Destinations For Your Next Chapter
Their location inspired some of the most famous authors in the world. Whether cultural lifestyle or bewildering landscapes, writers are drawn to write from these geographical influences. There’s a reason why some places attract writers, from artist-supported cities to zen destinations. We’ve made a master list for those seeking a good place to write or discover where the best literature has spawned.
1. Ireland
The Irish are known for their gift of the gab and their storytelling ballads. Poetry and folklore are deeply rooted in their culture and the government recognizes the importance of the arts and prioritizes nurturing talent. The rolling green hills and castle ruins set a scene for fairytales while their artistic cities attract writers who want to be the next Oscar Wilde.
2. Paris, France
Paris is the heart of the arts which explains why so many artists live there. It’s no wonder writers are heavily influenced by all the artistic talent around them, from the galleries to the cobblestone streets. The gorgeous architecture and plethora of people-watching cafes are the grounds for creativity. Their vibrant literary culture has a rich history calling those to follow the footsteps of Hemingway and Fitzgerald.
3. British Columbia, Canada
There’s something about the mountains and the turquoise lakes that makes you want to get lost in the wilderness and do nothing but write. With postcard-worthy scenes around every bend, BC is the coastal province you want to explore if serene nature is the perfect stage for your writing.
4. Germany
Germany provides artist grants and literary funding programs to help writers pursue a career in literature. Since Berlin is arguably the most eclectic city, writers are heavily influenced by diverse characters and a culture that applauds individuality and creativity. The country's historical sites drenched in mythology and dark tales set the scene for stories. The Brothers Grimm would strongly agree.
5. Norway
The breathtaking scenery in Norway is enough to spark creativity in anyone. The country provides a multitude of funding programs and residences for writers and they feel strongly supported. If their Scandinavian lifestyle and coastal landscape aren’t enough therapy to boost your vocabulary, their spas might encourage story brainstorming sessions.
6. Kyoto, Japan
The city’s balance of pristine nature, cultural heritage, and tranquil charm make Kyoto a haven for writers. Its gardens and temples provide you with places of zen within a vibrant city, ideal for calm contemplation. Kyoto is a city full of creative minds with an origin influenced by haiku poetry.
7. Barcelona, Spain
With detailed architecture and a vibrant market scene, Barcelona is a sensory overload in the best way. It’s a city of visuals, adorned with Gaudi masterpieces set in front of a Mediterranean backdrop. Barcelona is heavily influenced by artistic talent and hosts several literary festivals each year.
8. Prague, Czech Republic
Echoing a medieval city from a fairytale, Prague has been a muse for writers for centuries. Its old-fashioned charm and winding streets encourage dreamy strolls for observing and pondering. The city provides many literary cafes and libraries, influencing a culture for reading and writing.
9. Iceland
For writers seeking solitude and inspiration, escape to Iceland for an otherworldly experience in a natural oasis. Place yourself in a remote location of vast wilderness where Mother Nature can aid your writing. Reykjavik, the Icelandic capital, hosts the International Literary Festival annually, proving its support of the craft.
10. Newfoundland, Canada
The east coast of Canada is a tantalizing display of a rugged landscape against a vast ocean. With a culture heavily influenced by the Irish, it’s no surprise that storytelling is greatly encouraged. Newfoundland has a laidback vibe and a deep connection to nature that make it a stress-free setting for writers.
11. Mumbai, India
Mumbai is the birthplace of the legendary author Rudyard Kipling who wrote the Jungle Book. The city is featured in the world-famous story and has appeared in several other bestsellers as well. The city is rooted in cultural tradition and spirituality, providing writers with a scene of tranquility for deep contemplation.
12. Cartagena, Columbia
Latin America’s most beloved literary genre is magical realism and Cartagena is strongly associated with it. Renowned author, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, often refers to the city in his novels. The colorful streets, carefree atmosphere, and proximity to a tropical ocean make it a writer’s paradise.
VillegasProducciones on Pixabay
13. Edinburgh, Scotland
As the world’s first UNESCO City of Literature, there’s no doubt that Edinburgh is a top destination for aspiring writers. With a rich history of literary talent and a plethora of libraries, this whimsical city is ideal for writing. Its historical Poet’s Pub and The Elephant House are a poet’s dream and the countryside will inspire a fantasy novel.
14. San Francisco, United States
San Francisco is the stomping ground for poets and writers of all genres. It’s an artistic city hosting Litquake, the largest literary festival on the West Coast. City Lights Bookstore is a famous meeting space and several other venues can be found full of author readings and book signings.
15. Tangier, Morocco
If the natural beauty of this coastal paradise isn’t enough to inspire you, the city’s collection of literary venues sure will. Tangier is a colorful place with charming bookstores, libraries, and cafes. The International Books and Arts Exhibition is hosted here each year, bustling with conferences, workshops, and readings.
16. Bath, England
Bath has been described in the pages of books frequently, including the beloved novels by Jane Austen. The entire region has a literary state of mind that has encouraged writers for some time. It’s a small English town with huge literary events, festivals, and writing venues making it an author’s gem.
17. Santiago, Chile
Santiago is the mountain-view home to a long list of Chilean writers. Many eye-catching murals throughout the city showcase these writers’ influences on the community. Santiago is littered with bookstores and poet museums that’ll inspire any writer.
victor san martin on Wikimedia
18. Krakow, Poland
The oldest bookstore in the world is nestled within Krakow, operating since the 1600s. It’s a UNESCO city of literature that hosts many festivals including one of the largest poetry celebrations at the Milosz Festival. Enchanting bookstores scatter across the city and you’ll pass several statues of literary legends as you stroll down the historical streets.
19. Hay-On-Wye, Wales
Hay-On-Wye is often described as the “town of books” and is also claimed as the National Book Town of Wales. Its strong writing culture is obvious with a ratio of bookshops to people being 2 for every 150. The charming town features castles and is surrounded by an endless countryside, providing enchanting scenery for stories.
20. Florence, Italy
The Italian culture encourages a lifestyle that values creativity. You can see it across its cities in the architecture and world-famous artworks. Writers will find Florence an inspirational home base as an artist city rich in history and a gateway to the stunning landscape the countryside of Italy has to offer.
