What is it that makes stories immersive? Is it the plot? The characters? Or is it the setting that gives movies and TV shows that touch of magic?
No matter your answer to the question, you’ll agree that there’s something special about seeing those famous filming locations in real life. And thanks to the fact that traveling nowadays is easier (and more affordable) than ever, your dreams of getting to see King’s Landing from Game of Thrones or the Ben Rose House from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off can finally come true.
So, if you’ve already toured the movie lots and done your online research, here are the most exciting movie and TV filming locations to visit on your next adventure.
King’s Cross Station
Even though you may not have received your Hogwarts acceptance letter (yet), that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to go and catch the Hogwarts Express.
Between platforms 9 and 10 of this famous 19th-century train station, you’ll find the secret passage to Platform 9¾, where you can take a photo in your house colors. Or, if you’re still shopping for school supplies, visit the gift shop that looks just like Ollivander’s, where you’ll find robes, school jumpers, wands, and additional must-haves like Horcruxes (just in case, right?)
Griffith Observatory
Looking for the perfect date spot? Why not emulate Mia and Sebastian from La La Land and visit the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles?
It’s a great place to visit, and you can take your pick of activities — regardless of whether you’d prefer to observe the night sky, explore exhibits, attend a lecture, or get a front-row seat to pose with the Hollywood sign.
Vatican City
Are you more of a culture and history aficionado? In that case, the best movie filming location for you to visit is Vatican City, the setting for the blockbuster hit Angels & Demons.
This UNESCO historical heritage site dates back to Ancient Roman times (the famous Vatican Obelisk was brought from Egypt by Caligula in 40 AD), while the Sistine Chapel, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Vatican Museums date to the 14th, 15th, and 16th century.
Vatican City is well worth a visit if you’re a Dan Brown fan, are interested in seeing some of the world’s most impressive Renaissance artworks, or if you simply want to see what one of the world’s most prominent noble families (the Borgias) lived like half a millennium ago.
San Domenico Palace
Are you obsessed with the resort aesthetic (and possibly the juicy drama) featured in season 2 of the White Lotus? In that case, you’ll be happy to hear that you can visit the dreamy resort in Taormina, Sicily.
The San Domenico Palace is a Four Seasons Hotel that may set you back north of $3,000 per night during the high season. Nonetheless, if you’re willing to treat yourself, then it’s absolutely a TV-inspired destination you should consider.
Of course, if you’re on a budget, there are always ways to save a bit of money when booking a holiday. From knowing where to book cheap flights to staying at an Airbnb instead of a luxury hotel, rest assured that you can fulfill all your Italian summer dreams, even if you don’t have those movie-level, endlessly deep pockets.
Angkor Thom
Are you an adventure lover, gamer, or fan of the Tomb Raider franchise? In that case, you’ll definitely want to add a visit to Angkor Thom to your bucket list.
Established in the 12th century as the capital of the Khmer Empire, the Great Angkor City served as the residence of royalty and kingdom officials, featuring multiple temples and impressive statues. Today, the abandoned site has blended in with nature, making for a spectacular movie filming location and an even more breathtaking place to visit on your trip through Southeast Asia.
Matamata
When Peter Jackson started preparing to film the Lord of the Rings trilogy, he knew that creating an out-of-this-world experience would be essential for getting viewers to immerse themselves in Tolkien’s fictional world. And, boy, did he succeed.
When his team designed the Hobbiton movie set in Matamata, New Zealand, they created a location that would not only look breathtaking on screen but which would attract tourists for years to come.
Today, you can tour the set, book a Second Breakfast experience, or even visit during one of the festivals or the Halfling Marathon for a unique opportunity to feel like a Hobbit (or wizard) bound for their next adventure.
Al-Khazneh
Finally, if you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime movie-inspired adventure, consider paying a visit to the Al-Khazneh temple in Petra, Jordan. As the setting of the 1989 Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade blockbuster, this UNESCO World Heritage site has been attracting travelers from all around the world.
Historically, the temple was carved and sculpted into the surrounding cliff in the 1st century AD. Unfortunately, it’s in a state of erosion — and not just due to the 2,000 years that have passed since it was built. According to conservationists, the site is experiencing damage due to a large number of tourists and humidity, pointing out just how important sustainable tourism practices are if we want to preserve the world’s wonders for future generations to enjoy.
Final Thoughts
There you have it, our top suggestions for which popular movie and TV filming locations you should visit on your next holiday.
Whether you prefer to spend your summers on the Continent, want to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime adventure in Southeast Asia, or are looking for places to visit that are close to home, you’re sure to see some breathtaking sights, have a restful break, and (at least partially) satisfy your wanderlust.
About The Author
Sarah is a life enjoyer, a positivity seeker, and a curiosity enthusiast. She is passionate about an eco-friendly lifestyle and adores her cats. She is an avid reader who loves to travel when time allows.