Film and television have the power to transport us to far-off lands and magical worlds. For fans eager to explore the real-life locations behind their favorite shows and movies, 2023 is the perfect time to embark on a cinematic journey. In this comprehensive 3000-word guide, we’ll uncover 10 breathtaking locations around the globe that have played host to some of the most beloved film and TV productions in recent years. From the sun-soaked shores of Italy to the bustling streets of South Korea, these destinations offer a unique blend of stunning scenery, cultural immersion, and behind-the-scenes insights.
Sicily, Italy
A Mediterranean jewel, Sicily has long been a favorite among filmmakers for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant culture, and historic sites. Fans of the critically acclaimed film series “The Godfather” can visit the charming villages of Savoca and Forza d’Agrò, which served as the backdrop for the Corleone family’s Sicilian roots. Those in search of a more recent hit can explore the coastal city of Trapani, where scenes from the popular TV series “Inspector Montalbano” were filmed.
Alberta, Canada
With its dramatic landscapes and pristine wilderness, Alberta has provided a stunning backdrop for numerous film and TV productions. Adventure enthusiasts can follow in the footsteps of Leonardo DiCaprio in the Oscar-winning film “The Revenant” by exploring the rugged terrain of Kananaskis Country. Alternatively, fans of the modern western series “Heartland” can visit the charming town of High River, which doubles as the show’s fictional town of Hudson.
Bucharest, Romania
Bucharest’s unique blend of Gothic architecture and modern cityscapes has made it a popular filming location in recent years. Notably, the city’s historic landmarks and atmospheric streets provided the perfect setting for the TV adaptation of Bram Stoker’s classic novel, “Dracula.” Explore the opulent interiors of the Palace of the Parliament, which doubled as Dracula’s castle in the series, and wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town to immerse yourself in the show’s eerie atmosphere.
Atlanta, USA
As the production hub for many of America’s top film and TV projects, Atlanta offers a wealth of cinematic experiences. Fans of the hit series “Stranger Things” can visit the charming town of Jackson, which stands in for the show’s fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana. Or, for those looking for a superhero fix, explore the city’s key filming locations for the Marvel Cinematic Universe, including the High Museum of Art, which doubled as the Wakandan Design Group in “Black Panther.”
Galway, Ireland
The wild and rugged beauty of Ireland’s west coast has captured the imagination of filmmakers for decades. Galway, in particular, has featured prominently in several film and TV productions. The enchanting landscape of Connemara provided the backdrop for the classic film “The Quiet Man,” while the Aran Islands served as the inspiration for the animated film “Song of the Sea.” More recently, the popular TV series “Normal People” showcased the stunning scenery of County Galway, allowing fans to follow in the footsteps of their favorite characters.
Euboea, Greece
The sun-drenched shores and crystal-clear waters of Euboea have played host to numerous film and TV productions. Most notably, the island’s picturesque coastal villages and turquoise bays provided the idyllic backdrop for the ABBA-inspired musical “Mamma Mia!” Fans can explore the island’s charming villages, such as Pilio and Aedipsos, and take a boat trip to the nearby island of Skopelos, where many of the movie’s most memorable scenes were filmed. Euboea’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage make it a must-visit destination for any film enthusiast.
Los Angeles, USA
As the heart of the entertainment industry, Los Angeles is a treasure trove of iconic film and TV locations. Tour the famous studios of Hollywood, such as Paramount Pictures and Warner Bros., for a behind-the-scenes glimpse of movie magic in the making. Visit the Griffith Observatory, which has featured in films like “La La Land” and “Rebel Without a Cause,” and explore the bustling streets of downtown LA, where scenes from “Blade Runner” and “Inception” were filmed. From the glitz and glamour of Beverly Hills to the historic landmarks of Hollywood, Los Angeles offers a cinematic adventure like no other.
Busan, South Korea
As South Korea’s second-largest city, Busan has become an increasingly popular destination for film and TV productions. The city’s bustling markets, sandy beaches, and modern skyline provided the perfect setting for the critically acclaimed film “Parasite.” Fans can visit the iconic Jagalchi Fish Market, which featured prominently in the movie, and explore the narrow alleys and steep staircases of the Gamcheon Culture Village, which has been used as a filming location for numerous Korean dramas. With its unique blend of traditional culture and modern cityscapes, Busan is a must-visit destination for any film aficionado.
Rome, Italy
With its rich history and unparalleled architectural beauty, Rome has long been a favorite among filmmakers. Fans of the classic film “Roman Holiday” can retrace the footsteps of Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck as they explore iconic sites like the Spanish Steps, the Trevi Fountain, and the Colosseum. For a more contemporary experience, visit the locations featured in the critically acclaimed TV series “The Young Pope” and “The New Pope,” such as the Vatican City, Castel Sant’Angelo, and the Capitoline Hill. From ancient ruins to Baroque masterpieces, Rome’s cinematic appeal is truly timeless.
Hiroshima, Japan
Hiroshima’s rich history and stunning natural beauty have made it an increasingly popular location for film and TV productions. Fans of the hit anime film “Your Name” can visit the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Itsukushima Shrine on the nearby island of Miyajima, which inspired key scenes in the movie. For a more recent hit, explore the picturesque landscapes of the Setouchi Region, which served as the backdrop for the Netflix series “Midnight Diner: Tokyo Stories.” With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural splendor, Hiroshima offers a truly immersive cinematic experience.
From the ancient streets of Rome to the bustling markets of Busan, these 10 film and TV locations offer a unique opportunity to experience the magic of the silver screen firsthand. As you explore these iconic destinations, you’ll not only immerse yourself in the worlds of your favorite shows and movies but also discover the rich history, culture, and natural beauty that inspired their creators. So grab your passport, pack your bags, and embark on a cinematic adventure you’ll never forget.
