“The Hogwarts Express, departing from Platform Nine and Three-Quarters, will be leaving at 11 o’clock. Students are reminded that all first years must leave their luggage on the train and board promptly. No magic is to be used in the station.” The voice echoed through King’s Cross Station 9 3/4 platform. When you hear this announcement on King’s Cross Station on September 1st at 11 AM, for a moment you will feel like you’ve stepped into the world of Wizards.
If you’ve ever wished you could jump right into a scene of a movie that you have watched and explore the landscapes, charming towns or be in the battlefields — set jetting tourism might just be your next travel trend to follow. Film tourism also known as Set Jetting Tourism is all about visiting real life locations where movies and TV shows have been filmed. It is something more than sightseeing and carries you into the magic of cinema.
If you happen to be at King’s Cross you will know that this was no ordinary set jetting experience. The vibe there makes you step into the story itself where the magic begins. London offers more than just one place to experience this wizarding world of Harry Potter. There are many other set jetting experiences around the world that you can indulge in your travel quest.
What is Set Jetting tourism?
Set Jetting meaning a travel trend where movie buffs and TV fans visit filming locations to immerse themselves in the scenes of their favorite stories. At present the set jetting go beyond beaches and mountains where the fantasy epics or romantic dramas are filmed, but travelers search after Hollywood movie locations, iconic film sets, and unforgettable cinematic backdrops.
The emotional connection audiences build with the story makes this a booming trend. It may be exploring the Hollywood film sets of blockbuster or maybe it is just wandering the streets where a Bollywood movie shooting in London took place, fans are eager to walk and be where their screen idols were.
Set jetting destinations worthy to visit
Here are some of the most iconic set jetting destinations that will leave you feeling like a star
New Zealand – The Lord of the Rings Trilogy
Middle-earth is real — and it’s in New Zealand. The stunning mountain ranges, lush green valleys and mystical landscapes that brought Tolkien’s fantasy world to life are still intact. Visit Hobbiton in Matamata or venture to Tongariro National Park, the real Mount Doom. This journey will be a memorable one for fans of this movie.
Maya Bay, Thailand – The Beach
Maya Bay will forever be linked with Leonardo DiCaprio’s cult classic ‘The Beach’. Its blue waters and pristine sands continue to lure travellers to this Thai paradise proving that movie magic can inspire fans even after many years.
London, UK – Bollywood’s Global Stage
Bollywood movie shooting in London is a very common and brings out the city’s vibrant charm. Bollywood filming locations in London are recognizable and are full of character. Films like Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, Jab Tak Hai Jaan, and Namastey London have showcased the British capital’s cinematic charm. Bollywood movie locations include Tower Bridge, Hyde Park and Southbank all perfect for recreating your own filmy moments.
Hollywood, USA – Walk the Sets of Legends
From Universal Studios to Warner Bros. backlots, Hollywood movie locations set the foundation to the original set jetting idea. Whether you’re visiting real neighborhoods featured in La La Land or walking the streets of Pretty Woman, film tourism in the US cannot be matched to anything else. Many tourists book “Visit movie sets” experiences to explore sound stages and sometimes even recreate their favourite movie scenes!
Czech Republic & New Zealand – The Chronicles of Narnia
Yes, enter the wardrobe and step into Narnia! Filmed in the snowy peaks and magical forests of New Zealand and the Czech Republic, the castles, waterfalls and rugged landscapes in this film has made set jetting a possibility. These filming locations are now part of ethereal set jetting travel trends.
Alnwick Castle, England – Harry Potter
Join a tour and try your hands on some magic. Sadly you won’t be touring Alnwick Castle which doubled as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the first two Harry Potter films, on a broomstick. But you can definitely practice your wand work here and get the feel of what it is like to be in a world of wizards.
You can also enter Harry Potter magical set jetting experience at Platform 9¾ in London’s King’s Cross Station, where fans can pose with a trolley disappearing into the wall and shop for wands at the Harry Potter Shop. Just outside, the grand exterior of St Pancras International—featured in the films—offers another iconic photo op. Head to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Leavesden, where you can board the actual Hogwarts Express, explore the real platform set and relive the magic scene by scene.
Petra, Jordan – Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
The ancient rose-red city of Petra was the dramatic backdrop for the Holy Grail finale in Indiana Jones. If you join the exploration of this UNESCO site, you will surely feel like starring in an archaeological thriller.
Matamata, New Zealand – Hobbiton
Another look at New Zealand is a must when it comes to set jetting as the Hobbiton movie set is still fully intact. Tour the hobbit holes, have a pint at The Green Dragon Inn and soak in the Shire’s rolling green hills on your journey in Matamata, New Zealand.
Why the Set jetting travel trend is one to follow
It is not only about clicking photos set jetting travel trend connects people to stories behind these at times award-winning but most loved films. It’s a chance to relive scenes, recreate movie moments and discover cultures and locations through a cinematic lens. With streaming services which make global content more accessible, fans are now inspired to visit not only Hollywood locations but also Bollywood movie shooting spots and rising international film hubs.
So next time when the travel bug bites you, consider following the stars not in the sky but in your heart. Whether it’s the hills of Narnia, the cityscapes of Bollywood or the beaches of Thailand, set jetting might just be your most memorable journey yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to purchase tickets to visit set jetting locations?
You can visit many iconic movie spots including city streets, parks and public buildings free of charge. However, studio tours, interior filming sets or guided experiences often require tickets and should be booked in advance.
Are set jetting destinations open year-round?
Yes, most outdoor and public film locations are open to visitors throughout the year, but it’s better to check opening hours online or with the management. Also pay attention to the weather conditions. Studio tours or indoor set jetting sites may have schedules, seasonal closures or limited entry times so it is always better to get it confirmed before your visit.
How do I know if a location was actually used in a film?
You can check official tourism sites, fan forums or film tour operators for lists of verified filming locations. Sometimes you can find plaques or signs with the names of the movies filmed there, especially in cities popular with filmmakers.
Is transportation to these locations convenient?
Several popular film spots are located in major cities or near tourist hubs making them easy to access. For remote locations, such as countryside castles or scenic landscapes guided tours might be the best option.
