
Some places serve as doorways to the hearts of the writers and stories that touched every book lover’s life. Whether it’s walking across Jane Austen’s neighborhood or seeing real-time Narnia and Harry Potter backgrounds, these destinations provide enriching experiences that bring our favorite books to life.
London, England

Home of Shakespeare and Dickens, London is a treasure trove for book lovers. It inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes mysteries. It hosts literary festivals all around the year, such as the London Literature Festival at the Southbank Center, gathering like-minded for readings and sharing.
Edinburgh, Scotland

The world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, Edinburgh, birthed Sir Walter Scott and Robert Louis Stevenson. Here, J.K. Rowling penned much of the “Harry Potter” series in cafés, drawing inspiration from the city’s gothic architecture. Fans often visit The Elephant House, one of the places where Rowling wrote.
Paris, France

Paris, often dubbed the “City of Light,” houses the iconic Shakespeare and Company bookstore, which was a gathering place for Ernest Hemingway and F. Scott Fitzgerald and has now become a readers’ sanctuary. Another favorite is the Maison de Victor Hugo, the former residence of the author of “Les Misérables.”
Melbourne, Australia

Melbourne’s dedication to cultivating a readership has earned it the moniker “City of Literature.” A notable spot is Mr Tulk Café, set against the State Library of Victoria. The Journal Café, located within the City Library on Flinders Lane, provides a relaxed atmosphere with plenty of reading material.
Alice In Magical Land, Tokyo

Tokyo’s “Alice in Magical Land” transports book lovers into the world of Lewis Carroll’s “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.” Upon entering, visitors are greeted by décor reminiscent of the Mad Hatter’s tea party, with oversized playing cards, heart-shaped chandeliers, and waitstaff dressed as characters from the story.
Bath, England

Jane Austen lived in Bath from 1801 to 1806, and her classics “Northanger Abbey” and “Persuasion” were set in the city. Fans flock to the Jane Austen Centre, which offers insights into her life and works. Mary Shelley also found inspiration here when she wrote part of “Frankenstein.”
Venice, Italy

William Shakespeare set “The Merchant of Venice” and parts of “Othello” against Venice’s backdrop. Literary luminaries like Ernest Hemingway, who wrote portions of “Across the River and into the Trees,” and Henry James, who composed “The Aspern Papers” as a result of his time in Venice, were drawn to the city.
New York City, USA

New York’s positive atmosphere inspired “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” “The Great Gatsby,” and Nora Ephron’s screenplays. It’s even more alive with events like the annual New York City Book and Ephemera Fair. Plus, the Hungarian Pastry Shop, located near Columbia University, is a fan favorite for those who enjoy literature with coffee.
The Library Hotel, Koh Samui, Thailand

“The Lib,” a library with a carefully curated collection of more than 1,400 books, is located in the center of Chaweng Beach in Koh Samui, Thailand, and is complemented by the resort’s famous Red Pool, which is known for its colorful mosaic tiles, creating an out-of-this-world atmosphere.
Oxford, England

Home to literary legends, C.S. Lewis found his heart in Oxford for his “Chronicles of Narnia” series. The “Narnia Door” near St. Mary’s Passage is believed to have inspired Lewis’s magical wardrobe. J.R.R. Tolkien also penned “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings” within these historic walls.
Dublin, Ireland

James Joyce’s “Ulysses” is set in Dublin. Adding to its legacy, Oscar Wilde, awarded for his wit and plays like “The Importance of Being Earnest,” was born here, as was Bram Stoker, the creator of “Dracula.” Bringing this literary heritage to life, The Dublin Book Festival, held annually, offers a platform for discussions, readings, and workshops.
New Orleans, Louisiana

In Orleans, the Hotel Monteleone has hosted literary giants like Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, and William Faulkner. Moreover, the statue of Ignatius J. Reilly, the eccentric protagonist of John Kennedy Toole’s “A Confederacy of Dunces,” is located on Canal Street, honoring one of the city’s most beloved literary figures.
Mumbai, India

Mumbai, referred to as the “City of Dreams,” is a perfect hub for bookworms. The David Sassoon Library, established in 1870, features Gothic architecture and a serene garden, while the Flora Fountain, built in 1864, is surrounded by numerous bookstores. All of this makes Mumbai a favorite gathering place among writers and poets.
Mississippi, USA

Mississippi’s literary heritage includes figures like William Faulkner, who wrote “The Sound and the Fury” and “As I Lay Dying,” and Eudora Welty, who captured the essence of Southern life in her short stories, including “The Optimist’s Daughter.” Honoring these figures, The Mississippi Writers Trail honors the state’s most acclaimed writers, which visitors often flock to.
Winchester, England

As the final resting place of Jane Austen, visitors pay their respects at her grave in Winchester Cathedral and explore her last residence at 8 College Street. The Winchester Books Festival, held annually, celebrates the written word by bringing together authors and readers for a series of engaging events.