When celebrities jet off on holiday, the world pays attention. Whether it’s a sparkling European lake, a snowy Arctic escape or a sun-drenched Caribbean island, their chosen destinations have a way of instantly becoming iconic. But behind the glamour and private jets, many of these hot spots are surprisingly accessible and you don’t need an A-list bank account to enjoy them.
From exclusive retreats favoured by Hollywood royalty to down-to-earth escapes loved by influencers and musicians, these are the celebrity holiday destinations you can actually visit.
Lake Como, Italy – Hollywood’s Timeless Hideaway
There’s a reason Lake Como remains one of the world’s most coveted celebrity bolt-holes. Nestled in the foothills of the Italian Alps, it offers the perfect mix of sophistication, beauty and near-total privacy. George Clooney famously bought Villa Oleandra here, and his presence alone turned the lake into a global talking point. Today, everyone from Taylor Swift to Matt Damon has been spotted strolling the lakeside or cruising across its mirror-like surface.
Despite its A-list reputation, Lake Como is remarkably accessible for everyday travellers. Quaint towns such as Bellagio and Varenna offer charming boutique hotels, atmospheric cafés and waterfront restaurants serving fresh pasta, local wine and incredible views.
Take the ferry across the lake, book a boat tour, or simply wander through cobblestone streets lined with pastel-coloured buildings. Even on a modest budget, you’ll get a taste of the glamorous Italian lifestyle that draws the stars back again and again.
Lapland, Finland – A Celebrity-Approved Winter Wonderland
When winter arrives, Lapland transforms into a magical dreamscape of snowy forests, frozen lakes and glowing Arctic skies. Celebrities love it for the same reasons everyone else does: it’s peaceful, pristine and feels like stepping into another world. Members of the British Royal Family have travelled through the region during official tours, and actors, musicians and influencers frequently choose Lapland for private, off-grid getaways.
Unlike other remote celebrity destinations, Lapland welcomes visitors with open arms and a huge variety of experiences. Glass-roofed igloo hotels offer front-row seats to the dancing Arctic skies, while ice hotels provide a once-in-a-lifetime sleepover made entirely from snow and crystal-clear ice.
Adventurous travellers can join husky or reindeer safaris, ride snowmobiles across glistening white landscapes, or enjoy a slow, peaceful evening in a cosy cabin surrounded by silence. And of course, one of the world’s biggest draws awaits, the chance to visit the Northern Lights in Lapland. Even if you don’t spot them on your first night, the experience of chasing them through the stillness of the Arctic is unforgettable.
St. Barts – The Caribbean Playground of the Rich & Famous
For celebrities craving sun, yachts and ultra-luxury, St. Barts remains unbeatable. This chic Caribbean island has long been a magnet for stars wanting to escape the paparazzi in style. Beyoncé and Jay-Z have spent family holidays here; Leonardo DiCaprio often anchors his yacht in the glimmering turquoise waters; and the Kardashians have featured the island’s pristine beaches in their famous holiday episodes.
But while St. Barts has an undeniably premium reputation, you don’t need to live like a billionaire to enjoy its charm. The island offers stylish boutique hotels, independent villas, and local beach cafés where you can sip a rum punch with sand between your toes.
From the lively beach bars of St. Jean to the serene coves of Colombier, the island offers something for every traveller. Explore the colourful capital of Gustavia, wander along designer boutiques, or indulge in French-Caribbean cuisine at sunset. St. Barts gives you a taste of the good life and yes, you may well spot a celebrity while you’re there.
Tulum, Mexico – Boho Vibes, Beach Clubs & A-List Wellness
Tulum has become the unofficial capital of modern boho-luxury and celebrities can’t seem to stay away. Justin Bieber, Cara Delevingne, Demi Lovato and countless models, influencers and creatives have all holidayed along its powder-white beaches and lush jungle retreats.
What draws them in? The atmosphere. Tulum balances barefoot relaxation with high-energy nightlife, wellness sanctuaries and eco-friendly design. Trendy beach clubs line the coast, yoga and meditation retreats sit tucked away in the greenery, and boutique hotels blend seamlessly into the jungle.
Travellers can explore ancient Mayan ruins that overlook the sea, swim in crystal-clear cenotes hidden in the jungle, or enjoy spa treatments inspired by local traditions. And unlike many celebrity hotspots, Tulum offers a wide range of options for every budget from backpacker-friendly stays to luxurious private villas.
It’s the ideal place for travellers who want sunshine, style and a sense of spiritual escape, all wrapped into one.
Why These Places Keep Celebrities Coming Back
While each destination has its own personality, they share a few things in common. Celebrities seek privacy, beauty and unique experiences that allow them to switch off, reconnect with themselves, and enjoy life beyond the spotlight. But the real secret is this: you can enjoy the exact same moments.
Whether it’s a morning cappuccino overlooking Lake Como, a husky ride through the silent forests of Lapland, a golden hour cocktail in St. Barts or a yoga session on Tulum’s shoreline, these experiences aren’t exclusive to the world’s biggest stars.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need red-carpet status to travel like a celebrity. From Europe’s hidden gems to the Caribbean’s most glamorous island and Mexico’s trendiest coastal paradise, these destinations offer extraordinary experiences for every type of traveller.
Pack your bags, plan your escape and prepare to enjoy the same breathtaking views, delicious food and unforgettable adventures that keep celebrities returning year after year.
If you’ve ever dreamed of living the A-list life — even just for a week — these are the places to make it happen.
