22 Movie Locations That Look Even Better in Person
In cinema, locations do more than frame the action—they breathe life into stories, becoming unforgettable characters in their own right. From the volcanic plains of Mordor to the dreamlike cliffs of Pandora, film settings have the power to whisk us away to other worlds. But what if you could step into those worlds for real? We’ve expanded our list to 22 iconic movie locations you can actually visit, where the magic of film leaps off the screen and into reality. These breathtaking destinations aren’t just scenic—they’re immersive experiences that let you walk in the footsteps of your favorite heroes, villains, and adventurers. Whether carved by nature or built by human hands, each spot captures the imagination with the same wonder as it did on film. So pack your bags—and your sense of wonder—as we journey to the places where cinematic fantasy meets unforgettable reality.
1. New Zealand: The Enchanted Realm of Middle-earth
New Zealand's landscapes are synonymous with the epic fantasy world of Middle-earth, as depicted in Peter Jackson's "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" trilogies. The country's diverse topography, from the rolling hills of the Shire to the rugged peaks of the Misty Mountains, provides a vivid canvas that perfectly captures Tolkien's imagination. Visitors to New Zealand can embark on an epic journey of their own, exploring locations like Hobbiton in Matamata, where the meticulously reconstructed village offers a glimpse into the idyllic life of hobbits. Beyond the film sets, New Zealand's natural beauty is a spectacle in itself. Adventure seekers can trek through Tongariro National Park, home to Mount Ngauruhoe, which served as Mount Doom, or explore Fiordland National Park's majestic fjords, reminiscent of the elven haven of Rivendell. These landscapes, steeped in cinematic history, invite travelers to experience the enchantment of Middle-earth firsthand, blending fantasy with reality in a way that is both immersive and unforgettable.
2. Scotland: The Mystical Highlands of Braveheart
The sweeping vistas of Scotland's Highlands provided the dramatic backdrop for Mel Gibson's "Braveheart," a film that immortalized the tale of Scottish hero William Wallace. The rugged terrain, with its rolling hills, ancient castles, and mist-covered lochs, evokes a sense of timelessness and mystery, making it an ideal setting for epic storytelling. Visitors can trace the footsteps of history by visiting locations such as Glen Nevis, where the film's iconic battle scenes were shot, or the hauntingly beautiful Glen Coe, a valley steeped in both cinematic and historical significance. Scotland's landscapes offer more than just scenic beauty; they are a gateway to exploring the country's rich cultural heritage. The Highlands are home to ancient clans, legendary folklore, and a vibrant Gaelic culture that continues to thrive. Travelers can immerse themselves in this mystical world by participating in traditional Highland games, exploring historic sites like Stirling Castle, or simply savoring the serene beauty of the Scottish wilderness. In doing so, they discover a land where the line between legend and reality blurs, offering an adventure that is as profound as it is picturesque.
3. Iceland: The Otherworldly Terrain of Game of Thrones
Iceland's stark and dramatic landscapes have become synonymous with the fantastical world of "Game of Thrones." The country's glaciers, volcanic fields, and geothermal wonders provided the perfect setting for the show's icy northern territories, including the forbidding Wall and the lands beyond. Visitors to Iceland can explore locations like Þingvellir National Park, where the continent-spanning rift between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates serves as a natural backdrop for the show's epic scenes. Beyond its role in television, Iceland offers a surreal adventure for those seeking to explore its unique geological features. The country's geothermal activity creates an otherworldly landscape of geysers, hot springs, and lava fields, inviting travelers to experience the raw power of nature. Whether hiking across glaciers, relaxing in the Blue Lagoon, or witnessing the ethereal dance of the Northern Lights, Iceland offers an adventure that is as captivating as any fantasy tale, transforming its cinematic allure into a breathtaking reality.
4. Petra, Jordan: The Ancient City of Indiana Jones
The ancient city of Petra, with its rose-red sandstone facades and intricate rock-cut architecture, served as the iconic backdrop for the climactic scenes of "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade." This UNESCO World Heritage site, often referred to as the "Lost City," exudes an aura of mystery and adventure that is perfectly suited to the exploits of the legendary archaeologist. Visitors can walk through the narrow Siq, a natural gorge that leads to the breathtaking Treasury, Petra's most famous monument. Beyond its cinematic fame, Petra is a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the Nabataean civilization that carved this city into the cliffs over two millennia ago. Exploring Petra is like stepping into a time capsule, with its ancient tombs, temples, and amphitheaters offering a glimpse into the past. As travelers wander through this archaeological wonder, they are transported to a world where history and legend converge, offering an adventure that is as educational as it is exhilarating.
5. Dubrovnik, Croatia: The Medieval Splendor of King's Landing
Dubrovnik's well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning coastal views made it the ideal location for King's Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms in "Game of Thrones." The city's ancient walls, narrow cobblestone streets, and historic buildings provide a tangible sense of stepping into a bygone era. Visitors can explore the city's landmarks, such as the Lovrijenac Fortress and the Rector's Palace, which served as key filming locations for the series. Dubrovnik's allure extends beyond its role as a fictional city. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a rich cultural experience, with its vibrant history, charming cafes, and lively markets. Travelers can walk along the city walls, enjoying panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, or take a boat trip to the nearby Elafiti Islands. In Dubrovnik, the line between fantasy and reality blurs, offering an adventure that is as enchanting as it is historically enriching.
6. Thailand: The Exotic Paradise of The Beach
The idyllic beaches of Thailand's Phi Phi Islands provided the stunning backdrop for the film "The Beach," starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The crystal-clear waters, lush jungles, and towering limestone cliffs create a paradise that seems almost too perfect to be real. Visitors can explore Maya Bay, the film's iconic location, where the serene beauty of the surroundings invites relaxation and reflection. Beyond its cinematic appeal, Thailand's islands offer a wealth of experiences for travelers seeking adventure and discovery. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts can explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, while those seeking cultural enrichment can visit nearby temples and interact with local communities. The islands' natural beauty and cultural richness create a multifaceted adventure that captivates the senses, transforming the fantasy of "The Beach" into a tangible reality.
7. Hawaii: The Tropical Wonderland of Jurassic Park
Hawaii's lush landscapes and dramatic vistas provided the perfect setting for the prehistoric world of "Jurassic Park." The islands' dense jungles, towering waterfalls, and rugged cliffs create an otherworldly atmosphere that brings the film's dinosaur-filled paradise to life. Visitors to Hawaii can explore locations like Kualoa Ranch on Oahu, where many of the film's iconic scenes were shot, or take a helicopter tour over Kauai's Na Pali Coast, which served as the backdrop for the film's opening sequence. Hawaii offers more than just cinematic thrills; it is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and exploration. From hiking through volcanic craters to surfing on world-famous beaches, the islands provide a diverse range of activities that cater to all interests. Hawaii's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage creates an adventure that is as exhilarating as it is enriching, inviting travelers to experience the magic of "Jurassic Park" in a real-world paradise.
8. Ireland: The Emerald Isle of Star Wars
Ireland's rugged coastlines and mystical landscapes provided the backdrop for the remote island of Ahch-To in "Star Wars: The Last Jedi." The Skellig Islands, with their steep cliffs and ancient monastic settlements, evoke a sense of otherworldly wonder that is perfectly suited to the Star Wars universe. Visitors can take a boat tour to Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the film's iconic scenes were shot. Ireland's allure extends beyond its cinematic fame, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Travelers can explore the country's ancient castles, vibrant cities, and stunning landscapes, from the Cliffs of Moher to the Giant's Causeway. Ireland's warm hospitality and rich traditions create an adventure that is as welcoming as it is awe-inspiring, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the magic of the Emerald Isle.
9. Norway: The Majestic Fjords of Frozen
Norway's breathtaking fjords and snow-capped mountains provided the inspiration for the fictional kingdom of Arendelle in Disney's "Frozen." The country's dramatic landscapes, with their deep blue waters and towering cliffs, create a fairy-tale setting that captivates the imagination. Visitors can explore locations like the Geirangerfjord and the Nærøyfjord, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, where the natural beauty is as enchanting as the film's animated world. Norway offers more than just picturesque landscapes; it is a destination for those seeking adventure and exploration. From hiking in the Lofoten Islands to skiing in the Lyngen Alps, the country provides a diverse range of outdoor activities that cater to all interests. Norway's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage creates an adventure that is as magical as it is memorable, inviting travelers to experience the wonder of "Frozen" in a real-world setting.
10. Tunisia: The Desert Planet of Star Wars
The arid landscapes of Tunisia provided the iconic setting for the desert planet of Tatooine in the original "Star Wars" trilogy. The country's vast deserts, ancient ruins, and traditional Berber architecture create a backdrop that evokes a sense of otherworldly adventure. Visitors can explore locations like the troglodyte dwellings of Matmata, which served as the home of Luke Skywalker, or the salt flats of Chott el Jerid, where the film's iconic scenes were shot. Tunisia offers more than just cinematic allure; it is a destination rich in history and culture. Travelers can explore the country's ancient Roman ruins, vibrant markets, and stunning coastlines, experiencing the warmth and hospitality of the local people. Tunisia's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage creates an adventure that is as captivating as it is enriching, inviting visitors to experience the magic of "Star Wars" in a real-world setting.
10. Canada: The Wild Beauty of The Revenant
11. Morocco: The Exotic Allure of Lawrence of Arabia
Morocco's diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage provided the exotic backdrop for the epic film "Lawrence of Arabia." The country's vast deserts, ancient cities, and vibrant markets create a setting that is both captivating and mysterious. Visitors can explore locations like the Sahara Desert, where the film's iconic scenes were shot, or visit the historic city of Marrakech, experiencing the rich tapestry of Moroccan culture. Morocco offers more than just cinematic allure; it is a destination for those seeking adventure and exploration. From camel trekking in the desert to exploring the ancient medinas, the country provides a diverse range of experiences that cater to all interests. Morocco's unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage creates an adventure that is as captivating as it is enriching, inviting travelers to experience the exotic allure of "Lawrence of Arabia" in a real-world setting.
12. Meteora, Greece: The Monastic Heights of For Your Eyes Only
Rising dramatically from the Thessalian plain in central Greece, Meteora is a surreal landscape of towering rock pillars crowned with ancient monasteries. This UNESCO World Heritage site became famous in pop culture through the 1981 James Bond film For Your Eyes Only, in which the breathtaking Monastery of Holy Trinity served as the villain’s stronghold. With its near-vertical cliffs and awe-inspiring views, Meteora looks like a setting straight out of a fantasy epic. Beyond its cinematic fame, Meteora is an incredible travel destination for history buffs, adventure seekers, and spiritual travelers alike. The monasteries, originally built by monks seeking solitude and safety, are perched atop seemingly inaccessible peaks, accessible today via stone stairways carved into the rock. Visitors can hike through the region’s scenic trails, take in panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, or experience the serenity of the monasteries, some of which are still active. The combination of Meteora’s mystical atmosphere, rich history, and natural grandeur makes it a truly unforgettable movie location—one that invites travelers to step into a scene of both cinematic intrigue and spiritual wonder.
13. Wadi Rum, Jordan – The Martian, Dune, Star Wars
Known as the “Valley of the Moon,” Wadi Rum is one of the most cinematic landscapes on Earth—a vast desert wilderness sculpted by time into crimson cliffs, massive sandstone arches, and endless rust-colored dunes. Filmmakers have turned to Wadi Rum to stand in for Mars in The Martian, Arrakis in Dune, and various planets in the Star Wars saga. Standing in this stark, surreal terrain feels like stepping onto another planet. But it’s not just for sci-fi buffs—Wadi Rum is a dream for adventurers. You can explore the desert’s canyons and rock bridges in a 4x4 with a Bedouin guide, ride camels at sunset, or hike to ancient petroglyphs etched by early civilizations. At night, sleep under the stars in a Bedouin camp with warm hospitality and traditional meals. The lack of light pollution makes for unforgettable stargazing. It's a truly immersive experience that blends natural wonder, cinematic thrill, and cultural authenticity.
14. Alnwick Castle, England – Harry Potter Series
Few places spark the imagination quite like Alnwick Castle, the iconic stand-in for Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry in the first two Harry Potter films. Nestled in the scenic Northumberland countryside, this real-life castle dates back to the 11th century and still serves as the ancestral home of the Duke of Northumberland. Potter fans can wander the exact lawns where Harry learned to fly a broomstick, take part in broomstick training sessions, and explore the grand courtyards used as filming locations. But beyond the wizarding world, Alnwick Castle is a treasure trove of medieval history, Renaissance architecture, and lavish interiors. It also offers costumed reenactments, archery demonstrations, and guided tours that bring the castle’s past to life. For families, it’s a magical fusion of fantasy and reality—for history lovers, it’s a richly detailed journey into England’s feudal legacy.
15. Skopelos, Greece – Mamma Mia!
The sun-soaked island of Skopelos served as the enchanting backdrop for the ABBA-filled musical Mamma Mia!—and it’s every bit as magical in real life. With its whitewashed houses, cerulean seas, and lush pine forests, Skopelos captures the dreamy Mediterranean charm that made audiences fall in love with the film. The cliffside Agios Ioannis chapel, where Sophie’s wedding took place, is accessible via a steep staircase and offers breathtaking views of the Aegean Sea. Visitors can swim in the same turquoise bays featured on screen, dine on grilled octopus and fresh tzatziki at waterfront tavernas, and dance under the stars to your favorite ABBA hits. Unlike Greece’s more touristy islands, Skopelos remains blissfully low-key, offering a blend of cinematic nostalgia and authentic local life. Whether you're recreating your favorite scenes or simply soaking up the scenery, Skopelos is a romantic escape where movie magic becomes a lived experience.
16. Namib Desert, Namibia – Mad Max: Fury Road
The wild, unrelenting Namib Desert provided the hauntingly beautiful backdrop for the dystopian world of Mad Max: Fury Road. Stretching across the coast of Namibia, this desert is one of the oldest on Earth, defined by epic sand dunes that glow gold and red at sunrise, vast gravel plains, and lonely, windswept skeleton trees. Filming here wasn’t just about aesthetics—it was about capturing a sense of isolation, survival, and raw intensity. Today, travelers can explore the same surreal terrain on 4x4 safaris, take a sandboard ride down 300-foot dunes, or spot desert-adapted wildlife like oryx and springbok. The ghost town of Kolmanskop, half-buried in sand, adds a cinematic layer of eerie fascination. At night, the desert sky comes alive with constellations. Visiting the Namib is a true adventure—one that lets you feel the elemental power and beauty that captivated the filmmakers of Fury Road.
17. Reed Flute Cave, China – The Forbidden Kingdom
Tucked into the limestone hills of Guilin, the Reed Flute Cave is a subterranean wonder that feels plucked from a fantasy realm. Featured in The Forbidden Kingdom, this natural cave system has been enchanting visitors for centuries with its towering stalactites, underground lakes, and multicolored lighting that adds a surreal, dreamlike atmosphere. The cave gets its name from the reeds growing outside, once used to make flutes, but it’s what lies inside that truly astonishes. Carved over millions of years, its formations take on whimsical shapes—dragons, pagodas, and fantastical landscapes—making it easy to see why filmmakers chose it as a magical setting. Guided tours wind through dramatic chambers filled with reflective pools and eerie silence, punctuated only by drips of water echoing through the caverns. Whether you're a fantasy film fan or just love geological marvels, Reed Flute Cave is an unforgettable experience that blends nature’s artistry with cinematic wonder.
18. Glen Etive, Scotland – Skyfall
Glen Etive, with its brooding hills and moody skies, set the tone for one of the most emotional scenes in Skyfall, where James Bond and M drive through the glen en route to his childhood home. The narrow, winding road through the valley, flanked by the dramatic peaks of the Scottish Highlands, is now a bucket-list destination for 007 fans and landscape photographers alike. But Glen Etive’s beauty goes far beyond its brief time on screen. It’s a haven for hikers, campers, and wild swimmers looking to immerse themselves in Scotland’s raw, untamed wilderness. Red deer often wander the roadside, and mist rolls through the valley like something out of folklore. With no phone signal and little traffic, the glen offers a rare kind of solitude. It’s the perfect place to channel your inner Bond—quiet, contemplative, and surrounded by nature at its most cinematic.
19. Angel Falls, Venezuela – Up
The towering Angel Falls in Venezuela served as the real-world inspiration for Paradise Falls in Pixar’s Up—and seeing it in person feels like stepping into the film’s breathtaking final act. Plunging nearly 3,200 feet from the summit of Auyán-Tepuí mountain, Angel Falls is the world’s tallest uninterrupted waterfall, hidden deep within the untouched jungles of Canaima National Park. Getting there is an adventure in itself: you’ll fly in on a small bush plane, travel by riverboat through rainforest canopies, and hike through muddy trails to reach the base. But the reward is an unforgettable encounter with one of Earth’s most majestic natural wonders. Mist dances in the air as the water free-falls into the forest below, surrounded by towering tepuis (tabletop mountains) and exotic wildlife. The area is remote, wild, and profoundly humbling—just like the moment Carl Fredricksen finally sees Paradise Falls. For travelers chasing both beauty and meaning, Angel Falls is the real-life definition of wonder.
20. Mount Sunday, New Zealand – The Lord of the Rings
While Hobbiton may be the most famous Lord of the Rings filming site, Mount Sunday is its hidden counterpart—a remote, wind-swept hill rising from the epic plains of New Zealand’s Canterbury region. This unassuming rocky outcrop was transformed into Edoras, the capital city of Rohan, where King Théoden ruled. Though the film set was removed after shooting, the cinematic magic still lingers in the dramatic natural setting. Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Southern Alps and braided glacial rivers, the journey to Mount Sunday is as breathtaking as the destination itself. Located deep within Hakatere Conservation Park, it’s accessible via a scenic drive from the town of Methven, followed by a short hike through rolling grasslands. Standing atop the hill, it’s easy to picture the Golden Hall of Meduseld perched above the valley, with flags whipping in the wind. There are no crowds, no fences—just open skies and cinematic grandeur. It’s a pilgrimage for Tolkien fans and nature lovers alike, offering total immersion in the landscapes that helped bring Middle-earth to life.
21. Savoca, Italy – The Godfather
Though The Godfather is famously set in Corleone, Sicily, much of its iconic Sicilian footage was actually filmed in the quiet, hilltop village of Savoca. This charming, untouched town offers a hauntingly beautiful window into the soul of the film—where Michael Corleone sought refuge and met his ill-fated bride, Apollonia. Unlike Corleone, which had become too modernized by the 1970s, Savoca retained its rustic authenticity, making it the perfect cinematic double. Visitors can sit on the same patio at Bar Vitelli where Michael first speaks to Apollonia’s father. The bar has changed little in decades and now functions as a mini-museum filled with photographs and props from the production. A steep walk uphill leads to the 15th-century Church of San Nicolò, where their wedding scene was filmed—a quiet, contemplative spot with sweeping views of the Ionian coastline. Savoca itself is slow-paced and deeply atmospheric, with narrow stone alleys, lemon groves, and an almost melancholic stillness that perfectly mirrors the tone of the film. For movie buffs and romantics alike, it’s a cinematic time capsule frozen in a golden Sicilian haze.
22. Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China – Avatar
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China's Hunan Province is a surreal dreamscape of towering sandstone pillars, dense forest, and drifting mist—so fantastical it inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in James Cameron’s Avatar. These otherworldly stone spires, shaped over millions of years by erosion, appear to defy gravity, creating a landscape that truly feels like it belongs on another planet. Declared a UNESCO Global Geopark, Zhangjiajie offers far more than just scenic inspiration. Visitors can explore miles of trails and glass-bottom skywalks that snake through its vertigo-inducing cliffs. The most famous of these is the Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, suspended over the Grand Canyon of China—stretching more than 1,400 feet across a 1,000-foot drop. For an even more cinematic view, ride the Bailong Elevator, the world’s tallest outdoor lift, which ascends a cliff face for jaw-dropping panoramas of the forest below.
The Magic of Movies in the Real World
As we conclude our journey through these 22 spectacular movie locations, it becomes evident that the magic of cinema extends far beyond the screen. These destinations, each with their unique charm and allure, offer experiences that are as breathtaking in reality as they are in fiction. From the enchanted realms of Middle-earth to the exotic allure of Lawrence of Arabia, these locations invite travelers to embark on adventures that are as enriching as they are exhilarating. By exploring these real-world marvels, we not only immerse ourselves in the magic of storytelling but also discover the beauty and wonder of our world. Whether you are a film enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or simply a traveler in search of inspiration, these cinematic journeys offer a gateway to experiencing the extraordinary in the everyday.
