Ever wanted to step straight into the screen of your favorite movie? Well, what if we told you that you can. From ancient temples to futuristic cities, here are some of the world’s most iconic movie destinations, where you can immerse yourself in the landscapes and backdrops that made your favorite scenes unforgettable.
Set-Jetting: Destinations Straight off the Screen
Ta Prohm Temple, Cambodia
Lara Croft: Tomb Raider
You’ll recogonize the ancient ruins of Ta Prohm from the 2001 movie Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, depicted as a breathtaking, overgrown temple where nature has firmly reclaimed its hold. This iconic temple is actually situated within the Angkor Archaeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Cambodia and the largest temple complex in the world.
Svínafellsjökull Glacier, Iceland
Interstellar
Svínafellsjökull Glacier made a memorable appearance in Interstellar, where its vast, frozen expanse set the stage for the Mann’s world. The glacier’s rugged ice formations and deep crevasses evoke a sense of isolation, enhancing the stark, alien landscape portrayed on screen. Located within Iceland’s Vatnajökull National Park, Svínafellsjökull is one of the country’s most visually captivating glaciers, its towering ice cliffs and dramatic blue hues creating a perfect, natural backdrop for the movie’s exploration of distant worlds and uncharted territories.
Petra, Jordan
Indiana Jones & the Last Crusade
Petra, the ancient rock-carved city in Jordan, became a cinematic icon in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. The dramatic façade of Al-Khazneh, or the Treasury, served as the perfect backdrop for the film’s heart-pounding chase scenes, its towering cliffs and intricate carvings adding a sense of mystery and grandeur. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Petra’s rose-red stone structures, hidden deep within the narrow canyons, have long captivated visitors with their otherworldly beauty.
Skellig Michael, Ireland
Star Wars: The Last Jedi
It was Skellig Michael, the remote island off the coast of Ireland, that became an unforgettable part of the Star Wars: The Last Jedi universe. Its dramatic cliffs and ancient monastic ruins served as the perfect setting for Luke Skywalker’s secluded retreat. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Skellig Michael’s hauntingly serene landscape provides an otherworldly backdrop.
Salzburg, Austria
The Sound of Music
With its stunning Alpine backdrop and baroque architecture, Salzburg became forever intertwined with The Sound of Music when it served as the setting for many of the film’s most iconic scenes. The rolling hills and picturesque countryside, particularly around the iconic Mirabell Gardens, are immortalized in the film’s beloved song “Do-Re-Mi.”
Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland
Harry Potter
The Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland became an iconic landmark in the Harry Potter films, particularly during the thrilling scenes of the Hogwarts Express making its journey to the magical school. Its dramatic arches, set against the wild, sweeping landscape of the Scottish Highland and surrounds of mist-covered mountains and lochs, added an enchanting touch to the wizarding world.
Phi Phi Islands, Thailand
The Beach
The Phi Phi Islands in Thailand became forever etched in cinematic history with their appearance in The Beach. The island of Maya Bay, surrounded by towering limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, was the stunning backdrop for Leonardo DiCaprio’s quest for paradise. Its secluded beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant marine life created the perfect setting for the film’s portrayal of an idyllic, yet ultimately elusive, utopia.
Tokyo, Japan
Lost in Translation & Blade Runner 2049
Tokyo plays a central role in both Lost in Translation and Blade Runner 2049, with its neon-lit streets, towering skyscrapers, and vibrant cityscape setting the stage for moments of introspection and futuristic wonder. In Lost in Translation, the city’s blend of modernity and tradition becomes the backdrop for the quiet, emotional journey of two strangers, with iconic locations like the Park Hyatt Tokyo offering a serene, contemplative atmosphere amidst the urban hustle. In Blade Runner 2049, Tokyo’s glowing skyline and bustling streets capture a dystopian, yet strangely beautiful, future where technology and humanity collide.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Game of Thrones
With its well-preserved medieval walls and stunning coastal views, Dubrovnik in Croatia became a key filming location for Game of Thrones, serving as the fictional city of King’s Landing. The city’s narrow streets, fortified walls, and terracotta rooftops provided the perfect backdrop for many of the show’s most pivotal scenes, including political intrigue and epic confrontations. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage site remains an iconic destination for Game of Thrones enthusiasts, with many themed tours available.
Matera, Italy
James Bond: No Time to Die
Matera provided a striking and unique setting for No Time to Die, where its ancient cave dwellings and winding stone streets served as the backdrop for one of the film’s thrilling chase sequences at the beginning of the movie. Situated in the southern Basilicata region of Italy, this UNESCO World Heritage site continues to captivate visitors, with its dramatic scenery and cinematic ties drawing fans from around the globe.
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