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A new chapter in travel is here! Welcome to the world of chapter chasing, where bookworms trade bookmarks for boarding passes and let fiction guide their next getaway. Much like “set-jetting” but with a literary twist, this trend is all about following your favorite characters off the page and into the real world, where you can wander the wild moors with Sherlock Holmes, see the streets of Lila and Lenu’s Naples, or bask in Anne Shirley’s Prince Edward Island sunshine. Ready to plot your own storybook escape? Here are 15 destinations where contemporary and classic novels come to life, each with a tour made for literary lovers. Here are 15 destinations where you can follow in the footsteps of your most beloved characters, complete with local tours designed for literary lovers. 1. Forks & Beyond: Twilight and the Pacific Northwest The misty forests and brooding skies of Washington State provided the perfect backdrop for Stephenie Meyer's Twilight series. From Forks to La Push, fans can soak in the same atmosphere that brought Bella and Edward’s story to life. Read more about the tour... 2. PEI Coastal Romance: This Summer Will Be Different by Carly Fortune Carly Fortune’s latest summer romance unfolds on the breezy, pastel-tinged shores of Prince Edward Island. Let the island’s lighthouses, dunes, and charming fishing villages pull you into the same intoxicating setting that inspired this second-chance love story. And of course we can’t mention PEI and chapter-chasing without including Lucy Maud Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables. Stroll the red dirt roads, explore Green Gables Heritage Place, and feel the same awe that Anne felt when discovering “kindred spirits.” Read more about the tour... 3. Naples, Italy: My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante Elena Ferrante’s Neapolitan Novels chronicle a lifelong friendship between two women amid the shifting social and political landscape of postwar Naples. Wander the working-class neighbourhoods, bustling piazzas, and coastal paths where Lila and Elena’s complex bond evolved. Read more about the tour... 4. St. Malo, France: All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr This Pulitzer Prize–winning novel brings WWII-era St. Malo to vivid life through the eyes of a blind French girl and a German soldier. The town’s walled ramparts and cobbled lanes remain a hauntingly beautiful stage for this story of resilience and humanity. Read more about the tour... 5. Nagasaki, Japan: A Pale View of Hills by Kazuo Ishiguro In his haunting debut novel, Kazuo Ishiguro paints a dreamlike portrait of post-war Nagasaki, where memory and emotion blur into one another. This reflective tour in the birthplace of the Nobel-Prize winning author brings the novel’s shifting moods to life, offering glimpses of the city's quiet resilience and the echoes of its complicated past. Read more about the tour... 6. Barcelona, Spain: The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón Few books capture the allure of a city like The Shadow of the Wind captures Barcelona. Gothic architecture, hidden libraries, and mist-shrouded alleys lend themselves to an atmospheric journey that mirrors Zafón’s literary labyrinth. Read more about the tour... 7. Torquay & Greenway: Agatha Christie’s Devon Explore the seaside hometown and beloved holiday estate of the Queen of Crime herself. This tour through Devon is perfect for fans of Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple, with stops at locations that inspired Christie’s mysteries and mirrored her own life. Read more about the tour... 8. Mumbai, India: Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts Gregory David Roberts' epic novel plunges readers into the chaos, colour, and contradictions of Mumbai (Bombay) through the eyes of an escaped convict seeking redemption. This immersive tour with local guide Priya follows in the footsteps of Lin—from the slums and street markets to the city’s hidden corners—bringing the grit and grandeur of Shantaram vividly to life. Read more about the tour... 9. Bath, England: Jane Austen’s 250th Anniversary Tour Step into the world of Jane Austen as you explore Bath’s Georgian streets and elegant ballrooms. Celebrating her 250th anniversary, this literary pilgrimage connects fans with the settings and social worlds that inspired Persuasion and Northanger Abbey. Read more about the tour... 10. Dartmoor, England: The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle The eerie moorlands of Dartmoor set the perfect stage for Sherlock Holmes’ most famous supernatural case. Channel your inner detective as you trace the legend of the Baskerville curse across foggy trails and lonely tors. Read more about the tour... 11. Edinburgh, Scotland: Booklovers’ Literary Walk Explore the UNESCO City of Literature with a tour led by a fellow bibliophile. From Sir Walter Scott to J.K. Rowling, this walking experience threads through the city’s layered literary past, iconic landmarks, and bohemian cafes. Read more about the tour... 12. Dublin, Ireland: A James Joyce Literary Adventure Embark on a deep dive into the Dublin of Ulysses, where every pub, bridge, and market pulses with literary significance. This immersive tour traces Leopold Bloom’s steps and celebrates Ireland’s enduring literary heart. Read more about the tour... 13. New Orleans: The French Quarter for Literature Lovers The sultry, gothic spirit of New Orleans has long captivated American novelists. This tour through the French Quarter celebrates the legendary works of Faulkner, Capote, Tennessee Williams and more, with stories that still echo through wrought-iron balconies and voodoo lore. Read more about the tour... 14. Concord, Massachusetts: Little Women by Louisa May Alcott Visit Orchard House and the leafy streets of Concord, the real-life setting behind the March sisters’ adventures. Little Women comes alive through a lens of feminist history, 19th-century New England life, and Alcott’s enduring legacy. Read more about the tour... 15. Canterbury, England: The Canterbury Tales and Beyond Follow in the footsteps of Chaucer’s pilgrims with a journey to Canterbury steeped in medieval charm. Along the way, explore sites connected to literary giants from Shakespeare to Dickens, all woven into England’s rich storytelling tradition. Read more about the tour... So, where will your next chapter take you? Whether you’re chasing ghosts through Gothic alleys, daydreaming on a windswept moor, or reliving a romance by the sea, the stories we love can lead us to the places we never knew we needed. Pack a book, book a tour, and let your favourite fiction write your next real-world adventure.

Ever watched a show so immersive you wished you could step right into the screen? You're not alone. “Set jetting”—travelling to destinations made famous by film and TV—is booming. Whether it's charming British pubs, misty Scottish highlands, or bustling American kitchens, fans are flocking to the places their favourite characters live, work, and fall in love. Here are some must-visit destinations and how to explore them like a local—with a little help from some expert guides. ⚽ Ted Lasso – Richmond & London, England With its heartfelt optimism and quirky humour, Ted Lasso turned London’s Richmond neighbourhood into a fan-favorite destination. Stroll the same cobblestone streets Coach Lasso and Keeley do, stop by The Prince’s Head pub (aka The Crown & Anchor), and wander Richmond Green. Richmond is a perfect day trip from central London or a peaceful base for your stay, an easy tube ride from the heart of the city. It’s also a lovely riverside walk or cycle to Henry VIII’s Hampton Court palace. The local London guides on ToursByLocals can combine Ted Lasso stops with broader cultural and historical highlights for a well-rounded experience. Explore London tours inspired by Ted Lasso 🏔 Virgin River – Vancouver & British Columbia, Canada While the fictional town of Virgin River is set in California, the lush, pine-draped landscapes are pure British Columbia. Filmed in and around North Vancouver and Squamish, the show has inspired viewers to explore Canada’s wild beauty. Drive up the gorgeous Sea to Sky highway to get from Vancouver to Squamish. You’ll see waterfalls and breathtaking views of Howe Sound, plus locations that double as the show’s scenic backdrops. It’s less than an hour away from downtown. Pair your set-jetting with a guided hike or a day of nature photography—many of the guides in the region specialize in outdoor experiences. Discover Virgin River locations on this specialized day trip from Vancouver 🏴 Outlander – Scotland This historical-fantasy epic has brought 18th-century Scotland into the spotlight. From the standing stones of Craigh na Dun (a fictional location) to real-life Doune Castle (Castle Leoch), the Outlander trail is rich with mystery, romance, and stunning scenery. Go beyond the show and learn about the Jacobite history and clan culture that shapes the narrative. Local Scottish guides often weave in folklore, battlefields, and hidden highland gems for fans looking to step back in time. Take an Outlander-inspired tour through Scotland 🍟 Derry Girls – Derry/Londonderry & Belfast, Northern Ireland Set during the Troubles of the 1990s, Derry Girls uses humour and nostalgia to paint a portrait of teen life in a divided society. From school corridors to the city’s famous murals, fans can experience the world of Erin and her friends firsthand. A guided tour is especially valuable for understanding the political context and history portrayed in the show. Many of the Northern Ireland guides on ToursByLocals offer deeply personal perspectives on this era—creating a moving and memorable experience. Join a Derry Girls tour in Northern Ireland 🍽 The Bear – Chicago, USA The Bear’s gritty kitchen drama put Chicago’s food scene front and centre. From Italian beef joints to upscale culinary landmarks, the series made the city’s layered food culture a character in itself. Explore neighbourhoods like River North, West Loop, and Ukrainian Village for a true taste of the show’s spirit. Opt for a food-themed walking tour or culinary history experience with a Chicago guide, who loves sharing their passion for the Windy City. Savour Chicago on a food tour inspired by The Bear 👜 Emily in Paris – Paris, France Emily in Paris may be pure escapism, but its dreamy Parisian backdrops are very real. From the Place de l’Estrapade where Emily’s apartment sits in the fifth arrondissement, to luxe locations like Palais-Royal, this is your chance to step into a rom-com fantasy. Combine show locations with local secrets—like the best patisseries or vintage markets in the Marais. The Paris guides on ToursByLocals can tailor a walking itinerary to capture both the glamour of the show and the charm of real Parisian life. Stroll through Paris like Emily with a guide who loves to capture photos of the experience, just like Emily 🐉 Game of Thrones – Dubrovnik, Croatia Few shows have left as indelible a mark on tourism as Game of Thrones, and Dubrovnik is perhaps the ultimate set-jetting pilgrimage. As the stand-in for King’s Landing, this ancient walled city plays host to many of the show’s most pivotal scenes. Visit Fort Lovrijenac (the Red Keep) and walk the city walls where Cersei made her infamous walk of shame. Local guides (who often worked as extras!) can share filming anecdotes and medieval history in one immersive experience. Tour Dubrovnik as King’s Landing 🌋 The White Lotus – Taormina, Sicily, Italy Season two of The White Lotus brought the Sicilian coast into the global spotlight. Filmed in and around the stunning San Domenico Palace Hotel, the show captures Taormina’s cliffside vistas, ancient ruins, and old-world elegance. Take a guided stroll through the Greek Theatre, the Corso Umberto, and nearby beaches—each featured or echoed in the show. A Sicilian guide can blend food, architecture, and storytelling for the full White Lotus effect (minus the drama!) Live the White Lotus dream in Sicily Plan Your Own Set-Jetting Adventure From British pubs to Highland castles, Parisian cafés to cliffside hotels in Sicily, these destinations invite fans to go beyond the screen and into the story. And with local guides who know the backdrops and behind-the-scenes details, your set-jetting journey can be more than just a photo op—it can be an unforgettable cultural experience.

Let’s face it — Spain is no secret. Between the Gaudí masterpieces, royal palaces, and flamenco-fueled nights, the country has been discovered. But if your idea of a dream vacation doesn’t include elbowing your way through selfie sticks or waiting 45 minutes for a lukewarm espresso on Las Ramblas, you’re in the right place. We’re here to let you in on a secret: Spain is full of magical places that don’t make the front of the guidebook, or go viral on Instagram — and they’re just as enchanting as their famous counterparts (if not more so). Here are five dreamy swaps to help you skip the crowds, but keep all the charm. Instead of Las Ramblas in Barcelona... try getting lost in Girona Ah, Las Ramblas. Once a quaint promenade, now a peak season human conveyor belt of hawkers, pickpockets, and people who think sangria is meant to be neon. Head just an hour northeast and you’ll find Girona — a medieval stunner with colourful riverside houses, stone walls you can actually walk on, and alleyways that feel like a movie set (because they were — hello, Game of Thrones). Explore Girona with a local guide to uncover its tangled history of Romans, Moors, and medieval mystics. Bonus: no chain souvenir shops selling flamenco aprons. Instead of the Royal Palace in Madrid... trade up to the Alcázar of Segovia Madrid’s Royal Palace is grand. So are the security lines. And the crowds. And the groups with matching hats and flag-waving guides. Escape to Segovia, a storybook city complete with a Roman aqueduct, roast suckling pig, and the kind of castle that makes you believe in fairy tales again. The Alcázar de Segovia, perched on a rocky bluff, is said to have inspired Walt Disney — and it’s not hard to see why. Tour Segovia's Alcázar and old town with a guide who knows their Castilian kings from their courtly intrigue. Instead of Granada’s Alhambra... wander through Córdoba’s Mezquita The Alhambra is jaw-dropping and unforgettable, no doubt about it. It’s also booked out six weeks in advance and requires Olympic-level ticket-clicking skills to secure admission. Meanwhile, in Córdoba, there’s a place just as spellbinding — and much easier to get into. The Mezquita is a surreal mix of a mosque with striking Islamic arches and a Catholic cathedral built right in the middle. Discover Córdoba’s Mezquita with an expert who can bring the city's layered past to life. Then unwind in its flower-filled patios and tranquil courtyards. Instead of Seville’s Plaza de España... slow it down in Cádiz Seville’s Plaza de España is an architectural marvel — and a hotspot for wedding shoots, Segway tours, and heavy foot traffic. Meanwhile, the coastal city of Cádiz — Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city — is hiding in plain sight. It’s got Roman ruins, golden-domed churches, and a deliciously salty breeze. Stroll through Cádiz with a local storyteller who knows which fortress repelled pirates and which tapas bar still serves grandma’s recipe. Instead of San Sebastián’s buzz... sip Albariño in Galicia’s Rías Baixas San Sebastián is gorgeous. The food, the beaches, the pintxos. But in summer? It’s like the entire continent had the same idea. If you crave coastal charm without the crowds, Galicia’s Rías Baixas is calling. Think: hidden coves, seaside fishing villages, and glasses of crisp Albariño wine poured by people who still care more about the vineyard than the ‘Gram. Taste, tour, and toast your way through Rías Baixas with a local who knows all the hidden corners. Skip the Crowds, Keep the Soul You don’t need a VIP pass to experience the real Spain. You just need curiosity — and a guide who knows where to find the magic. Explore uncrowded corners of Spain with a local who knows all the best-kept secrets at ToursByLocals.com.

A Mediterranean cruise isn’t just about sunshine and waves; it’s a chance to dip into some of the world’s most fascinating places — even if only for a few hours at a time. The trick, of course, is making those short visits really count. That’s where private guides come in. Savvy cruisers know that skipping the crowded group tours and heading out with a local expert can completely change the experience. You can linger where it’s interesting, breeze past the busy spots, and follow those spontaneous detours that often turn into the day’s highlight. With someone who knows the area inside and out (and can get you around with ease), every stop feels less rushed — and a lot more memorable. Here’s a look at some of the most beloved ports of call, and what sorts of adventures you can have in each. 1. Barcelona, Spain Your ship will dock at the Port of Barcelona, just a short drive from the heart of the city. Barcelona is a vibrant tapestry of Gothic charm and modernist marvels. Of course, there’s the famous Sagrada Familia, but there’s so much more! Meander through the labyrinth of the Gothic Quarter, enjoy the lively buzz of Las Ramblas, and soak up seaside views in Barceloneta. A private guide can show you the secret corners and stories that make Barcelona so enchanting. Explore Barcelona Tours 2. Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy Your ship will dock at the port of Civitavecchia, about 90 minutes by car or train from the Eternal City. Rome is like stepping into a living history book, with ancient ruins and Renaissance splendor around every corner. From the awe-inspiring Colosseum to the grandeur of the Vatican, there’s so much to see. A private tour ensures you make the absolute most of your time, with insider tips, skip-the-line access, and fascinating local stories. Explore Rome Tours 3. Athens (Piraeus), Greece Your ship will dock in Piraeus, just a 20-30 minute drive from central Athens. In Athens, history feels alive. Stand beneath the mighty Acropolis, stroll through the ancient Agora, and take in sweeping views from Lycabettus Hill. With a private guide, you can also wander off the beaten path into neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki, where vibrant street life and cozy cafes await. Explore Athens Tours 4. Dubrovnik, Croatia Cruise ships typically dock at the Port of Gruz, just a 10-minute drive from Dubrovnik’s Old Town. Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic," is simply magical with its medieval walls and shimmering sea views. A private tour lets you wander the charming Old Town at your own pace, find quiet viewpoints, and maybe even take a boat trip to nearby Lokrum Island for a little slice of paradise. Explore Dubrovnik Tours 5. Santorini, Greece Since Santorini has no cruise pier, you’ll tender into the small port below Fira and either take a cable car or a short drive up to town. Santorini is a picture-perfect postcard come to life. With its whitewashed buildings perched on cliffs and dazzling sunsets, it’s pure romance. Private guides can lead you to charming villages like Pyrgos, introduce you to local wineries, and help you find those quiet sunset spots away from the crowds. Explore Santorini Tours 6. Venice, Italy Cruise ships now dock at the nearby port of Fusina or Marghera, with a shuttle or water transfer into central Venice. Venice is simply unforgettable with its winding canals and elegant bridges. Beyond St. Mark’s Square, a private guide can whisk you into authentic neighborhoods like Cannaregio and Dorsoduro, where you can sip coffee alongside locals and discover hidden gems around every corner. Explore Venice Tours 7. Monte Carlo (Monaco) Cruise ships often anchor right in Monte Carlo’s small port, placing you in the heart of the city. Glamourous and gleaming, Monaco is a jewel of the Riviera. Private tours can take you through the iconic Grand Prix circuit, into the Prince’s Palace, or along the scenic coast to charming French villages like Eze and Nice. It’s small but packed with unforgettable experiences. And with many ships docking here overnight, you've got a chance to experience some truly luxe nightlife on shore. Explore Monte Carlo Tours 8. Istanbul, Turkey Ships dock at Galataport, which is right near the historic center, making it easy to start exploring. Istanbul is a captivating blend of East and West, ancient and modern. Wander through the majestic Hagia Sophia, the intricate Blue Mosque, and the vibrant Grand Bazaar with a guide who knows every fascinating backstory. A private tour lets you feel the true rhythm of this extraordinary city. Explore Istanbul Tours 9. Naples, Italy Cruise ships dock at Stazione Marittima, right at the foot of Naples’ historic center. Naples is your gateway to so many of southern Italy’s wonders: Pompeii, Capri, the Amalfi Coast, and more. Whether you want to step back in time among ancient ruins, savor the world’s best pizza, or drive along breathtaking coastal roads, a private guide can tailor this day to your dolce vita dreams. Explore Naples Tours A Mediterranean cruise serves up one stunning destination after another — and when you dive a little deeper, every stop becomes its own rich little chapter. Wander, taste, and explore with your local guide, and let the Mediterranean work its magic, one unforgettable port at a time. One final tip: use the ToursByLocals shore excursion planner to streamline the process of finding the perfect private shore excursion for you, in any port of call.