Travel documentaries

Travel shows on BBC Select inspire exploration, adventure, and cultural immersion and transport you to captivating destinations around the world. Our selection of travel documentaries feature tour guides such as Joanna Lumley, Alexander Armstrong and Bettany Hughes and offer glimpses into incredible landscapes and lesser known gems across the globe. Embark on journeys across Europe, Asia and more with our collection of travel series and films.

Inside The Ritz Hotel

Inside The Ritz Hotel

The Ritz opens its doors, allowing us to see the workings of one of the world’s most luxurious hotels. For over a century, this rarified London icon has been synonymous with opulence and extravagant cuisine. Celebrities love it, royalty graces its hallowed halls and billionaires frequently drop in. How does one of the most traditional hotels in the world stand out from the rest?

The Story of Egypt

The Story of Egypt

Egypt is home to one of the world’s earliest civilizations. Its settlements date back to 17000 BC. It was a powerful and influential empire that grew from the Nile River Valley to the eastern Mediterranean. In this fascinating series, Professor of Egyptology Joann Fletcher examines Egypt’s extraordinary rise and fall, from the empire’s humble nomadic beginnings to its zenith as pyramid builders.

Japan: The Way I See It

Japan: The Way I See It

Japan is a country of beautiful landscapes, unique culture and formidable contrasts. Blind broadcaster and disability rights activist Lucy Edwards travels the country and experiences the smells, sounds and tastes in this singular travel documentary. She meets fellow, inspirational blind people who have overcome a diversity and now thrive in this remarkable nation.

Walking Through History

Walking through history

Slap on those walking boots, grab your compass and take a delightful trip through British history. Tony Robinson is your guide in this illuminating history documentary series as he explores some of the UK’s most exquisite and memorable landscapes, exploring the events from the past that took place there. Unearth fascinating tales and meet colorful characters from yesteryear.

Greeks of the Sea

Greeks of the sea

Greece is the world’s greatest maritime nation. From humble fisherman and expert boat builders to daring sponge divers and billionaire shipowners, this engaging travel documentary discovers a culture rich in history, myth and religion. Immerse yourself in stories and succulent seafood as adventurer Nikos Andronicos shows us why the Greeks believe they ‘have salt running through their veins’.