If you enjoy watching movies and TV shows, why not visit the places where your favorite scenes were filmed? This is what set-jetting is all about: a rising trend in the travel sector that involves traveling to locations that served as the filming spots for popular movies or TV shows.
That temple in "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" that housed the Holy Grail? That's the ancient rock city of Petra in Jordan. And the Theed Palace on the Planet Naboo in "Star Wars: Attack of the Clones?" That's Plaza de Espana in Seville!
Set-jetting is not just about visiting a place but about re-living the experience of your favorite scenes and immersing yourself in the world of your favorite characters. Here are six locations based on films or TV shows that are perfect for set-jetters:
1. New Zealand: The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Trilogies
New Zealand is a paradise for set-jetters who are fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies. These films used the country's breathtaking landscapes as backdrops, including the rolling hills of Matamata, which served as the setting for Hobbiton and the Shire. Additionally, the Waitomo Caves served as the location for the underground scenes in The Fellowship of the Ring.
2. Dubrovnik, Croatia: Game of Thrones
Croatia has become a popular destination for set-jetters who are die-hard Thrones fans. Dubrovnik, also known as King's Landing, was the setting for many of the show's most iconic scenes, including Cersei's walk of shame, Joffrey's wedding, and Tyrion's trial. Other locations include the island of Lokrum, which was used as the setting for Qarth, and Klis Fortress, which served as the city of Meereen.
3. Scotland: Outlander
If you're a fan of the Outlander series, you'll love Scotland! The series is set in Scotland, and many of the show's locations are open to visitors. The Castle Leoch — one of the main settings in the series — is located in Doune. Other locations include the village of Falkland, which was the setting for Inverness, and Glencoe, where the Battle of Culloden was filmed.
4. England: Bridgerton, Downtown Abbey, and more
If you're a fan of period dramas, you might enjoy exploring rural England and some of the quaint little towns just outside London. From the Regency-era setting of "Bridgerton" to the Edwardian era of "Downton Abbey," there are plenty of beautiful landscapes and historic homes to see. Consider visiting Hampton Court Palace on the outskirts of London. This was the real-life location used for Downton Abbey's exterior shots. Another option is Bath, a city that served as the backdrop for many Jane Austen adaptations, including 2022's "Persuasion."
5. Taormina, Italy: The White Lotus (Season 2)
Fans of the hit HBO series "The White Lotus" are eagerly anticipating the release of season 3, which is set to take place in Thailand. In the meantime, many are re-watching season 2 to soak in Taormina's stunning scenery and the beautiful San Domenico Palace (a Four Seasons hotel). From riding a Vespa through the winding cliffside roads to lounging by the pool, the show's setting has inspired many viewers to add Taormina, Sicily to their travel bucket lists.
6. Europe: The Orient Express
The Orient Express is arguably the most famous train in the world. It inspired one of Agatha Christie's most acclaimed novels, "Murder on the Orient Express," which has been adapted for film and TV numerous times. The train has been glammed up since the 1880s to offer ultra-luxury travel experiences for passengers venturing across Europe. The luxurious suites and the fine-dining car are truly exceptional and worth experiencing.
It's a Wrap
While the above locations have enjoyed some hype among fans, you can set jet to the locations of your favorite films and create your own unique movie-inspired experiences. Whether it's visiting the beach from the film "The Beach" or exploring the magical world of Harry Potter, there are endless possibilities for creating your own set-jetting adventure.
If you're looking for travel gear to make your journey more comfortable, check out our online shop for travel essentials. We offer a wide range of thoughtfully designed products that can help you streamline your travels, from toiletry bags that keep your items organized to travel blankets that pack down to the size of a grapefruit.
For more travel tips and ideas, visit our Gravel Travels blog.