Set-Jetting in 2025: The Ultimate Guide to Visiting TV & Movie Locations

From Your Screen to Your Next Destination: The Ultimate Set-Jetting Guide for 2025

Have you ever been so captivated by a movie or TV show that you wished you could just step right through the screen and into that world? That feeling of wanting to walk the same streets as your favorite character, to see that epic castle with your own eyes, or to stand on the cliff where that dramatic final scene unfolded?

Well, you can! Welcome to the exciting world of "set-jetting," the travel trend where fans flock to the real-life filming locations of their favorite on-screen stories.

This isn't just about seeing a film set; it's about experiencing the magic of storytelling in a whole new way. It’s about standing in a place and feeling the echo of the drama, the romance, or the adventure that you loved so much. The location itself becomes a character in your own travel story.

The line between our screens and our travel bucket lists is blurring more than ever. A hit show can turn a sleepy town into a global hotspot overnight. So, if you're ready to be the star of your own travel adventure, I’ve scouted out the best set-jetting destinations for 2025. Popcorn is optional, but a sense of wonder is required.

Why We're All Obsessed with Set-Jetting

This trend is exploding for a few key reasons:

A Deeper Connection: Visiting a filming location makes your connection to a story tangible. It’s a pilgrimage for fans.

Inspiration for New Places: Let's be real, sometimes the most stunning character in a show is the landscape itself. Shows like The Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones are basically the best travel ads ever made.

The "I Was There" Factor: Getting that perfect photo in a famous spot is the ultimate travel brag. It’s your chance to recreate an iconic moment.

So, where are we jetting off to this year? Let's roll the opening credits on our top destinations.

These are the franchises that have launched a thousand travel itineraries. Their locations are as legendary as their stories.

1. New Zealand: The Real Middle-earth (The Lord of the Rings)

It’s been over two decades since Peter Jackson first brought Middle-earth to life, and New Zealand is still the undisputed king of set-jetting destinations. The country's otherworldly landscapes—from lush rolling hills to jagged, snow-capped peaks—are Middle-earth.

The Main Event: Hobbiton. The movie set near Matamata was rebuilt as a permanent attraction, and it’s pure magic. You can wander through the Shire, see the hobbit holes, and even have a pint at the Green Dragon Inn. It’s an absolute must-do.

For the Adventurous: Tongariro National Park was the stand-in for the dark land of Mordor. You can hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a challenging but rewarding trek that takes you past volcanic landscapes and emerald lakes, with Mount Ngauruhoe (aka Mount Doom) looming in the distance.

Pro Tip: Many tour companies specialize in LOTR-themed tours, which can be a great way to see multiple locations and get behind-the-scenes stories without the hassle of planning it all yourself.

2. Croatia & Northern Ireland: The Game of Thrones Universe

No show in recent memory has had a bigger impact on tourism than Game of Thrones. It turned ancient cities and rugged coastlines into must-see destinations for millions of fans.

Dubrovnik, Croatia (King's Landing): Walking the city walls of Dubrovnik is like walking the walls of King's Landing. You can see the site of Cersei's "walk of shame" at the Jesuit Staircase and explore Fort Lovrijenac (the Red Keep). The city fully embraces its role, with themed tours and souvenir shops everywhere.

Northern Ireland (The North & More): This is the home of the Starks. Visit Castle Ward (Winterfell), the Dark Hedges (the Kingsroad), and Ballintoy Harbour (the Iron Islands). The landscape is moody, dramatic, and perfect for channeling your inner Northman.

Don't Miss: The official Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge, Northern Ireland, is a massive indoor experience with actual sets, costumes, and props from the show.

Currently Trending: Locations from Today's Hottest Shows

Set-jetting moves fast. Here are the places that are on every binge-watcher's radar right now.

3. The United Kingdom: A Bridgerton & Crown Affair

The UK has always been a hotspot for period drama fans, and the global success of shows like Bridgerton and The Crown has supercharged this trend.

Bath, England (Bridgerton): The city of Bath, with its stunning Georgian architecture, serves as the primary backdrop for the high society of Bridgerton. Stroll past the Royal Crescent (used for many exterior shots), visit the Holburne Museum (Lady Danbury's estate), and feel like you're part of the 'ton'.

London & Beyond (The Crown): While Buckingham Palace is the real deal, many of the interior scenes for The Crown were filmed at magnificent stately homes across the country. Lancaster House in London often stands in for the palace