"Some books inspire you to reinvent your life; others send you spiraling into internet rabbit holes to research historical events, but one of my favorite genres is the kind that has you looking up plane tickets the second you finish. These books have such vivid settings that they feel as essential to the story as the characters. Even if the world is entirely fictional, they make me desperate to visit. I’ve tried immersive reading experiences with thematic playlists and TV backgrounds, but these can only transport you so far. Instead of settling for shabby recreations, why not plan a trip to experience your favorite book setting IRL? Here’s where you should travel next based on your favorite book.
Spoiler Alert: It's so, so worth it.
1. Book Lovers by Emily Henry: Asheville, North Carolina
In Book Lovers, Nora and Charlie’s romance takes place in the picturesque town of Sunshine Falls, North Carolina. The fictional setting was inspired by the small mountain towns surrounding Asheville, making this city the perfect destination to feel like you’re living in your own Emily Henry novel. Stroll through downtown, popping into local coffee shops and boutiques that channel that Book Lovers charm. Be sure to stop by Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe, a beloved local spot, to browse shelves and pick up your next read. It’s easy to imagine you’re at Goode Books in Sunshine Falls.
While in Asheville, visit the famous Biltmore Estate, an enormous mansion and estate built by George Vanderbilt. And if you’re craving the outdoors, hike the Black Balsam Knob Trail or visit Mount Mitchell.
2. The Wedding People by Alison Espach: Newport, Rhode Island
The Wedding People was one of my favorite reads this year, and the moment I finished it, I was on Google tracking flights to Rhode Island. While the luxury hotel in the book might be out of reach, Newport has plenty to offer without the thousand-dollar-a-night price tag. Head to Bowen’s Wharf and Bannister’s Wharf for shopping, waterfront scenery, and a lobster roll. After a little retail therapy, tour one of the town’s famous Gilded Age mansions. The Breakers, a 138,300-square-foot “summer cottage” built by the Vanderbilts, is a must-see. If you’re feeling adventurous, walk along The Cliff Walk, the same trail Phoebe visits in the book. In the evening, hop aboard a sunset cruise to admire Newport’s beauty from the water.
3. A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas: Zermatt, Switzerland
A Court of Thorns and Roses is a fantasy classic for good reason. While you can’t book a flight directly to Sarah J. Maas’s magical realms, Zermatt, Switzerland, comes surprisingly close. With a towering, snow-capped mountain as a backdrop, Zermatt feels like Velaris brought to life. The village’s charming boutiques and meandering river resemble the enchanting atmosphere of the Night Court.
For the best view of the Matterhorn, ride on the Gornergrat Railway or take the cable car up to Matterhorn Glacier Paradise to experience the magical scenery from the sky. Zermatt is known as a skiing destination, but in the summer, there are also plenty of hiking trails to explore. Spend the rest of your trip perusing Zermatt’s picturesque stores and cozy restaurants and strolling along the river that runs straight through the town.
4. The Perfect Couple by Elin Hilderbrand: Nantucket, Massachusetts
If you adored The Perfect Couple (or binged the Netflix adaptation), you know Nantucket is a dreamy spot for a coastal getaway (minus the murder mystery). This destination combines relaxed island energy with that preppy, old-money touch. When you arrive on the island, rent a bike to easily get around while soaking in the salty ocean air. Cycle to downtown Nantucket for shopping, and stop by the nearby Whaling Museum to dive into the island’s maritime history. For postcard-perfect photo ops, visit iconic lighthouses like Brant Point, Great Point, or Sankaty Head. For a beach day, head to Jetties Beach, known for its gentle surf and proximity to The Sandbar, a laid-back spot for lunch or dinner.
5. Tom Lake by Ann Patchett: Traverse City, Michigan
Tom Lake has lived rent-free in my mind since I finished reading it. Yes, for the captivating story, but I also haven’t stopped dreaming about the Michigan cherry farm where it takes place. While the book doesn’t name a specific town, Traverse City offers a similar experience with cherry farms, beaches, and vineyards galore.
Plan your visit for late June or early July to catch the National Cherry Festival, where you’ll find every cherry-inspired treat imaginable. Outside of the festival, you can pick your own cherries from early July to mid-August. Once you’ve gotten your cherry fix, explore The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, a dining and shopping area housed in historic buildings. For nature lovers, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a gorgeous spot for hiking, beach days, or just soaking in the beauty. If you like spending your time in nature with a glass of wine in hand, you can also plan a day to tour the many wineries in the area, like Mari Vineyards or Chateau Grand Traverse.
6. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt: Port Townsend, Washington
Though Remarkably Bright Creatures is set in the fictional town of Sowell Bay, Port Townsend, Washington, offers a remarkably similar vibe. Both towns are adorable coastal gems with endless outdoor adventures. While Port Townsend doesn’t have an aquarium like the book, you can see some of Washington’s magnificent wildlife by heading out to sea on a whale-watching expedition to see orcas, humpback whales, and more. After a day on the ocean, check out Main Street’s shops and restaurants before heading to Fort Worden State Park for hiking trails, beaches, and Victorian architecture.
7. Daisy Jones and the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid: Los Angeles, California
If you’re a die-hard Taylor Jenkins Reid fan, you probably know that all her books set in the Evelyn Hugo universe take place in LA. You could easily plan an entire weeklong vacation dedicated to her novels, but I’m focusing on fan-favorite Daisy Jones & The Six. Start your day at Clark Street Diner, a filming location from the show where the band came up with the name “The Six.” The diner still exudes a ’60s vibe, making it the perfect spot to fuel up with coffee. Next, head to the iconic Chateau Marmont hotel, where Daisy and her bandmates lived. While staying there might be pricey, you can walk around, grab lunch or dinner, and soak up the atmosphere.
No trip inspired by Daisy Jones would be complete without catching a concert. The Troubadour, where The Six were discovered, is a legendary LA music venue that has hosted icons like Bob Dylan, Elton John, and Joni Mitchell. You should also swing by The Whisky a Go Go, Daisy’s infamous partying spot. Though it’s now primarily a live music venue, it still holds the energy of the nightclub Daisy used to sneak into.
8. The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah: Paris, France
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah is a favorite for many readers, and for good reason. This unforgettable novel follows two sisters on separate paths during the German occupation of France in World War II. If you loved this tearjerker of a book, consider a trip to Paris to visit the historical sites tied to the story. Begin with the Museum of the Liberation of Paris, which delves into the city’s occupation and eventual liberation from Nazi control. It’s an essential stop for understanding the history of The Nightingale. You won’t want to skip other iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the Arc de Triomphe. And, of course, indulge in as many croissants and café crèmes as your heart desires.
If you have extra time, plan a day trip to the Loire Valley. This region inspired the fictional town of Carriveau in the book, and it’s only about an hour by train from Paris. The countryside provides a serene contrast to the bustling city.
9. Every Summer After by Carley Fortune: Barry’s Bay, Ontario, Canada
Every Summer After is one of my all-time favorite romance novels, and ever since reading it, I’ve been dying to visit Barry’s Bay. The idyllic summer cottage setting in Canada sounds like a dream, and the best part is that Barry’s Bay is a real place.
This quaint lakeside town is known for its serenity and slow pace, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Stay near the water and spend your days enjoying outdoor activities. If you don’t have access to a boat, you can rent one for a peaceful day on the lake. Hiking enthusiasts will find plenty of trails to explore, with options for all skill levels. Be sure to visit the charming downtown area, where you can stroll through the streets and browse the local shops.
10. Normal People by Sally Rooney: Dublin, Ireland
The last time I was in Europe, I planned a whole trip to Dublin specifically because of my obsession with Normal People, and it turned out to be one of my favorite trips of all time. Kick off your visit at Trinity College, where Connell and Marianne attended school. The campus is fantastic, but the highlight is the Old Library and the Book of Kells exhibition. Be sure to give yourself enough time to fully immerse yourself in the dark academia vibes.
Afterward, head to Dublin Castle for a dose of history and beautiful architecture. After all your tourist activities, you’ll need a drink to relax, and no trip to Ireland is complete without a pint of Guinness. In Dublin, you can actually visit the Guinness Storehouse to see how the magic is made. Head to the top level for a panoramic view of the city. If you’d rather experience Dublin’s nightlife than take a brewery tour, head to the Temple Bar area for lively pub hopping.
11. The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren: Bali, Indonesia
The Paradise Problem is set on a private island in Indonesia, and if that kind of vacation is in your future, go off. But for the rest of us, Bali makes for a slightly more realistic option with similar vibes. You could spend your entire vacation on the beach and leave completely satisfied, but there are so many other bucket-list-worthy things to see and do. Start with a visit to the Pura Ulun Danu Bratan floating temple and the Jatiluwih Rice Terraces—both are breathtaking and deeply rooted in Balinese culture. For a more active excursion, take the Campuhan Ridge Walk, a stunning scenic trail that will help you hit your step goals in the most picturesque way possible.
Don’t miss the bustling Ubud Traditional Art Market, where you can shop for unique, handmade Indonesian goods that make perfect souvenirs. To truly embrace your The Paradise Problem trip, maybe you can even find a wedding to crash.
12. Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson: New York City, New York
Jenny Jackson’s debut novel, Pineapple Street, was one of the best reads of 2023. While the family in the book may be deeply flawed, the picturesque brownstones on Pineapple Street will have you dreaming of life in Brooklyn Heights. To get a taste of it yourself, start at L’Appartement 4F, a viral Parisian-inspired bakery, for a latte and pastry. From there, take a stroll down Pineapple Street to soak in the charm of this historic, tree-lined neighborhood. For an amazing view of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge, walk along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade, a pedestrian walkway that overlooks the waterfront.
After spending time in Brooklyn, head into Manhattan to hit classic NYC landmarks like Central Park, Rockefeller Center, and the Empire State Building. Wrap up your day with dinner at a famous New York restaurant like The Corner Store or The Polo Bar, followed by a Broadway show for the quintessential New York experience.
Lauren Blue, Assistant Editor
As an Assistant Editor for The Everygirl, Lauren ideates and writes content for every facet of our readers’ lives. Her articles span the topics of must-read books, movies, home tours, travel itineraries—and everything in between. When she isn’t testing the latest TikTok trend, she can be found scouring Goodreads for new releases to feature on the site.
Products included in graphics linked within the article. Feature graphic images credited to: Lisa Christensen | Dupe, Cora Pursley | Dupe, Mika A | Dupe, Jordan Hunter | Dupe.