Visit Famous Movie Locations: 29 Iconic Film Sets from Harry Potter to Tomb Raider

Harry Potter Filming Locations

Historic architecture, magical castles, and breathtaking landscapes make up the fascinating Harry Potter filming locations in Great Britain.

King's Cross, London

What was filmed here? King’s Cross in London is where the students’ departure to Hogwarts was filmed — including the iconic scenes of Harry and his friends running through the wall and the Ford Anglia scene.

What makes it special: In reality, the film platform isn’t between platforms 9 and 10 — it’s on a side wall near the entrance. Today you’ll find an official Platform 9¾ sign, a Harry Potter shop, and a luggage trolley disappearing into the wall, perfect for a memorable photo.

How to get there: Take the Tube to King’s Cross St. Pancras. The filming locations are in the main hall and at and inside the St. Pancras building.

Millennium Bridge, London

What was filmed here? This is where the dramatic destruction of the bridge by Death Eaters at the beginning of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince was filmed.

What makes it special: The Millennium Bridge is a popular attraction in London. It connects St. Paul’s Cathedral with the Tate Modern. In real life it’s still standing, of course, and makes a great photo subject.

How to get there: Take the Tube to St. Paul’s or Blackfriars. From there it’s just a few minutes on foot.

Claremont Square, London

What was filmed here? Claremont Square is known as Grimmauld Place in the films and serves as the home of Sirius and Regulus Black and later the headquarters of the Order of the Phoenix.

What makes it special: Claremont Square served as the exterior set for the Black family home. The buildings were digitally altered slightly, but the location is unmistakable. It’s also a real under-the-radar pick, especially among fans of the Marauders.

How to get there: Take the Tube to Angel station. From there it’s about a five-minute walk.

Fun fact: The residents are well aware of how popular their homes are. Some have even decorated their windows to match the films.
Discover even more Harry Potter locations in London
Read our Harry Potter Studios London guide

Seven Sisters, Sussex, England

What was filmed here? The Seven Sisters partly served as the backdrop for the Quidditch World Cup. You can see the chalk cliffs in the coastal scene when Harry and friends apparate to the campsite.

What makes it special: The white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters are among the most impressive natural backdrops in England and honestly rank among our favorite places in the world. They were chosen as a cinematic backdrop even though the actual campsite is set in the woods.

How to get there: Take the train from London Victoria to Seaford or Eastbourne, then take a bus or taxi to Seven Sisters Country Park. Or join a guided tour from London to the Seven Sisters.

Our tip: You can easily combine a visit to the Seven Sisters with a trip to Brighton.

Alnwick Castle, England

What was filmed here? This is where the famous scenes in and around Hogwarts from the first two Harry Potter films were shot — including Harry’s first flying lesson. You might even recognize the color of the stone walls right away.

What makes it special: Alnwick Castle is not only one of the most famous movie locations to visit in the UK but also considered one of the most beautiful castles in Europe. The fortress with its towers, courtyards, and sweeping gardens is a major tourist attraction today.

How to get there: Take the train to Alnmouth Station (about three hours from London), then a ten-minute taxi or bus ride to the castle. Alternatively, drive via the A1 heading north.

Film fact: Beyond Harry Potter, Alnwick Castle also served as a filming location for Downton Abbey and Robin Hood — true cinematic royalty.

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

What was filmed here? The cliffs served as the backdrop for the dramatic cave scene in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince, in which Harry and Dumbledore search for one of the Horcruxes — right at the roaring Cliffs of Moher.

What makes it special: The Cliffs of Moher are among the most famous cliffs in Europe, reaching heights of up to 702 feet. Perfect for claustrophobic, dramatic scenes.

How to get there: By car or on a guided day tour, e.g. from Dublin to the Cliffs of Moher.

Film fact: The cave beneath the cliffs was added via CGI for the film. It doesn’t actually exist.

Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland

What was filmed here? Arguably the most famous train journey in film history. The Hogwarts Express crosses the viaduct in parts 2 and 3, for example. Aerial shots for the flying car scenes were also filmed here.

What makes it special: The Glenfinnan Viaduct is one of the most famous railway bridges in Europe. Set deep in the Scottish Highlands, it’s still traveled by a real steam locomotive today — the Jacobite Steam Train, on which you can experience a true Hogwarts Express-style ride.

How to get there: Join a guided day tour from Edinburgh including a ride on the Hogwarts Express. Or travel directly from Fort William on the Jacobite Steam Train across the viaduct. Be sure to book well in advance! Alternatively, drive to the Glenfinnan Visitor Centre with its viewpoint.

Game of Thrones Filming Locations

Experience epic Game of Thrones filming locations in Croatia, Northern Ireland, and beyond. Real landscapes were transformed into incredible fantasy backdrops here.

Mdina, Malta

What was filmed here? Mdina was King’s Landing in Season 1 of Game of Thrones. In particular, the city gate of Mdina served as the entrance to the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.

What makes it special: Mdina, also known as “The Silent City,” is a perfectly preserved medieval city with sand-colored walls and narrow alleyways. No wonder it’s considered one of the most impressive medieval film sets in Europe.

How to get there: From Valletta or Sliema, about 30 minutes by bus, car, or Uber. The old town is car-free.

Film fact: After Season 1, King’s Landing was moved to Dubrovnik for production reasons. But for many fans, Mdina’s gate remains the true entrance to the capital.

Valletta, Malta

What was filmed here: Scenes from the first season of Game of Thrones were filmed in Valletta, including shots around the Red Keep and the harbor district of the capital King’s Landing.

What makes it special: Malta’s capital Valletta impresses with Baroque palaces, fortress walls, and narrow alleyways. That’s why it’s one of the most popular filming locations in the Mediterranean and the perfect backdrop for Westeros.

How to get there: By car or Uber from anywhere on Malta. From Sliema by water taxi.

Film fact: Valletta wasn’t just part of the Game of Thrones world. Scenes for Jurassic World: Dominion, Gladiator, and Assassin’s Creed were also filmed here, among others.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

What was filmed here? From Season 2 onward, Dubrovnik became the famous capital King’s Landing. The city walls with the Minčeta Tower and the Lovrijenac fortress in particular were frequently featured in the series.

What makes it special: Dubrovnik is one of the most popular iconic film locations around the world. The historic old town with its mighty city walls feels like you’re right in the middle of Westeros. Many of the filming locations have become major tourist hotspots.

How to get there? By car or bus along the Adriatic Highway. The old town is car-free and easy to explore on foot. You can even join a guided Game of Thrones tour through Dubrovnik.

Seville, Spain

What was filmed here? All Game of Thrones scenes set in the city of Dorne were filmed in Seville. The Alcázar of Seville in particular served as the magnificent Martell palace, and the Real Alcázar gardens as the exotic inner courtyard.

What makes it special: Seville impresses with detail-rich architecture, beautiful palaces, and lush gardens — perfect for the sun-drenched, sweltering city of Dorne. The city is one of the best-known movie filming locations you can visit in Spain and draws fans from around the world.

How to get there: The Game of Thrones filming locations are in Seville’s historic center and easily reachable on foot.

Ballintoy, Northern Ireland

What was filmed here? The coastal landscape of Ballintoy became the Iron Islands in Game of Thrones — home of the Greyjoy family. The harbor at Ballintoy and the rugged cliffs are especially prominent throughout the series.

What makes it special: Ballintoy impresses with a wild natural backdrop and black sand beaches. The perfect destination for Game of Thrones fans and nature lovers alike.

How to get there: About 1.5 hours by car from Belfast or Portrush. Parking is available on site and the filming locations are within walking distance.

Film fact: Ballintoy was also a filming location for Dracula Untold.

Lord of the Rings Filming Locations

Visit Hobbiton in New Zealand, the original set from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit — a standout for film travelers and Tolkien fans alike.

Hobbiton, New Zealand

What was filmed here? Numerous scenes from The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit were filmed here — in particular the exterior shots of the Shire with the hobbit holes, gardens, and the party field.

What makes it special: Hobbiton in New Zealand is one of the most famous movie sets in the world. Because all the sets are preserved, visitors can step fully into Tolkien’s world.

How to get there: Join a guided tour to Hobbiton, e.g. from Matamata, Auckland, or Rotorua. You can’t visit on your own.

Our tip: Besides Hobbiton, New Zealand has many more Lord of the Rings filming locations to offer — including Tongariro National Park (Mordor), the Kawarau Bridge near Queenstown (Rivendell), and the Southern Alps (Middle-earth landscapes). As a fan, make sure to check out more of these spots.
Read our full Hobbiton experience report!

Filming Locations in Germany

From Berlin to Wismar — Germany has plenty of great filming locations to discover too.

Berlin & Potsdam (Babelsberg)

What was filmed here? Many international blockbusters were made in Berlin and Potsdam, including Inglourious Basterds, The Hunger Games, and the series Babylon Berlin. Babelsberg film studio in particular is a frequent filming and production location.

What makes it special: Babelsberg is the world’s oldest large-scale film studio and a cornerstone of the German film industry. It combines modern technology with historic film architecture, making it one of the most important filming locations in Germany.

How to get there: Babelsberg is easily reached by regional train from Berlin. The studio itself is not open to the public, but you can visit Filmpark Babelsberg on the same grounds. Other filming locations are spread across Berlin and Potsdam.

Wismar

What was filmed here? The picturesque Hanseatic city of Wismar is known as the filming location for SOKO Wismar and for the adaptation of the horror classic Nosferatu. The historic cobblestone streets and Gothic brick buildings create the perfect atmosphere for thrillers and horror films.

What makes it special: Wismar’s well-preserved old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and ranks among the most beautiful backdrops for film productions in Germany. The combination of maritime charm and historic architecture makes the city truly unique.

How to get there: By car via the A20 or by train via Hamburg or Rostock. The filming locations are centrally located in the old town.

Film fact: The 2024 Nosferatu remake was actually not filmed in Wismar, but in Prague and parts of Romania.

East Frisia

What was filmed here? East Frisia is especially well known as the filming location for the ZDF East Frisian crime series based on the novels by Klaus-Peter Wolf. Filming takes place in Norden/Norddeich and Greetsiel, among other places. Tatort episodes and Der Schimmelreiter have also been produced here.

What makes it special: The Wadden Sea, dikes, charming villages, beaches, and the North Sea provide a distinctive backdrop for crime stories with real coastal character.

How to get there: By car via the A31 or A28, or by train via Emden. The filming locations are spread out along the coast.

Fun fact: The small harbor town of Greetsiel with its historic shrimp fishing boats is not just a film backdrop — it’s also one of the most popular photo spots in northern Germany.

More Filming Locations in Europe

From Edinburgh to Paris: the most impressive places to visit for film fans in Europe show why the continent is a hotspot for international productions.

Wilder Kaiser, Austria

What was filmed here? The region around Ellmau, Going, and Söll has been the central filming location for the ZDF series Der Bergdoktor for years. The doctor’s practice, the Gruberhof, and many other settings are real places.

What makes it special: The filming locations in Austria are preserved in their original state and can partly be visited. Especially popular are the Gruberhof on the Bromberg and the on-screen practice in the center of Ellmau — both with breathtaking Kaisergebirge panoramas.

How to get there: Take the train to Kufstein or Wörgl, then continue by bus toward Ellmau, Going, or Söll. Once there, many spots are within walking distance, or you can rent a bike or e-bike.

Fournier Street, London

What was filmed here? The historic Fournier Street in the East End of London served as a Victorian backdrop for films like Sherlock Holmes, Enola Holmes, From Hell, and The Woman in Black. Its authentic architecture makes it a sought-after filming location for dark, brooding London atmosphere.

What makes it special: Fournier Street dates from the early 18th century and is one of the best-preserved Georgian streets in London. Cobblestones, gas lanterns, and weathered brick facades immediately set the scene — no CGI needed.

How to get there: Take the Tube to Liverpool Street Station, then it’s about a five-minute walk through Spitalfields.

Our tip: Fournier Street sits in London’s East End, which in the Victorian era made headlines not only because of Jack the Ripper but also served as the literary backdrop for Oliver Twist. Beyond the street itself, there are more “Victorian remnants” to discover here — like the Ten Bells pub.

Casino de Monte-Carlo, Monaco

What was filmed here? The legendary casino in Monaco served as the backdrop for several James Bond films — including GoldenEye and Never Say Never Again. The casino was also used as a filming location for Ocean’s Twelve.

What makes it special: The casino is not only one of the most famous movie locations to visit in Europe, but also one of the finest examples of Belle Époque architecture. Inside and out, almost everything is preserved just as it appears in the films.

How to get there: By car or bus lines 1, 5, or 6 to Place du Casino. It’s about a 15-minute walk from the yacht harbor to the casino.

Film fact: Ian Fleming himself was inspired by this very location while writing Casino Royale. The real Monte-Carlo thus became the model for the fictional Casino Royale in James Bond.

Edinburgh, Scotland

What was filmed here? The medieval to Victorian old town of Edinburgh served as the backdrop for films like Frankenstein, Mary Queen of Scots, and The Awakening. Series like Rebus and Outlander were also filmed here.

What makes it special: Edinburgh ranks among the most atmospheric filming locations in Europe. The Royal Mile, the underground Vaults, and the eerie Greyfriars Kirkyard — one of the creepiest places in the world, by the way — provide exactly the atmosphere that dark, haunting stories demand.

How to get there: Most filming locations are in Edinburgh’s Old Town and very easy to reach on foot.

Film fact: Edinburgh can be not only spooky but also magical. The city was J.K. Rowling’s greatest inspiration for her Harry Potter world.
Discover all the Harry Potter locations in Edinburgh
Find all our Scotland tips here

Paris, France

What was filmed here? Paris is one of the most frequently used filming locations in the world. In addition to The Da Vinci Code, Amélie, and Emily in Paris, Inception, Lupin, and Mission: Impossible – Fallout were also filmed here, among others. The Louvre, the Seine, and Montmartre are especially popular backdrops.

What makes it special: The blend of iconic architecture, romantic streets, and world-famous landmarks makes Paris the ideal backdrop for films of all genres.

How to get there: Getting to Paris is super easy by train. Alternatively, you can also drive via the A1. The central filming locations are easily accessible on foot and by Metro.

Film fact: For The Da Vinci Code, a film crew was allowed inside the Louvre at night for the very first time — an exception that has only been granted to a handful of productions since, such as Lupin.

Rome, Italy

What was filmed here? The Italian capital served as the backdrop for countless classics and modern blockbusters. In Angels & Demons, Tom Hanks races through the Vatican; La Dolce Vita made the Trevi Fountain world-famous; and Roman Holiday with Audrey Hepburn features many of Rome’s top attractions.

What makes it special: Rome offers a unique combination of ancient history and cinematic history. Alongside real-life locations, the storied Cinecittà studios also play a central role — Ben-Hur was filmed there, for example.

How to get there: Many of Rome’s most famous filming locations are in the city center and reachable on foot or by Metro. You can also visit the Cinecittà studios and exhibitions.

Filming Locations in the USA

Nothing screams “movie location” quite like the United States. Whether it’s the streets of New York or the sleepy small towns of New England — there are some seriously fantastic film sets to discover here.

New York City, New York

What was filmed here? New York is THE movie city. Hardly any other metropolis has appeared in more productions. From Marvel films and Home Alone to The Wolf of Wall Street to beloved series like Sex and the City and Gossip Girl — the city’s streets, parks, and skyscrapers often play a starring role.

What makes it special: Every neighborhood tells its own film story. The gleaming glass facades of Manhattan, Central Park, the charming brick neighborhoods of Brooklyn, and the iconic apartment buildings in Queens offer countless backdrops. For film fans, New York is a true open-air museum.

How to get there: The filming locations and all the New York City attractions you’ve seen on screen are reachable on foot and by subway.

Film fact: The Plaza Hotel from Home Alone 2 can still be visited today — and you can even stay there. It remains a luxury hotel with beautiful suites. And of course the hotel is decorated for Christmas just like in the film.
Find even more great hotels in New York City

Salem, Massachusetts

What was filmed here? The small city of Salem in the USA is famous as a filming location for various horror and Halloween films. Hocus Pocus, Hubie Halloween, Burning, and parts of American Horror Story: Coven were filmed here, for example.

What makes it special: Salem embraces the witch myth like nowhere else in the USA. The city is known for the witch trials of 1692 and offers the perfect setting for mystery and witch films. It’s a “spooky town” year-round, and there are fascinating guided tours through Salem.

How to get there: Via Interstate 95 or easily from Boston on the Commuter Rail (Purple Line). The filming locations and all the attractions — like The Witch House and the Old Burying Point cemetery — are in the historic city center.

Filming Locations in Asia

Asia also offers spectacular film backdrops. The paradisiacal beaches and landscapes in particular are very popular here.

Maya Bay, Thailand

What was filmed here? Maya Bay in Thailand became world-famous through the film The Beach with Leonardo DiCaprio. The stunning backdrop of turquoise water, white sand beaches, and limestone cliffs is authentic and breathtaking.

What makes it special: Maya Bay became one of Thailand’s most-visited beaches after the filming of The Beach. The sheer number of tourists led to the beach being closed for a period starting in 2018 to allow it to recover. A real conservation success story.

How to get there: You can reach Maya Bay on a boat tour from Koh Phi Phi Don or Ao Nang in Krabi. The bay is on the island of Koh Phi Phi Leh and is now only accessible with restrictions due to high tourist demand — all in the name of protecting nature.

Film fact: Maya Bay is sometimes mistakenly thought to be a James Bond filming location. In fact, the famous “James Bond Island” rock formation is located in Phang Nga Bay — which we’ll introduce you to next.

Phang Nga Bay, Thailand

What was filmed here? James Bond – The Man with the Golden Gun made the rocky island world-famous — so famous, in fact, that it earned the nickname “James Bond Island.” But the bay has also been used for other films like Star Wars and Cutthroat Island.

What makes it special: The vertical limestone karsts rising from the emerald-green water make the bay one of Thailand’s most distinctive natural wonders. And its proximity to Phuket makes it a great day-trip destination.

How to get there: Join a Phang Nga Bay day trip from Phuket or Krabi. Often combined with island hopping and cave tours.

Great Wall of China, China

What was filmed here? The Great Wall of China served as a filming location for The Karate Kid, The Great Wall, and the live-action remake of Mulan, among others. The enormous backdrop has also been featured in many series and Asian productions.

What makes it special: As one of the most famous attractions in the world, the Great Wall of China is celebrated not only by travelers but also by producers and film fans. Its position along mountain ridges makes it a particularly dramatic filming location.

How to get there: Popular filming spots are at the Badaling or Mutianyu sections. Both can be reached by train, bus, or on a tour to the Great Wall from Beijing.

Fun fact: Jackie Chan once called the Great Wall “the world’s biggest gym.” Climbing it and crossing countless steps and pathways is basically a full-body workout.

Zhangjiajie National Park, China

What was filmed here? The breathtaking rock needles and pillars of Zhangjiajie National Park served as inspiration and real-world backdrop for the floating mountains of Pandora in Avatar.

What makes it special: The park is a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site and impresses with over 3,000 pillars rising above seas of mist. One of the most striking sandstone columns was officially renamed the “Avatar Hallelujah Mountain.”

How to get there: Fly to Zhangjiajie Hehua Airport, then continue by bus or taxi to the national park. Within the park, you can use shuttle buses and cable cars.

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

What was filmed here? The temple complex in Cambodia became famous as the filming location for Tomb Raider with Angelina Jolie. The site and the surrounding jungle were both used for the film.

What makes it special: Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The jungle-covered temples of Ta Prohm, where the roots of enormous trees pierce the walls, have become a globally recognized film backdrop.

How to get there: From Siem Reap, the best option is to book a private tuk-tuk driver for a day at Angkor. You can customize the set route to suit your interests — Ta Prohm is included as standard anyway.

Frequently Asked Questions About Filming Locations Worldwide