If you’ve ever finished A Court of Thorns and Roses and thought, I need to go there, you’re not alone. Sarah J. Maas’ beloved fantasy series is rich with sprawling forests, glittering palaces, and sweeping mountain vistas that spark serious wanderlust. While we (sadly) can’t portal into the Night Court or stroll through Velaris under starlight, there are real-world destinations that echo the beauty, mood, and magic of Prythian.
So if you’re ready to travel like a High Fae (or at least daydream like one), here are the perfect travel spots to channel your inner Feyre, Rhysand, or Nesta, and bring the ACOTAR universe to life.
Velaris, City of Starlight — Hallstatt, Austria
Velaris is the crown jewel of the Night Court: elegant, peaceful, and nestled between mountains with a river running through it. Its art galleries, quiet alleyways, and soft lights give off a timeless glow.
To recreate this dreamy escape, head to Hallstatt, Austria. Set on a lake with the Dachstein Alps rising behind it, this fairy-tale village is all cobblestone streets, candlelit restaurants, and pastel-hued buildings reflected in still water. Take a boat at sunset, visit local artisan shops, and sip wine under twinkle lights—just like a Night Court date night.
The Spring Court — Ashdown Forest, England
The Spring Court is full of lush forests, blooming flowers, and bright, endless gardens. Think golden sunlight streaming through green canopies and enough nature to make a painter weep (which, let’s be real, Feyre did).
For a real-life version, explore Ashdown Forest in East Sussex. This ancient woodland was the inspiration for the Hundred Acre Wood, but it also evokes the soft, enchanted vibe of Tamlin’s lands—minus the toxic politics. Pack a picnic, go wildflower spotting, and channel your inner Feyre-as-a-mortal, preferably while not being stalked by fae creatures.
The Court of Nightmares — Matera, Italy
Harsh, haunting, and carved into stone, the Court of Nightmares is not exactly the place for a relaxing break, but its drama and aesthetic are undeniable. To capture that underworld grandeur, visit Matera, Italy. This ancient cave city carved into limestone cliffs has the same cavernous, moody vibe as Hewn City. Explore its labyrinthine streets, dine in a cave restaurant, and soak in the eerie beauty of a city that feels half-shadow, half-light.
Photo by Taryn Elliott
The Illyrian Mountains — Banff National Park, Canada
The Illyrian warriors train in harsh mountain terrain, where snow, stone, and strength define the landscape. Sound intimidating? Yes. But also, stunning.
For real-world parallels, you can’t beat Banff, where jagged peaks meet ice-blue lakes and soaring eagles. Whether you’re hiking to a viewpoint like Rhysand flying to a cliff ledge or soaking in a hot spring post-training, Banff is about as Illyrian as it gets (minus Cassian’s attitude).
Photo by Marlon Martinez
The Summer Court — Santorini, Greece
Blue waters, white stone buildings, and a sense of effortless beauty—the Summer Court screams Mediterranean coastal energy. If you want to vacation like you just winnowed into the Summer Court, book a stay in Santorini. With its glittering sea views, sun-drenched terraces, and seafood-laden tables, you’ll feel like you’re dining with Tarquin himself (ideally without any political fallout). Bonus points if you wear white linen and pretend you’re on a diplomatic mission.
The Library Under the House of Wind — Trinity College Library, Dublin
For Nesta fans and book lovers alike, few locations in the series are as iconic (and comforting) as the secret library beneath the House of Wind. It’s quiet, mysterious, and filled with women finding strength in knowledge and community. While you won’t find a magical pit beast, the Long Room at Trinity College Library in Dublin comes close in terms of atmosphere. Towering bookshelves, dark wood, and whispered awe—it’s a sacred space for bookish souls.
Photo by Matt Hardy
How to Plan Your ACOTAR-Inspired Adventure
If you want to turn your love ofA Court of Thorns and Roses into an actual travel itinerary, here are a few tips to make the experience extra magical:
Pack with the vibe in mind: Think flowing dresses, earthy tones, dark velvets, or celestial accessories.
Bring the books: Reread key chapters while visiting each destination—it brings a whole new layer of immersion.
Create a themed playlist: Soundtrack your trip with music that channels each court’s energy.
Book accommodations with character: Look for boutique hotels, historic homes, or even castles.
Document it all: Snap photos, write journal entries, and share your journey with fellow ACOTAR fans online.
Travel has always been about more than just seeing new places—it’s about stepping into new worlds. And with ACOTAR’s vivid landscapes, rich lore, and emotionally-charged settings, it’s no wonder fans want to experience it beyond the page.
So whether you’re hiking snowy peaks, wandering quiet alleys, or sipping wine under the stars, you can bring a little bit of Prythian with you, no magic required.
If you’ve ever finished A Court of Thorns and Roses and thought, I need to go there, you’re not alone. Sarah J. Maas’ beloved fantasy series is rich with sprawling forests, glittering palaces, and sweeping mountain vistas that spark serious wanderlust. While we (sadly) can’t portal into the Night Court or stroll through Velaris under starlight, there are real-world destinations that echo the beauty, mood, and magic of Prythian.
So if you’re ready to travel like a High Fae (or at least daydream like one), here are the perfect travel spots to channel your inner Feyre, Rhysand, or Nesta, and bring the ACOTAR universe to life.
Velaris, City of Starlight — Hallstatt, Austria
Velaris is the crown jewel of the Night Court: elegant, peaceful, and nestled between mountains with a river running through it. Its art galleries, quiet alleyways, and soft lights give off a timeless glow.
To recreate this dreamy escape, head to Hallstatt, Austria. Set on a lake with the Dachstein Alps rising behind it, this fairy-tale village is all cobblestone streets, candlelit restaurants, and pastel-hued buildings reflected in still water. Take a boat at sunset, visit local artisan shops, and sip wine under twinkle lights—just like a Night Court date night.
The Spring Court — Ashdown Forest, England
The Spring Court is full of lush forests, blooming flowers, and bright, endless gardens. Think golden sunlight streaming through green canopies and enough nature to make a painter weep (which, let’s be real, Feyre did).
For a real-life version, explore Ashdown Forest in East Sussex. This ancient woodland was the inspiration for the Hundred Acre Wood, but it also evokes the soft, enchanted vibe of Tamlin’s lands—minus the toxic politics. Pack a picnic, go wildflower spotting, and channel your inner Feyre-as-a-mortal, preferably while not being stalked by fae creatures.
The Court of Nightmares — Matera, Italy
Harsh, haunting, and carved into stone, the Court of Nightmares is not exactly the place for a relaxing break, but its drama and aesthetic are undeniable. To capture that underworld grandeur, visit Matera, Italy. This ancient cave city carved into limestone cliffs has the same cavernous, moody vibe as Hewn City. Explore its labyrinthine streets, dine in a cave restaurant, and soak in the eerie beauty of a city that feels half-shadow, half-light.
The Illyrian Mountains — Banff National Park, Canada
The Illyrian warriors train in harsh mountain terrain, where snow, stone, and strength define the landscape. Sound intimidating? Yes. But also, stunning.
For real-world parallels, you can’t beat Banff, where jagged peaks meet ice-blue lakes and soaring eagles. Whether you’re hiking to a viewpoint like Rhysand flying to a cliff ledge or soaking in a hot spring post-training, Banff is about as Illyrian as it gets (minus Cassian’s attitude).
The Summer Court — Santorini, Greece
Blue waters, white stone buildings, and a sense of effortless beauty—the Summer Court screams Mediterranean coastal energy. If you want to vacation like you just winnowed into the Summer Court, book a stay in Santorini. With its glittering sea views, sun-drenched terraces, and seafood-laden tables, you’ll feel like you’re dining with Tarquin himself (ideally without any political fallout). Bonus points if you wear white linen and pretend you’re on a diplomatic mission.
The Library Under the House of Wind — Trinity College Library, Dublin
For Nesta fans and book lovers alike, few locations in the series are as iconic (and comforting) as the secret library beneath the House of Wind. It’s quiet, mysterious, and filled with women finding strength in knowledge and community. While you won’t find a magical pit beast, the Long Room at Trinity College Library in Dublin comes close in terms of atmosphere. Towering bookshelves, dark wood, and whispered awe—it’s a sacred space for bookish souls.
How to Plan Your ACOTAR-Inspired Adventure
If you want to turn your love of A Court of Thorns and Roses into an actual travel itinerary, here are a few tips to make the experience extra magical:
Travel has always been about more than just seeing new places—it’s about stepping into new worlds. And with ACOTAR’s vivid landscapes, rich lore, and emotionally-charged settings, it’s no wonder fans want to experience it beyond the page.
So whether you’re hiking snowy peaks, wandering quiet alleys, or sipping wine under the stars, you can bring a little bit of Prythian with you, no magic required.
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