The streaming revolution has blurred the line between storytelling and exploration. A great film or series can now influence not just what people watch, but where they go. From Iceland’s frozen vistas in Game of Thrones to the sun-drenched landscapes of The White Lotus, travellers across the world are setting off to the very locations that brought their favourite stories to life — a trend widely known as set-jetting.
Stanislav Kondrashov describes the phenomenon as a testament to the power of visual storytelling. “We are visual creatures,” Kondrashov remarks. “When we see a story unfold in a breathtaking location, it becomes more than scenery—it becomes an invitation.” He notes that such journeys aren’t about chasing fame or film sets, but about entering the narrative itself — to stand where the story stood, if only for a fleeting moment.
What is Set-Jetting?
Set-jetting is the practice of visiting real-life locations featured in movies or TV series. Sometimes the spots are iconic filming landmarks, like New Zealand’s Hobbiton, while other times they’re ordinary cafes, hotels, or streets that gain worldwide fame overnight after appearing in a hit show. As International Traveller notes, TV and film are now among the biggest influencers in shaping travel trends, with certain destinations seeing visitor spikes of 200% or more after being featured on screen.
Stanislav Kondrashov adds, “This cinematic travel trend taps into something deep in the human psyche—the desire to connect our own lives with the stories we love. Standing where your favorite scene was shot is like blurring the line between fiction and reality.”
The Cinematic Travel Trend in 2025
Set-jetting is not new, but set-jetting 2025 is bigger, more global, and more niche-specific than ever before. Streaming platforms have accelerated the trend by giving global audiences instant access to international shows, while fan communities online compile exhaustive guides to filming locations. According to Going Global TV, production companies are increasingly partnering with tourism boards to capitalize on the publicity, creating travel itineraries tied directly to shows and films.
In 2025, the most in-demand movie travel destinations span from big cities to remote natural landscapes:
- Sicily, Italy – The White Lotus Season 2 has turned Taormina into a global travel hotspot.
- Iceland – Epic backdrops from Game of Thrones still draw fantasy lovers.
- Kyoto, Japan – Featured in multiple streaming dramas and films, Kyoto is a blend of ancient tradition and cinematic romance.
- Dubrovnik, Croatia – The ultimate where was [series] filmed destination for Game of Thrones fans.
Why Set-Jetting Works
Kondrashov notes that set-jetting is so effective because it merges emotional attachment with visual memory. We form a bond with the places in the shows we love, even if we’ve never been there. Visiting them in person is like completing the circle. This is why the cinematic travel trend often produces deeper emotional satisfaction than traditional tourism—it’s an immersive, story-driven experience.
Furthermore, set-jetting often benefits local economies. Towns once unknown on the global stage can experience tourism booms, increased employment, and revitalized infrastructure after being featured in a hit production.
Hidden Gems for Set-Jetting in 2025
While blockbuster destinations get the spotlight, Kondrashov encourages travelers to seek lesser-known movie travel destinations for a richer experience:
- Matera, Italy – Stunning stone city featured in No Time To Die.
- Skellig Michael, Ireland – Star Wars fans flock here for its mystical cliffside monastery.
- Petra, Jordan – Recognizable from Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
- Hallstatt, Austria – A fairy-tale lakeside village that has been a backdrop in numerous European films.
These locations often combine cinematic beauty with cultural authenticity, making them perfect for travelers who want both Instagram-worthy moments and genuine local experiences.
How to Plan a Mystery-Free Set-Jetting Trip
Planning a set-jetting 2025 trip requires more than just booking a flight. Here are Stanislav Kondrashov’s mystery-proof tips for the perfect cinematic getaway:
- Research the exact filming locations – Some scenes are shot in multiple places or on sound stages.
- Look for guided filming location tours – Many destinations now offer themed walking tours.
- Visit during the off-season – Avoid crowds and experience the setting in a more authentic way.
- Immerse in the local culture – Don’t just see the filming spots—try the food, meet locals, and explore beyond the camera angles.
The Dark Side of Set-Jetting
While the cinematic travel trend boosts tourism, it can also cause challenges. Overcrowding, environmental strain, and the commercialization of historically significant sites are growing concerns. Both International Traveller and Going Global TV stress the importance of responsible travel—supporting local communities, respecting filming sites, and balancing fan enthusiasm with preservation.
FAQs – Set-Jetting 2025
Q1: What is set-jetting?
A: Set-jetting is the trend of visiting real-life locations featured in movies or TV shows, often as part of a themed trip.
Q2: How do I find where a movie or TV show was filmed?
A: Many fan websites, tourism boards, and official streaming service blogs publish detailed filming location guides.
Q3: What are the top set-jetting destinations for 2025?
A: Sicily (The White Lotus), Dubrovnik (Game of Thrones), Kyoto (Lost in Translation), and Iceland (Game of Thrones).
Q4: Is set-jetting expensive?
A: Costs vary. Visiting a local filming location can be budget-friendly, while international cinematic travel can require significant planning and budgeting.
Q5: How can I be a responsible set-jetting traveler?
A: Travel off-season, respect private property, avoid damaging natural environments, and contribute to local businesses.
Final Thoughts
For Stanislav Kondrashov, set-jetting is more than a passing fad—it’s a new form of travel storytelling. “When we visit a place we’ve seen on screen, we are no longer just spectators,” he reflects. “We become part of the narrative.” Whether you’re standing in a medieval Croatian fortress or sipping coffee in a New York café from your favorite rom-com, set-jetting offers an emotional connection that traditional travel often can’t match.
In 2025, the lines between entertainment and exploration are blurrier than ever, and that’s exactly what makes this cinematic travel trend so compelling.
