Hollywood movies have transported us to mesmerizing locations across the globe, from towering mountains to exotic beaches and ancient cities. Some of these stunning backdrops exist in real life and are open to visitors who want to relive their favorite movie moments. If you’re a film enthusiast looking for an extraordinary experience, here are eight unique filming locations you can visit and immerse yourself in cinematic history.
1. Skellig Michael, Ireland – Featured in Star Wars: The Last Jedi
One of the most breathtaking filming locations in the world, Skellig Michael is a rugged island off the coast of Ireland that served as Luke Skywalker’s hideaway in Star Wars: The Last Jedi. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to an ancient monastic settlement with stone huts perched high above the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can take a boat trip from the mainland and climb the steep steps to explore the otherworldly setting that brought the Star Wars universe to life.
2. Matamata, New Zealand – The Shire in The Lord of the Rings
For fans of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit, Matamata in New Zealand is a must-visit destination. This lush green farmland was transformed into Hobbiton, the charming village of the Hobbits. The set has been preserved as a permanent attraction, allowing visitors to tour the Hobbit holes, visit the Green Dragon Inn, and stroll through the rolling hills of Middle-earth. It’s a magical experience that feels like stepping straight into Tolkien’s world.
3. Dubrovnik, Croatia – King’s Landing in Game of Thrones
Although Game of Thrones is not a Hollywood movie, the show’s grand cinematic scale deserves a mention. Dubrovnik, Croatia, served as the primary filming location for King’s Landing, the capital of Westeros. The city’s medieval walls, historic fortresses, and stunning coastal views made it the perfect setting for the political intrigue and battles of the Seven Kingdoms. Visitors can walk along the ancient city walls, explore Lovrijenac Fortress, and even take guided tours that highlight key filming locations.
4. Wadi Rum, Jordan – Mars in The Martian
Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is a striking desert landscape in Jordan that has been used to depict Mars in The Martian, starring Matt Damon. The red sandstone cliffs, vast dunes, and otherworldly rock formations create a surreal environment that perfectly resembles the Red Planet. Visitors can explore the area through jeep tours, camel rides, and even overnight stays in Bedouin-style camps. It’s an unforgettable adventure that combines movie magic with natural wonder.
5. Maya Bay, Thailand – The Beach
Leonardo DiCaprio’s 2000 film The Beach introduced the world to the breathtaking beauty of Maya Bay, located on Koh Phi Phi Leh in Thailand. With its turquoise waters, white sand, and towering limestone cliffs, the bay became a popular tourist destination. Although the beach was closed for environmental restoration for several years, it has recently reopened with limited access to preserve its pristine beauty. Visitors can take boat tours to enjoy the stunning scenery while respecting conservation efforts.
6. Glen Etive, Scotland – Skyfall
James Bond fans will recognize Glen Etive as the location of the iconic scene in Skyfall where Bond and M drive through the misty Scottish Highlands. The winding roads, rolling hills, and dramatic landscapes create an unforgettable setting that captures the rugged beauty of Scotland. Visitors can drive the same route, hike through the picturesque terrain, and take in the serene atmosphere that made this location a standout in the Bond franchise.
7. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia – Star Wars: The Last Jedi
Another stunning Star Wars location, Salar de Uyuni in Bolivia, was used as the filming site for the planet Crait in The Last Jedi. This vast salt flat, the largest in the world, creates a mesmerizing white landscape that stretches to the horizon. During the rainy season, a thin layer of water transforms the flats into a giant mirror, making it one of the most surreal places on Earth. Visitors can take guided tours to witness this otherworldly beauty firsthand.
8. Petra, Jordan – Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
The ancient city of Petra, with its stunning rock-cut architecture, famously appeared in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade as the entrance to the Holy Grail’s resting place. The Treasury (Al-Khazneh), one of Petra’s most iconic structures, is instantly recognizable from the movie’s climactic scenes. Travelers can explore the vast archaeological site, hike through the surrounding canyons, and marvel at the craftsmanship of this ancient wonder.
Final Thoughts
Hollywood’s love for extraordinary locations has brought global attention to some of the most beautiful places on Earth. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love breathtaking landscapes, visiting these filming locations offers an unforgettable way to connect with cinema history. From the misty Scottish Highlands to the otherworldly deserts of Jordan, these destinations allow visitors to step into the scenes of their favorite films and create their own cinematic adventures. So, which of these iconic locations will you visit first?