For film and TV fans, much of the magic is down to the setting. Some of the most iconic scenes take place away from studios and sets, with real locations forming the backdrop for legendary on-screen moments.
Plenty of movies and shows are shot right here on home soil, from The Batman in Liverpool to boy wizards in London’s King’s Cross. However, there’s something special about seeing destinations beyond the British Isles.
If you’re a movie buff who’s hankering after a trip to see some of Europe’s most spectacular filming locations, read on for some inspired holiday ideas.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is the stunning Croatian city that became King’s Landing in Game of Thrones. Evil plans dreamt up by the Lannisters were revealed here, and Dubrovnik played host to some of the key moments of the fantasy series.
To dive into this world, you can take a tour of the filming locations. See the Red Keep up close, stand where the Purple Wedding took place, and wait in the spot where Cersei set off on her walk of shame.
Paris, France
There are so many films that are set in the French capital that you might need to visit a few times to see them all. In fact, you’ll need to plan ahead as Paris gets especially busy with tourists, so it’s worth booking airport transfers to make sure your trip goes smoothly from when you arrive.
One key location is Amélie’s café from The Fabulous Destiny of Amélie Poulain. Our heroine works at the Café des Deux Moulins – a real café located near Montmartre where you can start your Paris tour with a cup of coffee.
Speaking of windmills, the Moulin Rouge – the cabaret founded in 1889 and made famous by the 2001 musical – is just a short walk from Amélie’s café. Here, you can take in a show and get a sense of what life was like for the dancing stars at the turn of the 20th century.
For something different, head to Bir-Hakeim Bridge. This bridge featured in Inception and is close to the Eiffel Tower, making it a great place to see en route to the main tourist attractions in Paris.
Skopelos, Greece
Are you a Mama Mia! fan? You’ll be in your element when you take a trip to the Greek island of Skopelos. Start with a tour of Glysteri beach, where the Sophie and her dads jumped off the rocks into the water and the olive groves formed the setting for Donna’s Jeep ride with Tanya and Rosie up to her villa.
Next, head to Kastani beach, where Sophie and Sky sang ‘Lay All Your Love on Me’. Donna’s iconic rendition of ‘Does Your Mother Know’ was also shot here.
Round off your Skopelos tour with a visit to Agios Ioannis chapel. This beautiful little chapel was the setting for Sophie and Sky’s wedding and is a must for fans of the ABBA-themed musical.
Where will you travel to on your film locations tour of Europe?
