Video games transport players into immersive worlds full of adventure, fantasy, and breathtaking landscapes. For many gamers, these digital realms spark a desire to explore similar places in real life. If you’re a gaming enthusiast and a travel lover, why not combine both passions? Here’s a list of Top 10 travel destinations inspired by iconic gaming worlds where you can experience some of the magic from your favorite games — all in real life!
1. Kyoto, Japan — Inspired by The Legend of Zelda & Sekiro
Kyoto’s ancient temples, lush forests, and traditional architecture perfectly capture the mystical vibes seen in games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice. With its serene gardens, bamboo groves, and historic castles, Kyoto invites you to step into a real-life fantasy world.
Highlights:
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Visit Fushimi Inari Shrine with its famous red torii gates, reminiscent of the shrines Link explores.
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Explore Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, a surreal natural corridor that feels like stepping into a magical forest.
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Discover the timeless charm of Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Nijo Castle.
Kyoto combines culture, nature, and history in a way that any fan of fantasy adventures will appreciate.
2. Dubrovnik, Croatia — The Real King’s Landing from Game of Thrones
While Game of Thrones isn’t exactly a video game, its influence on gaming and pop culture is huge. Dubrovnik served as the primary filming location for King’s Landing, the capital city in the series and inspired many fantasy game settings.
What to Explore:
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Walk the ancient city walls that surround Dubrovnik’s Old Town.
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Wander narrow stone streets lined with medieval architecture.
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Take a boat trip to the nearby Lokrum Island, adding an adventurous island vibe to your visit.
Dubrovnik’s dramatic coastline and historic charm make it a must-visit for fans of fantasy worlds.
3. New Zealand — The Shire and Middle-earth from The Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit
New Zealand’s stunning landscapes served as the perfect backdrop for the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit film trilogies, inspiring countless fantasy games. Rolling hills, lush meadows, and majestic mountains bring Middle-earth to life.
Must-See Spots:
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Matamata, home to Hobbiton, the iconic village with cozy hobbit holes.
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Tongariro National Park, whose volcanic terrain was used as Mordor.
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Explore Fiordland National Park for epic fjords and wild nature.
New Zealand offers a real-world journey into the fantasy worlds many games borrow from.
4. Iceland — The Nordic Fantasy Setting for Skyrim
The chilly, rugged terrain of Iceland fits perfectly with the epic fantasy vibe of games like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. Think snow-capped mountains, volcanic landscapes, and shimmering glaciers.
Highlights:
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Explore Thingvellir National Park and its dramatic rift valleys.
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Visit geysers and hot springs in the Geysir Geothermal Area.
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Experience the Northern Lights in winter — a magical phenomenon that feels straight out of a game.
Iceland’s otherworldly beauty makes it a top destination for fans of Nordic-themed fantasy games.
5. Paris, France — The City of Light as Seen in Assassin’s Creed Unity
Assassin’s Creed Unity brings 18th-century Paris to life, showcasing iconic landmarks and rich history. While the game explores the French Revolution era, Paris today still dazzles with its timeless elegance.
What to Do:
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Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral, the game’s centerpiece.
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Walk along the Seine River and explore the Louvre Museum.
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Enjoy the charm of Montmartre, a historic and artistic neighborhood.
Paris is perfect for gamers who love history and culture wrapped in beautiful scenery.
6. Tokyo, Japan — The Futuristic City in Cyberpunk 2077 and Ghost of Tsushima
Tokyo’s neon-lit skyline and bustling urban vibe inspired many futuristic and samurai games. It’s a place where traditional and ultra-modern coexist seamlessly.
Must-See Attractions:
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Explore Shibuya Crossing, the world’s busiest pedestrian scramble.
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Visit Akihabara, the hub for gamers, anime fans, and tech enthusiasts.
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Wander through historic Asakusa with the iconic Senso-ji Temple.
Tokyo offers a dynamic blend of tradition and cutting-edge technology, perfect for any gamer’s travel bucket list.
7. Santorini, Greece — The Stunning Island in Assassin’s Creed Odyssey
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey is set in Ancient Greece, and while it’s a fictionalized version, Santorini captures much of that stunning Mediterranean beauty.
Highlights:
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Whitewashed buildings with blue domes overlooking the sea.
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Explore ancient ruins and museums that showcase Greek history.
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Relax on unique volcanic beaches with black or red sand.
Santorini’s breathtaking vistas and rich heritage make it a dreamy destination inspired by gaming worlds.
8. Vancouver, Canada — The Setting for The Last of Us
Vancouver’s dense forests and urban backdrop inspired the haunting post-apocalyptic world of The Last of Us. It’s a place where nature’s resilience meets city life.
Top Things to Do:
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Walk through Stanley Park, a massive urban park with forest trails.
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Explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods like Gastown and Yaletown.
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Enjoy stunning views from Grouse Mountain and nearby wilderness.
Fans of story-driven, atmospheric games will find Vancouver’s mix of nature and urban life captivating.
9. Rome, Italy — The Eternal City in Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood
Rome, with its ancient ruins and grand architecture, served as the backdrop for Assassin’s Creed: Brotherhood. It’s a city where history feels alive around every corner.
Must-See Sites:
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Explore the Colosseum, the iconic gladiator arena.
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Visit the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill for ancient ruins.
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Wander the charming streets and piazzas, soaking up Roman culture.
Rome is an ideal destination for gamers who love historical adventure and epic storytelling.
10. Edinburgh, Scotland — The Real-Life Inspiration Behind Dragon Age
The medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and misty landscapes of Edinburgh echo the fantasy realms of the Dragon Age series.
Highlights:
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Visit Edinburgh Castle perched on a volcanic rock.
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Explore the Royal Mile and its historic shops.
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Wander through Holyrood Park and Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views.
Edinburgh’s blend of history, legend, and atmosphere makes it a fantasy lover’s paradise.
Final Thoughts
Travel inspired by gaming worlds offers an exciting way to see the world through a different lens. Whether you’re chasing the fantasy forests of Skyrim, the bustling neon streets of Tokyo, or the ancient ruins of Rome, these destinations bring your favorite games to life in unforgettable ways.
Next time you plan a trip, consider visiting one of these incredible spots — where the line between gaming fantasy and reality beautifully blurs.