Mariska Hargitay, best known for her role as the fearless Olivia Benson on Law & Order: SVU, is not only a powerhouse on-screen but also a passionate traveler off-screen. With a schedule that could make even the most seasoned professionals weary, Hargitay often finds solace and rejuvenation in exploring different corners of the world. Her favorite destinations are a testament to her love for culture, history, adventure, and relaxation. Through her travels, she connects with people, experiences new cultures, and finds inspiration both for her work and her life. Let’s embark on a journey through some of Mariska Hargitay’s most cherished travel destinations.
1. Italy: A Love Affair with Culture and Cuisine
Italy holds a special place in Mariska Hargitay’s heart. With her deep appreciation for art, history, and, of course, food, Italy is a perfect getaway. She has often spoken about her love for Rome’s historic architecture, Florence’s art-filled streets, and Tuscany’s serene vineyards. “Italy has a rhythm all its own,” Hargitay shared in an interview. “There’s something profoundly moving about standing in front of the Colosseum or the Sistine Chapel and feeling the weight of history.” But it’s not just the sights that captivate her—it’s the people. Hargitay enjoys the warmth of Italian hospitality, the leisurely pace of Italian life, and, naturally, indulging in authentic pasta dishes and gelato. She finds Italy to be the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, where every street has a story and every meal feels like an embrace.
2. Hawaii: The Island of Serenity and Rejuvenation
Hawaii, with its lush landscapes and serene beaches, is another favorite destination for Hargitay. For her, Hawaii is more than just a beautiful island—it’s a place of healing and rejuvenation. As the founder of the Joyful Heart Foundation, which supports survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, Hargitay often retreats to Hawaii to recharge her spirit. “There is a palpable energy in Hawaii,” she says, “an energy of healing and connection.” From sunrise hikes on the Diamond Head Summit Trail to quiet moments by the ocean in Maui, she loves how Hawaii allows her to disconnect from the demands of Hollywood and reconnect with herself. The islands offer her a sanctuary where she can meditate, swim with sea turtles, or simply listen to the waves crashing against the shore.
3. Paris: The City of Light and Inspiration
Paris, the City of Light, is one of Hargitay’s ultimate escapes. She often describes Paris as a city that awakens all the senses. Whether it’s strolling down the Champs-Élysées, sipping coffee at a quaint café in Le Marais, or exploring the artistic wonders of the Louvre, she finds endless inspiration in the city’s romantic ambiance. “Paris makes me feel alive,” Hargitay once said. “There’s so much beauty and passion in every corner.” She often finds herself wandering through the city’s cobbled streets, soaking in the culture, art, and history that radiate from every building. The charm of Paris has even found its way into her style—elegant yet effortlessly chic. For Hargitay, Paris is more than a destination; it’s an experience that rekindles her creative spirit.
4. The Greek Islands: A Blend of Adventure and Relaxation
For Mariska Hargitay, the Greek Islands offer a perfect blend of adventure, history, and relaxation. With their crystal-clear waters, whitewashed architecture, and vibrant nightlife, islands like Mykonos and Santorini are among her favorites. She loves the freedom of exploring by boat, discovering hidden beaches, and experiencing the rich traditions of Greek hospitality. “The Greek Islands are pure magic,” she says. “They remind you to slow down, breathe, and appreciate life’s simplest pleasures.” Whether it’s hiking up to ancient ruins, tasting local olives and feta cheese, or simply watching the sunset over the Aegean Sea, Hargitay finds the Greek Islands to be a paradise that speaks to her love for both adventure and relaxation.
5. New York City: Home Away from Home
Though Mariska Hargitay travels far and wide, New York City holds a unique place in her heart. The city is where she has spent countless hours filming SVU and is a place she considers a second home. “New York is a city that never stops,” she explains, “and neither do I.” From the bustling streets of Manhattan to the serene paths of Central Park, New York is where she feels most connected to her craft and her fans. She enjoys its vibrant energy, the diverse cultural experiences, and, of course, the theater scene. To Hargitay, New York is not just a city—it’s a living, breathing organism that keeps her on her toes and continually inspires her as an artist.
A Journey to Savor Life
Through her travels, Mariska Hargitay shows us that life is not about destinations but about the experiences that shape us. Whether she’s wandering through the vineyards of Tuscany, finding peace on a Hawaiian beach, or soaking in the artistic pulse of Paris, she finds beauty in every moment. For Hargitay, travel is more than just a break from work—it’s a chance to grow, to connect, and to find joy in the world around her. And it is through these experiences that she continues to evolve, both as an actress and as a human being.
