Ever watched a movie or TV show and thought, Woah, I need to visit this place! Trust us, you’re not alone. Film tourism is booming, with fans jetting off to explore the real-life locations behind their favourite on-screen moments.
Whether it’s an exotic resort from a drama series, a medieval castle from a fantasy epic, or a neon-lit city from a cyber-thriller, these destinations let you step right into the magic of your favourite stories. Here are the top stunning real-world locations that brought blockbuster hits and binge-worthy TV Shows to life.
1. Sicily, Italy – The White Lotus
The second season of The White Lotus had us all dreaming of dramatic Sicilian coastlines, luxurious palazzos, and endless Aperol Spritz. The real-world setting? San Domenico Palace, a Four Seasons hotel in Taormina. With breathtaking sea views, historic architecture, and mouthwatering Italian cuisine, it’s no wonder this destination has become a hot spot for travellers.
✈ Must-Do: Stay at a cliffside hotel, explore the ancient ruins of Teatro Greco, and take a boat trip around Isola Bella.
2. Chicago, USA – The Bear
If The Bear has reignited your love for culinary chaos and gritty city life, Chicago should be at the top of your list. The show’s heart-pounding kitchen scenes are set against the backdrop of the Windy City’s deep-dish pizzas, legendary steakhouses, and vibrant neighbourhoods.
✈ Must-Do: Grab an Italian beef sandwich at a local joint, visit the iconic Willis Tower Skydeck, and take a food tour through West Loop’s buzzing restaurant scene.
3. Dubrovnik, Croatia – Game of Thrones
King’s Landing might be fictional, but Dubrovnik’s towering stone walls, medieval forts, and stunning seaside views are very real. This Croatian city became a pilgrimage site for Game of Thrones fans, and even years after the finale, the hype hasn’t died down.
✈ Must-Do: Walk the Old City walls, take a guided Game of Thrones tour, and drink like a Lannister in a medieval tavern.
4. Paris, France – Emily in Paris
Love it or hate it, Emily in Paris has made Paris look like the ultimate city for romance, fashion, and perfectly curated Instagram moments. From the Seine riverbanks to charming cafés, the City of Lights never goes out of style.
✈ Must-Do: Sip coffee at Café de Flore, take a sunset Seine cruise and embrace your inner fashionista at Galeries Lafayette.
5. New Zealand – The Lord of the Rings & The Rings of Power
Ah, yes, the Middle-earth! The rolling hills, misty mountains, and enchanting landscapes of New Zealand have long been synonymous with J.R.R. Tolkien’s fantasy world. Whether you want to explore Hobbiton or trek through the cinematic backdrops of the Misty Mountains, this is the ultimate fantasy adventure.
✈ Must-Do: Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set, hike Tongariro National Park (a.k.a. Mount Doom), and explore Fiordland National Park.
6. Seoul, South Korea – Squid Game & K-Dramas
Korean dramas have taken over the world, and so has the travel boom to Seoul. Fans of Squid Game and romantic K-dramas are flocking to the city’s trendy districts, street markets, and hanok villages.
✈ Must-Do: Visit Seongbuk-dong’s traditional hanok houses, explore the neon streets of Myeongdong, and try authentic Korean BBQ.
7. Skellig Michael, Ireland – Star Wars: The Last Jedi
That remote island where Luke Skywalker became a hermit? It’s Skellig Michael, an ancient monastic site off the coast of Ireland. This UNESCO World Heritage site is as epic in real life as it is in the galaxy far, far away.
✈ Must-Do: Take a boat trip to Skellig Michael (if the weather allows), explore the stone beehive huts, and keep an eye out for puffins.
8. Kyoto, Japan – John Wick: Chapter 4 & Anime Culture
Neon-lit backstreets, historic shrines, and breathtaking bamboo forests—Kyoto is a blend of old and new that makes it a dream for travellers. It’s been a key location, especially in John Wick: Chapter 4, and anime lovers will also recognize its influence in countless series.
✈ Must-Do: Walk through Fushimi Inari Shrine’s torii gates, explore Gion’s traditional tea houses, and take in the skyline from Kyoto Tower.
9. Petra, Jordan – Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade & Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker/Rogue One
One of the most famous movie locations ever, Petra’s ancient rock-carved city was immortalized in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade and Star Wars. Adventure seekers will feel like true explorers or even Martians as they uncover its breathtaking sandstone architecture.
✈ Must-Do: Hike through the Siq to the Treasury, ride a camel through the desert, and experience Petra by candlelight.
10. New York City, USA – Marvel Cinematic Universe & Countless TV Shows
The Big Apple has been the backdrop for countless movies and TV shows—from Friends to Spider-Man to Sex and the City. No matter what fandom you belong to, NYC has a cinematic spot for everyone.
✈ Must-Do: Walk through Central Park like Carrie Bradshaw, visit the Friends apartment building in Greenwich Village, and take a Marvel superhero tour of the city.
Lights, Camera, Travel!
You’ve seen it on screen—now it’s time to live it! Let QVI take you there with ease! Whether you’re hunting for adventure, romance, or nostalgia, QVI’s range of travel products will let you live out your cinematic fantasies, just as you want it.
