Set-Jetting destinations Europe travel trend

As a traveler I’m always seeking out travel inspiration that appeal to both my history obsession and particularly in Europe destinations that involve my favourite films and TV shows. Are you a movie or TV show enthusiast looking for a unique travel experience? If so, set-jetting may be the perfect trend for you.

Set-jetting involves exploring film locations as travel destinations, allowing you to visit places where some of your favorite scenes were filmed. It provides a chance to immerse yourself in the world of movies and TV shows, experiencing the settings firsthand. With set-jetting becoming increasingly popular, there are several destinations across Europe that are worth considering for your next trip.

What is set-jetting and why is it a popular travel trend?

Exploring film locations as travel destinations

Set-jetting is the act of visiting destinations that have served as film locations. It involves stepping into the shoes of your favorite characters and experiencing the places where iconic scenes were filmed. This trend appeals to both film enthusiasts and avid travelers, as it allows them to combine their love for movies and exploration.

The appeal of experiencing iconic scenes from movies and TV shows

For many set-jetters, the opportunity to visit the actual locations where their favorite movies or TV shows were filmed is a dream come true. It offers a chance to relive iconic moments and see familiar settings in person. Whether it’s walking through the streets of King’s Landing from Game of Thrones or enjoying the view from the luxurious locations in Emily in Paris, set-jetting provides a unique and memorable travel experience.

How set-jetting provides a unique and immersive travel experience

Set-jetting goes beyond traditional sightseeing by allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the world of movies and TV shows. It offers a deeper connection to the stories and characters, as you get to experience the settings firsthand. By visiting film locations, you can gain a new perspective on the production process and appreciate the effort that goes into creating these memorable scenes.

Set-Jetting destinations Europe 2024

England

From Star Wars to The Crown, Paddington to Peaky Blinders, England boasts a wealth of world-class content filmed across the country’s diverse locations, with cinematic coastline, industrial history, grand stately homes, beautiful quintessential villages and both contemporary and historic cities. Wherever you are filming in the country, you are never far from a site that can double for another city, another country or another period in time.

There is just so much to choose from in England from filming locations for block buster movies destinations around London include places like Oxfordshire and Oxford where Mission Impossible Dead Reckoning was filmed. London and Manchester were also the location for Morbius. Despite being set in New York City, almost all production took place in England, including in Manchester and London, with London’s Crystal Palace doubling as Central Park.

As for TV shows House of the Dragon the prequel to the epic Game of Thrones was shot in Cornwall, Derbyshire and Hampshire along with Spain and Portugal. 

Downton Abbey was shot primarily at Highclere Castle with scenes also taking in Bath, Oxford and Scotland.  The village of Downton Abbey is actually the village of Bampton in Oxfordshire. Another massively popular TV show was the crime drama Happy Valley that was filmed across West Yorkshire. Locations included the Calder Valley, and Hebden Bridge.

For fans of Bridgerton the exterior of the Bridgertons’ house was shot in London, the interior scenes featuring the grand hall, stairs, hallway, and smoking room were filmed at Halton House, a French-style country house in the Chiltern Hills above the village of Halton. Check out historical Bath, where much of the filming takes place; explore the Bridgerton family-home, and see more than 700 works of art. Indulge in the opulent Hampton Court Palace – the on-screen home of Queen Charlotte – and, in beautiful Yorkshire, visit York’s Castle Howard the home of the Duke of Hastings.

Chatsworth House in the Peak District, is an incredibly beautiful manor house which has appeared in multiple films. Probably the most famous use of the stately home is for the 2005 adaptation of Pride & Prejudice starring Keira Knightley, where it featured as Mr. Darcy’s estate.

All Creatures Great and Small, the TV show is based on the tales of Yorkshire vet James Herriot, is one of them. The idyllic Yorkshire Dales are not just the backdrop to these stories — the landscapes of moors, valleys, hills and cobble-stone villages are real scene-stealers.

One of the biggest films today is set in Oxford and Northamptonshire. Saltburn is a gripping psychological thriller set against the backdrop of a quaint coastal town, where secrets simmer beneath the surface. The Manor house used was Drayton Hall which is privately owned so sadly no tours allowed. 

Scotland

The Dial of Destiny Indiana Jones whilst the film was shot in multiple locations, including Bamburgh, a village in Northumberland. The railway scenes took place at North Yorkshire Moors Railway, and Glasgow stood in for New York.

Glencoe, located in the Scottish Highlands, offers breathtaking landscapes that have been featured in multiple James Bond movies. Set-jetters can explore the hauntingly beautiful scenery that served as the backdrop for thrilling action sequences. From the famous Skyfall location to the stunning Glen Etive, there is no shortage of stunning sights to discover in Glencoe.

Fans also check out the the jaw-droppingly beautiful Scottish Highlands home of the Outlander TV series.

Scotland is a land of ancient woods and lochs, snow capped mountains and stunning fishing villages on the edge of the Irish and North seas.  Dotted haunted and historic castles and the dramatic ruins of ancient fortresses. It’s easy to see why this area of Scotland has inspired so many great works of fiction.

One of the most successful books and the subsequent films Harry Potter, borrows many backdrops from the stunning Scottish Highlands. Those who wished to be whisked away to Hogwarts on the Hogwarts Express can try the next best thing on a visit to the Highlands, with a ride on the Jacobite steam train, whose carriages were used as a set for The Philosopher’s Stone.

Are there any other popular set-jetting destinations in Europe?

Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia, has gained fame as the filming location for King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. The city’s stunning architecture and picturesque coastline make it a perfect backdrop for the fictional world of Westeros. Visitors can explore iconic sites such as the Lovrijenac Fortress and the Dubrovnik City Walls, which were prominently featured in the series.

Italy

Some recent films that have been shot in Italy include Call Me By Your Name, which was filmed in the Lombardy region; “The Talented Mr. Ripley” (1999), filmed in various locations across Italy including Rome, Venice, and Positano; and The Tourist starring Angelina Jolie and Johnny Depp, which featured scenes shot in Venice and other Italian cities.

The Town of Taormina, a charming town on the east coast of Sicily, were visitors flock from all over the world to see its Greek-Roman theatre, amble along its perfectly preserved Medieval streets, admire its dramatic views of Mount Etna and immerse themselves in the archetypal Mediterranean atmosphere.

The second season of The White Lotus is set in Sicily. Some of the series was filmed in the Sicilian cities of Palermo and Noto, as well as on the surrounding Ionian Sea.   

The show was filmed at the Four Seasons San Domenico Palace in Taormina. The San Domenico is in a fourteenth century convent perched atop a rocky height. On Sicily’s eastern coast, it boasts great views out over both the surrounding Ionian Sea and Mount Etna

The third filming location for The Marvels is in the beautiful southern Italian village of Tropea. Tropea, located on the southern coast of Italy, is renowned for its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Its colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic landmarks make it an attractive filming location for movies seeking a picturesque Mediterranean backdrop. 

Belgium

In Belgium you can visit the filming locations of the iconic black comedy In Bruge or perhaps you enjoyed the film Mandy. Mandy is a psychological horror film starring Nicolas Cage. The film is a co-production of the United States and Belgium. The film is about a broken man named Red Miller, who has lived in the jungle in the year 1983 since the kidnapping and murder of the love of his life, Mandy.

Or another of my favourites Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children which was filmed at Torenhof Castle, a castle in the Antwerp town of Brasschaa

Greece

My favourite feel good movies about Greece include stunning landscapes and tons of fun. The movie is of course My Big Fat Wedding 3. Filming, which took place last summer, was based in Athens and Corfu, with scenes in Santorini and some coastline shots of Crete, Paros, and Hydra.

Another Nia Vardalos movie set in Greece is My Life in Ruins from 2009 where Vardalo plays a tour guide taking a bus tour around Greece, great fun and a joy to watch. The film is set on location in Greece and Alicante, Spain, including Guadalest and Javea. This was the first time that an American film studio was allowed to film on location at the Acropolis.

Of course everyone’s favourite Mamma Mia which was filmed on the Greek islands of Skopelos and Skiathos. Then there is the famous Zorba the Greek filmed in Crete and Athens.

Malta

Malta has emerged as a favored filming destination for a plethora of cinematic ventures, thanks to its multifaceted scenery, rich historical backdrop, and supportive film industry infrastructure. Among the notable productions filmed on the island, “Game of Thrones” utilized Malta’s medieval charm, with locations like Mdina and the Azure Window in Gozo standing in for iconic settings such as King’s Landing and Daenerys Targaryen’s wedding venue, showcasing the island’s medieval allure against dramatic landscapes. 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.

Furthermore, epic historical dramas like Gladiator and Troy found Malta’s ancient fortifications and rugged coastline ideal for recreating the grandeur of the Roman Empire and the legendary city of Troy. Meanwhile, contemporary adaptations like Assassin’s Creed and classic tales such as The Count of Monte Cristo leveraged Malta’s architectural diversity and scenic vistas to evoke historical periods and captivating narratives.

 Ireland

Ireland has a rich film history and has served as the filming location for numerous productions. 

Ireland stands as an enchanting destination for set-jetters seeking to immerse themselves in the cinematic worlds they adore. Renowned for its lush green landscapes, rugged coastlines, and rich cultural heritage, Ireland has served as the backdrop for numerous iconic films and TV shows.

From the windswept cliffs of the Cliffs of Moher featured in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince to the mystical landscapes of County Kerry in Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Ireland offers a diverse array of stunning locales that have left an indelible mark on the silver screen.

Moreover, Ireland’s charming villages, medieval castles, and historic cities provide a captivating backdrop for fans eager to explore the settings of their favorite films and series. Locations like the medieval town of Kilkenny, used in Braveheart, and the majestic Powerscourt Estate, featured in The Tudors, offer visitors the opportunity to step into the worlds of their beloved productions.

Skellig Michael, Ireland (Star Wars) was Luke Skywalker’s home in the Force Awakens and this  1,500-year-old Gaelic monastery that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Head up to Donegal to the Inishowen Peninsula for more Star Wars Locations, or tour the East Coast of Ireland to see all the Vikings epic TV series locations. 

With its blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, Ireland continues to enchant set-jetters from around the globe, inviting them to discover the magic of their favorite films amidst the country’s timeless landscapes.

 Northern Ireland: Game of Thrones attractions

Northern Ireland offers a double dose of set-jetting opportunities. Game of Thrones enthusiasts can visit various filming locations, including the Dark Hedges (The Kingsroad) and the Giant’s Causeway (Dragonstone).

The world wide phenomenon of the Derry Girls which takes place in (London) Derry Northern Ireland has encouraged visitors to travel to the city to see the famous mural and visit the The Derry Girls Experience in the Tower Museum.

Which other destinations across Europe are popular for set-jetting?

Bucharest, Romania

Bucharest, the capital of Romania an Eastern European country, is a hidden gem for set-jetters. The city has a rich film history and offers diverse shooting locations. From the grand architecture of the Palace of the Parliament to the gothic vibes of the Bran Castle, there is something for every film enthusiast in Bucharest.

Cold Mountain is probably the most famous movie shot in Romania, almost entirely in the village of Reci in Covasna County and in Bucharest. The movie was a real success, being nominated for Oscars in several categories.

Busteni, Romania

Most of the Wednesday TV series one takes place in Nevermore Academy, and its incredible neo-gothic exterior is actually Cantacuzino Castle, situated in Bușteni, Romania – nestled in the Carpathian mountains.

Paris, France 

Although thousands of movies and television shows have been filmed in Paris, one of the most popular recent favorites is Emily in Paris.

This hit Netflix series about an American girl moving to Paris has inspired countless travelers to explore the City of Light. Emily and her improbably dashing downstairs neighbour, chef Gabriel, live on the picturesque Place de l’Estrapade in the heart of the historic Latin Quarter.

With its central fountain, verdant trees and inviting benches, the local square couldn’t look any more French. Just around the corner from Place de l’Estrapade is the grand Panthéon building.

The Pantheon started life as a neoclassical church built on the commission of Louis XV before becoming a secular monument to the “great men of the Republic” during the French Revolution and it is the resting place of luminaries including Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Victor Hugo, and the first woman to be interred here was Josephine Baker.

You can also visit the Palais Garnier the Royal Opera House and of course the Rue de l’Abreuvoir, the sloping Montmarte road that leads up to the Sacre-Coeur which also featured in the John Wicks final film.

A new entry into the Set-Jetting locations is the Parisian locations of the latest offering from Netflix The New Look which details the life of Christian Dior and his sister Catherine a French Resistance fighter during the years of the Nazi occupation of Paris.  You can visit the original House of Dior a block from the Champs-Élysées. at 30, avenue Montaigne,

The Ritz Paris which was the Nazi headquarters and where Coco Chanel stayed during the war is no longer standing and is portrayed by the Hotel Regina. Head to the Sorbonne where you can visit the Grand Amphitheatre where we first meet Dior and then set out for the world famous Maxim’s with its stunning early 19th century interiors. 

The city has been featured in numerous movies, such as Midnight in Paris and Amélie. Visitors can stroll along the Seine River, visit iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, and even dine at the restaurants seen in the films.

Why not also take a day trip to Brittany where you can visit Dior’s childhood home in Granville and see the stunning rose gardens that deeply influenced his designs for fashion and perfume.

Spain

Another captivating destination worth adding to your travel itinerary, especially for enthusiasts of either Star Wars or Game of Thrones, is Seville, nestled in the sun-kissed region of Andalucía, Spain.

Seville boasts a captivating fusion of cultural influences, evident in its architectural marvels. From the intricate designs adorning the Alcázar, inspired by Islamic artistry, to the iconic Plaza de España, showcasing a breathtaking amalgamation of Baroque, Renaissance, and Moorish styles.

The city’s remarkable architecture hasn’t escaped the notice of filmmakers and location scouts, who have utilized its historic sites as backdrops for numerous cinematic masterpieces. For instance, the Plaza de España serves as a backdrop in Star Wars: Episode II – Attack of the Clones, representing the opulent Theed Palace on the fictional Planet Naboo.

Additionally, Seville makes notable appearances in seasons five and six of Game of Thrones, where the Alcázar undergoes a stunning transformation into the Water Gardens of Dorne.

How can set-jetters plan their trips to these destinations?

Finding accommodations close to the film locations. When planning a set-jetting trip, it is advisable to find accommodations that are conveniently located near the film locations you wish to visit. This will allow you to maximize your time and easily explore the sites of interest.

Exploring guided tours and experiences related to the movies or TV shows

Many destinations offer guided tours and experiences specifically tailored for set-jetters. These tours provide valuable insights into the filming process and allow you to visit key locations with expert guides who can share behind-the-scenes stories and trivia.

Viator for example offers tours to places like Cong, Ireland which was featured in the Quiet Man Film. In Malta they offer both Game of Thrones tours and Popeye tours. You can do a Godfather tour in Italy, a Sound of Music tour, lots of Harry Potter movie set tours and James Bond tours.

Researching the best time to visit to maximize the chance of witnessing filming activities

If you’re eager to witness filming activities while on your set-jetting adventure, it’s essential to research the best time to visit. Productions often have specific shooting schedules, and being aware of these details can increase your chances of catching a glimpse of the action.

Jet-Setting FAQs

Q: What is Set-Jetting?

A: Set-Jetting is a travel trend where people visit destinations that have been featured in movies, TV shows, and films. It involves traveling to the actual locations where popular movies or TV series were filmed, allowing fans to experience the magic of their favorite stories firsthand.

Q: What are some popular Set-Jetting destinations in Europe?

A: Some popular Set-Jetting destinations in Europe include Dubrovnik, the French capital, the hilltop town of Taormina, and the many locations in the UK.

Q: Why is Dubrovnik a popular Set-Jetting destination?

A: Dubrovnik is a popular Set-Jetting destination because it has served as a filming location for several movies and TV shows, including the renowned TV series “Game of Thrones.” Its stunning old town, with its medieval walls and captivating architecture, has made it a favorite location for fantasy and historical productions.

Q: What is the connection between Set-Jetting and the TV show “Bridgerton”?

A: “Bridgerton” is a recent Netflix series that has gained a massive following. Set-Jetting enthusiasts have been flocking to locations where the show was filmed to experience the glamour and romance of the Regency era depicted in the series. Cities like Bath and London have seen a surge in visitors wanting to explore the scenes from “Bridgerton.”

Q: Which travel companies offer Set-Jetting experiences?

A: Several travel companies, such as Viator, offer Set-Jetting experiences. They curate itineraries that allow travelers to visit the locations of their favorite movies or TV shows and provide specialized tours and services to enhance the experience.

Q: Is Set-Jetting a new travel trend?

A: Set-Jetting has gained significant popularity in recent years and has become one of the top travel trends. With the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix and the global reach of popular movies and TV shows, more people are interested in visiting the locations they see on screen and immersing themselves in the world of their favorite stories.

Q: Can you provide some examples of Set-Jetting destinations and films or TV shows associated with them?

A: Sure! Here are a few examples:

A: To book a Set-Jetting trip, you can either organize it yourself by researching the filming locations and planning your itinerary, or you can contact specialized travel companies that offer Set-Jetting experiences. They will provide guidance, accommodations, and activities tailored to your interests and the locations you want to visit.

Q: Is Set-Jetting limited to specific genres of movies and TV shows?

A: Set-Jetting is not limited to specific genres. You can find Set-Jetting opportunities for various types of movies and TV shows, including fantasy, historical dramas, action-adventure films, and more. The destinations and experiences will vary depending on the productions you are interested in.

Set-jetting in Europe has become a popular travel phenomenon, with more and more people booking trips to visit the locations of their favorite movie sets or television series. Whether you’re a fan of Netflix’s “The New Look” or classic films like “The Bridge of Sighs,” there is something for everyone in Europe. In 2022, a record number of travelers followed in the footsteps of their favorite characters, visiting destinations after seeing them on screen.

From the luxurious Knebworth House in England to the haunting Lukiškės Prison in Lithuania, Europe offers a diverse range of set-jetting experiences. And with many of these locations just a few hours from major cities like London, it’s easier than ever for fans to indulge in their passion for film and television.

According to recent surveys, over 70 per cent of travelers can’t get enough of set-jetting in Europe and plan to visit even more locations this year. Whether you’re exploring a walled city in Spain, or the Spaghetti Western sets in the Tabernas Desert or the primary filming location of your favorite TV show in Italy, the possibilities for luxury travel through film are endless.

Don’t forget there are many other movies and TV shows locations you can set-jet too, for example as a Lord of the Rings fan visit Matamata a few hours from Auckland and see the Shire and Hobbiton and mingle with hobbits in New Zealand have a drink at the Green Dragon Inn. Tour the wonders of Petra and see the locations for Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Think Sicily (The White Lotus), Paris (Emily in Paris), Romania (Wednesday), Croatia (Game of Thrones), Norway (Mission Impossible), Ireland (Banshees of Insherin), England (The Crown, Bridgerton), Korea (Squid Game) and so on.