If #BookTok has completely taken over your life (no shame, we’re right there with you), then why not take your love of literature to the next level by visiting the real places that inspired some of your favourite fictional worlds? Whether it's the winding streets of a magical city or the serene landscapes of a fantasy realm, these destinations let you step straight into the stories you can’t stop thinking about. We’ve rounded up our five must-visit places that will have you feeling like you’re walking through the pages right alongside your favourite characters. Book in hand, of course!
1. Zermatt, Switzerland - A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas
ACOTAR fans, this one's for you! Velaris, the dreamy “City of Starlight,” is a place of otherworldly beauty, surrounded by mountains, rivers, and dancing starry skies. While it's a fantasy location, many fans believe that Velaris was inspired by the Swiss mountain town of Zermatt.
Tucked neatly at the foot of the Matterhorn, Zermatt boasts mountain views, crystal-clear skies and charming old cobblestone streets. Much like Velaris, it’s a peaceful retreat, perfect for immersing yourself in nature while reliving the magic of the Night Court. Whether you're skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, Zermatt captures the dreamlike beauty and tranquillity that Maas describes so vividly in her books. Spoiler: No bat boys included, sorry!
Don't miss: Take the Gornergrat Railway for panoramic views of the Matterhorn, and visit the historic old town for a charming, timeless feel that might just remind you of Velaris' magical streets. And of course, pop into a local chocolate shop to taste some of the best home-made Swiss delicacies around!
2. Edinburgh, Scotland - Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling
If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering the whimsical streets of Diagon Alley, you’ll be happy to know that the inspiration for this magical shopping district can be found in Edinburgh, where J.K Rowling lived and wrote much of the story. Victoria Street, with its colourful, winding roads and quirky shops, closely resembles the bustling alleyway where Harry and friends buy their robes, wands, and books.
Edinburgh itself is rich in literary history, and as you wander through its streets, you’ll find nods to Rowling and her creations around every corner. You can visit the Elephant House Café, where Rowling is said to have written early drafts of Harry Potter, or the graveyard at Greyfriars Kirkyard, which inspired some of the character names in the books.
Don’t miss: Enjoy a coffee at the Elephant House for a view of Edinburgh Castle and soak up your Harry Potter moment. Another top spot, funnily enough, is the Starbucks on Princes Street. Grab a spot by the window and read with some incredible views over the castle.
3. Amsterdam, The Netherlands - Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo
Leigh Bardugo's Six of Crows duology is set in the bustling, gritty city of Ketterdam, a hub for trade, crime, and mystery. While Ketterdam is a fantasy city, its dark, moody canals and ancient merchant life are reminiscent of the real European port city of Amsterdam. Bardugo has mentioned that Amsterdam, alongside other similar European cities, helped inspire her vision of Ketterdam.
Amsterdam's never-ending canals, fascinating buildings, and vibrant market culture transport visitors into the heart of a city that feels like it could be the setting for Kaz Brekker's next big heist. Stroll through the city's narrow streets and over its famous bridges, and you can practically feel the intrigue, danger, and schemes lurking in the shadows.
Don’t miss: Take a stroll along Amsterdam’s famous canals, before exploring the artistic Jordaan district. Here you’ll find some of the city's best cafes where you can cosy up with your book of the day.
4. Bruges, Belgium - The Pumpkin Spice Café by Laurie Gilmore
Laurie Gilmore’s trending book The Pumpkin Spice Café is set in a cosy, small-town cafe during the autumn season, stirring a sense of warmth and community. (If you’re also a fan of Gilmore Girls, you’ll love this one!) While the fictional town is based in the US, readers looking to experience a similar atmosphere can head to Bruges, Belgium - the perfect European counterpart to the setting of the novel.
The city's tree-lined canals, which dance with hues of reds and gold throughout autumn, are perfect for strolling along after reading a few chapters. This is also the time of year where the city comes alive with seasonal markets, cosy eateries, and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it easy to imagine sitting in a cafe like Jeanie’s. You could easily spend a day cafe hopping, sipping on your own pumpkin spice latte while people watching, of course having a main character moment of your own.
Don’t miss: Stroll along the winding canals and stop by the historic square, where you can find local cafes and bakeries. Visit Rozenhoedkaai, a stunning canal viewpoint or wander the charming streets lined with autumn foliage to immerse yourself in the cafe's cosy, autumnal world.
5. The Italian Alps - The Eight Mountains by Paolo Cognetti
In The Eight Mountains, Paolo Cognetti writes about friendship, self-discovery and man's connection to nature. The amazing storytelling of life's highs and lows will have you hooked, while longing to feel that level of peace that only a remote mountain region could bring.
The various mountain peaks, trails, and remoteness mentioned throughout the story directly reflect the physical and emotional journeys of the characters - something that readers share makes the book so poetic. So if you’d like a tangible connection to the story, a visit to the Alps will surely have all those emotions flooding back!
Don’t miss: Hike through Gran Paradiso National Park, visit the traditional alpine villages, and take in the beautiful views of Mont Blanc.
Where do I find the most beautiful bookshops in Europe?
We’re glad you asked! If you’re ready to take your literary holiday to the next level, stepping foot in these stunning bookstores will leave you feeling like a real-life Belle.
- Daunt Books, London
- Libreria Acqua Alta, Venice
- The Dominicanen bookshop, Maastricht
- Livraria Lello, Porto
- Carturesti Carusel, Bucharest
- The Abbey Bookshop, Paris
- Winding Stair Bookshop, Dublin
Ready to step into the pages?
So, there you have it—five real-life destinations that will transport you right into the pages of your favourite books. Whether you’re imagining casting spells in Edinburgh, enjoying the calmness of the Alps, or sipping coffee in a cosy Bruges cafe, you’ll be living your best #booktok life.
