Here’s the ultimate 2026 list of 50+ wanderlust books that are impossible to put down! As Anna Quindlen once said: “Books are the plane, and the train, and the road. They are the destination and the journey. They are home.” So, let’s dive into some of the greatest travel reads and explore this magical world from the comfort of home.
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An Ultimate List of Wanderlust Books
Bookish Travels and Inspiration
Travel from home
Have you ever read a book that made you want to pack your bags and set off on an adventure to see the world? As someone who’s always itching to explore new places and dive into different cultures, I’m constantly on the lookout for great travel books—especially when I can’t actually be on the road. Travel memoirs have taken me on incredible journeys through time and space, sparking my imagination and fueling my wanderlust. So, I decided to dig through my old reading lists and search my bookshelves to create the ultimate collection of wanderlust-inspiring reads just for you.
There’s something here for everyone in this post: whether you’re into classics, bestsellers, hidden gems, travelogues, fiction, or non-fiction. But all these books share one thing in common: they tell the stories of epic adventures experienced by the author or their protagonist. Some will transport you back to the Age of Discovery, while others will enchant you with beautiful prose and vivid metaphors. Travel has a way of transforming us, marking our lives with a clear “before” and “after.” So why not start a virtual adventure right now and experience the thrill of travel from the comfort of your couch?
I originally planned to recommend just a few travel books to spark your wanderlust, but as I got into it, my inner bookworm completely took over. So, what started as a short list has grown into an epic reading guide for all the armchair travelers out there!
About this list of 2026 Wanderlust Books
For your convenience, I´ve divided this list of Wanderlust Books into 3 sections: travel books from the classics of World Literature, memoirs from history´s greatest explorers, and modern travel reads. If you´re looking for more romantic stories within an international context – check my list of Romance Novels Around the World. Fans of Spain can not miss the article about Best Contemporary Spanish Books and Writers. For the kids – head to my post about Unique International Illustrators Around the World and Spain Books for Children.
Where do I get the books
I shop most of the books at Casa del Libro bookstores in Spain, or via Amazon. My favorite place to discover audiobooks for road trips is Libro.fm.
For all book enthusiasts, come explore my new TikTok account dedicated to all things reading and literature: @1001_books_club. Let’s share the magic of stories together!
Travel books from the Classics of World Literature
Are you a picky reader who craves more than just a thrilling adventure? If so, you’re in for a treat! The classics of World Literature offer some incredible wanderlust books that you’ll want to revisit time and again. These stories from the world’s most iconic writers take you on captivating journeys filled with beautiful prose and rich, eye-opening history. What I love most about this collection is that many of the books are actually lesser-known gems from famous authors. So, it’s like hitting two birds with one stone—you get to unleash your inner adventurer while also deepening your emotional intelligence and expanding your knowledge of World Literature.
1.“On the road” by Jack Kerouac
“There was nowhere to go but everywhere, so just keep on rolling under the stars.” – Jack Kerouac
Let´s start this list of wanderlust books with an obvious classy pick. “On the road” by Jack Kerouac combines the unique smoky, jazz-filled atmosphere with a rebel spirit of adventure. This book has literally left its mark on the culture of the late 20th century while inspiring numerous books, films, and songs. If you´re already familiar with “On the road” – set your eyes on the author´s other book ‘The Dharma Bums‘.
2. “Wind, Sand and Stars” by Antoine de Saint-Exupery
“No single event can awaken within us a stranger whose existence we had never suspected. To live is to be slowly born.” – Antoine de Saint-Exupery
While Antoine de Saint-Exupery gained his world fame with “The Little Prince”, his book “Wind, Sand and Stars” was awarded the Grand Prix of the Academie Francaise. This is a personal account of the author´s adventurous experiences with flights. “Wind, Sand and Stars” is one of the top wanderlust books as it combines air adventures, prose, and a bit of philosophy. Also, it is considered one of the most popular literature pieces about flying of all time.
3. “Roughing It” by Mark Twain
“Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one’s lifetime.” – Mark Twain, Roughing It
We all adore Marc Twain for his epic fictional novels “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” and “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn“. But did you know that Mark Twain had a wanderlust era in his youth? He traveled a lot throughout the American West with his brother, switching towns and jobs.
“Roughing It” is a chronicle of Twain´s life and experiences, full of humorous adventures and real-life facts. Additional wanderlust book suggestions here would be “The Innocents abroad” and “Life on the Mississippi“.
Check the Goodreads Reviews.
On the Road by Jack Kerouac is a defining novel of the Beat Generation, capturing the restless spirit of post-war America. The story follows the cross-country adventures of Sal Paradise and Dean Moriarty as they seek freedom, self-discovery, and meaning through travel, jazz, and countercultural experiences. With its spontaneous prose and raw energy, the novel reflects the search for personal authenticity and the thrill of life on the open road.
The Whispering Land by Gerald Durrell is a captivating travel memoir that chronicles his wildlife expedition to Argentina and Patagonia. Filled with Durrell's signature humor and vivid descriptions, the book highlights his encounters with exotic animals, as well as the challenges and joys of animal conservation. It’s a delightful read that blends adventure with Durrell’s deep passion for nature and the preservation of endangered species.
Just So Stories by Rudyard Kipling is a beloved collection of imaginative tales that explain the origins of various animals and natural phenomena in a whimsical, often humorous way. Each story is filled with Kipling’s playful language and vivid descriptions, making them timeless favorites for both children and adults. From "How the Elephant Got His Trunk" to "The Cat That Walked by Himself," these stories showcase Kipling's storytelling genius and his deep connection to the natural world.
4. “Travels with a Donkey in the Cevennes” by Robert Louis Stevenson
“I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.” – Robert Louis Stevenson
The author of the world-wide famous “Treasure Island“, Robert Louis Stevenson, once embarked on the 120-mile-long journey across the French region of Cevennes, accompanied only by a stubborn donkey called Modestine. The writer recorded his experiences in this journal, which honestly contrasts with his more famous works in terms of writing style. However, it gives the reader a rare glimpse of an actual character Robert Louis Stevenson had, and definitely adds to one´s Wanderlust.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
5. “Just So Stories” by Rudyard Kipling
“If history were taught in the form of stories, it would never be forgotten.” – Rudyard Kipling
You’ve definitely read Rudyard Kipling´s “The Jungle Book”, largely inspired by the author´s life in India. Even if you don´t really share his Colonial and Imperial views, you cannot deny Kipling´s unique writing style and talent. “Just So Stories” contains beautiful short tales, most likely derived from folk legends that Kipling heard during his time in South Africa and India. All the short narratives are full of magic, occasional humor, and subtle wisdom.
If you were introduced to the exotic world of Kipling as a child – it might be a good moment to read some of his books again, or simply to tell his stories to your children or grandchildren. “Just So Stories” belongs on any list of wanderlust books suitable for all ages.
Check the Goodreads review.
6. “The Whispering Land” by Gerald Durrell
“Each day had a tranquility a timelessness about it so that you wished it would never end. But then the dark skin of the night would peel off and there would be a fresh day waiting for us glossy and colorful as a child’s transfer and with the same tinge of unreality.” – Gerald Durrell
In his book “The Whispering Land” Gerald Durrell invites us to share his journey to Argentina, where he sets off to find and film penguins. It is a sequel to the author´s book “A Zoo in My Luggage”.
While I have a conflicted attitude towards the zoos, I can´t deny that this book magically teleports every reader to the Patagonian shores and tropical forests of Argentina. “The Whispering Land” is written in a delightful way, while mixing elements of travel, comedy, wildlife, and natural history.
Check the Goodreads review.
7. “Magellan” by Stefan Zweig
“Time to leave now, get out of this room, go somewhere, anywhere; sharpen this feeling of happiness and freedom, stretch your limbs, fill your eyes, be awake, wider awake, vividly awake in every sense and every pore.” – Stefan Zweig
An iconic Austrian-born writer Stefan Zweig in his book “Magellan” brings to life the Age of Discovery by sharing the story of one of the world´s most daring adventurers and navigators, the Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan (1480–1521). His flowing and elegant prose turns this biography into one of the must-reads on every list of wanderlust books.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
8. “A Russian Journal” by John Steinbeck
“I take a pleasure in inquiring into things. I’ve never been content to pass a stone without looking under it. And it is a black disappointment to me that I can never see the far side of the moon.” – John Steinbeck
“A Russian Journal” is both a remarkable memoir and a unique historical document, created by John Steinbeck and war photographer, Robert Capa. Both men set off to the Soviet Union after WWII and shared all the details of their adventures along the way. This book contains wonderful descriptions of places and people from Moscow and Stalingrad, including the countryside of Ukraine and the Caucasus.
While Steinbeck´s most iconic literature works are definitely “The Grapes of Wrath” and “East of Eden“, “A Russian Journal” remains a masterpiece of investigative journalism. Mainly, because the author attempts to portray the truth of ordinary people´s lives in the Soviet Union in a way that most of the prejudiced media have never done before.
Don´t miss another one of the wanderlust books written by John Steinbeck – “Travels with Charley: In Search of America“.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
9. “Journey to the Center of the Earth” by Jules Verne
“Reality provides us with facts so romantic that imagination itself could add nothing to them.” – Jules Verne
It´s hard to think of another wanderlust book as adventurous as Jules Verne´s “Journey to the Center of the Earth”. Jules Verne is considered the father of science fiction for a reason, his books look fun, adventurous, and original even in the present day.
The main character of “Journey to the Center of the Earth”, professor Liedenbrock embarks upon an expedition down an extinct Icelandic volcano to the Earth’s very core. This book is also an inspiring read if you plan to travel around Iceland one day.
Check the Goodreads review.
10. “A Moveable Feast” by Ernest Hemingway
“If you are lucky enough to have lived in Paris as a young man, then wherever you go for the rest of your life, it stays with you, for Paris is a moveable feast.” – Ernest Hemingway
While “A Moveable Feast” was written during the last years of Hemingway’s life, the book gives a scoop into the author´s deeply personal past, back when he was an unknown writer living in Paris. It is a memoir full of the writer´s romance with the city. So if you share his passion for this one of the most romantic travel destinations ever – have a look into “A Moveable Feast”.
An alternative choice from the Wanderlust books written by Ernest Hemingway could be “Green Hills of Africa“.
Check the Goodreads Reviews.
11. “Istanbul: Memories and the City” by Orhan Pamuk
Orhan Pamuk is the only living author on this list of World Literature Classics, but his place should raise no questions. Aside from his numerous international awards, this Turkish novelist was a recipient of the 2006 Nobel Prize in Literature. While his most popular works include “My Name is Red” and “Snow“, “Istanbul: Memories and the City” is one of his most interesting reads from a traveler´s perspective.
“Istanbul: Memories and the City” is a moving and beautiful encounter with the city through the melancholic memories of Orhan Pamuk. I´ve already told you on numerous occasions that ever since my first layover in Istanbul, I’m never tired of returning there. Former Constantinople literally awakens my inner history geek with all the stories of ancient civilizations, cultural clashes and exchanges, architectural wonders, and destructive wars for world domination.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
Travel books from the World´s Greatest Explorers and Adventurers
12. “The Travels of Ibn Battutah” by Ibn Battuta
Ibn Battutah is the author of one of my favorite wanderlust quotes. There’s no better book about travel and self-discovery, than the one written by someone who set out on a pilgrimage to Mecca and never returned home. Ibn Battutah traveled the world for 29 years through more than 40 countries on the modern map, covering 75,000 miles.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
13. “Voyage of the Beagle” by Charles Darwin
Charles Darwin was only 22 when he set off on the voyage of a lifetime – it was this epic journey that has transformed him from a young man into a scientific celebrity. “Voyage of the Beagle” is based on Darwin´s journal, revealing his personal observations on the road.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
14. “The Travels” by Marco Polo
Marco Polo is considered one of the top figures in the world of travel and discoveries. “The Travels” tells the story of Polo´s adventures from Beijing to northern India, while mixing factual and fictional. The author´s imagination always comes into the picture when he encounters the exotic or the unknown. So I guess it´s both fictional and non-fictional read.
Check the Goodreads Reviews.
15. “The Four Voyages: Being His Own Log-Book, Letters and Dispatches with Connecting Narratives” by Christopher Columbus
Another world´s most famous explorer – Christopher Columbus. In “The Four Voyages” you will find a collection of narratives describing his voyages throughout the Caribbean, and Central America, that marked the discovery of the “New World”. History geeks might want to check this post about the main Christopher Columbus sights in Spain.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
16. “The Silent World” by Jacques-Yves Cousteau and Frederic Dumas
Jacques-Yves Cousteau opened a new era of undersea exploration in 1943 when he submerged into the Mediterranean with the first aqualung. “The Silent World” is a stunning story of the magical Seaworld, sunken ships, water caves, and all the other greatest undersea experiences men have ever had.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
17. “Seven Pillars of Wisdom: A Triumph” by T.E. Lawrence
“Seven Pillars of Wisdom: A Triumph” is a memoir of the soldier known as “Lawrence of Arabia” that was recreated by cinematography into one of the greatest Adventure Travel Movies of all time. Although many claim that the book blows the film away, I personally, enjoyed both though.
“Seven Pillars of Wisdom: A Triumph” reveals a personal journey of Lawrence through the lands of Arabia, rediscovering his controversial personality and determining his loyalties. This book is an unusual mixture of Middle Eastern history, international politics, and the adventure of a lifetime.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
18. “The Journals of Lewis and Clark” by Meriwether Lewis
“The Journals of Lewis and Clark” is dedicated to one of the most amazing American journeys based on the journals that explorers Lewis and Clark kept on the road. Back in 1804, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark were assigned to lead an expedition from the Missouri River to the northern Pacific coast of the USA and back.
“The Journals of Lewis and Clark” is full of rich details about flora, fauna, magical landscapes, and peculiar native tribes Lewis and Clark encountered during their journey.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
19. “Kon-Tiki” by Thor Heyerdahl
Honestly, there’s no list of wanderlust books without Thor Heyerdahl. I’ve briefly talked about him in my Tenerife blog post, when visiting the Pyramids of Guimar.
While Thor Heyerdahl has been associated with many historical theories, his most famous adventure is definitely reflected in the “Kon-Tiki” book.
Thor Heyerdahl suspected that the South Sea Islands had been settled by an ancient race from thousands of miles to the east. In order to find proof of that, he decided to duplicate the legendary voyage on a balsa log raft. After 3 months on the open sea, he arrived at the Polynesian island of Puka Puka. “Kon-Tiki” literally awakens the inner adventurer in everyone.
20. “The Journals” by James Cook
“The Journals” represents an interesting insight into the mind of James Cook (British explorer, navigator, and cartographer) through selections from his journals, edited by A. Grenfell. The book takes us back to the Cook´s eighteenth-century voyages of discovery explorations of Australia, New Zealand, and the Hawaiian Islands. “The Journals” include rich descriptions of new plant species, land features, and people encountered.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
21. “Into Africa: The Epic Adventures of Stanley & Livingstone” by Martin Dugard
“Into Africa” shares with the world a story of a life-changing journey into the heart of Africa carried out by the legendary explorer, Dr. David Livingstone, who was also accompanied by a young journalist, Henry Morton Stanley. This book is an engaging narrative about the exploration of the largely uncharted African continent in the mid-1800s.
Check the Goodreads Reviews.
22. “The White Nile” by Alan Moorehead
“The White Nile” is a bestselling book by Alan Moorehead describing the exploration of the Nile River in the second half of the 19th century. Back then it was one of the most mysterious and impenetrable regions, attracting legendary explorers. “The White Nile” is filled with incredible historical details and unique travel stories that will definitely spark your wanderlust.
While it was published in 1960, “The White Nile” is still considered one of the most comprehensive, well-researched, and elegantly written studies of the Nile region. You can also check Alan Moorehead´s other book – “The Blue Nile”.
Check the Goodreads Reviews.
23. “The Conquest of New Spain” by Bernal Díaz del Castillo
Bernal Díaz del Castillo was a soldier in the army of Hernan Cortes, the famous Spanish conqueror and explorer. “The Conquest of New Spain” represents a fascinatingly detailed description of the Spanish landing in Mexico in 1520, their exploitations, and a capture of the Aztec capital.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
24. “Arabian Sands” by Wilfred Thesiger
Educated at Eton and Oxford, Wilfred Thesiger escaped Western life to explore the deserts of Arabia, very much like T. E. Lawrence once did. “Arabian Sands” is an engaging story of his journey through the Middle East that gives a reader an insider scoop into life in Arabia.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
25. “The Discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamen” by Howard Carter
For sure, you’ve heard about stunning artifacts from the Tutankhamun tomb, currently housed in Cairo Museum, Egypt. “The Discovery of the Tomb of Tutankhamun” is one of the top wanderlust books, written by Howard Carter only a year after the sight´s shocking discovery. It chronicles in detail all the exhilaration of the historical find, the process of excavation, and the wonder of opening a treasure-filled inner chamber, hidden from the world for 3,000 years.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
Arabian Sands is Wilfred Thesiger's record of his extraordinary journey through the parched "Empty Quarter" of Arabia. Educated at Eton and Oxford, Thesiger was repulsed by the softness and rigidity of Western life—"the machines, the calling cards, the meticulously aligned streets." In the spirit of T. E. Lawrence, he set out to explore the deserts of Arabia, traveling among peoples who had never seen a European and considered it their duty to kill Christian infidels. His now-classic account is invaluable to understanding the modern Middle East.
Tracing the amazing journeys of Livingstone and Stanley in alternating chapters, author Martin Dugard captures with breathtaking immediacy the perils and challenges these men faced. Woven into the narrative, Dugard tells an equally compelling story of the remarkable transformation that occurred over the course of nine years, as Stanley rose in power and prominence and Livingstone found himself alone and in mortal danger. The first book to draw on modern research and to explore the combination of adventure, politics, and larger-than-life personalities involved, Into Africa is a riveting read.
Kon-Tiki is the record of an astonishing adventure—a journey of 4,300 nautical miles across the Pacific Ocean by raft. Intrigued by Polynesian folklore, biologist Thor Heyerdahl suspected that the South Sea Islands had been settled by an ancient race from thousands of miles to the east, led by a mythical hero, Kon-Tiki. He decided to prove his theory by duplicating the legendary voyage.
26. “West with the Night” by Beryl Markham
“West with the Night” is a wanderlust-inspiring memoir of Beryl Markham, the first solo female to fly the Atlantic from East to West. Beryl was an English woman who grew up in Kenya and her love for Africa shines through the pages of her book. “West with the Night” is a unique memoir that is both lovingly written and exciting to follow through.
Although Beryl Markham is still a feminist icon nowadays, “West with the Night” is a great read for everyone. Even Ernest Hemingway in a letter to his publisher once said that this book was written so well that he felt “completely ashamed of himself as a writer”.
Check the Goodreads Reviews.
27. “Farthest North” by Fridtjof Nansen
“Farthest North” tells the story of the 1893-1896 polar expedition undertaken by Fridtjof Nansen and his crew, while taking the reader to the isolative world of the North Pole.
It is a magical read on a cozy winter evening because of its mixture of adventurous stories, scientific observations, and poetry. Just take this one single quote: “The spirit of mankind will never rest till every spot of these regions has been trodden by the foot of man, till every enigma has been solved.”
Check the Goodreads reviews.
28. “The Valleys of the Assassins: and Other Persian Travels” by Freya Stark
“The Valleys of the Assassins” brings to life the stories of the ancient kingdoms of the Middle East through the eyes of Freya Stark, an Anglo-Italian explorer and travel writer. It is one of the most engaging female wanderlust books, as the author lived her adventures in places where women traveling alone were unheard of. The book describes her travels into Luristan (the mountainous terrain nestled between Iraq and present-day Iran) often with only a single guide and on a tight budget.
You can also check “Passionate Nomad: The Life of Freya Stark“, written by biographer Jane Fletcher Geniesse.
Check the Goodreads review.
29. “The Road to Oxiana” by Robert Byron
“The Road to Oxiana” tells the story of Robert Byron´s journey through the Middle East via Beirut, Jerusalem, Baghdad, and Teheran to Oxiana. This is one of the best wanderlust books to awaken your artsy side, thanks to its detailed descriptions of the vibrant Islamic architecture.
What makes “The Road to Oxiana” especially interesting is the fact that Robert Byron travels through Iraq, Persia, and Afghanistan, the regions that are currently quite complicated to explore. Most of the unique and ancient architecture described on its pages is probably lost for us to see for a very long time (if not forever).
Check the Goodreads reviews.
30. “In Ethiopia with a Mule” by Dervla Murphy
“In Ethiopia with a Mule” is a travelogue of Dervla Murphy, who set out on a dangerous trek through the Ethiopian highlands. Accompanied only by her trusty mule, she tells of their often dangerous adventures on the inhospitable terrain. However, the wilderness and the relative insecurity of Ethiopia only reinforce her love for its out-of-this-world landscapes and friendly locals.
One of Murphy´s most popular books is “Full Tilt: Ireland to India with a Bicycle”. However, it partially describes her journey through Persia and Afghanistan (the region already highlighted in a few books from this list), so I’ve decided to pick a book set somewhere different.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
31. “A Time of Gifts” by Patrick Leigh Fermor
There’s been so much of far-away land and exotic places on this list of wanderlust books, that I’ve decided to add a touch of Europe’s history, art, and culture.
“A Time of Gifts” reveals the story of Patrick Leigh Fermor, who set out on a journey across Europe by foot – from the Hook of Holland to Constantinople. The author mostly walks across new places, which is literally the only way for a traveler to discover “local color”.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
Top Modern Travel Reads
Let´s get to the topic of modern authors and travelers. As I’ve already mentioned before, in order to prevent this list from being endless there’ll be two separate posts – Travel Coffee Table Books and Female Travel Books – to complement this section.
32. “As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning” by Laurie Lee
“As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning” is one of the top wanderlust books in the Modern Reads section. It´s a story of a young man who left his safe home in the Cotswolds and headed up to London, playing the violin on the street and depending on the kindness of strangers. His youthful energy and desire to explore made him take a boat to Spain, where he started a long journey across the country, heavily impacted by a recent Civil War. Laurie Lee captures the atmosphere of Spain he saw as a young man and tells the story of its life and people.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
33. “Seven Years in Tibet” by Heinrich Harrer
Tibet is one of the places I’ve always dreamt of visiting myself. “Seven Years in Tibet” is a story of Heinrich Harrier’s journey through Tibet and his eventual friendship with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The mountain climber describes how he escaped from an English internment camp in India in 1943 and spent the next seven years observing life and locals in Tibet.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
34. “The Snow Leopard” by Peter Matthiessen
Peter Matthiessen’s “The Snow Leopard” is the author´s account of his two months in Nepal. Matthiessen set off on an expedition to study Himalayan Blue Sheep (and perhaps catch a glimpse of the rare snow leopard). This book is full of vivid details, describing landscapes and people of Nepal, that might make some real-life photos pale in comparison.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
35. “Eastward to Tartary: Travels in the Balkans, the Middle East, and the Caucasus” by Robert D. Kaplan
Robert D. Kaplan has written quite a few books describing his journeys across various regions of the world. Most of them combine historical context, interviews with important local figures, and the author´s reflections on life and the future, which makes his works both interesting and informative. “Eastward to Tartary: Travels in the Balkans, the Middle East, and the Caucasus” follows Kaplan´s journey across the Balkans, Turkey, Syria, Israel, and the Caucasus.
Depending on the part of the world you want to discover, you can also check Robert D. Kaplan´s other books: “Balkan Ghosts”, “Asia’s Cauldron”, “Imperial Grunts“, “Monsoon“, or “The Revenge Of Geography“.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
36. “Ghost Train to the Eastern Star” by Paul Theroux
If you’re looking for one book to take almost everywhere – check “Ghost Train to the Eastern Star” by Paul Theroux. The author describes his 25,000-mile-long journey through Eastern Europe, Turkey, the Caucasus, Central Asia, the Indian Subcontinent, China, Japan, and Siberia.
“Ghost Train to the Eastern Star” (published in 2008) is a sequel to the writer’s most popular book ‘The Great Railway Bazaar’, written in 1973. Therefore, it´s also really interesting to follow through both of Theroux´s books, because he clearly makes a reader realize how many things have actually changed around the world in a short period of time.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
37. “Labyrinth of Ice: The Triumphant and Tragic Greely Polar Expedition” by Buddy Levy
One of the fresh additions to this list of wanderlust books – “Labyrinth of Ice: The Triumphant and Tragic Greely Polar Expedition” by Buddy Levy. This story is especially recommended for people interested in the exploration of the Arctic, as it describes the journey of The Greely Expedition.
To sum up: 25 scientists and explorers head to the Farthest North and overcome incredible challenges in order to discover the last region unmarked on global maps. It’s one of those books impossible to put down – you can´t stop learning more and more details about one of the most extraordinary and terrible voyages ever made by humanity.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
38. “Life and Death in the Andes: On the Trail of Bandits, Heroes, and Revolutionaries” by Kim MacQuarrie
A must-read for all the fans of South America and its cultural heritage – “Life and Death in the Andes”. You might know that the Andes Mountains are the world’s longest mountain chain connecting most of the countries in South America. No wonder, this region is incredibly rich in history.
“Life and Death in the Andes” is a mix of a historical journey and interesting insights into the lives of South America´s most famous personas like Che Guevara, or Pablo Escobar, as well as the Andes region´s most iconic sights, like Lake Titicaca.
Check the Goodreads Reviews.
39. “River Town: Two Years on the Yangtze” by Peter Hessler
“River Town: Two Years on the Yangtze” is a deep introduction to Chinese culture, largely impenetrable for the Western world. Peter Hessler arrived as a Peace Corps volunteer in 1996 in the small city of Fuling, in China´s Sichuan province. While teaching in one of the local schools and traveling across the region, the author shares lots of personal stories full of vivid descriptions of all the people he met along the way.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
40. “The Geography of Bliss” by Eric Weiner
The author of “The Geography of Bliss”, Eric Weiner, spent a decade as a foreign correspondent reporting from Iraq, Afghanistan, and Indonesia. After seeing life in remote and unstable places, he undertakes a year-long journey around the world to visit the world´s happiest nations in order to discover the sources of bliss. He visits numerous countries, including The Netherlands, Switzerland, Bhutan, Qatar, Iceland, Thailand, Great Britain, and India.
“The Geography of Bliss” is an attempt to find answers to the eternal question of what makes people happy and what can we learn from the happiest nations around the world.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
41. “The Art of Travel” by Alain de Botton
If you’re tired of travelogues and exotic countries at some point, give a try to Alain de Botton´s “The Art of Travel”.
This book focuses on the psychological side of travel and how travel impacts our inner selves. “The Art of Travel” is an ultimate source of self-reflection ideas. You’ll not find in it a list of places to visit or geographical wanderings – this story is about how we truly “see” and “feel” the places we inhabit as we grow through life.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
42. “The Smartest Kids in the World: And How They Got That Way” by Amanda Ripley
Like Nelson Mandela, I believe that education is the most powerful weapon that we can use to change the world. Amanda Ripley in her engaging book “The Smartest Kids in the World: And How They Got That Way” compares American schools to those of other nations through the lens of foreign exchange students’ experiences. As a mom of two, I often think of my kids´ future education – this book definitely gives some interesting insights to chew on.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
43. “Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel” by Rolf Potts
“Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel” is dedicated to all those people chased by their wanderlust, but lacking useful tips and inspiration to make those world-travel plans applicable. Rolf Potts shows how anyone “armed with an independent spirit” can achieve the dream of traveling the world.
Here are a few quotes to explain the essence of vagabonding: “Vagabonding involves taking an extended time-out from your normal life – six weeks, four months, two years – to travel the world on your own terms. It is about using the prosperity and possibility of the information age to increase your personal options instead of your personal possessions.”
Check the Goodreads reviews.
44. “Wild: A Journey from Lost to Found” by Cheryl Strayed
When the life of Cheryl Strayed falls apart she makes an impulsive decision to hike more than a thousand miles of the Pacific Crest Trail from the Mojave Desert through California and Oregon to Washington State. This adventure all alone changes everything for her while strengthening and ultimately healing Cheryl.
“Wild: A Journey from Lost to Found” is an ultimate bestseller that has also made it to the big screen as one of the greatest adventure travel movies.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
45. “The Travel Book: A Journey Through Every Country” in the World by Roz Hopkins
While this list of wanderlust books is more about inspiring reads, as a passionate photography lover I can´t help mentioning a few visual pieces.
“The Travel Book” is one of the coolest coffee table and travel photography books any globetrotter would want to have at home. How else could you decide where to go next? Two pages are devoted to each country in the world and you can check some basic information about each place, while mostly enjoying stunning pictures from across the globe.
46. “Worldwalk” by Steven M.Newman
“Worldwalk” is the story of Steven Newman, a freelance journalist, who left his home in Ohio and went backpacking around the world. His 4-year-long journey of walking across countries and continents definitely adds to one’s Wanderlust with its insider stories of people and adventures from all over the world.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
47. “Eat Pray Love” by Elizabeth Gilbert
I was having second thoughts on whether to mention “Eat Pray Love”, as I honestly doubt there’s anyone out there who hasn´t read the book or watched the movie yet. Nevertheless, I personally enjoyed both – so skipping this popular wanderlust book pick would be unfair.
“Eat Pray Love” is unlikely to become your ultimate life-changing book, but it definitely provides the reader with some aesthetic pleasure. Plus, the book can be relatable for many women going through any sort of crisis in their lives, because “Eat Pray Love” is a story of the author´s personal healing through traveling the world and rediscovering herself.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
Also, the movie “Eat Pray Love” is on my list of favorite romantic travel movies.
Thirty years after the epic journey chronicled in his classic work The Great Railway Bazaar, the world’s most acclaimed travel writer re-creates his 25,000-mile journey through eastern Europe, central Asia, the Indian subcontinent, China, Japan, and Siberia.
Into the Wild by Jon Krakauer tells the compelling true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who abandons his conventional life to embark on a journey into the Alaskan wilderness. Through a combination of McCandless's personal writings and Krakauer's own insights, the book explores themes of adventure, freedom, and the search for meaning in a world often dominated by materialism. Ultimately, Into the Wild serves as both a tribute to McCandless's spirit and a cautionary tale about the risks of pursuing an idealized vision of nature and self-discovery.
In this witty and warm-hearted book, Peter Mayle tells what it is like to realize a long-cherished dream and actually move into a 200-year-old stone farmhouse in the remote country of the Lubéron with his wife and two large dogs. A Year in Provence transports us into all the earthy pleasures of Provençal life and lets us live vicariously at a tempo governed by seasons, not by days.
48. “Into the Wild” by Jon Krakauer
“Into the Wild” is another option between the wanderlust books that was turned into a movie in 2007. The books tell the story of Chris McCandless, a young man who left his family and friends, abandoned most of his material possessions, and went to live in the Alaskan wilderness. Jon Krakauer’s writing is quite engaging and research-based, so despite the fact that you might suspect how the story ends you actually make it towards the end of the book.
In case you’re familiar with “Into the Wild” book or movie, dive into the other works of Jon Krakauer – “Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mount Everest Disaster” or “Eiger Dreams: Ventures Among Men and Mountains”.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
49. “A Walk in the Woods: Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail” by Bill Bryson
Longing for the wanderlust books with great outdoors? – Check Bill Bryson´s “A Walk in the Woods”. It is a travelogue of the author´s journey through America´s Appalachian Trail. This book has a bit of everything – humor, adventure, danger, storytelling, and lots of beautiful outdoors from Georgia to Maine.
Don’t miss other Bill Bryson´s popular books like “In a Sunburned Country”, “I’m a Stranger Here Myself: Notes on Returning to America After Twenty Years Away”, “Neither Here nor There: Travels in Europe” and “Notes from a Small Island”.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
50. “The Caliph’s House: A Year in Casablanca” by Tahir Shah
“The Caliph’s House: A Year in Casablanca” is a vibrant and detailed story of the author´s move with his family from the gray London to the sun-drenched city of Casablanca in Morocco. This book gives the reader an insight into a new culture and all that comes with it. “The Caliph’s House: A Year in Casablanca” captures lots of funny sides of life in Morocco. Plus, there’s always something inspiring about picking up and moving your life to a new and exotic locale, isn’t it?
Check the Goodreads reviews.
51. “A Year in Provence” by Peter Mayle
In case your idea of wanderlust books doesn’t involve dangerous adventures and exotic far-away lands, “A Year in Provence” by Peter Mayle will teleport you into all the earthy pleasures of Provençal life in Southern France. This book is an entertaining account of the author´s move from Britain to Provence, his first year in a new home and a new country. There’s something relaxing and inspiring about “A Year in Provence”, especially when you focus on the tasty descriptions of French food and French life.
Check the Goodreads reviews.
52. “Four Points of the Compass” by Jerry Brotton
Four Points of the Compass by Jerry Brotton is an of how the compass has shaped our understanding of the world. As an expert in Renaissance cartography, Brotton delves into the cultural, historical, and philosophical significance of the four directions – North, South, East, and West. The book highlights how different civilizations have interpreted and navigated the world using these points, weaving together stories from ancient seafarers to modern explorers.
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For more reading lists and ideas check my Pinterest boards Bookish Inspiration and Travel Books, Movies, and Quotes.
- Accommodation: For short stays, I usually book via Agoda and Booking
- Tours&excursions: My favorites for guided tours are GetYourGuide and Viator
- Museums&attractions: Get mobile tickets for attractions via Tiqets (use ATC5 code for a 5% discount via this link)
- Semi-private & private tours: LivTours is my favorite place for unique & crafted experiences in Europe
- For Foodies: Eatwith is a unique platform for finding culinary experiences with locals around the world
- Audio guides: Book audio excursions & tours in 35+ countries via WeGoTrip
- Flights: Find the best deals with Skyscanner and Kiwi
- Driving in a new country? – Check out Tripiamo guides (do not miss Tripiamo Driving in Spain Guide)
- Train&bus tickets: Currently, I book via Omio (10% off with code ATC10 for first-time customers)
- Car rental: To find the best deals, I use Discover Cars
- Top E-Sim: To avoid roaming fees, I like Holafly (use ATLIFESTYLECROSSROADS for for a 5% discount)
- Shop My Level8 Suitcase: get 15% off with the code ATC15 here
- Internet Security on the road: Connect safely to public Wi-Fi and bypass censorship with NordVPN
- Transfers: For individual transfer services, I like GetTransfer and Kiwitaxi
- Suitcases&Luggage: Discover where to store your luggage on the go with Radical Storage
- Travel Insurance: Find the best trip insurance plans via VisitorsCoverage and EKTA
- Compensation for delayed/canceled flights: Check out AirHelp and Compensair
- Renting Bikes: To find motorcycles, scooters, quads, and bicycles, I use BikesBooking
- Package Tours: Head to CheapOair and Expedia
- For Bloggers: To monetize my blog, I work with Travelpayouts and Stay22
- Website Owners: For hosting services, I work with and recommend Lyrical Host (get 10% off with my code ATC10)
I started to freak out while reading this list. I got all the way to the modern day travel tales before I found a book that I had actually read! Obviously I need to do some more travel reading. I loved Bill Bryson’s story about hiking hte Appalachian Trail and Wild by Cheryl Strayed (can you see the theme here?). Thanks for giving me some more books to put on my reading list!
I’d love to read so many of these books, but A Russian Journal sounds particularly good! Perfect caption from this one too x
I’ve been looking for more books to read and these suggestions are great! Saving this 🙂
This is the perfect post for me right now as I’m coming to the end of my book and was looking for a new one. Thank you!
I love on the road!!
Jennifer
This is such a comprehensive list! A lot of them I’ve never even heard of! I do love a good Jules Verne book, though
Thank you soo much for this list! I have been looking for some books to read recently and you gave me a few great ideas!
I love to read books. This is a perfect list. It gives me an idea of what books to read next. Thanks for sharing this one!
As an avid reader, I’m obsessed with this list! Thank you so much for compiling it, I can’t wait to check out the ones I haven’t read yet.