12 Epic Travel Destinations for Fans of Fantasy and Science Fiction
Dragons soaring over misty mountains. Starships streaking across starlit skies. Ancient castles pulsing with magic. For fans of fantasy and science fiction, these aren’t just scenes from books or films—they’re invitations to dream. But what if you could step into those worlds? Fantasy and sci-fi aren't just genres—they're entire universes crafted from imagination, and in some rare, magical places, that imagination spills into the real world. From eerie alien landscapes to medieval strongholds straight out of epic quests, the planet is full of destinations that feel pulled from the pages of Tolkien or the frames of a space opera. We originally set out to feature 12 of these incredible places—but the world had too many wonders to ignore. So we’ve expanded the list to 22 unforgettable destinations that blur the line between fiction and reality. Whether you're a lifelong fantasy nerd, a sci-fi dreamer, or a curious traveler craving adventure, these real-life places will transport you to other realms—no portal required.
1. New Zealand: The Heart of Middle-earth
New Zealand's breathtaking landscapes are synonymous with Middle-earth, the fictional setting of J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit." Director Peter Jackson chose this stunning country to bring Tolkien's world to life, and the result is a cinematic masterpiece that has drawn fans from around the globe. From the rolling hills of Matamata, which served as the Shire, to the dramatic peaks of the Southern Alps that became the Misty Mountains, New Zealand offers a diverse range of locations that capture the essence of Middle-earth. Visitors can embark on guided tours that delve into the behind-the-scenes magic of the films, exploring iconic sites such as Hobbiton, where the intricate details of the hobbit holes and the lush gardens transport visitors to the peaceful realm of the Shire. Beyond the film sets, New Zealand's natural beauty offers endless opportunities for adventure, from hiking through the otherworldly landscapes of Tongariro National Park to exploring the mystical forests of Fiordland. For fans of Tolkien's work, New Zealand is more than just a filming location; it's a living, breathing embodiment of the fantastical world that has captured the hearts of millions.
2. Scotland: The Enchanted Land of Outlander
Scotland's rugged landscapes and rich history provide the perfect backdrop for the time-traveling romance of "Outlander," based on the novels by Diana Gabaldon. The series has brought the beauty and mystery of Scotland to life, drawing fans to explore its ancient castles, rolling hills, and misty lochs. Key locations such as the standing stones at Clava Cairns, which inspired the fictional Craigh na Dun, offer a sense of the magical and the mystical, inviting visitors to imagine stepping through time. The allure of Scotland extends beyond its connection to "Outlander," as the country is steeped in legends and folklore that continue to inspire fantasy tales. From the haunting ruins of Urquhart Castle on the shores of Loch Ness to the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe, Scotland offers a wealth of sites that evoke a sense of wonder and adventure. For those seeking to immerse themselves in the world of "Outlander," guided tours provide insights into the historical and cultural context of the series, while also highlighting the natural beauty that makes Scotland a captivating destination for fans of fantasy and history alike.
3. Iceland: A Land of Fire and Ice
Iceland's stark and dramatic landscapes have made it a favored location for filmmakers seeking to capture otherworldly environments. Its volcanic terrain, glaciers, and geothermal features create a setting that feels both ancient and alien, making it an ideal backdrop for fantasy and sci-fi narratives. The country's unique landscapes have been featured in numerous productions, including "Game of Thrones," where Iceland's rugged beauty stood in for the lands beyond the Wall. Visitors to Iceland can explore the otherworldly landscapes that have captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide. From the black sand beaches of Reynisfjara to the geothermal wonders of the Blue Lagoon, Iceland offers a diverse range of experiences that evoke a sense of awe and wonder. The country's natural beauty is complemented by its rich mythology and folklore, which continue to inspire stories of magic and adventure. For fans of fantasy and sci-fi, Iceland is a destination that offers both the thrill of exploration and the opportunity to connect with the stories that have brought its landscapes to life on screen.
4. Croatia: The Historic Tapestry of Westeros
Croatia's stunning coastlines and historic architecture have made it a key filming location for "Game of Thrones," serving as the backdrop for the fictional cities of King's Landing and Qarth. The medieval walls of Dubrovnik, with their commanding views of the Adriatic Sea, provide a perfect setting for the political intrigue and epic battles of the series. The city's narrow streets and ancient buildings transport visitors to a world of knights and dragons, where the line between history and fantasy blurs. Beyond Dubrovnik, Croatia offers a wealth of locations that capture the essence of Westeros. The town of Split, with its Roman ruins and historic architecture, served as the setting for the city of Meereen, while the island of Lokrum provided the lush backdrop for the city of Qarth. For fans of "Game of Thrones," Croatia offers a chance to step into the world of the series, exploring the sites that have become iconic through their portrayal on screen. The country's rich history and cultural heritage provide a deeper context for the stories that have captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide, making it a must-visit destination for fantasy enthusiasts.
5. Ireland: The Emerald Isle of Myth and Legend
Ireland's lush landscapes and ancient sites have long been associated with myths and legends, making it a natural setting for fantasy narratives. The country's rolling hills, mystical forests, and ancient stone circles evoke a sense of magic and wonder, drawing visitors into a world where the boundaries between reality and fantasy are blurred. Ireland's rich folklore, filled with tales of fairies, giants, and heroic warriors, continues to inspire storytellers and captivate audiences. The country's connection to fantasy is further enhanced by its role as a filming location for "Game of Thrones," with key scenes shot in the dramatic landscapes of Northern Ireland. The Dark Hedges, with their twisting branches and eerie atmosphere, served as the Kingsroad, while the rugged coastline of Ballintoy stood in for the Iron Islands. For fans of fantasy, Ireland offers a chance to explore the landscapes that have inspired countless tales of adventure and magic. Whether it's visiting the ancient ruins of Newgrange or hiking through the mystical Glendalough Valley, Ireland is a destination that promises to ignite the imagination and transport visitors to a world of myth and legend.
6. Japan: Tokyo’s Cyberpunk and Sci-Fi Filming Locations
Tokyo has long been a cinematic playground for science fiction, inspiring and hosting some of the genre’s most futuristic and cyberpunk visions. From neon-drenched cityscapes to ultra-modern architecture, Tokyo is both a real-world metropolis and a setting straight out of a sci-fi epic. One of the most famous Tokyo-based films, Ridley Scott’s Black Rain (1989), showcases the city’s rain-soaked streets, glowing billboards, and bustling alleys, setting the tone for the cyberpunk aesthetic that influenced Blade Runner. Another staple, Sofia Coppola’s *Lost in Translation (2003), uses the hypnotic skyline of Shinjuku and Shibuya to highlight the disconnection and surrealism of modern urban life. Tokyo's futuristic vibe is best captured in films like The Wolverine (2013), which features high-speed action across Shinjuku rooftops, and Godzilla (1954 - Present), where the city is repeatedly transformed into a battleground for kaiju destruction. Visitors can explore Tokyo Tower, featured in countless sci-fi and anime productions, or Odaiba’s TeamLab Borderless, an immersive digital art museum that feels straight out of a futuristic dream.
7. Norway: The Majestic Kingdom of Arendelle
Norway's breathtaking fjords and snow-capped mountains served as the inspiration for the kingdom of Arendelle in Disney's "Frozen." The country's dramatic landscapes, with their towering peaks and serene waters, evoke a sense of magic and wonder, transporting visitors to a world of ice and snow. Norway's natural beauty is complemented by its rich cultural heritage, with traditional wooden stave churches and colorful fishing villages adding to the country's enchanting charm. Visitors to Norway can explore the landscapes that inspired the world of "Frozen," from the stunning Geirangerfjord to the picturesque village of Balestrand. The country's connection to Norse mythology and folklore adds an additional layer of intrigue, with tales of gods, giants, and mythical creatures woven into the fabric of its history. For fans of "Frozen" and fantasy alike, Norway offers a chance to step into a world of enchantment and adventure, where the beauty of nature and the power of storytelling combine to create a truly magical experience.
8. Tunisia: The Desert Planet of Tatooine
Tunisia's vast deserts and ancient architecture provided the perfect setting for the desert planet of Tatooine in the "Star Wars" saga. The country's arid landscapes, with their sweeping dunes and rugged terrain, evoke a sense of otherworldly wonder, transporting visitors to a galaxy far, far away. The town of Matmata, with its unique troglodyte dwellings, served as the backdrop for Luke Skywalker's childhood home, while the salt flats of Chott el Jerid provided the setting for the iconic twin suns. For fans of "Star Wars," Tunisia offers a chance to explore the locations that have become iconic through their portrayal on screen. Visitors can wander through the remains of the Mos Espa set, where podracers once raced, or explore the ancient Ksour of Tataouine, which inspired the planet's name. Beyond its connection to "Star Wars," Tunisia offers a rich cultural heritage, with historic sites such as the Roman amphitheater of El Djem and the ancient city of Carthage adding to the country's allure. For those seeking to embark on their own intergalactic adventure, Tunisia is a destination that promises to ignite the imagination and transport visitors to a world of sci-fi wonder.
9. Jordan: The Ancient City of Petra
Jordan's ancient city of Petra, with its stunning rock-cut architecture and rich history, has captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide. The city's iconic Treasury, carved into the rose-red cliffs, served as the backdrop for the climactic scenes of "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade," transporting viewers to a world of adventure and discovery. Petra's unique blend of natural beauty and ancient history makes it a destination that feels both timeless and otherworldly. Visitors to Petra can explore the city's many wonders, from the intricate carvings of the Monastery to the stunning views from the High Place of Sacrifice. The city's connection to ancient trade routes and its role as a center of commerce and culture add to its allure, offering a glimpse into a world where history and fantasy intertwine. For fans of adventure and exploration, Petra is a destination that promises to ignite the imagination and transport visitors to a world of ancient wonder and discovery.
10. England: The Magical World of Harry Potter
England's historic sites and charming landscapes have brought the world of Harry Potter to life, inviting fans to step into the magical realm of Hogwarts and beyond. From the cobblestone streets of Oxford, which served as the inspiration for Diagon Alley, to the majestic halls of Alnwick Castle, which became the setting for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, England offers a wealth of locations that capture the essence of J.K. Rowling's beloved series. Visitors can embark on guided tours that explore the iconic sites featured in the films, from the bustling platform 9¾ at King's Cross Station to the enchanting Great Hall at Christ Church College. Beyond the film locations, England's rich history and cultural heritage provide a deeper context for the stories that have captivated audiences worldwide. For fans of Harry Potter, England offers a chance to step into a world of magic and adventure, where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur, inviting visitors to embark on their own magical journey.
11. Canada: Newfoundland Takes the Spotlight in Severance Season 2
Season 2 of Severance transports viewers to the stunning coastal landscapes of Newfoundland and Labrador, where the towns of Bonavista and Trinity Bay North stand in for the fictional Salt’s Neck, Harmony Cobel’s mysterious hometown. The region’s rugged cliffs, icy waters, and remote charm add an eerie yet breathtaking backdrop to the show’s growing mystery. A repurposed fish plant serves as the abandoned Lumon ether factory, further immersing audiences in the unsettling world of Severance. Patricia Arquette praised Newfoundland as a "magical" place that feels frozen in time, while director Ben Stiller lauded its raw beauty, comparing it to Iceland and Greenland. Meanwhile, the iconic Bell Labs Holmdel Complex in New Jersey continues to represent Lumon’s imposing corporate headquarters. The contrast between Newfoundland’s wild landscapes and Lumon’s cold, sterile offices deepens the show’s themes of control and isolation, making Season 2 even more immersive and visually striking.
12. Australia: The Sci-Fi Frontier of the Outback
Australia's vast and varied landscapes have made it a favored location for sci-fi productions, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and otherworldly allure. The country's rugged outback, with its sweeping deserts and striking rock formations, provides a perfect setting for stories of survival and exploration. Australia's connection to sci-fi is further enhanced by its role as a filming location for iconic productions such as "Mad Max" and "The Matrix," transporting audiences to worlds of dystopian wonder and futuristic intrigue. Visitors to Australia can explore the landscapes that have captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide, from the stunning red sands of Uluru to the lush rainforests of Queensland. The country's unique wildlife and rich cultural heritage add to its allure, offering a glimpse into a world where the boundaries between reality and fiction are blurred. For fans of sci-fi, Australia is a destination that promises to ignite the imagination and transport visitors to a world of futuristic adventure and discovery.
13. Meteora, Greece: A Real-Life Sky Temple
With towering rock pillars crowned by ancient monasteries, Meteora feels like a skybound fortress plucked from the pages of a high fantasy novel or a Studio Ghibli dreamscape. These sandstone spires rise almost vertically from the valley floor, with six surviving monasteries perched precariously atop their summits—soaring sanctuaries that appear to defy gravity. The sense of elevation and isolation is otherworldly, making it easy to imagine dragons circling above or celestial beings descending through the mist. Originally built by monks in the 14th century seeking refuge from political unrest, the monasteries were accessible only by rope ladders or winched-up baskets, enhancing their mystical, unreachable aura. Even today, ascending the steep, winding staircases carved into the rock feels like a spiritual pilgrimage. At sunrise, the fog lingers like a veil across the valley, and golden light casts long shadows that bring the entire landscape to life. For fantasy fans, Meteora is a place where the heavens and the earth seem to meet—a living sky temple built on devotion, mystery, and sheer defiance of nature.
14. Wulingyuan Scenic Area, China: Pandora on Earth
With over 3,000 vertical sandstone pillars rising dramatically from the forested valleys below, Wulingyuan Scenic Area in Hunan Province looks like a landscape imagined by an alien mind. These towering spires, some over 650 feet high, inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in James Cameron’s Avatar, and it’s easy to see why. When early morning fog coils around the peaks, and the lush greenery clings to the rocks, the entire region feels suspended in time and gravity—a world where banshees might soar and bioluminescent plants might glow beneath the canopy. The park’s network of skywalks, glass-bottomed bridges, and cable cars allow visitors to traverse the canyons and cliffs in breathtaking fashion. The Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, the longest and highest of its kind, stretches across a dramatic gorge, offering a thrilling glimpse into the depths below. The experience feels less like a hike and more like an epic quest across the surface of another world. Whether you’re a fan of sci-fi films, fantasy landscapes, or simply in search of Earth’s most alien-like wonders, Wulingyuan offers a rare chance to walk through a dream rendered real.
15. Cappadocia, Turkey: Land of Fairy Chimneys and Subterranean Cities
Cappadocia is a place where Earth feels like another planet entirely. With its surreal “fairy chimneys”—cone-shaped rock formations sculpted by volcanic eruptions and erosion—the landscape looks like something conjured by the imagination of a fantasy writer or science fiction concept artist. But Cappadocia isn’t just about what lies above ground. Beneath the surface, vast underground cities like Derinkuyu and Kaymakli stretch for miles, built centuries ago to house thousands of people in times of invasion. With twisting tunnels, hidden chambers, and mysterious ventilation shafts, these subterranean worlds could easily serve as the setting for a secret rebel base or an ancient magical realm. Above ground, the dawn skies are filled with a constellation of hot air balloons, casting shifting shadows over the ochre valleys and sandstone towers below. Watching the sun rise over this dreamlike landscape feels like witnessing the awakening of a world where dragons might glide over the horizon and forgotten empires still slumber in the hills. From the ancient cave churches of Göreme to the alien topography of Love Valley, Cappadocia is a place where fantasy and history blend seamlessly—a real-world realm that seems too magical to be real.
16. Aït Benhaddou, Morocco: A Desert Fortress of Epic Tales
Standing at the edge of the Sahara like a mirage of ancient power, Aït Benhaddou is a striking ksar—a traditional fortified village built entirely from clay and straw. Its earthen towers and maze-like alleys have drawn filmmakers for decades, serving as the backdrop for legendary productions like Gladiator, Game of Thrones, The Mummy, and Prince of Persia. But beyond its cinematic fame, Aït Benhaddou feels like a portal to another time—or even another planet. The reddish-brown ramparts glow with fire at sunset, and the silence of the surrounding desert lends it an eerie, mythical presence. A walk through its narrow pathways reveals ancient granaries, ornately carved doors, and hidden courtyards that could easily house sorcerers, warriors, or desert royalty. The village was once a critical stop on the caravan route between the Sahara and Marrakesh, making it a true crossroads of culture, trade, and legend. Today, while only a few families remain within its ancient walls, the sense of timelessness endures. It’s a place where ancient tales of power and betrayal feel just as alive as they did centuries ago—perfect for those seeking to step into a living set piece of adventure, fantasy, and awe.
17. Hallstatt, Austria: A Lakeside Village Frozen in Time
Hallstatt is the kind of place that makes you believe elves and wizards might still walk among us. Nestled between a glassy alpine lake and the towering Dachstein Mountains, this tiny Austrian village looks like it was conjured from a high fantasy novel or a painter’s most romantic dream. The pastel-colored houses cling to the cliffs above the water, their reflections rippling softly in the lake’s still surface. A Gothic spired church rises at the heart of town, and swans drift by lazily like they’re characters in an enchanted fairytale. Dating back to prehistoric times, Hallstatt is one of the oldest still-inhabited settlements in Europe. Yet it retains a timeless serenity that feels untouched by modern life. In winter, the snow-covered rooftops and fog-shrouded hills transform the town into a storybook village, while summer brings wildflowers, lush greenery, and a gentle hush that seems to whisper secrets from centuries past. It’s easy to imagine Hallstatt as a sanctuary for ancient scholars or the hidden refuge of a noble bloodline in exile. Whether exploring its bone house ossuary, hiking to salt mines deep within the mountains, or simply watching the clouds roll across the water, Hallstatt is an invitation to pause, breathe, and dream.
18. Faroe Islands: Misty Archipelago of Nordic Lore
The Faroe Islands—an emerald chain of 18 volcanic islands between Iceland and Norway—look like the setting of an ancient myth. With cliffs that plunge straight into churning seas, windswept plateaus blanketed in moss, and waterfalls that tumble directly into the ocean, this remote Nordic archipelago feels like a place suspended between worlds. Turf-roofed houses cling to the cliffs, and mist rolls endlessly over the peaks, veiling the land in an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow. These islands seem tailor-made for a fantasy saga. It’s easy to imagine shieldmaidens riding across the windswept plains or sea serpents surfacing from the crashing waves. The atmosphere has inspired many creatives, from Nordic poets to modern game developers looking to capture a sense of untouched mystery. Despite their isolation, the islands boast a rich cultural history steeped in Viking heritage and folklore, where tales of selkies—mythical seal-human shapeshifters—are still told by locals. Hike to the edge of Sørvágsvatn, where the lake appears to hover above the sea, or venture to the remote village of Gásadalur, where a waterfall plunges into the ocean below a cluster of solitary houses. The Faroe Islands don’t just evoke fantasy—they are fantasy made real, rugged and raw, whispering stories on every wind.
19. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia: The Mirror of the Sky
At nearly 4,000 square miles, Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia is the world’s largest salt flat—and during the rainy season, it becomes something even more extraordinary: a mirror so vast and flawless it reflects the sky with such clarity that the horizon disappears. Standing here, it feels like you’ve stepped into a science fiction dreamscape, where gravity has lost its grip and the laws of physics bend to wonder. The reflection is so surreal, it’s impossible to tell where sky ends and earth begins. You’re not walking on the world—you’re walking in it, as though you’ve slipped into a liminal plane between dimensions. This otherworldly setting has inspired everything from fashion editorials to sci-fi concepts, and it’s easy to imagine it as the backdrop for a Star Wars world or a mind-bending Christopher Nolan film. Even outside the wet season, the stark, geometric salt patterns stretching into infinity give it an eerie, alien beauty. At night, the flat becomes a canvas for stargazing, with no light pollution and a sense of isolation that makes the stars feel closer than ever. It’s not just a destination—it’s an experience that warps reality, evoking themes of solitude, infinity, and the delicate boundary between reflection and truth.
20. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland: The Route to Hogwarts
Deep in the Scottish Highlands, the Glenfinnan Viaduct arches gracefully across a lush valley, its 21 stone spans creating a cinematic curve through the misty mountains. Though the viaduct was completed in 1901 as a marvel of Victorian engineering, it gained worldwide fame thanks to its appearance in the Harry Potter films, where the Hogwarts Express chugs across its high arches en route to the wizarding school of dreams. Watching the Jacobite Steam Train traverse this route in real life is a moment of pure magic—an experience that brings out the inner child in every visitor. Surrounded by the rolling hills and shimmering waters of Loch Shiel, the setting itself feels enchanted. Even without its Hollywood fame, Glenfinnan is the kind of place where you expect to hear the rush of wings or glimpse a stag in the mist. The area is also steeped in Scottish history—it was here that Bonnie Prince Charlie raised his standard to begin the Jacobite uprising in 1745. But for Potter fans, it’s the embodiment of that first moment of magical escape: leaving the Muggle world behind and crossing into the unknown. Whether viewed from the hillside trails above or aboard the train itself, the Glenfinnan Viaduct offers a spellbinding journey into imagination and nostalgia.
21. Dune du Pilat, France: A Giant Sand Dune on the Edge of the Sea
Rising unexpectedly from a dense pine forest on France’s Atlantic coast, the Dune du Pilat is the tallest sand dune in Europe—and it truly feels like a portal to another world. Stretching nearly 1.7 miles long, over 300 feet high, and flanked by ocean on one side and forest on the other, it’s a striking collision of ecosystems that makes you feel as though you’ve stumbled onto a planet where landscapes are stitched together by dreams. Climbing its ever-shifting slopes is a workout, but once you reach the summit, the views are otherworldly: the endless Atlantic shimmering to one side, and an ocean of green pine canopy on the other. At sunrise or sunset, the sand glows in warm tones of gold and amber, casting long shadows that resemble the windswept dunes of Dune’s Arrakis or Star Wars’ desert planets like Tatooine or Jakku. And because the dune is constantly moving—advancing inland a few meters each year—it feels alive, an impermanent, restless monument to nature’s power. There’s a reason writers, filmmakers, and dreamers find inspiration here: it’s a place where earth seems untethered from time, where you can sit in silence and feel the story of the world shifting beneath your feet.
22. Redwoods National and State Parks, California: Forest Moon of Endor
Step into California’s Redwoods National and State Parks and you’ll enter a world that feels more ancient than human memory. These towering redwood trees, some over 2,000 years old and reaching heights of more than 350 feet, form a cathedral-like canopy that muffles sound and bathes the forest floor in a green, dappled light. It's no wonder George Lucas chose this location as the Forest Moon of Endor in Return of the Jedi—the setting feels sacred, timeless, and alive with unseen stories. Wandering beneath the colossal trunks, it’s easy to imagine Ewoks swinging from vine to vine or elven sentinels patrolling from hidden platforms above. The atmosphere is hushed, reverent, and just a bit mysterious, as if the trees are watching, keeping secrets older than civilization. These forests also evoke the enchanted woods of Tolkien’s Lothlórien or the home of ancient tree spirits in myth and folklore. There are trails that weave through fallen giants, moss-covered bridges, and fern-lined groves where fog creeps in like breath from another world. The redwoods are not just impressive—they’re humbling. Walking here is a reminder of the scale of time, the fragility of life, and the wonder of a world that continues to surprise and inspire. It’s not just a forest—it’s a living storybook of the earth’s most magical elements, waiting for the next adventure to unfold.
The Endless Journey of Imagination
The journey through these 22 epic destinations reveals the power of fantasy and sci-fi to transport us to worlds beyond our own, where the impossible becomes possible, and the boundaries between reality and fiction blur. Each location offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and storytelling magic, inviting fans to step into the stories they love and embark on their own quests of adventure and discovery. Whether it's exploring the lush landscapes of New Zealand's Middle-earth or wandering through the futuristic streets of Tokyo, these destinations promise to ignite the imagination and inspire new tales of wonder and intrigue. As we conclude this enchanting quest, it becomes clear that the journey is never truly over. The worlds of fantasy and sci-fi continue to evolve, offering new stories and new destinations for fans to explore. Each location holds the promise of adventure, inviting travelers to step into the unknown and embrace the magic of storytelling. For those who dare to embark on their own quests, the possibilities are endless, and the journey of imagination is one that never truly ends.
