Ultimate Film & TV Location Tours: Travel to Iconic Movie & Drama Sets
Why Movie & TV Location Travel is a Must for Film Lovers
Have you ever dreamed of stepping into your favorite movie or TV series? Film location tourism has become one of the most exciting travel trends, allowing fans to experience famous movie sets, dramatic landscapes, and real-world locations used in iconic films and dramas. Whether it’s walking through the halls of Hogwarts, exploring Middle-earth, or strolling through the streets of Paris where Emily in Paris was filmed, visiting these locations brings fictional worlds to life.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best movie and TV show locations you can visit, along with tips for planning the ultimate film-inspired trip!
Top 7 Movie & TV Filming Locations You Must Visit
1. New Zealand – The Lord of the Rings & The Hobbit
π Best Spots:
- Hobbiton (Matamata) – The real-life Shire, where you can explore hobbit homes and enjoy a drink at The Green Dragon Inn.
- Tongariro National Park – The dramatic landscape of Mordor, featuring Mount Doom.
- Fiordland National Park – The breathtaking fjords used for Middle-earth’s most scenic backdrops.
π¬ Why Visit? If you're a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy world, this is a must-see destination. The landscapes are just as magical in real life as they are on screen.
(π‘ Read more about New Zealand’s film locations in our LOTR Travel Guide)
2. Dubrovnik, Croatia – Game of Thrones
π Best Spots:
- Dubrovnik Old Town – The real-life King’s Landing, with stunning medieval streets and fortress walls.
- Fort Lovrijenac – Used for many castle scenes, including the Red Keep.
- Trsteno Arboretum – The beautiful gardens featured in the show’s palace scenes.
π¬ Why Visit? Game of Thrones fans can immerse themselves in the world of Westeros, with guided tours and reenactment experiences available.
(π‘ Explore more in our Game of Thrones Location Guide)
3. Scotland – Harry Potter
π Best Spots:
- Glenfinnan Viaduct – The famous railway bridge used for the Hogwarts Express.
- Edinburgh’s Victoria Street – The real-life inspiration for Diagon Alley.
- Loch Shiel – The stunning lake seen in various Hogwarts scenes.
π¬ Why Visit? Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes bring the magic of Harry Potter to life, making it a must-visit for Potterheads.
(π‘ Find more Harry Potter filming locations in our Wizarding World Travel Guide)
4. Paris, France – Emily in Paris & Midnight in Paris
π Best Spots:
- Place de l’Estrapade – Emily’s charming Parisian apartment from Emily in Paris.
- Pont Alexandre III – Featured in multiple romantic films.
- Shakespeare & Company – The iconic bookstore seen in Midnight in Paris.
π¬ Why Visit? Paris is a dream for film lovers and romantics, offering endless backdrops seen in movies and TV shows.
(π‘ Check out our Paris Film Location Guide)
5. Seoul, South Korea – K-Drama Filming Locations
π Best Spots:
- Namsan Tower – Seen in My Love from the Star and many other dramas.
- Bukchon Hanok Village – A traditional Korean village used in historical dramas.
- Han River Parks – A common filming location for romantic K-drama scenes.
π¬ Why Visit? South Korea’s vibrant film industry has made these spots a must-visit for K-drama fans, providing a glimpse into their favorite romantic scenes.
(π‘ Discover more in our K-Drama Travel Guide)
6. London, UK – Sherlock & James Bond Films
π Best Spots:
- 221B Baker Street – Home of Sherlock Holmes, now a museum dedicated to the series.
- Skyfall Lodge (Scotland Highlands) – The dramatic setting from Skyfall.
- The Millennium Bridge – Seen in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince.
π¬ Why Visit? London is a paradise for British TV and film fans, offering endless locations from classic and modern hits.
(π‘ Read our London Film Locations Guide)
7. New York City, USA – Marvel & Friends
π Best Spots:
- Times Square – Featured in many Marvel movies.
- Central Perk CafΓ© (Replica) – A must-visit for Friends fans.
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art – Featured in Gossip Girl and Ocean’s 8.
π¬ Why Visit? NYC’s iconic landmarks make it one of the best destinations for film location travel.
(π‘ Plan your NYC trip with our Ultimate NYC Film Guide)
How to Plan Your Movie & TV-Themed Trip
✔️ Choose Your Favorite Movie/TV Series: Pick locations based on what excites you the most. ✔️ Join a Film Tour: Many cities offer guided tours for film buffs. ✔️ Visit During Off-Peak Hours: Avoid crowds by visiting early in the morning. ✔️ Capture the Perfect Shot: Research the best angles and times for taking Instagram-worthy pictures. ✔️ Immerse Yourself in the Experience: Try local food and culture related to the film setting.
(π‘ Read more in our Travel Photography Guide)
Final Thoughts: Step Into the World of Cinema!
Whether you're a fan of fantasy, action, romance, or sci-fi, visiting movie and TV show locations can make your travels unforgettable. From the magical lands of New Zealand to the bustling streets of New York, each destination offers a unique cinematic adventure.
π¬ Which movie location is on your travel bucket list? Let us know in the comments! π¬⬇️
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