Watch Metropolis

Metropolis is an exciting and highly informative television show that aired on the Travel Channel in 2015, aimed at showcasing some of the world's most iconic and culturally significant cities. From local traditions to architectural wonders, from culinary delights to historical artifacts, Metropolis shatters the common view of famous cities around the world and presents a unique perspective gathered from behind closed doors and deep within the urban maze.

The show is a magnifying lens for the distinctive characteristics that set each of these cities apart. It delves deep into the fabric of these urban landscapes to uncover their vibrant histories and the stories behind their rise to prominence. Each episode is essentially a love letter to the city it focuses on, painting vivid portraits of these Metropolises from their earliest days up until the contemporary times.

Metropolis is hosted by a range of passionate, articulate, and knowledgeable presenters who are equally comfortable strolling the hectic streets and hidden corners of each city, engaging with locals, and sharing intriguing insights about the cities they are exploring. The hosts' infectious enthusiasm, whether they're waiting for an aromatic dish at a hidden rooftop cafe or exploring ruins that are centuries old, makes the audience feel like they are a part of the on-site exploration and discovery.

Each of the cities showcased in Metropolis has its own unique tale to reveal, numerous attractions, people, and legends that collectively form its identity. The show takes viewers on exhilarating journeys through these urban giants, offering the armchair traveler a fascinating and incredibly detailed tour of their iconic sights and secret corners. From the bustling boulevards of Paris to the ancient cobbled streets of Rome, from the neon-lit tower blocks of Tokyo to the sprawling suburbs of L.A., and many seams in-between - Metropolis is a comprehensive guidebook to the world's most awe-inspiring urban landscapes.

Fascinating, layered, and incredibly comprehensive, the show surpasses the usual, often superficial, travel show format. Its storytelling approach, combined with high-definition, visually stunning footage, literally transports viewers to these global hubs. In addition to its line-up of captivating hosts, Metropolis also brings in local personalities, historians, chefs, and artisans, letting those who know the city best guide viewers through its most intriguing aspects. Attention to detail and authenticity is key to every episode.

As an exploration of both historical landmarks and hidden gems, Metropolis does an excellent job in shining a spotlight on the overlooked aspects of each city. It uncovers quirky facts, unearths forgotten histories, and presents exciting cultural insights previously known only to the locals – all of which keeps the program engaging for the viewers. Even cities you thought you knew well might surprise you with hidden narratives and unconventional points of interest.

There are glimpses into traditional craftsmanship, regional cuisines, age-old customs, and local arts, all interspersed with captivating tales from history and introductions to some of the cities' vibrant inhabitants. Whether it's a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto or the art of making authentic croissants in Paris, these cultural insights add authenticity and depth to the exploration.

The second half of Metropolis is dedicated to exploring each city’s modern and ever-evolving side, showcasing innovative technologies, architectural advancements, remarkable public art installations, and contemporary culinary trends. Design enthusiasts, tech geeks, art lovers, and foodies alike will find something to look forward to in every episode.

Metropolis thus succeeds in striking a perfect balance between the old and new, conventional and unusual. It aims to explore, inform, and inspire, as much as it entertains. It doesn't just offer a mundane travelogue but rather depicts a lush tapestry of culture, history, tradition, and transformation, giving it an immersive, top-notch documentary feel.

From exploring famous city skyline to tasting the food in the local market, from learning about traditional events to meeting city’s notable personalities, Metropolis gives viewers an accessible yet deeply affecting global tour. It offers a level of depth, quality of production, and sense of place that sets it apart from other travel shows. Whether you are a seasoned traveler, urban dweller, history enthusiast or culture buff, Metropolis is your ticket to understanding the pulse of the world’s greatest cities, one metropolis at a time.

Metropolis is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (6 episodes). The series first aired on January 4, 2015.