8 Travel songs to transport you to places around the world

Although not strictly a song, this beautiful waltz was composed by Strauss in 1866 and is most likely the most famous waltz ever composed. Irritated by a post-war economic depression, the community spirit in Vienna, Austria was at a low and so Strauss finished off this piece he had previously put aside to create a joyful waltz to raise the country’s morale. It is no wonder then that the Austrians affectionately refer to the Blue Danube as their second national anthem. 

Although originally written by Cole Porter, the smooth voice of Ella Fitzgerald completely envelops you in this song about the most romantic city in the world. The lyrics are a love letter to Paris and Fitzgerald’s magical voice is the perfect fit for this tune. If you’ve ever had the chance to visit Paris, the lyrics - I love Paris every moment, every moment of the year - will certainly ring true.

While there have been many songs written about New York City, no song captures the pride and confidence of the city that never sleeps quite like this one. It summarises what many New Yorkers feel about their city - it’s intense, competitive, but rich rewards and opportunities await anyone who is willing to give it a go. It has a punchiness and tempo that carries the message of embracing the challenges ahead with the reward of an exciting new life. 

This iconic 80s poetic tribute to Africa tells the story of a man who travels to Africa and must make a difficult choice between the girl he loves and the continent that has stolen his heart. Surprisingly, Toto keyboard player David Paich, who wrote the song, had never been to Africa when he wrote it. The hypnotic rhythm of the percussion and continual beat of the drums continues to entrance listeners 40 years later and is one of our favourite songs that reminds us of travel.

Cranky Franky makes his second appearance here with the quintessential heading to the airport song. This song fits perfectly with Sinatra's suave jet-setter image and epitomises the good life, having fun and seeing the world by jet plane. Sit back, relax and take a musical trip around the world with these catchy lyrics. This travel song will really get your toes tapping and heading for the open road.

“Fly the great big sky, see the great big sea. Kick through continents, busting boundaries” - the true essence of travel and freedom. It is an irresistible pop song with lead vocals from both Cindy Wilson and Kate Pierson. Roam is a call to action to go out and see the world and will have you reaching for those travel brochures to start planning your next holiday adventure in no time.

The “town in North Ontario” that Neil Young references in this song is not a specific town, but more a feeling. That feeling is one that Canadians or people who spent time in Canada will identify with - a feeling of safety, peace and of living on the edge of something limitless and wild. A powerful travel song about Canada by a Canadian and is one of our absolute travel playlist favourites.

Stepping into the current era, Budapest by George Ezra is a catchy tune for any great travel playlist. Interestingly, Ezra shared that Budapest is a love song, but not about the city it is named after. He was in Sweden when he penned the lyrics and was meant to be getting a train to Budapest the next day. He was hungover after a Eurovision celebration and missed the train, so wrote the song about being miles from Budapest. Possibly a story many travellers can relate to and makes a great road trip song!

We invite you to take a closer look at your next adventure by requesting one of our free brochures.