The top screen-inspired travel destinations in 2026
The top screen-inspired travel destinations in 2026
Travelers are increasingly turning to the big screen for inspiration, choosing destinations they鈥檝e seen in popular films and TV shows. was first to spotlight 鈥溾 as a fast-growing global trend in 2022, which has become especially popular among Millennial and Gen Z travelers.
According to third-party research from , interest in set-jetting continues to rise: 53% of travelers say they鈥檙e more interested in taking a screen-inspired trip than they were a year ago. Millennials and Gen Z are driving the momentum, with 81% planning a getaway based on a destination they鈥檝e seen on screen.
So, what are the top pop-culture-inspired vacations to watch for in 2026?
Yorkshire, UK
The dales and moors of Yorkshire are a well-established muse for writers and visual artists. Most recently, the region has served as the romantic location for 鈥溾 and 鈥.鈥 The North Yorkshire Moors Railway and the Yorkshire Dales make appearances in both and are a must-see when visiting. Make sure to squeeze in a visit to the Bront毛 Parsonage Museum, where the Bront毛 family lived from 1820 to 1861. The historic space offers fascinating insight into the lives of the three Bront毛 sisters and the world that inspired 鈥淲uthering Heights.鈥
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany, Italy, has long been a go-to destination for travelers interested in Renaissance art and architecture, picturesque towns, and an unforgettable dining scene. It鈥檚 no wonder that it鈥檚 also a popular filming location, too. Tuscany basically serves as a supporting character in Noah Baumbach鈥檚 new film 鈥,鈥 which stars George Clooney and Adam Sandler. Key scenes from the film were shot at scenic locations like the Montecatini Terme, the San Quirico d鈥橭rcia, and the small town of Pitigliano. From olive groves and wine tastings to thermal spas and scenic walks through Assisi, this trip lets you create a movie-worthy moment of your own.
Samoa, Polynesia
The forthcoming live-action 鈥淢oana鈥 will likely inspire a whole new crop of travelers interested in visiting this island nation, even though much of it was filmed in and Atlanta. Not to be confused with American Samoa (although the two are under 100 miles from each other), the South Pacific islands were divided by colonial powers in the late 1800s. is home to many beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and the To Sua Ocean Trench, a unique swimming hole surrounded by massive rocky cliffs. To see the best that Samoa, Polynesia, has to offer, arrange for a temporary driving license and rent a car; it will save you money and allow you to explore at your own pace.
Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
This stretch of coast is in Croatia鈥檚 southernmost region along the glistening turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea. The region plays an important role in the upcoming movie 鈥,鈥 where the book the film is based on is featured. This ancient seaside town has appeared in plenty of other popular films and television shows. The old city of Dubrovnik was used as the main location of King鈥檚 Landing in 鈥淕ame of Thrones.鈥 Since peak tourism season runs from June to mid-September, look for trips in April or May if you are looking to travel on a budget and enjoy the sights with thinner crowds.
Peloponnese, Greece
Peloponnese, Greece, is the literal place where legends are made as the region is the epicenter of Greek mythology. This is where Hercules is said to have been born, where you will find the entrance to Hades鈥 Underworld and the home of Jason and Medea. It鈥檚 filled with ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and unspoiled rugged landscapes perfect for hiking and scuba diving. The ancient city also served as a location for Christopher Nolan鈥檚 鈥.鈥 The film crew utilized old castles, an archaeological palace, and a beach-adjacent cave as key set locations. The best time to visit is from March to late May before the busy summer season picks up.
Los Angeles, US
Los Angeles might be one of the most visited set-jetting vacation destinations. The City of Angels has drawn visitors with stars in their eyes for decades. The mild weather, easy access to hiking trails, helicopter rides over the Hollywood sign, and chance to rub elbows with Hollywood鈥檚 elite are all part of the appeal. Set-jetting to Los Angeles gives travelers a chance to see many famous pop culture locations in one trip, including landmarks featured in the top hit 鈥,鈥 which was filmed among palm trees, neon lights, and timeless L.A. spots known around the world.
Wellington, New Zealand
The capital city of New Zealand may be small, but it has a lot to offer. For starters, it鈥檚 home to the which produced the game-changing visual effects used in James Cameron鈥檚 award-winning 鈥淎vatar鈥 films, including the newest 鈥.鈥 The compact waterfront city is also great for travelers who love to eat, drink, and thrift. Start your day with a flat white (New Zealanders are serious about their coffee), check out the secondhand stores on Cuba Street, and grab a tasty craft beer from one of the dozens of local breweries before you grab dinner.
Palawan, Philippines
This southwestern jungle island is one of the most biodiverse islands in the Philippines and is known as of the region. There are hidden lagoons, subterranean rivers, and large marine sanctuaries with over 800 species of fish. It鈥檚 no surprise that this picturesque paradise was chosen as the filming location for the forthcoming romantic comedy 鈥溾 starring Daisy Ridley and Alden Ehrenreich. The film centers on a main character who becomes captivated by the beauty of the Philippines after visiting a resort property.
May your main-character energy shine bright wherever you decide to set-jet to in 2026.
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