The filming locations behind each series offer us diverse cultures, architectures, and natural landscapes, while also providing inspiration for flight tickets and holiday routes that you can plan through bilet.com.
In this article, we will focus on 10 phenomenal TV series that have broken global viewership records:
- From Squid Game to Dark, with its complex storyline stretching to Berlin…
- From the America of Stranger Things to the royal atmosphere of The Crown…
If you're ready, let's turn off the cameras and take a little trip to the real world, beyond the sets!
1. Squid Game — South Korea
(Seoul, Incheon and surrounding areas)
From its first week on Netflix, Squid Game took the world by storm; it wasn't just a series, it was a global pop culture phenomenon. This South Korean production, which tells the story of 456 players struggling for survival through children's games, captivated millions with its dystopian structure, harsh social criticism, and striking visual language.
Starring Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, and Jung Ho-yeon, the series masterfully blended drama, thriller, and psychological genres, taking the global rise of South Korean dramas to a whole new level.
The best part is this: many of the locations in Squid Game are real and are now popular destinations for travelers visiting South Korea. Many of the scenes where you think, "I wish I could see this," were actually filmed in and around the streets of Seoul.
Where was Squid Game filmed? Here are some of the notable locations.
- Ssangmun-dong, Seoul
Ssangmun-dong is the neighborhood where the main character of the series, Seong Gi-hun, lives. A real residential area, it serves as the setting for some of the most realistic and emotional scenes of the series. This neighborhood, where local life still thrives today, is a must-visit destination for fans of the show.
- Daejeon – Custom-Built Playsets
Red overalls, pastel-colored staircases, and giant toys… Many of the show's iconic play areas were filmed in massive studios built in Daejeon. These sets, which feel like real locations, are one of the most important components of the show's visual success.
- Incheon International Airport
Incheon Airport, used in the travel and transit scenes of the series, is the first stop for anyone arriving in South Korea. Thanks to Squid Game, even this modern airport has become synonymous with the series.
- Seongapdo Island (off the coast of Incheon)
This is one of the locations used for the exterior shots of the mysterious island where the games take place. Completely closed to the public, this island brings the sense of mystery created by the series into the real world.
A trip to South Korea following in the footsteps of Squid Game means not only seeing the filming locations but also experiencing Seoul's local neighborhood culture, street food, and modern Asian city life up close.
2. Stranger Things – United States
(Georgia – Atlanta and surrounding area)
Blending 80s nostalgia with science fiction and mystery, Stranger Things became more than just a series; it transformed into a global pop culture phenomenon from its very first broadcast. With its Dungeons & Dragons references, kids on bikes, parallel universes, and catchy music, the series both transported adults back in time and introduced a new generation to that atmosphere.
Featuring actors such as Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Winona Ryder, and David Harbour, the series blends science fiction, horror, and drama in a balanced way, becoming one of Netflix's most-watched shows.
Although fictionally set in the town of Hawkins, Indiana, the series was actually largely filmed in Georgia. This allowed the locations to realistically reflect the spirit of a small American town, making them a kind of Stranger Things travel destination for fans today.
Where was Stranger Things filmed? Iconic locations.
- Jackson, Georgia – The Heart of Hawkins
Jackson, used for the central scenes of Hawkins, is one of the series' most recognizable locations. The town hall, town square, and surrounding streets perfectly reflect the show's "small but strange town" feel.
- East Point – Hawkins Middle School & High School
The school scenes we frequently see in the series were filmed at East Point, near Atlanta. The building we see as Hawkins Middle School is still one of the most visited filming locations for the series today.
- Fayetteville – Police Station & City Streets
Fayetteville was used for the scenes of Sheriff Hopper's precinct and its surroundings. This area serves as the backdrop for moments where the series' darker and more mysterious tone intensifies.
- Stone Mountain & Atlanta Surroundings
The forest scenes, exterior shots reflecting the Upside Down atmosphere, and road scenes were filmed in natural areas surrounding Atlanta. These locations are among the details that strengthen the nature-suspense balance of the series.
Exploring the Stranger Things route means discovering not just classic tourist spots, but the local American town life, wide streets, and simple architecture. It's possible to wander the streets you saw in the series while simultaneously feeling the spirit of the 80s.
3rd Wednesday – Romania
(Bucharest, Bușteni & Cantacuzino Castle)
Wednesday, which shows Tim Burton's touch from the very first scene, quickly became a global phenomenon with its gothic atmosphere, dark humor, and iconic main character. Focusing on Wednesday Addams' adventures at Nevermore Academy, the series masterfully blends mystery, fantasy, and young adult genres.
The series, starring Jenna Ortega, garnered millions of shares on social media, particularly for Wednesday's facial expressions, dance scenes, and style, transforming it into a pop culture icon.
Behind the series' dark and fairytale atmosphere lie surprisingly real and captivating filming locations. Much of Wednesday was filmed in Romania, a country perfectly suited to this world with its medieval atmosphere, historical buildings, and misty landscapes. This made Romania an unexpected travel destination for fans of the series.
Where was Wednesday filmed? The real locations of the Gothic atmosphere.
- Cantacuzino Castle – Nevermore Academy
The exterior scenes of Nevermore Academy in the series were filmed at Cantacuzino Castle in Bușteni, Romania. With its Neo-Roman architecture and mountain views, the castle perfectly reflects the dark yet elegant spirit of the show. Today, the castle is open to visitors and is one of the most popular destinations for Wednesday fans.
- Bucharest – Indoor Shots
Most of the interior scenes of Nevermore Academy were filmed in studios in Bucharest. Old palaces, historical buildings, and expansive sets were used to construct the series' gothic-infused world.
- Bucharest Old Town (Lipscani)
Some of the city scenes and transition shots in the series were filmed in Bucharest's historic center. Stone streets, old buildings, and dim lights create a natural backdrop that supports Wednesday's dark aesthetic.
- Rural Regions of Romania
For the forest scenes, nature shots, and sequences requiring a mysterious atmosphere, natural areas in the surrounding regions of Romania were preferred. Misty forests and vast landscapes are among the elements that enhance the fantasy aspect of the series.
Following in Wednesday's footsteps means not only seeing a film set, but also experiencing Gothic architecture, history, and nature all together in one of Europe's most mysterious countries. Romania offers a very different and impressive alternative for travelers tired of classic European routes.
4. Game of Thrones – Epic Routes of Europe
(Croatia, Spain, Iceland, Northern Ireland & Malta)
Game of Thrones, which etched its name in golden letters in television history, was more than just a series; it was a massive production that transformed the real world step by step into a fantastical travel map. Adapted from George RR Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, the show captivated millions with its intrigue, war, dragons, and power struggles.
Featuring actors such as Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, Lena Headey, and Peter Dinklage, the series brought the fantasy-drama genre to the forefront of mainstream media and broke viewing records with every season it aired.
One of the most impressive aspects of the series was that Westeros was actually based entirely on real locations. Filming took place in various European countries, making it a travel destination in itself for Game of Thrones fans today.
Where was Game of Thrones filmed? A real-world map of Westeros.
- Dubrovnik, Croatia – King's Landing
King's Landing, one of the most iconic cities in the series, was largely filmed in Dubrovnik. The city walls, the streets of the Old Town, and Lovrijenac Fortress are the real locations of scenes we saw repeatedly in the series. Today, almost every corner in Dubrovnik is reminiscent of a Game of Thrones scene.
- Iceland – Beyond the Wall
The harsh nature of the North, glaciers and lava fields… Iceland was used in the series to recreate the wild lands beyond the Wall. Thingvellir National Park and Vatnajökull Glacier hosted some of the coldest and most impressive scenes in the series.
- Seville, Spain – Dorne & Dorne Palace
The Real Alcázar Palace in Seville was used for the scenes of the Kingdom of Dorne. Thanks to its exotic architecture and courtyards, Dorne became one of the most visually stunning locations in the series.
- Northern Ireland – Winterfell
Winterfell, the home of House Stark, was largely filmed in Northern Ireland. Castle Ward and its surroundings are among the locations where some of the series' most emotional and memorable moments were shot.
- Malta – The Key Scene of the First Season
Some of the city and harbor scenes used in the first season of the series were filmed in Malta. The Azure Window (before it was destroyed) is remembered for the wedding scene of Daenerys and Khal Drogo.
Traveling along the Game of Thrones route offers a unique experience encompassing not just one, but multiple European countries. One day you might stroll the streets of King's Landing, the next day gaze at the glaciers beyond the Wall… For fans of the series, this route is truly a dream come true.
5. The Crown – United Kingdom
(Historic Palaces of London, Windsor, Scotland & England)
Few series have depicted the behind-the-scenes world of the royal family in such detail, drama, and elegance. The Crown, beginning with Queen Elizabeth II's youth, chronicles decades of the British monarchy, meticulously portraying political crises, family conflicts, and historical turning points.
Featuring powerful actresses like Claire Foy, Olivia Colman, and Imelda Staunton portraying the queen in different seasons, the series combines biography, history, and drama genres, becoming one of Netflix's most prestigious productions.
But what makes The Crown so impressive isn't just its story; it's the real royal locations that make you think, "I wish I could see that." The series was largely filmed across the United Kingdom and in palaces that have become symbols of the British monarchy. This transforms the series into something aristocratic travel guide.
Where was The Crown filmed? Royal Routes
- London – Places Used in Place of Buckingham Palace
The interior scenes we see as Buckingham Palace in the series were filmed in various historical buildings and private properties in London. Lancaster House is one of the most important buildings, hosting the majority of the palace interior scenes.
- Windsor – The area around Windsor Castle
Windsor, one of the royal family's weekend and official residences, features frequently in the series. The parks and buildings surrounding Windsor were used for scenes reflecting royal life.
- Scotland – The Balmoral Sense
Ardverikie House in Scotland was used for scenes filmed at Balmoral, the royal family's summer residence. The mountains, lakes, and misty natural landscapes provided the backdrop for some of the series' most serene yet powerful scenes.
- Ely Cathedral – Instead of Westminster Abbey
Ely Cathedral was chosen over Westminster Abbey for scenes such as royal weddings and coronations. With its magnificent architecture, it hosted some of the most spectacular moments of the series.
- Rural Areas of England
Many of the aristocratic mansions and rural landscapes we see throughout the series were filmed in real historical buildings across different regions of England. This makes The Crown a true journey through British culture.
Following in the footsteps of the Crown means not only seeing palaces, but also experiencing England's history, architecture, and aristocratic lifestyle up close. This route, stretching from the hustle and bustle of London to the tranquil nature of Scotland, is quite impressive for those who enjoy classic European travel.
6. Succession – United States & Europe
(New York, Italy, Croatia, England)
Few series portray power, money, and family intrigue with such cold-bloodedness and striking detail. Succession tells the story of the Roy family's power struggle within their media empire, while simultaneously taking the viewer on a journey through the world's most elite cities and luxurious locations.
Featuring a strong cast including Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook, and Kieran Culkin, the series combined sharp dialogue, dark humor, and a fast pace in the drama genre, becoming one of HBO's most prestigious productions. With Emmy awards, iconic lines, and character analyses, Succession has become one of the most talked-about series of the last 10 years.
But it's not just the family conflicts that stick in your mind while watching Succession; it's also the cityscapes, skyscrapers, luxury villas, and European getaways that appear in almost every episode. The series, as if saying "where there's power, there's a story," takes us on an upscale travel route to different countries.
Where was Succession filmed? The Geography of Power
- New York City – The Center of Roy's Empire
The heart of the series is definitely New York. Logan Roy's office, family gatherings, and scenes filled with the city skyline were filmed in Manhattan's skyscrapers and business districts. The area around Wall Street and Midtown Manhattan perfectly reflects the show's cold and distant atmosphere.
- Long Island & Hamptons – Luxury Mansions
Some of the scenes offering a glimpse into the private lives of the Roy family were filmed in ultra-luxurious homes on Long Island and in the Hamptons. These locations are among the places that most clearly convey the series' sense of "unattainable wealth."
- Italy – Tuscany & Lake Como
One of the series' most memorable season finales was filmed in Italy. The historic villas of Tuscany and the surroundings of Lake Como served as the backdrop for some of the show's peak moments, both visually and narratively. Following these scenes, tourist interest in the region increased noticeably.
- Croatia – Dubrovnik
Some of the European scenes were filmed in Dubrovnik, the pearl of the Adriatic. Stone structures, seascapes, and historic harbors visually supported the series' international power struggles.
- England – London
London was frequently used for scenes depicting the Roy family's business connections and their involvement in the media world. The city is one of the key locations that reinforces the series' theme of a global media empire.
Traveling along the Succession route means exploring the world's financial and power centers, rather than just a classic tourist trip. From the skyscrapers of New York to the aristocratic villas of Italy, this route offers a truly "Succession-esque" journey for fans of the series.
7. Euphoria – United States
(Los Angeles & Southern California)
Bright neon lights, striking makeup, and the most vulnerable aspects of youth… Euphoria is more than just a teen series; with its emotional intensity, visual language, and bold storytelling, it's one of the most talked-about productions of recent years.
Starring Zendaya, for whom she won an Emmy, the series addresses themes such as addiction, identity search, relationships, and teenage angst in a dramatic yet aesthetically pleasing way. Euphoria, a drama, creates the feeling of watching a feature film through its use of music and cinematography.
The series' unforgettable appeal stems not only from its story but also from its filming locations. Almost all of Euphoria was shot in Los Angeles and Southern California, one of America's most cinematic cities. Wide avenues, palm trees, coastal towns, and pastel-toned neighborhoods complement the series' melancholic yet captivating atmosphere.
Where was Euphoria filmed? Under the neon lights of Los Angeles.
- Los Angeles – City Streets & Neighborhoods
Most of the school, home, and neighborhood scenes we see in the series were filmed in different neighborhoods of Los Angeles. The suburban areas, in particular, perfectly reflect the series' feeling of "everything seems normal, but deep down it's broken."
- Burbank – School Scene
The high school scenes in the series were filmed on a school campus in Burbank. This location, central to the teen drama, served as the setting for some of Euphoria's most iconic scenes.
- Long Beach & Coastline
Long Beach and its surroundings were used for the beach scenes and transition shots that evoked a sense of freedom. Sunsets, ocean views, and empty streets visually reinforced the series' themes of loneliness and escape.
- San Fernando Valley – Suburban Life
Many of the home scenes and episodes showing the characters' daily lives were filmed in the San Fernando Valley. This area is one of the locations that best reflects the series' "American suburban youth" theme.
Exploring the Euphoria route means discovering a quieter, more authentic, and more fragile side of Los Angeles, more than just passing under the Hollywood sign. The streets, which seem ordinary in daylight as much as the neon lights, embody the spirit of the series.
8. The Boys – United States & Canada
(Toronto, Hamilton & surrounding areas)
Showing the dark side behind the caped heroes, The Boys is one of the productions that completely turned the superhero genre upside down. Becoming one of Amazon Prime Video's most-watched series, it blends power, corruption, media manipulation, and a critique of popular culture with harsh but dark humor. Combining action, drama, and dark comedy, The Boys consciously eliminates the usual "hero-villain" dichotomy.
One of the reasons the series garnered so much attention is its incredibly realistic urban atmosphere. Although the story is told as if it takes place in America, a large portion of The Boys was filmed in and around Toronto, Canada, thanks to production advantages. Modern skyscrapers, wide streets, and the cold urban fabric successfully reflect the series' harsh and chaotic tone.
Where was The Boys filmed? The Dark Cities of Superheroes
- Toronto – Vought Tower & City Centers
Many of the scenes featuring the Vought building and the city center, which we frequently see in the series, were filmed in Toronto. The financial district and high-rise buildings visually reinforce the series' theme of "corporate power."
- Hamilton – Industrial Areas
Industrial areas in Hamilton were chosen for the darker, harsher, and at times more disturbing scenes. Abandoned factories and grey streets are key details that enhance the dystopian feel of the series.
- Mississauga & Etobicoke – Suburban Scene
Scenes showing the characters' private lives and internal conflicts were filmed in suburban areas surrounding Toronto. These locations emphasize the series' message that "heroes live like ordinary people."
- Ontario Film Studios – Interior Shots
The majority of the Vought offices, laboratories, and indoor scenes were filmed on sets built in studios in Ontario.
Exploring The Boys route is less about flashy superhero costumes and more about discovering the cold, harsh face of modern cities. Walking the streets of Toronto, it's easy to recognize many scenes from the series.
9. Dark – Germany
(Berlin, Brandenburg & surrounding areas)
Dark, perhaps one of Netflix's most complex yet impactful productions, is more than just a series; it's a puzzle built around time, fate, and human nature. This German science fiction-thriller series made a huge impact worldwide from the moment it was released and quickly rose to the top of "must-watch series" lists. Its story, revolving around time travel, family ties, and dark secrets, and its captivating atmosphere, make it one of the rare productions that truly draws the viewer in.
One of the main reasons Dark is so memorable is the somber and realistic texture of the locations where it was filmed. The grey skies, foggy forests, and abandoned buildings we see throughout the series are all from real locations in Germany. Although the town of Winden is fictional, its feel is very familiar: quiet, unsettling, and mysterious.
Where was Dark filmed? What is Winden's real-world counterpart?
- Berlin – City and Industrial Areas
Some of the city scenes and interior shots we see in the series were filmed in Berlin. The abandoned industrial buildings, in particular, are among the elements that reinforce the series' dark atmosphere.
- Brandenburg – Forests & Natural Areas
The forest scenes surrounding Winden were filmed in the dense woodlands of the Brandenburg region of Germany. The foggy weather, narrow paths, and silence are among the most important details that increase the tension of the series.
- Reinbeck & Surroundings – Small-town feel
Winden's streets, houses, and town atmosphere were created using small settlements around Berlin. These areas successfully reflect the series' feeling of "everything seems normal, but nothing is normal."
- Old Power Plants & Tunnel Sets
The nuclear power plant scenes and cave passages were filmed both in real locations and on specially constructed sets in Berlin. The sense of realism is one of the most striking aspects of the series.
Traveling along the Dark route is less about a classic European tour and more about getting lost among quiet towns, deep forests, and mysterious structures. These regions, easily accessible from Berlin, are quite impressive for those who want to experience the series' atmosphere firsthand.
10. Money Heist (La Casa de Papel) – Spain
(Madrid & surrounding areas)
Red jumpsuits, Dali masks, and Bella Ciao… Money Heist is more than just a series; it's one of those rare productions that quickly became a global pop culture phenomenon. Reaching millions worldwide thanks to Netflix, the series captivated viewers by combining the heist theme with political subtext, character drama, and fast-paced action. The Professor's ingenious plans, Tokyo's chaotic portrayal, and Berlin's charisma are among the elements that make the series unforgettable.
But one of the details that makes Money Heist so iconic is the locations where it was filmed. Many of the scenes we see throughout the series were shot in real and familiar places in Madrid, considered the heart of Spain. This greatly reinforces the feeling of "I would go there" while watching the series.
Where was Money Heist filmed? Stops along the route in the red jumpsuit.
- Madrid – National Library of Spain (instead of Banco de España)
The building we see as the Royal Mint in the series is actually the Spanish National Library in Madrid. With its impressive neoclassical architecture, this structure has hosted some of the most iconic scenes of the series.
- Banco de España – Outdoor Scene
The bank scenes we see in later seasons of the series were filmed using the exterior of the real Banco de España building. Located in the center of Madrid, this structure visually reinforces the "anti-establishment" atmosphere of the series.
- Madrid City Center – Street and Escape Scenes
The crowded streets, squares, and alleyways are perfect for the series' fast-paced chase scenes. Madrid's vibrant city life perfectly complements the energy of Money Heist.
- Madrid Studios – Interior Shots
Most of the interior scenes of the mint and bank were filmed on specially constructed sets in Madrid. This allowed for both realism and dramatic control.
Exploring the Money Heist route is much more than a classic Madrid tour. The city, with its historic buildings, spacious squares, and vibrant streets, still embodies the spirit of the series. Even standing on the library steps and reminiscing about the opening scenes is a delightful experience in itself.