A recent survey revealed that a staggering 96% of Americans have visited destinations linked to their favorite TV shows or movies, highlighting the growing trend of "film tourism." This phenomenon has been further accelerated by the influence of streaming services and social media, making iconic film locations more accessible and desirable for fans. Here are some of the top travel destinations inspired by beloved television shows:
Dubrovnik, Croatia — “Game of Thrones”The city has become overwhelmed with visitors, leading officials to implement a cap of 8,000 tourists in the old town at any given time. Notable filming locations include St. Dominika Street and the Lovrijenac Fortress.
Albuquerque, New Mexico — “Breaking Bad”After winning 16 Emmy Awards, "Breaking Bad" transformed Albuquerque into a must-visit location for fans. Guided tours showcase various filming sites, including Walter White’s house and Saul Goodman’s office.
Paris, France — “Emily in Paris”The series has sparked a wave of tourism in Paris, leading visitors to Emily’s apartment near Place de l’Estrapade and the picturesque Jardin du Luxembourg.
Highclere Castle, England — “Downton Abbey”The popularity of the show led to double the visitor numbers at Highclere Castle post-debut. The site now offers exclusive tours and exhibitions tailored for fans.
Scotland — “Outlander”The show has driven annual visitors to Doune Castle up significantly, making it a central spot for fans wanting to experience Scotland’s rich history and stunning landscapes.
Sicily, Italy — “The White Lotus” Season 2Taormina’s Four Seasons San Domenico Palace was prominently featured in Season 2, attracting tourists eager to experience its breathtaking views.
Greenwich Village, New York City — “Friends”The iconic exterior of the Friends apartment building draws fans to 90 Bedford Street, while nearby cafes that inspired Central Perk make it a compact and appealing stop.
Iceland — “Game of Thrones”Filming locations like the Jökulsárlón lagoon and Thingvellir National Park have seen a dramatic increase in American visitors due to their features in the series.
Monterey, California — “Big Little Lies”This coastal town captures the essence of dramatic landscapes and has easy access to renowned spots like Big Sur, making it a perfect getaway for fans.
Montana and Wyoming — “Yellowstone”The series has contributed significantly to tourism around the filming locations, especially Yellowstone National Park, which remains a classic destination regardless.
These sites showcase how television can shape travel choices, drawing fans from across the globe to experience the worlds they’ve become enamored with on screen. As travel preferences evolve, the connection between favorite shows and travel destinations continues to strengthen.