by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors
Travelers are increasingly turning to the big screen for inspiration, choosing destinations they’ve seen in popular films and TV shows.
According to third-party research from Expedia Group’s Unpack ’26 Travel Trends Report, interest in set-jetting continues to rise: 53% of travelers say they’re 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’ve seen on screen.
Yorkshire, UK
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Tuscany, Italy
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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’s no wonder that it’s also a popular filming location, too. Tuscany basically serves as a supporting character in Noah Baumbach’s new film “Jay Kelly,” which stars George Clooney and Adam Sandler. Key scenes in the movie were shot at scenic locations such as Montecatini Terme, San Quirico d’Orcia, and the small town of Pitigliano. From olive groves and wine tastings to thermal spas and picturesque walks through Assisi, this trip lets you create a movie-worthy moment of your own.
Samoa, Polynesia
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Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
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This stretch of coast is in Croatia’s southernmost region along the glistening turquoise waters of the Adriatic Sea. The area plays an important role in the upcoming movie “People We Meet on Vacation,” which is based on the book it features. 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’s Landing in “Game of Thrones.” Since peak tourism season runs from June to mid-September, look for trips in April or May if you want to travel on a budget and enjoy the sights with fewer crowds.
Peloponnese, Greece
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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’ Underworld and the home of Jason and Medea. It’s 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’s “The Odyssey.” 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, U.S.
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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’s elite are all part of the appeal. Set-jetting in Los Angeles lets travelers see many famous pop culture locations in one trip, including landmarks featured in the hit “Nobody Wants This,” which was filmed amid palm trees, neon lights, and timeless L.A. spots known around the world.
Wellington, New Zealand
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The capital city of New Zealand may be small, but it has a lot to offer. For starters, it’s home to the Wētā FX studio, which produced the game-changing visual effects used in James Cameron’s award-winning “Avatar” films, including the newest “Avatar: Fire & Ash.” 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
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This story was produced by Expedia Group and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
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