Where was People We Meet on Vacation filmed?

People We Meet on Vacation filming locations take you to exciting cities in the USA and Spain, where you can immerse yourself in history, culture, and fun activities. This romantic comedy is based on a bestselling novel of the same name (You and Me on Vacation in the UK and Australia) by Emily Henry. The story follows best friends Poppy and Alex, their travels together, and their attempts to decide if their bond is meant to be more than just friendship. From soulful cities to sunlit shores, this film’s journey unfolds across locations that bring depth, atmosphere, and visual poetry to the screen. Each destination was chosen not just for its beauty, but for its ability to reflect emotion, culture, and a sense of place that resonates with the story’s themes. New Orleans pulses with rhythm and soul that sets the stage for scenes filled with life and character. Across the Atlantic, Barcelona dazzles with Mediterranean energy, while Girona enchants with its medieval streets, and Lloret de Mar brings coastal drama that feels tailor-made for the big screen. Together, these locations form a visual and emotional journey that mirrors the characters’ own transformations. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant cityscapes or tranquil seaside escapes, this movie invites you to explore the world through a lens of wonder.

01

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA

The city of jazz, soul, spice, and cinematic charm

The ever-vibrant New Orleans served as the primary filming base for the movie. The city’s eclectic architecture, lively streets, and atmospheric beauty provided a stunning backdrop for many of the film’s urban scenes, including hotels, cafes, and airport sequences.

Cameras have reportedly been rolling in the French Quarter. Known for its energetic streets, like Bourbon Street and Royal Street, historic architecture, and jazz-filled ambiance, this iconic neighborhood would be a captivating backdrop for several scenes, including street strolls and cafe moments. Another likely setting for romantic or reflective scenes would be Jackson Square, given its picturesque surroundings and cultural significance. This lively plaza is surrounded by artists, musicians, and photogenic buildings like St. Louis Cathedral and The Cabildo. Louis Armstrong Park, with its lush greenery and musical heritage, may have been used for quieter, emotional moments between the main characters.

New Orleans is bursting with culture, history, music, and unforgettable food. Some of the best things to do in the city have you discovering its heritage in more ways than just one. Take your time to explore The National WWII Museum, which is one of the top-rated museums in the USA, offering immersive exhibits and powerful storytelling about World War II. The Cabildo Museum, next to the cathedral, houses rare artifacts, including Napoleon’s death mask and Jordan Noble’s drum, while the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) features over 40,000 works of art and an impressive outdoor sculpture garden. To fuel your urban explorations, savor some of the highlights of French-Creole cuisine, such as gumbo (a hearty stew made with a dark roux, okra, and either seafood or meat), jambalaya (a one-pot rice dish with meat, seafood, and vegetables, similar to Spanish paella), and anything with fresh seafood. If you have a sweet tooth, try the delicious beignets (deep-fried dough squares dusted with powdered sugar) and chicory coffee for dessert.

New Orleans has a deep and enduring relationship with music. It’s often called the birthplace of jazz, but its musical legacy spans far beyond that. It’s home to blues, gospel, funk, zydeco, R&B, and bounce music, and the city’s music reflects its multicultural roots. French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences all play a role. Music is also woven into daily life, from brass bands at second line parades to street performers in Jackson Square. Head over to Frenchmen Street, which is a hub for live music, with intimate clubs and bars offering everything from jazz to funk, and don’t miss Preservation Hall in the French Quarter, which remains a sacred space for traditional jazz performances. To witness how music takes center stage, visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest.

In the movie, various historic boutique New Orleans hotels were used to depict the characters’ travel experiences. To feel the same vibes and stay overnight in style, check into the stunning Place D’Armes Hotel or the palatial Hotel Monteleone. You’ll wake up to a new day refreshed and all ready to discover what this intriguing Louisiana city has to offer.

02

Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

From Gothic alleys to golden beaches

In Barcelona, the production team captured scenes for a destination wedding and other European vacation moments. Barcelona’s legendary cityscapes and Mediterranean verve added a cosmopolitan and romantic flair to the story. The beach scenes were filmed in Barceloneta Beach, one of the most iconic beaches in the city. It’s popular with locals and visitor alike, and known for its street performers, chiringuitos (beach bars), fun activities, and proximity to the city center. The beach’s fine sand and calm waters make sunbathing and swimming a treat. You can also try paddleboarding, windsurfing, or jet skiing, or simply enjoy a stroll along the scenic boardwalk, Passeig Marítim. It’s been speculated that Barceloneta might have doubled for Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast in the film.

Another Barcelona location to showcase European charm in the movie would be the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic). With its narrow alleys, Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and dynamic street life, it’s one of the city’s most captivating and historic neighborhoods. Nestled in Barcelona’s old city, it brings old-world charm and modern energy, boutique shops, cafes, and street performers to the big screen. Visit the Barcelona Cathedral (Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia) and climb to the rooftop for panoramic views of the city. If you’re looking for a fantastic spot for dining, nightlife, or people-watching, head over to the Plaça Reial square, adorned by palm trees, ornate arcades, and Gaudí-designed lampposts. History buffs will love the MUHBA (Museum of the History of Barcelona), where you can see Roman walls, streets, and even a wine-making facility beneath the city. To snap an iconic Gothic Quarter photo, make your way to Carrer del Bisbe. On this pretty street, you can find Pont del Bisbe, the famous neo-Gothic bridge connecting two historic buildings.

While not officially confirmed, Park Güell and Sagrada Família may also appear in establishing shots or montages. These celebrated landmarks are a must-visit when in Barcelona, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites and designed by the legendary architect Antoni Gaudí. Park Güell is one of Barcelona’s most imaginative landmarks, originally conceived as a residential garden city. The park showcases Gaudí’s signature style: organic shapes, colorful mosaics, and integration with nature. Combining architectural elements with natural forms, it creates a whimsical, dreamlike landscape. You can walk through stone viaducts and winding paths that blend seamlessly into the hillside at your own pace or book a guided tour for a stress-free way to explore this vast park, its highlights, and hidden nooks. The Sagrada Família is one of the most unique churches in the world and a masterpiece of Catalan Modernisme. Construction began in 1882 and is still ongoing, making it one of the longest-running architectural projects in modern history. Every facade, tower, and interior detail is rich with religious symbolism, representing aspects of Christ’s life, nature, and the divine. To fully appreciate the symbolism and architecture, take a guided tour or use an audio guide. Sagrada Família is among the most popular attractions in Barcelona, so be sure to book your tickets well in advance.

Barcelona’s hotels and guesthouses welcome you to stay and enjoy their stellar amenities and wake up well rested to a new day of exploration. Should you run out of things to do in this magnificent city, you’d still have the rest of the fascinating Catalonia region to discover.

03

Girona, Catalonia, Spain

A medieval dream with a modern heartbeat

Nestled between the Pyrenees and the Costa Brava, Girona is a captivating city that combines medieval charisma with energetic modern life. The film’s cast and crew have been sighted in this impressive city, and it might feature in the movie’s wedding scenes and romantic interludes, adding a dreamy ambiance to the story. And it’s not Girona’s first time in front of the cameras. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize several filming locations scattered throughout the city.

Just an hour from Barcelona by train, it’s a fantastic destination for a day trip or a longer stay. Girona invites you to wander through its cobbled streets, explore centuries-old architecture, and soak in the rich cultural atmosphere. Among Girona’s most legendary features is its Old Town (Barri Vell), where you’ll find the Jewish Quarter (El Call), one of the best-preserved in Europe. Lose yourself in its labyrinth of narrow alleys and hidden courtyards. The Girona Cathedral, with its record-breaking single nave and stunning Gothic and Baroque elements, towers above the city and offers panoramic views from its steps. Walk along the ancient city walls for breathtaking vistas, or cross the colorful Eiffel Bridge over the Onyar River, lined with picturesque houses in warm hues.

Girona is a food lover’s dream, offering a rich and diverse culinary scene that blends traditional Catalan flavors with cutting-edge gastronomy. Whether you’re craving rustic comfort food or avant-garde tasting menus, this charming city delivers unforgettable dining experiences. Girona’s cuisine is deeply rooted in regional traditions. Don’t miss the chance to try local specialties like escudella i carn d’olla (a hearty stew with meats, vegetables, and sausages), pa amb tomàquet (rustic bread rubbed with ripe tomato, olive oil, and salt), botifarra amb mongetes (grilled pork sausage served with white beans), and xuixo (a cream-filled pastry). Explore local markets like El Lleó to sample fresh produce, cheeses, and cured meats. Girona’s food scene is enriched by Empordà wines, olive oils, wild mushrooms, and Ratafia, a sweet herbal liqueur. One of the best things to do in Girona is to book a food tour and explore the city’s flavors and stories.

Girona boasts authenticity and charm, and it feels both intimate and grand. To stay in this city where every view is postcard-worthy, book into one of its stunning hotels or guesthouses. Its high-end accommodations combine elegance, comfort, and prime locations. A boutique hotel with a rooftop terrace and wellness cave or a chic establishment featuring a chocolate factory and gourmet breakfast will surely be a worthy home base for your Catalonian adventure. The budget-friendly options don’t skimp on charm or convenience, either. You’ll get to enjoy attractive gardens, spacious, rustic rooms, and proximity to the Old Town even when you’re travelling on a budget.

04

Lloret de Mar, Costa Brava, Spain

Movie magic from sea-swept vistas to storybook gardens

Some of the movie’s coastal scenes were filmed in Lloret de Mar in the Costa Brava region, known for its dramatic seaside cliffs, charming villages, and cinematic beauty. The lively coastal town of Lloret de Mar is an amazing base for a film crew, as it’s known for its stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and cultural and natural attractions that would evoke a striking, wanderlust-filled tone in any movie. Located about 43 miles north of Barcelona and close to Girona, Lloret de Mar is a popular destination for both couples and families. It boasts five Blue Flag beaches, like the main beach, Playa de Lloret, popular for sunbathing and water sports, and Fenals Beach for anyone seeking relaxation and tranquility. The production team of this movie was drawn to the Cala Boadella beach, possibly for its peaceful ambiance, turquoise waters, and pine-shaded spots.

The crew has also been seen working in the Santa Clotilde Gardens. These elegant Renaissance-style gardens perched above the sea between Fenals Beach and Cala Boadella offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. They are a standout example of Noucentisme, a Catalan cultural movement that embraced classical harmony, proportion, and beauty in the early 20th century. They feature symmetrical layouts, sculpted hedges, fountains, and mythological statues, including the celebrated mermaid staircase sculpted by Maria Llimona. The gardens are filled with Mediterranean flora like cypresses, pines, poplars, and flowering plants that bloom year-round.

Continue exploring Costa Brava’s unique nature and views on a hike on the Camí de Ronda, a striking coastal trail offering postcard-worthy vistas of cliffs and coves. It was originally built for civil guards to patrol against smugglers, but today, it’s a well-marked path ideal for hiking, walking, and nature photography, with sections suitable for all fitness levels. It’s also a part of the GR-92 long-distance trail, stretching over 124 miles from Blanes to Portbou, near the French border. Trek the 8-mile section from Lloret de Mar to Tossa de Mar and enjoy cliffside views and cool down at secluded beaches like Cala Banys and Cala dels Frares. This moderately challenging route ends in the medieval town of Tossa de Mar, known for its iconic castle and old town. Stop at local tapas bars along the way for authentic Catalan cuisine.

Back in Lloret de Mar, discover the town’s historic center and visit Church of Sant Romà, which combines Gothic and Modernist architecture, and the castles Castell d’en Plaja and Sant Joan to check out the view from their magnificent towers. Don’t miss the Modernist Cemetery and Can Garriga Maritime Museum for unique insights into local history and architecture. To discover more things to do in Lloret de Mar, book a room at one of the city’s versatile hotels, ranging from luxurious beachfront resorts to cozy, family-friendly hotels.

From the soulful streets of New Orleans to the sun-drenched shores of Lloret de Mar, this film invites you to a journey across continents that is as rich and vibrant as the locations themselves. Each city brings its own unique rhythm, architecture, and atmosphere to the story, creating a tapestry of cinematic beauty and cultural depth. Whether it’s the jazz-filled alleys of the French Quarter, the Gothic charm of Barcelona’s old city, the medieval magic of Girona, or the coastal elegance of Lloret de Mar, these destinations do more than serve as backdrops; they become characters in their own right. Together, they create a sense of wanderlust and discovery, inviting viewers to not only follow the characters’ emotional journeys but also to dream of their own. The film’s visual storytelling is elevated by these iconic settings and their history, nature, and local flavor, which enhances the narrative’s emotional resonance. The locations chosen reflect the heart of the story: connection, transformation, and the beauty of travel.

This cinematic voyage promises to leave you inspired to explore the world with fresh eyes and an open heart. So, start planning your next trip today.

Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with or endorsed by the producers of People We Meet on Vacation.