Where Should You Travel If You’re in Your Villain Era?

So, you’ve entered your villain era. You may be cutting off negative energy, embracing a new level of confidence, or just feeling like life should be a little more theatrical. You don’t need a vacation—you need a setting. A place where you can scheme, smirk, and make an entrance that turns heads.

If you’re going to own the moment, you could do it somewhere that fits the vibe.

Tallinn, Estonia

If a medieval walled city that looks straight out of a dark fairytale isn’t villain-era material, what is? Tallinn is full of moody, winding streets, shadowy courtyards, and towering stone walls that make you feel like you’re walking through a long-lost legend. Watch the fog roll in from the Baltic Sea, sip black coffee in a candlelit café, and pretend you have unfinished business from centuries ago.

Hallstatt, Austria

A picturesque lakeside town with a history of salt mining and a touch of eeriness? Yes, please. Hallstatt looks like a place where a secret society might meet at midnight, or someone disappears mysteriously—only to return years later with an elaborate backstory. Take a boat onto the lake and stare dramatically into the mist for extra villain points.

Matera, Italy

Carved into limestone cliffs, Matera is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its ancient cave dwellings and winding stone alleys make you feel like you’re walking through history. The city’s golden lights flickering against the rock at night add a touch of magic.

Valletta, Malta

Valletta, a city built by knights, exudes a sense of grandeur and power. Its grand fortresses, hidden tunnels, and dramatic sea views make you feel like you should be plotting something. Walking along the city walls, visiting the underground war rooms, or standing on a balcony overlooking the Grand Harbour all evoke a sense of control and power.

Baku, Azerbaijan

A mix of ancient and futuristic, Baku has a skyline that looks like a sci-fi film but an Old City that tells secrets from the Silk Road era. Stroll through the winding alleys of Icherisheher, then head to a sleek rooftop bar and watch the neon lights of the Flame Towers flicker in the night. The whole place feels like a villain’s headquarters in the best way possible.

• Exploring Uzbekistan’s Silk Road Cities: Samarkand, Bukhara, Khiva & Tashkent

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Yes, it’s beautiful! But there’s an undeniable intensity beneath the sunlit stone streets and shimmering Adriatic waves. Massive medieval walls, hidden passageways, and a long history of maritime power make Dubrovnik perfect for a villain-era getaway. Walk the fortress walls at sunset, let the sea air mess up your hair just enough, and bask in the knowledge that you could take over the world from here if you wanted to.

Yerevan, Armenia

Yerevan delivers if you want a setting that feels both ancient and rebellious. The city has a deep history, a beautiful backdrop of Mount Ararat, and a café culture that encourages long, thoughtful conversations (or, you know, plotting). Spend the day exploring hidden courtyards and Soviet-era buildings, then finish with a strong Armenian coffee that makes you feel like you definitely have an empire to build.

Muscat, Oman

Not all villain-era destinations need to be shadowy and cold. With its grand mosques, rocky coastlines, and hidden wadis, Muscat is the place where you move in silence but make an impact. Walk through the Mutrah Souq like you know exactly what you’re looking for, or disappear into the mountains for a few days of luxurious solitude.

Your villain era is a phase and a statement. And if you’re going to step into your power, you should do it somewhere that makes you feel unstoppable—pack your best coat, practice your knowing smirk, and claim your place in the world!

About the Author

Originally from Indiana, Heather believes every destination has a story worth telling and a reason to visit. With a deep love of adventure, history, and psychology, she shares travel trivia, tips, and inspiration to encourage you to explore the world with curiosity and optimism. Read her other articles on Frayed Passport here.

Featured image by Daniele Levis Pelusi on Unsplash