Taylor Swift Lyrics About Traveling: Journeys Inspired by the Pop Superstar

Unless you live under a rock, you are well aware of the global phenomenon known as Taylormania. Whether you are a devoted fan or not, you must acknowledge Miss Swift’s remarkable ability to market, rebrand, perform, and consistently release a vast catalog of music.

As a huge Swiftie, I find myself in this new era (yes, I’m looking at you, The Tortured Poets Department), wistfully envisioning various travel destinations as I sing along to her songs. Taylor Swift’s lyrics often serve as lyrical passports, transporting listeners to places real and imagined, painting vivid pictures of cities, landscapes, and feelings tied to specific locales. So, where can we travel – literally or figuratively – as inspired by Taylor Swift’s music and the many taylor swift lyrics about traveling?

Iconic Destinations Featured in Taylor Swift’s Big Hits

Let’s begin with the most prominent places explicitly mentioned in some of her most famous songs.

New York City

Taylor has openly expressed her deep affection for New York City. It was the central focus and the opening track of her massive pop album, 1989.

“Welcome to New York” (1989)
Walkin’ through a crowd, the village is aglow
Kaleidoscope of loud heartbeats under coats

These lines perfectly capture the vibrant, sensory overload of the city. I recall hanging out in Greenwich Village myself and even taking a much-needed nap on one of the park benches after a long morning of sightseeing!
Scenic view of a bridge in New York City, a destination often mentioned in Taylor Swift's travel lyricsExploring a park in Greenwich Village, New York City, reflecting the travel themes in Taylor Swift's songsWashington Square Park in NYC, a place that embodies the spirit often captured in Taylor Swift's lyrics about traveling

The lights are so bright, but they never blind me, me
Welcome to New York, it’s been waitin’ for you

The song encapsulates the dazzling allure of the city that never sleeps. From the bright lights of Times Square to the quiet corners of different neighborhoods, New York offers endless inspiration, clearly reflected in many taylor swift lyrics about traveling.
A view of Broadway theaters in New York City, a famous landmark featured implicitly in Taylor Swift's song referencesVibrant night view of Times Square, New York City, highlighting the bright lights mentioned in Taylor Swift lyrics about traveling

“Cornelia Street” (Lover)
And baby, I get mystified by how this city screams your name
And baby, I’m so terrified of if you ever walk away
I’d never walk Cornelia Street again.

This song about a specific street in Greenwich Village ties a physical place to deep emotional connection and the fear of loss. While I didn’t walk down Cornelia Street itself during my time in NYC, this song vividly reminds me of pounding the pavements all across Manhattan, exploring its diverse neighborhoods.
Looking down from a high vantage point over New York City, conveying the vastness captured in Taylor Swift's songs about placesA hazy view looking out over the NYC skyline, representing the diverse perspectives in Taylor Swift's lyrics about traveling

England (Specifically London)

Swift’s affection for England is equally apparent in her songs (not to mention her well-documented relationships with British men).

“London Boy” (Lover)
You know I love a London boy
I enjoy walking Camden Market in the afternoon

Haven’t many of us loved (and perhaps lost) a London boy? I lived in London for eight months and can confirm that some are indeed quite charming! “London Boy” brings to mind all the places I frequented while living there. I also distinctly remember walking around Camden Markets in the afternoon on my very first trip to the city with a good friend. This song is packed with taylor swift lyrics about traveling to the UK capital.
Camden Market in London, England, a specific location referenced in Taylor Swift's 'London Boy' lyrics

And now I love high tea, stories from uni, and the West End
You can find me in the pub, we are watching rugby with his school friends
Show me a gray sky, a rainy cab ride, babe don’t threaten me with a good time!

These lyrics paint a perfect picture of everyday London life and culture. From enjoying high tea to spending time in traditional pubs, the song captures the essence of experiencing the city like a local.
Houses of Parliament in London, England, an iconic view connected to Taylor Swift's experiences in the UKA traditional red telephone box in London, England, symbolizing the city's culture mentioned in Taylor Swift's travel lyrics

“So Long, London” (The Tortured Poets Department)
So long, London, had a good run
A moment of warm sun, but I’m not the one

This poignant track from her latest album offers a contrasting perspective, signifying an emotional departure from the city that once held so much significance. It adds another layer to the narrative of places and relationships found within taylor swift lyrics about traveling.
People posing near a building in London, illustrating moments spent in the city referenced in Taylor Swift's songsThe Orangery building, possibly in London, representing architectural beauty found in cities mentioned in lyrics

France (Specifically Paris)

“Paris!” (Midnights)
Let the only flashing lights be the tower at midnight
In my mind, we drew a map on your bedroom ceiling
No, I didn’t see the news, ‘Cause we were somewhere else
In an alleyway, drinking champagne
‘Cause we were in Paris

Every time I hear these lyrics, I can’t help but picture my first time standing under the Eiffel Tower, looking up as the light show began. And yes, drinking champagne in an alleyway near the Moulin Rouge, watching the vibrant shows. These are amazing memories of my very first big overseas trip, perfectly encapsulated by the romantic imagery in this song. “Paris!” is a prime example of taylor swift lyrics about traveling evoking a strong sense of place and mood.
The Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, the iconic landmark central to Taylor Swift's 'Paris!' songA street scene in Paris, France, capturing the atmosphere described in Taylor Swift's lyrical travels

California (Hollywood, Los Angeles, SoCal)

Perhaps the single destination that receives the most references across Taylor Swift’s discography is California, particularly its major cities like Hollywood and Los Angeles, and the broader Southern California (SoCal) region. This isn’t unique to Taylor; many artists reference the City of Angels and the Sunshine State in their music. Katy Perry (and The Beach Boys) have an entire song about it, and the Red Hot Chili Peppers have a whole album. Taylor Swift’s lyrics about traveling to California paint a varied picture, from chasing fame to reflecting on past relationships.

Lyrical references to California include:

• “The Lucky One”: New to town with a made up name in the angels’ city chasing fortune and fame
• “White Horse”: This ain’t Hollywood, this is small town
• “Clara Bow”: No one in my small town thought I’d meet these suits in L.A.
• “I Bet You Think About Me”: You grew up in a silver spoon gated community, glamorous, shiny, bright Beverly Hills
• “The Very First Night”: But don’t forget about the night out in L.A.
• “Gorgeous”: Whiskey on ice, Sunset and Vine
• “‘Tis The Damn Season”: So I’ll go back to L.A. and the so-called friends who’ll write books about me if I ever make it
• “London Boy”: I love my hometown as much as Motown, I love SoCal
• “Invisible String”: Bad was the blood of the song in the cab on your first trip to L.A.
• “When Emma Falls in Love”: Well, she’s so New York when she’s in L.A.

These references highlight different facets of the California experience, from the pursuit of Hollywood dreams to specific street names and cultural contrasts. The state clearly holds significant weight in Taylor Swift’s lyrical journey.
An expansive view of the Los Angeles basin and mountains, representing the California landscape in Taylor Swift's travel lyricsA scenic view of palm trees and buildings in California, reflecting the atmosphere captured in many Taylor Swift songs about placesThe Hollywood Walk of Fame in Los Angeles, California, a famous site often associated with the themes in Taylor Swift's lyrics about traveling for fameNights in Venice Beach, California, depicting the vibrant life and places mentioned in Taylor Swift's music

Destinations Inspired by Singles and Music Videos

Beyond direct lyrical mentions, Taylor Swift’s music videos often showcase breathtaking locations that inspire travel.

Rhode Island / Grand Properties

“Blank Space” (1989)
Screaming, crying, perfect storms
I can make all the tables turn
Rose garden filled with thorns

The music video for “Blank Space” was famously filmed in two mansions in the USA, one of which is located on Rhode Island, near her Holiday House property, which was the focus of her 2020 song “The Last Great American Dynasty” from Folklore. While I haven’t visited the exact filming locations, the grandeur depicted makes me think of other magnificent properties across the world, like the Palace of Versailles in France or Hearst Castle in California. In another music connection, Lady Gaga filmed a music video (“G.U.Y.”) in the famous pool at Hearst Castle. Hearst Castle is a fantastic tourist destination to visit, just a few hours’ drive north of L.A., offering a glimpse into opulent history. These places resonate with the themes of grand settings sometimes found in taylor swift lyrics about traveling or the visuals accompanying them.
Hearst Castle in California, USA, a grand property similar to settings seen in Taylor Swift's 'Blank Space' music videoArchitectural detail of Hearst Castle, California, showcasing the luxury and scale that inspires travel from music videosA swimming pool at Hearst Castle, California, a specific location used for music videos and evoking grandeur

Africa (Botswana and South Africa)

“Wildest Dreams” (1989)
Say you’ll remember me, standing in a nice dress
Staring at the sunset, babe, red lips and rosy cheeks
Say you’ll see me again, even if it’s just in your wildest dreams

Taylor Swift’s stunning music video for “Wildest Dreams” was primarily filmed in parts of Botswana and South Africa. Although I have yet to visit the African continent (my last besides Antarctica), this song and its video always transport me there in my mind, filled with images of vast landscapes and incredible wildlife. Swift generously donated the proceeds from the video to the African Parks Foundation of America. The wildlife shots are absolutely stunning! The closest I get to experiencing this is visiting a zoo. This video perfectly illustrates how taylor swift lyrics about traveling (or rather, the visual interpretation of her songs) can inspire dreams of far-off places.
An elephant in the wilderness of Africa, representing the wildlife seen in Taylor Swift's 'Wildest Dreams' music video

Las Vegas, Nevada

“Karma” (Midnights)
Flexing like a Vegas acrobat
Me and karma vibe like that

While the explicit reference might differ in the unedited version, the PG edit directly mentions Vegas. Regardless, the song and its fun film clip with Ice Spice certainly give off Las Vegas vibes. I distinctly recall seeing actual Vegas acrobats at the Le Reve show, dancing and twirling as they plunged into a large swimming pool! The energy of Vegas aligns with the confident, vibrant tone of “Karma.” This is another example of taylor swift lyrics about traveling or places, even when brief, sparking travel imagery.
A large hotel building on the Las Vegas Strip, USA, symbolizing the city mentioned in Taylor Swift's 'Karma'A vibrant display of lights and architecture in Las Vegas, Nevada, representing the dazzling scene associated with Taylor Swift's songA wide view of the Las Vegas Strip at night, highlighting the famous destination referenced in Taylor Swift's lyrics about places

Saint-Tropez, French Riviera

“The Man” (Lover)
And they would toast to me, oh let the players play
I’d be just like Leo, in Saint-Tropez

I love this song and the music video’s reference to partying on the French Riviera, conjuring images of towns like Nice, Cannes, and Monaco, complete with wealth and large yachts. One can certainly dream of such a glamorous getaway! This lyric connects the idea of success and freedom with a luxurious European destination, a different angle on taylor swift lyrics about traveling.
Yachts docked in a harbor on the French Riviera, representing the luxurious setting referenced in Taylor Swift's 'The Man' lyricsA coastal view of the French Riviera, a beautiful European destination mentioned in Taylor Swift's songs about travel

South Island, New Zealand

“Out of the Woods” (1989)

The stunning music video for “Out of the Woods” was primarily shot on the South Island of New Zealand. If you’ve ever visited Queenstown and its surrounding areas, you would absolutely understand why she chose this corner of the earth to create the song’s visual backdrops. The dramatic landscapes perfectly complement the song’s intense and sweeping feel. New Zealand offers a different kind of travel inspiration, focusing on natural beauty, as highlighted by this music video linked to taylor swift lyrics about traveling themes of escape and journey.
Dramatic mountains and water in the South Island of New Zealand, the location for Taylor Swift's 'Out of the Woods' music videoA person looking out at a vast mountain landscape in New Zealand, capturing the sense of scale and adventure in Taylor Swift's visualsA winding road through a scenic New Zealand landscape, representing the journey depicted in the 'Out of the Woods' music videoLush green hills and valleys in New Zealand, the natural beauty that inspires travel connected to Taylor Swift's music

Off the Beaten Track Locations in Taylor Swift’s Tracklists

For the diehard Swifties, here are some lesser-known mentions that offer unique travel inspiration hidden within her extensive tracklist. These demonstrate the breadth of taylor swift lyrics about traveling to various, sometimes unexpected, places.

Pennsylvania

“Seven” (Folklore)
But I, I was high in the sky
With Pennsylvania under me
Are there still beautiful things?

Pennsylvania, Taylor’s home state, gets a mention in this nostalgic song. I briefly visited Allentown, Pennsylvania – a classic example of a small American town. This lyric reminds us that travel inspiration can come from places close to home or places tied to an artist’s origins.
A street scene in Allentown, Pennsylvania, a small town in Taylor Swift's home state mentioned in her lyricsA church and buildings in Allentown, Pennsylvania, representing the small-town setting referenced in Taylor Swift's 'Seven'

South Carolina

“Carolina” (From the Where the Crawdads Sing Soundtrack)
And there are places I will never ever go
And things that only Carolina will ever know

Based on the book and movie “Where the Crawdads Sing,” this song perfectly captures the atmosphere of living in the saltwater marshes of South Carolina. The book and the song made me incredibly eager to visit the region and randomly sparked an interest in becoming a birdwatcher (apparently a popular hobby for those in their forties!). This track connects literary locations with real-world places through taylor swift lyrics about traveling to fictional or evocative settings.
A scenic view of marshes in South Carolina, the landscape that inspired Taylor Swift's song 'Carolina'

The Lake District, England

“The Lakes” (Folklore)
Take me to the Lakes where all the poets went to die
Those Windermere peaks look like the perfect place to cry

Taylor Swift mentions “the Lakes” in her Folklore/Evermore era, referencing the famous Lake District in England, a region steeped in literary history. These lyrics always take me back to attending a wedding in the Cumbria region of England and exploring the peaks of Scotland and Wales during my time living in the UK. It evokes a sense of romantic, perhaps melancholic, natural beauty – another dimension of taylor swift lyrics about traveling to evocative landscapes.
Horses grazing in a field with hills in the background, possibly the Lake District in England, referenced in Taylor Swift's lyricsA creek flowing past a cottage, depicting a tranquil scene reminiscent of 'The Lakes' in England from Taylor Swift's song

Florida

“Florida!!!” (The Tortured Poets Department)
Love left me like this and I don’t want to exist
So take me to Florida

This recent track sparked immediate travel inspiration related to Florida since its release. It presents Florida as a place of escape and transformation, adding a new state to the list of places featured in taylor swift lyrics about traveling. It’s definitely another place in the USA now on my travel bucket list!
A beach scene in Florida, USA, the state featured prominently in a recent Taylor Swift song

Nashville, Tennessee

“Invisible String” (Folklore)
Green was the color of the grass where I used to read at Centennial Park

Nashville, Tennessee, another of Ms. Swift’s hometowns, receives a few mentions across her songs. I feel that any music lover could have a field day traveling around Tennessee, exploring iconic places like Graceland and Dollywood in the broader region. Yes, it’s definitely on my list of music-inspired travel destinations! The mention of a specific park in Nashville ties the personal to the geographical, typical of taylor swift lyrics about traveling through her own history.
Centennial Park in Nashville, Tennessee, a specific location mentioned in Taylor Swift's 'Invisible String' lyric

Cottage Living Dreams (Inspired by Folklore/Evermore)

“Ivy” (Evermore)
Oh, I can’t, stop you putting roots in my dreamland
My house of stone, your ivy grows
And now I’m covered in you

Songs like “Ivy,” “Cardigan,” and “Willow” (and indeed, much of the Evermore and Folklore collections) always make me dream of snuggling up in a cozy cottage nestled in the woods. They strongly evoke a wintry, cottagecore aesthetic. This isn’t tied to one specific place but rather a feeling and a type of dwelling that could be found anywhere cold and secluded. These songs tap into the desire for retreat and nature, a different form of travel inspiration drawn from the mood and imagery within taylor swift lyrics about traveling away from the city bustle. Who else is now googling winter weekend getaways in the woods somewhere?

This could be inspired by places like Muir Woods near San Francisco, California,
Giant redwood trees in Muir Woods, California, evoking the forest and cottage aesthetic from Taylor Swift's Folklore/Evermore

Or Mariposa Grove in Yosemite National Park, California,
Large sequoia trees in Mariposa Grove, Yosemite, California, contributing to the feeling of being 'out of the woods' or in a secluded place

Or simply staying in charming cottage BnBs during winter!
A snowy cottage in a winter landscape, representing the cozy travel inspiration drawn from Taylor Swift's songs like 'Ivy' and 'Cardigan'

Paris Cafe

“Begin Again” (Red)
And on a Wednesday, in a Cafe, I watched it begin again

The music video for this song was shot in a cafe in Paris. Now, that’s the only type of cafe I picture whenever I hear this specific lyric! It just goes to show how visuals associated with taylor swift lyrics about traveling can permanently shape our imagination of a place.
A charming cafe facade in Paris, France, the setting for Taylor Swift's 'Begin Again' music videoEntrance to the Louvre Museum in Paris, France, highlighting the artistic and cultural richness of a city featured in Taylor Swift's songs

More New York City Mentions

Now that I think about it, many other favorite singers have the ability to transport me figuratively through their lyrics. Or maybe when you think about travel frequently, you tend to pick up on wanderlust phrases everywhere you listen. Taylor Swift’s connection to New York City is so strong it warrants a list of additional lyrical references:

• “All Too Well”: We’re singing in the car, getting lost Upstate
• “Holy Ground”: Back to a first-glance feeling on New York time
• “The Lucky One”: Chose the Rose Garden over Madison Square
• “Come Back… Be Here”: I guess you’re in New York today
• “Delicate”: Dive bar on the East Side, where you at? Third floor on the West Side, me and you
• “All Too Well (10 Minute Version)”: From when your Brooklyn broke my skin and bones
• “False God”: I’m New York City, I still do it for you, babe, You’re the West Village, you still do it for me, babe
• “Daylight”: Back and forth from New York, sneaking in your bed
• “Hoax”: You know I left a part of me back in New York
• “Coney Island”: I’m sitting on a bench in Coney Island wondering, where did my baby go?
• “Maroon”: And I chose you, the one I was dancing with in New York

Conclusion

Taylor Swift’s extensive discography provides a rich tapestry of places and experiences, making taylor swift lyrics about traveling a fascinating avenue for travel inspiration. From the bustling streets of New York and London to the serene landscapes of New Zealand and the atmospheric marshes of South Carolina, her songs and music videos act as virtual postcards, inviting listeners to explore destinations near and far. Whether you’re planning your next trip or simply dreaming from afar, diving into Taylor Swift’s lyrics can certainly fuel your wanderlust and connect you to the world through the power of music.