Forget the standard beach break. A new wave of travellers is planning their getaways around dog-eared pages and beloved authors, turning literary inspiration into a booming tourism trend. According to Skyscanner's Annual Trends report for 2026, the 'Bookbound' movement is set to dominate, with globetrotters tracing the footsteps of fictional heroes and seeking out the world's most celebrated bookshops and libraries.
Research from the travel search giant reveals that almost half of all travellers have either booked or would consider a trip inspired by literature. A separate study by CV Villas, which analysed mentions of over 140 destinations in books, has identified the locations with the strongest literary links that are seeing significant growth in visitor interest.
Swap the Crowded Classics for These Literary Gems
While iconic spots like Paris's Café de Flore or Venice's Harry's Bar hold undeniable appeal, they often come with lengthy queues and a distinct lack of authenticity. The key to a truly memorable bookish holiday lies in seeking out equally evocative but less overwhelmed alternatives. We've curated a list of classic literary destinations and their worthy, crowd-free counterparts.
Pass on Paris, Frolic on the French Riviera
Paris is, unsurprisingly, a literary pilgrimage site. From the historic cafes of Saint-Germain-des-Prés to the hallowed shelves of Shakespeare and Company, the city is steeped in writerly lore. However, the experience can be diluted by the sheer volume of tourists.
For a more serene yet equally inspiring French escape, set your sights on the Côte d'Azur. The French Riviera has long been a muse for novelists, from F. Scott Fitzgerald, who set 'Tender is the Night' in Antibes, to Celia Imrie's 'Not Quite Nice'. Charming coastal towns like Villefranche-sur-Mer and the hilltop village of Eze offer breathtaking scenery and a slower pace, perfect for a contemplative retreat.
Avoid the Amalfi Crowds, Discover Durrell's Corfu
Patricia Highsmith's 'The Talented Mr. Ripley' drew inspiration from Positano on Italy's Amalfi Coast, a region recently boosted again by Rebecca Serle's bestselling 'One Italian Summer'. While stunning, the Amalfi Coast is now notoriously packed, especially in peak season.
For a sun-drenched literary alternative, consider the Greek island of Corfu, immortalised in Gerald Durrell's beloved trilogy, beginning with 'My Family and Other Animals'. You can seek out the island's quieter beaches like Megas Choros or Cape Drastis, enjoying the same idyllic landscapes that captivated the Durrell family in the 1930s, but with far fewer fellow visitors.
Trade Sprawling London for the Refined Elegance of Bath
London's literary landmarks are endless—from the Harry Potter platform at King's Cross to Sherlock Holmes's Baker Street. For a more concentrated and manageable dose of bookish history, however, the city of Bath is a perfect choice. Recently crowned the best city in the UK in Condé Nast's 2025 Readers' Choice Awards, Bath is intrinsically linked to Jane Austen.
The celebrated author lived there from 1801 to 1806, and the city marked her 250th birthday in December 2025. Visitors can explore the majestic Bath Abbey, the ancient Roman Baths, and wander honey-hued streets lined with excellent cafes, all with a more relaxed ambiance than the capital.
More Book-Inspired Swaps for the Discerning Traveller
Skip Madrid for La Mancha: While Hemingway famously dined at Madrid's Botín restaurant, the vast, windmill-dotted plains of La Mancha offer a deeper immersion into Spanish literature. Follow the 'Ruta de Don Quixote' to truly walk in the footsteps of Cervantes' iconic knight.
Swap New York for New Orleans: The Big Apple is a literary powerhouse, but for a unique Southern flavour, head to New Orleans. The setting for Tennessee Williams' 'A Streetcar Named Desire' and a newly crowned foodie capital (topping Time Out's 2025 list), its vibrant French Quarter offers culture, cuisine, and history.
Veer from Venice to Verona: Over-tourism has challenged Venice's charm. For a romantic Italian alternative with formidable literary credentials, choose Verona, the immortal setting for Shakespeare's 'Romeo and Juliet'. Visit Juliet's balcony and the ancient Roman amphitheatre without the intense crowds.
Dodge Marrakech for Tangier: The frenetic energy of Marrakech can overwhelm. For a calmer, intellectually charged Moroccan experience, visit Tangier. A haunt for writers like Ian Fleming and Tennessee Williams, it retains an art deco beauty and a rustic, unkempt charm felt in its historic cafes and cinemas.
Packing for Your Perfect 'Bookcation'
If you're planning a literature-inspired getaway, the right accessories can enhance your journey. Essential items include:
- An e-reader like the Amazon Kindle Colorsoft Signature Edition for a portable library.
- A durable, stylish case to protect your device, such as one from Burga.
- A compact reading light for nighttime reading without disturbing others.
- A spacious tote bag, like The General Classification's Ciao tote, to carry your literary essentials.
- A high-capacity power bank to ensure your gadgets never run out of juice.
The trend is clear: travellers are increasingly using stories as their guidebooks. By choosing the path less crowded, you can find the authentic atmosphere and inspiration that these literary landscapes were meant to provide.
