Travel has always been about exploring new places, trying new things, and creating new experiences. But in recent years, a new trend has taken over the travel world—set-jetting. This is when people travel to real-life locations they’ve seen in movies, TV shows, or Netflix series.

Instead of choosing destinations randomly, travelers are now saying, “I saw this place in a film… I want to go there.” And with platforms like Netflix, Disney+, and Hollywood films becoming more global, this trend is growing faster than ever.

Set-jetting is not just about tourism. It’s about stepping into a story you already love.

What Is Set-Jetting?

Set-jetting is a travel trend where people visit filming locations of popular movies or TV shows. The word comes from combining “set” (film set) and “jetting” (traveling by plane).

For example:

• Visiting Paris after watching romantic movies set there

• Traveling to New Zealand because of The Lord of the Rings

• Exploring Korea after watching K-dramas on Netflix

It turns entertainment into real-life experiences.

Why Is Set-Jetting So Popular?

There are a few simple reasons why this trend is exploding:

1. Netflix and Streaming Culture

Streaming platforms have made global storytelling easy to access. A show filmed in Spain, Korea, or Italy can go viral worldwide in days.

People don’t just watch anymore—they connect emotionally with locations.

2. Social Media Influence

TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube make it easy to discover filming locations. Travelers post side-by-side videos showing scenes from movies compared to real life.

These videos often go viral because people love seeing fiction turn into reality.

3. Emotional Connection to Stories

When people love a movie or series, they feel attached to the places in it. Visiting those places feels like entering the story world.

It’s not just sightseeing—it’s storytelling in real life.

Famous Set-Jetting Destinations Around the World

Here are some of the most popular places people travel to because of movies and Netflix shows.

1. New Zealand – Famous for The Lord of the Rings film locations

New Zealand is one of the biggest set-jetting destinations in the world.

The country was used as the filming location for The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. Its mountains, forests, and open landscapes look almost magical.

Fans visit Hobbiton, a real-life movie set that still exists today. It feels like you’ve stepped right into Middle-earth.

2. Paris, France – Romantic Movies and Series

Paris has always been a favorite in films and TV shows. From romantic movies to Netflix series like Emily in Paris, the city is full of cinematic beauty.

Travelers visit places like:

• Eiffel Tower

• Charming cafés

• Old streets of Montmartre

People don’t just visit Paris—they relive movie moments.

3. South Korea – K-Drama Tourism

K-dramas have become global hits, and they have turned South Korea into a major set-jetting destination.

Fans travel to Seoul and other cities to visit filming locations from shows like romantic dramas and action series.

Popular spots include palaces, parks, cafes, and shopping streets seen in Netflix shows.

4. Croatia – Game of Thrones

Dubrovnik in Croatia became famous after being used as King’s Landing in Game of Thrones.

Fans walk through the old city walls, take tours, and relive scenes from the series.

What was once a quiet coastal city is now a global tourist hotspot because of the show.

5. Thailand – Movies and Adventure Films

Thailand has been featured in many Hollywood movies and travel documentaries.

Places like Bangkok, Phuket, and Krabi are known for their beautiful beaches, street life, and island views.

The movie The Beach helped make Thai islands famous worldwide.

6. United Kingdom – Harry Potter World

The UK is a dream destination for Harry Potter fans.

From London train stations to Hogwarts filming locations, fans can visit real-life places used in the movies.

There are also studio tours where visitors can see sets, costumes, and props.

7. Italy – Classic Films and Modern Series

Italy has been featured in countless movies and shows.

From romantic films to modern Netflix hits, cities like Rome, Venice, and Florence attract travelers who want to experience cinematic beauty.

Canals, historic buildings, and food culture make Italy a perfect set-jetting destination.

How Set-Jetting Changes Travel

Set-jetting has changed the way people choose destinations.

Before, people traveled based on guidebooks or recommendations. Now, movies and shows play a big role in travel decisions.

It has also helped:

• Boost tourism in small towns

• Increase local income in filming areas

• Make lesser-known places famous worldwide

However, it can also bring challenges like overcrowding in popular filming spots.

Tips for Set-Jetting Travel

If you want to try this trend, here are some simple tips:

1. Research filming locations

Look up where your favorite movies or shows were filmed.

2. Plan ahead

Some locations are remote or require tours.

3. Respect local communities

Remember, these are real places where people actually live.

4. Combine with regular travel

Don’t just visit filming spots—explore the whole destination.

Final Thoughts

Set-jetting is more than just a travel trend. It connects storytelling with real-world exploration. It allows people to step into the worlds they once only saw on screens.

Whether it’s the magical landscapes of New Zealand, the romantic streets of Paris, or the dramatic castles of Croatia, set-jetting turns imagination into reality.

In 2026 and beyond, this trend will continue to grow as movies and streaming platforms shape the way people travel. For many travelers, the question is no longer “Where should I go?” but “Where was this filmed?”