10 Epic Set-Jetting Locations to Explore
Have you ever watched a TV show or movie and thought, “I wish I could go there”?
Well, now you can! Welcome to the world of set-jetting—a growing travel trend where fans explore real-life filming locations from their favorite shows and films.
From the rolling hills of The Sound of Music to the mystical castles of Game of Thrones, set-jetting lets you walk in the footsteps of your beloved characters. And with the rise of streaming platforms and global hits, the desire to visit on-screen locations is at an all-time high.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through 10 Epic Set-Jetting Locations to Explore—real places where movie magic happened. Whether you’re a Potterhead, a Marvel fanatic, or a romance movie lover, this list will spark your wanderlust like never before.
📍 1. Dubrovnik, Croatia – Game of Thrones
Dubrovnik became world-famous as King’s Landing in HBO’s Game of Thrones. This ancient walled city by the Adriatic Sea is filled with narrow alleys, stone fortresses, and stunning views—just like in the series.
What to Explore:
Fort Lovrijenac (Red Keep)
Pile Gate (entrance to King’s Landing)
Walk of Shame stairs (Jesuit Staircase)
Fun Fact: You can take official Game of Thrones walking tours and even hold a replica of the Iron Throne!
Best Time to Visit: May to June or September to avoid crowds.
📍 2. Skellig Michael, Ireland – Star Wars: The Force Awakens
If you loved the peaceful scenes of Luke Skywalker’s exile, visit Skellig Michael, a remote island off Ireland’s southwest coast. Its ancient monastery, sharp cliffs, and puffin colonies made it a magical Star Wars spot.
What to Explore:
The 600 AD stone beehive huts
Stunning cliff views
Boat ride to the island (weather dependent)
Pro Tip: Only a limited number of visitors are allowed per day, so book early!
📍 3. Matamata, New Zealand – The Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit
Middle-earth is real, and it’s in New Zealand! The rolling green hills of Matamata were transformed into Hobbiton, the home of Frodo and Bilbo Baggins.
What to Explore:
Tour the Hobbit holes
Enjoy a pint at The Green Dragon Inn
Take photos at Bag End
Set-Jetting Tip: Combine your Hobbiton visit with a trip to Tongariro National Park (Mount Doom).
📍 4. Highclere Castle, UK – Downton Abbey
Fancy stepping into the elegant world of Downton Abbey? Visit Highclere Castle in Hampshire, England—the real-life family estate used for the show.
What to Explore:
Guided castle tours
Egyptian artifacts in the basement
Walk through the manicured gardens
Best Time to Visit: Spring or summer, when the gardens are in full bloom.
📍 5. Seoul, South Korea – Crash Landing on You & Squid Game
K-drama and K-movie fans, rejoice! Seoul is filled with filming locations from your favorite series, including Crash Landing on You, Vincenzo, and Squid Game.
What to Explore:
Namsan Tower (CLOY)
Dalmaji Hill (romantic scenes)
Daejanggeum Park (historical dramas)
DDP (Dongdaemun Design Plaza – Squid Game)
Pro Tip: Book a themed K-drama walking tour in the city.
📍 6. Salzburg, Austria – The Sound of Music
This classic musical may be decades old, but The Sound of Music still brings thousands of tourists to Salzburg each year.
What to Explore:
Mirabell Gardens (Do-Re-Mi scene)
Leopoldskron Palace (Von Trapp mansion)
Nonnberg Abbey (Maria’s convent)
Fun Tip: Join a Sound of Music bus tour complete with singing guides!
📍 7. Petra, Jordan – Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Petra, the rose-colored ancient city carved into rock, starred as the temple that housed the Holy Grail in Indiana Jones.
What to Explore:
The Treasury (Al-Khazneh)
Monastery hike
Night tour with candles
Pro Tip: Go early morning or late afternoon for magical lighting and fewer crowds.
📍 8. New York City, USA – Friends, Sex and the City, Avengers
Even though we’re avoiding U.S.-focused titles, NYC deserves a brief mention for global travelers. It’s the most famous real-life set on Earth.
What to Explore:
Friends Apartment (Greenwich Village)
Carrie Bradshaw’s brownstone (Perry Street)
Marvel spots like Grand Central
Insider Tip: Join an “On Location” tour for a full TV/movie set-jetting experience.
📍 9. Chefchaouen, Morocco – John Wick 3 & Aladdin Vibes
The blue city of Chefchaouen looks like it came out of a fairy tale—and Hollywood noticed. It’s featured in John Wick 3 and served as an inspiration for Agrabah in Aladdin.
What to Explore:
The blue-painted medina
Spanish Mosque viewpoint
Souks and local art
Photo Tip: Bring a wide-angle lens—the color contrasts are unreal!
📍 10. Hallstatt, Austria – Inspired Disney’s Frozen
This small lakeside town in Austria inspired the creators of Arendelle in Frozen. It’s a must-visit for fans of icy fairytales and Alpine views.
What to Explore:
Lake Hallstatt boat tours
Salt mines and skywalk
Instagram-worthy village views
Pro Tip: Avoid peak summer. Go in fall for cozy sweater weather and fewer tourists.
🎥 Why Set-Jetting is More Than Just Travel
Set-jetting isn’t just about seeing famous places—it’s about emotional connection. You’re stepping into the worlds of your favorite characters, reliving your favorite scenes, and making those moments part of your own story.
It’s also:
A great way to discover new destinations you’d never think to visit
A fun activity for solo travelers, couples, and families
A creative way to plan themed trips
Whether you’re following Jon Snow’s path or singing on the Sound of Music stairs, it turns regular travel into something cinematic.
🌍 Final Thoughts
The rise of streaming has brought global content into our homes—and now it’s taking us out into the world. Set-jetting is one of the most personal and exciting travel trends today. It adds meaning to travel by linking your journey with emotion, memory, and nostalgia.
Imagine standing on a mountaintop where a hero once stood. Walking through a hallway where secrets were whispered. Laughing at a café where your favorite characters shared a moment. That’s the magic of set-jetting.
And the best part? It’s only growing. As more films and shows explore new territories, the map of set-jetting locations is expanding beyond the obvious. We’re seeing series filmed in hidden towns, remote islands, and unexpected countries.
Here are some travel tips to make your set-jetting journey easier:
📌 Always double-check if the location is open to the public
📌 Book tours early—some spots limit daily visitors
📌 Pack costumes or props for fun photos
📌 Be respectful: some locations are historical or religious sites
📌 Use filming location apps to build your itinerary
Set-jetting is also an incredible way to inspire reluctant travelers. Kids who love Harry Potter might get excited about visiting Edinburgh or London. History lovers may connect better with war movies shot in Belgium or France.
So the next time you binge a series or cry during a movie, ask yourself: where was this filmed? That question could turn into your next unforgettable adventure.
Whether it’s the snow-covered fields of Fargo or the deserts of Dune, remember—the world is your movie set. Now go make memories that feel like a scene straight from your favorite film.
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