to escape to an imagined paradise.
19. Graceland by Paul Simon
Reflecting the essence of a road trip, this song inspires journeys to significant places like Elvis’ home in Memphis, Tennessee.
20. Born to be Wild by Steppenwolf
An anthem for adventurers, this song ignites the thrill of motorcycle journeys and the call of the wild.
“Get your motor runnin’, head out on the highway…”
21. New York State of Mind by Billy Joel
This song embodies the allure of New York City and evokes the urge to explore its vibrant streets.
“I’m in a New York state of mind…”
22. Sailing, Christopher Cross
With soothing lyrics about exploration, this song captures the dream of adventure over the seas.
23. Proud Mary – Tina Turner
This lively track invigorates the spirit and transports you to the Mississippi River, enhancing the travel experience.
24. American Woman by The Guess Who
This energetic song resonates with travelers, celebrating the spirit of adventure and independence.
25. Man in the Mirror by Michael Jackson
This empowering song encourages compassion and reflection, essential attributes for every traveler.
26. Kathmandu
This song captures the essence of wanderlust, inspiring journeys to mystical regions like Nepal.
27. London Calling by the Clash
Despite its intense themes, this song captures the excitement and anticipation associated with visiting London.
28. Coming to America by Neil Diamond
This anthem about hope and freedom resonates deeply, capturing the essence of exploration and new beginnings.
29. Rambling Man by The Allman Brothers
A true classic, this song reflects the freedom and adventures experienced while traveling through different landscapes.
30. Laredo by Band of Horses
This modern tune captures the spirit of travel and the joy of hitting the road.
31. Istanbul not Constantinople by They Might Be Giants
This catchy track inspires thoughts of travel to Istanbul, a city rich in history and character.
32. Carolina on my Mind by James Taylor
The soothing lyrics of this song provide a calming escape to a place of dreams and peaceful moments.
33. California Dreaming – Mamas and the Papas
A perfect winter’s day anthem, this song invokes the beauty and warmth of California.
34. Bali Eyes – Porno for Pyros
This song is a celebration of Bali and the enchanting experiences found there.
35. Sand in My Shoes – Dido
Reflecting on the joys of travel, this song beautifully captures the bittersweet moments upon returning home.
36. New York by Alicia Keys
This heartfelt tribute to New York City evokes dreams of exploring the urban landscape and embracing its possibilities.
Thank you to everyone for contributing to our Best Travel Songs Playlist! If you have a favorite travel song, feel free to share it with us!
