A game-vacation is a rapidly growing trend in 2025. Whether we realise it or not, games are integrated into a lot of our trips. There are filming locations, hotels with game consoles, or maybe you’ve even thought about taking your console away with you! It’s no surprise there’s been a surge in travellers booking holidays based on where their favourite game is set.
We’ll take a look at some popular game-vacation destinations as well as some trending activities to inspire you to level up your travel.
Race over to Japan for their Super Nintendo World
Japan is often known for its gaming culture so a game-vacation here is a must. In 2021 they opened Super Nintendo World, allowing you to step into the world of your favourite characters. The popular Super Mario game comes to life here with guests being able to go on an actual Mario Kart ride. Plus, guests can tap a ‘power-up’ wristband and collect virtual coins as they explore. Originally scheduled to open in 2020, this world’s first park was worth the wait, and it is already a must-see if you go to Japan.
Alternatively, for something more relaxing, Japan has several gaming-themed cafes such as a Pokemon café. With themed food and decorations this is another experience you don’t want to miss. Remember to look up the local laws and customs before you go as tipping your waiter in Japan is actually considered rude. It’s always worth brushing up so you can travel with peace of mind.
If you are looking for something more adventurous, Japan offers street kart racing. Dress up like your favourite character and experience real-life kart racing. If you are worried about insurance, our Adventures policy has got you covered.
Get your game on in Europe
In Amsterdam, you can experience a game-vacation by booking an arcade hotel. This world first hotel features retro gaming consoles in each room as well as a communal gaming area. It is a unique way to meet fellow players and experience the city. They also host events such as talks about game making, or they have seasonal events like a Valentines Day gaming event. Last year there was a 10% increase in bookings of hotels with games consoles, so make sure you get involved with this trend!
While you’re here, why not visit some of the sites from your favourite video games. Set in Amsterdam are some of the Call of Duty games, such as Modern Warfare 2. Walk along the famous canal as they do in the game and enjoy comparing the real thing to what you’ve seen while playing.
Get inspired by games–turned–movies
There are quite a few popular games that have now got their own films, such as the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. The third film came out very recently, in December 2024, so this is the perfect game-vacation inspiration to kick off your 2025.
The latest edition to the franchise was filmed in several different countries. From London, California, Tokyo and even Norway. There are so many places to explore and get a taste of being in this game. In particular, some mountain scenes were shot in the Innerdalen Valley in Norway. From the carpark, it takes around 60 minutes to walk to Innerdalen and is classed as ‘suitable for all ages’. This is the perfect way to explore the countryside and take inspiration from your favourite gaming and film franchise.
Gotta catch them all in Scotland
If you’re looking for a game-vacation, then the biggest video gaming franchise of all time is actually the Pokémon franchise. We mentioned them briefly earlier, but Pokémon not only have many successful games, but they also have film adaptations too. Their film Detective Pikachu came out in 2019 and was a quick success with many people hoping for a sequel.
The Detective Pikachu film looked to be set in a mixture of London, New York and Tokyo but they managed to film a majority of the film in the UK. London proved a perfect backdrop, and they also shot in Scotland for some of the countryside scenes. You may recognise the River Affric in Scotland where a lot of the action takes place. This is an ideal place to take a staycation and explore, you will feel like you’ve stepped right into the Pokémon world.
Meet fellow players at a gaming convention
For a different gaming experience, why not look at Gamescom in Cologne, Germany. This is the world’s leading gaming event, and they have roughly 335 thousand visitors from over 120 countries visit the event. This year it is being held in August, and you can look forward to guest speakers, areas to play card or digital games and even a cosplay competition. This should be on any game fans bucket list as everything comes together in one place. If you’re lucky, you could even be the first to hear about new game releases.
Take a walk on the wild side like in Far Cry 4
A wild game-vacation to consider is heading to Nepal, which is where the paradise Kyrat is based from the game Far Cry 4. Nepal is home to various wildlife species, whether you fancy tiger spotting, sailing along the river, or a safari through the national park, there is plenty to do. This is similar to the game which has many exotic animals, and just as you can in the game, you can take photos of these animals as you explore. Why not give this a go in real life!
In this particular game, you also have the ability to ride elephants and whilst you can’t do exactly that in Nepal, you can watch them from afar. Exploring national parks is an excellent way to spend your holiday and get a breath of fresh air.
Remember to get your insurance
How long will it be before you book your game-vacation? With so much on offer, it’s no surprise they’re so popular.
Whichever game-vacation you end up doing, P J Hayman has you covered. With an array of specialist products, we’re here so you can game and travel with confidence. Why not get a quote today?
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