Emmy-nominated TV shows are not just dominating this year’s awards conversation – they are also inspiring viewers to explore the destinations, landscapes and cultures that bring their favourite stories to life. From the historic streets of London and New York to the dramatic castles of Scotland and the vibrant neighbourhoods of Chicago, these series prove that location can be just as memorable as the characters themselves.
Following the release of the 2026 Emmy nominations full list, the race is now underway ahead of the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, hosted by Mariska Hargitay at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles on September 14, 2026. Whether these shows take home the biggest awards of the night or simply remain some of the most talked-about series of the year, these Emmy-nominated TV shows are worth adding to your watchlist – and potentially your travel bucket list.
From the grand estates of The Gilded Age to the Scottish Highlands of The Traitors and the London streets featured in Bait and Slow Horses, this guide explores the Emmy-nominated TV shows where the setting is part of the story. Below is the full list of must-watch destinations on screen, proving that sometimes the best way to discover a place is through the stories filmed there.
The Gilded Age
Emmy nominations: Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (Carrie Coon), Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series (Merritt Wever) and more.
Set in 1880s New York City, The Gilded Age brings the city’s elite society to life through grand Fifth Avenue mansions, while its lavish Newport, Rhode Island settings showcase America’s historic Gilded Age estates.
The Diplomat
Emmy nominations: Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Lead Actress in a Drama Series (Keri Russell), Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (Rufus Sewell), Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Drama Series (Allison Janney) and more.
Moving between Washington, D.C., and London, The Diplomat uses two global capitals as the backdrop for political negotiations, international tensions, and diplomatic intrigue.
Slow Horses
Emmy nominations: Outstanding Drama Series, Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series (Gary Oldman), Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama Series (Jack Lowden), and Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series (Jonathan Pryce).
Set across London, Slow Horses explores the city’s hidden corners and government corridors as a team of disgraced MI5 agents navigates the world of espionage and secrets.
Widow’s Bay
Emmy nominations: Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series (Matthew Rhys), Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (Dale Dickey), Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (Kate O’Flynn), and Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (Stephen Root).
Set in the fictional coastal town of Widow’s Bay, the series uses its seaside setting to explore small-town relationships, community, and unexpected chaos.
Love Story: John F. Kennedy Jr. & Carolyn Bessette
Emmy nominations: Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series or Movie, Outstanding Lead Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie (Sarah Pidgeon), Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie (Constance Zimmer).
Set against the backdrop of 1990s New York City, the series makes it on our list of Emmy-nominated TV shows by exploring the glamorous world of Manhattan society, fashion, and one of America’s most famous couples.
The Four Seasons
Emmy nominations: Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (Colman Domingo).
Following friendships and relationships through seasonal getaways, The Four Seasons captures the escapism of travelling together and the changing landscapes that shape each chapter of life.
People We Meet on Vacation
Emmy nominations: Outstanding Television Movie.
Filmed across New Orleans, Louisiana and Spain’s Costa Brava, People We Meet on Vacation turns travel, adventure, and new places into the heart of its romantic story.
The Traitors
Emmy nominations: Outstanding Reality Competition Program, Outstanding Host for a Reality or Reality Competition Program (Alan Cumming).
Filmed in a dramatic Scottish castle surrounded by the Highlands, The Traitors transforms Scotland’s landscapes into the perfect setting for mystery, strategy, and deception.
The Bear
Emmy nominations: Outstanding Comedy Series, Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series (Ayo Edebiri), Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series (Harrison Ford) and more.
Set in Chicago, The Bear is a love letter to the city’s neighbourhoods, food scene and local culture as a young chef fights to transform his family’s restaurant.
Bait
Emmy nominations: Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie (Riz Ahmed).
Location: Set in London, Bait explores the city’s modern creative world through its neighbourhoods, capturing the energy, ambition and diversity of the capital.
Enjoyed learning more about these Emmy-nominated TV shows? Discover every nominee across drama, comedy, limited series, reality, and more with our complete guide to the 2026 Emmy nominations full list.