Set Jetting Destinations 2026: Travel Inspired by Your Favorite Shows

Hey, fellow Canadians! Have you ever found yourself watching a show or movie and thinking, “Wow, I wish I could go there”? If so, you’re not alone. This phenomenon, known as set-jetting, is exploding in popularity, and for 2026, it’s set to be bigger than ever. Forget just watching the screen; we’re talking about stepping right into the scenes of your favourite shows and movies.

As a Toronto-based travel consultant, I’ve seen firsthand how much our screens influence our travel decisions. Set-jetting, the ultimate travel inspiration tool, has evolved from a niche trend into a major force shaping global travel. According to Expedia Group’s “Unpack '26 Travel Trends Report,” more than half of us, 53% of travelers, are more interested in a screen-inspired trip than we were just a year ago. We're talking about an industry projected to become an $8 billion market, and guess what? Millennials and Gen Z are leading the charge, with a staggering 81% of them now planning vacations based on destinations they’ve seen on screen. Seriously, who needs a travel brochure when you have Netflix?

Why is Set-Jetting So Popular in 2026?

Expedia first flagged “set-jetting” as a fast-growing trend back in 2022, and the data since then has proven it’s far from a passing fad. Think of it this way: when The White Lotus Season 2 aired, searches for Sicily's Taormina skyrocketed by over 300%. Hawaii saw similar massive spikes after Season 1. These numbers don't lie. We don't just want to watch stories, we want to live them.

For us travelers, set-jetting offers an incredibly immersive way to connect with our favourite stories. It’s not just about seeing a landmark; it’s about feeling the atmosphere, walking the same streets, and perhaps even tasting the local cuisine that your beloved characters enjoyed. From a local economy standpoint, it's a huge boost, bringing in tourist dollars. However, it’s also important to acknowledge that this popularity can put a strain on infrastructure in smaller, less-equipped destinations. So, while you're planning your trip to these popular destinations, remember to travel responsibly and consider booking well in advance.

Top Set-Jetting Destinations for 2026

Are you ready to dive into the most sought-after set-jetting destinations for 2026? I’ve pulled together the hottest spots, perfect for anyone looking to combine their love of screens with their passion for travel. Let’s explore where your next adventure might take you.

United Kingdom: From Moors to Manors

First on Expedia's 2026 set-jetting forecast is Yorkshire, leading the charge thanks to two massive productions: Wuthering Heights and Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale. If you’ve ever dreamt of wandering through wild moorlands or experiencing the grandeur of an English manor, this is your year.

The region's dramatic dales and breathtaking moors have always been a muse for writers and artists, and you’ll see them beautifully showcased in both productions. Make sure to check out the North Yorkshire Moors Railway and the stunning Yorkshire Dales, which are prominently featured. For places to stay, consider charming spots like the Stone House Hotel, Middleton Lodge, or The Lister Arms. Or, if you prefer a more independent experience, an Airbnb cottage rental could be perfect for channeling your inner Brontë sister or aristocratic guest.

For those of us planning from across the pond, remember to factor in travel time and currency exchange. You can always check our ReviewThenGo /currency tracker for the latest rates before you go.

Italy: Tuscan Dreams and Renaissance Charm

Tuscany ranks second for projected set-jetting interest in 2026, thanks to the film Jay Kelly. Honestly, is it any surprise? Tuscany’s iconic rolling hills, endless vineyards, and undeniable Renaissance charm have been drawing filmmakers and travelers for centuries. It's the kind of place that feels like a movie set even when it's not. Imagine sipping Chianti while gazing at a sunset exactly like one you saw on screen. Pure magic!

South Pacific & Oceania: Island Adventures and Mythical Lands

Get ready for some serious island vibes! Samoa, Polynesia, is set to be a major 2026 destination, propelled by the highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Disney's Moana. If you're dreaming of turquoise waters, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture, this is your call to adventure. For Canadian families looking for a slightly more accessible option, Oahu, Hawaii, also served as a filming location for Moana and offers a fantastic array of family-friendly activities. Think sunset boat cruises, incredible snorkeling, and cultural immersion at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Accommodation here ranges from luxury at The Ritz-Carlton O'ahu and Turtle Bay to family-friendly options like the OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort.

And for those of you who venture to Pandora in your dreams, Wellington, New Zealand, will be attracting fans of the Avatar franchise with Avatar: Fire & Ash. Get ready to explore the stunning natural beauty that inspired those otherworldly landscapes.

Mediterranean Coastlines: Ancient Stories and Modern Romance

The Mediterranean continues to be a set-jetting hotspot. The Dalmatian Coast, Croatia, is on the forecast for People We Meet on Vacation. Croatia has already firmly established itself as a premier set-jetting destination, famously thanks to Game of Thrones, so it's no stranger to screen-inspired tourism. Expect stunning coastal towns, historical sites, and crystal-clear waters.

Meanwhile, the Peloponnese, Greece, is poised for increased interest following the release of The Odyssey. Imagine walking through ancient ruins and feeling transported back to the epic tales of Homer. And to round out the major destinations in this region, Palawan, Philippines, will draw visitors inspired by The Last Resort. Known for its breathtaking lagoons and limestone cliffs, Palawan is a true paradise.

France: Parisian Chic and Riviera Glamour

While specific details are still under wraps, France, especially the French Riviera and Paris, is expected to see a significant surge in set-jetting interest following the fourth season of The White Lotus. Word on the street suggests iconic locations like the Ritz Paris and Le Lutetia will be featured. If you’ve always dreamed of experiencing the sophisticated charm of Paris or the sun-drenched glamour of the Riviera, this might be your cue to start planning. And trust me, Paris in 2026 is going to be incredibly chic, magnifique!

Los Angeles, United States: Hollywood's Home Base

Los Angeles remains one of the most visited set-jetting destinations, and for good reason. It offers mild weather year-round, accessible hiking trails with incredible views, thrilling helicopter tours over the Hollywood sign, and countless famous landmarks featured in Nobody Wants This (Season 2). For travelers, LA is fantastic because you can hit up multiple pop-culture locations in a single trip. From iconic streets to famous eateries, it’s a living, breathing movie set.

How to Plan Your Ultimate Set-Jetting Adventure

For us Canadian travelers, set-jetting offers an incredibly unique way to combine our entertainment passions with real-world exploration. Many of these destinations are now wise to the trend and offer specialized tours and accommodation packages that capitalize on their on-screen appearances. This means you can truly immerse yourself in the cinematic experience.

However, a word of advice: popular set-jetting destinations can experience huge spikes in tourism, especially in smaller communities. To avoid disappointment, I always recommend booking your accommodations and tours well in advance. Our ReviewThenGo /reviews section can help you find the perfect hotel, and our /itinerary builder can help you map out your adventure.

The set-jetting trend shows no signs of slowing down. As one Expedia executive aptly noted, “the trick for destinations is predicting where the next hit will be based.” This means that future film and television releases will continue to drive our travel decisions throughout 2026 and beyond. So keep your eyes on the screen, and even more importantly, keep your eyes on the horizon. Your next adventure is waiting!

Thinking about flights? Don't forget to check out our ReviewThenGo /flights tool for the best deals from Canada. For everything else, our /travel-intel provides advisories, and the /safety tracker can help you understand destination safety scores. Happy set-jetting, everyone!

Frequently Asked Questions About Set-Jetting Destinations 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

What is set-jetting?

Set-jetting is a travel trend where people visit real-world locations that have been featured in their favourite movies or TV shows. It allows travelers to immerse themselves in the stories and settings they’ve enjoyed on screen, creating a unique and memorable travel experience.

Which set-jetting destinations are trending for 2026?

For 2026, top trending set-jetting destinations include Yorkshire, UK (for *Wuthering Heights* and *Downton Abbey*), Tuscany, Italy (*Jay Kelly*), Samoa and Oahu (for *Moana*), the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia (*People We Meet on Vacation*), and parts of France and Los Angeles for various productions.

How can I plan a set-jetting trip?

To plan a set-jetting trip, first identify the show or movie you want to draw inspiration from and research its filming locations. Then, you can look for specialized tours, accommodations, and activities related to those locations. Remember to book well in advance, especially for popular destinations, and use resources like ReviewThenGo’s /reviews and /itinerary tools.

Is set-jetting expensive?

The cost of a set-jetting trip varies greatly depending on the destination, the time of year, and your travel style. While some destinations might be inherently more luxurious, many offer a range of accommodation and activity options to fit different budgets. Early booking and smart planning can help you manage costs.

What are the benefits of set-jetting?

Set-jetting offers several benefits, including a deeply immersive travel experience, the chance to connect with beloved stories on a new level, and the discovery of places you might not have considered otherwise. It can also be an economic boost for local communities, though it’s important to travel responsibly to minimize negative impacts.