Legendary Filming Locations Every Movie Buff Should Visit

Some of the world's most beloved films have incredible shooting locations that have become just as recognizable as the movies themselves. The beauty of on-location production sites is that you can visit the very spot where some of your favorite scenes have been captured, bringing your favorite scenes to life!

If you fancy yourself somewhat of a movie buff and are looking for some ideas for your next trip, why not use your love of film to inspire your travels? No matter what corner of the globe you're hoping to visit, there are some spectacular filming spots that might pique your interest.

With these remarkable destinations, you can easily combine your love for film and travel.

Petra, Jordan - Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade

The Indiana Jones series has had some awe-inspiring filming locations, but only one of those is considered a world wonder. Petra, a historic city and archaeological site in Jordan, was a key setting for the third film in the franchise, Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.

It's among the most notable spots in the world, but Petra is even more alluring for Indiana Jones fans, as the stunning treasury building is on full display in multiple scenes.

Matamata, New Zealand - The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit Series

New Zealand's dramatic landscapes proved to be the perfect backdrop for dozens of scenes in Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies, including Nelson Tasman and Mount Sunday. However, the fairytale-like movie set, Hobbiton, in the town of Matamata, is perhaps the most revered filming spot of all.

The area's lush green hills served as The Shire throughout each of the series, and the quaint and colorful set has been a huge tourist attraction ever since.

Oahu and Kauai, Hawaii, United States - Jurassic Park Series

Hawaii is arguably one of the most beautiful places on earth. If you weren't already eager to visit, there's a good chance you'll change your mind after watching any of the Jurassic Park movies.

Oahu and Kauai served as two of the key filming locations during the production of the films, with Maui also featured but to a lesser extent. Kualoa Ranch is an absolute must-visit, but other shooting spots to check out on these islands include Kipu Kai Beach, Allerton Garden, and Manawaiopuna Falls.

Bruges, Belgium - In Bruges

In Bruges, a black comedy with a cult following was set and filmed in the enchanting Belgian city with which it shares its name. Bruges has become a highly popular tourist destination over the years, with many fans flocking to see the Neo-Gothic architecture and winding canals made even more noteworthy since the film.

Some of the can't-miss locations in the city include the Instagram-famous Rozenhoedkaai photo spot, the Belfry of Bruges, and Jan Van Eyckplein.

Sicily, Italy - The Godfather Series

The Godfather was shot primarily in New York and Sicily, but the latter, known to be the home of the Italian mafia, is especially synonymous with the films. This idyllic Italian island has made an appearance in each of the three installments, and the provinces of Palermo, Catania, and Messina were where most of the filming took place.

In Messina, villages like Savoca and Forza d'Agro were utilized, along with the city of Acireale in Catania. Although Corleone, the town where many of the main characters hailed from, wasn't used for filming, it continues to attract a slew of The Godfather fans every year.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia - Lara Croft: Tomb Raider

Cambodia's Angkor Wat is among the world's most treasured religious sites, and it's also where many famous scenes in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider were shot. 

Angkor Wat is an entire complex that covers over 400 acres, and you'll need to pay a visit to Ta Prohm temple to discover the fascinating tree-covered ruins from the film. It's become so popular with tourists that it's often dubbed the 'Tomb Raider temple!'

Philadelphia, United States - Rocky Series

Of the many epic scenes celebrated in the Rocky films, few are as unforgettable as the one shot on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art. Better known these days as the 'Rocky Steps,' this is where you'll find many visitors to the city snapping photos at any time of day.

There's a statue dedicated to the fictional boxer just meters away, and the exterior of Rocky's apartment lies in the northeast of the city in the Kensington area.

Maya Bay, Thailand - The Beach

Maya Bay looks like it's come straight off the front of a postcard, with its towering limestone cliffs, pristine turquoise waters, and powdery white sand. If you've been dreaming about this place since watching The Beach, you might be pleased to learn that you can marvel at this little slice of heaven in person.

Ever since the movie's release, Maya Bay has become increasingly sought-after among tourists. Due to the near-constant influx of visitors, the Thai government closes the area occasionally to protect it from over-tourism, so be sure to plan your trip with this in mind.

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland - Harry Potter Series

The Harry Potter franchise has brought some stunning locations to the world's attention through its 8-movie run, from Oxford University to King's Cross Station. One of the most striking spots of all was the Glenfinnan Viaduct.

Situated in the lush countryside of the Scottish Highlands, this railway viaduct served as the bridge to Hogwarts in the films. If you get your timing just right, you'll have a chance to catch the Jacobite steam train passing. This train typically runs between March and October, with two to four daily departures.

Pay a Visit to Some of the World's Most Iconic Film Sets 

Few experiences are quite as exhilarating for film fanatics as seeing the real-life shooting locations of their favorite movies with their own eyes. With a visit to any of these spots, you'll experience that classic movie magic for real!