Ever watched a movie and instantly wanted to pack your bags and step straight into the scene? You’re not alone. Traveling to destination spots made famous by film and television is one of the fastest-growing trends in travel.
From medieval Croatian fortresses to the romantic cobblestone streets of Paris, Europe is the ultimate cinematic playground. Here are five iconic filming locations across Europe that you can easily visit on your next holiday.
1. Dubrovnik, Croatia — Game of Thrones
Dubrovnik’s ancient limestone walls, terracotta rooftops, and dramatic cliffs looking over the Adriatic Sea made it the primary double for King’s Landing in HBO’s Game of Thrones.
Tip: Suggest a guided walking tour for clients. Pairing Dubrovnik with a island-hopping cruise along the Dalmatian Coast turns a TV pilgrimage into an unforgettable luxury escape.
Must-See Spots: Walk along the historic Dubrovnik City Walls, visit Fort Lovrijenac (the Red Keep), and walk down the Jesuit Staircase, the location of Cersei’s infamous Walk of Shame.
2. Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland — Harry Potter
Nothing captures the magic of the Harry Potter franchise quite like the sweeping shot of the Hogwarts Express chugging across a grand curved railway bridge surrounded by lush Scottish highlands. That iconic landmark is the Glenfinnan Viaduct in Inverness-shire.
Tip: The Jacobite fills up months in advance. Advise clients to lock in their bookings early as part of a broader Scottish Highlands tour.
Must-See Spots: Book a ticket on The Jacobite Steam Train, which runs across the viaduct during the summer season, offering passengers real-life Hogwarts Express views.
3. Matera, Italy — No Time to Die & The Passion of the Christ
Carved into the rugged limestone canyons of Basilicata in Southern Italy, Matera is famous for its ancient cave dwellings known as Sassi. Its ancient aesthetic made it the backdrop for the dramatic Aston Martin chase in Daniel Craig’s final James Bond entry, No Time to Die, as well as Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ.
Tip: Matera is ideal for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path luxury in Italy. It pairs seamlessly with boutique stays in nearby Puglia.
Must-See Spots: Explore the Sassi di Matera district, stay in a luxury cave hotel, and visit the viewpoint at Piazza Pascoli.
4. Salzburg, Austria — The Sound of Music
For over 60 years, the melody of The Sound of Music has drawn film fans to the picturesque Alpine city of Salzburg. Nestled near the German border, this UNESCO-listed city offers Baroque architecture set against snow-capped peaks.
Tip: Salzburg makes a perfect twin-center holiday when combined with Vienna or Munich, accessible via short train rides.
Must-See Spots: Visit Mirabell Gardens (where Maria and the children sang Do-Re-Mi), the Leopoldskron Palace, and the famous gazebo at Hellbrunn Palace.
5. Paris, France — Midnight in Paris & Inception
Paris is practically a movie set in its own right. Woody Allen’s Midnight in Paris showcased the city’s romantic charm, while Christopher Nolan’s Inception turned its engineering marvels into mind-bending dreamscapes.
Tip: Eurostar makes Paris an effortless short break for UK travellers. Offer clients themed walking tours or private vintage car drives through the city.
Must-See Spots: Sit on the steps of the Church of Saint-Étienne-du-Mont (where Gil waits for the midnight carriage in Midnight in Paris) or stroll across the , the bridge showcased in Inception.
From the streets of Dubrovnik to the Scottish Highlands, these iconic filming locations let you experience your favourite movie moments in real life.