Traveling isn’t just about discovering new places, but about experiencing the settings that inspired iconic films, novels, and pivotal moments in history. If you’ve ever dreamed of strolling through Hogwarts, exploring the ruins of Pompeii, or diving into the Game of Thrones landscapes, this article will take you through some of the world’s most fascinating themed journeys.
Have you ever been in New York and felt like you’d already been there before, or experienced something oddly familiar? From walking through The Lord of the Rings landscapes in New Zealand to following the steps of James Joyce in Dublin, there are endless themed routes for fans of cinema, literature, and history. Let me tell you about them — and you’ll remember them.
Film-Based Routes: From Realism to Fantasy
1. New Zealand: Middle-earth from The Lord of the Rings
The country became Middle-earth thanks to Peter Jackson, and today you can visit Hobbiton in Matamata, the Rohirrim mountains at Mount Sunday, or Fangorn Forest in Fiordland. You can also explore Mordor's settings in Tongariro National Park. Many locations offer guided tours adapted for tourism.
2. Scotland: The World of Harry Potter
The famous Jacobite train crosses the Glenfinnan Viaduct, recreating the Hogwarts Express journey. Edinburgh, where J.K. Rowling wrote much of the saga, features visits to The Elephant House café and Greyfriars Kirkyard. Alnwick Castle in England also served as a Hogwarts location in the first two films.
3. Tunisia: Tatooine in Star Wars
The Tunisian desert landscapes were used for Luke Skywalker’s home and the Jawas’ settlements. You can visit places like Matmata and Tozeur, where some original sets still remain.
4. Dubrovnik, Croatia: King’s Landing in Game of Thrones
Dubrovnik’s walls were used as the base for King’s Landing. You can visit Fort Lovrijenac, Minceta Tower, or Pile Gate. Fans can also head to Iceland to see locations used for the Wall and Beyond the Wall scenes.
5. Skellig Michael, Ireland: Luke Skywalker’s Refuge
This rocky island off the coast of Ireland served as Luke Skywalker’s hideaway in The Last Jedi. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a breathtaking destination for Star Wars fans and nature lovers alike.
Literary Routes: Follow the Footsteps of Great Authors
1. Dublin and James Joyce
Every June 16th, Ulysses fans celebrate Bloomsday by walking through spots featured in the novel. Must-visits include Sweny’s Pharmacy and the Martello Tower.
2. Paris and the Lost Generation Writers
From Hemingway to Fitzgerald, many authors left their mark in Paris. You can visit Shakespeare & Co. bookstore, Café de Flore, and the Montparnasse neighborhood.
3. Istanbul and Orhan Pamuk’s Museum of Innocence
Created by the author himself, this museum reflects his novel and displays objects from life in Istanbul in the second half of the 20th century.
4. London and Sherlock Holmes
Fans of the world’s most famous detective can visit the 221B Baker Street museum and explore the Victorian pubs and streets featured in Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories.
Travel Tip:
Bring some cash on your themed travels. While cards are widely accepted, you may find places that only accept physical currency.
To exchange money easily and safely, use Ria home delivery or visit one of their 500,000+ locations in over 190 countries — great rates without needing to visit “sketchy” currency booths.
Historical Routes: Themed Journeys into the Past
1. Rome and the Roman Empire
Walking through the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, or the Appian Way is like stepping back in time. In 2025, the Jubilee Year will bring millions to the Vatican — it may be best to avoid peak dates.
2. Normandy and D-Day
Normandy’s beaches, like Omaha Beach, and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer are essential to understand a pivotal WWII moment.
3. Egypt and the Grand Egyptian Museum
Expected to fully open in 2025, the GEM in Giza will house the largest collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts, including Tutankhamun’s treasures.
4. Camino de Santiago: Following Medieval Pilgrims
This ancient pilgrimage across Spain to Santiago de Compostela remains one of the most iconic historic travel routes in the world.
5. Auschwitz and Holocaust Memory
For those seeking to understand recent history, visiting Auschwitz is a powerful experience. Its exhibits and testimonies remind us of the Holocaust and the importance of remembrance.
The Value of Themed Travel
Traveling through film, literature, and history enriches the experience and gives new meaning to every destination. Whether you’re exploring movie sets, walking through pages of famous novels, or standing on historic ground — the journey becomes far more than just movement.
If you’re looking for a different way to see the world, these themed trips offer unforgettable adventures full of learning and emotion.
What story will take you on your next trip?