Exploring the globe to discover filming locations and sets from beloved movies has long been a popular pursuit for travelers seeking a touch of Hollywood magic.

Places like Thailand, which gained fame from The White Lotus, and New Zealand, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes in The Lord of the Rings, have become increasingly popular due to their cinematic allure.

However, a new trend is emerging among vacationers who are now drawing inspiration not from films, but from video games.

As many video games are set in real-world environments, gamers are finding creative ways to experience these locales firsthand.

For enthusiastic gamers, immersing themselves in the very settings of their favorite games has become an exciting trend. This phenomenon, dubbed ‘gaming vacations’ or ‘gami-vacations’ by Euronews, is capturing the imagination of travelers around the world.

Many young travellers are seeking immersive travel experiences – which gami-vacations can certainly provide.

Here’s some of the top destinations to visit inspired by video games…

France 

The French Alps, popular among outdoor sports enthusiasts, have featured in many video games

Space Invaders and Pokemon Legends Z-A have both allegedly drawn inspiration from Paris – and the French capital is full of activities for any gamers looking for an alternative way to view the city.

Plus, conventions and events such as Paris Games Week draw in tourists of the gaming variety. 

The Assassin’s Creed games also feature much of the city of love, too. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla: The Siege of Paris naturally displays many sights, as does Assassin’s Creed Unity.

You’ll want to visit landmarks such as Notre Dame and the river Seine. 

It’s not just Paris, either – the French Alps are a hugely popular backdrop for video games, and have been featured in sport and adventure games such as Syberia.

USA 

San Francisco, with its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, is popular among gamers

Unsurprisingly, the US is home to many iconic video game locations.

X:Men: Destiny, for instance, features the beautiful city of San Francisco, which you can visit on a trip to the city – and make a quick stop at Alcatraz.

Meanwhile, New York City is a favourite among gamers, not only because it hosts gaming conventions such as PLAY.nyc.

It’s also the backdrop for games such as the GTA series, Spider-Man and The Division.

Egypt

The pyramids of Giza, located in Cairo, are a major tourist attraction

Egypt and its imposing pyramids have appeared in many video games, from Assassin’s Creed Origins to Pharaoh: A New Era and Civilization series.

Sure, they’re beautiful to see, but they also offer an imposing and immersive experience, perfect for gamers. 

There’s plenty more to see in the country, too, with the River Nile being a highlight. 

Italy 

The island of Capri on the Amalfi Coast in Italy is a suprising backdrop to some games

Italian cities are instantly recognisable – from Rome’s Colosseum to the canals of Venice, the hotspots have featured in countless films and many video games.

The Assassin’s Creed series has played out in places such as Venice, Florence and Rome, and are well worth a visit.

But if you want a bit more sunshine and beautiful beaches – still with the gaming credentials – head to Capri.

As the setting for the game Anacapri The Dream, it’s a perfect coastal spot with a twist. 

Norway 

Flørli village – and the fjord views that make Norway’s scenery so impressive

Norway, with its impressive landscapes and rural islands, is the next must-visit destination for video gamers.

One of the best-known games set in the country include God of War Ragnarök – which displays the mountains in Jotunheim.

Plus, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla brings into the spotlight Norway’s fjords, as well as the village of Flørli.

Japan 

Tokyo in Japan is a high-tech city known for its popular video games

This final spot is perhaps less surprising, with Tokyo appearing in countless video games. 

This includes JRPG Persona 5, Ghostwire: Tokyo, Jet Set Radio, and the Yakuza (Like a Dragon) series.

The famous Akihabara District (also known as Akiba) in Tokyo is also the heart of gaming, filled with games and shops. 

Plus, you can visit the Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo, a key attraction for fans of the popular video game.