Movies have a special way of transporting us to different worlds, whether they are fantastical or set in real-life cities. Many famous film locations become iconic in their own right, drawing millions of fans eager to experience the places that featured in their favourite scenes. From stunning landscapes to iconic buildings, here are some of the most famous movie locations around the world that you can visit in real life. One of these locations, not surprisingly, is a glamorous casino—an essential backdrop to many thrilling films.
The Shire, New Zealand – The Lord of the Rings
Perhaps one of the most beloved movie locations in the world is the Shire, the fictional homeland of the Hobbits in The Lord of the Rings trilogy. Located in the Matamata region of New Zealand, the film set of the Shire is a must-visit for any fan of the iconic Peter Jackson films. Visitors can walk around the lush green hills and see the quaint hobbit holes that were expertly recreated for the film. You can even pop into the Green Dragon Inn for a pint, just as Frodo, Sam, and the rest of the fellowship did.
While the Shire itself is a purely fictional creation, the stunning landscape surrounding it is very real and perfectly captures the beauty of rural New Zealand. The lush hills and sparkling lakes look just like they do in the films, and guided tours are available to help you explore the area.
The Casino de Monte-Carlo, Monaco – James Bond Films
The Casino de Monte-Carlo in Monaco is synonymous with luxury and glamour, having featured in several films, most notably Casino Royale (2006), where Daniel Craig’s James Bond made his debut. Its stunning Belle Époque architecture and stunning French Riviera location make it an iconic symbol of sophistication.
Inside, the plush furnishings and art deco style create an unforgettable atmosphere. Fans of Casino Royale can step into the very space where Bond’s high-stakes poker games and thrilling moments were filmed. The casino is open to the public, but visitors should be prepared for a dress code to experience the full VIP treatment.
While the allure of the Monte Carlo casino remains strong, online casinos have grown in popularity, offering the same excitement from the comfort of home for bettors all around the world. These platforms provide a variety of games, from classic poker and roulette to modern slots and live dealer experiences, replicating the thrill of physical casinos. Within the UK, bettors often choose to wager at casinos not on GamStop to take advantage of the flexibility and convenience that these international sites offer. International platforms, like non-GamStop sites, have also grown popular among bettors in the UK and beyond because of their extensive game libraries and unique bonuses on offer.
Whether visiting the Casino de Monte-Carlo or playing at an online casino, the allure of high-stakes gaming and luxury continues to captivate people worldwide. Online casinos now offer the same thrills and excitement, with the added benefit of playing anytime, anywhere.
Alnwick Castle, Northumberland, UK – Harry Potter
For fans of Harry Potter, the iconic Alnwick Castle in Northumberland is an absolute must-see. Alnwick Castle served as the backdrop for several scenes at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, most notably in the first two films, where students learned how to fly on broomsticks. The grand, historic castle sits atop a hill and offers sweeping views of the surrounding countryside, making it a perfect destination for fans wanting to step into the world of magic.
The castle itself dates back to the 11th century and is one of the largest inhabited castles in the UK. Visitors can explore the magnificent interiors and wander through the beautiful gardens, which also feature in the films. Additionally, many of the castle’s activities are inspired by the films, such as broomstick training sessions, where you can get a feel for what it might have been like to be a young wizard at Hogwarts.
Petra, Jordan – Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade
Petra, the ancient city in Jordan, is one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites and became famous to film fans through its appearance in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade (1989). The dramatic facade of the Treasury, carved into the rose-red cliffs, was the location for the final scenes of the movie, where Indiana Jones and his father discover the Holy Grail. While Petra’s historical significance as a trading hub long predates the film, the incredible setting made it the perfect backdrop for adventure.
Visiting Petra today, you can marvel at the ancient city’s rock-hewn tombs, temples, and stunning architecture, while also experiencing the iconic scene that brought it into the limelight. The film gave Petra a new level of international fame, and today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts thousands of tourists each year.
The Sound of Music Tour, Austria
For fans of the classic musical The Sound of Music (1965), Austria is the place to visit. Several locations in Salzburg and its surrounding areas were featured in the film, including the picturesque Mirabell Gardens, where Julie Andrews sang “Do-Re-Mi.” The Salzburg region also features the famous Leopoldskron Palace, which served as the backdrop for the von Trapp family’s home.
Taking a Sound of Music tour allows visitors to visit some of these iconic sites while soaking in the stunning Austrian Alps that provide the perfect backdrop to the music and scenery of the film. Whether you’re a fan of the movie or simply love the beauty of Austria, this is an unforgettable trip for movie buffs and travellers alike.
The Big Apple – various films
New York City has served as the backdrop for countless films over the years. From the iconic skyscrapers seen in King Kong (1933) to the romantic walks in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961), the Big Apple is arguably the most cinematic city in the world. Visitors can follow in the footsteps of their favourite characters by exploring Central Park, taking a ferry to Liberty Island, or walking through the bustling streets of Manhattan, all while recognising locations featured in dozens of popular films.
