15 Breathtaking Real-Life Destinations That Brought Iconic Stories to Life
Have you ever had a story spring to life in your mind that you wished you could go to? Storytelling is not just about the words or fairytales and faraway fantasy worlds authors and filmmakers write and produce; it’s about the places that inspire them.
Some of the most remarkable narratives are powered by real-life destinations that transform ordinary landscapes into extraordinary settings. 70% of travelers say a book, movie, or television show has influenced them to go somewhere.
These 15 destinations promise to bring those tales to life in astonishing ways.
The Shire in New Zealand (The Lord of the Rings)
Nestled in the lush hills of Matamata, New Zealand, The Shire feels like it’s been lifted directly from the pages of J.R.R. Tolkien’s books.
Hobbiton the set used in The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, is a fan favorite that offers guided tours where you can explore the adorable hobbit holes and even enjoy a pint at The Green Dragon Inn. The rolling green landscapes and idyllic setting vividly capture the tranquil charm of the Shire.
Open daily, Hobbiton now welcomes over 570,000 visitors each year with its growing list of fans, including fantasy fans from all over the world.
Platform 9¾ at King’s Cross Station, London (Harry Potter)
Have you ever dreamt of walking through the brick wall to take the Hogwarts Express? This Harry Potter moment comes to life at King’s Cross Station in London.
There’s a trolley through the wall at Platform 9¾ for the ultimate wizarding photo opportunity. Harry Potter-themed shops and memorabilia are par for the station, making it a bucket-list destination for Potter heads.
Skellig Michael, Ireland (Star Wars)
An isolated island rising dramatically off the coast of Ireland, Skellig Michael gained renewed fame as Luke Skywalker’s hideout in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. Cliffside monasteries dating back to the 6th century make this a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Although not easy to reach (accessible only with boat tour guides and good weather), the island’s scenic beauty and rich history make it a one-of-a-kind stop for Star Wars fans and history buffs alike.
Dubrovnik, Croatia (Game of Thrones)
Dubrovnik has become synonymous with King’s Landing, the capital of Westeros in the hit series Game of Thrones. Its medieval wall, narrow streets, and fortresses were also key locations for filming.
For an insider experience, join a guided Game of Thrones tour that gives access to filming anecdotes and hidden spots most fans miss.
The Louvre, Paris (The Da Vinci Code)
Paris’s iconic Louvre Museum is pivotal in Dan Brown’s The Da Vinci Code. Beyond the allure of viewing the real Mona Lisa, visitors can also see the museum’s lavish interiors, which are the novel’s (and film’s) adaptation of a mysterious backdrop.
Did you know that the Louvre is the most visited museum in the world, with more than 9 million visitors annually?
Château de Chillon, Switzerland (The Prisoner of Chillon)
Located next to Lake Geneva, Château de Chillon inspired Lord Byron’s powerful poem (The Prisoner of Chillon). Standing nearly a thousand years, this castle offers tours of its preserved dungeon; Byron even etched his name on its walls during his visit.
This is a dream location for lovers of history, whether you love its literary heritage or enjoy its stunning lake views.
Salem, Massachusetts (The Crucible)
Arthur Miller’s The Crucible immortalized the Salem Witch Trials, and today, Salem embraces its eerie history with museums, reenactments, and guided ghost tours. A trip here seamlessly blends American history with literary intrigue, making it an educational and unforgettable stop.
The Overlook Hotel, Oregon (The Shining)
Stephen King fans won’t want to miss Timberline Lodge in Mount Hood, Oregon, which inspired the exterior of The Overlook Hotel in The Shining. Because of its isolated, snow-covered location, it has the perfect eerie vibe of the novel. Today, the hotel embraces its macabre associations while remaining a cozy winter escape.
The Catacombs of Paris, France (Les Misérables)
The most pivotal moments in Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables occur in Paris’ scary underground catacombs. Today, you can walk through these eerie tunnels filled with the bones of over 6 million people. During guided tours, you can get an in-depth view of this iconic underground world while learning incredible history.
The Great Barrier Reef, Australia (Finding Nemo)
The Great Barrier Reef, the most extensive coral reef system on Earth, inspired the vibrant underwater world of Pixar’s Finding Nemo. Featuring over 2,900 individual reefs, snorkelers and divers can explore marine life and the natural beauty that spawned this revered animated classic.
Alnwick Castle, England (Harry Potter)
Alnwick Castle in Northumberland is better known to Harry Potter fans as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Many magical scenes were filmed here, from flying lessons to epic battles.
As if to make the regale complete, the castle hosts all kinds of Harry Potter-themed events and workshops, and of course, it is a delight for fans who want to relive the magic.
Petra, Jordan (Indiana Jones)
The climactic scenes of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade were set in the incredible ancient city of Petra. Also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this place is known as the Rose City because of the color of its rock-cut architecture. It is a Hollywood icon and a must-destination for lovers of history and archaeology.
Westminster Abbey, London (The Da Vinci Code)
With its Gothic architecture and centuries of history, Westminster Abbey was critical to the story of The Da Vinci Code. One of London’s most iconic landmarks, the abbey, can be visited by tourists who can see the setting of pivotal scenes in the book and take the lead on guided tours of the abbey.
Highclere Castle, England (Downton Abbey)
Fans of Downton Abbey will recognize Highclere Castle as the Crawley family’s grand estate. The castle in Hampshire, England, welcomes visitors throughout the year and provides unforgettable opportunities to walk through the halls that made the beloved series so special.
Bamburgh Castle, England (The Last Kingdom)
Bamburgh Castle is on the list of filming locations for (The Last Kingdom)and stands imposingly on a rocky plateau overlooking the sea. The incredible views and medieval architecture make it a must-visit destination for history buffs and TV fans.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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