Book Lover’s Travel Guide: Literary Destinations Inspired by Popular Books

Are you a book lover and a travel enthusiast?

Do you often find yourself captivated by the vivid descriptions of far-off lands and exotic locations in your favorite books?

If so, why not bring those literary adventures to life by planning your next trip based on popular books?

From timeless classics to contemporary bestsellers, the world of literature is filled with rich settings that can inspire your next travel destination.

Let’s explore travel ideas based on popular books that will ignite your wanderlust and make your next trip truly unforgettable.

Hogwarts: Harry Potter Series by J.K. Rowling

Harry Potter fans around the world have dreamed of receiving their letter to Hogwarts, the famed school of witchcraft and wizardry.

While Hogwarts may be a fictional location, you can still immerse yourself in the magical world of Harry Potter by visiting the real-life destinations that served as filming locations for the movie series.

Some ideas include:

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Orlando, Florida: Step into Diagon Alley, visit Ollivander’s Wand Shop, and experience the thrill of riding the Hogwarts Express.
• The Harry Potter Studio Tour in London, England: Explore the sets, costumes, and props from the movies, including the Great Hall and the Forbidden Forest.
• Edinburgh, Scotland: Visit the birthplace of the Harry Potter series and explore the city that inspired J.K. Rowling’s magical world. You can see the café where she wrote the first book and walk through the atmospheric streets that served as inspiration for Diagon Alley.

Middle-earth: The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien

J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy series, The Lord of the Rings, transports readers to the enchanting world of Middle-earth, with its sprawling landscapes, ancient ruins, and fantastical creatures.

If you’re a fan of the books or the movies, consider embarking on a pilgrimage to Middle-earth with these travel ideas:

• New Zealand: The breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand served as the primary filming location for The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Visit the Hobbiton Movie Set in Matamata, hike through the lush forests of Rivendell in Nelson, and explore the otherworldly landscapes of Mordor in Tongariro National Park.
• Oxford, England: The city of Oxford was J.R.R. Tolkien’s home for many years, and it served as his inspiration for the fictional city of Minas Tirith. Visit the colleges and libraries of Oxford University, where Tolkien taught, and see the landmarks that influenced his writing.

Paris: The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

Dan Brown’s bestselling novel, The Da Vinci Code, takes readers on a thrilling adventure through the streets of Paris, uncovering hidden secrets and unraveling ancient mysteries.

If you’re a fan of this fast-paced thriller, consider following in the footsteps of Robert Langdon with these travel ideas:

• The Louvre Museum: One of the most famous museums in the world, the Louvre features prominently in The Da Vinci Code. Visit the iconic glass pyramid, see the famous artworks mentioned in the book, and explore the museum’s vast collection of masterpieces.
• Saint-Sulpice Church: This historic church in Paris is featured prominently in The Da Vinci Code, and it is said to be the location of one of the book’s key mysteries. Explore the church’s ornate interior and look for clues hidden in its architecture.
• Rosslyn Chapel: Located in Scotland, Rosslyn Chapel is believed by some to hold the secrets of the Holy Grail, as depicted in The Da Vinci Code. Take a trip to this fascinating chapel and see its intricate carvings and mysterious symbolism, as mentioned in the book.

The Game of Thrones Tour: A Song of Ice and Fire by George R.R. Martin

George R.R. Martin’s epic fantasy series, A Song of Ice and Fire, brought to life on television as Game of Thrones, has captured the imaginations of millions of fans worldwide.

If you’re a fan of the books or the TV show and crave for a taste of Westeros, consider embarking on a Game of Thrones tour:

• Northern Ireland: Many of the iconic locations from Game of Thrones are filmed in Northern Ireland, including the famous Dark Hedges, which served as the King’s Road, and the stunning landscapes of the Causeway Coast, which featured as the Iron Islands and Dragonstone. Take a guided tour and explore the real-life backdrops of Westeros.
• Dubrovnik, Croatia: Dubrovnik’s ancient city walls and medieval architecture served as the filming location for King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms. Take a walk along the city walls, visit the Fort Lovrijenac, which stood as the Red Keep, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this beautiful city.

Prince Edward Island, Canada: Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery

L.M. Montgomery’s beloved novel, Anne of Green Gables, is set on the picturesque Prince Edward Island in Canada.

If you’re a fan of Anne Shirley’s adventures and want to experience the beauty of this island, consider a trip to Prince Edward Island:

• Green Gables Heritage Place: This is the actual house that inspired L.M. Montgomery’s fictional Green Gables, where Anne lived with the Cuthbert family. Visit this National Historic Site, explore the house and grounds, and immerse yourself in the world of Anne Shirley.
• Anne of Green Gables Museum: This museum is dedicated to L.M. Montgomery’s life and works, with a focus on the Anne of Green Gables series. Learn about the author’s life, see displays of original manuscripts, and discover more about the inspiration behind the beloved character of Anne Shirley.

Florence, Italy: Inferno by Dan Brown

Dan Brown’s bestselling novel, Inferno, takes readers on a thrilling adventure through the streets of Florence, Italy, following the trail of clues left by the famous poet Dante.

If you’re a fan of mystery and art, consider exploring the following locations:

• The Florence Cathedral (Duomo di Firenze): This iconic landmark features prominently in Inferno, with its stunning dome designed by Brunelleschi. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Florence and admire the beautiful frescoes inside.
• Boboli Gardens: These magnificent gardens, located behind the Pitti Palace, are mentioned in Inferno and provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Explore the sprawling gardens, fountains, and sculptures, and take in the breathtaking views of Florence.

Oxford, England: The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis

C.S. Lewis’ beloved fantasy series, The Chronicles of Narnia, has captured the imaginations of readers for generations.

If you’re a fan of Narnia and want to experience the magic firsthand, consider visiting Oxford, England:

• The Bodleian Library: This historic library, part of the University of Oxford, served as the inspiration for the Great Library of Cair Paravel in The Chronicles of Narnia. Take a guided tour and marvel at the impressive collection of books and manuscripts.
• The Eagle and Child Pub: This cozy pub in Oxford was a favorite meeting place for C.S. Lewis and his fellow writers, including J.R.R. Tolkien. Sit in the same booth where they used to gather, and imagine the conversations that took place among these literary giants.

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA: A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams

Tennessee Williams’ iconic play, A Streetcar Named Desire, is set in the vibrant city of New Orleans, known for its rich culture, music, and cuisine.

If you’re a fan of this classic play and want to experience the atmosphere that inspired it, consider a trip to New Orleans:

• French Quarter: This historic neighborhood in New Orleans, with its colorful buildings, lively music scene, and delicious cuisine, serves as the backdrop for A Streetcar Named Desire. Explore the streets, visit the bars, and soak in the unique ambiance of the French Quarter.
• Streetcar Ride: Take a ride on one of New Orleans’ iconic streetcars, just like the one Blanche DuBois takes in the play. This historic mode of transportation will take you through the city, offering a nostalgic glimpse of New Orleans’ past.

Cornwall, England: Poldark series by Winston Graham

Winston Graham’s Poldark series, set in the rugged landscapes of Cornwall, England, has captured the hearts of readers with its sweeping saga of love, family, and adventure.

If you’re a fan of this historical fiction series and want to explore the dramatic setting, consider a trip to Cornwall:

• Poldark Mine: This historic tin mine, featured in the Poldark series, offers a glimpse into Cornwall’s mining heritage. Take a guided tour, learn about the mining process, and experience the challenges faced by the miners in the 18th century.
• Bodmin Moor: This wild and windswept moorland in Cornwall served as the inspiration for the fictional Nampara Downs in the Poldark series. Explore the rugged landscapes, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages that have captured the imagination of readers and filmmakers alike.

Embarking on a literary-inspired travel journey can be a truly enchanting experience for book lovers.

From strolling through the picturesque streets of Paris like a character from “The Da Vinci Code,” to wandering the rugged landscapes of New Zealand inspired by “The Lord of the Rings,” or exploring the magical world of Hogwarts in Oxford, there’s a destination for every book enthusiast to explore.

These travel ideas based on popular books offer a unique and immersive way to connect with literature, ignite the imagination, and create unforgettable memories.

So, whether you’re a die-hard bookworm, an aspiring adventurer, or simply seeking a unique travel experience, consider planning a trip to one of these literary destinations.

Walk in the footsteps of beloved characters, see the real-life locations that inspired best-selling novels, and let your favorite books come to life before your eyes.

Pack your bags, grab your favorite book, and embark on a literary adventure to explore these enchanting places.

It’s time to go beyond the pages and immerse yourself in the magic of literary-inspired travel. Happy travels and happy reading!