Film‑Inspired Travel Trends in North America
Recent travel research shows cinema continues to steer how people plan trips. A broad survey reveals that 44 percent of respondents have imagined visiting places they’ve seen on film or television, while 29 percent have already turned those visions into real journeys. About 27 percent show little interest in film driven travel.
This pattern puts narrative worlds at the heart of destination popularity and the marketing strategies used to promote them. The immersive landscapes and set locations featured in popular sagas continue to attract visitors. For instance, the Lord of the Rings landscapes draw travelers to New Zealand, reinforcing the country as a premier film tourism hub. Fans increasingly seek out filming sites to relive moments from the screen, expanding local tours and experiences for travelers from Canada and the United States.
Harry Potter’s wizarding world remains a strong lure for England, with a notable share of respondents naming it as inspiration. Game of Thrones motivates fans to visit Ireland, Iceland, and Croatia, with a similar share marking these places as must-see. The enduring appeal of these series has translated into practical travel choices, including themed itineraries and guided tours that connect viewers with on screen locations.
Food, Pray, Love continues to influence travel to Italy, India, and Bali, drawing a significant portion toward these destinations. The culinary and cultural scenes in Italy, India’s spiritual landscape, and Bali’s balance of nature and wellness offer rich experiences for travelers seeking meaningful trips.
Emily in Paris has boosted interest in France and particularly Paris, contributing to a notable share of tourism appeal among international audiences. The show’s stylish visuals have encouraged capsule trips that blend fashion, cuisine, and city sightseeing, resonating with travelers from Canada and the United States who crave culturally immersive experiences.
There is a clear link between the popularity of films and series and travel demand. After the success of Game of Thrones, inquiries and bookings for Ireland, Iceland, and Croatia rose significantly. Industry analysts say the pattern shows film and TV content as a powerful promotional tool capable of placing destinations on the map and driving interest and tangible travel.
For travelers in Canada and the United States, these findings offer a practical lens for crafting film themed itineraries. Destinations associated with beloved sagas — New Zealand, England, Ireland, Iceland, Croatia, Italy, Bali, and Paris — already attract fans, and many tour operators now offer location based experiences. Prospective visitors should monitor flight options, seasonal pricing, and visa requirements, and consider pairing cinematic sites with local culture, cuisine, and outdoor adventures.
Beyond entertainment value, the study highlights how cinema and streaming culture shape tourism trends over time. For international travelers and North American travelers alike, the takeaway is simple: plan ahead, budget wisely, and seek authentic storytelling experiences that connect screen magic with real places. As the film and television landscape evolves, travelers in Canada and the United States can expect more opportunities to visit places once seen only on screen.