Travel documentaries

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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.

Great British Railway Journeys

Great British Railway Journeys

All aboard! Armed with his trusty vintage Bradshaw’s train guide, Michael Portillo explores the UK that the railways made. Along the route, he uncovers hidden gems, fascinating historical sites, glorious scenery and welcoming communities from across Britain. Michael reveals how much the nation has changed since his Bradshaw guide was printed, and what artifacts remain.

Great American Railroad Journeys

Great American Railroad Journeys

Michael Portillo rides the historic railroads of America, using an Appleton’s General Travel Guide to the United States, published in 1879. His travels take him to big cities, rural outposts, sites of historical importance and glorious natural wonders. Along the way, he delves into the past of the nation and meets the locals, while encountering the most breathtaking railroads in the world.

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.

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’.