Indulge in your wanderlust in the pages of a great book! Explore the best travel books based on Goodreads’ top-ranked travel fiction books and highest-rated non-fiction travel books.
With so many amazing travel books out there, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why I turned to the ultimate book guru, Goodreads, to handpick the absolute best travel books that will inspire your wanderlust and spark your sense of adventure.
From timeless classics to hidden gems, get ready to explore Goodreads’ most popular travel fiction books and highest-rated non-fiction travel books. These books are guaranteed to transport you to new and exciting destinations through the pages of these incredible travel tales!
So, pack your bags (or at least your imagination), and let’s set off on an unforgettable literary adventure with the best travel books!
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Most Popular Fiction Travel Books
When you think of the most popular fiction books about travel, of course, Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert comes to mind! It currently ranks sixth on the Travel Fiction Books list on Goodreads. Beyond that breakout hit, here are a few more reads you may not heard of, a round-up of YA books with a travel theme, and one classic worth picking up.
Bonus book! Although it didn’t make the top spots in this Goodreads list, I absolutely adored “So Long, Chester Wheeler by Catherine Ryan Hyde.” It has lots of travel plus such a heartwarming, uplifting story! I featured it in my post, “Best New Fiction Books to Read this Fall.”
Save this booklist for later!
The Beach by Alex Garland
- Ranked 1st
- Average Goodreads Rating: 3.97
- Published in 1996
This riveting novel follows a young Western traveler named Richard who stumbles upon a mysterious map to a hidden paradise in Southeast Asia called “the Beach.” Along with a French couple, Richard sets off to find this secluded oasis, only to discover that the idyllic setting harbors dark secrets and dangers.
My thoughts: This book will transport you to an exotic location filled with beauty and danger. If you’re looking for an escape, an intriguing look into backpacker culture, or a thriller that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat, this is your read! And, when you’re finished, check out the movie version featuring a young Leonardo DiCaprio.
Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million
Amy & Roger’s Epic Detour by Morgan Matson
- Ranked 2nd
- Average Goodreads Rating: 3.98
- Published in 2010
Amy Curry reluctantly agrees to a cross-country road trip to move her family’s car from California to Connecticut after her father’s death and her mother’s sudden relocation. But she can’t drive since her dad passed away. Enter Roger, a cute and troubled friend’s son who joins her on the road trip. This charming story takes you on a four-day adventure through unique stops (like Graceland) along the way.
My thoughts: With carefree summer vibes mixed with a few deeper, meaningful moments, it’s a light read with a lot of heart, a little romance, and all the fun of going along for the ride with Amy and Roger. You may want to plan your own cross-country road trip with plenty of “epic detours” after reading it!
Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million
Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne
- Ranked 4th
- Average Goodreads Rating: 3.94
- Published in 1872
This classic book tells the story of Phileas Fogg who makes this crazy bet that he can travel the world in just 80 days. He’s got his trusty sidekick, Passepartout, by his side as they dash across continents, dealing with obstacles and having all sorts of wild escapades along the way. It has a sprinkle of humor and fascinating travel descriptions that will keep you on the edge of your seat!
My thoughts: If you’re looking for a fun, engaging read that will transport you around the globe, this book is definitely a must-read! It’s a thrilling journey that takes you to exotic locations and introduces you to different cultures. The fast-paced storytelling and captivating characters make it a page-turner.
Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million
More Popular YA Travel Books
If “Amy & Roger’s Epic Detour” is your jam, then you’ll want to follow it up by packing your literary bags for Europe and Central America with these five highly recommended young adult novels topping the Goodreads list for travel fiction books. (There’s something about being young, free, and a bit naive that makes a fun plot for a travel book!)
13 Little Blue Envelopes by Maureen Johnson
- Ranked 3rd
- Average Goodreads Rating: 3.63
- Published in 2005
I See London, I See France by Sarah Mlynowski
- Ranked 5th
- Average Goodreads Rating: 3.61
- Published 2017
Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
- Ranked 7th
- Average Goodreads Rating: 3.97
- Published 2010
Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard
- Ranked 9th
- Average Goodreads Rating: 3.90
- Published 2012
Love & Gelato by Jenna Evans Welch
- Ranked 10th
- Average Goodreads Rating: 4.05
- Published 2016
*For more great travel book recommendations, be sure to also check out my post on “Books That Take You Places.” Like this list, the settings in these books will take you places—minus the expensive airfare!
Top-Rated Nonfiction Books About Travel
A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail by Bill Bryson
- Ranked 1st
- Average Goodreads Rating: 4.06
- Published in 1998
Tag along with two middle-aged buddies attempting to hike the Appalachian Trail. You’ll join in on their hilarious misadventures, meet colorful characters, and learn some fascinating facts about the trail and the wilderness. Bryson has a witty writing style, relatable observations, and a vivid way of capturing the beauty and challenges of the great outdoors. It’s like taking a virtual hike with your funniest friend!
My thoughts: I read a Walk in the Woods not long after it was first published. It’s still one of my favorite reads. As I get older and find time to hike, I’m often amazed at anyone who’s able to take on the full length of the Appalachian Trail. It’s a lot easier (and far more enjoyable) to simply read about hiking it!
Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million
Travels with Charley: In Search of America by John Steinbeck
- Ranked 4th
- Average Goodreads Rating: 4.08
- Published 1961
This heartwarming and adventurous tale recounts John Steinbeck’s journey across the United States with his faithful companion, a poodle named Charley. In this classic travel memoir, Steinbeck captures the essence of American life, exploring its diversity and beauty through the eyes of a curious traveler.
My thoughts: Reviewers rave about Steinbeck’s eloquent storytelling about the American landscape and culture. Over the decades, this book has inspired intense wanderlust and a desire to seek out the country’s hidden gems with the same sense of open curiosity.
Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million
Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home in Italy by Frances Mayes
- Ranked 6th
- Average Goodreads Rating: 3.77
- Published 1996
This book is the memoir that inspired the movie of the same name – although the movie plot is only loosely based on the book. In this memoir, Frances Mayes escapes to a charming villa in Tuscany, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and delicious Italian cuisine. As she embarks on the journey of restoring a neglected villa, she uncovers hidden gems and embraces the enchanting lifestyle of Tuscany, sharing every delightful discovery with readers.
My thoughts: If you’re taking a literary journey, why not spend some time in a charming villa in Tuscany, eating the food and taking in the beautiful scenery and culture? While some readers couldn’t relate to Frances Mayes (probably a little jealous – I know I am!), many other reviewers loved the adventure of it and the included recipes.
Buy on Amazon | Bookshop.org | Barnes and Noble | Books-A-Million
More Bill Bryson Travel Books
It seems if you’re looking for a great travel memoir, Bill Bryson is your go-to author. On the Goodreads list, Popular Nonfiction Travel Books, Bill Bryson’s books take up most of the top ten books! So, to ensure a little variety in this section, here’s a quick rundown of the highest-ranked Bill Bryson favorites.
In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson
Read more about “In a Sunburned Country” in my post, Books That Take You Places!
- Ranked 2nd
- Average Goodreads Rating: 4.07
- Published 2000
Notes from a Small Island by Bill Bryson
- Ranked 3rd
- Average Goodreads Rating: 3.91
- Published 1995
The Lost Continent: Travels in Small-Town America by Bill Bryson
- Ranked 5th
- Average Goodreads Rating: 3.81
- Published 1989
Neither Here nor There: Travels in Europe by Bill Bryson
- Ranked 10th
- Average Goodreads Rating: 3.86
- Published 1991
Final Thoughts on the Best Travel Books
We’ve arrived at our final destination! Hopefully, you’ve found a great read (or two or three) that’ll whisk you away to parts unknown for a fun escape and perhaps a little travel inspo. Happy reading!
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